Linguists of Listowel

Speaker Rich Boertien welcomes guest Marilyn Hynd to Toastmasters.

President Diane Bender congratulates Jessica Kelly on completing her 10th speech March 4, 2010

Evaluator Brian and Mentor Audrey congratulate Rhea on her second speech.


Linguists of Listowel – LISTEN, LAUGH, LEARN & LEAD
Area 66 – District 86 – Western Division – Region VI – Club #9016
Linguistsoflistowel.blogspot.com
Area Governor: Diana Snowden Division Governor: Glenn Oxford
Date: Thursday March 4, 2010
Meeting Theme: Oxymorons

Call meeting to order (7:15): Heidi Menzi
Chairperson: Brent Jemmett Agenda Review:
Joke of the Day: Keith McCluskie
Loyal Toast & Timer: Sharon D’Arcey Grammarian: Diane Bender "Seriously Funny"
Literary Corner: Audrey Orth "Olympics"
Speech #1:CC #2 Rhea Longman "Moving, Moving"
Speech #2:#1 Entertaining Rich Boertien "Along Interstate 75"
Speech #3: CC#10 Jessica Kelly "ROAK"
Table Topics Master: Sharon Diehl
Evaluator: Brian Camacho
Evaluator: Keith McCluskie Evaluator: Leo Brisebois
General Evaluator Heidi Menzi
Guest Comments: Marilyn Hynd
Reports from Timer & Grammarian –1 minute each
Award for Best Table Topics, Keith McCluskie
For the Good of Toastmasters,
Next Week’s Program Review,
Chairperson’s Closing Remarks: Brent Jemmett

Snack & Refreshments: Sharon D’Arcey Adjournment (9.00)
Dates to Mark on Your Calendar
March 10: Area Contest Walkerton, Jubilee Hall
March 26: Division Contest University of Waterloo
Apr 16-18:Spring Conference at Meadowvale Conference Centre in Mississauga
March 4: Executive Meeting
March 11: Irish Blessings Open House March 18: Lessons Children Teach Us

Feb 25, 2010

A few poses by president Diane Bender

Sharon Diehl checks with timer Sharon D'Arcey about the length of her speech.

George Nichol presented Table Topics, Brent Jemmett was the winner.

Sharon Diehl presented Speech #2 in her CC Manual

The title of her speech was "Keeper of the Gate"

Keith McCluskie VP Membership welcomes Rhea Longman to the Linguists of Listowel Toastmasters club. Audrey Orth will be her mentor.

Audrey Orth and Rhea Longman

Linguists of Listowel – LISTEN, LAUGH, LEARN & LEAD
Area 66 – District 86 – Western Division – Region VI – Club #9016
Linguistsoflistowel.blogspot.com
Area Governor: Diana Snowden Division Governor: Glenn Oxford
Date: Thursday Feb 25, 2010
Meeting Theme: Let’s Get Heart Smart

Call meeting to order (7:15): Rich Boertien
Chairperson: Marie McCutcheon DTM
Agenda Review:
Loyal Toast & Timer: Sharon D’Arcey Grammarian–word of the day:GELID Brent Jemmett CC
Literary Corner: Audrey Orth ATMG
Induction Ceremony Keith McCluskie
Speech #1:Icebreaker Rhea Longman
Speech #2: Organize your speech Sharon Diehl
Table Topics Master: George Nichol
Evaluator: Rich Boertien
Evaluator: Diane Bender ACG,CL
Reports from Timer & Grammarian –1 minute each
Award for Best Table Topics: Brent Jemmett
For the Good of Toastmasters
Chairperson’s Closing Remarks Marie McCutcheon DTM

Snack & Refreshments: Marie McCutcheon DTM
Adjournment (9.00)
Dates to Mark on Your Calendar
March 4: Executive Meeting Theme: Oxymorons March 11:“Open House” Irish Blessing
March 18: Lessons Children Teach Us March 25: Miracles Never Cease
Club Officer Training Date: February 27, 2010 (Sat)
Time: 9:00am – 12:30 pm Place: University of Waterloo,
200 University Avenue West,
Monday, March 1, 2010, 7-9 pm. Hanover, RESCHEDULED
March 10: Area Contest, Jubilee Hall 111 Jackson St. Walkerton
March 26: Division Contest University of Waterloo
Apr 16-18: Spring Conference at Meadowvale Conference Centre in Mississauga
One Speech Per Month is recommended
Please Bring Your Own Cup/Mug/Water Bottle to Meetings
Remember to Bring your CL Manuals to Every Meeting

Winners of Evaluation Contest Leo Brisebois Second, Jessica Kelly First, Brent Jemmett Third.

Winners of International Contest: Leo Brisebois Third, Marie McCutcheon First, Brent Jemmett Second


Linguists of Listowel Toastmasters Club

Club 9016 *Area 66* District 86*Western Division

International and Evaluation Speech Contest

Feb 18, 2010



Evaluation Contest Chairperson………………………………. Brian Camacho CC

Introduction of guests

Chief Judge……………………………………………………………… Diane Bender ACG,CL

Introduction of Target Speaker

Evaluation Contest Contestants Speaking Order:

Rich Boertien
Leo Brisebois
Brent Jemmett
Jessica Kelly
Marie McCutcheon
Keith McCluskie
Interview with Target Speaker

***Break with refreshments***



International Contest Chairperson………………………..Brian Camacho CC

Chief Judge…………………………………………………………….........Diane Bender ACG,CL

International Contest Contestants ………………………Speaking Order:

Rich Boertien
Leo Brisebois
Brent Jemmett
Marie McCutcheon
Keith McCluskie

Interviews with contestants

Announcement of Evaluation Contest winners

Announcement of International Speech Contest Winners

Anything for the good of Toastmasters

Chairperson’s closing remarks…………………..Brian Camacho CC

Feb 4 2010

Keith presented his Sales Training Speech from the Professional Speakers manual. Wayne Stoltz was Table Topics Master.

Leo and Rhea

Sharon speaks with her mentor Audrey.




Linguists of Listowel – LISTEN, LAUGH, LEARN & LEAD
Area 66 – District 86 – Western Division – Region VI – Club #9016
Linguistsoflistowel.blogspot.com & toastmasters86.org
Area Governor: Diana Snowden Division Governor: Glenn Oxford
Date: Thursday February 4, 2010
Meeting Theme: Dancing with the Stars
7:15 Call meeting to order : Audrey Orth
Chairperson: Diane Bender, ATMG
Last weeks Theme was “It’s about time”. Since we had to cancel last week I would say It’s about time for the weather to get better- we don’t want to miss our toastmaster meetings! Wiarten Willie saw his shadow on Tuesday so we are looking at 6 more weeks of winter. This weeks them is dancing with the stars. Recently, the stars have really pulled together some amazing concerts to raise money for Haiti.
First, I would like to reflect on this. As we listen to the horrible news of the devastation caused by the earthquake in Haiti, we feel we are lucky that we are so fortunate to have such a warm and supportive life here in Canada and especially here at toastmasters which has clubs around the world. More than 750 Toastmasters are located in the Port Au Prince area, one of hardest hit regions.
Everyone is digging deep into their pockets to help our brothers and sisters in Haiti. We hope that the humanitarian organizations can help Haiti with rebuilding their country and help the people with catastrophic injuries to recover. I am sure Toastmaster members will be playing a leadership role.
I would like read an exerpt from a speech from an international speech contestant in Haiti last year.
"I was motivated because I pictured in my head, my country and I wanted to give a better picture of Haiti and, more importantly, I was interested in the idea of returning with the prize”
She goes on to say “By entering, I had the firm idea of changing the image of Haiti outside”.
“Within Toastmasters, leadership is performed. At the Toastmasters, Haiti, we advocate a different vision of leadership, the spirit of sharing and empathy and that spirit is reflected in the workplace: being available, being responsible for agreeing to perform a task or mission, get involved, without complaint. The spirit of sharing strengthens the belief that TM is doing something that elevates the soul.”
As we enjoy our meeting this evening, remember that we are part of a worldwide organization that is continually helping people to learn and grow and step out of their comfort zones. We are family.

When you are dancing: To know what you are doing is an advantage. To look like you know what you are doing is essential.

Joke of the Day: Sharon Diehl

The secret of getting ahead is getting started.
Loyal Toast & Timer: Brian Camacho, ATMB

On Monday our newest member Rhea helped Jane and I judge the grade 5 speech contestants at central public school.
Grammarian: Rhea Longman gave us the word"deleterious" which is an adjective which means harmful.
Sixth Speech Award Presentation : We have a Speechcraft member from last fall who has diligently been accepting demanding roles in our toastmaster meetings Rich Boertine. There is a saying:
If you don't know where you are going,
you won't know when you get there.
Rich has a goal and he joined toastmasters to get there. Keep up the good work!

7:35 Speaker #1: (5 – 7) Jane Stoltz, ATMS #1 Humorously Speaking

7:45 Speaker #2: (15-20 min) Keith Stoltz, ATMS Professional Speakers Manual - Sales training speech.

8:10 Table Topics: Wayne Stoltz winner was Jessica Kelly.
Evaluator #1: Rich Boertien
Evaluator #2 Brent Jemmett
There is a saying “A journey of a thousand miles starts with knowing where you are going.”
Everybody uses short term goals. Spoken or unspoken. Jessica Kelly has been listening closely this evening as general evaluator. She will tell us if we met our goals and give us some suggestions on what we could do better.
General Evaluator: Jessica Kelly
Officer Training Reports
Diane, Brian, Brent, Jane
District training is huge. I really felt like I was dancing with the stars. There were excellent motivational speakers. There were over 50 people in the Presidents workshop which was very informative. There were many concerns about membership and keeping the magic number of 20 people in order to earn your dcp points. I went to the workshop on High performance leadership. You can begin it at any time but you must complete it to get your Distinguished Toastmaster designation. Biggest surprise was I could have got it for being your president this year. Keep that in mind if you are considering running for president in May. Basically you need to lead a team to reach a specific goal. I really enjoyed learning about HPL and will get my books at the next conference.


Chairperson’s Closing Remarks Diane Bender, ATMG
In 1955 Dr Smedley wrote” while most of us may have entered Toastmasters to learn to make speeches, that benefit is but the beginning of the good which may come to us, and the good we may do for mankind.”
Once again I would like to reflect on Haiti. I am sure the toastmasters there are taking a leadership role and stepping out of their comfort zones as Haitians seek to rebuild their country.


Snacks Rich Boertien
9:00 Adjournment

January 21, 2010

Hi Everybody:

Anybody who missed last week's meeting, missed out on some fabulous Prescriptions for Living throughout the entire meeting.

Welcome to Rhea Longman our newest Toastmaster member. Thank you to Sharon D'Arcey for bringing her guest Meaghen Pettapiece.

Sharon D'Arcey gave speech #2, entitled Making a Difference on Volunteering in Big Brothers & Sisters Organization. Rich Boertien gave speech #6, a humourous speech on memories about Country Music and George Nichol have speech #4 on Presenting a Hockey Award.
Our word for the evening was incipient (adjective), meaning vowing to make a big change this year. Jessica Kelly gave a great reading on Count Your Blessings and not your Problems. Winner of the Table Topics was Rhea Longman.
Jane Stoltz


Linguists of Listowel – LISTEN, LAUGH, LEARN & LEAD
Area 66 – District 86 – Western Division – Region VI – Club #9016
Linguistsoflistowel.blogspot.com & toastmasters86.org
Area Governor: Diana Snowden Division Governor: Glenn Oxford
Date: Thursday January 21, 2010
Meeting Theme: Prescriptions for Life
7:15 Call meeting to order : --------- Sharon Diehl
Chairperson: ----------------- Diane Bender, ATMG
Theme tonight is prescriptions for life.
Millions of people each year want to know how to make a difference in their lives and the lives of others.
If you’re like me you want to make a difference and have a positive impact but maybe you don’t know what to do, where to go, when the right time is, or how to get others involved.
In Toastmasters we believe that improving your communication and leadership skills is a great start. It gives you a straightforward, uncomplicated and down to earth process for getting YOU involved and also to help you get OTHERS involved. Each meeting is a learning experience- You might discover something amazing, something incredible, something unbelievable.
You see new members gain confidence and experienced members challenge themselves to step out of their comfort zones and make a difference in their home, their community and their world.
I look forward to hearing your prescriptions for life this evening.

Fact: 18 people die every day waiting for a transplant. Sign your donor card tell your family your wishes.

Joke of the Day: ------------------- Brent Jemmett, CC
Guest Introductions: Rhea Longman, Megan Pettapiece Fact: Plant a tree. 1 acre of trees produces enough oxygen for 18 people every day. Trees add beauty increase property values and reduce stress.

Loyal Toast & Timer: ------- Keith McCluskie
Fact: A smile is a universal expression of happiness and recognized as such by all cultures. Smiling is contagious. Happiness leads to smiling and smiling leads to happiness.

Grammarian: ------------- Jane Stoltz, ATMS "Insipient"
Fact: Eat to live, don’t live to eat. “French fries are the most widely eaten vegetable”

Literary Corner: ----------- Jessica Kelly
Speaker #1: -------- Sharon D’Arcey
One minute written evaluations by members
Speaker #2: -------- Rich Boertien
One minute written evaluations by members
Speaker #3: --------- George Nichol, CC
One minute written evaluations by members
Fact: Mother Theresa said if you can’t feed a hundred people , then just feed one.

8:15 Table Topics: ---------------- Jane Stoltz, ATMS
Evaluator #1: -------------- Audrey Orth, DTM
Evaluator #2: ----------------- Brian Camacho CC
Evaluator #3: ----------------- Keith Stoltz, ATMS

Fact: the majority of children in low income neighborhoods often lack libraries and books stores. Go through your bookshelves and pull out books that you will never read again. Pack a box and donate them.

General Evaluator: -------------- Brent Jemmett, CC
Reports from Timer & Grammarian
Award for Best Table Topics
Anything for the Good of Toastmasters Guest Comments
Chairperson’s Closing Remarks Diane Bender, ATMG Conclusion: I’ve enjoyed hearing your prescriptions for life this evening. Toastmasters will empower you and stretch you. They will provide a sense of accomplishment, reward you in ways you never expected and infect you with an enthusiasm that is so contagious that you will want to share with your friends and get them involved. Your executive is off to Officer training this week and will come back enthusiastic and brimming full of ideas. Have a great week. Meeting is adjourned.

Inspirational Thought for the Day:
Take twelve fine, full-grown months; see that these are thoroughly free from old memories of bitterness, rancor and hate.
Cleanse them completely from every clinging spite; pick off all specks of pettiness and littleness; in short, see that these months are freed from all the past-have them fresh and clean as when they first came from the great storehouse of Time. Cut these months into thirty or thirty-one equal parts.
Do not attempt to make up the whole batch at one time (so many persons spoil the entire lot this way) but prepare one day at a time. Into each day put equal parts of faith, patience, courage, work (some people omit this ingredient and so spoil the flavor of the rest), hope, fidelity, liberality, kindness, rest (leaving this out is like leaving the oil out of the salad dressing- don't do it), prayer, meditation, and one well-selected resolution. Put in about one teaspoonful of good spirits, a dash of fun, a pinch of folly, a sprinkling of play, and a heaping cupful of good humor. 9:00 Adjournment
Dates to Mark on Your Calendar
Jan 28: It's About Time, workshop with condensed agenda
Jan 30: Officer Training in London
Jan 30: Division W Officer Training – to be announced shortly
Feb 3 or 10: Area Evaluation Workshop – to be announced shortly
Feb 4: Dancing With the Stars
Feb 11: Puppy Love
Feb 22: Hanover Club International & Evaluation Contest
Feb. 16: Mt Forest Club International+ Evaluation Contest
Feb 18: International & Evaluation Club Contest
Feb 25: Snow Date for International & Evaluation Club Contest
Mar 10: Tentative Area Contest
Mar 26: Tentative Division Contest
Fact: 70% of people say that no matter how hard they try they never seem to have enough time to do everything they need to do. Turn off the TV- instead of watching reruns of friends go make some.
Fact: Prepare today for any kind of tomorrow. Disasters are never planned, but they will happen. They are inevitable. Being prepared is the only thing you can do.
Fact: the number 1 killer of people ages 4 to 37 is car accidents You can’t get a speeding ticket if you don’t speed.
Diana Snowden 364-3346
Feb 10 Pentacostal church 7-9
Workshop on Judging and Evaluations
Guest Speakers $5

January 14, 2009

Hi Toastmaster Members:

What a great meeting last evening, everyone was enthusiastic with Let It Snow...
We had 2 returning guests and 3 terrific speakers. Heidi Menzi did her #9 speech on Persuade with Power..There's something wrong with our hospital system, Jessica Kelly did her #8 speech on Using Visual Aids...informing us on how to read the food labels and Keith Stoltz presented cc#9, a speech that he will chair to an organization next week. The word of the evening was "vociferous" (boisterous) which was used many times. The winner of the Table Topics was our guest Marilyn Hynds with her entertaining short speech on the new Olympic sport, catching snowflakes on your tongue!!!
Thank you again for making our guests feel welcome!


The Inspirational Thought for the Day:
Smile - it makes a world of difference.
Dance - who knows when you won't be able to.
Cry - holding those emotions in, is bad for you.
Hug - helps you and helps another.
Laugh - what's the point in hiding happiness?
Live - because life is everything.

Jane Stoltz
VP of Education

Call meeting to order (7:15): Audrey Orth, ATMG
Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home. ~Edith Sitwell

Chairperson: Diane Bender, ATMG

Joke of the Day: - Keith McCluskie is working from his CC manual. He would agree with this quote by Carl Reiner “A lot of people like snow. I find it to be an unnecessary freezing of water.”

Guest Introductions: Rhea Longman, Marilyn Hynds

Loyal Toast & Timer: ---George Nichol
A snowflake is one of God's most fragile creations, but look what they can do when they stick together! ~Author Unknown

Sunshine is delicious, rain is refreshing, wind braces us up, snow is exhilarating; there is really no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather. ~John Ruskin
Grammarian: ----- Sharon Diehl
The first fall of snow is not only an event, it is a magical event. You go to bed in one kind of a world and wake up in another quite different, and if this is not enchantment then where is it to be found? ~J.B. Priestley
Literary Corner: Jane Stoltz, ATMS

Speaker #1: CC #9 Persuade with power Heidi Menzi “Persuade the Hospitals”

Speaker #2: CC #8 Get Comfortable with Visual Aids Jessica Kelly “Interesting facts about Food Labels”

Keith will present his Vision of Victory speech during the luncheon at the Annual General meeting next Wednesday.
Keith’s favorite saying is. Live everyday like it is your last and one day you will be right.
Green light 13 yellow 14 red 15 minutes
Speaker #3: CC #9 Persuade with Power Keith Stoltz, ATMS


Don't knock the weather; nine-tenths of the people couldn't start a conversation if it didn't change once in a while. ~Kin Hubbard
Table Topics : - Brent Jemmett, CC Winner of table topics, with the new Olympic sport catching snowflakes on your tongue was guest Marilyn Hynes

Evaluator #1 Keith McCluskie
Evaluator #2 Brian Camacho ATMB
Evaluator #3: Audrey Orth

There's one good thing about snow, it makes your lawn look as nice as your neighbor's. ~Clyde Moore
Quizmaster: Sharon D’Arcey

General Evaluator: Rich Boertien
Chairperson’s Closing Remarks Diane Bender, ATMG
I do not participate in any sport with ambulances at the bottom of the hill. ~Erma Bombeck

Executive Meeting to Follow
Dates to Mark on Your Calendar
Jan 21: Prescriptions for Life
Jan 28: It's About Time, A Workshop Meeting with condensed agenda
Feb 4: Dancing With the Stars
Feb 11: Puppy Love
Feb 12: Hanover Club International & Evaluation Contest
Feb. 13: Mt Forest Club International+ Evaluation Contest
Feb 18: International & Evaluation Club Contest
Feb 25: Snow Date for International & Evaluation Club Contest
Mar 10: Tentative Area Contest
Mar 26: Tentative Division Contest

January 7, 2010

What a great meeting last evening, everyone present sure caught the fever!
We had 2 quests and 2 terrific ice breaker speakers, a presentation, humorous literary corner, the word of the evening was "quotidian" (occurring or returning daily) which was used 7 times. The winner of the Table Topics was our guest Rhea Longman.
Thank you for making our guests feel welcome....they just might be joining!!!!
Be sure to be included for next week's Let It Snow meeting!
An executive meeting to follow.


Jane Stoltz
VP of Education


Linguists of Listowel – LISTEN, LAUGH, LEARN & LEAD
Area 66 – District 86 – Western Division – Region VI – Club #9016
linguistsoflistowelblogspot.com & toastmasters86.org
Area Governor: Diana Snowden Division Governor: Glenn Oxford
Date: Thursday January 7, 2010
Meeting Theme: Catch the Fever

Call meeting to order (7:15): Chairperson: Diane Bender

Guest Introduction:Audrey Orth introduced her guest Marilyn and Rich introduced Rhea longman. Loyal Toast & Timer: Brent Jemmett
Grammarian: Jane Stoltz introduced the word quotidian. Literary Corner: Audrey Orth
Speaker #1: Ice Breaker speech: "Monday, Monday" Sharon Diehl
Speaker #2: Ice Breaker speech: "W5" Sharon D’Arcey
Speaker #3: advanced manual Management speech #4 "Progress Review" Leo Brisebois
Table Topics George Nichol Remedies for assorted ailments were commented upon. Rhea Longman won the award
Evaluator #1: Keith McCluskie
Evaluator #2: Jane Stoltz
Evaluator #3: Keith Stoltz Quizmaster: Heidi Menzi
General Evaluator: Marie McCutcheon Reports from Timer & Grammarian
Award for Best Table Topics
Anything for the Good of Toastmasters
Guest Comments
Chairperson’s Closing Remarks Diane Bender
Inspirational Thought for the Day: Rich Boertien
Adjournment (9.00)

Dates to Mark on Your Calendar
Jan 14: Let It Snow....
Jan 21: Prescriptions for Life
Jan 28: It's About Time, A Workshop Meeting,
We need a person to do a one 45 minute workshop
Feb. 16: Mt Forest Club International+ Evaluation contest
Feb 18: International & Evaluation Club Contest - Target Speaker Booked
Feb 25: Snow Date for International & Evaluation Club Contest





Linguists of Listowel – LISTEN, LAUGH, LEARN & LEAD
Area 66 – District 86 – Western Division – Region VI – Club #9016
linguistsoflistowelblogspot.com & toastmasters86.org
Area Governor: Diana Snowden Division Governor: Glenn Oxford
Date: Thursday January 7, 2010
Meeting Theme: Catch the Fever

Call meeting to order (7:15): ___________
Chairperson: Diane Bender
Joke of the Day: ___________
Guest Introduction: ___________
1. Loyal Toast & Timer: Brent Jemmett believes in Year-round exercise. He loves sports and often talks about his experiences at toastmasters.
2. Grammarian:Jane Stoltz Social enrichment. Jane loves being around people who are trying to improve their communication skills. She shares the same ideals and values. Literary Corner: Audrey Orth Is an excellent mentor She can give Expert advice. She is always right there to make suggestions. No more flying blind when trying to something for the first time .
3.
Speaker #1: Sharon Diehl
Speaker #2: Sharon D’Arcey Speaker #3: Leo Brisebois
1. Table Topics George Nichol is our past president. He can help you with Self-acceptance. He had never been a president before but he stepped up to the plate and was ready to do do his best for this club. He was able to raise the membership to 20 members.
Evaluator #1: Keith McCluskie
Evaluator #2 : Brian Camacho
1. Evaluator #3: Keith Stoltz Quizmaster: Heidi Menzi is great at Goal setting. Setting a goal to write a speech and presenting it is a great confidence booster. If I can do this, what other things can I do? She is our sergeant at arms and is doing an awesome job.

General Evaluator:
Reports from Timer & Grammarian
Award for Best Table Topics
Anything for the Good of Toastmasters
Guest Comments
Chairperson’s Closing Remarks Diane Bender
Inspirational Thought for the Day: Rich Boertien
Adjournment (9.00)

Dates to Mark on Your Calendar
Jan 14: Let It Snow....
Jan 21: Prescriptions for Life
Jan 28: It's About Time, A Workshop Meeting,

Happy New Year. Welcome back to Toastmasters as we listen, laugh, learn and lead. Our theme tonight is Catch the fever. To me that means setting new goals and striving to reach them, both inside and outside of our Toastmasters club.
In many cultures and countries the month of January represents a new beginning as we set goals and try to keep New Year’s resolutions. Many of us reflect on the events of the last year and resolve to make the new year a better one as we commit to improving our lives and the lives of others.

10 years ago, I came to my first toastmaster meeting. Even though I knew I had to improve my speaking skills, it took a few invitations to psych myself up and actually come to toastmasters. All of the old memories started playing in my head. Would I make a fool of myself? Would people laugh at me? How was I ever going to figure out all of the toastmasters roles on the agenda? Maybe I should forget about the whole thing and resign myself to accepting my shyness the way it was, instead of putting myself through all this mental torture.

Then I realized that most of the problems I had in communicating all those years ago stemmed from my lack of knowledge. I simply ducked because I didn’t know what to do. But now as an adult, I was much more confident and had the power to ask questions. I could do this!
you can imagine how excited I was to receive my Advanced Communicator gold certificate in the mail yesterday.- It took a whole month to arrive! Oh well I was really too busy over Christmas to really worry about it being lost. Now it is here and I’m catching the fever to to get working on the leadership track at Toastmasters. I do have the old cl but now I’m working on the new competent leader manual. I encourage all of you to step out of your comfort zones and set new goals. It is often with one baby step at a time that we reach new levels of confidence in our speaking and communicating skills. Catch the fever.

Conclusion
I joined toastmasters after my children were grown up and I was retiring from the farrowing barns. I wanted to help sell computers on our home based computer store. I wanted to overcome my fear of speaking in front of a group. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to join toastmasters and to have had so much fun over the past 10 years. I often encourage others to join whether they are 18 or 80. Toastmasters can really make a difference in your life. Help them to catch the fever. Introduce a friend, relative or colleague to toastmasters, so that they too may experience a new beginning. You’ll bring out the best in yourself and help to bring out the best in others.

December 17, 2009

Speakers for the evening were Brian Camacho, who completed his final speech for his Advanced Communicator Bronze and Jane Stoltz who completed her second Competent Communicator manual. She also recieved a Select Distinguished award for her work as Area 66 Governor last year.

President Diane welcomed Tatiana to the meeting as a guest.

Diane Bender and Audrey Orth recieved their Advanced Communicator Gold bars for their name badges.

Linguists of Listowel – LISTEN, LAUGH, LEARN & LEAD
Area 66 – District 86 – Western Division – Region VI – Club #9016
linguistsoflistowelblogspot.com & toastmasters86.org
Area Governor: Diana Snowden Division Governor: Glenn Oxford
Date: Thursday December 17, 2009 – Christmas Potluck
Meeting Theme: Cat in the Hat

Call meeting to order (6:45): Keith Stoltz
Chairperson: Diane Bender
Welcome everyone

Introduce guests

Opening Remarks: I hope most of you are Dr Seuss enthusiasts- I certainly am
The Cat brings a cheerful form of chaos to a household of two young children one rainy day while their mother leaves them unattended. Bringing with him two creatures named Thing One and Thing Two, the Cat performs all sorts of wacky tricks to amuse the children. I hope you enjoy your dinner this evening and remember to let your inner child out tonight.
I have heard there are troubles of more than one kind.
Some come from ahead and some come from behind.
But I’ve bought a big bat. I’m all ready you see.
Now my troubles are going to have troubles with me!

Loyal Toast & Timer: Leo Brisebois .

“I like nonsense, it wakes up the brain cells. Fantasy is a necessary ingredient in living,
It’s a way of looking at life through the wrong end of a telescope.
Which is what I do and that enables you to laugh at life’s realities."
Grace: Audrey Orth
Dinner

Grammarian: Keith would have enjoyed wearing the cat costume in the movie. The Cat costume is made of Angora and human hair and was fitted with a cooling system. To keep Myers cool during the outdoor shoots, a portable air conditioner was available that connected a hose to the suit between shots. The tail and ears were battery operated.

He gave us the word Hornswoggle to use throughout the meeting. It was used 6 times.

Think left and think right and think low and think high
Oh! the Thinks you can think up if only you try!
Literary Corner: Heidi Menzi

Speaker #1: Going for a second CC Jane Stoltz
Speaker #2: Going for the Bronze Brian Camacho

"Today you are You; that is truer than true.
There is no one alive who is Youer than You."

Table Topics (gift exchange) George Nichol
Evaluator #1, written only Audrey Orth
Evaluator #2, written only Keith McCluskie

Quizmaster: Jessica Kelly
She presented certificates to two members who have had perfect attendance this fall. Keith McCluskie and Jane Stoltz.
Reports from Timer & Grammarian

Award for Best Table Topics & Perfect Attendance
Diane presented Sixth Speech Award certificates to Keith McCluskie, Heidi Menzi
Award Presentation for Select Distinguished Area (2008-2009) was presented to Jane Stoltz, past area governor. She attended monthly meetings in Toronto, visited Mount Forest Motivators, Toastmasters of Hanover, Top Talkers and her home club Linguists of Listowel. She chaired many contests and motivated others to step out of their comfort zones and participate.

Past President George Nichol gave ACG Award Presentations to Audrey Orth and Diane Bender
Anything for the Good of Toastmasters.
Brian Camacho, VP Public relations gave everyone his first newsletter. He is also recording most meetings and making DVD’s. This is an excellent opportunity for members to review their speaking skills.
Guest Comments were very postive.

Chairperson’s Closing Remarks Diane Bender
Dr. Seuss’s publisher supplied him with a list of 400 words, ones that the publisher thought children would be learning in school. His publisher told him to cut the list in half and to try and write an interesting enough book for children. Nine months later Dr. Seuss finished The Cat In The Hat, which used 223 words that appeared on the list plus 13 words that did not. Diane closed the meeting with “The Lost Dr. Seuss Poem.

Inspirational Thought for the Day:
"Don’t limit yourself. Many people limit themselves to what they think they can do.
You can go as far as your mind lets you. What you believe, remember, you can achieve." Mary Kay Ash
Adjournment (9.30)





Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!


December 10 meeting was cancelled because of inclement weather.

December 3, 2009

Linguists of Listowel: Listen, Laugh, Learn and Lead

There were a lot of fortunes told this evening by Chairperson Brian Camacho. Everyone participated with enthusiasm and excitement.
The theme was Fortune cookies.
Leo chose the word Faze which means disconcert. It was used at least 9 times. Sharon D'Arcey read an article about Confucious, the famous philosopher whose words of wisdom are found in many fortune cookies. Great job Sharon!
Brent Jemmett wowed us with his story telling abilities and
Richard Boertien presented speech #5 in his CC manual. He used excellent body language to demonstrate his love of curling- It almost made me want to try it again or at least go out and watch one of his games.
Table topics was all about making the most of your fortune and Brent Jemmett won. Keith, Audrey and Marie all gave excellent evaluations.
Next weeks meeting theme is the Cat in the Hat so come with some rhyming words and enjoy two ice breaker speeches. Heidi will also present speech #9 in her CC manual! Please make time in your busy christmas schedules to enjoy an evening with your toastmaster friends.
Diane Bender ACS/cl
President

Linguists of Listowel welcome new members

Rich Boertien is a recent graduate of speechcraft program. He enjoyed the opportunity to be chairperson November 26, 2009.

New members and mentors:

Front row Audrey Orth, Sharon Diehl, Sharon Darcey

Back row Rich Boertien, Diane Bender, Keith Stoltz


Theme: You'll See It When You Believe It


Chairperson: Rich Boertien
Call to Order: ____________Sharon Darcey
Toast & Timer: ____________Brent Jemmett
Grammarian: ______________Wayne Stoltz YEARN was used 7x throughout the evening
Literary Corner: ___________Sharon Diehl
Speaker #1: Keith McCluskie #6 Vocal Variety Competent Communicator Manual “A Night for a Backyard Campfire.”
Speaker #2: Jane Stoltz #8 Competent Communicator Manual title “Memory Sticks”
Toastmaster to Introduce Speakers & Evaluators only Diane Bender
Table Topics: Keith Stoltz He passed around a box of unusual parts and encouraged members to make a phone call describing their item, using the words “You’ll see it when you believe it” Best Table Topics Brent Jemmett
Evaluator #1: Audrey Orth
Evaluator #2: Brian Camacho
Chairperson resumes remainder of program
Keith McCluskie VP Membership conducted the Induction of New Members
Rich Boertien …..Mentor Keith Stoltz
Sharon Diehl…..Mentor Audrey Orth
Sharon Darcey…Mentor Diane Bender
General Evaluator: __Heidi Menzi
Snack: __Brent and Rich

Dec 3rd Theme: Fortune Cookies
Dec 10th Theme: Cat in the Hat
Dec 17th Theme: Secrets at Christmas & Potluck Christmas Meeting - bring a friend, spouse, significant other or enemy!!!



Date: Thursday November 19, 2009
Meeting Theme: Ideal Jobs We Never Had
Call meeting to order (7:15): Brian Camacho Chairperson: Diane Bender
Loyal Toast & Timer: Sharon Diehl
Grammarian – word of the day: Penchant Brian Camacho Literary Corner: “ Home Based Business” Leo Brisebois Toast Master: Jane Stoltz
Speech #1: #5 Accepting an Award Special Occasion manual Brent Jemmett
Speech #2: # 4 Competent communicator Richard Boertien
Speech #3: #5 Accepting an Award Special Occasion manual Diane Bender
Evaluator: Heidi Menzi
Evaluator: George Nichol
Evaluator: Marie McCutcheon
Table Topics Master: Jessica Kelly
General Evaluator: Keith Stoltz - 65 laughs during meeting.
Nov 19: Executive Meeting
Reports from Timer & Grammarian –1 minute each
Award for Best Table Topics, For the Good of Toastmasters, Next Week’s Program Review,
Chairperson’s Closing Remarks
Inspirational Thought for the Day: Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today. - Thomas Jefferson
Snack & Refreshments: Jane Stoltz
Date: Thursday November 12, 2009
Theme: Habits
Call meeting to order (7:15):
Chairperson: Jane Stoltz Loyal Toast & Timer: Grammarian � word of the day: George Nichol Literary Corner: Brent Jemmett
Speech #1: Heidi Menzi
Speech #2: Jessica Kelly
Table Topics Master: Rich Boertien
Quizmaster: Keith McCluskie
General Evaluator: Audrey Orth
Nov 19: Executive Meeting
Award for Best Table Topics, For the Good of Toastmasters, Next Week�s Program Review, Chairperson�s Closing Remarks

November 13-15, 2009

What an awesome, educational and inspiring weekend we had. Here are just a few of the photos that were taken.


District Governor's Banquet and Ball - Diane, Marie, Jane & Keith

Sherry Olsen, Toastmasters of Hanover and Diane Bender, Linguists of Listowel prepare for the Parade of Banners

Diane Bender enjoys the weekend at The Village at Blue Mountain Conference Centre

TOASTMASTERS FALL CONFERENCE

District 86

Finding the Key to Success

November 5, 2009

Past President George Nichol chats with guest Sharon Darcy.

Speechcraft Coordinator Jane Stoltz presents certificates to Sylvia, Matt and Vanessa.




Date: Thursday November 5, 2009 – Speechcraft Graduation #2
Theme: Homonyms
Call meeting to order (7:15): Marie McCutcheon Chairperson: Jane Stoltz
Loyal Toast & Timer: Diane Bender completed #1 Special Occasions manual with a toast to Speechcrafters who were graduating. Grammarian – word of the day: Keith Stoltz challenged everyone with the word Highfalutin . It means pompous or pretentious and it was used six times.
Literary Corner: Richard Boertien
Vocal Variety Speeches Vanessa, Syliva & Matt. Speech by Toastmaster Keith McCluskie
Evaluator: Jessica Kelly Table Topics Master: George Nichol, winner was Rich boerting
Quizmaster: Brent Jemmett
Graduation Ceremony
We welcome Richard Boertien as one of our recent speechcrafters who has joined toastmasters!

Last night's meeting theme was Homonyms and everyone joined in with the fun!
Speechcraft speakers Sylvia spoke about Pushing Each Other Buttons a vivid description on communication differences between men & women. Vanessa spoke about No Thank you a humorous interaction on telemarketers. Matt spoke about Lost in the Woods, a descriptive story on one of his great danes and his line of the evening My highfalutin compass was not worth a dam.
Our word for the evening was highfalutin meaning pompous and pretentious.
Keith McCluskie spoke about “Who Are You” a humourous take on introducing oneself to people and how to remember one's name. Example: Mike the Muscle Man or Ann, Ann with the Frying Pan.
George Nichol got everyone involved with completing a story on the two head monster and using homonyms throughout the table topics session.
It was a great evening.
Jane Stoltz
VP Education
Linguists of Listowel

Heidi and George check out the Halloween Treat Bag.



Thursday evening was full of very interesting and informative speeches by our six speechcrafters.

Lots of laughs throughout the entire meeting.

Sylvia spoke about the last ride home on that memorable Black Out, Vanessa spoke about The Battle of Food, Matt enlightened us on Difficult Births with Sheep; Susan spoke about Listen Can You Hear It and its reflection on music titles, Rich spoke about some funny Acronyms
and Royden's speech was about Saying GoodBye to Speechcraft and the friends he made at toastmasters.

Our word for the evening was MACABRE, suggesting the horror of death and decay, gruesome. Example: I've always had a somewhat macabre fascination with true life crime stories.


Please join us for the final speechcrafters presenting their speeches and graduation.

Halloween Limerick:

A big jack o lantern named Keith

Was ashamed of his big old orange teeth.

He wrapped green round his head,

Had his teeth painted red.

And now silly Keith is a wreath.

Halloween Joke:

Who did Frankenstein take to the prom?

A. His ghoul friend

What do baby ghosts wear on Halloween?

A White pillowcases.

Take care and have fun this Halloween evening and see you all next week!

Jane Stoltz

VP Education

Linguists of Listowel

October 29, 2009

Keith McCluskie, VP Membership explains the advantages of Toastmasters and signing up for a position on the agenda. Brent Jemmett, Treasurer welcomes speechcraft graduate and newest member Rich Boertine.

George, Royden, Susan and Audrey visit after the meeting.

Speechcraft Graduation : Jane presents certificates to Royden McCoag, Susan Winger and Rich Boertine
Chairperson Jane Stoltz with the theme "Boo! I Betcha I Scared You! Ha! Ha!"

Date: Thursday October 29, 2009 – Speechcraft Graduation
Theme: Boo! I Betcha I Scared You! Ha! Ha!
Microphone Usage

Call meeting to order (7:15): Jane Stoltz
Introductions by Speechcrafters Everyone shared a Halloween memory
Loyal Toast & Timer: Sylvia Pietras
Grammarian – word of the day: Vanessa Morrison Macabre means gruesome.
Show What You Mean Speeches Vanessa, Syliva & Matt
Vocal Variety Speeches Royden, Rich & Susan
Oral Evaluations
Table Topics Master: Brent Jemmett passed around an envelope of Halloween costumes for people to talk about. Pauline and Matt were the winners.
Quizmaster: Keith Stoltz
Graduation Ceremony Speechcraft Graduates were Rich Boertine, Susan Winger and Royden McCoag
Guest Comments:Pauline and Sharon enjoyed the meeting.
Next Week’s Theme:Homonyns
Nov 12th Theme is Habits;
Nov 19 Theme is Ideal Jobs We Never Had;
Nov 26 Theme is You’ll See it When You Believe It
Reports from Timer & Grammarian –1 minute each
Award for Best Table Topics, For the Good of Toastmasters
Next Week’s Program Review, Chairperson’s Closing Remarks, Comments from Guests
Inspirational Thought for the Day:
Snack & Refreshments: Diane, Heidi & Jane Adjournment (9.00)
Dates to Mark on Your Calendar
Nov 9: Women’s District Institute Meeting
Nov 21: Atwood Church Event, Co-ordinator of Event is Marie McCutcheon
Dec 17: Pot Luck Christmas Meeting
One Speech Per Month is recommended
Toastmasters are Going Green… Please Bring Your Own Cup/Mug to Meetings

Western Division Humourous Speech Contest University of Waterloo

Humourous Speech and Table Topics Contest October 23, 2009 at University of Waterloo Davis Centre. Area Governor Diana Snowden did a great job as chairperson for the evening.
Winners for Humorous Contest were Matt Pavlik, Gregory C. N. Smith, and Hakim Shittu.
Winners for Table Topics were Allan Krause, Danve Castroverde and Gemma Mendez-Smith.
Members attending from Linguists of Listowel were Keith and Jane Stoltz, Audrey Orth, Heidi Menzi, Diane Bender and Brent Jemmett.

October 22, 2009

Heidi and Audrey enjoy fellowship and sharing after the meeting.

Toastmaster Jessica explains all about toastmasters to her guest Linda

Rich, Royden, Sylvie, Vanessa and Susan
Linguists of Listowel – LISTEN, LAUGH, LEARN & LEAD
Area 66 – District 86 – Western Division – Region VI – Club #9016
Area Governor: Diana Snowden Division Governor: Glenn Oxford
Date: Thursday October 22, 2009 – Speechcraft
Theme: Remember When…..

Call meeting to order (7:15): Jane Stoltz
Introductions by Speechcrafters
Loyal Toast & Timer: Rich Boertien
Grammarian – word of the day: Royden McCoag challenged us with the word MAXIM which means a short rule of content ie Look Before You Leap" It was used at least two times during the meeting
The evening had the most interesting speeches from our
speechcrafters and it was lots of fun! They are so terrific and well
on their way in getting their butterflies flying in formation. The
speeches talked about the stresses of finding a topic to speak about,
the drama determination of teenagers, living in a heart beat of a
changing work place, cub experiences as a youngster and aging with
grace. They were followed by oral evaluations by seasoned toastmasters.
Educational Module: Voice Variety was presented by Audrey Orth Sample Voice Variety Speech Jessica Kelly
Table Topics Master: Keith Stoltz started a cat story and everyone added to it. Sylvia was the winner with honorable mention to our guest Linda.
Quizmaster: Vanessa Morrison
Inspirational Thought for the Day: "If you spend time getting ready to be perfect and do not start out to accomplish your dreams, you will find out later that you could have accomplished your dream if you had just acted."
David DeNotaris
Snack & Refreshments: Jane Stoltz
Adjournment (9.00)
Dates to Mark on Your Calendar
Oct 23: Division Contest, Waterloo University, Admission is $10. 00, Parking $3.00
Nov 9: Women’s District Institute Meeting need 4 – 5 speakers
Nov 21: Atwood Church Event, Co-ordinator of Event is Marie McCutcheon
One Speech Per Month is recommended
Toastmasters are Going Green… Please Bring Your Own Cup/Mug to Meetings
Beginning November 5th: We are back to our regular meetings…we need a line up speakers.

Awards

Awards were presented. Trudy and Dorothy accepted certificates for their clubs recieving presidents distinguished status last year. I brought home a select distinguished award for Jane as area 66 governor.

Trudy, Caroline, Dorothy, Diane and Diana had a great adventure getting to Milton and home again. We did miss Marg and Al Seawright who were not able to come.

After the business meeting there was a wonderful appreciation lunch for club presidents. The afternoon speaker was Ross McKie DTM. He spoke about building confidence in communication and leadership until it becomes a habit. He made a point and then told a story. To be successfull we need to think positive and believe in ourselves.

Presidents for Area 18 Trudy Baran, Dorothy Dennis, Diane Bender

Chairperson Jane, Area 18 Governor Diana, Gemma First, Laura Third, Jessica second

Speechcraft October 15, 2009

Date: Thursday October 15, 2009
Theme: Gobble, Gobble
Call meeting to order (7:15): Jane Stoltz was chairperson and welcomed introductions by all seven Speechcrafters.
Loyal Toast & Timer was Vanessa. She mentioned the history and origins of Thanksgiving. Grammarian was presented by Sylvia. The word of the day was ameliorate which means to make or become better. It was used six times throughout the meeting.
The Ice Breaker Speech was presented by Cathy Be in Earnest Speeches were presented by Sylvia and Vanessa
Organizing Your Speeches were presented by Royden, Susan, Rich and Matt. Oral Evaluations were given by toastmasters.
Educational Module: Gestures was presented by Diane Bender
Sample Organization of Speech Keith McCluskie described an amazing rollercoaster ride.
Table Topics Master: Heidi Menzi passed around an envelope of pictures and challenged everyone to describe it using the thanksgiving theme.
Quizmaster: Rich Boertien
Inspirational Thought for the Day:
�I try to take every conflict, every experience, and learn from it. Life is never dull.� Oprah Winfrey
Snack & Refreshments: Audrey Orth
Adjournment (9.20)
Dates to Mark on Your Calendar
Oct 23: Division Contest, Waterloo University, Admission is $10. 00, Parking $3.00
Nov 9: Women’s Institute District Meeting need 4 � 5 speakers
Nov 11: Palmerston Legion Chris Draper needs a Remembrance day supper speaker
Nov 21: Atwood Church Event, Co-ordinator of Event is Marie McCutcheon

Area 66 Humorous Speech and Table topics contest was held October 7 2009 at Grace United Church Hanover. Keith Stoltz was sargeant at Arms and Jane Stoltz was an excellent chairperson. Marge Seawright was Chief judge. Diane Bender competed in the Humorous and Table Topic Contest. Brent in the Humorous Contest and Jessica Kelly in the Table Topics Contest. Jessica placed second.
Picture left to right
Keith, Brent, Marge, Jane, Diane, Jessica, Audrey.

Keith, Brent, Marge, Jane, Diane, Jessica, Audrey

Speechcraft

Words from our speechcraft coordinator after our exciting meeting on October 8, 2009
Hello Toastmasters and Speechcrafters:

What a spectacular meeting last evening, lots of laughs & tears throughout the entire meeting!

The content by Speechcrafters had a variety of interesting topics that were both stimulating and knowledgeable.

Sylvia complained about her 6 day school week growing up and in the end becoming bilingual in both English and Polish. Vanessa spoke about growing up in Bubble Town, moving away and returning to her Bubble home town routes. Matt was most passionate about preserving the family farm and encouraging consumers to shop locally. Rich spoke about doing it right the first time and take your time to get a project done correctly with pride and soak up the positive comments. Susan spoke about the frustrations of modern technology, exactly why do you need 3 remotes, when 1 should do the trick. Royden spoke passionately about encouraging people to take the time to visit people who have incurable diseases. It only takes a smile to brighten one's day!


Thank you for the most delicious treats supplied by Leo & Brent.


Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday weekend and see everyone next Thursday evening!



Theme: When I was Growing Up.....
Call the meeting to order: Jane Stoltz
Chairperson: Jane Stoltz
Introductions by Speechcrafters
Loyal Toast & Timer: Susan Winger
Grammarian (word of the day): Rich Boertien
Ice Breaker Speeches by Sylvia Pietras, & Vanessa Morrison (2 - 3 minutes)
Be in Earnest Speeches by Royden McCoag, Matt VanAnkum, Susan Winger & Rich Boertien (3 - 5 minutes)
Oral Evaluations
Educational Module: Organize Your Speech by Audrey Orth
Sample Speech: Speech Organization by Leo Brisebois
Table Topics: Royden McCoag
Quizmaster: Matt VanAnkum
Anything for the Good of Toastmasters
Snack: Leo Brisebois
Refreshments: Brent Jemmett






Thursday Oct 1, 2009 Theme Lessons Learned the hard way.
Jane Stoltz called the second speechcraft meeting to order at 7:15. Loyal Toast and timer was Royden McCoag. George Nichol was grammarian for the evening and presented the word ADJUVENT. I means serving to help or helping to prevent disease.
Icebreaker speeches were presented by Susan, Matt Royden and Richard.
Keith Stoltz presented an educational module on introductions.
Keith McCluskie gave the sample Be in Earnest Speech and Diane Bender evaluated it.
Richard was table topics master and Royden won the trophy.
Audrey Orth was general evaluator
Jessical challenged us as quiz master.

Linguists of Listowel

Jane Stoltz called the meeting to order at 7:15 pm. She welcomed seven participants to the speechcraft program. The theme of the meeting was "My favourite kind of quiet." All members, guests and speechcrafters introduced themselves.
Keith S gave the loyal toast to Canada and acted as timer for the evening program.
As grammarian Brent gave us the word Inundate. It was used at least three times.
Diane Bender presented the following Educational module on Selecting speech topics.
Madam Chair, toastmasters and speechcrafters this educational segment will help you with selecting your topic. There is a handout so you don’t have to write everything I say down. I am glad you are here and setting forward on this exciting journey to improve your communication skills. You never need to be hard on yourself. Whatever you say is perfectly acceptable. Please. Step up and step out of your comfort zone. We are here to help.

First pick a topic that you are interested in and are familiar with. You might want to begin with a statement that is exciting and challenging. For example-
I enjoy gardening -I love vegetables, my husband doesn’t! His doctor said “his life expectancy would grow by leaps and bounds if green vegetables smelled as good as bacon!

We enjoy hearing about life changing events that have happened in your life. You are the expert and can speak from personal experience. Great speeches occur when you learn from your experiences and can talk about them to others.
Some of you are probably thinking- “But nothing exciting ever happened to me!”
You could talk about a vacation that was exciting or challenging or educational.
Some speeches are organised around some problem or illness you have faced and overcome. It could focus on an actual incident-“ as I drove to work the other day…I’m sure you’ve all had close calls you could share.
Your challenge will be to compress these experiences into a relatively short speech. In speechcraft program they are only 3-5 minutes.

Second choice would be to pick a subject that you are interested in and would like to research. Be Creative. For example – are plastic bags really bad for the environment and should grocery stores be allowed to charge 5 cents for a single bag?
I always leave toastmaster meetings feeling like I have learned something new from the speeches I hear. This brings me to the next suggestion.

Third Talk about something that will interest your audience. You might get ideas from newspapers, magazines, current events, television or books you have read.

Fourth Talk about something that will educate your audience. You could talk about some of your favorite hobbies- perhaps you could persuade us to try something new after we hear your enthusiasm for your hobby.

Fifth what is the purpose of your speech? What specific point do you want to impress on your audience? This will determine your speech title and how you will open and close the speech.
Sixth how do you want to make your audience feel?
There are inspiring speeches, educational speeches, and humourous speeches and in toastmasters you will learn how to make them work for your audience.
And finally what message do you want the audience to take home with them. We often end with a challenge or something to think about.
I wish you all the best in your journey to better speaking skills. Work at your own speed, whatever you say is acceptable.
Most important is just standing up, walking up to the lectern, and speaking. Take a deep breath, smile, step up and step out of your comfort zone. Present your speech on the topic of your choice- Madam chair.
Audrey presented a sample icebreaker speech entitled "It's just the way you look at it. Everyone sang Happy Birthday to her.
Diane R. evaluated with lots of glow points and a grow point to use more pauses while the audience is laughing.
George Nichol led table topics with members speaking for one minute on a continuous story beginning with "It was a dark and foggy night when I went for a walk."
Winner was speechcrafter Matt Van Ankum.

Keith M gave the general evaluation and Heidi challenged members memories as quizmaster.
Jane asked speechcrafters to read Chapter 1,2,3 and to prepare an icebreaker speech for next week. Inspirational thought for the day was "A little thought and a little kindness are often worth more than a great deal of money" John Ruskin
Snack was provided by Audrey Orth. The meeting was adjourned at 9 pm.

September 10, 2009

Date: Thursday September 10, 2009
Theme: Something to Crow About….

Call meeting to order (7:15):
Chairperson – Toastmaster: Diane Bender
Joke of the Day: Keith Mc Cluskie
Loyal Toast & Timer: Brent Jemmett
Grammarian – word of the day: Audrey Orth
Educational Module: Jane Stoltz
Keeping the Commitment from the Successful Club Series
Chairperson/Toastmaster - Introduces Table Topics Master:
Table Topics Master: George Nichol
Chairperson/Toastmaster – Introduces General Evaluator
Area Governor Report: Diana Snowden
General Evaluator :
Reports from Timer & Grammarian –1 minute each
Award for Best Table Topics, General Evaluators Report, For the Good of Toastmasters
Next Week’s Program Review, Chairperson’s Closing Remarks, Comments from Guests
Inspirational Thought for the Day:
"You know you are on the road to success if you would do your job, and not be paid for it."
Oprah Winfrey
Adjournment (8:30)

Dates to Mark on Your Calendar
Sept 17: Humourous and Table Topics Contest, Theme: Don't Sweat the Small Stuff
Sept 24: Regular Meeting, Theme: My Favourite Kind of Quiet, Speechraft Begins
Oct 7: Area Contest - Humorous and Table Topic Contest in Hanover
Oct 23: Division Contest
Nov 14: District Contest, Theme is Catching Your Dreams
Sept 22: Humorous and TT Contest – Mount Forest Motivators
Sept 28: Humorous and TT Contest – Toastmasters of Hanover