The Big Rock Pioneers Toastmasters Club’s 20^th Anniversary Celebration in Okotoks on June 1, 2023, was a gala of grand proportions. The evening started with a meet and mingle, where current and former club members were able to renew their acquaintances. Then, the toastmaster for the event, Shelley Goldbeck, gave her opening remarks and reminded attendees of the items on the agenda.

Certainly, one of the highlights of the celebration was the unique presentation style of our toastmaster. When Shelley introduced each feature on the agenda – especially during the speaker introductions – she gave her remarks in poetic verse; much to the delight of everyone in attendance.

As part of the celebration, a delicious hot meal with all the trimmings was served. For dessert, there was a special cake decorated with the Toastmasters logo. After the meal, our toastmaster read well wishes from non-attendees. We were then given a speech by one of the club’s charter members, Erna Ference. Erna spoke briefly about not only the club’s origin, but also the benefits that Toastmasters brought to both her personal and career life. Erna’s speech was followed by a poetry reading from current member Leonard Quilty.

Another highlight of the evening was the presentation of educational achievement awards by club president Sharon Spaargaren. This was followed by a drawing of door prizes that were donated by people and businesses in the Okotoks and High River area.

As an addition to her poetic prowess, our toastmaster Shelly Goldbeck also presented a musical interlude. She then welcomed a former club coach, Jocelyn Hastie, who gave an inspirational speech.

Cerebration attendees were also treated to a performance by the High River Line Dancers – one of whom is the club’s VP of Education, and event organizer, Shelley Hoye. After this performance, toastmaster Shelley drew for more door prizes.

To conclude the evening, Shelley Hoye gave some closing remarks where she acknowledged the door prize sponsors. Shelley also gave special recognition to her celebration committee members for helping her organize such an incredible celebration of twenty years of Big Rock Pioneers.

Respectfully submitted,

Leonard Quilty