Club Spotlight: Sunset Toastmasters
Charter Date: December 3, 2002
Meeting Times: 2nd and 4th Monday at 7:00pm.
Address: Pearl River Library (80 Franklin Ave, Pearl River, NY)
Club Members In Their Own Words:
I joined Toastmasters because, at the time, I had just joined a business networking group, BNI. Whenever it was my turn to get up to speak in front of the group, I would get very nervous, to the point where my heart was pounding heavily. Since public speaking is one of my goals, I knew I’d have to correct this problem pretty quickly. I decided to join Sunset Toastmasters because it was the closest group to my house, and I’m glad I did. I’ve found the group to be very supportive, and a place where one can thrive. I was just offered a speaking slot at an industry event at the end of the month. Thanks to my Toastmasters training, I am ready for the challenge! –Avrohom Gottheil
I was in between jobs when I joined Toastmasters. My short-term goal was to improve my speaking skills, in particular impromptu speaking for job interview circumstances. My long-term goal is to become more confident and more comfortable in social situations.I felt reassured when I noticed that experienced members had similar experiences as new members, such as difficulties and fears when they first joined the club. Still, even experienced speakers are not perfect and members always provide constructive criticism to each other and I find that very helpful.The other thing that makes the club a supportive environment is that members not only listen to speeches also they listen carefully to criticisms that are given and apply the feedback that they received to work on their next projects. – Tom Newcomb
I joined Toastmasters to become more comfortable speaking in front of groups. I started my own company and it became increasingly obvious that I need to speak more effectively in front of varied groups. I originally checked out the Ridgewood club and then Pearl River. I was immediately attracted to the Sunset Toastmasters club. People immediately welcomed me and that made me feel comfortable when I got up in front to speak. The feedback was helpful and constructive. The fact that the membership is diverse is a plus — it is more reflective of the groups that I speak to. And the input comes from varied perspectives. As I’ve gotten to know the members of the group, I now enjoy their company on a personal level.- Ron Gold
I joined Toastmasters because I am, now and again, asked to speak, and when I do, it is with mixed results. It also takes a tremendous toll on my emotions as I become extremely anxious and spend all the time leading up to the event wondering “WHY did I agree to do this?” Toastmasters was mentioned by the leader of an organization to which I have professional ties, and this woman is a consummate speaker. She said that participating in Toastmasters helped her tremendously, so I thought, if it was good enough for her, it might help me too!I have found Toastmasters to be an enormously supportive and helpful organization. First of all, the applause is lovely. I haven’t gotten that much positive attention since I was toilet trained! Also, we are all there for the same purpose so it’s an environment that promotes growth & self-improvement. The atmosphere at Toastmasters is one of appreciation and positivity, and I already feel that I have made strides in my development as a public speaker. I am very grateful to have this opportunity to work with the wonderful members of Toastmasters! – Perel Grossman
I have always been passionate about public speaking. However, I needed an opportunity to develop my public speaking and leadership skills. I believe Toastmasters gave me that opportunity and I must say my decision to join the Sunset Toastmasters club was one of the best decisions I have ever made. We at the Sunset Toastmasters club believe in teamwork and helping each other to be successful.
The Sunset Toastmasters club has a great support system. Everyone always treat each other with respect and everyone always welcome to our club. As I always say, every time we meet at the Pearl River library in the room where our meeting usually takes place, this is one of the biggest rooms for improvement and one of the best places to be on a Monday evening. – Gary J. Louis