This article was reprinted with permission from the author.

Picture Them in Their Underwear

by Mike Sembos - July 10, 2003

U'm...hello...is this thing on?" Shrill feedback emits from an unknown location. When public speaking opportunities go awry, leaving the spokesperson sweaty palmed and voice quavering, it may be time to seek help from the Greater Stamford Toastmasters club. The name "Toastmaters" refers to the early 1920s when the speaking organization first formed and giving talks during dinner was a common form of public speaking. Sales calls, business presentations, school presentations and other such potentially terrifying endeavors are also covered at their meetings. Wednesday, July 16 is Beginners Night at One Stamford Plaza and it's designed so that even the most reserved speakers will quickly volunteer to get up in front of the group and strut their stuff (though no one is ever forced to speak). Games and exercises will be used to establish a comfortable atmosphere to shake that recurring nervousness once and for all.


The Stamford Toastmasters meet at One Stamford Plaza, 263 Tresser Blvd. in Stamford. Beginners Night is Wednesday, July 16 from 7-9 p.m. Call 461-7150 or visit http://www.stamfordtoastmasters.com/ for more information.
 
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This article originally appeared in July 10th, 2003 Fairfield County Weekly and was reprinted with permission.
"The names "Toastmasters International," "Toastmasters," and the Toastmasters International emblem are trademarks protected in the United States, Canada, and other countries where Toastmasters Clubs exist. Unauthorized use is prohibited."