WINNEMUCCA — The fear of public speaking didn’t change with the introduction of PowerPoint; though, it did eliminate the nagging doubt that some of the slides could be upside down.

While technological instruction is on the rise public speaking is losing its way in today’s curriculums.  Many students may know how to network a computer system, and some can text-message at world-championship rates, but they’re at a loss for a place to put their hands when it comes time to address an audience. And sometimes they forget to spit out their gum.

The lack of public speaking skills, however, isn’t limited to the younger generation and even those in the business community may feel trepidation at having to make a presentation. 

It doesn’t have to be that way. 

For eight decades Toastmasters International has been helping participants refine their public speaking and communication abilities. Representing Winnemucca Toastmasters is Paul R. Schlehr who first joined Toastmasters in 1966 after a Navy promotion necessitated an improvement in his communication skills.

After more than forty years Schlehr is still a member and is working to recruit others who may benefit from Toastmasters.  He said he still hates crowds, especially distracting cross conversations, but he can stand up and speak with confidence.

Schlehr assured those thinking of joining Toastmasters  they’ll be eased into the process with a supportive environment and structured feedback. People sometimes give speeches on topics of personal interest, which may include personal opinion, but they’re not attacked for those opinions by anyone who may feel differently.  The only feedback involves speech techniques,  and may include questions about the sources used in the speech, but is always constructive.

Schlehr said one of the aspects of Toastmasters he really appreciates is there are clubs all over the world.  As he’s moved he’s always been able to find a Toastmasters.

In fact, Toastmasters has about 230,000 members in 12,000 clubs in 106 countries.

If you’re interested in improving your communication and public-speaking abilities Winnemucca Toastmasters meets every Friday for lunch (noon) at Las Margaritas on Winnemucca Blvd. For more information contact Paul Schlehr at 304-0741.

For more information:  Toastmasters International