Toastmasters International recently recognized Kristen Barber as a Competent Toastmaster (CTM). The respected CTM designation is earned after a member completes ten speaking assignments. Through the course of the various speeches, Toastmasters develop the basic skills required for effective communication. 

The assignments begin with learning the importance of sincerity in speaking, then focus on organization and delivery, and conclude with projects that combine fundamental skills to persuade and inspire an audience. 

Kristen Barber commented, "Even as computers and e-mail are revolutionizing the way people communicate, the ability to convey your ideas face to face effectively is essential. Through Toastmasters and the CTM program, I've learned discipline, gained experience, and increased my confidence. These skills aren't only useful in toastmasters, but at work, in the community, and in all aspects of life." 

According to Hendersonville Toastmaster president Sandy Werner, "Kristen continues to be an example both of leadership and of tenacity in following through to a goal. Congratulations, Kristin!" 

We welcome our newest member, Dr. Carl Bankston. 
 

I was born and raised in a small rural town on a tropical island lined with warm beaches and with sunny skies all year round, the Philippines, also known as the "Pearl of the Orient Seas." As a child, I spent a lot of time lying on the beach and wondering what life was like across the vast Pacific. I always had that burning desire to find out. My mom was a school teacher and my Dad worked in an oil company. They worked very hard to put me, my six brothers, and one sister through college. My high school was St. Agnes Academy, run by German Benedictine nuns, who administered strict discipline, which I resented at first but which I now am very thankful for. I finished my degree in Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Aquinas University, which was run by Dominican Priests. After college, I came to Tennessee with ten other new nurses to work. 

I finally saw the other side of the Pacific! It's a dream come true. After a year in the U.S., while on vacation in Maryland, I was swept off my feet by my tall dark handsome knight in shining armor, Mike, who was originally from the Philippines, and was working in Washington, D.C. After a year of long-distance courtship, we married, and Mike moved to Tennessee, because I loved the country warmth and friendliness of Tennessee, which had become home to me, and I didn't want to move to Maryland. 

We have two children, Angelo, a 12-year-old sixth grader at Ellis Middle School, and Andrea, 8, in second grade at Indian Lake School. Hendersonville has been home to us for fifteen years. I have been a critical care nurse at Nashville Memorial Hospital for sixteen years. On my off days, I take the kids to the lake or to the movies. I love ball games, especially bowling. I also love playing the guitar on the patio, especially on moonlit nights. James Taylor, John Denver, the Beatles and the Eagles are among my favorites. I also love classical music. 

I always thought Mike is the perfect husband and father. Life has been great, but fairy tales don't happen in real life. Five years ago, Mike was diagnosed with the most malignant brain tumor, called Glioblastoma Multiforme. After the first craniotomy, the doctors gave him only two months, at most, to live. I felt like the whole world crashed down on me. Mike survived two more craniotomies, maximum chemotherapy and radiation. 

It has been five years now and Mike is at home. He is weak getting around the house, but his memory is intact. His prognosis is still not good. 

Looking back, I don't know how I survived the past five years. I know that the enormous support from family and friends and prayers got me through the darkest nights of my life. People say that God won't give us a load that is more than we can take. I just hope that it continues to be true for me.