Seventh in the state of Illinois‑that statement describes Randy Von Liski '70, who on April 3 and 4 captured seventh place in original oration.

Randy was the first Maine West student ever to compete in the I.H.S.A. (Illinois High School Association) State Speech Contest.

The two day contest was held at Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois. Going into the semi‑final round Randy presented his original speech entitled, "The Moratorium Movement." Randy took seventh out of a starting field of approximately 1,000 students.

Talking about his victory and his experience, Randy expressed his feelings by saying, "I'm excited and proud of this placing. I've learned a lot for the other kids. The competition was unbelievable; they were very, very good."

He was accompanied by Mr. Daryl Schultz, his speech coach. Mr. Schultz said of Randy, "He did an excellent job. He had tough competition. In his rounds he was paired off with the first and second place state finishers."