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COVER STORY
grandchildren attend Faye Wright Elementary inviting, and I was happy to join. I learned a
school, Judson Middle School and Sprague lot from the evaluations of mine and others’
High School. We have a garden in our yard speeches. I could tell that my communication
and like to walk in nearby Woodmansee Park. skills were improving within a few short months.
We enjoy watching live theater and are season After nearly a year of participating in Club
ticket holders at the Pentacle Theater in West meetings, taking on different roles and giving
Salem. We watch school choir and orchestra speeches, I felt I had grown as a person, speaker
concerts and dance recitals that include our and leader. Then I was asked to mentor a new
grandchildren. Club member. That was when I understood that
Toastmasters was not just about me and my
goals, but about helping others with their goals
as well. What I learned by being a mentor in
Toastmasters has carried over into my work as
a dentist; being better able to help both patients
and employees with their needs and aspirations.
I am more patient, a better listener and I give
positive encouragement at every opportunity.
About three years ago I was asked to get out
of my comfort zone and serve in Toastmasters
beyond being a Club officer and I accepted the
responsibilities of an Area Director. It was a big
challenge, but also a great learning experience.
I discovered what Club leaders needed most was
a good listener to bounce ideas off of and to be
reassured that their problems were not unique
and that there were solutions available.
The following year I could see where I had
been helpful to some Clubs and maybe not so
Mark Thomas - Off to the great outdoors much in others. Then I was asked to serve as the
Division C Director. I thought, “why ask me? I
I joined Toastmasters in June of 2015 at the was only somewhat successful with a few Clubs
invitation of my good friend Brent Smith. The and failed in my attempt to help other Clubs.”
Club, Toasting Excellence, met in the Labor and With continued encouragement and without
Industries Building in downtown Salem, among any contenders I became the new Division C
the other State government buildings. Director in July of this year.
The Club members were friendly and My major goal is that I want to be as helpful
8 ONE COMMUNITY
