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From the Immediate Past District Governor, Chrissy Meyer
Sunday 16 August 2009
For the New Zealand delegates who attended the 2009 Toastmasters International Convention in Mashantucket, USA, the Convention has now finished.
Those candidates who were voted in on Friday morning at the Annual General Meeting will all be meeting today to start their term for 2009-2010 and implement "Proposal A" under the leadership of the new International President Gary Schmidt.
Today Frank and I walked, rode on a bus and took a harbour cruise around Boston. Today was a very hot day and it was nice to sit in a trolley bus with the windows out for sight seeing and go on the boat with a slight breeze to take out the heat of the day.
Boston was once a buzzing shipping port and while it still has ships coming to visit there are many empty rotting docks. There are many old buildings and part of Boston has many Universities including Harvard. We were told that many of the buildings have been built on reclaimed land. We saw from a distance the Boston Airport which had planes coming and going every minute of the day. I understand that the airport is also on reclaimed land where two islands were joined together through reclamation.
A VIEW OF BOSTON WITH ITS MANY HISTORIC BUILDINGS
We passed a fire station (pictured below) that had been built but unfortunately when it was constructed, nobody bothered to check that the fire engines would fit it in. As a result, any new fire engines for this particular station have to be purposely built to fit.
We tried looking for the pub "Cheers" which was one of the places that the bus stopped close to, but unfortunately did not succeed. "Cheers" used to be a television show starring Ted Danson.
Whilst on the harbour cruise, we saw a car ferry – it was huge. We also passed the Charlestown Navy Yard and USS Constitution (pictured below).
PHOTO OF THE USS CONSTITUTION
“The USS Constitution is the Yard’s most famous resident. She was commissioned by George Washington in 1797. In her long career she never lost a battle, not against the Barbary pirates or the British Army during he 1812 War. Her nickname was coined when during the War of 1812 in a battle with HMS Guerriere, her seamen carried “Huzzah! Her sides are made of iron” as cannonballs glanced off her hull. In 1927, using contributions, she was restored and today is the oldest warship afloat.” (As quoted from a booklet Historic Boston and what was said by the tour guide on the ferry.)
 
Around the place, there are water features which children can play in to cool off in the hot weather. Once such place is a low level swimming pool in the summer and in the winter time turns into an ice rink.
Boston was certainly buzzing with people around the ferry terminal and with many trolley buses taking tourists around the historic places of interest. We saw the odd interesting signs and were amazed at the number of people who own dogs in such a busy city – all were out walking them.
Well Monday sees us up early and off to the Boston Airport to start winging our way home. If the plane is on time when we land in San Francisco we hope to get a shuttle bus to downtown and view the Golden Gate Bridge. Then it will be back to the airport and on a plane bound for New Zealand.
Thank you District 72 Toastmasters for allowing me the opportunity to be acknowledged for being a Distinguished District on your behalf at the Toastmasters Convention in Mashantucket. Being able to take in a few sights along the way was an added bonus.
Once again thank you and trust you enjoyed being part of our trip.
Saturday 15 August 2009
Today was the day for 10 contestants from around the world to “strut” their stuff and for the judges to choose the next World Championship of Public Speaking.
There was an air of anticipation as the room filled to capacity. There were toastmasters who came just to see this contest and nothing else. Pat Johnson DTM (Senior Vice President) (pictured below) chaired the contest and did so very professionally but was also very supportive of each contestant.
The Contestants were:
Chakisse Newton (Region V111) – had been in Toastmasters around 5 years (I think) – Title “Happily Never After” - her message was be happy for the moment and she talked about her brother Robert who was special and no matter what obstacle Robert faced he was always smiling. Sadly Robert died recently.
Bryon Embry (Region III) – had been in Toastmasters just over one year and was encouraged to go to Toastmasters to help with his speech impediment. Title “The Only Thing Left Standing” - spoke about having a foundation and how his mother was his foundation but he did not realise it and how he managed to loose everything around him.
Jack Ackerman (Region IV) – been in Toastmasters since 2001 – Title “Listen to your Heart”. What you give is what you get. Listen to your heart, it will tell you. Talked about his father giving away their car to someone less fortunate and over time they were given another car. There was plenty of humour in this presentation.
Erick Rainey (Region 1) – been in Toastmasters 7 years – Title “Feed the Right Dog”. Life is not a dress rehearsal. Talked about setting your aim high and spoke about the voices in his head – the negative dog and the positive dog – remember to stand tall, turn the compass and focus on your vision. Had plenty of humour and a strong message.
Carl Walsh (Region II) – been in Toastmasters since 2005 - Title “In Search of the Bunny Badge”. Talked about first kiss, first car etc which were bunny badges. Had been in Scouts and did not receive any badges and father not impressed. Lost his first wife and child and went into depression but with the help of others he eventually earned himself more bunny badges and respect from his father.
Hermingildo V Garrobo (DNAR) – been in Toastmasters since 2001 – Title “Lessons from a Broomstick” Spoke about the cord of courage – if the cord is tied tightly around the sticks, the broom will scare away your snakes. Teased as a child, put down, arose from that and got the message his Momma was giving.
Stephen Cornwell (Region V) – did not say how long he had been in Toastmasters during the interview after the contest. Title “The Choice”. Defining moments can change your life. Spoke about people who truly love the true meaning of love and that you have to love yourself first before you can love others.
Mark Hunter (DNAR) – been in Toastmasters since 1996 and been a finalist several times. Title “A sink full of green Tomatoes”. Mark is in a wheelchair but that is not a barrier to public speaking. Had excellent humour “navel gazer” (from being in a wheelchair), “Short seated and recycled”. Mark spoke of his relationship with his grandparents, especially his grandmother and she asked him what he would choose out of the sink of tomatoes and apple – he wanted to be the water – to love and support everyone and that there was so much to be gained from being the water. He valued his grandmother’s wisdom. The green tomatoes were made into chutney which his grandfather quoted as saying it was like “paint stripper”. Humour was evident all the way through this presentation.
Mary Cheyne (Region VII) – had been in Toastmasters since 2005. Title – “Nellie” Mary spoke of the inner critic she had within her saying she was not good enough. “You will fail”. She named this inner voice “Nellie”. Mary spoke of how she overcame this inner critic with a formula “STOP, RESET, CONTINUE”. Mary used gestures with this statement. She related this statement of the Control Delete on our computer. Asked the audience “what is your inner critic going to say” and ended her presentation with audience participation repeating her formula. Powerful speech but again humour was there.
Maureen Zappala (Region VI) – been in Toastmasters 6 years (but over a period of 14 years). Title – “Bless Not Impress” Introduced her speech with a game of Hide N Seek and how she helped people to hide – sold makeup and ladies hid behind their makeup. Pride swells, heart shrinks. Maureen spoke about how we should be blessed with what we have and not to hide behind masks etc and finished by wiping off the lipstick she had on to support her message.
Once the presentations had been given and all the contestants had been interviewed and presented with their Participation Plaques, the results were announced.
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SECOND PLACE WINNER MARY CHEYNE WITH GARY SCHMIDT INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT ELECT
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THIRD PLACE WINNER ERICK RAINEY WITH GARY SCHMIDT INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT ELECT
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The winner of the 2009 World Champion of Public Speaking was Mark Hunter from Australia.
WINNER OF THE 2009 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP OF PUBLIC SPEAKING MARK HUNTER
WITH THE AUSTRALIAN CONTINGENT
The crowed erupted into applause and cheers – the Australian Districts jumped for joy, Mark’s sister did not know whether to laugh or cry – it was an emotional time but thoroughly deserving.
MARK HUNTER WITH SOME OF THE NEW ZEALAND CONTINGENT
After congratulating Mark, Alun went off to attend a District Governors’ luncheon with the incoming International President Gary Schmidt, Denis, Steve, Frank and I went and had lunch. Steve and Denis attended several more educations being held in the afternoon. John Reimers continued on his trip and was off to Hartford while Joy and John continued on their travels to see different parts of New York.
Alun, Denis and Steve will be attending the President’s Dinner tonight – a very formal occasion while Frank and I will catch a bus to Boston.
Sunday will see Frank and me in Boston, Alun making his way to Washington DC and Denis and Steve catching the bus to Boston. Denis will be continuing on to visit family in Denver while Steve will be heading back to New Zealand.
Friday 14 August 2009
Today was a busy day for all at the Toastmaster Convention.
PRESENTING CHARTER DOCUMENTS FOR THE NEWLY CHARTERED TE PUKE EARLY BIRD CLUB AFTER THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - STEVE BULLOCK GIVING THE DOCUMENTS TO GARY SCHMIDT
First on the agenda today was the Annual General Meeting where the delegates were selecting their candidates to lead us through the 2009-2010 Toastmaster year.
Those candidates who were unopposed where voted in with a single vote cast as per Parliamentary procedure.
There were three candidates standing for the position of 3rd Vice President:
The results ended with John Lau winning with 7,069 votes, Ralph Wallace with 4,314 votes and Dietmar Wagenknecht with 1,267 votes. All these people are winners but like any election, there can only be one winner and John Lau was the successful candidate. John stood last year and lost by 60 votes.
Districts Not Assigned to Regions had three candidates standing:
Keith Ostergard won with 6,592 votes, Mike Storkey with 5,448 votes and Jack Tsai with 655 votes.
There was also a vote for an International Director for Region VII with two nominated candidates and one person standing from the floor and that person Heath Suddleson won the vote with 7,037 votes.
Gary Schmidt DTM was elected as the new International President, Pat Johnson DTM was elected as Senior Vice President and Michael Notaro DTM was elected as Second Vice President.
LEFT TO RIGHT 3RD VICE PRESIDENT JOHN LAU, 2ND VICE PRESIDENT MICHAEL NOTARO, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT PAT JOHNSON AND NEWLY ELECTED INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT GARY SCHMIDT
 There was a 25 minute discussion on "Proposal A" (The Governance) that all the clubs in New Zealand had received communication about and why the receipt of all your proxies was important. There were opinions for and against the proposal but when "Proposal A" was put – the delegates supported change and 8,912 voted for the proposal and 3,936 were against. This is out of a possible total of 12,863 votes.
When the Annual General Meeting was completed, Frank, Joy and I attended a Discovery Luncheon which had Morgan McArthur speak on "Mining for Gold in Everyday Moments". Morgan McArthur Ipictured left) is the 1994 World Champion of Public Speaking and his presentation explored ways to mine your life experiences for speech material, that our life path is unique but your challenges and struggles are not, that you are better than you think you are and how best to share your stories. Morgan did live in New Zealand for a period of time and used some of his experiences in New Zealand in his speech. It was very entertaining and informative and we laughed heaps.
Following this, we went to the Hall of Fame where the District Team was acknowledged for 2008-2009 term. Frank, Joy, Steve, Denis, Alun and I represented New Zealand and received plaques on behalf of District 72 members for all the efforts everyone had given for District 72 to be Distinguished and we also were acknowledged for Excellence in Leadership for being Distinguished three years in a row.
OUR MOMENT OF GLORY - RECEIVING ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FOR BEING A DISTINGUISHED DISTRICT
After the District Trio, Frank and I attended a meet and greet with the incoming International President Gary Schmidt, we walked down the hallway to a meet and greet with Jana and Bob Barnhill (this was a personal thank you from Jana for the Districts around the world who were hosts when Jana and Bob visited), it was off to a DNAR Meeting (Districts Not Assigned to Regions). This was the final meeting in this format because as a result of Proposal A going through, we will now become Region 12 with Australia who has three Districts, 69, 70 and 73. One of these Districts will be going through the process of dividing into two Districts because of the number of clubs, so in time there will be four Districts in Region 12.
LAST GROUP PHOTO FOR ALL THE DELEGATES ATTENDING THE DNAR MEETING
We had a final group photo then it was off to the movies – yes Toastmasters International is putting together a movie about the fear of public speaking – named SpeakEasy. It was a test screening and is not yet completed – it was presented in the raw stage and part of the movie followed the 2008 International Speech Contestants.
The movie went for two hours and Toastmasters were asked to give feedback to the filmmakers. Believe it or not it was just like going to the movies, soda and popcorn was available for FREE!!
It was time to go back to our room and pack our bags ready to move out on Saturday.
Saturday sees the International Speech Contest and various workshops being made available to delegates.
Until Saturday, that is all for today.
Thursday 13 August 2009
Hello everyone – it was another busy day for everyone on the District Team today.
During the morning we all went to various workshops. Frank and I went to a workshop titled "Set Your Sails for Club Success" by Gary Mull DTM. Gary is a past International Director and he added humour and did have audience participation during his presentation which talked about getting your club in "ship-shape" and bring out the best in your crew, using practical and proven strategies. The key points were:
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Preparation – have a vision/chart a course.
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Integrity – make a commitment
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Courage – take this appointment seriously
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Attitude – excellence/love/expectation
Steve attended a workshop on "Mastering the Marketing Tool of Public Relations" presented by Tammy Miller DTM who also is a past International Director. This workshop was focusing on the basics of keeping your club fresh including how to recruit and treat guests, how to use pubic relations techniques to promote your club.
Denis attended the same workshop as I did.
By the time I had talked to several potential candidates, it was time to prepare for what I had been working towards for the past three years – to be acknowledged as a Distinguished District at the Golden Gavel Luncheon.. There were 56 District Governors from 2008-2009 being recognised at this luncheon – all who had worked hard to ensure their Districts achieved.
District 72 members – be proud of your achievements – without your hard work and dedication to this organisation I would not be standing on the stage on your behalf being acknowledged.
Yes I did enjoy the moment and before you knew it, the luncheon was over.
The Golden Gavel Luncheon also recognised Bruce Tulgan who is a leading expert on your people in the work place. Bruce has worked with thousands of leaders and managers to better manage their workplace teams. He did humour to his presentation and gave people something to think about.
Several of the team attended another workshop in the afternoon – "Move It: How Leaders Deal with Change" by Darcy Keith CTM. Darcy was involved in a very serious car accident and whilst she talked about the consequences of the accident – she talked about change. Steps to Move It included:
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Surrender – let go what you can’t control
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Try not to play the “victim” attitude
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Exemplify a positive attitude
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Persevere with fortitude and determination
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Specifically ask for help, if needed.
Certainly food for thought and Darcy did make you realise how grateful we should be for what we have.
Thursday evening we listened to all the candidates answer questions and say why we should be voting for them during a Candidates’ Showcase.
This was the final chance for all District Trios and delegates to consider who they were going to vote for on Friday morning at the Annual General Meeting.
After a light meal and doing some housekeeping as one has to do when away on holiday it was time to bed to face another day on Friday which sees the District Trio voting on candidates and Proposal A. There will also be the Hall of Fame where the District Trio will be acknowledged for their efforts and several of us will be attending various luncheons which have guest speakers. The one Frank and I will be attending has Morgan McArthur as the guest speaker.
Until Friday have a great day.
Wednesday 12 August 2009
Wednesday was a busy time for the District Trio of Alun, Denis and Steve as they worked through their schedule of candidates who were running for the Toastmaster International Board and standing for 3rd Vice President. This involved asking many questions and certainly asking what they thought of “Proposal A” which is part of the Governance Changes in Toastmasters International that you all received information about during the past six months or more.
Frank, John and I went to the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Centre not far from our accommodation. A shuttle bus picked us up and delivered us to our destination. The driver was very informative about various aspects of the whole area. The whole complex has its own fire service, police, post office and administration office. A Council within a council with all of the above mentioned services. The land etc is primarily owned by an Indian Tribe of around 800 people.
I could only stay a short time but left the two men to explore the vast museum while I caught a shuttle back to the venue to freshen up and attend the Board of Directors’ Briefing. The District Trio, Joy and I listened to what the Board has been doing over the past year on behalf of all Toastmasters in the world.
Whilst Jana Barnhill – International President – achieved well, Jana did say that we have yet to hit the 50% mark for Distinguished Clubs in the world. Points of interest:
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Toastmasters is now in 106 countries in the world.
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We currently have 250,000 members worldwide.
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1,073 new clubs were chartered worldwide.
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21,956 Toastmasters achieved their Competent Communicator award worldwide.
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9,972 Toastmasters achieved their Advanced Communicator award worldwide.
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2010 budget for Toastmasters International has a positive cash flow.
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The Board analysed whether “a dues increase” was warranted and there is not a need for an increase in our dues.
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Are developing e-Learning.
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Approved the idea that Toastmasters can have individual web sites – obviously relating to Toastmasters.
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Talked about “Proposal A” and the consequences if it is passed or not passed at the Annual General Meeting on Friday.
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Looking at combining the Speech Contest Manual and Rule book by 2011. They will streamline the content and remove any redundant material.
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The Board is developing a system to monitor District Campaign ethics.
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Looking at improvements to the District Nominating Committee policies and procedures.
“Not all change is progress but all progress requires change” – Anonymous
“Learners of today are Leaders of tomorrow.”
After the Board of Directors Briefing, the District Trio continued with their interviews while John, Joy, Frank, John R and I went for a drive (John and Joy had hired a car for the time they are at the Convention) and went to a restaurant some miles away from the venue. The countryside was certainly picturesque and the meal we had was inexpensive compared to the food inside the complex where we are staying. It was nice to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Convention.
Alun also had to attend a practise run for carrying the New Zealand Flag on stage on behalf of all the New Zealand Toastmasters while Denis processed all the proxy forms in exchange for votes for the Friday morning Annual General Meeting. Steve was taking in the atmosphere and visiting the Candidates’ Corner talking with various individuals.
We arrived back in time to change and prepare for the Opening Ceremony where Alun proudly carried the New Zealand flag on stage. It was amazing to see so many flags and nationalities joined together in one room - everyone wanting to get a taste of what Toastmasters has to offer and to become the best communicators and leaders they could possibly be.
The evening also showed a video of all the countries that Jana and Bob Barnhill had visited during Jana’s term as International President and that included New Zealand so we were on the big screen.
The Key Note Speaker, Sam Silverstein, pictured below (who is the President of the National Speakers Association) gave an inspirational and entertaining speech titled “No More Excuses”.
Jana Barnhill recognised many people including District 70 who were to be hosts for the 2010 Convention and whom she invited on stage. She also invited all the staff of Toastmasters International to come on stage to be recognised as well.
Jana shared with us her thoughts on the future of Toastmasters.
Once this was over, there was mix and mingling with the Candidates and bedtime.
Thursday sees Frank and me on stage with all the other District Governors who achieved Distinguished or better at the Golden Gavel Luncheon and then we attend the Candidates Showcase in the evening. We hope to attend various educationals as well during the day.
That is it for the moment.
Tuesday 11 August 2009
Hello everyone from the Toastmaster Convention in Mashantucket. The place is starting to buzz with Toastmasters and for myself it has been nice catching up with Toastmasters who have been on a similar journey from when I started as LT Governor Marketing and also to talk to those who we as the District Trio each year had voted in as International Directors.
Joy and John Ackrill have arrived and I believe our New Zealand contingent, pictured below, is complete.
Tuesday saw Alun, Denis, Steve, Frank and I go off to a place called Mystic which is about a 20 minute bus ride from Foxwoods. It is a seaport. John was preparing himself for the Speech Contest that evening. After finding something to eat for breakfast which proved to be a little challenging as the place we went to, had run out of various items Alun led us on a trip around the building to reach the bus terminal where we waited in a small queue for a "blue" bus to get us to Mystic.
District Team outside entrance to Mystic.
 This is a quaint town and the bus driver was very helpful telling us where to meet again to get back to Foxwoods. We walked around a small shopping complex which was like a market in a way. Lots of knick knacks, interesting items and very popular with the tourists. After getting instructions, we ventured further in the heat of the sun by foot to the main shopping centre/museum. We were going to visit the museum but price and time (mainly price) put us off so we just hoofed it around the centre. We walked and walked. There was a draw bridge which we thought was not operational but all of a sudden lights started flashing and up went this draw bridge to allow boats and sailing ships to go through. Because of the condition of the steelwork it looked unused but I suspect with the salt air it can get rusty quite quickly. Certainly appealed to the men who took great interest in the mechanics of the operation.
Once finding a taxi company and phoning up to actually get a taxi, we went back to Foxwoods to prepare for the evening activity – the Inter-District Speech Contest. John was as prepared as he could be, had Frank and Steve organised to set up his props on stage and I was in charge of the stop watch to time the speech for his own records.
John drew 8th speaking spot out of a possible nine speakers. There was one female amongst the line up of excellent speakers. John delivered his speech without a hitch and it was now up to the judges to make their decisions.
Each contestant was interviewed and presented with their participation certificate.
Then the results were awarded and alas John did not get placed this time round. Everyone is a winner and John will no doubt try again. John did us proud but at the end of the day, it is the judge’s decision.
I saw people who had been there time and time again chasing that title of World Champion of Public Speaking – it was not John’s turn this time round.
The winners were:
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First Place Getter - Hermingildo V Garrobo – District 75 "The Counting Lesson"
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Second Place Getter – Douglas Kruger – District 74 "Rejections Slip"
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Third Place Getter – Donald Yee – District 80 "Unbreakable"
After the speech contest was finished it was off to a get-together of all the Districts Not Assigned to a Region where skits/songs etc were performed (pictured below). Some were very good and some not so good but participation was the name of the game and I led the team in a story which required everyone to participate in.
After finding something to eat very late at night (not that there was much to choose from) it was bedtime.
Wednesday sees the District Trio interviewing potential International Directors. We have a Board Meeting to attend to hear what is happening in Toastmasters International and there is the official opening on Wednesday evening at 7.00 pm where Alun will proudly carry the New Zealand Flag for everyone of New Zealand.
Here's the drawbridge at Mystic in action.
Until Wednesday, bye for now.
Monday 10 August 2009
Our day started early today (6.00 am) to ensure we arrived on time to catch the bus to Mashantucket. With bags packed we ventured out from our hotel and a taxi was waiting (very handy). Every one in New York hails a taxi – just like you see on the movies. Before long we were waiting in a queue (yes another queue) waiting for the bus to arrive and make the four hour journey to our destination.
We travelled through many towns; the countryside was considerably green and lush with plenty of trees. There were several times when the traffic grounded to a halt – just like being in Auckland at peak hour traffic. Due to the delays with the traffic we finally arrived at Foxwoods around 1.30 pm. After lugging our bags to the shuttle stop we finally arrived at the venue which will be our home for the next week.
As we were booking in, John Reimers had just arrived so that was a pleasant surprise.
Booking in was no problem – up to our room we went but alas the door keys did not work. Staff let us into our room and Frank went back down to organise to get the keys recoded. We tried them again but you guessed it, they did not work. We called room service and someone came up. They gave us another set of keys and Frank asked that they stayed while we tried them and believe it or not they did not work.
It transpired that they would have to get maintenance in to fix the door which they did.
After a cup of coffee we finally caught up with the District Trio looking very splendid in their suits as they had been at District Officer Training and had begun interviewing prospect International Directors for the coming term of office.
Each had a story to tell of their adventures in getting to the venue but were all in good spirits.
District Trio with certificates after training.
We all went to visit the team from South Africa who traditionally put on a wine evening on the Monday evening after training. There I caught up with many of the past District Governors and other members of District Trios who had been on a similar Toastmaster journey to me. Some had achieved their goals and others had not but were cheerful and it is always great comradeship when we meet.
After a meal together, more talking, checking charter documents for a new club that has been formed in Te Puke to ensure they were correct for presenting to the International President on Friday, counting up the number of proxies we finally received for trading in for votes for the Annual General Meeting, checking emails, it was time for bed.
The venue is huge and plenty of people glued to their chairs inserting coins in the slot machines gambling away their money. There are many food bars and restaurants and well as entertainment spots. There are the shops for those who wish to participate in retail therapy but looking at the prices, I will not be doing much of that.
Tuesday we are all meeting at 9.30 am and looking at doing something as a team while John prepares himself for his presentation. The District Trio has another interview with a potential International Director late Tuesday afternoon, and we will all be getting ready to listen to the Semi Final Speech Contest that John is in so fingers crossed everyone – we will have a winner.
District Trio during training.
Sunday 9 August 2009
New York from the Empire State Building
Hello again – today was yet another day of challenges. If there is one thing I have learnt while visiting Manhattan is the number of locals who do not know their own neighbourhood very well. I believe we are all guilty of that in New Zealand as well. Several times today we have asked policemen the way to get to various places as the locals could not help us.
We had set two goals today, first to uplift our bus tickets for Monday to take us to Mashantucket and secondly to catch a train to view the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
We found our way to the Port Authority (where both the subway and bus terminal are housed). You guessed it, another queue. It took at least half to three-quarters of an hour to finally make it to the front of the queue to exchange our voucher for tickets for the bus and to book another ticket to get us to Boston after the Convention. That process went smoothly but finding where Gate 84 was proved challenging but we found it – it was easier to do a practice run today than panicking early Monday morning with bags etc trying to find the right place to meet the bus. Is that not what Toastmasters teaches us – be prepared.
So next it was off to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. We needed to catch the subway (train) to get close to the venue. Finding the correct platform proved challenging let alone obtaining a metro ticket for a round trip. That is where the policemen came very handy – they did know what train to get. It would seem that since September 11, police presence is everywhere – we watched as they got on the train and off again each time it stopped. With powers of deduction and reading the map we found the venue. What an amazing place. Security was strict – I had to leave my small back pack in a holder and no photos were allowed. We were each given a set of earphones after sitting and watching a video of many of the well known artists who brought music to life – from Buddy Holly and earlier to Elvis, The Beatles, The Who, Led Zeppelin through to Talking Heads and more recent artists.
As you walked past each display, a particular song relating to the artist was played eg at Elvis’s display there was on one of his outfits he wore which had the peacock on it. Many of the artists such as Madonna, Johnny Cash etc had something relating to their past on display and in some cases the original notes of the songs they had written. Some of the songs were on scraps of paper and you could actually sing word for word what was being heard through the audio and what was written down.
The main attraction was John Lennon (Beatles fame) and between him and Yoko Ono they recorded many songs – words of which were on display. The whole area was steeped with history which many of us could relate to. It talked about the challenges John Lennon had in getting US citizenship and obviously his fight for peace which he and Yoko had strong views on. As mentioned above, we could not take any photos so will go down as a memory.
After manoeuvring our way to catch the correct train, we made it back to near to where we had started our day’s adventure and just had to do another stop at Macy’s – the shopping mall of Manhattan. And yes, the store was packed with people. Admittedly I did buy something just to prove I had been to Macy’s and a little something for my two daughters with Macy’s written on the items.
The weather today was muggy – just like being in New Zealand – very overcast and hazy – I believe they call it smog here – as we walked down the side streets to our accommodation, there were many aromas some of which were challenging to the nose – in other words unpleasant.
Tomorrow we head to Mashantucket to the Toastmaster Convention and will catch up with the District Trio and see what news they have to share. John Reimers (our District Representative for the International Speech Contest) will be making his way to the Convention so we will all be supporting him as he prepares for his presentation on Tuesday evening US time.
Until tomorrow, bye for now.
Saturday 8 August 2009
 In life we set goals, some long term and some short term. In Toastmasters it is the same, some of our goals take longer than others to achieve.
Our goals while in New York (whilst they are short term), have been rather challenging to achieve. After communicating with you on Friday, we decided to do an evening visit to the Empire State Building which was walking distance from our accommodation. That was the easy part. It seems that every other person in New York decided that they wanted to view New York from the highest building in downtown Manhattan and all wanted a piece of the action.
The challenge was to get to the top – some two hours later (most of which was spent standing in a queue) we reached the top and achieved the goal of seeing New York at night. What an amazing view and the lights seemed to go for miles and miles. With a full moon the night was warm and pleasant just like the movie "Sleepless in Seattle".
By the time we had ventured up to the top of the Empire State Building and made our way back to our accommodation it was midnight. As we were leaving there were still people queuing to witness the magnificent views.
Saturday was another day and off we went again to do battle with the queues of people. This time it was waiting on a bus to get to our destination – being a Saturday they had closed some of the streets for a cycle race and everyone decided to venture out in their vehicles. We were stationary many times as we meandered our way through the streets via the bus to catch a ferry to travel around the Hudson River. Yes you guessed it, another long queue to get on to the ferry. Our second goal was to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. We learn in Toastmasters to be tolerant of others and this was the case while waiting in the queue. It was worth the wait and to actually see the Statue of Liberty and hear about the history of this statue was absolutely amazing.
We eventually made our way back via the bus again to the Rockefeller Centre and decided to see New York by daylight and ventured again through queues of people (not as bad this time) to the top of the building – we could see the Hudson River, Central Park and vast array of buildings in all shapes and sizes, old and new. A totally amazing experience and another short term goal achieved for the day.
Finally we walked through Times Square (below) and the atmosphere was unbelievable. People in all shapes, sizes, colour and of different cultures all there to view the stunning lights on the buildings, take in a show, a movie or simply to sit in Time Square and watch the action. Just like Toastmasters we are a multi-cultured organisation - so was it in Time Square – multi-cultured.
We have one more day in New York before we venture by bus to the Toastmaster Convention in Mashantucket. We have set several goals to achieve so I wonder what challenges lay ahead.
Check in again tomorrow for another update.
Friday 7 August 2009
Hello everyone in District 72
I am currently winging my way to the Toastmaster Convention in Mashantucket where the District Trio of Alun, Denis and Steve are preparing themselves for their training as District Officers on Sunday 9 August 2009 and Monday 10 August 2009. Frank and I are currently in New York after a very long flight from Auckland to John F Kennedy Airport New York via LA. The flights were fine but getting to our place of residence was challenging to say the least. After leaving Auckland on Thursday evening at 9.30 pm we finally made it to our accommodation and hit the pillow at around 3.30 am Friday morning USA time.
Badges from police who helped on 11 September.
Friday 7 August 2009 – when we eventually got ourselves going we ventured out into the unknown and ended up getting a 72 hour bus ticket which takes us all around Manhattan. We spent most of the afternoon at the site of the World Trade Centre and St Paul’s Chapel. At the St Paul’s Chapel which became the headquarters for all the volunteers, we viewed many stories and verses written by people at the time of September 11 and believe me it was a very sombre and quiet place despite there being so many visitors. Many tears were shed by all who were there including Frank and I. We also went to the World Trade Centre museum and viewed more stories and pictures. I noticed many empty tissue boxes and attendants were continually putting out fresh boxes of tissues for all visitors.
Whilst seeing many other buildings and doing plenty of walking we found MACY’S – the shopping centre of Manhattan. We only walked around one floor and despite there being a recession there was plenty of shopping happening judging by the bags we saw going out the door.
It is currently 8.10 pm and there is still daylight and it has been a pleasant summer’s day – no frosts or rain today!
The 2008 International Convention was held in Calgary in Canada in August 2008.
Here's news from our District Governor as the Convention progressed. You can view official photos on the Jowdy Photography website.
 (1) The District Team of Denis, Alun and Chrissy have arrived at Calgary and on Sunday 9 August 2009 attending their first day of training for all the District Trios outside America. The photo is of Jana Barnhill the incoming International President who will be coming to Christchurch in May 2009. Jana was running a session on conflict. She was dynamic and inspired her district teams.
The weather in Calgary is pleasant although Sunday evening did see a shower of rain. Our District Contingent is growing with Geoff Trotter arriving Sunday evening safe and sound. Geoff will be picking up the award for Distinguished District on Friday (Canada time).
Monday is another session of training for the District Trio.
(2) Here is a picture below of the New Zealand Contingent out for a meal on Saturday evening 9 August 2008 prior to training starting on Sunday 10 August 2008 at the Hyatt in Calgary.
It was a nice summer's day in Calgary and everyone arrived safety apart from several suitcases taking a little longer than usual to arrive between Vancouver and Calgary otherwise no mishaps so far.
Sanjiv has been practising is speech for Tuesday 12 August and the New Zealand Contingent have been a very supportive audience as he goes through his paces and offering commendations and encouragements to help with his speech.
From left: Denis McCord, Alun Chisholm, Sanjiv Jetly, Diane Isherwood, Chrissy Meyer
(3) Day 2 at Calgary saw the District Trio back at training again. It was up early to be at the training by 7.30 am on Monday morning (Breakfast was provided). The weather was again pleasant – no rain – and temperature comfortable. At training today the team was given guidance in planning for the future for our Districts, financial budgets and goal setting. The team spent several hours working through this (as per the photo below). It finished with lunch and a presentation of certificates for completing our training which were presented by Jana Barnhill and members of Toastmasters International.
Geoff Trotter and Diane Isherwood went on a trip to Banff, and yes after training today, the District Trio plus Frank went off to the Calgary Zoo. We walked from the Marriott where we are staying going through some of the back streets of Calgary and we certainly learnt how some people live. The zoo was well laid out and the team headed to the Canadian Wildlife seeing Moose, Bison, Musk Oxen, Caraboo and brown and black bears just to name a few animals. The tram was the preferred option back to our accommodation.
We also checked on Sanjiv Jetly to see how his preparation was going. Countdown is now on before Sanjiv competes at 7.00 pm on Tuesday 12 August 2008 (Canadian time).
A busy day for all.
Photo is the District Team receiving their certificates after completing the training.
People in the photo are from left: Dan Rex (Assistant Executive Director), Jana Barnhill, Chrissy Meyer, Denis McCord, Alun Chisholm, George Yen (International Director), Mohammed Murad (International Director) and Stephanie Demiris (Manager, Volunteer Support Services).
Photo above of all the District Trios who attended training. These are all the Districts that are not assigned to a Region and are Districts outside of America.
 
Left: Photo of Sanjiv just after yet another practise of his speech in front of the NZ Contingent as he countdowns to the big moment.
Right: Photo of Alun and Sanjiv going over the speech notes in final preparation for the big day. The countdown is on.
Time out at the Calgary Zoo - the District Trio in a relaxed moment.
(4) Contest Update
The countdown was down until Sanjiv Jetly spoke at the Inter-District Speech Contest. The speaking order saw Sanjiv first speaker up. He went through his paces and delivered his speech without a hitch. He put his best foot forward but alas the judges thought otherwise and he was not placed in this contest. The speeches were of a high calibre and it made judging difficult. Well done to Sanjiv – he did New Zealand proud.
The photo is of the New Zealand contingent taken after the contest that were there to support Sanjiv in his quest to gain a place in the final.
The District Trio spent the afternoon of Tuesday interviewing potential International Directors.
After the Speech Contest there was a get together for all the people in Districts outside of America where skits/songs were presented by each District.
Another great day in Calgary was had by all. We did manage to get a little time off to travel by lift up to the top of the sky tower which is beside the convention centre.
Below: Waiting in anticipation for the moment before Sanjiv presents his speech.
Below: Photo of group dressed the part after the Speech Contest prior to presenting our item at the DNAR Function.
(5) Wednesday 13th at Calgary.
 The morning saw the District Trio attending training which was over and above what is normally provided at Conventions. "Beyond the Basics" District Officer Training consisted of three workshops with the main focus on marketing ourselves and toastmasters. There were various practical exercises including putting on a red nose and blowing through a plastic whistle as seen by the photo of our LT Marketing Denis McCord.
At 1.00 pm we all attended the Board Meeting which was certainly interesting outlining changes over the next few years which will be relayed back to the Division and Area Governors at our Training in September.
The opening ceremony at 7.00 pm saw Chrissy Meyer District Governor carry the New Zealand Flag on behalf of all toastmasters from New Zealand – an assignment she was very proud to do. Chris Ford carried out one of his final duties as International President and was the Toastmaster of the Evening.
Keynote speaker was Laurie Skreslet who was the first Canadian to summit Mount Everest talked about overcoming adversity through teamwork.
Once the opening ceremony was complete, the District Trio were off interviewing prospective International Directors.
 Other members of the New Zealand Contingent had a pancake breakfast out on the streets in Calgary close to the Convention centre and attended a workshop presented by David Brooks and Mark Brown talking about making simple things into great speech topics. When you write a speech don’t go for sensation, go for sincerity was the message coming through.
Another busy day was held by all.
Left: Snapshot of a room full of District Trios from around the world at the District Training.
Below: The first workshop the District Trio attended asked us all to put on 3D glasses and see that toastmasters is a rainbow of colours as modelled by Alun Chisholm – LT Governor Education and Training.
 
Above right: Keynote speaker at the opening ceremony Laurie Skreslet.
Below: Chrissy Meyer – District Governor proudly carrying the New Zealand flag on behalf of all Toastmasters in New Zealand at the opening ceremony.
 
Above left: District Trio listening with intent at the Board of Directors Briefing.
Above right: The New Zealand flag standing proudly amongst all the flags from around the
world at the opening ceremony.
 (6) Another busy day in Calgary today. The District Trio spent the morning interviewing candidates seeking election as International Directors.
The highlight of today was two-fold. Firstly today Geoff Trotter Past Distinguished Governor was acknowledged as taking District 72 to Distinguished status for 2007-2008. The photo attached is of Geoff sitting up on stage with other successful District Governors who achieved Distinguished or better for their respect Districts. This was at the Golden Gavel Luncheon where Canadian journalist and media personality Pamela Wallin was Toastmasters' 2008 Golden Gavel recipient. Ms Wallin received TI's highest honour for excellence in communication and leadership in recognition of her extraordinary career.
The District Trio also attended a workshop today on Recipes for Successful Clubs along with several meetings - one including the logistics required for the visit of the International Toastmaster President Jana Barnhill who will
be visiting in May 2009 at the Christchurch Convention.
From 5.00 pm to 9.00 pm saw the District Trio and other New Zealand members attending the Candidates' Showcase which was seeing the prospective International Directors being given questions (just like table topics). It was all very formal and every candidate was allocated a time to speak. Each presentation was timed.
By this time the District Trio had finished their business for the day but not before having a light meal with other members from the New Zealand Contingent where we took the opportunity to wish Geoff Trotter a very happy
birthday. Chrissy presented Geoff with a card signed by all the Toastmasters present and a 2009 calendar of Calgary.
Above: Photo of Geoff Trotter being acknowledged by International Presdient Chris Ford as Distinguished District for 2007-2008 at the Golden Gavel Luncheon.
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