Del Oro, Nevada Union, West Park High students place in Auburn's AAUW 4th annual speech contest

Four area high school students placed in Auburn's fourth annual Speech Trek on Sunday, Feb. 1, at Auburn Regional Park. The top three will go on to compete in a regional championship in March. The speech contest was organized by the Auburn Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW). Graham Gardemeyer, a senior at Nevada Union High School, won first place and a check for $650. Paige Miszkewycz, a junior at Del Oro, placed second and earned a check for $500. Mykola "Nick" Klymenko, a senior at West Park, was third and received a check for $400. Harley Long, a sophomore at Del Oro, won fourth place and a check for $300. Coordinated and funded by AAUW, the goal of Speech Trek is to encourage young people to do independent research, organize their ideas logically and speak persuasively. This contest is open to all California high school students regardless of grade or gender, including public schools, private schools and home schools. Candidates receive free analyses of their speech drafts and free coaching of their delivery style. In honor of our country's Semiquincentennial (250 years) since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the speech prompt this year was: How do the freedoms and values in the Declaration of Independence resonate today? What freedoms and ideals remain unfulfilled, and how can we manifest them in the future? "The judges are absolutely essential in any speaking contest," commented Speech Trek Chair Susan Roughgarden. "We are fortunate to have with us three judges who have extensive experience in working with public speaking." Tomas Vera, who is president of the Auburn Gold Country Toastmasters, as well as being a Senior IT Analyst, stated, "Being able to present your thoughts and ideas in an effective and efficient manner is a skill that will serve you in all aspects of life." Judge Lynn Tubbe agreed, saying, "I feel passionately that 'speaking up,' not just 'public speaking,' is a life skill. Conversing with strangers and speaking confidently during job interviews are necessary for success." Ms. Tubbe is a retired teacher, Placer County Museum Docent and Master Quilter. She coached a candidate in a past year who earned first place. Rounding out the judging team was Cameron Barbarick, a professional speaking coach. Speaking as a millennial, he said, "My mission is to empower my generation and those younger to practice being responsible, ethical and effective communicators." Public speaking is an invaluable skill for helping to solve the 21st century's problems. Better communications and thoughtful analysis of opportunities will be needed more than ever. Furthermore, a significant aspect of writing a speech is practicing critical thinking skills. The ability to clearly state your position can make the difference in job interviews, community discourse and even in family relationships. (AAUW) is a nonpartisan nonprofit that was launched in 1881 to encourage women to get a college education and fight for women's suffrage. The mission has evolved to supporting young people in educational opportunities.