Smith wins Arlington Speaking Contest

Arlington’s Mack Performing Arts Center was filled with friends and family for the 15th Annual Arlington Memorial High School Speaking Contest.  Nine students competed in the event in which students recite monologues from varied works of literature or from their own original work.

Arlington Junior Gracie Smith received first place for her rendition of Paper People by Harry Baker. Second place honors went to Freshman Lilah Ward who recited The Waltz by Dorothy Parker.  Freshman Tess Belnap took third place for Fear the Laundry by Brian Eden, and the fourth place award went to Junior Sofie Pedemonti who recited I’m a Thoughtful Guy by Rhett & Link.  Honorable Mention awards were given to Arianna Barrios, Katheryn Berger, Jena Staab, Kaleigh Ward and Logan Younce.

Arlington English teacher Gayna Cross, who originated the event at AMHS, oversaw the performances along with Mistress of Ceremonies Riley Lane and Prompter Jamie Keel.  Judges for this year’s competition were Judith Frangos, Matt Harrington and Elizabeth Small.