Act Quickly

The meeting was opened by Toastmaster Steve who enthusiastically welcomed us to the first formal meeting of the new year and presented the apologies received from Kane Hannah James and Dee.

Guests (Esteemed Judges) Peter Crofskey and David Gore were welcomed and changes to the programme announced.

Sheryl introduced the evaluation team timekeeper Chris and dual Grammarians Craig and Paul so we had two words to try to use 'Appreciate' and 'Inaugural'. This is the first time we have had two grammarians but once they sorted themselves out it seemed to work well.

Christine introduced the Table Topics topic Waitangi Day:

• Amy was the first up telling us how she spent her Day preparing for an ERO report and being an "happy happy evil wife" 
• Kim commented on the celebrations in Hawke's Bay and gave a thoughtful opinion on how Waitangi is evolving and should be a celebration of our developing Nationhood 
• David gave an impassioned appeal for Toastmasters to use Waitangi day to promote Toastmasters as we are all about communication. 
• Peter told us that he worked on Waitangi so he could Fridayise Waitangi day and had a very relaxing day on the Friday and felt that all holidays should be "Fridayised"

Wayne then took control of the meeting to chair the Evaluation Contest.

The test speech was delivered by Sarah Lee and was called 'Act Quickly.'

Diagnosed with cancer Sarah found that it was not any possession, her job, or what she had done or not done,  but it was friends and family that was most important. Sarah concluded her speech with an impassioned plea to act quickly as it may save your life. Thanks Sarah for a very memorable presentation which had a big impact on everyone in the audience.

Sarah's Speech was evaluated by 11 Evaluators an unprecedented number. I felt for the judges; it was a difficult task given the number and quality of the evaluations.

Sarah Hall and Nichola evaluated the Table Topics session with commendations and suggestions for the speakers.

Because of the number of contestants in the Evaluation contest, Ian agreed to pospone his speech to a later date.

Colin gave us an educational on the International Speech Contest being held on 5th March. He reminded us of the requirements surrounding this contest. He urged us to enter the contest and start the journey to Area, Division, District and the final to Kuala Lumper in Singapore.

Business Session 

Craig thanked everyone involved in the organisation of the BBQ and lamented the less than perfect weather.

The Club Leadership Training will be held in our meeting rooms on Friday 28 February 6.30 to 10pm and all office holders are urged to attend. The Area Contests will be at the end of March.

He reminded us that the District Convention is in Christchurch 9th - 11th May

Ex meeting is at Chris' place on 17 February

Sarah Lee welcomed Kim and Tony to the club and presented them with an official name badge.

Chris presented a Spirit of Success Certificate to Ian Wright for achieving 5 speeches in the CC Manual. Chris went through the programme for the next meeting. If you find that you are not able to fulfil your role please let the Toastmaster know as soon as possible.

Contest Results 

• 3rd Place Amie Edwards 
• 2nd Place Graeme Valentine, and
• 1st Colin Anderson 

Wayne thanked all those involved in ensuring a successful contest especially the Judges Timekeepers Sgt at arms and the contestants.

Meeting Results 

• Best Table Topics was our Guest Judge David Gore. 
• Best Contribution Sarah Lee 

Craig and Paul drew our attention to some memorable words and phrases. Chris presented the timekeepers report.

Sheryl evaluated the meeting the Toastmaster and the presentations. with suggestions for improvement in the roles.

The meeting closed at 9.20pm

Christine Tutbury