Thursday, December 19, 2002

19 Dec

Speakeasy Toastmasters Club
The meeting of the Speakeasy Toastmasters Club in the Hibernian Hotel (Chapel Lane) on Thursday night Dec 12’th was a little different from the usual format. A mulled wine reception awaited 40 members and visitors and when the meeting started just a little later than usual the attendance were nicely “warmed up”.
President, Pat Sexton opened the meeting by welcoming everybody, especially members from other Clubs. He introduced the Toastmaster, Noel O’Connor, Topics Master, Sr. Bernadette Knopec from the Fáile Club in Charleville, Timekeeper Mary Stack, Sergeants at Arms, Elaine O’Donoven and Michael Cronin. Pat paid special tribute to Sr. Bernadette on coming second in the District Topics Contest in Tralee recently.
Pat then passed control of the meeting to Toastmaster Noel O’Connor who complete with Santa Claus hat explained the format of the meeting for the evening and that we were going to start off with a topics session. Topics Master Sr. Bernadette then presided over a very lively topics session. Some of these topics were, (where members are asked to speak “off the cuff”for two minutes). “Star of Wonder, what would you wish for if that star landed on your lap?”, Pat Sexton. “Christmas Shopping”, Mary Buckley. “Will your Christmas Tree be real or artificial” Jerry Mulcahy.

Then it was time for the speeches and first to the lectern was Club PRO, Sean Corcoran with a speech entitled, “Wire, Wood and Glue”. Sean was doing a Stage 8 speech and he persuaded us that everyone, no matter what their age, is capable of playing a musical instrument. He explained why some people such as parents, prospective parents and grandparents should learn the guitar; to sing lullabies and farmers should learn guitar to increase milk yields. Sean finished his speech with a demonstration on how easy an instrument the guitar is to play and sang a verse of “The City Of New Orleans” to finish off.

Next to the lectern was Paula Kelleher from the newly formed “Glanmire Toastmasters Club” with a Stage 2 speech entitled “Keep a Cool Yule”. “I’d like you to all raise your glasses and to raise your spirits as we say to each other, “Have a Cool Yule”” began Paula as she told us the story of her first memory of Santa Claus coming to her and her brother. She went on to explain the Magic of Christmas and what it means to different people. Couples who spend their first Christmas together and hoping that the next forty or fifty will be as magical as the first “and it can be if you let the magic in”. Paula is originally from Mallow and Speakeasy members are looking forward to her next visit.

After Paula was Barry McCarthy with a Stage 1 Speech from the “Speaking to Inform” Manual, entitled, “Second Sight”. “When you are eleven, getting glasses is a very exciting thing, but the novelty soon wears off” said Barry as he went on to explain his experiences with glasses, then various contact lenses and finally Laser Surgery. He explained the history of Lazar Surgery from the earliest Russian pioneering procedures and their use of ocean going liners, which were fitted out to perform the this surgery, to the most modern procedures of today.

Then it was the turn of John Skeates from the Crusaders Club. John is Area 17 Governor, which includes, The Crusaders Club from Cork, Fermoy Toastmasters and Speakeasy. John was giving a Stage 7 Speech entitled “A Few Words at Christmas”.
Each year at Christmas time each household receives about fifty Christmas Cards, almost as much private post as people receive throughout the rest of the year. Most of the cards are just wising a happy Christmas and nothing else. “A missed opportunity for letter writing”, said John, who also pointed out that with email being so popular that people are rediscovering the skill of letter writing.

Then it was the turn of Mary Buckley who was giving a Stage 7 Speech.
Entitled, “We brought the real Santa back home”.”Does Christmas hold for you some special childhood
memories of long ago or does it still hold that wondrous magic today?” asked Mary who pointed out
that Christmas means different things to different people depending on their circumstances. Mary then went on to
tell the story of an eventful trip to the North Pole that she had, which did not start off as it should have for various reasons.
Day one of the trip was missed out on but day two fulfilled all their expectations and they even brought Santa back home with them.

Finally it was the turn of Club President, Pat Sexton. Pat was completing his 40’Th official Toastmasters speech.
It was a speciality speech and Pat read the Oscar Wilde story, “The Happy Prince” from the book “The Happy Prince and other Stories”
First published in 1888

With the speeches complete it was back to Topics Master Sr. Bernadette for some more topics.
Some of the topics that Sr. Bernadette choose and the members to whom the topics were asked were as follows.
“Rudolph’s first Toastmasters Speech, what would he have said”, was asked of Tim Casey. “Have we lost the
true meaning of Christmas?”, Elizabeth O’Brien. “What was the best Christmas Present you ever got?” Gerry Kelleher which
also saw five more members giving “add on’s” (where people who have not been asked specifically to speak can speak for one minute)
“Many people give pets for Christmas”, Elaine O’Donovan.
These were just some of the “topics” that were given out during the lively and entertaining “topics session”

The Committee of Speakeasy Toastmasters would like to take this opportunity to wish all club members and their families, management and staff of the Hibernian Hotel and The Avondhu a happy and holy Christmas and peaceful New Year.

Speakeasy Toastmasters meetings resume again on January 9’Th at 8PM and on the programme will be Toastmaster, Elizabeth O’Brien,
Topicsmaster, Michael Donegan and speeches from, Angela Sheehan, Michael Cronin, Jeremiah Roynane, Ray Ryan, Mary Stack and N O’Brien.
For further information on the Club contact Sean on 086 6054784 or Pat 087 2364240 or visit the Club’s Website at www.clix.to/speakeasy. Email, speakeasymallow@eircom.net

Thursday, December 12, 2002

12 Dec

The Speakeasy Toastmasters Club held another very successful and entertaining meeting in The Hibernian Hotel, Mallow, (Chapel Lane) on Thursday 28’th of November.
After John Dillon’s speech it was the turn of Rita Foley with a speech entitled “Bread”. Rita was making a stage 5 speech from the Communications and Leadership Programme the purpose of which was “To explore the use of voice volume, pitch, rate and quality as assets to your speaking”, “To achieve a pleasing natural voice quality when speaking”.
“I am the living bread that has come down from Heaven, anyone who eats this bread will live forever” began Rita who drew attention to the vast range of breads that adorn our supermarket shelves and are available in restaurants. Rita is one of a group of people who have Coeliac Disease for whom there is no cure or treatment. A gluten free diet is the treatment for life.
Rita’s speech was evaluated by Jerry Mulcahy.

Then it was the turn of Michael Cronin who was speaking from one of the Advanced Manuals, Speciality Speeches. The title of his speech was “The Boss” in which he read an extract from the book “The Boss”. The extract that Michael choose to read was about the first day of the sitting of the Dáil that resulted from the Feb. 82 election.
Michael’s speech was evaluated by Dermot Meaney.

The last speech of the night was by Elizabeth O’Brien and entitled “Points System” This was very informative speech dealing with the new penalty points system for motoring offences. There are 65 offences under this system. 58 carry on the spot fines and the other 7 “deadly sins” carry a mandatory court appearance. 6 of these carry 5 penalty points. The 58 offences that carry on the spot fines can be challenged in court but if one is convicted the points will increase by 2 and the others will increase by 3.
Barry Mc’Carthy evaluated Elizabeth’s speech.

After the speeches President, Pat Sexton formally welcomed new member John Murphy and presented him with his Communications and Leadership Programme Manual.

After the break the meeting was handed over to Topics Master William Healy who conducted a very entertaining Topics Session. This is the part of the meeting where members are asked to speak for 2 minutes on a subject that the Topics Master chooses. Among the topics that William choose was “don’t give a dog for Christmas”, “Organic horse meat to eat”.

The meeting was then handed over to Noel O’Connor who was General Evaluator for the meeting. Noel conducted the Evaluation Session where the different speeches were evaluated by the different evaluators and feedback given to the speakers. Noel also commented on how the various participants performed and presented ribbons for
Best Speech, John Holmes, Best Evaluation, Dermot Meaney and Best Topic went to Grant who was a Guest.

The next meeting of the Speakeasy Toastmasters Club will be tonight 12’th December and the participants on the programme will be Toastmaster, Noel O’Connor, Topicsmaster, Sr, Bernadette Knopec (Fáilte Toastmasters), Timekeeper, Mary Stack.
Sgt. At Arms, Elaine O’Donovan and Kay O’Keeffe. Speeches will be by Mary Buckley, Barrry McCarthy, Sean Corcoran, Marie Fitzpatrick, Joan Lenihan and Pat Sexton. Evaluators are Tim Ahern, Dermot Meaney, Kieran Buckley and Michael McMahon.
For further information on the Club contact Sean on 086 6054784 or Pat 087 2364240 or visit the Club’s Website at www.clix.to/speakeasy. Email, speakeasymallow@eircom.net

Thursday, December 05, 2002

5 Dec

The Speakeasy Toastmasters Club held another very successful and entertaining meeting in The Hibernian Hotel, Mallow, (Chapel Lane) on Thursday 28’th of November. In his opening remarks, Pat Sexton complemented the members on such a large turnout despite the weather and noted that in its 10-year history the Club never had to cancel a meeting. He introduced Toastmaster Angela Sheehan and Topics Master William Healy. Angela then took over the meeting introducing the other Club Members who were performing duties on the night and explaining their functions. William Healy as Topics Master. Ray Ryan as Timekeeper, Noel O’Connor as General Evaluator. Elaine O’Donovan and Kay O’Keeffe as Sergeant at Arms.

First to the lectern was John Holmes who was making his “Icebreaker” speech. This is the first speech from the Communications and Leadership Programme. The objectives of an “Icebreaker” speech is “To begin speaking before and audience”, “To help one understand what areas require particular emphasis in your speaking development” and “To introduce yourself to your fellow Club members”. John’s speech was entitled “My Life” and he told us of his early years, falling off the clothes dryer when he was 3 and breaking his nose, going to primary school in Bweeing where he can recall vividly his first day. His struggle with asthma and eventually being finding our what caused it by having a simple skin test. He was allergic to the dust mite. So he was for years “sleeping with the enemy” John told us how he one day was persuaded to go to the races one Sunday where he met Elaine, his fiancé, who introduced him to Speakeasy Toastmasters.
John’s speech was evaluated by Mary Buckley

Next to the Lectern was John Dillon with a Stage 4 Speech entitled “3 Lessons in 15 Minutes”. The objectives of a Stage 4 speech are “To learn the value of gestures and body movements as part of a speech”, “To explore the different ways of using body language “and ”To develop a sense of timing and natural, smooth body movement”,
John told us the story of an incident that happened to him in pharmacy in O’Connell St. in Dublin, near Nelsons Pillar. One day a customer came in and asked to see a very expensive camera that was on display in the window. John demonstrated the camera, the customer said he would buy it but would pay for it by check. When the owner of the Pharmacy unexpectedly arrived back the “customer” put away his checkbook and quickly left.
Pat Duggan evaluated John’s speech.
The next meeting of the Speakeasy Toastmasters Club will be on 12’th December and the participants on the programme will be Toastmaster, Noel O’Connor, Topicsmaster, Sr, Bernadette Knopec (Fáilte Toastmasters), Timekeeper, Mary Stack.
Sgt. At Arms, Elaine O’Donovan and Kay O’Keeffe. Speeches will be by Mary Buckley, Barrry McCarthy, Sean Corcoran, Marie Fitzpatrick, Joan Lenihan and Pat Sexton. Evaluators are Tim Ahern, Dermot Meaney, Kieran Buckley and Michael McMahon.
For further information on the Club contact Sean on 086 6054784 or Pat 087 2364240 or visit the Club’s Website at www.clix.to/speakeasy. Email, speakeasymallow@eircom.net

Thursday, November 28, 2002

28 Nov

On October 31’st, Halloween, Speakeasy Toastmasters held their fun/scary meeting in Chapel Lane, Mallow. The Halloween theme began, as we were welcomed at the door by Sergeant at Arms Ellen Broderick and Count Dracula, aka Elaine O’Donovan. President Pat Sexton welcomed us and promised us a scary meeting which was obvious as there was an abundance of Witches, Warlocks, scary masks, Jack O’Lanterns, nuts (of the edible type), apples, a little Red Devil and a blood soaked, bandaged Phantom lurking in the shadows.
Pat passed control of the meeting to Toastmaster, Winnie the Witch, aka Mary Buckley, (we think). Winnie explained the her duties for the evening and introduced Topics Master, Bríd O’Keeffe and Timekeeper, Count Dracula (Elaine)

First to the Lectern was, yes, another witch, Angela Sheehan with a speech entitled
“Vampires, A pain in the neck”. “Vampires are not just for Halloween you know, we have been around for a very long time” began Angela who said that vampires may be all around us and gave us some signs to look out for. The person wearing the polo neck may be hiding bites or the person who won’t smile as they may be hiding large incisors. Even a name is a giveaway, said Angela and in Speakeasy there are some dodgy Toastmasters for instance, Bury (Barry) Mc’Carthy. Mikill (Michael) Cronin to name but a few. Angela brought us through the history of Vampires and specifically the Irish connection plus lots more nuggets of information on Vampires in general and finished with a number of Vampire Jokes.
Angela’s speech was evaluated by Eileen Corkery.

Next to the lectern was Dermot Meaney who was giving his first speech from the Storytelling Manual and it was entitled “Oiche Shamhna”. “Trick or Treat, Smelly Feet give me something nice to eat” said Dermot. We can lay the blame for the whole Halloween ritual of bonfires, pumpkins, masks and trick or treating on our barbaric ancesters “who we fondly call “the Celts””. The Celts divided the year into two seasons. The Summer season which began on the first of May which was celebrated with the festival of Bhealtaine and the winter season in November which was celebrated with the festival of Samhain. Dermot brought us through the fascinating history of Halloween from the Celts to the present day.
Dermot’s speech was evaluated by Michael (the devil) Cronin.

Dermot was followed by Jerry Mulcahy with a Speciality Speech in which he read the JBKeane story “The Scubble Thing” from the Book, “A Collection of Irish Stories for Christmas”, The story was about Martin and Mary Scubble who did not have any children but whose house was always full of life with people working on the bog calling to them regularly They were very happy together all year round with the exception of one night around Christmas when their personalities changed completely. The young people of the locality knew this and they used to conceal themselves outside the Scubble’s house for what was an annual argument for Martin and Mary Scubble and a party for the young people of the area.
Jerry’s speech was evaluated by Michael Dongegan.
The next Speakeasy Toastmasters Meeting is on Thursday Nov.14’th and the following members will be presenting speeches, Deirdre Lenihan, Mieháel Mc’Mahon, Elizabeth O’Brien, Barry Mc’Carthy and Jeremiah Roynane. Toastmaser for this meeting will be Seán Lynch, Topics Master Mary Stack and Timekeeper Ray Ryan.
Members of the public are very welcome to attend all Speakeasy Toastmasters meetings.
For further information on the Club contact Sean on 086 6054784 or Pat 087 2364240 or visit the Club’s Website at www.clix.to/speakeasy. Email, speakeasymallow@eircom.net

Thursday, November 21, 2002

21 Nov

The Speakeasy Toastmasters Club held another very successful meeting in Chapel Lane, The Hibernian Hotel on Thursday Nov. 14’th. President, Pat Sexton opened the meeting and welcomed the 33 members and guests and handed control of the meeting to Sean Lynch who was Toastmaster for the evening. Sean ran the meeting in his own personal and efficient style. He explained his function as Toastmaster for the evening and said that the person who holds the gavel at a Toastmaster’s meeting controlled the meeting. Just to let us know he controlled the meeting he produced, from a holdall (Jimmy Cagney style), a rather large water pistol and fired a few “shots” into the audience just to let us know he meant business.(He did, as the person who dropped a coin during the meeting found out).
Sean then introduced Mary Stack as Topics Master for the evening and Ray Ryan as Timekeeper.
First to the lectern was Deirdre Lenihan who was making her first speech in Toastmasters. This speech is called an “Icebreaker” whose purpose is to introduce a new member to the Club. Deirdre’s speech was entitled “A Sporting Life”. Deirdre was born in Dublin on the first day of spring and from a very young age was interested in sport. In secondary school she became involved in sports like basketball and tennis so that by the time she sat her leaving “PE seemed to be the only positive career choice for a sports mad teenager” After 3 years in college she qualified as a PE teacher. Sport plays an important part in her family life and her eldest son is an international gymnast. “It is not to be the best but to try to be the best should be your goal in life” she concluded. Congratulations to Deirdre on completing her “Icebreaker” and members are eagerly awaiting her future speeches.
Deirdre’s speech was evaluated by John Dillon who was making his very first speech eveluation.

Next to the podium was Micháel Mc’Mahon with a speech entitled “Before the Magdalene Years”. Mieháel’s speech told the story of Hannie a 15 yr old girl from a family of 10, who worked as a dairymaid on a farm near Croom Co.Limerick in the year 1895. Hannie and her friend Jenny got up at 4.30 am every morning to milk the cows and then had their breakfast of gruel and bread. A boy who worked on the farm raped Hannie and when her condition showed she was let go and got a place in the workhouse in Croom. “One of the undeserving poor. A deaf pregnant pauper”. Micháel traced Hannie’s life from her abandoning her baby to being arrested in Limerick and being brought back home to Kiskeam. Her grieving for her baby to rearing her sisters baby, to her death. A sensitive story told in Micháel’s very own style.
Margaret O’Regan evaluated Micháel’s speech.

We then had a speech entitled “Girl with Pearl Earring” from Barry Mc’Carthy. “My name is Greit, I am Dutch and I am 74 years old” began Barry. As went on to tell the story of Griet, a 16-year-old Dutch girl who becomes a maid in the house of the painter Johannes Vermeer. Her calm and perceptive manner not only helps her in her household duties, but also attracts the painter's attention. Though different in upbringing, education and social standing, they have a similar way of looking at things. Vermeer slowly draws her into the world of his paintings - the still, luminous images of solitary women in domestic settings.
Barry’s speech was evaluated by Jacinta O’Connor who is a member of Fáile Toastmasters in Charleville.


The next meeting of The Speakeasy Toastmasters Club will take place in, as usual, Chapel Lane, The Hibernian Hotel on Thursday 28’th November at 8 pm sharp
On the Speech Programme is, John Holmes, Michael Cronin, Rita Foley and John Dillon. Speech Evaluators will be Mary Buckley, Jerry Mulcahy and Pat Duggan.
Toastmaster for the evening is Angela Sheehan and Topics Master is William Healy.
General Evaluator is Noel O’Connor and Elaine O’Donovan, Sergeant at Arms.
Members of the public are as always very welcome at Toastmasters meetings.
For further information on the Club contact Sean on 086 6054784 or Pat 087 2364240 or visit the Club’s Website at www.clix.to/speakeasy. Email, speakeasymallow@eircom.net

Thursday, November 14, 2002

14 Nov

On October 31’st, Halloween, Speakeasy Toastmasters held their fun/scary meeting in Chapel Lane, Mallow. The Halloween theme began, as we were welcomed at the door by Sergeant at Arms Ellen Broderick and Count Dracula, aka Elaine O’Donovan. President Pat Sexton welcomed us and promised us a scary meeting which was obvious as there was an abundance of Witches, Warlocks, scary masks, Jack O’Lanterns, nuts (of the edible type), apples, a little Red Devil and a blood soaked, bandaged Phantom lurking in the shadows.

Fourth to the lectern Noel O’Connor with a speech entitled “Just Ask”. Noel’s speech was from an Advanced Manual in which he had to write and deliver a speech that had a moral to it. He told of an incident which happened to himself and Kathleen as they were driving to Dublin Airport to catch a plane. The car not performing as it should and eventually stopped with only one house to be seen. After a quiet a number of failed attempts to get a taxi he eventually remembered a casual acquaintance that he contacted and told him of their predicament. This man left his work on his farm and drove them to the Airport just in time for the flight. As luck, or otherwise, would have it the plane was 3 hours late in taking off.
Noel’s speech was evaluated by Pat Sexton.

Finally it was the turn of Kieran Buckley with a speech entitled “The Spectre” “Strange things happen at Halloween” said Kieran as he went on to tell us of an incident, a true story, that happened to a friend of his at Halloween. Mary, a nurse with three children whose husband was working away from home. At Halloween when everyone was in bed she heard a strange sound from outside and on going to investigate she found the children’s pony stricken with fear and looking at something which she could not see. Then she saw it. A small old woman combing her hair and caoiniming. Terrified, she ran back to the house to check on the children who were ok. After a long and sleepless night she heard that her neighbour had died during the night at exactly the time that she had seen the Spectre.
Kieran’s speech was evaluated by Joan Lenihan.

After the Coffee break there were reports from Pat Duggan the Club EVP (Pat organises the programme for each meeting a number of weeks in advance). Sean Corcoran, PRO. Tony O’Regan, Membership. And also Jeremiah Roynane who spoke about the District Conference that is being held in Tralee on the weekend, November 8’th-10’th.
Then the meeting was handed over to Topics Master Bríd O’Keeffe who conducted a lively and highly entertaining Topics Session with of course, a Halloween theme, which kept the 22 members and 3 guests entertained for thirty minutes or so.
Some of the members who were asked a topic were Michael Cronin, Eileen Corkery, Noel O’Connor, Micháel Mc’Mahon, Jerry Mulcahey, Mary Stack. Played “Snap Apple”, Pat Sexton, Tony O’Regan.
Finally the Evaluation Session was conducted by General Evaluator, Tony O’Regan who presented prizes for Best Speech, Kieran Buckley. Best Evaluation, Joan Lenihan. Best Topic, Micháel Mc’Mahon with a special prize to Mary Buckley.
And so ended another fantastic Speakeasy Toastmasters meeting that left us looking forward to the next one which is on, tonight, Thursday Nov.14’th in which the following members will be presenting speeches, Deirdre Lenihan, Mieháel Mc’Mahon, Elizabeth O’Brien, Barry Mc’Carthy and Jeremiah Roynane. Toastmaser for this meeting will be Seán Lynch, Topics Master Mary Stack and Timekeeper Ray Ryan.
Members of the public are very welcome to attend all Speakeasy Toastmasters Meetings.
For further information on the Club contact Sean on 086 6054784 or Pat 087 2364240 or visit the Club’s Website at www.clix.to/speakeasy. Email, speakeasymallow@eircom.net

Monday, November 11, 2002

11 NOv

On October 31’st, Halloween, Speakeasy Toastmasters held their fun/scary meeting in Chapel Lane, Mallow. The Halloween theme began, as we were welcomed at the door by Sergeant at Arms Ellen Broderick and Count Dracula, aka Elaine O’Donovan. President Pat Sexton welcomed us and promised us a scary meeting which was obvious as there was an abundance of Witches, Warlocks, scary masks, Jack O’Lanterns, nuts (of the edible type), apples, a little Red Devil and a blood soaked, bandaged Phantom lurking in the shadows.
Pat passed control of the meeting to Toastmaster, Winnie the Witch, aka Mary Buckley, (we think). Winnie explained the her duties for the evening and introduced Topics Master, Bríd O’Keeffe and Timekeeper, Count Dracula (Elaine)

First to the Lectern was, yes, another witch, Angela Sheehan with a speech entitled
“Vampires, A pain in the neck”. “Vampires are not just for Halloween you know, we have been around for a very long time” began Angela who said that vampires may be all around us and gave us some signs to look out for. The person wearing the polo neck may be hiding bites or the person who won’t smile as they may be hiding large incisors. Even a name is a giveaway, said Angela and in Speakeasy there are some dodgy Toastmasters for instance, Bury (Barry) Mc’Carthy. Mikill (Michael) Cronin to name but a few. Angela brought us through the history of Vampires and specifically the Irish connection plus lots more nuggets of information on Vampires in general and finished with a number of Vampire Jokes.
Angela’s speech was evaluated by Eileen Corkery.

Next to the lectern was Dermot Meaney who was giving his first speech from the Storytelling Manual and it was entitled “Oiche Shamhna”. “Trick or Treat, Smelly Feet give me something nice to eat” said Dermot. We can lay the blame for the whole Halloween ritual of bonfires, pumpkins, masks and trick or treating on our barbaric ancesters “who we fondly call “the Celts””. The Celts divided the year into two seasons. The Summer season which began on the first of May which was celebrated with the festival of Bhealtaine and the winter season in November which was celebrated with the festival of Samhain. Dermot brought us through the fascinating history of Halloween from the Celts to the present day.
Dermot’s speech was evaluated by Michael (the devil) Cronin.

Dermot was followed by Jerry Mulcahy with a Speciality Speech in which he read the JBKeane story “The Scubble Thing” from the Book, “A Collection of Irish Stories for Christmas”, The story was about Martin and Mary Scubble who did not have any children but whose house was always full of life with people working on the bog calling to them regularly They were very happy together all year round with the exception of one night around Christmas when their personalities changed completely. The young people of the locality knew this and they used to conceal themselves outside the Scubble’s house for what was an annual argument for Martin and Mary Scubble and a party for the young people of the area.
Jerry’s speech was evaluated by Michael Dongegan.
The next Speakeasy Toastmasters Meeting is on Thursday Nov.14’th and the following members will be presenting speeches, Deirdre Lenihan, Mieháel Mc’Mahon, Elizabeth O’Brien, Barry Mc’Carthy and Jeremiah Roynane. Toastmaser for this meeting will be Seán Lynch, Topics Master Mary Stack and Timekeeper Ray Ryan.
Members of the public are very welcome to attend all Speakeasy Toastmasters meetings.
For further information on the Club contact Sean on 086 6054784 or Pat 087 2364240 or visit the Club’s Website at www.clix.to/speakeasy. Email, speakeasymallow@eircom.net

Thursday, October 31, 2002

31 Oct

On Saturday evening last 26’Th of October the Division Finals of the Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contests were held in the Hibernian Hotel in Mallow.
The evening was presided over by Michael Sexton, Division A Governor. The Contest Chairperson was Michael O’Sullivan and Topicsmaster for the evening was Greg Butler. Also in present were Linda Malloy, Mary Murtagh, Jeremiah Roynane and Chris Egan, officers of the District Committee.
Greg Butler started the evening with a 15-minute topics session and then it was into the Topics Contest. The contestants in order of appearance were, Bernadette Knopek, Joe Mc’Sweeney, Margaret O’Flynn, Anthony Galvin, Brian O’Farrell and Paddy O’Regan.
The Topic that the contestants had to speak on for 2 minutes was “The year 2050. How do you see the year 2050?” The audience of approx 200 people were treated to six very entertaining answers and on what must have been a very close score, the winner was Bernadette Knopec with Paddy O’Regan, second and Joe Mc’Sweeney in third place.
After a short break and another general topics session it was time for the Humorous Speech Contest.
In order of appearance were Joe Dunne with a speech entitled “A Whole New Ball Game” which was a humorous look at Golf and it’s origins.
Mary Buckley with a speech entitled “Join our Club” which was about learning golf as applied to herself.
Gavin Falk with a story entitled “Breakfast At Ten” which was about his B&B business and some of his guests.
Shay Rochford with a speech entitled “Miranda and the Calvin Klein Guy” which was a look at advertising.
Jim Hegarty with a speech entitled “Put a Bush in the Gap” in which Jim spoke in the first instance as a door.
Anthony Galvin with a speech entitled “A Small Problem” in which he made fun of his weight.
As in the Topics Contest, no one envied the Judges as they made their decision such was the standard on the night. The winner was Anthony Galvin with Jim Hegarty in second and Joe Dunne in third place.

Bernadette Knopec and Anthony Galvin will now represent Division A at the District 71 Conference, “The Kingdom Conference”, which is being held in “The Abby Gate Hotel” in Tralee on the weekend of November 8th-10’th.
Further information on this conference can be had via email, info@abbygate-hotel.com or phone 066 712 9888.
Speakeasy Toastmasters wish Bernadette and Anthony every success at The Kingdom Conference.
A special congratulation to Mary Buckley of Speakeasy on reaching the Division Final
Speakeasy at Halloween.
Speakeasy Toastmasters meet again tonight in Chapel Lane and as usual non-members are very welcome. Tonight will have a Halloween theme so be in your seats by 8pm.
For further information on the Club contact Sean on 086 6054784 or Pat 087 2364240 or visit the Club’s Website at www.clix.to/speakeasy. Email, speakeasymallow@eircom.net

Thursday, October 24, 2002

24 Oct

On Thursday 17’th of October The Speakeasy Toastmasters Club hosted the Area 17 Finals of the Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contests.
The meeting was opened by Mr Pat Sexton who welcomed the 60 strong attendance which included members of the public and Toastmasters from Speakeasy, Fermoy Toastmasters, Crusaders Toastmasters, Cork and Powdermills Toastmasters Club in Ballincollig. Toastmaster for the Evening was Mick Donnegan who started the evening by explaining the rules of the contests, the order of speakers and introduced Tim Ahearn who conducted a short topics session.

The first contestant was Brian O’Farrell from Fermoy Toastmasters with a speech entitled “How to get rid of Visitors”. “The day is long gone when we lived in tenements up in Georgian Dublin” began Brian as he reminded us of modern day living in detached or semi detached houses, guard dogs, alarm systems. We use the Internet, watch soap operas on TV and chat on the phone. “But there is an older generation who have nothing better to do than come around and annoy you” Brian suggested the following ways to deal with them. “First have no door knocker, pull out the battery of the doorbell, have not one but two angry guard dogs” so you can waste your life away watching TV and videos.

Then it was the turn of Jerry Long from Crusaders with a speech entitled “My Guru” Jerry spoke of his mythical guru whom he calls “Guru Lottocash” who waits until everyone is sitting down watching TV before he goes to work. Jerry then went on to give us a comical look at the power of advertising. “When men take a shower they get wet but when women take a shower they get dry, because “Guru Lottocash told them so”. Put Oil of Ulay on your body to put back the moisture that showering has taken away”

After Jerry it was Michael Fenton from Fermoy Toastmasters with a speech entitled “Don’t Panic” which told a story about two teenage boys who devised a plan to borrow their fathers brand new Toyota car to go to the local Macra dance without him knowing about it as he forbade them to drive the car after dark. As they approached the car when the dance was over and in the company of two girls they were horrified to see a large scratch running the length of the car. Panic set in. “we’re dead, we’re dead” said one as the other was so frightened he couldn’t open his mouth.

Then it was the turn of Kay O’Keeffe from Speakeasy with a speech entitled “Goldie”. “Hi, I’m Goldie and I’m one. I’m a Retriever” began Kay who explained that she lived in Drogheda with a girl called Mary who is “fierce nice” and they are on holidays in Cork. She lived with another family but got her walking papers for “peeing on the carpet” and “chewing up your mans Nike Runners”. She met Mary while she was tied to a bus stop but she is “a bit odd because she don’t give me any meat on a Friday” Goldie explained that if a dog is mans best friend he is also mans cheapest form of therapy keeping one half of the country fit and the other half, sane. When Mary comes home from work she, Goldie, takes her for a walk and she is all the better for it. “Puffing and panting but all the better for it”. Goldie could not stay long because she had to get her box ready and choose her collar as she was going back to Drogheda in the morning.

After Kay it was the turn of Mary Buckley, also from Speakeasy with a speech entitled, “Join Our Club” “Have you ever thought of joining a new club?” asked Mary, who continued to tell us about the one made popular by Tiger himself. Golf. Mary would like the fairways to be made more narrow “that way everyone would be able to play from the rough, not just me and the safest place for the rabbits would be on the fairway”. She once asked a friend what would she give her caddy for a present. “Your golf clubs” replied her friend. “How you progress in golf”, said Mary, “is by being handicapped and going backwards and how you know you are improving is when you are missing the ball much more closer that you used to”. She knows that she is getting better at golf as she is “hitting less spectators”. There are three ways of learning golf, by study, by imitation, or by experience but for her the right way is “to go up and hit the bloody thing”. “There is one thing in the world that is dumber than playing golf and that is watching someone else playing it,” said Mary, which is the reason why she started.

And finally it was the turn of Michael Buckley from the Crusaders Toastmasters Club with a speech entitled “No Thank You” which was a tongue in cheek look at the mannerisms and characteristics of Irish people. “We must have the largest vocabulary for describing the weather of any nation” said Michael, “ and we can become a bit confused about peoples origin”. Telling us about the 5’the generation coloured American millionaire having a drink in a pub when he was asked “what part of Africa are you from, you speak very good English?”. Michael also gave us some examples of saying no when we mean yes and that when Irish people emigrated to various countries they quickly learned that when you say no, you don’t get asked the second time.

After the speech contest it was the Table Topics Contest, which again had 6 contestants from the three clubs. Tim Casey and Elizabeth O’Brien represented Speakeasy. Crusaders, Jerry Long and John Mulvey and Fermoy Toastmasters by Kathleen Geaney and Brian O’Farrell.

Winner of the Speech Contest was Kay O’Keeffe with Mary Buckley in second place, both from the Speakeasy Club.
Winner of the Table Topics Contest was Brian O’Farrell from Fermoy Toastmasters with Elizabeth O’Brien from Speakeasy in second place.
Kay and Brian will now go forward to the division final which will take place in The Hibernian Hotel on Saturday 26’th October at 8pm

Judges for the contests were Gerdaline Burke, Jim Byrne, Cellia Carlile, Orison Carlisle, Micheál Mc’Mahon, John O’Sullivan, Jeremiah Roynane and Michael Sexton. Chief Judge was Area Governor John Skeates who congratulated the winners and wished them well in the next stage of the contest.
John also congratulated the Speakeasy Club for hosting the contest.

Timekeepers were John Dillon and Margret Moore. Sergeants at Arms were Elaine O’Donoven and Jerry Mulcahy.
For your Dairy
Toastmasters Division A final of the Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contest at The Hibernian Hotel, Mallow on Saturday 26’th October. The 12 contestants will be the winners from the five areas in Division A which has a total of 20 Clubs from counties Galway, Clare, Limerick, Cork and Kerry. A night not to be missed.

Thursday, October 17, 2002

17 Oct

Humorous Speech Contest
The October 3’rd meeting of the Speakeasy Toastmasters Club was one of the highlights of the Club’s year. It was the night of the Humorous Speech Contest. Over 40 members and guests attended the meeting, which was opened by President, Mr. Pat Sexton. Toastmaster was Sean Corcoran and Topicsmaster, Noel O’Connor. Noel started off the meeting with a, warm up, topics session and then it was time for the speeches.
Golf Handicap
Following Pat Sexton to the Lectern was Elizabeth O’Brien with a speech entitled “Golf Handicap”.“Picture the scene, I have just entered the inner sanctum of the Golf Club. Not the men’s locker room” began Elizabeth whose love affair with golf began in 1992 not when she took up the game but when she bought “ a shiny new red VW Golf”. “It was lust at first sight” as she loved and cared for it. But after a while it began to hiss at her “which would indicate a recurring problem with it’s delicate digestive system”. She persevered with the Golf and even undertook journeys to “far flung places, like Cork City” until one morning as she was running late it broke down near Blarney. She decided that day that she had “reached the 19’th hole with the Golf” and “after piggy banks were raided” she bought a new Opel Astra.
Join Our Club
After Elizabeth it was the turn of Mary Buckley with a speech entitled, “Join Our Club”
“Have you ever thought of joining a new club?” asked Mary, who continued to tell us about the one made popular by Tiger himself. Golf. Mary would like the fairways to be made more narrow “that way everyone would be able to play from the rough, not just me and the safest place for the rabbits would be on the fairway”. She once asked a friend what would she give her caddy for a present. “Your golf clubs” replied her friend. “How you progress in golf”, said Mary, “is by being handicapped and going backwards and how you know you are improving is when you are missing the ball much more closer that you used to”. She knows that she is getting better at golf as she is “hitting less spectators”. There are three ways of learning golf, by study, by imitation, or by experience but for her the right way is “to go up and hit the bloody thing”. “There is one thing in the world that is dumber than playing golf and that is watching someone else playing it,” said Mary, which is the reason why she started.
A Pig in a Poke
And finally it was the turn of Michael Dineen with a speech entitled, “A Pig in a Poke”
“Phil Collins patronised us all when he sang, “You can’t hurry love, you just have to wait”” began Michael who told us that he got sick and tired of waiting and decided to help things along by going on his first and last blind date. Some years ago he entered a charity “Blind Date” which was organised in his workplace as he was “going through a drought with women”. The contestants were kept isolated and plied with free drink “to keep morale up”. As he was being led blindfolded on stage he managed to hit shins on steps that no one told him was there. On stage the blindfold was removed to reveal a Transvestite Cilla Black called Mr.Pantie. Eventually he chooses contestant no. 3 but no romance blossomed. As a matter of fact he saw “more cold shoulder than a Siberian Butcher”. Michael’s advice to his fellow Toastmasters was to have their full senses about them when choosing a partner otherwise they could end up with “
Area Final of the Humorous Speech Contest
Tonight, Thursday 17’th October Speakeasy Toastmasters will host the Area Final of the Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contest. Performing on the night will be the winners from the 3 Clubs in Area 17, Speakeasy Toastmasters, Mallow. Crusaders Club from Cork and Fermoy Toastmasters. This final is held in Mallow just once every three years and is a night not to be missed. Admission is just 6 Euro and includes Tea/Coffee.
All Speakeasy Toastmasters Meetings are held in the Hibernian Hotel (Chapel Lane) in Mallow.
For further information on the Club contact Sean on 086 6054784 or Pat 087 2364240 or visit the Club’s Website at www.clix.to/speakeasy. Email, speakeasymallow@eircom.net.

Thursday, October 10, 2002

10 Oct

Humorous Speech Contest
The October 3’rd meeting of the Speakeasy Toastmasters Club was one of the highlights of the Club’s year. It was the night of the Humorous Speech Contest. Over 40 members and guests attended the meeting, which was opened by President, Mr. Pat Sexton. Toastmaster was Sean Corcoran and Topicsmaster, Noel O’Connor. Noel started off the meeting with a, warm up, topics session and then it was time for the speeches.
Jackets and Pyjamas
A draw for the speaking order had taken place before the meeting and first to the lectern was Michael Cronin with a speech entitled, “Jackets and Pyjamas”. “What is chivalry?” asked Michael.
And he went on to tell us about and end of exam escapade that started when he offered a female classmate his jacket one typical Irish June night. “It was freezing”. “And to my utter disgust she accepted” said Michael. At the end of the night he had to “passionately hug the storage heater for a quarter of an hour” as his classmate went home with his jacket. The downside of this chivalrous act was apparent when the class party was held in this girls house and due to a large crowd turning up, the doors to the other rooms were opened up to relieve the pressure. Michael and his then girlfriend found themselves in the bedroom where hanging on the bedpost next to a “satin bugs bunny pyjamas” was his jacket, that he had lent the night before. “Houston, we’ve got a very big problem”. “No, the age of Chivalry is not dead” declared Michael “ but on that night, I was”.
Goldie
Then it was the turn of Kay O’Keeffe with a speech entitled “Goldie”. “Hi, I’m Goldie and I’m one. I’m a Retriever” began Kay who explained that she lived in Drogheda with a girl called Mary who is “fierce nice” and they are on holidays in Cork. She lived with another family but got her walking papers for “peeing on the carpet” and “chewing up your mans Nike Runners”. She met Mary while she was tied to a bus stop but she is “a bit odd because she don’t give me any meat on a Friday” Goldie explained that if a dog is mans best friend he is also mans cheapest form of therapy keeping one half of the country fit and the other half, sane. When Mary comes home from work she, Goldie, takes her for a walk and she is all the better for it. “Puffing and panting but all the better for it”. Goldie could not stay long because she had to get her box ready and choose her collar as she was going back to Drogheda in the morning.
Vernacular Violence
Next was Pat Sexton with a speech entitled, “Vernacular Violence”. “On the run up to the Niece Referendum spare a thought for our European Friends” Said Pat “Doesn’t our turn of phrase seem somewhat scary” Who went on to give some examples. “There was a fierce crowd at the match. Picture it. A seething sea of people, wide eyed, cross eyed, fuming and foaming at the mouth, like mad cows or disappointed Kerry supporters”. Pat went on to explain that our entire vernacular has images of violence. “This pint is brutal. One can see the fist rising up out of it and bludgeoning it’s owner”. Or the man who is “taking slugs from his pint. Guinness, there’s eating and drinking in it”. Even Toastmasters are not immune to this as one can be “put down” for a speech.
Area Final of the Humorous Speech Contest
On Thursday 17’th October Speakeasy Toastmasters hosts the Area Final of the Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contest. Performing on the night will be the winners from the 3 Clubs in Area 17, Speakeasy Toastmasters, Mallow. Crusaders Club from Cork and Fermoy Toastmasters. This final is held in Mallow just once every three years and is a night not to be missed. Admission is just 6 Euro and includes Tea/Coffee
All Speakeasy Toastmasters Meetings are held in the Hibernian Hotel (Chapel Lane) in Mallow.
For further information on the Club contact Sean on 086 6054784 or Pat 087 2364240 or visit the Club’s Website at www.clix.to/speakeasy. Email, speakeasymallow@eircom.net.

Thursday, October 03, 2002

3 Oct

At the Speakeasy Toastmasters Club meeting in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow on Thursday Sept. 19’th the Topicsmaster was Pat Duggan. Pat’s function on the night was to ask members to speak for 2 minutes on a subject of his choosing. This in Toastmasters is known a “Table Topics Session”. Pat’s choice of topics included “What was the most memorable speech you have heard in Toastmasters?”, Mick Donegan was asked. Then is was Angela Sheehan’s turn, “What is your household most like, The Waltons or the Simpsons?”. “Pat Kenny has been taken ill and you have been asked to take his place. Who would have on the Late Late Show?” was the topic Michael Cronin was asked. Finally to Jerry Mulcahy, “Do you still remember any of the poems you learned at school?”

General Evaluator was Margret O’Regan. Margret’s function on the night was to give her opinion on how the meeting was organised and ran and also to conduct the Evaluation Session. Her choice of Best Speaker was John Dillon, Best Evaluator, Michael Mc’Mahon, Best Topic, Angela Sheehan.
Then it was time for the Table Topics Contest. Entrants were Michael Cronin, Elizabeth O’Brien, Pat Duggan, Tim Casey and Sean Corcoran. As each competitor gets the same topic to speak on, competitors are held in isolation until it’s their turn to speak. The topic was “What were the best years of your life?. The winner was Tim Casey, 2’nd was Elizabeth O’Brien and Michael Cronin was 3’rd. Tim and Elizabeth now represent Speakeasy at the Area Final in The Hibernian Hotel on Thursday 17’th October.
Judges for the contest were, Sr. Bernadette and Sr. Rose from the Fáilte Toastmasters Club in Charleville. John Skeates from the Crusaders Toastmasters Club in Cork City. Tim Ahearn and Dermot Meaney from Speakeasy. Chief Judge was Jeremiah Roynane.

Also taking part in the programme for the September 19’th meeting were Timekeepers, Mary Stack and John Holmes, Sergeant at Arms were Elaine O’Donovan.

Humorous Speech Contest
Dates for your diary. Thursday 3’rd of October is the Club’s “Humorous Speech Contest” which is one of the highlights of the Toastmasters year. Members are reminded that EVP Pat Duggan still has room for one or two more entries.
Members of the public are invited to attend this meeting which is certain to be most enjoyable. Cost, just 3Euro and includes Tea/Coffee/Biscuits.
Toastmaster for the night is Sean Corcoran, Topicsmaster, Claire O’Keeffe. Timekeepers, William Healy and Bríd Ó’Keeffe and Elaine O’Donovan and Kay O’Keeffe are Seageant’s at Arms.
Area Finals
On Thursday 17’th October Speakeasy Toastmasters hosts the Area Final of the Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contest. Performing on the night will be the winners from the 3 Clubs in Area 17, Speakeasy Toastmasters, Mallow. Crusaders Club from Cork and Fermoy Toastmasters. Another superb night assured.

All Speakeasy Toastmasters Meetings are held in the Hibernian Hotel (Chapel Lane) in Mallow.
For further information on the Club contact Sean on 086 6054784 or Pat 087 2364240 or visit the Club’s Website at www.clix.to/speakeasy. Email, speakeasymallow@eircom.net.

oct 3 2002

At the Speakeasy Toastmasters Club meeting in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow on Thursday Sept. 19’th the Topicsmaster was Pat Duggan. Pat’s function on the night was to ask members to speak for 2 minutes on a subject of his choosing. This in Toastmasters is known a “Table Topics Session”. Pat’s choice of topics included “What was the most memorable speech you have heard in Toastmasters?”, Mick Donegan was asked. Then is was Angela Sheehan’s turn, “What is your household most like, The Waltons or the Simpsons?”. “Pat Kenny has been taken ill and you have been asked to take his place. Who would have on the Late Late Show?” was the topic Michael Cronin was asked. Finally to Jerry Mulcahy, “Do you still remember any of the poems you learned at school?”

General Evaluator was Margret O’Regan. Margret’s function on the night was to give her opinion on how the meeting was organised and ran and also to conduct the Evaluation Session. Her choice of Best Speaker was John Dillon, Best Evaluator, Michael Mc’Mahon, Best Topic, Angela Sheehan.
Then it was time for the Table Topics Contest. Entrants were Michael Cronin, Elizabeth O’Brien, Pat Duggan, Tim Casey and Sean Corcoran. As each competitor gets the same topic to speak on, competitors are held in isolation until it’s their turn to speak. The topic was “What were the best years of your life?. The winner was Tim Casey, 2’nd was Elizabeth O’Brien and Michael Cronin was 3’rd. Tim and Elizabeth now represent Speakeasy at the Area Final in The Hibernian Hotel on Thursday 17’th October.
Judges for the contest were, Sr. Bernadette and Sr. Rose from the Fáilte Toastmasters Club in Charleville. John Skeates from the Crusaders Toastmasters Club in Cork City. Tim Ahearn and Dermot Meaney from Speakeasy. Chief Judge was Jeremiah Roynane.

Also taking part in the programme for the September 19’th meeting were Timekeepers, Mary Stack and John Holmes, Sergeant at Arms were Elaine O’Donovan.

Humorous Speech Contest
Dates for your diary. Thursday 3’rd of October is the Club’s “Humorous Speech Contest” which is one of the highlights of the Toastmasters year. Members are reminded that EVP Pat Duggan still has room for one or two more entries.
Members of the public are invited to attend this meeting which is certain to be most enjoyable. Cost, just 3Euro and includes Tea/Coffee/Biscuits.
Toastmaster for the night is Sean Corcoran, Topicsmaster, Claire O’Keeffe. Timekeepers, William Healy and Bríd Ó’Keeffe and Elaine O’Donovan and Kay O’Keeffe are Seageant’s at Arms.
Area Finals
On Thursday 17’th October Speakeasy Toastmasters hosts the Area Final of the Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contest. Performing on the night will be the winners from the 3 Clubs in Area 17, Speakeasy Toastmasters, Mallow. Crusaders Club from Cork and Fermoy Toastmasters. Another superb night assured.

Thursday, September 26, 2002

26 sept

The Speakeasy Toastmasters Club meeting on Thursday 19’th September was opened at 8PM sharp by President, Mr. Pat Sexton who welcomed the 26 members and 6 guests who included Mr John Skeates of the Crusaders Club in Cork who is this years Area 17 Governor. Also included among the guests were Sr. Bernadette and Sr. Rose of the Fáilte Club in Charleville.
Control of the meeting was then passed to Eileen Corkery who was Toastmaster for the evening. Eileen explained what her duties of Toastmaster meant for the benefit of guests and then started the meeting by calling Sean Corcoran to the lectern.
Sean’s speech was entitled “Feelgood” which was a humorous and informative speech about the benefits of swimming. “Would you like to take part in an activity that will help you live longer, look younger, improve your muscle tone and increase your heart and lung capacity?” he asked. “You can do it right here in Mallow in the Mallow Swimming Complex where plenty of lessons are available” he said as he invited those present to start swimming and start feeling good.
Seáns speech was evaluated by Jeremiah Roynane

Next to the Lectern was John Dillon with a speech entitled, “A Beguiling Addiction”
John told us that tobacco smoking was started in 1558 in America and arrived in Europe in 1586. Cigarette smoking started about the time of the first world war (it was pipe only until then) “42 different diseases are caused by smoking” said John “with 7000 deaths in Ireland each year from the 30% of the population who smoke”. John suggested a number of ways to combat smoking such as, having a dedicated person in schools, strengthening the laws of cigarette sales and limiting the number of outlets that could sell tobacco products. “The best way to give up smoking is never to start”
John’s speech was evaluated by John Stack.

Then it was the turn of Barry Mc’Carthy with a speech entitled “Man and Boy” which was a personal account of his growing up in Cork City in the 1950’s. Attitudes of that time and a story of family bereavements. Barry’s speech was from “The Storytelling Manual” and was evaluated by Micheál Mc’Mahon who described it as “ A touching story of personal events growing up, told in an intimate relaxed voice”

The last speaker of the night was Dermot Meaney. Dermot is the Immediate Past President of Speakeasy Toastmasters and his speech was an Educational Session for Club Members on the subject of “Mentoring” which is new members being assisted or advised by more experienced Toastmasters within the Club. The Club does not automatically provide mentors would be delighted to do so if a member requests it.

Humorous Speech Contest
Dates for your diary. Thursday 3’rd of October is the Club’s “Humorous Speech Contest” which is one of the highlights of the Toastmasters year. Members are reminded that EVP Pat Duggan still has room for one or two more entries.
Members of the public are invited to attend this meeting which is certain to be most enjoyable. Cost, just 3Euro and includes Tea/Coffee/Biscuits.

Area Finals
On Thursday 17’th October Speakeasy Toastmasters hosts the Area Final of the Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contest. Performing on the night will be the winners from the 3 Clubs in Area 17, Speakeasy Toastmasters, Mallow. Crusaders Club from Cork and Fermoy Toastmasters. Another superb night assured.

All Speakeasy Toastmasters Meetings are held in the Hibernian Hotel (Chapel Lane) in Mallow.
For further information on the Club contact Sean on 086 6054784 or Pat 087 2364240 or visit the Club’s Website at www.clix.to/speakeasy. Email, speakeasymallow@eircom.net.

Thursday, September 05, 2002

Sept 5

The Speakeasy Toastmasters Club Meetings resume tonight, Thur. 5’Th of September in The Hibernian Hotel Mallow (Chapel Lane) at 8pm sharp.
Toastmaster for tonight’s meeting is Micháel Mc’Mahon, Topicsmaster is Margret O’Regan and General Evaluator is Dermot Meaney. Pat Sexton will preside over his first meeting as President.
Speeches tonight will be given by, William Healy, Mary Buckley, Michael Cronin, Pat Sexton and Jeremiah Roynane.
Members and guests can also look forward to an Icebreaker Speech. An “Icebreaker Speech” is the very first speech given by a new club member and serves to introduce that person to his/her fellow club members.
Toastmasters International
The Speakeasy Toastmasters Club, like all Toastmasters Clubs is affilliated to Toastmasters International.
A man called Ralph Smedley founded Toastmasters International in the U.S. And the first meeting of the Number One Toastmasters Club was held in Santa Ana, California on October 22, 1924.
On October 4, 1930 the name Toastmasters International was adopted and on April 1933 saw the first issue of "The Toastmaster" magazine, which is received every month by all Toastmasters worldwide. The organization at this stage was confined to men only.
In July 1946 Scotland became the first district outside the United States and in August 1973 Membership opens to women.
In April 1989 Membership of Toastmasters International reached 150,000 and in January 1993 Toastmasters International charters its 8,000th club.
In 2002 there are 9025 Clubs Worldwide
Globally, the clubs of Toastmasters International are divided into, Areas, Divisions and Districts. Clubs are grouped into Areas of three to eight Clubs.
Areas are grouped into Divisions. Divisions may be as small
as one Area in size (rarely) or as have five, six, or more
Areas.
Districts are comprised of several Divisions. Districts are
the main level of organization outside the Club; Areas and
Divisions are _sub-units_ of the District.
Each Club has it's own Officers and Committee and so too has each Area and District.
Speakeasy Toastmasters Club is a member of Area 17 and the Clubs in this Area are, Speakeasy, Mallow: Crusaders, Cork and Fermoy Toastmasters.
Dates for your Diary.
On Thursday 19Th of September the Club will hold the “Table Topics Contest” and on October 3’rd will be the night for the “Humorous Speech Contest”. Lots of fun is assured on both these nights. Members of the public are invited to attend all Toastmasters Meetings. CC is only €3 to cover Tea/Coffee.
Further Information on Speakeasy Toastmasters Club can be had by contacting Pat on 087 2364240 or Seán on 087 6054780 or by visiting our continually updated Web Site at www.clix.to/speakeasy

Thursday, August 29, 2002

29 aug

Speakeasy Toastmasters

Committee for 2002/2003
President, Pat Sexton. Immediate Past President, Dermot Meaney. Educational Vice President, Pat Duggan. Secretary, Angela Sheehan. P.R.O. Seán Corcoran. Teasurer Jerry Mulcahy. Membership, Tony O’Regan. Sgt. At Arms, Kay O’Keeffe and Elaine O’Donovan.

Presidents Distinguished Club Award
Speakeasy Toastmaster Club have been awarded the Presidents Distinguished Club Award for 2002. The Club has earned this award for achieving all 10 goals in the Club Awards Scheme. Speakeasy is one of only 6 Club’s out of 120 in the Division, which encompasses all Ireland and Britain, to have achieved this.
It is one of a number of such Club Awards that Speakeasy has achieved in it’s 10 year history.

What is Toastmasters all about?
When the word "Toastmasters" and/or "Public Speaking" is mentioned in conversation it conjures up a vision in most people of a someone speaking in front of a crowd at a political rally or demonstration or delivering a lecture, debating etc, and the usual thought in a persons mind would be, "I'd never be doing that".
But in reality most people find themselves quiet frequently in situations where they would have to "speak in public".
At work, worker management meetings, union meetings etc. Outside the workplace there are various committees or organizations that people are involved in, such as Community Councils, Sports Bodies, Parent Teachers Meetings etc. The list is endless.
All of these are situations were people "speak in public". There are various different skills involved in speaking at meetings (or even on a one to one basis) no matter what the occasion is, and knowing and using these skills can mean the difference in getting your point across to others and decisions to go your way or not being heard at all.
Just some of these skills are, "Vocal Variety", do you speak in a monotone? Or is your voice too quiet or maybe you shout.
Do you speak too fast or drawl?
What is your "body language" like? Do you keep your hands in your pockets or your arms folded or fiddle with a pen as you speak?
When you speak do you "show enthusiasm"?
Do you look into a person's face as you speak or look at the ceiling or your shoes?
If you are unexpectedly asked a question could you reply?
Do you really listen to what others are saying?
Hibernian Hotel
These are the skills that are learned in "Toastmasters International" and in Mallow, "The Speakeasy Toastmasters Club" meet in the Hibernian Hotel on alternate Thursday nights.
The atmosphere at "Speakeasy" meetings is one of enjoyment and fun. Meetings are held jointly with other Clubs and members visit other Clubs so new friends are made.
If you would like to know more about what Toastmasters can do for you, come along to one of our meetings where members of the public are very welcome.
The first meeting this autumn is on the 5’th of September at 8 p.m. Further information at 086 6054784 after 6pm.
or visit our regularly updated Web Site at “www.clix.to/speakeasy”

Thursday, August 22, 2002

22 aug

Club Meetings resume on September 5’th.
The incoming committee of the Mallow based Speakeasy Toastmasters Club held their first meeting at the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow on Monday 19’th of August to arrange the Club's activities for the coming year.
The Club will hold 18 regular meetings during the year plus visits to other Clubs and contest nights.
This is a very special year for Speakeasy Toastmasters as the Club is celebrating its 10'th anniversary
Brief Club History.
The first Toastmasters demonstration meeting was held in The Hibernian Hotel on October 1'ST 1992.
In March '93 "Speakeasy" is chosen as the Club's name and in April the Club is officially created.
The first club President was Joe O'Connor and Pat Sexton was elected Area Governor.
In October, Kieran Buckley won the Area Final of the Table Topics and Matt Lawlee won both the Area and Division finals of the Humorous Speech contest.
Kieran and Matt were the first of a long line of Club Members to distinguish themselves and their Club at these prestigious Toastmaster competitions.
In its 10 year history the Club has won many Achievement Awards within Toastmasters International and also has produced two books of speeches.
The first in October 1994 titled, "Unaccustomed as I am" which was launched by Brian Crowley MEP and the second in November 1999, titled, "Sin Scéil Eile" (That's Another Story), launched by Robert Walsh of County Sound (103FM)
Both these books contain a collection of speeches given by club members at club meetings.
In May 1994, the first of the Club's Mystery Tours took place, which is the annual outing of club's members.