Indian Time - A Voice from the Eastern Door

Halloween started early for the Akwesasne Toastmasters and their families at the spooky themed chapter meeting and Family Night, which was held on October 24 at the Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Training Center. This was a special night for members who got to dress up and share the evening with their kids, who are the future generation of Toastmasters.

Family Night is one night out of the year where members invite their family to a meeting. The idea arose from Adrian McDonald, Akwesasne Chapter President and family man, who felt it was important for members to share their experiences with their families.

“It was just an idea of mine because my son didn’t understand what Toastmasters was,” said Mr. McDonald. “He said, ‘Don’t you know how to make toast yet?’”

Anybody can attend a Toastmasters meeting as a guest as many times as they want, but they have to be 18 or older to become a member. Family Night is a fun way to get the youth interested in developing their communication and leadership skills early.

Each meeting has a designated Toastmaster who is responsible for planning and organizing the meeting, welcoming guests and introducing the speakers. This special Halloween Family Night was executed by Toastmaster Corrine Johnson, who has been a member of Akwesasne Toastmasters since last April.

“I come to improve my public speaking and leadership skills,” said Ms. Johnson. “I learn to let go of the fear and focus on communicating to people confidently in a comfortable and friendly environment.”

The Akwesasne Toastmasters family.

Three speakers were invited to prepare scary and funny tales to entertain guests. First, Phillip White shared one of his funny stories while on duty as a police officer. Then, Patrick Kelly shared his rendition of one of his favorite frightening poems, ‘The Raven’ by Edgar Allen Poe. And lastly, Jason McDonald shared the story of his grandfather’s ghostly encounter, which ended with a surprising twist.

Afterwards speakers were evaluated and audience members were asked to provide supportive comments. This is just one of the highly effective ways members work to improve their communication skills at a Toastmasters meeting. But speakers were not the only ones sharing their stories. Guests were also invited to share their fondest Halloween memories, movies, candy, and costumes.

While everybody was enjoying the evening, the real treat was the experience and confidence that participants gained each time they addressed the audience. For more information about Akwesasne Toastmasters check them out online at http://www.akwesasnetoastmasters.com or on Facebook.