D5 Toastmasters

The best and simplest way to retain club members and recruit curious guests into enthusiastic members is with well-run, lively and educational meetings that meet the member's needs. Recognizing this, Past District Governor, Bob Traber, DTM, created the Golden Gavel Award as a symbol of Excellence in Club Meetings. This is a patch embroidered with a Golden Gavel.

To EARN this prestigious award, a club meeting must meet the following criteria:

Members and guests are greeted warmly and enthusiastically.
Meeting starts adjourns on time.
15 or more Toastmaster members are present (not limited to members of the hosting club).
At least one non-Toastmaster guest is present.
There is applause after every speaker, functionaries included.
All speeches are MANUAL speeches.
Evaluations are both specific and supportive.
Participants are positively recognized and ribbons are awarded.
Members wear badges and guests are given name tags.
Printed agenda are distributed and followed, with three or less assignment changes to the agenda.
Table Topics are interesting and/or fun - most participants are able to speak the full time period.