On a vibrant Tuesday evening, the Green River High School Speech and Debate Team demonstrated their exceptional talents while raising funds for an upcoming national competition. Through engaging storytelling, character portrayals, and audience participation, the students managed to collect over $500 for their journey to the prestigious national debate tournament. This event was not only about financial support but also about celebrating creativity and teamwork.

The evening commenced with a series of captivating performances that included humorous renditions, informative presentations, and spontaneous acts. One standout moment featured Spencer Morrell, who entertained the crowd with his vocal versatility, bringing to life seven distinct characters as he discussed applying to college in the near future. Later, Spencer joined forces with his sister Georgia for a touching duo performance highlighting childhood purity. Meanwhile, impromptu scripts crafted by students like Iliana Birmingham and Lillynee Janota transported the audience into a spooky open house scenario, while senior Mark Hildenbrand explored themes of the supernatural.

The night concluded with thought-provoking debates that challenged the participants' critical thinking skills. Silas Chetterbock and James Leffers engaged in a lively discussion on artificial intelligence's potential impact on humanity, presenting both optimistic and cautionary perspectives. In another compelling exchange, Makynzee Bagshaw and Emma Johnson debated the accuracy of the Doomsday Clock, a symbolic measure used by scientists to assess global risks. Madison Korkow complemented these debates with an insightful speech on color psychology, enriched by a visually stimulating display involving magnetic boards.

Inspiring young minds to engage in meaningful discourse is essential for fostering intellectual growth and community engagement. By blending education with entertainment, the students of Green River High School exemplified how dedication and collaboration can lead to remarkable achievements. Their efforts remind us all of the power of communication and its role in shaping our shared future.