Into the New year!

The 14th January meeting was welcomed by a strong attendance including four first time guests. We welcomed each of them and enjoyed their contributions. It seemed like a long time since we had last met, and it was good to catch up with people. It was competition night, and it was a close fought battle for this year's trophies. Our club prides itself on transparent judging and half of the audience made up the judging panel - thus ensuring a fair decision. Competitions are fine, but our strength is the fun, the enthusiasm and the enjoyment of good speeches, and of watching people develop. Who wins or loses is not the most important aspect of the club. Most meetings are not in the slightest way competitive. Each individual is developing their learning speaking skills set with the help of others at all levels. It is fun to compete from time to time, but it is even more satisfying to know that you don't need to compete to win! It was a good meeting and set 2008 off to a positive and satisfying start.