2018 Valley to Valley Swing (DAY 1)
Diablo Valley College - Nov 17 | Status: Completed
Judge Philosophies
Anthony Campolo - DVC
Arthur Valenzuela - LAVC
Blake Longfellow - DVC
I am primarily an IE coach and very much approach forensics (including debate) as a communication/persuasive activity. I approach debate with the mindset that all stories are arguments and all arguments are stories. With that said, the story which is the most internally cohesive (narrative probability) and that lines up across the debate (narrative fidelity) is likely to win my ballot.
Here is a list of things Paul Villa thinks you should know about debating in front of me:
- Truth over tech: Blake isn't flowing the debate like this is the national circuit, he is going to take minimal notes, you aren't going to win by pointing out some drop on the flow or technical analysis of the round.
- Don't spread. Like, at all. However fast you are thinking will be fine I'd go slower than that.
- Reading theory is a non-starter, if the other team isn't topical just tell Blake they aren't topical and explain why that means they should lose the debate without getting all technical.
- Blake would probably vote on a K, especially a performance one, assuming it made sense to him in the round.
- Less is more, the more simple the path to the ballot for you the more likely Blake is to vote for you.
Dana Levochio - DVC
Erick Antonio Berrios - DVC
Faeda Hijawii - Chabot
n/a
Janene Whitesell - Solano CC
I've been teaching COMM classes at Solano College for 30 years. During that time, I have taught Argumentation and Debate at least 23 of those years. So here's what you need to know:
1. I am a flow judge. I use a reasonable person's paradigm when judging. However, it is up to the opposing team to identify counter-intuitive arguments.
2. As a general rule, I don't like T arguments. I feel that they become a "whining" strategy for the Negative. If you decide to use T as a strategy, make sure that it's a real issue and not just a shell.
3. I also don't like K arguments, for much of the same reason. Most topics are debatable and a reasonable person should be able to take either side.
4. I prefer that the Negative clash with the Affirmative case. I feel that is one of the two main burdens of the Negative. (Along with supporting the Status Quo) Since many Negs run counter-plans these days, I will entertain that as a strategy. Though it always feels like you are shooting yourself in the foot. Go ahead and shoot.
5. I expect both teams to stand when they are speaking. Your power comes from that posture.
6. I also expect that team members won't prompt their partner while the partner is speaking. You have to trust your partner. And if they screw up, it's your job to fix it. I have been known to drop teams that prompt in spite of my request that they don't. Listen to me. I'm the judge. And it's my rules during the round.
7. As a flow judge, I can keep up with speed. But if the opposing team can't keep up, I would expect that you would slow it down. Spreading doesn't really add that much more content. Just bad breathing.
8. Identify voting issues when we get down to the last two speeches. But then, that's just good practice, no?
9. Any humor would be appreciated as would any reference to Zombies, Star Trek, and Video Games.
Jimmy Gomez - OCC
Debate philo: Speed is not good. Be respectful of each other, but some lite cattiness and shade is always fun. Focus on arguments rather than the peripheral stuff. We are here to debate not to win on technicalities. I time road maps, sis so you better get in to it.
Joe Faina - LAVC
My judging philosophy is straightforward: I base my decision on who makes the best overall arguments in support of their side. Preponderance of effective argumentation.
Justin Freeman - Solano CC
KB Chesko - LAVC
I am not a debate coach, but I teach and understand argumentation. Communicate effectively, lay out your arguments clearly, and tell me why you won. Passion in your performance is always a plus, just be respectful of your opponent.
Kelsey Duff - SFSU
Manish Khanal - DVC
Nahed Barakat - Chabot
n/a
Nathan Steele - CCSF
Have fun and claim the space-time of the debate round as belonging to you. Aspire to present clearly organized and supported arguments in your constructive speeches. Your general approach should be to invite dialogue over controversy and offer clear reasoning why your position is preferable. Provide criteria by which I might evaluate the arguments in the round. When inspired, embrace your creativity and wit. Share the time with your opponent during cross-examination. Use rebuttal speeches to extend arguments as you see fit. It is good practice to provide some key voting issues or summary of the competing narratives within the debate to illuminate my decision-making process (i.e., my pathway to voting for you). Delivery doesn't factor heavily into decision-making. Be yourself. Focus on conveying the arguments so your opponent and judge understand. I may comment on features of your nonverbal communication on a ballot, but you'll win the debate with the argument(s).
The emotional experience of participating in debate matters, and my hope is that debaters will be respectful of opponents, judges, and audience members at all times. Focus on the arguments during the round. Be good to yourself too. Debate can be difficult at times. Keep bringing your best and youll get better.
Pablo Ramirez - SFSU
Rachel Dwiggins-Beeler - Solano CC
Randy Carver - CCC
n/a
Ryan Guy - MJC
Hey everyone!
Im Ryan Guy from Modesto Junior College. Im excited to see your debate skills and hope we can create a welcoming, educational, and (yes!) enjoyable environment. Below is how I typically approach judging. If anythings unclear or you have questions, just ask. Im here to help!
- In-person: I often carry a camera. If youd like me to record your debate, ask your opponent(s) for permission first. If everyone agrees, Ill upload the video as an unlisted YouTube link and share it via a short URL on my ballot.
- Online: I can screen-capture the round under the same conditionall debaters must approve.
I never want anyone to feel pressured. If anyone isnt okay with recording, no worrieslets just have a great round!
A Little About Me- I debated NPDA at Humboldt State in the mid-2000s.
- Since 2008, Ive coached Parli, NFA-LD, IPDA, a bit of BP, and CEDA.
- I teach college classes in argumentation, debate, public speaking, etc.
I genuinely enjoy the educational side of debatewhere we exchange ideas, sharpen our thinking, and learn from each other.
How I See Debate 1. Sharing Material- If youre in NFA-LD, please post your arguments on the case list.
- Use SpeechDrop.net to share files in NFA-LD and Policy.
- If you only use paper, thats okayjust be sure I have a copy so I can follow along. If not, try to keep your delivery at a relaxed pace so I catch everything.
- Please keep it clear. If you see me squinting, looking confused, or if someone calls clear, please slow down a touch.
- If I have a copy of your evidence, Im more comfortable with moderate speed. If not, Ill need you to slow down so I can accurately flow your arguments.
- Im totally fine with procedural arguments or theory debates, as long as you explain the abuse or violation clearly.
- If you dont show me why it matters, I might not weigh it.
- I usually default to net benefits unless you give me a different framework.
- I lean toward policy-making approaches, but youre welcome to run Ks. Just note:
- Im not deeply immersed in every authors work.
- Please break it down and educate everyone involved.
- Going too quickly on a K might cause me to miss essential details.
- Let me know where youre going in your speech (road-mapping).
- If you jump around, thats okayjust be explicit about where we are on the flow.
- Directly engaging each others points is always more compelling than ignoring or glossing over them.
- Good humor and wit are awesomemean-spiritedness is not. I notice and reward kindness and clarity in speaker points.
- If the tournament schedule allows, Im happy to share thoughts after the round. If they prefer we wait, Ill respect that and offer feedback later on if youd like to chat.
- Debate is an educational activity. I never want anyone to feel unsafe.
- If a serious issue arises that threatens anyones well-being, Im likely to pause the round and involve the tournament director.
- Signposting: Please label your arguments (advantages, disadvantages, contentions, etc.) so we can all follow your flow.
- Policy Resolutions: If its a policy resolution, FIAT a plan (agent, mandates, enforcement, funding). The IPDA textbook explicitly says so, and its clearer for everyone.
- Evidence: You have 30 minutes of prepuse it to gather sources. Let me see or hear your evidence. Solid citations build credibility.
- Theory/Procedural Arguments: If you need to run these, just do it in a conversational style. IPDA is meant to be accessible to all.
- Avoiding Drops: Please address each others points. When theres good clash, the round becomes more dynamic and educational.
- Style: IPDA is a public-friendly format. Keep jargon to a minimum and be mindful of speed.
- Tell Me Why You Win: By the end, I should know what key arguments or impacts lead you to victory.
- Impact Calculus: Connect your arguments to real-world or in-round impacts.
- Clean Up: If a bunch of arguments go untouched, thats less persuasive. Guide me to the crucial points and weigh them.
- Clarity Over Speed: If you speak too quickly and I cant follow, its your loss, not mine.
-
File Sharing
- SpeechDrop.net is my favorite toolfaster and more organized.
- If not possible, email me at ryanguy@gmail.com or use a flash drive.
- Paper-only is cool if you provide copies for everyone (including me), or else go a bit slower so I can keep up.
-
Disclosure
- I support posting cases on the NFA-LD caselist.
- If its not a new Aff, get it up there; otherwise, you might face theory arguments about accessibility and predictability.
- Teams that openly disclose help everyone prep better, and I appreciate that.
-
Cardless LD
- I find it questionable. If your opponent argues its abusive, I might vote on that if well-explained.
- Typically, I score between 2630 (or 3640 in IPDA).
- Youll see higher points if youre clear, organized, respectful, and genuinely engaging with the round.
- Please make an honest effort to be topical.
- T debates are fine. Show me proven or articulated abuse, and Ill vote that way if you can win the sheet.
- Im not a fan of random, squirrely cases that dodge the resolution.
I love debate because its a chance to learn, clash respectfully, and become better communicators. Bring your best arguments, speak clearly, and show each other (and me) some kindness and respect. If you do that, I promise Ill do my best to give you a fair and educational experience.
Looking forward to hearing your ideasgood luck, have fun, and lets do this!
Ryan Guy - MJC
Hey everyone!
Im Ryan Guy from Modesto Junior College. Im excited to see your debate skills and hope we can create a welcoming, educational, and (yes!) enjoyable environment. Below is how I typically approach judging. If anythings unclear or you have questions, just ask. Im here to help!
- In-person: I often carry a camera. If youd like me to record your debate, ask your opponent(s) for permission first. If everyone agrees, Ill upload the video as an unlisted YouTube link and share it via a short URL on my ballot.
- Online: I can screen-capture the round under the same conditionall debaters must approve.
I never want anyone to feel pressured. If anyone isnt okay with recording, no worrieslets just have a great round!
A Little About Me- I debated NPDA at Humboldt State in the mid-2000s.
- Since 2008, Ive coached Parli, NFA-LD, IPDA, a bit of BP, and CEDA.
- I teach college classes in argumentation, debate, public speaking, etc.
I genuinely enjoy the educational side of debatewhere we exchange ideas, sharpen our thinking, and learn from each other.
How I See Debate 1. Sharing Material- If youre in NFA-LD, please post your arguments on the case list.
- Use SpeechDrop.net to share files in NFA-LD and Policy.
- If you only use paper, thats okayjust be sure I have a copy so I can follow along. If not, try to keep your delivery at a relaxed pace so I catch everything.
- Please keep it clear. If you see me squinting, looking confused, or if someone calls clear, please slow down a touch.
- If I have a copy of your evidence, Im more comfortable with moderate speed. If not, Ill need you to slow down so I can accurately flow your arguments.
- Im totally fine with procedural arguments or theory debates, as long as you explain the abuse or violation clearly.
- If you dont show me why it matters, I might not weigh it.
- I usually default to net benefits unless you give me a different framework.
- I lean toward policy-making approaches, but youre welcome to run Ks. Just note:
- Im not deeply immersed in every authors work.
- Please break it down and educate everyone involved.
- Going too quickly on a K might cause me to miss essential details.
- Let me know where youre going in your speech (road-mapping).
- If you jump around, thats okayjust be explicit about where we are on the flow.
- Directly engaging each others points is always more compelling than ignoring or glossing over them.
- Good humor and wit are awesomemean-spiritedness is not. I notice and reward kindness and clarity in speaker points.
- If the tournament schedule allows, Im happy to share thoughts after the round. If they prefer we wait, Ill respect that and offer feedback later on if youd like to chat.
- Debate is an educational activity. I never want anyone to feel unsafe.
- If a serious issue arises that threatens anyones well-being, Im likely to pause the round and involve the tournament director.
- Signposting: Please label your arguments (advantages, disadvantages, contentions, etc.) so we can all follow your flow.
- Policy Resolutions: If its a policy resolution, FIAT a plan (agent, mandates, enforcement, funding). The IPDA textbook explicitly says so, and its clearer for everyone.
- Evidence: You have 30 minutes of prepuse it to gather sources. Let me see or hear your evidence. Solid citations build credibility.
- Theory/Procedural Arguments: If you need to run these, just do it in a conversational style. IPDA is meant to be accessible to all.
- Avoiding Drops: Please address each others points. When theres good clash, the round becomes more dynamic and educational.
- Style: IPDA is a public-friendly format. Keep jargon to a minimum and be mindful of speed.
- Tell Me Why You Win: By the end, I should know what key arguments or impacts lead you to victory.
- Impact Calculus: Connect your arguments to real-world or in-round impacts.
- Clean Up: If a bunch of arguments go untouched, thats less persuasive. Guide me to the crucial points and weigh them.
- Clarity Over Speed: If you speak too quickly and I cant follow, its your loss, not mine.
-
File Sharing
- SpeechDrop.net is my favorite toolfaster and more organized.
- If not possible, email me at ryanguy@gmail.com or use a flash drive.
- Paper-only is cool if you provide copies for everyone (including me), or else go a bit slower so I can keep up.
-
Disclosure
- I support posting cases on the NFA-LD caselist.
- If its not a new Aff, get it up there; otherwise, you might face theory arguments about accessibility and predictability.
- Teams that openly disclose help everyone prep better, and I appreciate that.
-
Cardless LD
- I find it questionable. If your opponent argues its abusive, I might vote on that if well-explained.
- Typically, I score between 2630 (or 3640 in IPDA).
- Youll see higher points if youre clear, organized, respectful, and genuinely engaging with the round.
- Please make an honest effort to be topical.
- T debates are fine. Show me proven or articulated abuse, and Ill vote that way if you can win the sheet.
- Im not a fan of random, squirrely cases that dodge the resolution.
I love debate because its a chance to learn, clash respectfully, and become better communicators. Bring your best arguments, speak clearly, and show each other (and me) some kindness and respect. If you do that, I promise Ill do my best to give you a fair and educational experience.
Looking forward to hearing your ideasgood luck, have fun, and lets do this!
Salim Razawi - Las Positas
n/a
Taure Shimp - MJC
ALL DEBATE EVENTS
Everyone in the room is here to learn, develop skills, and have a good time. Treating one another with a sense of humanity is really important to me as a coach, judge, and audience member. Debate is invigorating and educational, but I only enjoy it when a positive communication climate between participants is the foundation.
IPDA
I hope to see clear contentions that include cited evidence and well-developed warrants. Debaters should utilize ethos/pathos/logos appeals throughout to demonstrate well-rounded speaking abilities. I expect IPDA debates to be accessible to lay audiences. This means maintaining a conversational rate of speech, avoiding unnecessary jargon, and presenting arguments that engage in a clear way with the resolution.
PARLI
Probably best to treat me like an IPDA / IE judge in this event. Things I value in this event include courteous treatment of all participants, conversational rate of speech, and sign-posting on all arguments. Do your best to make the impact calculus really clear throughout but especially rebuttals. Of course I'll do my best to consider whatever arguments you choose to present in the round, but if you have any pity in your heart please don't run Kritiks. Feel free to communicate with your partner, but I only flow what the recognized speaker says during their allotted time.
LD
Probably best to treat me like an IPDA / IE judge in this event. It's important to me that rate of speech remain more conversational. I want to understand and consider the arguments you present to the full extent possible and this is hard for me when the rounds get fast. I usually appreciate being able to view debaters' evidence on something like Speech Drop, but please don't expect that I am reading along word for word with you. Otherwise, I appreciate courtesy between opponents; clear sign-posting; and impact analysis that makes my job as easy as possible.
Thanks and I'm looking forward to seeing you all in-round!
Taure Shimp - MJC
ALL DEBATE EVENTS
Everyone in the room is here to learn, develop skills, and have a good time. Treating one another with a sense of humanity is really important to me as a coach, judge, and audience member. Debate is invigorating and educational, but I only enjoy it when a positive communication climate between participants is the foundation.
IPDA
I hope to see clear contentions that include cited evidence and well-developed warrants. Debaters should utilize ethos/pathos/logos appeals throughout to demonstrate well-rounded speaking abilities. I expect IPDA debates to be accessible to lay audiences. This means maintaining a conversational rate of speech, avoiding unnecessary jargon, and presenting arguments that engage in a clear way with the resolution.
PARLI
Probably best to treat me like an IPDA / IE judge in this event. Things I value in this event include courteous treatment of all participants, conversational rate of speech, and sign-posting on all arguments. Do your best to make the impact calculus really clear throughout but especially rebuttals. Of course I'll do my best to consider whatever arguments you choose to present in the round, but if you have any pity in your heart please don't run Kritiks. Feel free to communicate with your partner, but I only flow what the recognized speaker says during their allotted time.
LD
Probably best to treat me like an IPDA / IE judge in this event. It's important to me that rate of speech remain more conversational. I want to understand and consider the arguments you present to the full extent possible and this is hard for me when the rounds get fast. I usually appreciate being able to view debaters' evidence on something like Speech Drop, but please don't expect that I am reading along word for word with you. Otherwise, I appreciate courtesy between opponents; clear sign-posting; and impact analysis that makes my job as easy as possible.
Thanks and I'm looking forward to seeing you all in-round!