Monday 11th saw a small but enthusiastic group turn up for the meeting. Quite a number of apologies [which indicates enthusiasm, but other comittments] and our guest Fiona.
Toastmaster Wayne prepared a full programme under pressure with some key people putting in late apologies.
 |
| Toastmaster Wayne |
Rachael as Grammarian challenged us to use her chosen word “nonplus”.
We warmed up with Table Topics presented by Emma. She had an animal theme for each speaker which we had to speak to and pretend that was what we were or say why we wouldn’t be that animal.
Chris started with a load “ROAR”, appropriate given that he was a Lion. Seems he enjoyed lying around waiting for the next tourist!
 |
| Chris |
Nick's “chosen” animal was a cat. Nick told us he loves to lie around sleeping when not chasing birds.
 |
| Nick |
Rachel was told to be a sloth and did she act the part, moving and speaking very slowly. Apparently slow movement is a defense mechanism. Who knew!
Craig entertained us pretending he was a parrot. We were quite glad when he finished sqawking and sat down!
Ian rounded off Table Topics by monkeying around. Seems in his younger days he used to do monkey tricks and was rewarded with a drink. Sometimes he overdid it and got too much drink.
An entertaining and different Table Topics.
Graeme followed with an educational on the importance of positive evaluations. He reminded us there is no such thing as the perfect presentation. If we do not provide a positive, constructive evaluation, presenters may not have the courage to return and continue to improve their skills. Our evaluations should be in the third person to address the whole audience. Lots of great suggestions.
Chris and Christine effectively “tag teamed” their table topics evaluations with great feedback and recommendations to all speakers.
Our formal speaker Paul spoke on the importance of Community Responsibility, how we all need to be proactive in protecting oursleves and others from criminal activity, how we should be setting a good example for others. Pressure our members of Parliament for change if we do not like what is happening in our city.
Our recently elected Area Director Ian, outlined the changes coming up in the Toastmasters organisation and benefits to club members. He outlined his role and how he was there to help the club.
 |
| Ian |
Steve read an article from a newspaper on the Brexit vote result. Written “tongue in cheek?” by the reporter, it suggested old people should stop voting for what they wanted as they had had their turn over the years and would not be around to see the consequences, - let younger people vote for the way they wanted things to be as they would be the ones that would have to live with it. Interesting!
President Craig conducted the business session. Past President Chris presented Spirit of Success certificate to Nick for completing his first five assignments. Craig reminded us about Club Executive training, inviting all club members to attend on Friday 22nd and to make sure we responded to the invite to the Awards dinner on 1 August.
 |
| The New Executive Committee From Left: Emma (Secretary), Graeme (Sgt at Arms), Christine (Treasurer), Steve (VP Education) and Craig (President) Kate (not present) is VP Membership |
As always an enjoyable and educational meeting, closed by Wayne after favourable comment from our guest.
And the awards for the evening went to:
- Best Speaker: Ian
- Best Evaluator: Nick
- Best Table Topics: Steve, and
- Best Contribution: Steve.
Steve
It was a great evening and lovely to have Fiona visit. Funny to learn that I knew Fiona through business connections, though we'd never met in person. What a small world!
ReplyDeleteAnother excellent meeting, a little light on Prepared Speeches but great entertainment and most enjoyable.
ReplyDeleteGood report Steve.