Do you want a chance to spread your message? The Oral Interpretation and Debate teams have started anew this year with additional members amped to spread their message and create a community full of knowledge and friendly competition. Whether you’re a fiend for the dramatics or a fan of statistics, the Jefferson Speech & Debate teams come together and welcome all with open arms at the first information meeting of the season filled with new debate and speech enjoyers alike. New members can learn about topics and genres available for competition including Dramatic Interpretation, Original Oratory, or Extemp Debate; everyone gets a chance to explore a topic that resonates with their message, whether they want to share information about culture, mental health, or politics. Additionally, competitors can perform personal events or even do a humorous piece with an important meaning. Starting the season off with locked-in practice sessions, highlighting and cutting scripts and speeches, prepping cases and organizing info boards, everyone prepares for the upcoming Speaking Lynx Invitational on Saturday, October 18th. Debate senior, Sky Kane, states, “I feel like this year will be full of surprises.” The first competition of the season takes place at Brandon Valley High School at 7 AM, where teams from all over the state will meet during the information and rule meeting before rounds begin. Here, students will be introduced to staff, coaches, and student leaders who help organize the event and explain competition rules. JHS’ Oral Interpretation is also prepping for the State Tournament where a larger portion of its team members get the chance to perform together in the Readers Theatre category, which is full of humorous and dramatic interpretations alike! Speech and Debate are excited for another successful season full of laughs and everlasting memories with brand new topics and fun, long prep days ahead.