What’s Up Wednesday!

Wednesday, May 21, 2025

WHAT’S UP WEDNESDAY!

“Grit is passion and perseverance for very long-term goals. Grit is having stamina. Grit is sticking with your future, day-in, day-out. Not just for the week, not just for the month, but for years. And, working really hard to make that future a reality. Grit is living life like it’s a marathon, not a sprint.” ~ Dr. Angela Lee Duckworth

Leadership Opportunities Ahead!

As we prepare for another exciting Toastmasters year, I have a question for you — Are you ready to take your leadership to the next level? If so, invite you to consider one of the most rewarding roles in our organization – Area Director.

When I served as an Area Director, I was new to Toastmasters (2019). I didn’t have all the answers, but I had a willingness to grow. That year, I had the opportunity to meet members across multiple clubs, build new relationships, and sharpen my leadership skills in ways I hadn’t expected. From leveling up my event planning while organizing contests to improving my organization and communication — I grew as a leader because I said yes.

This role is perfect for someone who wants to make a meaningful impact while developing real-world leadership skills. If you’ve ever thought about stepping up, now is the time. We provide training, mentorship, and a supportive community every step of the way.

In addition to Area Directors, we are also looking for a detail-oriented, trustworthy, and dependable member to serve as District Finance Manager. This behind-the-scenes role is vital to keeping our district running smoothly. If you enjoy working with budgets, ensuring financial accountability, and want to learn more about how Toastmasters operates at the district level, this could be the perfect fit for you.

We’re encouraging every member to Be the Ripple – because leadership is not just about titles or roles–it’s about the impact you make. Whether you choose to serve as an Area Director, Finance Manager, or simply support your fellow members, your actions matter. Your leadership can inspire someone else to take their own next step.

When you step up to lead, you don’t just influence your clubs—you create a ripple effect that touches the entire district and beyond.

Whether you choose to serve as an Area Director, Finance Manager, or simply support your fellow members, your actions matter. Your leadership can inspire someone else to take their own next step.

Be the Ripple!
Denise Castille, DTM
PQD 2024 – 2025
District Director-Elect 2025 – 2026

Say Farewell to…. “GOOD” 

This week, we’re flipping the script on one of the most overused words in our vocabulary: GOOD. It’s easy. It’s safe. But in Toastmasters, we strive to stretch our vocabulary and sharpen our impact—and “GOOD” just doesn’t cut it anymore! You may say it’s not “GOOD” enough.

When someone asks, “How are you?” instead of replying with “GOOD,” try using these options:

• Fantastic
• Grateful
• Energized
• Focused
• Motivated
• Hopeful
• Determined

Let this word inspire stories of gratitude, warmth, and reflection. Whether humorous, heartfelt, or heroic — your stories can help us celebrate the quiet strength and enduring legacy of mothers everywhere.

During speeches and Table Topics, challenge yourself to be more descriptive and intentional:

Instead of “That was a good point,” say “That was a compelling argument.”

Swap “She did a good job” with “She delivered a clear and confident message.”

Replace “This is a good opportunity” with “This is an exciting challenge” or “a valuable experience.”

Your words have power—make them count! This week, share your favorite alternatives to “good” out on our District’s Facebook Page or in your club meetings. Let’s inspire each other to grow in specificity, expression, and excellence.

A Warm Welcome

Since January 2025, our District has gained 350 new members! If you joined District 50 this year, we are so glad to have you here!! There are so many opportunities for growth in speaking, communicating, leading, and being a part of the team! Are you curious about where you can help out? Want to learn more? Make sure you don’t miss our New Member Orientations led by Jyo Pai and Valynda Fulz! Our next New Member Orientation dates and times are below. If you are curious about District 50, Toastmasters, or just need a refresh, check out this 1-hour session, designed to help our members stay connected and understand what’s next!

• Wednesday, June 11th @7:30pm
• Tuesday, June 17th @12:00pm

Calendar of Events

Don’t forget to check the District’s event calendar. Our calendar will let you know when our Pathways, Toastmasters Thrive, and New Member Orientations will occur. Check it out by clicking here. 

GRIT: Goals, Resilience, Intention, and Time.

The past couple of days, I’ve been diggin’ in the dirt, landscaping my yard, and just putting in some sweat equity and it got me thinking. How many times do we just put things off, we don’t dive in, we avoid, we say “maybe I’ll get to it tomorrow”? The truth is that in order for growth, progress, and improvements to be made, we have to start somewhere. The process and the journey may not even be pretty to start, but when you look at the whole picture, and after months of taking those steps, everything can come together for a beautiful result. What are you putting off? Are you in the middle of working on goals or ideas that are important? We get back from anything we nurture and put time and effort into it. Keep striving, don’t stop, and if you need some help, just ask. While so many people enjoy doing things on their own, sometimes, it’s more fun, when you have a friend to work with, hang out with, and just do some good ol’ fashioned work with! 

RISEing with GRIT,

Kimberly Ross, DTM
District 50, District Director

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