On Wednesday, February 4, 2026 the Vergennes Lions welcomed five LEO teen contestants for the local level Lions Speak Out Contest. This marked the 28th year the club has hosted the event and everyone was excited. Each contestant spoke from 5-7 minutes on their own interpretation of the theme Lead to Serve and Serve to Lead. After delivering their speeches, each responded to questions for Lions relating to service, leadership and the world at large. At the end of the evening all were winners as they went outside their comfort zone to express themselves and use their First Amendment right granted in the United States Constitution. Advancing on to the next round is VUHS senior/ LEO co-president Scout Jacobson and placing second is VUHS junior/ LEO president for 2027 Georgia Krause. The speech contestants talked with the Lions and took a photo to remember the event.
Vergennes Lions gather to encourage their Lions Speak Out contestants for 2026!
L-R: Lion Blair gives encouragement to the contestants! KL Jodie Bushey presents LEO Scout with her 1st place winnings and LEO Georgia with her second place winnings!
