The Concord Spell-binders Toastmasters series of open houses will continue this Wednesday at 7 p.m. in Fenton Hall Room 127, SUNY Fredonia. The evening will feature two speakers: Jim Holton on "The Power of Likeability" and Jim Rawcliffe on "Putting the Cart Before the Horse."
Holton is a former superintendent of schools in the New Jersey and suburban Philadelphia areas. Since coming here four years ago he has been very active locally. He is a board member of the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation, a vestry member of St. Luke's Episcopal church in Jamestown and a Rotarian. He plays woodwinds in the New Horizons band at SUNY College at Fredonia and other local musical organizations.
Rawcliffe is the former executive vice president of finance and administration at Red Wing, now Carriage House Foods. Upon retirement he joined the International Executive Service Corps which provides executive help to underdeveloped countries. As a volunteer with IESC he had assignments in Bulgaria, Egypt and Uzbekistan. A keen bridge player, he is a life master.
Toastmasters can help anyone who wishes to improve their communications at home, school, work or in public. The initial program consists of 10 projects each focusing on a different basic communication skill. The skills learned build on each other. At the end of the 10 projects, members have a choice of 15 advanced manuals that cover topics as varied as speaking to entertain, technical presentations and facilitating discussion.
The last open house this year will be held Nov. 14 but guests are always welcome. Contact Rawcliffe at 672-2662 for further details.
