The big news from tonight's speech contest!

Dear friends at Marsh Winds,

Well, it was a fair wind that blew our beloved Marsh Winders to the Contest for Area 92 this lovely evening. A fair wind indeed! This is your presidential update about the Area 92 Speech Contest.

Tonight at the Ridgedale Library, Ravi (as our area Governor) along with Sandy Ryan (as the Area Governor for Area 91) co-sponsored a speech contest.  It was a smoothly run event, with every detail attended to. The preparation for an event such as this defies the imagination, but it was all worth it. The event was well attended, and well-appreciated too.

It was great to be greeted by both Larry and Jenn Ray at the welcome table. The spread of food was highly nutritious and carefully planned.

The "target" speech was an extremely entertaining and engaging (and at times darn right hilarious) speech by Jennifer Huffman, a Toastmaster from an Eden Prairie club.  For Area 92, our own Betty Liedtke came in first place for the evaluation speech, with a full five star speech that was personal, professional, and delighted us as well as encouraged the speaker in a helpful way. Yes, nothing short of the usual amazing talent and wit that Betty has worked hard to deliver in her five years as a Toastmaster!  Bravo! to Betty.

The Area 92 winner of the Humorous (or hilarious) speech contest was Lisa Jenks. Hearing her tale of lost keys was so intriguing, that even those of us in the audience who had heard it before were delighted, engaged, and responded with well-rounded, full-bodied, healthy laughter. Lisa had us eating out of the palm of her hand!  When it was over, I just wanted to do it all again... like a great ride at the fair.  Bravo to Lisa!

Both Lisa and Betty will face stiff competition at the upcoming Western Division Contest on October 5th at the Super Valu offices in Chanhassen.  They would love to have dedicated and encouraging Marsh Winders come and cheer them on!

Overall, the laughs were plentiful and good will abounded. I think new friends were made, as well. Personally, I learned some skills as behind-the-scenes (where I love to be) ballot counter that will help me in other situations.  I am constantly reminded how everything we learn in our adventures as Toastmasters can help us in other areas of our lives.  It is an honor to be part of Toastmasters, and especially the convivial Marsh Winds Club. It is a privilege to be part of a strong group with such gracious hearts and so many helping hands along with clear, strong, creative voices.

Kudos to Ravi, Sandy, Jenn Ray, Larry, judge Mark, and fellow Toastmaster Lynn for helping to make tonight a memorable event. Everyone: please share your warmest congratulations and support to both Lisa and Betty!

Dawn Anderson
President of Marsh Winds