ID competitions

The Individual Development competitions are just winding up, and I had the opportunity to participate as a competitor and soon as a judge. I crafted a 5-7 minute speech based on a quote provided before the time in the Masters Speak-Up competition, and will be judging for the Write-up Competition. Earlier today, Speak-up competitions were held. These are open to all Jaycee members, except for past/current chapter presidents. Those people are eligible for the Masters Speak-up. Earlier in the day, two teams faced off in the debate competition, with pro and con sides chosen and the groups required to debate a topic that is only revealed to them a bit before it begins. There are other competitions as well, which will be covered more in detail later on. More info can be found on the US Junior Chamber website.

Competitions are a challenge for Jaycees to practice their public speaking, writing, debating, interviewing and portfolio skills. New York State is happy to provide transportation, hotel, and registration for ID winners to be sent on to National conventions to represent the state. So a free trip to Florida in March is a good impetus to give a speech in January.

As always, conventions are full of packed moments of intensity and occasional brief times to sit down and grab a drink. Of course, you can also take time away from some of the offerings and connect with the different people who are in attendance.

Coming up tonight is the banquet, so be prepared for a few pics of people in fancy gear.