Hi! My name's Karen Akins, and I'm excited to be judging you today.

• I prefer to see debaters stick to the given topic.
• If I can't understand what you're saying (i.e. too fast), I won't be able to understand your argument. (In other words, spread at your own peril.)
• Be respectful! In my opinion, this is the greatest benefit of competitive debate--learning to craft a compelling argument while still showing civility to your opponent.
• Have fun!

Good luck!

I am currently a senior at BHS this is my third year in speech and debate. Although I am technically in debate I mostly compete in forensics events!

I do not like spreading, if you spread but I can still understand you I will not count you down, however if I can not understand you I will mark you down. I think spreading takes away from really being able to debate.

Make me laugh, pull me in. INTRODUCE YOURSELF WHEN YOU COME IN!! I do not want to have to guess who you are! I will know if you read this so make me proud :)

If you have an questions before or after tournament or you want to share your case with me before round -- payneem17@gmail.com

Good luck you're going to kill it!

- Emily Payne

Debate:

I am a logical thinker. If you can connect the dots in a logical manner then it will make more sense to me.

You can't just say that something happens. Explain why it happens and what that means. Why should I care?

That and I would prefer if you didn't spread.

If you start to stutter I won't count off or think less of your abilities. Take your time, get your thoughts together, and speak when ready.

Do not treat the opponent poorly. If you start acting maliciously or "bully" your opponent, I will start counting off. Keep things professional!

Keep on smiling!

Forensics:

Follow the rules, please. It's not that hard.

Do not talk during other people's performances. Yes, you can have people spectate but if they begin acting disruptive it will affect how I score you.

Keep on smiling!