"Hi I'm a Manager who are you"...

..., "don't kick the bucket just yet" these were the two intriguing titles given to speeches at our meeting on the 24th September. Read more.

This was without doubt a very Special meeting! It was a privilege having Brenda as our Toastmaster for the evening. Her attention to detail was very much appreciated. It certainly helped set the tone for what was to follow. Excellent program by the way - clear, concise, complete.

Paul our Grammarian introduced Converse as his word for the night. Good choice in that it was used quite often and in the correct manner. Well done Paul. Our timekeeper Bill outlined his role and explained how the lights would be used so there were no misunderstandings. Thanks Bill.

Peter introduced our first speaker for the night. Coral was doing her Ice Breaker. (In other words it was her first ever speech to us). Peter showed he was very much aware of how important this speech was to her and kept his introduction brief and to the point. Well done Peter.

Coral gave an excellent speech. I was impressed by the way in which she presented it. Coral talked about her daughter and in so doing highlighted how much they mean to one another. A very touching story.

Coral - A tale about her daughter

Peter evaluated Coral and quickly showed how well he had listened. He balanced his comments by giving four commendations and one recommendation.This would have left Coral feeling really good about what she had done. Excellent both of you!

Dan introduced Emma and helped set the scene in a very positive way. Dan showed he was obviously well aware of the importance of this particular assignment. It was Emma's tenth speech "Inspire your audience" the last speech toward receiving her Competent Communication award and what a speech it was! This was the one titled "Hi I'm a Manager who are you". Emma's experience came through very strongly. Not only did she set the scene but Emma also gave us an insight as to what happens when people are either controlling an interview or receiving one. Very thorough as always. Up to your usual very high standard. A pleasure to listen to!

Emma - with a speech titled "Hi I'm a manager, who are you?"

Congratulations to Dan with regard to the feedback given to Emma. Liked that Dan provided a well balanced summary both in terms of highlighting the praise due to someone who has always given of her best and also providing two recommendations that would be helpful given the nature of this particular assignment. Well done Emma and Dan.

Sarah introduced Elizabeth and interestingly had a "Inspire your Audience" assignment to evaluate as well. This was the one called "Don't kick the bucket just yet" - told you it was a Special night didn't I! Sarah gave an introduction that clearly reflected the benefits she has gained in her time with Toastmasters. Thank you Sarah for showing us how.

Elizabeth - "Don't kick the bucket just yet"

Elizabeth gave a personal speech which was not only very interesting but also food for thought. She always sets herself very high standards and this was no exception. Nice to note her mum and dad were in attendance and must have felt very proud.

Excellent evaluation from Sarah. Elizabeth would have have gained a lot from her evaluation. A very good balance both in terms of commendation and recommendation.

Thank you very much Elizabeth and Sarah.

Supper was really yummy. Thanks very much to those who helped.

Napier had a excellent Moments of Truth session. Thanks Jan and Jane. This is where club members are given the chance to comment on how the club is doing. An excellent session that highlights what we are doing well and what may need attention. Good value.

Jan (our president) covered general business.

Paul gave his Grammarians report.

Bill commented how everyone went timing wise.

Best Speaker: Elizabeth
Best Evaluator: Peter
Best Contribution: Jan and Jane 

Best Contribution - Jan and Jane

Best Evaluator - Peter

Meeting closed at 9.20pm. What a Brilliant evening!

Thanks everyone.