City of Powell River Mayor Dave Formosa was in fine form as guest of honour at a recent Sunshine Speakers Toastmasters Club meeting.
“I see you everywhere,” he was heard to greet one member after another. As Formosa so rightly observed, Toastmasters are highly visible in all aspects of Powell River community life.
Formosa was on hand to help commemorate Toastmasters International Month, celebrated every February by clubs all over the world. His opening remarks revealed a keen understanding of a basic Toastmaster principle: “I’m going to try not to say ‘um’ to you.”
He began by focusing on what he already knew about the organization. “You are all about banishing the fear of public speaking. I applaud you for what you do.”
The members, in turn, appreciated the mayor’s highly interactive style.
“I’m here to have fun and learn,” he said, then asked the members to articulate what Toastmasters has meant to them. Responses focused primarily on enhanced skills from confidence to communication, leadership to organization.
Club president Howard Montgomery encapsulated everyone’s feelings when he said, “It’s an ongoing process of growth and refinement. All the polishing we get in the club helps us shine in other areas of our life.”
Toastmaster Jennifer Salisbury agreed. “Toastmasters is an educational organization that helps its members grow in a safe and nurturing environment.”
In his concluding remarks, Formosa thanked the members for the new insight they provided into the club’s goals and achievements. He then went on to compete in—and win—the impromptu speaking contest that followed.
Readers who wish to learn more about Sunshine Speakers Toastmasters are invited to call Susan Biagi at 604.483.4551 or visit the club blog for meeting times. Guests are always welcome.
