Kinston Toastmasters to celebrate 75 years with Sept. 19 community event

Kinston Toastmasters Club 962 invites the community to celebrate its 75th anniversary at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Kinston-Lenoir County Public Library, 510 N. Queen St.

Bryant Pergerson will deliver the keynote speech, and Tah’Ron Cannon will serve as emcee. Toastmasters leaders will join members and guests to recognize the club’s history and its work helping people become more confident communicators and leaders.

The program will include a history review by Eugene Kupstas, an open house presentation by Sonja Brooks and a toast by Roderick Gooden. Sandy Campbell will serve as Topicsmaster, leading the impromptu speaking portion of the program.

Chartered Sept. 1, 1951, the Kinston club has served the community for three-quarters of a century as part of Toastmasters International.

The club provides a supportive environment where members can strengthen their public speaking, communication, listening and leadership skills. Through prepared speeches, impromptu speaking, leadership roles and constructive feedback, members practice skills they can use at work, at home and in community organizations.

The anniversary celebration will honor that history while introducing more residents to the club and the benefits of membership. Community members interested in building confidence, improving their speaking skills or developing as leaders are encouraged to attend and learn more.

The Sept. 19 gathering offers residents an opportunity to celebrate a longtime community organization and explore how Toastmasters can support their personal and professional growth.