september 2007 v o i c e s - d25 toastmasters · toastmasters business: our 2007-2008 toastmasters...

SEPTEMBER 2007 VOLUME 5, ISSUE 9

Inside this Issue:

V O I C E S D

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T R

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A Phenomenal Phoenix Convention Maurice Taitt, DTM - District 25 Governor

Competent Communication & Ad-vance Communication 2

New Member Inductions 3

Absolute Awesome 4

The Value of a Mentor 4

Believe in Building 5

Work Towards Your Dream 5

Dynamic Division D 6

Fabulous Division F 7 Report from International Conven-tion 8

A Toastmaster Testimonial 9

Calling All Coaches 9

September Club Anniversaries 9

Using Technology to Recruit 10

Toastmasters in the Park 10

Promotions 11

District 25 Open House 12

District Calendar 13

District Fall Conference 14

New Members 15

D25 Educational Completions 16

D25 New Clubs 18

Prospective Clubs 18

The recently concluded International Convention was personally very meaningful. Here are a few of the highlights:

Wonderful Keynote Speakers: Opening Keynote: W. Mitchell - “It’s not what happens to you but what you do about it.” Mitchell survived a fiery motorcycle crash that burned about two-thirds of his body, he was later paralyzed as a result of the crash of an airplane he was piloting. He has learned that his life still has great purpose despite major setbacks that would have permanently sidelined most of the rest of us.

Golden Gavel Recipient: Barbara De Angelis - A positive message about how to find inner ful-fillment, not just outer success. In her acceptance speech, she spoke of being in the business of communicating love to other people.

Closing Keynote: Anne Barab-Anne spoke about the need to first, have a heart of gratitude, second, to have reasonable expectations (not perfection) and third, to laugh as soon as possi-ble. By the way, Anne will be one of our keynote speakers at our District’s fall conference on November 30 and December 1, 2007.

International Speech Contest: Our very own Shannon Hills, the lone female contestant in a field of ten, represented us very well with an excellent delivery of her “Oprah Time” speech and the winners were:

World champion: Vikas Jhingran, Cambridge, MA; Second Place: Rory Vaden, Nashville, TN; and Third Place: Mark Hunter, Albany Creek, Queensland, AUS. (Of interest: Mark Hunter was wheelchair bound and Rory Vaden has offered to speak at our District.)

Toastmasters Business: Our 2007-2008 Toastmasters International Officers are: Chris Ford - International President; Jana Barnhill-Senior Vice President; Gary Schmidt-Second Vice Presi-dent; and Pat Johnson-Third Vice President

Proposal A needed to be approved by a two-thirds majority. It was approved by a mere 12 votes greater than a two-thirds majority. Proposal A moves the setting of dues from the By-laws (which requires club approval) to Policy (which requires two-thirds Board of Directors approval) and dues will be reviewed every three years. Kudos to all the clubs that mailed proxies to me. Of our 126 paid clubs on 7/1/07, we received proxies from 97. Your proxies do matter so lets aim for proxies from 100 percent of our clubs for the Calgary Convention in 2008.

Distinguished Districts: In the 2006-2007 year, there were 51 Distinguished Districts and each was recognized as such during the Hall of Fame event. Every district member that was present got to go on stage as each Distinguished District was recognized.

District Governors Luncheon: As your 2007-2008 District 25 Governor, I was privileged to attend a District Governor’s luncheon. We all received a few words of encouragement from new International President, Chris Ford and later each District Governor was able to get their photo taken with Chris. When it was my turn to be photographed, I was able to greet my fellow Canadian citizen in French to which he responded also in French and I understood all that he said to me.

The first International Convention to be held outside North America will be in Sydney Australia in 2010. Next year’s International Convention will be held in Calgary, Alberta, Canada from August13-16. It would be wonderful to see you there!

Voices is the official publication of District 25,

serving Toastmasters throughout North

Central Texas.

My article last month was about the Toastmasters Leadership track with the focus on 2007-2008 being the LAST YEAR club officers can earn the Old Competent Leader (OCL) award. Today let’s explore the Toastmasters Communication track. COMPETENT COMMUNICATOR (CC) Requirements: Completed the Competent Communication manual ADVANCED COMMUNICATOR BRONZE (ACB)

Requirements: Achieved Competent Communicator award (or achieved Competent Toastmaster award) and completed two Advanced Communication manuals ADVANCED COMMUNICATOR SILVER (ACS) Requirements: Achieved Advanced Communicator Bronze award (or achieved Able Toastmaster award or Advanced Toastmas-ter Bronze award), completed two additional Advanced Communication manuals (may not be those completed for any previous award), conducted any two programs from The Better Speaker Series and/or The Successful Club Series ADVANCED COMMUNICATOR GOLD (ACG) Requirements: Achieved Advanced Communicator Silver award (or achieved Able Toastmaster Bronze award or Advanced Toastmaster Silver award), completed two additional Advanced Communication manuals (may not be those completed for any previous award), conducted a Success/Leadership program, Success/Communication program or a Youth Leadership pro-gram, coached a new member with the first three speech projects If you have completed your CC (CTM) and you are not already working on one of the Advance Communication awards, then I encourage you to start another Competent Communicator manual. Although I am a Distinguished Toastmaster, I am always working in a CC manual and a CL manual. Many of our district leaders have the opportunity to speak more often outside of our home clubs, particularly when we are visiting other clubs, presenting a module at the Toastmasters Leadership Summit, at-tending the district executive committee meetings and district training. I’m a firm believer in talking about what you know so I always have a speech ready and it’s often about Toastmasters. Here are some of my topics.

• Why I Joined Toastmasters • What Keeps Me in Toastmasters • Club Leadership Opportunities • Leadership Beyond the Club • How to Be a Chief Judge • How to Judge a Speech Contest

Each of these topics will fit into just about any speech objective in the Competent Communicator manual. Think about what you know. If you’re a parent, then you got speeches. If you’re a gardener, a chef, a teacher, a business person, then you’ve got speeches. Maybe your club is so big that you can’t speak as often as you would like. If so, then visit www.toastmasters.org and use your zip code to determine the clubs nearest you and make contact with the club. I’m certain they would LOVE for you to visit their club an present a speech. Did you know you could get Toastmasters credit for a presentation at work? You can and you only need another Toastmaster present to give you a written evaluation. Sometimes I hear “I’ve already done my CC (CTM).” Completing one CC and one CL every year helps your club towards being distinguished. The Distinguished Club Program is like a report card for the club. Meeting and exceeding goals indicates a healthy club. Clubs with less then five goals attained indicate a club that is in danger of folding. If you’re stuck and cannot think of a speech, please contact me because I will help you realize that there are speech topics all around you.

Competent Communication & Advance Communication Randy Terrell, DTM – Lieutenant Governor Education and Training 2007-2008

Voices September 2007

Find a Mistake? It is our policy to include something for everyone. Since some people like to find errors, we regularly include a few in

our publications to meet this need. Please email: [email protected]

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New Member Inductions David McCallister, DTM – Lieutenant Governor Marketing 2007-2008

District 25 Marketing Leading the World with New Clubs

It’s no secret that the District 25 Marketing team has been busy chartering new clubs. In fact, they have been so busy that no one noticed until last week that District 25 was the only district out of 80+ districts worldwide to successfully have chartered five new clubs in July and August. In addition to leading the world with new clubs, District 25 is also leading the world with to-tal charter payments to date; the only District with triple digit (123) charter payments. Because of this success, District 25 has met 6.96 percent of the overall yearly goal which acts as a catalyst for launching Region 3 to lead the world with 4.04 total percent of yearly goal met. Marketing is TRULY committed to excellence!

Club Raider Returns! The objective of a Banner Raid is to provide a FUN experience for both clubs involved. Visiting Club members often take many great ideas back to their home clubs, which in turn promotes healthy, strong, creative Toastmasters clubs throughout our District. The Raiding Club brings five or more members to the meeting, and the Target Club's banner will be forfeited to the Raiders. The Target Club may retrieve their banner by going through the same process. If they bring ten club members to retrieve their banner, they can also steal the other club's banner! Ends June 30, 2008.

New members bring new life to the Club environment! New member inductions impress upon the Club members as well as the new member the importance of their accountability to the mission of the Club. A new member induction is not only important to the administrative aspect of a successful club, but it is also ‘starting out on the right foot’ for the new member and a reaffirmation of ‘what is our relevance’ to the Club as current members. Inductions can be done as part of the business meeting, with everyone partici-pating, showing their level of support for the club and demonstrating their commitment to the new mem-ber’s achievement, and is a personal statement on the importance of mentoring for success.

► Formally admit the new member through election to membership as required in the club bylaws – majority vote.

► Send membership application immediately to WHQ with new member fees and dues.

► First impressions are often most lasting – make them count!

► Hold orientation for new members to acquaint them with the organization.

► Have several Toastmasters give short presentations on the club, the program, the leadership opportunities and the communication skills that can be developed.

► Orientation – VP Education or the Education Committee can organize this, making it a participatory event for everyone.

► Formally induct new members into the Club.

► Induction Ceremony – VP Membership or any other senior Toastmaster Officer.

► Corporate Clubs — invite management to the ceremony as well as your Area Governor to make the occasion memorable.

► Community Clubs — invite Area Governor to make the occasion memorable.

► Present the new member with a Membership Pin.

► Assign a mentor for each new member immediately.

► Publicize your event and welcome your new members with a press release to your local newspaper or corporate newsletter.


Fall contest season is upon us. How exciting! I hope each and every club has either already held a club con-test or are in the process of planning one. This week I’ve attended three terrific club contests. It was wonder-ful to see all the planning that went into making these contests absolutely awesome. The contestants in the Humorous Speech and Speech Evaluation Contests were outstanding. It definitely took a team effort to make these contests such as success.

Don’t forget that planning a club contest is one of the projects within project number six, “Organizing and Delegating” in the Competent Leader manual. What a great way to improve leadership skills and check off one more of those projects toward your Competent Leader Award. If your club needs help with planning a contest, please contact your Area Governor. I know they would be more than willing to help and even attend. I hope to see each and every club represented at the area contests for Division A. If you aren’t a contestant, feel free to attend and bring along a guest for an entertaining evening. The area gover-nors will needs lots of helpers, so send them a note that you’ll be willing to help. Here are the dates: Area 11 Governor Sunni Fisher Friday, September 21, 2007 Area 12 Governor Ruby Ditto Saturday, September 22, 2007 Area 13 Governor Larry Weatherholt Thursday, September 27, 2007 Area 14 Governor Mark White Friday, September 14, 2007 Area 15 Governor Ronnie Mack Saturday, October 6, 2007 Division A Saturday, November 3, 2007 For full details, visit www.d25toastmasters.org/education/speech_contests.htm for full details.

Absolutely Awesome Division A: Contest Time!!! Diana Patton, ACB/ALB - Division A Governor

The Value of a Mentor Linda K. Morrison, ACS/ALS - Division C Governor 2007-2008

Do you have a mentor in Toastmasters? Everyone who becomes a new member of Toastmasters should be assigned a mentor. When I first signed the dotted line of the Toastmasters membership form, my home club was not in the habit of assigning mentors. Being the type of person I am, I read in the litera-ture I was supposed to be assigned a mentor. So the next Toastmasters meeting, I asked for a mentor. The VP of Education was on vacation so the acting VP of Education said, “How about me?”

That was when my Toastmaster mentor Stu Langley came into my life. Three years later he is still my mentor. Stu has been with me when I walked out of Toastmasters crying because I did not do well on a speech. He has helped me with every role and office I have ever held in Toastmasters. He encourages me to stretch myself and do manuals I don’t want to do be-cause they are too hard for me. If it had not been for Stu, I doubt I would be Division Governor today.

In Greek legend, Mentor was Odysseus’ trusted counselor. Young King Arthur had Merlin the Magician as his mentor. Generically the word mentor means “a wise and loyal advisor” A good mentor is valuable. He shows interest in the mentee’s development and offers emotional support. He cultivates talents and offers praise and feedback. He demonstrates stability, patience and respect. He has good listening skills and flexibility and leads by example.

In Toastmasters, a mentor will sit with the mentor and explain the parts of the meeting as they happen – table topics, prepared speeches, evaluations. He will help the new member with at least the first 5 speeches discussing speech ideas, offer-ing feedback or even helping the new member practice if needed. He will help the Toastmaster achieve his/her goals and di-rect that person on how to do that through Toastmasters. He will motivate the person to continue to better him or herself even past the competent communicator level.

A good mentor makes a difference in a Toastmaster’s life. Do you have a mentor? If not, see your VP of Education or ask someone to be your mentor today.


"There is no limit to what can be accomplished when no one cares who gets the credit."---Geese "Refuse to make excuses or blame others. The leader always says, "If it's to be, it's up to me." --Brian Tracy Everyone enter your club’s speech contest. Why? The club can do what is wants, so whether you are eligible to move-on or not, enter at the club level to enhance the club contest experience. You just may win! Allow

the disqualification due to ineligibility, but you earned another manual speech! What a learning experience to enter and win! After realizing this benefit, each term I enter my home club’s contests, and each year I place, however each year I am disquali-fied due to being a district officer. I enjoyed the experience I may never have had elsewhere, and to my delight, I enhanced the contest with more entrants, and our club is stronger because the speech is applied towards educational credit. Speak at as many meetings as possible to contribute to the productiveness of the meeting. It is boring to attend a meeting with no prepared speeches and it is annoying to attend a meeting with the same speaker week after week. Speak up! We want to listen to you! How many speeches have you heard this year? How many did you give? Everyone should be evaluated, and remember, “Friends don’t let friend’s give non-manual speeches.” If we want to grow we need to do something different, so enter your club speech contest and grow! Enhance your contribution and enjoyment of Toastmasters and wakeup the enthusiasm and appreciation you had when you realized what Toastmasters can do for you. Expect invigorating and productive times, and extend a positive and high-level of energy towards our goals. I expect to meet you at an upcoming contest, and I thank you for your help which allowed me to grow into a more productive in Toastmasters. District 25—2007-2008 Division B Area Governors! Area 21 Governor Robert Sparks Area 22 Governor Kevin Bryant Area 23 Governor Sanjay Gupta Area 24 Governor Candace Brister Area 25 Governor Gary Samuelson Cheers Division B! Officer Training - Congratulations to the area governors of Division B and their dedication to train officers before the August 31, 2007 deadline. We know successful Toastmaster clubs are the result of trained and active officers and members.

Division B Believes in Building Communicators and Leaders Diana Pittman, ATMB/CL— Division B Governor 2007-2008

You joined Toastmasters because you had a dream. Perhaps you had a vision that involved you standing confidently before a group speaking, training, or entertaining. How far along are you in making this dream a reality? Are you regularly working to improve your speaking ability and your ease in front of a group? When was the last time you gave a speech? Have you volunteered to give a speech in the near future? As you prepare for your next speech, review the feedback you received from your last evaluation. Try distrib-

uting a short written evaluation form to your entire Toastmasters group. Have them write three of your speaking strengths and three suggestions they have to help you improve. Talk to your evaluator before your next speech. Have them look for specific areas of growth such as gestures, pacing, and vocal variety. Does your club have copies of the Better Speaker Series training modules? The next time a scheduled speaker cancels at the last minute, pull out a module and present it to the club. You and your club can continue to grow. You can achieve your dreams. It happens one speech at a time.

Work Towards Your Dream Ana Garza, ACS/ALB - Division E Governor 2007-2008


Dynamic Division D: Super Duper Area Governors D. Kirkland, CTM/CL— Division D Governor 2007-2008

It is past time to introduce all of the area governors for Division D. This dynamic and delightful group of Toastmasters has become my inspiration for having a successful year as Division D Governor. I know they will be an inspiration to each of the clubs in their areas as well. The areas in Division D are privileged to have a motivating and talented set of governors: Area 41 - Lanelle Mikeska, CC/CL Area 42 - Jim Cross, ACG/CL Area 43 - Darrell Vickers, ACS

Area 44 - Everett Stokes, ACB/CL Area 45 - Charles Hrovat, CC Lanelle has just retired from a high-level training coordination job at Scott & White Hospital. She now helps to coordinate a different type of training as a community education specialist at Temple College. She and her husband, A.J., have two grown children: Lynn and Mike. Lanelle's favorite thing about Toastmasters is the "fun and enlightening interaction with other members." Jim Cross supervises plant workers as a senior engineering technician at PACTIV Corporation in Temple. He also loves to set back and let his grandchildren be "in control" every once in a while. Jim's and Maggie's grandchildren were present by their three grown children, Randy, Jamie, and Missy. While Jim has done a lot of growing in Toastmasters, his favorite thing now is "watching newer Toastmasters grow." Darrell is a busy architect and project manager with the Wallace Group in Waco. He has been a part of numerous new building design projects that are developing in Waco. He and his wife, Sharron, live in Hewitt. Darrell enjoys his opportunities in Toastmasters and his favorite thing is "seeing the improvement in others and myself." Everett Stokes is a retired physicist, but is still working as a consultant on some high tech projects around the country. Al-though he is quite an intellectual, Everett is a down home type guy. He and his wife, Stephanie Michels, enjoy being affiliated with Fossil Rim Wildlife Park in Glen Rose. Everett serves as president of the Cleburne Toastmasters club and he enjoys the "interaction with great people, speaking, and watching people develop." Charles is an independent associate with Pre-Paid Legal Services and he also is a long haul truck driver. Charles has a background in teaching math, but was ready to get out of the classroom and into the world of business. Even with his busy traveling schedule, Charles enjoys his affiliation with Toastmasters. He keeps his wireless laptop with him on the road and stays connected with the busy clubs of Area 45. Charles enjoys continuing his own development, but the "teacher" in him treasurers finding the potential in others. This month Areas 41, 42, and 43 will have their Tri-Area Fall Speech Contest on September 15 at the Cashion Building of the Hankamer School of Business on the West Central Campus of Baylor University in Waco. Registration for the event will begin at 8:30 a.m. The Humorous Speech Contest briefing will be at 9:00 and that contest will begin at 9:30 a.m. The Evaluation Contest Briefing will be at 11:00 a.m. and that contest will begin at 11:30 a.m. The registration fee is $5.00 per person. The Area 44/45 Fall Speech Contest will be on the afternoon of Saturday, October 20. I hope all Division D Toastmasters will take the opportunity to meet their Area Governor and participate in or attend their Area Fall Speech Contest. Good luck to all participants!!

IMPORTANT INFORMATION - Voting In Members

The Toastmasters club is a private association, and club membership is by invitation. As provided in the club constitution, a prospective member, in order to become a member, must be elected to membership of at

least a majority of active members present and voting. As a chartered club of Toastmasters International, we must vote in members to retain our charter. This is not an option; every chartered club must vote in its members.


Important Information About Humorous Speech and Evaluation Contests Per the International Speech Contest Rule Book, the district can allow areas with four assigned clubs or less, to send the two

highest placed available contestants from each club to compete in the Area Contest. If you are unsure if your club qualifies to send two contestants, contact: [email protected]

Fabulous Division F David D. Martin, CC/CL, Division F Governor

Division F is off to a Fantastic year! Before looking to the future, I would like to reflect on the recent past. I would like to personally thank the leadership of District 25 for bringing back the annual District Awards Banquet. The 2006-2007 Banquet held on August 11th was a glorious evening of Toastmasters camaraderie. For those of you that were in attendance, I think you would agree, it was a night that will not soon be forgotten. Division F was very well represented at the banquet, with numerous members, club officers, and District 25 leaders honored with well deserved awards! Congratulations to all the award

recipients! I hope everyone will plan to attend this year’s event to share in the celebration of accomplishments and memories that are already being made. Division F would like to thank all those who attend our Division sponsored officer trainings. I hope that you all found your time well spent and were able to take the knowledge you gained back to your home clubs so they may run more smoothly and effectively. I would like personally thank all the Area Governors for their efforts in being the trainers at these events. The time, dedication, and knowledge they put forth is sign that they are truly “Committed to Excellence”. On August 18th Division F was very honored as the journey of one its members reached its pinnacle at the World Championship of Public Speaking at the International Conference held in Phoenix, Arizona. The atmosphere was electric as Young Street Yappers very on Shannon Hills made all of District 25 proud as she took the stage that glorious morning. Her performance was masterful as she took the audience, which included many family and friends from District 25, on a roller coaster ride of emotions. It was a real privilege to follow Shannon on her journey as she competed at the Club level, Area, Division, District, Region III, and International Contest. This was truly a milestone event and we applaud Shannon for all she has accomplished and will accomplish in the future. Speaking of contests, the Fall Humorous Speech and Evaluation Contest season is finally here! This is one of the most exciting times of the year; you get to crisscross the District as you make new friends, mingle with your old friends, all while polishing up on your Speaking and Leadership skills along the way. Numerous opportunities abound at the contests within your Club, Area, Division, and District. I highly encourage you all to seek out these opportunities, as it is a privilege to be able to fill a role at as many contests as you are able to attend. You can also learn very valuable skills just by experiencing the high level of abilities that are showcased at these contests. To find out more about filling a role in a contest, or when and where the contests are held, simply click on the Participate in a Speech Contest link under the District Services section of our websites home page, click on the flyer and contact the Contest Chair. A list of dates for the Area Contests within Division F is listed below. I look forward to seeing you all out on the contest trail! AREA 61 Governor Matthew Stevens Fall Contest - October 20, 2007 AREA 62 Governor Henry Misquez Fall Contest - October 6, 2007 AREA 63 Governor Vicki Fox Fall Contest - October 26, 2007 AREA 64 Governor Keith Quigley Fall Contest – October 18, 2007 AREA 65 Governor Claire Misquez Fall Contest – October 6, 2007 Division F “Game Night” will be held on Friday November 2nd at Stacy Furniture at 1900 S. Main Street in Grapevine.

Contest Season is Upon us! This fall, District 25 will host two contests: Speech Evaluation and Humorous Speech. Clubs should begin holding their con-tests in August. They should be completed by September 7. Area contests begin September 13, and division contests begin

November 2. If you have any questions about contest rules, need templates for contest materials, or have other contest-related questions, contact District Contest Quality Chair Andrew Gregg at [email protected].


Executive Director Donna H Groh, David McCallister DTM, and International President Johnny Uy DTM

International Recognition at the 76th Annual Convention District 25’s newest Distinguished Toastmaster David McCallister, Lt. Governor Marketing, had a Simply Amazing experience when his DTM plaque was personally presented to him by Toastmasters International President Johnny Uy, DTM and Toastmasters Executive Director, Donna Groh at the 2007 Toastmasters International Convention in Phoenix, AZ on August 18. This was a first for Groh, as she has never presented a member with their Distinguished Toastmaster Award. Now that is Simply Amazing!

Report from International Convention What do you get when you put over 2000 Toastmasters in a room in Phoenix, Arizona? Over 2000 different answers the table topics question “Where are you from, and is it hot there?” Toastmasters from all over the world gathered at the breathtaking Marriott Desert Ridge Resort to participate in the 70th annual Toastmasters International Convention in August. It was four days packed with outstanding educational sessions, as well as some new wow moments from keynote speakers.

This year’s Golden Gavel recipient, Barbara De Angelis, PhD spoke about how receiving this honor was the pinnacle of her career in helping people reach not just success, but inner and outer fulfillment. Thanks to her, Toastmasters members are now known as “Juicy”. Overflowing with care and support for all people. Three days of outstanding educational sessions ranging from “How to connect with your audience” to “Twisting attitudes, not arms” made it tough to choose which to attend.

And of course there was the important business of handling business. New officer and directors for 2007-2008 were elected. Our new International President of Toastmasters is Chris Ford DTM. Our new Region III First year Director is Charlotte Howard.

Mere words do not seem adequate to describe the overwhelming talent displayed by the con-testants participating in the World championship of Public Speaking. Our own Shannon Hills gave an outstanding performance. Even if Shannon did not leave with a trophy this year, she defiantly deserved to be on the stage with the best speakers from all over the world. All of the members of District 25 were extremely proud of her.

Of course no Toastmaster gathering would be complete without recognition of its member’s achievements. Congratulations to Maurice Taitt DTM for receiving the Excellence in Education and Training Award for his year as District 25 Lt. Governor of Education and Training.

Maurice Taitt DTM and International President Johnny Uy DTM

Hill Presented with Excellence in Marketing Award It’s no secret that Immediate Past District Governor Earl Hill, DTM spent his years as a Toastmaster and District Leader reaching for success. Two of the four critical success factors are members and clubs. Toastmaster Hill not only met but ex-ceeded the goals set forth during his term as the District 25 Lieutenant Governor Marketing in 2004-2005. Hill raised the bar for future LGM’s in District 25 by char-tering 23 brand new clubs, a new district record. Toastmasters International recog-nized Hill with the prestigious Excellence in Marketing Award for his success. Hill was presented with his plaque during the 76th Annual Convention in Phoenix by Past International President, Jon Greiner, DTM.

Earl Hill, DTM & Past Intl President Jon Greiner, DTM


SEPTEMBER CLUB ANNIVERSARIES 4231 Vernon College 3006 Oration Plus 1184 Expressionaires 5718 Motorola 9646 Aegonizers 676840 Samaritan Toastmasters 959155 A-Team

A Toastmaster Testimonial As a member of the Texas State Guard (www.txsg.state.tx.us), I recently had the distinction of serving the citizens of our great state after being activated and deployed by the governor down to a small town in far south Texas. During some of our down time, one of our sergeants asked for volunteers to do some im-promptu training. After a few moments of silence and realizing everybody was glancing around trying not to be “the one”, I got up and volunteered. My training wasn’t going to save anyone’s life, or to teach a battle-field skill, but to conquer the biggest fear any of us have ever had – public speaking. I spent the next ten minutes teaching and demonstrating the concept and practice of table topics. The ability to speak on any subject, and at any time, is an invaluable tool for all walks of life, even soldiers! Later that morning, the staff sergeant that had asked for volunteers came up to me and informed me that his unit would now be incorporating table topics as a standard training item at every drill! I also had another soldier approach me and ask me all about Toastmasters. Without Toastmasters, I would never had known, nor would I have ever volunteered, to lead an im-promptu training session. The best feeling, though, is that I have positively affected dozens of people through a little training session that combined two of my passions – Toastmasters and the Texas State Guard! Robert Davis, CL, President, Fossil Creek TM, CPL, TXSG

Calling All Coaches

District 25 is looking for special people to serve as a Club Coaches. Each Coach is assigned to a club that have a current membership of 12 or fewer, and have voted in favor of having a Club coach appointed. Club Coaches work with their appointed clubs to coach them to Distinguished status.

If a Club Coach leads and restores the club to Distinguished status within the coaching term, or a second coaching term, Toastmasters International recognizes the accomplishment as a successful coaching term. A successful coaching term can go towards the successful completion of one of the requirements for the ALS designation. A coaching term goes from the date that the Club Coach is appointed until June 30th. A second coaching term goes from July 1st (the next day after the end of the coaching term) until June 30th of the following year.

Use the Club Coaching Program to help reach your aspirations for Advanced Leader Silver (ALS) Designation. Immerse yourself in an new environment that will allow you to develop and improve your coaching and leadership skills. And finally revel in your successful efforts to coach others to success.

If you are interested in serving as a club coach, visit www.d25toastmasters.org/marketing/clubcoach.

http://www.txsg.state.tx.us/�


Did you know that a club Web site can be your best marketing tool? It works for you 24 hours a day, and gives potential members all the information they need about Toastmasters and your club.

If your club is concerned about the cost of hosting a website, or you are afraid you don’t have a program-mer in your club, there is a solution for you.

Through Freetoasthost.org, you can have a free Web site, and even the less experienced computer users can set it up and maintain it. Since January of 2004, FreeToastHost.org has been helping clubs attract new members, operate more efficiently, and keep current members informed and interested. Over 5,000 Toastmasters clubs around the world have benefited from the no-cost websites and on-line tools provided by FreeToastHost.org such as the duty roster, member directory, e-mail lists, discussion boards, club calendars, and much more.

Your club website is the often the first impression your club makes to a potential member. Make sure that your home page is dedicated to information that is suited for recruiting new members. Information about the Toastmasters organization, your club, and prominent information about your meeting day, time and location. Make sure your contact person’s name, email and phone number are kept current on the website. Like selling any product or service, you sometimes only have one shot at com-municating with the customer. Make sure your club is customer ready!!

Using Technology to Recruit New Members Dodi Foster, DTM - District 25 Public Relations Officer 2007-2008

Ready to step out of your comfort zone and speak before a non Toastmasters audience? This public relations event for District 25 needs you! We will showcase the Humorous Speaking Talents from all over District 25 in an event advertised to the general public. This is your opportunity to help us spread the word to the community about the benefits of membership in Toastmasters. There are 10 speaking slots open for five to seven minute Humorous Speeches. To sign up please send an email to [email protected]. If more than 10 members sign up, speakers will be selected by committee and final slate of speakers will be determined by October 1, 2007

We also need volunteers to serve on the committee and help the day of the event. Contact Dodi Foster, DTM via email [email protected].

TOASTMASTERS IN THE PARK

November 4, 2007 - 1p.m. to 4p.m. Fort Worth Trinity Park

BEST CLUB NEWSLETTER CONTEST (July 1 — November 15, 2007) Does your club have the best club newsletter ever written? Then you need to receive recog-nition for it! Save your best three issues to submit by November 15, 2007. Your club will receive recognition at the District 25 Fall Conference, and a $30.00 gift certificate to use at the District Store!

BEST CLUB WEBSITE CONTEST (July 1 — November 15, 2007) Register you club website with the district public relations officer by November 15, 2007. Send club name and URL. Your club will receive recognition at the District 25 Fall Confer-ence, and a $30.00 gift certificate to use at the District Store!


Deadline for DCP credit is September 30th! Remember that dues can be paid online on the TI website starting Friday September 7, 2007. Did you know that you only need a minimum of six members to pay online? Clubs that wait to pay until they receive dues from every member risk the chance of missing the deadline and losing out on receiving DCP Credit. Visit the members section of the Toastmasters Web-site and select the Club Business Tab on the bottom left corner of the screen, then enter your club number and password. Your password came with your semi annual dues report. Once onsite checkout the other activities you can do as well. Also, don’t forget that clubs paying their dues ON TIME during both semi annual dues periods will receive credit for the Five Star Club Award!

FREE TIMING LIGHTS FOR YOUR CLUB!!!

READY...SET...GROW!!! The CLUB adding the MOST new, dual, and reinstated members* from

August 1 through September 30 will receive their own set of electronic timing lights!

and. . . Each club with five or more new members will receive:

exclusive recognition at the 2007 Fall Conference a prestigious SMEDLEY AWARD Ribbon for their club banner

a personal club visit from a Top 3 District Officer of their choice plus…

Each individual that sponsors five or more new members will receive: a prestigious Governors Award Ribbon a “Committed to Excellence” lapel pin

a gift certificate good for $25 at the Toastmasters Store

*Clubs must add a minimum of five to qualify for this promotion. For more information visit www.d25toastmasters.org/readysetgrow

Smedley Award – August 1– September 30 Now that your club has Beat the Clock and added new members in May and June, it’s time to gear up for another membership building contest! The Smedley Award is in honor of the founder of Toastmasters, Ralph Smedley. This contest provides an op-portunity for your club to revitalize membership, come together to achieve a common goal through teamwork and be recog-nized and rewarded in the process. By adding five new, dual or reinstated members to your club in August or September, the club will receive a special Smedley Award ribbon to display on your club’s banner, as well as one item of your choice from The Successful Club Series, The Better Speaker Series, or The Leadership Excellence Series. Please remember, members must have a join date of August or September to make your club eligible for this award. Additional information regarding this con-test, as well as other membership building contests, is available in TI’s membership programs flier (Item 1620).


2008-2009 District 25 Leadership Open House October 27, 2007

Great Leadership Opportunities are ripe for the Picking

If you are interested in serving in District Leadership during the 2008-2009 Toastmaster Year and working towards completing your Advanced Leader Silver, come to the Open House on Saturday October 27, 2007 from 1 - 3p.m.

Refreshments will be provided.

*(for those who RSVP)

Stacy Furniture - 3rd Floor Community Room 1900 S. Main Street, Grapevine, Texas

for more information and to RSVP online visit

www.d25toastmasters.org/leadership or contact District 25 Governor, Maurice Taitt, DTM

at 972-742-1111 or [email protected]

FIVE STAR CLUB Pay semi-annual club dues on time during both periods (by Oct 10, 2007 and Apr 10, 2008) Add 4 new members and 4 more new members – PLUS End the year with 20 or Net 5 members. Get a Ribbon for your Club Banner and more! Ends June 30, 2008.


Voices Staff

Newsletter Editor Shawn Kornegay, CTM/CL

[email protected]

Publisher Maurice Taitt, DTM

[email protected]

Public Relations Officer Dodi Foster, DTM

[email protected]

Photographer Mark Novak, DTM

[email protected]

Voices is published monthly and is available to the members of District 25 Toastmasters and clubs. Sub-scription available for one year at the price of $36 for those wishing

to receive their newsletter delivered via postal mail. Back issues are

available online at www.d25toastmasters.org/

newsletter.

District Calendar

September 2007 1-30 Hold Area and Division Council Meetings 7 First Day to pay club dues renewals online (minimum 6) 8 District Executive Committee Meeting & District Staff Training 13 Area Speech Evaluation and Humorous Speech Contests Begin 30 Last day to submit semi-annual dues ONLINE and receive credit towards DCP goal!

October 2007 1-31 Hold Area and Division Council Meetings 1-20 Area Speech Evaluation and Humorous Speech Contests 27 District Executive Committee Meeting (Grapevine, TX) District Marketing Workshop 12pm-1pm (Grapevine, TX) District Leadership Open House 1pm (Grapevine, TX) 31 Last day for Area Visits

November 2007 1-30 Hold Area and Division Council Meetings 2 Division F Speech Evaluation and Humorous Speech Contest 3 Division E Speech Evaluation and Humorous Speech Contest Division A Speech Evaluation and Humorous Speech Contest 4 Daylight Savings Time Ends 9 Division B Speech Evaluation and Humorous Speech Contest 10 Division C Speech Evaluation and Humorous Speech Contest Division D Speech Evaluation and Humorous Speech Contest 12 District Steering Committee Meeting Deadline for submitting Outstanding Officer Nominations to District Awards Chair: [email protected] 22 Thanksgiving Day 30 Last day to submit Area Visit Report ONLINE for Distinguished Area Credit Fall Conference – DFW Marriott South – Fort Worth, Texas

The Mission of Toastmasters International Toastmasters International is the leading movement devoted to making effective oral communication a worldwide reality.

Through its member clubs, Toastmasters International helps men and women learn the arts of speaking, listening and thinking—vital skills that promote self-actualization, enhance leadership potential, foster human understanding, and

contribute to the betterment of mankind.

It is basic to this mission that Toastmasters International continually expand its worldwide network of clubs, thereby offering ever-greater numbers of people the opportunity to benefit from its programs.

Toastmasters International Vision

Toastmasters International empowers people to achieve their full potential and realize their dreams. Through our member clubs, people throughout the world can improve their communication and leadership skills, and find the courage to change.

The Mission of the District

The mission of the district is to enhance the performance and extend the network of clubs, thereby offering greater numbers of people the opportunity to benefit from the Toastmasters educational program by:

• Focusing on the critical success factors as specified by the district educational and membership goals. • Insuring that each club effectively fulfills its responsibilities to its members.

• Providing effective training and leadership opportunities for club and district officers.

The Mission of the Club The mission of a Toastmasters club is to provide a mutually supportive and positive learning environment in which every member has the opportunity to develop communication and leadership skills, which in turn foster self-confidence and

personal growth.

mailto:[email protected]�


All Aboard...Destination: Excellence District 25 Fall Conference

NOVEMBER 30—DECEMBER 1, 2007 at the Dallas/Fort Worth Marriott Airport South in Fort Worth, Texas

$85 EARLY REGISTRATION $25 VIP REGISTRATION

ONLINE REGISTRATION AVAILABLE VISIT WWW.D25TOASTMASTERS.ORG

Getting on Board for Destination Excellence Kathy Robertson, VP-Public Relations, Achieving Talented Communicators Members of the Achieving Talented Communicators Toastmasters were honored on August 8, 2007 with the presence of Diana Patton, Division A Governor, and Randy Terrell, Lieutenant Governor Education and Training. Diana and Randy performed the officer installation with John Mahome, VP Education, Amber Shelton, President, Kathy Robertson, VP Public Relations, Jacob Stansbury, Secretary, and Ruthie Brookins, Treasurer. Not pictured are Christine Jor-dan, VP Membership and Gary Rodriguez, Sergeant of Arms. The ATC Toastmasters also celebrated their club installation. The first meeting was held on April 11, 2007 at ATC Logistics and Electronics in Fort Worth, TX. Charter Members present during the installation included Scott Stein, John Mahome, Amber Shelton, Kathy Robertson, Craig Beasley, Mark Hughes, and Randy Terrell. Joining the charter members in the picture are current members, Jacob Stansbury, and Ruthie Bookins.


Welcome to Toastmasters! New Members from August 2007

Some Helpful Guidelines for Submitting Articles for Voices: • It’s usually best to use the inverted pyramid style. Write the material from most significant to least significant so the editor (or the

reader) can cut it off at any point (or any time) and know that the most important part has been covered. • Try to stay under 500 words (but don’t worry about it). • If possible, include pictures, along with information about who is in the picture and what is going on. • If formatting is important, use Word, but plain email is fine too. • If there are more than a couple of pictures, compress them and attach the compressed file.

Now get those articles in! Deadline for submittals is the 25th of the month. All articles are subject to editing.

Jacalyn Deaner Advancing Speakers Miea Mashek Aegonizers Richard Mayberry Aegonizers Pam Splawn Aegonizers Theresa Lubelski Afterburners Kevin Mack Afterburners Eric Robinson Afterburners Neaita Wortham Afterburners Julia Kim Airport Toastmaster Yasim Kolathayll Airport Toastmaster Ted McIlvain Airport Toastmaster Jesus Rodriguez AllianceTexas Toastmasters Denise Davis A-Team Donna Hudson BNSF Toastmasters Sanjay Jain BNSF Toastmasters Roger Keenan BNSF Toastmasters Bart McLeroy BNSF Toastmasters LaToya Poland BNSF Toastmasters Angela Sanders BNSF Toastmasters Edward Sullivan BNSF Toastmasters Bill Carver Burleson Toastmasters Billie Rhodes Burleson Toastmasters Jeffrey Harwell Cowtown Toastmasters Conrad Guerra Energizers Toastmasters Bud Warren Expressionaires Reeba King FAA Toastmasters Uyen Heldt Fighter Enterprise Jennifer Roa Fighter Enterprise Sandy Schmidt First Command Michael Vance Flagship Speakers Iheanacho Madugba House Speakers Sivunnaidu Gullipalli Irving Toastmasters Becky Kotara Irving Toastmasters Amy Morenz Keller Communicators Paul Drew Lakeside Leon Terrell Lakeside Marcus Terrell Lakeside Mary Walker Lakeside Tripp Cunningham Las Colinas Communicators Zyrone Ray Las Colinas Communicators Donna Labo Lewisville Toastmasters

Pete Cardenas LM AeroSpeakers Derrick Martin Lonestar Toastmasters Laura Rodriguez Lonestar Toastmasters Stephanie Janiak Longhorn Toastmasters Gretchel Johnson Mid Cities Evening Dinh Khuyen Motorola Erin Martin Oration Plus Toastmasters Teresa Stanford Oration Plus Toastmasters Jeanie Capshaw Phi Rappa Yappa Rachel Opdycke Plus-Two Quincy Updycke Plus-Two Coretta Turner Plymouth Park Carlo Piacente Quicksilver Express Sharon Roberson Ryan Plaza Tara Clayton Shining Stars Ward Griffin Shining Stars Enith Meraz Shining Stars Mary Sokol Shining Stars Shameca Stevens-Jones Shining Stars Joe Paniagua SOL Toastmasters Ivette Ray SOL Toastmasters Jesse Torres SOL Toastmasters Juliana Christenson Southlake Matt Heidenreiter Southlake Parker Ken Southlake Richard Redden Southlake Sam Palazzolo Southlake Evening David Leake Speak With Success Laura List Speak With Success David Reyes Speaking With Class Adnan Janjua Successful Speakers Sandra McMillian Talk Blue Toastmasters Erika Davis Toastmasters Anonymous Jeff McFall Toastmasters Anonymous Charles Skowronski ToastStop Terry Salmond Top Notch Toastmasters - TNT Cally Monson Unique Toastmasters At Vista Ridge Koti Tummuru Unique Toastmasters At Vista Ridge Leroy Vaughn Unique Toastmasters At Vista Ridge Javier Ruiz VHA Toastmasters Dusti Hebert Wichita Falls


Education Completions for August 2007

Club Division Area Award Date Member Club4370 F 63 CC 8/29/2007 Berwick, Jody Lynne Flagship Speakers Toastmasters 7514 C 31 CC 8/15/2007 Boepple, Keith Emerson Arlington Nooners Toastmasters 3536 F 62 CC 8/15/2007 Casey, Kathleen Ann Young Street Yappers 633 E 54 CC 8/3/2007 Charyulu, Jyothi S Speak With Success

3178 C 34 CC 8/29/2007 Chauncey, Joe W. Longhorn Toastmasters 710987 D 44 CC 8/30/2007 Jordan, Bonnie Cleburne Toastmasters

3178 C 34 CC 8/27/2007 Lunski, Kent A. Longhorn Toastmasters 4987 A 15 CC 8/27/2007 Madaffari, Debbie Southlake 3055 E 51 CC 8/20/2007 Monschke, Jeffrey Wayne Denton Toastmasters 4370 F 63 CC 8/28/2007 Mosier, Ryan D. Flagship Speakers Toastmasters 4370 F 63 CC 8/28/2007 Small, Tony M Flagship Speakers Toastmasters

676852 D 43 CC 8/16/2007 Smith, Darren Technically Speaking 778421 E 55 CC 8/24/2007 Taylor, Susan L. Lake Vista Toastmasters

3692 E 51 CC 8/13/2007 Wolbrink, Marie-Laure C. Lakeside

Congratulations to our fellow Advanced CommunicatorsClub Division Area Award Date Member Club7514 C 31 ACB 8/20/2007 Ghio, Robin S. Arlington Nooners Toastmasters 7274 E 55 ACB 8/15/2007 Knefely, Carolyn K. Unique Toastmasters At Vista Ridge

710987 D 44 ACB 8/4/2007 McKee, Shirley Cleburne Toastmasters 2348 D 42 ACB 8/17/2007 Mize, Jonathan L Waco Tale Twisters 3178 C 34 ACB 8/20/2007 Murphy, John F. Longhorn Toastmasters

778421 E 55 ACB 8/15/2007 Savage, Louella M. Lake Vista Toastmasters 420 E 51 ACB 8/17/2007 Stukel, Russ North TX

7784 F 62 ACS 8/21/2007 Beggane, Helen M. Motor Street Motor Mouths 4137 E 52 ACS 8/16/2007 Covey, Clark S. Lewisville Toastmasters 4137 E 52 ACS 8/16/2007 Garza, Ana Lewisville Toastmasters 7514 C 31 ACS 8/13/2007 Misquez, Claire A. Arlington Nooners Toastmasters 5537 F 63 ACS 8/22/2007 Richard, Diana F Airport Toastmaster 7407 C 35 ACG 8/22/2007 Cozby, Oliver Ray Pro A.M. Toastmasters

676842 D 42 ACG 8/27/2007 Cross, Jim T. Heart of Texas Bridge Gappers 4236 A 15 ACG 8/31/2007 Faircloth, Louise Southlake Evening Toastmasters 9595 D 45 ACG 8/13/2007 Terrell, Randy Toastmasters Anonymous

Club Division Area Award Date Member Club7407 C 35 CL 8/1/2007 Cozby, Oliver Ray Pro A.M. Toastmasters 4236 A 15 CL 8/29/2007 Faircloth, Louise Southlake Evening Toastmasters

897575 C 34 CL 8/29/2007 Hudgins, Jackie Star-Telegram 676852 D 43 OCL 8/13/2007 Hutyra, Jerry E. Technically Speaking

5590 D 41 CL 8/16/2007 Kirkland, D. K. Big T Toastmasters 7514 C 31 CL 8/16/2007 Misquez, Claire A. Arlington Nooners Toastmasters

897575 C 34 CL 8/29/2007 Nowell, Joanie Star-Telegram 586017 C 35 OCL 8/6/2007 Ross, Conda D. DREAM CHASErs Toastmasters

9595 D 45 OCL 8/24/2007 Taitt, Maurice Eugene Toastmasters Anonymous

Congratulations to our fellow Competent Communicators

Congratulations to our fellow Competent Leaders


Education Completions for August 2007 (continued)

Club Division Area Award Date Member Club897575 C 34 ALB 8/27/2007 Bailey, Tammy Star-Telegram

7407 C 35 ALB 8/8/2007 Cozby, Oliver Ray Pro A.M. Toastmasters 4236 A 15 ALB 8/29/2007 Faircloth, Louise Southlake Evening Toastmasters 5496 A 11 ALB 8/11/2007 Fisher, Sunni Cowtown Toastmasters 5718 A 14 ALB 8/9/2007 Patton, Diana C. Motorola 633 E 54 ALB 8/3/2007 Teixeira, Jacqueline Speak With Success

3055 E 51 ALS 8/21/2007 Clark, Ronald B. Denton Toastmasters 4236 A 15 ALS 8/29/2007 Faircloth, Louise Southlake Evening Toastmasters 1415 B 21 ALS 8/24/2007 Taitt, Maurice Eugene Plymouth Park

Club Division Area Award Date Member Club3055 E 51 DTM 8/21/2007 Clark, Ronald B. Denton Toastmasters 4236 A 15 DTM 8/31/2007 Faircloth, Louise Southlake Evening Toastmasters 7694 F 64 DTM 8/20/2007 Terrell, Randy EDS-Trinity

Congratulations to our fellow Advanced Leaders

Congratulations to our fellow Distinguished Toastmasters

Marketing Workshop

Learn how to attract, recruit, and retain members for your club. Also leave with valuable materials,

handouts, and resources to help build and sustain your club membership.

Saturday October 27,2007

Stacy Furniture - 3rd Floor Community Room 1900 S. Main Street, Grapevine, Texas

Open to all members - Seating is Limited!

Attendees are asked to pre-register. For more information or to register online,

visit www.d25toastmasters.org/marketing/workshop

IMPACT CLUB Y O U R


Welcome New Clubs to District 25 Toastmasters!

Regina Anderson Aleiya Bengall Aimee Blaylock Patricia Brown Antoinette Carroll-Brown Loy Christina Latrice Collins Tara Conway Tom Dao Mark Denison Traci Donaldson Aboobaker Ebrahim Maria Flores Linda Greer Sandra Guardado Charles Hawkins Bernard Hicks Lynelle Hicks Angela Howard Jessica Jairala Dawana Johnson Tonya Mullarkey Gauravi Pal Lashawn Proctor Quineka Ragsdale Wendy Ramirez William Richardson Jihyuan Singer Lolita Stark Tracy Willis

Citi Mustangs Toastmasters Club 1043559 - Division B - Area 24

Citi 6400 Las Colinas Blvd

Irving, Texas 75039 Thursdays @ 12pm

Membership open only to employees

Xerox Capital Toastmasters Club 1046272 - Division E - Area 52

Xerox 1301 Ridgeview Dr. Bldg 300

Lewisville, Texas 75057 Wednesdays @ 12pm


Melissa Buckley Tim Davis James Garbs Claudia Garcia Renay Grubaugh Jeremy Harve Roxsand Hofer Jason Kipker Jesse Leal Michele Martinez Stephenie McQueen Amanda Misquez Alexandra Moore Coleen Mowery Michelle Munoz Justin Phillips Michael Reynolds Jessicalyn Robles John Rodriguez Erin Young

J-Toast Club Toastmasters Club 1052163 - Division F - Area 64

Jason’s Deli 1900 S. Main St - 3rd Floor

Grapevine, Texas 76051 2nd & 4th Tuesday @ 2:30pm


Tenika Arnold Sharon Arosemana Shellye Bandy Troy Christensen Shaniece Crawford Kecia Davis Noralee Dunn Tiffany Ellison Gretta Griffin-Hurd Eula Guinn Monique Hetrick Michelle Jackson Corey Johnson Cheryll Jones Erica King Wesley Matthews Levonis Miller Sharon Rodgers Manuel Sanchez Amy Smith Catherine Smith Alene Spear Monique Walker Deborah Watson Kathy Woods

Javelin Direct Inc—Irving Medtronic—Fort Worth Carter Burgess—Fort Worth PriceWaterhouseCoopers—Dallas Cooks Children Health Care—Fort Worth Idearc—Irving United States Postal Service—Coppell The MHA Group—Irving

Ryder Logistics—Fort Worth Diebold—Coppell The Potters House—Grand Prairie Tarrant County College Northwest—Fort Worth Devry—Irving Prime Therapeutics—Irving Carswell FCU—Fort Worth Cen-Tex African American Chamber of Commerce—Waco

PROSPECTIVE CLUB LEADS FOR SEPTEMBER 2007

september 2007 v o i c e s - d25 toastmasters · toastmasters business: our 2007-2008 toastmasters...

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