District 71 Newsletter
March 2018
Roscrea Toastmasters -- President: Brian McLoughlin Roscrea Toastmasters President Brian McLoughlin making a presentation to Sean Dwan, founder of Roscrea Toastmasters.
Roscrea Toastmasters met on Thursday 1st February, to celebrate a very special milestone of being 10 years old. President Brian McLoughlin welcomed all current members, past members and guests. It was great to see a very large attendance to help with the celebrations. Sean Dwan spoke about how he founded the club, as part of a project he undertook when he was an Area Governor. He outlined the difficulties, challenges and successes he encountered along the way. Edward Healy and Matt Burke both gave talks about their own journey that led them to join Toastmasters and how much personal and professional benefits each has received since joining. There was an inspiring speech from Larry Lyons about how he came to join Toastmasters. Sheila Shanahan gave a prepared speech on the works of Irish stained-glass artist, Harry Clarke which was evaluated by Tony Hoctor. The meeting also heard about the benefits of Toastmaster from Alan Coffey, while Liam Coffey acted as Topicsmaster for the evening with some very entertaining topics which brought much laughter. Roscrea Speakers Club also paid tribute to member Paul Ryan who passed away in November 2017 by hearing some of his poetry recited by John Browne. The club was delighted that so many of Paul’s family honoured us by being with us. Sean Tuohy presented a bouquet of flowers to Paul Ryan’s sister, Maura Phelan. The Area Director, Helen Spillane and the Divisional Director, Gerard Mannix both addressed the meeting and congratulated the club on reaching the milestone and gave great words of encouragement for the future. President Brian McLoughlin made a special presentation on behalf of the club to Sean Dwan, in huge appreciation of his dedication to the club and Toastmasters in general and especially for persevering with getting the club started ten years ago. The meeting finished with everyone enjoying some refreshments and a delicious birthday cake that was made by Bernie Teehan. Toastmasters International District 71 Newsletter March 2018 www.d71toastmasters.org