Inspiring Leadership

Greetings - On July 16th, Chair Laurie Stapleton chose "Inspiring Leadership" and "Example" as the theme and word of the meeting respectively.  Much of the meeting very nicely dovetailed with Laurie's theme and word.  In his toast, Vince Capicotto described leadership as a way to improve yourself.  Heather Taylor-Nanan, in her first time as Table Topics Master, chose a topic related to the leadership theme.  Further continuing with the theme, Laurie pointed out the description of leadership as contained in the Competent Leader manual and expanded on the process of obtaining the Competent Leader designation. Come on folks - remember to bring your CL manuals to every meeting and get credit for your roles.  You can work on the CL and communications manuals simultaneously.   If you need any help or advice with this, please speak to Laurie, your Vice President Education. 

This meeting featured the official installation of the newly elected officers for 2009/2010.  The executive that served in 2008/2009 were formally thanked for their work and then discharged from their duties.  Good luck to all members of the new executive as they guide us through what we trust will be another exceptional year for Bolton Banter.  Special thanks to Elena Nistor who jumped in with her camera so this occasion could be recorded on film. 

We heard three speeches tonight.  Just in time for summer and thoughts of drinks on the patio, Lesley Webb, in her speech entitled "Home of the Free, Land of the Laws", reminded us of the laws around drinking and driving.  She explained the serious consequences attached to violating such laws.  Sobering thoughts for us all. 

Catherine Keyes in "It Ain't Rocket Science", spoke about the role of language in determining our perception of reality.  Body language conveys messages and it differs according to the occasion.  Catherine's tip for a good speech?  Make it natural with body language and a congruent tone of voice.

Corina Simu, in "Failure or Success", spoke of Toastmaster International values and her strategies to achieve her goals.  She reminded us that beliefs are wasted without commitment. 

It's hard to believe but contest time is coming up.  Our humourous speech and table topics contest will be held on September 17th.  We need a contest chair and a chief judge.  Step up and receive points toward the CL.  Also, think about entering yourself.  Participating in contests presents a superb learning opportunity and a way to stretch yourself in a supportive environment.  

The evening ended with the awarding of ribbons.  Lesley Webb was named best speaker, Bondy Nair best evaluator and Lorraine Van Wagner best speaker in Table Topics.

Thanks to our guests, Andrew Morgan and Sierra Allison.  It was great to have you visit us.

Our next meeting, the fifth Thursday of the month, will be held on July 30th.  It will be a popcorn and video night.  We'll be viewing clips of award winning speeches and then discussing them.  Come out and get inspiration and tips from some great Toastmasters.

Cheers and regards - Lorraine Van Wagner, Webmaster