by Nicole Dogan Division B Area 23 Director
Toastmasters from District 25, along with their friends and families, came together for a wonderful evening dolled up and sparkling, both in dress and personality. We made the most of the Westlake Marriot’s hospitality (and air conditioning) to celebrate our own, and each other’s, successes, and achievements during 2022-2023.
The evening began with the President’s Legacy Reception, where club delegates collected the ribbons they had earned throughout the year. I had the pleasure of assisting in the distribution, and it was truly enjoyable to witness representatives receive everything from a single ribbon to a handful of them. It was a clear testament to the hard work and dedication of all our clubs.
Following that, we made our way into the main dining room. Awards were distributed while we ate, clapped, and stood to be recognized by our peers. Awards were presented across various categories; Membership and Marketing, Educational, Club, District, and concluding with the Special Awards. Talk about impressive people…our people…Us! We are awesome. You are awesome! There were so many awards that they held an intermission. I highlighted my program so I could reach out to my friends and congratulate them personally. I need a new yellow highlighter! It looks as if I have splashed pineapple all over my program. Isn’t it wonderful to be part of such a talented group of Toastmasters? My heart is overflowing!
In the middle of the printed program were seven pages filled with heartfelt congratulatory messages, each one personalized for individuals and clubs. One aspect I cherish most about our Toastmasters community is the unwavering support we demonstrate for each other.
The evening marked the culmination of Marcheta Gardner’s guidance in the district, where she showcased the numerous awards and achievements that we all attained during her tenure as District Director. Under the guiding motto of ‘Empowering your Legacy’ for the year, she has certainly left us collectively and individually, better than she found us. Thank you, Marcheta, for your exceptional leadership!
I don’t know about y’all, but I am already looking forward to the event next year. If you didn’t attend this year, do yourself a favor and plan for next year. I look forward to seeing you there!
