Ruwi Toastmasters Club: Session 137

The session was kicked off by SAA TM Raja at 3.10 pm. As usual, he started the session with a witty quote to increase our interest in the session.

The welcome address was delivered by President TM Rajat who related a humorous story as to how a drunken friend faced with an impossible situation with his wife kept his mind peaceful by deciding that the situation was his choice. When there is no alternative, it is best to imagine that we are part of the decision and hence in control.

There were 5 guests present today, who were introduced and handed over Guest Welcome Kits.

TMOD Bhaskaran gave us a treat today. With a theme of Chef, he actually shared recipes and cooking tips with us, including cooking up a jeera-rice meal on the spot! Kudos, TMOD.

Timer was a mystery timer, played by DTM Varma, who had very kindly carried an automated timing device from his trip to TMI USA. This will indeed make our task far easier, DTM and we are touched that you had us in mind even when so far away. Thank you once again.

Jokemaster role was played by TM Shanavas, who for a change, shared real life situations from the hospitality industry, which were hilarious, to say the least.

TM Kamil was Wordmaster of the day and introduced the word PERCEIVE. Being a relatively easy word, all could use it.

Evaluation criteria for the upcoming level 1 speech was described by TM Chaitanya, in his usual succinct style.

MTM Panna Ray delivered her Level 1 speech on Research and Presentation, titled "Child from the Heart", based on the phenomenon of adoption. We gathered a lot of information on adoption trends in India and the world. Thanks for choosing an interesting topic and illuminating us.

DTM Rajendra Varma shared with us his experience of having attended the TMI Convention in Chicago in Aug 2018 and having witnessed the International Speech finals as well. His speech was aptly titled "Mecca of Toastmasters". As per him, for Toastmasters, it is a once in a lifetime experience and not to be missed.

Table Topics were conducted by TM Ramalingam, who chose topics that were connected to food or love - both nourishing matter. The speakers, including guests, gave a very good try at them.

Evaluation of MTM Panna's speech was carried out by TM Chaitanya, who highlighted clearly her good points and her areas of improvement.

General Evaluator MTM Niral gave a comprehensive feedback on the session, in a gentle tone, which was well received by all role-players.

Business session was conducted by VP-E TM Chaitanya. Next session's TMOD was finalised as MTM Swati and two speakers TM Bhaskaran and TM Chaitanya volunteered. Three cheers for them!

Predident Rajat delivered his closing remarks, but not before he educated the club on DCP points and the club's goal of achieving President's Distinguished status this year. Let's go for it, folks!