Toastmasters honors longtime member

They have a way with words. And unique methods of poking fun at one another. Members of the group with the gift of gab, known as the Toastmasters, aren't the type to let things go unsaid. So, when they had the chance to gather at an open-to-the-public event, words were not minced giving honors to a special member of their group.

Hal Vosin was recognized last week, but it was not to accept more ribbons, plaques or trophies to add to his impressive Toastmasters awards shelf. Vosin was celebrated by Falls members as he marks his 50th year with the worldwide organization that played a huge part of his life.

"This recognition has been years in the making, and we've been trying to do this for a while," said Toastmaster Sandi Gubel, "but first there was a set date that didn't work for anyone, then there was the Sheep Gap Complex forest fire, and other inconveniences. These gifts were wrapped months ago, and we are glad to finally get them in Hal's hands."

Gubel gave a brief summary of Vosin's membership, noting that he joined the public speaking club for his career but continued with the group even after retirement from real world responsibilities. Ten of Vosin's 50 years as a Toastmaster was with the Thompson Falls chapter as a charter member. "This man has prepared and delivered hundreds of speeches in his time with the Toastmasters and put thousands of miles on his vehicles traveling to meet with us from Heron and now from Priest River, Idaho. He has been a beacon to all of us as he has demonstrated leadership, helping us grow," Gubel shared, adding that he is one of the few Toastmasters in the region to have had the honor of speaking at "The Golden Lectern" in Missoula. Gubel said Vosin's dedication and staying power could earn him the nickname, "the energizer bunny," since he just keeps going.

Although Vosin was on the program as a scheduled speaker for the event, he had no idea he was going to be honored for a half century of mastering toasts, traveling and public speaking. It was a given that he would be at ease at the podium. Vosin shared stories and memories of his time in with the Toastmasters.

Falls Toastmaster president Gigi Comer recalled that when she first met Vosin he asked if she needed a Christmas tree, which she accepted – but wouldn't again, as the gifted tree was enormous, and her abode is even smaller than the one she lived in all those years ago. Vosin shared that he was carpooling with another member at the time, who drove a very small car. "That tree was so big on top of that car, it just looked like a levitating Christmas tree darting down the highway," Vosin laughed.

A cake was wheeled out, sporting frosting in cursive exalting Vosin's golden anniversary. Gubel then handed Vosin a gift to unwrap. "In light of Hal's penchant for a certain article of clothing, we thought this gift to be appropriate," Gubel smiled. Vosin unwrapped a pair of gold suspenders with a matching bow tie. Known for his love of suspenders, the gold finish was a nod to his fifty-year accomplishment. He was also given an engraved lock blade pocket knife, and engraved metal coffee mug. And, in the end, he was given a certificate to add to his award collection – the Competent Communicator Award. Given Vosin's time, experience and abilities as a speaker, "competent communicator" might be the understatement of the half-century.