Whereas, Toastmasters International is a non-profit organization created to develop better public speaking and leadership skills among its members; and,

Whereas, Through many years of outstanding achievement, Toastmasters International has grown to more than 9,300 clubs and 195,000 members in 80 countries worldwide, including 167 clubs in Michigan, 12 of which are in the Lansing area alone; and,

Whereas, By assisting in the development of communication skills, Toastmasters International has helped millions of individuals to overcome their personal barriers to effective performance in virtually every endeavor of life; and,

Whereas, Toastmasters International was founded 80 years ago in the Month of October; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 2004, as Toastmasters Month in Michigan and I encourage all citizens to recognize the contributions of Toastmasters International to its members and the community in improving their communication and leadership skills.