Stewardess/Toastmaster Amy greeted all passengers and piloted the flight on Capital City One.  Once we were buckled in, Amy introduced the crew - Susana as invocator, Brian as timer, Taline as grammarian, Keith as Table Topics Master, Stuart and Leeanne as speakers, Albert as the general evaluator, and Wendy and Louis as speech evaluators. 

It was a smooth flight.  Keith served Table Topics to Carlos, Marsha, Seham and Jenny.  Carlos admitted that he keeps his butt cheeks clenched in flight.  Marsha told of her flight to India, complete with chatty people and spicy food.  Seham yearned for the power to make herself disappear.  Jenny confessed to being high from her mother voting her way in the election.  Though all were fantastic, we give special props to Marsha and Seham for rising to the occasion for their first ever Table Topics.  Great work, ladies!

As for speeches, Stuart educated us on the meaning of statistical significance.  We learned that it means being different or falling into a predetermined area that happens rarely.  Leeanne accepted an award for the City of Austin for GIS (Geographic Information System) day.  In doing so, she taught us that GIS is used when we call 911, when pizza is delivered, and when we download maps.  Both Stuart and Leeanne kept the flight in the air and kept us entertained.

Our evaluators commanded the flight through landing.  Albert reminded us to tell three dimensional stories and to try to avoid holding our hands behind our backs.  Wendy stressed the importance of a clear purpose and good vocal variety but suggested greater simplification for the average flyer.  Louis stressed the importance of a strong opening and simple language.

We arrived at our destination promptly at 1p.m.  Thanks to all who made the flight.  Thanks to Amy for the in-flight snacks.  Next departure:  noon on November 12, 2008.  Don’t miss it.

  • Best Table Topic:  Seham
  • Best Speaker:  Stuart
  • Best Evaluator:  Louis
  • Best Humor:  Amy
  • Most Enthusiastic:  Amy