By KRISTI MAYFIELD
kmayfield@oakdaleleader.com
During the recent Speech Contest sponsored by Oakdale Sunrise Rotary and Oakdale High School, students were tasked with speaking about the importance of Rotary clubs and why their service to the communities they serve is so important.
Student speakers Roberto Verduzco, Joseph Yakligian, Gisele Garcia and Jenna O’Neil were asked to talk about the ‘Magic of Rotary’ and each offered their unique take on why Rotary clubs are so meaningful to their communities.
Verduzco offered the analogy of rotary movement and how it is consistently moving just as Rotarians are consistently helping others through their acts of service. Yakligian spoke of magic and how it seems intangible but the acts of service performed by Rotarians are very real and create actual and tangible change in the world. Garcia spoke of the 105-year history of Rotary clubs all over the world and how their spirit of collaboration and teamwork continues to inspire others. O’Neil spoke of the 45,000 clubs worldwide that shine as an example of compassion and offer a beacon of hope to many affected by illnesses, illiteracy and poverty.
Leigh Ann Gobel, Co-Chair of the Oakdale High School English Department, was there to support the competing students.
“Seeing them work so hard and then get up there to deliver their messages makes me so proud,” said Gobel.
An English teacher at Oakdale High for more than 25 years, Gobel has put a lot of time and energy into sharing her love of the many facets of not only English as a subject but also creative writing, debate, speech writing and reading.
As each student presented their views on the subject, they were evaluated by a panel of judges based on several criteria including: timing, body language, delivery and content. O’Neil took first place with her excellent delivery and mastery of the content with Garcia taking second place, Yakligian taking third and Verduzco taking home the Honorable Mention. Prizes included cash awards ranging from $200 to $50.
Each of the seniors said they are also looking forward to the next chapter in their lives which will find O’Neil studying business management at the University of Arizona, looking to pursue a law degree; Yakligian will be studying electrical engineering; Garcia is still evaluating all of her options but is considering studying to become a pediatrician; and Verduzco is reviewing his options as well and is looking to pursue a career in engineering.
