ENNIS Toastmasters 1 9 7 3 -2 0 23
Contents A Chairde
1
Ennis Toastmasters Club celebrates its 50th Anniversary
3
Sterling History
4
Ennis Toastmasters
5
Golden Moments
6
Toastmaster of the Year
8
Past Presidents
9
Club Achievements
10
Special Awards for members of Ennis Toastmasters Club
11
Member Success
12
Club Gallery
16
Ennis Toastmasters and Me
18
Backdrop To My Life
20
Club Gallery
22
Ennis Toastmasters and Me
24
President in Exile
26
Captivating Journeys
28
Toastmasters 50th
29
Club Gallery
30
Persistence Pays
32
Become a member of our worldwide club
33
Acknowledgements: 50th Anniversary Committee: Geraldine Gregan, Frank Gunter, Robert Bennett, Eileen O’Brien, Alan Davis, Tara Donnellan, Niamh Brady, Patricia Clune, Patrick Hynes, Maria Carey, Brid Brady, James Hannon. Edited by Eileen O’Brien Designed by Alan Davis at UltraDesign.ie Proof reading by Tara Donnellan, Patrick Hynes, Yvonne Purcell and James Hannon. Printed by D2 Print Ltd., Ennis Funding for this booklet has been provided through the Creative Ireland programme administered by Clare County Council.
A Chairde It is a privilege for me, as President of the Ennis Toastmasters Club, to welcome you to celebrate with us 50 years of the continuous presence of this unique and wonderful organisation in the town of Ennis. The Ennis Toastmasters Club, which is affiliated to Toastmasters International, has successfully contributed to and enriched the social and educational fabric of Ennis and its surrounds throughout the past 50 years. It is a time to celebrate the work of the Ennis Toastmasters Club’s many leaders, members and supporters that have contributed to the expertise of effective communication, leadership and friendship. The success of the Ennis Toastmasters Club’s longevity has been the contributions of its many club members down through the years and the wonderful community support. Some of the long-term Toastmasters members I have known personally deserve special mention. Tom McGrath (RIP), a 1973 founding member, was still an honorary member in 2014. Tom gave much time to the education of Ennis secondary school students in the art of effective public speaking. I became a member of the Ennis Toastmasters club in 2010. Long-standing club members were Tom McGrath (RIP), Eileen O’Brien, Frank Gunter, Robert Bennett, John Moran (RIP), Rita Brady (RIP), Julie Brosnan, John Clohessy and Michael O’Brien. Marie Pyne, a much spoken about distinguished alumnus of Ennis Toastmasters Club, became World International Speech champion in 1985. I wish to acknowledge and thank fellow 50th commemoration committee members for their dedication and hard work. The committee members are Frank Gunter, Robert Bennett, Eileen O’Brien, Alan Davis, Tara Donnellan, Niamh Brady, Patricia Clune, Geraldine Gregan 1
Ennis Toastmasters | 1973–2023 Patrick Hynes, Maria Carey, Brid Brady, and James Hannon. Congratulations to Alan Davis and Eileen O’Brien, who produced this publication, and all those that have contributed to it. A special thanks to Helen Walsh, County Librarian at Clare County Council, who has liaised with us on behalf of Clare County Council in its preparation. The funding for this booklet has been provided through the Creative Ireland Programme administered by Clare County Council. To our many sponsors listed, thank you for helping us to commemorate this very special year. We meet twice monthly, from September to May, at the Temple Gate Hotel, Ennis. The warmth and welcome from John and Paul Madden and their team of workers is much appreciated. A special mention to their staff member, Amy Carroll. In my years in Ennis Toastmasters, alternate Tuesday evenings have become high points of my life: an opportunity to meet with friends old and new for an evening of interesting speeches in a supportive environment. ‘Ta mé gafa le rudaí deasa a dhéanamh.’ ‘I am busy doing nice things.’ Thank you Toastmasters past, present, and those departed for providing me and many others with a wonderful social outlet that has fostered education, culture, and a lifetime of wonderful friendships and fun. To the next 50 years! Mise le meas,
Geraldine Gregan President, Ennis Toastmasters Club 2012–2013 and 2023–2024.
2
Ennis Toastmasters Club celebrates its 50th Anniversary When Dr Ralph Smedley founded Toastmasters in October 1924, I wonder if he imagined an organisation that would grow to nearly 300,000 members in 15,000 clubs located in 144 countries around the world. Ennis Toastmasters Club in County Clare, Ireland, is one such club. The club celebrates the 50th anniversary since it first met, in November this year, making it one of the oldest and most established Toastmasters clubs in District 71, which covers Northern UK and Ireland. For fifty years, the club has helped members from all walks of life to build their confidence as public speakers and leaders. The founder of Toastmasters International Dr Smedley said: ‘Ours is the only organization I know that is dedicated to the individual. We work together to bring out the best in each of us and then we apply our skills to help others.’ At Ennis Toastmasters Club, members grow by delivering prepared and impromptu speeches that are evaluated with constructive feedback in a safe environment by fellow Toastmasters. As they gradually overcome their fear and build their confidence, they are happy to deliver speeches beyond the club, in personal and professional settings. The 50th anniversary of Ennis Toastmasters Club is a testament to the unwavering dedication of members,
Ours is the only organization I know that is dedicated to the individual. We work together to bring out the best in each of us and then we apply our skills to help others.
past and present. In celebrating this milestone anniversary, I raise a toast, together with the members of District 71, to Ennis Toastmasters Club, to its legacy, to its members, and to another fifty wonderful years ◊
Elizabeth Jordan DTM, District 71 Director.
3
Ennis Toastmasters | 1973–2023
Sterling History
W
hen Ennis Toastmasters Club celebrated its twenty-first anniversary on 26 November 1994, it got the perfect present. Club member Martin Coffey who was manager of TSB Bank, Ennis, presented
a magnificent chain-of-office to the club. The hallmarks show that it was ‘sterling standard’, assayed in ‘City of Dublin’ and made in 1994 by ‘D.O’M’. The medallion depicts the Toastmasters emblem in vogue 1941–2011. A circle is girded by two gavel heads, the impression of a map within, and a prominent ‘T’ stands proudly in front. Above is the word ‘TOASTMASTERS’ and at the bottom, the word ‘INTERNATIONAL’. Ribbon banners above and below the emblem show the words ‘PRESIDENT’ and ‘ENNIS’. Bearing the weighty medallion are four rows of silver chain, interspersed with silver ribbon-banner plates bearing the names of each club president since 1973. Dr Ralph C. Smedley, founder of Toastmasters International, wrote, ‘For the member, the TI emblem is a constant reminder of the ideals and principles of the organisation. For others who observe it, the emblem suggests skill and fluency in speech.’ In 2011 an evolved version of the Toastmasters globe emblem was introduced as part of a brand refresh. Club presidents are honoured to wear our chain-ofoffice. It is a beautiful, historical record, and is a tribute to fifty years of members that sustained the club and were presided over by all the names inscribed thereon ◊
Eileen O’Brien CTM, CL, Member of Ennis Toastmasters 1995–2017, Club President 2004–2005. Chain of office 4
Ennis Toastmasters
I
joined Ennis Toastmasters Club in the mid to late 1990s. I had previously heard of Toastmasters, but I thought that it was only for very good speakers as those that I knew in it were quite accomplished. That time
saw a change in my career, which involved training and lecturing Air Traffic Controllers both nationally and internationally. I said to myself that if Toastmasters could assist me in better delivery then why not give it a go. I had got used to addressing big numbers in class but there was always room for improvement. Indeed, Toastmasters is an excellent organisation. It does help get over the nerves that go with public speaking. Yes, you do see some very good speakers there, and you learn from them, but you probably learn more from the ones that are in the same bracket as yourself. You realise that others struggle with the same issues as yourself and the peer support one gets helps one to progress. One learns from the constructive criticism received during the meetings and gradually eliminates the basic mistakes. I completed the Toastmasters International Communication and Leadership programme in May 2001. I was honoured to be asked to serve as president for the year 2001–2002 and enjoyed my year leading the meetings and hopefully, I helped to encourage fellow Toastmasters starting out. I wish Ennis Toastmasters Club continued success and congratulate it on its 50th anniversary ◊
Liam Barry President, Ennis Toastmasters Club 2001–2002.
Liam Barry 5
Ennis Toastmasters | 1973–2023
Patrick Hynes at the 2016 Area 13 Humorous Speech Contest, hosted by Ennis Toastmasters Club
Golden Moments
I
work at the University of Limerick which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. I am also approaching my own 50th birthday, and of course, Ennis Toastmasters Club is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
50th anniversaries and birthdays are embedded on my radar presently. While being fabulous at fifty might be deemed somewhat clichéd, I am, however, cognisant of the concept of a 50th being considered a golden jubilee. Threads of gold weave through so many elements of Ennis Toastmasters Club and I want to share some of these golden moments with you. In 2009, I became a member of Toastmasters International, commencing my Toastmasters journey in Tullamore Toastmasters Club. Work resulted in me having to move and I joined both Shannon Toastmasters Club and Ennis Toastmasters Club, where I hold dual membership. The golden moments started straight away with the warm, friendly welcome that I received on my first night in Ennis. Whether one is a seasoned Toastmaster or a complete 6
novice, the initial welcome is so important and can be the game changer as to whether someone will come back or not. Clearly, the welcome was golden, and I have been coming back since 2018. My enthusiasm for Toastmasters has never loosened its grip. No two meetings have ever been the same, and for someone who likes new and novel information and ideas, it has been the perfect place to inspire me on a Tuesday night. Speech writing and speech delivery are fundamental parts of Toastmasters. Words, gestures, vivid images, lovely language, tone, and pitch all spill out into the room and often gently rise and echo off the walls and the ceiling of the room before landing gently again on our eyes and ears, and most especially on our emotions. Hearing speeches by the members of the club is pure gold for me and I often feel that it is a privilege to experience such creativity.
Toastmasters also affords one the opportunity to develop listening and critiquing skills.
Table topics are now one of my favourite parts of Toastmasters. Even if they are challenging, I find that my thought process is sharper, quicker, and more anticipatory to
any topic that comes my way. Golden proud moments have included winning the Josie Kerin perpetual cup on a few occasions in the Ennis Toastmasters Club Table Topics contest. However, it is not all about contests, and speeches. Toastmasters also affords one the opportunity to develop listening and critiquing skills. Practising speech evaluations has stood me well in my professional life as it teaches the skill of listening to a speech or presentation and giving constructive feedback that is positive but interspersed with recommendations and suggestions. The busy patterns in the carpet at the Temple Gate Hotel where Ennis Toastmasters currently meet are often reflective of the menagerie of thoughts and ideas that you are exposed to at Toastmasters meetings. At Ennis Toastmasters Club, we continue with a velocity of vibrancy that keeps our club visible and valued in the community. That is what keeps Toastmasters interesting, motivating, and golden for me ◊ Patrick Hynes President, Shannon Toastmasters Club 2022–2023, 2023–2024 and member of Ennis Toastmasters Club.
7
Ennis Toastmasters | 1973–2023
Toastmaster of the Year The Toastmaster of the Year Award is an honour bestowed upon a club member for outstanding efforts in Toastmasters. It is usually given in recognition of a member’s endeavours that contribute significantly to the spirit and success of the club.
1988–1989
Kevin Kennedy
2006–2007
Frank Gunter
1989–1990
Anthony Galvin
2007–2008
John Moran
1990–1991
Niall Blake
2008–2009
Gillian Phillips
1991–1992
Frank Flaherty
2009–2010
Declan Gibbons
1992–1993
Tom Meaney
2010–2011
Michael O’Brien
1993–1994
Gregory Rynne
2011–2012
Geraldine Gregan
1994–1995
Theresa Corcoran
2012–2013
Halimah Heaslip
1995–1996
Michael Neville
1996–1997
Maura O’Gorman
1997–1998
Kathleen Purcell
1998–1999
Eileen O’Brien
1999–2000
Julie Brosnan
2000–2001
Kevin Murray
2001–2002
Robert Bennett
2002–2003
Seán White
2003–2004
John Moore
2004–2005
Tony Coffey
2005–2006
Jack Hynes
8
& Sarah Ryan 2013–2014
Anne-Marie Custy
2014–2015
Nicola DiLucia
2015–2016
Cora Gunter
2016–2017
Monica Tiernan
2017–2018
Eilís Liddy
2018–2019
Pat Quinn
2019–2020
Sinéad Burns
2020–2021
Tara Donnellan
2021–2022
Yvonne Purcell
2022–2023
Alan Davis
Past Presidents For fifty years club presidents have led, with encouragement and support, their fellow officers, and members of Ennis Toastmasters Club to be the best that they can be, to reach their individual goals, and the club to reach its Distinguished Club Programme goals. They represent their club at Area, Division, District, and international meetings.
1973–1979
Josie Kerin
2004–2005
Eileen O’Brien
1979–1981
Seamus Hynes
2005–2006
Robert Bennett
1981–1983
Tom McGrath
2006–2007
Carmel Daly
1983–1985
Michael Leyden
2007–2008
Michael Flynn
1985–1987
Michael Dinan
2008–2009
Robert Bennett
1987–1989
Eamon Kelly
2009–2010
Frank Gunter
1989–1991
Kevin Kennedy
2010–2011
Lorna McGrath
1991–1992
Isobel Stokes
2011–2012
John Moran
1992–1993
Beth McInerney
2012–2013
Geraldine Gregan
1993–1994
Frank Flaherty
2013–2014
Adrian Fennell
1994–1995
Anna Marie Ryan
2014–2015
Halimah McNamara
1995–1996
Theresa Corcoran
2015–2016
Anne-Marie Custy
1996–1997
Julie Brosnan
2016–2017
Pat Quinn
1997–1998
Gregory Rynne
2017–2018
Monica Tiernan
1998–1999
Maura O’Gorman
2018–2019
Tara Donnellan
1999–2000
Kevin Murray
2019–2020
Frank Gunter
2000–2001
Kathleen Purcell
2020–2021
Gabriel Gregan
2001–2002
Liam Barry
2021–2022
Noel Barry
2002–2003
Michael Neville
2022–2023
Yvonne Purcell
2003–2004
Fiona Wheeler
2023–2024
Geraldine Gregan
9
Ennis Toastmasters | 1973–2023
Club Achievements Distinguished Club Award 1987
1996–1997
2000–2001
2009–2010
1993–1994
1997–1998
2002–2003
2018–2019
1995–1996
1998–1999
2003–2004
Select Distinguished Club Award 2004–2005
2008–2009
2012–2013
2016–2017
2005–2006
2010–2011
2014–2015
2017–2018
2007–2008
2011–2012
2015–2016
Club Excellence Award District 71 1994–1995
2001–2002
Smedley Award 2011 Governor’s 20 Club Award Five times Governor’s 30 Club Award Two times Talk Up Toastmasters 2003
2015
2005
2016
Founders Award 2005
10
Special Awards for members of Ennis Toastmasters Club The Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) award represents the highest level of educational achievement in Toastmasters. Julie Brosnan and Frank Gunter, Ennis club members, received it in 2010 and 2017 respectively. To earn the DTM award, they had to complete ten Toastmasters education programmes and hold leadership roles at club, area, division, and district level. They mentored, coached, or sponsored clubs. Julie and founder member Tom McGrath (RIP) ran the Toastmasters Youth Leadership programme with second-level students from three schools. Frank coached second-level students from Transition Year for the School Competitions. Distinguished Toastmasters are a rare breed. Less than one percent of all Toastmasters ever achieve that designation. In 2000, Tom McGrath was awarded the Paul G. Murphy Award, which recognises outstanding service to Toastmasters in Division A. In 2018 and 2019, John Moran (RIP) and Patrick Hynes were Regional Winners in the Europe Direct Soapbox Competition which qualified them to compete at the National Finals.
Distinguished
Paul G. Murphy Award
Europe Direct Soapbox Competition
Toastmaster (DTM)
Regional Winners 2010 Julie Brosnan 2017
Frank Gunter
2000 Tom McGrath (RIP)
2018
John Moran (RIP)
2019
Patrick Hynes
11
Ennis Toastmasters | 1973–2023
Member Success Ennis Toastmasters Club has had many successes in the Humorous and International Speech Contests and in the Speech Evaluation and Table Topics Contests during the past fifty years. Club members have competed at club, area, division, district, and international level.
Year
Contest
Division
Competitor
Result
1984
International Speech
A
Michael Dinan
Winner
1985
International Speech
A
Marie Pyne
Winner
1989
International Speech
A
Kevin Kennedy
Winner
1989
Humorous Speech
A
Niall Blake
Winner
1992
International Speech
A
Vincent Reynolds
Winner
1992
Humorous Speech
A
Anthony Galvin
Winner
1997
Table Topics
A
John Clohessy
Winner
1998
Speech Evaluation
A
Julie Brosnan
2000
Speech Evaluation
A
Julie Brosnan
Winner
2001
Humorous Speech
A
Gregory Rynne
2nd
2003
Table Topics
F
John Clohessy
Winner
2004
Table Topics
F
Julie Brosnan
2nd
2005
International Speech
F
Julie Brosnan
2005
Speech Evaluation
F
John Clohessy
2006
International Speech
F
Rita Brady
2006
Table Topics
F
John Clohessy
2007
Table Topics
F
John Clohessy
Winner
2008
Speech Evaluation
F
Fiona Wheeler
2nd
2008
Humorous Speech
F
John Clohessy
2008
Table Topics
F
John Moran
2009
Table Topics
F
John Clohessy
2010
Speech Evaluation
F
Julie Brosnan
2010
Table Topics
F
John Moran
12
3rd
District Final at
Result
World Final at
Result
Oxford, England Blarney, Cork
Winner
Columbus, Ohio
Winner
Winner
Stratford, England Gatwick, England
2nd
Limerick
Slough, England
2nd
Edinburgh, Scotland
Nenagh
Continued on next page... 13
Ennis Toastmasters | 1973–2023 Member success continued...
Year
Contest
Division
Competitor
Result
2011
International Speech
F
Julie Brosnan
2011
Speech Evaluation
F
Julie Brosnan
Winner
2011
Humorous Speech
F
Julie Brosnan
2nd
2012
International Speech
F
Rita Brady
Winner
2012
Humorous Speech
F
John Clohessy
2013
International Speech
F
Rita Brady
2013
Table Topics
F
John Clohessy
2014
Speech Evaluation
F
John Clohessy
2014
Humorous Speech
F
Halimah Heaslip
2015
International Speech
F
John Clohessy
2015
Speech Evaluation
F
John Clohessy
2015
Humorous Speech
B
Pat Bergin
2016
International Speech
B
John Moran
2016
Speech Evaluation
B
John Clohessy
2016
Humorous Speech
B
Marie Clancy
2016
Table Topics
B
Mike Douse
2017
Humorous Speech
B
Marie Clancy
2017
Table Topics
B
Pat Quinn
2018
Humorous Speech
B
Marie Clancy
2019
Humorous Speech
B
Marie Clancy
2019
Table Topics
B
Patrick Hynes
2020
Speech Evaluation
B
John Moran
2020
Humorous Speech
B
Patrick Hynes
2nd
2020
Table Topics
B
Patrick Hynes
3rd
2021
Speech Evaluation
B
Patrick Hynes
2nd
3rd
14
District Final at
Result
World Final at
Result
Windsor, England
Wexford
3rd
15
Toastmasters in the Burren, 1996
Toastmasters at Kilkee, 2001
25th Club Anniversary, 1998
Toastmasters at Carrigaholt, 1998
Toastmasters on the West Clare Railway, 2001
Presentation of Josie Kerin Memorial Cup, 2005
Toastmasters at Kilbaha, 2001
Carmel Daly and Gillian Phillips (RIP), 2005
Toastmasters trip to Loop Head, 2005
Toastmasters on Lough Derg, 2003
John Moore near Carrigaholt ‘05
Ennis Toastmasters | 1973–2023
Ennis Toastmasters and Me I joined many organisations and
Initially, I attended sessions of
signed up for many night classes, etc.
Ennis Toastmasters merely as an
over the last 50 years but certainly
onlooker. My reasons for doing
none of them has given me the
so were to form new friendships
scope for development or near as
and to integrate naturally into the
much enjoyment, friendships, etc.
community. From the beginning I felt
as Toastmasters. Let us be forever
that I was among friends who were
grateful to those who founded this
interesting, supportive, and oozing
club 50 years ago and to those who
with kindness. Therefore, I did not
have kept it going over the years,
feel intimidated or anxious when I
particularly during challenging
was asked to speak. I chose to speak
times like Covid. The enthusiasm
on the effectiveness of singing and
so evident here tonight and this
music as a means of communication
excellently organised function and, of
with the children whom I teach.
course, also this very well produced
These children have additional
booklet show that the future of Ennis
needs. While most of these children
Toastmasters Club is bright.
are presently non-verbal they all respond to sounds. It wasn’t long
John Clohessy
before I realised that I had become a
Joined 1994
more efficient communicator within my place of work. I had learned to express myself confidently in my dealings with parents, members of staff, and other agencies. In conclusion, I feel that joining the Toastmasters community was a turning point in my life and I would highly recommend it to everyone. Niamh Brady Joined 2022
18
I joined Ennis Toastmasters Club
your audience. It was a privilege to
originally just to conquer my fear
give back and serve as president of
of public speaking. The members
Ennis Toastmasters Club. My time at
helped me no end through gentle
Toastmasters has served me well in
encouragement and positive
many ways such as my daughter’s
feedback. But what I enjoy most
wedding, birthdays, social gatherings
about the club is listening to so many
and in developing a party piece. For
fascinating people of all ages share
anyone who would like to improve
their stories and unique take on life.
their abilities and open opportunities
This is the essence of what makes
for themselves, I would highly
Ennis Toastmasters Club so special.
recommend Toastmasters as the way to go.
Adrian Fennell Joined 2013
Kevin Murray Joined 1997
When I first came to Toastmasters my ambition was modest enough.
Ennis Toastmasters Club offers me
To overcome the debilitating
a uniquely warm and welcoming
self-consciousness I experienced
refuge from modern life. It’s a place
whenever I became the centre of
where everybody knows my name
attention within a group or audience.
and I’m always glad that I came.
I came to the meetings and took
I’m afforded an opportunity to
a topic each time and gradually
stretch and challenge myself in a
‘learned by doing’ to think on my
positive supportive environment.
feet, while my fears declined as I
Ennis Toastmasters Club is one of
gained confidence that I could do
those rare institutions where your
this. Wow! People at the meetings
investment actually reaps huge
were encouraging, supportive,
dividends. I look forward to investing
helpful, and friendly. A mentor was
more time in this Club in the next
assigned to me from the start. There
50 years.
was a written starter-pack which outlined the ten-stage programme
Bríd Brady
which consisted of ten speeches.
Joined 2021
Each speech was to practise a new skill such as organise your speech, vocal variety, show what you mean and at number ten, how to inspire 19
Ennis Toastmasters | 1973–2023
Backdrop To My Life
T
oastmasters has been a backdrop to my life for many years. I first heard about it more than 30 years ago through a former work colleague, and Toastmaster, Gerry Barry. He constantly advocated the benefits
of attending Toastmasters meetings but it wasn’t until I joined myself that I discovered what I had missed over the years. I joined Toastmasters over 20 years ago. In the Ennis Club, there were many eminent Toastmasters. Marie Pyne from Ennis Toastmasters had won the International Speech Contest in 1984 so the Ennis Club had international standing. Some Club Officers held positions at Area, Division, and District level and were well known at those levels internationally. Meetings were attended nationally and internationally particularly within the UK. I learned many skills since I joined Toastmasters. While I was in an occupation which involved making presentations in public, I never appreciated the true skills one learns from others in a Toastmasters setting. The main skill is listening. Listening is a natural process but in order to truly hear a message one must practise concentrated listening. Then one hears the unsaid word as well as the many other words being spoken. The unsaid word can impart the true message.
John Moran (RIP), Monica Tiernan, Ennis Club President, and Frank Gunter receiving his Distinguished Toastmaster Award, 2017 20
The next skill is evaluation. You learn to evaluate through practice. Before you evaluate others you must learn to evaluate yourself. This comes again from listening to yourself and the accent and crutch words you use. You don’t have to put on an accent. Just use your own, but be in a position to explain localisms which others in the audience may not understand. The next skill is timing. You learn this skill at every meeting when you volunteer to take a topic, as well as when you make a prepared speech. It is an essential skill for use in life and you can practise at every meeting. Another skill you learn is that of Club Coach. I have been Club Coach to a number of Clubs resulting in increased membership, as well as coaching young people from second-level schools for the school competitions during Transition Year. Other skills are learned through being Toastmaster (Chairperson), Topics Master, Evaluator, Timer, or Guest Greeter at meetings. These roles are undertaken by all members and change at every meeting. The only role that remains unchanged for the year is that of Club President. I completed the training programmes, which were the many speeches to be
Listening is a natural process but in order to truly hear a message one must practise concentrated listening.
completed, before the present Pathways system was introduced. I completed ten programmes resulting in achieving my Distinguished Toastmaster recognition in August 2017. These involved leadership roles at Club, Area, Division, and District levels. Area 13 achieved Distinguished Area recognition during my period as Area Governor 2011– 2012, which was presented by James Hegarty (RIP), District Governor D71. I travelled and attended meetings and competitions in England, Scotland and throughout Ireland where I met many lifelong friends. Some have passed away and I miss them. I recommend Toastmasters for everybody ◊
Frank Gunter DTM President, Ennis Toastmasters Club 2009–2010 and 2019–2020.
21
Ennis Toastmasters Club 40th anniversary committee, 2014
Club President Lorna McGrath presents Toastmaster of the Year Award to Michael O’Brien, 2011
Area Final of International Speech and Evaluation Contests, 2013
Emma Galvin and Nicola DiLucia at Christmas Party, 2013
Toastmasters Division B, District 71 International Speech Contest at Limerick, 2016
Presentation of Humorous Speech Trophy during COVID-19 lockdown, 2020
Cora Gunter, Toastmaster of the Year, and Club President Anne-Marie Custy, 2016
1985 International World Champion of Public Speaking Marie Pyne at Club Christmas Party, 2012
Humorous Speech and Table Topics Club Winners, 2017
Area Final of Speech Evaluation Contest, 2015
Rita Brady (RIP) at Toastmasters District Conference, Wexford, 2012
Ennis Toastmasters | 1973–2023
Ennis Toastmasters and Me Men do not just chat, we must be
fears and challenges, while making
doing something with a purpose
it a very enjoyable experience. I got
or at best pretend to. I joined Ennis
to know and meet the best of people
Toastmasters in 2017 as a social outlet
and I am forever grateful to them all.
and with minor optimism that I may
Toastmasters, Thank you.
improve my public-speaking skills strictly for family wedding-speech
Monica Tiernan
purposes. I was made very welcome
Joined 2014
with no pressure to perform. The one wedding so far went well, but there is another coming up soon,
I was given the great honour of being
so no pressure. Unexpectedly on
best man to a close friend many
joining and still surprising to me is
moons ago. My abiding memory
the quality of the prepared speeches
of that role was the debilitating
as they are always compelling,
nerves I suffered at having to give a
informative, insightful and most of
speech to a room of over 100 people.
all enjoyable. What more can a man
I got through it and vowed never
ask for, purpose and entertainment in
to experience that feeling again.
one place.
Since then I have joined Toastmasters which has not only helped me to gain James Hannon
confidence in my public speaking,
Joined 2017
but has also introduced me to some of the most interesting people I have ever met from all backgrounds and
I joined Toastmasters here in Ennis
age groups.
for my own self development, and to be comfortable in more formal
Alan Davis
surroundings and situations. I met the
Joined 2020
most wonderful group of individuals, that I am now happy to call my friends. I gained so much on all levels by joining Toastmasters. The group provided a safe and very supportive space for me to work through my 24
I had the pleasure of becoming
A work colleague once told me that
President of Ennis Toastmasters
the most important requirement/skill
Club for the year 2022- 2023. During
in any job is how you communicate
that time it was wonderful to see the
with people. As I navigated
club growing in numbers. Our new
through work and life, I began
members added flair and diversity to
to understand what he meant.
our meetings. Educationally, a good
Good communication skills are
number achieved their PATHWAYS
essential in a work setting but more
goals. Unfortunately, during this
importantly, in my opinion, they are
time, our beloved John Moran passed
vital in all aspects of life. Like all skills,
away in December 2022. John was
communication can be improved
a gentleman and a scholar, always
with constant practice. A friend told
extremely welcoming to everyone
me about Toastmasters. Never one
at Toastmasters and is hugely
to say no to a new experience, I
missed. RIP John. It is a challenge
decided to give it a go. I won’t lie;
to describe fully the camaraderie
public speaking scares me so I was
and liveliness experienced by all.
going to be well out of my comfort
This is illustrated by the many
zone, but I decided to embrace the
attendees who come for a drink and
challenge!! As well as developing
to socialise after meetings- putting
skills in speaking and presentation
the world to rights! We would always
delivery, I have met a warm, friendly
be guaranteed to be smiling and
and supportive group of people
in good form following a meeting.
from all walks of life. I always leave
As Hyacinth Bucket from ‘Keeping
a Toastmasters meeting having
up Appearances’, in advance of one
enjoyed good company and feeling
of her candlelight suppers remarked,
that it was an evening well spent!!
‘It’s going to be the usual success!’ Maria Carey Yvonne Purcell
Joined 2022
Joined 2018
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Ennis Toastmasters | 1973–2023
President in Exile
I
succeeded Frank Gunter as President of Ennis Toastmasters Club in July 2020, four months after the arrival of COVID-19 in Ireland. Large gatherings of people were not allowed. We in Ennis Toastmasters decided to hold
our own bi-monthly meetings via Zoom. In September 2020, I presided as club president over my first Ennis Toastmasters Zoom meeting. In my home, I was President. Geraldine, my wife, was Secretary and my son Gerard was the Membership Officer. We had to have three PCs running at the same time in three different rooms. In ‘Full Screen’ mode we saw members logging in. We usually had 12-14 members online. Some members had issues with connecting at times due to poor internet connectivity but the show did keep going. After I started the meetings, shouts could be heard from Geraldine or Gerard in adjacent rooms. ‘You’re in silent mode!’ ‘You’re upside down!’ ‘Align properly!’ These were issues I would not have had presiding in the Temple Gate Hotel. After appropriate adjustments, I re-addressed the meeting while welcoming all members, read the Toastmasters Mission Statement, and then handed control of the meeting over to the Toastmaster for the evening. As the meeting progressed our screens displayed each member as they spoke. Thus, we were all virtually present in
‘You’re in silent mode!’ ‘You’re upside down!’ ‘Align properly!’
each member’s home as they spoke throughout the meeting. All other members were requested to switch to silent mode on their own PC to curtail extraneous noises from the system. What were the main differences, apart
from the obvious lack of real physical presence? Clearly there was a lack of the spontaneous audience response and the witty comments one gets at any meeting and we did not have the few drinks in the bar after the event. On the other hand, we had no commuting, which was appreciated on cold winter nights. We had unique prize-giving ceremonies. John Moran (RIP) and Patrick Hynes were presented with the Best Evaluation and the Best Speech Awards respectively at the NCT centre car park. Tara Donnellan received 26
Presenting John Moran (Right) with his trophies, 2020 her Toastmaster of the Year award at an appropriate COVID-19 distance on an appropriately ‘COVID-time’ organised end-of-year trip to Moher Hill Pet Farm, Liscannor. Martin Canavan, the farm’s owner, is a member of our club. The outing was most enjoyable. It meant we were able to have our annual outing while complying with the COVID-19/HSE regulations of avoiding enclosed spaces. Another observation about meeting via Zoom is that I, as president, opened and closed each meeting without having the input that is possible at a live meeting. The evening’s Toastmaster did most of the work. I very much enjoyed my year as President of Ennis Toastmasters Club. I referred to my term as the ‘President in Exile’. I am very grateful to the club members that signed in via Zoom, during that year. Irony of ironies! As I write, the Zoom Company has asked its employees worldwide to return to the office for at least two days per week, thus reducing their hours working on Zoom ◊
Gabriel Gregan President Ennis Toastmasters Club, 2020–2021
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Ennis Toastmasters | 1973–2023
Captivating Journeys
A
s the Club prepares to celebrate 50 years, it’s remarkable to reflect on
my own journey as a member for almost a decade. I vividly recall joining just in time for the 40th anniversary celebration, where I enjoyed cutting the cake alongside Robert Bennett, one of our longest-standing members.
At the 40th celebration in 2014
When I first walked into a Toastmasters meeting, the structure and format seemed unfamiliar. It was even a bit strange. That sense of uncertainty didn’t take long to transform into a reassuring familiarity. Knowing how each meeting would be structured provided a sense of comfort, and soon I found myself eagerly participating in various roles, from meeting roles to impromptu topics and prepared speeches. With each encounter, I felt my confidence steadily growing. Ennis Toastmasters Club was not only teaching me the art of public speaking but also imparting a wealth of knowledge on a range of captivating subjects. What I love most about our Tuesday evening gatherings is the magic of being transported from the ordinary to the extraordinary. Each meeting is a journey filled with intriguing speeches on a myriad of topics and heartfelt or humorous stories about the diverse journeys of life. We’re a melting pot of individuals from all walks of life, and sharing our stories and experiences enriches us all. In Toastmasters, I’ve gained more than just the lifelong skill of public speaking; I’ve gained memorable experiences, a network of friends, and a supportive community. As we celebrate this significant milestone, I’m grateful that I’m a part of the Ennis Toastmasters Club. Here’s to 50 years of growth, learning, friendship, and many more ahead! ◊
Tara Donnellan President, Ennis Toastmasters Club 2018–2019.
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Toastmasters 50th Táimid ag ceiliúradh í mbaile na hInse le cúpla mí Tá Toastmasters anseo ó naoi déag seachtó trí Thanks to the people in year one for setting it up in the town And members throughout the years who have not let you down. All founding members are now enjoying a long silent rest The good work that they began is still high on a wave crest Ribbons of achievements over the years on display remain Names of presidents are etched on a presidential chain. Seventeen meetings per season from September to May With good mentoring and support always on display We are addressed by the President then the mission is read And for the rest of the meeting by a Toastmaster we’re led. There’s a fáilteoir at the door to shake our hand as we enter Guests and strangers made welcome by a designated mentor A timer with stop watch, switching lights green orange and red An ‘aa’ and ‘am’ counter listening for crutch words that are said. The grammarian explains a word that we are encouraged to use A topics master has topics on which we’re asked for our views The general evaluator keeps track from beginning to end Telling in feedback whether we were good or where we sinned. Prepared speeches in accordance with Pathways are evaluated To achieve higher levels of recognition one must be dedicated The President gives a rewarding ribbon for speeches delivered Also rewards for best topic that the members have considered. There are yearly competitions the winner represents their club Against three other worthy competitors in the Area hub Divisions and District 71 come next until there’s an achiever Then it’s internationally to choose a world wide winner. Marie Pyne for Ennis won the world title in nineteen eighty five Her win in the international speech still helps the club to thrive Members have done well locally some the district finals made Continuous good luck to our club agus go maire sé an céad. Composed by: Michael O’Brien for the 50th anniversary August 2023. 29
Tony Mulqueen and Neil Hynes at Christmas Party, 2013
At Division B Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contests, Limerick, 2015
End of 2022 season meal in Ennis
Club outing to Moher Hill Farm 2021
Tara Donnellan, TM of year 2020–2021
Eileen O’Brien and Theresa Corcoran (RIP) at 40th anniversary celebrations, 2014
Winners of Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contests 2022
Adrian Fennell, John Moran (RIP), and John Moore at Christmas Party 2013
Alan Davis, TM of year 2022–2023
Winners of Humorous Speech and Table Topics Club Contests 2023
Ennis Toastmasters | 1973–2023
Persistence Pays
I
first became aware of the Ennis Toastmasters Club in 1996 as a result of the small but persistent notices inserted by the club in the Clare Champion newspaper. The name puzzled me and I made many enquiries as to what it
was about. I reached what then seemed to be a big decision and attended a meeting. Before that meeting had ended, I knew that it was what I needed to increase my confidence in speaking or indeed simply responding in public. I still remember very well making my first speech to the Club. It was daunting, but I had already been involved in responding to random topics during previous meetings and that certainly helped. Apart from delivering speeches, it is always a great pleasure listening to those from other members on a wide variety of topics. We come away from the meetings a bit more knowledgeable that when we went in. Having filled many roles and positions over the years, including that of Club President on two occasions, I can say that Toastmasters is a very cooperative organisation and, without exception, all of the members have been a pleasure to work with. I am proud to be the longestserving present member of Ennis Toastmasters Club, and I wish it many more years of success. Happy 50th anniversary and many more anniversaries to come ◊ Robert Bennett President, Ennis Toastmasters Club 2005–2006 and 2008–2009.
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