The 16th District held the annual High School Oratorical contest Saturday, January 12th, 2019 at Stafford Post 290. Students were required to deliver their prepared oration in no fewer than eight minutes and no more than ten minutes.
At the conclusion of the first round a assigned topic discourse was chosen at random and students were given 5 minutes to prepare for the delivery of their oration. They were then required to deliver their impromptu oration in no fewer than three minutes and no more than five minutes.
The first place winner was Gabriel Gilbert sponsored by Stafford Post 290 who provided an oration titled, “Independence: The American Virtue”. Gabriel is a Senior from North Stafford High School and was supported by Teacher David Skeen. Gabriel will advance to the Northern Regional competition which will be held at Charlottesville Post 74 in Keswick, VA on February 2, 2019.
The second place winner was Ashwin Prabu sponsored by Purcellville Post 293 who provided an oration titled, “US Constitution: The Unifying Force”. Ashwin is a Sophomore from Briar Woods High School. Ashwin is the assigned alternate if Gabriel is not able to attend the Northern Regional competition.
It was a really terrific competition and a good time had by all that were able to attend. In additional to the great orations given by the contestants, those in attendance also received information about Boys State and Girls State. Kudos go out to Stafford Post 290 for hosting the event and providing a welcome snack/coffee for all those attending in addition to a terrific lunch.
Thanks to our 16th District Oratorical Chair Terri Puckett for a job well done and for putting on a great program.