The Exchange Club of Effingham County recently held its annual American citizenship speech contest. Each student was advised that the speech must carry a positive theme of patriotism and pride in the democratic form of government.

The speech had to be memorized. No notes were allowed and the speech had to be between five to eight minutes in length.

The winner of the contest, South Effingham’s Sarah Lynn Bowser, will receive a $250 check and certificate at class night in May. The first runner-up, SEHS’ Natalie Starling, will receive a $100 check at class night in May.

For more information on the Exchange Club of Effingham County, call club president Yvette Carr at 657-5423.