TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL
The SUNSHINER News from Southeast Florida and The Bahamas — Fall Conference Issue
District 47 Goes for Gold — and Nails It! By Michelle Balaun, DTM Boca Raton Advanced Toastmasters Golden sunshine is not the only bright spot in Miami; the District 47 Fall Conference was totally golden. More than 200 Toastmasters attended. If you weren’t one of them, not to fret – you can attend the Spring Conference, which is right around the corner in April. Michelle Balaun
Friday Fun At the Sheraton Miami Airport Hotel & Executive Meeting Center, the conference floor was the place to get your GOLD card, and a hotel concierge helped our members find the registration and the comfortable meeting rooms. Traditionally, Friday night attendees see themed costumes along with the Speech Evaluation Contest, and this year was no exception. A special cheesecake dessert buffet and a keynote address by Jim Key, 2003 World Champion of Public Speaking, were enjoyed by all. Friday evening primed everyone for the next day's chock-full schedule of workshops, meetings and the main event Saturday night.
Saturday Excitement Saturday morning started bright and early with First-timer’s challenges and the education presentations. The conference presentations had a useful slant this season; they were practical and interactive. Participants were asked to participate! So many attendees remarked at how much they learned at each of the workshops – bravo to the presenters. Jim Key gave us an excellent presentation where we could get up close and personal to learn how to use our stories effectively in a speech. His jovial and honest way of speaking endeared him to the group. The luncheon included an inspiring keynote by Region 8 International Director Matt Kinsey, DTM, followed by the District 47 Hall of Fame and the traditional roast of Immediate Past District Director Jeanine Kinsey. Please click to Fall Conference, page 13 District 47 Week Proclaimed
INSIDE
Keynote Speakers Winners’ Circle
Honorable Mentions Photo Finish