How to Break the Social Ice by Shinan Barclay

FROM TOASTMASTER TO
MASTER OF SOCIAL OCCASIONS;
TOASTMASTERS HELPS.

Every Toastmaster remembers his or her first speech. Adventures, dreams, hobbies, jobs and family are all part of introducing yourself to not only fellow Toastmasters but to the world at large. Whatever you are enthused or passionate about, that energy will carry your speech into the hearts of your listeners. That same passion works well in new social situations--a wedding, funeral, civic event, or meeting the in-laws.

Many Toastmasters say that being in a Toastmasters Club has help him or her become a better husband, wife, boss, parent, friend, and/or neighbor.

Here are some ice breakers for those sticky social occasions when you'd rather bolt to the restroom or bar than talk to Great Aunt Hattie, [oops that's me!]

Say Hi . . . . Nice to see you . . . .Smile . . . . Pat on the back . . . . Hello. . . . .Ask for their name . . . . Be accessible . . . Remember eye contact. . . . Introduce yourself . . . .Ask a question . . . .Do you mind if I sit here . . . . Offer compliments . . . Tell me about yourself . . . LISTEN!


Join Coos Bay Toastmasters or just walk around our lovely, downtown Mingus Park

New Summer Meeting Place for Coos Bay Toastmasters

New Summer Meeting Place for Club 249

Coos Bay Toastmasters Club #249 meets from 6:30 to 7:30 pm, on the first and third Thursday of each month. For the summer months of June and July, meetings are held at Young Investments, 1902 Everet, off of Virginia St and across from the North Bend Safeway. Visitors are welcome. For further information call Charlotte Koepke, President at 888-5306 or Clyde Mulkins, Treasure at 751-8900.


Most people’s top fears are snakes, death and public speaking. By taking baby steps in a supportive Toastmasters club, anyone can overcome and master the art of speaking to groups. Breaking the Ice, Speaking with Enthusiasm and How to Get Your Butterflies to Fly in Formation are the introductory steps for folks with quaking knees.

This week’s speeches were “Free Money” and “Life in the Arctic.” Charlotte Koepke spoke on “Free Money,’ a little known, yet amazing Social Security fact, she’d read about in an investment magazine. Shinan Barclay told heart-warming stories from her year as a missionary teacher in an Arctic Inuit village. All members and visitors gave “Table Topics,” –impromptu speeches on current events.

Visitors were Julie Kremers, recently elected member of Southwestern Community College’s board and Rae Lea Cousens, Financial Director for the City of Coos Bay. They commented on the meeting. “It’s a wonderful, comfortable organization.” “I had so much fun.” “We look forward to learning with the Coos Bay Toastmasters.”

Experienced Toastmasters are available to speak at your club or meeting. For further information call Charlotte Koepke, President at 888-5306 or Clyde Mulkins, Treasure at 751-8900.

Coos Bay Toastmasters Improve with Practice

Public speaking is an acquired skill that improves with practice and feedback. Toastmasters, an international organization, teach people how to speak in public. Self-paced manuals allow you to build confidence and speaking skills. Sales Leader, Group Discussion Leader, Public Relations, Storytelling, Dramatic Reading, Humorist are a few of the mini learning programs that will help you sharpen your communication skills. Imagine giving the toast at a wedding, a eulogy at a funeral or an award presentation at your organization without jitters. In a Toastmasters club you’ll learn to get your butterflies to fly in formation.

Coos Bay Toastmasters Club #249 meets from 6:30 to 7:30 pm, on the first and third Thursday of each month. Meetings are held at the Educational Services District, ESD conference center, 1350 Teakwood (near Koos Bay Blvd.) Dues are $30. a year. Visitors are welcome. For further information call Charlotte Koepke, President at 888-5306 or Clyde Mulkins, Treasure at 751-8900.

At our last meeting, Mary Thayer gave a fact filled speech on “Swine Flu,” informing us of the unhealthy practices of factory farms. Shinan Barclay spoke on “The Five Love Languages,” saying that everyone wants to love and be love, but people express love in five different ways: Gift giving, Touch, Acts of Service, Praise Words or Quality Time. Experienced Toastmasters are available to speak at your club or origination.