Calhoun County, AL – All youth from 6th through 12th grades, including homeschooled students, in Calhoun County and surrounding areas were invited to participate in the 2nd Annual Jim and Shirley Justice Center Essay and Oratorical contests.
Applications were submitted; entries were prepared in accordance with established rules; judges judged – and winners were determined!
The topic for the essay contest was “The Importance of a Peaceful Democracy.” Winners are:
- 1st place: Chaci Whitfield, Oxford High School, Senior
- 2nd place: Kye McEwen, Oxford High School, Sophomore
- 3rd place: Ja’Miah Heard, Oxford High School, Junior
All Essay winners are from Oxford High School. Chaci Whitfield, the 1st place winner THIS year – was 2nd place winner LAST year.
The topic for the oratorical contest was “Can Democracies Survive Global Climate Change?”
- The winner is Ava Smith, Donoho School, Junior.
The public is invited to join the Calhoun County Democrats at 6pm on April 20th at the Jim & Shirley Justice Center, 812 Noble Street when Essay winners will read their essay and the Oratorical Contest winner will deliver their speech. Let’s celebrate these youth as they learn, gain experience, and move forward into adulthood – where they will lead us into the future.
Winners will receive a certificate, a medallion, and a cash prize. A potluck “pitch in” dinner will follow for everyone in attendance.
These contests were created to encourage all young people to think, debate, and engage on important topics in public policy. Each contest honors a Calhoun County citizen who had a special interest in promoting citizenship and support for their community.
The essay contest honors Shirley Justice, who died in 2020. She and her husband Jim wanted to create a legacy that would encourage and develop citizenship, political knowledge, and involvement of all citizens. The essay contest and the Jim & Shirley Justice Center reflect their commitment.
The oratorical contest honors the late Dr. George F. McKerley, veterinarian. Dr. McKerley knew the value of a strong education and speaking skills for citizens.
This event is sponsored by the Calhoun County Democratic Executive Committee. Learn more at https://www.facebook.com/calcodems and https://www.calhouncountydemocrats.com/
