26th July

Another Toastmasters meeting has arrived. The meeting began a 9.36am. The audience was asked by the SAA, Boon Keong, how they knew about Toastmasters and everyone shared their story. The control then was passed to the president, John, who gave his presidential speech. He said all of us have a common goal: to communicate better. He hopes our relationship will be fostered through working towards the common goal. After that the TOM, Denise, took control. This was her very first time playing the TOM role. She told the TM history, requested the word of the day. The TOM role went smoothly and according to plan.

During the assignment speeches session, Kang Han gave his first assgnment speech, entitled“Why So Serious?” He was persuading the audience to watch the “Dark Night” movie. Reasons were: the seriousness of the director, the great cast, and Heath Ledger’s (Joker) great acting. He made many interesting evaluation points which showed his critical thinking skill for movies. Good job Kang Han! Looking forward to your next speech!

Then came Jook Yew who presented “Lying is the Best Policy.” Another persuasive message but instead of movie, it was ethic value. He told us how his parents lied to him about Santa clause to make him to behave well. As long as lying is done with good intention, it is good, according to Jook Yew.

After the break, Han Lian delivered his speech “Death Penalty, What Do You Know About It?” He argued that death penalty is cruel, unfair to the wrongly convicted, and destroys right to life. He told us how some torture methods were employed inhumanely and illustrated the one very vividly that it sent shiver down my spine!

Then came the last speaker, John, with his speech entitled “A Toast.” “Welcome to the Britney Spears Fan Club!” he said, and audience burst into laughter. He commended the striking things Britney Spears did, sarcastically, such as the kissing of a girl and having the shortest marriage. At the end, he gave a toast.

Then came the evaluation session. Qinmei evaluated Kang Han’s speech. It was her first time evaluating a speech, and she just completed her sixth project only last week. Ming Haur evaluated Jook Yew, Hedzri evaluated Han Lian, and Ernest evaluated John. Next were reports from other role players: Kevin (First time LE, was asked to play only that day.) Pui Yee (AC), Jason Moi, and Hadzrin (GE).

After the evaluation session was a workshop entitled “How to Organize a Successful Contest” by our area governor, Ernest. He briefed us the things needed to be done and considered before and during a contest. Then came the Q&A session where it was a fruitful discussion.

Lastly, John who concluded the meeting at the end of the day. The best speaker was himself while the best evaluator was Ernest. He thanked the guests and restated the message that HELP Toastmasters Club will emerge as champion in the Division W. The meeting ended at 11.53am.

prepared by

Jee Aik