Gimli’s Toastmasters in the Arts club hosted an open house celebration on Sept. 16 to celebrate its 10th anniversary and invite new members to start talking.
Held at the Aspen Park Recreation Centre just west of town, the club rolled out the cake and spoke about how Toastmasters can improve people’s public-speaking skills.
Club founder and vice president of membership Doreen Pendgracs, who lives in Matlock, said guests included former members, Toastmasters’ District 64 Director David Storey from Selkirk and several other district leaders and people from Brandon, Lac du Bonnet and Steinbach. And a number of potential members put their name on the list to join the club.
The club meets every Wednesday where members from across the Interlake (as far as Fisher Branch) and beyond share stories, have a few laughs and provide positive critique to help their colleagues hone their public presentation and speaking skills.
“Some meetings are held in person within the Interlake region and some meetings are conducted on Zoom, enabling members and guests from around the world to participate in the fun and inspiring meetings,” said Pendgracs.
Ponemah resident Reverend Lois Graham, who currently serves at St. George Anglican Church in Winnipeg and was a charter member of the club, shared some of her fond memories of the club and how it helped polish her presentation and communication skills.
“Keep on, keep on you beautiful Toastmasters. Thank you for all you do, for the inspiration you are and the help and hope you give others,” said Reverend Graham.
Toastmasters in the Arts meets Wednesdays from 10:30 until noon using a hybrid meeting method (in person and via Zoom).
For more information about Gimli Toastmasters in the Arts, contact Doreen Pendgracs by email: doreen.pendgracs@gmail.com or club president Darcy Truthwaite at (204) 308-1666.
Express photos Courtesy of Doreen Pendgracs
