D31 2009 Area & Division Governor Training

L-R 2006-2007 District 31 Lt. Governor of Maketing, Bo Bennett
with the 2009-2010 District 31 Governor, Sherri Raftery, DTM

I really owe my TOP THREE leadership journey to Bo Bennett who pulled me aside during a Club Officer Training and asked if I would consider being nominated for the 2007-2008 Lt. Governor of Maketing position (or LGM as we call it). I really did not have any intentions of serving as a leader in Toastmasters even though I was currently serving as the 2006-2007 A-2 Area Governor. But by the end of the Toastmaster year I loved the leadership track and was thrilled to recieved the Area Governor of the Year award.

When Bo explained the job he mentioned that I would be trained and the District would send me on (paid) trips. "Well color me happy" - I thought that is amazing. I was elected as the 2007-2008 LGM and recieved the Excellence in Marketing Award. The following year served as the 2008-2009 Lt. Governor of Education and Training (LGET) and will recieve the Excellence in Education & Training award at the Hall of Fame Ceremony by Madam International President, Jana Barnhill.

This year I am serving as the 2009-2010 District 31 Governor and I am pleased to share that this is an amazing journey with many tasks to attend to. We just had our 2009 Area & Division Governor Training and it went very well. I had 97% attendance with three excused absenses.
One Division Governor is in England and will be back in August. One Area governor had hip surgery and I trained him at the hospital and the other Area Governor will be trained on August 4th.

I highly recommend the leadership track to those of you who want to improve your public speaking and leadership skills.

Thank you Bo Bennett for seeing my leadership potential and asking me to step up to district office. BTW - the TRIPS have been amazing!

TAKE CENTER STAGE!

http://www.district31.org/

http://www.toastmasters.org/

2009-2010 District 31 Governor!

As the incoming District 31 Governor my theme for the 2009-2010 Toastmaster year is

"TAKE CENTER STAGE" ... because I believe the more you "TAKE CENTER STAGE" the better speaker and better leader you will become!
"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader". John Quincy Adams

This is a famous quote and it was sent to me in the form of a card by International Director, T. S. who wanted to show his support on my election to the District 31 Governor seat! It is greatly appreciated! Looking forward to reconnecting with TS and his team at the TM Convention!

Today is my first day on my 365 day journey as the 2009-2010 District 31 Governor - which begins on July 1, 2009 and ends on June 30, 2010. I wanted to post more today about being elected to the District Governor seat and add more testimonials - but I must keep this short.

I think that I will begin this Toastmaster year with posting my district duties to keep a time line.

Today I ordered Area & Division Governor Badges, Signed the Hilton Hotel contract for our 09/10Conferences as well as the deposit check. I also worked on the District 31 calendar and plan to send it into WHQ tomorrow.

See some comments by my fellow TM's below - I will post more and add as the year goes along.

I highly recommend the leadership track !

"TAKE CENTER STAGE"!

www.district31.org

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"Congratulations on your election as district governor --so well deserved". GayleGolden Golden, Early Risers Club


"I love your logo for the next conference. That is what it is all about isn't it?
Congratulations on all you do". Susan Guild, ACBronze, Lexington Club


"Hi Sherri, Well Congratulations!!! On your election to the top post. You have put in the time and effort and have done an excellent job with Toastmasters"!!! Don Saracen, Advanced Orators

2008-2009 D31 Outgoing LGET

"To Lead is to Serve" Dr. Ralph Smedley - Founder of Toastmasters Today is my final day as the Lt. Governor of Education & Training and this weekend at the Hail & Farwell Back Yard B.B.Q. BASH - the outgoing District 31 Governor, Bash Turay, DTM, PID pinned me with the incoming District 31 Governor pin! I pinned my incoming Lts. Bil Lewis, DTM who will serve as the incoming LGET and Ben Lappen with the incoming LGM.

I also earned my SECOND DTM on the final day of the 2009-2010 Toastmasters Year - which runs from June 30, 2008 - July 1, 2010.
This really has been an amazing year! District 31 made the Educational Goals and will be award the 2008-2009 "Excellence in Education & Training" award at the HALL OF FAME during the 2009 Toastmasters International Convention!

I am ready to lead the District - and my term begins July 1, 2009 - I will post my theme and kinds words and testimonials from members in my District.

Meet My 2009-2009 LGM Ben Lappen!

PHOTO: Sherri & Ben!

Meet Ben (Bennett) Lappen!

He is the incoming 2009-2010 District 31 Lt. Governor of Marketing and I could not be more proud! Ben was not on the nomination report even though he met with the committee - he had to run from the floor. AND gave a speech with humor, pride, conviction and enthusism and those certainly helped him win.

What more could I ask for !? Ben is young, eager, energenic and ready to get started - like YESTERDAY!.

We started off as Area Governors together in 2006 - calling ourselves "Partners in Crime" cuz we volunteered to assist in the Prison Clubs. Then I moved up to LGM and he helped on my Marketing Committee as a Division E DEMO Team Leader and assisted me the Dues Are Dues, TLI's and other projects!

Ben is currently serving as the Division E Governor and his numbers are looking great so far he has two Presidents Distinguished Clubs, four Select Distinguished and two Distinguished - Go Ben! Check it out for your self!

http://reports.toastmasters.org/reports_new/DistinguishedClubReport.cfm?secondTime=1&d=31+&thisYear=2008-2009&thisMonth=5&thisDate=2009-05-08%2000:00:00.0&btnSubmitGo=+Go+

Of course I would have welcomed either candidate on my team - especially since this was an elected officer - but it is a nice treat to be able to work with someone who is also a friend and well yeah a ...

"PARTNER IN CRIME"!

Toastfully Yours!

Madam District 31 Governor Elect

2009-2010 District 31Governor Elect!

It is OFFICICAL! I am the 2009-2010 District 31 Governor Elect - with ONE VOTE from the Sectretary - which means no one ran against me from the floor! I am VERY happy with my ONE VOTE!!

Photo: Past International Region Vii Director, Past District 31 Governor, Howard Riverson, DTM D31 Governor Elect, Sherri Raftery, DTM, current D31 Lt. Governor of Marketing and newly elected Lt. Governor of Education & Training, Bil Lewis, DTM (son of PDG, Bettye Underhille).

Giving my accepatance Speech - yah I did cry -- but who wouldn;t with a standing ovation that seems to last a VERY l o n g time - it was as if everyone wanted this MORE than I did - (Is that possible?)!!

Presenting my LGET Report

2010 Palm Desert California - JW Marriott

New Toastmasters International Convention Site for 2010!
http://www.desertspringsresort.com/

Nearly two years ago, in February 2007, Toastmasters International's Board of Directors selected Sydney, Australia, as the site of the 2010 International Convention. At that time, this was the right decision for the organization. However, the recent global financial crisis and economic downturn have caused the organization to re-evaluate that decision.

After extensive financial analysis, taking into consideration the negative impact those economic influences have on the meetings, convention and travel industries, Toastmasters International has determined that conducting an International Convention in Sydney, Australia, would not be financially responsible at this time. As a result, the venue of the 2010 International Convention has been changed to the Desert Springs JW Marriott Resort and Spa in Palm Desert, California - a property that has previously hosted two very successful Conventions in 1989 and 1998.

What does this mean for future Conventions held outside North America? World Headquarters staff will continue to assess that possibility and will provide the Board of Directors information allowing them to make a decision that is right for the organization and right for its members.

International President Jana Barnhill, in her Viewpoint article in this month's issue, says, "While we fully acknowledge that many of our members will be disappointed, we could not ignore our primary responsibility to be prudent with your funds." In addition she points out: "We appreciate all the efforts of Elizabeth Wilson, the Host District 70 Chair, and the work her team has already done to prepare for a Convention in Australia. I hope they, and all of our members, understand that this was not an easy decision."

"Toastmasters International's Board of Directors and World Headquarters staff care deeply about the needs of the organization's 235,000 members around the world and they take their responsibility toward them very seriously," says Toastmasters Executive Director Daniel Rex. "This was not an easy decision to make, but it is one that ultimately will benefit the interests of all members."

The Convention is an opportunity for men and women of all walks of life, career paths and educational interests to gather for an extraordinary experience. Meeting other Toastmasters from around the world, making new friends, reconnecting with existing friends and taking part in a superior educational program are hallmarks of a successful Convention.

With your understanding and support, we hope you will continue to make plans to join your fellow Toastmasters at the 79th Annual International Convention at Desert Springs JW Marriott Resort and Spa in Palm Desert, California - August 11-14, 2010.

Too read this go to this link on the Toastmasters International Website - Thursday November 13, 2008

http://www.toastmasters.org/Members/News/Announcements/NewConventionSite.aspx


Toastmaster friends I was on the 2010 Volunteer Committee for Elizabeth Wilson, DTM and this is part of the gracious note she sent to us.

"To those of you who took on the roles of Team Leaders, I appreciated your enthusiasm and dedication. It was great working with you even for a short time. Thanks you for your support".

"Naturally, like me, I am sure you will be disappointed and feel a little let-down. However, may I ask each and every one of you to channel the enthusiasm that you showed for the Convention into making your club, your District and yourself the best you possibly can".

"I am a great believer that sometimes adversity happens for the best and that as one door closes another one will open. May your Toastmasters doors open wide. Please enjoy our wonderful organisation and help it to build and grow".

Elizabeth Wilson, DTM, 2010 District 70 Host District Chairman

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Has this ever happened to YOU - unexpected news of a change of venue? How did you handle it? How did YOU as a leader continue to motivate YOUR teams while supporting the decisions from the top?

Bravo Elizabeth YOU are showing great sportsmanship and leadership!

I am sure Elizabeth would love to recieve an email of support from you!
2010hdc@d70toastmasters.org

LaShunda alert enough to make “OWN" medical decision

“This is a blessing that she (LaShunda) woke up and was talking – she was able to make her "OWN" medical decision – this will be a life changing decision – for someone else (Sonya)- it is hard to make”. "Keep Positive” “Keep Praying” and Keep-in-touch”. Sonja Rundles, sister of the 2008 WCPS, LaShunda Rundles

“Final Surgery - Monday Nov 10, 2009 at 11:00 AM – (Dallas Time)”

Photo of LaShunda & Sonja taken from her My Space page
http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewPicture&friendID=275547716

Sonya just returned my call that I made to her earlier today. I REALLY wanted to “check in” on LaShunda’s progress and at a time like this – I am not sure if “being too busy” is an excuse. However, as the current District 31 Lt. Governor of Education & Training I was very BUSY hosting my District 31 Fall Conference. But I DID make sure to buy several get well cards and I announced LaShunda's current condition at my D31Conference and invited my members to sign her “get well wishes” cards – I am mailing them out tomorrow.

I did the best I could to take notes when Sonja spoke to me. I tried to keep up and even recapped what I thought I heard. I even looked on the internet for term a she used TPN. I hope I got it right – but please excuse misunderstandings if I didn’t. Here is what I believe I heard.

Sonya began by explaining that “the intestine is not a viable organ” – “the doctors performed surgery and kept it open – her intestine has six holes – and there is nothing else they can do”. They can’t keep doing surgery every five days – the body just can’t take it and the holes do not rehabilitate themselves”. Sonya went on to say the “situation is not getting better and this will be the FINAL surgery – from the medical stand point the doctors are going to try and “REDIRECT” the veins with tubes”.

“She can have a life” – “This surgery is YES or NO”. She will be on a TPN (this is where I had to google – Total parenteral nutrition – TPN) LaShunda will not be able to feed her stomach (the way we normally feed our stomach – through our mouths) – she will need to use a feeding tube through her veins making sure she can eat through a TPN Drip to get all of her nutrients as food.

“This is not a surgery where you can say take the kidney out – not that simple – you want to be able to eat” “Maybe eat some food” – “From a psychological standpoint – we all want to be able to order a lobster tail every once in a while”. Sonya joked and giggled a little bit here – and I tried to make light too and responded with a “You Got That Right Sist’ha”. She giggled again and then I wished her well.

I thought about how dedicates Sonya is to her sister LaShunda and I can certainly relate to losing a mother (even though mine is alive). I remember when I went into labor it will be 11 years ago on November 13th and after 20 hours of labor and an unplanned cesarean section on November 14, 1997 at 10:00PM I had Sabrina. Although my older sister Mary was there by my side for as long as she could and she really helped me as most sisters would. My mother never visited me during my five day stay (probably for the best in my case).

BUT honestly I am not sure I know anyONE person who would spend both day and nite and day by my side the way Sonya is doing with LaShunda. (although I AM sure I would have a few visitors – maybe NOT as many as LaShunda. teehee) just noONE person as dedicated to me as Sonya is to LaShunda.

What a great bond they have – a special sisterhood. God Bless both of them! I bet their mother would be VERY proud – (may I add as a mom – I sure am)!

I will call her tomorrow and keep you posted!


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TOTAL PARENTAL NUTRITION - TPN

http:///

Total parenteral nutrition (TPN), is the practice of feeding a person intravenously, bypassing the usual process of eating and digestion. The person receives nutritional formulas containing salts, glucose, amino acids, lipids and added vitamins.

Total parenteral nutrition (TPN), also referred to as Parenteral nutrition (PN), is provided when the gastrointestinal tract is nonfunctional because of an interruption in its continuity or because its absorptive capacity is impaired (Kozier et al, 2004). It has been used for comatose patients, although enteral feeding is usually preferable, and less prone to complications. Short-term TPN may be used if a person's digestive system has shut down (for instance by Peritonitis), and they are at a low enough weight to cause concerns about nutrition during an extended hospital stay. Long-term TPN is occasionally used to treat people suffering the extended consequences of an accident or surgery. Most controversially, TPN has extended the life of a small number of children born with nonexistent or severely deformed guts. The oldest were eight years old in 2003.

The preferred method of delivering TPN is with a medical infusion pump. A sterile bag of nutrient solution, between 500 mL and 4 L is provided. The pump infuses a small amount (0.1 to 10 mL/hr) continuously in order to keep the vein open. Feeding schedules vary, but one common regimen ramps up the nutrition over a few hours, levels off the rate for a few hours, and then ramps it down over a few more hours, in order to simulate a normal set of meal times.

Chronic TPN is performed through a central intravenous catheter, usually in the subclavian or jugular vein. Another common practice is to use a PICC line, which originates in the arm, and extends to one of the central veins, such as the subclavian. In infants, sometimes the umbilical vein is used.
Battery-powered ambulatory infusion pumps can be used with chronic TPN patients. Usually the pump and a small (100 ml) bag of nutrient (to keep the vein open) are carried in a small bag around the waist or on the shoulder. Outpatient TPN practices are still being refined.

Aside from their dependence on a pump, chronic TPN patients live quite normal lives.

Parenteral nutrition is indicated to prevent the adverse effects of malnutrition in patients who are unable to obtain adequate nutrients by oral or enteral routes. Other indications are short gut syndrome, high-output fistula, prolonged ileus, or bowel obstruction. However, the decision to initiate TPN needs to be made on an individual patient basis, as different patients will have differing abilities to tolerate starvation.[3]

The nutrient solution consists of water and electrolytes; glucose, amino acids, and lipids; essential vitamins, minerals and trace elements are added or given separately. Previously lipid emulsions were given separately but is becoming more common for a "three-in-one" solution of glucose, proteins, and lipids to be administered.[4][5]

District 31 Fall 2008 Conference

"Speak Up and Change the World" http://www.district31.org/





Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel and Trade Center 181 Boston Post Road West Marlborough, MA 01752-1883

Toll Free (888) 543-9500 - (508) 460-0700 - Fax (508)
http://www.rplazahotels.com/


Photo 1:
Profesional Comic, Mary Ellen Rinaldi.
http://www.maryellenrinaldi.com/Mary_Ellen_/Welcome.html

Photo # 2 & Photo # 3
District 31 First and Second Place winners, Mary Cheyne & Derek Perkins.

Photo # 4
2008 Third Place WCPS Dr. Katherine Morrison and Toastmaster, Julia Grant

Friends - so much to share about the District 31 Fall 2008 Toastmasters Conference.

But tonite I am so tired and we just had a Leadership Trio meeting for two and a half hours with the Toastmasters Vice President, Gary Schmidt.

Tonight what I can share is that these seven Division Humorous Contestestants listed in alphabetical order were VERY hilarious and they ALL deserve a round of applause!! Dan Barrett,Dion Chay, Mary Cheyne, Bill Corcoran, Jennifer McGhee, Derek Perkins, Paul Robinson.

Congratulations to
First Place Winner, Mary Cheyne (Champion's Edge Member)
Second Place Winner, Derek Perkins (Champion's Edge Member
Third Place Winner, Daniel Barrett

I invited Croix Sather (Fellow Champion's Edge Member to give a round table - but you can imagine my complete surprise when the District 53 Governor, Karin Von Kanel and the Lt. Governor of Education and Training, Marsha Kiley showed up - UNEXPECTEDLY! KEWL!!

Visit Croix'a Blog
http://www.blogger.com/profile/04722673488547514392

Our conference went extremely well. Our 2008 Third Place, World Champion of Public Speaking, Dr. Katherine Morrison delivered her "Don't Believe Them Baby" speech during our HALL OF FAME Ceremony. (SHE ROCKED IT)! Kathy has sooo much confidence and it shows on stage. She thanked the many clubs and members who helped give her valuable feedback to get her on the International Stage.

After our conference we all had an ab work out when Toastmaster and Professional Comic Mary Ellen Rinaldi made us all LAUGH! Book Mary Ellen at your event!
http://www.maryellenrinaldi.com/Mary_Ellen_/Welcome.html

And check out her blog! http://maryellenrinaldi.blogspot.com/


BIG Thanks to my Conference Committee for helping to make the District 31 Conference a success. I am eagerly excited to plan the spring conference, which will be held here at the Best Western on May 9, 2009.

But before the the spring conference - I have a series of Toastmasters Leadership Trainings (TLI)to plan for the Club Officers.

I know I have said it before - if you want to improve your public speaking skills - STEP UP TO THE LEADERSHIP TRACK!

Good nite all - I am staying here at the best western for another nite and then will return home and get ready for an exciting week - all of which I will share - especially celebrating Sabrina;s 11th birthday!!

PS: I bought several GET WELL Cards for the 2008 WCPS LaShunda Rundles (first place winner) to have our members sign and I will be sending those along the post mail to her Sister Sonja's post office box on Monday.

A Fighting Champion - A Singing Champion!

“I did feel like I did the best…for me. I gave my all on the stage and left the stage feeling confident that I’d done my part.” 2008 WCPS, LuShunda Rundles, a motivational speaker and writer who lives in Dallas, Texas.

I spoke with Sonja today and she sounded MUCH better than yesterday about LaShunda’s condition – she had a renewed energy and was on her way “home” to take a shower after staying at the hospital all nite to be with her sister.

And for those of you who KNOW that LaShunda is a good storyteller - you may want to note that – her Sonja sister is also a good storyteller as well. I found myself just wanting to hear what she was going to say next because she adds the important details and her opinions of them.

Sonja shared a few stories with me and honestly, I can;t quite tell them like she did so I can give you the topics.

ONE: Now that LaShunda is alert and aware she gave a pumped fist to Sonja’s co-worker and while mouthing the word “Obama“! Oooh yea two victories for African-Americans this year.

TWO: LaShunda asked Sonja to sleep next to her in the hospital bed (she likes being held by her older sister) and giggled at the thought of these two grown woman in the bed together.

THREE: Sonja explained that she thought Toastmasters was a "CULT" and now she feels its the "BEST CULT in the World". She could not believe how quickly the Toastmasters World has responded to the news about LaShunda's hopsitalization. There were many Toastmasters visiting the hospital in Texas and calls from different states the support is overwhelming and she hopes if she ever gets sick that Toastmasters will remember her too.

Have you heard LaShunda sing? – check out her MYSPACE PAGE and listen to her songs - As For Me In My House, Good to Know

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=275547716

She is not only a Fighting Champion she is a Singing Champion!

Keep praying! Keep spreading the Word!