Meeting Recap: May 27, 2015 (Secrets of the Champions)

Dear APS Members and Guests,

What does it take to become a champion? According to Toastmaster of the Day Jacqueline McIntyre the tenacity recently shown by the New York Rangers reveals the secret. Other examples are members ofToastmasters – and especially APS – because as Jackie says “we are all champions.” Marcelo Braga became the newest member of the APS championship team, and “Tenacity” was the Word of the Day. 

Steve Brady said “The Power of Persistence” is personified by John Mendez, a ninety year old marathon runner who believed that “it is not a disgrace to fail - only not to try.” Before finishing his marathon, Mendez was also a successful businessman and a former fighter pilot who flew with the likes of John Glenn and Ted Williams. Speech Evaluator Marcia Berry liked the inspirational story and Steve’s descriptive language, but suggested that when using notes at least have a memorized opening in order to galvanize the listeners attention.

“Cancel the Snow Storm!” was the first draft of a humorous contest speech by Harry Aneziris. For Harry the biggest problem with frequent snow storms is the number of Toastmaster events that will be canceled. A Round Robin evaluation offered multiple suggestions; the need for personal stories, more humor and clarity, having one key story and possibly changing the focus of the speech to other humorous ideas mentioned only tangentially.

Brian Robinson gave an impromptu speech speaking “Off the Cuff” about one of five possible topics that was randomly selected. Brian spoke ad lib about developing a personal fitness program and how it usually takes sixty six days to change a habit. Kadisha Currie admired Brian’s ability to give a spontaneous speech that included both structure and message, but she did find inconsistencies in the numbering of the talking points that he mentioned.

Table Topics Master Marcia Berry offered paper championship medals with a question printed on the reverse side. Harry Aneziris spoke of a humorous mistake he made while in the Greek Navy, and Jacqueline McIntyre said sports champions she admired were Serena and Venus Williams along with Billie Jean King. Marcelo Braga believes that the most important quality of a champion is perseverance, while Steve Brady admitted he sometimes needs someone to goad him to achieve his best. Brian Robinson said he has finally become a champion at being married, while Kadisha Currie said acknowledging the need for help may be the most important stage of a hero’s journey.

General Evaluator Todd McKinney praised the inspirational meeting theme that brought out the best in every participant, each of whom did their part to help this meeting achieve true championship status.

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Todd McKinney

VP Education, Advanced Public Speakers