The Anchorvale Amazing Race on 12th March 2016

It was a day like no other. It was to be a historic day for our young club. The very first Anchorvale Amazing Race had finally dawned upon us. 

It was a nice sunny afternoon. The Anchorvale Toastmasters were geared up at 2 PM in front of the UOB lobby at Compass Point. Everyone was eagerly looking forward to facing some captivating and clever challenges ahead for the next 3 hours. I was pleasantly surprised to find that we had 6 teams who had registered and many of our enthusiastic Toastmasters brought their family members or friends to contest in this family friendly race.

The teams that took part in the race were:

1) Valliappan, Muthu and his son

2) Kelvin and friends

3) Sathya and family

4) Ricky, Sridhar and his daughter, Vinay and his daughter

5) Riz and family

6) Hareesh and family.

The youngest participant was Sathiya’s cute little 3 year old Princess.

Zul briefed the teams about the instructions of the race and introduced the 6 Station Masters (Zul, Norman, Salma, Joseph Chong, Clement Chio (from Buona Vista Toastmasters) and Zhong Hao).

We had 2 awesome photographers Norman and Clement who captured the lovely moments during every stage of the race. Before we started off from Compass Point, we all took a fabulous Wefie.

Say Cheese

Our first task was in a pouch containing a Map of Sengkang and a Clue to find the first station. The teams were tasked to find an intersecting point between 4 religious sites, whereby X marks the spot. Most of the teams found their answer quickly and managed to get the next clue. The next clue was to proceed to destination X, which is a place that never sleeps.

We guessed that it could be SPC petrol station and rushed towards that. When we reached there, we could not see our station masters and were a bit disappointed. Muthu and I were quickly exploring all possible options at the neighbourhood which were available for 24 hours. Finally, we realised that the next destination was 7-11. When we went there, we saw that most of the teams were already proceeding to their next station. We knew we were late. However, we were motivated by Muthu’s 5-year-old son who co-operated very well to run with us in the scorching hot sun.

Our next task had a Chess board layout and instructions for the King and accompanying Chess pieces to move. The landing point of these Chess pieces would show where our next clue would be found. Unfortunately, we made judgements too intellectually and calculated the next clue to be 6 blocks away and started to walk far.  We were almost lost and couldn’t find the destination. Luckily, Zul gave us a clue to get us back on track. We took the next clue which had 4 photos of that location and we were tasked to find out Beige coloured envelopes at these locations. We managed to find the envelopes and got the answers to the quiz which were inside those covers. The answers to the quiz led to the next destination which was ‘Seletar Mall’. We were the last to leave for Seletar Mall.

The next task was to look for the loudest mouth of Anchorvale Toastmasters who was located at our childhood at Seletar Mall. It didn’t even take a second to realise that the loudest mouth we were looking for would be Salma. The clue was easy and we headed to the Play area at Seletar Mall and met Salma. The next task was to find some models in advertisements displayed at the shops and imitate those advertisements as we take a photo. It was really funny to loosen up and pose like crazy people in public.

The next task was to get 6 freebies (at least 2 food items and 2 cosmetic items) from the shops. We tried asking for sample cosmetic items from the shops and couldn’t get any. Then we consulted Salma and she said we can even apply some cosmetics (that are available for testing) on our body and bring back. And for the first time ever, we applied some lipsticks, mascara and face powder in our hands and collected some sample ice creams and went to collect our next clue from Salma. We continued to be the last team till here.

Then we had to go to a park near Thanggam LRT station to find the Hungry Prince. This turned out to be Jalan Kayu. The Hungry Prince was actually our Club President Zul. He gave us the next task which was interestingly a choice between 2 challenges. Firstly, we could choose to memorise the prata list from Thasevi menu and act it out for the other team-mate to guess or to remember shop names along Jalan Kayu and answer the questionnaire to test our memory. We chose to go for memorising the prata list as it was easy to guess out the prata names. Muthu was the actor and I guessed the names pretty easily, as I had been to Thasevi restaurant several times before. 

After that, we were given a puzzle to assemble to find the next destination. Every other team was stuck here and trying to figure out the puzzle. Muthu cracked the puzzle within minutes to guess that the next destination was Kampung Buangkok where we had to find 4 embossed markers which we would have to shade. This was the turning point of the Amazing race. The turtles started to inch ahead of the rest.

We were the first to reach Kampung Buangkok and managed to find 3 embossed markers very quickly. Unfortunately, the last marker was very difficult to find. Muthu took a step further to get into a house to enquire about the location shown in our clue. We guessed Norman purposely hung it at a different location from the other 3 markers. Finally, we managed to get it and head to Sengkang to meet the Legend and Giant Mangosteen which was located at Anchorvale CC.

At the open space in front of the Legends Cafe, we were the first to reach and had to complete 3 more entertaining tasks. Firstly, we had to walk a designated path on reflexology stones without our shoes with our legs tied together using raffia string. Then we had to play Frisbee and throw it amongst our team and catch it 20 times without dropping it. Finally, we had to do the most hilarious challenge of all. We were given a choice of famous dance songs to dance with and we chose to dance for Gangnam style. It was an exhilarating time dancing together in public with Muthu and his cute son who was fully supportive throughout our amazing race.

It was a truly thrilling and fun filled experience. And guess what, we emerged as the winners for this race.

After the race ended, everyone had a yummy dinner at the Mushroom Café, located at the Riverside Park.

We were amazed to see how efficiently our Anchorvale Toastmasters organised such a brilliant race. We were impressed to find that the organising team actually organized a trial the previous week to ensure that everything went smooth throughout our own journey. Special thanks to the participants of the trial run; Julie Mae, Rasu, Alvin, his wife and his son.

Kudos to the organising team for the efforts they had put in to make this race a wonderful experience that will be etched in our memories forever.

We were truly inspired by the qualities of the leadership team under the safe hands of Zul, Salma and Norman. Special thanks to Zhong Hao, Joseph Chong and Clement Chio for their invaluable support on the day of the race. 

Written By: Valliappan Selvamani

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'Meet the EXCO' Monday: Treasurer Wee Chee Sian

Welcome to our Meet the EXCO series where we share a little about our EXCO members every other Monday.

Today, we are introducing our Treasurer, Wee Chee Sian. Organised, steady and meticulous, Chee Sian is the perfect person to take care of our money matters. Let's find out more about what he has to say! 

1. What might the club members be surprised to know about you?

I was never athletic in school. I became hooked on running long distances (I've taken part in marathons before) only after I started working. Then, I stopped running so frequently after suffering from a slipped disc, ouch! Later, I put on weight, oops!

2. How long have you been with Anchorvale TMC? 

I attended my first chapter meeting on 14 September 2013 — you do the maths! It was for exploration and fun initially. Then I did what the club requested whenever I can and voila! I was asked to be SAA (last term), and now Treasurer.

3. Can you tell us something about your responsibilities as Treasurer?

As Treasurer this term, I will keep accurate records of club's funds and expenses, and prepare budgets.

4. What do you like/enjoy most about Anchorvale TMC?

The laughter, the fun and the growth of all our members. You have so many people to learn from, to joke with, and who listen to you when you speak. What more can I ask for? I like to see members enjoying themselves at activities I help to set up during bonding sessions. Making people happy makes me happy. 

5. What do you wish other people knew about Anchorvale TMC/being a toastmasters?

Participation from everyone is encouraged, always! It is vibrant. You won't want to miss any of our meetings and bonding activities. The club's culture is getting more vibrant, and will continue to become more exciting... I think our membership will expand.

6. How has being a toastmasters affected other areas of your life?

When people ask me what I usually do on weekends, I now have Toastmasters in my list of activities. This alone usually opens a floodgate of questions.

7. What is your personal philosophy?

Borrowing a quote from someone else: "Take care of the downside, for the upside will take care of itself."

Reflections on the Humorous Speech and Evaluation Contest, 22 Aug 2015

Photo by Sridhar Maroju

Hi everyone, most of you would have known about our annual Humourous Speech and Evaluation Contest on 22 August. It was truly an amazing afternoon showcasing the array of talents in our club and I'm sure everyone who participated enjoyed themselves thoroughly, as can be seen from the photos on Facebook. It would not have been possible without the organisers and helpers who willingly took the time and effort to ensure that everything ran smoothly. 

Co-organiser Karthik shares his thoughts below:

When our president Zulhafni asked me to take up a co-organising chair role for the contest, I knew nothing about the role. But now, after the contest I can confidently say that I can co-organize or organize such contests with an ease. All this was possible because of the guidance from the supportive exco team and a strong organising committee.  

One thing that amused me was the quick response by our contestants in reserving their speaking slots, which were almost booked within one day :)  

The organising committee was the greatest asset — their timely assistance made every thing run smoothly. I enjoyed a lot organising together with them. Kudos to you guys!  

One more thing to share: This time around, we have tried a different way of catering food, which we have not done in our club contest before, and received a positive feedback on that. Feeling good about that.  

Special thanks to Organising Chair (Alice) and Contest Chair (Salma) for their support and guidance throughout. I learned a lot from both of them. 

Clearly, Toastmasters is not just about public speaking, but also about learning a variety of life and leadership skills. Everyone is welcome to take part! One of our newest members, Linda, did just that:

This is my first time to help organise such an event in Anchorvale Toastmasters Club. Initially, I was confused about my role (SAA), but thanks to Karthik, Alice and Salma who prepared documents and the briefing before the contest started, I felt more confident. Also, Valliappan, with his experience as SAA before, guided the rest of the team along the way. I can say the contest was a great success! I was laughing all the way, that's for sure! :)  

Bravo to all the teams and participants who have contributed in one way or another. It's a really great experience and certainly a good memory of my time with the Anchorvale TMC community.

 It's heartening to see everyone rallying to make the contest a success! Congratulations to all the winners and I, for one, am looking forward to the next contest!

'Meet the EXCO' Monday: SAA Debanada Patro

Welcome to our Meet the EXCO series where we share a little about our EXCO members every other Monday. 

Today, we are going to meet our Sergeant-At-Arms, Debanada Patro. From day one, Deb has greatly entertained us with his sense of humour and deadpan delivery of his jokes. He is always willing to help out with club activities and is a familiar friendly face among the members. Let's find out more about what he has to say!

1. Tell us a little something surprising about yourself.
I have a childhood dream to run my own business. In fact, in 2000 I took a break from work for about a year and started an Internet cafe. The shop included a cafe, 5 pool tables and 20 internet stations. However, running a business was hard and I lost everything. Then, it was back to the IT profession.

2. How long have you been with Anchorvale TMC?  

I am "one year old" in Anchorvale TMC. My company has its own club, but due to work challenges I don't have time to attend their meetings. I am so lucky to have a club near my home and can attend the meetings during weekends. My passion to learn and regular attendance eventually led me to join the EXCO.

3. Can you tell me something about your responsibilities as SAA?

As Sergeant-At-Arms, I attend to club property and coordinate club meetings. Everything I do as SAA supports the club's mission.

4. What do you like/enjoy most about Anchorvale TMC?

Anchorvale TMC is unique and most importantly I learn while having fun. As it is a non-profit organization and open to all, I really hope that others can take this opportunity to learn while having fun too. I am keen to keep up the legendary activities that we have and maintain the club's success.
I see that we have positive competition, which spurs everyone to put 100% in their speeches. What that means is, this club will produce many international champions. Obviously, this is a good thing.

5. How has being a toastmasters affected other areas of your life?

I am very attached to my family, like most other people. Since I attend most of the chapter meetings every alternate Saturday, my family members feel they have "lost" me for 8 hours every month! But over time they have gotten used to it.

6. What is your personal philosophy?

I am happy to be me and not anyone else.

7. What is one thing you cannot live without/cannot resist?

I can't live without love - for love is the single source for air, food and light.

'Meet the EXCO' Monday: VPM Riz Masurekar

Welcome to our Meet the EXCO series where we share a little about our EXCO members every other Monday.

Today, we are introducing our VP Membership, Riz Masurekar. He is no stranger to being in the EXCO as he was Treasurer in the outgoing EXCO. Riz never fails to inspire the audience with his impressive oratory skills and charismatic personality. Let's find out more about what he has to say!

1. Tell us a little something surprising/unusual about yourself.

 

Let me share a life-changing moment with you all. I was a terrible student in my engineering course, always flunking and barely scraped through the years. Those years of consistent failures and constant taunts shattered my self-esteem. However in the final year, we had a course, Business Management, in which I found myself naturally excelling in. Towards the end of my course, I confided in the professor of the course: “Sir, I wonder whether I would ever be as successful as Hiren (the class topper).” 

 

The professor looked straight into my eyes and replied: “I have no doubt that you will eventually be more successful than Hiren. Because, while he can do his tasks very well, you have the ability to get people to do tasks very well. And corporations always recognise and reward people who can get other people to achieve goals.”

 

I was dumbstruck and thought he was pulling a fast one on me. Now after 20 years, whenever I recall this conversation, I realise his knowledge about corporate organisations was correct.

 

2. How long have you been with Anchorvale TMC?

 

I joined Anchorvale TMC in October 2013 and won the Best Table Topics in my first meeting. That had an encouraging impact on me. Also, right from the start, the warmth and friendliness of Salma, Sathya, Roger, Thomas and others really touched me and made me realise — this is the club where I want to be. In 2014, Roger and Sathya tactfully convinced me on why they believed in me as an ideal choice as the Club Treasurer. I couldn’t refuse my friends and the rest is history.

 

3. Can you tell me something about your responsibilities as VPM?

 

As the VP Membership for 2015/16, my key responsibilities are to:

1. Retain existing members along with their enthusiasm by understanding and fulfilling their needs.
2. Plan a Membership Building Strategy to expand our membership strength
3. Invite new guests to join by welcoming them with the same warmth, friendliness and clarity that I got when I first walked in.

Frankly, for me, it’s never been about the role. It’s always about the goal. I love the glint of hope

and excitement in the eyes of a first-timer when I explain to them how Toastmasters can help them

find their own voice!

 

4. What do you like/enjoy most about Anchorvale TMC?

 

Anchorvale TMC is like my second home. I have not seen any other place where members are

genuinely concerned about the development of other members and voluntarily get involved to support

others. I have met some of my best friends in this club: Sathya, Roger, Salma etc. Zul and Norman remind me of my younger days (which were not too long ago). I love their youthful company. Chee Sian, Deb, Hareesh etc. have deeply impressed me with their simplicity and commitment. Suresh and Thomas have consistently appreciated and encouraged me at contests.

 

5. What do you wish other people knew about being a toastmasters?

 

I would prefer people to understand that Toastmasters is not only about personal development. It is also about getting involved in the development of others. It’s nice to hear people applauding you, but it is even better to see people applauding someone whom you have helped to improve.

 

6. What is the best/worst thing to happen since you joined Anchorvale TMC/becoming a toastmasters?

 

Best Things:

1. I made so many good friends and met many well-wishers at Anchorvale TMC. I couldn’t have asked for more.
2. In 2014, I surged all the way to the District finals of the Humorous Speech Contest. At that level, it wasn’t me any more. It was about representing Anchorvale TMC.

Worst Things:

Are you kidding? This is Anchorvale, the place for only the best people and best moments! Haha!

 

7. What is your personal philosophy?

1.  Losers quit when they are tired. Winners quit when they have won.
2. Keep working silently and let your success make all the noise
3. A talented individual can with a match. But a united team can win a tournament.

8. What are your most overused word or phrase?

 

You don’t want to know some of the swear-words in Hindi, do you? Haha! On a serious note, one of my most overused word is “Hello” because it’s the best word to know someone.

 

9. What is one thing you cannot live without/cannot resist?

 

My wife, lah. (And no, I didn't say that because I heard the faint click of a Colt M191 gun behind me. LOL!)

[Recap] 74th Chapter Meeting, 15 August 2015

Our 'youngest' toastmaster shares his experience of his first meeting. 

Text by Thomas Lee

Photos by Norman Tan and Zulhafni Zulkeflee

I had found Anchorvale TMC after moving to Sengkang recently. Feeling intrigued about the club, I signed up and attended my first meeting on Saturday.

The meeting started with Toastmaster of the Day, Rasu, explaining the agenda of the meeting. Club President Zulhafni then gave his opening address about stepping out of your comfort zone. A well- spoken speech, it really resonated with the audience.

Project Speeches

We had three project speeches.


I gave my first speech (Project 1 - Ice-breaker), where I shared stories of my grandfather, father and myself. It was great to see that 40% of the crowd were visitors. This means Toastmasters is quickly gaining attention and generally people are getting more interested to become better speakers.


Sridhar (Project 2: Organise your speech) started the speech by asking how many smokers there are in this room; hilariously, no one raised his hands. It's an interesting sign that smoking is not popular nowadays and more people are health-conscious. Sridhar then continued with an emotional speech about how smoking affected him as he shared intimate details about about his family.


Ricky (Project 3: Get to the point) gave us a high-energy and inspiring speech about two questions we frequently encounter: "Who are you?" and "What do you do?" It was an inspiring speech that spurred all of us to find meaning in our jobs instead of just working for money.

Table topics

The table topic master had prepared an array of “independence themed” topics. It was well-received, with 8 volunteers for this segment. I have not seen such high volunteering rate in other clubs for table topics. I’m really encouraged by the enthusiastic members and guests to 'step out and try try try'.

Thomas (not me, but 'Thomas senior') impressed the audience when he spoke about successful women in politics and won the best table topic speaker.

Evaluation

Chee Sian was spotted busily preparing his evaluation during refreshment time.A few other members good-naturedly joked that his evaluation was bound to impress the audience. True enough, Chee Sian’s evaluation was uplifting and accurately pointed out areas of improvements. It was no wonder he was voted as the best evaluator of the day. 

Closing

President Zul took the opportunity to ask the visitors what they think of the club. Some of the visitors were visiting a Toastmasters club for the very first time and found the session to be light-hearted, fun and welcoming. To them, I say: Wait till you start preparing for your speech and feeling the stress and anxiety standing in front of the crowd…haha!

Head over to our Facebook page to see more pictures! Want to join our next meeting? Get the details here!



Best Project Speech : Ricky

Best Project Evaluation: Chee Sian

Best Table Topic: Thomas Selvaraj