STUDENT TAKES FIRST PLACE ORATORY HONOR

Todd Matzat, a seventh-grade student at Schultz Middle School in Cape Girardeau, took first place at the Optimists International annual oratory contest held Saturday in Columbia.

Matzat was sponsored by the Evening Optimists Club of Cape Girardeau. In order to compete in the national competition, Matzat won at the local, district and regional levels.

Matzat's presentation was entitled "If Only." He was awarded a $1,500 scholarship from Optimists International.

The oratory contest sponsored by Optimists International has been held since 1928.

He is the son of William and Bonnie Matzat of Cape Girardeau.