Happy New Year

Laurie Stapleton chaired the January 5th meeting, the first of 2012, with the theme and word "New Beginnings" and "Start".  She welcomed guests Tony, Angela and Marva.  Table Topics Chair Vince Capicotto invited members to describe their resoutions for the new year ranging from spending less, drinking less (oh dear) and getting better organized.  Our guest Angela won the ribbon for best mini speech of the evening. 

Regaring the prepared speeches, it was an embarrassment of riches as we heard five presentations this evening.  David Sweetnam opened with his icebreaker "Life's Labels".  David described a particularly challenging moment in his life that happily worked out well.  In addition to the labels of husband, father etc. his most treasured label is "grateful". 

In the mode of new year's resolutions, Caroline Wagner in "We can do it", gave tips for realizing those goals we set for ourselves each year.  She pointed out the sad fact that after people realize how much they ate over the holidays, they pack the gyms in January only to desert them in February.  Plan, set realistic goals and celebrate your successes. 

Phil Coakley carried on this theme somewhat in "Decision Making".  Phil noted we often follow a pattern when we make decisions.  Very often that decision is to avoid making any decision at all!  Consider the consequences of not making a decision.  Define the issues, get the facts, look at and rank alternatives, evaluate them and then decide. 

Catherine Keyes is working from an advanced manual "Special Occasions" and in this speech she "presented" a Golden Globe award to Angelina Jolie (nicely played by Laurie Stapleton).  Were you aware that Ms. Jolie once aspired to be a funeral director?  Who knew?

Bondy Nair, also working from an advanced manual, rounded out the evening with "Why should you retire?"  His objective was to communicate a vision.  Bondy's message was never, ever retire.  You may cease paid work but all your life you need purpose and direction, whether that be found in a satisfying pastime or in volunteer work.  As you approach retirement, have a vision for a fulfilling future. 

David Sweetnam was awarded an ice breaker and also the ribbon for best speaker.  His evaluator, Eric Solowka, was voted best evaluator of the meeting.

There were many announcements.  On January 14th in Mississauga there will be district sponsored phase 2 club officer training with workshops, an opening address by John Rich, former District 60 Governor, and a lunch talk by Judy Suke. 

On January 21st, Divison M will offer club officer training at the York Region Admin Building at 17250 Yonge St. in Newmarket starting at 9:30 a.m.  This training will feature an evaluation workshop.

Our club's International Speech and Evaluation contest will be held on February 16th.  We have no word yet on the date of the area 15 contest.  The Division M contest will take place in Newmarket the morning of Saturday, March 31st.  That same evening, our club will host an "Evening of Fools" at the Glen Eagle Golf Club.  Note this event occurs the day before April Fools Day.  Stay tuned for more information.  You won't want to miss this event. 

Many thanks to Cookie Master Alan Keyes who never fails to amaze us with his culinary skills.  He brings everything from beautiful banana bread to lush and decadent chocolate goodies. 

Our next meeting, January 19th, is bring a friend night.  This is an opportunity to introduce a friend, neighbour or colleague to Toastmasters.  All are welcome.  See you then.

Lorraine Van Wagner - Division M Governor, Webmaster