Hurray for Engineers!

Our April 15th meeting featured many "firsts".  Allan Lee delivered his "icebreaker" speech.  New member Kurian Thomas, in his first role, acted as the meeting's humourist and Jim DeCarolis assumed the role of Toastmaster for the first time.  We were happy to welcome guests Elena and Guy St. Louis, the area 15 governor. 

Chair Carol Dowell, chose "Zest for Life" and "Fun" as theme and word of the meeting.  Table Topics master Ben Allison, dressed in his Tae Kwon Do outfit, spoke about his zest for both martial arts and good wine.  Great combination Ben. He brought a slew of corks, some featuring printed comments that informed the content of our mini speeches.  Our guest Elena decided to participate in this part of the meeting and tied with Eric Solowka for best Table Topics speaker.   Good job Elena! 

Carol gave a power point presentation describing the responsibilities attached to all meeting roles.  This was an excellent refresher for all and especially helpful for newer members who haven't yet had the opportunity to experience all roles. 

In his icebreaker, Allan Lee spoke about the role of engineers in our world.  He described his engineering job and then noted that an engineer who can communicate well will solve the world's problems.  Therefore, all engineers should be joining Toastmasters clubs and the world will become a better place.  On the other hand, an engineer who can't speak becomes a comedian.   One wonders what to make of a profession that describes a car's cup holder as a " liquid container retention device".  It would appear that engineers are responsible for all good things in this world, including the absolutely indispensable cup holder.  

"Clara's Place", the title of Lorraine Van Wagner's presentation, described a non-profit organization's attempts to overcome community opposition to a supportive housing project. 

Carol informed the club that the election of officers for the 2010/11 year will take place on May 6th.  If you are interested in running for a seat on the executive, notify Carol or any member of the executive committee. 

The fifth Thursday of this month, April 29th, will be education night.  Lorraine Van Wagner will present a workshop on Effective Listening.  Good listening is crucial in all aspects of your life.  Come out and learn some simple tips to help you become a better listener and a better speaker. 

Regards, Lorraine Van Wagner, Webmaster