Dancer
A M E R I C A N
National Ballroom Dance Week Studios, professionals, and volunteers teamed up to create a succesful week-long celebration.
WDSF World DanceSport Games The World DanceSport Games unite the different forms and styles of dance in a multi-disciplinary event.
Official Publication of USA Dance
Holiday Hot Spots www.usadance.org
November - December 2012
Issue 39
GBR6155-2599
LBR6155-2599
ERNEST BOREL
76 Littleton Road, Rt 110, USA – Chelmsford, MA 01824-2625 Tel: +1 877 566 1824 Fax: +1 855 566 1824 Steven Varshavsky & Caroline Nunberg www.ernestborel.ch usa@ernestborel.ch Manhattan Amateur Classic/Jan 2012 - Photo By: Ryan Kenner Photography
On the Cover 14 National Ballroom Dance Week The 2012 National Ballroom Dance Week was punctuated with unique venues, beautiful choreography, and thousands of USA Dance members volunteering their time, energy and skills.
worlddancesport.org
22 Holiday Hot Spots As preparations are made for the holidays, plans are being made all over the country for dance celebrations. For some USA Dance chapters these are their largest events of the year.
38 WDSF World DanceSport Games Some people think the olympics are closer than ever as the World DanceSport Federation gears up for the World DanceSport Games to be in held in 2013 in Taiwan.
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Inside the Cover Line of Dance
4 6 7
President’s Report Editorial Information & Contributors Important Announcements
Dance Floor
10 National Chapter Conference 12 Cruise to the Caribbean! 14 National Ballroom Dance Week 20 Book Review 21 Importance of Renewing Your Membership 22 Holiday Hot Spots
DanceSport
32 34 36 38 39 40
WDSF World DanceSport Games New England Dancesport Championship Competition Calendars WDSF World Youth Standard Championships WDSF World Youth Latin Championships WDSF World Junior II Latin Championships
In Step
42 44 46
Stanford Ballroom The Power of Ballroom Dance DanceMart
On Beat
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The Magic Number
www.USADANCE.ORG
2012 November - December
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Presidents’
Report
As I am writing this column, I have just returned from the annual Olympic Assembly in Colorado Springs. This was a particularly significant Assembly, given that it occurred just after the London Olympic and Paralympic Games. There was much discussion and a number of inspiring videos on American athletes’ performances in the Games. But in addition to that, there was a very productive meeting of the USOC Multi Sport Organizations Council (MSOC) of which USA Dance is a member. At the meeting I distributed copies of the last two issues of American Dancer Magazine, which contained excellent articles on the Orlando Chapter’s celebration of Olympic Day by Chapter President John Davis (July/August issue), and the “Dancing Feet Youth Ballroom Program” by Director of K-12 Programs Barbara Wally (September/October issue). The USA Dance Olympic Day Program has been listed in a USOC publication on Olympic Day celebrations around the country, which USOC staff distributed to participants at the Assembly. This was USA Dance’s first foray into celebrating Olympic Day, and I extend my congratulations to John Davis and his excellent team in Chapter #6002 for organizing this wonderful celebration! The article on the Dancing Feet program was of particular interest to the American Alliance for Health, PE, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD), as it fit right into school programs this organization is spearheading in an effort to fight childhood obesity. A closer relationship with AAHPERD will help to get the word out about the USA Dance programs in K-12 schools. I also provided a copy of the September/October issue of our magazine to the representative of Special Olympics, Inc. who is a member of the MSOC and was present at the meeting. He was already aware of the fine work that is being done by the Fort Wayne, Indiana Chapter of USA Dance to provide ballroom dance and competition opportunities to people with developmental disabilities, and was interested in reading the excellent article by Breanna Olaveson on this program. There were several MSOC organizations that expressed interest in partnering with USA Dance. These included the National Congress of State Games, which would like to explore the possibility of adding
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DanceSport to the State Games offerings around the country, and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, which is interested in discussing with USA Dance our efforts to organize collegiate dance events, including the USA Dance National Collegiate DanceSport Championships. Additionally, the Wheelchair and Ambulatory Sports USA organization, which has received inquiries from wheelchair bound individuals looking for dance opportunities, wants to start referring such inquiries to USA Dance and establish a closer relationship with our organization in an effort to build support for Wheelchair Dancing in the U.S. The USOC Annual Assembly is an excellent place for USA Dance to make contacts with other organizations that provide recreational and fitness opportunities to people of all ages. Several of these organizations are open to expanding their offerings to include ballroom dancing, and therefore serve as excellent potential partners for USA Dance in its efforts to expand ballroom dancing opportunities for all Americans. I continue to chair a subcommittee of the MSOC tasked with developing closer relationships with the National Governing Bodies (NGB) Council of the USOC. Contacts were made this year with the National Governing Bodies for Gymnastics and Synchronized Swimming, two artistic sports that are in the Olympic Games. Our goal for the 2013 Olympic Assembly is to set up an official meeting with a number of interested NGB’s in order to forge closer relationships with them and work on projects of mutual interest. I will provide a future report on how that effort is progressing.
Lydia T. Scardina
National President, USA Dance
www.USADANCE.ORG
2012 November - December
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Dancer
Contributing Writers
A m e r i c a n Jean Krupa Jean Krupa currently serves as the Social Vice President for USA Dance. She served as Region VI Vice President in 1999. She was a founding member of the Greater Daytona Chapter in 1990.
National Officers
PRESIDENT Lydia Scardina, 415.469.9815 e-mail: president@usadance.org SENIOR VP Bill Rose, 949.842.8284 e-mail: senior-vp@usadance.org SECRETARY Stan Andrews, 217.454.8879 e-mail: secretary@usadance.org TREASURER Esther Freeman, 541.779.6787 e-mail: treasurer@usadance.org DANCESPORT VP Ken Richards, 302.290.2583 e-mail: dancesport-vp@usadance.org SOCIAL VP Jean Krupa, 386.761.1625 e-mail: social-vp@usadance.org •
Angela Prince
Editorial Staff
Angela Prince is the National Public Relations Director for USA Dance, responsible for all integrated PR programs, organization publicity and communications, national media relations, social media relations and brand development. She is also the editorial advisor for American Dancer magazine and other publications.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Shawn Fisher PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Michael Mecham WRITERS Michael Mecham • Ivor Lee • Breanna Olaveson ART & PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Aimee Mecham DESIGNERS Aimee Mecham • Michael Mecham •
Contributors
WRITERS Jean Krupa EDITORIAL ADVISOR Angela Prince, USA Dance Director of Public Relations •
Rates & Prices
American Dancer is published bimonthly as a service for members and is included in membership annual dues. •
Guest Writers
Subscription
Individual Non-Member $25 Canadian Air Delivery $32 Overseas Air Delivery $36 Library Subscription $9 •
Bob blank & Martha Estevez Don Davenport
Advertising
Bailey Farrell
AD REPRESENTATIVE Shawn Fisher 208.313.0465 e-mail: advertising@usadance.org •
Louise Giuliano
Submissions
American Dancer welcomes submissions of letters, articles and photos. All submissions are considered the property of American Dancer. Submission does not guarantee publication. Articles and letters may also be edited for length and content without notice to the author. Photos and other materials are not returned. Submissions may be sent to office@americandancer.org •
Photos
Must be high resolution, print quality digital photos. 600 dpi. Send to editorial office: e-mail: office@americandancer.org or mail to: American Dancer magazine PO Box 462 Rexburg, ID 83440-0462 •
Tim Sayers Ron Wright
Dancer
A M E R I C A N
Pittsburgh, PA Chapter #3007 Flash Mob for National Ballroom Dance Week.
Membership
If you need information concerning membership or missed issues, contact: Mary at USA Dance Central Office 800.447.9047 • Fax: 239.573.0946 E-mail: central-office@usadance.org Check our Web Site - www.USADANCE.org
National Ballroom Dance Week Studios, professionals, and volunteers teamed up to create a succesful week-long celebration.
WDSF World DanceSport Games The World DanceSport Games unite the different forms and styles of dance in a multi-disciplinary event.
Official Publication of USA Dance
Holiday Hot Spots www.usadance.org
6 Line of Dance
Cover Photo
November - December 2012
Issue 39
Photo Courtesy of Chapter #3007
Announcements WDSF ID-Cards are Mandatory for 2013 Dear WDSF Member Bodies, We are now [two (2)] months away from making the WDSF ID-Cards mandatory for entering a WDSF competition. Some of you already have sent the application forms to our office in Spain where they are currently used for the production of the WDSF ID-Cards. Unfortunately we see that not all of you are actively participating in this project as we hoped so. Please be aware that we will grant no exceptions and will not introduce any transition period for the obligation to present a WDSF ID-Card at WDSF competitions after January 1, 2013! We do urge you to inform your athletes about the WDSF ID-Card and guide them to the on-line registration form at www.worlddancesport.org/cards If we can help you and your athletes by providing the application form in your local language or advertising material for your website please contact our webmaster. Should you have problems using the ID-Card administration website we have attached the administration manual and a slide-show to this email. In case of any further questions please do not hesitate to contact our webmaster. Your participation in this project is greatly appreciated. Kind regards, Marco Sietas WDSF Sports Director
Costume Vendors USA Dance is interested in establishing an association with Costume Vendors that are willing to make costumes/attire that strictly adhere to the USA Dance Dress Code for Pre-Teen, Junior, Youth and Adult Syllabus dancers. If you are interested in establishing such a relationship with us, please send us pictures of the outfits you think would be appropriate, and your proposal for such a relationship. Please outline the benefits to USA Dance and how the association will also benefit your business. Send all inquires & your proposal to: daphna.locker@gmail.com
www.USADANCE.ORG
2012 November - December
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Announcements IMPORTANT NOTICE - PROFICIENCY POINT RULE CHANGE In response to suggestions from our athletes that are participating in more USA dance competitions each year, the DanceSport Council reviewed the impact of “pointing-out” prior to Nationals. As a result, we are pleased to announce this modification to the Proficiency Points rules to be included in the next revision of the rulebook. “Proficiency points are accumulated in every USA Dance sanctioned event in which an athlete couple dances, however each athlete’s proficiency level will be calculated annually, immediately following the conclusion of the USA Dance National DanceSport Championships. The proficiency level of an athlete on that day will be the proficiency level at which he/she is allowed to compete through the conclusion of the succeeding year’s USA Dance National DanceSport Championship, regardless of results throughout that year.” This rule change is retroactive to the 2012 Nationals. Your proficiency level as of the Monday after the 2012 National DanceSport Championship...is your proficiency level through (and including) 2013 National DanceSport Championships. This does not preclude a couple from moving up a proficiency level when they believe they are ready. If you have any questions about the new rule, please let me know. Rog Greenawalt, Competition Chairman USA Dance Inc. email: DS-Competition@usadance.org
Volunteer Position Director College Network Available USA Dance has a vacancy on the Governing Council for the national volunteer position of Director of College Network. This individual will work to establish ballroom dance clubs on college campuses and bring them under the USA Dance umbrella. While the position is not responsible for organizing USA Dance college dance competitions or the USA Dance National Collegiate Championships, he or she will coordinate with the DanceSport Council to promote USA Dance college competitions under the USA DanceSport Rulebook. Please see the job description for a full listing of the responsibilities and requirements for this position. Interested applicants should contact the National President to express their interest and send a resume to: president@usadance.org 8 Line of Dance
Submitting Articles to American Dancer What We Need: We are looking for articles on a variety of topics. Our preferred length is one to two manuscript pages. Please keep any submissions to the following: • • • • • •
1 page: 250-350 words 2 pages: 400-550 words Please double-space everything. Please title your article. No double-spacing after periods. Type your name (as you would like it to appear), address, and phone number in the upper right-hand corner. Please include your chapter number and your USA Dance member number.
How To Submit Articles: 1. All submissions need to be electronically submitted to office@americandancer.org. 2. Attach your article as a Word document [.doc], or as a Rich Text Format [.rtf ] to your email when submitting.
Photos: We ask that you submit photos relating to the topic or event that you are writing about.
Please follow these guidelines: 1. Photo Byline: Please include the name of the person who took the photos. 2. Captions: Provide caption information for each photo. Give the full name and, if applicable, the title of each person in the photo. Use terms such as “from left” and “standing” to clearly identify each person. 3. Digital photography: Please use the highest resolution possible, five megapixels and 300 dots per inch or higher. 4. Send photos as a jpeg attachment to the email. Do not send photos in a Word document. 5. Photos should be sent to office@americandancer.org. 6. If photos are not personal please verify that American Dancer magazine has been given permission to use these photos.
Editing: Your submission may be edited for length and clarity. Because of limited space in the magazine, submission of an article does not guarantee that we will be able to publish it. Feel free to contact us with any questions regarding your submissions. Thanks again! Michael Mecham Production Manager office@americandancer.org
www.USADANCE.ORG
Shawn Fisher Editor in Chief director@americandancer.org
2012 November - December
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Announcing the National Chapter
CONFERENCE
Discover history and adventure in historic Richmond VA as we gather for the 5th annual National Chapter Conference. Here, more than 400 years of American history live on through magnificent architecture, monument-lined cobblestone streets, and world-class museums.
The 2013 National Chapter Conference will be held at the Wyndham Airport Hotel in Richmond and is a great way to acquire the skills needed to run a successful USA Dance chapter. What do your board members do? Do you need more help/support from your chapter members? Come learn what they should be doing and how to get them enthused about participating in the chapter functions.
Speakers Stan Andrews, National Secretary, will conduct a
seminar on “How to deal with chapter conflicts�: dealing with difficult situations and learning how to make them go away peacefully can be a difficult situation that most every chapter may have at some time. Do you know how to handle it?
Ben Moseley will guide us on growing your membership
through the new national marketing plan/chapter website.
Esther Freeman, Corporate Treasurer, will teach us how to safeguard the chapter treasury, how to budget, and the importance of sending in your financial and annual Reports on time.
Mike Nelson will present on how to select music for chapter dances. 10 Dance Floor
Marta Pascale will conduct a seminar on recruiting and retaining new members.
Jim DiCecca will guide you on how to effectively recruit volunteers for committees.
Jean Tauber, Dir. Of Development, will offer an
information-gathering session to assess your individual chapter needs with regard to fund-raising/grant writing. And a few more to be announced.
Schedule Plan to arrive on Thursday, March 7, 2013 for the Welcome Dance. The Richmond Chapter has some great plans in store for us and is eagerly awaiting our arrival.
Friday will have seminars all day ending with an evening dance.
Don’t Forget Full registration includes meals on Friday and Saturday and a one-day registration includes meals for the one day.
We have travel scholarships available, each chapter
represented will receive 50% of the airfare for one chapter representative to attend.
Previous Attendees “I gained so much confidence and enthusiasm from the conference and did not hold back on any of it … the results were awesome!” “…the presenters were so inspiring and knowledgeable in giving their seminars. Each having extensive knowledge in their areas of expertise and being able to pass that information on in their talks was so helpful.”
Saturday will be a repeat of Friday providing you the
opportunity to attend the seminars you may have missed and will be followed by an evening farewell dance.
Sunday after breakfast will be your day to go on one of
the many tours planned. You may even want to schedule a few extra days to get the feel of the Richmond charm or travel home and start working on your plans for your chapter.
Register See website for details on how to register for the
conference and arrange hotel accommodations www.usadance.org - Social Dance Events Calendar.
Also visit our facebook page USA Dance Chapter Conference. By Jean Krupa
Date
March 7 - 10, 2013
Location Richmond, Virginia Wyndham Airport Hotel
www.USAdance.ORG
2012 November - December
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Cruise to the
Caribbean! Do you dream of a worry-free vacation to the Caribbean with unlimited activities and food at your fingertips and accommodations already taken care of? This is why many USA Dancers choose to cruise when planning a vacation! If you haven’t experienced this yet, it needs to be added to your list. Come aboard the floating resort of Princess Caribbean and it promises to be around-theclock fun full of dancing, dining and activities. Comfortable surroundings and relaxing venues may entice you to spend all your time onboard! The Wheelhouse Bar offers a complimentary Britishstyle pub lunch menu on sea days. Skywalkers, the disco where a lot of our workshops will be held, is suspended between two pillars protruding high above the stern, fully 18 stories above sea level. The moving sidewalk you ride up is one of the most breathtaking views on any ship, and one that many passengers probably never discover. Our first stop is Princess Cay located on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas and boasts acres of unspoiled beaches and stunning coral reefs. There are loads of activities to participate in at this port of call, from banana and paddle boating to volleyball and basketball. Cabana rentals are available on the sandy beaches for lounging. See firsthand the beautiful reefs, cays with turtles and coral formations that the Southern Caribbean is famous for. In Aruba, explore one of the Caribbean’s largest shipwrecks, the 400 foot “Antilla”.
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Top Five Reasons why USA Dance
cruises continue to increase in popularity year after year.
1. A Variety of Activities
One of the best parts of a cruise is the fact that you have access to endless activities onboard an actionpacked cruise ship! Dance workshops, evening dances, spas, and shows.
2. Accommodations
Another incredible aspect of cruising is the accommodations. Princess offers a choice of several cabin categories so that you can choose the cabin best suited for you.
3. Endless Food Options
One of the biggest (and perhaps the most delectable) reasons why there is popularity with cruises is because of the seemingly endless dining options that
Princess Cay located on
the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas are available onboard each ship. You can indulge in almost any type of cuisine you could imagine. The ship offers complimentary room service in addition to full buffets featuring international dishes where even the pickiest eater will be satisfied.
4. Various Destinations
Are you the type of traveler who wants to experience the best of every destination you visit? Convenient and hassle-free transportation is provided – visit a variety of ports-of-call and sample each country’s history, culture, lifestyle, and experiences. Imagine island-hopping from one tropical destination to the next in the Caribbean. Visit Aruba, Bahamas and Curacao, and other incredible paradises. In addition, on our USA Dance cruises we offer unique shore excursion programs for members only.
5. Best Bang For Your Buck
Offering members a huge value for your vacation is another reason why cruises continue to grow in
www.USAdance.ORG
popularity. Complete with dining, dance activities, accommodations, as well as transportation from one port-of-call to the next, all you have to worry about during your cruise vacation is packing the perfect outfits! With the USA Dance cruise starting at only $949 you can indulge in a cruise vacation for a more affordable and convenient way to travel. Convinced as to why dancers love cruise vacations? See for yourself why popularity with cruises has reached an all-time high and call Travel Themes and Dreams at 866-391-2680 today and join us for the 4th USA Dance Cruise! By Jean Krupa
Call Travel Themes and Dreams at
866-391-2680 today and join us for the 4th USA Dance Cruise! 2012 November - December
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national
ballroom dance week
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National - Of or relating to a nation; common to or characteristic of a whole nation. Ballroom - A large room used for dancing. Dance - A series of movements that match the speed and rhythm of a piece of music. Week - A period of seven days. Put them all together and what do you get? A memorable event filled with lots of fun, laughter, and a whole lot of dance!
During the same time that several thousand participants were celebrating NBDW, approximately 18 million people watched Pamela Anderson and Tristan McManus get voted off “Dancing with the Stars: All-Stars.� Ballroom dance is absolutely growing in popularity throughout the country and NBDW is a wonderful tool that is helping to increase that popularity.
The 2012 Nation Ballroom Dance Week was an incredible success. Dozens of chapters held events in which hundreds of people gathered together to celebrate ballroom dance. USA Dance has been celebrating National Ballroom Dance Week since 1989, but in the mid 1980s
foxnews.com
President Ronald Reagan actually declared the third week of September as National Ballroom Week. Some people feel that the First Lady may have had some influence on this decision, but both Ronald and Nancy Reagan were public supporters of ballroom dance during their years during their years in the White House. By Michael Mecham www.USAdance.ORG
2012 November - December
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USA Dance members shared the gift of dance everywhere, from malls to meadows, and from beaches to ballrooms. There were many chapters that participated in a variety of events to promote National Ballroom Dance Week.
Williamsburg VA CHAPTER #6009 “Our 2012 National Ballroom Dance Week event was a huge success! Thank you to all that came out and enjoyed great workshops and an awesome Tea Dance. We look forward to planning an even bigger and better event next year.�
williamsburgusadance.com
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HEARTLAND CHAPTER #2022 By Ron Wright
The weather was great. Perfect time of the day for some of the best Dance Exhibitions Indianapolis has to offer.
finished our first show with a beautiful waltz. Announcements were made and flyers were handed out.
The Artsgarden is a beautiful glass-domed structure located in the middle of downtown Indianapolis, situated above Washington Street and Meridian Street – two of the busiest streets in downtown Indy. The Artsgarden is also attached to the largest indoor malls in the downtown area.
Starting off our second set of exhibitions were Indianapolis and Heartlands 2012 senior smooth and nine-dance National Champions Rog and Amy Greenawalt performing a mambo. Larry Gogel and his partner Uma Chaluvadi followed with a Rumba. Marvin and Greta were back again with a very cute West Coast Swing. David and Guna Rogers were up next with a lively Cha Cha. Suresh and Lauren Nair, who met at our dances and recently married, entertained us with a beautiful standard waltz. Our champions Roger and Amy Greenawalt finished our show with the romantic Bolero.
Our dance exhibitions were scheduled from 3-4pm. No one was scheduled after us so we had plenty of time. It was probably the busiest time of the day for shopping. There was also an upper balcony/walkway where people could stand and watch. The Artsgarden provided us with a large area to dance as well as a technician to play the music at no charge. David and Guna Rogers started off the show with a beautiful Rumba (Guna had a great Latvian song selected for the routine). Larry Gogel and Barbara Cameron followed with an East Coast Swing. As our dance exhibitions continued, we had Anna Kovalyova and Roland Hodges perform an exciting Argentine Tango. Marvin and Greta Bechtel www.USAdance.ORG
We handed out more flyers with our October dance listed on one side and our calendar of next year’s dances listed on the opposite side. We also coaxed some of the audience members to come up and dance with us. I came along to help where needed and was asked to MC for the show. All the dancers had a great time, and the crowd seemed to have a great time as well. We have already reserved the Artsgarden for November 24th from 1-2pm. Please come join us and have some fun too! 2012 November - December
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Southwest Florida Chapter #6049 By Don Davenport
Desert Dancer Chapter #5017 By Tim Sayers
Greeting from West Texas, more specifically El Paso. You know, that town made so famous in the 1960’s by Marty Robbins. We are known for many things, such as the origination of the Rocky Mountains, more than 300 annual days of sunshine, Rosa’s Cantina, the origin of the Margarita and wonderful places for things to do, including dance. There are so many dance participation and instruction opportunities here in El Paso, that in 2013 the City Council will proclaim our wonderful city, “City of Dance”. Speaking of dance, we had two wonderful formal dances this month. One a very special charity ball sponsored by local U.S. Border Patrol stations and the other was a celebration of National Ballroom Week sponsored by Desert Dancers chapter # 5017. There were more than seven dozen dancers dressed in their finery. They danced and danced to music provided by a terrific DJ who played a great variety of music. A splendid dinner was catered by OPUS, a local fine bistro owned by Chef Michael Ross. To give those tripping the light fantastic a chance to rest their tender tootsies, a raffle was held offering some fun prizes. Our celebration was preserved in time by a professional photographer, who was available for individual portraits. More events are in the works including our annual Christmas Ball. Why not come join us here in “America’s Safest City”? We’ll dance your socks off. 18 Dance Floor
National Ballroom Dance Week, Celebration at Riverside, Sunday September 23rd. Yoshie and Don kicked off the program with an “Introduction To A Waltz Snowball Mixer.” They were quickly joined on the floor by the audience and the fun never stopped! Talk About Spot Lights! The chapter has came a long way since instituting its programs at Riverside and Four Freedoms Park. When we wanted to schedule dance performances we had to call on our affiliated dance studios for help. While we love our studios, it’s so nice to be able to share the skills of our chapter dancers! HOW ABOUT THE “HAPPY FEET DANCE TEAM”? The Happy Feet Folks never quit. Not only were they out in the community bringing the joy of dance to those that aren’t able to enjoy this part of an active life style, but they gathered to perform at our various functions during National Ballroom Dance Week. Indeed the Spirit of Dance brings happiness to all! Grand job “HAPPY FEET” folks!!
Capital District New York Chapter #3014 “The Capital Applejacks & Jills, a lindy hop
performance group from Albany, NY, performed the Lindy Chorus routine at Colonie Mall for USA Dance’s National Ballroom Week.”
Photos By Toni Marie Photography
“A celebration of National Ballroom Week sponsored by Desert Dancers chapter #5017. There were more than seven dozen dancers dressed in their finery. They danced and danced to music provided by a terrific DJ who played a great variety of music.�
www.USAdance.ORG
2012 November - December
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BOOK REVIEW By Shawn Fisher
Ballroom Dancing is Not for Sissies: An R-Rated Guide for Partnership I would absolutely recommend this book to anybody, not on the dance floor, but also in the eyes of many of those just dancers. Dance partner, co-worker, mother, daughter, who have read their book. father, son, friend, or significant Here’s what a few other people had to other – if you fall into one of these say after reading their book. categories, this book can offer additional insights into dealing “This book is as much about human with relationships and improving relationships as it is about dancing… your own character and attitude. As the North American book reviews The language used in the book makes the principles and concepts very easy to follow and understand. There is humor scattered throughout the pages to keep the tone lighthearted and conversational. While the information is profound enough to be found in a college textbook, the way it is written makes it read more like a novel. The 3 “R”s of Relationship Fitness are Respect, Responsibility, and Responsiveness. These foundational concepts are discussed through a variety of dance scenarios that show the practical application and potential positive effects of applying these into our lives both on and off the dance floor. The authors of this book, Arthur & Elizabeth Seagull, are psychologists and relationship counselors and they also happen to be amateur competitive dancers and members of USA Dance. Not only do Arthur and Elizabeth shine
editor of a major journal, I rarely come across a book that is both powerful and accessible and has the potential both to teach and entertain as does “Ballroom Dancing is not for Sissies.” Brava, bravo.” – J.P. McKinney
“Good dancing can lead to good other things. Ballroom Dancing is Not for Sissies: An R-Rated Guide for Partnership is a guide for couples to increase trust in one another and improve their moves on the dance floor, and that these experiences will enrich the relationship both on the dance floor but in other areas of life. “Ballroom Dancing is Not for Sissies” is a read that may save many relationships.” – Midwest Book Review “This book is a must-read – I highly recommend it – kudos to you, Elizabeth and Arthur - and thank you so much for making your wonderful wisdom a part of my life!” – Heather Diodati
Shawn is a Professor of Dance at BYU-Idaho where over 800 students participate in all levels of ballroom courses each semester. He is a DVIDA Fellow and Regional Examiner.
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The Importance of Renewing
Your Membership
If your membership is about to expire you will be forfeiting your access to membership privileges unless you renew. By Jean Krupa
By re-activating your membership you will once again gain the distinction of belonging to a respected and nationally recognized dance organization. An organization that continues to improve the standing of all ballroom dancers be it social or competitive. Pause for a moment to reflect on all the rewarding experiences you’ve shared this year and years past, through your USA Dance membership. Three words come to mind as we envision how USA Dance can change your life: Friendship, Confidence and Exercise.
Don’t you deserve lifelong friendships that are formed through chapter activities? Don’t you deserve to acquire confidence in your dancing skills that are developed while taking part in lessons or serving on your chapter board? Don’t you deserve a healthy lifestyle? We think you do! These intangible benefits are truly the reasons why so many members continue to make USA Dance a part of their lives. Reward yourself today by renewing your USA Dance membership. You deserve it!
aRe-Act now to take full advantage of USA Dance. aRe-Ward yourself by renewing your membership. aRe-Consider how much your USA Dance membership means to you. aAnd finally, Re-New now before your membership expires.
www.USAdance.ORG
2012 November - December
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OLIDAY H
Hot Spots
22 Dance Floor
By Michael Mecham
‘Twas the holiday season, when all ‘cross the states People were planning, and picking up dates. The music was planned for the evening with care, In hopes that great dancers soon would be there.
The children were nestled all snug in their seats, While they put in a movie and picked out some sweets. And mamma in her seatbelt, and I with my guide, Were starting a road trip with dancing in mind.
We heard in the west there was cha-cha sublime, I stepped on the gas to get there in time. Away ‘cross the country we flew like a flash, Tore through the states, stopping only for gas.
We frequented banquets without worry or care And even had time for a black-tie affair. When, what to my wondering ears should I hear, But a desert event that was being held near.
With a couple of dollars, though not very much, We helped out a charity with dancing and such. More rapid than eagles the dancers they steered, And we whistled, and shouted; by numbers we cheered!
“Now 7! now, 18! now, 462! On, 20! On, 90! on 14 and all you! To the beat and the tempo! To the end of the hall! Now dance away! Dance away! Dance away all!”
www.USAdance.ORG
2012 November - December
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We went to the car and buckled in with a click, For jambalaya in the South, we had to be quick. So up to the limit the speedometer flew, With the car full of kids, and my wife and I too.
And then, on an impulse, we stopped at a school; To miss their performance, we would have been fools. As I got out my map, and was checking our oil, We decided that Florida is where we’d next toil.
We were dressed all in gold, from our heads to our feet, For a golden celebration sure would be neat. A bundle of toys we all shared at the end, Then back to the car to head north once again.
For a wonderful dance camp, we surely can’t miss, While at the end of our travels, it was first on our list! With hundreds of dancers we shared a few days, And then sadly departed our own separate ways.
Then back in our driveway we rolled to a stop, And we were so filled with dance joy, we nearly could pop. We had many miles from all over the nation, But dancing, of course, is the best kind of vacation!
24 Dance Floor
For the holiday season we have done you a favor, Here’s a sampling of dancing all people can savor! So get out your planner, and turn off your show, Then write down the places you would like to soon go.
1
Divided by Districts Tacoma, WA Chapter #1023 Thanksgiving Ball
Saturday, November 24, 2012 at Lakewood Elks 8:00 – 11:00p.m. Night Club 2-Step lesson beforehand
2
Admission $8 for members, $10 for non-members Students are $4 for members, $5 for non-members www.dancetacoma.org
Chicagoland, IL Chapter #2001 Jingle Bell Hop Saturday, December 8, 2012, 7:30 – 11:00 p.m. Cha Cha Cha lesson by Brittney Bartler of Ballroom City
3
Toys for Tots donations Admission $8 members, $10 non-members, $6 students www.usadancechicago.org
Heartland, IN Chapter #2022 Friday, December 14, 2012, 7:00-10:30 p.m. Dinner 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Dance to ballroom and Christmas tunes provided by DJs Rog Greenwalt & Bill Woodward Special Dance Exhibitions Admission $10 in advance or $12 at the door Bring a dish or pay an extra $5 to help with food www.indyusadance.org
www.USAdance.ORG
2012 November - December
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4
Green Mountain, VT Chapter #3033 Fabulous Fall Formal Saturday, November 17th, 2012, 7:00 – 11:00 p.m. Mini Lesson: Nightclub Two Step - Kevin Laddison Featured Lesson: International Waltz
5
Admission $13 general admission, $9 Students, seniors, and USA Dance members www.dancevermont.org
Pittsburgh, PA Chapter #3007 Harvest Ball Dinner Dance Saturday, November 10, 2012, 5:00 – 11:00 p.m. 5:00 cash bar, 6:00 dinner, 7:30 dancing Admission $45 for dinner and dancing Everyone is welcome - singles, couples, friends of friends.
6 7
Dress is semi-formal to formal. Ball gowns are encouraged! www.usadancepgh.com
Las Vegas, NV Chapter #4038 Holiday Dance Classic Championships Tuesday, December 4 – Sunday, December 9, 2012 Dance competition, Special performances www.usadancelasvegas.org
Houston, TX Chapter #5003 Second Saturday Dance - “Thanksgiving and Food Drive” November 10, 2012, 9:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. - Dance 8:00 - 9:00 p.m. - Pre-dance Lesson ~ Foxtrot taught by Mark Brady Admission: $10/Adult Members, $15/Adult Guests, $5/College Students and Youth, No Charge Professionals FREE /Pre-dance Lesson Dance Location: The Dance Place www.houstonusadance.org
26 Dance Floor
8
Choo-Choo City, TN Chapter #2009 The Holiday Ball Friday, December 14, 2012, 6:45 – 11 p.m. Doors open at 6:45, Catered Dinner from 7-8 Dancing & Special Showcases from 8-11, No Lesson We will also have Dance Hosts and a Silent Auction Ticket prices are:
9
UNTIL Nov 16: Members $30, non-members $35, $5 extra for limited table seats. STARTING Nov 17: Members $35, non-members $40, $5 extra for limited table seats. www.chattanoogausadance.com
Vero Beach, FL Chapter #6070 Thanksgiving Food Drive Thursday, November 14, 2012, 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
10
Bolero lesson taught by Robert Scott Admission $8 member, $10 non-member, and students are half price www.verodance.org
Ashville, NC Chapter #6043 USA Christmas Dance Saturday, December 8, 2012, Lesson: 7 p.m. Dance: 8 p.m. Theme: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Please dress in your Christmas Finery Special Note: Please bring a new unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots, Goal 100 toys Refreshments: Favorite Christmas Goodies Special Gift from USA Dance
11
No prizes, let’s focus on giving Cost: $8 members, $12 non members, $5 students www.usadanceasheville.org
Tidewater, VA Chapter #6008 New Year’s Gala Friday, December 28 – Monday, December 31 Special feature performances. Lessons in Argentine Tango, Salsa, and Country Western/Swing Nightly dances www.twcusadance.org
www.USAdance.ORG
2012 November - December
27
the
PUBLIC EYE Angela Prince
The
Magic Number
The number 50 must be a magic number
for celebrations. When you turn 50, you become eligible to join AARP (that’s the American Association for Retired Persons), whether you’re retired or not and you celebrate when the magazine arrives. And since you live in one of our 50 dance states, you can celebrate nonstop holidays and anniversaries -- like the recent 50th anniversary of the first James Bond movie and the first Beatle’s hit “Love Me Do”. And we can blow out candles with our favorite celebs on Twitter who just turned 50 – Tom Cruise, Paula Abdul, Jim Carrey, even WalMart, Target and Kmart. 1962 must have been a great year!
28 On Beat
Since inspiration comes from odd sources... here are 50 tidbits I wanted to share in Public Eye about USA Dance... and maybe it’ll become 50 reasons why you can’t believe you’re reading this story.
1 2
The Olympic Dream for dancesport is a real movement and USA Dance, the official member of the U.S. Olympic Committee, will start official training camps for athletes in the near future.
The 174 Chapters of USA Dance are the pulse of the organization and have a great mission as part of a 501(c)3 non-profit organization to bring the opportunity and enrichment of dance to all Americans.
3 4
Ballroom dancing can be a lifelong activity or sport. It’s truly trans-generational (new word for all ages).
Ballroom dancing has proven to actually improve the mental and physical health and fitness of its participants of all ages and has proven therapeutic, even life-saving, for seniors with dementia and other age-related conditions.
5
We’ve had lots of prime-time stars in USA Dance – among them two junior couples who made it to the top 10 on America’s Got Talent.
www.USADANCE.ORG
6
USA Dance now has a voice on the world governing body for dancesport globally when Ken Richards, DanceSport VP, was elected to the World DanceSport Federation Presidium 2012.
7 8
American Dancer magazine, now 6 years old, is the only all ballroom dance print magazine devoted to social and amateur ballroom dancers.
USA Dance has gone viral – Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, but check out our YouTube channel “usadanceinc” – at last count had more than 392,000 video views.
9
The three largest USA Dance chapters are Greater New York with 600 members, MASSABDA with 469 members and Los Angeles with 407 members, from sea to shining sea.
10
The first USA Dance chapter organized was the Mid-Eastern chapter which began in 1978.
2012 November - December
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11 12
There are at least 100 members of USA Dance who are at least 90 years old, and they are still dancing!
USA Dance awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to dancesport athletes in 2012, not counting the scholarships awarded at the chapter and National Qualifying Event levels.
13
There are more than 100 colleges and universities in the USA with ballroom/latin dance organized clubs and/or teams. Approximately 1000-1100 college dancers compete each year at the USA Dance National Collegiate DanceSport Championships.
16
Carrie Ann Inaba, celebrity judge on ABC’s TV show Dancing With The Stars, now in their 15th season, is an official USA Dance national celebrity ambassador and honorary judge of the annual USA Dance Star Quality Awards at Nationals. Check out her tweets.
17
Approximately 2/3 of the dancing pros on Dancing With The Stars are USA Dance alumni and former competitors – including Cheryl Burke, Julianne Hough, Derek Hough, Edyta Sliwinska, Alex Mazo, Ashley Del Costa, Inna Brayer, Val Chmerkovskiy, Maks Chmerkovskiy, Anna Demidova, KiKi Nyemchek, Mark Ballas, Dmitry Chaplin, Oksana Dmytrenko, Jonathan Roberts, Anna Trebunskaya, Chelsea Hightower.
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15
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The youngest dancesport competitor ever to compete at the USA Dance National DanceSport Championships was 7 years old. The oldest is just called Senior IV.
Many USA Dance members have been inspired to publish books and produce films on how ballroom and latin dancing changed their lives. Check out the Seagull’s “Ballroom Dancing Is Not For Sissies” – and we knew that!
30 On Beat
The USA Dance National Dance Cruise, soon taking its 5th voyage, is an important fundraiser for USA Dance, as a portion of the fares are donated back to USA Dance for its future programs – helps us stay “afloat.”
USA Dance Executive and Governing Council members are all volunteers, donating their time and services to an organization and mission they are very passionate about.
20 21
Chapters and board members are also all volunteers and serve their local chapters in the same way.
Since USA Dance is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, donations to USA Dance programs are tax-deductible to the extent the laws permit… and greatly appreciated.
22 23
Promised 50, but 25 is probably enough tidbits! After all, that’s the age most of us stopped counting birthdays anyway, right? So find 50 reasons of your own to keep on dancing...for at least 50 more years!
Nationals in 2012 was the largest ever national dancesport championship in USA Dance history – more than 1300 competitors.
Through its chapters, events and programs/efforts of the National organization, USA Dance has an outreach of nearly 250,000 and has 23,000 members who financially support the national program.
24 25
USA Dance was started in 1965, and soon celebrates it’s 47th anniversary, turning 50 in 2015.
USA Dance is what you make it. Find a reason to celebrate.
www.USADANCE.ORG
2012 November - December
31
WDSF World
DanceSport Games 2013 in Kaohsiung The World DanceSport Federation - WDSF awards the inaugural edition of its World DanceSport Games to Kaohsiung. The event will be staged in the port city in southwestern Taiwan from 15 to 21 September 2013. Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chu and WDSF President Freitag signed the document that formally awards the WDSF World DanceSport Games to the Kaohsiung City Government on Thursday, 20 September, in a ceremony at the City Hall. Born out of the vision of DanceSport as an allencompassing brand, the WDSF-proprietary World DanceSport Games unite the different forms and styles of dance in a multi-disciplinary event that features toplevel competition alongside with cultural programmes, galas and celebrations. WDSF, its Associate Members (World Rock 'n' Roll Confederation; United Country Western Dance Council; World Baton Twirling Federation) and Collaborating Organisations (International Paralympic Committee Wheelchair DanceSport Committee, e.a.) venture to showcase the full breadth of DanceSport through contests at the highest international level. Some 700 athletes and 100 officials will be involved in the competitions. During The World Games 2009, DanceSport was very well received by the people of Kaohsiung, with historic sell-outs recorded for the Latin, Rock 'n' Roll and Standard competitions in the fabulous K-Arena. Now the port city sets out to host the first ever WDSF World DanceSport Games rom 15 to 21 September 2013. “DanceSport was one of the highlights in The 32 DanceSport
World Games 2009, it drew more than 15,000 spectators. Next year, the city will step up efforts and invite people from around the country to enjoy more advanced and breathtaking dancing skills in a world-class competition,” Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chu said upon formalising the city's appointment as official host. “We are endeavouring to bring Kaohsiung to the international community as a city with a sporting image, convenient transportation system, optimal venues and a group of enthusiastic people,” Chen added. Speaking of the importance of the games to DanceSport's continued development, WDSF President Carlos Freitag expressed his satisfaction. "This is a historical achievement for our Federation," he said, "one that has only been possible thanks to our Vision 2012 project and the holistic view on DanceSport that the General Meeting adopted in 2011."
“DanceSport was one of the highlights in The World Games 2009, it drew more than 15,000 spectators. Next year, the city will step up efforts and invite people from around the country to enjoy more advanced and breathtaking dancing skills in a world-class competition.”
Reprinted from worlddancesport.org
worlddancesport.org
Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chu and WDSF President Freitag signed the document that formally awards the WDSF World DanceSport Games to the Kaohsiung City Government.
www.USAdance.ORG
2012 November - December
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New England Dancesport Championship The competition was such a huge success that several competitors sent their thoughts into American Dancer. Bob Blank and Martha Estevez said, “Hosted by the MASSABDA chapter, it was well-run and organized, thanks to the many congenial volunteers. The hotel itself was under construction, but despite a few minor inconveniences due to renovation, the hotel staff went out of its way to insure a pleasant stay. You were welcomed with a warm walnut chocolate chip cookie.” They went on to comment on the amount of competitors that attended the event as well as to compliment the event organizer Jane Rexford. “We were glad to see many of our fellow Senior competitors participating. As a result, there were many full finals, and made the Senior 2 Standard Championship event a semi-final. Jane Rexroad, the event organizer had her hands full, but was always gracious, making a point to mingle with everyone. We appreciate the hard work behind the scenes by everyone, making this a wonderful dancing experience.” Louise Giuliano, a Senior III competitor, decided to send an article into American Dancer that effectively captured the entire experience. “There are two things that dancers put at the top of their "must have" lists: good music and a good floor. The recent New England Dancesport Championship (NQE) 34 DanceSport
surpassed expectations on both fronts. The smooth as silk 80' x 40' dance floor made navigation a breeze, and the excellent musical selections inspired great dancing from every age and competency division. The judging panel was outstanding, the hard-working volunteer crew made sure the competitors felt welcome and at ease and the schedule flowed without a hitch. The senior II and III championships were actually featured attractions during the evening session rather than being relegated to less visible slots, and all competitors were spurred on by a loud and enthusiastic audience. There were some surprise bonuses too. The opening night social dance–attended by both competitors and a group of good local dancers–offered fun and unusual mixers, a wonderful DJ and an energetic Jack and Jill Hustle contest which kept us up dancing Friday night. There were several interesting workshop offerings on Friday and Sunday–the three that we selected were completely different but excellent in their own ways. There were vendors that we had not seen before, and Paul was able to purchase a shoe style that he had been seeking for some time. The hotel was under renovation, so there was some disruption in the food service, but the staff was courteous and kept plying us with delicious chocolate chip cookies! It's a good thing we were dancing quite a lot! All in all, this first time event for our friends at MASSABDA was a resounding success. We will definitely put the New England Danceport Championship on our "must do" list for next year!”
Photos By Bob Blank for Bailamosdance.com
“There are two things that dancers put at the top of their ‘must have’ lists: good music and a good floor. The recent New England Dancesport Championship (NQE) surpassed expectations on both fronts.”
www.USAdance.ORG
2012 November - December
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DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport D DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport Qualifying Events forDanceSport Danc DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport Da USADanceSport Dance 2013 National DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport Dance DanceSport Championships DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport Dan 010 Southeastern Regional DanceSport Championships 2010 Southeastern Regional DanceSport Championships 010 Southeastern Regional DanceSport Championships 2009 Southeastern Regional DanceSport Championship 2010 Southeastern Regional DanceSport Championships 2010 Southeastern Regional DanceSport Championship 2010 Southeastern Regional DanceSport Championships 2010 Southeastern Regional DanceSport Championships 2010 Southeastern Regional DanceSport Championships 2010 Southeastern Regional DanceSport Championships 010 Southeastern Regional DanceSport Championships 2010 Southeastern Regional DanceSport Championshi DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport Dan 2009 Southeastern Regional DanceSport Championship DanceSport DanceSp DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport Da Sport DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport DanceS For More Information visit www.usadance.org DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport DanceSport Dan 2012 National DanceSport Championships Photo by: AD Staff
NATIONALS C C
Challenge Phoenix, AZ
February 19, 2011
36 DanceSport
Chicago Challenge Manhattan Amatuer Classic 011 Phoenix DanceSport Chicago, IL New York, NY Nov 2 - 4, 2012 January 18-20, 2013
Mid-Atlantic Championships Bethesda, MD Feb 16-17, 2013
The Quake San Francisco, CA Nov 10-11, 2012
National DanceSport Championships Los Angeles, CA April 5 - 7, 2013
Southwest Regional Culver City, CA February 1-2, 2013
CO M PE T I T I O N S C ALE N D AR 2 0 1 2 -2 0 1 3 November 2-4, 2012
*March 2-3, 2013
Nov 10-11, 2012
March 22-23, 2013
Chicago DanceSport Challenge-NQE Chicago, IL The Quake - NQE San Francisco, CA
November 17-18, 2012
National Collegiate DanceSport Championships Columbus, OH
January 12, 2013
Royal Palm Winter Frolic DanceSport Extravaganza Coconut Creek, FL
January 18-20, 2013
Manhattan Amateur Classic (MAC)-NQE New York, NY
February 1-2, 2013
Southwest DanceSport Championships-NQE Culver City, CA
February 16-17, 2013
Mid-Atlantic Championships-NQE Bethesda, MD
Star of the North Minneapolis, MN
National Youth Formation Show Dance and Cabaret Championships Rexburg, ID
April 5 - 7, 2013
2013 National DanceSport Championships Los Angeles, CA April 12, 2013
National US Amateur Cabaret and Formation Championships Logan, UT
June 15, 2013 River City Ball Portland, OR
June 28 - 30, 2013
Gumbo DanceSport Championships - NQE Baton Rouge, LA
*July 27, 2013
Southern Star Mid-Summer Classic Tampa, FL
Events listed with an asterisk (*) do not accrue proficiency points. Competitions noted as “NQE” are National Qualifying Events for the National DanceSport Championships.
look for future event updates at http://usadance.org/dancesport/ competition-calendar/ www.USAdance.ORG
look for future collegiate event updates on Facebook sign onto Facebook, click on “Groups,” and type in “USA Dance Competitions” 2012 November - December
37
orld W C hampionships WDSF
By Michael Mecham
YOUTH STANDARD September 15, 2012 The WDSF World Youth Standard competition took place September 15 in Schladming, Austria, at the new Congress Schladming facilities. The facilities, which opened for use at the end of 2011, were an incredible venue for some incredible dancing. Sixty-four couples gathered in Schaldming as the best Youth Standard dancers in the world. Among the competitors were two couples representing the United States: Misha Vorobiev and Sonya Tsekanovsky, and William Stansbury and Jenny Sokolsky. Misha and Sonya placed 42nd overall, while William and Jenny placed 56th. “My favorite part” Misha shared, “was getting to be around the world’s best youth dancers all in one place, and all showing off what they can do.”
Misha Vorobiev & Sonya Tsekanovsky, William Stansbury & Jenny Sokolsky
These two couples qualified to represent the United States at the world competition based on their high placement at the 2012 National DanceSport Championships. Both couples had competed on a world stage before, but this was the first time for both couples in the youth category. Watching the world’s best dancers demonstrate their craft is an incredible gift for anyone, but it was even impressive to Misha, who has been watching and competing against the best for years. “I enjoyed how athletic all the dancers were,” Misha said. “It was a great mix of athleticism and smooth beautiful movement.” 38 DanceSport
Misha Vorobiev & Sonya Tsekanovsky Photos Courtesy of Marina Tsekanovsky
YOUTH LATIN September 22, 2012 “I love the atmosphere,” Landon said, “just being around so many great dancers from all around the world.” Landon Anderson and Jenna Johnson along with fellow competitors Kiril Kulish and Nino Dzneladze performed incredibly at the WDSF Youth Latin competition in September. Both couples placed in the top fifty-percent of all the competitors at the competition. The competitors represented the world’s best and included couples from more than 20 different countries. On September 22 the couples gathered in Beijing, China to demonstrate the footwork and choreography that months and years of hard work and dedication had transformed into a moving work of art.
Landon Anderson & Jenna Johnson
“My partner Jenna and I went through a major transformation before the competition,” Landon said. “It was an eye-opening experience to see so many great dancers, and afterward we knew we could get better.” The fast-paced and upbeat music in some of the dances had some spectators literally dancing in their seats. An occasional onlooker could be seen to mouth the steps as they watch their favorite dancer. Every competitor was a star and the evening shone brightly, as each competitor brought his or her own unique style and strengths to the dance floor. There was something new for every dancer to learn, even the best. www.USAdance.ORG
Kiril Kulish & Nino Dzneladze Photos by Carson Zullinger
2012 November - December
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orld W C hampionships WDSF
JUNIOR II LATIN September 22, 2012 The two Junior II couples representing the United States at the WDSF Junior II Latin Competition did a phenomenal job and both placed in the top third of the competitors.
many other couples work extremely hard to represent the United States the best they can, and they continue to produce world class performances.
Patryk Ploszaj and Anna Kaczmauski along with Nicholas Stevens and Alexandra Gutkovich placed 15th and 20th respectively. Patryk felt that he and Anna did very well and improved a lot from the previous year’s competition. “We had already seen a lot of the couples last year,” Patryk said. He continued, “I think it was definitely an advantage because we knew what kind of competition there was, and how hard you have to work.” Being surrounded by the world’s best dance couples may seem like a daunting ordeal, but these two couples handled it without a problem. The competition was fierce and as both couples progressed through the first two rounds of competition it was clear that the world’s very best were competing. Patryk and Anna have been to other world competitions and they continue to find ways that they can improve their dancing skills. Of this competition Patryk said, “I learned I need to be much stronger. I think I’m a little weak in that area so that is something I’m going to try to improve.” While the September 22 competition in Kitselek, Hungary was their first world competition, Nicholas and Alexandra looked like they had been competing at the world level for years. These couples and 40 DanceSport
Patryk Ploszaj & Anna Kaczmauski Nicholas Stevens & Alexandra Gutkovich
Photos Courtesy of Ewa Ploszaj
USA Dance and Swiss made watchmaker Ernest BOREL share values that built the brand’s legacy through the decades Since 1856, Swiss watchmaker Ernest Borel has been designing high quality Swiss Made watches which built the reputation and success of the brand worldwide. For the Swiss company created by Jules Borel and Paul Courvoisier more than 155 years ago in the Swiss Jura mountains, durable quality and aesthetics of its watches have always been the most important reward that a watch has to offer to the watch-making connoisseurs. The « Swiss Made » label mentioned on each Ernest Borel timepiece is a proof of Switzerland’s excellence in watchmaking. Behind this origin label protected by Swiss Law, there are more than 300 years of traditions, quality and knowledge from the cradle of watch-making. As a result, every Swiss Made watch is not only made of a high proportion of Swiss components but also strictly assembled and controlled in Switzerland.
As Ernest Borel is a dignitary of the Swiss Made label for its work ethic and respect of traditional Swiss watch-making methods, the brand from Le Noirmont, Switzerland, proudly took part in the reward of the best dancers of America by supporting the National Qualifying Events of Carolina Fall Classic, Charlotte, NC on October 5-7, 2012 and Chicago DanceSport Challenge, Chicago, IL on November 2-4, 2012. Ernest Borel will also be supporting the Manhattan Amateur Classic, New York, NY in January 2013.
In April 2012, Ernest Borel had already joined USA Dance for the 3rd annual Star Quality Award presented by ABC-TV’s highly popular celebrity judge of « Dancing with the Stars » Carrie Ann Inaba. Since 1856, romance, precision and excellence have always been the core values of Ernest Borel that inspired its founders to use a dancing couple as a trademark and to design iconic and special timepieces for the lovers of watch-making.
Today, each timepiece coming out from Ernest Borel’s workshop is a legacy of this unique Swiss know-how. An Ernest Borel watch is the combination of precision, reliability, resistance, elegance and originality.
These values shared by USA Dance and Ernest Borel are the ones that built the brand’s legacy through the decades and today, they reward the best dancers in America through the USA Dance National DanceSport competitions events. For more information: www.ernestborel.ch / usa@ernestborel.ch
Stanford Ballroom Our main focus is dancesport, reflected by SBDT’s participation in many competitions local to the bay area and as far as the east coast.
Stanford Ballroom (commonly referred to as SBDT) brings together Stanford students and community members passionate about ballroom dance. Our main focus is dancesport, reflected by SBDT’s participation in many competitions local to the bay area and as far as the east coast. With a membership of 80-100 dancers, we have many different interests within the scope of ballroom dancing but are not split into competitive and social sectors. In addition to competing, SBDT performs at various events and holds regular ballroom socials, striving to meet the needs of all ballroom dancers. Stanford has an enthralling partner dance community including performing Lindy Hop and Salsa groups, West Coast Swing devotees, and avid Tango dancers, to name a few. Not many dancers stick to just one style, however at any given workshop, class or social you’re bound to find dancers from many different types of partner dance. One of the best examples of this is Stanford’s beloved annual tradition of “Viennese Ball.” This special evening boasts everything from dazzling performances by the highly esteemed opening committee, as well as many other student dance groups, to a spicy salsa competition that leaves the crowd smiling for the rest of the night. The richly contagious love for partner dancing on campus culminated in Stanford Ballroom helping launch the “Stanford Partner Dance Coalition” where all partner dance groups alike can collaborate and share their upcoming events for all to enjoy. One of SBDT’s biggest strengths is member involvement, not only from the 17+ officer board, but every single dancer. Nowhere does the dedication of our membership shine more brightly than in Cardinal Classic, the competition Stanford Ballroom hosts on campus in April of each year. Every team member participates in some way, from working on the deck captain team to transforming the basketball courts of the Arrillaga Center for Sports and Recreation into a ballroom.
42 InStep
Photos Courtesty of Bailey Farrell
Stanford has an enthralling partner dance community including performing Lindy Hop and Salsa groups, West Coast Swing devotees, and avid Tango dancers, to name a few.
Thanks to our members, Cardinal Classic is one of the most prominent collegiate competitions on the West Coast, attracting hundreds of competitors each year. In one day, Cardinal manages to cover all levels of Adult International and American style competitive events, and also includes nightclub, youth and senior events, a rich array of formation teams, and feature performances by some of Stanford’s talented student dance groups such as Swingtime (Lindy Hop) and Los Salseros de Stanford (Salsa). We always top it off with an evening of workshops and finally a performance by a world-class competitive couple. Couples from recent years include: WDSF World Ballroom Champions, Emanuel Valeri & Tania Kehlet (2012), Roman Kutskyy & Anna Kovalova (2011), and Iveta Lukosiute & Gherman Mustuc (2010). Cardinal Classic 2013 promises to be an magical day full of excitement. We hope to see you there! By Bailey Farrell
www.USAdance.ORG
2012 November - December 43
The Power of
BallroomDance “If ballroom dance becomes more accessible to the children and adolescents throughout the country, the benefits are exhilarating.”
By Michael Mecham
“Approximately 17% (or 12.5 million) of children and adolescents aged 2-19 years are obese. Since 1980, obesity prevalence among children and adolescents has almost tripled. Children and adolescents who are obese are likely to be obese as adults and are therefore more at risk for adult health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, several types of cancer, and osteoarthritis.” - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Childhood obesity is a growing problem in the United States and other developed countries, but there are things that can be done, namely, DANCE! Dancing has many positive health benefits. Ballroom dancing is considered a “moderate” level activity. There are definitely some dancers who would disagree with that analysis, but even a moderate level activity will increase muscle tone, flexibility, endurance, and organ functionality. Several studies have additionally suggested that ballroom dancing helps to maintain proper brain function. Some studies even propose that ballroom dance can help deter illness like Alzheimer’s and dementia that specifically target a person’s mental faculties. It is suggested that this is due in part to memorizing footwork and choreography, and the 44 InStep
benefit is increased in ballroom dance because of the interaction with a partner. If ballroom dance becomes more accessible to children and adolescents throughout the country, the benefits are exhilarating. Ballroom dance has the potential to decrease the number of obese adolescents and youth in the country, increase the quality of life for adults, and perpetuate the joy, love and fulfillment found in mentally stable seniors. In a recent email, Barbara Wally, the Director of K-12 Student Programs for USA Dance, addressed the increasing rate of childhood obesity and reminded members about a tool that USA Dance has available for members to use in their communities to set up programs with the potential to specifically combat the childhood obesity epidemic. USA Dance has available a Guide to Starting a School Dance Program (SDP) for use by chapters and individuals. The SDP does not replace or conflict with current efforts, including arts in residence programs or school curricula. Instead, chapters, educators, parents, and students are encouraged to form dance clubs as an extracurricular activity to extend and enhance the dance experience for all youth.
www.USAdance.ORG
Of all possible after school activities, dance is unique in that it offers the opportunity for sport, recreation, aerobic exercise, and artistic expression. It is a gateway to a life-long activity. Recent news indicates that childhood obesity and lack of exercise have reached epidemic proportions, while school budget cuts often target both Physical Education and Arts curricula. Health guidelines call for a minimum of one hour of physical activity per day for children and young adults. SDP offers a way for interested adults to provide part of the solution.
With the New Year approaching, it is the perfect time for change in communities across the country. For additional ideas and resources visit USADANCE.ORG
2012 November - December 45
DanceMart LATIN DRESS
MENS SHOES
Latin Dress For Sale – brand new never worn, size 0-4, classic style. Made of black lycra with white lace overlay, red sequin accents, and lots of Swarovski crystals. Black frill accentuates movement. Skirt is long in front with slit in back. Please contact dsmoneva@gmail.com for photos and pricing. [2]
Top dream mens standard shoes now available in the us. This superior shoe combines science and beauty built to keep the dancer on the inside edge and provide optimal balance. Truly an amazing shoe worn by top professionals all over the world. Competition or practice shoe 235.00. both for 399.00. Call john pettinato to order - 518-7294046- or email johnydancer@hotmail.com Payment by check only please. [2]
STANDARD GOWNS Beautiful pink gown with attached flowing scarf,long sleeves - size 12-14, good for person 5’4” to 5’6”. Purple rhinestones for flower embellishment and white rhinestones all around. Excellent condition. Worn once at competition. Wire sewn in hem for smooth movement. Photo upon request. $600.00 or best offer. Call Olivia at (904) 333-7704 [2] Beautiful pink ballroom dress with two layer flowing bottom. Has long flowing neck scarf. Fits woman 36 x 29 x 36 and 5’ 9” tall. Can also be lengthened because shoulders can be let out some. $320 Email me for pictures. Pink_dancer@comcast.net [1]
AMERICAN STYLE GOWNS American Style Competition Gowns. I have gowns for resale for women who are medium built (I am 5’8” 150 lbs) I have an orange latin (floor length), and a mint green latin (short). I am located in RI with easy access to Boston or NY. Good condition, Priced to sell, Best offer, Looking for $400 each. Contact: Linda at 4013234072 lswinggirl123@aol.com [1]
BOOKS Love to dance? Read a Dancemaster mystery! Disco Death, The Country Western Corpse, Two to Tango, The Homicide Hustle, Mambo to Murder, The Wedding Waltz Widow, The Las Vegas Lambada, and new mystery, The Jacksonville Jive. Author/Dancer Charlene Torkelson weaves and interesting story with a twist. Order your book or ebook at www.chartorkelson.com or www. amazon.com. [1]
DanceMart DanceMart continues to serve members of USA Dance as a free space to advertise and sell personal costumes, shoes, etc., or search for a partner. To be included in DanceMart, please limit your classified ads to 50 words or less. You must include your membership number and name to ensure compliance with the free space for members only. Classified ads will run in American dancer for two issues. If you wish to run it longer, you must resend the ad. To place or renew an ad, Please send it to: design@americandancer.org
46 InStep
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Dance Camp Los Angeles
May 2 - 5, 2013 at the
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Dance Camp Las Vegas
June 16 - 21, 2013 at the
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www.MasteryCamps.com
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USA Dance National DanceSport Championships
USA DANCE
Los angeles, ca april 5 - 7, 2013
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