Speaking in the Tall Tales contest were Eric Dyson ("Who Pushed The OutHouse Over The Hill"), Benjamin Vincent a/k/a Forrest Gump ("What Melons?"), and Victoria Perez ("Spring Break").   All 3 were really good, and kudos to Victoria for more than holding her own against 2 very experienced speakers.   Eric and Ben came well rehearsed and prepared, Eric was 1st runner up and Ben took top prize.   Is it possible for a family of 12 to live in a watermelon??  Little Eric Dyson was a pyromaniac??  Victoria and Eminem??  See, you should've been there.   :)

The International contest was just as good, with Steve Patterson ("Magic Wand"), Angelo Pereira ("The Big Picture?") and Joseph Pezanowski ("Who Are You?") each delivering excellent speeches.   Steve's speech was an interesting observation about the magical power of words, which he tied back to the communication skills Toastmasters helps foster.   Angelo similarly used the power of observation to point out that while the advice to pay attention to the "big picture" gets all the notice, sometimes it's the little day-to-day events that determine our fate.   Joseph incorporated a projector to make some interesting observations about the Beatles Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album, and .... possibly even conspiracy???   In all, quality, entertaining and well presented speeches from everyone.   Angelo took top prize in this contest, and Joseph reminded us that just because you're a newcomer to Big "D" doesn't mean you can't compete, taking first runner up.

And by the way, for those who didn't know, Angelo used the platform to formally announce his "fairly" recent marriage!

So Ben and Angelo will represent Big "D" in the Area contest being held at yada/blah/er/em at some time on some date somewhere ( I need to take better notes).   Danni.....    Anyone???

Be sure to stop by this week (Feb 25) when John Session is Toastmaster, Jim Wolff runs the Table de' Topics and Frank Kozel handles General Evaluator duties.   Sure to be a good time for all.