OK, I admit it … I’m a Toastmasters addict. Send me to whatever 12-step organization Darren LaCroix is in. I’ve been to seven Toastmasters events in nine days. Last Friday was a demo meeting for a large accounting firm (a lead I’ve been chasing for over a year!), while Saturday was a PDG meeting, plus our regular DEC meeting. Monday was a demo meeting with the Chicago Public Schools (IT staff), and Tuesday was the club I’m coaching (South Loop Speak Freaks).

Wednesday was a manual speech at another club; the president had put out a call for someone to come and explain/sell the officer roles, as she was having trouble getting volunteers. Thursday was my advanced club (Next Step), and today (Saturday), I visited the club I originally coached to distinguished back in 2003-04 (Unity). Unity has 7 DCP points, but needs 6 more members; I think two people joined today, though. They’ve been distinguished each of the last four years, and I’d hate to see that track record broken.

Plus, I’ve added a few more things to my web page reports. There’s the triple crown report (list of people who earned three or more educational awards in the current TM year); I’m amazed to see at least one person on another district has picked up TEN educational awards so far this year.

Also, the AG to-do list now includes district goals at the top, and each area lists clubs that don’t have visit reports filed (only in September/October/November, and March/April/May, when they’re important). Also, the program checks for updates on the TI web site repeatedly on weekdays, so updates come through ASAP, instead of just at noon.

Remember, by the campaign rules, my opportunities to reach out and initiate contact with people outside my district are very limited. Please feel free to e-mail me with any feedback or suggestions!