Agricultural News
Diamond Anniversary Year for AFR/OFU Speech Contest- Finals This Saturday
Thu, 05 Dec 2019 09:59:43
American Farmers & Ranchers/Oklahoma Farmers Union (AFR/OFU) will celebrate a legacy of support for Oklahoma youth with its AFR State Speech Contest Dec. 7 at Oklahoma State University (OSU) in Stillwater. This marks the 75th year of the contest.
Each year, the contest encourages young Oklahomans to hone their public speaking ability through district contests. This year, nearly 500 students competed throughout the state, resulting in more than 160 finalists advancing to the state level. At the state contest, the top three competitors in each category will receive cash awards.
The event has gone through many changes over the years, but has always maintained its central agricultural theme. Varying by grade level, this year's speech categories are AFR/OFU, Ag Advocacy and Policy, Agribusiness, Natural Resources, and Science. All students, grades fourth through 12th, are eligible to compete.
"Public speaking is one of the most valuable skills young people can gain for their future careers," said AFR/OFU Cooperative President Scott Blubaugh. "We are honored to host the 75th Annual AFR Speech Contest, which has a long-standing tradition of fostering professionalism and confidence in Oklahoma's youth."
Blubaugh talked with Radio Oklahoma Ag Network Farm Director Ron Hays about the Diamond Anniversary of the contest- as well as the upcoming Livestock Skills Contest set for next week at the Tulsa Farm Show. Listen to Ron and Scott by clicking on the LISTEN BAR below.
The AFR Speech Contest is just one of many AFR Youth Program traditions. The organization also hosts a youth leadership summit, statewide scholarships, livestock judging and grading competitions, and many other development opportunities. For more information on how to participate in the AFR Speech Contest or other youth activities, visit the AFR/OFU Cooperative website by clicking or tapping here for their website.
(Pictured above- winners from the Northwest District Speech Contest held earlier this fall)
Source- AFR
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