SIDNEY — Erin Gaerke, a senior at Russia High School, took top honors, Feb. 15, in the Shelby County Right to Life Pro-Life Oratory Contest at St. John’s Lutheran Church.

She bested five other students by presenting a speech, “How Will History Remember Us?” In her speech, Gaerke wondered whether her generation would be remembered like the ancient “Spartan mothers leaving their weak children on the cliffside to die,” or rather, as she hoped, that “history will remember us as the pro-life generation.” Gaerke won $300 and will compete at the state level in April.

Nathan Platfoot, a senior at Botkins High School, was second. He won $150. Jacob Schmiesing, a junior at Lehman Catholic High School, was third and received $100.

Judges were Tara Adams, Amy Gleason and Pastor Jon Schriber.