District 106

Newsletter

October 2025

Upcoming District Events

From the Desk of the District Director

A Time for Growth and Reaping the Value of Toastmasters

Hello Fellow Toastmaster of District 106,

The fall season is upon us, and we have change in the air. Hopefully, you renewed your Toastmaster journey, and you are continuing your journey with District 106. 

We have nearly 20 clubs that have 8 or fewer members. If possible, make your way to a club and do a speech or help with a role. A little help will go a long way to ensure we are all strong and can reap the benefits of Toastmasters. 

Toastmasters is now needed more than ever. With soft skills being focused on in the workforce, it’s important that we continue to offer a laboratory where we can all grow and develop. When we promote Toastmasters, are we talking about the value someone gets out of it? Let’s have some open houses and show off our speech contests. Our speech contests are online and what a great opportunity to invite people to see Toastmasters in a way that is safe and fun. Now is the time to perhaps come and visit an advanced club and be the best you can be going into 2026.

We are all on a journey and we thank you for taking your journey with District 106. We look forward to connecting with your clubs. If you need anything, please reach out. Let’s harvest the skills we gain from Toastmasters and help others grow and develop.  

Matthew Villella, DTM

District 106 Director

Email: tm.matthew.villella@gmail.com

From the Desk of the Program Quality Director

Celebrate Growth, Confidence, and Community: Join the Fall Speech Contests!

Dear District 106 Toastmasters,

The vibrant energy of Fall brings with it one of the most exciting parts of our Toastmasters year—the Fall Speech Contests! This season, all contests will be held online, giving members across our vast district the opportunity to participate, support, and celebrate from wherever they are.

The District 106 Calendar now includes all Area and Division-level contest dates—so mark your calendars and plan to attend! Whether you’re a contestant, a cheerleader, or a volunteer, there’s a valuable role for you.

For Our Contestants

If you’re stepping onto the virtual stage this season—congratulations! Your courage and dedication to honing your public speaking skills inspire us all. We encourage clubs to rally behind their contestants. Attend the contests, bring your enthusiasm, and help create a supportive, energized environment where our speakers can shine.

For Members Not Competing

Even if you’re not competing, your presence and participation matter. Every contest depends on volunteers to run smoothly—timers, ballot counters, Zoom masters, sergeants at arms, and more. These roles are not just helpful—they’re opportunities to learn, grow, and build connections.

Please consider stepping up to volunteer. Reach out to your Area Directors and Division Directors—they will truly appreciate your support.

Why Get Involved?

Speech contests are more than just events—they are powerful learning experiences, both for participants and observers. You’ll hear inspiring speeches, learn from experienced speakers, and witness firsthand the magic that happens when Toastmasters challenge themselves.

Let’s make this contest season one of connection, celebration, and collective growth. I look forward to seeing many of you online, cheering each other on and making these contests memorable for all involved.

With gratitude and enthusiasm,

Ashok Sunkavalli

Program Quality Director, District 106

Email: tm.ashoksunkavalli@gmail.com

Phone: 319-431-2415 (call or text me!)

From the Desk of the Club Growth Director

Building Momentum with Each Moment: Small Steps Toward Big Results

As the cozy and colorful season of Fall approaches, take time to enjoy the moments while also investing opportune moments in Toastmasters to create momentum for growth. After all, momentum begins with a moment.

Moments to Celebrate:

This month we have two charter parties for new clubs: Watermasters at noon-1 p.m. Wednesday, October 22 CDT, and Gen AI Speakers at noon-1 p.m. CDT Friday, October 24. Watch for more details on d106tm.org and our social media platforms. District Director Matt Villella will be in the Twin Cities for these special events. Come have some moments with Matt as we celebrate!

Meet Your Club Growth Committee Chairs:

We accomplish more when we work together. I’m grateful for my team helping our district build momentum for growth in our membership and clubs.

• Club Extension Chair Sue Haverberg—helping with new club leads and chartering new clubs.
• Club Retention Chair Alane Matko—supporting clubs with low membership, helping retain clubs and grow membership.
• Club Coach Chair Jonathan Goossen—connecting club coaches with low member clubs who would like a coach.
• Club Quality Chair Ed Aylward—ensuring new clubs thrive with sponsors and mentors.
• Club New Source Research Chair Robert Tinsley—reaching out to companies and other groups who could benefit from starting a Toastmasters club.

Club Coach Opportunities—You Can Make a Difference for a Smaller Club:

We have low member clubs that can benefit from an objective perspective with respectful and encouraging ideas about enhancing club meetings, improving outreach, and finding new members. The rewarding experience of serving as a club coach also contributes toward credit for a DTM. Contact JonathanGoossen@comcast.net if you are interested in serving as a coach.

Make the Most of Every Moment (and Every Meeting!):

Hold an open house before the holidays. We can help you plan and publicize it! Set mini goals toward year-end milestones (e.g., add one member each month). Use each meeting to showcase Toastmasters excellence—guests notice!

Momentum is built moment by moment. Every meeting, every speech, and every leadership opportunity is a chance to make it happen.

Savor the moment!

Anna Gaichas, DTM

Program Quality Director, District 106

Email: Anna.Gaichas@gmail.com

Phone: 651-206-8310

From the Desk of the Public Relations Manager

Let’s Celebrate, Connect, and Keep Growing!

Dear Vice Presidents of Public Relations and Fellow Toastmasters,

As we continue our journey of growth—both personally and within our clubs—let’s pause for a moment to celebrate the power of visibility. Every speech delivered, every meeting hosted, and every milestone achieved represents the incredible dedication of our members. And what better way to share that inspiration than through the power of social media?

This month, I challenge each of you to shine a spotlight on your club’s story. Post your meeting highlights. Celebrate member achievements. Share the laughter, learning, and leadership that happens every week in your clubs. Your posts are more than updates—they’re invitations for others to discover the magic of Toastmasters.

Remember, social media isn’t just about likes or views—it’s about connection. Each post can spark curiosity, start a conversation, or encourage someone to take their first step toward personal and professional growth.

Let’s work together to create a ripple effect across District 106 that showcases the energy, creativity, and community that define us. When we amplify our voices collectively, we don’t just grow our clubs—we grow leaders.

Here’s to making our Toastmasters journey even more visible, vibrant, and inspiring!

Warmly,

Leo Smith, DTM

District 106 Public Relations Manager

Email: leo.w.smith@gmail.com

Phone: 651-600-0531

Follow us on the D106 Website, Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for exciting updates, inspiration, and more.

District 106 Social channel presence by the Numbers:

Facebook: 490 | X (Formerly Twitter): 214 | LinkedIn: 230 | Instagram: 311 | YouTube: 169 TikTok: 51