by Lola Stone, D25 Contest Coordinator 2021-22

Spring has officially sprung with warmer days, blooming landscapes, rainy weather, and rainbows. Spring is the time of new growth and new experiences. Just like spring, Toastmasters contest season is also time for new growth and new experiences.

I encourage all Toastmasters to step outside of their clubs and take advantage of these additional growth and networking opportunities. Volunteering to serve at a contest provides leadership experience, and watching the contestants is like taking a masters class in public speaking and storytelling!

Area Speech Contests ended in March, and all 1^st Place winners will compete in their respective Division Contests in April, currently underway. For a splashing good time, come soak up the excitement by attending the Division contests and learning from some of the best speakers in District 25.

Upcoming Division Speech Contests

Thursday – 4/21/22
Div. B – Briefing: 6:00pm, Contest: 7:00pm via Zoom

Friday – 4/22/22
Div. G – Briefing: 6:00pm, Contest: 7:00pm via Zoom

Saturday – 4/23/22
Div. C – Briefing: 9:00am, Contest: 10:00am via Zoom
Div. F – Briefing: 1:00pm, Contest: 2:00pm via Zoom

Saturday – 4/30/22
Div. A – Briefing: 10:00am, Contest: 11:00am via Zoom
Div. D – Briefing: 2:00pm, Contest: 3:00pm via Zoom

All 1^st Place winners from the Division Contests will represent their respective division in the District 25 Contest. The District 25 Evaluation and International Speech contests will be recorded on Saturday, May 7, 2022, in accordance with Toastmasters International criteria.  The only participants to be present while recording the virtual contests include contestants, Judges, Toastmaster, Contest Chairman, Chief Judge, Timers, Ballot Counters, Zoom Master, Sergeant-at-Arms, and the Trio. No observers will be allowed.

Watch Parties during the District 25 Annual Conference will broadcast the contests, and the winners will be announced at that time. Mark your calendars to be part of the fun to cheer on your contestants:

• Evaluation Contest Watch Party, Friday, May 13, 2022
• International Speech Contest Watch Party, Saturday, May 14, 2022