The District 101 Holiday Party was a truly magical event held at the ICC Milpitas. I had been to the venue before, but as I approached it this time, I couldn’t help but wonder how such a large gathering of Toastmasters would be accommodated. However, I immediately knew this gathering did not need space, but a big heart to accommodate everyone. In the parking lot, I saw some Toastmasters walking in. Isn’t it funny how I knew they were Toastmasters and not other visitors? I could recognize a Toastmaster from their walk—Toastmasters walk with a purpose, almost mission-like.
The venue was a familiar sight, but the festive decorations and buzz of excitement transformed it into a special occasion. Upon entering, I was greeted with familiar and unfamiliar smiling faces. I noticed a delightful array of food and drinks. The atmosphere was electric, with laughter, conversation, and anticipation filling the air.
The afternoon started with host Leena Ambekar announcing the talent show, showcasing the diverse talents of our Toastmasters. We were treated to beautiful songs, heartfelt poems, and side-splitting jokes. The performances were a testament to the creativity and passion of our members.
Here’s the poem I wrote and recited during the talent show:
A Toastmasters Heart
A heart aflame, a mind ablaze,
A Toastmasters soul, in an endless maze.
A yearning deep, a fervent plea,
To craft a speech, perfect and free.
A canvas blank, a stage awaits,
A chance to shine, to seal one’s fate.
With every word, a magic weaves,
A tapestry of thoughts, hopes, and beliefs.
A voice that soars, a message clear,
A captive audience, drawing near.
A moment seized, a triumph won,
A dream fulfilled, beneath the sun.
A heart that yearns, a spirit’s flight,
A Toastmasters passion, burning bright.
To touch a soul, to inspire a mind,
A legacy of words, of humankind.
This is what my soul craves
To provide a speech which will create waves.
A speech so good, folks will freeze,
Now’s the time for a rhythmic squeeze.
Following the talent show, a series of club pitch contests took place. Each club presented their unique offerings, often through engaging skits, and encouraged potential members to join. It was inspiring to see the enthusiasm and dedication of these clubs. Some clubs even performed hilarious skits to showcase their club culture and activities. I was thoroughly impressed. In fact, the meditation session the Work Balance Toastmasters Club took us through made me want to visit the club’s meeting, but sadly, it’s on a Tuesday when I have my Bay Area Women Toastmasters club meeting. I am secretly telling you that I might still try to check out the Work Balance Club someday.
Next, there was a dance session, called Bollydance, led by Jaymol George, where we danced to Bollywood songs, all gyrating in intriguing moves. I added all my special Bollywood movie moves and was surprised to see fellow Toastmasters waving their hands and legs in perfect sync to the rhythm of the songs.
The afternoon also included a recognition of Toastmasters who participated in the story contest. The winners were honored for their creativity and storytelling skills.
The event culminated in a riveting magic show that left the audience spellbound. Magician Solarzar Dellaporte’s tricks, as always, were both mesmerizing and entertaining. He had members pick green and black marbles and then guessed who picked what by reading faces! He also performed memorizing card tricks. I participated in the tarot card reading and what a reading he gave me. It was apt for what was going on in my life. 
The finale was a bingo game where nearly everyone came out as winners. The collective joy and excitement was palpable as people cheered and celebrated their wins. Solarzar, our own Toastmaster magician, made everyone even more excited by giving us his special billion-dollar bill. I came to the party with no money and left a billionaire!
As the party drew to a close, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to connect with fellow Toastmasters and celebrate the holiday season. The event was a testament to the power of community and the positive impact that Toastmasters can have on our lives.
Shalini Kaushik
President, Bay Area Women Toastmaster Club
Cupertino Toastmaster Club
Coach, Public Speak-Easy Toastmaster Club
Mentor, Morgan Hill Toastmaster Club