DARLINGTON — On Wednesday, Jan. 28, the Darlington American Legion Post 214 held the American Legion Oratorical Scholarship Contest at the Post.

This year there were two contestants: Emanuel Bello and Thea Kammerud.  The contestants each gave a prepared 8- to 10- speeches on some aspect of the U.S. Constitution and were asked to speak for 3 to 5 minutes on one of four amendments that was assigned. 

Both students knew their subject matter with their prepared speeches, but the assigned amendment was a little harder. When it was all done, Emanuel won the Oratorical and will move onto the Lafayette County Oratorical that is scheduled to be held at the Darlington Post on Wednesday, Feb. 18. Thea will be the alternate if Emanuel is unable to attend. 

For their hard work and dedication preparing for the contest, both students were awarded Scholarship money. For First Place Emanuel received $250, and Thea received $150. 

Darlington American Legion Post 214 thanked both students for participating in the Oratorical Scholarship contest. Post 214 also thanked the three judges for taking the time assist the Post. The judges were Clarey Knellwolf-Schwartz-Rayna O’Brien and Sam Fuller.