Finally, with some overcoming of technical issues, the newsletter is ready for you; it is posted on our district website. You can find it two ways: click on the Pulse of 86 on the right side menu or you can click on Bulletins on the left hand side menu bar. Either way, go read what's new in the district.
It is our intent to email each of you a PDF of it as soon as possible. Keep an eye out for it. If you don't get one, be sure to let us know. First, though, you need to have the right information to Toastmasters International as that is where we get our contact information. Have you recently made a change to your information? Did you update your file with TI? If not, why not do that right away and then contact us to send out your newsletter? That way you won't be missng anything else.
Because we are going electronic with the remainder of the year, we're putting out a call for some of your success stories. We'll add a couple of pages where you can share specific things that are happening in your clubs. Got a great story? Write it out and send it in to our newsletter editor, Rosalind Mountford, at mountford_3@hotmail.com so they can be put in the spring and summer issues. How about it? Doesn't your club want to do some boasting about the good things you are doing and the difference you are making in people's lives?
In this winter issue, check out the challenges that have been issued. Be part of the growth and the exciting achievements. Read how to pre-order from the spring conference bookstore chair Find out when significant things are happening like the next District Phase II TLI or the Presidents' Appreciation Brunch. Find out how you can go about being elected for one of the district leadership positions and know the deadlines to put that into effect. There's lots of information there to share with guests and new members. Be sure to pass along the link to them so they too can be informed.
Our district newsletter is a great marketing tool. Nearly all that we have is specifically about Interntational. And yes, new members and new clubs are joining the global organization. But they are primarily joining us. They want to know what we are doing around the district. Take them to the website. Why not do a show and tell of the site at one of your meetings? Make it a 5 minute educational on your agenda. Need something to fill in a spot when a speaker cancels at the last minute? Consider a website tour; get ready for the great scavenger hunt here in this blog next month! How about doing a show and tell of the newsletter? See how many members actually read it...print some out and do a team building scavenger hunt at your club.
We are on the edge of finishing our first six months of this Toastmaster year. Are you on track to complete the goal(s) you set for yourself back in July? Yes or no, either way this is the time to assess and progress. May you find the next six months bringing you the time and success for which you seek. Don't forget that you are part of a large team; you can get help to finish what you want to finish and you can also give help so others will finish what they wish to finish. In other words, get a mentor, be a mentor and everyone succeeds.
Thank you to all of you who are so diligently making a difference in the lives of those around you. Let's make these next six months a time for fabulous memory-making activity.
Merri
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
From Betty-Lou Souter
Twice a year, at our conferences, we present a Communications and Leadership Award. What is it? It is the highest Toastmasters award available for the District to present to a non-Toastmaster. The award is presented to a person who has made an outstanding contribution in the community through communication and leadership, such as a media person, a provincial or local politician, a business person or a community volunteer.
This past fall, the winner of this award was Betty-Lou Souter, CEO Community Care for St. Catharines and Thorold. Read all about her at:
Most sincerely,
***
I would like to thank Betty-Lou for allowing me to share this with you.
Merri
This past fall, the winner of this award was Betty-Lou Souter, CEO Community Care for St. Catharines and Thorold. Read all about her at:
 |
Dear District Governor Merri:
Well, I am still overwhelmed with the very positive and warm response I received at the District Conference 2 weeks ago - to say nothing of the tremendous recognition given me with the Communication and Leadership Award for 2010. It was very powerful.
Many of my friends and family have inquired if I was intimidated in speaking to such a large group of "professional" speech makers and I have reassured them that everyone should have the opportunity to speak before such a welcoming group. Any fears or concerns one might have about public speaking was definitely taken away.
I hope my remarks were meaningful to the group. My preparation certainly gave me time to reflect on my mother's teachings that "if you master the art of public speaking - there really isn't anything you can't do." Certainly you had a room full of very confident people who have learned similar lessons.
Again, thank you for recognizing me in such a tangible way. Please express my sincere thanks to David Wiebe as well for nominating me.
Betty-Lou Souter
***
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Kudos Everyone! Outstanding Conference!
From 2 More Sleeps to Kudos Everyone! How fast time flies when we are having fun. It is hard to believe that the conference has come and gone. I sure hope you had as much fun as I did.
It was an amazing conference. Friday Fun Night was outstanding. The costumes were great.... by comparison, mine was so lame but I had fun anyway. Those who were in costume looked fantastic. It sure showed lots of spirit as well as lots of time and effort to create just the right look. Thank you for doing that. It gives such a spark to the event for all of us to enjoy not to mention enjoying them all over again as we watch the slide show during our meals.
I have heard wonderful things about the workshops. What did you hear? Please offer comments so we can all learn from the experience. Sadly to say, it is impossible to go to all of them so let's learn from each other. The ones I attended were great. Thank you presenters for being willing to step up and provide added educational value to our members.
By the way, if you would like to be one of the presenters for the spring conference, it isn't too early to start the process. Head on over to the website and check it out. Don't procrastinate as time will fly and suddenly the spring conference will be here. And while you are at the website, why not register? There is a special price running from now to the end of November: $175.
The contests were outstanding. Both our contest chairs, Bill Brodie and Mike Proudlock did us proud. The winner of the Humorous Speech contest was Gregory CN Smith of Toastmasters of Hanover. The winner of the Table Topics contest was Max Kalles of GROW Toastmasters. Congratulations to you both. Look for pictures on our website soon. If I had any now I would post them. In fact, if someone sent me pictures I can edit this blog and insert them..... Anyone out there got pics handy?
And of course, who can ever forget Jamey and Molly French. What a story! What a message! What a testimony to the value of Toastmasters! If you missed it, then check out the Toastmaster magazine. I think it was in either January or February of this year.
I am continually amazed at the people who work on conference committees. It takes many people all working as a team to bring out the best we have to offer. If you have a program, check out those who were instrumental in making the conference a huge success. I won't list them all here for fear of missing someone. They did an outstanding job and it just couldn't be done without them. (I kept sharing my program and now I'm without one...for the moment!) Learn who they are and when you see them be sure to extend a big handshake to congratulate them on a job well done!
If you were to ask any of the committee members, they would tell you that there is something truly magical about working with such a team. There is a common goal which creates a genuine bonding amongst them. If you have never experienced something like this, then you are truly missing out. Why not step up and out and let people know you are ready to get involved? Let it be known that you are interested.
So, here we are two days past the fall conference and in just a week and a half, we are beginning our meetings for the spring conference. Can't wait to see what the team will have in store for you next!
Merri
PS - If you are reading this blog and getting anything out of it, please let me know. I welcome your comments too.
It was an amazing conference. Friday Fun Night was outstanding. The costumes were great.... by comparison, mine was so lame but I had fun anyway. Those who were in costume looked fantastic. It sure showed lots of spirit as well as lots of time and effort to create just the right look. Thank you for doing that. It gives such a spark to the event for all of us to enjoy not to mention enjoying them all over again as we watch the slide show during our meals.
I have heard wonderful things about the workshops. What did you hear? Please offer comments so we can all learn from the experience. Sadly to say, it is impossible to go to all of them so let's learn from each other. The ones I attended were great. Thank you presenters for being willing to step up and provide added educational value to our members.
By the way, if you would like to be one of the presenters for the spring conference, it isn't too early to start the process. Head on over to the website and check it out. Don't procrastinate as time will fly and suddenly the spring conference will be here. And while you are at the website, why not register? There is a special price running from now to the end of November: $175.
The contests were outstanding. Both our contest chairs, Bill Brodie and Mike Proudlock did us proud. The winner of the Humorous Speech contest was Gregory CN Smith of Toastmasters of Hanover. The winner of the Table Topics contest was Max Kalles of GROW Toastmasters. Congratulations to you both. Look for pictures on our website soon. If I had any now I would post them. In fact, if someone sent me pictures I can edit this blog and insert them..... Anyone out there got pics handy?
And of course, who can ever forget Jamey and Molly French. What a story! What a message! What a testimony to the value of Toastmasters! If you missed it, then check out the Toastmaster magazine. I think it was in either January or February of this year.
I am continually amazed at the people who work on conference committees. It takes many people all working as a team to bring out the best we have to offer. If you have a program, check out those who were instrumental in making the conference a huge success. I won't list them all here for fear of missing someone. They did an outstanding job and it just couldn't be done without them. (I kept sharing my program and now I'm without one...for the moment!) Learn who they are and when you see them be sure to extend a big handshake to congratulate them on a job well done!
If you were to ask any of the committee members, they would tell you that there is something truly magical about working with such a team. There is a common goal which creates a genuine bonding amongst them. If you have never experienced something like this, then you are truly missing out. Why not step up and out and let people know you are ready to get involved? Let it be known that you are interested.
So, here we are two days past the fall conference and in just a week and a half, we are beginning our meetings for the spring conference. Can't wait to see what the team will have in store for you next!
Merri
PS - If you are reading this blog and getting anything out of it, please let me know. I welcome your comments too.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Only 2 More Sleeps
Can you believe it? The Fall Conference is almost here. Are you ready to go? I got my list and I'm checkin' it twice...oh, wait...that's another list.
Yes, I'm ready to go. Got registered; got a hotel room; got times and places to meet up with friends; got my notepad for the workshops; got my dancing shoes packed. Like I said, I'm good to go.
If you are one of those folks who have never been to a conference before, then you are in for a real treat. You will be expected at the First Timers' Reception at 7:00 pm so you can mix and mingle with the other First Timers and get to meet the district officers. Come and join in the fun. There's also food just for you.
Can't wait for Friday Fun Night...it will be a blast with all the Vaudeville entertainers coming. You won't believe who you'll see. I think I heard that Charlie Chaplin was coming as well as Mae West. And many more too. Who will you dress up like? Did you know that there are prizes for costumes? I'm coming as a...no, I think I'll keep that as a surprise.
District 86 never fails to amaze me with the quality of workshops put on by our very own. There are 12 to choose from and that's going to be tough. In fact, why don't you conspire with a friend as to which ones you will attend so you can share the learning. Get more out of your conference experience!
The contests are always such fun. And what can be more fun than a Humorous Speech? Why the business meeting of course, following right after. Then dress up in your finest and come on out to the Governor's Banquet & Ball. Great food, great company, recognition presentations and then dance the night away to the sounds of DJ David Terryberry. Got your dancing shoes packed?
Sunday morning begins with a workshop by Lori Lococo, DTM, PDG and you don't want to miss that. Following her is the Table Topics Contest. You'll be amazed at what comes out of people's mouths with only seconds to prepare and minutes to present. A valuable skill by all accounts.
Sunday Brunch features our keynote speaker Jamey French and you won't believe the story he has to tell. You'll be moved by what he has to share. It will touch your heart and forever leave its mark.
So...only 2 sleeps to go....are you ready? Got your dancing shoes packed? Then come on down....and I'll see you on the dance floor.
Merri
Yes, I'm ready to go. Got registered; got a hotel room; got times and places to meet up with friends; got my notepad for the workshops; got my dancing shoes packed. Like I said, I'm good to go.
If you are one of those folks who have never been to a conference before, then you are in for a real treat. You will be expected at the First Timers' Reception at 7:00 pm so you can mix and mingle with the other First Timers and get to meet the district officers. Come and join in the fun. There's also food just for you.
Can't wait for Friday Fun Night...it will be a blast with all the Vaudeville entertainers coming. You won't believe who you'll see. I think I heard that Charlie Chaplin was coming as well as Mae West. And many more too. Who will you dress up like? Did you know that there are prizes for costumes? I'm coming as a...no, I think I'll keep that as a surprise.
District 86 never fails to amaze me with the quality of workshops put on by our very own. There are 12 to choose from and that's going to be tough. In fact, why don't you conspire with a friend as to which ones you will attend so you can share the learning. Get more out of your conference experience!
The contests are always such fun. And what can be more fun than a Humorous Speech? Why the business meeting of course, following right after. Then dress up in your finest and come on out to the Governor's Banquet & Ball. Great food, great company, recognition presentations and then dance the night away to the sounds of DJ David Terryberry. Got your dancing shoes packed?
Sunday morning begins with a workshop by Lori Lococo, DTM, PDG and you don't want to miss that. Following her is the Table Topics Contest. You'll be amazed at what comes out of people's mouths with only seconds to prepare and minutes to present. A valuable skill by all accounts.
Sunday Brunch features our keynote speaker Jamey French and you won't believe the story he has to tell. You'll be moved by what he has to share. It will touch your heart and forever leave its mark.
So...only 2 sleeps to go....are you ready? Got your dancing shoes packed? Then come on down....and I'll see you on the dance floor.
Merri
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Hershaw's Celebration
Congratulations to Hershaw Toastmasters, the winner of the Above and Beyond Contest. It was great to present both the President, Vitaly Fursov and the Immediate Past President, Dennis Bartel with the badge for their banner at their Open House.
Congratulations Hershaw!
The club combined their winning Pizza Party with an Open House and many attended. At the end, guests commented on what they experienced with coming to the event. I do believe a few joined as a result.
Below is a picture of the presidents: Vitaly on the left and Dennis on the right. Also a picture of one of the founders of the club, Isobel Hershaw.
Congratulations Hershaw!Merri
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Meet Our New LGM
I am pleased to announce the appointment of John MacDonald, DTM as our interim LGM upon the stepping down of Janice McDonald, DTM, due to personal health reasons.
The District Administrative Bylaws clearly spell out what to do in the case of a vacancy. The vacancy is to be filled by the District Executive Committee (DEC) based on the recommendation of the district governor. The appointment becomes effective immediately and runs until the next succeeding district council meeting at which time such appointment is confirmed. If the appointment is not confirmed, another individual member is recommended by the district governor and then it is voted on by the district council.
As District Governor, I took my recommendation, John MacDonald, DTM, to the DEC who gave overwhelming approval. My reasons, which were many, for recommending John are most likely clear to those who know him and have worked with him. For those of you who do not have that knowledge or experience, here they are.
John was District Governor during 2007 - 2008 when District 60 was in the processing of splitting into two districts: 60 and our own 86. During his term, his leadership called for a team made up of not just one Lieutenant Governor Marketing but two as well as two Lieutenant Governors of Education and Training. It was a most unusual year with the added responsibilities of ensuring equal represention and preparedness of District 86 to begin its inaugural year. As Immediate Past District Governor (IPDG) he was a constant support for both governors of the two districts. And at this same time, John was my mentor as I was beginning my district service in my LGM role.
When John was LGET of District 60, he was also thrust into some unusual happenings. It was during this year that the LGM stepped down and another was put into place to complete the year. John, having been a very successful LGM the year before, was able to bring his knowledge, experience and talents to assist someone new to the role.
John's successful year as LGM saw a growth of some 30 + clubs. Yes, he is knowledgeable and experienced. He designed and implemented a process of club building which the district still finds the most results-oriented. New members and new clubs relate to the process as it ensures a transition from the unknown to the knowing.
These past successes made John a great choice for the district. He is ready, willing and able to hit the ground running and as I write this, is already in the trenches with the marketing ambassadors and club leads. There need not be any delay in bringing John up to speed which is an added bonus given the lateness of our year. He comes already trained and is able to carry on business until the mid-year training for the district officers in late January.
Next month, at our District Council meeting, I will be looking to the proxy holders, to confirm this appointment. The proxy package will be emailed to all DEC members as well as the Presidents and VPs of Education to all clubs this week. Be on the lookout as you won't want to miss this meeting. I speak with confidence when I say that this is the best person for this job.
And to John, I say "Welcome". We thank you for stepping into the gap. It will be with your committment to this district that we will be Soaring to Excellence as a Distinguished District come June 30th.
Merri
The District Administrative Bylaws clearly spell out what to do in the case of a vacancy. The vacancy is to be filled by the District Executive Committee (DEC) based on the recommendation of the district governor. The appointment becomes effective immediately and runs until the next succeeding district council meeting at which time such appointment is confirmed. If the appointment is not confirmed, another individual member is recommended by the district governor and then it is voted on by the district council.
As District Governor, I took my recommendation, John MacDonald, DTM, to the DEC who gave overwhelming approval. My reasons, which were many, for recommending John are most likely clear to those who know him and have worked with him. For those of you who do not have that knowledge or experience, here they are.
John was District Governor during 2007 - 2008 when District 60 was in the processing of splitting into two districts: 60 and our own 86. During his term, his leadership called for a team made up of not just one Lieutenant Governor Marketing but two as well as two Lieutenant Governors of Education and Training. It was a most unusual year with the added responsibilities of ensuring equal represention and preparedness of District 86 to begin its inaugural year. As Immediate Past District Governor (IPDG) he was a constant support for both governors of the two districts. And at this same time, John was my mentor as I was beginning my district service in my LGM role.
When John was LGET of District 60, he was also thrust into some unusual happenings. It was during this year that the LGM stepped down and another was put into place to complete the year. John, having been a very successful LGM the year before, was able to bring his knowledge, experience and talents to assist someone new to the role.
John's successful year as LGM saw a growth of some 30 + clubs. Yes, he is knowledgeable and experienced. He designed and implemented a process of club building which the district still finds the most results-oriented. New members and new clubs relate to the process as it ensures a transition from the unknown to the knowing.
These past successes made John a great choice for the district. He is ready, willing and able to hit the ground running and as I write this, is already in the trenches with the marketing ambassadors and club leads. There need not be any delay in bringing John up to speed which is an added bonus given the lateness of our year. He comes already trained and is able to carry on business until the mid-year training for the district officers in late January.
Next month, at our District Council meeting, I will be looking to the proxy holders, to confirm this appointment. The proxy package will be emailed to all DEC members as well as the Presidents and VPs of Education to all clubs this week. Be on the lookout as you won't want to miss this meeting. I speak with confidence when I say that this is the best person for this job.
And to John, I say "Welcome". We thank you for stepping into the gap. It will be with your committment to this district that we will be Soaring to Excellence as a Distinguished District come June 30th.
Merri
Thursday, October 21, 2010
October is Open House Month...
It has been a very busy time for me; it has been an amazing time for me as I have been out visiting clubs. October is Open House month and many clubs are inviting lots of people to come out and see what's up with this communication and leadership organization.
Last month I had the pleasure of going to 1st Waterdown's Open House where I was invited to speak to their guests on the benefits of joining a Toastmasters club. It was an incredible opportunity for me to share how Toastmasters has impacted my life. I was able to share how I went from being nervous speaking in front of my colleagues at school to being privileged to lead this district as the District Governor. I was able to share why Soaring to Excellence became my theme.
One of the best aspects of being the District Governor is that I get to present awards to those who have soared to their own excellence. What an awesome privilge! Such was the case as I presented David Wiebe with his DTM plaque at his home club's Open House. David will receive his medallion at the fall conference in November. Congratulations David.... I am honoured to have been the one to acknowledge your success and present you with this award you've worked so hard to achieve. Happy Soaring!
Last month I had the pleasure of going to 1st Waterdown's Open House where I was invited to speak to their guests on the benefits of joining a Toastmasters club. It was an incredible opportunity for me to share how Toastmasters has impacted my life. I was able to share how I went from being nervous speaking in front of my colleagues at school to being privileged to lead this district as the District Governor. I was able to share why Soaring to Excellence became my theme.
One of the best aspects of being the District Governor is that I get to present awards to those who have soared to their own excellence. What an awesome privilge! Such was the case as I presented David Wiebe with his DTM plaque at his home club's Open House. David will receive his medallion at the fall conference in November. Congratulations David.... I am honoured to have been the one to acknowledge your success and present you with this award you've worked so hard to achieve. Happy Soaring!
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| Congratulations David Wiebe, DTM Merri |
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