The South Johnston Optimist Club is sponsoring an oratorical contest for students.

The Optimist Club will judge the local students’ speech based on content and presentation to determine the top winners.

Winners will receive medallions and the winning speaker will go the zone level. Those who advance to the district level have the opportunity to win college scholarships.

Students under the age of 19, who have not graduated from high school or the equivalent, are eligible to participate.

The deadline to apply is April 5. Students wishing to participate in the oratorical contest can find out more about the contest by contacting Greta Crayton at 910-892-1399.