Learning briefs

Optimists sponsoring oratory contest

The Jackson Optimist Club and the Noon Optimists of Jackson are sponsoring the 2001-2002 Optimist Oratorical Contest. It is the longest running program sponsored by Optimist International, and is designed to inspire today' youth, 15 years of age and younger, to motivate and inform others through the art of public speaking.

This year's theme is "If I Could Change the World."

All interested participants need to fill out the application form by Feb. 1.

For application form and official rules, contact Carol Horst at 243-7916.Bush urging donations to Afghan children

President Bush is urging American children to donate $1 to help Afghan children survive the winter.

Donations should be sent to: America's Fund for Afghan Children, The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., Washington, D.C. 20500.