“Camping” Meeting Recap – 10/08/08 » Capital City Toastmasters

Jenny guided us through the woods in this meeting.

Taline bumped into a few trees in her first attempt as Table Topics Master. Thankfully, Lora, Stuart and Susana were there to help her find her way, each taking a topic with grace and ease. Lora told of her family’s recent retreat. Stuart told a Boy Scout’s tale of rain and suntan lotion. Susana also had a rainy tale that involved cooking food by literally throwing it on a fire and then enjoying it, dirt and all. Praise to all, but in particular to Susana for doing a great job on her first ever table topic.

The rains passed and then came the speeches. Jason spoke of mushroom powered cars, which Amy praised as a fearless speech. Patrick warned of the evils of the tomato, and was praised by Ania even though she claimed he’s simply too tall to be funny. Louis encouraged us to think more in terms of “us” and less in terms of “them.” Corky’s evaluation, which is helpful to all of us, was to vary the pace and tone of future presentations.

A night in the woods can change anyone. Here’s a challenge to each member of our club: give a presentation pretending to be someone else. Try it, and see what happens. It could be a lot of fun. And if it doesn’t work, keep in mind that this club is a safe environment to try something new. We won’t feed you to the bears. We promise.

Thanks to our speakers and evaluators. Thank you also to Leeanne, Brian, Susana and Rey for helping out in the woods.