NSPW Xcellence

I joined Toastmasters about 4 years ago to become a better communicator. I didn’t realize at the time what a profound effect it would have on me in every aspect of my life. Not only did I become a better speaker-I became a better person, and in the process  I met some wonderful, caring people who helped me heal after the loss of my mother to a long battle with COPD. I gave a speech about how she inspired me, and my brothers to do our best and to pursue our dreams.  This year, my Toastmasters “family” encouraged me to compete in my first contest, against some very talented speakers in the Eau Claire Toastmasters’ Speech Contests. What a great experience!  I took 2 first place victories, and then a second place win, falling one victory short of taking trip to the Wisconsin State Toastmasters’ competition. I dedicate my trophies to all my family, friends and especially my parents, all of whom continue to inspire me to this day.

Tim Burns-Winner of Table Topics Contest

Dr Andrea Franklin-Winner of International Speech Contest

On Thursday evening, March 31st, both Dr Andrea Franklin and Tim Burns captured  1st Place wins in their respective contests at RCU’s headquarters in downtown Eau Claire.  It was a great honor to be representatives for our club in the International and Table Topics speech events, capturing “golds”and competing against several other very talented Toastmasters. It was an exciting moment we will never forget!

Now we move on to the next round and compete against other area club members, on Saturday, April 9, at Globe University at 10 AM, with a chance to move on to the District Contest in Milwaukee. The best speakers will keep moving on to larger national venues, with a chance to compete in Las Vegas in the Fall in the Toastmasters International Championships against club members from around the world!  If you have never attended a Toastmasters’ event, this is a great opportunity to see how Toastmasters benefits people in every aspect of their lives. The event is open to the public, and best of all there is no cost to attend!

Tim Burns and Joe Gravelle won 1st and 2nd Place last week, respectively, in the Table Topics Area Contest, with the question posed to them, “What would you do if you won the lottery?”
What a thought for anyone!  Being the winner of this competition was an honor for me, and reminded me of the power of Toastmasters. We share our personal stories to motivate others become better human beings in their personal and professional lives.  What a great privilege we experience and can share, with others!

Kallie Quinn, first year member of NSPW Xcellence, won the International Speech category with her speech entitled, “‘Been Farming Long?” which inspired the club with a story about a cherished picture her Grandmother gave her, several years ago.  Dr. Andrea Franklin took second place with an informative speech on the benefits of eating healthy and caring for your body to prevent sickness and disease. Dr Franklin was inspired to become a chiropractor after learning about preventing serious health issues by practicing balanced eating habits and regular exercise.

NSPW Xcellence learned an additional team building skill at the recent TLI at RCU’s Corporate Headquarters.  Our club built the largest free-standing tower, using spaghetti, string and tape in a timed competition against several other local Toastmasters’ Clubs.

Your club can use this team building event at one of your upcoming meetings or conferences. More information can be found here: http://www.tomwujec.com/design-projects/marshmallow-challenge/

Danielle joined Toastmasters “…to help with my ability to speak in front of others. I know networking is a good thing when you want to move up in a company but being able to do it successfully is very important as well.”

We were very excited to hear you joined our club, Danielle, and we look forward to sharing with your growth in Toastmasters!

I was informed  by Barbara Weisenberger that we WON first place for best brochure in the TM District contest!

Here are the results:

Best Club Guest Packet Entries:     1st – Madison Achievers
2nd – Thriving Communicators
3rd — Plymouth TM

Honorable Mention:  Deere Tales

Best Club Brochure/Flyer Entries:  1st – NSPW Xcellence
2nd – TM Leadership Club (90 pts)
3rd – ROK the Talk Club (85 pts)

Best News Article:                               1st – Deere Tales TM (90 pts)
2nd – NSPW Xcellence (85 pts)
3rd – Tie:  Plymouth TM & Reedsburg (75 pts)

Thanks go out to our entire club for “getting the word out” about our club.

Joe has successfully completed his Advanced Leader Silver (ALS) Award and his Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) Award. DTM is the highest award given to Toastmasters. Joe has been working toward this award for many years. He has put a lot of hard work and commitment toward accomplishing this award. Congratulations Joe!!