Pania Meeting Report for 2nd May 2019
Grateful
for almost a full house – 2 guests, with our new members, it was really lovely
to not see chairs for people sitting on them!
Lou
ran a great meeting, warm and welcoming open (in true Lou style) backed up by
Jen (grammarian) who chose the word ‘Gratitude’. This became the theme of the
day with each member using gratitude or a variation of that in some form when
they spoke.
Only
her second visit and our guest Bonita felt comfortable enough to read the
Mission Statement – credit to Lou for checking in prior to meeting start – and
this was the way the meeting flowed. Special mention was given to welcome Graeme
back.
Laurel
introduced Israel with her great use of ‘Gratitude’. She shared the background
of what an icebreaker speech is all about including the what, why and how of an
icebreaker to educate us, guests and refresh members.
Israel
from Mexico entertained and educated us so we could learn more about him see his
skills in action as he commanded the stage and managed to get a message or two
across about his English and Spanish language and personality. Laurel’s
evaluation included many commendations and recognition of the talent we
witnessed and only a couple of recommendations. Again, there were fabulous
education opportunities shared through listening to experienced evaluators
sharing their feedback.
Lou
took the opportunity to bring in General Business where Patrick reminded us of
the TM event in Hamilton this weekend. Laurel reminded us that it’s not just
about the contests, there is also going to be the election process happening.
Next year this will be held in Napier and it was encouraged for 100% attendance
and participation.
Change
of pace as Carol introduced Jenni who spoke on ‘Toxic Positivity’. A
well-researched topic with opportunities to challenge our own behaviours and
thinking to avoid this toxic positivity “trap”. Beautifully
acknowledged with by the grateful Carol who shared her passion on this topic,
insights as well as commendations and recommendations. I particularly liked how
Carol stepped forward with her beaming smile as Jenni came to the front of the
room – this act helped the speaker to feel welcomed even more and perhaps even
help rid one or two of the nerves. Nice touch Carol, thank you.
Julie
educated us on earthquakes, natural disasters and also the latest in land
movement (causing earthquakes) of Mount Hikurangi – setting the scene of the
well thought out and pre-planned Table Topics questions.
Sahar
delighted us with her childhood experiences and the differences she noticed in
the two countries including her experience with emergency evacuation at work
(Napier).
Wonderful
to see Graeme demonstrating his experience and delight with table topics. ‘We
learned just what was in his emergency ‘grab bag’’ and how this still sits on
his “to do” list.
Bonita
shared with confidence and conviction why we should not re-build Napier in the
same place if the city should be decimated by an earthquake. We heard the
reasons why she felt this way including the current book she is reading - it
certainly got me thinking.
Russell
showed his experience as he shared he does not have a plan for at risk elderly
friends or family if there was an emergency. What he did share was his wisdom
and practical thoughts on how he would imagine he would respond at looking after
himself and Jane if he was to experience such an experience including a wee
quote “we do not know what we do not know”.
Julie
then closed out the table topics with more advice if we were to experience a
natural disaster and reminded us by showing us the Civil Defence reference
material available in the phone book.
Sandy’s
evaluation of the table topics credited each speaker for their input,
experiences and addressing an important topic with such honesty. Sandy offered
some good insights, commendations and some recommendations. (as each evaluator
does as part of their role)
Wrapping
up, Jen charmed us with a reminder of the phrases and words of gratitude shared
throughout the talks. With her humour and commentary she summed up the meeting
leaving space for Patrick to race through his time keeper’s report which he did
very well, asking if any of the speakers wanted their time specifically. Great
idea!
Awards:
Bonita:
best Table Topic
Laurel:
best Evaluator
Israel:
best Speaker
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