Students inspired with knowledge of Constitution during this year’s oratorical contest

Editor:

This year’s American Legion oratorical contest for Orleans County featured several outstanding teenage speakers from Albion, Medina and Kendall.

Each took to the stage without a microphone to deliver her, or his, original address calling attention to the importance of the United States Constitution. Each deserves credit for developing a speech pertinent to the topic and putting himself, or herself, out there to be judged on the basis of content and delivery. The winner now moves on to the regional competition in Kenmore.

Kudos to the Legionaires, but especially those of the Jewell-Buckman and Butts-Clark posts and Chuck Eberhardt in particular for orchestrating the competition on Thursday, December 21st at Kendall High School. It was Legionaire Eberhardt’s final year of leading the event and he did an admirable job in my view.

Thanks as well to the teachers and administrators who promoted student involvement. Rich Gannon and the Driesels were heavily involved.

As one of five judges, I was impressed with the students’ knowledge of the Constitution and the Framers’ intent. The manner in which the Constitution’s provisions were placed into historical context was laudable as well.

Very truly yours,

Gary Kent

Albion