District 42 Toastmasters

Monthly Dispatch

March 2024

Hello Toastmasters and Friends,

March has arrived, and District 42 is abuzz with excitement! A lot is going on that we're eager to share with you.

If you participated in Road To Regina 1 and 2, we hope you had a fantastic time! If not, don't worry. More fun events are on the horizon, so stay tuned for updates.

Interested in learning more about your Toastmasters roles? Our Masterminds sessions are tailor-made for you. Whether you're a novice or a veteran speaker, there's always something new to explore. Look out for details on these sessions on the District Calendar.

Contests aren't just for contestants! There are crucial roles behind the scenes that contribute to the success of these events. If you've ever wanted to lend a hand without being in the spotlight, now's your opportunity! Reach out to us to learn how you can get involved.

Ever considered stepping up as a District 42 leader? It's a chance to make an impact and develop leadership skills. You can nominate yourself or a friend by March 9th. Don't miss out on this exciting chance!

NEW!!! AROUND THE DISTRICT Tell us about your club and events that you are planning or that you had. Let us promote your club's success stories.

Remember to mark your calendars and prepare for an amazing March in District 42!



Send your comments to Vesna Ivkovic - D42 Dispatch Designer

Upcoming Events

See what's happening in March 2024.

DISTRICT EVENTS

Judges, Contest official and Volunteers Training

Our District Contest Chair Anne James and Contest Chief Judge Chuck LeBlanc organize this educational event to help our members learn and understand how to participate in or implement hybrid meetings. The purpose of this training is to have more judges and volunteers understand and participate in Area, Division and District contests. It also helps club contests planned in March.

Topics include but are not limited to:

– Best Practice of Hybrid Contest

– Lesson learned from Mock Hybrid Contest

– Judging forms and marking

– Organize, Participate and Volunteer to support the contest

– Q&A

It would be a great opportunity to understand the contest roles of Judges, officials and volunteers in the Hybrid Contest.

To attend you must register HERE.

Road to Regina - Paving The Way

Debbie Walker,

Conference 2024 Education Chair 

The third stop on the “Road to Regina – Paving the Way” series is Saturday, March 16^th at 10 am (MT). Please note that due to the clocking changing on March 10^th, this event is at 10 am for both Saskatchewan and Alberta.



Please register HERE for March 16^th:

Joining us on this third stop, live from Cape Town, South Africa is the 2021 World Champion of Public Speaking and Accredited Speaker, Verity Price.

If you have not yet heard Verity speak, she is truly inspiring and we are very fortunate to have her join us.

Click HERE to see Verity’s World Champion Winning Speech, “A Great Read”.I look forward to seeing you at the next stop on the “Road to Regina!”

🌟 District 42 PR Mastermind Canva Workshop 🌟

Vesna Ivkovic

D42 Webmaster / Dispatch Editor

Join us for an insightful session at our upcoming District 42 PR Mastermind event with a special guest, Distinguished Toastmaster Cajetan Barreto, also known as Tech For Toastmasters.

Cajetan will share his expertise on utilizing Canvas features for effective PR and marketing within Toastmasters.

Topics that will be covered:

• Brand Kits
• Video Creation
• AI tools
• Q&A

Register HERE to be a part of the excitement!

Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your design skills and elevate your PR strategies! We are excited to see you at the District 42 PR Mastermind Canva Workshop.

NEW SATURDAY KEYNOTE SPEAKER!

Debbie Walker

D42 Conference Education Chair

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Darren LaCroix is unable to join us at the D42 Conference.  

Therefore, we are excited to welcome to Regina, the 2000 World Champion of Public Speaking

Ed Tate! He will be arriving on May 3 in time for the start of the Conference and will be with us all day on Saturday.

Ed is an award-winning international keynote speaker, author and executive. He is “The Speaker Who Energizes, Educates, and Entertains.” He has spoken professionally in 50 states, 25 countries and 5 continents. He is a Certified Speaking Professional and author of the New York Times Bestselling book Influence and Pre-Suasion.

What can you look forward to?  

• Saturday morning Ed will present “The Story Finder: How To Create A New Story in Four Minutes.” This presentation is highly interactive. Bring paper and a pen for this!
• Saturday afternoon Ed will share “How to Get ‘Yes’ to Your Requests – Influencing Others Without Authority.” During this leadership presentation, Ed will share lessons he learned from his failures.
• Following each of the two sessions, Ed will be at his table in the foyer to engage with you and you can learn about his new program (available for purchase) that is brand new and “hot off the press.”
• Lots of opportunities to meet and engage with a World Champion speaker!

To see Ed’s World Champion-winning speech, “One of Those Days,” click HERE.

We look forward to what Ed will share with us and hope that you, yes YOU, valued member, will join us as well!

REPORTS

Club Renewals

Maintain Good Standing with Toastmasters International

Debbie Stearns, BBA, DTM

District 42 Club Growth Director 2023-24

As we approach the end of the Toastmasters International (TI) renewal period, clubs must ensure their continued good standing by promptly renewing their memberships. With March 31, 2024, just around the corner, here's a friendly reminder to take action and renew your club's memberships before the deadline.

Why Renewal Matters:

Renewing memberships is crucial for clubs to maintain their active status within the Toastmasters community. It not only ensures uninterrupted access to TI resources and support but also demonstrates the club's commitment to personal and professional development through effective communication and leadership.

Deadline: March 31, 2024

To avoid any disruptions and maintain smooth operations within your club, it's advised to complete the renewal process by March 31, 2024. Waiting until the last minute may result in delays due to increased traffic on the TI network as the deadline approaches.

Minimum Renewal Requirement

Toastmasters International recommends that clubs aim to have at least eight members renewed by the deadline. This ensures that clubs retain a sufficient number of active members to sustain their activities and uphold the Toastmasters spirit.

30-Day Update: Global Advertising Campaign on LinkedIn

Stacey Kaminski, PRM

After an incredible 30 days of the campaign, District 42 is thrilled to announce that every single one of your clubs has made a monumental impact! Your efforts have been nothing short of extraordinary. Let's dive into the astounding stats!

The top three in each category:

• Companies: Alberta Health Services, University of Calgary, and the City of Calgary
• Industries: Oil & Gas, Business Consulting and Services, and Higher Education
• Seniority: Entry level, Senior Level, Manager level
• Job Titles: Owner, President, Teacher
• Function: Operations, Business Development, Sales

75% of the impressions originated in the Calgary Area, while 15% originated in the Regina area. The remaining impressions are noted in Edmonton and Montreal. 

How can the Clubs Help?

• Confirm that your ‘Find a Club’ information is up to date and accurate.
• Respond to all prospective members within 48 hours. (Recently, 50% of surveyed prospective members reported that they never visited a club because they never heard back from a club representative).
• Represent the Toastmasters brand well and have quality club meetings.
• Inquire if prospective members have any questions about Toastmasters.
• Follow up with the prospective members after they visit the club.

Resources:

1. Global Advertising Campaign Preparation Tips: LINK

2. Prospective Member Follow-up E-mail Template: LINK

3. Prospective Member Conversion Guide: LINK

New Club Organizing

Debbie Stearns, BBA, DTM

District 42 Club Growth Director 2023-24

To foster a stronger sense of community and engagement, ISM in Regina has taken a significant step forward by submitting fees to organize a new club. With Club Sponsors Catherine Secundiak and Dan Lonechild at the helm, alongside Club Mentors Irma Goosen and Ari Sanyal, this initiative promises to enrich the corporate environment while nurturing personal and professional growth among employees.

The decision to establish a club within ISM underscores the organization's commitment to cultivating a vibrant workplace culture that goes beyond traditional business objectives. By providing employees with opportunities to connect on shared interests and passions, the club aims to enhance camaraderie, collaboration, and overall job satisfaction.

Catherine Secundiak and Dan Lonechild, as club sponsors, bring a wealth of experience and leadership to the table. With their guidance, employees involved in the club can expect mentorship, resources, and encouragement to pursue their interests and ideas.

Additionally, the support of the club mentors Irma Goosen and Ari Sanyal adds a valuable dimension to the club's foundation. As seasoned professionals within ISM Company, Irma and Ari

bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. Their mentorship will play a crucial role in guiding club members, providing valuable insights, and fostering growth and innovation within the organization.

The establishment of a new club within ISM comes at a time when employee engagement and workplace satisfaction are of paramount importance. In today's fast-paced corporate landscape, creating opportunities for employees to connect outside of their usual roles and responsibilities is essential for fostering a sense of belonging and fulfillment.

We look forward to ISM becoming a part of District 42 shortly!

BLOG

AROUND THE DISTRICT

Epilepsy Awareness Month & Purple Day

Paul Dixon, SAA

Calgary Pace Setters

Having lived with epilepsy for most of my life, I've been fortunate to find relief through medication and surgery. Let's mark March 26 as the official day of awareness for the Epilepsy Association of Calgary. I encourage you all to show your support by wearing something purple on this day. Let's stand together to raise awareness and support those affected by epilepsy in our community.

Message from Epilepsy Association of Calgary

Epilepsy Awareness Month:

Every March, we unite to recognize Epilepsy Awareness Month, a dedicated time to shed light on a neurological condition affecting thousands. It's an opportunity to deepen understanding, challenge stigmas, and support those navigating the complexities of epilepsy. By raising awareness, we strive to create a more informed and empathetic community.

Purple Day (March 26):

Purple Day, observed on March 26th annually, serves as a global call to action. This day encourages individuals worldwide to wear purple, illuminating landmarks in shades of violet, and engage in conversations to dispel myths about epilepsy. It's a moment to stand in solidarity with those affected, fostering a supportive environment and making strides towards a world where epilepsy is widely understood and accepted.

Together, during Epilepsy Awareness Month and on Purple Day, we amplify our voices, educate our communities, and work towards a more inclusive and compassionate society for everyone impacted by epilepsy. Learn more at epilepsycalgary.com #postyourpurple

“The Art of Evaluation” workshop

Twila Tayfel

D42 Dispatch CoEditor

On February 27th, 2024, the Calgary Pace Setters held their inaugural “The Art of Evaluation” workshop. This workshop was the brainchild of Vice President Education, Tzonka Bouklieva. After hearing many members remark that they didn’t take on the role of evaluator because they didn’t know what to do or say, Tzonka decided to change this fact. Thus, the “Art of Evaluation” workshop was born.

VP ED Tzonka recruited a team of experienced Toastmasters to help with the endeavour. Division C Director Leena Alex, former President Eva Sefcova and past VP Education, Grace Nguyen shared their favourite techniques for evaluation while Mentorship coordinator Alex Campbell and VP Membership Twila Tayfel contributed their tips for handling the busy evaluator role.

Attendees of the Zoom meeting were able to put their newfound knowledge to the test by watching recordings of an International Speech contest speech and a Tall Tales contest speech. 6 participants (3 for each speech) were selected to share their one-minute evaluation and talk about either what the speaker did well, a growth area for the speaker or what challenge the speaker could take on to do even better.

Following these mini-evaluations, Tzonka led those in attendance through a thought-provoking exercise on what qualities made a good speech an excellent speech. All 20 people on the Zoom call shared their opinions on what takes a speech to the next level. We all learned something new from our fellow Toastmasters and came home with new strategies to help us in the role of evaluator.

Our challenge now is to take on the role of an evaluator at a Toastmasters meeting and put our skills to the test. Well done Tzonka and team.

If you are interested in viewing a recording of the meeting or getting a list of evaluation strategies, please contact the VP Public Relations for Calgary Pace Setters Vesna Ivkovic

DID YOU KNOW

LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Content Creators Wanted

Stacey Kaminski

D42 Public Relations Manager

Become a Part of Our D42 Content Creator Team and Unleash Your Creativity

At D42, we provide a world of creative opportunities for you to showcase your unique voice and reach a global audience. Join our team today to create, inspire, and make an impact!

To join our team reach out to prm@d42tm.org.

Workshop Speakers at District 42 Toastmasters Spring Conference!

Debbie Walker

D42 Conference Education Chair

Are you a dynamic speaker with a passion for education? We invite you to be part of the District 42 Toastmasters Spring Conference! Share your expertise on topics like communication, leadership, and personal development. Apply now to become a workshop speaker by filling out the form HERE.

Join us in creating an unforgettable experience for our diverse community of Toastmasters. The deadline for submissions is March 4, 2024.

For more details, contact Education Chair Debbie Walker at dceducationchair@d42tm.org.

Let’s inspire and empower together!

Working with YOUTH keeps you young!

Mary Schoendorfer, DTM

YLP Committee Chair

Have you had a great experience leading a Youth Leadership Program?

If so, I dare you to talk about it! Our members need to know how rewarding this leadership opportunity is. I keep hearing members say they had such a good experience leading this program, but I only hear that because I ask.

Your club needs to know this program exists, and that they can be a part of it. If you have experience, you can be a mentor, an educational speaker even a program assistant. There are lots of ways to help without having to be in the driver’s seat!

If your club has a team of three (one coordinator, one to do occasional roles and education sessions, and one to be the assistant) you can switch roles next time and ensure all of the teams’ members are recognized as a coordinator!

You will be part of the sustainability of the program, AND you will each have earned a requirement towards the DTM award. Your club will receive recognition for doing a Youth Leadership program and as a club, you will be contributing to the community in a meaningful way.

Why Do I Care?

 Mary Schoendorfer, DTM

YLP Committee Chair

Why does anyone take on being a Sponsor or Mentor to a new club?

Do I have the resources? What do I know, really?

You would be surprised just how much you do know! In addition, the Club Extension Committee, part of CGD Deb Stearns's portfolio, can direct you to more learning opportunities and resources at TI.

Member Margaret Ustupski has been a New Club Mentor for Mosaic Masters, a new club in Esterhazy, SK. Here is a testimonial from her:

 “What are the rewards of being a club mentor?

As a club mentor for the Mosaic Master Club, I had the opportunity to meet an enthusiastic group of people. The club executives are a dynamic group interested in learning about Toastmasters. The members are inspiring and inquisitive.

 I also worked with a dynamic team of sponsors and mentors.

I had the opportunity to present education sessions, listen to new speakers and provide

evaluations. These allowed me to reflect on what I have learned and to gain new skills and knowledge. When the opportunity is available, say YES. This is another way to gain experience and knowledge.”

Are you interested? New clubs do not come around every day and if this is something you are interested in and would like to try, let us know now! We can connect you with an opportunity that will work for you. These are usually new communities of members that would not be Toastmasters if it were not for this new club effort.

The Program tab on the District 42 website contains information regarding the responsibilities of each of these roles. Start there!

The application forms for New Club Sponsor or Mentor are on D42tm.org at the following LINK

Volunteers Needed

Laura Chambers, DTM

Circle of Gold Chair

With Contest Season just beginning, there will be a huge need for volunteers to assist in organizing and holding Contests, as well as Evaluators, Timers, Moderators and Techies for Circle of Gold.

If the call goes out, are you willing and able to take a leadership role to help it all go smoothly?  

If you are able to help, please contact your Area Director. Your willingness to help will be greatly appreciated!

TI CLUB AWARDS & INCENTIVES

Talk Up Toastmasters Campaign

Debbie Stearns, BBA, DTM

District 42 Club Growth Director 2023-24

Don't miss out on the opportunity to participate in the Talk Up Toastmasters campaign, running from February 1 to March 31. This campaign encourages clubs to actively recruit new, dual, or reinstated members to bolster their ranks and invigorate their meetings.

Incentives from District 42

Exciting incentives await clubs that actively participate in the Talk Up Toastmasters campaign. District 42 is offering rewards based on the number of members clubs sign up:

• 2 to 4 Members: Receive up to $25.00 to spend at the TI store.
• 5 to 7 Members: Get up to $50.00 TI store credit.
• 8 Members or More: Earn up to $100 to shop at the TI store.

These incentives not only serve as a motivation for clubs to recruit new members but also provide tangible benefits that can enhance club activities and member experiences.

Take Action Today

As the renewal deadline approaches and the Talk Up Toastmasters campaign is in full swing, it's time for clubs to take proactive steps to ensure their continued success. Renew your memberships, participate in recruitment efforts, and seize the opportunity to earn incentives offered by District 42.

April Toastmasters Month Initiative

Stacey Kaminski, PRM

District 42 and District 99 are collaborating to designate April as Toastmasters Month for both districts in Alberta and Saskatchewan. This initiative aims to create a significant impact in our online and local communities. Stay tuned for further details on the proclamation. Presidents can expect a Constant Contact message in March detailing club engagement.

You and your club's active involvement will be crucial in ensuring the success of this Toastmasters Month. Thank you to everyone for your commitment to the Toastmasters journey, and let's make this celebration unforgettable!

PR GUIDELINES & PUBLICATION RULES

AND THE AWARD GOES TO...

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY