I would like to encourage other high school students to become involved with the Right to Life Oratory contest in their area.  I participated at my county Right to Life Oratory contest in March (of 2011) and what a neat experience it has been for me.  To my surprise I came in first place and then went on to the state contest that was held in Columbus in April. Again with so many good speeches I was surprised to hear my name called for first place. From there it was on to the National Right to Life Oratory contest, which this year was held at Jacksonville, FL.

In June my Mom and I flew to Florida, which was a first for me to fly.  The Right to Life Convention was being held at Jacksonville and the Oratory contest was a part of that.  Participants were from all across the country and it was really neat getting to meet and talk with them.  We were all rooting for each other to do good.  Even though I did not have a finishing place I still had fun.  I would like to encourage others to get involved with the Right to Life Oratory Contest.  You have a chance to meet others who also are taking a part in standing up for life.  We can all BE A VOICE FOR THOSE WHO HAVE NONE.

-Travis Goettemoeller, Coldwater, member of Mercer County Right to Life

If you would like to participate in or host a local oratory contest, email Erin at ecain@ohiolife.org.

Deadline to register a local contest is Friday, February 24th. The winner of the state contest (to be held on April 21) will receive an all-expense paid trip to Virginia for the national contest in June. The Youth Oratory Contest is for high school juniors and seniors.