Toastmaster Julie Farrell set the tone of the meeting with smiles and serotonin. The effects carried all the way through to the end of the evening.
A very competent Lorraine Hamilton, as Toastmaster of the Evening organised an enjoyable meeting and demonstrated much of her ‘200 hours of toast mastering’ with efficiency and flair.
Topics master Laurie Billson introduced his topics for impromptu speaking from a very creative copy of the Toastmaster Times which bore a striking resemblance to the pink Financial Times but facts and figures were certainly much more entertaining and provided much laughter for the audience.
Keith Clarke shared stories of younger days and crazy parties when he and a certain White House friend partied until the wee small hours. An unpaid bill still has your name on it, Mr O and remains in Keith’s wallet for safe keeping!
Intrepid explorer Amanda Bouch will be travelling to the North Pole sometime in the future with all the right equipment and sporting a warm and fashionable micro fleece. She understands the need for extensive planning and hopes it doesn’t take too long. Where does one find a Zimmer frame fit for such purpose?
Showbiz car mechanic Clive Pugh has some sound advice for car pranging celebrities like Mr Bean – ‘Stay off the highway’. Although it does seem that Mr B’s driving exploits as a racing driver will keep him in work for a very long time!
Downing Street’s newest travel consultant Jacqui Hogan extols the virtues of ‘PM Getaways or was that PM Takeaways’ to far away places and currency challenged countries.
Industry expert Mireira Fontbernat advises Sir Alex that his boys need a little more teamwork than simply running up and down the field after a ball. She encourages networking with the local IOD (Institute ofDirectors) for sharing wealth tips on bonuses, fast cars and big salaries. Showbiz car mechanic Clive could be very busy!
Accomplished PR and Nut expert Ben de Candole will not be fooled with the unacceptable and inferior grade 5 cashew nuts posing as grade 1 for chocolate bars! He prides himself and his Swedish company for ensuring a quality cashew nut in every bite!
Three very well prepared speeches and stories from Toastmasters;
Chris Bowden – humorously shared his insights from a free dinner, a dinner jacket and that after dinner speech.
Nick Bailey – told a touching tale about a South African slave who overcame adversity to become a renowned wine grower and producer. Her memory is honoured in a wine of her name.
Steve Cann – shared a moving personal story about the challenges of communication and how it led him to Toastmasters.
Awards this week;
Best Table Topics – Keith Clarke
Best Speaker – Steve Cann
Club President
Mary Fraser
