Anderson Wins State Championship

The Culbertson/Bainville/ Froid/Lake speech, drama and debate team wrapped up its season at the state meet.

The students had two grueling, long and stressful days. The local competitors rose to the challenge and made their coaches, teammates and communities proud.

Qualifying for semi-finals or advancing directory to finals were Josie Simonsen, Vala Gregor and Samantha Austin, Harrison Green, Colt’n Rees. Harper Anderson, Jaxon Flinn, and Scarlet Mahoney.

Anderson earned first in dramatic solo.

Simonsen placed fifth in memorized public address.

Austin and Gregor captured fourth in classical theater.

Green earned fourth in impromptu Flinn placed eighth in informative.

Also competing and representing were Blake Reed and Harper Struna.

Trinity Gregor, Brennen Roseleip and Jaclynne Taberna came along as managers, helped the tournament director throughout the tournament and supported their team and the Eastern division. They spent their days learning the school’s layout and guiding judges, coaches, and competitors to the correct competition rooms.

Coach Patrick Kjelshus was nominated for both Class C speech and Class C drama Coach of the Year. MFEA members will vote prior to the coach’s spring meeting, and the state winners will be announced at the March meeting.

“I am unbelievably proud of everyone. It has been such a blessing to coach students from four great communities and to have Patrick and Robert Kjelshus join me at the helm,” Coach Jeri Gustafson said. “They have been integral to our team’s success. All coaches see and practice with all of our competitors each week, which strengthens the trust and bond between them.”