An insistent breeze blew and the sun stood out against a blue sky on March 21st as I searched Thomas Hospital parking lot for an open spot and headed to the fourth floor to observe the Toastmasters International meeting.

For those of you who are thinking this group practices spouting words overtop raised champagne flutes, that’s close, but no cigar.

Actually, booze and tobacco aside, this group learns about public speaking and leadership skills through planned and practiced speeches, impromptu discussions and peer evaluations.

The meeting room was filled with light from a glass, side wall and living-room furniture and podium positioned in a circle. But finishing off the décor were wide smiles, friendly handshakes and warm words from the dozen, or so, Toastmasters members.

As the meeting began, President Carrie Collyer explained that members should consult their Competent Communication Manual and Competent Leadership Manual. They should plan speeches according to the themes and instructions, present 5-7 minute speeches to the group, and mark off each step on the group’s chart as they work toward completion.

Wes Jones gave the meeting’s first speech, “In Defense of Coach” about his supporting the actions and integrity of the University of Georgia head football coach.

Previously selected members timed, kept up with grammar mistakes and evaluated Jones, jotting notes as he spoke and gestured.

Vice President of Public Relations Bruce Cuddy, offered advice on Jones’ speech.

“You had the introduction, the body and the conclusion. I’d say move forward with the key points and try to use different gestures and pauses.”

The group’s secretary, Melissa Vaughn, said that evaluation is an important task within the group.

“It’s instant feedback so you can improve on what you’ve done.”

Peyton Piesco, 18, a senior at Fairhope High School, addressed the group with a speech about optimism—“How Optimism Helps Me Overcome my Obstacles.” He expounded on the main points: tough times don’t last, keep happiness with you, know what makes you happy and keep good friends.

Piesco was a special guest, attending the meeting with Ben Spencer, a community project leader for the Optimist Club. Piesco gave the speech and heard advice from the Toastmasters to better prepare him for the Optimist Club county competition.

Member David Luke complimented Peyton on his, “topic (that) was timeless and ageless. You had good humor. I liked the gestures and I liked that you came out from behind the podium, but you might need to change your pace and slow down a little.”

Jack Ardrey also gave Piesco some feedback.

“Try to make these points without making them about yourself,” he began. “Connect to the audience through body language and eyes.”

“Pause at the beginning, take time to compose yourself, then don’t be quite as obvious at the end when you restate your points.”

Spencer pointed out that Toastmasters meetings are the perfect place for students to practice and to gain advice from experienced speakers.

“They all come in at the same level, but this builds their confidence. This intermediate experience is great for them and especially here at Toastmasters because their evaluations are invaluable.”

Vice President of Membership Danny Chancey lead the group’s Table Topics, where members spoke for 1-2 minutes on the impromptu subject of organization versus spontaneity.

Toastmasters were able to experience thinking on their feet, as they might have to in a professional setting.

Ardrey said the group helps people with a variety of goals.

“This is done in a friendly atmosphere; it’s not intimidating and everyone wants to support you,” he explained. “I joined in 1963—I was in business sales.”

“I needed that—you can’t believe how it helped me, it set me apart because of my confidence. Now it’s a hobby. I just enjoy the gamut of people.”

Collyer agreed.

“It’s a fun group and very cheerful,” she beamed.

To learn more about the group, visit toastmaster.org. For more on Toastmasters in Fairhope, call 689-8885 or visit Thomas Hospital's fourth floor on Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m. to attend an open meeting. For more on the Eastern Shore Club, call 626-1492 or attend an open meeting at Daphne Civic Center held on Thursdays at 6 p.m.