Alva Review-Courier -

Two Alva students placed in their respective categories at the American Farmers & Ranchers (AFR) Northwest District Speech Contest held in Enid Nov. 16.

Katelee Martin placed first in the Intermediate Agriscience category; and Jansen Shirley placed fourth in the Senior Agriscience category.

This marks the 78th year of the statewide contest. The event has gone through many changes over the years but has always maintained its central agricultural theme. Varying by grade level, this year's speech categories are AFR/OFU, Agricultural Policy, Agribusiness, Natural Resources, Agri-Science and Extemporaneous. All students, grades four through 12, are eligible to compete.

Nearly 500 students will compete in AFR district speech contests this season, resulting in more than 160 finalists advancing to the state contest held Dec. 2 at Oklahoma State University (OSU) in Stillwater.

"Public speaking is one of the most valuable skills young people can gain for their future careers," said AFR Cooperative President Scott Blubaugh. "We are honored to host the 77th Annual AFR Speech Contest, which has a long-standing tradition of fostering professionalism and confidence in Oklahoma's youth."

The AFR Annual Speech Contest is just one of many AFR Youth Program traditions. The organization also hosts a youth leadership summit, statewide scholarships, livestock judging and grading competitions, and many other development opportunities. For more information on this contest or other AFR Youth Program projects, contact AFR Youth Development Coordinator Tailor Atkinson at 405-218-5566 or [email protected].