Carlee Cowan, Lincoln County

National Champion, Prepared Public Speaking Contest

I walked briskly from the crowded room; my heart still soar- ing and my tears still drying from the joy that seemed to tickle my lips into a wide smile. I had just been awarded the title of Western National Champion Overall in prepared public speaking. The excitement of finally winning after working so long, trying so hard, and failing so often had left me speech- less. The dedication and persistence with which I pursued this goal had paid off reminding me of the final lines of my speech, “I can! I will! This is my moment. This is the beginning of my forever!”