CORVALLIS, Ore. - Two newer members of Oregon State University's forensics team took first place at a recent tournament, with the rest of the team also offering strong showings. The team attended the 39th annual Smelt Classic Tournament at Lower Columbia College in Longview, Wash. last weekend.

The tournament featured more than a dozen schools, including Humboldt State University (Arcata, Calif.), Pacific Lutheran University (Tacoma, Wash.), and Columbia Basin College (Pasco, Wash.).

"This is a rebuilding year for a relatively young team," said Mark Porrovecchio, director of the team.  "And I couldn't be happier with the results."

Alyssa Razmus of Salem took first place in open impromptu speaking and was a finalist in open persuasive speaking. She was also recognized as a gold medalist in international public debate and best overall speaker in the novice division.

Kelsey Irish of Williams, Ore. took first place in novice extemporaneous speaking and was a finalist in novice impromptu speaking. Jamil Barbar of Portland received third place in novice impromptu speaking and was a finalist in novice extemporaneous speaking.

The team was rounded out by Kody Lawrence of Bandon, competing in novice impromptu speaking and novice editorial commentary, and graduate assistant and coach Forest Ledbetter of Sheridan.

Now in its 119th season, OSU Forensics is one of the oldest clubs on campus. The team is open to all students in good academic standing. For information, contact Porrovecchio at [email protected]

Source: 

Mark Porrovecchio, 541-737 8230

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