A toast to high Zoom numbers!
“In my garden I’ve spent my days, A life in tune with nature’ s ways I’ve watched the cycle of nature flow, As the seasons come and go...”
Yes! Poetry, storytelling, humorous tales, nostalgia, wit and wisdom are all the ingredients of a thriving Toastmasters club and Fermoy gathering has all those qualities in abundance which has kept this local club alive and well for over 50 years now.
We fretted as regards the pressures of lockdown, which is difficult for everyone but I suppose we are blessed with the gift of modern technology like Skype and Zoom which has kept us all in touch and gives us something to look forward to weekly, daily perhaps.
Fermoy Toastmasters are grateful to have the Zoom opportunity to get together fortnightly and enjoy two hours of chat and togetherness. Frank O’Driscoll is our esteemed president smiling broadly from his seat of honour and he has the natural gift of putting us all at ease with a warm welcome.
Our last meeting was chaired by Denis O’Brien making his remarkable debut as ‘ Toastmaster in charge’ for the evening’s proceedings, the full programme of which was skilfully organised by Jerry Hennessy. Everyone joined in on a lively topic session followed by two splendid speeches and a special word of thanks to Patricia Neilan, our Zoom expert, who sets the scene.
A very informative officer training conference was again held on Zoom last Friday, when huge numbers from clubs countrywide got together in discussion and experienced Toastmaster personnel slotted into top table slot, with helpful information and tips as regards the efficient running and further development of all clubs; suggestions and advice was also requested from members, who were segregated in various ‘ Breakout’ Zoom rooms to mingle with other club members and hear their suggestions, all in all a very constructive educational few hours.
Our next club meeting will be on Tuesday, Feb. 23rd at 8pm and new members, viewers always welcome just to observe the atmosphere of conviviality, chat and good humour that is very much part of our club - enquiries to Jerry at 086-3136384.