Christmas Meeting 2015

It was another entertaining and educational night that was had at the Napier Toastmasters Club on Monday, 14 December. The meeting was chaired by Sarah H and was in full control; in welcoming our guests (Kate, Ashley and John, plus semi-regular guest James K and his father) and also embracing the Xmas theme.

Sarah H - Cool, calm and prepared for a busy evening.

James K was given the honour of reading the Mission Statement, followed by an outline of the evenings program, apologies being received and explanation of the various roles. Most importantly Sarah emphasised the need to adhere to the times in the program as there was a well earned shortening of the program so that members (and guests) could partake in some Xmas eaties and a social drink.

Craig continued with the Xmas theme in Table Topics and showed all those years of experience by manipulating the 12 days of Christmas into the “6 days of Table Topics”.

First table topic, was tackled by Netta – one chance, the who and where would it be.

Netta - Only One Chance

Second topic, by Sarah L, was to talk about two aspects of a favourite holiday. Was not so sure about my notes, as this got a little steamy or was it due to the tropical climate!

Sarah L. - Loving Samoa

Third topic, meeting three celebrities by James K.

Fourth topic, the four things I want for Xmas by Paul. Paul easily rattled off 3, recounting family, presents and turkey and then struggle but World Peace is always up!

Fifth topic, by Christine talked about 5 things to eat and drink on Xmas day. Certainly didn’t run out of food items or drink. Christine knows her food and hic cup!

Christine - Looking Forward to Christmas Day

The sixth topic was a real toughy for James S who had to name six Xmas songs. Now for a man who has to listen to them in the store (8 hours x 5 days per week), James did show some decorum on this topic and was looking forward to Boxing Day! Talk about being a victim.

Table Topics were well evaluated by Dee and Peter – a dynamic duo on the night. Good feedback to TTM Craig and to all participants.

Due to the shortened program only two speeches and an educational were slotted in. Our first speaker was Rachael whose speech had the intriguing title of ‘See, Sniff and Tip’. We were, of course, to be entertained by Rachael’s past experience of flatting with a winemaker. Aspects such as looking at the colour, smelling the aroma (and added fruit) and of course the tipping (no not down the throat) was to see the wine run down the inside of the glass. Most informative, and an excellent speech.

Steve provided a very polished (and somewhat envious) feedback to Rachael.

Steve - Providing an Expressive Recommendation

The second speech, if I got it right, was titled ‘Why men don’t listen, and Women can’t read maps’ by Tracey. This had most members in hysterics as Tracey, tru to form, entertained and gave undisputable evidence about the shortcoming of each sex.

Tracey - The 'man look' for the lost butter (in plain sight) explained for men to understand!

I struggled to capture the many moments but with men being my optic, spatially aware and/or compartmentalised left nowhere for Graeme to provide any meaningful recommendations.

Our last item was an Educational by Chris Heath – Evaluate to Motivate. Some very good tips were provided to members to assist in providing meaningful feedback to speakers. As outlined, make the evaluation personal, use ‘I believe...’ rather than bolder ‘everyone enjoyed….’ right through to ensuring that recommendations are given with examples of how that aspect could be improved.

Sarah (far right) - Feeling the various degrees of praise from Amy for helping out around the house.

Always great to be reminded on the tips and tricks given and thus making evaluations a less daunting task - well done Chris.

Amy wrapped up the General Evaluation by calling on the awesome sauce (grammarian James S), timekeeper Ian and then handed back to Sarah so that the festivities could start.

Amy received her trophy and certificate from Chris for winning the Division D table topics contest

Awards for the night:

• Best Table Topics: Netta 
• Best Speaker: Tracey
• Best Evaluator: Graeme
• Best Contribution for the Night: Craig

Another great Toastmaster evening, with Sarah closing the formal part of the evening at 8.36pm and inviting all to enjoy some Christmas cheer. A great way to conclude 2015.

PS My apologies in advance, if I missed anything out, as I should of written this up before the Xmas break and my rough notes and scribbly writing didn’t help.

PPS Don’t forget about the first meeting for 2016, at Chris's house. The Club is providing the meat, and we need to bring a dessert or salad, your own cutlery, plates, drinks and chairs. Please let Sarah know what salad or desert you are bringing as having 10 trifles could be embarrassing.

Happy New Year

Ian