A Positive Outlook

Annually Optimist International service clubs around the world host an oratorical contest where participants can practice their leadership skills while competing for a college scholarship. The West Ashley Optimist Club hosted its annual club level event on Thursday, April 9 at St Andrews Middle School.
This year’s theme was ‘How my optimism will help me press on to greater achievements for the future.” Participants shared a variety of stories and methods by which they enthusiastically embraced the character trait of optimism to the betterment of themselves, their families, and their communities.
The following participants are recognized for their efforts and their performances.
Boys Contest:
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Landon Ethredge: 1st place Advanced Studies Magnet – West Ashley Middle
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Riley Johnson: 2nd place Advanced Studies Magnet – West Ashley Middle
Girls Contest
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Mary Ashton Jenkins 1st place Fort Johnson Middle School
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Trinity McNally: 2nd place Advanced Studies Magnet – West Ashley Middle
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Taliyah Jenkins: 3rd place Advanced Studies Magnet – West Ashley Middle
Then on Thursday, April 6, the boys and girls first and second place winners from the Club Level contest competed at the Zone level at West Ashley High School Media Center. Landon Ethredge of the West Ashley Optimist Club  and Benia Taylor of the Charleston Optimist Club will advance to compete at the district contest in Columbia where the first place boy and girl will each be awarded a $2,500 scholarship.