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.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
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!
 |
| Congratulations David Wiebe, DTM Merri |
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Of The Year Awards!
Congratulations! Congratulations to all those who have been awarded the prestigous Of The Year awards. The list of the chosen was published in the recent edtion of our Pulse of 86, I will further list them below. I do so with one addition: the Publicist of the Year. I owe a sincere apology to this winner, Colleen Cole, for not searching out the information for inclusion in the newsletter. I thought I had an email with the winner's name but was not able to locate it at the time of sending the newsletter to press. That is indeed my error. For that, I am deeply sorry.
Here is the list of esteemed Toastmasters who have made an impressive impact in the lives of our Toastmasters community.
Peter Crabtree President of the Year: Dennis Bartel, CC, ALB
Toastmaster of the Year: Andrea Petch, ACB, ALB
Division Governor of the Year: Janet Johnson, DTM - Division A
Area Governor of the Year: Karim Premji, DTM - Area 24
Club Coach of the Year: Philip Lococo, ATMB, ALS
Publicist of the Year: Colleen Cole, ACB, CL
We are so proud of all of you. Thank you for all you did to make District 86 Distinguished. It was indeed a privilege to work with all of you and thankfully, I get to continue to work with some of you this year too.
It is also time to announce the Above and Beyond contest. All clubs that earn a minimum of 2000 points over and above the DCP minimums will receive a special badge for their banner, The top place club receives $100,00 in Toastmasters International gift certificates and a pizza party for their club with the District Team.
Here is the list of winners in order of points earned:
Hershaw Toastmasters 4025
Black Walnut Toastmasters 3350
Allstate Canada Group (ACG) 2900
Brampton Toastmasters 2900
Richmond Hill Toastmasters 2650
Grand River Toastmasters 2600
Fluid Communicator 2600
Confidently Speaking 2525
Find Your Voice 2350
Markham Sweet Talkers 2300
Great things are going on in District 86! Come...let's all be a part of these great things...and then I can write about you and your club too. Sound like a plan?
Merri
Here is the list of esteemed Toastmasters who have made an impressive impact in the lives of our Toastmasters community.
Peter Crabtree President of the Year: Dennis Bartel, CC, ALB
Toastmaster of the Year: Andrea Petch, ACB, ALB
Division Governor of the Year: Janet Johnson, DTM - Division A
Area Governor of the Year: Karim Premji, DTM - Area 24
Club Coach of the Year: Philip Lococo, ATMB, ALS
Publicist of the Year: Colleen Cole, ACB, CL
We are so proud of all of you. Thank you for all you did to make District 86 Distinguished. It was indeed a privilege to work with all of you and thankfully, I get to continue to work with some of you this year too.
It is also time to announce the Above and Beyond contest. All clubs that earn a minimum of 2000 points over and above the DCP minimums will receive a special badge for their banner, The top place club receives $100,00 in Toastmasters International gift certificates and a pizza party for their club with the District Team.
Here is the list of winners in order of points earned:
Hershaw Toastmasters 4025
Black Walnut Toastmasters 3350
Allstate Canada Group (ACG) 2900
Brampton Toastmasters 2900
Richmond Hill Toastmasters 2650
Grand River Toastmasters 2600
Fluid Communicator 2600
Confidently Speaking 2525
Find Your Voice 2350
Markham Sweet Talkers 2300
Great things are going on in District 86! Come...let's all be a part of these great things...and then I can write about you and your club too. Sound like a plan?
Merri
Monday, September 27, 2010
Congratulations to Createch!
This is fantastic news...a new club has chartered in Division L Area 54. How exciting is that? Way exciting, I say.
This new club is Createch Hamilton AMS Toastmasters (CHAT). They chartered on September 23rd and are now in the process of planning their charter party where they will be presented with their Charter from Toastmasters International. There will be a special certificate for all the founding members of this club too. Being a founding member of a new club isn't something that all Toastmasters experience and when you do, you realize how important it is. You leave a legacy that impacts this generation and those to come.
The oldest club in District 86, Garden City Club, was chartered on May 1, 1952, making it 58 years old. Can you imagine the number of lives the members of this club have touched? An earlier blog congratulated Port Credit Toastmasters for their 55th Anniversary. Amazing, eh?
It takes many members to bring about that kind of success. It also takes many members to initiate and support a new club. Congratulations go out to those people: our LGM, Janice McDonald, DTM and her marketing ambassadors. They have fulfilled an outstanding role in assisting this club to charter. I have no doubt that there are others who made up the team who gave support. Thank you for making this happen.
So, to Createch Hamilton AMS Toastmasters, I say, Welcome to District 86. May you find your journey in Toastmasters to be vibrant, exciting and rewarding. May you find support and encouragement from all Toastmasters you meet and do plan to meet lots. Come outside of your club and visit with us. We do become like family. Join in the many events like training and contests and special educational presentations. You will be awed and amazed!
I hope we'll meet at the fall conference in Niagara Falls, November 19-21. Get your banner ordered and be there and be recognized at the Opening Ceremonies.
And we'll be there to give you huge round of applause. Go Createch Go!
Merri
This new club is Createch Hamilton AMS Toastmasters (CHAT). They chartered on September 23rd and are now in the process of planning their charter party where they will be presented with their Charter from Toastmasters International. There will be a special certificate for all the founding members of this club too. Being a founding member of a new club isn't something that all Toastmasters experience and when you do, you realize how important it is. You leave a legacy that impacts this generation and those to come.
The oldest club in District 86, Garden City Club, was chartered on May 1, 1952, making it 58 years old. Can you imagine the number of lives the members of this club have touched? An earlier blog congratulated Port Credit Toastmasters for their 55th Anniversary. Amazing, eh?
It takes many members to bring about that kind of success. It also takes many members to initiate and support a new club. Congratulations go out to those people: our LGM, Janice McDonald, DTM and her marketing ambassadors. They have fulfilled an outstanding role in assisting this club to charter. I have no doubt that there are others who made up the team who gave support. Thank you for making this happen.
So, to Createch Hamilton AMS Toastmasters, I say, Welcome to District 86. May you find your journey in Toastmasters to be vibrant, exciting and rewarding. May you find support and encouragement from all Toastmasters you meet and do plan to meet lots. Come outside of your club and visit with us. We do become like family. Join in the many events like training and contests and special educational presentations. You will be awed and amazed!
I hope we'll meet at the fall conference in Niagara Falls, November 19-21. Get your banner ordered and be there and be recognized at the Opening Ceremonies.
And we'll be there to give you huge round of applause. Go Createch Go!
Merri
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