Monday, June 01, 2009
Toastmasters Learn About White-nose Syndrome
Todd Austin was the prepared speaker at the most recent Tri-County Toastmasters meeting. Austin who has been involved with bat conservation for nearly two decades discussed White-nose Syndrome, which scientists have referred to as the worst documented threat ever faced by North American insect-eating bats.
The Tri-County Toastmasters club met on Thursday 5-21-09 at the Virden Area Community Center. Jim Blankenship served as the evening’s Toastmaster (or master of ceremonies). Blankenship from New Berlin also served as Tabletopicmaster, coordinating the impromptu speaking portion of the program, during which each participant gave a 1 to 2 minute impromptu response to a particular question chosen from on a variety of topics.
The evening’s prepared speaker was Todd Austin. Austin, who has been a member of Bat Conservation International since 1990, performed a project from the Basic Toastmasters Communication manual on giving an organized speech. His presentation was entitled “The # 1 Threat to North American Bats”. Austin discussed White-nose Syndrome which started affecting hibernating bats in a single cave in New York state just over 3 years ago, but has since spread throughout at least nine states! Two endangered species found in Illinois, Indiana bats and Gray bats, could soon be facing extinction if scientists don’t find more answers soon regarding this mysterious syndrome. Les Apps evaluated Austin’s informative speech.
The Tri-County Toastmasters club will next meet on Thursday June 4, 2009 at 6:30 p.m. at the Virden Area Community Center. Les Apps will be the prepared speaker. For more information about the affordable Toastmasters program please call (217) 965-3100 or send e-mail to draustin@royell.net.
// posted by Jim @ 6:11 AM
