Not ‘Swifties’ but ’Toasties’ at Mullingar meeting

Taylor Swift may have her ‘Swifties’ but ’Toasties’ were in abundance at the last meeting of Mullingar Toastmasters. Club president, Brian McLoughlin welcomed all, adn handed over to Toastmaster of the night, Philip Howlin, who infused the proceedings with a musical theme.

First speaker, Douglas Raeside, in an icebreaker speech called ‘Home’, presented a hilarious account comparing his old haunts in Dublin with country life in Westmeath. Big changes, but he hasn’t lost his Dublin accent.

Next, Linda Gavagan, with ‘Memorable Mentors’. There’s a downside to poor mentoring, she said, but the inspirational approach of a former teacher had a lasting impact.

Veteran speaker, Brian McLoughlin, followed with ‘Blue is the Warmest Colour’, recalling the mysterious girl with blue hair on the dance floor. Appearances are deceptive, he concluded.

Guest speaker, Frances Lenard, from Castlebar Toastmasters, then took to the stage with ‘Being Enough’. She spoke about a poignant journey through the challenges of life, demonstrating that ordinary things and people are often more important than chasing dreams.

Evaluators of the night, John Waldron, Niamh Tubridy and Mags Healey Donoghue, praised the speakers for effective audience engagement and the use of humour and props. While making small recommendations, their overall message was: ‘Keep ‘em coming’.

A Creative Corner followed, allowing Pat Cavanagh to intrigue his audience with St Patrick’s dance with the devil – Lucifer being clearly out of step!

After a break for coffee and chat, Hijesh Lohidhakshan, as Topicmaster, fired a volley of questions demanding impromptu responses. Everyone soon learned who loves cricket and hates archery!

General evaluator, Deirdre Bigley, praised all those who contributed to the success of the meeting, including Derek Walsh, as grammarian, Jacqui Wiley as timekeeper and Phili Howlin, as captain of the ship.

Brian closed the evening, leaving the ‘Toasties’ eagerly awaiting the next gathering, which is at the usual spot, the Greville Arms Hotel on Thursday 9 May at 8pm. All are welcome.

– Anthony Viney, public relations officer