Rangiora Toastmasters

2009-05-15T16:32:00.001+12:00

Hi, last post to this blog. If you want to get in touch with Rangiora Toastmasters check out their new website. Have fun! Tim

Fw: Tuesday Night

2008-06-27T08:54:00.001+12:00

Farewell - for at least a year and thank you all for making it the best night of the week for the past eight and something years.

A germ ridden Ray still managed to get us off to a bright start, there was nothing sick about his social life though. T/master Ellie's intro warmed us on a cool.

Erika welcomed Dave for his seventh to Silver. Captain James Kirk - or was it Danny Crane took us to where no man had been before. Dave beamed himself up and paralleled the starship whatsit with toastmasters. TimH introduced yours truly for nine minutes of self indulgence, tinged with some emotion I might add.

Despite the bot Bard Ray intrigued us with tales of Al Capone, Easy Eddie, and strangely enough Butch O'Hare a Navy WWII fighter pilot.[there was a connection].

Brendon - First time TT Master set a number of searching questions. Paul gave a yes or no answer to the question of role models in sport - quite right some are some aren't. Ellie had a novel answer to the question of rising food and fuel prices - throw out the kids - but there was more to it than that. TimH is a cat fan, my suggestion Tim is trap the cats and let the rodents run free. First time Annabelle fought the feelings of being a lamb and started on her trip to becoming a lion. AND she installed Broadband.

After the usual evaluations another First Timer [at Rga] Debs fought the technology and produced a timer's report.

Then several people said a lot of nice things, for which I was and am grateful.

Thank you all, I will remain a Rga Toastmaster even if I don't attend the meetings. Regards to all, Gerry

Fw: Gerry's last night

2008-06-27T08:53:00.001+12:00

Hi one and all sshhh but I just can't let this slip by. Gerry is taking a years sabbatical from this Tuesday on Many of you will have gained many a good laugh from Gerry and will be saying oh dear right now but after nearly 9 years Gerry feels he needs a wee break.

So I'd like to send him off with a lovely supper so could you please bring a wee plate to share and also if any of you would like to say a few words to Gerry can you please let me know before Tuesday. I will not be publishing the programme ahead of Tuesday evening so that I can leave this as open as possible.

Please note I've taken Gerry's email out of this list so please let's just keep it a secret and that way it can be a lovely surprise.

Cheers Ellie

Fw: Last Night at the Rga HS Library

2008-06-27T08:45:00.000+12:00

It was a first time night last night, first we welcomed two new potential toastmasters Annabelle and Steve, it was Ray's first time as evaluator, Deb's first Rangiora speech, Paul was a first time timer.

Doubling up as Sgt Ray was a busy man, hardly out of things at all, he cheered us up with quick fire humour, before introducing T/m DaveY.

Ray again popped up when he introduced TimH's Ninth Speech [how time flies Tim], that speech was the one I disliked the most, that is when I presented it in April 2001 [how time flies]. TimH showed me how it should have been done. His buy NZ speech made such an impact that when I got home I instructed my broker sell all my Warehouse shares. Then I stripped off all my imported garments. Standing in just my NZ Wool Sherpa Tensing style hat [but made in Nepal] I looked for my NZ Wool Socks [made in Nepal] but they had worn out - they say if the head and feet are warm the rest of you is warm.

Erika made sense out of illogical traffic alignment decisions, and I'm glad I live in Leithfield.

Debs ably assisted by none other than Ray attempted to sell a toaster, she gave us a good run down on the selling technique and was willing to answer the most probing questions.

Debs was no sooner down than up hosting table topics, requesting some of our favourite things.She gave no one the opportunity to pontificate on whiskers on kittens, nor raindrops on roses. However green fingered TimR did sound very knowledgeable horticulturally speaking about succulents meaning cacti [that is the correct plural]. Gerry who was evaluating at the time entertained with literary gems, eventually incorporating his favourite country.

First time Steve said all the right things, not only that he lasted the two minutes [that's more than I did].

Finally Ellie assaulted our olfactory senses by talk of her hobby of preparing succulent dishes for husband Dave.

The usual and some speedy evaluations and Paul's first ever Timers Report, concluded the evening. And that's it folks, Gerry

Fw: A G M - [In Absentia]

2008-06-15T20:49:00.000+12:00

I'm told on good authority that this is a blog, I didn't know that, but it must be true.

It's difficult to escape toastmasters even if you don't attend, for instance I was twenty km away, and yet I get to report [blog] on last week's meeting.

Ellie opened the AGM. I don't how many attended. No doubt she was preceded by Sgt Ray.

Erika's soapbox followed with a negative on pedestrian crossings, they don't work, praps they need winding up. [I don't have a problem at Leithfield]. Comedienne Jessica that well known stand up comic followed with the one about the hare with a permanent wave - the mind boggles [at least mine does].

So the scene was set for the part we love to hate. Ellie [busy lady] presided over table topics. TimH told us he loves Loburn although he hardly lives in Loburn's CBD. My reporter tells me Erika waxed eloquent on her travels on her CV [I'm not sure if she was writing her CV or riding on, or in it] Maybe it's a two litre CV. Pam - good on yer - preferred NZ to Oz, but was it only for the winter weather? Surely not.

Dave told us the joys of teaching his son. Ray talked about a job he would love to do but hasn't yet done [surely there's nothing left?]. Paul talked about why he joined Toastmasters. Neil's contribution remains a mystery perhpas for ever. Debs talked about her role as an Emergency Planning Manager in UK and incidents she dealt with [I didn't realise that Emergencies were planned, although listening to the media one wonders. Perhaps in UK it's different from my long cobweb enshrouded memories].

The King is dead, long live the Queen [-sorry TimR I was waxing lyrical I didn't mean it litereally. Weren't you there to defend your title?]

The AGM followed and Debs was elected President for 2008-9. Neil was elected as Treasurer; Ray Wilmott Sergeant at Arms and Pam as VP Membership, all of which were unanimously agreed.

Good on all of you, because the future of the club depends upon willing people to give a little of their time, I can't believe we don't have someone take over Education, and Publicity.

Come on and take up the challenge.

The meeting closed with Debs giving an update from the Divisional Governor on the huge growth of District 72 and finished with the following quote:

Some people wish it would happen

Some people want it to happen

Some people make it happen

See you all on Tuesday.

Regards

Gerry

FW: Rollin On and news from Taiwan

2008-05-23T08:43:00.000+12:00

Tuesday night was another red letter day for we heard Olivia's Ice Breaker, congrats Olivia. That's two Ice breakers in two weeks [obviously not both from Olivia], but I don't think it will be a hat trick [three in a row]. There was yet another first timer when TimH presented his educational - the first of many. We welcomed Ben who is holidaying in Rangiora from his home in Taiwan.

Sgt Ray who is settling well into the role gave us his usual cheery opening, and T/m TimR conducted a bright and breezy 'best night of the week'

I misheard the title of Olivia's speech I thought she was in a role. It all became obvious pretty quickly. Erika steamed [giving way to diesel and diesel-electric] into the second speech, [hope it's not your Rga swan song Erika], with the awe inspiring task of developing an abstract concept. She held our attention with her Railways theme.

Body language was the buzz word for TimH's educational with examples thrown in, I was nearly thrown to the ground when we had to do a test stance for him.

TTM AND TTE was DaveY's dual role, proving that men can multi task. His topics were rather wordy however, some of which I'm sure were of his own invention.

Diaphanous - Ellie. Something about a gold pin up the bum. But no word that Dia was a Welshman.

Ringhals - according to Ray were the poor relations from Lord of the Rings - sdrawkcab is backwards backwards, I'm not sure how relevant that is Ray.

Paestom - Chris stated the obvious that paestrom can only be a Rangiora Cake Decoration or made up by Dave.

Intaglio Pam, again them pesky ringhals got into the act, but I can't remember how or when

Fissiplerous - Gerry - this word was a blatent invention by our ttm/tte there aint no such word.

Shibboleth - Ben obviously was influenced by the Taiwanese/English - English/Taiwanese dictionary but to sum up his explanation - single chivalry - married shibboleth. Ben followed up table topics by a run down on Taiwanese Toastmasters. After the necessary and enlightening evaluations we absqatulated. See you all next week. Gerry

ps Every one of Dave's words were queried by my [American] spell checker. Who is right and who is wrong - surely Bill Gates can't be wrong Dave? So you must have invented the words!!!

FW: Better Late than Never - Was it Flannel or Soft Soap?

2008-05-12T08:30:00.000+12:00

Didn't we all do well last Tuesday when we drew cards for the roles we were to play?

Sgt TimH flannelled his way to opening the show, and toastmaster Dave ensured the evening went smoothly. Grammarian Jessica made us consider Flannel.

Kevin's Flight of Fancy introduced by Neil, enveloped us all in a trip to gay [am I allowed to say that] Paree.

Ellie introduced Cindy's winning [hopefully] when she revealed her heart of the matter.

Chris' bard extended into Poetic license, good one Chris.

We played 'when did you last' with Ray as ttm.

Ellie revealed her handbag fetish, whilst TimH phantasized at the opera. Chris explained that she was not a complainer, well actually a closet complainer really! TimR as the Penguin, gee whiz Batman, but it was only a penguin suit so no batmobile. DaveY would not cry for me Argentina, but he confirmed having weepy cinema moments, Neil's memory blanked out at national anthem singing, surely you don't mime as well. [I've been a mimer since I was 14 - although to be up to date I should say lip syncer]. Erika scared me stiff let herself, tales from her dark past. Jessica revealed all when she told us about a certain walk on the beach, or in the sea.

The evaluations brought yet another best night of the week to an end. Here's to the next time, Gerry

FW: The Day New Orleans Fell

2008-05-03T15:42:00.000+12:00

We learn something new every day - 29.04.1862 - the fall of New Orleans - at least that's what Tim said.

Sgt Dave opened the evening with the numbers game and connected it to OSH - very strange but he obviously knew what he was talking about. Toastmaster TimH gave us more tales [or is that tails?] from the back country, it's pretty down [or is that up] on the farm at the moment, but he looks well on it.

Erika complete with wheel and miner's helmet and a gadget that made me think it about dometrix but it really was driving in inclement weather. Personally I stay at home. Nevertheless a good demo and speech. I presented the poem by Jay Hickory Wood [that's what the book said] about the Red Nose Flats Cricket Club's unbeaten record.

Tt master Brendon asked a few leading questions, Ellie appeared ambivalent about global warming, whilst, prompted by his Missis Dave was more bivalent about strong families making good communities. Paul - congrats on a first time table topic had the answer to lack of problems in an ageing workforce. Chris congrats too on a first time appearance wasn't too sure if the grass wasn't greener in Aus. [It would be a lot greener if it wasn't for all the Kiwis trampling on it]. Gerry had some views on the Republic of N.Z. [but who would be President?].

TimH gave us a selection of 29th's of April through the ages ranging from Joan of Arc to Hitler, and the aforementioned fall of New Orleans.

After the evaluations and timings, we all absaquatulated slowly, ending yet another best night of the week.

Next week a Card Evening - what's that? Come and find out.

Regards to all, Gerry

FW: The Empire Strikes Back - de-night of de-bate

2008-04-24T08:14:00.000+12:00

Yes, Tuesday night belonged to the autocracy, aristocracy and the "good old days"of the Raj, Rudyard Kipling and the British Empire - despite the efforts of the enlightened few [the losing team].

So congratulations to TimH, Brendon,Pam and Jessica, from Debs,Olivia,Erika and Gerry.

A good time was had by all, [I think] Personally I always enjoy debate evenings, and really we don't have enough of them.

Table Topics was administered by Erika, on the the how did we manage without... theme.

Pam, tried to remember the good old days when there were no computers [funny that, because not many minutes previously she had been turning back the clock quite happily].

Richard [visiting royalty] tried to remember life without a cellphone. Personally I had only to remember my life earlier in the day. Really, anyone would think the world would end without a cellphone.

Debra, life without coffee, she seems to look pretty good without it, but she may have other habits!

Brendan, I can't remember whether he was locked in or out or if it was his car or home.

Olivia's vegetable essentials may have caused a vitamen deficiency. The thing about growing things in the garden, they work when you sleep, or work or do other things.

Another first for Rga toastmasters followed supper. We had two general evaluations!

A pep talk from Richard Area Governor concluded a rather extended evening.

Finally welcome Jessica and Brendon, we're glad to have you both on board.

See you all next week. Gerry

FW: Last Tuesday's Mixture

2008-04-18T14:53:00.000+12:00

Hello fellow toastmasters. We enjoyed another verbal variety last Tuesday.

After a bright and breezy opening from Sue, who spoke I think about the Society for Starfish Protection [Save the Starfish]. TimH treated us to tales from the High Country, and Copy Cat Farmers - I wonder if they do the same for colonic irrigation as for the more visible kind?

Ellie took us down the generation road, I always consider the baby boomers as the younger generation, but they seem to be leading towards the same path as I'm on. Remind me Ellie what generation I'm in, [and I'm not alone - no names no pack-drill].

I spoke for 11 min 18 - and did not practice what I preached [or is it prawt] - however I did sort of ask for permission to do so.

Ellie doubled up [metaphorically speaking] as table topics master. TimH globally warned us off I think. I can't help remembering the year 2k bug. Thanks for the common sense Tim. Corran spent a couple of minutes not really knowing if NZ was safer than others or not. On balance I think he wasn't sure. Gerry gave an in depth treatise on rating interest. They will I am sure go up or down.

Jessica spoke authoritively and gave a cautionary tale about sprinklers. Sue looked forwards 12 months as to whether smacking or not was a good thing, she was on the side of love and kindness.

Ray gave us an excellent run down on the Area Convention. I can confirm what Ellie said about conventions.

After the farm bake supper [I propose making TimH permanent toastmaster] Ah those lemon curd [or cheese] tarts [I had one in duplicate]. We were entertained by Mike King no sorry Corran Vincent. Less every day, elderly people cohabiting etc.

A word of advice for the soap box presenter. Ray keep your speeches separate. I always do ever since I mixed my speech to the institute of lawyers with that of the prison inmates association [although they were similar speeches]. However Ray did sort himself out, and used such phrases as 'the cork is the gateway to the mystique' - and I learned what a stevlin closure was and how it is now favoured by Ray. The subject was the whine - sorry I misspelt it - wine culture.

After the usual reveal of our good and bad point by the evaluators, and a surprisingly first time timer's report by Pam we came to the end of yet another evening at Rangiora High.

I've taken the liberty of attaching the notes of my educational - but you don't have to read 'em.

NEXT WEEK DEBATE NIGHT - IT'S ALWAYS A LOT OF FUN COME ALONG AND JOIN IN.

Regards to all, Gerry.

FW: Tuesday Night

2008-04-13T20:23:00.000+12:00

After three weeks absence preceded by email and computer problems I feel I'm getting back to normal if living in a new house with jim the builder working on the deck and a blank vista of now damp soil waiting to be turned into an oasis of... I'll not go on, although we have grown some late-early potatoes that eat very well.

So it was another night of toasties highlighted with a persuasive argument in favour of a pack of hungry dogs and about fifty people on horses chasing one fox - sorry Ray I'm only joking, it was a good speech. Also we heard how not to make money in the mag business. Praps the title should have just a little hint of sex or violence, or better still sex and violence Erika?.

Corran in his inimitable style welcomed us, and Pam in hers kept the show on the road, and Pam, never, never suggest you only just remembered the bikkies and milk.

Our speakers knew what they were talking about and therefore were confident of their words.

TimR did not disappoint in his choice of table topics, but really Tim asking the evaluator up first its not on you know, just not cricket. Gerry had definite ideas of what to do with a chauffeur driven hire car. Whilst first time Jessica was not over-awed, and quite explicit in telling us of her secret passion. Brendan another first timer for Rga was allowed to criticise - and praise - Rangiora. Whilst it was Coals to Corran, he even dragged humour out of the black stuff. Ellie explained and demonstrated the derivation and history of the hooter. Neil completed the table topics with some eco reporting on bio-security [I thought he said biro security].

At supper we ate all the choccie bikkies, sorry Pam, but surely you didn't really think that wouldn't happen. [I am not allowed them at home because they don't have the heart tick]

And so concluded a another good night in the High School Library.

See you all at Ray's on Saturday night. Regards, Gerry

FW: Last Week at Toasties

2008-02-28T21:55:00.000+13:00

First congratulations on Bev for winning the International, as soon as I'd heard her wonderful speech I knew she was the winner. TimR was second, Ellie and I also ran - in my case walked as quickly as possible.

Secondly or really first equal hearty congrats to the Youngs in being first and second in the Evaluation Comp this time Dave first and Ellie second - you've taught him well Ellie. AND TimH did a great job coming third, well done Tim praps you no longer need a mentor!.

To me one of the challenges of Toastmasters is forcing myself to enter competitions, it is noticeable that attendance is always down on comp nights which is a pity, because comps are really know different from any other night, so all you absentees make an effort next time round.

Comp night got off to a hearty breakfast type of start, or at least Ray did, what a choice to make between sausage and bacon - maybe from the same pig!

The Int Comp had four competitors, Tim gave a stinker of a speech including septic tanks mouldy household rubbish, and finding that where there was muck there was money [sorry Tim I should have suggested substituting "brass" for money to be really authentic - but you came second anyway].

Yours truly was better late than never. Whilst Ellie was quite passionate and told how a tough [k]night turned a boy into a squire. Bev looked at the dash in your life - the dash being the gap between birth and the present, a great concept.

The evaluation comp had six competitors, and it was interesting to hear everyone's opinions confirming that it is a subjective art - based on personal opinions and viewpoints.

So ended another comp night. Next week I'm Toastmaster so I expect a full attendance, or else. Regards to all, Gerry

FW: The best nights roll on by

2008-02-25T20:21:00.000+13:00

Yet another best night of the week, although for me it must be only equal best night, but that's another story.

Sgt Norma got us off to an heartfelt opening, and Toastmaster TimH carried us through in his normal cheerful self, he rained supreme [pun - I should have said reigned just in case you thought I was slipping]

For a few brief moments we played hangman with Grammarian Ellie, before all was revealed.[did you spot the tautology "brief" is superfluous]

Patricia welcomed Doug who demonstrated that he is in the wrong job, but he appeared to have only one miracle mop.

First time Bard Ray's brought chuckles as we again learned of the Ramsbottom family and Wallace the Lion - good one Ray.

Ttm Dave challenged our creativity with his wordy table topics. Ellie construed poetaster as relating to poetry - wrong there Ellie. Pam's interpretation of sharko and sharkdoms beggared belief. Bev's logic was also faulty with rentia, logical as may have seemed. Norma with grampous took us to the realms of vegetable fantasy, although there were some tasty aspects. Patricia stretched her imagination in her explanation of shaddock, and even gave some ingenious examples. Yours truly had the easiest of all Scandinavian words escritoire obviously a garden fork.

Bev's marked her return [good to see you back] with a legitimate gripe regarding finance companies, but don't forget let the buyer beware.

After the usual evaluations and report we all saddled up and rode west [or is it east] into the setting sun to our homes and loved ones and maybe our wives and families as well.

Adios amigo's, ps I've seen the tv advertisement for John Wayne films.

FW: Ton-Up Night

2008-02-17T15:52:00.000+13:00

Last Tuesday we helped Patricia in toasting her ton-up mum.

Neil started the meeting with a wet but fruity welcome, and Ellie took over in her inimitable style.

Patricia toasted a life of a hundred years, and Norma presented the second installment of her educational on toastie roles [or is that rolls].

First time tt master Ray tested our imagination. Gerry tiddled and winked. Sue showed what a sly gambler she could be, also what a mother hubbard [16 kids???]. Pam was too busy for movies, but not the Cust Fire Brigade's full Monty. Norma showed what a Royalist she is, and anticipated a right royal rave up. Ellie's time machine took her to the 60's and I think she invented non stick pictures [but were there really any good old days?]. Finally Erika's integrity was tested and she came out smelling of roses [but hoping she may benefit in three months time].

The bard soared to the heights of poetic culture and license, and so another best night of the week drew to its inevitable conclusion, just to start again in seven days time.

Regards to all, Gerry

FW: A Charitable Occasion, Meeting No 684, 5 Feb 2008

2008-02-07T21:21:00.000+13:00

It was back to normal last Tuesday in our normal home (and quite right too) in the High School Library. These notes are a back to normal for me too. Courtesy of Grammarian Erika it was a charitable evening. After being welcomed by Michelle, Toastmaster Tim[R] took over with his normal racy style. Ellie inspired us despite wanting whatever would be to be would be [I'm using past sense], good on yer Ellie, but will they? Things never stay the same. Norma [first time Educator] provoked discussion from her educational on roles, to be continued by popular demand. Patricia tested us with a box of "things" - Pam had a good lay, and talked of not so golden days in oz. Dave had the hippy hippy shakes, and showed himself as an old scarfie [Dave "old" is a relative phrase and means different things to different people]. Neil wanted to tinkle presumably in public. Gerry's Arthur Crown [yer know what I mean like] brought nostalgic memories of Lords and proper cricket. [No one spotted his deliberate mistake - Colin Cowdrey was a Kent player and not Surrey] Ellie's beads took her down memory lane. Whatever Deb held in her hand somehow conjured up sci fi feelings and alien talk. Timbo's suspenders had us in suspense, but he really meant garters.

Deb then had a right royal rant at the Immigration Service and rightly so. Doug toasted the wrong Hobson, I thought everyone knew that Trev was Bill's brother, Doug you should read your history books. We had a first time Table Topic evaluator - Ray the first of many evaluations.

To err is human, and I can't remember who took over Sue's role as Timer, but he/she certainly challenged us by using percentages for over's and unders, I didn't bring my calculator so I can't comment on either the accuracy or the actual times.

See you all next week. Regards to all, Gerry

FW: Meeting Review: 29/01/2008

2008-01-29T23:52:00.000+13:00

Hi all, great to be back at Toasties after a bit of a break and especially good to see our Gerry back to fighting fitness! Actually I have to say that I like the new venue at the drama room – we should turn around and make use of the stage though – but its got a good feel for a Toasties meeting (here’s hoping that it may continue). It was Erika’s meeting tonite and she delivered the goods very well – and what good goods they were! Doug Ra Ra-ed us with a patriotic call to sporting action ably followed by Michelle who spoke of the glories of the Reefton surrounds (sounds right to me!) Our Grammarian did the um counter thing tonite and plunked a marble into a can for each infraction – the prospect of a plunk made everyone perform to an exceedingly high standard. Top Table Topics session too with our newest member Sue making us drool with tales of exotic overseas domiciles. Olivia delivered an excellent toast but forgot the drinking while I did the GE and forgot the Hooter – but on reflection It went to Tim H – great to see him back with us.

Competent Communicator Certificate achieved!

2008-01-28T19:06:00.000+13:00

An important milestone for members of Rangiora Toastmasters is the delivery of the tenth speech project from the Communication and Leadership Manual. Where possible (i.e. when there is a script available) we intend posting the speech to our R/T blog. They are invariably terrific and this one Delivered by Erika last week is no exception. Congratulations Erika for achieving your Competent Communicator Certificate!

No 10 Speech: WE DON’T CONQUER MOUNTAINS – WE CONQUER OURSELVES!

You guessed it – it’s a quote from Sir Edmond Hillary and I like it. I cannot help but think it must have been a heart-felt saying of his. Having been bullied and ridiculed at school for his non-athletic, awkward figure he no doubt had to overcome many figurative mountains before reaching the top of the real one, Mt Everest. Few of us will ever have the desire to climb Mt Everest, but most of us set ourselves goals and challenges along life’s journey. Whether we achieve them depends not only on skills and experience but also our attitude towards them. There is a saying; “it doesn’t matter whether you say I can or I can’t – you’re probably right either way” It’s a good reason to shut down that negative chatterbox in our heads. How do we do that? We can read inspirational books, watch DVDs or videos, or surround ourselves with motivated and positive people. I prefer the latter. Where do we meet them? Let’s face it, we’re not all in positions where we meet great leaders in person, but remember we all live among positive people: family, friends and/or community. They’re not the people you read about in glossies, or see on TV, at least not often – they’re the quiet achievers, leaders by example, doing what comes naturally. I met Bruce Bunny in Wellington – at least in name. A few of us were out kayak training on Wellington Harbour one Saturday morning. Multisport racing was in its infancy and some of us, mostly from a competitive cross-country running background, felt like pioneers in a new sport that promised challenges and adventures. We were all loaded with enthusiasm, and the fact I could have been mother to most of the others didn’t bother me. That is until young Allan said “Erika, you should do the Coast to Coast, you’d love it, you’d do okay.” I think I nearly fell out of my tippy long boat – a good idea Allan, but I think it’s a bit late for that. After all the big 40 was but a distant memory. Without even thinking about it, Allen shouted over the noise of the paddles carving through the water: “you should talk to my dad, he is older than you but he doesn’t know he is old.” Six months later when my husband and I were transferred to Christchurch I meet his dad. I didn’t need an introduction. You couldn’t miss the fit looking guy with the white hair, white beard and a grin from ear to ear. Bruce’s love affair with the famed mountain race began in the mid 1980s. He told me that when he retired from his sedentary job as tour bus driver he couldn’t even run around the block without stopping. Imagine the many challenges he must have faced before tackling Goat Pass and the mighty Waimakariri River? He persisted – and succeeded. I can’t remember how many Coast to Coasts he’s done, but it must be at least a dozen, including the longest day. We became firm friends, were often on the same training trips over the mountains and on rivers. He participated in just about all the races I did, but I could never catch him. I still remember when he won a spot prize in a race. It was for a trip for two and a race entry to the Scottish Coast to Coast. He was in his late 60s and, sadly his wife Norma could not go with him because of ill health. So he went with his daughter, Debbie, also an accomplished veteran athlete. As if competing in that race was not enough, Bruce decided it would be nice to see a little of the English country side as well. Before the race they spent 3 weeks cycle touring between London and Glasgow, carrying their gear in panniers, including their camping gear. They both finished the race an, with Debbie winning the veteran women’s section. His quiet can-do attitude has inspired many athletes of all ages and abilities, and earned him the nickname of “grandfather of multisport”. I was one of those athletes fortunate enough to be inspired by him. I realise that most people have no desire to put themselves through the rigours of multisport and adventure racing, but I consider myself extremely lucky that I’ve had about 18 years of it. Apart from the fun and friendships I’ve enjoyed, I also learnt that age, or similar perceived obstacles, don’t come into it, nor does winning. What does matter, apart from the appropriate physical and mechanical skills required for the task, is what we think of ourselves. We need to learn to shut down that negative chatterbox that says “I can’t”. Most of us are probably more capable than we think we are, if we just give ourselves the freedom to think and believe it. Whether it is in sport, business, work, or daily life, Sir Ed’s words will always ring true: “It’s not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.”

Summary of Rangiora Toastmasters meeting 22 January 2007

2008-01-28T18:47:00.000+13:00

Summary of Rangiora Toastmasters meeting 22 January 2007

What a night it was – sorry to those who missed it! New member, Ray Willmott, presented his Icebreaker speech with great proficiency. With his well constructed speech he told us of his life’s journey that began in England, through to the excitement of business and fox hunting in Australia, and retirement in Canterbury – a full circle from one Avon River to another Avon River, at opposite ends of the world. What a speech, and it was only the first one! We can’t wait for more. Ray’s speech was expertly reviewed by Dave Young.

Erika Currie presented her 10^th speech, the final one towards the Competent Toastmaster Certificate, which is the first step in the Toastmaster journey. Norma McLaren reviewed Erika’s speech in the professional manner we have come to expect from this accomplished and enthusiastic club member.

Toastmaster for the night, Patricia Dodds, managed the meeting and, in the absence of a Table Topics Master, filled that role as well. Table Topics was a continuous story and she started it by telling us about driving a new, unfamiliar car in the dark and not finding the light switch - and then left fellow toastmasters to finish the story for her – great fun.

It was great to see Tim Hawke back, and stepping into the role of time keeper.

Sergeant at Arms, Gerry, brought us to order; Corran made us laugh; Neil was Grammarian; Olivia the Bard, and Ellie had her work cut out with the two roles of General Evaluator and Table Topics Evaluator.

As usual, it was “the best night of the week” again. Well done, everybody. Erika.

FW: Convivial conclusion

2007-12-19T08:32:00.000+13:00

Hi all, the last RT ‘meeting’ of the year was held last nite at Robbie’s Rangiora. A large percentage of our members surrounded the round table in the Snug for convivial conversation – a relaxed and pleasant conclusion to a good year for our club.

The consensus was that we should ease our way back into t/ms in the same fashion on the 8^th of Jan 08 – so if you should be about then be there from 7.30pm.

15^th Jan we will be back at the RHS library for a informal fun toastmaster-y sort of evening then on the 22^nd we’ll be getting back into the normal program.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all, Tim

FW: 2007's last formal t/m meeting

2007-12-11T23:35:00.000+13:00

Hi all, a balmy evening in a denuded library would describe the scene of the last Rangiora Toastmasters meeting for 2007. The air was toastie and the library had been stripped out for a repaint over the holidays. A jovial meeting in a huge empty hall, strange but fun.

Norma was MC and had organized things to perfection – and made things run perfectly as well – great bridging. Erika delivered her practice 10^th speech on Christmas in Switzerland – they get two shots at it over there apparently – the 6^th and the 25^th of December! Her real full on #10 CTM speech will be delivered early in the new year. Doug revealed his latent local body politician persona by leading a lively discussion on the merits of the Rangiora pool options. Oh yes – I can sense that we will be hearing more on this subject. We had a good dose of time available for table topics and so just about everyone present had a go. Good to see Pam, Brian and Michelle back and so keen to get into TT’s – absence makes the heart grow fonder obviously and they used their allotted times with relish. Even new – about to be member, Ray - really got into it tonite. Can see some valuable contributions to the club coming from him some time soon. Kev was GE but has escaped being TM next week – he’ll no doubt do the honours early in 08. Club goal for next year – at least 1 education every fortnight. Next Tuesday? 7.30pm at Robbies, Rangiora, we’ll have a few drinks, dissect the year gone and maybe chat about the one coming. Hope to see you then, Tim.

FW: Tuesday 27th Nov review

2007-12-03T19:23:00.000+13:00

Hullo Fellow Toastmasters

8 keen Toasties turned out in bucketing rain for a night of scintillating debate. Where would we be without Dave who so capably organised and guided us through the evening. Debating is a fairly new experience for some of us so it was really educational.

After drawing lots Bev, a debater of long experience, adjudicated with Dave as Chairman and the subject was "That schooldays are the best days of our lives."

Kevin, as leader of the Affirmative team, defined the subject well, (don't know what school he went to but evidentally they were extremely well fed there), Erika (2nd affirmative) had to RUN home through those Swiss hills during her schooldays, during which she met lifelong friends, while Patricia (3rd affirmative) was privately educated by some wonderful nuns. It all sounded pretty idyllic.

A different picture was painted by the Negative team led by Tim, who fired many salvos at the opposition, stating that schooldays were miserable days, endorsed by 2nd negative Norma, who had her fingers squashed in her crayon tin by Terrible Terry on her first day, then Corran, (3rd negative) who was bullied and brainwashed.

The speakers were expertly evaluated in the usual Toastmaster style by Dave and Bev and this proved really useful. We were all winners on the night!

December 4th looks to be another interesting evening with good speakers so hopefully we'll have a good turnout.

Cheers, Norma

FW: Tuesday review

2007-11-13T22:24:00.000+13:00

Hi all, Toastmaster Doug ran the show tonite with typically suave aplomb – he even ran a mini educational (or should I say informational?) about club member mentoring – do remember to contact him if you would like to have some such assistance. Cayenne Corran tried to convince us to give up having nose bleeds by quaffing doses of pepper – his speech was hugely more entertaining than swallowing his suggested cure! Bev had us teetering on the edges of our seats as she slipped from her harness backwards over the abyss – a most heart hammering but ultimately enjoyable experience for us all. Michelle revealed her caring nature in table topics – sadly some of us couldn’t raise ourselves above the flippant to match – but most actually did and we were duly inspired. Dave dumped his scheduled ‘day in history’ slot in favour of ‘jokester’ which had us amused (and bemused). First time toastie Olivia delivered the timers report like a seasoned campaigner – wow! Bryan was Mr GE tonite and didn’t put the boot in too much – he’s feeling relaxed as he and Michelle head away for a few weeks in the sun – enjoy, we look forward to seeing you back.

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT Next week we will depart from normal programming and have a club debate. These are truly the best of nites – heaps of fun, laughs – and challenges!! Don’t miss it for the world.

I’m really pleased to report that our Gerry is well on the mend and is already back to pounding the pavements (without over doing it – yet!) Looking forward to him returning for some of his famous perspicacious participation.

Sunday 9^th December is Santa parade day – engrave this date into you work desk – and this year we will hold a bbq afterwards.

FW: An educational bonanza!!!!!

2007-11-07T07:50:00.000+13:00

Hi all, what a night!! (Meeting No. 673, 6 Nov 2007)

Kicked off with transferring Toastie from the white wine capital of the South Island Patricia as Sergeant at Arms, warming the floor for Tim R our ever exuberant Toastie as Toastmaster for the evening, who went on to multi task as Grammarian who gave me a word I will never forget yet alone remember (If that makes an sense).

Norma came to floor full of trepidation as the Jokester but needn't have worried as handled role "printsly". Brian toasted toastmasters something I am sure we can all relate to.

Doug was here and there and everywhere performing his Educational on Body Language, I don't think I have seen so much body language from Doug in the entire time I have known him at Toasties and would encourage him to take on more Educationals as seemed to be a great learning experience for him.

Dave us a moral story about sticks and stones with a little twist at the end that saw a chappie get a thrashing he deserved who ended up being the victim and the person who dished it out was the villain. I had a little brother too!!

Erica gave us some good old Kiwi sayings to explain and in the process gave a wonderful educational and insight on how Table Topics can be applied to our everyday lives.

Tim R on "Dog Tucka" related to his life experiences towards the end of the 1st world war, back in the days when old sheep went in retirement villages. I didn't know we had a centurion in the club, I think we need to rename him Tim Eveready as he just keeps going and going and going, I hope I have half his energy at fifty yet alone a hundred. If you're out there Tim could you bring in the Telegram from the Queen next week as I have never seen one.

Norma took time to use her topic to embrace all that is Kiwi, Ellie got her perfect topic "She'll be right" as this methodology defines Ellie, the calming influence when things don't go quite to plan. Neil talked about his friend Jack who is apparently "One out of the Box". Our bright new member Ollivier showed she had an appetite for Table Topics and in fact literally "Pigged out" on her topic.

Elli gave an excellent Educational on getting our A into G with our Competent Leader manual and did it in a Joe Seager style that made it easi pesi,

I,m sure there are a few boxes I should have ticked in mine but haven't. What about you?

Patricia gave a very insightful evaluation of Table Topics and made some excellent observations.

Dave gave as a mini educational as part of his timers report, but believe Dave needs to appreciate time does not stand still when he takes the stage as believe he was well over his allotted two minutes!!

General evaluators Michelle and Neil gave a joint rap of the evening, my only disappointment is they will not be Toastmaster next week, as have never seen a night with joint toastmasters. However every cloud has a silver lining and am looking forward to this pleasurable role next week.

I look forward to your company next week. Regards, Doug

P.S Could some one email me a phone list!!!

FW: Kev provides the goods - Toasties meeting review

2007-10-31T07:37:00.000+13:00

Hi all, Kev did the honours with a well paced and planned Tuesday nite treat. Spkr#1: Neil took us out to the streams where the trout out feeding and gave us an interesting biology lesson on what’s going on. Spkr#2: Bev (tonites Hooter award) trotted out her unused humorous speech on diesel pumps and rental vans – a classic and a ‘must enter’ for the next competition round. Both were well intro’d and eval’d with outstanding performances by Norma and Michelle.

Ellie beguiled us with promises of choc if we performed well during TT’s – and it worked – an excellent session marred only by the overlooking of her Dave – he still got his share of choc though so the story ends ok! Loved the vote at the end – permanent fixture?? Please!.

See you all next week when I am T/M – a couple of great educationals in the offing so don’t miss it! Tim

FW: A Toast at Toasties

2007-10-24T08:17:00.000+13:00

Hi all, Pam did the honours last nite and served up a splendid meeting to come out to. 1^st speaker Michelle motivated me to hook into a few spoonfuls of magnesium with my weetbix this morning (didn’t realise that eating my car’s wheel could be so good for me??!!) – a competent and clever use of ‘power point’ to support her message – a very slick presentation. 2^nd up was Dave with his moral yarn of a crack(ed)pot – you may drip but flowers will result – very proficiently and convincingly told. Bryan had us in stitches with his table topics amusement park challenges – memorable moment will be a rocket powered Corran shooting across the floor.

A well deserved toast was drunk to Norma for her CC achievement – her CC-B manuals were presented at the same time – so much more entertainment from this source soon folks!

Kev is T/M next week with a couple of fine speakers programmed and an educational from our Doug – don’t miss it!

Tim (H) is taking a break for a while as he works on his over-scheduled schedule – all the best Tim and we look forward to your return in the new year. Great to hear that our Gerry is safely back from the plumbers – 4 new pipes in his heart and he’s home already – amazing!

Regards Tim

FW: Tuesday's Speech- Fest - what a Feast!!

2007-10-16T22:17:00.000+13:00

FIVE (!!!) brilliant speeches kept an appreciative audience on the edges of their seats tonite!

Bev told us of Washpen Creek reserve up by the Rakaia River Gorge – an obviously ‘must do’ place to visit – ‘obviously’ because Bev ably supported her speech with competent use of a power point slide show to illustrate the fact. Corran took us back in time to those great days of steam – the ‘Fell’ steam engines to be precise hauling their heavy trains up the mountainous slopes of the Rimutuka’s – very well described (and acted!!). Erika inspired us to get out there, paint a few placards and get protesting, well actually to consider just how much benefit there has been to our society thanks to the efforts of those who have the courage or conviction to speak up. Kevin told us of the family holiday to the deep south – what a jolly, sing along time they all had in their car packed with not a cc to spare – great memories being created here. Great memories from Pam too – though from a much more challenging occasion – down grade 5 rapids in the Rangitata without a paddle – or a boat!! Thank God she made it out alive – just – this speech wouldn’t have worked posthumously!

Our GE Bryan didn’t have too much to do tonite but did a bonny job of what he did anyway. No Hooter tonite – Neil has it under repair.

Dave gave us a heads up on the CL manual – looking forward to an Educational on this in a couple of weeks.

All the best Gerry, we’ll all be thinking of you over the next few days while you’re in hospital and are looking forward to seeing you fit and well on your return.

See you all next week, Tim

FW: Ripping into it

2007-10-11T14:58:00.000+13:00

Greetings, we started our 9th Oct session with toastmaster Neil seamlessly multi tasking as Sgt, and then after TimH introduced him Bryan gave us a ripping yarn which was no rip off but a great home improvement story. Erika introduced Doug's treatise on social engineering, the trouble Doug it was to simple for any Government to grasp, no matter the strength of your logic - and research.

TT Master Dave ensured that the cliché "If you want to get ahead get a hat" came true when he introduced us to numerous head garments.

Michelle's entry and exit was swift but she did mention wearing bikini. Ellie the McJamaican - as near as speechless as I've seen and heard, but she enjoyed it. But that accent! There followed a strangely posturing Corran, a Corran seen in a new light. Bev was a rootin tootin show time gal but the pedigree beast had disappeared. I was impressed by Kevin's deep and utter knowledge of Builder Bob [I go back to the days of the Magic Roundabout]. I think I satisfactorily marketed climate change. Toothy TimR's millinery [not hattery] was strangely reminiscent of another Tim - Tim the concrete…

Corran's bard took us back to the good old days and brought us up to date all within the space of four minutes.

Oh I almost forgot Richard Moffat spent a few minutes exhorting us to attend the Division G Speech Contests, and I too encourage particularly newer members to take half a day off on Saturday 13th October to hear the best speakers in our neck of the woods.

And so endeth another best night of the week.

Regards to all, Gerry

Rangiora Toastmasters Club - details

2007-10-11T10:05:00.000+13:00

Hi, Club details for those who may be looking to visit us…

Club meets every Tuesday evening at 7.30pm through till about 9pm (with a supper break)

Rangiora High School Library, access through Gate 1 from East Belt, Rangiora. (Go through the gate and walk up to the quadrangle area – you will see the School’s Library on the right – come on in for a warm welcome!)

You are very welcome to attend a few of our meetings (free) to see if Toastmasters is for you. Don’t worry, we will not make you do anything or embarrass you – it’s a big step to walk through that door but all our members agree that it is one of the best steps they ever took!

Have a look at some of our weekly meeting reviews posted to this site for some idea of what goes on. You can click the link on the left of the screen to take you to our website for more details of the club. Please give one of the following members a call and discuss Toastmasters with them – any of them will be very happy to talk to you about our club.

Michelle 03 310 7873

Tim 03 313 3304

Dave 03 312 2219

Gerry 03 314 9376

FW: In the Groove

2007-10-09T21:42:00.000+13:00

Groovy [adjective] - informal, dated or humorous. Fashionable and exciting [e.g. a groovy new haircut - or a groovy toastmasters meeting]

Or Programming language a dynamic language to use alongside Java. [I thought Java was a place].

Tuesday 2nd October

Norma got the show on the road, with some family matters, and Ellie took over in usual Ellie fashion.

Grammarian Pam put us in the groove.

Corran filled us in on what he didn't know about Tim [join the club] - and Tim's macabre story of using Play Dough for heart surgery did nothing for my dickey ticker. However he embraced [metaphorically speaking] Guy Fawkes and used such words as forensic anthropology, arcane and gunpowder. All up to the expected standard.

Doug's Table Topics gave me my expected writing award, recognised Norma as a blood donor, Corran was awarded something but it seemed to a little insanitary. Tim as we would expect became Mayor, and Pam [also no surprise] businesswoman of the year.

Bard TimH sprang us into Spring with Garden talk - very appropriate I really must go out rake my sand.

Two newcomers to Impromptu entertained after the choccy biks. Pam drove through Brisbane - I think reluctantly, and Supergran Norma was just that - a groovy gran.

And so after the usual evaluations another toasty meeting sinks with the setting sun to below the horizon to become just a memory.

Regards

Gerry

FW: Toastmasters - Incorrigible Corran Conducts

2007-09-25T22:40:00.000+12:00

Hi Guys, a quick review of tonites fine meeting of North Canterbury’s FINEST Toastmasters Club!!!

Corran did the conducting honours and he did a bright chirpy enthusiastic job of it too – Very well set out program too old chap! Two amazing speeches were delivered for our edification and entertainment. Erika took us back to post WW2 Switzerland for a fascinating look at the life and times – more please!! Dave then provided us with an equally fascinating history lesson on the Korean conflict – extremely well supported with simple and clear maps of the general action that took place, top marks! It’s great to go along to Toasties, be highly entertained but also come away more knowledgeable of our world.

Michelle, our grammarian encouraged some humility but I don’t know that we saw too much displayed! Tim H got us selling food products as on the spot advertisers during table topics – a barrel of laughs - weren’t we all feeling a bit peckish by the time we got to supper??!! Doug delivered the dissection – in the nicest possible way.

A stunning Toast was delivered by Pam celebrating her daughter’s acceptance into the Navy – I can foresee a very amusing speech to follow some time soon.

Normal high standard of evaluations by Norma and Ellie while Bryan had to cope with a lectern that developed a mind of its own – you had to be there!

Looking forward to seeing our Gerry back next week after his Japanese jaunt and Korean carousal.

Ellie’s running the show next week – don’t miss it! Tim

FW: Tuesday 11th September

2007-09-16T20:57:00.000+12:00

Hi Guys

Half Yearly Dues

Just a reminder of the urgency in getting our half-yearly dues to Neil by next Tuesday. In terms of Toastmasters we need to have the money transferred to the USA by Sept 20th, so our time frame is tight. Your assistance in meeting the deadline would be most appreciated.

Dave

Tuesday Night 11/09/07

A milestone for Norma

Norma celebrated her 10^th speech and has achieved her Competent Communicator Award. Congratulations on a top effort. It always seems to be a fantastic achievement when you reach the milestones in Toastmasters and we as a club acknowledge the hard work it takes to get there. Norma’s speech was an inspirational look at volunteering through the "Meals on Wheels" service. Way to go Norma.

Through the years of music with Tim

Tim Hawke took us on another journey, through time. Using the medium of music, we had a whirlwind tour of the last 130 years or so. (Not long if you say it fast.) From the early cylinders of the gramophone to the sounds bytes of today, where no physical object, other than a computer, is needed, we have made a lot of progress in the technology.

Tim Rickard led us in an eclectic series of topics in Table Topics. Nearly all of us had a turn and the variety of answers/mini speeches was a lot of fun.

Area Contest results.

To catch up those who weren’t there on Tuesday, Ellie was placed 3^rd in the Table topics Contest and I too was placed 3^rd in the Humorous Contest. The standard was very high and the winners deserving.

Reminder re forward planning of tasks and speeches

Keep looking at the long-term plan and the shorter, 6 week, one, to see when you have tasks allocated at Toastmasters. If you are not able to attend, then try to arrange a swap with another member and if that’s not possible let me know as some people are now doing. Thank you.

Have a good week.

Dave (standing in for Gerry tonight)

2007-08-16T19:40:00.000+12:00

Top Tuesday Toastie Time

2007-08-07T22:09:00.000+12:00

Thanks for coming tonight all, it was a really great meeting and I certainly enjoyed it - hopefully our VP Publicity Gerry will sort the gremlins in his computer and post his weekly review here as well as to the email list. Welcome to our 2 newest contributors Ellie and Norma - looking forward to seeing contributions from you too.

Not the 'Last Post' - the 'First Post!'

2007-08-04T16:01:00.000+12:00

Hi everyone and welcome to Rangiora Toastmasters new blog. To those of you out in the world who don't know who, what or where we are here's some general info...

We're a Toastmasters Club in the town of Rangiora which is about 25km from trhe city of Christchurch in the South Island of New Zealand.

We hold a Toastmasters meeting every Tuesday evening from 7.30pm until about 9pm in the Rangiora High School Library, (Gate 1) East Belt, Rangiora.

The meetings are open for anyone who has an interest in improving their public speaking and leadership skills (while having a bit of fun and a lot of laughs doing so!) - you are very welcome to come along and check us out.

We intend to post club news, things that are happening, club meeting reviews and probably lots of other things as we get into doing this.