The City Club of Cleveland is inviting high school juniors and seniors to participate in the Hope and Stanley Adelstein Free Speech Essay Competition as part of its Centennial Celebration. Students have the opportunity to win up to $1,000 and present their essay by writing about what free speech means to them. The top 20 essays will receive cash prizes ranging from $100 to $1,000 to encourage students to reflect on their beliefs about freedom of speech.

1. City Club Announces Free Speech Essay Competition for High School Students
Cleveland (August 31, 2011) – As part of its Centennial Celebration, The City Club of Cleveland
invites high school juniors and seniors to explore what free speech means to them by participating
in an essay competition.
The students who enter The Hope and Stanley Adelstein Free Speech Essay Competition have the
chance to win up to $1,000 and the opportunity to present their essay at a special Friday Forum of
The City Club. This recognition is not the only benefit of participating in the contest. “By researching
and writing their essay,” says Elizabeth Horrigan, Director of the 100th Anniversary Celebration,
“the student will be compelled to reflect on their own beliefs pertaining to freedom of speech. Such
scholarship will instill an appreciation for their rights and the importance of sharing ideas.”
Entry criteria and other information will be sent to high schools in Cuyahoga, Geauga, Portage, Lake,
Lorain, Medina and Summit counties. To be considered, all essays must be submitted by Feb. 15,
2012. The panel of judges will include members of The City Club and the community. The top 20
essays will earn cash awards: first prize is $1,000, second is $750, third is $500, and the next 17
winners will receive $100 each. For more information, call 216-621-0082 or visit the 100th
Anniversary website, www.cityclub100.org.
About the City Club of Cleveland:
Renowned for its tradition of debate and discussion, The City Club is the oldest continuous free
speech forum in the country. The City Club firmly believes in the free expression of all ideas and the
benefits of an open exchange. It is non-partisan and does not take positions on issues. Beginning in
October 2011, The City Club will host a variety of events, including the Hope and Stanley Adelstein
Free Speech Essay Competition, to commemorate its 100th anniversary.
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