Fall Conference

Hello Everyone - I had the pleasure of attending the inaugural fall conference of the newly formed District 86 last weekend, November 7th to 9th, at the Waterloo Inn and Convention Centre in Waterloo, Ontario.  The theme of the conference was "Forging a Bright Tomorrow".

The weather was somewhat gloomy but spirits were high from the beginning.  As is customary at Toastmasters conferences, this conference began with a Friday evening "fun night" and a reception for "first timers".  Saturday morning opening sessions are always enjoyable, especially if you love bagpipes.  Yes, it is a Toastmasters tradition to have a piper in full regalia pipe in the head table.  The Mayor of Waterloo, Her Worship Mayor Brenda Halloran brought official greetings from the city council and citizens of Waterloo. 

One of the most stirring parts of the official conference opening ceremony was the parade of banners and in true Toastmasters style, this parade was well planned and organized.  Each and every banner, and its bearer, received warm applause.

Pauline Duncan-Thrasher, DTM, delivered the opening speech.  Her message, "what's holding you back?", featured great use of props including weights and of all things, a rubber duck.  Only at Toastmasters!

At the Communications and Leadership Award Luncheon, His Worship Mayor Carl Zehr, Mayor of Kitchener since 1997, was honoured for his tireless community work.  Toastmasters who earned the Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) designation in the past year were presented with their official medallions.  Bolton Banter is proud to have three members, Ann Toner Fung, Carol Dowell and Eric Solowka, who are now DTMs.  Other Toastmasters who had achieved a designation during the year were given the opportunity to stand up and be recognized for their achievements. 

Any Toastmasters conference features an excellent choice of workshops, conveniently categorized under the broad headings of Speaking Skills, Leadership Skills, Club Excellence and Personal/Professional Development.  There is truly something for everyone.  The final workshop of Saturday featured the 2001 World Champion Speaker Darren Lacroix presenting, "How to Own the Stage".  Members of the audience had the opportunity to deliver brief speeches and receive on the spot evaluations from Darren.  Each and every Toastmaster present learned something from this compelling and accomplished speaker. 

What would a Toastmasters conference be without contests?  Fall conferences feature the Humourous Speech and Table Topics Contests.  The winning humourous speech at this conference was about, of all things, turkeys.  It was truly amusing.  Two contestants spoke about shoes, specifically; a typical woman's love for shoes.  We all know that a woman can never have enough shoes so the speeches were received with great good humour and sighs of understanding from the men in the audience.

The Table Topics Contest was held Sunday morning and we're proud to report that our own Eric Solowka of Bolton Banter Toastmasters placed third.  "Transformation" was the word each contestant was given to create a one to two minute speech on the spot.  Congratulations and well done Eric. 

Of course the conference wasn't all work.  The Governor's Ball, held Saturday evening gave everyone a chance to relax, enjoy a good meal and let loose on the dance floor. 

On Sunday morning, International Director Kristal DiCarlo presented a motivational workshop, "Courage to Conquer".  Using Napoleon's experiences as an example, Kristal helped us examine the obstacles that prevent us from realizing our goals. The conference ended later Sunday morning with a delicious brunch followed by Darren Lacroix' keynote speech.  Then it was time to say goodbye to familiar Toastmasters and new friends.  If you've never attended a conference, I urge you to make plans to attend the District 86 spring conference to be held April 24th to 26th in Burlington.  You'll meet old friends and make some new ones.  There is always a lot to learn.  Most importantly, in typical Toastmasters fashion, events begin and end on time.  Be sure to check the District 86 website for more information about the spring conference. 

Lorraine Van Wagner - Webmaster