'Planet vs. Plastics' recognizes young environmentalists, orators
Apr. 23—Eco-friendly bottles, nanoplastics and various replacements for plastic bags were among the many topics discussed by 10 young orators competing in the "Planet vs. Plastics" competition Monday afternoon at the Vigo County History Center.
The top 10 of those 18 and under who had earlier submitted a video on curbing plastic consumption spoke at the competition, which was hosted by reTHink Executive Director Shikha Bhattacharyya.
Korben Swank and Jezebel Stuthers won $100 and $50, respectively, in the speakers under age 12 category.
In the ages 12-18 competition, Maddie Graham and Lillian Henton tied for first place, winning $500 each, Leif Speer won $250 for taking second place and Shambhavi Pawar and Azucena Vazquez tied for third place, each taking home $100.
The competition had not prepared for kids tying for awards, but an audience member covered the additional expense involved.
Additionally, two students received additional prizes from those in attendance impressed by their presentations.
Violet Templeton received a cash prize of $150 from Bob Baesler, who was taken by her "passion and eloquence."
John Lotz, Assistant Director of Business Engagement at Indiana State University, showed "appreciation and support" for Diarmuid Corcoran's presentation by giving him some ISU gear.
Bhattacharyya also announced that Terre Haute was won of three Hoosier cities selected to participate in the Young Climate Champion program, alongside Richmond and New Albany. Each will pay a selected high-school student $1,000 for getting involved in environmental causes.
David Kronke can be reached at 812-231-4232 or at david.kronke@tribstar.com.
