D47 Sunshiner - September, 2007

www.ToastmasterD47.org

Meet Your New Leadership

The Sunshiner September, 2007

Congratulations District 47 2006-07

Become A Champion At Work Put Wind In Your Club’s Sails Colorize What You Verbalize How To Get A Website To Promote Your Club Area Governor Tips

#3

In The World!

Wanda Brown, DTM District Governor

My Vision...

I believe “quietness and confidence shall be [my] strength.”

My goal includes others. I believe that worthwhile goals aren’t selfish.

My goal is worthwhile. There is no such thing as a successful frivolous goal.

My goal must be clear. If you don’t know where you’re headed, a map is of no use.

My goal is measurable. I need a way to see if I’m making progress toward the goal.

My goal is expandable. If not expandable, it is expendable.

My goal is filled with conviction. Conviction is the unshaken confidence that the goal is worthwhile. It is the fuel that pushes me to achieve.

My attitude determines my actions. My actions, in turn, will determine the results I achieve.

Regardless of what has happened in the past, my future is mine to create. I do not plan to walk in someone else’s shoes, I need to be me.

I imagine the best, I expect the best, and I know I have what it takes to get there.

My goal is: to have another distinguished year for our district.

Cor re c t i o n s & C l a r i f i c ations

The following information is intended to correct the record from the Summer 2007 edition of The Sunshiner.

Page 1: The name of the recipient of the 2007 Communication and Leadership Award was incorrectly printed. The recipient of the award was Scott K. Watson.

Page 5: The educational designations of the Lt. Governors of Marketing were incorrectly noted. Ron Parpart is a Distinguished Toastmaster and Kristina Kihlberg has achieved her Advanced Communicator Bronze.

Page 10: “Big Changes Coming To District 47!” incorrectly stated the organization of the District 47 Officers for 2007-2008. District 47 will operate as one District in the 2007-2008 Toastmaster year. All District Officers report to Wanda Brown, District 47 Governor. District 47 will have one Fall Conference and one Spring Conference in 2007-2008.

Page 14: The name of one of our International Directors was incorrectly noted. James Fair is completing his 2nd year as International Director.

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The Sunshiner Publisher Wanda Brown, DTM PRO and Photographer Jonathan Moyd, ATMG/CL Editor Leinesa Adams, DTM Assistant Editor Dianne Costello, CC

Division 47 Executive Officers District Gov. Lt. Gov. Education-South Lt. Gov. Education-North Lt. Gov. Marketing-North Lt. Gov. Marketing-South Parliamentarian PRO Secretary Treasurer Sgt. At Arms The Sunshiner Editor Web Master Immediate Past Dist. Gov. Dist. Gov. Advisor

Wanda Brown, DTM Antoinette Fox, DTM David Hollingshead, DTM Ron Parpart, DTM Kristina Kihlberg, ACB/CL Bill LeClere, DTM Jonathan Moyd, ATMG/CL Sandy LeClere, DTM Beth McCullough, ATMG/CL Charles Saunders, ATMS Leinesa Adams, DTM Judd Spitzer, ATMS Loretta Sandy, DTM Bob Blakeley, PIP, DTM

Division 47 Committee Chairs Club Coach-North Club Mentor-North Membership-North Membership-South New Club Fall Conference Spring Conference Credentials Audit Nominating Realignment Policies Committee

Nga Nguyen, DTM Pim Love, DTM Kathy Emerson, ATMS Pamela Rolle, DTM Delia Arcelus, ATMB Jeanne McIntosh, ATMS Jennifer Asaro, ATMS Leigh Rassler, ACS Renee Moyd, DTM James Martin, DTM, PDG Manny Costa, CL Eileen Sarris , DTM Bob Blakeley, PIP, DTM Loretta Sandy, IPDG, DTM

Division 47 Contact Info District 47 Mailing Address 1374 Mallard Landing Blvd N St. Johns, FL 32259-5253 District 47 Website www.ToastmasterD47.org Article submission SunshinerToast@hotmail.com Change Mailing Address www.Toastmasters.org 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 the Toastmaster International Emblem are trademarks of Toastmaster International registered in the United States, Canada, and many other countries.

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Find the geography where your club meets. Please turn to the page for the Division serving your area. You will learn more about your local leadership team and hopefully put some faces with names you may have heard.

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Counties - North

47

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VE CHIE MENTS RA TE

Meet Your New Local Leadership

AL P DU

Division

Baker, Bradford, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, Putnam, St. Johns, Union & Volusia

A

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North Brevard, Citrus, Lake, Marion, North Orange, Seminole & Sumter

C

11

Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Suwannee, Taylor & Wakulla

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South Orange, Osceola & Polk

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Counties – South

Region VIII Speaking Champion, Jim Bussey, shares how Toastmasters helped unbottle his talents.

Jim competed in Arizona for the World Championship of Speaking August 18.

Features Leadership Corner: 2, 4 & 5 District Vision Hear from our top leaders.

5 Put Wind in Your Club’s Sails

Division

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South Brevard, Highlands, Indian River, Okeechobee & St. Lucie

B

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North Broward, Glades, Hendry, Martin & Palm Beach

D

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South Broward, Dade & Monroe

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Collier, Charlotte, Desoto, Hardee, Lee, Manatee & Sarasota

F

10

Hernando, Pasco & Pinellas

G

12

The Bahamas & some surrounding islands

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12

Hillsborough

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Because providing support for each of our clubs and members is so important, on July 1, 2008, District 47 will be dividing into two districts to better serve you: District 84 in the north and District 47 in the south. Please note: These districts have been determined by county lines. Current division lines do not follow county lines in all cases, including Brevard, Broward, Orange and Pasco Counties. As of July 1, 2008, Broward County will be part of D47; Brevard, Orange, and Pasco Counties will be part of D84. Also, the counties of Division K will be included in D84.

To help identify the leadership teams in these emerging geographies, we are terming them North (shown in green) and South (shown in blue). During this Toastmaster year, we are operating as one team. However, as of July 1st, 2008, these newly defined districts will operate separately and continue to support your club with excellence in leadership.

We want to hear from you.

Cover Story 6 A Champion At Work

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Contents

What is happening in your club? What successes can you tell us about? Do you have an idea for a story? Do you have an original joke to share? Send us a photo and tell us about it! Submit your news by e-mailing SunshinerToast@hotmail.com.

Lead your club to success using the Distinguished Club Plan.

15 Juggling Hats

Tips and wisdom for a successful year from the past Area Governor of the Year, Renee Moyd.

Speaker’s Corner: 9 Colorize What You Verbalize Bring your speech to life through the power of words.

Club Corner: 11 Get On The Web Now

Learn how to easily get a website to help promote your club.

15 Visit www.ToastmastersD47.org

Find the information that you need.

Coming Events 16 Attend Our Fall Conference November 9 - 11 at Lake Mary, Florida Experience the Wild, Wild West. Participate in exciting events & workshops.

13 Register Today.

Send in your completed registration to receive your early-bird discount.

16 Toastmaster Calendar. Please note the important dates affecting your club and District.

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Dave Hollingshead, DTM Lt. Gov. Education (North) Simply stated, my role as Lieutenant Governor Education & Training is to help the club members of District 47 reach their educational and leadership goals. After all, why do people join Toastmasters?

I joined Toastmasters in March 2000 to help me in my work as a project manager with Bank of America. My duties required me to spend many hours each day meeting people, and frankly, my communication skills needed some polish. I found that polish and so much more through the Toastmasters program!

As a businessman I plan to make use of a time-tested process to keep my Toastmasters “customers” productive and satisfied: the Distinguished Club Program (DCP). Why re-invent the wheel? This program was developed as a road map to enable clubs to thrive by laying out 10 steps to success in an easy to manage format.

Let’s look at the DCP goals to see how they clearly tie to our objectives for joining Toastmasters:  2 Competent Communicators (CCs) These first four goals clearly relate  2 more CCs to ensuring clubs are successful in  1 Advanced Communicator helping members develop speak 1 more Advanced Communicator ing skills!  1 Advanced Leadership Award (AL) These two goals indicate clubs are successful in helping develop lead 1 more AL Award ership skills in their members and are grooming future club leaders.  4 new members  4 more new members

These goals ensure the continued life and growth of the club. Please note, 8 of the 10 DCP points tie directly to club members’ reasons for joining Toastmasters!

 4 or more officers trained for both the June-August period and the These two goals ensure the club December-February period. officers know how to do their jobs  Both October and April dues are effectively and are properly servsubmitted on time and the Officer’s List ing their club members. is updated.

I will manage the DCP process with the Area and Division Governors in District 47 by helping them focus like lasers on how to effectively develop and actively work the DCP plan for each club.

Finally, as a district leader, I intend to lead by example. I intend to model what teamwork and dedication to helping others succeed looks like. As others follow that lead, our members will grow, our clubs will be strong, and our district will be distinguished. I’m looking forward to an exciting year!

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Antionette Fox, DTM Lt. Gov. Education (South) As Lieutenant Governor Education & Training, my job is to help the district surpass its educational and training goals. To meet this challenge, as a team we must all work together towards one common goal. It all stems from the

membership: when a member is successful, the club, the area, the division and by extension, the district will ultimately be successful.

We are committed to training our officers as we believe the Officer Training fills two needs: sharing the districts’ and clubs’ vision and giving clubs the tools they need to successfully fulfill that vision. We want to equip you to lead from a position of strength. We know that successful leaders have a vision, set goals, share their vision, motivate others, and monitor progress. Toastmasters International makes available tools intended to assist you in achieving this.

In Education my focus of attention is to increase the educational goals and quality of achievements in the District. If you are energetic, enthusiastic, committed and dedicated to the Toastmasters program, then you can contribute to achieving an educational goal for the 2007/2008 Toastmasters year for District 47. We are committed to focusing on the educational programs in the club and its development. We are to ensure that all Toastmaster members are giving manual speeches as stipulated in the Toastmasters program.

As a team, which includes each member of District 47, we want you to focus on the four critical success factors to make our district successful: achieving Competent Communicators, Advanced Communicators, Membership Payments and New Clubs. Also important are leadership awards including: the Competent Leaders, Advanced Leaders and Distinguished Toastmasters awards. We are seeking to achieve excellence in education with your help.

On a personal level, I have been involved in this awesome program for eight years. During this period I have served at the Club, Area, Division and District levels. Presently, I serve as the Lieutenant Governor Marketing for District 47 for the South, with responsibility for all aspects of education and training. I have won two prestigious awards in the District: Area Governor of the Year 2003/2004 and Division Governor of the Year 2005/2006 for District 47. I have achieved the prestigious Distinguished Toastmasters award on two occasions. In my professional life I am a Senior Administrative Assistant/Communications Coordinator at a world class private members’ resort in the Bahamas, responsible for all communication with our membership and the maintenance of the resort/club’s website.

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Ron Parpart, DTM Lt. Gov. Marketing (North) As your Lt. Governor of Marketing for the North half of District 47, my job is to help our District GROW! Those of

you who have met me know that I’m passionate about Toastmasters.

I just love it, and I want to share with everyone the benefits that our program can bring to them.

Toastmasters is the Number 1 program in the world for the development of communication and leadership skills, AND it is the best value in corporate leadership and communications training available anywhere. So let’s Spread the Word! How can we do that?

It’s easy: 1. Form New Clubs: Most companies today are struggling to develop tomorrow’s leaders, and to acquire a workforce with the communication skills they need to succeed and advance. Toastmasters is the answer! Need help presenting the value proposition of Toastmasters to a business? Call me! I can help you develop the presentation you need to convince the company to form and support a club.

2. Build Existing Clubs: ALL Clubs Always need New Members! Weak clubs especially need more members, and that means attracting guests and converting them to members. Need help? Contact me!

I have a great presentation on membership building I will share, and we have a whole District full of enthusiastic Toastmasters who can help!

3. Club Coaches, Club Mentors, and Club Sponsors: Do you want to share your experience and ideas, and help another club? Being a Club Coach, Mentor, or Sponsor are three great ways! Look at the Marketing page on our District 47 website for more information 4. Ideas: Do you have a Marketing or Advertising idea we can use to attract new members? Please share it with me, because we ALL need to Spread the Word. TOASTMASTERS, they can’t join if they don’t know.

Put Wind In Your Club’s Sails

by John Morrow, DTM Area 13 Governor Lakeland Toastmasters

Years ago, our club was in the doldrums. We caught a fresh breeze when our club started to focus on the goals of the Distinguished Club Plan (DCP).

Kristina Kihlberg, ACB/CL Lt. Gov. Marketing (South) Do you remember when you joined Toastmasters? Do you remember why? How you felt? Can you describe what the experience has given you?

Wouldn’t you want to tell the whole world?

There is no better way than sharing your experience with others. There are many different ways to get the conversation started. I was in an elevator the other day, on my way to meet a new corporate club here in Fort Lauderdale.

There was a lady in the elevator with me and she noted the blue Toastmaster bag on my shoulder. She asked me about Toastmasters, and during our short ride to the 7th floor, I had made a new contact, given her my Toastmaster business card and offered my services.

Two pieces came in handy during this ride – my logo bag and my business card. Every club can create a generic business card with meeting information. Club Officers and all members can make their own card – it’s so easy! There is a template on Toastmasters International website, and all you have to do is change the information to what you want it to read. The template can be found in the INFORMATION FOR MEMBERS section, PUBLIC RELATIONS, BUSINESS CARDS – CLUBS. Prospective members can be found everywhere. All we have to do is practice our listening skills and find where there is a need or wish. Join the SMEDLEY AWARD challenge during August 1st until September 30th. Sign up five new members in your club and receive a ribbon for your banner!

Keep your ears open for potential new clubs too! It may be in a neighborhood or condo association, at your place of work or a family member or friend’s company, or many other places. Send your leads to your Division Governor or to Ron Parpart or me. You can reach me at tmkristina@hotmail.com. Our Marketing team and I will be happy to help you start a new club!

We have made steady headway ever since. We now appreciate that when we help our members progress in the communication and leadership programs, our club becomes vibrant.

We changed from an average club to a strong club. You can apply the same strategy and be a strong club too. It’s a tool to measure the critical aspects of a healthy club. At its core, the DCP charts growing membership, enriching speakers and strengthening leaders. If you are accomplishing these things, you will have a strong club.

Some think the DCP is a waste of time and only benefits the club.

However it is actually more about the members. Working towards the DCP goals actually helps the members progress; the club benefits from successful members. (continued on page 10) 5

A Champion At Work

by Jim Bussey, ATMS/CL West Kendall Toastmasters

“…and that’s why this project is so important!”

This is how I imagined my informative, impassioned, and persuasive argument to the executives of my company would be delivered. They would then rise as one, nodding and showering me and my team with praise and money.

What really happened? “John, would you explain what Jim just said?” This question was directed to my boss. My presentation was too technical, my arguments disjointed, my voice quiet and timid.

I couldn’t wait to sit down, and the meeting participants felt the same way.

I was a computer programmer back then, and was given my first chance to present a key project to the executive team. It was awful, and I was never asked to do it again. Other more articulate people got the job…and the promotions.

Programming computers was perfect for me—I was shy, uncomfortable in groups, and avoided most social contact. I was in control. Or was I? As my progress up the corporate ladder inched along, I did gain some composure in front of a group, but my career never recovered from the loss of time due to my poor communication skills.

Then, my life changed forever.

A Toastmasters club was formed in my company, and I became a charter member on the advice of just about everyone I knew. I struggled with my first speech, uttering more ahs and ums than actual words, but the positive and supportive advice from the club members took hold. My speeches evolved from a fiesta of maladies to a more cohesive style, and I decided to enter my first contest.

Contests are nerve-wracking for a first-timer. I didn’t know what to expect, and since I breezed through my club contest (there were two other contestants), the Area competition would be easy, right?

Wrong. The contest was tough! The winner was at a level I hadn’t encountered, and her speech was everything mine wasn’t.

Here is where the value of a mentor comes in. A mentor would have told me to analyze my audience—who was I speaking to? A mentor would have told me that my message could have been stronger. A mentor would have listened to my speech several times with an eye on my gestures, movement, eye contact, facial expression—all the things that combine to form an effective performance.

It would be several years before I would find one, when I joined my current club, West Kendall #8370 in Miami. Again, my progress had been hindered by not having good support, but now, with a good mentor, I was on the road.

The biggest change for me, as I traveled through the basic manual, was in my level of communication. I not only developed a style of my own in business presentations; I also found it easier (and eventually fun) to interact more socially at work and at home. I wasn’t kidding: Toastmasters changed my life, releasing the gifts that had lain dormant all those years.

The executives were impressed. I understood, for instance, that when a decision is to be made in a meeting, it’s actually made before the meeting. I learned to speak with each of the participants one-on-one, learning their position on the issue, telling them mine, and distilling the issues into something we could agree on. By the time we had our meeting, we all knew what the outcome would be.

Wow! (continued on page 14)

Baker, Bradford, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, Putnam, St. Johns, Union & Volusia Counties Linda Deshauteurs, DTM Division A Leadership (North) Division A Governor

“We look forward to continued healthy growth in 2007-08, for both club and membership numbers; however, we also take great pride in growing leadership skills in northeast Florida.

I have personally benefited from the Toastmaster programs. It’s very important to me to share the wealth of knowledge, skills and friendships I have gained over the last seven years. “

Area Governors

Cheryl Brannan, CC/AL Area 7 6

Steve Dubois ACB/CL Area 19

David Meeks CTM/CL Area 22

Norm Daley ATMG Area 38

Stacy Rothar Larry Shivertaker, DTM Dingman ACS/CL Boswell, ATMG/CL Area 37 Area 66 Area 43

North Brevard, Citrus, Lake, Marion, North Orange, Seminole & Sumter Counties Scott Hoehn II, DTM Division C Leadership (North) Division C Governor

“Division C works as a COG-wheel in District 47, to help Clarify, Organize and Grow! This year, members will see more excitement and growth in their clubs, while communities will benefit from many MORE clubs in their areas.

I’ve been involved with Toastmasters since 1980 as a Charter member of Triple Crown Toastmasters in Ocala. Why? Because Toastmasters is one of the nicest things you can do for OTHERS, while also improving your own skills. “

Area Governors

Toni Gitles, ATMG/CL Area 16

Jennifer Cobb, CC Area 25

Katherine Cockrell, CTM,CC Area 17

Jeff Rufenacht, ACS/CL Area 33

Keith Koons, ATMB/CL Area 34

Photo Not Available

Roscoe Brown, ACG/CL Area 36

Bruce Gould, ATMS Area 39

Selwyn Julien, DTM Area 65

Ellen Weiss, ATMB/CL Area 64

South Brevard, Highlands, Indian River, Okeechobee & St. Lucie Counties Division B Leadership (South)

Dennis Rookwood, DTM Division B Governor

“My vision is to have each area become a part of the “PIE” Plan to be strong, Implement by promotion, and Evaluate to increase membership.

A friend of mine, DTM Michael Joseph of Orlando Toastmasters club 28--the “Oldest Club East of the Rockies” --pursued me for two years to become a member.”

Area Governors Photo Not Available

Debra Levy, ATMB Area 9

Art Herrington, CL Area 11

Josh Frank, CTM/CL Area 29

Judy Hayes, ATMB Area 30

Elizabeth Muchow, DTM Area 49 7

World Champion Speaker Teaches Toastmasters 1990 World Champion of Speaking David Brooks enriched District 47 Toastmasters. David held seminars called Wanda Brown, D47 Gov., “Eight Essentials of Effective Speaking.” These were held in Jacksonville, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach, Florida. and David Brooks at Hundreds of Toastmasters were able to benefit from David’s instruction. Thank you David for helping us to become seminar in Jacksonville. better speakers!

North Broward, Glades, Hendry, Martin & Palm Beach Counties Matt Kinsey, ATMG/AL Division D Leadership (South) Division D Governor

“My vision for Division D is: Fun with a Purpose – this means that every Toastmaster should have fun while attaining his or her goals.

I am involved with Toastmasters because I love speaking and helping others improve their speaking skills.

I’ve been speaking for more than 25 years and it is a passion of mine.”

Area Governors

Andrew Bignell, CL Area 4

Dave Clarke, ACG/CL Area 14

Marilyn Hu, ACB/CL Area 20

Eric Schlossberg, ACB/CL Area 23

Barbara Strasdas, CTM/CL Area 28

Sheila Vitiello, ATMG/CL Area 39

Barry Rinehart, CTM Area 51

Seth Hochman, ATMG/CL Area 62

South Broward, Dade & Monroe Counties Division E Leadership (South)

Lillian Koziol, ATM Division E Governor

“My vision for Division E is to have every club live up to the Toastmaster ideal. Each club should operate as a model of Toastmaster principles.

I feared public speaking and through Toastmasters I lost that fear and gained self-confidence. I believe in the program and want to give back by service to Toastmasters.”

Area Governors

Matt Whaley, CC Area 1 8

Richard Giller ATMG/CL Area 3

Rick Zoehfeld, ATMS Area 24

Pierre Taschereau, ATMB/CL Area 27

Alan Stein, CTM Area 40

Jason Smith, CC Area 52

Colorize What You Verbalize

by Dianne Costello, CC Orange Park Toastmasters

“A powerful agent is the right word.“ ~ Mark Twain

Imagine yourself standing in front of an audience. You want them to feel an experience you plan to relate. The “right words” will be powerful agents in this task. By following the ideas outlined below,

your next speech is bound to have greater impact on your listeners.

The key is to choose the right words to communicate your ideas clearly, accurately and vividly.

Vivid words appeal to the five senses and allow your audience to picture your talk and catch the feeling you want to convey. If you think of your speech as a canvas, words are your palette. Do you want your audience to feel the oranges of passion and excitement, the gray shades of sadness and loss, the hot reds of anger? Visualization, free writing and the use of a thesaurus can “colorize” a black and white, bare bones experience, bringing it to life—like Dorothy and her friends in the Land of Oz. First, sit quietly, and relive the experience in your mind. Recapture it with all of your senses: What do you see, hear, smell, taste and feel? When you have it, allow yourself to “free write,” quickly jotting down words, phrases or images that come to you, discounting nothing. Think of this as blotting color on the page to see what shape it wants to take.

As in poetry, metaphors and similes that emerge are especially potent in illustrating your feelings.

Next, write a draft, keeping in mind that you will edit and perfect it later. Lock your critic in the closet and just let the words flow.

Now come the three R’S—revise, revise, revise! At a recent workshop with poet and teacher Sophie Wadsworth, I learned many ideas for revision that can be applied to reworking a speech. One idea is to see if you might substitute better words to capture an intended mood.

Ask yourself “Is each word in service to the emotional thrust” of a particular part of your talk? Sophie suggests circling words that seem “lessthan-what-they-could-be.” List a number of alternatives to these words; then audition each one to see how it might serve your speech.

Use a thesaurus to find words that express the feeling. The traditional print Roget’s Thesaurus that lists words in dictionary form is portable, simple to use and suits the person who likes the tangibility of turning pages. For the electronic buffs, visit www.thesaurus. reference.com. After you choose a word, you may want to check the definition in your dictionary. This could help avoid embarrassment!

WORD POWER WORKSHOP To exemplify the power of right words, I’ve taken one scenario— waiting for a flight at the airport—and painted three different moods with word choice. These examples show how applying words consistently to create a particular emotion can have great impact on your audience.

As inspiration in revising the first piece, FEAR, I looked up “fear” and “fearful” in the thesaurus and listed potential substitutes for some of my words that were “less-than-what-they-could-be.”

Noun: trepidation, dread, horror, foreboding Verb: cower, panic, hesitate, quaver, have qualms Adjective: faint-hearted, jittery, fidgety, apprehensive FEAR As I approached the gate for my connecting flight to London, the boarding pass turned soggy in my clammy hands. My heart vavoomed loudly in my chest. Too jittery to sit and read, I paced the carpeted floor over to the window. Ominous black clouds loomed ahead. Planes like giant prehistoric birds swooped down and took flight in what seemed a frightfully random pattern. When it was time to board, I hesitated at the entrance of the passenger ramp; dread closed in on me like the four walls of a cell.

I had serious qualms about spending eight hours in such cramped quarters.

In applying the feeling of excitement to this scenario, I visualized a boat ride on the Seine. The word “shimmered” was a thesaurus find.

EXCITEMENT I buzzed up to the ticket agent to inquire about boarding. Only one-half hour to go! I could already smell fresh-baked croissants, taste escargot and hear the festive chatter of sidewalk cafes. Too fired up to contain myself in the waiting area, I floated over to the window and peered out at the expansive blue sky. The sun shimmered, the same sun that would sink into shades of pink as I boated down the Seine. When the announcer called: “Boarding Flight 866 to Paris,” I was so buoyant I felt I could fly there on my own power.

In free-writing the anger scenario, “venting steam through my ears in the shape of indignation” was one of the phrases that flowed out on the page.

ANGER I stormed up to the gate, my shoes still untied from the security check point and my dignity askew. What? Two missed flights and now this one delayed? I plopped into a chair, venting steam through my ears in the shape of indignation. Outside the window, the scalding sun blazed the color of my face and the back of my prickly neck.

Like a dangerous, wounded animal, I was ready to attack the next airline employee who approached. But the most I could do was glare at a small child who dared to trespass into my little corner of the waiting area. The reunion would have to go on without me. At least my bags would be there.

Now you try it!

Practice this yourself by selecting a common scenario, such as driving on the interstate or taking a walk and choosing three emotions you wish to embody. Or choose a recent experience of your own that you might want to include in a future talk. Visualize, free write and consult a thesaurus, jotting down words that might reinforce your intended mood. Just as you might have experimented with finger paints in kindergarten, don’t be afraid to get a little messy. Remember that anything you create can and will be cleaned up later.

With an estimated 993,412 words in the English language according to The Global Language Monitor, some are bound to be “powerful agents” in conjuring a particular feeling for your listeners. Be adventurous. Add new colors to your palette and mix them up. Now, imagine framing your canvas with vocal variety and gestures to enhance the mood you’ve already created. You just may illuminate your speech in a whole new way.  9

Collier, Charlotte, Desoto, Hardee, Lee, Manatee & Sarasota Counties

Division F Leadership (South)

Jim Spieth, DTM Division F Governor

“The division will continue to grow in clubs and members. Strong emphasis is being placed on leadership development.

‘It’s the Club! That is where it is at!’ is our division slogan.

I married into Toastmasters when I married Nancy in 1993. I enjoy personal growth, leadership and working with the Youth Leadership Program.”

Area Governors Photo Not Available Amanda Townsend, CL Area 8

Nancy Spieth, DTM Area 10

Brendon Sommers Area 31

Steve Zeris, ACB Area 21

Gary Roberts, CC Area 56

Hernando, Pasco & Pinellas Counties Rick Furbush, CC Division G Governor

Division G Leadership (South)

“All you need is a Dream and a Team to make a difference. We start from the individual Toastmaster and do whatever it takes to inspire and or help him/her fulfill the goals and dreams each had when he/she signed up for this journey.

I want to make a difference.”

Area Governors Photo Not Available

Sue Hickock, ATMS/C Area 2

Jane Strong, ATMG Area 18

Jim Ellis, ACG/CL Area 45

Put Wind In Your Club’s Sails (continued from page 5) Start with the needs of your members. What are their Toastmaster goals?

Set out to help each one reach their personal goals. Successful members make happy members. As you motivate each member, you will begin seeing a healthy club. If they want to communicate more effectively or if they want to grow their leadership skills, they will benefit personally. The natural consequence of stronger members is a stronger club.

Study the 10 DCP goals—they are a map to success. At the start of this Toastmaster year, your officers should review the details of the DCP. For each goal, it is helpful to assign names of members who will help the club accomplish specific goals. (For example, who will try to get their Competent Communicator (CC) award? List their names.) Next, share the plan with your club. Sharing the club goals gains support for those goals. Focused members pull harder towards the goal than just the officers.

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Jeff Thomas, ATMG Area 46

Terence Okus, ATMB/CL Area 54

Periodically, check your club’s progress. I have heard, “You can’t fix what you can’t see.” The DCP helps your officers pinpoint issues. Once you see a weakness, the club can focus to improve that area. For example, our club noticed people dropping out of Toastmasters without accomplishing their CC awards. We focused on that issue, and now more people are progressing in the educational program and want to stay involved.

Don’t sit there and say it can’t be done. It can! Lakeland Toastmasters just finished seven straight years as a Distinguished Club. We have 30 members and usually over 24 in attending at meetings. That makes for highly successful meetings. We have done this by having a great time while staying focused on the goals that will build stronger members and a healthy club. Remembering to start with the members as your focus will naturally bring your club to the next level. Get with the Plan. It will work for your club, too. 

Get on the Web Now

E-mail an interactive duty roster Keep a club calendar E-mail your members using one e-mail address Post information for your members or the community Easily track member and club goals Send dues invoices by e-mail and track collections Participate in club forum and message boards Visit the Halifax Toastmasters website to see what we have done. http://www.toastmastersdb.com

by Bill Barki, CC/CL

Toastmasters on the Halifax

If your club doesn’t have its own website, you’re missing out on a publicity machine and

How To Get Your Website Started

an administrative machine that can make running your club much easier. Best of all--It’s Free! A free website is available to your club from FreeTo-

astHost.org just for the asking. If you can do e-mail, you can set up a website for your club.

Benefits of a club Website

Promote your club and post a map with directions for guests and much more. You can orient a guest to let them know if your club is formal, casual or in between. Also, your club website provides you with the ability to have a link on Toastmasters.org. If there is more then one club in your area, your website may make the difference to a prospective member. It may also encourage other Toastmasters to attend your meetings.

In today’s world your club needs to be on the web. Google, Yahoo, Alta Vista, etc. are all places your club should be found. With a website you can submit to and be found on all of these sites.

Powerful club tools are on your website for your club and club officers. As your club officers get more familiar with the website, they can begin to take advantage of a variety of helpful tools.

Step 1: Go to http://freetoasthoast.org and order your website. You will recieve an e-mail confirmation within three days. Your web address will be something like http://ourclub.freetoasthost.org. Use the club’s name as the entity registering to receive the website.

Optional Promotional Idea: After you have received confirmation from freetoasthost.org, you can have a personalized domain name in less then an hour. For an investment of less then $8.00, you can register your club name at places like hostway.com, register.com or even yahoo.com. Your web address would then be something like ourclub.com, ourclub.org or ourclub.info.

Step 2: Pick an administrator username and password. This should be done with some thought as the e-mail address for the members will be something like username@ourclub.com.

Step 3: Add members to the roster. To do this, go to the bottom of the home page and login as the site administrator. Next, scroll down until you see the Toastmasters Member Administration section.

Type in the New Member information. Check the box to send a welcome message. Click add new member. Your club member will receive an e-mail with their new usernames and passwords. It is a good idea for your members to change their password after they login.

Step 4: Add club information to your homepage. Scroll to Edit HTML Pages. It is simple to add a text or pictures to any of the listed pages including Home, Member Information, Directions, Contact Us. Just click on the edit icon next to the page you want customize.

Get On The Web Now (continued on page 12)

Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Suwannee, Taylor & Wakulla Counties Bob Tague, ATMG Division H Governor

Division H Leadership (North)

“By emphasizing officer training, achieving charter strength of all clubs, and successful DCP plans, we aim that all clubs will achieve President’s Distinguished by June 30, 2008.

I want to become a person who can give an appropriate response to any speaking engagement I encounter. I also wish to develop my leadership skills. Both these qualities will help develop the business I am in.”

Area Governors Photo Not Available

Greg Turner, CC Area 15

Fred Heivilin, ATMG/CL Area 26

Bill Plenge, ATMS/CL Area 41

Jennifer Thomas, CC/CL Area 42

Jan DeLaney, CTM Area 47 11

Get On The Web Now (continued from page 11) After you have added the information, click on Save Changes at Questions (FAQs) and have a tour of this powerful, free resource for the bottom of the page. your club.

The most necessary information is of course day, time and location. No matter how you do it, your club needs a website. With a FreetoA phone number and e-mail address should also be prominently asthost.org website it’s free, easy and comes loaded with features--an displayed. My club has a map right on our homepage, making it unbeatable combination. What are you waiting for?  very easy for guests to find us. Freetoasthost does provide a Directions link in the left hand column. The club mission statement and goals should also be added. Other options are club photos (offices, award winners, ice-breakers, etc.), contest information and guest Officer installation and training have been completed in Clubs and speakers; though, these should be kept to a minimum as there is Divisions around the District. plenty of space for each to have its own webpage.

I have heard people say, “The freetoasthost sites are nice, but Div. I: Area 60 Gov., Marilyn Johnson pins Club 1600’s they’re restrictive and don’t allow for much creativity.” While the VP-PR, TM Ernesto Gongora during the national size of the header and many of the links in the left column are uninduction ceremony. (photo by Hadassah Hall) changeable, the homepage and custom pages are blank canvases waiting for an artist.

Div. C: Gloria Esteban presides at Finding Help: Technical support is a message board, where there is the Central Florida Communicators Fourth Anniversary Instalalmost always someone available to help you out. You can also lation & Awards Celebration. (photo by Scott Hoehn) visit the FreeToastHost website to see answers to Frequently Asked

Congratulations Leaders!

The Bahamas & Some Surrounding Islands George Taylor, DTM Division I Leadership (South) Division I Governor

“My vision is to radiate the growth of Division I through unity and to reaffirm our core values. I will use its internal strength and the many opportunities available locally and abroad to meet the needs of our members.

I became a toastmaster because I found Toastmasters International to be an organization that speaks to communication and leadership excellence.”

Area Governors

Joyce Rahming, ACG Area 12

Delmaro Duncome, ATMB Area 35

Division J Leadership (South)

Renison Brown, ACG/CL Area 44

Roderick Colebrook, ATMG Area 55

Glenroy Rolle, ATMG Area 57

Marylin Johnson, ACS/CL Area 60

Hillsborough County

Miguel Restrepo, DTM Division J Governor

“My vision for Division J is to be President’s Distinguished. We will gain new clubs and grow to have more Areas. I want it to tap the great potential of businesses in the Tampa area.

Toastmasters is an ocean of opportunities that empower me to succeed. I’ve been in Toastmasters for over 7 years now and have enjoyed every single moment. I cannot think of a better program to succeed at and enjoy.”

Area Governors Photo Not Available

Gary Moss, CC Area 6 12

Kay Hunter, CC Area 32

Mary Hernandez Area 48

Melissa Stephens, CC/CL Area 53

Tara Evans, CTM Area 61

DISTRICT 47 2007 FALL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION WILD, WILD WEST November 9-11, 2007 LAKE MARY MARRIOTT, 1501 International Parkway, Lake Mary, FL 32746 Call for hotel reservations: 1-800-380-7724, request TM D47 Fall Conference Rate $92/night Toastmaster rate guaranteed until Oct. 18 – SPACE IS LIMITED TM Designation

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Saturday Dinner: Chicken Breast w/mushrooms ___ Talapia w/lemon capers ___ Pasta w/Veg & pesto___ ___ Make checks payable to: District 47 Toastmasters OR use Visa or MasterCard Name on card: ___________________________________Card # ___________________________ Exp. Date: ____ Billing Address:__________________________________________________________________________________ Mail this conference registration form with your form of payment to:

Jeanne McIntosh, Conference Co-Chairman 2705 W. Live Oak St. FINAL DEADLINE 11/5/2007 Lecanto, FL 34461 Questions: Contact Jeanne E-mail: jeannemcintosh@earthlink.net or Phone: 352-484-9975

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A Champion At Work (continued from page 6) ...participants one-on-one, learning their position on the issue, telling them mine, and distilling the issues into something we could agree on. By the time we had our meeting, we all knew what the outcome would be. Wow! I owe all that to Toastmasters.

Speaking humorously, persuasively and passionately are certainly the most obvious attribute one gains from participation; however, there are more subtle, equally important things that Toastmasters taught me:  Learning to listen (evaluators, AH counters, and grammarians do that). I used to think a presentation was a one-way process; that a conversation consisted of waiting for the other guy to shut up so I could speak. Listening, really listening, is so much more powerful.

As Steven Covey said, “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.”  Learning to read an audience. When do you need to “kick it up a notch?”

When do they need clarification of a complex point? When should I ask questions?  Learning that the visual is just as important as the audible. How should I dress? Is that wad of keys in my pocket distracting? Have I looked each person in the eye? Do all my gestures and movements have a purpose?  Finally, learning to have a good time! I love walking up front, standing for that one moment, taking in the audience before launching my presentation. It’s simply energizing, and the nerves (yes, I always get them) seem to dissipate as I move, smile, and get the reactions I know the audience wants to give.

I rose to become a senior executive in a major corporation, giving countless presentations, mentoring countless employees, and yes, making countless mistakes. But that’s always a part of life. The prospect of mistakes, bombed jokes, faulty equipment, and secondplace finishes is always lurking; however, it’s not what happens to us, it’s how we react to it. Meeting those challenges positively rather than becoming deflated will make you stronger. I guarantee it.

I am about to compete in the World Championship of Public Speaking, representing my club, Area 1, Division E, District 47 and Region VIII. What an honor! What a great journey, beginning as that ner-

vous, shy, reclusive young man who took a few chances in a few contests. I competed again and again before making it past the District competition. It’s hard. It’s frustrating. It’s discouraging. It’s all about trying again, and again, and again.

Take it from someone who loves speaking and learned style and technique from some wonderful people in a wonderful organization. If you love it, you can do it. All the resources you need are there, inside and out.

Whatever happens in Phoenix this year, I am having the time of my life. Thanks. 

Toastmasters Leadership Institute (TLI) Over 250 officers were trained in Orlando, Florida on July 7th at the Darden Training Facility. A wide variety of workshops were held to better equip officers and members in fulfilling their Toastmaster goals. Thank you to all who participated.

Comedian and educator Andy Dooley gave a special session at the event. He was quoted as saying, “There should be constant change of energy when delivering a speech or presentation.”

Special guest speaker Andy Dooley and Kristina Kihlberg, Lt. Gov. Mkt. kibitz between sessions.

(Quote and photos contributed by Scott Hoehn, DTM)

South Orange, Osceola & Polk Counties Division K Leadership (North)

Jerry Philson, DTM Division K Governor

“To showcase Division K with our outstanding members In the district contests and being Presidential Distinguished in the majority of clubs and Areas.

I joined Toastmasters to be a better speaker. Now I try to mentor as many members and clubs as I can to achieve new levels by imparting my knowledge and experience.”

Area Governors

June Wilson, ATMB/CL Area 5 14

John Morrow, DTM Area 13

Karuna Sabharwal, DTM Area 50

Tina Cole, ATMG/CL Area 58

Sonia Parris, ATMS Area 63

Juggling Hats: Tips From A Winning Area Governor

by Renee Moyd, DTM Top O’ the Rock North Jax TM Club JIA Toastmasters Renee is pictured being awarded the Area Governor of the Year for 2005-2006. (l-r: Wanda Brown, District Governor; Loretta Sandy, Immediate Past District Governor; Renee Moyd; Godfrey Springer, Past District Governor)

Greetings 2007-20008 Area Governors! You’ve just

completed your Area Governor (AG) training and likely set your first goal as assisting your Area to become President’s Distinguished.

I was privileged to serve a President’s Distinguished Area, be involved in chartering three clubs (Deerwood Toastmasters, Jax FOB Toastmasters and North Jax Toastmasters), and was named District 47’s 2005-2006 Area Governor of the Year. Serving Area 7, Division A & District 47 was a tremendous learning experience for me and I’d like to share a few pearls of wisdom that will hopefully help you achieve your goals and enhance your overall AG experience.

1. Read the Area Governor handbook. Each Area Governor is given a large binder filled with valuable resource information. The size of the book may make you feel a bit overwhelmed, but take heart. I found the information in the manual to be invaluable as I began my AG journey. It is well worth your time to do more than just skim this information. Many of the questions you’ll be faced with as AG can be found in the handbook.

2. Follow-up, follow-up, follow-up. Follow-up and visit your clubs as often as your schedule allows. Two official visits are required per year; however, PDG Springer encouraged the Area Governors to visit their clubs more often. I took this recommendation to heart and visited my assigned clubs on an average of twice a month. These frequent visits helped me to get to know the officers and many club members, which helped develop a bond between the clubs and the Area Governor. Clubs needing assistance didn’t hesitate to contact me. Also, it gave me the opportunity to observe the meetings and provide the officers with recommendations on ways to enhance their meetings.

3. Membership is key! Maintaining charter membership strength is a key indicator of club health. It is difficult for a club to fulfill all meeting roles when membership falls significantly below charter strength.

Partner with your clubs to develop a membership building strategy.

I recommend strategizing with the Executive Committee now if you have clubs below charter strength. Implementation, monitoring and tweaking the plan throughout the year will likely return measurable improvements.

4. Don’t overlook your resources. No one will have all the answers; but you’re part of an outstanding team of Toastmasters. Your Division Governor and fellow Area Governors are ready, willing and able to help with any problem you encounter. Just consider the years of experience at your disposal at a Division meeting! Your fellow District leaders can provide assistance and guidance on any problem you encounter in your Area.

5. Select committed Toastmasters to mentor new clubs. Choose your new club mentors wisely. Division A has a wealth of dedicated Toastmasters. I was fortunate to have six Toastmasters shepherd the three

new clubs in my Area. Mentors play a pivotal role in helping new clubs get off on the right foot. I’m happy to report the three new Clubs that were started during my tenure completed their first full term as Distinguished Clubs – two received President’s Distinguished and one Select Distinguished! It has been said that a house built on a firm foundation will stand. The same is true with a new Toastmasters Club. Mentors that lay a firm foundation help to influence a Club’s long-term success.

6. Last but not least, enjoy the experience. Your term as Area Governor will pass so quickly you won’t realize where the time went. This is your opportunity to make a difference for your Area, Division and District. Take full advantage of this wonderful opportunity and enjoy the journey. Many Clubs in Division A have added an additional phrase to the end of their mission statement, which I would like to encourage you to emulate, Area Governors “Have Fun Doing It!” 

Visit www.ToastmastersD47.org

by Judd Spitzer, ATMS/CL District Webmaster Titusville Toastmasters

Toastmaster’s

is

the

premier

Leadership and Communications development organization. The focus of the D47 website is communicating important information to its members and general public. We want you to have easy access to all important information.

Here are four reasons to come and see the wonderful content at www.toastmastersd47.org. Believe me, there are many more!

Reason 1) Find information on contests to win free stuff!! You will see the details of various contests that your club can participate in to win free stuff. Check out the Spotlight area of the webpage for the latest promotional contests. Participating will benefit your club and members. So will winning!

Reason 2) News you can use. Visit the D47 Website for the latest happenings and see the WHO'S WHO'S. Find out about special events, contests, and much more.

Reason 3) Gain easy access to many Toastmaster tools including: contest preparation, marketing material, and educational programs. If you need it, chances are we have it.

Reason 4) Area and District Governors can find very important documents and forms. Take a look under the District Business tab.

These four reasons only scratch the surface. Spend a few minutes familiarizing yourself with what’s there. You may find helpful things that you didn’t even know were available! As many people are aware, websites are a work in progress. As we progress, I look forward to bringing the web to life for all the Toastmasters in District 47.  15

The Sunshiner

1374 Mallard Landing Blvd N St. Johns, FL 32259-5253

47 AL P DU

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47

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District 47 Calendar of Events

Aug. 1 – Sept. 30 Smedley Membership Award Program – Add 5 new members.

Aug. 1 – Sept. 30 Collect Club Dues – Submit before Oct. 1(for a half DCP point).

Aug. 1- 31

Club Contests: Humorous Speech and Evaluation.

Sept. 1 – 30

Area Contests: Humorous Speech and Evaluation Contests.

Oct. 1 Nov. 9 – 11

Prepare for Club elections, if officers are elected semi-annually.

District 47 Fall Conference – Marriott, Lake Mary, Florida.

www.ToastmasterD47.org

Non Profit Org U.S. Postage PAID Quincy, FL Permit No. 404