This might help me. We have an issue here concerning a requested permit to set up a 30,000 sq ft marijuana farm and canopy. This is not the place for this and some 400 have started a say-no-lopez plan [saynolopez.com] Our county has no set regulations on this and we have been to the council 3 times and got a 6 month moratorium. Now we are going again for a more definitive ruling. I normally don't speak but decided to do so with a different approach than used by previous speakers. It's not a big deal, only allowed 3 minutes and there will be no questions or comments by the audience which is usually small. Still, I get nervous as it is important to get my message across. I have written it down in larger font and have made changes and have practiced. Thanks for this.

I created and presented training seminars to over 10,000 people in my first seven years of business. Groups ranged in size from 20 to 2,000. My tips:

1. Type and print what you want to say, in 14 point font. Bold, highlight and draw boxes around the main points. Number the pages clearly.

2. Practice your presentation. Time yourself. Plan an extra 10 minutes for questions.

3. In the morning, say positive affirmations out loud.

"I am a strong, calm and positive speaker."

"I think well on my feet."

"I listen to what people want and need."

"I provide firm, but flexible structure."

"I am lucky to have this opportunity. These people are lucky to be with me."

"I enjoy leading this group."

4. Arrive early to set up.

5. Drink warm water. Cold water tightens your vocal cords, making it hard to speak. Avoid caffeine.

6. Stand at the door, greeting and shaking people's hands as they arrive. Smile and connect with people. They become instant friends. Then you will see friendly faces.

7. To generate participation, this 10-minute exercise get people talking. When the topic was conflict resolution, I asked:

"How do you feel about conflict?

"If you are terrified of conflict, stand here." I walked to one side of the room. "Now, if you love conflict- bring it on! - stand over here." I walked to the opposite side of the room.

"I invite you to find a spot between those two extremes that fits for you." People laughed and talked to find like-minded people. Then I asked different groups, "Why did you choose this spot?"

8. Have fun! People said they loved my sense of humor. I never tell canned jokes. Just ad lib.

Love this woman. I use many of her strategies when I speak in front of crowds.

No got over it