Deborah Hill, VP of Public Relations ~ City of Long Beach Toastmasters
On September 7th, City of Long Beach Toastmasters held its charter ceremony at the Long Beach Main Library. In attendance were many of the District One dignitaries including District Director Julie Broady, DTM, Program Quality Director, Evelyn Woodridge, DTM, Immediate Past District Director Jessica Allen, DTM, Division E Director Richard Carbajal, DTM and Area E1 Director Melissa Ruiz, ACB, ALB. The congratulatory address was given by the Mayor of the City of Long Beach, Dr. Robert Garcia.
Rhonda Love had the opportunity to honor Cookie Johnson, wife of NBA legend Magic Johnson at the book signing for Cookie’s new book, “Believing In Magic”. It was that day that Rhonda decided she wanted to brush up and improve on her public speaking skills. In search of a nearby club, Rhonda contacted Toastmasters International and was connected to the then Club Growth Director Evelyn Woolridge. Given the ability to outreach to several local businesses and employees in the area, Evelyn immediately suggested that Rhonda start a club, and suggested she visit the Long Beach Aquarium Club to see how a great club is run.
At the time Rhonda was unaware there was great interest in Toastmaster the area, many who were familiar with Toastmasters but had never attended a meeting before, as well as past, and current Toastmasters members. With the support of the Long Beach Library, a demo meeting was held and many attended. The employees and members of the community came, the club obtained officers, and the City of Long Beach Toastmasters was chartered on June 9, 2017. City of Long Beach Toastmasters has since grown to over 25 members and continues to meet every Thursday at the Long Beach main library from 12 to 1 p.m. As the current President Rhonda Love welcomes everyone to come by and meet the club. Click here to connect with Rhonda and the club.
