If I was … I would be …

Spinnaker’s 2 April meeting was chaired by Katina with the theme “Is that a fact?”. Katina peppered the meeting with facts about facts, or alternative facts!

Grammarian Gary chose the word “plot”, a noun, and told us all the different usages of the word. In his report he said the word “plot” had been used 15 times by different speakers.

Janine ran Table Topics with the theme “If I was … I would be …”. Speakers chosen:

Dirk – If I was a colour I would be orange
Kathy – If I was a tree I would be a fruit tree
Lin – If I was a country I would be China
Jocelyn – If I was a cartoon character I would be superwoman
Dale – If I was a vegetable I would be a potato

Evaluator Ron thought the topics were quite innovative and challenging and he enjoyed their speeches.

Speech 1 by Darrell explained the difference between a Toastmasters humorous speech and standup comedy. Evaluator Dirk thought it was humorous and interesting with good structure. This speech forms the basis of a blog post which Darrell is composing.

Speech 2 from Dieter was a highlight of one of the most bizarre and emotionally scarring experiences of his life as a financial adviser. He warned us to prepare ourselves for an explicit tale as the plot thickens! Evaluator Dale suggested Dieter make it a complete story with a plot, add to the drama by showing your own distress, and deliver some memorable takeaway for the audience.

Speech 3 by Mike introduced by Megan was a project about understanding his leadership style in the Strategic Relationships pathway. The title was: “I am the dumbest person in the room … and proud of it!” Mike opened with his title, and said as a leader he must check his ego at the door because he aims to hire people smarter than him. This is how his company and the industry he works in progresses and builds. Evaluator Megan said Mike delivered on his speech title, and she congratulated Mike on an inspiring speech that was delivered with confidence. She suggested Mike continue focussing on his vocal variety with speed changes.

Speech 4 from Angela was introduced by Jocelyn. Angela related a story of walking the Tongariro Crossing with a bunch of 20-something youngies and two close friends – it was very humorous. Evaluator Jocelyn said Angela’s gestures showed exactly what she meant and she used the voices of two different people to relate conversation. Jocelyn thought more scene-setting could have enhanced the opening.

In the President’s report from Angela she noted the following:
(1) Welcomed new member Jocelyn and voted her into the club
(2) Club earned President’s Distinguished Club ribbon for the 2022-23 year
(3) Congratulated Gary for becoming the Division J Table Topics champion. Gary will now compete in the District Table Topics Contest.

If you think you would enjoy a Toastmasters meeting and love to listen to the fabulous speeches and enlightening evaluations, then come along to see what it’s all about. Contact us on spinnaker@toastmasters.org.nz and we’ll give you some details.