09/13/2026
at the Alhambra Unified School District Board of Education
This year's theme, "Hard Choices" challenged contestants on whether one can make the decision of who lives or dies? The scenario contestants had to grapple with was an overcroaded lifeboat situation where survival of the many may rest on the sacrificing of the few. Who then decides who gets a chance at survival for more day, and who goes overboard? Does this desparate solution go against an innate morality or does it become a practical matter involving unforgiving logic and cold reasoning? Do the ends justify the means? The question was compelling, ponderous, and unsettling, but it did spark some thoughtful debate and discussion.
Many thanks to the volunteers: Nick Zhao, Kaitlyn Liu, Megan Liu, and Susan Hum Lai
Special Thanks to Bob Gin for arranging use of a magisterial setting where educational issues and policies are regularly addressed, and to Gloria Ing, who's community dedication as a volunteer speech and debate coach helped to garner young orators for this contest. Appreciate Alhambra Unified's Adrienne Barbara and Mike the Custodian for their contribution to the rewarding outcome. Thanks to supporters who attended to witness this marvel of meaningful discourse.
Finally a big thank you to our Justices for their attention and probing and address the tough decision of selecting award recipients: Catherine Eng, Stan Liu, Henry Lo, Minnie Tsui, and Nick Zhao. Congratulations to the students who participated.
Photos contributed by Gloria Ing, and others.
