Don demonstrates the reasons for the seasons

AT last week’s Speakeasy Toastmasters meeting, Don McSweeney of Kanturk gave an impressive demonstration on “Seasons”.

Inspired by the ending of Autumn, the season of “mists and mellow fruitfulness”, and armed with a balloon, a football, a globe and a fire iron, Don gave a physical performance of the Earth’s orbit around the Sun. He graphically illustrated the impact that the 23 degree angle of the Earth’s axis has on our daylight hours.

One member of the audience commented: “if only it was demonstrated this clearly when I was in school”.

School was a recurring theme throughout the speeches. Ann Nyhan presented her Ice-breaker speech, “Angels in my life”. She spoke eloquently about the wonderful assistance and inspiration she received from human Angels. Her father encouraged an appreciation of learning which was amplified by a school teacher who inspired her to become an Irish teacher.

Patricia Buckley gave an uplifting and entertaining speech on her “First day in school”. She recalled the outfit she wore - a canary yellow jumper, ribbons in her hair, held in place by clips! To much amusement, she spoke of how her mother and the teacher had an argument before the class began. And then the class began with the Irish alphabet! But, against the odds, Patricia persisted and left primary school with a good exam result.

Moving schools featured in Jillian Harris’ speech, “Moving House - The Sequel”. She spoke of the numerous times in her childhood and adult life that she moved house. Her life has been a nomadic one- through circumstance and through choice. Her pit-stops have been too numerous mention and once again Jillian finds herself in Mallow, which feels like home.

At the meeting’s conclusion awards were presented to Ann Nyhan - Best Speaker; Marie Lynes - Best Evaluator and Don McSweeney - Best Topic.

Speakeasy Toastmasters draws its membership from the greater North Cork area, from the Kerry to the Tipperary border. Our mission is to help our members acquire the skills of good communication through an enjoyable meeting format.

The next Speakeasy Toastmasters meeting takes place on Thursday 15th November in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow at 8pm; guests are always welcome.