Constitutional Speech Contest Communicates Character and Clear Understanding of the Duties, Responsibilities, Rights and Privileges of American Citizenship

For Immediate Release

BLOOMINGTON, Ill./EWORLDWIRE/March 4, 2010 --- High school students who step onto the podium at the Peoria Civic Center on Saturday will not be in jeopardy - although jeopardy of another kind might be the subject of semi-finalists' oratory at the 73rd Annual American Legion ('http://www.illegion.org') High School Oratorical Scholarship Program.

For students aiming to take top honors, there isn't any Olympic Gold but thousands of dollars to apply to funding their college education.

A nervous state of mind might be the only obstacle in the way of those who choose to discuss the formation of states in the United States, one of this year's set of four topics available for the event.

Over 30,000 students vocalize their thoughts annually nationwide, according to the American Legion, which has conducted the competition for nearly three-quarters of a century. While all rivals will not return home with scholarships, all will leave with a deeper understanding of the U.S. Constitution.

Beginning on Friday evening, would-be winners will report with completed entry forms to registration. A contest briefing will be presented by Department Commander William Flanagan and Department Sr. Vice Richard Groharing, with an introduction of special guests.

A peek at the next day's Oratorical Contest Rooms will be followed by an invitation-only pizza party reception at the Hotel Pere Marquette.

Saturday's full agenda begins for organizers at 7:30 a.m., while semi-finalists will start an hour later with a drawing for speaking order. Sometime about the middle of the day, judging will whittle away at the group's number. When it's all over at the end, final contest results and awards will be presented.

"Oratorical competition preserves the history of our country and inspires our youth," stated Flanagan. "Students can apply what they know and learn in a meaningful way, in their own feelings and thoughts. This event is one of only a handful of lifetime opportunities many will have to stand centerstage and present their position for everyone to hear.

"What a great country we have, where we are able to speak our minds without fear. There is no better way to demonstrate the value of the Constitution than by putting it in practice, with an exercise of our First Amendment Right to Free Speech."

MEDIA: Video clip is viewable at 'http://www.jointhelegion.org/'. For interview arrangements, photo opportunities and commentary, contact Mark Sides at 309-721-3886.

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CONTACT:
Mark Sides
American Legion
Department of Illinois
Headquarters PO Box 2910
Bloomington, IL 61701
PHONE. 309-721-3886
FAX. 309-796-2518
EMAIL: Mark@MarkSides.com
http://www.JointheLegion.org

SOURCE: Department of Illinois