Early Edition Toastmasters

TWISI – September 10, 2012

rickd — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 17:10:18 +0000

Happy Friday fellow toastmasters, its my pleasure to present the TWISI from last Mondays marvellous Early Morning meeting.

The meeting was opened by the shinning Susi Vasseur, who welcomed our four guests and introduced the mornings chair, Sandy VanDeKinder. Our theme for the meeting was “Unfamiliar”. Sandy’s introduction was fun and light with some useful tips for us all! From there we moved to the introduction of the support rolls for the day. First up, one of our newest members Victoria Keddis as Ah Counter, who had a very clever intro using her prop crutch to explain the use of crutch words. Brilliant visual! Grammarian Caroline Hannah gave a wonderful introduction and came up with a fantastic word of the day, which was used by almost everyone! (Really wish I had written it down!!)

Timer, Renuka Kumar was very well prepared with a thorough explanation of her roll for us all. With the support rolls introduced, we had our funny bone tickled by Trudy Merrell, were inspired by Sheila Allison’s Thought of the Day, and then moved into a wonderful round of Table Topics hosted by Topics Master, Brett Lauritzen. We heard from Susi Vasseur, yours truly Trevor Marples, as well as two guests and soon to be members! Evaluators Christine Steward and Nancy Coats, provided valuable feedback and were very encouraging to all of the contestants.

Before the break, Sandy VanDeKinder presented our Presidents Distinguished Club for last year to our current president Duncan Robinson, who gave a great off the cough acceptance speech!

After what may have been the longest break we have ever been afforded during a regular EET meeting due to being ahead of schedule, Toastmaster Alistair Brown prepped us for the prepared speeches. This weeks line up consisted of Jonathan Moxness who provided us with tips for a better vacation slide show with his speech “Your photos are lovely, but I don’t care”. Very funny, and very true!. Caroline Hannah got us thinking about how to have a successful open house next month, with some audience participation and volunteering for bringing food, greeting guests, and a reward offered of a $25 gift card (later suggested by Jonathan Moxness) for who ever brings the most guests!

Our final speaker was Lorill Drummond, who playfully discussed the very common fear of the dark! It was a real treat watching one of Lorill’s best speeches yet!

Evaluators Duncan Robinson, Brett Lauritzen, and Sheila Allison provided very clear and valuable evaluations for each of the presenters.

Finally, the general evaluation from Trevor Marples was jaw droppingly stunning, and we wrapped up at 8:30 right on the nose! A fabulous meeting all around! Thank you everyone for your contribution to an energized start to the week!

Trevor Marples

TWISI – August 20

rickd — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 05:34:20 +0000

At our meeting themed “Summertime and the Living is Easy” the members assembled in our smaller summer time meeting room thanks to Nancy and Christine for setting up since there was some confusion regarding the Sgt. At Arms. The meeting began with introductions from the many guests at this week’s meeting and there were some requests to fill the weeks vacant rolls and then we were off to another dazzling meeting.

The energetic easy living support team, Susi, Trevor and Darcy all explained how they would be monitoring all of the speakers for the day’s meeting.

To create some summertime laughs Sheila asked us some questions to determine if we adults were smarter than a first grader. We all had a good laugh at the comparisons of the adult answers to the first grader answers.

Next it was on to Table Topics with Christine. Christine had a different challenge for each of the Table Topic speakers on top of the standard question for each of them. We all enjoyed each of the challenges which were presented to the members by the six Table Topic Speakers. After each of the Table Topic speeches were completed Lorill and Susi provided very detailed evaluations for each of the Table Topic Speakers.

After a quick break the prepared speeches portion of the meeting began with introductions made by Caroline for the two speakers for the week. John Beck and Jackie both made a very energetic speeches to EET and both demonstrated just how strong speakers they both are.

After these moving speeches evaluations for both of the two speeches were presented by Trevor and Alistair.

Next reports were presented by the support team, and a quick evaluation of all of the rolls which hadn’t been evaluated yet was presented by Brett.

Another great meeting everyone…and this is The WAY I Saw It!

Brett

TWISI July 23, 2012

rickd — Fri, 27 Jul 2012 17:06:23 +0000

The gavel hit the lectern with a bang and Sgt at Arms Carolle McIntosh began the meeting right on time. With a theme like “Recharging Your Battery” introduced by Chairman Susi Vasseur we were off to an enthusiastic start. With a great mix of humor and wisdom Susi introduced her role and advised us to “rev our jets and bounce back”.
Guest George Hatch was welcomed to the group and the support roles were introduced with Carolle taking on additional roles as Ah Counter and Humorist, reminding us about the crutch words we need to watch for besides the “ahs and ums” with “so” being a big offender. Carolle’s humorous speech had us all in stitches as she described the symbiotic relationship of cows, crows and the resulting bull. Trevor, doubling as Timer gave us his Thought for the day reminding us of the need to “regenerate” and to remember the power of the sun in our lives versus the negative impact of stress. Grammarian Duncan treated us not only to the word of the day “Re-Create” but provided each member with synonyms and challenged us to use them also in our presentations. What fun!
Table Topics Master Caroline Hanna “re-created” the role by playing music as the basis for each of her questions, playing a tune from her I-Pad and matching the musical question to the demographic of the selected speakers: Duncan, Trevor, Carolle and Susi. Evaluator Nancy Coates commented on her enjoyment of Dunan’s response to a John Travolta Classic, referring to the difference in his own life in 2012 (biking athlete) compared to 1978 when the focus was “how many girls can I pick up”! Trevor spoke of how hearing Bob Marley always puts him in good spirits and reminds him of carefree summers in Osoyoos. Rick evaluated TT speakers Carolle and Susi commenting on Carolle’s cool dance moves from watching Grease 8 times. Susi’s speech began with “Wow do I have a story” which set the stage for her tale of the piece “Save a Horse and Ride a Cowboy”!
Next up after the networking break, Christine Stewart introduced her Toastmaster role with a reminder of the importance of sending Feedback notes which she referred to as a “wonderful gift we can give to others”. Our prepared speakers of the day provided us with fascinating and diverse presentations. Brett Lauritzen shared with us his first trip to Hawaii with wonderful clarity, humour and personal anecdotes that were descriptive and inspiring. Alastair was next up, wearing his Tilley fishing hat. He proceeded to enthral us with a fish tale reminiscent of Moby Dick: huge waves, riptides and life and death struggles! When Alastair disappeared crouching behind the podium below decks, we were right there with him! And yet the tension was relieved by true Alastair understatement when we laughed out loud at his grumble that he was determined to go down lashed to the boat so his family would not have to wait 7 years to collect his insurance! (I don’t recall that Ishmael had that thought but then I don’t think he was an accountant)! Jackie MacLean was next up. After stepping in as a prepared speaker at the very last Minute Jackie presented a very inspirational speech entitled “ Do you Add Value to People’s Lives?” Jackie’s speech was indeed inspirational and a credit to her skill and experience that she was able to deliver such a great speech on short notice. Jackie told us that great leaders add value and “need to love people with genuine compassion”. Three tools that every leader needs are Head , Heart, and Hands working together.
Prepared speech evaluators Caroline, Duncan and Rick offered positive feedback, and tips for improvement leading by example in their demonstration of the qualities of great evaluators.
General Evaluator (yours truly) provided feedback on the meeting and to those participants not yet evaluated. The Winner Ribbons went to Susi for Table Topics, Jackie for Prepared Speeches, Rick for Evaluator and another entertaining and informative meeting ended with the final bang of Carolle’s gavel!

Sheila Allison

EET End of Year Awards

rickd — Tue, 12 Jun 2012 21:28:23 +0000

On June 11, 2012, Early Edition recognized excellence by presenting our annual club awards.

Sheila Allison was the recipient of the Most Improved Toastmaster Award. She stepped in and served as the Secretary for the Club Executive and led the way on many projects. Her spark plug energy is contagious and she is and absolute delight to see in action at every meeting.

Brett Palmer was the winner of the Rookie of the Year Award. Brett came to the club with eyes wide open and was a TM sponge, soaking up every bit of information he could. While very humble in his acceptance speech, this award was well deserved.

Our Early Edition Toastmaster of the Year was Sandy VanDeKinder. This is now back-to-back wins for Sandy! This year, she was the EET President and our Area 63 Governor. She kept her head high and led with poise and compassion. Only time will tell if her year as Past President will end with a third TM of the Year…

Photos from a recent meeting – Jamaican style!

rickd — Tue, 05 Jun 2012 20:45:58 +0000

At a meeting in May, we had a Jamaican themed meeting. Look at all the Caribbean spirit!

Here is the Chairman standing with the “Best Dressed” award winner!!!

EET Special Events Photo Gallery

EEToastmaster — Tue, 22 May 2012 02:48:51 +0000

Just some highlights from a few of Early Edition Toastmaster’s events over the past year… enjoy!

TWISI – February 13, 2012

rickd — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 22:22:54 +0000

TWAS the Eve of Valentines Day and the TWISI she wrote…for Love Was in the Air!
The EET meeting of Feb. 13, 2012, resounded with a Good Morning, Good Morning, Good Morning! from our effervescent Sergeant at Arms, Trevor Marples. All was in place including chocolate hearts from Christine “Cupid” Steward. Chairman Jackie Maclean quickly started setting the mood serenading us with “Love Is In the Air…..” which was also the theme of the day. Three guests graced our presence, Carole McIntosh, Angelo Vaphens and Stephanie Kalynn and were all warmly welcomed.

The support team saw Alistair Brown step up in timely fashion to volunteer, as well…timer, and without wasting a second explained his role. Ah Counter Christine Steward also explained her role clearly as did first time Grammarian Chris Sherik. Chris spoke with passion as he introduced the word of the day … “passionate”. Humorist, moi, Susi Vasseur shared a personal story that mirrored a Seinfeld episode of dry cleaning gone bad. Inspiration came again from the ‘Love’ theme as Bal Grewal shared quotes, stories and gave the message to send letters to the ones you love.
Sandy Vandekinder started her Mini Ed with a strong message to the Timer to NOT be clapped down this time! She thanked Sheila Allison and Nancy Coates for attending the Officers Meeting on the weekend and praised Duncan Robinson for his inspiring speech there. The topic of what to do with club money was brought up again and Sandy asked for feedback.

Table Topics Master Brett Lauritzen kept everyone on their toes with four wonderful questions posed to Trevor Marples, Carole McIntosh, Nancy Coates and Angelo Vaphens. Evaluators Duncan Robinson and Lorill Drummund listened carefully and gave great feedback. The winner was Carole a past Nanaimo member sharing how she met her Valentine, Angelo.

Perry Fulop stepped up after the break to entertain us as usual as Toastmaster. Perry posed the thought WHO would give a Valentines card without reading the inside first? Who indeed Perry? Prepared speeches were given by Johnathan Moxness who regaled us with stories about “Building Characters” including some impersonations; Gerard Toney delivering his Ice Breaker “The First 21 Years” starting with the greatest day of his life (his own arrival on Earth); and Caroline Hanna’s “Giving Effective Feedback”. Caroline warned us to be prepared to be dazzled and we were with her 8 Tips. Evaluators Sandy Vandekinder, Archie Allison and Don Rokosz were able to put the 8 Tips into play and did a good job of demonstrating the sandwich method and evaluating from the third person. Don Rokosz took the honour of Best Evaluator.

Reports from the support team saw Christine handing out fines graciously by telling us what we all owed to Mr.Piggy; Allistair reporting everyone kept under their limit but ME! (thanks for waiting for the punch line and not clapping me down. Knew you wanted to!) ; and Chris thanking the many Toastmasters who slipped ‘passionate’ into their talk and ‘passion’ coming in a strong second. Rounding out the morning our General Evaluator Sheila Allison gave a thorough report on the ‘Love Fest ‘and we all left feeling ready to share that feeling with those in our lives.

Open House reminder…next week…bring guests! The mighty gavel was brought down by Trevor….on time! Nice!

TWISI …Susi

Early Edition Toastmasters Open House

EEToastmaster — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:37:23 +0000

Monday February 20, 2012

7:00 am to 8:30am

You are invited to see what Toastmasters can do for you!

Attendance is FREE & refreshments will be served!

Click here to download the flyer

About us:

Early Edition Toastmasters (EET) is one of the leading clubs in B.C. For the past six years EET has achieved the “President’s Distinguished Level” – the highest level attainable in Toastmasters. During this very short time, four of our club members have advanced to the provincial level in regional and national speech contests. At our meetings you will enjoy HIGH ENERGY, the opportunity to hear DYNAMIC and EXCITING speakers, and participate at your own pace as you evolve into becoming a more CONFIDENT speaker.

The February 20th, Open House is a must attend event!

Toastmaster’s training helps everyone by:

Improving public speaking skills;
Improving communication skills;
Building confidence;
Becoming a better leader;
Improving English skills.

Come and see what Toastmasters is all about! You’ll improve your public speaking and leadership skills in a very supportive environment.

We encourage you to visit our open house! What a way to start your week.

When:

Open House: Monday February 20^th from 7:00am-8:30am

Regular meetings:

Every Monday morning: 7:00 am – 8:30 am (Meets weekly, except Holidays)

Where:

Centennial Park Arena, 14600 North Bluff Road, White Rock, BC, V4B 3C9 Click Here to View Map

TWISI – February 6, 2012

rickd — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:00:03 +0000

Trevor Marples opened the meeting just after giving camera instructions to his assistants. Susi Vassuer was front and center as our Chairman today and introduced the theme of the day ‘Winter Delights”. Bye the way she loves winter. Bal Grewal was cool with her delivery in the Ah Counter role, followed by Don Rokosz freezing us in our tracks with his word of the day BELIEVE. Believe you can and you will! Alastair Brown, as Timer, gave the President a frosty glare and actually clapped her down! Can you BELIEVE it? Don’t worry you won’t get left out in the cold because all Timers should do that….yes really. Archie Allison had us very amused but we are all very concerned hearing that in our old age we will be doing monkey tricks for our grandchildren and sitting on the porch barking at people. Sheila Allison pulling double duty spoke of Robert Frost’s poem “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” and recounting her “barn” days during those frigid times.

Joanne Chiasson created wintery questions for all of the TT participants. Each answering in a most impressive fashion. We learned that Caroline Hanna loves her Mom’s fire-baked pizza, Jonathan Moxness invented the sport of bungee sledding, Brett Palmer wins snowball fights using slingshots and John Beck, winning the BTT ribbon, recounted his younger days playing hockey stickhandling around branches protruding through the ice on the frozen creek.

Jonathon delivered slick evaluations of Caroline and Brett. Trevor, not knowing until 20 seconds before he approached the lectern he was evaluating Jonathon and John Beck. Talk about being “cool as a cucumber”.
Somewhere at this time we had a guest appear Margaret, invited by Caroline. Word is it she likes us!

After the break, before turning the stage over to Lorill Drummond, our consummate professional, and our Toastmaster, Susi recounted her snowball fight in Switzerland. (You and Brett should get together no doubt you would be a force to be reckoned with)

Sheila Allison’s speech, winning the BS ribbon, delivered an important message……ENTHUSIAUM IS THE KEY. Loved Loved Loved the story about the rabbits and waking up the frozen audience with your enthusiasm. The hard cold truth “Say it with enthusiasm or you’re TOAST”.

Trevor gave us an entertaining and valuable message when delivering a Power Point presentation in conjunction with your speech. Not too much info, not too complicated, keep it simple, neat and creative and definitely no “Cheesy” animations.

Rick Dorfer, Past President, provided a valuable speech on what it takes to be a Presidents Distinguish Club year after year. He highlighted that a member’s success is the club’s success and in turn that sustains the quality meetings we have come to expect from EET. He concluded by presenting Sandy VanDeKinder, who accepted the ribbon on the club’s behalf, with the Presidents Distinguished ribbon for 2010-2011. Thanks to Rick for his hard work as President last year to ensure once again we were PDC.
Evaluators John Beck, Brett Palmer and Duncan Robinson provided speakers with tips to grow on with Duncan taking home the coveted BE ribbon.
Gerard Toney was the frosting on the icicle and wrapped things up with his GE providing food for thought at our next meeting.

The weather was chilly outside, our meeting was warm inside and our members always VERY COOL!

That’s The Way I SAW IT

Sandy

TWISI – January 23, 2012

rickd — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:16:20 +0000

A Refreshing Pause for Celebration was enjoyed many times by all, during Monday’s meeting, with the theme chosen by Madam Chairman Sheila Allison, hidden somewhere in this sentence. The meeting commenced with Trevor’s usual refreshing announcement and welcoming of our now newest member Chris Skerik. Jessie Shao explained how she would be collecting funds for the piggy, as she counted the ah’s. It was a “Trade-Off” (word of the day) between no Grammarian or a very kind Sandy VanDekinder who stepped up at the last minute. The timer was pretty ticked off today and had to think outside the box. With no energy left, Christine Steward improvised very well for those who saw red. The meeting continued but was quite unfunny without a humorist. Gerard Toney (yours truly) asked everyone to pause and realize their accomplishments, in the Inspirational Thought of the day. Sandy VanDerkinder enlightened us with a little info. on CL’s and CC’s for TM’s.

The Table Topic Master, Susi Vasseur mentioned something about Sophia Loren perfecting the imperfect and called on Lorrill Drummund to give us a therapeutical talk as the perfect therapist, followed by Chris Skerik (now turned professional) up for a second week in a row. Susi bursts into a song of celebration to entice TT speaker #4 Rick, who competes, with the Rocky theme. Nancy Coates last but not least wanted to see more friends in her speech and she must have lots as she won the TT ribbon. Duncan Robinson evaluated well, speakers 1 and 3 and Rick said “the cobwebs are gone” before he evaluated speakers 2 and 4.

After a well deserved break Alastair Brown was up as Toastmaster of the day! Archie Allison’s heartrending speech was very well received as he got the best speaker ribbon. Trevor Marples again showed he’d got lot’s and lot’s of energy in his speech. Michelle Manak broke the ice sharply and received her reward with her maiden speech and said it was Peanuts. Sandy VanDekinder evaluated Archie Allison, Brett Lauritzen evaluated Trevor M and Susi Vasseur evaluated Michelle with impressive style to win her the best evaluator ribbon. This concluded the prepared speaking section.

Jessie, Sandy and Christine gave their individual reports with statistical prowess. A very inspired Lorill Drummund welcomed the energy from the smaller number of attendees with gratifying amount of clapping from everyone. Lorill observed well, the welcoming warmth from Madam Chairman and also a significant point of improvement needed, in the meeting start time.
Our President, Sandy VanDerkinder highlighted a few extra notices.
Although short on numbers this week, you wouldn’t have known it, as it was counteracted by the very high energy level.
We look forward to celebrating our accomplishments, however small, and reaping the benefits of hard work and EET Teamwork!…and that’s the way I saw it!!…Gerard.