Friends of Quizzing- Hmmm... Where did January go? I just about skipped the newsletter since our February tournament is just around the corner, but so much has happened this past month, it really needs to be sent... First, let me say a huge thank-you again to the Committee members, Dads and Moms, Coaches and Assistants, Quizmasters and Scorekeepers, Supporters and Cheerleaders- and of course Quizzers who know there is something bigger at stake here than trophies and ribbons. God honors his Word and those to respect it enough to study and memorize it become a part of Jesus' Life, Work and Rewards in ways that are hard to express. God Bless You All. The January tournament was great! Loved the worship and devotion time (Thanks G.A.L.E and Abby for stepping up) and the multi-state helpers that made set-up and take-down a breeze. I loved the Novice leaguers who need to sit on small blue chairs to the A/B leaguers who hardly fit under a doorway. You all brought a special spirit of Joy to January. I was amazed that you all did so well considering the Christmas candy and New Years celebrations which can so easily distract from study and memorizing. Nice! And what can I say about the Crown Tournament? It was OVER THE TOP one of the best we've had in a long time. We took three teams who all went to the finals in their respective divisions: - The 3/4 Iowa-1/4 Minnesota A Division team "Light of the World" took first place in the Gold finals. - The 2/3 Theophiloi-1/3 T.W.C.A A Division team "Pearls of Supplanted Grace" took first place in the Silver finals. - The talented mash-up of 1/4 LittleLeaguer-3/4 A/BLeaguer B Division team "Overjoyed" took third place in the Gold finals. On an individual level, 6 of our 11 quizzers placed among the top 20 quizzers overall. I don't have their exact placement but will post it when I get final results from the Crown officials. http://rochesterbiblequizzing.org/PastResults/2012-2013/slideshows/04-January-Crown/ Regardless of the trophies and medallion earned, all our Crown quizzers showed remarkable Christlikeness, carriage, control, and composure while demonstrating keen quizzing skill despite unfamiliar rules and question formats that really could have been a liability. I was very proud of every one of them. Typically Crown leaders select one or two quizzers to give a brief testimonial/devotion during large group time-- however, this year our own Karl Kirkman gave a couple of briefings on lessons learned while he and Martha toured the Holy Lands this past summer. 10 Stars for "Fabulously Insightful"! Hey! We're well over the half-way point and in the final stretch! Keep up the great work! Time to start thinking about the Chicago tournament :) As a fellowship opportunity, at February's tournament let's get togther at Noon and share a bring-your-own brown-bag lunch together! (I'll probably cheat and drive thru at Subway :) Till next time! GBY! Jim Benson Director Rochester YFC Bible Quizzing http://rochesterbiblequizzing.org/PastResults/2012-2013/standings/04-January.html