The Sunshiner January 2010
www.toastmastersd47.org
Leading the way in 2010 It’s a new year, a time for new opportunities and challenges! This month we’ll take a look at the other growth opportunity Toastmasters offers us: the Leadership track.
your calendar and sign up now to attend a TLI in January. Check page 6 for the list or go to the D47 website http://toastmastersd47.org/ for more information.
Most of us focus on developing our oral com- There’s also lots of great information on efmunication skills working our way through the fective, successful leadership in this month’s Sunshiner, much of it coming CC and AC manuals; however right from the Toastmasters Inthere’s another world of opporternational website http:// tunity out there in the CL and www.toastmasters.org. AL programs. Take a few minutes to read There are many good reasons through this month’s Sunshiner why Toastmasters advocates and benefit from the tips on both communication and leadleadership, goal setting, etc.; ership skills. People with good then sit down and decide where communication skills are more you want to head in 2010 and likely to advance to leadership positions, and good leaders need communica- beyond. Your future is in your hands. Make plans to succeed then follow your dreams. tion skills to be effective. Whether you manage people for a living, get involved with projects at church, school, the scouts or serve as an officer in your Club, we all find ourselves in a leadership role at times.
Remember:
Why not equip yourself to do the best job you can while serving as a leader? District 47 is offering several fantastic learning opportunities across Florida and the Bahamas. Check
This year resolve to make yourself the best leader, speaker and person you can be. This year invest the time and effort in yourself...you’re worth it!
If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you always got. Maybe it’s time for a change!
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Kristina’s Korner It’s time! It’s time to turn the page. A New Year is ahead of us; an opportunity to wipe the slate clean. Many times over the years I have made resolutions to get better organized, lose weight, exercise more, re-connect with old friends, call my mother more often, etc. I’m sure many of you have made similar resolutions. By show of hands, how many of you broke your resolutions within a few weeks? a few months? I have broken most of them…. Just to make new ones the following year. It’s part of turning the page and welcoming in a New Year, isn’t it? It’s an unfortunate tradition. It’s time to make new traditions: new resolutions that we can keep. For me, a resolution can start any time; any date. How about we start the resolution on February 23rd? Or October 4th? Or how about July 1st? Or the day we walk into our first Toastmasters meeting. It’s time we make sure to get out of Toastmasters just what we came for. Do you feel more confident in the way you communicate? Can you share your ideas more effectively and make your voice heard? Have you increased your leadership skills? Did you lead by example in your Club by working through another manual or two in the last year so that you contributed to your Club’s success? If not, it’s time to make some changes. Remember, you get out what you put in. Sign up to serve in a role at the next meeting, bring a guest, attend TLI, prepare a new speech; tell your members about the resolutions you have made for this year. My resolution this year is to be the best leader I can be for District 47 to make sure that our members – each of you - are being served and can become the best communicators and leaders you can be.
What’s yours?
Publisher Kristina Kihlberg, DTM Editor Linda Deshauteurs, DTM
District 47 Executive Officers for 2009-2010 DG LGET LGM PRO Secretary Treasurer IPDG
Kristina Kihlberg Rick Furbush Pamela Rolle Pierre Taschereau Patricia Martinez Laz Sanchez Antionette Fox
District 47 Leaders District Advisor SAA Webmaster Division A Governor Division B Governor Division C Governor Division D Governor Division E Governor Division F Governor Division G Governor Division I Governor
Loretta Sandy Jim Ellis Jeanine Kinsey Scott Vail Elizabeth Taschereau Melody Tapley Karen Novek Jason Smith Mack Payne Beatriz Williams Anthony Longley
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
Kristina Kihlberg, DTM District Governor
♦Ensuring
that each Club effectively fulfills its responsibilities to its members
kkihlberg@toastmastersd47.org
♦Providing
effective training and leader-
ship development opportunities for Club and District officers
Four Critical Success Factors Membership
Paid Clubs
CC’s
AC’s
The Sunshiner is a publication of District 47 Toastmasters. Reproduction of articles is strictly prohibited without the express permission of the District 47 Governor. Toastmasters International and Toastmasters International emblems are trademarks of Toastmasters International registered in the United States, Canada and many other countries.
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Rick’s Room Here’s Your Chance to Make a Difference If you’ve signed up to be a Club Officer here’s your chance to make a difference for the members of your Club: attend Club Officer training! The second round of Club Officer training is in full swing with some terrific opportunities throughout the District. Here’s your chance to attend one of these great TLI-Toastmaster Leadership Institutes- so you can be a better leader. For many of you this may be your second time attending training this year and maybe you’re wondering what more you can learn. Well the answer is, - plenty! In addition to providing a great review of the duties of your office, these TLIs offer an opportunity to attend educational sessions by celebrated Toastmasters like Immediate Past International President Jana Barnhill, and World Champions Darren LaCroix and Lance Miller. You can also attend sessions on a variety of other relevant topics to help you succeed as a leader and a speaker. And of course, you can meet with your fellow Toastmasters to explore the endless possibilities membership can bring if you only take the time to try. And don’t forget TLI isn’t just about Club Officers. Absolutely not! These sessions are open to all members. What a great way to see if becoming a Club Officer will work for you. Attend an Officer class before you sign up and be prepared to lead. Or check out one of the World Champion sessions and see if competing in the contest circuit is more your speed. Stretch yourself, isn’t that why you joined? So here’s your chance to make a difference for your Club and yourself! Let 2010 be the year you give yourself a chance to become a better speaker, leader and person.
Take a minute to reflect on why you joined Toastmasters and sign up for TLI today!
Rick Furbush, DTM Lieutenant Governor Education & Training rickfurbush@mac.com
Newly Added Training in Sarasota Sarasota County has offered their facilities to host Club Officer training sessions on Thursday January 14, 2010.
club via email to Dawn Jani of Toast of the County @ djani@scgov.net no later than 12noon on January 12th.
Address: Sarasota County, 1001 Sarasota Center Blvd., Sarasota, FL
If an Officer requires dual role training, please include those details so additional sessions can be planned in advance.
Light snacks and beverages will be provided by Toast of the County Club.
PLEASE REGISTER no later than January 12th.
Current Club Presidents are encouraged to confirm the total number of attendees from their Page 3
Thursday, January 14 5:30 – 8:00pm Sarasota, FL
Pamela’s Place It’s not too late! During the last few weeks of 2009, many of us took time to reflect on the events of the past year. There were many wonderful memories to excite us about what the New Year would bring. Other memories perhaps were not so great. Whatever the memory, one thing is certain, we cannot change the past; we can however, control the decisions that affect our future. Take a few moments during these first few weeks of the New Year to identify your long and short term goals. Make plans achieve your goals. If you already have a plan, take a few moments to assess the current situation to determine whether or not you are still on track. The results of your assessment may be disappointing; you may realize you are not on target to achieving your goals. Whatever, the situation, it's not too late! Failure to meet a goal in 2009 does not mean you should give up and stop working toward success. It simply means you need to refocus and develop a new strategy. It's not too late to reassess, reorganize and implement a revised plan. Decide what are the most important things to you at this time, think about your current responsibilities and determine your priorities. It could be actions item at work or at home. It's not too late to get involved! If you are a Club Officer, take a few moments to assess your current goals. What did you want to accomplish in 2009? What did you achieve? How will your Club become Distinguished before June 30? The Club Success Plan (CSP) is your blueprint to a successful Club and will help you get back on track. As you reflect on the past year, take a few moments to develop a plan for the New Year. Your colleagues, family, friend and fellow Toastmasters will thank you for it.
Have a successful second half. Pamela D. Rolle, DTM Lieutenant Governor Marketing prolle@toastmastersd47.org
Positive Leadership Be the leader others want to follow.
•
Examples abound of poor leadership. Who hasn’t had a • • teacher or boss who invoked feelings of disrespect? A positive leader is someone who inspires, motivates, • energizes and unites, while generating loyalty and pro- • • ducing results. In his article for the Toastmaster magazine, Victor Parachin offers 10 rules on how to be that kind of leader: • •
Give more than you expect others to give. Combine optimism and perseverance.
• •
See everyone as a diamond in the rough. Express appreciation; accept responsibility. Keep your ego in check. Show respect for the people around you. Treat team members as family. Be a source of inspiration. Stress cooperation, not competition. Maintain a sense of humor.
Read the complete article on the TI website: http:// www.toastmasters.org/laws.aspx Page 4
TLI Continues Jan 16 – Bahamas
Jan 16 – West Coast
SPECIAL GUEST
SPECIAL GUEST
Darren LaCroix
Lance Miller
2001 World Champion of Public Speaking
2005 World Champion of Public Speaking
In 2001, Darren outspoke 25,000 contestants from 14 countries to win that title. Since that victory, Darren has traveled the world demystifying the process of creating a powerful speech. He has roused audiences with his inspirational journey from first-rate chump to first-class champ, proving anything is possible if you are willing to work for it.
Lance has delivered over 2,500 speeches in over 28 countries on the fundamentals of public speaking, leadership, effective management, sales and overcoming failure and adversity. His real life experience brings fun, lively and entertaining presentations to the podium.
Jan 23 – East Coast
Jan 23 – Ft. Myers
SPECIAL GUEST
SPECIAL GUEST
Jana Barnhill
Gary Roberts
IP Int’l President & Accredited Speaker
President, Florida’s Speakers Association
Jana conducts seminars on leadership development, com-
Gary is a motivational
munication skills, team building
speaker, corporate enter-
and more. She works as a
tainer, humorist, and more.
speech writer & coach for
He is also one of the most
other professionals. She has
versatile speakers in the in-
nd
placed 2
rd
and 3 in TM’s World
dustry today, whether your
Championship of Public Speak-
event is about personal devel-
ing and has also received the
opment, change, leadership,
Accredited Speaker designa-
or sales, Gary is the ideal
tion, an honor held by only six
keynote speaker for your
women in the world.
event.
Register on www.toastmastersd47.org Page 5
Club Officer Training TLI Bahamas - January 16th: 2001 World Champion of Public Speaking 2001 Darren LaCroix
Toastmasters Leadership Institute
It’s not that “same old boring officer training” anymore. No … it’s called a TLI for a reason. Toastmas- TLI Tampa - January 16th: 2005 World Champion ters Leadership Institute is just that, a second of Public Speaking Lance Miller round of Toastmasters advanced training in leaderTLI Delray Beach - January 23rd: Immediate Past ship and speaking skills. Intl President Jana Barnhill Not only do we have training for the officers, but a host of great topics TLI Ft. Myers/Naples - January 23rd : Florida for all Toastmasters. And this year Speakers Association President Gary Roberts we are taking it to the next level. We are bringing in the superstars for If you want to get the most out of your Toastmasyou: the Immediate Past Internaters experience, if you want to create a winning tional President of Toastmasters and and vibrant club then encourage ALL of the memtwo World Champions! bers to attend one of these fabulous TLIs. Go to Members and Club Officers mark your calendar for the District 47 website for more information these excellent learning opportunities in January. http://toastmastersd47.org/
PRO Challenge Does your Club have the BEST Newsletter and/or BEST Website in District 47?? WE WILL SOON FIND OUT!
• •
Sign up to enter in these two contests and be rewarded for your creative membership building work. Please read the requirements below: •
•
Clubs must submit newsletters (via link or pdf) for January, February and March 2010 or the last three Newsletters published by the Club since September 2009 (if published bi-monthly).
•
Area number & Division letter Publication date & number Editor, Club president & VP of PR names with contact info such as phone and Club physical address for potential members Other content to be considered include: photos & or graphics, ease of reading, layout, consistency between issues, grammar, members showcase, attractiveness & map to location.
The winners and runners up will be announced and AWARDED during the District 47 Spring Conference April 16-17, 2010 in Fort Lauderdale.
Clubs must forward website link no later than January 24, 2010. The website will be visited periodically The District 47 Spring Conference will be a fabulous, fun event with opportunities to learn and grow and for consistency & updated information. network. The Best Club Newsletter and Best Club Please send to District 47 Public Relations Officer (PRO) Website contest winners and their Clubs will be exat taschereau@bellsouth.net posed to hundreds of Toastmasters and guests coming from every corner of our District. The content of your newsletter & website should inThe judges are anonymous and the announcements ficlude: nal. Work hard, make your Club proud and showcase • An article from someone on your Board of Direcyour skills!! tors (Club Officers) We look forward to celebrating with you in Fort • Club members’ article(s) Lauderdale this coming April! • The Toastmasters mission • Information about TLIs and members trainings • How to be a DCP Club information Pierre Taschereau • Your Club progress in the DCP District PRO • Your Club members achievements ptaschereau@toastmastersd47.org • Club & District name and number •
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Compassionate Conversation It is amazing that we tend to make the same resolutions that we made the previous year. We seem stuck on repeating this personal promise and for whatever reason, fall short on making it so. Honestly speaking, I think we forget about these resolutions by February.
If you know of the birth of a child, passing of a fellow Toastmaster, a “big” birthday or similar occasion, please send a note to our Compassionate Mailbox using this link on the District 47 website http:// toastmastersd47.org
Forget making a new resolution this year; go back to Let us know the name, which Club those you have already made. Perhaps if we map out and address where we can send the short–term goals toward our resolution, then we can card. accomplish that personal promise. The possibility of success becomes greater. Revisit, Realize, and Reach out to attain your Resolution. My wish for you this New Year is best said in the following quote by singer and activist Willie Nelson “When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around”.
Cathy Koyanagi Compassionate Communicator
Club Anniversaries Congratulations to these clubs celebrating anniversaries in January! In Division A, Area 12, Collier Communique Club, Club #4392, Chartered January 13, 2003 In Division B, Area 21, Great Fort Lauderdale Toastmasters Club, Club #2004, Chartered January 1, 1956
In Division B, Area 23, Motorola Communicators Club, Club #9745, Chartered January 1, 1994 In Division C, Area 32, Tampa Noonshiners Club, Club #3909, Chartered January 1, 1971 In Division C, Area 34, Suncoast Toastmasters Club, Club #1667, Chartered January 1, Chartered 1978 In Division C, Area 35, PwC Tampa Talks Club, Club #748133, Chartered January 6, Chartered 2005 In Division D, Area 43, Bill Gove Golden Gavel Club, Club #6818, Chartered January 1, 2000 In Division F, Area 60, Lake Placid Toastmasters Club, Club #868600, Chartered January 25, 2006 In Division G, Area 70, St Petersburg Toastmasters Club, Club #2284, Chartered January 1, 1957 In Division G, Area 72, Star Toastmasters, Club #5933, Chartered January 1, 2001 In Division I, Area 80, New Providence Branch, Club #3596, Chartered January 1, 1968 In Division I, Area 80, Cable Beach West Club, Club #6796, Chartered January 1, 1988 In Division I, Area 83, Action Communicators Extraordinaire, Club #9477, Chartered January 1, 1999 In Division I, Area 82, Destined For Success Toastmasters Club, Club #3956, Chartered January 1, 2000 In Division I, Area 80, C.H.M.I. Toastmasters Club, Club #969479, Chartered January 8, 2007 In Division I, Area 84, Word of Life Communicators, Club #1128197, Chartered January 21, 2008
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District 47 Calendar We’re adding our District 47
January 2010 January
Calendar to the Sunshiner. Each
Conduct Club International Speech and Table Topics Contests nd
month we’ll show you what’s
round Club dues – Dues to be submitted before April
happening in your District 47 at
January
Begin to collect 2
January
2nd Round Area Club visits continue
several levels:
January
Continue 2nd Round TLI
1-Jan
Follow up of Club Officers lists not submitted
District level activities are indicated in white
Jan 7-10
Midyear District Officer Training (DG/LGET/LGM)
10-Jan
Performance review 50%
15-Jan
Submit Treasurer’s Report for July-November to World Headquarters
15-Jan
Appoint Proxy committee
16-Jan
TLI - Florida West Coast, Tampa
16-Jan
TLI - Bahamas, Nassau
23-Jan
TLI - Florida East Coast, Boca Raton
Training opportunities are indicated in green Club level reminders and events are indicated in blue. You can see that our District Leaders keep very busy behind the scenes to ensure District 47 runs smoothly and stays on target to become #1 in the world!
February 2010 February 2
nd
Round Area Club visits continue
February Conduct Area International Speech and Table Topics Contests February Continue 2nd Round TLI Continue to collect 2nd Round Club dues – Dues to be submitted before February April Talk Up Toastmasters Membership Award Program begins – add 5 new 1-Feb members 15-Feb Submit Treasurer’s Report for July-December to World Headquarters Recommendations for the realignment of Clubs due by Divisions to Dis20-Feb trict 28-Feb Last Day for Divisions to conduct local TLI
The same is true at the Club level, it takes dedication to ensure your Club achieves Distinguished or better before June 30. We invite you to check the District Calendar on a regular basis so you can plan ahead. Please contact your Area Governor with any questions you may have about events or reminders listed here.
Looking for a Leader? Want to find the best leaders for your organization?
identifying potential leaders. Maxwell credits his friend Fred Smith with helping him arrive at these 11 questions to ask when looking for a leader:
John C. Maxwell, Ph.D., leadership expert and author of more than 30 books on the topic, believes • Does the person question existing strongly that “everything rises and systems and push for improvefalls on leadership” In his monthly ments? e-newsletter, Leadership Wired, he • Do they offer practical ideas? answers the question, “How can I • When they speak, who listens? be sure to hire the right person?” • Do others respect them? To accomplish anything of signifi• Can they create or catch a vision? cance, you must have the right peo• Do they show a willingness to ple by your side. Finding a great take responsibility? hire often goes hand in hand with Page 8
• Do they finish the job? • Are they emotionally strong? • Do they possess strong people
skills? • Will they lead others with a ser-
vant’s heart? • Can they make things happen?
You can purchase the 10th Anniversary edition of John Maxwell’s The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership on the TI website. Makes a great gift or addition to your own library.
Looking at the Past by Robert W. Blakeley, DTM, PIP
The Story Behind Women in Toastmasters
Background In the mid 1960s, clubs were accepting women in to membership. Because the International by-laws restricted membership to men, club and District leaders were faced with the evolving women’s rights issues, and the Federal Government actions to broaden opportunities for women. Through out the U.S., federal government sponsored clubs and some military clubs started registering women using first two initials.
a complaint of Toastmasters discrimination against women. A complaint had been formally filed by a Toastmistress Club at the Health and Welfare Agency, claiming they were not able to receive support equal to that provided two Toastmaster clubs in the Agency. We worked out a solution but a bigger issue pervaded.
I explained that I had no authority to speak for TI, however was aware of women joining our organization. We agreed that, unless directed otherwise by the President of Action taken by the World Headquarters Toastmasters, I would serve as liaison in staff established a policy that the given first seeking solutions. We were aware that it name had to appear on membership applica- might take a few years to resolve the issue, tions. No one seemed to be concerned with but as long as TI was making progress no the by-law violations or initiated action to negative action would be taken by the amend the by-laws. USCSC. In the late 1950s, the leadership of District 36 established a strong relationship with the senior management of the U.S. Civil Service Commission that sponsored a club.
On February 6, 1970 I sent a letter to President Ralph C. Howland requesting time to address the Executive Committee on what I perceived as a “plaguing problem of women Annually, the Executive Director would reis- associated with our clubs”. I noted earlier sue a document encouraging Federal Agen- discussions about women in the Georgetown cies to include Toastmasters in their person- University Club #1237 and the three clubs nel training programs and provide adminis- pending in the Defense Intelligence Agency, trative support when required. While D-36 which would include women in the military. Governor, I maintained a personal relation- I further expressed concern about the impact of withdrawal of federal government ship with the Executive Director. support, under charges of discrimination, if Toastmasters International policy was not changed. We almost lost Federal support and one third of our clubs. If the USCSC had withdrawn their support and formally declared Toastmasters as discriminatory, approximately one third of our Shortly after I was elected International Di- clubs located in Federal Agencies and Military installations could have disappeared. rector 1969-71 I was summoned to the USCSC Executive Director’s office to answer continued
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Looking at the Past by Robert W. Blakeley, DTM, PIP
The Story Behind Women in Toastmasters Lesson learned was that in our desire to solve the problem we could only see one Action Taken: option. We did not prepare the Past LeadI advised the President and Executive Direc- ers and District leadership to understand the depth of the issue, and were a bit pator of the pending problem with the USCSC. ternal in saying what the Board thought was right, should be accepted by the memberThey instructed me to keep relationships open while the problem could be looked at. ship During the two years I was off the Board I continued my relationship with the USCSC, assuring the Executive Director that it would take another two years before the issue could be resolved. I assured him that despite the setback, women were still being admitted to membership, mostly by using male first names in their applications. (A good example is PIP Helen “Homer” Blanchard). As I traveled on business, around the The Committee had a by-law change to drop globe, I visited clubs and lobbied for their the word “male” from the language of the understanding and support of a future byby-laws, thus legitimizing the membership law change. of women. During this period, PIP Joe Rinnert proposed After hours of debate, the Committee, exa language change in the by-laws providing cept for me, stood against presenting the club option in determining club memberissue to the forthcoming convention. After ship. This proposal was presented at the presenting the committee report, I filed a 1973 Houston convention. The approval minority report and moved that the Board, voting was 4,264 ayes and 527 nays. as a meeting of the whole, debate the issue Lesson learned from this stage, that the and approve sending the by-law change to clubs and leadership were placed in a posiconvention for approval. After extended tion where in they had a say in the future highly emotional debate, threats of doom, of the organization, therefore they were social issues that could develop, etc. by a supportive. small margin the Board approved sending the by-law change to convention. We know the tremendous benefits from adding women to our membership. We broadAt the August 1971 convention in Calgary, ened our membership base and resolved fifollowing the then practice of having the committee chairmen present issues and de- nancial issues that were negative during this period. fend them, I responded to all inquiries and emotional accusations. The motion was defeated by votes of 834 ayes and 4,379 nays. Bob Blakeley, DTM, PIP 08/18/09
In 1971 President Diamond selected me to be the Chairman of the DAP Committee, then a 4th committee on the Board chaired by a second year Director. The objective was to have that committee address the woman membership issue. Because I was the only federal man on the board he felt I had a deeper understanding of what we faced.
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Introducing the Speaker’s Bureau The District 47 Speaker's Bureau is now available to all Toastmaster's members. The mission of the Speaker's Bureau is twofold.
fees are due while your application is being reviewed.
2) Your speech video will be reviewed by the Speaker's Bureau to determine your speaking level. Based upon the feedback from the review, you may be offered the opportunity to join as a marketed speaker at the Premier, Executive or 2. To provide interested and qualified Toastmasters Professional Level. There is a $27 annual fee to the opportunity to improve their speaking skills offset marketing and operational costs. by speaking to groups outside of the club envi3) Once the annual fee has been received, you will ronment. have the opportunity for speaking engagements The Speaker's Bureau will provide non-paid speaking based upon the needs of the requesting organizaengagements for our members to community organition and your area of expertise. zations like the Kiwanis, Rotary Clubs, other non1. To increase awareness of Toastmasters within District 47 by providing speakers to qualified community organizations and businesses.
profit organizations, and potentially to businesses. Members will speak on their area of expertise based upon the needs of the requesting organization.
We are also looking for your help in spreading the word about the Speaker's Bureau to community organizations and businesses. If you are a member of an organization that is looking for a speaker, please refer them to our website to request a speaker.
We are now accepting applications to become a member of the Speaker's Bureau. To be eligible to join, you must have completed 6 speeches towards If you have questions about the Speaker's Bureau, your Competent Communicator award. The applica- please contact the Speaker's Bureau Chairman Matt tion process consists of the following steps: Kinsey at bureau@toastmastersd47.org. 1) Register online at http:// speakers.toastmastersd47.org. You will need to Matt Kinsey provide contact information and a video of one Speaker's Bureau Chairman of your speeches (posted to YouTube, Vimeo, bureau@toastmastersd47.org etc., or your own website). You will automatically be enrolled as a student member and no
Motivational Speaking One of the most important elements of leadership is the ability to motivate people. Without motivation, even the most skilled team of seasoned professionals is unlikely to achieve great things. A highly motivated group of talented people, on the other hand, can move mountains. While it’s true that motivating people involves more than just changing the way you speak, there are some simple guidelines you can follow to help build team motivation with only your words and your voice:
2. Use quotes, stories and anecdotes. Along with their obvious entertainment value, quotes and stories can lend authority to your topic and provide concrete examples that people can relate to. 3. Speak with confidence. Deliver your message loud and clear. Maintain eye contact with your listeners. Don’t mumble or slouch. 4. Say you and we, not I and me. Instead of telling people what you want them to do, present ways for them to work together to achieve their goals. Involve listeners in the success of the group.
5. Keep it simple. People aren’t motivated by what you say; they’re motivated by what they under1. Be enthusiastic. Enthusiasm is contagious! Bestand. The best way to ensure audience underfore you present your ideas, think about the asstanding is to break down complex ideas into pects of the subject that you find most interestsimple components. ing, and don’t be afraid to let that interest come through in your voice. Page 11
Spread the Word
Kudos to Club Awesome, Club #2445, Coral Springs, Florida! Their excellent PR efforts have given them a full page spread in Lifestyle Magazines January 2010 edition. What a great way to promote their Club as well as the entire Toastmasters organization.
Congratulations on your AWESOME accomplishment!
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Dreams of Freedom We take it oh so for granted, the word “freedom.” In the morning when I awake and dress, I can choose what I feel like wearing today! One rule most agree on is, it can’t be what I wore yesterday or even the day before. Somebody might remember—oh no!
ter was read and shared with the Hobe Sound Club, the Area Governor, and the Division Governor. The Division Governor went to the prison and met with the prison officials to get the clearance and permission to establish a Gavel club within the confines of the Okeechobee Correctional Institution.
On my day off from work I can get in my car and go to the mall, or perhaps spend a few hours at the beach, It was several months before I could actually visit the my choice! We have so many choices every day that we prison along with another volunteer Toastmaster to see sometimes don’t give it a second thought! After all, how we could help! we’re free to make most choices for our daily lives. It was with trepidation and uncertainty we entered. I recently met a group of Toastmaster fans who once We were wondering whether we could help or even had all those same options, but because of some wrong communicate with the inmates! choices, they now have very few! We stepped through several locked doors and entry They dress the same every day, never get in the car, points wearing our body alarms (these were panic and most have forgotten what the beach or shopping alarms worn on our belts), which the prison officials malls are like. Just the same routine day after day, assured us would bring immediate help should the ocyear after year, for 20 or 30 years. Wow! casion arise! A Classification Officer escorted us to the While serving as the founding president of the Hobe library where the assembly of 20 potential Gaveliers Sound Toastmasters Club, I received a very interesting were waiting for us. My own nervousness was instantly letter. It started with Seasons Greetings, and thanks relieved by the warm reception I received with handfor taking time in my busy schedule, and asked for my shakes from every inmate in the room! direction in establishing a Toastmasters Gavel club for One of the inmates had been in a Gavel club at another the incarcerated at the Okeechobee Correctional Instiprison and had instructed the gathering of men on protution of Florida. This letter, from one of the inmates, cedure and protocol for conducting a Toastmasters was very neatly hand printed with almost calligraphy artistic style. Very intriguing, to say the least! The let- meeting. And what a fantastic job he did! Continued
Setting Goals for 2010 and Beyond The following broad guidelines will help you to set effective goals:
incremental gives more opportunities for reward. Derive today's goals from larger ones.
State each goal as a positive statement: Express your Set performance goals, not outcome goals: Take care goals positively – 'Execute this technique well' is a to set goals over which you have as much control as much better goal than 'Don't make this stupid mistake.' possible. There is nothing more dispiriting than failing to achieve a personal goal for reasons beyond your Be precise: Set a precise goal, putting in dates, times control. In business, these could be bad business enviand amounts so that you can measure achievement. If ronments or unexpected effects of government policy. you do this, you will know exactly when you have In sport, for example, these reasons could include poor achieved the goal, and can take complete satisfaction judging, bad weather, injury, or just plain bad luck. If from having achieved it. you base your goals on personal performance, then you can keep control over the achievement of your goals Set priorities: When you have several goals, give each a priority. This helps you to avoid feeling overwhelmed and draw satisfaction from them. by too many goals, and helps to direct your attention Set realistic goals: It is important to set goals that you to the most important ones. can achieve. All sorts of people (employers, parents, media, society) can set unrealistic goals for you. They will often do this in ignorance of your own desires and ambitions. Alternatively you may set goals that are too Keep operational goals small: Keep the low-level high, because you may not appreciate either the obgoals you are working towards small and achievable. If stacles in the way or understand quite how much skill a goal is too large, then it can seem that you are not you need to develop to achieve a particular level of making progress towards it. Keeping goals small and performance. Write goals down: This crystallizes them and gives them more force.
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Dreams of Freedom We were both blown away by the professionalism and respect the inmates showed to one another. These men showed us, who were there to help them, an exemplary Toastmasters meeting! Wow! We were impressed!
world. They have been discarded by society, but judging by what I have witnessed, I hold these new Toastmasters in high regard.
I am passionate about the positive benefits and the effect that the Toastmasters program has on anyone actively involved, and feel it is especially important to offer that opportunity to our prison population. There are 1600 inmates in this one facility alone! Perhaps more of us can offer a bit of our time to help others in They all recognize the poor choices they made when a similarly difficult situation? The rewards are beyond they were free. They do not seek pity or offer excuses, your expectations when you help another individual but rather seek only to improve themselves thru the skills Toastmasters offers them, the ability to commu- with a talent you already have! nicate intelligently in a professional world, the ability We congratulate the newly formed Ambassadors of the to listen, and to help others through new found leader- Okeechobee Correctional Institution of Florida on being ship skills, and in turn help others to avoid making the certified as an official Toastmaster Gavel Club, and wrong choice. wish them much success. The men were enthusiastic, joyful and open to one another and willing to bring a glimmer of hope to each other, in a rather depressing existence where chasing freedom, in many cases, is but a dream!
Some of the prisoners will be up for parole and when that time comes, they will be helped by the skills offered by Toastmasters, to become productive citizens. According to data provided by an organization called Taking Flight, the recidivism rate for inmates involved in a prison Gavel club is reduced to 5%-10% from the normal 50%-70% for non-Toastmaster participants!
For more information about Prison Gavel Clubs, refer to www.takingflight.org. You will be glad you did! Rich Otten, ACS/CL Hobe Sound Toasters Club #1206922
Statistics say that 95% of crime today is from repeat offenders, those who previously served prison time. What would happen if we could reduce that crime rate, simply by offering an opportunity of Toastmasters to those who want to improve themselves? It says in the Bible “The Last shall be First”. These men are in a psychologically and emotionally draining
Photo taken outside the facility by Rich Otten
Building Relationships In an effort to enhance our relationship with ASTD We are looking for other events where Toastmasters American Society for Training and Development - a can benefit from a stronger relationship. Please send group of Toastmasters recently attended the annual a note to our Sunshiner if you have any ideas. Fort Lauderdale ASTD Chapter “Champions Workplace Learning” event. District 47 sponsored a table at their Employee Learning Week’s grand finale evening. This event recognizes “best practices” by employers in the area of employee learning & performance. Several awards were given out. The idea was for D47 to reach out to other speaking/ training communities and promote Toastmasters. We made connections and networked the room like real pros. The business cards that were collected will be used to send thank you notes and follow up invitations to local Toastmasters Clubs. Page 14
District Elections Believe it or not, it is time for us to think about next year’s District Officers. The Nominating Committee will meet on Saturday, February 27th in Fort Lauderdale to interview all interested candidates for elective officer roles for District 47.
Qualifications At the time of taking office, the District Governor shall have served at least six (6) consecutive months as a Club President and at least twelve (12) consecutive months as a Lt. Governor or Division Governor or a combination thereof.
The elections will be held at the District Council Meeting on SatLT. GOVERNOR EDUCATION AND TRAINING urday April 17, 2010 at the Embassy Suites in Fort Lauderdale, where EACH CLUB has TWO votes. Make sure your vote counts! Mission/Purpose Under the guidance of the District Governor, strives to have We’re electing: District Governor, Lt. Governor Education & every Club and each member reap the benefits of the ToastmasTraining, Lt. Governor Marketing, and all Division Governors. Let ters educational program and to have every Club become a Disus ensure we put in place a strong team for next year. tinguished Club. Responsible for achieving Distinguished District goals for CCs, ACs, and Distinguished Clubs. Provides direction Anyone interested in any of these district officer roles, please and counsel to Division Governors, Area Governors, and Club submit your nomination request to our Nominating Committee officers on the educational opportunities in Toastmasters. ReChair, Antionette Fox at email antionettefox@yahoo.com. All sponsible for the design and conduct of successful District training programs, conferences, and other District educational forms referred to are available to download on the District 47 events. website www.toastmastersd47.org. Qualifications How do I nominate someone? The Lt. Governor Education and Training shall have served at Download the nomination form, fill it out and mail it to Immedi- least six (6) consecutive months as a Club President and at least twelve (12) consecutive months as a Lt. Governor, Division Govate Past District Governor Antionette Fox, DTM. Her address is ernor, or an Area Governor, or a combination thereof. located on the form. LT. GOVERNOR MARKETING Mission/Purpose Under the guidance of the District Governor, makes the benefits of Toastmasters membership available to greater numbers of people. Plans, develops, implements, and directs short-term and long-term District marketing objectives. Develops and directs What else do I need to know? programs for new Club development, Club rescue efforts, Club All candidates must sign the Officer Agreement and Release membership promotion, and membership retention. Responsible form. The procedural rules for candidates are also available on for achieving Distinguished District goals for membership and the D47 website and should be reviewed. Club growth. Promotes standards of service to the member and to the Club. What is the Mission of the District? Qualifications The mission of the District is to enhance the performance and The Lt. Governor Marketing shall have served for at least six (6) extend the network of Clubs, thereby offering greater numbers of people the opportunity to benefit from the Toastmasters edu- consecutive months as a Club President and at least twelve (12) consecutive months as a Lt. Governor, a Division Governor, or as cational program by: • Focusing on the critical success factors as specified by the an Area Governor, or a combination thereof. District educational and membership goals, • Insuring that each Club effectively fulfills its responsibilities DIVISION GOVERNOR to its members, Mission/Purpose • Providing effective training and leadership development Achieves the Mission of the District within the Division, accomopportunities for Club and District officers. plishing District goals in membership building and retention, Club extension, and educational accomplishments. Ensures each Club realizes its Mission and fulfills its responsibilities to its What is the Vision of Toastmasters International? members. Responsible for achieving Distinguished Division ProToastmasters International empowers people to achieve their gram goals and ensuring that Areas and Clubs within the Division full potential and realize their dreams. Through our member Clubs, people throughout the world can improve their communi- achieve Distinguished status. Serves the Division Clubs by providcation and leadership skills, giving them the courage to change. ing District support and resources through the Area Governors. Qualifications A Division Governor shall have served at least six (6) consecutive What are the responsibilities for the District Offices? months as a member of a District Council (e.g., Club President, DISTRICT GOVERNOR Vice President Education, Area Governor, District Secretary, and Mission/Purpose District Treasurer). As the District's Chief Executive Officer, directs the District in a way which fosters strong Clubs, produces maximum growth in What about Area Governors? education completions, Club and membership, and is consistent Area Governors are not elected positions. They are appointed with the interests of members of Toastmasters International. by the incoming District Governor each year. If you are interResponsible for motivating the District to achieve Distinguished ested in being an Area Governor for 2010-2011, please contact District. Achieve the Mission of the District in a manner which your current Area or Division Governor to express your interest. motivates volunteer leaders and promotes a standard of excelThey will forward your information on to the incoming District lence in all District activities. Governor. Can I nominate myself? Yes, any Toastmaster in good standing may nominate any other Toastmaster in good standing who meets the qualifications for that position. This includes self-nominations.
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Photos from TLI in Division B
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Educational Awards Congratulations to these Toastmasters who have received Educational Awards in the month of December. What a great way to end 2009!
Competent Communicator
Competent Communicator
Behn, Betty J.
Club #602900
Talati, Amit H.
Club #2903
Bodie, Carol D.
Club #1199193
Turnquest, Wayne
Club #1050379
Boyd, John M
Club #1051432
Watson, Lavell Joel
Club #1340647
Cooper, Marcia Andreea
Club #6796
Dames, Jenevy
Club #8123
De Angelis, Tony
Club #3466
Deveaux, Sharon
Club #1050379
Dunn, Peter
Club #2582
Edgecombe, Crystal Latonya Club #3956
Advanced Communicator Bronze Burke, John J.
Club #3466
Haseltine, Jill
Club #602900
Hillestad, Sharon
Club #1039583
Knowles, Kendrick Percival Club #6796
Fielding, Kelvin
Club #2284
Flowers, Ruth
Club #7943
Goliger, Karen
Club #1216633
Gostkowski, Lana
Club #1197988
Guanipa, Yraida
Club #1695
Koval, Alexander
Club #3278
Major, Marie L
Club #1095
McDonald, Carl Anthony
Club #4267
Kearns, Thomas
Club #1667
Michael, Lorna R
Club #8248
Rascati, Gina
Club #8664
Norris, Jonathan N.
Club #1146909
Vail, Scott
Club #9628
Plant, Thomas Gray
Club #8181
Van Breemen, Elyse Aronson Club #1039583
Pruskin, Steven L.
Club #1810
Redalia, Larry
Club #1039583
Salicco, Sandy A
Club #6003
Sanguedolce, Helen Irene
Club #6818
Scott, Sheri
Club #1039583
Spencer, Ralph
Club #8248
Strong, Jane E.
Club #1169566
Sturrup, Dawne M.
Club #1340647
Rizzo, Robert F.
Club #2835
Rolle, David
Club #9477
Smith, Mary Ann
Club #2733
Watson, Lavell Joel
Club #1340647
Williams Gordon, Patrice E. Club #1095
Advanced Communicator Silver
Do you facebook? Check out D47’s page! Page 17
Educational Awards Congratulations to these Toastmasters who have received Educational Awards in the month of December. What a great way to end 2009!
Competent Leader Black, Chavette
Club #6796
Bodie, Carol D.
Club #1199193
Clare, Estelle G.
Club #1227605
Clarke, Beverley
Club #1199193
Cleare, Janice
Club #1199193
Leader Excellence Bullard, Greg Utel
Club #839960
Clarke, Troy
Club #1600
Williams, Collette Wendy
Club #1425
Cummings-Beck, Gillian W. Club #1702 Dames, Jenevy
Club #8123
Ferguson, Rachel A.
Club #1095
Francomano, Katherine C.
Club #8248
Joseph, Belinda Carlene
Club #3518
Lovejoy, Sparkie
Club #8248
Miskanic, Vic
Club #3466
Newton, Veronica
Club #1199193
Sturrup, Dawne M.
Club #1340647
Walker, Trixy
Club #5222
Watson, Lavell Joel
Club #1340647
Williams Gordon, Patrice E. Club #1095
Advanced Leader Bronze Harden, Jeanne L
Club #3668
Kent, Beverly A.
Club #5899
Major, Keith L.
Club #1227605
Watson, Lavell J.
Club #3956
The Sunshiner monthly newsletter is one of the many tools we use to help the membership of District 47 learn, grow and share. We strive to keep the information and articles timely and relevant to your needs. If you have any information, suggestions or opinions you’d like to share with your District please contact us.
Advanced Leader Silver Rolle, Glenroy
Club #9477
Tassinari, David
Club #1289921
Williams, Collette Wendy
Club #1425
Address your email to: Sunshiner@toastmastersd47.org
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