BOOKS, BOOKS AND MORE BOOKS! We certainly received a bibliophile
(pun intended) full of recommended summer reading to keep us all
occupied. The list included The Power of One (by Bryce
Courtenay); Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde (by Robert Louis Stevenson);
The Life of Pi (by Yann Martel); The Human Stain (by Philip
Roth); Saints and Villains (by Denise Giardina); The Sparrow (by
Mary Doria Russell); The Dune Trilogy (by Brian Herbert & Kevin
J. Anderson); Pillars of the Earth (by Ken Follet); The Girls
(by Lori Lansens); books by Ray Bradbury based around
experiencing the joys of living in the here and now; to a book
of shorts stories – a great way to see a variety of styles and
literary devices.
Too much news! Once again guests – 4 to be exact!
Our Chairman tonight was Karen A. and as usual her humour eased
us into a wonderful meeting on a chilly evening. I enjoyed her
presentation of a ribbon we were presented by District 21 for
our work in welcoming and teaching new members and guests. Karen
gave the best statistics about books – one in particular
standing out for me – the original copy of Chaucer’s “Canterbury
Tales” sold for roughly 9 million Canadian dollars. Phew! Small
pocket money.
Inducted tonight -- welcome to our new member Robert G! Robert
jumped right into his first role as Wizard of Ahs – he had
excellent feedback to show off his good ears as Wizard – showing
no mercy at all – loved his explanation that using the word of
the evening would “help offset any losses”.
Inspirator Steve Z. was poised, softly-spoken and enunciated his
words well, as he read a most powerful poem “Two Voices” about
having two languages – his great use of gestures made a further
impact.
Doing double-duty our Wordsmith Kate E. didn’t let us down with
a wonderful word “bibliophile”. As Timer, Kate managed to keep
the evening running smoothly. Thanks Kate!
Jokemaster Jan K. had everyone in stitches with her
“book-book-book-booking” chicken and the “read-it” frog. What a
wonderfully appropriate joke for our theme tonight.
We had a five minute Education Session by Diane C. our incoming
VP Education. Diane spoke about the different things that TM
offers us – Communication – Leadership – Goals. By encouraging
us to help each other in TM this in turn will help our club
reach its goals – Distinguished Club etc. She handed out a
useful questionnaire to get people thinking about and planning
for next year. Don’t forget to bring your filled-out copy next
week!
As Table Topics Master Jim S. kept his questions related to our
theme of books. Jim made a note to TMs that their answers should
incorporate an intro., middle and conclusion.
Jan K. humorously answered – “I’d like to die reading The Bible”
– to the question, “What book would make you look good if you
died in the middle?”
When asked to agree or disagree that “The smallest bookstore
still contains more ideas than the entire history of television
” -- Steve Z. agreed and spoke of the many benefits.
Diane C. advised that “reading, while doing another task, can be
harmful – like drilling!” when responding to “Can you be too
much of a bibliophile?”
Our guest Todd R. answered that he was writing his own book
about addiction -- when responding to his question “If you could
make a living as a writer, what type of writer would you be?”
“Does reading magazines compare with reading a good novel?” was
answered by Jane A. who undeniably prefers to read a good book.
Delene B. responded with “it’s the breadth of what’s out there”
– when replying to “Do you believe that the quality of
children’s books is better or worse than it was a generation
ago?”
Table Topics Evaluator was Li-Ying K. Welcome back Li-Ying K.!
We’ve missed your dynamic feedback. Li had individual catches
for each person she evaluated – very warm and enthusiastic
comments for our TT guest, Todd.
First time Toastmaster Jennifer S. toasted “To a good book.” I
was in full agreement with her when she said “You know you’ve
read a good book and turn the last page and are disappointed the
book has come to an end.” Jennifer had great introductions to
each speaker and good, clear instructions to the Timer.
We got to know a little about Albert L. in his Ice Breaker
speech. He appeared quite comfortable up at the lectern as he
relayed stories of penny-inching by deciding to be homeless in
Paris – loved his understated humour!
Jane A. evaluated Albert’s speech with good positive feedback to
a first-time speaker – including good constructive advice.
Christina R. delivered her #6 Speech – “The Sand Castle” – a
wonderful tale well told! Great imagery – “All the walls were
crenellated” – “Suddenly, there’s this short, pink movement
beside me.” Good job Christina.
Barbara M. evaluated Christina’s speech with great poise –
included great pick-ups on Christina’s word images –
appreciative of different types of narration and flipping
between narration and dialogue.
Kudos to General Evaluator Dave A. who evaluated major roles
first and left minor roles last. He had excellent catches --
good and useful suggestions for each person he evaluated! Way to
go Dave.
Thanks Albert L. for the wonderful refreshments!
Some comments from our guests tonight included: “It was very
relaxed” -- “I was entertained” – “I feel totally welcomed. I’ll
definitely come back.” – “I feel inspired to come back.” – “As a
new immigrant, my English is my big problem. So I want to attend
a club to improve my English.”
Our next Toastmasters meeting will be Monday, June 16th, at
7:15pm in our regular location. Come join us in "Learning
Through Fun and Friendship".
Club 1085
