LITHONIA--Toastmaster's Division E-Area 42 invites the public to its annual speech contest on Feb. 16, 10 a.m. to noon, at the Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia.

The winner of the area contest will compete in the division contest, where that winner will go on to compete on the state level and then internationally.

Another highlight during the area contest will be a Table Topics event, where guests and members are randomly selected to speak for one to two minutes.

Connie Stokes, Area 42 Governor for Division E., said the events provide an opportunity to see firsthand what Toastmasters is about, including how challenging and fun learning public speaking can be.

"Toastmasters provide a supportive and positive environment where members have the opportunity to develop their communication and leadership skills," said Stokes.

Toastmaster's members are from around the world representing over 116 countries. The organization currently has more than 280,000 members in 13,500 clubs. The nonprofit educational organization teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs.

For more information, email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit www.toastmasters.org.