With great joy and gratitude, I welcome you to our special mid-year event, the District 56 Retreat! This weekend is more than just a getaway it is a time to renew, relax, recharge, and reconnect with yourself, your fellow Toastmasters, and the heart of our shared mission.
We often pour so much into uplifting others as leaders, speakers, and lifelong learners. This retreat is our opportunity to pause, reflect, and celebrate to acknowledge the dedication, growth, and impact we have made together. Whether you are here to unwind in nature, engage in meaningful conversations, or simply enjoy the camaraderie of our community, know that this experience is designed for you.
Our time together will be filled with inspiration, recognition, and connection a chance to step away from daily responsibilities and embrace a space where growth and gratitude go hand in hand. As you immerse yourself in this weekend, I encourage you to be present, open, and intentional about making the most of every moment.
Thank you for being here, for being part of this journey, and for all that you do to make District 56 an extraordinary place to grow and lead.
With appreciation and excitement,
Elizabeth A. Ruiz, DTM District 56 Director Toastmasters International
Angela Tornes, DTM, PDD District 56 District Advisor Chair & Past District Director toastmastertornes@gmail.com
Keynote: The Power of You Bio and Video on bit.ly/d56retreat
David Bell, DTM
Chief Encouragement Officer, Discovery Zone Coaching
Bio and Video on bitly/d56retreat david.bell@discoveryzonecoaching.com
Keynote: Building Your Network - The Power of Connection
Mike Lejeune President, Lighting the Path Training mike@mikelejeune.com
Keynote: The Power of One Bio and Video on bit.ly/d56retreat
MEET YOUR SET-UP TEAM
Welcome to the District 56 Retreat in Bellville, Texas! Thank you for choosing to stay with us. In this Welcome Packet you will find everything you need to know regarding the property as well as a guide to the local area
We hope you enjoy your time at the District 56 Retreat and we look forward to seeing you soon! You may reach us at celebration@tmd56.org
Sincerely, The District 56 Retreat Set-Up Committee
Jonetta Barnett Avi Roy Chowdhury, DTM
Jennifer Nelson, DTM
James Lindenfeld
Kathy R Kest, DTM, PDD
Sheryle H Warren, DTM, PDDD David Bell, DTM
Kimberly Lindenfeld, DTM
Pia Sikes, DTM
D’Vere J Thompson, DTM
Andrea De La Torre Javier Florez, DTM
Robert Kieschnick Harold Eaton, DTM Angela Tornes, DTM, PDD
Angela Mestre
Terralyn J. May
Charlene PINKY Buckberg
RETREAT SET-UP
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21: SET-UP TEAM ARRIVES | 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Set-up team members are registered attendees who signed up to be on the Friday setup team
Only the set-up team and family members are allowed on the retreat’s private property Team stays Friday night in the cabins Team will prepare meals together while setting up retreat (dinner Friday and breakfast Saturday)
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22: SET-UP TEAM PREPARES TO OPEN RETREAT | 6:30 AM to 8:30 AM
Set-up team opens retreat gate at 8:30 AM to guide organized parking (handicap parking tags park in the front row)
Check in registered attendees (bit.ly/d56retreat is registration link). If an attendee leaves, they must return their lanyard to the registration desk and re-check in upon reentry to obtain the lanyard We need to know who is on or off the private property for the duration of the retreat
Check overnight attendees into their cabins: cabin 1 is for males, cabin 2 is for females, and cabin 3 is coed (confirm they brought a pillow, sheets and blanket, towels, toiletries, etc.). Walmart is located a few miles away if attendees need items.
RETREAT SET-UP
Guide attendees who signed up to bring or prepare food, beverages, or kitchen items to the commercial kitchen to place in the refrigerator and cabinets, continued
After attendees park, check in, select their bed, drop off food & beverages to kitchen, guide them to the Event Hall to secure a chair for the 9 am Retreat Keynote Opening.
NOTE:
1. Only registered attendees may enter the private property.
a. If an attendee leaves, they must return their lanyard to the registration desk and recheck in upon re-entry to obtain the lanyard.
b. We need to know who is on or off the private property for the duration of the retreat.
2 District 56 Toastmasters who renew their April 1 dues by February 20, 2024, will receive complimentary entry to the retreat for themselves and their families.
3. If District 56 Toastmasters have not renewed their April 1 dues by February 20, 2024, each entrance ticket is $35 per person by credit card, including family and friends of all ages.
4. During online registration or at the retreat’s entry, the attendee must have agreed to be photographed and recorded on video.
a They must also have completed an allergy, disability, and emergency questionnaire online during registration or at the retreat if missing.
5. Retreat attendees must always wear their registration name badge on the provided lanyard while on the 67 acres of private property.
6. For safety and security, if you see someone without a lanyard name badge, take a photo of them and send it to the retreat WhatsApp group. Then, report the incident immediately to a retreat team member.
ARRIVAL INFORMATION
ADDRESS
Camp Journey in the Woods | 5193 TX-36, Bellville, TX 77418
CONTACT
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our District Director, Elizabeth Ruiz, at toastmasterruiz@gmail.com or text 713-377-2731. Once registered, attendees are invited to join the WhatsApp Retreat Group to stay abreast of updates.
CHECK-IN & OUT TIME
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 3 PM If you signed up to be on the Retreat Set-Up Committee, we will arrive at 3 PM on Friday, February 21, 2025, to unload the cars and set up the retreat. The sun sets at 6:19 PM. We will have a couple of hours to set up the outdoor areas first, then the indoor areas.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 9 AM The D56 Retreat begins If you arrive early, we will give you a task on the team, such as checking in attendees and more SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 11 AM Time the retreat ends. We need to have all housekeeping items on the Welcome Packet complete and driving off the property by 11 AM.
ITEMS TO BRING: **SIGN UP SHEET LINK FOR RETREAT POTLUCK** https://evite.me/jvFmN1kEyK | Food and beverages for a minimum of 8-10 people - please sign up IMPORTANT: If you have special dietary restrictions, please bring items with you
Kitchen: The Retreat’s kitchen is fully stocked with cooking utensils and cookware, however we need attendees to sign up to bring paper towels, disposable plates, hot and cold cups, and cutlery.
Trash bags, dish soap and cleaning supplies will be provided.
ARRIVAL INFORMATION
ITEMS TO BRING (continued):
ully stocked with toilet pape d hand soap
tries and towels for showe ernigh rtable clothing, sneakers, h hing y overnight stay, etc.
Cabins: There are three large open cabins with beds (see photo in header on this page). If you prefer privacy, there are hotels in Bellville and the surrounding area. Check out hotels from this link https://bitly/d56retreathotels
The following are the sleeping arrangements for the cabins
Cabin A (males only): 5 full-size beds, 17 twins (three toilets, four showers)
Cabin B (females only): 2 king beds, five full-size beds, 28 twins (three toilets, four showers)
Cabin C (co-ed): 2 king beds, 4 full-size beds, 28 twins (two toilets, two sinks, three showers)
Please bring your bedding (linens, blankets and pillows) There are outlets near some of the beds, but we recommend you bring long charging cables if possible.
OUTDOOR
The 8-acre lake is a catch-and-release lake. You are welcome to bring your own fishing rods and bait.
The outdoor sports available are basketball courts (basketballs provided), baseball, softball, soccer, and volleyball areas.
s will be able to u os and videos to the Retreat Album: https://bit.ly/retreatalbum We will showcase the photos live as they are uploaded on a loop throughout the retreat on a 180 inch Outdoor Movie Screen!
Scavenger Hunt
Saturday, 10 am - Sunday, 9:30 am
INDOORS
Word Cloud
Friday, 3 pm - Sunday, 9:30 am
Welcome to the District 56 Retreat! Congratulations for taking some "me" time in a change of scenery for a break to renew, relax, recharge, and reconnect. Please feel free to share as many one word feelings throughout the retreat During the retreat, we will share the Word Cloud! We're so happy you are here!
https://forms.gle/BXJ4PRuvETFtcjCS6
Saturday, 9am Retreat Opens! Event Hall | 9am District Director Welcome
Event Hall S
We have 1,000 prizes to give away! 1,000 plastic eggs will be placed around the retreat. While eggs last, attendees may search and collect a maximum of 5 eggs Each egg has a number linked to the next step to the scavenger hunt Bring the egg with the number inside to the Event Hall during the scheduled 15-minute AWARDS & RECOGNITION time slots on the RETREAT ITINERARY above. You must be present to win. We have amazing prizes! Will you be one of the winners? You don’t want to miss this!
Visit bit.ly/d56retreat to watch Mike’s welcome video and download his bio
Free Time! Saturday, 10am-12pm
Event Hall
Saturday, 10 am - 11 am Get in Character Challenge: Select a costume from the Event Hall Costume Closet There are restrooms in the Event Hall to change One attendee in costume goes on stage first and begins a 2-3minute story about their character in costume. Another attendee in costume goes up on stage next to add to the story, and so forth to keep the story going to make up one story There will be a timer with timing cards keeping track of who qualifies At the end, a group photo of all those in costume will be taken on stage.
RETREAT ACTIVITIES
OUTDOORS
Free Time! contd.
8-acre Lake
Saturday, 10am-12 pm & 1:15-5:15 pm
Canoes
Canoes are first come, first served. Life jackets and paddles are provided. You must wear a life jacket at all times while in the canoe There is one large canoe for three people The other canoes fit up to two people Whether you are in the mood to row alone for a workout or just row on your own pace covering 8 acres of lake to stop, reflect, breathe, journal, or meditate, we have a canoe for you. Maybe you prefer to pair up with another to share a leisurely row across the lake to explore, relax and reconnect with nature Or, maybe you prefer to compete in the rowing competition Two per canoe, the competition will begin with all teams rowing. The first three canoes to cross the finish line will compete once more. First place canoe team each win a prize! Whether you are spectating or competing, you don’t want to miss this race!
INDOORS
Free Time! contd.
Event Hall | Saturday, 11 am - 12 pm Toastmasters Jeopardy | What is Smedley?
Winners earn prizes!
Retreat Commercial Kitchen | Saturday 11 am - 12 pm | Help Prep, Cook, and Grill Lunch If you brought a food or beverage item to share for lunch, please join us in the kitchen at 11 am to prepare and have ready to serve by 12 noon.
We need you to help pre lunch, please sign up on the sign up sheet in the kitchen what station you prefer: Preparation: prep food & beverages, plates, plasticware, napkins, etc. 1. Grill: outside under the canopy next to the kitchen 2. Stove/Oven: cooking and baking 3. Clean up: commercial three-sink wash area plus a dishwasher
RETREAT ACTIVITIES
OUTDOORS
Free Time! d
67-acres of fenced-in private land | Saturday, 10 5:15 pm | Hiking / Walking
3 hiking trails in the woods and around the 8-a re 67-acres on your own Wildlife you might see includes, mammals, birds, s (deer, armadillos, bobcats, coyotes, Eastern cottontail rabbits, Eastern grey squirrels, feral hogs, birds, bats, foxes, possums, raccoons, skunks, and snakes). Please pack a backpack with hiking items you may need. Check out the Day Hiking Essentials Checklist by REI: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/day-hiking-checklist.html
RETREAT ACTIVITIES
OUTDOORS
Free Time! contd.
8-acre lake fully stocked with fish
Catch & Release Activity or Compete in the Catch & Release Tournament
Saturday, 10am-12 pm & 1:15-5:15 pm | Sunday, 6:58 am sunrise - 9:15 am
Relax on one of the docks with a beverage while casting your fishing rod out in the lake.
The 8-acre lake is fully stocked with fish
There are 5 fishing docks around the lake
The fishing docks have fish feeders to feed the fish year round. Please bring your own bait, fishing rod, and other fishing gear.
Cast net fishing is not allowed.
Must release fish back into lake after catching it.
If you violate this policy, there is a $500 damage fee
The person who catches the most fish (maybe take a photo of each fish caught) wins a prize on Sunday, after the fishing tournament ends. The number of fish caught will be on the honor system, or showcase your fish photos by uploading them to the shared link.
RETREAT ACTIVITIES
OUTDOORS
Saturday, 10am-12 pm Free Time! contd.
Pavilion
S t d 10 15 11
Get ready for a fun, dynamic, and engaging workout designed to bring people together! In The Ultimate Team Workout, you’ll partner up and team up for exciting fitness games that focus on movement, coordination, and teamwork - all while keeping things moderate to easy and accessible for everyone.
Pavilion
Saturday, 11 am - 12 pm
Fun Basketball Games
Basketballs provided Three (3) hoops under the pavilion
Basketball doesn’t have to be a highintensity, full on five-on-five game nor does it have to be just casually shooting shots by yourself It can be a game filled with fun, laughter, and friendly competition to enjoy with friends where all you need is a basketball and a basketball hoop.
H-O-R-S-E1.
Knockout2.
Around the world 3.
214.
Five in a Row 5
Trick Shot H-O-R-S-E 6
INDOORS
12-1 pm Lunch & Keynote
Building Your Network -
The Power of Connection
David Bell, DTM, 12-1 pm
Visit bit.ly/d56retreat to watch David’s welcome video and download his bio.
Event Hall
Saturday, 1-1:15 pm
Awards & Recognition!
Join us as we award and recognize members who have gone above and beyond during our 2024-2025 Toastmasters Year! Must be present to accept your award.
Bring your plastic eggs found around the retreat to claim your prize(s)! Must be present to win Five (5) eggs maximum per person during the retreat.
1:15-5:15 pm Free Time!
Event Hall
Saturday, 1:30-2:30 pm
100 Years of Confident Voices
Toastmasters International video (45 minutes)
Take one of the Documentary Discussion Guides to fill out while watching the documentary A discussion will be led after the 45-minute video.
Participants will vote on the attendee with the best discussion. The top three (3) attendees will earn a Smedley Lapel Pin (Replica) To qualify, attendees must watch the 45-minute video, complete the discussion guide, and participate in the discussion
Beach area with floating dock. Relax on one of the Adirondack chairs with a beverage and a book Or catch up on thoughts while looking out onto the lake Maybe have a conversation with a friend or take time to journal or nap It’s your time to renew, relax, recharge, and reconnect! Enjoy!
Benches by the Lake. Take time to relax, catch up with a friend, or just slowly swing overlooking the lake, reconnecting with nature while taking long deep breaths.
B ooking the 8-acre lake. Have someon ng, and enjoying the beauty of nature.
Quiet time. Take time for yourself to sit or walk around exploring the property. Bring a journal with you When you find a spot, sit and journal your thoughts or reflections Enjoy this time away Take deep breaths Listen to music or a podcast This is your time to do what you want Enjoy the fresh air, hydrate, take deep slow breaths Don’t forget to smile!
Pavilion and Decks. When the Pavilion and Decks are not having a scheduled activity, feel free to utilize them. Maybe use the pavilion to create your own game of basketball, or another game. Maybe a place to stretch or yoga. Same for the decks. Utilize the decks to have conversations, watch nature, read a book, draw, listen to a podcast, write, journal, or have some quiet time. The decks are a great area to play card games too. We will have decks of cards available
Campfire Pit and Hut. If you feel like collecting firewood, we need to stock the hut for our night campfire Or, maybe you feel like sitting around a campfire during the day, talking, singing, playing guitar, or just relaxing, go ahead If you need help starting the campfire, please find someone
RETREAT ACTIVITIES
OUTDOORS
Deck
Saturday, 1:15-2:15 pm
Bridge Building!
Get to know fellow Toastmasters in this fun activity.
Sit with someone you don’t know well.
Teams are divided into three and given the task to build a bridge from craft materials provided.
Each team must build a bridge in a limited time
The teams can only talk to each other during designated time
Once the time is up, teams will take turns testing the bridge if a toy car can drive over it.
We will discuss lessons learned about ourselves and others.
This activity is about communication strategies and teamwork, which will be reflected after the bridge building process
This is important for communication strategies.
Each member of the team with the best bridge wins a prize!
Let’s bridge that gap of getting to know more District 56 Toastmasters
Event Hall
INDOORS
Saturday, 2:30-3:30 pm
Practice Your Karaoke Solo, Duet, or Act for the Saturday night Karaoke Competition! See the Karaoke pages to pre-select a song.
Sing & Dance!
Select songs fr on the next few pages
We have the Karafun Karaoke app and a wireless Karaoke Machine with a colorful fun Disco Ball plus two cordless handheld mics! When you arrive to the retreat, sign up on the Karaoke sheet by the stage.
1st come, 1st served
Select your Karaoke props and costumes
Select a solo, duo, or group song
Let’s have some fun!
After the Saturday night competition, we will vote on 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners of best act.
Win prizes!
Event Hall
Saturday, 3:30-4:15 pm
100 Years Toastmasters Archival Video (39 minutes) Take a trip down our Toastmasters history! Watch an archival video showcase, including footage of our founder.
You don’t want to miss this! Filled with moments of awe!
RETREAT ACTIVITIES
OUTDOORS
Deck
Saturday, 2:30-3:45pm
Create Art: Collect items on the 67 acres from nature and build something. A few ideas:
Nature Mandalas: Arrange leaves, petals, small stones, and twigs in a circular pattern on the ground to create a mandala design
Stick Sculptures: Use sticks of varying lengths and thicknesses to build small animal figures, abstract shapes, or even a miniature hut.
Leaf Weaving: Collect different sized leaves and weave them together to create a decorative wall hanging or a small basket
Bark Mosaic: Cut pieces of bark into different shapes and sizes and arrange them on a flat surface to create a mosaic design.
Important considerations:
Be mindful of the environment. Only collect items that are already on the ground and avoid damaging plants or trees 1.
We provide glue, tape, paper clips, etc. You provide items found outside on the property. Attendees vote for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. Group photo, and prizes for
INDOORS
Commercial Kitchen Saturday, 4:15-5:15 pm
Help Prep, Cook, and Grill Dinner
If you brought a food or beverage item to share for dinner, please join us in the kitchen at 4:15 pm to prepare and have ready to serve by 5:15 pm
We need you to help prepare, cook, or grill dinner, please sign up on the sign up sheet in the kitchen what station you prefer: Preparation: prep food & beverages, plates, plasticware, napkins, etc.
Grill: outside under the canopy next to the kitchen
Stove/Oven: cooking and baking
Clean up: commercial three-sink wash area plus a dishwasher
RETREAT ACTIVITIES
OUTDOORS
Hiking trails
Saturday, 4-5 pm
A Hike with a Twist: A Fun & Engaging Hiking Adventure facilitated by Basma Al Kakoun
This isn’t just a hike - it’s an adventure filled with laughter, connection, and fun challenges! Along the way, participants will complete interactive activities, engage in lighthearted competition, and enjoy a surprise prize giveaway at the end. No pressure - just good vibes, great company, and the joy of moving through nature in a new way!
Sunset 6:19 pm
Campfire
6:30-10:30 pm
S’mores & Storytelling Time to relax, sit around make s’mores and tell stories.
Event Hall
Saturday
5:15-6:15 pm
Dinner
Keynote
“So What Now” Mike Lejeune
INDOORS
Visit bit.ly/d56retreat to watch Mike’s welcome video and download his bio.
6:15-6:30 pm AWARDS & RECOGNITION!
Event Hall | Saturday | Awards & Recognition! Join us as we award and recognize members who have gone above and beyond during our 2024-2025 Toastmasters Year! Must be present to accept your award
Pavilion
Basketball Games
6:30-10:30 pm
The Pavilion lights up at night! Fancy a night basketball game? There are three hoops, plenty of space for a few games
Bring your plastic eggs found around the retreat to claim your prize(s)! Must be present to win. Five (5) eggs maximum per person during the retreat
6:30-10:30 pm Free Time
Event Hall
Grab a mic, select a song, put on a costume or a prop, step on stage and shine!
6:30-10:30 pm Karaoke Fun: See the Karaoke page to pre-select songs
Sing & Dance! Select songs from the Karaoke list on the next few pages We have the Karafun Karaoke app & a Karaoke Machine with colorful Disco Ball plus 2 wireless mics! When you arrive to the retreat, sign up on the Karaoke sheet by the stage. 1st come, 1st served. Karaoke props and costumes available. Select a solo, duo, or group song Let’s have some fun! We will vote on 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners of best act. Win prizes!
RETREAT ACTIVITIES
6:50-7:50 am Stretch & Hike
Meet at 6:50 am on the deck for a sunrise stretch followed by a hike around the lake
7-9 am Variety of Outdoor Activities
Canoe Basketball Volleyball
Hike / Walk around the lake or hiking trails
Tree swing or on benches
Last minute scavenger hunt looking for eggs
Catch & Release fishing
Sit and relax, journal, write, meditate, etc.
INDOORS
Commercial Kitchen | Sunday, 8:30-9:30 am
Help Prep and Cook Brunch
If you brought a food or beverage item to share for brunch, please join us in the kitchen at 8:30 am to prepare and have ready to serve by 9:30 am. We need help preparing and cooking Sunday brunch. Please sign up in the kitchen the station you prefer:
Preparation: prep food & beverages, plates, plasticware, napkins, etc.
Stove/Oven: cooking and baking
Clean up: commercial three-sink wash area plus a dishwasher
Event Hall | 5:30-9:30 am | Reflection Time
Share favorite moments and takeaways from the D56 Retreat, upload photos, add to the word cloud, and fill out questionnaire
Event Hall | 9:30 - 10:30 am
Closing Keynote & Brunch
Angela Tornes, DTM, PDD
The Power of YOU!
The ABA of Work-Life Balance
Visit bit.ly/d56retreat to watch Angela’s welcome video & download her bio.
10:30-10:45 am AWARDS & RECOGNITION!
Event Hall | Sunday | Awards & Recognition!
Join us as we award and recognize members who have gone above and beyond during our 2024-2025 Toastmasters Year! Must be present to accept your award
Bring your plastic eggs found around the retreat to claim your prize(s)! Must be present to win Five (5) eggs maximum per person during the retreat.
10:45 am Pack & Clean up per the Welcome Packet
11 AM Departure. If staying to enjoy the local sites, check out the Welcome Packet for ideas
Set-up Committee arrives | cloudy in the afternoon and evening; no rain | sunset 6:18 pm
Saturday, February 22: 54 hi & 45 low
morning: 48 degrees, mostly cloudy, no rain
afternoon: 54 degrees, mostly cloudy with a little rain
evening: 45 degrees, cloudy and no rain
sunrise 6:59 am & sunset 6:19 pm
Sunday, February 23: 65 hi & 55 low
morning: 55 degrees, partly sunny, no rain
sunrise 6:58 am
11 am check out time. Please remember to clean up after yourself per instructions in welcome packets, and discard your disposables in the dumpster
For those who are staying in the area to visit sites (see welcome packet for ideas):
afternoon: 65 degrees, partly sunny, no rain
evening: 51 degrees, mainly clear, no rain
sunset 6:20 pm
RULES & REGULATIONS
NO SMOKING OF ANY SUBSTANCE (THIS INCLUDES VAPING) is allowed in any of the buildings on the property. If cigarette butts are found around the property or there is a smoke smell left in any of the buildings, there will be a $500 damage fee
Camp Journey runs on a septic system DO NOT FLUSH any baby wipes or feminine hygiene products of any kind (tampon or applicator) down the toilet. Please make sure you share this information with your entire group.
Camp Journey is located in an area that is home to many people. We ask that you respect their privacy and their right to peace, specifically between the hours of 10 pm and 8 am. Please keep noise to a minimum for the surrounding neighbors and Bellville residents
Camp Journey has an 8-acre lake that is stocked with fish The lake is CATCH & RELEASE ONLY. CAST NET FISHING IS NOT ALLOWED. If you violate this policy, there is a $500 damage fee.
If you are using the lake and canoes, LIFE JACKETS MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES. ADULTS & CHILDREN. NO EXCEPTIONS.
IF YOU BRING A CAMPER/TRAILER/RV, there is a $75 fee payable directly to the owner of the property upon arrival for sewage and electric hook ups, and parking Message celebration@tmd56.org if you plan on bringing your camper to ensure there is a space open. Only 2 spaces remain as of February 8, 2025.
INSTRUCTIONS & INFORMATION
KITCHEN
Before using the stove/oven there is a light switch that MUST be turned on for the vent hood This light switch is on the wall to the right of the stove When you are done, please turn the switch off.
In the event of a grease fire, there is a specific extinguisher to use. It is next to the refrigerator. Please follow directions and only use this in case of an emergency.
EMERGENCY
In case of an emergency, call 911 Please make the group aware of the evacuation route (see previous page) and where fire extinguishers are located Fire extinguishers can be found in the following locations:
Kitchen - by exit door
Outdoor Grill - by kitchen door
Dining Hall - by exit door
Cabins - by bathrooms and exit door
KITCHEN SUPPLIES
The kitchen has the following appliances available: 6-burner gas stove, grill, oven, microwave, 2 toaster overs, 1 toaster, crockpots, 5 coffee makers, 1 air fryer, blenders, panini sandwich maker. All pots, pans, skillets, mixing bowls, cooking utensils, and more. The kitchen has a commercial ice maker, sink, dishwasher, and large refrigerator
INSTRUCTIONS & INFORMATION
OUTDOOR GRIDDLE & BBQ GRILL
On the patio directly outside the kitchen, there is a flat griddle and a BBQ grill that are available to use. Propane is fully stocked.
POOL & LAKE
Use of the pool is not allowed
If you are using the lake and canoes, LIFE JACKETS MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES. NO EXCEPTIONS! Life jackets can be found in the life jacket hut by the lake. Please return all jackets and paddles and place them neatly back in the hut.
INSTRUCTIONS & INFORMATION
FIRE-PIT
Use of the fire-pit is permitted (unless there is a burn ban) Feel free to use any available wood in the fire-pit hut or you are welcome to gather wood from around the property Please make sure you properly distinguish the fire when you are done and clean up any trash or debris.
PAVILION
The light switch for the pavilion is located on the electrical pole next to the breaker box
INSTRUCTIONS & INFORMATION
HEATING & COOLING
The thermostats for the heating and cooling are on the walls. While we want your stay with us to be comfortable, if you do not use the cabin for much of the day, please turn the AC up to 75 degrees to avoid overworking the units and the heat down to 70 For optimal performance, please do not turn the AC below 70 degrees, as it could freeze up and turn off. To maintain a cool or warm temperature, please keep doors closed as much as possible and give it a little time to cool off or warm up. If you are experiencing any trouble with the thermostat, please feel free to contact us at the number below.
QUESTIONS / CONCERNS
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our District Director, Elizabeth Ruiz, at toastmasterruiz@gmail.com or by text at 713-377-2731. We have a D56 WhatsApp Retreat Group for registered retreat members. You may opt-in after registering.
DEPARTURE INFORMATION
CHECK-OUT TIME
Check-out time is at 11:00 AM on Sunday, February 23, 2025.
CHECK-OUT PROCESS
Please carefully follow the clean-up instructions below in order to avoid charges
Cabins
Sweep floors
Return beds to original positions
Remove all sheets from your bed
Place trash in trash bag and bring to dumpster
Check that all belongings have been removed from cabins and bathrooms
DEPARTURE INFORMATION
KITCHEN
Sweep floor
Wipe down countertops
Take all trash to the dumpster
Remove all food products from the refrigerator
Clean any dishes that were used and place them back in the cabinets
DEPARTURE INFORMATION
EVENT HALL
Use big broom to sweep the floor
Stack chairs along the wall
Remove trash from bathrooms and take to the dumpster
Phenix Knives (44 miles), 317 E Main St, Bellville, TX 77418
Blue Bell Creameries & Country Store (15.9 miles), FM577, Brenham, TX 77833
NEW 2024/2025 Bellville Magazine is here!
Check out Bellville Chamber of Commerce https://www.bellville.com/ Magazine https://issuu com/tripspublications/docs/bellville2024issuu
RETREAT TIMELINE
01
Friday, February 21
If you would like to be a part of the Retreat Set-Up Committee, let us know during registration at bitly/d56retreat Or email celebration@tmd56org to let us know you would like to arrive on Friday to help set up. Join us to set up, stay the night and join in on the FUN!
04
Kickoff with a Keynote
Our day begins with an empowering keynote followed by multiple levels of options for you depending on what you want. It is all about YOU this weekend! It’s time to renew, relax, recharge, and reconnect You deserve it! We can’t wait to hear all about your journey!
02
03
Saturday, February 22 9 AM Retreat Begins!
Retreat gate opens at 8:30 AM to begin check-in. Only registered guests may access the private property. If you renewed your April 1 dues by February 20, the entry fee is waived If not, the $35 per person registration fee must be paid before entering the property.
05
We have something for everyone!
This weekend is all about YOU! The activities will be posted throughout the retreat & on our Retreat WhatsApp group. Take this time to enjoy, explore, do something different, rest, relax, breathe, have some fun and take some time for YOU!
This is a Toastmasters retreat for our members where we will be empowering you and embracing our District Mission. From the moment you enter The Retreat you will feel relaxed, recharged, reconnected, and renewed. We have so much in store for YOU!
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Sunday, February 23
What you bring in you must bring out with you Please follow the rules in the Welcome Packet. Be mindful when leaving the retreat, take your belongings with you, including disposing of your disposables into the dumpster on the property Check out time is 11 AM. Drive safely back home. See you again soon!
This weekend is more than just a getaway it is a time to renew, relax, recharge, and reconnect with yourself, your fellow Toastmasters, and the heart of our shared mission.
We often pour so much into uplifting others as leaders, being speakers and lifelong learners. This retreat is our opportunity to pause, reflect, and celebrate to acknowledge the dedication, growth, and impact we have made together. Whether you are here to unwind in nature, engage in meaningful conversations, or simply enjoy the camaraderie of our community, know that this experience is designed for you
Our time together will be filled with inspiration, recognition, and connection a chance to step away from daily responsibilities and embrace a space where growth and gratitude go hand in hand. As you immerse yourself in this weekend, I encourage you to be present, open, and intentional about making the most of every moment.
Thank you for being here, for being part of this journey, and for all that you do to make District 56 an extraordinary place to grow and lead -Elizabeth A Ruiz, DTM, District Director
Renew April 1 dues on toastmasters.org by February 20
After you are registered 01 02 03
If the dues portal option is not activated for your club, please renew through the method of your club. If you have a special situation, email our District Director, Elizabeth Ruiz, at toastmasterruiz@gmail.com with the situation to see how we can help.
After you renew, go to bit.ly/d56retreat to register for FREE
If you will not be renewed by February 20, register at bit.ly/d56retreat at $35 per person Options are Zelle, check, or deposit cash at any Comerica bank into the District account. Email bills@tmd56.org for details.
A confirmation will be emailed after registration confirming your reservation If we are missing information, we will need the information before you are able to gain access into the retreat. Questions? Email celebration@tmd56.org
NEXT STEPS
can’t wait to see you!
All D56 Toastmasters are invited to join us!
Take some time to step outside of your club, take a short drive out of town for a change of pace, slow down, take a deep breath in and slowly exhale, smile, laugh, rest, meet other Toastmasters in the District, breathe in the fresh air, go for a walk, meditate, journal, learn while having fun, participate in a challenge, canoe, cook, grill, play guitar, sing, play in the costume closet, take a nap, read a book, meet a new friend, reconnect with an old one, be inspired by our keynotes, and enjoy!
