Meeting Notes: April 21, 2009

The meeting began at 7:06 pm.

Bob Jackson presented the invocation. Brian Allen lead the club in the Pledge of Allegiance.

President Tom Carlson remarked on stories of people who are constantly making improvements and urged all members not to lose their commitment.

Alvin Wire served as the meeting’s Toastmaster. As an introduction, members were asked to say their name and what they plan on doing just as soon as they get the time and the weather is nice.

General Evaluator Karl Herbst directed that voting would be by placement.

Michael Tunks spoke first. “Humility Trip” was his sixth speech.

The second speaker was Brian Allen with “Love, Compassion, and Honor.”

Nicole Hilbelink spoke third, presenting an award for Forensics MVP.

The final speech, a roast of Norm Aulabaugh, was given by Tom Carlson.

New member Irina Zelenskaya evaluated Michael; Phyllis Bickford evaluated Brian; Norm Aulabaugh evaluated Nicole; and Rick Brunton evaluated Tom.

Rick took the lectern as Education Master, teaching the club how to use notes and visual aids effectively.

Hien Tran served as Table Topics Master, asking questions related to perspectives of various professions. Tom Carlson, Nicole Hilbelink, and Alvin Wire were called upon to answer. Nicole’s response earned “Best Table Topics.”

Norm Aulabaugh was Joke Master, reminding members of the importance of using humor in creating a connection with the audience.

Karl returned to the lectern to evaluate the meeting. He acknowledged Noah Davisson as timer, Bonnie Smith as ‘Ah’ Counter, and Dan Bekta as Grammarian for their importance to the evaluation team. When choosing the Evaluation award, Karl recognized all the new members who took on roles: Irina, Noah, Bonnie, and Dan.

Toastmaster Wire presented the Best Speaker award to Tom Carlson.

President Carlson asked the evening’s guests to share his comments.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:31 pm.