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  • Thursday, December 17, 2015

    Brocton Sophomore Wins Chautauqua Co. Speech Contest

    David Skinner, sophomore at Brocton High School, won the Chautauqua County American Legion Oratorical Contest held on Sunday, Dec. 13 at the Herman Kent Post 777 in Celeron NY.

    Dave Skinner

    Dave Skinner

    He is the son of Allyn and Laurie Skinner of Brocton. David is a National Honor Society Member, participates in School Band, Jazz Band, Pep Band, and has performed with his saxophone at the All-County Band Concert at Chautauqua. David plays the piano for relaxation and his own enjoyment. He has participated in the school musicals the last five years, including the  lead role in the play “Oliver.” David is on the varsity high school and community soccer teams. He enjoys reading and video games in his spare time. David will represent The John W. Dill American Legion Post 434, Brocton, NY and the  Chautauqua County American Legion on Sunday, January 10 at the 8th District contest to be held in Buffalo, NY. The 8th District is composed of the eight Western New York Counties and Ontario, Canada.

    The American Legion Oratorical Contest exists to develop deeper knowledge and appreciation for the U.S. Constitution among high school students.

    Young orators earn some of the most generous college scholarships available to high school students. Over $138,000 in scholarships can be awarded each year. The overall national contest winner gets an $18,000 scholarship. Second place takes home $16,000, and third gets $14,000. Each department (state) winner who participates in the national contest’s first round receives a $1,500 scholarship. Those who advance past the first round receive an additional $1,500 scholarship. Prizes are also given at the post, county, district and state levels.

    High school students under age 20 are eligible. All interested students should contact their local American Legion.

    — by Henry Link,  JW Dill Post 434 commander