October 2014 marks the second anniversary since we first met at Sellers Coffee House in October 2012 with an idea to start a club. Now fully chartered, the proud recipients of a DistinguishedClub award and with participants in area contests we have much to reflect on and to be proud of our achievements.
It was fitting therefore we had a good turnout with a full complement of speakers on what was otherwise a wet and dismal night.
Elena Grigorieva got us underway as Sergeant at Arms in her usual bright and energetic style, welcoming Sue Windell as Toastmaster for the evening. Sue quickly dispatched the protocols and introduced Steven Okonkwo as Timekeeper. After an explanation of the workings of the time keeping it was Michael John Smithson's turn as Grammarian to set out his role and to present the word of the day: “Contemplative” meaning to think upon or reflect.
Suzy Slight got the audience participation going with a warm-up based on memorable birthdays, resulting in members sharing favourite places visited, surprise parties and adventures as well as less memorable occasions.
Ray Adams got us underway on the prepared speeches with his Number 4 Speech “Five People You Meet in Heaven” based on a book of the same title and gave 5 lessons for life.
Carolyn Barber was up next reprising an introductory speech she had recently given, for her Number 2 Speech “Introducing the Hampshire Festival of the Mind”
It fell to Marie Newman to complete the speeches with her Number 2 Speech “26 miles 385 yards” setting out the pros and cons of why she should or should not run a marathon.
It was now time for a network break and Chris Ellis had brought along a selection of cupcakes baked by his wife to mark the occasion, which were well received.
It was Chris who got us underway for the second half evaluating Ray's speech, followed by Brent Crouch and Wendy Benson evaluating Carolyn's and Marie's speeches respectively. All gave clear, concise and helpful evaluations.
Sue Windell next invited Keith Oliver to set the Table Topics, which with the birthday theme in mind, concentrated on presents, with what partipants wanted and what they did not. As usual the audience was well entertained with the thoughtful and often humorous replies.
It fell to Gavin Meikle to evaluate the performaces and he highlighted in particular the use of structure in the responses.
Michael John completed the formal evaluations with his Grammarian's Report reminding members of the need to control their ums and ahs, but also picking up on good use of alliteration and commenting on the use of the word of the evening.
Jean Morgan rounded off the main part of the meeting with a positive General Evaluation.
Keith Oliver next returned to the lectern as Club President, first congratulating Elena on her recent marriage. He noted the fine preformances by Sue Windell and Simon Roberts in the Area Contests, and reminded members of the Division Contest to be held that weekend, and the District Conference at the end of the month.
Michael John Smithson concluded the meeting with the presentation of the ribbons and awards.
Best Speaker – Marie Newman
Best Evaluator – Gavin Meikle
Best Table Topics – Marie Newman