The purpose of the "Ah" Counter is to note words and sounds used as a "crutch" or "pause filler" by anyone who speaks during the meeting. Words may be inappropriate interjections such as "and", "well", "but", "so", "you know", etc. Sounds may be "ah", "um", "er", etc. You should also note when a speaker repeats a word or phrase such as "I, I" or "This means, this means..."

Prior to the meeting...

• Prepare a brief explanation of the duties of the "Ah" Counter for the benefit of the guests.

Upon arrival at the meeting...

• Make a list of everyone present.

During the meeting...

• When introduced prior to Table Topics, explain the role of the "Ah" Counter. In some clubs, small fines are levied on members who do or not do certain things. (For example, members are fined who use "crutch" words, not wearing their Toastmasters pin to the meeting, etc.) If your club levies fines, explain the fine schedule.
• Throughout the meeting, listen to everyone (except guests) for "crutch" sounds and long pauses used as fillers and not as a necessary part of sentence structure. Write down how many "crutch" sounds or words each person used during all portions of the meeting.
• When called on by the General Evaluator during the evaluation segment of the meeting, standby your chair and give your report.

After the meeting...

• Give the completed "Ah" Counter's report to the Treasurer (for collection of fines if appropriate).

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