VIDEO: Here's to the Toastmasters—Speaking Literally

Fifty-one years is a long time for an organization to exist—even in Ridgewood with countless longstanding groups. Ridgewood Toastmasters, a peer-driven and operated public speaking group, eclipsed the half-century mark last year and has kept on going.

Comprised of members from across Northern New Jersey (and hailing from across the globe), Ridgewood Toastmasters allows amateurs to sharpen their public speaking skills in a friendly and constructive environment. Toastmasters holds meetings the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month at the Unitarian Society on Cottage Place. At a meeting, participants will see several prepared and extemporaneous speeches, which conclude with peer evaluations.

Group members may advance through a speaking manual to work on a variety of skills and earn the Competent Communicator distinction after completing 10 speeches. Toastmaster members may also rise through various leadership roles club members elect annually.

Part of Toastmasters International, the Ridgewood chapter is always looking for new members, and guests are welcome to their biweekly meetings. For more information, visits the Ridgewood Toastmasters website.