And the results are in…

June 10, 2008
7 Attendees

As the 2007-2008 year comes to a close for this class of Toastmasters Officers, I can only say that my time as President has been extremely rewarding and a grand learning experience. I’ve always seen myself as a leader, but only reluctantly. I’ve often been dragged into a fray kicking and screaming only to look back wondering why I shy away from the spotlight.

I’ll never forget how last year I was “nominated” for the office and although I had deep reservations, seeing the club possibly dissipate without leadership wasn’t an option I felt I could live with – so I cautiously accepted. I was determined to step out of a pattern I had created and look to grow and succeed in a challenging new role.

I’ve come to know the officers better as people and in their valued roles supporting the club; Kathy’s wit, Paul’s humor and musicianship, Cynthia’s quiet strength, Jennifer’s curiosity and Gene’s solid support and mentoring have helped me grow in confidence as a leader and communicator.

Each week’s meeting was another chance to share a bit of myself with the audience (which I’ve never been comfortable with personally or professionally) in story or function. I actually became a more thoughtful listener, finding anecdotes to share in the strangest places, constantly jotting down notes to bring to meetings during dinner or a phone call.

So as we prepare to welcome our new President, Frank Clarke back to the helm of this ship I can only say thanks to the club officers, members and visitors for letting me come out of my personal shell and the most public of spaces – behind the podium.

New Officers – 2008-2009

• Frank Clarke, President
• Paul Burke, Vice President of Education
• Bertha Bruner, Vice President of Membership
• Gene Hargreaves, Treasurer
• Cynthia Jimerson, Sergeant at Arms
• Joe Simpson, Past President and Vice President of Public Relations
• Vacant, Secretary

Good luck and continue to share your gifts with others. See you at today's meeting!

Let's Celebrate A Great Speech!

June 3rd, 12-1pm
Attendance 26

As the year was coming to a close, we wanted to celebrate another successful year by kicking back and enjoying each other's company. No functions, no speeches, just a plate of goodies and a cup of soda. Today, was that day and for those in attendance our featured speaker, William "Bill" Satterfield was icing on the proverbial cake.

For those who hadn't been to a meeting before, the gathering began with Sergeant at Arms Cynthia Jimerson calling the meeting to order followed by a "musical" table topics session. Members Bertha Bruner and Raynard Price answered questions regarding a song in one and a half minutes or less.

Club Secretary Kathy Hendry then welcomed all of our former presidents in attendance. FalanGuan, Gene Hargreaves, Sangeeta Patel, Pauline Lee and Frank Clarke all received a much-deserved warm welcome acknowledging their hard work in leading the club.

Afterward, Bill Satterfield was introduced to the group and started telling a story that wove a story of love, discipline and words of wisdom. Bill has been a trendsetter and pioneer during his long and illustrious career. He's been with Metro's Real Estate group for over twenty years and his resume highlights many firsts of note.

The focus of his speech though was how his parents molded him and paved the way for achievements. Tough love and thoughtful words moved the story to its tearful climax that had members in the audience grabbing for their handkerchiefs.

What a wonderful way to usher out another year. But no party would be complete without music and food. Paul grabs his tenor and the masses moved on the table area loaded with goodies brought by members. Surprises were handed out to current officers (TI clocks) and past presidents (TI mugs) as an added thank you for everyone's participation in the club.

Remember, we need your attendance at the June 10th meeting to elect new officers for the 2008-2009 term. See you there and thanks again to our guests and members who made the event so great!