Another great night

Craig, our stand-in Sergeant at Arms, bought the meeting to order and introduced our Toastmaster of the evening, Tony. Despite sending out the agenda a week in advance, Tony was adept in altering and accommodating several last minute changes due to covid.  Tony was welcoming in his opening, gave the apologies and introduced our guest, Alistair. 

Joyleen then outlined the General Evaluator role, including her team, with Denise as Grammarian and Poppy as Timekeeper. Denise’s word of the evening was defenestrate.

 

First up, was Table Topics being convened by Mondie. This was his first time at presenting Table Topics. To complicate matters, there were 8 speakers called upon, and Mondie needs to be congratulated in providing such a wide range of topics that everyone could respond to.  

 

Andy provided his evaluation of Mondie, and congratulated him on such a diverse and interesting topic selection. Andy also provided great commendations and excellent recommendations to the 8 speakers. Of special mention, was the confidence that each speaker demonstrated in tackling their topic and the great use of body language. Joyleen provided specific feedback to Andy on his topic; “The last time I was on a train and this was interesting because…?”. Andy spoke of the time he was on a train with his 4 year old daughter, when she fell onto the track and subsequent rescue effort. High drama and great use of gestures.  

 

Our only speaker of the night was Song, who was introduced by Craig, who provided an explanation of objectives with specific attention to taking on board previous evaluations.  Song’s speech was titled “Dream” and right from the start she captured our attention. Her clarity of delivery was specifically mentioned by evaluator Craig, together with use of the floor space, and word pictures including gestures. Also highlighted was the even pace, and need not to refer to any notes….all quite amazing, as it is only Song’s 4^th speech.  

 

The Business Session was run by Craig who advised the induction of the new committee will be at the next meeting. He reminded us of the upcoming 50th Anniversary on 15^th  August at East Pier in Ahuriri.  

 

There were two Educational sessions relating to the upcoming Contests to be held on 22^nd August; Table Topics and Humorous. Craig spoke about the Table Topics contest and referred to the session just run by Mondie and how everyone was able to speak to the topic and excel at the impromptu ness.  Judging sheets were circulated, as well as a summarised reference guide.  Craig is expecting all members to enter! Not to be outdone, Ian spoke about the Humorous speech contest and how easy it is to take a previously given speech and spice it up with some tales. A great opportunity to use exaggeration, self-deprecation and maybe an opportunity to bend the truth a little. Ian encouraged everyone to start preparing now, and to give it a go.

 

Joyleen rounded out the session with feedback to our very competent Toastmaster of the evening, Tony. Along with our Grammarian, Denise took note of the use of the word defenestrate and other phrases used. Poppy, provided that all important feedback on the times people took in the various assignments. 

 

Another great night 

 

Best Speaker - Song                           Best Evaluator - Andy

Best Table Topics - Alistair                   Best Contribution - Craig

NEXT MEETING; Monday 8th August 7.00pm, Toastmaster - Ian