Dana Ferber placed first in the Ephrata Cloister Toastmasters Club's portion of the annual International Speech Contest. In her speech, Ferber shared memories of singing her children to sleep with the song "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" and related the song's history.

Bill Rhoat placed second with his speech based on "Who Moved My Cheese?" by Spencer Johnson. Rhoat explained how he has applied the book's message to his life to help him stop fearing what lies ahead in order to thrive in times of change and uncertainty.

Founded in 1924, Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that seeks to empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. The Ephrata club is one of a worldwide network of more than 15,800 Toastmasters clubs in 149 countries with a total membership that exceeds 300,000. Each year, members compete worldwide in speech contests. Through competition in the area, division, district and semifinal levels, contestants vie for the title of World Champion of Public Speaking.

The Ephrata Cloister Toastmasters Club holds hybrid meetings every second and fourth Monday at 6:30 p.m. at DOVE Westgate Church, 1755 W. Main St., Ephrata, and virtually via Zoom. Interested individuals may attend a complimentary introductory meeting in person or online.

For more information, call 717-715-9234.