Meeting 866 "Speech Night"

We are a "Select Distinguished: Club!  In the past year, our club earned enough points to become "Select Distinguished."  Immediate Past President Marlene presented President Sharyn with a ribbon to display on the club's banner.

This meeting the emphasis was on speeches. Dave, as Toastmaster, kept things running smoothly, aided by Timekeeper Leesa.

Meriel's  Round Robin question was "What do you do to calm down before giving a speech?" The answers ranged from helpful to hilarious, eg "Imagine the audience naked" "Prepare thoroughly" "Practise" "Focus on the audience" etc.

Table Topicsmaster Rhys also used speech related topics, which were answered by Elizabeth, Annette, Meriel and Robert.

Trish presented a very informative Educational Session on "How to Organise Your Speech."
Trish likened it to taking a train journey - you need to know your destination. Decide what is your message or aim.

Use three main points in the body of the speech, using the PREP method.. (Point, Reason, Example, Point.)
Summarise in the conclusion and end with a call for action. She made it sound so easy!

The speakers for the evening had evidently used this method when preparing their speech, because all gave an excellent presentation. Melissa gave an amusing talk on "Procrastination." Liz spoke about "The Cube" Jennine's speech was about Clowns and Harry explained the Atom.

Evaluators were Kylie, John, Jonathon, Marlene and Annette

Inge's raffle (a cushion) was won by Trish, who gave a shriek when her ticket was drawn and set Robert's guide dog Homer Barking.

Awards for the evening went to Harry (Best Speech,) Melissa (Personal Best) Annette ( Best Table Topic as well as Best Evaluator,) and Dave (Best Contribution.)