CHS Speech & Debate Invitational results

The Dec. 10 Columbus Speech and Drama Invitational was a big win for Stillwater County and the town of Columbus.
Seventy plus volunteers gave up all or part of their Saturday to judge and host the meet that included 16 teams from Denton-Geyser-Stanford to Forsyth to Three Forks. The Columbus Booster Club organized a fantastic hospitality room to make sure judges, volunteers, coaches and bus drivers were well taken care of. School administration and staff rolled out the red carpet. The day was an incredible example of the way Stillwater County routinely supports their youth. And, it was a great day of competition.
Unfortunately, Three Forks eked out a win over Columbus by four points in the Drama Sweepstakes. Shepherd earned the Speech Sweepstakes trophy with a strong showing. On the bright side, Columbus had medalists in two events and many well placed individuals.
Earning medals for Columbus were seniors Devin Livergood and Dalton Marjerison with near perfect results in Humorous Duo. Equally funny for the day, senior Sarah Carrel was first in Humorous Solo. The Classical Duo pair, sophomores Kevin Fox and Kolton Gladney, earning the highest placing of their season to date, finished second. Columbus’ new Classical Duo, sisters senior Jessica Valdez and freshman McKayla Valdez, finished fourth. Humorous Duo, junior Josiah Forseth and sophomore partner Susan Carrel placed a strong 6th after overcoming a first round overtime penalty.
Senior Josh Bowman suffered his first defeat of the season, missing medalist’s position by three points, though he was favored by four of six judges for the day. Sophomore Policy Debaters Adrian Cook and Brett Jacobs finished third with two wins and a loss. Junior Alli Onoszko with new partner freshman Riley Onoszko were fifth in the Policy Debate standings.
Judges and spectators routinely praised the efforts and talents of the competitors through out the day. Judge Jay Forseth summed the day up nicely after judging the Original Oratory finals.
“These kids give me great hope for the future,” said Forseth.
The coaches wish to thank the community and volunteers for their outstanding efforts and support of this unique sport we call Speech and Drama.