Yes, diamonds do take a long time to form. In this case, almost two years of sustained effort went into building what we like to call our 'jewel' in the Berkshires. Members, district leaders and friends gathered on May 25, 2006 to celebrate the charter of Voices of the Mountains Toastmasters Club in Williamstown, MA. After the ceremonial presentation of the Toastmasters Charter, club president Steve Love asked club members and district leaders to speak about their fondest memories of the club and its difficult journey to charter. One after another, members offered their individual heartfelt memories of what the club means to them. Later, LGET John Lynch, DTM, who was one of the first supporters of the fledgling club, offered the profound observation that he could truly see the remarkable progress of these dedicated members in their speaking and leadership, since John had not visited the club in many months. The evening celebration was true testimony to the power of the commitment that these members and many more members in our district have to the 'experience' that is Toastmasters. Whether novice or veteran the speaking, listening and learning we do in our meetings truly does change lives-ours and those around us. Three cheers for the Voices of the Mountains!

"Built To Last"

District Governor Paul Young (left) presents the Toastmasters club charter #660335 document to Club President Steve Love (right) at the Voices of the Mountains charter ceremony held at the Williams Inn, Williamstown, Massachusetts.