Flirting with Ernest Borgnine

Our September 2nd meeting, chaired by Ben Allison, featured "Practice Makes Perfect" and "Participation" as theme and word of the meeting.  An old Russian proverb states that "repetition is the mother of all learning".  While practice makes perfect, you must participate (e.g. work) in order to strengthen your weaker points.  Sounds like Toastmasters. The more you speak, the more you learn.

On behalf of the club, Ben welcomed guests Mark, Biron, Felicia and Dionne.  We hope to see them all return soon.

Allan Lee, assuming the role of Table Topics master for the first time, gave us names of websites.  Participants then had to explain their reason for visiting that website. 

Also assuming a role for the first time was Karina Garcia who acted as the evening's Toastmaster.  In his second project from the Communication and Leadership manual, Andrew Morgan honoured the memory of his recently deceased father, Albert Vincent Morgan, by presenting a portion of the eulogy presented at the funeral service, " A Life in Part". 

Lesley Webb in "Have you been chipped?" reminded us that the trend toward credit and debit cards with embedded chips is gradually turning us into a cashless society.  There is a price to pay for this convenience, namely; the potential sharing of our personal and confidential information with people who do not necessarily have our best interests at heart. 

Minnie Grewal concluded the speeches with "The Joy of Laughter".  She spoke of her earlier life in India and recounted stories of her later life in Canada, including an incident at the airport when she became the object of Ernest Borgnine's flirting.  Minnie simply did not recognize the award winning actor. 

Thanks to all speakers who did such a great job. 

There were several announcements of interest.  First, the Talk of Alliston Toastmasters Club, one of our sister clubs in area 15, is holding its Humourous Speech and Table Topics contest on September 29th.  They would appreciate volunteers to help with their contest.  Secondly, dues are due.  Yes folks, it's that time.  Please arrange to have a cheque ready for our treasurer Vince Capicotto before the end of September. 

The District 86 Fall Conference will be held in Niagara Falls on November 19th - 21st.  Full details are available on the district 86 website, www. toastmasters86.org and on-line registration is available.  Conferences are wonderful learning and "meet and greet" opportunities so do consider attending. 

The district has issued a challenge to all clubs.  Let's try to ensure that at least five club members earn the Competent Leader designation before June 30th.  We can do it!  Please remember to bring your CL manual to each meeting.  As you assume a role, give your manual to another club member for an evaluation. 

Our Bolton Banter club contest will be held on October 7th.  Prior to that, on September 30th, there will be a judging workshop to train those who have not yet had formal training in judging.  After this training, you will feel more confident stepping up and volunteering to be a judge at club contests. 

We ended a great meeting with the awarding of ribbons.  Eric Solowka was named best table topics speaker.  Lesley Webb was best speaker and Lorraine Van Wagner best evaluator. Congratulations to Allan and Karina for taking on roles for the first time.  Thank you all and we'll see you again on September 16th. 

Cheers and regards -

Lorraine Van Wagner, President and Webmaster