Hi, I'm Pepper Berry, and my pronouns are they/them.

My email if you need it: pberry@seattleu.edu

I've been a debater for five years and I am currently a debater at Seattle University doing British parliamentary.

I have done four years of Lincoln-Douglas debate, about a year of Policy debate, and a tiny bit of public forum. as well as Informative, Impromptu, and Poetry slam.

I am okay with speed within speeches, but you need to be clear. If you are not clear, I cannot flow it. I would much prefer the quality of arguments over quantity, especially for complex arguments.

I will vote on pretty much anything if you are persuasive enough. I am okay with K's, counter plans, framework, theory, etc. as long as they are explained well.

Coach and judge of 18 years.

Lincoln Douglas:

I always fall back on the basic explanations on the National Speech and Debate LD ballot.

1. The resolution evaluated is a proposition of value, which concerns itself with what ought to be instead of what is. Values are ideals held by individuals, societies, governments, etc., which serve as the highest goals to be considered or achieved within the context of the resolution in question.

*This is paramount for me.

2. Each debater has the burden to prove their side of the resolution more valid as a general principle. It is unrealistic to expect a debater to prove complete validity or invalidity of the resolution. The better debater is the one who, on the whole, proves their side of the resolution more valid as a general principle.

*I dislike when one debater puts the burden of proof on the other side.

3. Students are encouraged to research topic-specific literature and applicable works of philosophy. The nature of proof should be in the logic and the ethos of a
student's independent analysis and/or authoritative opinion.
4. Communication should emphasize clarity. Accordingly, a judge should only evaluate those arguments that were presented in a manner that was clear and understandable to them as a judge. Throughout the debate, the competitors should display civility as well as a professional demeanor and style of delivery.

*No spreading/speed reading. I put huge emphasis on clarity. Persuade me with your language and well crafted thoughts. If I can't understand you, you can't win.

5. After a case is presented, neither debater should be rewarded for presenting a speech completely unrelated to the arguments of their opponent; there must be clash concerning the major arguments in the debate. Cross-examination should clarify, challenge, and/or advance arguments.
6. The judge shall disregard new arguments introduced in rebuttal. This does not include the introduction of new evidence in support of points already advanced or the
refutation of arguments introduced by opponents.
7. Because debaters cannot choose which side of the resolution to advocate, judges must be objective evaluators of both sides of the resolution. Evaluate the round
based only on the arguments that the debaters made and not on personal opinions or on arguments you would have made.

First time judge. No speed/spreading. Not too technical or progressive.

EXPERIENCE

I competed in Policy (among other events) from 2006 to 2010 and in British Parliamentary at the college level from 2010 to 2014. I've been judging since then, and have been running the debate programs at a number of schools since 2016. Please read the applicable paradigm categorized by format below:

POLICY

I'm a Stock Issues judge! My belief is that we're here to debate a policy option, not discuss external advocacy.

Generally not in favor of the K. If a team chooses to run one with me, provide a clear weighing mechanism as to why I should prefer the K over the policy issue we're actually here to debate.

I do not look upon Performance cases favorably. If you want to pull that stunt and expect to win, go do Oratory.

I'm able to understand speed just fine, but prefer clear articulation. Pitching your voice up while continuing to read at the same speed is not spreading.

I highly value clash and a weighing mechanism in the round, and strongly encourage analysis on arguments made. I work to avoid judge intervention if at all possible, unless there is clear abuse of the debate format or both teams have failed to provide effective weighing mechanisms. Don't just give me arguments and expect me to do the math; prove to me that you've won the argument, and then demonstrate how that means you've won the round.

I have a deep hatred of disclosure theory. I expect teams that I judge to be able to respond and adapt to new arguments in-round instead of whining about how they didn't know the 1AC or 1NC ahead of time. If you want to run this, I have an exceedingly high threshold for proving abuse.

Please do not assume that I'm reading along in the doc with you. Debate's meant to be about oral communication, and only stuff that's actually said in round makes it into my flow. If I request the doc, it's purely for verification needs in case there's a challenge.

Finally, I have low tolerance for tech issues. I've been doing this since laptops first came onto the debate scene, and I've never seen computers crash or "crash" more consistently than at debate tournaments in the middle of a round. If there are persistent issues relating to files being ready or shareable, I may offer you a flash drive if I have one for a manual transfer, but I also reserve the right to factor that into my decision if it's a severe issue and extending the round beyond a reasonable point.


LINCOLN-DOUGLAS

I am a firm believer in traditional LD debate. LD was designed around Value-Criterion debate of the philosophical implications of a resolution, and I'm very happy to see debates of this nature. If you want to run a Plan, CP, or any variation of that, I would like to suggest 3 options for you: Go do Policy, have your coach strike me, or hope for a different judge.

I am not a fan of Kritiks, but haven't been shy about voting for them in the past when they're well-impacted and developed with a competitive alt. You're going to have to do some serious work if you want to try and get me to prefer the K, but it's certainly possible. A K without an alternative is just whining.

No speed. A conversational speaking rate is more than adequate if you've done your homework and refined your case.

Performance/meme cases will result in swift and appalling reprisals in your speaker points, even in the unlikely event that you win the round. A low-point win is virtually inevitable in that case, and indicates that your opponent has somehow become incapacitated during the round and was unable to gurgle a response.

Adaptation to your audience is one of the most basic and essential factors in debate, and public speaking in general. Please keep that in mind when formulating your strategy for the round.

PUBLIC FORUM

I strongly prefer traditional public forum debate. Do not treat this like Policy Lite. PF was intended to be accessible to the layperson, and I take that seriously. Go do Policy if you want to use jargon, run plans or kritiks, or spread. If I hear a plan text, it's likely that I'll be signing my ballot right there and then.

In order to earn the ballot from me, focus on making clear, well-articulated arguments that have appropriate supporting evidence. Remember to tell me why I should prefer your evidence/points over your opponent's. Make sure your advocacy is continually supported through the round, and give me a good summary at the end to show why you've won.

WORLDS DEBATE

Traditional Worlds adjudication; please remember which format you're competing in. Do not spread. I voted down a team in Triple Octafinals at 2018 Nationals for it.

     I start out as a Stock Issue Judge.  The Affirmative must maintain all of the stock issues to win the debate---Topicality , Significance Harms, Inherency Solvency.  If the Affirmative maintains  all of the Stock Issues I then become a comparative advantage judge.  I weigh the advantages of the Affirmative versus the disadvantages, kritiks and counterplans of the negative.   I won't intervene in a debate but I would be receptive of arguments  that 1.  the negative can only have one position in a debate and 2.   that the negative cannot kritik the status quo without offering a counterplan.

Howdy!

I am Jarrod, and I did Lincoln Douglas (LD) at La Cueva High School from 2012 to 2016. I have helped run various Model United Nations conferences in college from 2016 to 2018, as well. I have a Bachelor's Degree in International Relations from American University and work for the federal government in Washington, DC.

I am a traditional LD debater, and will always be a traditional LD debater; however, I am open to more modern LD debate styles as a judge. I will flow the debate, and will review the flow extensively before I make a decision. I do not like spreading, particularly because it diminishes my understanding of the arguments (if I am not flowing, please slow down). I am supportive of creative arguments (e.g. Ks, CPs) as long as you can strongly support them. Please see the additional paradigms below:

Definitions: I am not fond of definition debates, but I will see the merit in a definition debate if it ends up being critical to the round.

Value/Criterion Debates: I am not fond of value/criterion debates (e.g. "morality outweighs justice because philosophy says so"), particularly because often these are meant to clash by design. Please demonstrate how your contentions support your value/criterion to outweigh your opponent's - these will rarely outweigh your opponent's on their own.

Voters: I am very fond of voters, particularly at the end of your final rebuttal, as a way to crystallize the most important themes during the round.

I have one final paradigm - the most important of all - HAVE FUN!

Hi,

I'm a new parent judge without much experience. English is not my native language, so please do not spread and speak clearly. I prefer clear organization, strong evidence and good summary.

Thank you

I am a parent who volunteered to judge debate while one of my children was involved. Now that they have graduated I still help most weekends when I am able.

I am also a teacher; I have higher expectations of students who debate, simply because they are trying to improve. I am not a trained debate coach but I have been learning about debate for the last 7 years.

What I usually tell students who ask for my paradigm:

If I can't understand your words I can't judge your arguments. You have practiced your speeches, you know them, so help me understand what you have to say.

I like to hear a clear argument, so tell me what your points are, then offer your evidence. Be honest.

I like the occasional clever pun-but don't overdo it unless you can absolutely nail it!

The most important thing to keep in mind is: You are working hard and I respect that work. You are doing something that matters, thank you for learning about our world and refining your ability to discuss and make decisions about important issues.

I’m the head coach of the Mount Vernon HS Debate Team (WA).

I did policy debate in HS very, very long ago - but I’m not a traditionalist. (Bring on the progressive LD arguments-- I will listen to them, unlike my daughter, Peri, who is such a traditional LD'er.)

Add me to the email chain: kkirkpatrick@mvsd320.org

Please don’t be racist, homophobic, etc. I like sassy, aggressive debaters who enjoy what they do but dislike sullen, mean students who don't really care-- an unpleasant attitude will damage your speaker points.

Generally,

Speed: Speed hasn't been a problem but I don't tell you if I need you to be more clear-- I feel it's your job to adapt. If you don't see me typing, you probably want to slow down. I work in tabroom in WA state an awful lot, so my flowing has slowed. Please take that into consideration.

Tech = Truth: I’ll probably end up leaning more tech, but I won’t vote for weak arguments that are just blatantly untrue in the round whether or not your opponents call it out.

Arguments:

I prefer a strong, developed NEG strategy instead of running a myriad of random positions.

I love it when debaters run unique arguments that they truly believe and offer really high speaker points for this. (I'm not inclined to give high speaks, though.)

Any arguments that aren’t on here, assume neutrality.

Do like and will vote on:

T - I love a well-developed T battle but rarely hear one. I don't like reasonability as a standard-- it's lazy, do the work.

Ks - I like debaters who truly believe in the positions they’re running. I like critical argumentation but if you choose to run an alt of "embrace poetry" or "reject all written text", you had better fully embrace it. I’m in touch with most literature, but I need a lot of explanation from either side as to why you should win it in the final rebuttals.

Don’t like but will vote on if won:

“Debate Bad” - I DO NOT LIKE "Debate is Futile" arguments. Please don't tell me what we are doing has no point. I will listen to your analysis. I may even have to vote for it once in a while. But, it is not my preference. Want a happy judge? Don't tell me that how we are spending another weekend of our lives is wasting our time.

Very, very, very... VERY traditional LD - if you are reading an essay case, I am not the judge for you.

Not a huge fan of disclosure theory-- best to skip this.

Don’t like and won’t vote on:

Tricks.

Hello! I'm Peri (she/her) and I debated for Mount Vernon HS in Washington doing LD for 3 years in high school. I am also a part-time, de-facto assistant coach for the Mount Vernon team, and I'm starting my own at the school I currently teach at-- I've never really left the debate community, so I know a bit of the norms and I know what's going on. I have my Bachelor's in International Studies focused on Peace and Conflict Resolution in the Middle East and North Africa, and my Master's in International Relations (meaning I know more about the Middle East than the average person) Here is my email if you need it... periannakb@gmail.com

Congress:

A huge pet peeve of mine is 3...2..1 and my time starts on my first word. I wont start your timer until you start speaking. I promise.

Substance > Style

Don't rehash, bring up new points prevalent to the debate. I love to see refutation particularly after the first two speeches. Please, lets move on if we are just going to say the same thing over and over.

Every time you speak in a session, it gives me more reasons to rank you at the end of the round. Fight to give those speeches and use questions! Don't let any of that direct questioning time go to waste!!!

LD:

A huge pet peeve of mine is 3...2..1 and my time starts on my first word. I wont start your timer until you start speaking. I promise.

I did traditional LD in high school. I am a traditional LD judge. You can run some arguments but disguise them as more traditional and focus on that style to keep me a happy judge. Take that into account. Don't spread I won't understand. Explain your arguments clearly and you'll be fine. No Meta-Ethics or trix.

Side note: Please make sure you are educated on the 2024 Jan/Feb LD topic... I don't want to hear arguments that are factually untrue, and I'm excited for well-informed debates that get into the depths of this subject! I've written articles on this topic that you could use as a card-- I know it well.

PF:

A huge pet peeve of mine is 3...2..1 and my time starts on my first word. I wont start your timer until you start speaking. I promise.

I'm judging more and more pufo these days. I like clear, well organized constructives. Don't just read everything one note. I appreciate that public forum is supposed to be different than LD and Policy. Keep it that way.

Random framework arguments about the intent of the topic aren't going to work for me. If things change in the status quo, you need to be prepared to discuss them.

Ask me for my paradigm before the round starts :)

Speech Events:

Here's a glimpse into how I evaluate performances and the key elements I pay attention to when scoring speech events (and speaking in general):

Content:

• Depth and Originality: Are you engaging with the topic thoughtfully? Do you offer fresh perspectives and insights? Do you demonstrate research and understanding of the issue?

• Argumentation (if applicable): Do you build a clear and logical argument? Do you address opposing viewpoints fairly and effectively? Do you use evidence effectively to support your claims?

• Organization and Structure: Is your speech well-organized, with a strong introduction, body, and conclusion? Is there a clear flow of ideas? Does each point contribute to your overall message?

• Technical: How did the content and structure of your speech perform against the requirements of your speech event? Did you stay within the rules and guidelines of the speech event?

Delivery:

• Vocal Variety and Control: Do you use dynamic vocal volume, pitch, and pace to keep your audience engaged? Are your pronunciations clear and understandable? Did you minimize the use of filler words?

• Nonverbal Communication: Do your gestures and facial expressions enhance your message or distract from it? Do you use movement strategically to increase engagement and to emphasize transitions? Do you maintain eye contact with your audience?

• Stage Presence: Do you command the stage with confidence and poise? Do you appear comfortable and engaging?

Engagement:

• Audience Connection: Do you connect with your audience on an emotional and intellectual level? Do you evoke a response, whether it's thought-provoking questions, amusement, or inspiration?

• Authenticity: Did you bring authenticity to the speech (unless playing a character)? Did you bring your unique voice and style to the speech?

• Stage Presence: Do you use storytelling, rhetorical devices, or humor to capture and hold the audience's attention?

Overall Impression:

• Impact: Did your speech leave a lasting impression, was the speech memorable? Did it make me think differently about the topic? Did it inspire me to take action? Did you deliver a great opening and a strong close?

• Adherence to Time Limit: Were you able to effectively convey your message within the allotted time frame?

Please Note:

• My primary focus is on content and argumentation (if applicable). However, delivery and engagement play an important role in enhancing the impact of your message.

• I value originality, humor (if appropriate), and creativity, but not at the expense of clarity and logic.

• I strive to provide constructive feedback that helps you improve your skills and develop as a speaker.

Additionally:

• Remember, every speaker has a unique voice and style. I try to judge each performance on its own merits, appreciating your strengths and recognizing areas for improvement.

• Regardless of the outcome, cherish the opportunity to share your voice and perspective. I'm here to support your growth as communicators.

Congress:

Here's a glimpse into how I evaluate performances and the key elements I pay attention to when scoring Congressional Debate:

Substance and Argumentation:

• Policy Understanding: Do you demonstrate a clear and deep understanding of the bill/resolution under debate? Can you clearly articulate its strengths and/or weaknesses?

• Grasp of the Issue: Do you demonstrate a deep understanding of the resolution and its complexities? Are you familiar with relevant facts, statistics, and historical context?

• Argument Clarity: Do you present your arguments in a logical and organized manner? Are your positions well-defined and supported by evidence?

• Unique Evidence & Arguments: Did you bring a unique perspective to the debate supported by unique evidence (in the relative context of the debate)?

• Rebuttal and Amendment Skills: Can you effectively respond to opposing arguments and strengthen your own case? Do you demonstrate the ability to craft and advocate for amendments?

• Policy Implications: Can you articulate the potential impact of the bill/resolution on constituents and the broader society? Do you consider unintended consequences?

Delivery and Engagement:

• Persuasion and Advocacy: Can you effectively deliver your arguments with conviction and passion? Do you connect with your colleagues and persuade them to your point of view?

• Utilization of Questions: Did you ask questions that advanced your argument? Did you engage courteously in your question exchange allowing your opponent to respond?

• Courtesy and Respect: Do you treat your fellow delegates with respect and courtesy, even when disagreeing with their positions?

• Active Listening and Collaboration: Do you actively listen to others' arguments and engage in constructive dialogue? Are you open to compromise and collaboration? Were you able to bring others' arguments (either rebutting or supporting) into your questions and speeches?

• Parliamentary Procedure: Do you demonstrate a strong understanding of parliamentary procedure? Do you follow the rules and contribute to a smooth debate flow?

Overall Impact:

• Leadership: Do you demonstrate leadership qualities, such as initiative, decisiveness, and the ability to inspire others?

• Policy Expertise: Do you stand out for your in-depth knowledge and understanding of the policy area under discussion?

• Contribution to the Debate: Do you actively engage in the debate, contribute meaningfully to the discussion, and move the chamber closer to a resolution?

Please Note:

• My primary focus is on substance, argumentation, and policy expertise. However, effective delivery, engagement, and adherence to parliamentary procedure are crucial for success.

• I value the quality of the evidence and data provided to the debate.

• I value originality and creativity in crafting arguments and solutions, but not at the expense of logic and clarity.

• I value participation, but not for the sake of participation. I do count the number of questions asked, but particularly value pointed, clear questions that advance your argument and will note these questions delivered in a round.

• My goal is to provide constructive feedback that helps you develop your skills as a mock congress debater and future leader.

Hi, I’m Emily or Em I did mostly LD competitively for four years in hs and competed in Congress for Nats. Im currently a student dual majoring in Biochemistry and International Relations with concentrations in International Political Economy and the Middle East. I truly believe in the intersectionality that exists between science and ethical globalization. I also hold a Medical Assistant License in Phlebotomy and am pursuing an EMT-B certification.

And me to the email chain emilyaney22@gmail.com or speech drop I think flashing creates accessibility

tldr: I open to literally just about anything reasonable that isn't harmful to certain groups. Also make sure to say why you win and how I should vote in your final rebuttals, If I have to decide how to vote you may not like it nor will I

hopefully this is a given but I will most likely intervene if you are explicitly sexist, racist, homophobic, xenophobic etc and reach out to your coach

Speed is fine go the 1/4 mile but be clear and I will likely be able to understand however it’s not cool to spread against a novice…However disclosing your case doesn’t mean you get to be incomprehensible…

I love unique arguments. But be topical.

If you want to run an off case position go for it (DAs and CPs are my fav) make sure to explain the link and why it matters over the case. As well as default reasonable. Also I have and will still totally vote on a good traditional case and love true criterion debate.

I view framework as a lens in which to evaluate voter’s versus a voter itself

Ks, explain critical lit and the link especially if you're using a unique philosophy or text also I need an alt to vote on it ya know

I mean you can run theory I'm not a big fan of it in LD (policy go for it) unless you’re gonna go for it in your final rebuttals (Ie drop the debater) but I’ll vote on it.

I'm not a big fan of tricks unless it directly applies to the debate itself but will reluctantly still vote on them

Also love CX, use it to your advantage and tbh have fun with it (flex prep should really only be for clarification)

I think performance affs are annoying but again I’ll vote on them

Please clash in your arguments and signpost

I think rfds are important so if you have any questions lmk!!! (Exs at novice level) and there will be a clear reason but I’m also not gonna go into a lecture I will also have notes on each of the speeches in the written rfd

speaks are fun and I’m going to try to give you as many as possible bc having dumb criteria for speaks used to annoy me but let’s be honest here if I have caffeine during your round your speaks will probs be higher

pf/Congressoff chance this happensmake sure your still debating vs just giving speeches…

If you have any questions please let me know before the round starts. :)

TLDR: Substance first. Depth over Breadth. Speed mostly fine (Yes Clarity still matters -_-). K's n stuff fine. Not the biggest fan of T. Be organized.

I don't usually count flashing as prep unless it becomes a problem. Only ever had a problem in Policy and (funnily enough) Pufo rounds.

Email: graythesun@gmail.com

Pronouns: He/Him

Prep:

All Prep is running prep. I'm not setting a timer, I'm using a stopwatch for all prep. Watch your own time.

Flex-Prep is valid. As in, asking questions during Prep time. I prefer if Flex-prep is more used for clarifying arguments rather then finding tricky questions... you had your chance in CX.

Framework:

As a judge I really like framework, it tends to make for an easier decision. I.E. some arguments that are argued don't really fit within frameworks in round, and I can just drop them. If there are competing frameworks I expect you to debate them, and end up with one superseding the other. That being said... if you have the same or similar frameworks, unless you're gonna describe what the nuanced difference is and how that changes the valuation in round, it's almost better to just agree that the Fw's are the same.

Contention level:

I definitely prefer depth of argumentation over breadth, knowing your evidence is key to educating yourself on the topic. I will always buy a warrant from your evidence that's well explained and utilized over one that isn't. A lot of responses to arguments made against a card can be found within the card itself. This doesn't mean you should just re-read the card. This does not mean that you can reread your card or tagline and be good.

First year out judge.

caitrinw@uw.edu, put me on evidence chains, speech docs, etc

I did PF through all four years of high school, second speaker.

Timing wise, if you go over time, I'll give you some grace but I will cut you off about ten seconds over speeches or 15 seconds over crossfires.

Speaks:

Almost always in a range of 27 - 30 unless you're shouting at your opponents/doing ad hominem attacks

PF

I want to see good impacts carried through the round. Don't drop something after rebuttal and bring it up again in FF. I want to see frontlining in second rebuttal, imo second summary is a little too late to frontline.

I don't flow crossfire, so if you want it to go on the flow, you'll have to say it in a speech.

Beyond that, PF is what you make it, so have fun.

Theory: I don't love theory in PF, I think it takes the 'public' out of Public Forum. That being said, debate is always changing and I recognize theory in PF is becoming more and more popular as time goes on, so I am willing to evaluate it. If you run theory, please warrant it well and give me real impacts. It takes a lot for me to vote only on theory, so don't abandon your case.

LD

As I already said, I did PF all of high school, so while I have a solid background in debate, I don't know LD very well.

I'll vote on theory as long as it's clearly warranted and done well. I'd like to see value criterions carried through the whole round, don't just say it in your constructive and then ignore them. If you're going to spread, provide speech docs.

I will still vote for your arguments if you lose the criterion/value debate but you prove convincingly that you win under your opponent's framework.

I don't flow crossfire, so if you want it to go on the flow, you'll have to say it in a speech.

My name is Astrid (they/them), and I did speech (info and extemp) all 4 years in High School in the Montana circuit, did 2 years of college level NPDA debate, winning Novice Nationals in 2018, and now coach all events at the high school level. I'm excited to judge!

All Events: Avoid gendered language when possible or addressing the crowd. Let me know if you have any time signals you'd like. Have fun, and respect yourself and others. Self advocate for acommodations when possible!

Congress: In a congress debate, I am looking for adaptability and cleverness. A good congressional debater is one who can play the room, find incisive questions that make speakers sweat, and understand the motions that control the pace of the debate space. Congress is best when it's about the details, both of the arguments and of the procedure. Debaters should be able to expand upon their prepared material AND approach new materials/bills with excitement.

In other debates, there is a skill called telling the "story of the ballot." In congress, that is giving a clear and cohesive summary of the argument about a bill and trying to tell the room why it's best to vote the way you're advocating for. The best congress debaters do that with ease.

KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A RESOLUTION AND A BILL. Please.

I WILL NOT DETRACT POINTS FOR NO EYE CONTACT, but do look around to various places. I've found if you look at "ghosts," empty seats as if someone sits there, it achieves the same result.

Lincoln-Douglas: I'm pretty good at speed, I've spread-ed my fair share in my day, but I'm a slow writer. For the sake of detail and understanding I may call out "slow" or "clear" when I need it. Please go slower when you're not reading a card so I can keep up.

I'm a big fan of FW debate, impact calculus, and interesting/lesser known philosophy. Watch yourself on colonialism Ks and anything to do with disability/marginalization; I love love love hearing these arguments, but often debaters end up speaking on behalf of marginalized people in unfortunate ways.

In your final speeches, give me clear voters with a story that carries me throughout the flow so I know what the heck is up. Throughout your speech, signpost WHERE we are on the flow.

I weigh theory debates about accessibility and basic respect (misgendering, accessibility around speed, disclosure/wiki etc.) are weighed very heavily for both sides. Evoke them VERY carefully. I care a lot about access to the event. I weigh procedural arguments first unless given a reason not to.

Run stuff you love and what you think is fun.

if you must email a case, email it to alecwillis00@gmail.com

All Speech Events: Move around! Explore the space! Don't get happy feet (shift from foot to foot as if anxious), but don't plant yourself in front of your phone. I value a kind of energy that takes up the whole space. I WILL NOT DETRACT POINTS FOR NO EYE CONTACT, but do look around to various places. I've found if you look at "ghosts," empty seats as if someone sits there, it achieves the same result.

Extemporaneous: I count sources and it contributes to my ranking. I generally like to hear the "out there" questions I know less about, but remember that I might not of heard anything about the topic! Give some preliminary info (which is a great place to stuff in more sources).

Impromptu/SPAR: Explore the space! Have fun! You're in a funny event, make jokes and smile. I love a nice, concise lesson that ties your points together. For Spar, I love having a passion or conviction that is far outside of what is normally considered for such funny topics. I want to feel like you care more about the topic than anything in the world (for both events).

Informative:I will be counting puns and it will contribute to both my ranking and my speaker point allocation. Most puns = 20 speaks no questions asked