We have started the new Toastmasters year well. We have turned in our officers list in on time and we have gotten our first session of officers training done with 6 recorded officers attending training.  We are off to a great start!   We also have recoded a level 4 completion.  IF you have outstanding level completions and have not sublimate them now is a good time. lets get the club and yourself credit for these and the recognition that is well deserved.  

Here is the chart for the Distinguished club program.   

 This chart does not get into the membership requirements as deeply as is required.  The following chart explains membership requirements.  So our base members is 14 and to get the first distinguished award we would need a net growth of 3 of which we have already gotten one. So net growth of two more and our membership will be at the distinguished requirement.  This is of course most crucial in the second half of the year as these will be assessed and awarded at end of fiscal year.    The chart shows the different level and members requirements 

 I would love to see us end the year with the top award (Smedley Distinguished)  having achieved 10 goals and a members ship of 25 or more!   I think that would be exciting. 

New Member Orientation Power Point

  In a recent Leader Letter it was pointed out this resource from Toastmasters International.  It is a power point for new members.  I think this could be something we in Pioneer could potentially use for club officers or the persons mentor  to give an overview of toastmasters.   

  

   I will attach link to this presentation here:   Download Presentation

Our Daily Communications.

   I have to be honest, I sometimes struggle to come up with new Educational Moment Ideas!   This week was one of those weeks. I would welcome your suggestions for new Educational Moments.    

   It came to my mind, a short video I saw recently that really spoke to me. Some would say it convicted me!  The speaker was talking about  communication with people and he covered the subject of "being triggered".  I thinks we all have been triggered emotionally when something is said that we strongly do not agree with or  when someone is just plain rude in their communication. 

  It can be challenging to respond in a controlled and proper way.  The speaker in this video said  and I am paraphrasing:  "I have been triggered many times in my life over many years and reflecting upon that I have never been triggered to do something good."

 That to say the least stepped on my toes!   I too when reflecting have never been triggered to do something good!   

  The old saying that stick and stones can break my bones and words will never hurt me is, to say the least, inaccurate! Words can hurt very much!   

 With all of this in mind we in Toastmasters are in the communication business. We are in the "Word" business   I would like to use my words for good. To build bridges so to speak and unite people not the opposite.  

Food for thought!