Say Hi To Marcia Karfstedt and Brooks Burford, Our New Members!

Marcia is a Senior Application Support Specialist at Viewpoint Construction Software. She joined Viewpoint 5 years ago with a deep background in accounting and construction management. Her patience and understanding work wonders when clients call needing help. Marcia’s responsibilities have recently expanded to training new employees how the software functions and how to help her clients use it more efficiently. "I am increasingly interacting with people and teaching classes, so Toastmasters is a big help to me boosting my confidence speaking to groups of people."

Marcia is married to Brooks Burford, a retired newscaster from KATU and KEX. Brooks has lived here nearly 30 years. He not only convinced Marcia to marry him, he got her to commit to living in Portland as well! Marcia and Brooks are native to Seattle, attending the same high school (Queen Anne). They were born 16 hours and 6 blocks apart. "There is a big difference between public speaking and speaking publicly. I have been away from the public eye for two years, so Toastmasters gives me a great opportunity to share my experiences, hone my skills and make sure speaking skills never atrophy. I have a lot to gain by learning from Toastmasters."

Marcia and Brooks travel the region, vacation in Mexico and volunteer each Summer at the Oregon Brewers Festival. Committed to sustainability and reduced impact on the environment, Brooks and Marcia live in the Belmont District, close enough for Marcia to walk to work and downtown.