From left are: Tim and Lisa Schultz, Shawn Calmes, Bob Rebmann, Steve Schum.

Photo and information from Bob Rebmann. 

Congratulations go out to Shawn Calmes, who won the American Legion Zone 5 Oratorical Contest on the U.S. Constitution in Geneseo on Saturday (Feb. 1).

Shawn did a magnificent job, as the competition was very tough. He will move on to compete in Albany next month for a chance at a $,6000 scholarship and the right to move on to the National Finals at American Legion Headquarters in Indianapolis in April, where a $20,000 scholarship is top prize.

Shawn resides in Darien and is a sophomore at Alexander High School. Shawn is sponsored by Wyoming County American Legion and Harder-O'Donnell Post 734 in Attica. It is believed that Shawn is the first contestant of the Harder-O'Donnell Post to advance to the statewide competition.

Job well done goes out to Shawn and we wish him the best moving on!

About the American Legion Oratorical Contest

It exists to develop deeper knowledge and appreciation for the U.S. Constitution among high school students. Since 1938, the program has presented participants with an academic speaking challenge that teaches: important leadership qualities; the history of our nation’s laws; the ability to think and speak clearly; and an understanding of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizenship.

The program has featured numerous politicians and prominent contestants over the years, including former presidential candidate Alan Keyes, national television commentator and talk radio host Lou Dobbs, and Vice President of the United States Mike Pence.