How many people attend the club meetings? About 12-17 people show up at each meeting, sometimes more, sometime less. Grand Terrace Toastmasters is a medium-sized club of about 30 members, which is a good size. We have enough people to fill our schedule, but not too many where you might have a hard time getting a chance to participate regularly.   Our group encompasses all ages, races and professions and is termed a community club. Anyone over 18 who is able to complete the program under their own power is welcome to apply for membership. (For example, we cannot provide interpreters for the deaf but you are welcome to bring one if you need one.) Wheelchairs are not a problem. Does the meeting start on time? We make every effort to begin at 7:00 am sharp and end promptly at 8:15. We realize your time is important, as is ours, so our goal is to begin and end on time. We prefer guests to arrive a few minutes early so you can get a cup of coffee and we can get to know you.   Many times guests purposely come late thinking they would rather sneak in the back unnoticed. The way the meeting room is designed, you won't be able to come in unnoticed. We won't lock the doors at 7:00 but it is far better to be a little early. Do I need to call ahead and tell someone I am (or am not) coming? You are welcome to let us know, but if you do not reach anyone, just come on by. If you told us you are coming but your plans change, we would of course welcome hearing from you but do not feel badly about it; just come back when you can. How should I dress? You should wear whatever is comfortable for you. Do not feel you must dress up for the meeting. Basically, if you wear it to work, it's fine. Will I have to give a speech? No. At the beginning of the meeting we generally ask the member sitting next to you or the member who knows you to introduce you. In rare cases you may be asked to briefly introduce yourself. During Table Topics, the Topicmaster may request but will not require guests to participate by answering a Table Topics question. If you don't want to, no problem.   Finally, at the close of the meeting, you may be asked for "guest comments". This gives you a chance to evaluate us and to give us your impression of the club and the meeting. Your comments need only be a sentence or two. Again, you are welcome to decline. Toastmasters is all about going at your own pace. You are encouraged to push your limits, whatever they may be, but you are never forced. I went to a meeting and heard a speech that wasn't very good at all yet everyone at the meeting thought it was great. How can I learn from such a group? Please keep in mind that Toastmasters welcomes speakers at all levels. It might be that the person has been working hard just to reach a point where they can look at the audience or speak above a whisper. We try and give feedback that is supportive and encouraging. Although sometimes it may seem like we do not notice a speakers' shortcomings, we've found it works better to praise them for the progress they have made. I went to a meeting and heard such amazing speeches. Everyone is obviously so much better at this than I am. How can I learn from such a group? You may be surprised by how quickly you improve. Keep in mind that a few of us have been in the club for years and have learned and practiced techniques for getting over nervousness and for writing and delivering effective speeches. Several have won a good number of speech contests. Others came to the club as good speakers. We still have a lot to learn. However, everyone improves, no matter where they start. Give us a try. Why does everyone clap so much? It may seem strange at first but we applaud vigorously and often because it gives the speakers encouragement and keeps the energy of the meeting high. You will get used to it. And once you begin giving speeches, you will love it! How much will it cost to join? Because Toastmasters is a non-profit organization, it is very affordable to join. There is an initial one-time fee of about $20 (pro-rated plus 8.75% tax) and dues are only $8 (that's right! eight dollars!) per month, paid semiannually. The exact amount will depend on what month you join (note: other clubs may charge different amounts). Toastmasters is well worth the cost. Aside from the meetings, you will receive educational materials and, each month, you'll receive The Toastmaster magazine. I can't afford to join right now. Can I still come to the meeting? Of course! You are always welcome as a guest. Is there a meeting this week? With rare exceptions, we meet each and every week. You might want to call and check the week between Christmas and New Years and we generally do not meet on the Friday after Thanksgiving.  Other than those times we'll be at Grand Terrace City Hall at 7:00 a.m.  You are welcome to join us. Your club is not convenient for me. Can you help me find another? It is rather ironic that we think we cannot get up and get to a 7:00 a.m. meeting and that the extra half-hour in bed is too precious to give up. Yet if you give us a try, you will find that you come away from the meetings with a lift and an invigoration that carries you through the day.   Remember the smells and relative quietness of early morning, viewing the rising sun, and minimal traffic?  You get all that plus good friends and support in your communication or leadership endeavors (not to mention good coffee too).  Yet, if you insist, you can always check Toastmasters International for a list of the clubs in your area.  Regardless, come give us a try and you too will look forward to 7:00 on Friday mornings (well ... ok ... you usually will).