Celebrating Our 57th Year!
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.
Is your education failing you? See
"Personal Growth Never Ends"
To find out what others have said about the
Toastmasters organization
Click
Here
Many successful corporations and organizations
understand
the power of Toastmasters
find
out who
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.
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 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
|
Distinguished Club Governor's Select Club President's Distinguished Club Governor's Distinguished Club |
President's Distinguished Club President's Distinguished Club Select Distinguished Club Distinguished Club Select Distinguished Club |
Select Distinguished Club President's Distinguished Club Select Distinguished Club President's Distinguished Club |
|
(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: |
|
| Meeting Days: |
See Our Calendar if any problems occur Click Here |
|
between Cleary Ave. and Richland Ave. (behind Parran's Po-Boys) Metairie, Louisiana |
For Confirmation of Time and Location
| Please call: |
|
| E-mail: |
|
Toastmasters, the cost effective solution for personal excellence!
Look into...The Price is
Right
© Business and Professional Toastmasters Club #1169
The names "Toastmasters International," "Toastmasters," and the Toastmasters International emblem are trademarks protected in the United States, Canada, and other countries where Toastmasters Clubs exist. Unauthorized use is prohibited.