One of my groups meets in a small room and it is noticeable when a separate conversation is going on in the room. We have several members who can't hear well and so they chat a little too loud to their neighbor, thinking they are quiet. The best way I have seen to control it is to stop the meeting till they notice and are quiet. It's up to the speaker not to try to talk over them. They get the gentle message and the extra chatting usually stops.

I too loved the paint ball gun idea.

[QUOTE=Sherryquilts;8139236]LOL, and request that the phone be put on speaker so that everyone can participate

I like both of these ideas.

Sounds like something I would have done. Thanks for the chuckle.

How about one of these air horns: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Tt04ZSlbZ0 Give it a loud honk when someone gets out of line. Maybe even walk around the room with it giving people the hairy eyeball.

In our Guild, we usually start out by telling the members present that we hope, with their help, that the business portion of the meeting will go smoothly so we can get to the fun and lunch afterwards. A wise man once said that any meeting that goes over an hour will lose people's interest. Also, if the meeting leader has something to make noise to grab attention back.

CindyB like your idea--as a retired, teacher the thing that I tried to use was to lower my voice and continue with the lesson. It didn't take long for the talkers to wonder what I was talking about.

Oh, you are so bad. Had me laughing over your answer (I'm sorta bad myself)

Iceblossom, you are a true diplomat. Ever think about Washington D.C.? I'd love to attend one of your classes! My pet peeve has always been people (adults!!) who can't seem to arrive on time for anything.

Paintballs, eavesdropping and an airhorn, oh my! Love this group!