by Carolan Quenneville, ATM, Gilbert

Nancy Starr’s educational session on the revised Toastmaster educational program was billed as a fun-filled, informative event and indeed it was. 

In a hyperactive adaptation of the TV game show “Jeopardy,” Toastmasters in the audience were challenged to leap to their feet, think fast, and test their knowledge of what is required to attain the various Toastmaster Communication and Leadership levels. 

The audience was ready, willing and rowdy. So much so that Nancy noted, “Toastmasters teaches us not to be afraid of the audience, but I’m really not too sure about this one.” 

With the help of “Van” and “Vanna” (Chuck and J. Jae Russell), the game got underway... CTM for $100 - How many speeches in the Basic Manual? 

The first two audience members to gesture wildly and show great vocal variety got the chance to stand up and answer the question. Contestants giving correct answers received, from our lovely assistants “Van” and “Vanna,” genuine, just printed, don’t try to spend ‘em at the cash bar, “Jeopardy Starr-bucks” for the amount listed. After two uproarious Jeopardy rounds, winning contestants went on to play “Final Jeopardy.” 

Runners-up in the contest were presented with the lovely parting gift of a pencil sharpener, because, as the 'Starr' of the program noted, “They are sharp, but just not sharp enough.” 

The winner, with 1801 Starr-bucks, was Tucson Toastmaster Anton Vanterpool II. His prize? A “Knows-too-much-needs-to-get-a-life Toastmaster logo pen.” 

The workshop was a great example of what Toastmasters is all about; people getting together to learn, stretch and have fun! 

---

Carolan Quenneville is an ATM, a  member of Gilbert, and a humorist at heart. She has competed several times in the humorous contests and captured 1st Place at the District and at Region III in 1995.