OMER’s Awards
Problem 3: Classics…Cooking with Books Division II
Alisha Bruce, official
This person went above and beyond to solve her problem. She traveled specifically to study the subject that she hoped to represent. To prove just how successful her transformation and respectful impression, some audience members came simply to watch her performance. Displaying amazing costuming, voice imitation and comedic timing as well as an encyclopedic knowledge of Julia Child’s life and work, timekeeper Alisha brought her character to life, delivering an amazing experience for team members and audiences alike. She had the audiences and teams rolling with laughter as we were transported to a special Odyssey episode of The French Chef! Julia, herself, would be proud of her amazing performance!
Problem 3: Classics… Cooking with Books Division III
Carly Seligman , Goshen NY
Carly Seligman has been an OMer for 7 years. She exemplifies how Odyssey can be life-changing. When she started, she overcame her stage-fright by playing the flute to “speak”. As time went on, Carly added very minor speaking roles, each a step out of her shell. This year, her last year performing on the OM stage, for the first time, she played a scored lead role, as Alice. She proudly and loudly sang and danced the whole performance, a huge accomplishment and triumph over her history of stage-fright! Odyssey of the Mind has given her a voice. Carly already has plans to become a coach for younger kids during her senior year and give back to the kids in her community, to share with them what OM has taught her.
Problem 4: Save Me Structure Division III
Mira Costa High School, Manhattan Beach, SCA
This team showed exceptional talent in the craftsmanship and realism of their three balsa wood animals. The peacock had a balsa wood frame, wings and beautiful brightly colored plumage made of balsa wood sheets. The feet were made of balsa, using glue to create the webbing. The bee had structural and mechanical elements made of balsa that allowed the wings to flap. Their team-created hybrid robotic companion animal contained wooden structural arms that moved. Even removing the paint and decorations, the animals would be clearly recognizable and functional. The skills involved in creating these animals wowed the entire judging team.