Tribute to Ana Illsen - July 30

 A.I. Meeting Summary from Zoom

Meeting Introduction and Format Changes

The meeting began with introductions and welcoming attendees, including Marie's daughter Valentina. Pam led the invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, followed by Gail sharing a joke. Randolph announced that the format would be different, including a word of the day ("courage") and self-introductions, starting with Marie Rock.

Anna Tribute and Celebration Meeting

The meeting was a tribute to Anna, with Toastmasters and guests sharing memories and expressing admiration for her courage and contributions. Many speakers highlighted Anna's strength, authenticity, and the wisdom she shared about Cuban history and personal experiences. The gathering served as a celebration of Anna's life and the impact she had on those around her, with participants expressing gratitude for her friendship and leadership. The conversation ended with plans to start the formal agenda, including a video presentation.

Anna's Speech Compilation Presentation

Marie Rock presented a 13-minute video compilation of Anna's speeches, which Chris Gould and Jim Gould had created by collecting recorded speeches since April 2020. The video showcased Anna's legendary recaps and humorous moments from Early Bird Toastmasters meetings, including her stories about wearing masks, the origin of Fort Lauderdale's nickname, and her journey to joining Toastmasters in 2009 after receiving encouragement from friend Peggy Gallagher.

Early Birds Toastmasters Club Meeting

The video shared Ana's journey with the Early Birds Toastmasters club, describing how she joined after being impressed by the meetings and eventually held multiple leadership roles. She then shared personal stories about her Cuban heritage and family traditions, including how her mother used food to express love and care, and how her health habits evolved over time. Randolph Bastien and Chris discussed the video presentation, with Chris suggesting they should have arranged to serve flan in honor of the occasion at their former Denny's meeting location. The meeting then continued with Veronica Wininger's eulogy for Anna, describing her as a wordsmith who wrote three books and shared her experiences from Cuba, Spain, and America.

Anna Ilson Memorial Tribute Meeting

The meeting was a tribute to Anna Ilson, a long-standing member of Early Bird Toastmasters who passed away recently. Several speakers, including David, Aleta, Marie, and Becky Jo, shared memories of Anna's dedication to the club, her role as Vice President of Education, and her legendary meeting recaps. The speakers highlighted Anna's values of connection, generosity, and authenticity, as well as her impact on welcoming new members and fostering a sense of community within the club. The conversation ended with reflections on Anna's legacy and a commitment to continuing her spirit through the club's activities.

Anna Ilson Toastmasters Tribute Meeting

The meeting was a tribute to Anna Ilson, a beloved member of the Toastmasters club who passed away recently. Distinguished Toastmasters Mary Helen Day and Pam shared personal memories of Anna, highlighting her dedication to the club, her meticulous speech preparation, and her unique humor. RandolphBastien, the meeting president, expressed gratitude for Anna's courage and leadership, especially during Kip Barkley's transition, and encouraged the club to continue shining in her memory. The conversation ended with a message of support to Anna's family and friends, emphasizing the importance of finding strength in the face of loss.

Anna Memorial Tribute Meeting

The meeting was a tribute to Anna, with participants sharing memories and expressing gratitude for her impact on their lives. Jose shared a story about Anna's love for birdwatching at Lake George, comparing it to how her presence and "beautiful call" would be missed. The group discussed plans for Anna's memorial service on Saturday, with Jose promising to share a link for those who cannot attend in person. The conversation ended with thanks to RandolphBastien for organizing the tribute and plans to reconvene for the next meeting agenda at a later time.

Presentations, Icebreaker and Speak Slowly - an uplifting morning at EarlyBirds

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

Our seafaring TM Chris and Jim joined us today!  Welcome back!!  We have missed you!

TM Marie shared a few mishaps in last week's presentation before a large group and asked for our take on....

* Equipment failure - TM Jim informed us it's what happened to Janet Jackson at the Superbowl a number of years ago... Moral of the story: bring your own stuff...

* TM Chris has had echo echo echo in rooms with tiled floors and no curtains.  Make lemonades out of lemons.

* TM Gail praised TM Marie for preparing ahead of time and having the foresight to test ahead in order to achieve best audience connection.  She Won Best Table Topics Award.

* TM Pam indicated the goal is to have slides - both the good point and the bad point are the slides - enlarge the letters so those in the back can see, darn it!

* TM Christina used to dress for success, now is professional casual as an engineer must, but she will dress up for Australian zoom audiences to avoid criticism.   Jeez!!

* TM Veronica has always practiced, practiced, practiced but is now practicing how NOT to practice.  Improvise, improvise, improvise.

* TM BeckyJo is a pivoting pro.  Children's theater helped her learn to embellish and have humor - they can fact-check you later....

Along came the prepared speeches...

* I, Ana, reminisced about my traumatic exit from Cuba with several glitches which led me to join in the 250th Celebration of the Best Country on Earth.  I Won Most Improved Speaker Award.

* TM Aleta emphasized the importance of comic timing and pause before the punchline.  Dare to be quiet!  And "Take my wife..... PLEASE!"

As far as evaluations go...

* TM Christina praised my inspirational speech and encouraged me to dramatize the fact that the secret police took my father away from the line... momentarily.

* TM David stressed that this speech is very important to us as public speakers and slowing down is critical because it takes the audience twice as long to absorb the message as it does the speaker to present it.  He Won Best Evaluator Award.

The Word of the Day was

UPLIFTING, adj.

Something that makes you feel happier, more hopeful or spiritually and emotionally elevated.

Example:  The uplifting speech was very invigorating.

The link to the recording is here...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEkN1DVK0uM

Our new officers are officially starting next week, July 2.  Welcome aboard!

See you next week!

Ana

Recap Writer

Idioms, Monarchs and Officers - an intentional morning at EarlyBirds!

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

TM BeckyJo inspired us with a grateful Invoication straight out of Facebook.

I, Ana, led with Idioms for topics...  We learned that...

* TM Christina is the quintessential eager beaver who lives her life with initiative and intention.

* TM Randolph made everyone's mouths water with his vivid description of banana pudding... yummm

* TM Aleta holds her horses by not letting her life get away from her, especially now that she's in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

* TM Gail pondered where all these idioms originated, and came to the conclusion that the devil is in the details.  She Won Best Table Topics Award.

* TM Jorge tries to get all his ducks in a row before life takes unexpected detours, once more.

* TM BeckyJo would like to stop eating carbs cold turkey, but is totally derailed by the aroma of freshly baked bread....

* TM David used to think that talk is cheap, but now with Toastmasters and his corporate environment, talk is persuasion, inference, communication, rhetoric... no longer cheap!

We heard (2) prepared speeches...

* TM Pam told us about the long migration of Monarch butterflies, those West of the Rockies fly to California to cast their vote in the current elections all while wearing fake eyelashes to float like Muhammad Ali.  She Won Most Improved Speaker Award.

* I, Ana, told my tale of EarlyBird arrival and the various officer roles I've served which have expanded my self-confidence and leadership skills.

As far as evaluations are concerned...

* TM Christina liked the humor in TM Pam's speech and found the glueing of the eyelashes to be particularly tricky.  She Won Best Evaluator Award.

* TM David encouraged me to change my background to something relevant to Toastmasters and put the speech text nearer the camera to avoid rapid eye movement (REM).

The Word of the Day was

INTENTIONAL, adjective

Done deliberately, on purpose, with a clear plan or goal.

Example:  There's not a single word in that speech that is not intentional.

Our recording is floating like a butterfly up in the Cloud somewhere.... if it can be retrieved, I'll send it out separately.  If not, use your imagination to remember the highlights.  Be intentional.  Use sunscreen.

See you next week!

Ana I.

Recap Writer

MOMisms, Passion Pits and Speech Intros - a scrupulous morning at EarlyBirds!

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

TM Aleta started us off with a heart-rending poem, "Time Goes By" by Crystal Lewis. 

TM BeckyJo inspired us with MOMisms....

* TM Pam and her peers were not allowed in the house between June 1 and September 1, as pacted by Moms in Kafeeklatsches.

* TM Marie's Mom encouraged her to try things because "if others can do it, so can you."

* TM Tom still remembers his Mom's "early morning German" banging on the radiator to get Tom and his brother to come down for breakfast!

* TM Jorge hid shrimp in his pockets and dumped them outside and was caught by Grandma and his ploy was revealed - lots of pinches followed.

* TM Aleta had a saintly Mom who tried to teach her to be ladylike, but she was her Dad's daughter, learning to build, construct, fix engines, build tractors and the like.

* I, Ana, told my kids to go entertain themselves.  My Mom asked me if I would jump off the bridge if my friends did and the answer was a rotund YES.

* TM Veronica had a great childhood outdoors and entertained herself, and is now instructing me to stop bingeing TV series and go play outdoors! She Won Best Table Topics Award.

* TM David's mother had a dream - husband and family- and did everything to protect and uphold that dream.

As far as prepared speeches go...

* I, Ana, recounted the origin and demise of Drive-In Movies, from inception to peak as Passion Pits to demise with the advent of color TV, DVDs, livestreaming and the rest.

* TM Pam emphasized the importance of speech introductions - control, credentials, attributes.  Brag, boast, show off, make your Mother proud.  She Won Most Improved Speaker Award.

Regarding evaluations...

* TM David liked my speech and suggested I upload the speech on my screen in Word so I can maintain good eye contact - or any eye contact with the audience, for that matter.  I will definitely try it!  He Won Best Evaluator Award.

* TM The Tom praised TM Pam for her carefully crafted speech on introductions and is taking her to another club where they are clueless about introductions.

The Word of the Day was

SCRUPULOUS, adj.

Careful to do what's honest and right

Careful to do something correctly

Example  Our EarlyBird Club is scrupulous about our commitment to improve our speaking and leadership skills.

The link to the recording is...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zoMFPq8FLlU

See you next week!

Ana I.

Not-Always Scrupulous Recap Writer

Travel, Milk and Shopping Carts - no subterfuges in EarlyBirds this morning!

Dear Members, Guests, and Friends,

TM Christina led us with fun, travel-related Table Topics...

* TM The Tom's most memorable meal was a Chicago hot dog eaten at Wrigley Field during a game of the Chicago Cubs.  He Won Best Table Topics Award.

* TM Jorge rode a bus from Bogota to Medellin, wondering for 7 hours if he was going to be taken hostage by the FARC guerrilla.  Thankfully he wasn't!

* TM BeckyJo nearly got ripped off by a cabdriver in flooded Prague who used subterfuge to overcharge her.

* I, Ana, would go back to French Polynesia,  island of Taha'a,  to the bungalow on stilts with a natural fish tank on the floor-  if I got a free airline ticket.  Maybe.

* TM Aleta is drawn to a country, Cuba, where natural beauty is abundant and people are nice but they live in abject poverty.

* TM Marie stated that wonders of the world are those right in front of our very eyes in that precise moment.

* TM Randolph's first impression of Tokyo, Japan, is that the Asian community puts up a great production!

As far as prepared speeches go...

* I, Ana, told the evolution of humans drinking Elsie The Cow's milk while trying to comb down our pesky cowlicks.  In a very contested vote, I Won Most Improved Speaker Award.

* TM Aleta alerted us that Shopping Carts of the World Will Unite! (Especially on the eve of May 1, Labor Day for the rest of the world).

And then came evaluations...

* TM The Tom enjoyed the history of milk and is perplexed by the multiple choices between almond, coconut, soy, oat, rice, hemp, cow, goat, buffalo, lactose-free, organic, whole, 2%, 1%, skim, raw...  All in a day's work....

* TM Marie praised TM Aleta for her excellent hand gestures, vocal variety and for making us realize that shopping carts have bodies and souls.  She Won Best Evaluator Award.

The Word of the Day was

SUBTERFUGE, noun

To use tricks to hide, avoid, or get something.

Example:  Subterfuge is the equivalent of manipulation.

Here's the link to the recording...

https://youtu.be/TMy6ySqtQCI

See you next week!

Ana

Recap Writer

Seasons, Selfies and Follies - a non-kerfuffle meeting at EarlyBirds

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

Today is St. Joseph's Day and Father's Day in Spain (and Italy).  The invocation was in his honor.

TM Pam led us to table topics about seasons, since tomorrow is the Vernal Equinox.  We were amazed to discover that...

* TM Gail is kerfuffled by Daylight Savings Time and finds that Greenwich Mean Time is really mean.

* TM David tries to find equilibrium between his body and spirit - our mission in life.  Equinox = Equilibrium...

* TM Jorge likes laundry for spring cleaning and is training his son soon-to-be his laborer (as soon as he turns 4 years of age).  

* TM Aleta is doing Swedish Death Cleaning and everything in between to the tune of "Let It Go" from the movie Frozen...

* TM Veronica does not do New Year's Resolutions for the Persian New Year (Nowraz) or Lady Day in Europe, she makes daily resolutions instead...

* TM Cristina misses the seasons in Florida although she's learning to detect their subtleness by ordering pumpkin lattes in Fall and daiquiris in Summer.  She Won Best Table Topics Award.

* TM Jose is planning his summer trip to Switzerland and most importantly, mapping all the electric car charging stations along the Route Napoleon....

We had (2) interesting prepared speeches...

* TM Marie delighted us with a thought-provoking speech about cutting out the excessive selfies and focusing more on others, before we miss any more opportunities and learn to be present now.

* I, Ana, told the story of one of our eccentric pioneers, Henry Flagler, who built the Florida Railroad and was the successor of the Paris Folies Bergere by naming it "Flager Follies"....  I Won Most Improved Speaker Award.

Regarding evaluations...

* TM Jorge praised TM Marie for her good hand gestures in spite of zoom restrictions and good pauses but please don't say thank you at the beginning of the speech.  He Won Best Evaluator Award.  Go Jorge!

* TM David found my speech educational but suggested I imagine that Henry Flager was Cuban and put more passion into it, and stop reading the notes, parbleu!

The Word of the Day was

KERFUFFLE, noun

Commotion, fuss, noisy argument, chaos

Example:  Several members expressed a craving for a kerfuffle with whipping cream.

We had the pleasure of the visit of our District Director, Rachel B., who said our Club is a lot of fun - and no kerfuffle.

Here's the link to the recording...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmnPGCjZ0cU

See you next week!

Ana I.

Recap Writer

Debating Debatables, The Love Boat and (Dis)organized crime in South Florida - a facilitated morning at EarlyBirds!

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

TM David smoothly facilitated our meeting as a first-time Toastmaster of the Day.  Congratulations David!

TM Aleta led us in thought-provoking both sides of table topics... We discovered that...

*TM David thinks AI should be banned in war because it can destroy lives exponentially...

*TM BeckyJo says it should NOT be banned because the bad guys will use it anyway. So let everyone use it, destroy the planet and start over.  All we need are robots and gardeners to start the Garden of Eden.   She Won Best Table Topics Award.

* TM Pam thinks mandatory age retirement should be banned.  Old people should be out working (except her)...

*TM Marie thinks it should NOT be banned - she still works, facilitates training, feels connected.  Rock 'em, sock' em, robots wedding cake.

* TM Christina recovered from her initial shock and stated she absolutely believes the moon landing was a hoax.  They put movie cameras in a basement and some decorative rocks.  Just ask Buzz Aldrin,,,

* TM Randolph thinks it was NOT an elaborate hoax.  What would we gain from believing it's a hoax anyway?  He's pragmatic above all.

* TM Veronica thinks a 4-day workweek improves productivity and increases wellbeing.  Less commuting, more time with kids and for appointments.

* Guest  Fernanda thinks a 4-day workweek would not work for certain industries - healthcare, restaurants, hospitals.  Definitely a no-no.  Good job, Fernanda!

We then proceeded on to the prepared speeches...

*TM Christina regaled us with a sweet story of her personal Love Boat adventure, where she met her husband-to-be amazing chef and they both learned together to distinguish between a rope and a line.  Jib the jab!!  She Won Best Speaker Award.

* I, Ana, told a juicy tale of (dis)organized crime in South Florida in the 40s, 50s and up to the 80s, amidst the sound of crashing waves, swaying palm trees and lots and lots of lime mojitos.

As far as evluations go....

* TM BeckyJo adored TM Christina's love story on the high seas and encouraged her to focus on her vocal variety since everything else is excellent.

* TM Pam empathized with the tale of La Cosa Nostra, Florida style, since she's a native Floridian and is familiar with Florida craziness.  She suggested I stick to 2 or 3 stories and expand on them.  She Won Best Evaluator Award.

The Word of the Day was

FACILITATE, verb

To make an action or process easier

Example: It's easy to facilitate any role in Toastmasters because we have our prized 'crib sheets' to guide us along.  Try it people!

Here's the link to the recording:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZHwoPSNMiuU

See you next week!

Ana I.

Recap Writer 

Contest, Inspiration and Is It Fair? - a contested morning at EarlyBirds

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

We heard very inspirational speeches...

* TM Marie expressed to us how the most important gifts we receive in life are those invitations we accept....  She Won First Place

* TM Veronica clearly showed us how life happens while we're getting prepared so we must reverse course and take action first!  She Won Second Place

* TM Jose reiterated that we are responsible for our own actions and we need to actively build a healthy life and determine what we refuse to tolerate.

* TM David declared that life marches along and we must not allow any small hiccup to cause upheavals.  That's why he goes to Toastmasters.  He Won Third Place.

* I, Ana, gave a bird's eyeview of life from the shoreline instead of focusing on one finite point in my realm.

* TM Aleta explained to us what a modern pioneer woman is - perseverance, stamina and WiFi!  Go Starlink!

While votes were being tallied, we had outstanding Table Topics led by TM Randolph - is life fair and does money make a difference?

* TM Jose's life indeed changed by the lack of money when he learned to hunt and cook and then as he made more money, expenses always caught up!

* TM Veronica found herself in Costa Rica, 21 years old with no money but she had generous friends who spotted her till she got back home.

* TM Aleta said you can't depend on what you learn in college because life itself is the best teacher.

* TM Pam stated that no, life is indeed not fair, but hey people, learn to be empathetic to those below - it needs to become trendy again.

* TM BeckyJo said it's fair to cut in line if you pay Premium but it's not fair to cut in line for organ donation just because you're wealthy.  No sireeee...

The Word of the Day was 

CONTEST, noun

An exercise to determine one's place in a competition.

Here's the link to the recording:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9wJWefpXwE

Next week, on to Table Topics Contest!!!

See you then!

Ana I.

Recap Writer

Florida Arbor Day, Traditions and Idioms - a jocund morning at EarlyBirds!

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

TM Marie got us started with an invocation by Walt Whitman.  TM Pam inspired us with Arbor Day topics...  we uncovered and discovered that...

* TM The Tom planted a tree when his dear Mother passed away, which still brings back bittersweet memories of his loss.

* TM Aleta plants trees so she can grow her own firewood and spends most of her days watering them.  She Won Best Table Topics Award.

* TM Christine currently has a job that requires her to climb a ladder and dust off otherwise unreachable cabinets in newly-remodeled houses.

* Guest TM Vika explained that there are lots of Argentinian woods to walk and discover in Argentina, where she's been living for 10 years.

* TM Veronica described her favorite Argentine tree, the jacaranda, which offers an explosion of lilac coloring to Buenos Aires twice a year.

We had (2) prepared speeches...

* TM Jose made our mouths water with a visual presentation of the scrumptious mid-morning snack in Valencia, Spain, called Esmorzaret.  Ah to be Spanish and thin....

* I, TM Ana, described some of the often used but rarely understood hundreds of idioms that color our everyday language.  I Won Best Speaker Award.

As far as evaluations...

* TM Veronica - first time evaluator- praised TM Jose's clear, confident voice, the good speech structure and descriptive food language.  She asked him to please Fedex her a huge bocadillo for practicing Valencia traditions.  She Won Best Evaluator Award.  Great job, TM Veronica!

* TM Christine loved my speech, chock-full of idioms, and asked that I stop rustling my notes so close to the microphone or altogether discard them so I can make more hand gestures.  Just sayin'....

The Word of the Day was

JOCUND, adj

cheerful, merry, lighthearted

Example:  EarlyBirds is a jocund group on any given Thursday morning.

Here's the link to the recording....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSx9ahC4s3E

Date to Remember:  International Speech Contest at EarlyBirds will be held on Thursday, January 29.  Get your speeches ready!

See you next week!

Ana I.

Jocund Recap Writer

Memorables, Marriage, Cuban Style and Blink And You Missed It - we espoused the EarlyBird meeting

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

TM The Tom launched us off on fun table topics...

* TM Christina's favorites are software innovations but she wishes for more manufacturing inventions.

* I, Ana, travelled to a small town in Baja California and had a drink at a Hotel where you can check out any time you want, but you can never leave....

* TM Veronica would not block anyone from social media but she does not take new friends, either.

* TM Aleta can never have a Harvey Wallbanger (vodka, orange juice and a float of Galliano liqueur) because she can't afford to recarpet her entire house.

* TM Gail's celebrity couple that males no sense is Taylor Swift and Travis Kelsey although she wishes them well in their espousing each other.

* TM Jose's hardest learned life lesson is that you can't force solutions, although sometimes he tries... while attempting to have others espouse his cause!

* TM Marie's friend's 5-yr-old dressed up as Santa for Halloween and ended up winning first prize! Moral of the story, be true to yourself even if others mock you. She Won Best Table Topics Award.

Along came prepared speeches....

* I, Ana, told the tale of love and betrayal of Margarita Conchita Josefa and Juan Manuel Roberto Gonzalez, who espoused Santeria and bolstered the Botanicas business in Miami and mutually espoused the marriage commitment.  I Won Best Speaker Award - (for fear of retaliation?)

* TM Aleta alerted us that if we blinked, we missed it.  2025 went by like a movie played at double speed and flew by like a speeding train, leaving little time for negotiation.

As far as evaluations go...

* TM BeckyJo got so captivated by Love Potion # None that she forgot to evaluate, but she found the speech very entertaining and a full reflection of reality.

* TM Jose asked TM Aleta to expound on the 4 styles of negotiation while reminiscing about Mutiny on the Bounty and The World According to Aleta.  He Won Best Evaluator Award.

The Word of the Day was

ESPOUSE, verb

Adopt or support a cause, belief or way of life

Marry

Example:  The members of EarlyBirds espouse the value of public speaking and leadership while having fun.

The link to the recording is

https://youtube.com/live/UQASD1yxE1c?feature=share

Feliz Navidad y Prospero 2026!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!

Joyeux Noel 

Mele Kalikimaka

See you on January 8th!

Ana

Recap Writer

Prevarication, lies and untruths - a morning of embellishment at EarlyBirds

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

TM Pam inspired us with an embellished invocation.

We then proceeded to hear Tall Tales, Untruths and Other Prevarications from our group.

* TM Aleta finds old coins, arrowheads and other antique relics when excavating her back yard and told the tale of Sugarfoot, who was murdered by Tom Quinn, who buried the money and never found the money because TM Aleta has it.

* TM BeckyJo, aka Queen Marley, is a redheaded Royal Hawaiian, a descendant of the Goddess Pele of the Volcano who has flashes of temper from time to time, just like she does....

* TM Christina saved Space Camp Canada when the simulator crashed and they lost power to Quebec - she won the ribbon for such accomplishments.

* TM Pam kayaked with her pet alligator, Eleanor, and eventually got rid of the pet and invented standing paddle board on a gator.  She Won Best Tall Tales Speaker Award.

* I, Ana, resorted to a psychic in Madrid who transformed my ex into a pigeon which flew back to Bolivia in the wings of a 747 with a pigeonesque logo tatooed on his forehead.

* TM Randolph, radiotransmitting today from Australia, had no car and no job on his first date and a mother who won the Lotto.  He had to buy his date a new car after drowning her car in Slushies.  And only then she agreed to marry him...

* TM Veronica lived a gothic soap opera in a French Chateau surrounded by bats, liver pate and duck during  a hideously dehydrating weekend.  No fromage in sight....

* TM The Tom had his first legal case in Homestead (aka Dysfunction Junction) in the 60s where the charges were dismissed due to the Judge's hilarity attack.

* TM Jose drove his Harley up a mountain, met up with Pedro, the insomniac chef of a 2-star Michelin restaurant who donated Bon Am to Jose, who has now enlisted all of EarlyBirds to fly his private jet and go run the restaurant with him.  We're all headed to Fort Lauderdale airport as we speak!

The Word of the Day was

EMBELLISHMENT, noun

A detail, especially one that is not true, added to a statement or story to make it more interesting or entertaining.

Example:  At EarlyBirds today, we did not let pesky facts get in the way of our embellishments.

Here's the link to our recording:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZ8CODQHK8c

See you next week!

Ana I.

Recap Writer

Late Night Show, And In the End.... What Can I Say? - a display of tenacity at EarlyBirds

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

Due to last-minute absences, we scrambled with tenacity to fetch our multiple hats from our respective hall closet and ... we made it!

TM BeckyJo led us in Johnny Carson-themed table topics, inserting gems along the way.  For example, did you know that he and Ed McMahon originally brainstormed the show at the Mai Kai in Fort Lauderdale while sipping rum drinks with tiny umbrellas???

Besides that, we soon discovered that...

* TM Jose decided to launch a space rocket while dining lightly-battered squid  and paella at a local restaurant in Javea.    Because "In the end... the  spacewalk we make is equal to the moonwalk we take.... (sung to the tune of The Love We Take is Equal To The Love We Make) by the Beatles.

* TM Veronica discusses business while drinking sparkly non-alcoholic beverages so she can remember the discussion and not have to pay for the joy in the morning...

* TM Randolph knows for a fact that when his kids are gone, he will get a female rottweiler (familiarly known as rottie) because he bonds with that breed and gender.  He Won Best Table Topics Award.

* TM Aleta would let Carson start the conversation and take it from there.  Otherwise, what are all her years doing Table Topics for??? She watches hilarious clips of interviews with Robin Williams and other crazy funny guests.

* TM Pam's favorite comedian is Gallagher because he uses clever word play while busting watermelons on stage.  No late night comedy for her, though.

* I, Ana would show off my non-existent knowledge of Latin and impress Johnny in order to watch his priceless silent expression of shock and hilarity.

Along came (2) pilgrimage speeches today...

* TM Jose led us down the last 100 kilometers of the Camino, which took him, his wife and (2) Texan friends to the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, along with the swaying of the gigantic butafumeiro (incense urn).  Where's Waldo?   Errr. Where's Saint James???

* I, Ana, related my life of 75 years into highlights and lowlights as a journey splashed with blind curves, topsy turvy hills and serenely serene plateaus.  I Won Best Speaker Award.

Lastly, we had great evaluations...

* TM BeckyJo's feet hurt; she commended TM Jose for his visuals and suggested he insert a dissonant jazz voice in his melifluous, smooth contralto.  And where's the Camino bathroom please??  She Won Best Evaluator Award.

* TM Pam recommended that I use more hand gestures within the tiny Zoom square and praised me for avoiding the tedium of explaining the banality of my birth on a cold and rainy night.  

The Word of the Day was

TENACITY, noun

The quality or fact of being determined, no matter the obstacles or setbacks.

Origin: the latin tenacitas.

Example:  It takes tenacity to walk the 600 + miles of El Camino without even acquiring a blister.  Go Peregrino!

Here's the link to the recording...

:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3RuBXni-vY

Next week, EMBELLISH, LIE, PREVARICATE Is the incontrovertible  theme of the day.  Tall Tales Meeting.  Everyone is expected (but not required)  to give a 4-6 minutes Table Topics.  As DTM Kip said and Randolph continues to say:  "Don't let the facts get in the way of a good story!"

See you then,

Ana 

VP Education

Administrator Console, But For a Small Twist of Fate, Protecting Girls' Sports - a morning of great impetus at EarlyBirds

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

TM Pam introduced us to different facets of the Administrator's Console in our EarlyBirds website.  We realized that...

* TM Randolph understands that, although an annoyance, he needs a secondary email so when he drifts away from our group, we can reach out to him and reel him back in!!

* TM Marie joined EarlyBirds on a Mad Hatter day when our late DTM Kip was at his funniest and she just couldn't resist and joined on the spot.  She Won Best Table Topics Award.

* TM Christina started FB while in college but doesn't use it anymore.  She uses - and recommends - Instagram, Instagram, Instagram.

* TM BeckyJo recommends that your pubic bio best include why you joined TM, why you stay.  If you have a colorful, intriguing life, describe it.  And keep your old picture in there!

Along came (2) longer-than-usual speeches...

* I, TM Ana, shared with the audience my personal recollections of leaving Communist Cuba in 1960 and shared some factual data about pre-Castro Cuba.  I Won Best Speaker Award.

* TM Aleta regaled us with a speech about her Protect Girls' Sports presentation in BPW (Business Professional Women),  which was arbitrarily handled outside of her presence and betrayed her, but primarily betrayed young girls and women.  We hope there is more action to be taken by you, TM Aleta!

As far as evaluations...

* TM Gail praised my father's impetus in taking the family out of an increasingly perilous situation and suggested I allow more time for audience questions next time.

* TM Jose lauded TM Aleta's courage, empathized with her feelings of having been betrayed, liked her appropriately sober virtual background and suggested she give us a better sense of BPW's structure and a stronger ending for our "Big Comeback Toastmaster"...  He Won Best Evaluator Award.

The Word of the Day was

IMPETUS, noun

Force that makes something happen or happen more quickly.

Example:  The discovery of a hidden stash of cookies was the impetus for a sugar-fueled adventure that ended with a sugar crash and a smile on my face.

Here's the link to the recording:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OywF7Dy1LIo

See you next week!

Ana 

VP Education

Resilience, Glory of God and What's in a name? a morning of glimmer at EarlyBirds

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

We inducted our returning TM Christine formally into our Club.  Welcome back, Christine!

TM Marie launched us on a glimmer of resilience.  We discovered that...

* TM Christine's heroic effort consisted of getting a degree in Oxford at midlife while doing standup comedy with a British accent.

* TN The Tom is "the comeback kid" - overcame a health hardship and turned into a fish in a glimmering pond.

* TM Aleta overcomes adversity day by day, step by step, shovel by shovel, while anticipating a visit from the glimmering Samaritan's Purse.  She Won Best Table Topics Award.

* TM Cory is mastering rising above it, talking when the mind goes blank while envisioning TM Jorge's AH, ER, YOU KNOW screen flashing in his mind's eye.

* Guest Christina converts triggers into glimmers of the day and her family, work and trip to Fairfax and Toronto rank in top relevancy.

* TM Randolph's faith gets him through the challenges of daily life with an unwavering moral code.

* TM Jose likens his life to a chu-chu train with different stops for different folks and is managing the Reservations Desk for visiting friends at his home in Javea, Spain.

Along came our prepared speeches...

* TM BeckyJo regaled us with a sailor's tale of triumph over adversity while proclaiming The Glory of God.  She Won Best Speaker Award.

* I, Ana, revealed the little-known story of the origin of our city's name, tracing it back to wee William Wallace, aka Braveheart, aka Mel Gibson,  glimmering hero of the Scots.

TM Jose performed as first-time General Evaluator and glimmered steadily throughout...

* TM Cory asked TM BeckyJo to clarify if Boston Whaler and Laser is a marine mammal with a Boston accent and having laser cataract surgery.  He Won Best Evaluator Award.

* TM Randolph asked that for the love of Scots, I repeat the speech with a wee bit of humor added to it.

The Word of the Day was

GLIMMER,

noun - a faint or unsteady light

verb - shine faintly or unsteadily

Example: To identify your glimmers, pay attention to your senses, notice what brings you a sense of peace or joy, and reflect on activities that make you feel energized and alive.   So there....

Here is the link to the recording:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmMBSIjcL5U

See you next week at Inauguration!  Dress code:  pyjama pants and a chic top will do!

Ana 

VP Education

June, The Elks Rest, A Commonplace Book - a tech-risible morning at EarlyBirds!

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

TM Aleta led us in a June series of Table Topics.  We found out that...

* TM Jose is aka Mr. Chocolate for his all-time favorite ice cream flavor.... He loves "polos" - chocolate ice cream on a stick that gives you both mobility and edibility.  He Won Best Table Topics Award.

* TM Veronica watched the Marilyn Monroe documentary and feels compassion for such a beautiful person - inside and out- who lived such a tragic life.  Had she avoided drugs and alcohol, who knows? She would perhaps be celebrating her 100th birthday next year!

* TM Pam has never been to a professional tennis match but her kids were once coached by Jimmy Evert and they didn't even know it!

* TM BeckyJo had a handsome tennis coach in Vancouver hired by her mother who really enjoyed male eye candy... BeckyJo ran marathons on Summer Solstice Day, just so you know....

* TM Gail has a special flag from her son which she will keep forever and she recalls  displaying all United Nations flags as a school project in the 6th grade.

* TM Christine could not think of Dad jokes but she is an avid tennis fan and has watched many professional matches.

* Guest Kris has no idea why there are so many June weddings - all she knows is she's having a birthday coming up... First things first!

* TM David has no objection to girls named June but his favorite girl's name is Catherine with a French accent.  Ohlala....!

Along came the prepared speeches...

* I, Ana, talked about a fascinating piece of Fort Lauderdale history:  The Elks Lodge, host venue of many memorable events, watering hole of many legendary celebrities and soon to be reopening after a long legal battle.

* TM The Tom regaled us with a helpful speech about A Commonplace Book, where one keeps quotable quotes, ideas for speeches and other sources for speech topics.  He Won Best Speaker Award.

As far as evaluations go...

* TM David enjoyed my speech and suggested I use more vocal variety, hand gestures, and introduce exciting stories into the speech that will captivate the audience.  He Won Best Evaluator Award.

* TM Christine kindly asked TM The Tom to step out of the closet - or at least blur it - or the audience starts to make mental grocery lists.  She enjoyed the purpose of the speech - to give practical tips to the rest of us to find topics for speeches.

The Word of the Day was

RISIBLE, adj.

capable of laughing, disposed to laugh

Example:  Today's meeting was chock-full of risible technical bumps; however, we pulled ourselves together and risibly figured them out.  Go EarlyBirds Learning Lab!

The link to the recording is here (thank you Jose!)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5BMtz1NV_PQ

See you next week!

Ana I.

Risible Recap Writer

It's Debatable, Procrastination, A Gem Among Concrete - EarlyBirds is definitely not soporific!

 

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

TM Chris brilliantly led us in table topics up for debate.

We learned that....

* TM Gail is pro clearing up a house for sale so that new owners get a better idea of how they can make it look.  

* TM Terri took the same side and also believes in clearing up a house for sale because an empty house looks bigger and unleashes the creativity of prospects.

* TM Veronica is pro legalizing casinos - they bring a lot of revenue and boost the local economy, and in Florida they benefit the native american tribe who owns the largest one.  It's also a great venue for concerts.

* TM David is against legalizing casinos because he worked for an online gaming company and he saw how the addictive behavior got people hospitalized.

* TM The Tom is pro school uniforms because it fosters equality and eliminates competition for Best Dressed, students focus on academics instead of fluff and frill.

* TM Aleta is against school uniforms because they stifle creativity and growth - and students end up customizing their uniforms to look different anyway!  She Won Best Table Topics Award.

We had (2) prepared speeches...

* TM David told us about his struggles with procrastination, especially in things he most likes.  Taking action is the antidote!  He Won Best Speaker Award.

* I, Ana, told the history of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, the beach diving capital of America, and its humble beginnings which have kept it a gem among towering giants.

Next came the fabulous evaluations...

* TM Marie praised TM David for his organization, confidence, display of leadership and persuasion.  She Won Best Evaluator Award.

* DTM Mary Helen applauded the fact that I did not read my speech and encouraged me to continue to improve and to stop crunching land crabs while at it!

The Word of the Day was

SOPORIFIC, 

Causes sleep (noun)

Induces sleep (adjective)

Example:  A glass of warm milk and a monotonous tv series are the best soporifics known to man.

Here's the link to the recording

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtt9L5WeV74

See you next week for our special FAREWELL to our friends The Gulds!  SNIFF....

Ana I.

Humorous Recap Writer

(that's debatable!)

Fwd: Life Lessons, Icebreaker and Origin of County Names - a non-superfluous morning at EarlyBirds

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

One of our new members, TM Cory, started us off with thought-provoking Table Topics about life and lessons.   We soon found out that...

* DTM Mary Helen was insecure as a youngster, then at age 40, she relinquished her deep dark past and became secure.  She Won Best Table Topics Award.

* TM Gail was a pioneer of the Community College system in Florida and it allowed her to study and work and get ahead in life.

* TM The Tom would give his younger self the reiterated advice to join the Navy (as he did) where he learned to make his bed and lay on it, too.

* TM Terri's best compliment as a young teacher in a Hialeah middle school minefield was "You're persistent".  And that she is, to this day!

* TM Jorge would, as a 9-year-old, maximize his Mom's last day with him to the fullest.

We then listened to TM Jorge's Icebreaker....

* Sitting in a waiting bus, he had a transcendental conversation with the bus driver which shaped the course of his life.  He joined the Navy and was sent to Italy; he is now bonding with his infant son till the next opportunity comes up.   He Won Best Speaker Award.

* I, Ana, Self-Appointed Local Reporter, sleuthed around to find out picturesque facts about several towns in our beloved Broward County.

Lastly, we had great evaluations...

* TM Gail praised TM Jorge for his intriguing Icebreaker and for his proficient use of Zoom.

* TM Jose loved my speech but asked that I stop flailing my notes in front of the camera, for heaven's sake.  He Won Best Evaluator Award.

Our Area Director, TM Marcus Observicus, attended our meeting and complimented us effusively.

The Word of the Day was

SUPERFLUOUS, adjective

Exceeds what is necessary or sufficient, or is simply not needed.

Etymology:  It comes from the latin superfluuuus which in turn is derived from the Assyrian superiffffflllluuuus.   They've just removed a few superfluous vowels (and consonants) with the passage of millenia.

Example:  Why do we have superfluous but potentially deadly vestiges like the appendix or wisdom teeth?   

Here's the link to the recording

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnQTAMUurlQ

See you next week!

Ana I

Recap Writer

Single Words, Happiness and Resolutions - a potpourri of a meeting at EarlyBirds!

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

TM Jim G. led us in single-word topics.  And as we now know...

* DTM Mary Helen practices gratitude every day of her life - especially considering  how privileged our lives are.

* TM Marie admires our adventurous fellow Toastmasters and wonders if she will have the courage to be who she truly is in 2025. Yes, Marie, you will!

* TM Terri believes that travel equals discovery, inspiration, innovation and renovation.  An inward interior design of transformation!

* TM Randolph achieves growth through self-evaluation, for which he uses the Pathways evaluation forms.

* Guest Debbi concluded that as she gets older, her potential becomes more obvious and she reaches out to grab it!  She Won Best Table Topics Award.

Along came prepared speeches...

* I, Ana, elaborated on various definitions of happiness versus joy versus delight versus musical renditions.  Conclusion: "Don't Worry, Be Happy" (to the tune of "Don't Worry, Be Happy" .  I Won Best Speaker Award.

* TM Pam decided to get rid of bad habits by decluttering "a box a week is not for the meek" and she is not joining Quitters Day, no sireee....

Regarding evaluations...

* TM Jose stood up for the occasion and challenged me to look at the camera, not at the squares, and to stand up to improve gestures.  He Won Best Evaluator Award.

* TM Aleta praised TM Pam's sincerity and challenged her to work some more on the pesky technology of sharing screens and other mysteries of zoom.

The Word of the Day was

POT-POURRI (noun)

- A mix of dried flower petals, leaves and spices to create a scent.

- A collection of various things.

Example:  Pot-pourri elicits a highly controversial pronunciation challenge between green-gos, who correctly pronounce it POW-POURRI,  Hispanics, who incorrectly pronounce it POT-PUREE and the clueless, who pronounce it OLLA PODRIDA.

Our Club International Speech Contest will be held on January 23, 2025.  Dust off your speeches, locals!

Here is the link to the recording:

https://youtube.com/live/WTf_nQ_lT-k

Ana I.

Recap Writer

Random questions, Wuthering Heights and Panama Crossing - an intricate extricate EarlyBirds!

Dear Members, Guests, and Friends,

I, Ana, started us off with random questions.  We realized that...

* TM Pam is on a strict vegetarian regimen building up to December 1 cookies, cake and ice cream  

* TM Marie is going to save, spend and mostly give away her $5 million - she wants to be charitable while having fun, fun, fun!... She Won Best Table Topics Award.

* TM Jim G.'s favorite movie is a composite of Finding Nemo, The Graduate and Forrest Gump.  Life is certainly like a box of chocolates or salt-water taffies and sexy older women.

* TM Chris wants to be known for having a good time - she and TM Jim G. are big fish in a small pond - she's been seen signing autographs for thankful alumni.

* TM Jose is most thankful for our health, the group's health and his ability to fly across the pond and to other destinations to enjoy new adventures and visit family.

Regarding prepared speeches....

* I, Ana, recounted my woes as a bullied tall person growing up in the land of vertically-challenged people.

* TM Chris recently went kayaking and snorkeling amidst the locks, chambers, Lakes of the Panama Canal, with plenty of mimosas on hand.  She Won Best Speaker Award.

As far as evaluations go...

* TM Jim G. officially named me the group's resident giraffe and suggested I will end up in Hell... but surrounded by boys, boys, boys.  He Won Best Evaluator Award.

* TM Pam asked TM Chris to please find a book (300 pages, tops) about snorkeling in the Panama Canal.

The Word of the Day was

EXTRICATE, verb

To free or remove yourself from an entanglement or difficulty.

Example:  It is virtually impossible to extricate oneself from a submerged car.

The link for today's recording is

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AsnU8V0fBX8

See you next week!

Ana I

Recap Extricator 

Disasters, Old Siam and Wild Obsessions - an amply sufficient morning at EarlyBirds!

Dear Members, Guests and Friends,

DTM Jim  D. skyrocketed us into disaster topics...  We found out that.

..

* TM Jim G. puts outdoor furniture inside but mostly fixates on the omnipresent Cone of Uncertainty, hoping to send rain up to fill up TM Aleta's crick.

* TM BeckyJo has become overly cautious after Hurricane Wilma caught her off guard and she ended up kayaking through her neighborhood at the behest of Weatherman Bryan Norcross.

* TM Marie deals with the hurricane that forms in her mind when she realizes thoughts are spiraling like tornadoes. There is always calm at the center of toilet paper hoarding.She Won Best Table Topics. Award.

* TM Roslyn goes into the inner space of her windowless laundry room at the sound of tornado sirens.  No curiosity whatsoever to peek outside.

* TM Aleta's then-husband was The Lineman of the County ( to the tune of Wichita Lineman by Glenn Campbell) but restored his own power last.

* TM Chris has experienced earthquakes, tornadoes and hurricanes in her RV , and she prefers earthquakes rather than watching Jim watch the Cone of Uncertainty.

Along came prepared speeches...

* TM Jose took us down a fascinating tour of his future trip to Thailand, where he will visit Chung Rai, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, and last but not least, the PeePee Islands , where he will snorkel to watch Thai fish and attend a Black Thai gala where he will enjoy a Sukkhotai dinner.  We can't wait for the apres ski... errr, apres-tour.

* I, TM Ana, shared my adventures as a City Slicker surrounded by wildly obsessive bear fans in a visit to Big Sky Glacier Park.  I Won Best Speaker Award.

As far as evaluations go...

* TM Paolo praised TM Jose for the clarity of his speech, so much so that TM Paolo is booking travel to Siam as we speak.  He Won Best Evaluator Award.

* TM BeckyJo corroborated my status as a City Slicker and encouraged me to stop reading my darned speeches and display imprompty tongue-in-cheek humor, once and for all.

TM Terri did a superb job as First Time Poll Maker.  Go, Terri!

The Word of the Day was

SUFFICIENT, adj

Enough to meet the needs of a situation

Example:  Sometimes I forget that I must have sufficient funds in the bank to go a-splurging.

Dates to Remember:  Thursday October 31 we will have a Monster Mash Halloween-themed meeting.

Here's the link to the recording:

https://youtube.com/live/6WMX513hgoU

See you next week!

Ana I.

Incomparable, intolerable, honorable, comfortable Recap Writer