Warsaw Optimists plan to host a March 3 Kids Speak Out program, where contestants have a chance to win one of three iPods mp3 players based on the strength of their speeches.

The event is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. inside of Zimmer's headquarters, Warsaw. Participants 16 years old and younger will have four to five minutes to present a lecture on the assigned topic: "My future is bright because ..."

Any youth meeting the age requirement is eligible for the contest, with no restrictions on educational background. Applications are available at Instant Copy, the Times-Union and www.jeffowens.net/contest, and are due March 2.

Three non-optimist members will judge the contest and award points for proficient content, delivery, poise and effectiveness.

"This program will help teach kids what it takes to prepare a speech: the writing, the research, the presentation," Jeff Owens, event co-chairman, said. "Taking part in the contest also looks good on a college application and winning the contest would look even better."

Awards consist of an iPod for first place, iPod Nano for second and iPod shuffle for third. First and second place also will advance to the optimist district competition for a chance to win scholarships and other various cash prizes.

"This program is designed to inspire today's youth to inform the public and strengthen their public speaking skills," Erin Rowland, also an event co-chair, said. "It's a fairly open contest, and everyone will have an opportunity to express their ideas through the assigned topic."

The Kids Speak Out program is part of a long standing oratorical contest hosted by Optimist International, which first began in 1928. [[In-content Ad]]