This D57 podcast episode features co-chairs Tiffany Dawn Jones and Charles Heron discussing the upcoming Spring Conference 2026. This event is particularly significant as it marks the final conference for District 57 before it transitions into two new districts, 205 and 206 (2:08-2:16).

Conference Theme & Vision:
The theme, “Carry the torch, honoring the past, igniting the future,” serves as a tribute to over nine decades of District 57 history while bridging the transition to the future (2:00-2:35).

Key Highlights & Experiences:
• Contests: The conference will feature both an International Speech Contest and, notably, a Table Topics contest at the district level (9:35-9:47).
• Keynote: The event will feature a keynote address by long-term district leader Michael Nataro (9:50-10:04).
• Youth Participation: In line with “igniting the future,” the conference is inviting Gavel Club members to assist with the contests, providing youth with early Toastmasters-related experience (11:20-12:08).

Event Logistics:
• Location: The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Sonoma Wine Country in Rohnert Park, California (15:57-16:06).
• Pricing: Early bird tickets are $80 until April 30th (including breakfast and lunch), after which the price increases. A 10% discount is available for group purchases of three or more tickets (16:15-16:57).
• Volunteering: The organizers are actively seeking help for roles like room monitors, registration, and hospitality. Interested members can attend the Friday night Zoom planning sessions at 7:30 p.m. or sign up via the d57tm.org website (14:10-15:43).