My congratulations to all the officers who completed officer training. A list is being compiled so that each individual can be recognized. Officer training is important because it insures that every club has a strong leadership team that can assist the individual member and the club and the club as a whole to be better Toastmasters.

Why should we go to officer training over and over, especially if we've been through it multiple times before...? Well, in each session the instructor may cover new information, rules and resources, share new ideas and practices, or just new things from Toastmasters International. If we're not there, WE WILL MISS OUT! Also, how often have you gone to officer training and had an open discussion and learned something new from an officer at another club? A problem they faced and resolved, an issue that they can't solve and you may have the answer. Toastmasters shows us that working together makes us stronger as an individual and as a whole. Many lives have been changed by Toastmasters, how has it helped you? Time to give back and continue to "educate to achieve". Be sure to make the next round of training in the winter so you can teach and learn all the things that have happened in between the first round of training and the winter training.

It's speech contest season... Schedule yours now so that you can get the word out. Let me know when and where, and any help needed. The area 33 speech contest is being scheduled for Mon. Oct. 5Th. This round... humor and table topics. Encourage each member to participate. Even if they don't feel that humor is their strong suit, it is a perfect opportunity for them to practice the skill. Get the word out... have each member invite visitors to the speech contest, it is a great opportunity to recruit new members. Place an ad in your local newspaper, hang a flier in a deli, or even Walmart. Let people know when and where. Now is the season to grow!

I have "Open Houses In a Bag" from Lynne Rea-Adams. It has everything you need to run an effective open house for your club. I will try to stop by each club to make delivery shortly. So expect to hear from me soon :)

Any special events, anniversary's, accomplishments at your club lately? Let me know so the individual can get their recognition for Educating To Achieve.

I hope to hear from all of you soon, and look forward to my next visit at your club. Until then any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me.

Mick