Meeting Report – 11th February
Posted by carrigtm on February 18, 2008
A well-attended meeting, including two guests (Orla & Vera), plus the welcome return of Vera Murphy and Derek Lynch. Liam stepped in as General Evaluator, as his better half, Jean, was under the weather (missing you already, Jean!). The revised layout of the room was kept and, as it seems effective, the consensus is that is should continue.
The topics were varied and often challenging. For example: Tim Forde & Andy Kirk were invited to describe the Empire State Building to a blind man and how to tie a bow without using hand gestures respectively. Award for best topic reply was earned by Jill Slevin who proved that her self-confessed complete lack of knowledge of football was no obstacle and proceeded to break the two minute goal!
After the refreshment break, which provides both members and guests the opportunity to mingle and discuss the various aspects of Toastmasters.
The prepared speeches commenced with Eamonn Scollard, who gave an authoritative and historic account of the cultural influence of the GAA. This was followed by Celine McGrath’s intriguing speech entitled ‘Rescue me’ which recalled her traumatic travels abroad and the kindly stranger who administered the tincture ‘Rescue Remedy’ as a calming influence.
The speeches were rounded off by Orla Fitzgerald with an educational speech from the Successful Club Series ‘Meeting Roles & Responsibilities’ which summed up the activities, function and efforts required by the officers and members to ensure the high standards required to run a successful club. Teamwork is what counts! Orla’s message hit home with her solid presentation style, even without the luxury of computer and projector. This small technical hiccup was overcome in true Toastmaster fashion ands did not detract from the speech.
A special mention to Honor, who performed the role of timekeeper most efficiently and was her first time in this post.
Also worth a mention are Darryl’s comments: he hadn’t been able to attend the last couple of meetings and was not planning on coming this particular evening, but then received a call to act as Toastmaster. This then renewed his enthusiasm to participate and commit to attending in the future.
If you haven’t been able to make the last couple of meetings, know that you’re always most welcome. The meetings are informal, educational and above all, fun! See you on 25th February.
