Lara was the Toastmaster on this first fall meeting. The word of the day was “ Mercurial”, meaning volatile.
Paula L. and Justin K. were the Grammarian and Timer respectively.
Speaker #1 , Tom B. presenting Project #5 from the Speaking to Inform Project. Tom’s objective was to present an abstract concept. His speech titled “ A new framework for tolerance” used an interactive introduction where the audience was asked to listen to a list of feelings with their eyes closed and raise their hands if they identified with these feelings. Surprisingly, this reenactment of a past experiment seems to yield the same results. We are perceive ourselves as flawed even though we may project otherwise to others, we are all in the search of success, happiness and security. This reaffirmation that we all share a common humanity is at the root of tolerance.
Speaker #2, Zhou B., presented CC Project #7 titled “ Do more with less”.
“ In design less is more, but in the field of aeronautics, you had to do more with less.” Zhou described the early beginnings of flight and and how, even though the aeroplanes were rudimentary, each successive version was designed to surpass the performance of the previous version.
Speaker #3,Dilip G. presented project #4 from the CC manual. In his speech titled “Venezuela- Bolivar of Broken Dreams”,Dilip explained the reasons behind the decline of the Venezuelan economy. In spite of their large oil reserves, lack of diversification and the falling prices of oil are causing current catastrophic levels of hyperinflation, poverty and increasing homicide rates. Venezuelans who are no longer able to afford the basic necessities are increasingly seeking asylum overseas. Dilip concluded with a deeper appreciation for the stability of the country we all live in.
Speaker #4, Isabella Z. presented CC Project #3. Her speech titled “ How to land your dream job” was chock a block full of practical and helpful advice on how to apply for, follow up and persist in finding your dream job.
Table topics were led by Neva C. Jasmine, a guest, was voted Best Table Topics with her solid pitch on how to invest for your early retirement.
Scott C. was voted Best Evaluator.
Two new members, Steve and Justin, were inducted.
Our next meeting is September 30th.