August 23 was a meeting of last minute volunteers expertly covering positions for a couple no-shows, and two new members giving memorable “Ice Breaker” speeches introducing themselves to the members in attendance superbly.

As the toastmaster for the meeting my thanks go out to Phil Drake and President, Nancy Porter for jumping in with both feet and covering jobs that needed to be filled at the last minute. That’s one of the things that continues to amaze me about our club, there’s always someone prepared to take on a position at the last minute and fill it exceptionally well.

That all tied in perfectly with the theme of “Preparation.”  In light of the earthquake in Virginia earlier in the week and the reports of Hurricane Irene arriving this coming weekend, being prepared for the unexpected is a topic that warranted some attention.

Then it was time for our new members, Mike Chapman and Chad Nichols to give their “Ice Breaker” speeches.

Going first, Mike entertained us with his ‘Work in Progress’ topic about how he’s using the findings from some personality tests to improve and guide his decisions for the future. We learned about some of Mikes’ workplace likes, family loves, and goals both short and long term. Well done Mike, and ‘NO’ we couldn’t hear your knees knocking behind the lectern!

Then Chad moved to the front of the room and presented “C.H.A.D.” a speech based on the acronym derived from his first name. None of us were aware of the many facets to our fellow member and all the world travels that he and his wife have done while in service to their church. We should have suspected because Chad is a policeman who serves everyday to keep the peace in the local community. Although the C.H.A. were admirable social and worldly traits that we admire in Chad, the D. for Dad was the one that Chad feels is the most important. It was enlightening to see how he has placed his newest role with their 5 week old daughter as the epitome of his life’s works and accomplishments.

If you weren’t there, you missed some great presentations! So make it a point to be there next week.

Thanks again to everyone who attended. I hope you had as much fun as I did.

In the words of Hawk from the WWE “What a Rush!”

Jim Alvord  CC  ALB

Gem City Forum Toastmasters Club # 296