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DON'T BURN YOUR TOAST!
Tips on Toasting from Toastmasters
Courtesy of: Toastmasters International
Timing may be everything, but wording isn't far behind. Consider one of the most famous toasts of all: Humphrey Bogart's words to Ingrid Bergman "Here's looking at you, kid" in the legendary 1941 film Casablanca. Now trade "kid" for another endearment. No big deal? But Bogie probably would have achieved another kind of immortality if he'd raised his glass to Bergman and said, "Here's looking at you . . . babycakes!"
A toast should be "brief, personal and customized to the occasion," says Gavin Blakey, International President of Toastmasters International. "Most of all, it should be heartfelt."
Speaking from the heart is the key to an appropriate toast. To make sure you put your best foot forward and not in your mouth, here are some tips:
- Pick a topic that is personal but appropriate.
- Keep it short - no more than a couple of minutes. "Essentially, the best advice in public speaking is to always be brief," says Blakey.
- Practice. Think about what you want to say, and practice the toast in advance. Use friends as sounding boards beforehand.
- Stay sober. Being coherent helps, so save the alcohol for after the toast.
- Dress your best. If you look good, you'll feel more confident.
- Use humor if appropriate to the occasion.
- In summary: Be sincere, be brief, be seated.
Since its founding in 1924, Toastmasters International has helped four million men and women develop their public speaking skills and
become confident communicators at work, at home, and yes, even at parties.
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Area 45 Governor's Message
Anna D. Battle, ATMS
Happy New Year Fellow Toastmasters.
The year 2002-3 promises to be the year that Area 45 truly SOARS. New York Harbor Toastmasters has excelled by increasing membership growth 102%. This means we are committed to accomplishing the Club's goals, and as the Area Governor, my goals are included (PRESIDENT DISTINGUISHED AREA).
I take this opportunity to congratulate the President, Helen Jenkins, ATMB for encouraging membership by setting up Toastmaster Membership display tables;VP Membership Michelle Nelson, ATMS for completing the club's first Speech Craft; VP Public Relations, Beatrice Smith, CL for creating the web page for New York Harbor Toastmasters and the faithful members of our club.
I encourage you to keep your commitment, complete your assignments, attend meetings regularly, and invite guest, so they may see the benefits Toastmasters has to offer.
Anna
 HAPPY BIRTHDAY
January
Anna D. Battle, ATMS
Kevin Harper
February
Helen M. Jenkins, ATMB
A Message from the Editor
We are always looking for new ideas and topics for the our newsletter. If you have any ideas or would be interested in writing an article, please contact Beatrice Smith, Vice President, Public Relations at: Beatrice.Smith@med.va.gov
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