Sheridan’s Rotary Club recently held their annual speech contest which showcases the talents of local high school speech class students. The winner of the contest receives a $150 award for her or his efforts and a chance to compete at the Rotary District level for a $1,000 award.
As has been done in past years, the Sheridan club contacts Sheridan High School speech teacher Mrs. Becky Pitzer in the fall semester and provides her with the chosen theme for the year. The Rotary International organization chooses a theme which is always something to do with Rotary and its various activities throughout the world. Students who wish to participate then research the topic and write a five to seven minute speech which they must memorize and present to the local club in February or March. The contest is good experience for students as it mimics what successful people will do for the rest of their lives in whatever career they choose. And getting a few bucks of pocket change for winning is a nice incentive for the winning student. And the runner-up student also gets a smaller cash award.
For many years now the Sheridan Rotary Club speech contest has been organized by long-time member Dale McCullough. As many people know, Dale has been a very successful local businessman and knows the importance of speaking extemporaneously at various functions. He is quite encouraging of the young students who are just beginning their work lives and provides an excellent example of what can be accomplished by being able to speak well in public.
The Sheridan Rotary Club meets formally twice a month on the first and third Tuesday evenings at 6:15 p.m. at the Sheridan Public Library in the Community Room. These meetings feature a sit down meal and a guest speaker or presentation. The other Tuesdays of the month are dedicated to accomplishing community projects or club business meetings. Rotary is an excellent way for people to make a contribution to their community. If you are interested in attending a meeting or want more information, please contact any Rotarian if you know of one, or come by the library and talk with Steve Martin.