Hello Fellow District 54 Toastmasters,
Though it may not seem like it with the cold and snow but spring is right around the corner!
...and if it's springtime, that means its time for the Evaluation Contest and the International Speech Contest!
All Toastmasters interested in competing, judging or serving in any role at the contest should review the online speech contest module provided by Toastmasters International at
http://www.toastmasters.org/Members/OfficerResources/eLearning/SpeechContestModule.aspx
There have been many questions regarding whether judges must be trained before judging at an area, division or district contest. While training is not required, we strongly suggest that anyone serving as a judge attend the following training:
What: Speech Contest Judges Training
When: Saturday, March 9, 2013 at 12pm
Where:
LaSalle Public Library
305 Marquette St
LaSalle, IL
A new item this year is the Judge’s Certification of Eligibility and Code of Ethics (Item 1170) - This form has been provided to all area and division governors as part of their speech contest kits.
One question that always comes up at contest time is how many contestants can advance from one level to another. i.e. Club -> Area -> Division -> District
Per the 2013 Speech Contest Rulebook:
1) If an area has four assigned clubs or fewer in good standing, districts have
the option to allow two contestants from each club to compete in the area contest.
District 54 will allow two contestants from each club to compete in the area contest.
2) In those divisions with four assigned areas or less, districts have the option to allow the two highest-placed
available contestants from each area to compete.
District 54 will allow two contestants from each area to compete in the division contest.
3) We have 6 divisions in District 54 so only the 1st place finisher at the division contest will move on to compete at the district level.
To see the dates and locations of area and division contests, check www.toastmastersd54.org -> Meetings -> Contest Events
Attached is the 2013 Speech Contest rulebook that should answer most of your questions regarding contests.
However, if you have any other questions, please feel free to contact me.
Good luck and we'll see you at the District 54 Spring 2013 Conference
D54 Spring 2013 Conference
LuAnn Larson, DTM
Lieutenant Governor Education & Training