Thanks to all who came out to Cedar Creek last night for good conversation and good company! We’re looking for a couple folks to chair the organization of these monthly social events, so if you’re interested please let Natalie know!
As Toastmasters, we obviously love to speak, and what could be cooler than being asked to speak at a TEDx event? Long-time member Mario recently got to do just that at TEDxYouth@TheWoodlands. Check out the article, or just skip to the good part and read this blurb about Mario:
Mario Salinas was found blue, motionless and clinically dead shortly after he entered the world. Doctors were successful in bringing him back yet because of seizures and lack of oxygen, his brain had suffered extensive damage. His mother was told he would never talk nor walk.
Where there is a challenge, there’s opportunity, he said. Just be realistic, utilize all your available resources and be patient.
Standing on the TEDxYouth@TheWoodlands stage, his speech was eloquent, emotional and beautifully crafted and was filled with anecdotes about how his stutter affected him socially. First a bully, then the class clown.
When fear, shame, denial and anxiety morphed into courage, Salinas’ life changed. Today, the 30 year-old works in the City of Houston Public Works Department and hopes to pursue a Ph.D. in sociology at Rice University.
The Heights Toastmasters 
