Club President James kicked off the meeting at 5:30.

Opener Denise talked about growing up in a small (8,000 people) town in eastern Washington. The smells of mint and hops were very evocative, and the sound of sprinklers in the orchards completed the picture.

Toastmaster Will talked about growing up in Travers City, Michigan, which is about as close to Lake Woebegone as can be had in this world.

Our first speaker, Anna, gave her Ice Breaker. She talked about her history of depression, and what she felt helped her get past the problem. She talked about the liberating impact of associating with people who shared her view of spiritual and paranormal things. Some of this change was a result of her experiences since the birth of her second daughter, who happened to have a cleft lip and palate.

Our second speaker, Lance, talked about finding treasures in inter-office mail. Lance really likes “stuff” – not big expensive stuff, but simple, silly stuff…..And how he found pure, simple joy in the silliness that can be found in an inter-office envelope. He got his workplace to play along, and made quite a dent in the stodginess that might otherwise infect the office.

Table Topics Master Matt took his texts from the all-knowing font of information – the National Enquirer. Matt had each person reach into his Boston Red Sox batting helmet and pull out a picture, and tell us why the picture was important…….Dancing cats, Bruce Willis with Mickey and Minnie at Disneyworld, dogs listening to a violin……

General Evaluator Julie led the evaluation team. James evaluated Anna’s Ice Breaker, and Richard evaluated Lance’s speech. Julie had some very insightful comments for the meeting as a whole.

Toast of the Day went to Anna, for a brave and courageous speech.

Most Improved Speaker went to Lance

Best Evaluator went to Richard.

Best Table Topic went to Jerry and John (tie)

Other Notes:
•    The District Conference is this Saturday – Scott will be competing in the Evaluation Contest. It’s only $15 to attend that section, approximately 9:45 – 11:00 at the Lynnwood Convention Center
•    Club Officer roles are still available for next year.
•    Scott will be doing a story at A Guide to Visitors, June 7th at 8:00 PM
•    We need a temporary Sgt-at-Arms. John volunteered

Richard
Club Secretary