shake In October of 1924, a group of men were assembled together for a meeting in the basement of a Santa Ana, California Y.M.C.A. by Dr. Ralph C. Smedley with the simple desire of affording others the practice and training in the art of public speaking, leadership skills, as well as the promotion of sociability and good fellowship of its members. Since these humble beginnings, that club has grown worldwide and is now under the banner of Toastmasters International, a non-profit organization.

There have been many changes and improvements within the Toastmasters organization, none of which compromised the original intent and focus stated by the first group. There have been millions of people who have passed through the doors of Toastmasters.

In 1952, Business and Professional Club #1169 became a new gate into this International organization of speakers, leaders, and those wishing to improve themselves.




The Importance of Toastmasters


It's often thought that in today's technological world of e-mail, texting, twittering, and the like that the spoken word is no longer important. Yet, verbal communication is still the most effective and often used method of getting one’s thoughts across quickly and efficiently. Like it or not, you are judged by not only what you say, but also how you say it. However, it must be realized that communication skills go beyond speaking alone, encompassing the realms of effective listening and critical thinking abilities. These skills are generally neglected by many in the world, leading to misunderstandings, confusion and the anger that accompanies this lack of understanding.

Toastmasters not only helps individuals learn the art of speaking, listening, and thinking, but promotes self-actualization and enhances leadership potential, thereby fostering human understanding. The members of this organization who have put to use their training have reaped the benefits in their work and personal lives, experiencing better relations, pay increases and enhanced personal success, contributing in a small way to the betterment of our society.



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What We Offer


We, like other clubs in the Toastmasters community, help others develop and realize their personal potential and power using the programs, manuals and modules designed by Toastmasters International. But aside from this, our club offers more than just the usual meeting fare due to the facility in which we meet, as well as our membership's desire for personal improvement.

sp Our club is fortunate to have a meeting environment equipped for the use of video, overhead or slide presentations, which our membership has used to its fullest potential. In addition, we offer videotaping of our speakers at each meeting, if they wish to see their own progress and areas for improvement. Furthermore, to keep members and immediate past guests abreast of current events and achievements and provide various tips, our monthly "award-winning" newsletter entitled "The Golden Oracle" is mailed once a month.

Understanding the benefit members can gain by meeting with Toastmasters from other clubs, we have been known to participate in what is commonly called "Speaker Evaluator Exchanges" and "dual meetings". Along with the above benefits listed, and since we know that honoring our members' accomplishments, inducting new members, and installing new officers in a formal way is just as important as the path to get there; B & P holds an Installation and Awards Banquet at a local restaurant. This function affords our membership the ability to practice their skills in a more ceremonial setting.



Who Makes Up Our Membership


Over the years, we've had students, teachers, politicians, poets, attorneys, photographers, insurance agents, entertainers, housewives, hair dressers, computer designers, salespeople, contractors, pastors, retirees, etc. participate within our club.

As you can tell from this list, we have had a number of people, aged 18 and older, join our ranks, each person being from a different walk of life. Yet, everyone is bound by a single goal and that is to improve and/or develop his or her communication and leadership skills.



If you are uneasy, uncomfortable, suffer from a fear of speaking or stage fright... We Can Help



Some Awards Our Club Has Received



1978 -1979
Distinguished Club


1981 - 1982
Governor's Select
Club


1982 - 1983
President's Distinguished
Club


1983 - 1984
Governor's Distinguished
Club


1984 - 1985
President's Distinguished
Club

1985 - 1986
President's Distinguished
Club


1989 - 1990
Select Distinguished
Club


1992 - 1993
Distinguished Club


1996 - 1997
Select Distinguished
Club


1997 - 1998
Select Distinguished
Club


1998 - 1999
President's Distinguished
Club


2000 - 2001
Select Distinguished
Club


2008 - 2009
President's Distinguished
Club


2009 - 2010
Distinguished Club


We have also received various club membership awards,The Founders Award for starting a club and were ranked #2 in the world for the 1998 Toastmaster year.
(The club world ranking has been discontinued as of 2000.)



Our Style



We, personally, are not a straight-laced, button-down bunch, believing that a more relaxed and, at times, informal atmosphere can be more productive. This is not to say that we are not "by the book", because we are. Just don't expect to see a lot of suits and ties around because you won't find too many within our group. So, don't let our name throw you off... we know how to have fun! Moreover, guests are always welcome!

If you are wondering what sort of dress is appropriate for one to attend our meetings - a business / business casual appearance is encouraged.

Granted, our club may not be for everyone, but if you aren't afraid of learning, growing, and believing that knowledge can come in any form, then we may be the club for you.



Time and Location of Our Meetings



Meeting Time:

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Meeting Days:

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Location:

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For Confirmation of Date and Location


E-mail:

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Attention! -- Important Site Information - Please Read! -- Attention!

Be it known...
as of October, 2011, due to changes within the club and the organization, the information contained within this site may no longer be completely accurate (including, but not limited to - meeting location, what it is that we offer our members, possible changes to disclaimers used, and compliance with newly-imposed guidelines). As such "This Is Not A Toastmaster Int. Approved Club Website!" Yet, it will remain in this current form to honor our past, as long as possible, and to serve as a reminder of the uniqueness, individuality, standards, professionalism, regards for others' privacy, and knowledge that this club's long line of members once enjoyed, shared and promoted during our history. To see the new site featuring Toastmasters Int.'s created/designed/approved web template and information - click here!
Thank you for your consideration.



Toastmasters International would like you to know the following about its' name,
logo, trademarks and copyrights...


"All rights reserved. Toastmasters International, the Toastmasters International logo and all other Toastmasters International trademarks and copyrights are the sole property of Toastmasters International and may be used only by permission."

They also desire us to inform you of the following in regards to "member information"...

"The information on this Web site is for the sole use of Toastmasters' members, for Toastmasters business only. It is not to be used for solicitation and distribution of non-Toastmasters material or information."

Business & Professional Toastmasters Club#1169 would like you to be aware of this...

This club website is intended for use by members as well thoes who wish to learn about us!
We value the privacy of our members and guests, and do not send un-solicited e-mails.
The information and links contained on this site have been submitted and voted upon by our membership before inclusion. However, it should be noted that what is offered and /or linked to is not necessarily recommended or endorsed by all B&P Club#1169 members / the Toastmasters organization, or Toastmasters International.




© Business and Professional Toastmasters Club#1169 Website Committee 1999 through Oct. 1, 2011
(unless otherwise noted)

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