We had the pleasure to hear three dynamic speeches:
Jamel Wong presented his speech entitled “Getting To The Point”—an organized speech achieving general and specific purposes. Based on the book “Mastery”, Jamel explained how the process of mastery could help us attain a higher level of excellence and a deeper sense of satisfaction. Jamel won the Most Improved Speaker ribbon.
Donald Longmire shared “The Valedictorian Candidate”—an Icebreaker speech based on Donald’s first experience as public speaker. With his delivery, Donald reminded us of the importance of the positive emotional support to be able to face challenges. Donald won the Best Speaker ribbon.
Betty Nebelsky (DTM) presented “Stop Monkeying Around”—the emotional bittersweet story of her uncle Billy and his monkey Silly Billy. Assisting herself with brilliant descriptions, Betty made us visualize the sad story of a great relationship.
After the speeches, the General Evaluator –Bill Bau (ACB, CL)—introduced the evaluators Caragh O’Brien, Anne Marie Knudsen and Kathy Branconier (CC, CL). Bill emphasized:
- The appropriateness of the game presented by the Toastmaster to keep the extant audience engaged with the topic and the gathering.
- The importance to call the speaker after the question on Table Topics section.
- The convenience to describe the type of word selected for the Word of the Day.
- The significance of staying at the lectern after finishing a speech until the Program Manager arrives.
Caragh highlighted the suitability of starting the speech with a question to catch the audience’s attention, the reference to a book and the passion on Jamel’s speech. The evaluator stressed the importance of eye contact, voice projection, and leaned towards using visual aids.
Anne Marie complimented the speaker for not using notes, his good pronunciation, and excellent use of emotions on such a sensitive topic. The evaluator suggested working on the better use of the space available for the speaker, avoiding the lectern and voice projection.
Kathy pointed out Betty’s exceptional skill to turn a simple subject into a great story. She emphasized the good use of description for better visualize the story and catch the audience’s attention. Likewise Anne Marie, Kathy remarked the importance of using the space available for the speaker to gesticulate and use body language. Kathy was voted Best Evaluator. Congratulations!