So ends our 2012 - 2013 Season.

Fellow Toastmasters,

Having just completed this season's financial reports, I wanted to recap a few of the accomplishments that our executive and membership can look back on as terrific successes.

First, I just received notice that we have achieved Distinguished Club Status from Toastmasters International.  This was our key educational goal as our club had fallen off that select list of clubs.  This achievement is a reflection of our membership and executive team working together to have our hard work and goal achievements recognized.

Second, our club is widely recognized as Winnipeg's most "healthy and successful" club.  Nothing could be more reflective of the truth.  I am extremely happy to report, that our club has moved from an unsustainable financial position to one of growth and durability.  This is reflected in 40.7%  increase in our club funds this year.  Was it easy?  No -- it required dedicated investigations, data collection, analyzing and knowing how to apply it to the execution of an effective plan -- but the support of the executive and membership made it all come together.

Third, our Treasurer recommended I actively secure an Area Contest, as a way to bolster and showcase our club to the District and area clubs -- but also as a way to practice and prove we can do it profitably.  I attended meetings and was able to secure an Area Contest through persistence.  Our membership could not have hosted the event to a higher standard.  I received endless praise for the event.  Literally all the executive team, including our Past President, our contest representatives, and a good portion of our membership were responsible for making this event turn out well.

Fourth, I was grateful to be able to have the club funds available -- via the 50/50 and Grunt monies -- to cover the room charge for our Award's Night.  This is something that has not been done for a couple years, due to financial considerations.  Again, it was very nice to have our club in a position to be financially able to support this years event in this manner.

I appreciated the great attendance and lively participation at our meetings -- where we learn and practice our skills -- and get energized by proving our true potential.

I could not image being allowed to lead a more talented, kind and supportive group of people.

My sincerest thanks to everyone.

Best Regards,

Glenn Laycock

President, 2012-13

Venio Dictum Toastmasters