At the May 12 conference Val was called to the podium to accept The Eric Stuhlmueller Award. This trophy is presented annually by District 64 to the Toastmaster who provides encouragement and support to the most people that they may understand and realize their own potential. Val was nominated by Elaine Stewart of Kenora for Val's continued support of the wonderful Toastmasters programs in the area. As well as the formal yearly presentation plaque, the recipient is presented with a 'keeper' trophy. Val said she was absolutely 'stunned yet thrilled' when her name was called to come up and accept the honour from Mrs. Stuhlmueller, widow of the late Eric, in whose memory this plaque is awarded.
Toastmasters clubs are absolutely wonderful organizations.
A person who fumbles and stumbles when having to do any sort of public speaking, whether it be proposing a toast at a wedding, asking the blessing at a banquet, chairing a meeting, or in any form of political life would greatly benefit from being a Toastmaster. The name sounds more ominous than the organization actually is. One does not have to belong to a Toastmaster club with the idea of going to high heights in the world of contests in public speaking. One only has the desire to be able to enunciate and present facts to others with some degree of composure. There are two Toastmaster organizations in the city.