[tfctoastmasters:634] The second half of 2015 begins with Toastmasters

All,

Hope everyone is doing well and "enjoying" the weather. As a native Minnesotan, I break into a flop sweat at the mere mention of the term "heat index," so more power to you if you aren't wilting at this point.

(1) Talk for Change's next meeting is Wednesday, July 1, at 6:45. As always, we'll be in the Sandstone Room at the Viva Center, which is on the third floor of the Anchorage building (1555 Connecticut [the door is on Q, opposite Firehook and next to Raku]).

So far, we only have two people signed up for roles (thank you, Lynnie and Alicia) -- and we need speakers! If you haven't given a speech for a while or want to do your "Ice Breaker" speech (i.e., Speech 1 out of the first Toastmasters manual, Competent Communication), take a moment and head to our sign-up sheet. There are lots of opportunities to contribute to the meeting, give back a bit to the club and build your own skillset out a bit. Also, on that same sign-up sheet, you can sign up for roles at meetings down the road. (Not to embarrass her, but Lynnie's already signed up for a speech on the 15th; well-played!)

(2) If you have friends, colleagues, relatives, etc., who you think might be interested in checking out our meetings, please do extend the invitation. If some do intend to swing by, please let club officers know so we can extend a warm welcome.

(2)(a) As a reminder, the officers for the 2015-16 club year (which begins officially at our next meeting) are:

• President — Mark Wills
• Vice President Education — Nils Junge
• Vice President Membership — Andrey Shevchenko
• Vice President Public Relations — Jill Vanderweit
• Treasurer — Omer Ipekci
• Secretary — Erin Shea

(2)(b) And if you're not yet a member or your membership has lapsed, please contact Andrey or talk with him next Wednesday and he'll walk you through the process.

(3) Speaking of club officers, we are looking for a Sergeant-at-Arms. In short, what this means is being the keeper of our key and being at meetings to open and close up — and if unable to be there, to make sure someone has the key before the next meeting. Please let any club officer know — either by email or at next week's meeting — if you're interested.

(4) Lastly, Omer did a great job in the 2014-15 club year of putting the "change" into Talk for Change. In the coming year, I hope to be able to build upon his efforts in engaging organizations in the community. I've put out feelers regarding involvement with an animal rescue organization to participate in local events, but nothing has been finalized as yet. If you have any ideas about community engagement or volunteer opportunities in which the club might participate, please let me know.

If you have any questions, concerns or comments about any of these items, please give me a shout and I'll reply promptly.

Here's to a great new (club) year,

Mark