2021 – 2022 Optimist Year
THE OLDEST AND BEST CONTEST OF OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL AND THE GATEWAY DISTRICT
Topic: “Staying Optimistic In Challenging Times”
District Contest Chair: Richard Bracknell
Email: Richard.Bracknell@carrolltoncityschools.net
Phone: 770 314 2425
Congratulations to our regional winner!
- Sara Abernathy (GATEway District) Southeast Regional Winner $5,000 Sponsor Club: 21250 Rome-Noon, GA
After a virtual journey into new territory, the Oratorical Contest last year in the GATEway District was still a near record winner with more clubs and contestants. It was an event that continued, despite hardships, to show hope in our youth and dedication in our clubs. We look forward to yet a better contest this year. Our goal is to have 40 Clubs participate this year. Start now preparing for your club to send two contestants (gender neutral) up the “Oratorical Ladder” with the opportunity to win $22,500 in scholarships. Look to the District announcements for information and come to the District meetings to gather insight, suggestions, and hear of the joy of doing this for our kids!
The deadlines for the contest are:
Local Club contest winners received by the Lt. Governors: March 5, 2022
Zone contest: March 19, 2022
Area contest: April 2, 2022
District Contest: April 30, 2022 (Cultural Arts Center, Carrollton, GA)
Again, we look forward, WITH YOUR HELP, having another record breaking year in both participants and clubs.
The contest is open to students under the age of 19 by October 1, 2021. Students must enter in the District in which they reside.
Fees: Each winning contestant from a club must be accompanied by an entry fee check in the amount of Thirty-five dollars ($35), made payable to Gateway District, Optimist International. This fee applies to ALL winning entries advancing to another level of competition. These fees are normally paid by the sponsoring club.
Your next step? Online Info: Planning Guide, application, and contest rules can be accessed: click on this link to the OI website.
Download: the Application and Contest Rules form, click here.