Impromptu speaking night

Thursday, October 29 was the third Thursday of the month and in true Bolton Banter tradition, we held a special meeting.  This time, Eric Solowka led us through the fundamentals of impromptu speaking, otherwise known as "Table Topics".  It was a fun educational evening graced by the presence of three guests, two of whom, Andrew and Colleen, became members before the evening was finished!  Welcome Andrew and Colleen. 

Eric led the way by encouraging us to put ourselves "out there".  He introduced the three fundamentals of impromptu speaking ; be yourself, speak your truth, and embrace those speaking butterflies as children do.  We got to practice with the first table topic of the evening by responding to questions such as "what car would you love to drive, what would you most like to protest?"  and then drawing a conclusion. The ribbon in this first round was awarded to Corina Simu. 

In the second Table Topic, Eric instructed us to repeat our topic, give three points and repeat.  Some of the topics were similar to those used in the first round of impromptu speaking and drew interesting and unusual little speechs about the pleasures of earth and transformation.  In this round, Ben Allison and Lorraine Van Wagner tied for the ribbon. 

Also this evening President Carol Dowell presided over the presentation of awards.  The Extra Mile award went to Laurie Stapleton and Lesley Webb is the recipient of the Skinny Branches award.  Lorraine Van Wagner is Toastmaster of the Year.  In addition, Lorraine and Minnie Grewal received their ACS badges.  Carol has completed another CC manual.  Congratulations to all. 

We hope to see many Bolton Banter members at the District 86 fall conference November 13 - 15 at the Blue Mountain Inn in Collingwood.  You won't want to miss the roast for Eric Solowka on Thursday, November 26 at the Glen Eagle Golf Club.  Tickets are $35 per person (includes dinner) and can be obtained from Carol and Laurie.  The evening promises to be a hoot.  Come out and let's royally roast Eric. 

We look forward to seeing you all again at our next meeting, Thursday, November 5th.  Cheers and regards,

Lorraine Van Wagner, Webmaster