WHEREAS, It is the policy of the Washington State Legislature to recognize and honor the contributions of individuals and organizations that reflect standards of excellence which have enhanced the well-being and quality of life of the citizens of the State of Washington; and
     WHEREAS, Toastmasters International is a leading movement in making effective oral communication a national and international reality for all persons; and
     WHEREAS, Toastmasters International, through its member Toastmaster Clubs, helps men and women of all ages to learn the arts of speaking, listening, and thinking, vital skills that promote self-actualization, enhance leadership potential, foster human understanding, and contribute to the betterment of all mankind; and
     WHEREAS, Toastmasters International, through its member Toastmaster Clubs, provides a mutually supportive and positive learning environment in which every member has the opportunity to develop the communication and leadership skills that foster self-confidence and personal growth; and
     WHEREAS, Member Toastmaster Clubs usually meet each week for one to two hours and these meetings usually cover three main elements: Prepared speeches; impromptu speeches; and evaluations of speeches, which provide both feedback on the positive aspects of the speeches and friendly suggestions for improvement; and
     WHEREAS, Toastmasters International, through its member Toastmaster Clubs, benefits individuals, companies, communities, and countries by providing potential leaders in all walks of life the skills, discipline, and confidence needed to succeed; and
     WHEREAS, Toastmasters International currently has over 10,500 member Toastmaster Clubs worldwide made up of approximately 211,000 members in 90 countries with over 5,000 members in the State of Washington, and it is growing by approximately 250 new members worldwide each day; and
     WHEREAS, Governor Christine O. Gregoire has proclaimed January 30 through February 5, 2006, as Toastmasters Week;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State House of Representatives honor Toastmasters International, and its member Toastmaster Clubs, for the contributions it has provided to the citizens of this state; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives recognize the week of January 30 through February 5, 2006, as Toastmasters Week and encourage all persons to participate in the beneficial programs Toastmasters International provides through its member Toastmaster Clubs; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to Dennis Boyd, DTM, District 2 Public Relations Officer, Toastmasters International, Washington State Toastmasters Club, District 2.