Every year, during the middle of the month of April, I get on here and praise the kids that compete in public speaking events.  There is not a better activity for kids to compete.  No matter what they do with their lives, public speaking will benefit them.  I like stock shows, but if I had to choose between my kids showing animals or giving speeches….well, let’s just say that I have always given my kids the choice of showing or not.  They have to give some sort of competitive speech.  This is truly an event that you don’t have to win in order to still be a winner.  Now, having said that, those of you that know me, know that I like to win.  And I really like listening to kids give well written, well prepared speeches.  I love a great delivery and especially like it when they can answer questions.  I’m real proud of the Shattuck kids.  There is a bright future of super successful public speakers in that school.  Congrats to all the kids that competed tonight and good luck to all of those that qualified for the NW District contest next week.