BeGes Newsletter July 2016

A Journey with Many Paths 

Much of what I experience in Toastmasters is like going on a solo journey, with other member as traveling companions. We're not heading to the same destination, yet we help each other get there. We're at different points along the way, yet we provide real-time help at every step.

A Journey With Many Paths - Peterashwoodsmith

 My goal this Toastmaster year is to complete the requirements to be a Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM). It means I need to give about 15 speeches (not all at BeGes) and put on a couple of special workshops. I can't do it without you: your support in leading meetings, sharing roles, providing feedback. 

In turn, I'd like to help you achieve your goals, and work with the club's executive team to do so. Do you have a skill you'd like to build in Toastmasters, such as getting comfortable with impromptu speaking? Are you looking to compete in a speech contest? Would you like to hone your marketing skills? Does leading a meeting terrify you? 

The club's executive team is here to help us achieve our goals, no matter where we are in our journey. Are you ready to take the next step? We'll be in touch to understand what your destination is, and how we can support you at every step. I'm looking forward to it  Mary Morrison, Club President

Treasurers Report  - Upcoming changes with Toastmasters' dues!

Beginning with the October dues, Toastmasters International dues will be increasing $9 for every 6 months period we pay dues and there will no longer be a grace period. If you don't pay your dues on time, Toastmasters International will not recognize you as a member. In order to ensure that all members are in good standing and dues are paid by October 1, the treasurer will collect dues from August 19 - September 16.    Mel West,  Beges Treasurer

The follow is an opinion piece that was recently published in Forbes. The author is a former Navy SEAL who struggled with public speaking after leaving the service. He provides a few good tips on preparing for a speaking opportunity. There are no shocking revelations, but a reminder of the basics presented from another point of view can be a good thing.  Eric Heller Former BeGes VP Education (Interim), Former BeGes Sergeant at Arms

6 Public Speaking Tips From A Navy Seal 

Whether your goal is to improve your leadership communication abilities, develop your thought leadership in a certain area or become a professional public speaker there are always obstacles to overcome before achieving greatness.

Getting up and speaking in front of an audience regardless of its size can be quite daunting. It requires regularity and practice to become totally comfortable. When I left the SEAL Teams and attended graduate school, we often had group projects that required a final presentation. During one of these presentations my heart was pounding and my hands were shaking. I’m a Navy SEAL combat veteran for crying out loud! It doesn’t matter. This was a totally new fear to overcome. Read more

OFFICER ROLES

Ever wonder what goes into making a Toastmasters Club run smoothly? The following are descriptions of the volunteer service opportunities available. 

President "C.E.O." of this club, responsible for fulfilling the club's mission.
VP -Education Second ranking club officer, responsible for planning, organizing and directing a club program meeting members' educational needs.
VP – Membership Official Third ranking club officer, responsible for planning, organizing and directing a program ensuring member retention and growth.
VP – Public Relations Fourth ranking club officer, responsible for developing and directing publicity informing members and the public about Toastmasters International.
Secretary Official Fifth ranking club officer, is responsible for club records and correspondence.
Treasurer Official Officer Sixth ranking club officer, responsible for club financial policies, procedures and controls.
Sergeant at Arms Seventh ranking club officer, responsible for club property management, meeting room preparation and hospitality. The sergeant at arms chairs the social and reception committee.

OFFICER TRAININGS

Toastmasters holds Officer Trainings twice a year for officers, however all TM members may attend. They are fun and informative! Here are the ones near us in July:

When: Wednesday, July 20
Time: 6:00-9:00pm
Where: Northwest Foursquare Church [click for map]
34800 21st Ave SW
Federal Way, WA 98023

When: Saturday, July 30
Time: 8:00am-12:00pm
Where: Poulsbo Fire Station [click for map]
911 NE Liberty Rd
Poulsbo, WA 98370

When: Saturday, July 23
Time: 10:00am-1:00pm
Where: Centralia Timberline Library [click for map]
110 S Silver Street
Centralia, WA 98531