Denton Toastmasters – #3365– Open House, Charterversary Our Charterversary/Open House was a HUGE SUCCESS!! We were 24 members and guests strong. It was a fun evening filled with nostalgia as we celebrated our club’s 12/1/1983 charter date with a “Christmas in the 80s” theme. We were captivated by 3 educational and interesting speeches, as well as…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Program Quality Director District 25 Toastmasters, Get ready and Mark Your Calendars for a VIP Experience like no other! Our Annual Conference is designed to be an unforgettable celebration of excellence, connection, and inspiration. Join us Friday, May 16th, and Saturday, May 17th, 2025, at the fabulous Westin Dallas Fort Worth…
by Emily Murray DTM Past District Director Leadership Chair As this year’s District Leadership Committee Chair, I invite you to nominate yourself or another member for consideration for one of District 25’s elected officer positions- Division Director, Club Growth Director, Program Quality Director and District Director- for the 2025-2026 year. Nominations are now open and…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Program Quality Director District 25 Officers, I want to take a moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the dedicated Toastmasters who have already completed their Toastmasters Leadership Institute (TLI) training this winter. Your commitment to personal growth and club leadership is truly inspiring! For those who haven’t attended a…
by Jim Chappel Division F Director I arrived in New Orleans 15 hours after the horrific terrorist attack which killed 15 innocent people enjoying NYE on Bourbon Street, two blocks from the hotel where I was staying. An additional 50 innocent citizens were wounded. During my visit I saw a memorial to the victims develop…
By Denise McConnell DTM Club Growth Director Increased Membership: Chartering 35 clubs in District 25 would undoubtedly lead to a significant increase in membership. Each new club brings a diverse pool of individuals seeking to improve their communication and leadership skills. This expansion in membership not only strengthens the individual clubs but also amplifies the…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director When you’re a club member, you get training in Pathways and from fellow members. If you are a club officer, you are expected to attend TLI for your role. If you are an Area or Division Director, you get to go to District Executive Council meetings. All these events…
Dear District 25 Toastmasters, To all the wonderful good little girls and boys in District 25, Santa Chuck has a special message. It was crafted with the magical touch of my creative elves. ’Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the district, The achievements were glowing, your efforts, terrific! The meetings were crafted…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director The famous basketball player Michael Jordan once said, “Some people want it to happen, some people wish it would happen, others make it happen.” It’s a profound and simple thought, but it struck me as I was thinking about the members in our district. In Toastmasters there is a…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director Typically, when talking about event planning people, will tell you that a project manager is responsible for, you guessed it…planning, executing, and overseeing. This can include managing teams, budgets, and deadlines. Sounds like a lot of work, right? Let’s combine that with being a Toastmaster volunteer leader, and our…
by Denise McConnell DTM Club Growth Director As the Club Growth Director, I have the opportunity to develop skills that help expand the reach of District 25 in our local community. Under the guidance of our Region 3 Advisor, Jamie Pickering, I learned the art of cold calling to identify and engage potential companies for…
by Denise McConnell DTM Club Growth Director Congratulations to Irving Toastmasters Club #3365, which hosted an Open House on November 4, 2024. There was time before and after the Open House to mingle and enjoy the food and refreshments provided. The meeting also consisted of five guests, including the Area 42 Director, who confirmed that…
by DJ Reed DTM Club Leads Co-Chair I was lucky enough to be at the recent Club Success Workshop Presentation, and it was amazing. I have never been a corporate person, so I wanted to know more about how they worked and the best way to reach out to businesses for membership and new clubs.…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director Do you ever feel like you just have so much going on that no matter what you do you just can’t get ahead? Maybe you get to what you think is the top of the mountain only to find that you’re only at the first one. We have all…
by Nicole Dogan Division B Director What a wonderful afternoon! I just returned from this year’s D25 Christmas Party, hosted by our very own Program Quality Director, Phylliss Christian-Daniels. Many thanks to Phylliss and Jacques for opening their home up to us for this event. The Elf-themed party was well attended and included Buddy the…
by Samantha Watt D25 Public Relations Manager District 25 recently hosted a highly engaging workshop for Region 3 Toastmasters, focusing on the transformative power of AI and GPT tools for public relations and club promotion. The session, designed for both beginners and seasoned users, offered a deep dive into how artificial intelligence can enhance…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Program Quality Director D25 Toastmasters/Guests: Are You Ready To Elevate Your Speaking Skills? Join Us (Virtually Saturday), December 7th, from (8:00am-10:00am) for District 25’s Speaker to Trainer Workshop where our two Amazing trainers will be Emily Murray, DTM, IPDD and Kelsey Dean, SR5. Are you looking to transform your speaking skills…
November 26, 2024 Dear Toastmasters Leader, Discover how Toastmasters’ newest tools can help clubs grow and better connect with prospective members! Register for a webinar session on December 4 to see the Prospective Member Management page and online Membership Application in action and learn how to make the most of them. If you submit a question with…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director Andrew Carnegie once said, “No man will make a great leader who wants to do it all himself, or to get the credit for doing it.” I heard this and thought to myself for a while on it. It made me think who out there is doing this and…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director If you have ever been to any of the main events in District 25 (Summit, Year End Celebration, and Conference) you know that all that any member in D25 needs is a little bit of inspiration. Then you’ll need to stand back because you’re about to see some magic…
by Denise McConnell DTM Club Growth Director Our October Open House Club winner is Top of Texas Toastmasters. Nine guests were in attendance, including the Program Quality Director and the Club Growth Director. They conducted an engaging meeting that held the attention of everyone present. Top of Texas Toastmasters chose the theme “Celebrating 100 Years.” The attendees were…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director What do the numbers 308, 1838, 40 and 2 mean to you? They may sound like nothing, but they are, in fact, very exciting. In District 25, we are always pushing ourselves and everyone around us to be the best that we can be. What do these numbers have…
by Denise McConnell DTM Club Growth Director At the 2024 Toastmasters Convention in August, one achievement stood out— a district that chartered 35 new clubs for the 2023-2024 year. This was the highest number of clubs chartered, and it left a lasting impression on me, as an attendee for the first time. The sight of…
by Kelsey Dean Are you looking to transform your speaking skills and expand your impact as a leader? Join us on Saturday, December 7th, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. for District 25’s Speaker to Trainer event! Whether you’re aiming to conduct engaging virtual sessions at the upcoming Winter Toastmasters Leadership Institute (TLI) or seeking…
by Tammy Kasterke DTM The day you become a Toastmaster, a spark inside you begins to flicker. Many of us don’t contemplate much beyond that spark from Toastmasters. Sure, the spark is powerful as it is sufficient to achieve some of one’s personal goals of confidence, communication and/or leadership. But for the few, the spark…
by Shruti Sahu Area 33 Director At the District 25 District Executive Council meeting on October 19th, we were welcomed back to Texas Wesleyan University with an energetic greeting from the Trio, and we proudly received our Area Director and Division Director name badges. Lola Stone kicked off the day by training us on how…
by Najaf Dostaliyev DTM Division D Director “Birds of a feather flock together,” the saying goes, and for the members of District 25, this sentiment couldn’t be more accurate. When it comes to gathering, celebrating, and creating unforgettable experiences, District 25 needs no excuse—members simply enjoy one another’s company and thrive on shared accomplishments. District…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director Greetings District 25 Members, As you may recall from the August Board Briefing Meeting held at the Toastmasters International Convention there are some exciting and new changes coming out. These changes are due to an important change in Protocol 7.0. Please keep in mind that with all these changes…
By District Director, Jesse Ford, DTM People often say, “it’s the quiet ones you have to worry about.” But wait…we are Toastmasters! Nobody is quiet in Toastmasters, right? Well, maybe not quiet around everyone; she is definitely a voice in the leadership team. This leader takes care of minutes for all district business, helps with…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director Anybody who has ever held the role of Vice President of Education will tell you that it’s a lot of work. To understand Basecamp and help members get through Pathways and sign up for speeches is sometimes very difficult. This month our outstanding member has not just been a…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. How perfect are these words. I don’t know about you, but I love to look at…
by Dave Papenmeier DTM Club Retention Chair Did you know that District 25 offers Club Coaches to eligible clubs in order to help them grow and better serve their members? These coaches are available, trained, and ready to help. And we need more of them! What are Club Coaches? Being a successful club coach is…
by Larry Harmon DTM Division E Director Just over 90 days into the Toastmasters year, the Trio, Division Directors, and Area Directors have been working tirelessly. There’s so much more going on behind the scenes than I had anticipated. From getting to know the clubs in our Areas and Division, preparing for Division-sponsored training sessions…
by David Winkowski DTM Pathways Co-Coordinator I can’t remember all the circumstances surrounding my agreement to be a Pathways Co-Coordinator, but I do remember that when I learned I would be working with Jim Jameson, it leapt at the chance. Who better to learn from, than from the man who was actually the first to present…
by Jai Erwin Summit Manager Get ready to embark on a strategic adventure where every move counts! This fall, D25 Toastmasters invites you to step up your game and master your next move at the 2024 Fall Educational Summit: Level Up! happening on November 9, 2024, at Texas Wesleyan University. Just like your favorite board game,…
by Denise McConnell DTM Club Growth Director Tip Top Toastmasters celebrated a momentous occasion with a Golden Gavel Open House. The theme was “The Roaring 20’s” in honor of Toastmasters International’s 100th anniversary. The event was held at the delightful Catfish and Company, where attendees enjoyed a wonderful meal, and a grand time filled with…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director Some might argue that the role of Area Director involves too much work and responsibility, with many things to do. And that’s just the beginning. Area Directors in District 25 assist at TLI and in the Year-End Celebration, they judge contests, and much more, all while supporting and visiting…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director If you ever want to serve the members at a District level, the positions are vast and there are opportunities for all sorts of roles. Maybe you want to be the District Chief Judge like Ana Kielpinski and help train judges and be a critical part of the Contest…
by Emily Murray DTM IPDD Solar Flare Director’s Focus Award This award recognizes a member who committed to helping others achieve their goals, resulting in greater benefits for themselves and fellow members. The recipient of this award is Jenny Riddle Jenny has an open hand, an open ear, and an open heart to help, to…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director John Maxwell said, “There is almost no limit to the potential of an organization that recruits good people, raises them up as leaders and continually develops them.” I read that and I thought, “This is Toastmasters … This is people like Jamie Pickering, who after doing the full Trio…
by Najaf Dostaliyev DTM Division D Director Picture this: spacious, elegant and glamorous halls and conference rooms. People traveling in from all over the world, smiling and happy. Guests welcome each other like old friends. This was my first impression of the Toastmasters International Convention. And that was just the beginning During the week, I…
by Joyce Trimble DTM Education Chair How does one learn from impossibilities, competitive figure skating, and art thievery? Attend the D25 Fall Summit on November 9 to find out. These narratives showcase the concept that true leadership and personal growth often emerge from the most unexpected and challenging situations. The Summit is your chance to…
by Denise McConnell DTM CGD It is time to RENEW! The youngest of my children has started her senior year in high school. She is excited about this year’s new experiences, enjoying time with her current friends and making new ones. She is also enthusiastic about all the regular activities that are familiar, yet different…
by Maribeth Fontabla DTM TLI Co-Chair Get ready for a new twist in the TLI Experience this year—where the power of the Universe meets the magic of AI! For Toastmasters, TLI (Toastmasters Leadership Institute) is a time-honored tradition that every newly elected club officer either eagerly anticipates or tries to avoid like the plague (we…
by Josh Bauer Area 53 Director On the evening of August 24th, numerous District 25 Toastmasters (and a few guests!) gathered at the elegant Ridglea Country Club to commemorate a year of growth, achievements, and connection. The YEC was a testament to the power of dedication, community, and the spirit of leadership. The evening’s program…
by Matthew Navy Area 32 Director Here in North Texas, we’re all too familiar with the sun and the heat. While the sun goes down in the evening and the heat subsides, there wasn’t a brighter or hotter night in the Lone Star state than at the District 25 Year End Celebration, or YEC, at…
by Jim Chappel Division F Director As we strive to rebuild our district from the impact of the pandemic, we continue to face challenges. With challenges comes growth, and here are my thoughts as a Division Director on how we can best use these challenges to advance our growth. As a Division Director, you are…
by Denise McConnell DTM Club Growth Director Our August Open House Club winner is Golden Triangle Toastmasters. They had two guests, along with their Area Director, in attendance. They conducted an engaging meeting with everyone present participating. An Open House is a great opportunity to showcase the best aspects of your club. Encourage every member…
September 6, 2024 Dear Toastmaster, We are excited to share that we are actively testing the new and improved Base Camp to ensure it’s ready to launch soon. To prepare for transitioning to the new system, there will be a Base Camp outage beginning on October 9, 2024, that is expected to last through October 25, 2024,…
September 6, 2024 Dear Club Officer, We’ve heard from many of you that your members are eagerly awaiting the new and improved Base Camp user experience. The wait is almost over! To prepare for this transition, there will be a Base Camp outage beginning on October 9, 2024, that is expected to last through October 25,…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director Hello District 25 … This year, because we want to see our District grow, we are going to have a new recognition award — Outstanding Leader of the Month. Just like the Outstanding Members, these team leaders have stepped up and done an extraordinary job. So, who is it?…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director Hello District 25…This summer kicked off the new TLI season and with it all the wonderful and fun things we do. Phylliss Christian-Daniels, our new Program Quality Director, put on a total of seven District TLI events. Jin Lim and Maribeth Desuyo helped do everything as the TLI chairs,…
by Denise McConnell DTM CGD District 25 is pleased to welcome a new Toastmasters club to our district! On June 30, AMN LALA Toastmasters Club was chartered. They are a corporate club that meets both in person and online. LALA is an employee resource group within AMN. LALA, the Latin American Legacy Alliance, represents, advocates,…
by Jesse Ford DTM District Director Do you remember the time that you walked into your first toastmasters meeting? Do you remember the first time you held a role? Do you remember when you stepped outside your club and into your first Conference or District event? Three years ago, as the newly elected Club Growth…
by Joshua Bauer Area 53 Director On Saturday, July 20, the District 25 Executive Committee gathered at the Baker Building of Texas Wesleyan University for a day of investing in ourselves for the good of our clubs! At least, that’s what we would have done if the University hadn’t moved us at the last minute.…
by Ellen Slezak Area 31 Director The D25 District Executive Council Meeting was a remarkable blend of fun and information, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the trio. Our first business meeting set the stage for a productive and engaging year ahead. All six divisions were well represented though as a biased member of Division C…
by Denise McConnell DTM Cub Growth Director Thumbs Up Toastmasters is excited to be recognized as President’s Distinguished for 2023-2024! To build on this excitement, the club had a fantastic Open House event honoring Parent’s Day which was inspired by centennial celebrations in Toastmasters International to kick off the new 2024-2025 Toastmasters year. As we…
by Emily Murray, DTM, IPDD I absolutely LOATHE being cold. Hate isn’t even strong enough — LOATHE is the word! Pair this with my deep-seated need to create pretty things with my hands (I started taking art classes before I could talk), and what do you get? Quilts, obviously! When I moved to New Zealand,…
by Karen Coleman DTM Youth Leadership Chair Imagine a shy, quiet teenager named Evan who barely spoke in class, let alone in front of a group. He was filled with ideas but didn’t have the confidence to share them. Then, one day, his teacher suggested he join the Toastmasters Youth Leadership Program (YLP). Skeptical yet…
by Jenny Riddle Division A Director In the heart of District 25, where eloquence and camaraderie intersect, I embarked on my journey as a Division Director for the 2024-2025 Toastmaster year. The role was both exhilarating and daunting. My first experience as a Division Director was the D25 Advance Camp – an annual retreat held…
Dear Toastmaster, We are excited to share some valuable new resources designed to help you support excellence in your club. Recently, the “Supporting Club Excellence” webinar introduced these resources, providing insightful and practical advice for helping clubs thrive. Even though the webinar was presented to District leaders, we want to make sure you have access…
August 1, 2024 Dear Club Officer, If your club has not submitted dues already, please be aware that membership dues payments for the October 2024 – March 2025 renewal period are now being accepted. If your club is striving for on-time credit in the Distinguished Club Program, be sure to submit $60 USD international dues payments…
Compiled by Joann Smith, Abilene Toastmasters Club 1071 Peggy Mae Allen, DTM, was born April 20, 1953, and left us July 14, 2024. She was a wonderful mentor and friend to many people. Some of the members of Abilene Toastmasters Club 1071 shared their memories of Peggy. George Forbis-Stokes, the current President of Abilene Toastmasters…
July 16, 2024 Dear District Leader, As the 2024-2025 program year begins, there are a few important speech contest updates for you to be aware of. These changes are reflected in the 2024-2025 Speech Contest Rulebook, along with other updates. Speech Contest Format To help accommodate for limitations due to COVID-19, the Toastmasters International Board of Directors…
Clark Pfarner Division C Director As the incoming Division C Director for District 25, my term is just beginning, and I know there is a long road ahead of me. There will be TLI sessions to participate in and coordinate, a Summit and Annual Conference to contribute to, a contest season that will require time…
by Laurie McKee YEC Co-Chair Are you joining me in Walking in Sunshine at the YEC? No, not yuck. YEC. It’s D25’s annual Year End Celebration (YEC) for the 2023-2024 Toastmaster year. While basking in the sun and planning the YEC, I’ve learned many things including learning awards and incentives, scouting event locations, and learning…
by Denise McConnell DTM Club Growth Director District 25 is bursting with excitement to welcome a new Toastmasters Club – Core Conversations! Your decision to join our community is a testament to your commitment to communication and leadership excellence, and we’re thrilled to have you on board. District 25 fosters a supportive environment where seasoned…
By Michelle Debenport PR Chair Year End Celebration Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: My first task as PR Chair for the Year-End Celebration (YEC) has been recruiting passionate, enthusiastic individuals to join our team (shout out to Allan Pickering, Liz Brenner, Steven Offutt, Bob Beideck, and Jenall Gold). By combining our diverse skills and interests,…
by Jin Lim Co-TLI Chair Our question is, are you ready to lead your club to new heights? Join one of the many TLI training sessions in July and August. Our experienced facilitators will lead engaging sessions that provide you with insights into your officer role and share best practices to enhance your club’s experience…
by Lorenzo Narvaez Area 42 Director The unknown carries a thrill uniquely its own, a feeling I embraced fully as I drove to Mineral Wells, Texas, on June 22, for the Leadership Advance Camp and into my new role as an area director in District 25. Walking through the conference room doors, surrounded by faces…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Immediate Past Club Growth Director World Renowned Grand Prairie Toastmasters Offered an in-person and online Open House on June 4, 2024, for their Charterversary, Open House, and Golden Gavel Celebration! The theme was Pie Day which cleverly referenced the Toastmasters meeting structure which is Prepared Speeches, Impromptu Speaking, and Evaluations. This…
by Emily Murray DTM Immediate Past District Director June’s outstanding member of the month had a big month. Not only was finishing off the year as Division Director strong and supporting his clubs and Area Directors to the very last day, he also started events and responsibilities of next year’s role as Logistics Manager –…
by Jesse Ford, DTM, District Director Growth: Noun The process of evolving into who you are becoming. Rising from failure and adapting to the unknown. Striving to learn without fear. Reaching for the best to come. I want to take a moment and share this definition with everyone as I think it will be pivotal…
Susanne Nickerson was a longtime member of District 25. She joined Toastmasters in August 2004. She recently passed away. Susanne was a member of multiple clubs including Truckin’ Toastmasters and Top of Texas. She was employed by Peterbilt in Denton which was part of PACCAR. She moved to Washington state in 2014 to work for Kenworth…
June 18, 2024 Dear Toastmaster, As announced during the Board Briefing at the 2023 International Convention, on July 1, 2024, the regions of Toastmasters International will realign. This will result in a change in the number of regions in the Americas from nine to seven while changing the number of regions in the rest of…
By District Director, Emily Murray, DTM If you need to ask why Krystal Besaw is District 25’s Outstanding Member of the Month for May 2024 you must have missed our 2024 Annual Conference. Krystal took on guiding our Annual Conference with both hands and confidently led us deep into a vast jungle of ripe opportunities…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director Are you ready to elevate your speaking skills to new heights and promote growth and engagement? Join us Saturday morning, June 29th for an exciting and transformative 3-hour workshop designed to guide you from being a traditional speaker or lecturer to becoming an effective, dynamic trainer. As a…
By Bobby Madera, 2024 SPC Chair Greetings Fellow District 25 Toastmasters: Do you have ideas to help the district in Club Growth, Membership Growth, Education and Training, or Revenue and Funding? What about streamlining annual district transitions and increasing the ramp up time of operating in a new role? If any of these have crossed…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director Hello Club Officers! It’s time to elect your 2024-2025 club officers! Something I’m sure your club has either already completed or has planned to complete before the end of this month. This is awesome! A slate of strong officers sets the foundation and tone for the next year…
by Shuhdi Hashim Division F Director It has been a wonderful opportunity to serve as a Division Director this Toastmaster year. It made me realize, even more, how beautiful of a district we have here in D25. I cannot express my awe, admiration, and wonder about the camaraderie that is in the air across the district. When…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director Families are like quilts…lives pieced together, stitched with smiles & tears, colored by memories, and bound by Love. District 25 is my family. I have said it so many times this year. I will say it again: You are my family. The quilts I make are a literal way…
by Claryce Cook I have grown up attending many different Toastmasters functions, from regular meetings to Toastmasters Leadership Institute (TLI) training, and even big district events like the Year End Celebration, the Summit, and the Annual Conference. One constant presence at these events has been the banner. After seeing the banners repeatedly, I realized I…
by Joyce Trimble DTM The highly anticipated 2024 Year-End Celebration, scheduled for Saturday, August 24th, is shining brightly on the horizon, offering a wonderful opportunity to bask in the warmth of friends and fellow club members. This year, we return to the elegance of the Ridglea Country Club in Fort Worth, reflecting on the sunshine…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director In the fast-paced world of professional development and personal growth, attending the Toastmasters Leadership Institute (TLI) Officer Training stands as a pivotal opportunity for current and aspiring leaders. This biannual event is not just another training session, it’s a transformative experience that equips individuals with the essential skills…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director A Resounding Congratulations to the Professional Speakers Support Group Advanced for orchestrating an appealing Open House! The members united seamlessly to embrace guests and new members, showcasing the joy of meticulously crafted meetings enriched by the insightful feedback of seasoned Toastmasters. The club has witnessed a remarkable elevation…
by Chanakya Sah Attending the D25 conference has been a transformative experience for me as a Toastmaster. I joined Toastmasters in 2019, but initially struggled to connect and participate regularly. My early experiences were not particularly encouraging, and I didn’t learn much. However, my perception of Toastmasters and its offerings dramatically changed after attending the…
by the Hot Topics Editorial Board On Saturday, May 11th, the D25 Annual Conference hosted a Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) ceremony, honoring ten exceptional members who achieved the highest accolade in Toastmasters. The DTM award is a testament to their dedication, hard work, and the countless hours they have invested in their personal and professional growth.…
by Kavita Raju “Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.” – Simon Sinek In the vibrant journey of the Mindful Masters Toastmasters Club, Coach Tammy Kasterke stands out as a beacon of inspiration and leadership. Her unwavering commitment and servant leadership have propelled the club…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director Each year, members of Toastmasters International’s Board of Directors present this distinguished honor to a chosen few corporate sponsors around the world in recognition of their commitment to the ongoing professional development efforts of their employees. It is an honor to include TIAA on this list. TIAA sponsors six clubs nationally,…
By Emily Murray DTM In our September business meeting, the District Council voted to participate in the Toastmasters International LinkedIn campaign, which started on January 8, 2024, and ran for 90 days. For District 25, we had 1,226 unique people click on the advertisements, representing 0.56% of all viewers in our coverage area. Although this…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director “The only difference between a rut and a grave is the depth and how long you plan to stay in it” was written by Pulitzer Prize winning author Ellen Glasgow in her 1942 book The Sheltered Life. OOOO…this saying makes me angry! Because it’s right. And because ruts are…
by Denise McConnell DTM Division A Director As we approach the end of our 2023 – 2024 Toastmasters year, I am working with the area directors to help our clubs finish strong. We want every member to get full credit for all their speeches as they progress through their paths. We are attending open houses…
by Samantha Watt, D25 Contest Coordinator Ahoy, Toastmasters adventurers! Set your compasses to excitement and join us as we recount the thrilling tales of the recent Evaluation Contest and International Speech Contest held at our conference this past weekend. Prepare to be whisked away on a journey of eloquence, wit, and sheer determination! Our…
by Nicole Dogan, Area 23 Director Have you heard a great speech? The kind where you are thinking about the topic, the speaker, or the atmosphere after the event. I am still vibing from exhilarating keynotes and sessions from the D25 Annual Conference. The theme: Our Next Great Adventure did not disappoint and left…
by Candie Blunt, Area 42 Director I had the pleasure of volunteering this past weekend at the 2024 Toastmasters Conference. This marks my third time volunteering, and each year, I embrace a new role to understand how each piece of the puzzle fits together. The conference consistently provides a fantastic and engaging experience, and I…
by District Director, Emily Murray, DTM Finger in this pie, finger in that pie, she’s here, she’s there, she’s everywhere! Anna Kielpinski is our April Outstanding Member of the Month because she helps others grow by pushing herself into new experiences and out of her comfort zone. While serving as this year’s Area 51…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels, DTM, Club Growth Director Mindful Masters, holding their Open House on April 4, 2024, had meticulously planned this event over a span of six weeks. Their efforts truly paid off. Although the club typically convenes virtually, this occasion embraced a hybrid format. The success of this blended gathering was evident as…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director In the exciting land of Toastmasters, where words sway and confidence flourishes, a bond beyond the lectern thrives, a bond of best friendship. Jenny Riddle entered my life in mid-2022, and our connection was instantaneous. Nearly two-and-a-half years later, the depth of our friendship within Toastmasters knows no…
by Emily Murray District Director DTM If you took sunshine and made it into something solid, it would probably be gold. Our March 2024 Outstanding Member of the Month is solid gold sunshine – so much so her name is even gold. Jenall Gold. Having joined Toastmaster in April 2023, it’s even more special that…
by Larry Prince, D25 Toastmaster Fundamentals Chair Do you realize that when a person becomes a Toastmaster, they’re establishing a new social contract? The first few weeks of a Toastmaster’s journey are critical. The new member may think, “Have I made the right decision?” and “What is this all about?” or even “WHAT have I…
by Krystal Besaw Annual Conference Chair As Toastmasters, we are constantly on a journey of self-discovery and growth, and this year’s annual conference theme, “Our Next Great Adventure,” encapsulates this spirit perfectly. It’s a rallying call to all members to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in their personal and professional development. At…
by John Aparicio Division D Director Serving as Division D Director has been quite a daring adventure. I did not know what I was in for with the ‘23 – ‘24 year. I was met with challenges at every turn but was determined to keep sharing my sunshine no matter what! Whether it was grief…
By District Director, Emily Murray, DTM For lunch today I ate chocolate chip cookie dough and a peach Red Bull from 7-11. I feel no guilt about this. I am an adult. Adults make good decisions; therefore, this was a good decision. My stomach disagrees, however. Emily…what on Earth are you talking about? Hold on…
by Kelley Rene DTM Speaker’s Bureau Chair The District 25 Speakers Bureau is an elite group of seasoned speakers ready to step up to the podium as the need arises. Membership auditions — open to Toastmasters within the District — entail delivering a ten-minute speech with excellence. Throughout the year, members provide training through Saturday…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director Congratulations to Thumbs Up Toastmasters for creating a productive meeting that consisted of celebrating your Charterversary (37 years) along with achieving a Golden Gavel status and having two guests in attendance! A Toastmasters open house serves as an invaluable entrance into the life-changing world of public speaking and…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director In the world of Toastmasters, where individuals strive to become proficient communicators and leaders, one often overlooked investment stands out: paying club dues. While the idea of parting with hard-earned money may seem intimidating, the benefits far outweigh the costs. Here’s why investing in paying club dues is…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director Are you inspiring? Who do you know that is? I certainly don’t think that I am. To me, I’m just over here living my life. I know so many people who have done cooler, harder, more impressive, scarier, more unusual things than I have. We all tend to feel…
by Shameika McAllister DTM Division B Director Shameika McAllister, Division B Director in Toastmasters, shares invaluable insights into leadership, organizational management, accomplishments, challenges, and plans for a smooth transition for her successor. Through her experiences, she highlights key lessons and strategies that can benefit leaders in various fields. One of the fundamental lessons Shameika has…
by Karen Coleman DTM In the heart of Coppell, Texas, a group of passionate individuals came together with a singular goal: to empower the youth of their community through the art of leadership and communication. Alongside a dedicated team, an innovative workshop was collaboratively developed to instill essential skills in the next generation of leaders.…
By Donna Young DTM Provisional Policy Chair Have you ever noticed that one size does not fit all? Have you ever got hooked on a streaming series like Ted Lasso, or Breaking Bad, or Shogun, or Bridgerton? Which one fits you? This happens to me all the time. I like the first season of a…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director Are you familiar with the theme song from the old cartoon show Gummi Bears? Editing it just slightly for this month’s Outstanding Member of the Month we get: Dashing and daring, courageous and caring, Faithful and friendly with stories to share!………. Bouncing here and there and everywhere! High adventure that’s beyond…
by Lydeisha Gossett If you were born between 1901 and 2025, you belong to one of the seven generations alive today. In my family, the oldest living members are Boomers. I belong to Generation X. My oldest child is a Millennial, followed by three in Generation Z. The youngest generation is Generation Alpha, which includes…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director As a Club Growth Director in Toastmasters, the journey to success is paved with challenges and victories alike. Embracing the finish line entails more than just crossing it; it also requires leaving a lasting impact on the Toastmasters community. I want to share with you four strategies that…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director IT Egos has been named the Toastmasters Open House Winner of the month! On February 20th, IT Egos was WILD about their Open House that drew in seven guests and one returning former member. Guests were jumping in to grab Table Topics questions, and that’s the way they…
March 11, 2024 Dear Leaders, What an amazing centennial celebration this year’s convention will be—set to take place where it all began 100 years ago in Southern California. Help spread the excitement about the 2024 International Convention—a once-in-a-lifetime milestone event that will be hosted in Anaheim, California, U.S., August 14–17—by utilizing Art Deco-themed promotional…
by Jesse Ford DTM, Program Quality Director Are you, or soon to be a newly minted DTM in District 25? Do you want to walk in the world-famous, often replicated, never duplicated District 25 DTM ceremony? Well, guess what, you’re in luck! You still have time. The deadline for submitting your DTM application to WHQ,…
by Jesse Ford DTM Program Quality Director There is an old saying that “A Toastmaster wears many hats” and boy this time of year that is the truth. It all started in December when we held our first Winter TLI session. Winter TLI is all about the D25 leadership soup and the ingredients it takes…
by Laurie McKee 2023-2024 Recognition Chair Three cheers to District 25 clubs and members! District 25 started the year with 29 awards and incentives that are celebrated at the end of the year – two more have been added. Some of these are for members, others for clubs. Members, you are your club’s ray of…
by Joyce Trimble DTM Area 34 Director There is a profound sense of fulfillment when an event unfolds exactly as envisioned, leaving everyone delighted to have been a part of it. However, let’s be realistic – perfection isn’t always attainable. Yet, in those moments where things deviate from the plan, there lies an opportunity for…
by Samantha Watt District Contest Coordinator As the contest season began for District 25, I found myself brimming with excitement! We had an exceptional first contest on Saturday, February 3rd, hosted by our very own Area 64 Director Quran Anderson. Having engaged in numerous one-on-one training sessions with Area Directors and Contest Chairs, along with the…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director Fake it ‘til you make it. This is one of my biggest guiding mantras. I don’t have to know everything, I don’t have to have done everything, I don’t even have to be sure I can do it, I just fake it until I get there. “Stay afraid but…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director It’s that time of the year – time to re-invest in your growth and development through Toastmasters! For clubs that have enabled self-pay, it’s pretty easy, although one of the steps might be a little confusing. Log into your profile on http://www.toastmasters.org, select ‘My Home’ (under the ‘Welcome, name’…
by David Winkowski DTM Division E Director I remember the first Area Contest I attended. I had been a Toastmaster for maybe a couple of years. Our president was working on her DTM and was also serving as our Area Director. She needed helpers, and I volunteered to be the Sergeant-at-Arms. I did not know…
by Patty Wyatt VPPR Keller Communicators What do you share with 200 high school students? You give them something essential, yet dynamic – you show them how to ‘Own the Room’. Recently, District 25 was invited to present a soft-skills workshop at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Area 7 Conference at Central High…
By Samantha Watt Are you ready to make a real impact and help shape the future of Toastmasters International’s District 25? Now is your chance! We’re thrilled to announce that we are always accepting applications for new members to join our dynamic Strategic Planning Committee (SPC) and several sub-committees, and right now we are actively looking for members for…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director January’s Outstanding Member of the Month is the perfect example of what having a little support can do! Having been a member since 2020, a good friend encouraged Savannah Smith to dip her toes into trying roles beyond the club. Once she did, she jumped in with both feet,…
by Hilda Guffey VPE San Angelo Toastmasters “Good evening, Toastmasters!” Or… should we say, “Good Morning Toastmasters?!!” On Friday, February 2nd (which was Saturday, February 3rd in Malaysia) San Angelo Toastmasters held a joint meeting with HELP University Toastmasters Club for a Cultural Exchange Joint Toastmasters Meeting. Both clubs enjoyed an evening of sharing unique cultural…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director Whether you’re a Baby Boomer, GenX, Millennial, or GenZ, you are cordially invited to join us virtually for an engaging and open discussion aimed at “Bridging the Gap” and promoting collaboration among Toastmasters leaders of different generations. The workshop will focus on finding ways to work cohesively while…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director January 27th-28th, 2024 marked my first-ever experience attending the Mid-Year International Trio Training in Dallas, catering to regions 3, 5, 7, 8, and 9. Unsure of what to anticipate, these two days unfolded into a heartwarming journey, where I found myself among familiar faces from the Bahamas and…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director Congratulations to MidCities Achievers Toastmasters, and a huge shout out to Isleen Rodriguez, for hosting their first Open House of 2024! Open Houses offer a fantastic opportunity for individuals to expand their professional and social networks. Participants have the chance to connect with like-minded individuals who share an…
Ernestina Piñones was a longtime friend to many and aa member of Toastmasters since April 1, 2000. She passed away on January 5, 2024. Her original home club was Club #8507, House Speakers. Ernestina was a member of many clubs over the year and currently a member of Plus-Two Toastmasters and Six Twenty Nine Club.…
Did you know October 22, 2024, will mark 100 years since the first Toastmasters meeting? It’s official: from now through December 31, 2024, you are invited to celebrate in centennial style with resources developed at World Headquarters specifically for you and your clubs/Districts. Please utilize and have fun with these specially created resources (no need…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director I see trees of green, red roses too I see them bloom for me and you And I think to myself what a wonderful world I see skies of blue and clouds of white The bright blessed day, the dark sacred night And I think to myself what a…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels, DTM, Club Growth Director Congratulations District 25 Toastmasters for a strategic move in leveraging the power of Fall Open Houses to fortify your clubs! By actively incorporating these events into your recruitment strategy, the district is not only attracting new members but also maintaining the engagement of existing ones and promoting a…
by District Director Emily Murray DTM The Toastmasters International LinkedIn Advertising Campaign has started – I hope you are ready! If you’d rather watch a video than read the article, you can do that here. District 25 has been selected to be one of the featured districts for this 90-day Toastmasters International LinkedIn Advertising campaign.…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director My role as Club Growth Director for the past six months has been a whirlwind of excitement, challenges, and profound personal growth. Stepping into this leadership position within Toastmasters has been nothing short of life-changing for me. The responsibility of nurturing the growth and development of clubs has…
by Jerod Blackman, Division C Director As we enter the second half of the Toastmasters term, Division C Director Jerod Blackman reflects on the valuable lessons learned, the progress made, and the exciting plans ahead. Jerod shares his insights and aspirations for the remaining six months of his term. Lessons Learned and Personal Growth: When…
by Jesse Ford, DTM Program Quality Director What do ducks put in their soup? QUACKERS… What did the ghost order on Halloween? SCREAM OF MUSHROOM… If you haven’t seen by now, District 25 Winter TLI is about All Things Soup. On behalf of the TLI team and the Trio, we invite you to come check…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels, DTM, Club Growth Director As we step into the new year, let’s enjoy the glow of opportunity with our 2023-2024 incentive rewards – Sunshine to Sunshine, Five-For-Five, Nemilita Networking, and the latest addition, Pick A Path In Pathways. These incentives are not just goals; they are the golden nuggets that enhance our…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director Area 61 Director Tuc Goodwin is pleased to report that the NST Toastmasters Fall ‘23 Open House, which was held on December 31, was very well attended. There were more than 40 people present, 15 of which were guests including District Director, Emily Murray. There were two speakers…
by Jason Jett D25 Chief Judge, 2023-2024 When I was first asked to consider the role of District 25 Chief Judge, I replied with the question, “Do I get to wear the robe?” Unfortunately, there is not a traditional judge’s robe for this role (although you could wear one if you wanted). The District Chief…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director I can’t even begin to keep up with our December 2023 Outstanding Member of the Month. She does so much. There are Facebook and Instagram posts made, videos created, MailChimp mailings managed, etc, etc. She creates campaigns, conducts interviews, leads an extremely effective team, is (and has been) a…
by Michelle Bayes, DTM, District Finance Manager Introduction: Embarking on my Toastmasters journey in April 2006, I navigated through various corporate clubs before finding my current club in 2015. This year, I proudly serve as the President of Highway To Excellence and the District Finance Manager (DFM), a role that unexpectedly found me during a…
by Alisha McCuan My name is Alisha McCuan and I joined Toastmaster’s club Mr. Cooper Speaks in October of 2023. I decided to join so that I can become more comfortable speaking publicly and meet like-minded peers. On December 16th, I had the honor of attending my first Club Success Workshop which had plenty of…
Divit Gupta, a member of IT Egos Toastmaster Club within D25 recently was named the recipient of the prestigious Indian Achievers’ Award for outstanding contributions to technology and nation-building. This professional achievement is a testament to his unwavering commitment to empowering students globally in technology. Notably, this journey of impact and recognition finds its roots…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director Am I being picky by picking a Pickering? Absolutely! Allan Pickering is our Outstanding Member of the Month for November – and if you don’t know why, then you must have missed the Summit. I recommend NOT missing the Summit! Allan’s Summit was filled with fun, wide-ranging workshops, many…
December 6, 2023 Dear Toastmaster, Toastmasters.org now requires all members to log on using their email address on file. You can no longer use your Member ID to log into the site. If you are unsure which email address you have on file, simply use the “Forgot email?” function the next time you log…
December 11, 2023 Dear Toastmaster, As you may have already heard, an improved version of Base Camp is launching early next year. This platform upgrade will bring changes to the Pathways learning experience that members have requested for some time, and we’re excited for future improvements this transition will also be able to support! Ahead…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director For November, we may not have a specific Open House award winner, but that doesn’t mean our Toastmasters clubs haven’t been buzzing with activity and success. Instead of highlighting a single club, let’s take a moment to celebrate the achievements and milestones of our individual members. Toastmasters is…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director Hello, Sunshines! You’ve heard me say it before and I will definitely say it again – Hello, Sunshines! Since the point of this incentive is to be sure that we are saying Hello to any inquiries our clubs receive through the Toastmasters International Find-A-Club contact form, the name Hello…
A Collaboration by Michael Levy, Diana Patton, Chuck Mencke, and Lawrence Reid The District 25 web team consists of Michael Levy, Webmaster, as well as Diana Patton, Chuck Mencke, and Lawrence Reid. Their duties range from technical to clerical, from operations and security and major system updates to creating content, proofreading, and uploading information. Michael…
by Shuhdi Hashim Division F Director District Director Shuhdi Hashim stands at the helm of Division F, steering the ship with a wealth of experience gained since joining Toastmasters in July 2017 as a charter member of Smiling Stars Toastmasters. His journey has been marked by diverse club roles, including President, VPE, VPM, Secretary, Treasurer,…
by Najaf Dostaliyev Club Leads Chair View the Speaker to Trainer Workshop here – 12/9/23 Have you ever considered the challenges of training others, facilitating online meetings, and managing difficult personalities in a virtual setting? We’ve all encountered challenging individuals, whether in virtual or face-to-face interactions. What’s your approach in such situations? Do you…
by Jesse Ford DTM Program Quality Director How do you make Gold Soup? You put in 14 carrots obviously! So, what do you get when you mix up the D25 ingredients of warm cozy feelings, a little leadership, and a Zoom call? TLI of course. Well, more specifically this Winter TLI anyway. This winter the…
by Sallie Spradlin-Jett, D25 Public Relations Manager, 2023-2024 What would happen if you climbed into the basket of a hot air balloon and before you knew it, the ropes anchoring the basket became unraveled and the gusty winds carried you high above the treetops, across the fields, and over the mountains? Would you panic? Would you…
By District Director DTM District Director December! This is a month of significance no matter how you look at it. It’s the end of the calendar year. Did you accomplish all your goals this year? We’re halfway through the Toastmasters year; how are you doing on your self-development goals for the year? It’s the festive…
by Phylliss Christian Daniels DTM Club Growth Director Register for this workshop: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0qce-oqj4rE9eGBplg5ockeMNfjzdyJp7O In the dynamic realm of Toastmasters, the lectern often serves as a safety net, but true growth lies beyond its confines. Sharing your Toastmasters journey enriches the Toastmasters experience, promoting matchless personal and professional development. Join us this Saturday December 16, 2023,…
John Bergs, DTM – March 18 1956 – November 13, 2023 by Diana Patton DTM Past District Governor John’s Toastmasters District service is listed at end of this article. Here are some of the things that come to my mind as I think of John as a friend and co-member of clubs with him…
by Karen Phelps Ever gone to the same place on vacation in a different year and had a completely different experience – just as special – but NOT THE SAME at all? That was this year’s 2023 Summit! Although I’ve been to the Summit more than once – this was my first time to experience…
Featuring Denise McConnell DTM Division A Director Denise McConnell joined Toastmasters in May 2009. Since that time, she then has been a member of many clubs, and she has served in every club officer position. In addition to these roles, she has also served as Area Director, TLI Chair, and Conference Chair. Her home club…
by Divit Gupta Thriving in a new cultural environment involves immigrants actively seeking valuable advice, connecting with the appropriate individuals, seeking support when necessary, advocating for themselves, and effectively utilizing constructive criticism. Moving to a new country can be daunting, isolating, and stressful. That’s why it’s crucial to enlist the support of the right individuals,…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director Fellow D25 Toastmasters, In the dynamic world of Toastmasters, our journey extends far beyond the lectern. Here are three crucial elements that serve as essential strategies to pave the way for enduring club success and expansion while creating an environment where every member flourishes. Effective leadership is the…
by Emily Murray District Director DTM Our October Outstanding Member of the Month has her fingers in many pies, but you might not know it. She prefers to get in and get done instead of shouting for the spotlight, and yet if you know her, you probably think she’s amazing. Tammy Kasterke 100% exemplifies this…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels, DTM, Club Growth Director The month of October was definitely THE month for open houses. A huge shout-out to you, District 25, for all your hard work and your willingness to be creative and allow your club members an opportunity to have some unconditional fun. The camaraderie of club members inviting…
by Jin Lim Area 62 Director The District 25 Summit Area Council Meeting was a dynamic gathering that brought together many area directors, club officers, and members under one roof on the morning of Saturday, November 11th. The highly anticipated two-hour session was packed with valuable networking opportunities, thought-provoking discussions, and collaborative efforts aimed…
by District Director, Emily Murray, DTM With November comes Thanksgiving. With Thanksgiving comes reflection on what we are thankful for. You are not really surprised by my theme this month, are you? It’s pretty much a given in November. It’s easy to overlook the abundance of things we have in our lives to be grateful…
by Emily Murray, DTM District Director My work desk is filled with Halloween decorations. I have skeletons, bats, coffins, black cats, zombies and more. I love Halloween! Last year in September, we hired a lovely man named Mike who really enjoyed all my decorations for the season. Halloween came and went. In early November he…
Mara White, VPPR of Irving Toastmasters, has some great advice about how to get your club featured on a TV news spot. Mara saw a Facebook post from a local TV news station that was looking for interesting “Citizens of Irving” stories. She made contact, exchanged emails, and their club was booked for the news…
by John Aparicio Division D Director I am blessed to have started my Toastmasters Journey on March 1st, 2021. I am honored to have served my home club, Electric Toasters, as the current president, immediate past president, and Sergeant at Arms the previous year. I stepped in the shining light of D25 volunteer work as…
Contributions by Chuck Mencke, DTM; Jill Morrison, DTM; Jason Jett Are you looking for a unique and enriching experience without doubling your Toastmasters meeting commitments? District 25 offers several advanced and specialty clubs, each with its distinctive approach to the Toastmasters experience. Most of these clubs meet once a month, catering to the diverse interests…
by Clark Pfarner D25 Hot Topics Editor In the world of Toastmasters, where individuals hone their public speaking skills and leadership abilities, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has sparked debates among its members, creating distinct camps: the pro-AI advocates and the skeptics. Ever since the inception of ChatGPT and Bing AI, these platforms have…
by Laurie McKee, D25 2023-2024 Recognition Chair The Recognition Chair is a District Role I had no idea existed until last year. When asked if I was interested, my first question was “What is a Recognition Chair?” The upshot is that the Chair tracks member and club awards. After a few phone calls to past…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels, DTM Club Growth Director The September 25th meeting for Progressive Leaders Toastmasters was a remarkable celebration, not only marking the Open House but also commemorating the Ten Year Charterversary of this specialty focused club promoting progressive politics and social and economic justice issues. The evening featured three prominent personalities who have held…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director Who loves rules, regulations, procedures, policies, minutia, what if’s, how-to’s, and someone named Robert? Not me! Thankfully, this month’s Outstanding Member of the Month does. Michael Kinser is one of our many behind-the-scenes heroes and a key one without whom the district would struggle in innumerable ways. I get…
Featuring Shameika McAllister, Division B Director How long have you been in Toastmasters, and what club officer roles have you filled? I have been a Toastmaster for five years, and I have held VP of Education for multiple terms. What other roles have you held in D25? I was Area 63 Director in 2022-2023 and…
by Brandi Wesley and Samantha Watt Fostering camaraderie and collaboration among clubs is always a bright idea. Recently, Nissan Toastmasters and Golden Triangle Toastmasters seized the chance to strengthen their connection through a unique event as part of the ‘Sunshine to Sunshine’ incentive. Here’s a glimpse into their exciting joint venture: A Remarkable Joint Meeting:…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director This photograph serves as a testament to my underlying motivation. I will always share the story of how my husband asked me three times before I finally agreed to attend a Toastmasters meeting. This image captures a moment from September 2018, marking the beginning of my journey with…
by Jesse Ford DTM Program Quality Director It all started about a year ago when our now District Director, but then Program Quality Director, Emily Murray and her team organized TLI. They planned and held several great sessions teaching us all the difference between appreciation and recognition. In the end, they came out with about…
by Jesse Ford DTM Program Quality Director, The Summit is COMING, The Summit is COMING … Are you feeling the excitement? I am! Former First Husband of District 25 and this year’s Summit Manager Allan Pickering and his fantastic team cordially invite you to return to the Marriott Westlake for an unforgettable experience focused on…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director You likely have heard or seen August’s Outstanding Member of the Month recently – perhaps at an Area or Division contest? Or the District contest at the conference in May? Or maybe even live at the World Championship of Public Speaking semi-finals in the Bahamas? Aundrea Payne represented her…
by Marcheta Gardner, DTM, 2022-2023 District Director The final awards at the Year End Celebration are always so exciting. Here are the top five individual awards that I as District 25 2022-2023 District Director presented. Director’s Service Award for the year 2022-23 This award honors a District 25 member whose dedication to service,…
by Savannah Smith On Thursday, August 31st, the D25 Town Hall was taken over by our very own Strategic Planning Committee (SPC). Prior to the event, members across the district were encouraged to attend and “step into the spotlight”, with the goal of celebrating our accomplishments, addressing areas for improvement, and brainstorming innovative ideas to…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director Helloooooo Sunshines! It often seems to me that life is just one challenge after another. I’m sure there are times when you feel the same. You have probably developed many ways of coping with setbacks. For me, I quilt, I take walks, I read a good book, or go…
by Tammy Kasterke DTM Youth Leadership Chair Do you feel a “YLP” buzz in District 25? Sure, I feel it because I am the district’s Youth Leadership Chair, but I am feeling the buzz because of YOU! Inquiries about the Toastmasters Youth Leadership have kept my phone and email buzzing! D25 is bursting to get…
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…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director Blue Castle Collaborators is a welcoming, friendly, and supportive community club affiliated with the Cook Children’s Health Care System. This club meets in a virtual setting on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. On August 15, 2023, they celebrated their second hybrid open house. Impressively, 17…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels, DTM Club Growth Director Reminiscing regarding the time spent at the Toastmasters International Convention held in Nassau, Bahamas, became a momentous event for all who attended, leaving a permanent mark on our growth and leadership journey. This gathering was a celebration of communication and leadership excellence, where the words “Encouragement,” “Empowerment,”…
Complied by Chuck Mencke DTM (on behalf of Colleyville Toastmasters) For those of you that have not heard, we lost one of our dear District 25 members, Deborah Peterson, suddenly on Labor Day, September 4, 2023. Deb was a member of Colleyville Toastmasters, Off the Cuff, and Out on the Town. Her memorial service will…
August 16, 2023 Dear Toastmaster, As announced during the Board Briefing at the 2023 International Convention today, the Board of Directors has decided that on July 1, 2024, the regions of Toastmasters International will realign. This will result in a change in the number of regions in the Americas from nine to seven while changing…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director Helloooooo Sunshines! If you’ve heard anything about why I joined Toastmasters, you know that this is one of the first places where I ever felt that true sense of family. This organization offers encouragement and people wishing the best for each other, and people wanting to help each other…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director Share Your Sunshine Longhorn Toastmasters! Longhorn Toastmasters triumphed as the Open House Winner for the month of July setting the stage ablaze with their exceptional presentation and warm hospitality. With seven esteemed members and guest gracing the event, Longhorn Toastmasters showcased their commitment to nurturing communication and leadership…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director Najaf Dostaliyev! Mr. Enthusiasm! Bouncy, trouncy, and full of fun, fun, fun, our outstanding member of the month for July is Najaf Dostaliyev! Najaf is new to D25, but not new to Toastmasters. He burst onto the scene with a wealth of enthusiasm and energy; he jumped right in…
by Evan Escher Area 41 Director On Saturday, July 22nd, the District 25 leadership team gathered for the first District Executive Committee (DEC) meeting of the Toastmasters year. We set up shop at Texas Wesleyan University, and the Area and Division Directors arrived at 8 AM for a catered breakfast before diving into the day.…
from Aundrea Payne International Speech Contest Regional Finalist To District 25, I have been trying to find the right words for you for weeks. I’m still speechless. (Someone, please press the unmute button!) Reflecting on this journey brings tears to my eyes. I realize how lucky I am to represent this INCREDIBLE DISTRICT. This journey…
By Maribeth Desuyo DTM and Lola Stone DTM – Summit DTM Ceremony Co-Chairs Get ready for the Toastmasters District 25 DTM Ceremony, the event of the year you don’t want to miss! It’s an evening to recognize incredible achievements and to watch members walk on stage in their dressy attire to receive well-deserved accolades. Lighting…
by Jill Morrison DTM End of Year Celebration – Co-Chair Legacy … a profound concept that encompasses the impact we’ve made, the lessons we’ve learned and the mark that we’ve left behind. What legacy will you leave this year? We had opportunities to extend our legacies by touching different clubs and members through the Nemileta…
by Bob Beideck, DTM My name is Bob Beideck and I am the DTM Advisor for this Toastmasters year. In December, I proudly achieved my Pathways DTM, and now, I’m here to help illuminate the path to your own Distinguished Toastmasters (DTM) award. Have you ever wondered what it takes to get your DTM award?…
by David Winkowski Division E Director When I compare my early days as a Toastmaster with where I am now, I am surprised at the differences. I spent so much of my first years within one club – rarely venturing out. I did help with some of the Area and Division contests. Oh, they did…
July 28, 2023 Dear Toastmaster, Over 4,500 of you registered to join us live for the Talking Toastmasters webinar that was originally planned for last month—wow! We were both looking forward to talking about our organization, sharing some upcoming changes with you, and responding to some of the over 700 questions that were submitted ahead…
by Emily Murray DTM District Director Hello Sunshines, and welcome to the beginning of a bright new Toastmasters Year! We’re in our first month, and it’s really real! I am Emily Murray, DTM, and I am honored to be this year’s District 25 Director. Program Quality Director Jesse Ford, DTM, and Club Growth Director Phylliss…
by Jerod Blackman Division C Director While spring is generally seen as the season of growth and rebirth, Toastmasters chooses summer to represent ours – like a phoenix rising from the ashes – we are reborn and invigorated by the winds of change. I am excited about what this year holds for us all as Toastmasters…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels DTM Club Growth Director As Toastmasters International announced the upcoming dues increase effective August 1, 2023, it is natural to reflect on the significance behind this decision and how it can benefit members in their ongoing Toastmasters journey. Rather than focusing solely on the increase itself, let us explore three compelling reasons…
by Marcheta Gardner DTM 2022-2023 District Director Our July Outstanding Member worked tirelessly throughout the month of June to close out the year with a Select Distinguished Area status. During her entire year of service, she ensured that all her clubs held quality meetings. She often visited other clubs in the division and the district…
By Najaf Dostaliyev Club Leads Chair It was 9:00 am on Saturday July 8th, and like me, many other enthusiastic D25 members and guests were eager to join the online meeting. This was a celebratory morning at D25, as it was the first Toastmasters meeting of the 2023/24 year. Everyone was excited to join and celebrate this special occasion, with…
by Jesse Ford DTM 2022-2023 Club Growth Director Now I know most of the time everyone would tell you that you have to have a planned and well-organized meeting in order to be successful. People want to be sure to see things like an agenda and well-prepared speakers. Well, what happens when you host an…
July 5, 2023 Dear Toastmasters Club President and Club Secretary, Your club has important votes to cast during the 2023 Annual Business Meeting. As stated in the Bylaws of Toastmasters International, Article X, Section 1, a Toastmasters Member Club in good standing is entitled to two (2) votes at the Annual Business Meeting. There are three…
by Joyce Trimble DTM Co-Chair In Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Juliet muses on the significance of names, stating that a rose would still smell sweet regardless of the name assigned to it. Drawing inspiration from these words, we reflect on the essence of a name as we announce the transformation of the Awards Banquet into…
by Jerrod Blackman MBA, DL4, EC1 2022-2023 District Contest Coordinator Time has flown by and another Contest Season comes to its conclusion for District 25. The previously recorded 2022-2023 District 25 International Speech and Table Topics contests were recorded and winners were revealed during the Annual Conference Watch Party. Clark Pfarner served as our Contest…
It’s June and SO MANY BIG THINGS ARE HAPPENING! This is just a little reminder to not forget the little things too. In either May or June, your club should have had your club officer elections for the term that starts on July 1. Please remember that the successfully elected new officer list needs to…
by Allan Pickering DTM 2023 Summit Chair I’ve got homework for every single member of District 25! I want you to mark your calendars for November 11, 2023. You’ll be at the Marriott Westlake Hotel, where you will Ignite Your Shine! This event is especially for you, the members of D25. While there, you will…
by Marian Hicks 2023 Annual Conference Chair How can I describe the 2023 Make Your Mark conference? I could say it was a learning experience. Throughout the conference, I visited each session, just to catch a word or two from the session speakers. And as fantastic and diverse as the speakers were, what caught my…
by Bert Yow DTM You may think that Toastmasters just teaches public speaking. That’s true about public speaking, but the fundamental skill set that Toastmasters teaches is to organize your thoughts, put those thoughts into words, and deliver those words … all seamlessly. Imagine being the person who consistently says the right thing at the…
by Thomas Goodwin The event titled “Happy Endings and Exciting Beginnings” truly embodied its theme. It all started with District Director Marcheta Gardner leading us in a unique activity called ‘Funishment’. In case you’re unfamiliar with the term, a ‘Funishment’ serves as an incentive for our Area Directors (ADs). If they submit ALL their reports…
by Jesse Ford DTM Club Growth Director What happens when you have an open house event and two out of three members of the Trio show up and take on a role? And what if the district Public Relations Manager, Administration Manager, three out of the six Division Directors, and even the Area Director show…
by Laurie McKee Toastmasters Leadership Institute (TLI) is one of the best-known secrets within District 25. Last year, I attended a TLI briefing before facilitating a Vice President of Membership session. The briefing contained a wealth of knowledge and provided me with the information needed to succeed. This year I attended the session “From Speaker…
by Krystal Besaw, Division E Director With the summer sun shining and Summit planning in full swing, I am struck by the realization that my year as a Division Director is coming to an end. While so much has changed over the last year, one constant that remains is my belief in the positive benefits…
by Lydeisha Gossett Last summer during a webinar for work, I fumbled through a response to a question for which I was not prepared. It was grueling. I mentally replayed the scene long after the moment had passed. My inner critic would find another mistake and destroy my confidence. To cope with emotional responses like…
by Patty Wyatt PR Awards Banquet Chair Hey, Toastmasters! D25 will celebrate all of you at our annual Awards Banquet. Yes, you – our members and our clubs. What to expect? Recognition of high levels of achievement. Let’s acknowledge the exceptional accomplishments and outstanding contributions made by fellow D25 members and clubs. Inspiring and uplifting…
by Michelle Debenport 2022-2023 Public Relations Manager We are thrilled to announce the winners of the District 25 Club Website Contest! These outstanding clubs have showcased their online prowess and set the bar high for website excellence. Let’s dive right into the top three winners who truly captured our attention: Third Place: San Angelo Toastmasters…
by Marcheta Gardner DTM District Director Please accept the district’s sincerest appreciation for the incredible work you put into making the annual conference a fantastic experience. The engaging speakers, informative sessions, delicious food, and seamless organization truly made a lasting impression. Thank you, Marian Hicks, Outstanding Member of the Month, for the tireless hours you…
by Ninfa Flewitt DTM Past District Director Gary Miller, DTM, proud member of the Burleson Toastmasters Club since 2011 and member of Toastmasters International since 1993, died Thursday, May 18, after an illness. Gary was an encourager known for his texts of affirmation to club members after a speech. He was in Toastmasters to help…
by Marian Hicks DL5 Annual Conference Chair Guess what’s happening this week? If you guessed Annual Conference, YOU’RE RIGHT! The excitement is mounting and will soon bubble over! Have you secured your ticket yet? Are you ready to Make Your Mark? Don’t worry if you haven’t bought your ticket yet, you can still come! We…
by Marcheta Gardner DTM District Director The man, the myth, the legend… Jerod Blackman… said with my outside voice! Please join me in congratulating Jerod for his exceptional work as Contest Coordinator. His hard work and dedication are truly appreciated by all involved in the excellent contest season. Jason’s Legacy of Excellence speaks volumes about…
by Celeste Castro DTM Division F Director I want to express my gratitude to all the dedicated Area and Division Directors of the current term. It has been an incredible journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to join each of you. Throughout this experience, I have gained invaluable knowledge and insights. One highlight…
by Jesse Ford DTM Club Growth Director What do you get when you mix 3 skilled speakers, table topics and 30 (yes, 30) guests? The NST April Open House, of course. Samantha Watt, Area 61 Director, shared that this meeting not only had all the great things we love in Toastmasters, but also some great…
by Donna Young DTM 2023-2024 Alignment Chair Q: “Who draws the lines for our Toastmaster Area, Division, and District?” A: Why, the Alignment Committee does! It’s not done in a backroom with horse trading & bribes, but follows Toastmasters Protocol 7.0 rules based on: Geographic proximity to other clubs The ability of an Area Director…
by Jesse Ford: DTM Club Growth Director Congratulations to Panther City Toastmasters for being the March Open House winner. The luck of the Irish comes in March they say but today its not the luck but the splendid meeting put on by these members we celebrate. With everybody wearing green and 5 total guests this…
by Jason Jett Division C Director That’s a line from a song in Les Misérables that Eponine sings as she is dying. It’s a beautiful, haunting moment in the show. It has stuck with me for years, and it’s a great pearl onion, with so many layers. Life is like that. There’s rain. It is…
by Melissa Syphrett, SAA, Mr. Cooper Speaks I served as Contest Toastmaster at a virtual Area 24 competition. Looking back, I expected something very different when I volunteered. If I hadn’t prepared, my can-do attitude could’ve quickly become, “What have I done?” That said, here are five tips for first-time Contest Toastmasters. Go to contests…
by Marcheta Gardner DTM District Director He’s the One, the Only…. NUMBERS Guy, for D25! Yes, our Toastmaster of the month is Larry Core! Larry has quietly kept our financial records beyond reproach, kept us in the “black”, that means we have money in the bank and kept us out of Toastmasters Financial jail. We…
by Michelle Debenport Hello D25 Toastmasters! It is time to show District 25 what you’ve got! You are invited to participate in our 2023 CLUB WEBSITE CONTEST this month! Your club’s website is the first point of connection many prospective guests and members use as they consider attending one of your meetings. The websites will…
by Tessie Kau Area 21 Director What is a DEC? The District Executive Committee (DEC) serves as the voice of District 25. DEC meets quarterly, and the most recent and final meeting of the year took place on April 1, 2023–and no, it wasn’t an April Fool’s joke. The primary purposes of DEC meetings are…
by Marcheta Gardner DTM District Director Ever wonder “how” quiet people get things done? Me, too! Our outstanding toastmaster for this month is one of the quietest, unassuming leaders I know! She empowers her team to accomplish their tasks to the best of their ability. She always says “Yes!” to her peers and colleagues when…
by Kelsey Dean Division D Director I recently attended the funeral of Bonne Stroman, one of D25’s own. While I didn’t know Bonne very well, I went to support my friends who were grieving. Bonne and I briefly worked together on the first iteration of the D25 Strategic Planning Committee. She helped start the committee…
by Marian R. Hicks Annual Conference Chair Registration for the annual Conference is now open. The conference vision is to provide attendees with an engaging, thought-provoking learning experience that will encourage, empower, and challenge attendees to pursue opportunities relentlessly and Make Their Mark! How will we accomplish this? We have selected educational speakers that will…
by Ninfa Flewitt DTM 2023 District Leadership Committee Chair Did you know you are responsible for electing the leaders of District 25? Your club has two votes at the Annual Business Meeting, on May 18, 2023. That is a major responsibility. Club Presidents and Vice Presidents Education hold the club vote at the ABM, but…
by Michelle Debenport Public Relations Manager Hello, Toastmasters of District 25! “D25 is on the March,” and we’re not just talking about public speaking. Recent research has shown that we have an incredible opportunity to combat loneliness in our communities. According to a recent survey by Cigna, 58% of Americans report feeling lonely.* This is…
by Michelle Debenport Public Relations Manager Attention all D25 Toastmasters! Are you ready to show off your club’s website to the world? Our 2023 CLUB WEBSITE CONTEST is just around the corner, and your club’s website will automatically be entered. Now’s the perfect time to give your website a facelift and make it stand out…
by Jesse Ford DL5/SR5 Club Growth Director This month’s Open House Winner, Strategic Communicators, is doing exceptionally well and is setting a high standard for other clubs in District 25. They had a successful Open House, with several non-Toastmasters guests and members from other clubs in attendance. The fact that all roles were filled, and…
By Kim Story DTM Speakers Bureau Member Calvin Dorsey took us to school… again. Saturday school! Calvin serves as the D25 Speakers Bureau Chair and organized another great lineup of speakers with something for everybody! When the World Championship of Public Speaking Semi-Finalist, Fursey Gotuaco, shows on the agenda, you know it will be phenomenal.…
by Kim Story DTM Annual Conference DTM Chair The DTM Award is the highest education level that an individual Toastmaster can achieve, and the DTM Ceremony is where that accomplishment is recognized. In my experience, I have not encountered any Toastmasters members who, when asked why they joined, enthusiastically answered “to get my DTM.” Instead,…
March 7, 2023 Dear Club Officer, We hope you and your members are enjoying the new process for submitting international dues payments with the new Self-Pay feature! You may have also noticed that the method for officers to submit payment has been revamped to streamline your experience! The new Membership Management page combines the functionality…
by Jim Jameson District Pathways Coordinator When you first started in Toastmasters (or Pathways) you probably began by looking at your projects in sequence. For each one, you studied the project and then asked yourself: “What speech can I write for this project?” Perhaps ideas did not always come easily. But then one day you woke…
February 28, 2023 Dear Club Officer, We are pleased to announce that after a successful pilot, Self-Pay is now available for all clubs to offer to their members! We can’t wait for you and your members to experience this easier, more intuitive way of submitting international dues payments. If your club has decided to…
This email has been sent to all club officers and District leaders, except those who were part of the Self-Pay pilot. February 23, 2023 Dear Club Officer, We’re excited to announce that the long-anticipated member Self-Pay functionality is almost ready to launch! This new feature will enable members to submit international dues payments on their…
by Jesse Ford DL5. SR4 Club Growth Director Amazing club leaders organizing an incredible open house can only mean one thing – guests! Roanoke Texas Toastmasters went above and beyond, celebrating a special 20-year anniversary, golden gavel, and Charterversary all in one. The club hosted 6 guests, with 2 joining the club in less than…
by Brandi Wesley Division B Director Ah, February! The month of love! Whether we bought someone a gift, shared a sweet sentiment, exchanged hugs, or simply shot someone a smile, we were reminded to express our love, or gratitude, for someone this month. That someone could have been a friend or family member. Perhaps they…
by Jerod Blackman D25 Contest Coordinator February is upon us and with it begins Speech Contest Season! A time for us to gather and grow while supporting each of us who is competing in our first, fourth, or even fifteenth speech contest. Has Cupid’s arrow struck you and you feel compelled to compete this year?…
by Wayne D. Lewis One potential question an evaluator can ask before providing feedback to a speaker is “May I evaluate your speech (name of speaker)?” This question can set a positive tone for the feedback exchange. It is this one question that has, as its merit, the ability to set the stage for a…
by Jack Landry DTM The D25 spring 2023 Toastmaster Leadership Institute (TLI) general session topic is “teamwork.” The session is based on concepts covered in the 2017 book by Michael G. Rogers entitled You are the Team. This informative work outlines the six virtues of a great team. In this article, I share some of…
February 9, 2023 Dear Toastmaster, In August 2022, the Board of Directors made the decision to no longer offer the option to purchase print paths for your Pathways learning experience, effective July 1, 2023. This was not an easy decision to make, but ultimately, we felt that it was the best decision for the organization.…
by Calvin Dorsey DTM Speaker’s Bureau Chair Excuse me. Are you busy on March 4th? YOU are invited to attend “Grow Your Power: Self-Mastery, Tips & Tools” at 10am via Zoom presented by your own D25 Speakers Bureau. Accomplished presenters like Willie Johnson, a DTM and professional speaker, Toastmaster and WCPS Semi-Finalist Fursey Gotuaco, other…
All Rise! Here Comes the Judge! by Marcheta Gardner DTM District Director No, not that kind of judge … lol. This month’s outstanding toastmaster represents the essence of hard work, diving right in and doing “what needs to be done!” Our District Chief Judge, formerly known as Larry Prince, came in mid-year to take on…
by Susan Ruth Editor’s note: For 2 years our meetings have been held virtually. For newer members and for those of us who may have forgotten, an unfamiliar piece of furniture is emerging in our meetings. Thank you Susan for reminding us what that weird contraption is and why each club has one. Have you…
This was compilation was a labor of love with contributions by many who learned, respected and whose lives were impacted by Bonne. There was no rhyme or reason about the order of the memories in the post., The memories are listed as they were received or discovered on social media and being sent to the…
by Candi Blunt I had the opportunity to attend a demo meeting of a new Toastmasters group named R.A.R.E. on Saturday, January 28th. Gabrielle Faulkner, the leader of the group, delivered her icebreaker speech where she shared her vision and aspirations for the group. R.A.R.E is located in South Dallas and aims to host both…
This email has been sent to all club officers of clubs in good standing. February 7, 2023 Dear Club Officer, If your club has not submitted dues already, please be aware that membership dues payments for the April 2023 – September 2023 renewal period are now being accepted. If your club is striving for on-time credit in the Distinguished…
by Phylliss Christian-Daniels VC2 Division A Director The last 3-1/2 years have been ones where I’ve grown by leaps and bounds, because I was brave enough to say yes to being a Toastmaster. One of the first things I heard as a new member that intrigued me was the Mission Statement. A few meetings later,…
by Jesse Ford CGD DL5 SR4 What can be better than an Open House meeting? An Open House that is also a Golden Gavel, of course. December’s Open House winner is none other than Centex Clearly Speaking Toastmasters. Jai Erwin, Area 34 Director, was in attendance and shared there was a unique twist to the…
by Emily Murray DTM Program Quality Director Calling all club officers current or future! Toastmasters Leadership Institute training sessions are now open and active for the winter. They started January 6th and run through February 19. Everyone is always welcome to attend these sessions which are free. We are 100% virtual this winter so attend…
by Marcheta Gardner DTM District Director A quiet leader listens and speaks when they have something to say, their words have weight, they get things done, almost by magic they are incredibly supportive, they share knowledge and experience to help others. These are just a few of the attributes and accolades of our Toastmaster of…
From Toastmasters International President, Matt Kinsey, DTM As you know, practice and feedback are at the heart of the Toastmasters learning experience. Building on that foundation, I am excited to share that Toastmasters Yoodli is now live! Alongside your club evaluations, this artificial intelligence (AI) platform will serve as another powerful speech feedback tool.Toastmasters Yoodli can instantly provide analytical…
By Ninfa Flewitt, DTM, IPDD, Leadership Committee Chair I have always heard, if you want something done, give it to a busy person. This year, we have seen many busy people continue to stay busy by helping lead this District! They are getting better in the process. I know I did. What about you?…
By Emily Murray, DTM, Program Quality Director Winter TLI Season is upon us! There will be 13 sessions hosted by D25; 7 led by the district and 6 by the divisions. This winter our general session will focus on becoming an effective team leader. For Presidents, we are again holding our special President’s Breakfast training…
By Jim Jameson, Pathways Coordinator Perhaps one of these is you: I’m already a great speaker and a terrific leader — I don’t need to learn and grow anymore. I’m like an old dog – Pathways is different, and I’m too tired to learn any new tricks. I’m just here for the people –…
