Left to right: Abigail Sainsbury and Lily Antrim.

DOWNIEVILLE — As in the past, it was not an easy decision for judges to select the 2024 Lions Club Speakers Contest winner. Both contestants gave compelling, fact-based speeches on this year’s topic: “For a Better World – What would YOU Change?” However, contest rules allow only one student to advance to the next level, and that is Abigail Sainsbury, who will compete on March 12 at the Lions Club District 4c5 Zone level competition. Downieville Lions Club members wish to thank those who volunteered to be judges, the community members who attended the competition, the school personnel who worked with the contestants to prepare their speeches, and the parents of those contestants for their encouragement and support.