It's moments like these you need mentees!

Toastmaster Steve opened the meeting on time, set the scene for what was to follow and provided good linking segments with relevant comments throughout. Well done, Steve, your experience shone through!

On the programme were three speeches, an educational on mentoring and table topics where members tested their impromptu speaking skills.

Timers Patrick and James explained their roles and reported back at the end of the meeting. Grammarian Tony set the word of the day "Cognate" and challenged us to use it, and reported back on how we did, plus shared his observations on any use of language that took his fancy.

Table Topics Master James, who had done an incredible amount of preparation for his session, had speakers commentating on a three-scene sports event, providing a live cross back to the studio.

Evaluator one Kelly, introduced Maureen (our speaker 1) who gave us a really interesting insight as to why librarians ask so many questions, and the kinds of questions that library customers ask. Great job Maureen and a big improvement from your previous speech. Kelly's evaluation demonstrated good listening skills and included thoughtful recommendations to help Maureen to continue to improve.

Maureen - Talking about Dewey Decimal Classification

Evaluator two Jan, introduced our second speaker Karen, who talked about leadership and the differing styles she was experimenting with in trying to manage the team of builders and subbies working on her kitchen renovation. A really entertaining and informative dip into leadership styles. Thank you, Karen.  Jan's evaluation was a well delivered presentation that touched on the highlights of Karen and gave recommendations that will help Karen to improve.

Karen - The joy of project management!

Evaluator three Christine, introduced Peter B, who talked about his leadership style, and the different kinds of therapy approaches he uses when working with his clients. Another relaxed and polished performance from Peter. Christine's evaluation was supportive, demonstrating good listening skills and lateral thinking.

Peter - Communication styles

Ian presented an educational on mentoring – important as we have SO many new members in our club – and talked about how mentors can help new members (mentees or proteges) to get off to a great start in a toastmasters club. He also provided a welcome bag of Minties (geddit, Mentees? as a tasty prop). Thanks for sharing your expertise, Ian.

President Jan talked about our annual awards night, coming up on Monday 29 July at East Pier. VP membership Jane welcomed Roz into the club. Roz has her new member pack and a mandatory hug from Jane, so she's all set!

Thanks to Sergeant at arms, Graeme Valentine for his stellar and ongoing commitment to excellent room set up and his selection of chocolate biccies for our tea-break.

Awards for the night.
Best speaker: Maureen
Best table topic: Roz
Best evaluator: Christine
Best contribution: Craig