Who will carry the flag?

Tuesday, March 13, 2007
10 attendees

For those in attendance at last week’s meeting (03/06), seeing video of winning speeches from a recent Toastmasters contest was inspirational. It also served as a springboard for two members on Tuesday. Thanks to Frank Clarke (ATM Bronze), members and guests were witness to the best presentations our organization has to offer. and Kathy Hendry (Sergeant at Arms)Club President Falan Guan have decided to take the plunge and enter an area speech contest.

Let me offer congratulations and wish them the best during the contest. Like everyone’s first speech in the club, it takes courage to take that first step. As Falan mentioned, “being the President, I feel that I should set an example for other members by participating in contests”.

The video contained speeches from the contests’ top speakers that took place in the Los Angeles Area. Frank and Club Treasurer Gene Hargreaves detailed how the contest works as well as evaluation materials gave members.

Members were then treated to two prospective contest speeches. After drawing numbers to decide who would present first (as may be the case in the contest), Falan Guan presented “I Have A Dream.” Originally delivered (Project , ) the speech was delivered with an elegance and soothing manner that has become her trademark.

Kathy presented her (). Originally delivered () the speech had an energetic opening and plenty of give and take with the audience. Her role was that of a salesperson and the subject of the sale was cleverly kept from the audience.

After each speech an open forum gave both speakers valuable feedback that could improve the presentations.