D29 On-Stage at the International Convention: The following members of District 29 will be on stage at the Toastmasters International Convention in Philadelphia:   Hritik Bhansali, the winner of the District 29 International Speech Contest, will be competing in Semi-Final 1 at 1:00 PM EST, Thursday, Aug 21.   Len Tran, winner of the District 27 International Speech Contest, will be competing in Semi-Final 3 at 1:00 PM, EST, Thursday, Aug 21.   And if they are both one of the two finalists from their respective semi-finals, they’ll get to face-off at the World Championship of Public Speaking at 1:00 PM EST on Saturday, Aug 23!   Dana Richard, International Director from Region 7, will join International 2nd Vice President Gauri Seshadri, Past Region Advisor Aminata Keita, for the “Road to Leadership” panel discussion moderated by Past International President Matt Kinsey and Immediate Past International President Morag Mathieson, at 4:30 – 5:30 PM EST, Thursday, Aug 21. He will also be the Contest Chair for Semi-Final 2, and a participant in the Candidate Showcase and the Hall of Fame.   Edmond Joe from PMIWDC 01, will be featured in a break-out session at 12:45  – 1:45 PM EST and 2:00 – 3:00 PM EST, Friday, Aug 22 for a Toastmasters Journey Workshop, “Becoming Distinguished.”   If you are attending the convention or joining from home via on-demand streaming, make sure you catch these sessions as District 29 members take the stage!

In Memoriam: Clinton Earl Conerly of Burke Toastmasters Club, October 11, 1945 – July 26, 2025, Burke, Virginia It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Clinton Earl Conerly of Burke Toastmasters Club, a dedicated and long-time member of Toastmasters International and a cherished part of Burke Toastmasters Club, District 29.   Clinton joined Toastmasters in 1991, and over the years, became known for his unwavering commitment to personal growth, leadership, and service. A member of Burke Toastmasters Club, he served in various roles over the years.   He was an inspiring communicator and mentor, known for his commitment to Toastmasters program, encouraging presence, impactful speeches, and tireless support for new members. Notably, he embraced the Pathways education program, earning recognition for his dedication to lifelong learning and Toastmasters values.   Clinton’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched – whether through a kind word, a thoughtful evaluation, or a shared story that made others feel heard and empowered.   We extend our heartfelt condolences to his spouse Brenda Conerly, family, friends, and fellow Toastmasters. May we honor his memory by continuing the work he so passionately supported – helping people become more confident speakers and leaders.   Rest in peace, Clinton Earl Conerly. You will be missed, but never forgotten.   Funeral arrangements are scheduled for Aug 12th at Knollwood Community Church. 10000 Coffer Woods Road, Burke, VA   Thank you for further distribution, as appropriate, to anyone inadvertently overlooked in this communication. https://obituaries.carewellcremations.com/clinton-conerly