AMERICAN DANCER Magazine September-October 2014

September-October 2014

FROM SEA TO SHINING SEA

DANCING™ for AMERICA Celebrating The Freedom To Participate In Dance And The Enrichment It Brings To People’s Lives.

USA Dance Nationals at The Gumbo

Official publication of USA Dance Inc.

September-October 2014

FEATURES Cover Story 12 Taking an official “gumbo break” — Adjudicators Glenn Weiss, Stephen Hadley, Dasha Sushko and Dan Calloway (Chairman).

Photo by Moondance Studios/Bobby Campbell. Story p. 20.

DEPARTMENTS

10 WDSF Annual General Meeting

Report by Ken Richards, DanceSport VP

President’s Message 5

Yang Chen, President of USA Dance

Action Report from USA Dance National

By Jean Krupa, Social Dance VP

USA Dance 2014-15 DanceSport Calendar

Grassroots 30

Chapter Highlights & Achievements

Tribute to Len Goodman

By Angela Prince

18 National Ballroom Dance Week,

An Exclusive Article for American Dancer By Dr. Joel Minden, Ph.D., CSCS

35 The Universal Language of Dance

By Patrice Tanaka

36 Bridging Social Barriers Through Dance Mohawk Valley Chapter 3066 School Program Unites Students from 40 Countries

20 Gumbo DanceSport Championships Dance Hospitality At Its Finest

By Cecil Phillips, Angela Prince

22 USA Dance 2014 National DanceSport Championships At The Gumbo

By Susan Khan-Hartz

41 A National Champion’s Perspective: David & Liva Wright, Senior I Standard

42 Una Gran Celebracion en Madrid!

WDSF World Championships:

Senior IV Championships, All Divisions;

By Angela Prince, PR Director

Legacies of Dance 46

The New Horizons

26 Resistance Training Benefits for All Dancers

Sept 19-28, 2014

Socially Yours 17

In The Public Eye 38

16 Collegiate DanceSport –

By Hannah Cole, College Programs Director

6 Milestones

29

From Sea To Shining Sea: Celebrating the Freedom to Participate in dance and the enrichment of people’s lives. Taras Savitskyy and Tatiana Seliverstova at the WDSF World Championships in Israel. Photo by: Irina Nevolina

Junior II Championships

23 Dancing For America™

Senior II Latin; Senior III Standard

44 Una Grande Fiesta a Rimini!

USA Dance Chapters Salute Patriotic Causes Nationwide

WDSF World Championships: Senior I Latin, Standard; Under-21 Standard

Correction: Frank Manley, featured in American Dancer May-June Issue (p. 28), is a member of the Lake-Sumter Counties, FL Chapter 6106.

September-October 2014

FROM SEA TO SHINING SEA

DANCING for AMERICA Celebrating The Freedom To Participate In Dance And The Enrichment It Brings To People’s Lives.

USA Dance Nationals at The Gumbo

Official publication of USA Dance Inc.

FRONT COVER: Dancing tango, Winston and Lilly Chow (CA) became the new Senior IV Standard National Champions at the USA Dance 2014 National DanceSport Championships, held at the Gumbo DanceSport Championships NQE, Baton Rouge (story p. 22.) Photo Credit: Moondance Studios/Bobby Campbell.

BACK COVER: DanceSport athletes have many opportunities to qualify for the USA Dance 2015 National DanceSport Championships, Baltimore, Mar. 27-29. See DanceSport Calendar (p. 29) for all NQE Events. In the spotlight - Senior I Standard couple Angus Sinclair & Dara Campbell (CA), Manhattan Amateur Classic 2014. Photo Credit: Ryan Kenner.

September-October 2014

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regular contributors ANGELA PRINCE Public Relations Director

September-October 2014

Official Publication of USA Dance, Inc.

Angela Prince is the publisher/editor in chief of American Dancer Magazine. She has served as National Public Relations Director for USA Dance, Inc. since 2007.

Her responsibilities include integrated communications, publicity, social media relations, sponsorship development, promotional support and brand management.

2014/Issue 50

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: President – Yang Chen, NY Vice President – Shawn Fisher, ID Secretary – Greg Warner, MN Treasurer – Michael Brocks, PA VP, DanceSport – Ken Richards, DE VP, Social Dance – Jean Krupa, FL DanceSport Rep – Inna Brayer, NY DanceSport Rep – Roger Greenawalt, IN

JEAN KRUPA

Social Dance Vice President

EDITORIAL STAFF:

Jean Krupa is the Social Vice President for USA Dance, Inc., and is serving her second three-year term of office. She is responsible for the programs, communications and a 11-district representation for 160+ local chapters and its members.

Publisher/Editor In Chief Angela F. Prince Design and Production SPARK Publications sparkpublications.com Photography Advisor Carson Zullinger Advertising Angela F. Prince Printing Publishers Press, Inc. SUBSCRIPTION: American Dancer, the official publication of USA Dance, Inc., is published six times a year for the membership and s included in annual membership dues. Subscription cost to non-members within the USA: $25/year SUBMISSIONS: American Dancer welcomes submissions of unsolicited articles, photos and other graphics. All submissions become the property of American Dancer magazine and are not returned to the sender. American Dancer reserves the right to edit all materials for space, content, grammatical and preferential reasons. Preferred method of editorial submissions is by written proposal to the editor who will initially review the story ideas and materials and make a final decision whether to request more information and/or publish. Submissions should be sent to americandancer@usadance.org with AMERICAN DANCER submission/name of sender/story header on the email subject line.

Photo submissions must be high-resolution jpegs (minimum 300-600 dpi and preferably 2400 x 3600 pixels) and American Dancer retains all first-usage rights to submitted copy and photographs/digital images.

PUBLISHER’S OFFICE: AF Prince Associates 11101 Robert Bost Road Midland, NC 28107 704-888-3073

CENTRAL OFFICE: USA Dance, Inc. 800-447-9047 Fax 239-573-0946 Email: central-office@usadance.org

MEMBERSHIP: Online registration or renewals at www.usadance.org WEBSITE: www.USADANCE.org NATIONAL SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: USA Dance, Inc. American Dancer Magazine Social Dancers USA Dance

Twitter: @usadanceinc LinkedIn: USA Dance Inc. YouTube: usadanceinc

USA Dance Chapter websites and Facebook pages are listed at www.usadance.org. © 2014 USA Dance Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

KEN RICHARDS

DanceSport Vice President Ken Richards is the DanceSport Vice President for USA Dance, Inc, and is serving his fourth three-year term of office. As head of the DanceSport Council, he is responsible for all DanceSport programs, including athlete relations and educational opportunities, Adjudicator Congresses, the USA Dance National DanceSport Championships, the National Collegiate DanceSport Championships, all Sanctioned and Qualifying Events, USA Dance University and all industry DanceSport relations. He also serves as an elected Presidium member of the World DanceSport Federation of which USA Dance is a member organization.

USA DANCE, Inc. is the National Governing Body for DanceSport in the United States as recognized by the United States Olympic Committee, the International Olympic Committee and the World DanceSport Federation. With more than 160 local chapters, soon to reach 20,000 national members, from pre-teen to collegiate to seniors and an estimated outreach of more than 200,000, USA Dance is also the representative association for all social and recreational dancers in the country. Membership includes both social and DanceSport, pre-teen through senior, amateur and professional classifications.

MISSION STATEMENT:

To improve the quality and quantity of ballroom dancing in America.

P

resident’s Message

Chase Abell

A

lthough the calendar tells us that summer starts with the solstice in June and ends with the equinox in September, we generally mark the season as beginning with the Memorial Day Weekend at the end of May and ending with the Labor Day Weekend at the start of September. In between, we celebrate Flag Day in June and Independence Day in July. All these holidays remind us, as Americans, of the many important values that we share.

On Memorial Day, we honor all those who have served in our armed forces, to fight for and defend the freedoms that we all hold dear. On Flag Day, we pay homage to the Red, White and Blue, a symbol of our 50 states and the 13 colonies that came together 238 years ago to declare their independence from Great Britain. On Independence Day, we celebrate the birth of the United States of America as a democratic nation founded on principles of liberty and equality. On Labor Day, we remember the hard working men and women that have built this country.

Various events this summer reminded me of our treasured American values. In mid-June, I had the honor to represent USA Dance at the World DanceSport Federation (WDSF) Annual General Meeting held in Bucharest, Romania. At that meeting, USA Dance joined with several other countries to oppose a rule which would require athletes to dance only at WDSF events to qualify to compete at certain WDSF world

championships and events. We were successful in having the rule (B.2.3) modified so that its enforcement would remain at the discretion of the member country.

USA Dance will not be enforcing Rule B.2.3 at its events. Our athletes are free to dance at any competition they wish to, without fear of losing the opportunity to compete at Nationals or any other USA Dance competitions.

At the end of June, I was privileged to take part in the Gumbo DanceSport Championships in Baton Rouge as Master of Ceremonies. Each day of the three-day event began with the playing of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and on the first day, the veterans in the audience were invited onto the dance floor to salute the flag as the national anthem played. It was a special moment, honoring both those who served and our flag.

Then, one week after the July 4th weekend, the National Dance Council of America (NDCA) voted to eliminate an exception in their competition rules that allowed NDCA-registered officials to officiate at USA Dance National Qualifying Events and National Championships. I issued a statement on behalf of USA Dance reaffirming our organization’s commitment to Freedom of Participation. This freedom to participate extends to all judges and officials, and USA Dance opposes unreasonable restrictions on a dance professional’s right to work in the dance industry.

As Americans, we cherish our history and heritage of democracy and liberty, and as dancers in America, we deserve no less than to enjoy our Freedom to Participate. As we embark on another National Ballroom Dance Week this September, let us celebrate in the spirit of Freedom of Participation.

Yang Chen

National President USA Dance, Inc.

September-October 2014

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Milestones

‘FREEDOM TO PARTICIPATE’ POLICY DEFINES, INSPIRES L EADERSHIP ROL E FOR USA DANCE

The USA Dance ‘Freedom To Participate’ Policy

“USA Dance, as the National Governing Body for DanceSport in the United States, in accordance with the Amateur Sports Act and the rules and regulations of the United States Olympic Committee, believes that all athletes should have the opportunity to participate in DanceSport competitions of their choosing, and, contrary to any misinformation, USA Dance has never in the past, nor has any intention in the future, of limiting or restricting its member athletes from participating in any DanceSport competition held in the United States, North America or any other country abroad.

“Furthermore, USA Dance extends this same ‘freedom to participate’ policy to any and all persons employed or volunteering to work as a DanceSport official. This includes, but is not limited to, all emcees, music directors, scrutineers, invigilators and certified adjudicators in the dance industry.

And in accordance with the laws of the United States, USA Dance, adhering to its mission and leadership role in the industry, will not restrict the flow-of-trade nor the right-to-work of any individual within or in conjunction with any dance organization, dance event or related activity, of his or her choosing.”

In our ballroom dance community, whether a person’s interests and involvement are recreational or competitive, amateur or professional, for business or for nonprofit, USA Dance’s belief is that each person should have the freedom to participate in dance activities as they choose and enjoy all the benefits that further enrich their lives.

In 2012, USA Dance issued in writing for the first time its “Freedom to Participate” Policy, in response to and as we rallied within the World DanceSport Federation for the removal of various global restrictions imposed by countries on athletes who danced in competitions not within the WDSF domain. We were successful at that time in joining with several key countries to gain support and have these restrictions and policies removed.

More recently at the 2014 Annual General Meeting of the WDSF (see story p. 10), as USA Dance rallied again for Freedom to Participate, the WDSF voted to preserve discretion within each individual member body of the WDSF to determine for itself how its world representatives to certain WDSF world championships and world events would be selected.

It is important that our members know that USA Dance’s commitment to Freedom to Participate remains steadfast.

Our country was founded on the pursuit of freedom, of opportunity, of happiness. It is what being an American means, and our support for the Freedom to Participate becomes our beacon that will continue to define and inspire our roles.

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American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

mpbell dios/Bobby Ca Moondance Stu

From th e G um b o Dan ceSp o r t Ch a m pio n sh

ips

USA DANCE OFFICIAL STATEMENT

IN RESPONSE TO NDCA VOTE

REGARDING COMPETITION RULES, AFFECTING NDCA-REGISTERED ADJUDICATORS, OFFICIALS The National Dance Council of America (NDCA), at its 2nd Semi-Annual Meeting held on July 11 and 12, 2014, has voted to change its competition rules in a way that absolutely prohibits NDCA-registered officials from participating in USA Dance events.

USA Dance strongly supports the Freedom of Participation by everyone in the dance industry and dance community. We believe that the NDCA’s vote unreasonably restricts the freedom of DanceSport officials, scrutineers, adjudicators and others, and it infringes upon their fundamental rights. We therefore urge everyone who values Freedom of Participation to reject the NDCA’s action.

The NDCA’s change relates to the Rule I.G. of its competition rules, entitled NDCA & RECOGNIZED PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS - JUDGES/SCRUTINEERS. USA Dance has learned that the NDCA leadership proposed to eliminate an exception to this rule which previously allowed NDCA officials to officiate at or organize USA Dance national qualifying events (NQEs) and national championships.

USA Dance has been informed that the NDCA’s vote may have been in response to industry inquiries made by the USA Dance DanceSport Council (DSC) or to USA Dance’s new requirement to have at least 50% WDSF licensed judges at its NQEs. USA Dance is issuing this statement to clear up any misinformation or misconceptions.

Earlier this year, USA Dance’s DSC sent a letter of inquiry to United States teaching societies, asking for important information about their methods, procedures and standards for training, certifying and qualifying adjudicators for DanceSport competitions.

As the National Governing Body for DanceSport in the United States, recognized by the United States Olympic Committee, USA Dance must maintain high standards of judging for our events. In line with that purpose, the DSC reached out to the many

dance organizations and teaching societies in the United States as part of an effort to learn more about industry resources and to ensure that the most qualified professionals with valid credentials and training serve as adjudicators at USA Dance competitions.

Furthermore, USA Dance is the United States member of the World DanceSport Federation (WDSF), the International Olympic

Ryan Kenner

Committee recognized global governing body for DanceSport. WDSF has rigorous standards for licensing judges, and USA Dance has organized congresses and workshops in the last several years within the United States to expand the education and training of dance industry professionals on the latest trends, methods and standards in DanceSport adjudication. In the past year, USA Dance has held WDSF-level competitions at its NQEs, during which many WDSF-certified adjudicators from the United States were invited to judge. USA Dance also received invitations for WDSF-certified judges in the United States to judge at WDSF World Championships overseas, such as in Seoul, Moscow and Marseilles.

If the NDCA’s vote was in fact in reaction either to the DSC’s inquiry letter sent to

dance organizations and teaching societies or to USA Dance’s new requirement to have at least 50% WDSF licensed judges at its NQEs, USA Dance considers the rationale behind the vote seriously flawed.

USA Dance, consistent with its mission, has taken steps to maintain and raise the level of judging in the United States. For the NDCA to change its rules to prevent NDCA officials

From the Manhattan Amateur Classic NQE 2014

from officiating at USA Dance events for that reason – or indeed, for any reason – defies logic and common sense. Moreover, it violates fundamental principles of freedom and liberty that members of the dance community in the United States have long enjoyed.

USA Dance now appeals to everyone in the American dance community – professionals and amateurs, event organizers and promoters, adjudicators and all other officials -- to tell the NDCA that you oppose their recent rule change prohibiting NDCA officials from officiating at or participating in USA Dance events. Join USA Dance in standing up for what is right. Support Freedom of Participation in dance.

Statement Issued on Behalf of USA Dance by: Yang Chen, President, USA Dance, Inc.

September-October 2014

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Milestones

USA DANCE ANNOUNCES

NEW GOVERNING COUNCIL DIRECTOR FOR THE TERM AUG. 1, 2014 – 2016

JIM DICECCA JIM DICECCA VIEWPOINT: MEMBERSHIP PRIORITIES • Involve District Directors and Chapters in our overall membership development process.

• Develop the membership database system to be as effective and efficient as possible, improving technology and application.

• Significantly grow membership in all areas – social, DanceSport, professional, and other support groups.

• Increase overall membership value.

• More effectively assist Chapters with new member recruitment and retention.

DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP The Governing Council of USA Dance has approved the appointment of Jim DiCecca, President of the MASSabda Chapter 3002 (Boston), as the new National Membership Director, following the retirement of Gerald Bonmer, who completed 35 years of loyal service to the National organization on July 31.

As National Membership Director, Jim will work closely with the Governing Council and Chapter leadership to develop the information technology and marketing resources and programs that will enable USA Dance to grow its membership and promote the

benefits of social ballroom dancing and DanceSport.

Jim holds an MBA degree in business and is currently employed as a senior software engineer with Fidelity Investments. He has also been an individual business and systems consultant and vice-president of Willow Consulting Company.

Jim has served as president of the MASSabda chapter, one of USA Dance’s largest and most active chapters, for more than 10 years. He is also a registered USA Dance DanceSport competitor and organizer of The New England DanceSport Championships, a USA Dance National Qualifying Event.

162 GOOD REASONS TO JOIN USA DANCE! That’s how many USA Dance chapters are in our fastgrowing community network of dancers and friends.

Joining today is an easy online process. Visit our website homepage www.usadance.org. There are different membership categories for social, DanceSport, dance professionals and supporters.

Please know that USA Dance is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Your dues are an important support to USA Dance’s many educational and community service programs…and appreciated!

Puttin’ On The Ritz! USA Dance members share good times and good causes.

Courtesy Rhode Island Chapter 3010

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American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

Lisa Dubinsky

NEW USA DANCE CHAPTER BECOMES 9TH IN TEXAS! USA Dance proudly welcomes a new chapter to the State of Texas, thus expanding the Lone Star state’s growing network to nine chapters.

SAN ANTONIO #5055 Serving the area of San Antonio, TX

USA DANCE 20th ANNIVERSARIES As USA Dance prepares to celebrate its 50th Anniversary in 2015, there are 14 chapters that are celebrating their own milestone journeys as community volunteers, working to promote the highest quality of ballroom dance opportunities in their areas. Thirteen were featured in the July-August issue.

Congratulations also to the Southern Oregon, OR Chapter 1011. Noteworthy is the Southern Oregon Chapter’s Dancing In The School program, involving four local schools where dance is taught as an Performing Arts elective in the Physical Education classes and students are tested to receive credit.

SUPPORT OUR DANCESPORT ATHLETES REPRESENTING THE USA WITH YOUR TAXDEDUCTIBLE DONATIONS

Crowning Champions. From the USA Dance 2014 Nationals, Youth 10-Dance Division.

Every year at the USA Dance National DanceSport Championships, we crown new champions who will represent the United States at the World DanceSport Federation (WDSF) World Championships, Cups and Games around the globe.

Some of these dancers are only 14 years of age or even

Carson Zullinger

younger. This is a daunting experience for any athlete, but particularly for those who have never faced the challenge of competing against the best dancers in the world, from 90+ nations.

Chapters and individuals wishing to help USA Dance athletes may make donations by check,

payable to USA Dance Inc, designating the World Team Athlete Development Fund, and to the attention of USA Dance Treasurer, 415 Beaver Street, Suite 200, Sewickley, PA 15143. Individuals may also make donations online via the USA Dance national website www.usadance.org home page.

ROAD TRIP COLLEGIATE NATIONAL COLLEGIATE DANCESPORT CHAMPIONSHIPS NOV. 22 – 23, 2014 COLUMBUS, OH

Every November, for two very loud, very kinetic days and nights, the Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, OH, becomes a triple-play event for 800 to 1,000 collegiate dancers from all across America. For these Alex Rowan DanceSport dancers, it’s a ballroom Photography pep rally, a ballroom dance competition and a non-stop social party, all in one. Deemed the “Road Trip of the Year”, the competitors and their friends literally camp out at the USA Dance National Collegiate DanceSport Championships – sleeping bags and all.

And this two-day ballroom whirlwind happens right across the convention hallway from the Ohio Star Ball. For many years, the NCDC has grown in participation and prestige through USA Dance’s partnership with Ohio Star Ball founder/organizer Sam Sodano, who has supported the collegiate dancers and the NCDC by making possible its spacious venue, the best of adjudicators, scholarship dollars and much-coveted passes to the OSB. Special treat this year for the collegiate dancers (and USA Dance volunteers) is the return of PBS to the Ohio Star Ball to film “America’s Ballroom Challenge.” For many years, this grand showcase of America’s best dancers was mainstream America’s connection to competitive ballroom dancing.

The Ohio Star Ball can once again expect only exuberance from the collegiate audience and 2014 should be the best year ever for NCDC and OSB. See article about Collegiate DanceSport

by Hannah Cole, USA Dance Director of College Networks, on p. 16.

Want to attend or sponsor NCDC? Visit NCDC website at www.usadancencc.org

September-October 2014

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N THE WDSF 2014 AGM convened in the Parliament building in Bucharest, Romania.

ormally, USA Dance sends its national president and vice president of DanceSport as delegates.

Since I am also an elected member of the WDSF Presidium, the Executive Committee ratified Wayne Crowder as the second delegate, along with our National President Yang Chen. Also in Bucharest were Shawn Fischer, first vice-president, as AGM observer and Lydia Scardina, USA Dance past-president, attending the WDSF Sports For All Commission meeting.

Sunday is the actual AGM. It commences with a multitude of routine issues such as adoption of the budget, approval of minutes, introductions of new presidents and members, along with the presentation of numerous reports from the various officers and commission chairs.

Then the important motions of the Presidium and the member bodies are presented, discussed and voted upon. Once the minutes are approved, the WDSF posts the meeting details on their website as part of full-disclosure and transparency as a sporting organization.

Of course, much has already been published, about the USA’s strong position regarding the new motion posing eligibility restrictions that would affect WDSF World Championships.

This vocal concern of the USA actually led to the rally of support from several key countries and an opportunity to lobby the WDSF Sports Director on a new proposal of compromise.

Thankfully, this pivotal rally supporting the USA’s long-standing position on “freedom to participate” proved successful, as New Zealand then championed the rewrite of the originally proposed eligibility restrictions. Presidium votes were taken, and as a result, eligibility requirements and/or restrictions would be determined at the discretion of each member country for its own athletes.

All major meetings were held in the grand Romanian Palace of the Parliament, which is actually the second largest building in the world, next to the Pentagon, according to our tour guide.

Following the AGM, the Presidium met for one additional day to recap the meeting and commence planning for the coming year, which included allocating the WDSF World Championships and Cups to the various host countries.

“By working hand-in-hand with the World DanceSport Federation, USA Dance leadership has the opportunity to gain not only a vast wealth of knowledge and experience, but to be in a position of influence, on behalf of our athletes, to affect important changes in our sport, today, and for generations to come.”

WORLD DANCESPORT FEDERATION AGM BUCHAREST, ROMANIA WAS HOME OF THE WORLD DANCESPORT FEDERATION’S 2014 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING – OR AS IT IS COMMONLY CALLED – THE AGM.

By Ken Richards, USA Dance DanceSport VP, WDSF Presidium Member

WDSF Presidium at the AGM.

Demostrating Abstention, No and Yes Votes

By Color - Mr. Sutu Ok (South Korea), Wayne Crowder (USA) and Yang Chen (USA).

NOTE: USA Dance, as the National Governing Body (NGB) for DanceSport in the United States, represented the USA at the Annual General Meeting of the World DanceSport Federation (WDSF).

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Article 9 of the WDSF Statutes states, “The General Meeting is the principal and original organ of the federation and consists of the Member’s Delegates and the members of the Presidium. Each Member is entitled to send two Delegates to the General Meeting.”

Protocol at the AGM is that all member and proxy votes are first tallied as part of the roll call. The total 131 votes were registered, with 66 constituting a simple majority vote and 88 needed for items requiring a 2/3 majority vote. Unfortunately, at the 2014 AGM, not all of the WDSF’s 92 member bodies were able to attend.

The WDSF Presidium and Committees met during the week. On Friday evening, “The Americas” working group met with key members of the Presidium to review specific issues regarding WDSF Competitions and Adjudicator Licensing. In attendance were representatives from USA, Canada, New Zealand and Australia. Saturday morning started with the meeting of the Professional Division, followed by an open forum and discussion.

Each evening’s hosted dinner is filled with the opportunity to learn more about how the DanceSport programs work in each country. I had a pivotal discussion with World Champions Ashli Williams, Zorn Plohl and Paolo Bosco of the WDSF Athlete’s Commission, which will likely lead to a future young athletes training camp where both USA Dance and JADA members will directly benefit from this pool of knowledge.

American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

DANCING AROUND THE WORLD with Vivian Beiswenger and

“Best River Cruise Line” 2013 Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Award

WATERWAYS OF THE TSARS

ROOF OF THE WORLD

May 30, 2015 - June 11, 2015 St. Petersburg to Moscow

August 22 - September 16, 2015 CHINA & TIBET

on the Viking Truvor 13-day cruise

4 days Moscow

on the all-veranda Viking Emerald 16-day cruise with 18 guided tours, 6-day Yangtze River cruise, 3 days Beijing, 2 nights Xian, 3 nights Llasa, 2 nights Shanghai

Extensions: 3 nights Helsinki, 2 nights St. Petersburg, 2 nights Moscow

Extensions: 2 nights Shanghai, 4 nights Hong Kong & Guilin

GRAND EUROPEAN TOUR

PARIS & THE HEART OF NORMANDY

with 11 guided tours 4 days St. Petersburg, Mandrogy, Kizhi Island, Kuzino, Yaroslavl, Uglich,

October 11 - 26, 2015 Amsterdam to Budapest on the Viking Eistla 15-day cruise with 13 guided tours Amsterdam, Kinderdijk, Cologne, Koblenz,

October 14 - 22, 2015 on the Viking Neptune Vivian plans to escort this trip

Miltenberg, Würzburg, Rothenburg,

and hopes you can join her

Bamberg, Nuremberg,

8-day cruise with 6 guided tours

Passau, Melk, Krems, Vienna,

Paris, Giverny, Vernon, Seine River,

Bratislava, Budapest

Rouen, Les Andelys, Conflans, Paris

Extensions: 2 nights Amsterdam, 2 nights Budapest, 3 nights Prague

Extension: 3-nights Paris.

With all four trips: all meals, wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch & dinner, audio headsets with all tours.

We have group rates on the above dates but can book you on any Viking River Cruise dates.

Call 215.855.2711 or 215.530.3482 or email info@blsdc.com. Call about 2-for-1 rates and air.

C

OUR FREEDOM TO PARTICIPATE IN DANCE over Story

USA DANCE JOINS 1,000+ U.S. ORGANIZATIONS IN CELEBRATION OF OLYMPIC DAY

O

lympic Day is celebrated on or around June 23rd every year throughout the world by millions of people and by tens of thousands of organizations. At home in the USA, there were 1,055 groups officially registered with the U.S. Olympic Committee to host Olympic Day events in their communities – including sports organizations like USA Dance, sports clubs, YMCAs, Boys and Girls Clubs, schools and entire municipalities.

Numerous USA Dance chapters successfully promoted Olympic Day in their local communities, hosting free public dance classes, dance exhibitions and tributes to local Olympians. Events were held more often in large public areas such as shopping centers and public squares, where large audiences and local media could be attracted.

June 23rd is the anniversary of the founding of the modern Olympic movement, representing the date on which the Congress of Paris approved the proposal of Pierre de Coubertin to found the modern Olympics.

NOR CAL, CA CHAPTER 4004 The Nor Cal Chapter held two very successful Olympic Day events in June – at Hillsdale Shopping Center in San Mateo and at The Shops At Tanforan in San Bruno. Guest Olympian was Rower Mike Altman (2004, 2008 Olympic Games), who spoke to the audience about the Olympic values of perseverance, good sportsmanship and fair play, while reminiscing about his own personal below: Cha Cha Group Cla journey to the Olympic Games. ss.

Tyler Li & Anjelica Lowe Instructor James Kleinrath .

Nor Cal Chapter members took to the floor with a series of DanceSport demonstrations, followed by a simple Cha Cha lesson, allowing the public from the very young to senior citizen age to stretch their legs and learn a few dance steps.

Vice President Karen Andersen participated as emcee and dance historian for the audience; Chapter President Jim Kleinrath was a key performer and dance lesson instructor; and Chapter Secretary Mark Scardina was both event DJ and photographer.

USA Dance DanceSport athletes gladly shared their passion for dance with the public and later joined the Cha Cha lesson. Participants were Pre-Teen athletes Tyler Li and Anjelica Lowe, Juniors Lance Yasinsky and Paloma Pronin, and Adult/Senior Athletes Jim Kleinrath, who danced with his student Junko Tanabe.

After the dancing, Olympian Mike Altman gladly signed autographs and shared Olympic athlete cards with the children in the audience.

www.teamusa.org/olympicday

Resource: Past National President Lydia Scardina

While Olympic Day has become an annual celebration involving more than 160 countries around the globe, it is far more than a commemoration of the birth of our modern-day Olympic Games.

Olympic Day is an international effort to promote fitness and wellbeing for every person, through an emphasis on the Olympic ideals of fair play, perseverance, respect and sportsmanship.

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American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

ORLANDO, FL CHAPTER 6002 The Orlando Chapter’s third annual Olympic Day Celebration was the most attended and most inspiring event yet. The Orlando Fashion Square Mall audience was once again drawn to the excitement of the ballroom, latin and club-style music as hundreds gathered to watch 64 local dancers perform in 18 team and couple showcases and then do seven mock competition DanceSport heats to demonstrate the different dances.

A key highlight of the event was the participation of Olympian High Jumper Paula Girven-Pittman and Sitting Volleyball Paralympian Brian Tabler, who led the ceremonial Parade of Athletes and later shared their own personal Olympic experiences with the audience.

According to Chapter President John Davis, the Orlando Chapter “rocked the mall” for this Olympic Day. And there was also a reported “wild merengue mini-lesson” at the end of the celebration that brought everyone to their feet, dancing on the stage and throughout the Mall. Resource: John Davis Doing The Hustle. Benny Maquiera & Carol Burkett.

WICHITA, KS CHAPTER 2098 On behalf of the City of Wichita, KS, Mayor Carl Brewer recognized the Wichita Area Chapter’s 2nd annual Celebration of Olympic Day at the Kansas Masonic Home on June 29 with an official Proclamation, presented by City Council Member Jeff Longwell.

The Wichita Area Chapter’s Olympic Day celebration was organized as a special event for members and guests, that began with a free group class in the popular line dance Cha Cha Slide, and then followed by an impromptu dance competition where everyone was judged dancing waltz, jive/swing and rumba and then the newly learned Cha Cha Slide.

The three local judges presented Olympic Day medals to all the couples who were (1) dancing the character of the dance, (2) maintaining the time of the dance, and (3) having fun. (There were a lot of fun winners.)

After all the medalists had their photos taken, there was a special Olympic Day cake for everyone to enjoy, along with hours of social dancing.

Resource: Bonnie Tandoc left: Official Proclamation.

City Councilman Jeff Longwell to Dr. Bonnie Tandoc, Chapter President.

top: Parade of Athletes. Led by Olympian Paula Girven-Pittman and Paralympian Brian Tabler.

All Photos by Judi Chapman

above: In Sync. Emily Lugo & Logan Gatza with Elena & Emilio Hoyos.Tabler.

above:Olympic Day Medalists. Bill & Katy Mast (Rumba), Mike Goldston & Margo Parks (Waltz), Larry Vernon & Jill Cassado (Jive/Swing). Margo also won Cha Cha Slide.

NEXT STEP FOR DANCESPORT IN THE OLYMPIC MOVEMENT USA Dance is a member of the Multi-Sport Organizations Council (MSOC) of the United States Olympic Committee, comprised of communitybased organizations such as the YMCA, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Boy Scouts, AAU, Police Athletic League and others that provide athletic opportunities for millions of Americans.

The MSOC also includes as members those organizations that have been recognized by the U.S. Olympic Committee as National Governing Bodies of their sport, but where that sport has not

yet qualified to become a Pan American or Olympic Sport. This includes USA Dance, which is officially recognized and designated by the USOC as the NGB of DanceSport in the United States.

USA Dance athletes have already participated in the IOC-recognized World Games and the World DanceSport Games and is working with other member countries of the World DanceSport Federation to gain inclusion in the Pan American Games. And at that time, USA Dance would move from the MSOC to the NGB Council.

Nor Cal Chapter

September-October 2014

13

C

USA DANCE CHAPTERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE VOLUNTEERS ENRICHING over Story

PEOPLE’S LIVES THROUGH DANCE IN OUR COMMUNITIES Whether the celebration is National Ballroom Dance Week, a National or religious holiday, or just a promotion for the local arts, USA Dance chapters and volunteers rally to demonstrate their passion and dance skills nearly every chance they can. They jubilantly take ballroom and latin dancing to the streets, to the malls and sports centers, even on board cruise ships, wherever large crowds can gather.

Because dance is a very visual activity, colorful and magnetic, the media also respond. Chapter volunteers have become “stars” on many prominent and newsworthy public appearances -- Tournament of Roses Parade and New York Dance Parade, Mardi Gras

and Times Square New Year’s Eve, Madison Square Garden and Rockefeller Center, even at the White House.

And because “community” is oftentimes these days a virtual gathering place, we must include mention of our dancers’ many appearances on YouTube and Facebook, on ABC’s Dancing With The Stars, on CBS and Fox TV Morning Shows, on the Oprah Show and MTV, online at USA Today, and on local TV newscasts.

For National Ballroom Dance Week (Sept. 19-28), several USA Dance chapters received official proclamations for NBDW from their Mayors and Governors – the Hattiesburg, MS Chapter was recently presented their first state proclamation.

IN SENIOR CENTERS & HOMES Dance outreach to our country’s seniors, whether they live independently or within care facilities, is a highly supported program by many USA Dance Chapters and its volunteers. And with the AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) as a yardstick and reminder of the vital mental and physical benefits to seniors who dance, chapters are in many ways leading the senior dance movement and recognizing the essential benefits to themselves as they age as well.

AARP The Magazine’s 2011 article “The Healing Powers of Dance” by Christina Ianzito, attested “…there’s no doubt that [dance] can benefit the body and mind in many ways” and that “…dance can – among other things – boost cardiovascular health and bone strength, as well as improve balance and flexibility.” The article also praises dance/movement therapy’s ability to increase senior mobility, confidence, communication and emotional connection,” and it points out its value to those who want to reduce the risk of dementia, treat eating disorders, autism and depression, and even help Parkinsons patients.

In addition to “Giving Seniors The Gift of Dance.” USA Dance chapters also hold fundraiser dances, sometimes partnering with other local groups, to assist their local senior centers and living facilities. Several USA Dance Chapters events covered in Thomas Stark American Dancer have been Orlando, Greater Daytona, Las Vegas, Heartland, Ft. Myers, Greater Memphis, Cedar Valley, North Central New Mexico, Sandusky and there are more.

Craig Kunkel

14

Dallas (TX) Chapter takes tango outdoors at Whole Foods.

American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

Las Vegas (NV) Chapter Alzheimer Association fundraiser dance was held to benefit seniors.

IN OUR SCHOOLS & BEYOND

IN THE WORKPLACE

USA Dance’s evolving dance education program for school-enrolled children – USA Dance KIDZ™ – takes on many formulas as chapters work with local schools and parents to meet their needs.

“Giving Children the Gift of Dance” is the prevailing mission of this umbrella support from USA Dance.

There are inspiring children’s dance programs throughout our country -- many success stories that engage children in the world of dance. And no doubt, program leaders and volunteers are learning from each other.

Many USA Dance Chapters have affordable and more often free dance programs for children, including those involving Special Olympics. They often sponsor fundraising events to assist with expenses. A few notable chapters to watch include Richmond, Orlando, Pittsburgh, Antelope Valley, Rhode Island (SO), Ft. Wayne (SO) and Mohawk Valley (see story p. 36). USA Dance’s national efforts are further supported by its strategic alliance with the Junior Athletes DanceSport Association (JADA).

At the collegiate level, USA Dance becomes a strong resource and supporter for the approximate 130 colleges and universities with active ballroom electives, degreed programs and/or extracurricular dance clubs and teams. Every November, USA Dance co-sponsors with Sam Sodano, the USA Dance National Collegiate DanceSport Championships in Columbus, OH, which takes place alongside the Ohio Star Ball. There, collegiate dancers have the opportunity to proudly represent their school teams and receive scores and placements for their year-long preparations.

USA Dance also recognizes and supports amateur and professional dance teachers and coaches, dance studios and supporting associations, offering quality instruction and guidance to children of all ages, whether the goals are fitness/health, recreation, social connection or athletic competition.

To some, ballroom dancing in the workplace may seem like a trendy idea, but for employers who value employee health and well being, there’s an open door for USA Dance chapters to help support their missions.

The Hattiesburg Chapter, MS 6116 recently pioneered a very ambitious dance fitness program in partnership with three of the largest employers in their area – The University of Southern Mississippi, Forrest General Hospital and Hattiesburg Clinic.

Although this new program is at the ground level, all three employers already have high expectations for their employee participants. One employer explained, “I was contacted by a member of the local USA Dance chapter who is a faculty member at Southern Miss and was aware of our initiative to create a healthier campus Southern Miss Image Center through the Health Employees and Hattiesburg Chapter volunteers is Golden campaign.

One of my goals is to take position to practice partnering skills and new patterns. expose members of the Southern Miss community to various types of activities in order to find exercise they enjoy. Being healthy and active should be fun and I felt this was just one more way to show that to our community….”

— Jodi Ryder, Health Education and Promotion Director, University of Southern Mississippi

dia MacTaggat Me

Antelope Valley Chapter’s “Dance Force” Program for 5th through 8th grades already involves 22 area schools.

ON THE DANCE FLOORS Chapters rally in support of the USA Dance charitable mission.

Scholarships are awarded to DanceSport couples and World Teams to assist their ongoing training and/or travel expenses to World Championships and Games. Through other community outreach programs, chapter volunteers also support USA Dance educational initiatives – Ryan Kenner after-school dance classes, senior dance therapy, seminars and workshops, Special Olympics ballroom and others.

USA Dance is classified as a 501(c) (3) non-profit charitable organization.

The National organization USA Dance DanceSport Athletes, recipients of scholarships for their and each of its 162 finalist placements at the 2014 Manchapters must meet the hattan Amateur Classic NQE. same requirements of the IRS to maintain this nonprofit classification for tax-exempt purposes, and which means that USA Dance is eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions for its athletes and programs in accordance with Code section 170.

USA Dance National Treasurer Michael Brocks can provide proper guidance for donations and fundraising event planning: treasurer@usadance.org.

September-October 2014

15

Main Streaming BALLROOM Shawn Fisher

COLLEGIATE

DANCING GROWING

BY DEGREES

IN COLLEGES, UNIVERSITIES B

Pre-Ch amp La tin /Vis & Ama ha nda G r imm (M l Kothari I)

Alex Row an

DanceS port Pho tography

New Mexico State

16

University Team

allroom dancing has hit the college main stream. Thousands of U.S. students are “boogie-ing down” on a regular basis to the best foxtrot, h ac Ro tango, cha cha and swing music.

Paul Four U.S. universities now offer students the opportunity to major in dance with an emphasis in Ballroom. Teams of 10 to 400 dancers group at Universities around the nation – ready to learn, perform and compete.

In a recent study of the Top 400 national universities and liberal m arts colleges, more than 130 Colleges Tea Clarem ont showed to have official Ballroom dance teams, clubs and/or degree programs. With more than 80 collegiate DanceSport competitions held annually, teams have plenty of opportunity to strut their stuff.

Some college teams are large and some small. Each has its unique focus.

Programs such as BYU Provo, Claremont Colleges, UCSD, UNLV and UVU strive to produce large-scale competitive formation routines. BYU Idaho exists strictly to perform. Others, still, promote individual competition and performance. Regardless of size or focus, the Hannah Cole benefits reaped by these college dancers are the same — teamwork, confidence and creativity, to name a few.

Although many university teams have sprouted over the past 15 years with the resurgence of swing dancing, others have been creating America’s finest dancers and professionals for more than 30, or even 50 years.

Collegiate dance teams from esteemed universities like Harvard, MIT, NYU, Purdue, Stanford, UC Berkeley, University of Maryland and University of Michigan are just a short list of the

American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

By Hannah Cole, Director of College Network great ballroom teams that are “waltzing around the world”.

Long-standing, degree-granting programs such as BYU Provo, BYU Idaho and Utah Valley University offer students the opportunity to major or minor in dance with an emphasis in ballroom. New Mexico State University now offers a master’s degree program with an emphasis in teaching ballroom dance, in addition to a bachelor of arts degree and a minor. Several technical colleges have also added ballroom dance teacher certificate programs to their list of opportunities. New teams and programs are forming each day.

Collegiate dancers are the future of our country. They are our future engineers, doctors, lawyers, writers, therapists, teachers and entrepreneurs. Some will become our next national champions and may go on to professional dance careers -- the ones we will take lessons from in five years. No matter what these dancers choose for their professional lives, they will do so with the integrity of a ballroom dancer.

They are also the future of USA Dance.

Hannah Cole has competed professionally, coached and choreographed for more than 20 years, earning numerous Top Teacher and professional awards including Ohio Star Ball Rising Star Smooth finalist. She prides herself in having contributed to nearly every aspect of the ballroom dance business world and now works to inspire and mold future dancers.

Creatively, she loves to tell stories through partner dance. She is a DVIDA Regional Examiner and Assistant Professor, Director and Coach of the New Mexico State University DanceSport Program and Company.

FRINGE BENEFITS

DANCE H

of

ow many times have you considered joining an organization, or have been asked why you belong to a particular organization, but essentially you may just want to know what can the organization do for you personally?

Since belonging to an organization costs money, it would seem logical to ask “What can the organization do for me?” The probable answer could be nothing! It might be better to consider what the organization can do with you (with your support, expertise, energy and passion) and what can we achieve together. It’s actually the same principle one might apply to a business or career: it can’t do anything for you unless you first do something for it.

Theodore Roosevelt put it very aptly when he said, “Every man owes a part of his time and money to the business or the industry in which he is engaged. No man has a moral right to withhold his support from an organization that is striving to improve conditions within his sphere.”

The degree of success in business depends on the talents, time and energy expended, even more than the amount of money invested. The same holds true for the success of organizations. The dues dollars represent a personal investment, just as it does in one’s business. There are certain functions and services which the organization, acting in concert with its membership, can provide, but to be truly successful in its efforts, the organization requires the support and involvement of all its members. It needs the collective thinking of all concerned to create its vision and purpose, and it requires the physical effort of its membership to put plans into operation.

It would appear that the people who argue most against or avoid paying membership dues are often the first to criticize, saying that the organization does them no good. However, they are often on the front line to enjoy the benefits that come their way as a result of the organization and the dues paid by the members.

Benefits are the result of a lot of hard work and effort by the great number of individuals who devote time and energy to get the tasks done.

Imagine 100 individuals going their separate ways to dam a river or build a highway: it would result in chaos. Those same efforts, now organized under a single leadership with mutually-agreed-upon plans, can give the group power and direction to be successful and find personal satisfaction and reward.

But there are more benefits than that to a USA Dance membership. One, which is a pure bonus, is the benefit of social connection.

Other benefits include improving your fitness/health, renewing your relationship with your spouse, fulfilling a sense of civic duty to your community, a way to find balance between job and family life and

S

ocially Yours

By Jean Krupa, Social VP

INVEST IN YOUR ASSOCIATION TO INVEST IN YOURSELF. new-found friendships coming one’s way, simply because of membership. Many have found that these “fringe benefits” more than offset dues and other costs of participation.

Meaning, “you can have your cake and eat it too.”

To those who question the benefits of being an official member, my answer to this group is simply, “Get involved and find out.”

September-October 2014

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NATIONAL BALLROOM DANCE WEEK

A PRESERVATION & CELEBRATION OF DANCE IN AMERICA SEPTEMBER 19-28, 2014

A Continuing Story from the July-August Issue of American Dancer USA Dance Chapters - Highlights from NBDW 2013

By Angela Prince

T

o a dancer, America’s greatest inheritance is the freedom of self-expression. That opportunity has attracted millions of people from all over the world to our country and has created through the resulting generations, a rich ethnic and cultural diversity. Historians call it America’s “melting pot.” It’s what makes America uniquely America.

With 162 chapters throughout the country, USA Dance’s membership and supporters are a reflection of that same diversity, as the enjoyment of dance has no exclusions, no restrictions. And as USA

Dance soon approaches its 50th anniversary in 2015, we are reminded of the organization’s long-standing outreach mission to all Americans to “improve the quality and quantity of ballroom dancing in America.”

At the Chapter grassroots level and supported by the National organization, we as dancers can make a difference in our communities.

We have an unequaled volunteer network of thousands, who individually and collectively have the opportunity to open doors to those who want dance enrichment in their lives.

America’s inheritance of dance – the legacy we leave for others today.

Stephen Marino

Social Dancing In The Studios.

Greater New York Chapter 3004

Yang Chen

Performing In The Malls.

NYS Capital District Chapter 3014

Social Dancing In The Studios & Clubs.

Photos Courtesy of Anita Riccio

New York State Capital District Chapter 3014

Greater New York Chapter 3004 Northern Alabama Chapter 6114

Courtesy of Matt Johnson

Pro Showcases. Dmitry Karabanov & Daria Emelianova

Southern Tier NY Chapter 3011 18

Performing In The Malls.

American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

Dancing In The Streets. Carmine Rucco & Maria Boylard demonstrating tango at Bridge Street Town Center.

Mitchell Hooks

Hattiesburg, MS Chapter 6116 Official NBDW Proclamations. The Hattiesburg-Laurel, MS Chapter were presented an official Proclamation of National Ballroom Dance Week in the State of Mississippi issued by the Governor. Chapter members Michael Forster, Director; Karen Adams, president; Marion Toth, director; and Bela Toth, director.

A REASON TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL BALLROOM DANCE WEEK™ SEPTEMBER 19-28, 2014

National Ballroom Dance Week is a 10-day annual ballroom dance celebration throughout America, organized and promoted by USA Dance. The following NBDW events are just a sampling of the types of activities planned.

Additional events were featured in the July-August issue of American Dancer.

Please reconfirm all details/schedules with your local Chapter or visit Chapter pages on www.usadance.org.

KENTUCKY • BLUEGRASS, KY CHAPTER 2028 • NBDW Social Dance, Music by MetroGnomes, Sat, Sep 20, Central Baptist Church, 7:30 – 11 pm, $5 members; $10 guests; $5 students; under 16 free with adult MASSACHUSETTS • MASSABDA CHAPTER 3002 • NBDW Social Dance Evening (with/without dinner, dance, jack & jill competition), Fri, Sep 19, Westin Waltham Hotel (Boston area), 7 pm dinner ($60 members/$65 guests); 8 pm dance ($15 members, $20 guests, $8 students, $5 J&J) • New England DanceSport Championships, Sat, Sep 20, Westin Waltham Hotel, matinee $10 pp, evening $20 pp (pkgs available) NEW YORK • SOUTHERN TIER OF NY CHAPTER 3011 • Free dance lessons, Mon – Thu (Argentine Tango, Swing, Salsa, Hustle).

• Big Band Dance, Tango Lesson (plus exhibitions), Mason Warrington Orchestra, Fri, Sep 19, Kalurha, 7-8 pm lesson, 8-11 dance • 24th Annual NBDW Celebration Dance (dance, amateur & pro latin show, cash bar), The Groove, Mandela Room Bing U, members $25, non-members $30,students $18 NEW JERSEY • BALLROOM CENTRAL OF NJ CHAPTER 3059 • Social Dance (line dance class, team match, pro dance host program), DATE, TIME, Croydon Hall, Middletown, $20 members (optional dance host $3 fee per dance) NORTH CAROLINA • CAROLINA HEARTLAND CHAPTER 6092 • NBDW Showcase, Oriental Shrine Club, Greensboro, Sun, Sep 28, 4 – 7 pm PENNSYLVANIA • HARRISBURG, LANCASTER, YORK CHAPTERS – 3009, 3006, 3008 • 24th annual Under The Bridges of Paris Dinner Dance (DJ, black tie optional, cash bar), Sat, Sep 27, Valencia Ballroom, York, PA, Buffet 6-7:30 pm, Dancing to Dave Winter Band 8-11 pm, $45 members/$50 guests

17

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“Dancing is what the body does between the steps.” –Percell St. Thomass

Reserve your program today!

sherriwimberly@gmail.com –or– 601.297.2185 ©2014 DanceKinesis and Angelisms are trademarks of Percell St. Thomass. ©2012 Photography by Robert Hubbard. All rights reserved.

September-October 2014

19

THE GUMBO NATIONAL DANCESPORT CHAMPIONSHIPS NQE

Recipe for Southern Hospitality at its Finest HOST TO THE USA DANCE 2014 SENIOR IV, JUNIOR II NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

By Cecil Phillips, Gumbo Public Relations All photos by Moondance Studio

ampion s th Natio nal Ch Se nior IV Sm oo leto n ng h & Melody Si Jam es Kleinrat

L

ouisiana’s down-home recipe for DanceSport Gumbo once again was a blue-ribbon winner, getting the highest marks from competitors, judges and spectators for its excellent “southern hospitality” mixture of the highest quality ingredients.

Presented in Baton Rouge on June 27-29, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel’s Premier Ballroom, the Gumbo DanceSport Championships, a National Qualifying Event for the USA Dance 2015 National DanceSport Championships, attracted competitors from around the country and a packed house throughout most of the weekend, as the Gumbo hosted all proficiency levels of the Senior IV National Championships and for the first time, the Championship divisions of Junior II — Latin, Standard and 10-Dance.

The much-awaited Junior II National Championships bought many of the best young dancers in the nation to the Gumbo (ages 14 and 15), and their displays of 20

American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

talent were highly entertaining and representative of America’s best. (See Junior II story on page 23.)

And for the second year, the Senior IV National Championships attracted the top competitors. Many of these dancers provided an admirable show of experience and polish to the heats in both American and International styles. Senior IV couples moreover represent couples ages 65 and up, although new rules allow one partner to be 60 and up. Senior IV couples competed throughout the weekend in the full range of divisions from bronze closed syllabus to open Championship. (See Senior IV story on page 22.)

Yang Chen (NY), national president of USA Dance, served again as master of ceremonies, with Dan Calloway (MD) returning as chairman of judges and Mark Tabor (TX) as scrutineer. ki n s r a L A regular participant since ld R e g i n a s i a Ma y & Da 2009, Carmine Rucco summed e, Bro n z Youth up the weekend experience: Sm ooth Silver “We have more fun here than anywhere.” Carmine and partner Maria Bolyard live in Huntsville, AL, and they take part in several competitions each year.

Asked if he could suggest any improvements in the Gumbo, he replied, “Not really. Whenever we need something we just ask, and it gets taken care of.”

THE FOLLOWING ADULT DIVISION COUPLES WON THEIR NQE CHAMPIONSHIP DIVISIONS:

American 9-Dance Champions Damian Pataluna & Irina Morozova

Damian Pataluna & Irina Morozova, Louisville, KY — Adult American 9-Dance, Adult Rhythm.

Andrew Sim & Emily Cobb-Hines, Great Falls, VA — Adult International 10-Dance, Adult Latin.

Nels Petersen & Theresa Kimler, Lino Lakes, MN —Adult Smooth.

Angelo & Kayla Cristobal, Mt. Holly, NC — Adult Standard.

Complete results of all Gumbo heats are available online at www.o2cm. com, courtesy of Mark Tabor.

THE GUMBO TEAM AT WORK. The Louisiana Gumbo Chapter 5031 is the official host of the DanceSport Championships, and the chapter is strongly supported by Louisiana DanceSport and by Saturday Night Ballroom, a large social club in Baton Rouge.

Chief organizer of the event is Ann Durocher, president of Louisiana DanceSport, who leads an extraordinary team of people skilled in the key elements rd zer Ann Jan Wa Event Organi of the competition project, including to n Ward & can Sm ooth Ba r & e er lt ch ro a Du W er i III Am registration, heating, music, sound Rouge Mayor Se ni o r Joshu a L ishn e ve equipment, signage, facility planning, & Ange tsky la Gerzb e rg Junior II fundraising, hospitality, dressing Latin Natio n a rooms, publicity and accounting. l Vice Ch ampio ns This year marked the 15th year of USA Dance competitions in Baton Rouge and the 10th year as National Qualifying Events.

All 10 NQEs have been “in the black” financially, and all have contributed to the Gumbo’s growing reputation as a well organized, fun and competitor, h arles L ake C n g friendly event. i c n L A Da oo m s Cla ssr

SECRET INGREDIENTS OF A GUMBO RECIPE:

• More than 70 volunteers who personify “Southern Hospitality.”

• Elegant hotel venue, ballroom, rooms, dining, recreational areas • 325 competitors from 34 states • 12 Judges and Officials with the highest of credentials.

• $11,350 in Scholarship prizes • Hospitality Room for competitors • Excellent competition music and sound system • 46x74 hardwood floor plus large practice floor • Staffed, fully equipped dressing rooms • Packed house of spectators, especially for evening performances • Showtime with area children learning to dance Commemorative Gumbo Program Cover Artist Jack Jaubert, Gumbo Deck Captain

ip e Ch ampion sh Se nior I 9-Danc d ar yl Bo o & Mar ia Carmin e Ru ss

September-October 2014

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USA DANCE 2014 NATIONAL DANCESPORT CHAMPIONSHIPS

SENIOR IV NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

AMERICA’S BEST BATON ROUGE, LA – JUNE 27 – 29, 2014 Crowne Plaza Hotel

Senior IV Championship Smooth (WTFV) 1 James Kleinrath & Melody Singleton - CA 2 Terry Stich & Sandra Stich - KY

3 Carl Blevins & Lelia Blevins - FL 4 Jerry Snyder & Jo Ann Snyder - NC

S

By Cecil Phillips All Photos By Moondance Studios

enior IV DanceSport couples converged on Baton Rouge in larger numbers this year, since the Gumbo DanceSport Championships was once again selected to host the USA Dance Senior IV National Championships. Thirty-two couples in all came from all over the country, and they competed in both American and International style events, from Bronze syllabus to Open Championships.

Many of the couples had participated in the Gumbo several times before. When interviewed, their comments about the event echoed those in other age groups.

A very well-travelled dancer, Pen Cosby from Key Biscayne, FL, commented, “This competition is among the best! It is so well organized, and the volunteers are so helpful. We love coming here.”

Several of the Senior IV events carried scholarship awards. For example, James Kleinrath and Melody Singleton, from San Carlos, CA, won a $200 scholarship in the Senior IV Championship Smooth division.

Senior dancers themselves were also among the generous donors to the Scholarship Fund. Terry and Sandra O’Brien, from Jacksonville, FL, funded three scholarships, in their words “For the love of the Gumbo volunteers.”

Senior IV Championship Standard (WTVFQ) 1 Winston Chow & Lilly Chow - CA 4 Edward Huang & Corrina Huang - TX 5 Wolfgang Goetz & Christa Goetz - FL 2 Paul Giuliano & Louise Giuliano - NY 3 James Kleinrath & Melody Singleton - CA 6 Ken McCleary & Pamela Weaver - FL

Paul Giuli an o & Lo

Senior IV Championship Latin (SCRPJ) 1 Paul Giuliano & Louise Giuliano - NY

22

2 Edward Huang & Corrina Huang - TX 3 Ken McCleary & Pamela Weaver - FL

American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

ui se Giuli an o

Senior IV Championship Rhythm (CRSBM) 1 Carl Blevins & Lelia Blevins - FL 2 Jerry Snyder & Jo Ann Snyder - NC

USA DANCE 2014 NATIONAL DANCESPORT CHAMPIONSHIPS

JUNIOR II NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

AMERICA’S BEST BATON ROUGE, LA – JUNE 27 – 28, 2014 Crowne Plaza Hotel

By Cecil Phillips All Photos By Moondance Studios

Kamil Falkow

ski & Alexis Tu

rko

T

he USA Dance National DanceSport Championships, held in Baltimore in March, elected not to host the Junior II Championship Divisions since several of the same competitors were scheduled to compete the same weekend at the World DanceSport Federation’s Junior II World Championships abroad. USA Dance invited the Gumbo to host the Junior II National Championships, and the Gumbo organizers gladly accepted the opportunity.

The result turned out to be quite a treat for the Gumbo spectators. More than a dozen of the nation’s best 14-15 year-old dancers came to compete for National titles and a place on the USA World Teams as a result. The Junior II competitors provided a display of skill and style that dazzled the Baton Rouge audience.

In the Championship level events, six to eight couples danced with superb poise and confidence in all the Standard, Latin, and 10Dance heats. One awed spectator remarked affectionately, “Those kids looked like topranked adults on the floor, just smaller!”

All couples performed exceptionally well, no doubt giving the judges difficulty in ranking them. In the end, the USA Dance 2013 National Champions were able to defend their position for 2014, winning all three divisions: Kinsley Lin and Michelle Yiu, San Francisco, CA -- Standard, Latin, 10-Dance.

These achievements also qualified Lin and Yiu to represent the USA at the WDSF Junior II World Championship 10-Dance and Standard in Spain (Oct) and Latvia (Dec), respectively. Other Junior II National finalists may also qualify for the World Team by invitation of USA Dance.

Junior II Championship 10-Dance (WTVFQSCRPJ) 1 Kinsley Lin & Michelle Yiu - CA 4 Erik Linder & Rickie Taylor - WA 2 Dennis Matveev & Valerie Dubinsky - MA 5 Kamil Falkowski & Alexis Turko - NJ 3 Mike Monokandilos & Michelle Klets - CA 6 Kristers Smits & Sophie Shvartsman – NY

Junior II Championship Latin (SCRPJ) 1 Kinsley Lin & Michelle Yiu - CA 2 Joshua Lishnevetsky & Angela Gerzberg - NY 3 Mike Monokandilos & Michelle Klets - CA

4 Dennis Matveev & Valerie Dubinsky - MA 5 Erik Linder & Rickie Taylor - WA 6 Kristers Smits & Sophie Shvartsman - NY

Junior II Championship Standard (WTVFQ) 1 Kinsley Lin & Michelle Yiu - CA 2 Dennis Matveev & Valerie Dubinsky - MA 3 Erik Linder & Rickie Taylor - WA

4 Mike Monokandilos & Michelle Klets - CA 5 Kamil Falkowski & Alexis Turko - NJ 6 Oliver Kratholm & Hannah Purdy - KY 7 Kristers Smits & Sophie Shvartsman – NY

September-October 2014

23

Moondance Studios

Dennis Matveev & Valerie Dubinsky (MA) 2nd Place Finalists

Moondance Studios

Kinsley Lin & Michelle Yiu (CA) 1st Place Finalists

JUNIOR II STANDARD NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS AT THE GUMBO DANCESPORT CHAMPIONSHIPS BATON ROUGE, LA – JUNE 27 – 29, 2014 CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL A USA JUDGE’S PERSPECTIVE – DASHA SUSHKO This year the USA Dance Junior II Nationals Championship events were held separately during the Gumbo DanceSport Championships in Baton Rouge, LA. The south is renowned for its hospitality and charm, and it was on full display this weekend. The Standard events were held Saturday night before a sold-out crowd. The atmosphere was very friendly and supportive. The dinner reception before the Championship events made the competition even more special for both the competitors and the officials.

One of the highlights of the night was the Junior II Championship Standard event. This was a seven couple final that attracted the most successful couples throughout the United States, including winners of most major competitions and finalists of World Championships. As a coach and a judge, I was very pleased with the level of all of the competitors.

Winning this event were Kinsley Lin & Michelle Yiu from California (1/1/1/1/1) – great-looking and very experienced couple.

They both have tremendous power and energy, and they were able to showcase it from the first dance ‘til the last that night.

Their Quickstep was by far the best on the floor! It was a very clear win! Congratulations on becoming three-time National Champions during the weekend!

24

American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

Runners up were Dennis Matveev & Valerie Dubinsky from Massachusetts (2/2/2/3/2) – Another experienced couple with great floor presence and confidence. Every competition these two improve in the quality of their performance. In my opinion they danced one of their best that night. I liked their Viennese Waltz the most!

Congratulations on becoming 2 Times Vice National Champions!

I think these top 2 couples representing the United States at the World Championships will make us proud. I wish them lots of luck and great dancing! Congratulations to all of the couples on their fantastic dancing and to Ann Durocher for organizing this amazing competition.

Dasha Sushko is a National, WDC World Class & WDSF-licensed Adjudicator. She was a fivetime Russian National Amateur Champion in Standard, Latin and 10-Dance, ranked among the top 10 Russian Couples at the National Championships. After moving to the USA in 2005, she competed in professional National and International competitions with partner Vladimir Popov. In 2011, she opened her studio “Ballroom Dream.”

In 2014, five of her couples became USA Dance National Champions and she coached couples at the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi.

LET FREEDOM RING!

Marjorie S. Debelak

DANCING IN AMERICA: COMMEMORATING OUR COUNTRY’S FREEDOM

A

mericans love to celebrate! Birthdays and holidays, graduations and promotions, weddings and new births. There are anniversaries for every memorable moment and endless excuses just to create one more party! For USA Dance chapters, these celebrations often focus around our national holidays (Memorial Day, Veterans Day, Armed Forces Day, Independence Day, et al) as dancers take to the floor to demonstrate our appreciation for living in a free country. For some chapters, that appreciation goes one step further in direct support for America’s service men and women.

Ginny Engler

Betty Grant handles admissions for the Richmond Chapter’s July 5th Dance.

Minnesota Chapter salutes our WWII veterans.

MINNESOTA CHAPTER 2011 COMMEMORATING WORLD WAR II VETERANS

The Minnesota Chapter for 22 consecutive years looks forward to their weekend tea dance at the elegant Lafayette Country Club on Lake Minnetonka. This year, the Twin Cities Performance Dance Team of four couples performed a Viennese waltz in World War II military attire and choreographed to Christina Perri’s “A Thousand Years.” Approximately 85 to 100 attend the buffet brunch and afternoon of dancing.

Judi Chapman

Richmond Chapter on deck in red, white & blue.

The Richmond, VA Chapter hosted their traditional July 4th dance on Sat., July 5th with no less fireworks. Members celebrated by wearing as much red, white and blue and stars and stripes as they could find in their closets. During past years, the chapter has invited the local U.S. Army Reserve Unit as its guests and each year honors military veterans. Even the registration desk set the patriotic tone for a night of dancing, thanks to Admissions Clerk Betty Grant.

AUGUSTA, GA CHAPTER 6074 RED, WHITE & BLUE ICE CREAM SOCIAL

Sidney Hutchinson

Orlando Chapter honors Wounded Warrior Marine Cpl. C.J. Barnes, who served in Afghanistan.

RICHMOND, VA CHAPTER 6006 CELEBRATING FREEDOM DANCE – JULY 5TH

Augusta Chapter dancing rumba July 4th, Vera Farmer & Bob Anastasiadis.

Ice cream is a always the perfect excuse for any event, and a “Red, White and Blue Ice Cream Social” makes for a great July 4th dance celebration and salsa lesson, especially if you’re in August, GA when summer heat is in full swing.

Wearing matching “flag” shirts were Vera Farmer and Bob Anastasiadis, dancing the Rumba.

ORLANDO, FL CHAPTER 6002 WOUNDED WARRIORS APPRECIATION DANCE AT MACY’S FURNITURE GALLERY

Orlando Chapter 100 Strong in support of Wounded Warriors.

Judi Chapman

The Orlando FL Chapter partnered with Macy’s to host the chapter’s 3rd annual “Wounded Warrior Appreciation Dance” on Memorial Day weekend at the beautiful Macy’s Furniture Gallery in Altamonte Springs, FL. Proceeds from the dance went directly to Marine Cpl. CJ Barnes, who was severely wounded in Afghanistan. More than 100 dancers enjoyed an evening of social dancing, plus two dance exhibitions by USA Dance members/competitors/performers: Swing exhibition by Tom Simmons (Army veteran) & Trena McKay; and a Rumba exhibition by Tom Huber & Carla Hoskins (Navy veteran).

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E

AMERICAN

DANCER

xclusive

By Dr. Joel Minden All Photos By Nataliya Tarbeeva

THE COMPETITIVE EDGE:

RESISTANCE TRAINING FOR BALLROOM DANCERS

T

here was a time when resistance training and dancing were mutually exclusive. Thankfully, we’ve evolved beyond that.

Today’s dancers know that lifting weights builds better athletes, and dancers are no exception. Sure, the technique for Open Impetus or Toe Heel Swivels is developed primarily on the dance floor. But what about back strength, leg power and speed?

Years of dancing can get you there, but a focused fitness program can help you speed up the process.

upper back. Examples include the pull-up, pull-down, or chin-up. Use a close grip to target the muscles in the middle of the back.

Historically, dancers have shied away from resistance training to protect flexibility and to avoid developing too much muscle mass.

As it turns out, these concerns are not supported by research.

When dancers from university and professional modern dance companies participate in strength and conditioning programs, not only do they outperform their peers on various measures of fitness, they also get higher ratings of dance quality from judges and directors of dance companies. The evidence is clear: Whether you’re a social or competitive dancer, resistance training can help you build a fitness foundation for higher quality dancing.

DEMO A. Starting/Finishing Positions of Machine Pull-Downs

BENEFITS OF RESISTANCE TRAINING

For dancers, resistance training is the fast track to improvements in power and body composition. Power is a combination of strength and speed. Dances like Jive or Quickstep clearly require power, but dynamic action always matters, even in slower dances like Waltz or Rumba. Body composition refers to proportions of muscle and fat in the body. In addition to diet, resistance training is the most efficient way to build a muscular but compact dancer’s physique with minimal body fat.

If you’re new to resistance training, you may want to find a qualified trainer to help you learn exercises that will help you meet your goals.

In this article, I’ll give you some ideas for exercises and programming to get you started. As with any fitness program, check with your doctor first to be sure your health permits intense workouts.

EXERCISE EXAMPLES FOR DANCERS

The upper back is an important target area for ballroom dancers who struggle with lengthening the spine or creating powerful rotations.

Exercises that involve pulling the arms toward the body will train the 26

American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

DEMO B. Starting/Finishing Positions of Chin-Ups Machine pull-downs, pull-ups (overhand grip) and chin-ups (underhand grip) target upper back muscles. Beginners may wish to start with pull-downs. The underhand grip used for chin-ups also emphasizes biceps and is easier to perform than pull-ups. For dancers, back training can be used to improve posture and stability during rotational figures.

Your chest and shoulders will benefit from pressing movements like incline bench presses, dips and push-ups.

If your standing leg action is a weak point, lunges, split squats or step-ups will improve your leg and hip power.

DEMO C. Starting/Finishing Positions of Rear-Foot-Elevated Split Squat DEMO E. Starting/Finishing Positions of Dumbbell Bench Press

DEMO F. Starting/Finishing Positions of Incline Dumbbell Press DEMO D. Finishing Position of Split Squat.

Split squats target the legs and glutes. The rear-foot-elevated split squat puts greater emphasis on the front leg. For dancers, split squats can be used to develop greater single leg power.

Dumbbell bench press targets the chest, shoulders and triceps. Perform this on an incline to emphasize the upper part of the chest. Beginners may wish to start with push-ups. These are useful for improving arm carriage and strengthening the front of the upper body, a weak point for many dancers.

ASK IRINA MOROZOVA (KY) Irina Morozova and Jonathan Medlin and their respective dance partners are national champions in their separate American Style divisions – Smooth, Rhythm or 9-Dance. They are among USA Dance’s best ambassadors for the art and the sport of this style that originated in the U.S., is now popular in neighboring Canada and has a growing following around the world. According to Wikipedia, while explaining the more apparent differences between International and American Styles: “The dance technique used for both International and American styles is similar, but International Ballroom allows only closed dance positions, whereas American Smooth allows closed, open and separated dance movements. In addition, different sets of dance figures are usually taught for the two styles.”

American 9-Dance National Champion 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014; Star Quality Awards 2010, 2014; Ohio Star Ball Smooth 2013 & Rhythm Champion 2011, 2012, 2013 • Current Division: American 9-Dance • Chapter: Greater Louisville, KY 2021 • Dance Partner: Damian Pataluna, 5+ years

On Strength Training: I like to use free weights in my work outs, especially focusing on the muscles in the back. For me, the back is the most “vocal” part of the dancer, so it is really important to showcase it properly. Health and wellness has become extremely important for me as well. A well balanced diet allows me to train efficiently and monitor my weight closely.

• Weekly Dancing: 5 days a week, up to 10 hours • Career: Accountant

On Life Since Becoming A Champion: DanceSport has a great influence in my life now, I became a board member of our local Courtesy of Irina Morozova chapter, and it allows me to promote ballroom dance within the community, educate the public how dance can be beneficial not only as a physical exercise, but also as an emotional outlet.

September-October 2014

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for 3-5 “sets” of 3-12 repetitions. As a rule of thumb, perform 3-6 repetitions in each set to develop strength and power, and 6-12 repetitions to build muscle. The weight you use should be heavy enough to be challenging, but not so heavy that the quality of movement suffers.

Remember, your goal is to improve your dancing, not to move as much weight as possible. Make your workouts progressively more intense by increasing repetitions or weight. In about a month, you’ll begin to see noticeable improvements in your fitness.

I’m confident you’ll find that resistance training is ideal for bringing greater athleticism and energy to your dancing. And isn’t that something we all want?

Finishing Position of Incline Dumbbell Bench Press

PROGRAMMING CONSIDERATIONS

As an adjunct to dance training, I recommend lifting weights 2 to 3 days per week for 30 to 60 minutes. Following a low-intensity warm up, each session should include 3 to 6 exercises, performed

Damian and I have noticed that winning the first title made us work even harder on our dancing, because, when we went to Nationals 2010, we have been dancing together for less than a year and I was a rather Moondance Studios/Bobby Campbell recent contemporary cross over, so we had a lot of aspirations, but no expectations.

JONATHAN MEDLIN (NC)

USA Dance Senior I National Smooth Champion, 2013, 2014 •C urrent Division: Championship Smooth (Adult, Senior I) & Championship Standard (Adult, Senior I) • Chapter: Triangle Chapter 6030

On Strength Training: Physical strength is obviously important - enough said on that really. The more determining factor is likely mental strength. Dealing with schedule changes, crowded floors, injuries, etc., how you successfully cope with those problems, often is a bigger key to success.

On Proper Athlete Goals and Focus: Every athlete should strive to be the best dancer she/he can be. In the beginning, I was very concerned with our placements, but now, I realized that we should focus on becoming better dancers, work on our technique and artistry, carefully pick costumes, make sure there is a positive dynamic within the partnership and if all of those factors are in place, everything magically comes together.

On Competitors’ ‘Best Kept Secrets’: There really are no secrets to dancing (smile), it is very visual. In order to elevate the skill level, you have to work harder than the next couple. Education is the key.

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Joel Minden, Ph.D., CSCS, is an International Standard dancer, exercise science and dance writer, and lecturer in the Kinesiology Department at California State University, Chico (CA). He provides strength and conditioning, nutrition and sport psychology services for dancers and other athletes. Additional articles of interest are found at www.joelminden.com.

Carson Zullinger

On Life Since Becoming A Champion: Confidence. Whether it’s dancing or architecture, knowing I conquered

American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

• Dance Partner: Malin Allert (10 years) • Weekly Dancing: 5 days practice • Career: Architect (Building & Construction)

something difficult before lets me laugh and think: “Winning a national championship was more pressure than this.” Many times that gives me confidence for new challenges.

Courtesy of Jonathan Medlin

On Challenges Facing Championship Athletes: You have to balance time, career, energy, money, family, friends, expectations, rest, practice, etc. It is a hard thing to get right, and easy to burn-out if you don’t. You won’t have a sustained feeling of energy and determination without correctly balancing all the other aspects of life.

On The Funniest Questions Asked: I think the most indirectly funny (or ironic) situation for me is after practicing hard for months, someone tells us only: “I really loved your costumes.”…. I laugh to myself and think: What was all the rehearsal for? I respond: “Thank you, I am glad you enjoyed it!”

DANCESPORT CALENDAR 2014-2015 September 2014 Kansas City Dance Classic ** (see note) Sep 6, 2014 Organized by Matt & Ellen Pansing Camelot Ballroom - Overland Park, KS (Kansas City) Quest For The Best ** (see note) Sep 20, 2014 Hosted by Seattle Chapter #1004 The Verve Ballroom – Lynnwood, WA New England DanceSport Championships – 2015 NQE Sep 20, 2014 Hosted by MASSabda Chapter #3002 Westin Hotel - Waltham, MA Rocky Mountain Fall Competition ** (see note) Sep 20, 2014 Hosted by USA Dance Denver Chapter #5006 Denver Turnverein - Denver, CO Coolanta/Georgia DanceSport Amateur Competition ** (see note) Sep 21, 2014 Hosted by Georgia DanceSport Atlanta Ballroom Center, Sandy Springs, GA

October 2014 Carolina Fall Classic – 2015 NQE Oct 3 - 5, 2014 Organized by Wayne & Marie Crowder University Hilton - Charlotte NC WDSF Open Senior I & II Standard & Latin Oct 4, 2014 Events held at Carolina Fall Classic University Hilton – Charlotte, NC NJ DanceSport Classic – Fall Frolic ** (see note) Oct 12, 2014 Organized by Wendi Davies Rogers Dance Center - Hackensack, NJ

November 2014 California State DanceSport Championships – 2015 NQE Nov. 15, 2014 Hosted by NorCal Chapter #4004 San Jose City National Civic Center - San Jose, CA National Collegiate DanceSport Championships Nov 22 – 23, 2014 Hosted by USA Dance National Columbus Convention Center – Columbus, OH

January 2015 Manhattan Amateur Classic (The MAC) - 2015 NQE Jan 16-18, 2015 Hosted by Greater New York Chapter #3004 Manhattan Center - Manhattan, NY Winter Frolic ** (see note) Jan 31, 2015 Hosted by Royal Palm Chapter #6016 Gold Coast Ballroom - Coconut Creek, FL

February 2015 Quest For The Best ** (see note) Hosted by Seattle Chapter #1004 The Verve Ballroom – Lynnwood, WA (Note: Date to be announced) Mid-Atlantic Championships – 2015 NQE Feb 14 - 15, 2015 Hosted by Mid-Eastern Chapter #6001 North Marriott Hotel & Conference Center - Bethesda, MD

March 2015 NJ DanceSport Classic – Spring Fling ** (see note) Organized by Wendi Davies Rogers Dance Center – Hackensack, NJ (Note: Date to be announced)

Chicago DanceSport Challenge – 2015 NQE Oct 31 - Nov 2, 2014 Hosted by Chicagoland Chapter #2001 Hyatt O’Hare Hotel - Chicago, IL

Phoenix USA DanceSport Challenge ** (see note) March 21, 2015 Hosted by Phoenix Chapter #4033 El Zaribah Shrine Hall - Phoenix, AZ

CODING: All National Qualifying Events for the 2015 USA Dance National DanceSport Championships are identified by (Year) NQE. COMPETITOR ELIGIBILITY: Please refer to USA Dance Rulebook (Eligibility Criteria 4.2) for complete qualification details to participate in the USA Dance National DanceSport Championships. All USA Dance active members are permitted to dance in any and all events listed below. Please note that events above designated ** do not

accrue proficiency points and may not follow all rules in the Rulebook. http://usadance.org/dancesport/forms-andresources/rules-policies-and-bylaws/ SPECTATOR TICKETS: Please contact the individual competition websites/organizers listed on the USA Dance website www.usadance.org. For USA Dance Nationals tickets, please contact Daphna Locker via www.usadancenationals.com.

CALENDAR DISCLAIMER: All USA Dance sanctioned and listed competition events and activities within this

WDSF Adjudicator’s Congress at Nationals Mar 26, 2015 Event held at USA Dance 2015 National DanceSport Championships Renaissance Harborplace Hotel – Baltimore, MD Registration form must be completed by Mar 15.

Contact: ds-certification@usadance.org

USA DANCE 2015 National DanceSport Championships Mar 27 – 29, 2015 Hosted by USA Dance National Renaissance Harborplace Hotel - Baltimore, MD

April 2015 Quest for the Best ** (see note) Hosted by Seattle Chapter #1004 The Verve Ballroom - Lynnwood, WA (Note: Date to be announced)

June 2015 NJ DanceSport Classic - Summer Sizzler – 2015 NQE Organized by Mario Battista & Wendi Davies Rogers DanceSport Center - Hackensack NJ (Note: Date to be announced) River City Ball ** (see note) Hosted by Portland Chapter #1006 Ballroom Dance Company – Portland, OR (Note: Date to be announced) Gumbo DanceSport Championships – 2015 NQE June 26-28, 2015 Hosted by Louisiana Gumbo Chapter #5031 Crowne Plaza - Baton Rouge LA

July 2015 Mid-Summer Classic ** (see note) Jul 25, 2015 Hosted by Southern Star Chapter #6038 Rhapsody Ballroom – Tampa, FL Event organizers may add events to the calendar by contacting Rog Greenawalt at ds-competition@usadance.org.

calendar are subject to change of date, location and other details without prior notice. Please check with the actual event organizers via the event websites or by personal contact to confirm the accuracy of all event details before making plans as a competitor, spectator or sponsor.

ERRORS/CORRECTIONS: For any changes/updates, please contact DanceSport Council Representative Rog Greenawalt directly at ds-competition@usadance.org.

September-October 2014

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Grassroots OCT 3 – 5

CAROLINA FALL CLASSIC NQE DANCESPORT CHAMPIONSHIPS WDSF Senior I, II Standard & Latin; Junior Girls Solo Proficiency THE CAROLINA FALL CLASSIC DANCESPORT CHAMPIONSHIPS, a National Qualifying Event for the USA Dance 2015 National DanceSport Championships, returns to Charlotte, NC, on Oct. 3 – 5, with several new layers of excitement for both competitors and spectators.

In addition to the full spectrum of competitive divisions – from Pre-Teen I to Senior IV, Organizers Wayne and Marie Crowder are hosting the World DanceSport Federation’s Open World Ranking Tournaments for Senior I and Senior II Standard and Latin. These prestigious WDSF events attract couples from around the world as they earn points toward their world rankings. To date, WDSF World Ranking Tournaments have been held at USA Dance NQEs in New York and Orange County, CA. Last year, the Carolina Fall Classic was first to introduce the Girl’s Solo Proficiency Latin Divisions and competitors rallied from many states. This year, these popular Junior I divisions will offer both Latin and Standard.

On Friday night, there are several “fun dance” divisions on the floor – usually packed for salsa, polka, hustle and west coast swing. On Saturday night are the Championship divisions.

Steven Smeltz-Zapata

DJ is Phil Nolan, Emcee Yang Chen and Chairman of Judges Sami Yli-Piipari. Co-sponsors of the Carolina Fall Classic are two local USA Dance Chapters Charlotte 6029 and Carolina Heartland 6092. Host hotel is the University Hilton.

More Information: www.carolinafallclassic.com.

OCT 31 – NOV 2

CHICAGO DANCESPORT CHALLENGE NQE CELEBRATES 10th ANNIVERSARY HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARTY, SCHOLARSHIPS, competitors, audiences and financial support JACK & JILL, TEAMS & FUN DANCES continue to grow. Expecting an audience of

The Chicago DanceSport Challenge celebrates its 10th anniversary in October as approximately 175 DanceSport couples, from Junior to Senior IV, take to the dance floor to place well in their divisions and qualify for the USA Dance 2015 National DanceSport Championships in Baltimore. The CDC will be held Oct. 31 through Nov. 2, once again at the luxurious Hyatt Regency O'Hare in Rosemont, IL. The Chicagoland Chapter 2001 is particularly proud of its all-volunteer Chapter-run event —

700, the Chicago DanceSport Challenge offers a full three-day, two-night schedule of International and American style competitions, from Newcomer to Open, and divisions for Formation Teams and the new Solo divisions.

Fun activities and events include divisions for club-style dances

such as west coast swing, salsa and hustle, evening Jack & Jill competitions and on Friday night, a Halloween Costume Contest.

Scholarships already total $9,000. And in complying with the new NQE rules, 50% of the 12-person judging panel will be WDSF-licensed adjudicators under Chairman of Judges Jennifer Ford McCalla. Emcee will be Terry Cavanaugh; Music Director James Finn.

For more information: www.usadancechicago.org Alex Rowan Dancesport Photography

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American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

NOV 15 20+ Years and Counting

HEARTLAND CHAPTER GIVES BACK THROUGH DANCE THE HEARTLAND (IN) CHAPTER 2022 celebrated its 20th Anniversary last year, dancing at the historic Scottish Rite Cathedral, one of Indianapolis’ largest vintage ballroom floors. The celebration during National Ballroom Dance Week brought together 19 dance clubs from the local area, totaling almost 220 attendees – a fitting tribute to the original work of Rog Greenawalt, the Chapter’s founding president, who is also an active member of the USA Dance DanceSport Council, and director of competitions on the National Governing Council.

Then this year, the Chapter partnered with the local Rotary Club of Greenfield, IN to organize an annual dance contest to benefit local charity Hope House, a shelter for homeless families and individuals of three local counties.

Every year, the Hope House provides 4,300 nights of shelter and services to individuals and families in need and relies upon community generosity to make it all happen. The three-hour “Dancing For Hope” event was held at the local high school auditorium. The Heartland Chapter recruited the four-judge panel and worked closely with the local dance community to bring 47 contestants and 27 routines to the floor for this worthy cause.

The Chapter also guided the judging and competition criteria. With the ultimate

goal to raise money, the dance contest door opened to many different dance styles, all proficiency levels (amateur and pro-am to professional) and included solos, couples and formations. The audience loved it, as the judges’ criteria focused on elements most everyone could appreciated, such as musicality, performance skills, audience appeal, choreography, good timing, even costuming.

The Heartland Chapter assisted with ticket sales and promotions, and also made a cash donation to the fundraiser, thus becoming an official “Friend of the Program” sponsors.

Photo album available at http://www.indyusadance.org/photos And as busy as the Heartland Chapter was with the fundraiser, members squeezed in two more exhibitions that month — for the Elderberries church fellowship group and for the Marquette Manor retirement center’s annual Firefly Ball.

d Chapter of Heartlan Courtesy

California State DanceSport Championships NQE SPONSORED BY NORCAL CHAPTER 4004 NOVEMBER 15 – SAN JOSE, CA The NorCal Chapter 4004, recently celebrating its 30th anniversary, is hosting the California State DanceSport Championships, a USA Dance National Qualifying Event for the 2015 National DanceSport Championships in Baltimore, at the newly renovated San Jose City National Civic, on Sat., Nov. 15.

The NorCal Chapter is excited about the new competition venue with its permanent hardwood dance floor and its convenient location to the host hotel, the grand landmark Sainte Claire Hotel.

California State NQE is a one-day event with a fast-moving schedule of events for all age divisions from Pre-Teen I through Senior IV, showcasing both International and American dance styles as well as all proficiency levels from Bronze Syllabus through Open Championship.

Located in the scenic San Francisco Bay Area, San Jose, the 10th largest city in the United States and California’s first civilian settlement, has a lot of history and culture to offer competition attendees who’d like to go sightseeing. San Jose is also called the Capital of Silicon Valley.

The event website is www.usadancenorcal.org. DanceSport competitors may register directly at www.o2cm.com. For further information, please contact Mark Scardina at norcaldanceinfo@gmail.com.

Frank Chan

September-October 2014

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Grassroots

ALBANY DANCESPORT CLUB THE ALBANY DANCESPORT CLUB in Albany, NY was founded by USA Dance Senior National Champions Paul and Louise Giuliano, who created the new group, according to Louise, to “get more people in our area involved in USA Dance and DanceSport, in general.” Already 32-members strong, the Albany DanceSport Club meets twice a week to learn more about International ballroom and latin dancing, and that “it’s not about steps,” as Louise points out.

So far, she confirms the group has “bought into that” and meets regularly at DanceLand III on Monday nights for a two-hour group practice and for two more hours open practice on Sunday mornings.

Once a month, they invite Pasha and Daniella Pashkov, former USA Dance National Champions, to teach, and in between those times, Paul and Louise assist with practice and run-throughs, especially

before the group’s local demonstrations and upcoming competitions.

Who are the members of this fast-growing DanceSport group?

Mostly USA Dance members, some already DanceSport members, others Social who end up converting to DanceSport status, and quite a few new members who then join USA Dance. What are they learning? Waltz/rumba first, quickstep/cha cha second, foxtrot/ rumba third with other dances following in the order of USA Dance syllabus competitions.

The Albany DanceSport Club already has USA Dance competitions on the calendar. At American Dancer press time, several couples were planning to compete at the New England DanceSport Championships in Waltham, MA (September) and possibly the Manhattan Amateur Classic in NYC (January), both USA Dance National Qualifying Events.

What Starts In “Vegas”, Sometimes Goes On The Road. The Albany DanceSport Club practices and rehearses at Danceland III in Albany, which has a yesteryear Las Vegas look, colorful murals with Frank Sinatra, the infamous Rat Pack and a variety of dancers.

Rachel Smith

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American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

VOLUNTEER OUTREACH IN DAYTONA—INSPIRATIONAL,

ve ents ha e the resid om "Most of ed mobility. S take it very lim take a break to way s rs e b m e ey can m ds so th esidents’ n a h ir er the usic. Th hing to the m t up. Just touc them e h g eyes li ’s hand can giv l feele fu someon ial and power ing c eth that spe nection, som on s on ing of c ively rebound it that pos teer." n the volu

FAR FROM ROUTINE

By Geoffrey Davis

MY INTEREST IN OUR CHAPTER’S OUTREACH PROGRAM was sparked by something in my personal life: in early 2010 my mother and father moved into an independent living facility.

Prior to that they had led very active lives, raising three sons and running a family business, and they were always busy.

But by 2010, Dad was experiencing mild dementia and Mom had some mobility issues. The move was a dramatic change in their lifestyle. Even though the facility offered many regularly scheduled activities, for them the routine was rather “routine.”

My wife and I had participated in several chapter outreach events. Then early this year, our chapter president asked me to consider joining the board of directors to take on the responsibility of the Outreach Program. I accepted, with the understanding that my main interest was in visiting “senior-oriented centers” in the community to provide music and dance entertainment for the residents. I also accepted responsibility for additional activities falling within the Outreach Program’s scope, such as dance demonstrations at local schools and shopping malls and promoting dance at ndition of s Sisters’ re street fairs and family-day activities.

The Andrew e Bugle Boy” never gi “Boogie-Woo owd going!

I struck “gold” for finding facilities when, by chance, cr a t ge to s fail I contacted a member of the local facilities-coordinator-workshop group, who regularly met with other area r an hour of , coordinators. She agreed to spread the word, and the ally stay fo su u waltz s er te n r volu c for swing, calls soon started coming in from many facilities, askThe Chapte ing a variety of musi erengue m ay d pl dancing, t, tango an ing when we could visit. cha , foxtro rumba , chaThat was one side of the equation solved. The other was getting volunteers. Most facilities want you to perform on weekdays. Of the active members, usually only 10 to 20 are available during the day --and only from time to time.

The great thing about being a volunteer at one of the senior outreach events is the warm feeling you get in your heart during and after the event. The residents are always happy to hear familiar music and see the dancers.

Much of the music is from the 1940s and ’50s, and it brings back memories of days gone by for those in their 80s, 90s and 100s. It’s always great fun when we find some in our audience who used to be either social or professional dancers in their younger days. And it happens quite often. We’ve met former Rockettes and competition dancers.

If you haven’t ever had the chance to participate in this All Photos by Geoffrey Davis type of activity, make the time to do it. It will definitely brighten your day.

September-October 2014

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U

niversal Language

By Patrice Tanaka

D

ance is the universal language of joy! It also expresses sorrow – and every other heartfelt emotion – like nobody’s business. While many things serve to divide people both here in the U.S. and around the world. Religion, government, politics, socio-economic class, education, language, lack of access to technology, etc., can separate us, but dance has the healing power to bring us together here at home and abroad.

DANCE: THE UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE OF JOY THE POWER TO ENGAGE, HEAL Ballroom, ballet, bollywood, hip hop, salsa, tango and other dances/dance genres transcend international borders and have found their way to every corner of the world. Matt Harding of “Where in the World is Matt Harding?” fame is a YouTube phenomenon simply for doing an inspired, goofy jig with people across the U.S. and on all seven continents, including countries from Afghanistan to Zambia, and reminding us how dancing together can transcend our differences and unite us in our shared humanity if only for a brief, fleeting moment – much like dance itself.

Non-profit organizations such as USA Dance, the World DanceSport Federation, Dancing Classrooms as well as for-profit entities like international dance studio franchises and BBC Worldwide’s “Strictly Come Dancing” aka “Dancing With the Stars” all play a role in promoting dance as a shared passion that can bring people together both here in the U.S. and abroad.

My life, like many of yours, has been transformed by ballroom dance. Prior to discovering ballroom dancing, I was in a deep funk and unexcited and uninspired by my own life. Dance has filled my life with joy and, in so doing, allowed me to engage with others coming from a place of joy, and to make more joyful contributions to the world.

Because of ballroom dance, my vision today is a joyful planet, created by seven plus billion joy-generating people all contributing to the world from their joy.

My vision is a world where there is dancing in the streets in every city and town every day so people can dance away their stress, get healthy and fit and engage with their neighbors in a joyful way.

My vision is a world where children dance with one another and, thus, learn from an early age how to comport themselves as courteous young ladies and gentlemen.

Multi-national dancers from the Utica, NY school program (see story pp. 36-37) Tran Quoc Cuong

My vision is a world where grown-ups – at work, attending important business meetings and conferences, serving in Congress and at the United Nations, and even (and, especially) engaging in sensitive negotiations that have global ramifications like peace talks – take time outs to…

DANCE! And get their bodies moving, the blood and oxygen flowing and let loose together through dance and, in so doing, remind themselves that we all share the same vulnerable, human condition. That we all feel joy and sorrow. And, that we all share the same dreams for ourselves, our children and our countries.

“It is music and dancing that make me at peace with the world,” said the late, great Nelson Mandela. Yes, Madiba, let us all make time for music and dance!

Patrice Tanaka is Co-Founder, Chief Counselor & Creative Strategist of PadillaCRT, an award-winning PR & Marketing agency that is the “largest, employee-owned” and among “top 10” largest, independent firms in the country. Patrice is also the author of “Becoming Ginger Rogers…How Ballroom Dancing Made Me a Happier Woman, Better Partner and Smarter CEO.”

September-October 2014

35

SPEAKING DANCE IN A ‘TOWN THAT LOVES REFUGEES’

Most Photos By Cuong Quoc Tran

Resource Susan Kahn-Hartz, Mohawk Valley Chapter 3066, Youth Program Coordinator

U

tica, New York has always been a town of many spoken languages, a polyglot city, now home to immigrants from more than 40 nations and regions around the world. Its first refugees began arriving from Vietnam in the mid 1970s. Today, nearly 40 years later, between 10-15% of Utica’s residents and almost 20% of the students are foreign born.

The United Nations High Commission for Refugees has praised Utica as “the town that loves refugees”, but Utica’s welcoming arms to so many culturally diverse families, didn’t prevent the children from feeling disconnected from mainstream America or their uncertainties with other ethnic groups.

But now a “new language” is making progress uniting Utica’s English Learned Language (ELL) students at Thomas R. Proctor High School – thanks to the dream and determination of one high school language and social studies teacher, who personally understood her students’ challenges, and as a passionate social dancer herself, found a way to connect them socially – teaching them a “universal language” called dance.

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MY PERSONAL STORY.

I grew up in Utica in the 1970’s.

As the only Asian American (Japanese-Northern European descent), I often felt like an alien…but I spent many hours watchSusan Khan-Hartz with Teaching ing documentaries Assistant Kelly Long like “That’s Entertainment” that featured ballroom dance. I was mesmerized by the beauty and glamour of the world that these films depicted.

“This was also the disco era and “Saturday Night Fever” was at the top of the charts. Yet in a small town like Utica there were few opportunities to study dance especially for working class kids like me. Both of my parents had dropped out of school (my father due to the need to support his family during the Depression and my mother during the devastating Tokyo Firebombs of WWII). My parents rarely spoke of their past, but they were very clear in articulating their hopes for their children.

American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

I was the first in my family to graduate from college and receive first a bachelor’s degree, then a master’s degree and later certificates to teach social studies, ESOL, Spanish and serve as an administrator. I married and raised a family, yet the desire to learn to dance never left me.

In April 2009, I drove for an hour to attend my first USA Dance social dance and Argentine Tango lesson in Syracuse. I met so many nice and gracious people and wanted to be part of that world. Two months later, I went to a dance weekend in the Catskills. I was hooked for life! I could barely move, as I had had knee arthroscopy two weeks prior. The scene was electric. The classes were of such high quality and the shows were awe inspiring. But most of all, I remember spending the weekend with 600 like-minded people who were happy.

That was the start of my journey as a dancer….[and] as I began to grow as a dancer, I couldn’t stop thinking about all the joy I felt as I danced and how I would love to be able to share that feeling with my students.”

A Few Program Milestones:

Le e A n

n Ro b e

rts

THE EVOLUTION OF THE BALLROOM AND SOCIAL DANCE CLUB By Susan Kahn-Hartz

My opportunity to see this dream come true came in September 2013. I had for the past year held informal dance sessions with 40-50 students on Fridays, after school.

Many of the students would learn a step here or there. Some would do their own ethnic dances (Belly, Bachata, Somali). But at times there would be an uncomfortable level of competitiveness, based on nationality. And at one point, there was a fight between the Arab and Somali girls outside of school. Instead of allowing them to divide themselves, I decided I would teach them the “universal language” of dance.

I wrote up a curriculum and lesson plans and came up with a scope and sequence that included learning a new dance every six weeks, having a group performance in a

safe environment, and an end-of-year formal event and dance competition. Although the classes were much more structured, the kids flocked to them. I regularly had weekly classes of 30-50 students. After the first showcase, the number of students grew to nearly 60.

The regular students were often from some of the world’s most unsettled countries and regions. The classes attracted Somali Bantu girls in beautiful, glittery and colorful native outfits. Karen, Karenni, Akan, Burmese and Rohingye students wearing their tribal dress and rock star t-shirts. Other students in typical American attire, were originally from Iraq, Yemen, Kenya, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Liberia, Sudan, Thailand, Bosnia, Vietnam, and Ukraine.

Over the next six months, the club grew steadily and teachers started stopping me to say that the kids were talking nonstop about “dancing on Fridays.”

In November, since I’m Chapter Youth Coordinator, I brought several Kelly Long

• Two graduating seniors and one college student are starting a Ballroom and Social Dance Club at Mohawk Valley Community College in Utica, N.Y. • Our videographer Cuong Quoc Tran produced a film based on our program, that along with a few letters of recommendation, secured a place at the prestigious Buffalo State Film School, and is the first in his family to attend college.

• An Iraqi refugee student is now receiving a scholarship at the MWPAI School of Dance in Utica.

students to a Chapter dance at a local community center. Since most do not own cars, I wasn’t able to bring them to other dances held outside the city of Utica.

The new “universal language” dance program gained community attention. The Business Training Institute and the 21st Century Learning Grant now provides generous financial support. The school district provides use of the building. below:The Proctor High "Universal Language" Dance Program — Star Performers and Supporters.

Proctor High School ELL students hail from many nations and regions — Afghanistan, Albania, Belarus, Bosnia, Cambodia, Congo, Croatia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, American Samoa, Honduras, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kenya, Kosovo, Laos, Latvia, Liberia, Madagascar, Moldova, Myanmar/Burma (Burmese, Karen, Karenni, Akan, Rohingye), Nepal, Pakistan, Palestine, Puerto Rico, Serbia, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Turkey, Ukraine, Vietnam, Yemen.

September-October 2014

37

IN THE

PUBLICEYE USA DANCE SOCIAL MEDIA

From Hub to Outer Rim

FACEBOOK: • USA Dance Inc (group) • Social Dancers USA Dance (page) • American Dancer Magazine (page) • USA Dance Competitions (page) • USA Dance National Dance Cruise (page) • USA Dance Chapters (total 136 to date) (page) • USA Dance National Collegiate DanceSport Championships (page) • USA Dance National Qualifying Events (pages by event name)

isualize Public Relations as a Dance Wheel. USA Dance National and its Chapters are the Hub, the very center, that always needs to connect to the Outer Rim (members, general public, the media, groups, communities) in order to roll and reach its destination.

And in an old fashioned sense, that Wheel needs Spokes, something that makes the outer connection balanced, in a supporting way. Those individual “spokes” are what deliver information and purpose from the Hub to the Rim and back.

PR DANCE WHEEL NETWORK THE Maximizing Resources for Better Results

LINKEDIN: USA Dance Inc YOUTUBE: usadanceinc (channel) WEBSITE: www.USADANCE.org TWITTER: usadanceinc CALAMEO & ISSUU: American Dancer Magazine

New USA Dance Facebook Page Just for Social Dancers – SOCIAL DANCERS USA DANCE Ballroom, Latin, ClubStyle

https://www.facebook.com/ socialdancersusadance#

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V

USA Dance Chapters with successful PR programs have the following “spokes” and opportunities in their wheel – • Facebook (136 chapters to date) •C hapter Pages on USA Dance Website enabled by AccessDance •E mail Campaigns (often using online services), • YouTube (USA Dance Channel and Chapter video uploads) • Newsletters (print and online) and •L ocal Media Publicity (newspapers, magazines, television and online media) • And the Spokes called Members and Supporters, who deliver messages just as quickly.

Through the USA Dance Facebook network, Chapters are building their “followings” and communicating important news through four available Facebook pages: 1. Their Chapter’s own dedicated page 2. Chapter page’s invitational event pages

American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

3. The USA Dance Inc national group page 4. a nd the brand new Social Dancers USA Dance page

On Radar in California. Dance Force kids in the Antelope Valley area may not realize they are part of an important movement reaching our schools. USA Dance Chapters, supported by National, are at the Hub to make a difference.

MacTaggart Media

“Being on Radar” on Facebook is important for Chapters in the USA Dance network.

Chapters reach broader audiences as they post publicly or share with the other pages, and the National organization and American Dancer Magazine follow the Chapter activities and can assist with promotions and news sharing. Another benefit comes when Chapters follow each other -- they learn best practices and creative ideas -- the great advantage of being part of a growing 162-chapter network.

USA DANCE CHAPTERS

‘IN THE PUBLIC EYE’:

REAL-TIME ADVANTAGES FOR SOCIAL-SAVVY CHAPTERS USA Dance Chapters – 162 in all – are actively creating, promoting and supporting dance activities and achievements. Nowadays, people want to know what’s happening in real time. So savvy Chapters on social media and the website with accurate, up-to-date information, will only increase the chances of “being found” in Google searches, which translates to more awareness, member prospects and other participants.

The USA Dance website has had 1.5 million visits in the past three years; over 330,000 unique users. The National organization’s main Facebook group has nearly 3,500 members.

And the YouTube Channel already exceeds a half-million views.

SOCIAL DANCES & PERFORMANCES. Los Angeles County Chapter (CA) social dance and performances for television filming.

Jerry Hernandez

PPORT. CHARITY SU pter’s ha C a SW Florid food drive. en ch it -k soup Davis Courtesy Carol

DANCESPORT RESULTS. My Dance Hub Formation Team’s win at the Chicago DanceSport Challenge.

Alex Rowan Photography

VOLUNTEER RECOGNITIONS. Chicago (IL) Chapter’s recognition of its NQE volunteers.

EVENT INVITATIONS. MASSABDA Chapter’s book launch invitation.

Alex Rowan DanceSport Photography

Lisa Dubinsky

September-October 2014

39

USA DANCE LAUNCHES

50th ANNIVERSARY DANCING for AMERICA™ CRUISES USA DANCE TURNS 50 IN 2015! What better way to celebrate than on the launch of the sixth USA Dance “Dancing For America™” Cruise, this time aboard the Celebrity Silhouette and heading to four Western Caribbean ports of call – Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Caymans; Falmouth, Jamaica and Labadee, Hispaniola.

details and contact information is available at www.dancecruiseusadance.com.

(The second USA Dance cruise will be announced for July 2015.)

USA Dance National Dance Cruises have always attracted dancers, families and friends throughout the country. The average cruise size is 100-125 dancers, but the record for a USA Dance cruise is nearly 400 coming from 35 different states. It’s time for a reunion!

Dancers will be attracted to this January Western Caribbean cruise for many reasons – winters are far warmer in the Caribbean; the cabin/program fee is very reasonable for double occupancy; there are approximately 80 hours of dance workshops and more than 14 hours of social dancing to great music; and not counting the on-ship sports, spa, casino and retail centers.

There will be 4-6 professional dance instructors on board. Some have attended every USA Dance Ross Bennett/Im age Pro cruise to date, such as Dan and Silke Calloway (MD), who return with great enthusiasm for this 50th Anniversary grand launch. Both American Style and International Style classes will be offered, in all levels, from beginner to advanced. Private lessons with Dan cing all instructors are also available. ni ght with gr eat fr ie nd s an d music !

As a bonus, the first 50 ladies who register, may participate all week in the USA Dance Dance Host Program – a real bonus for This first of two ladies without partners. planned USA Dance 2015 Dancing for For reservations or any general America cruises will depart from Ft. Lauinformation/inquiry, go online to derdale, FL on Sunday, Jan. 25 and return www.dancecruiseusadance.com or seven days later on Sunday, Feb. 7. call USA Dance travel agents Janet or Interested “dance cruisers” should Laurie directly at 1-800-999-9302. reserve their cabins now to take advanContact: USA Dance Cruise Director tage of the best package pricing and cabin Jean Krupa at social-vp@usadance.org. availabilities. The website for complete 40

American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

Ross Bennett/Image Pro

Dancing all day in group classes.

USA Dance

“DANCING for AMERICA™”

Celebrity Cruise in January 2015 includes: • 7 night’s accommodations • 4 ports of call • 2 formal nights on ship • Captain's Gala Reception • Fabulous meals and buffets + 24-hour room service • Extensive wine list • Five-course menus include continental cuisine, vegetarian and low-carb options • 80 hours of dance workshops • More than 14 hours of social dancing • Gorgeous pools, spas and jacuzzis • Fantastic Broadway-style shows • Casino gambling • A USA Dance cocktail reception

www.DANCECRUISEUSADANCE.com

1-800-999-9302

DAVID WRIGHT & LIVA WRIGHT

USA Dance Senior I Standard National Champions 2012, 2013, 2014 Blackpool Open Senior Modern Champion 2014

A CHAMPION'S PERSPECTIVE

F

or three consecutive years, David and Liva Wright from New Haven, CT have been crowned USA Dance National Champions in the highly competitive Senior I Standard Division. And in 2014, their momentum carried them to global acclaim as they won the prestigious Open Senior Modern Championship at Blackpool (U.K.). David and Liva are a married couple, sharing the same goals, but have different, yet complementary personalities, that have given them exemplary focus and perseverance along the way.

AMERICAN DANCER: You have had an amazing several years in competition.

What resonates the most with you in retrospect?

D: The support of our family, friends, teachers, and fans resonates the most.

The number of times that we did not win far outnumbers the times that we did win.

However, many people were unwavering in supporting us along our entire journey.

USA Dance gave us the opportunity to hone our skills in domestic competition from the outset of our partnership. Our competitors pushed us to higher levels than we could have imagined on our own. We received world class instruction from many professional teachers here in the USA. Our family and friends gave us encouragement.

All of these efforts culminated in our win at Blackpool. We achieved this long time goal only by standing on the shoulders of giants.

AD: Was there a turning point for you in your dancing at any particular point?

D&L: The turning point occurred when we began dancing in the Senior 1 Category.

We never reached our goal of making the semi-final in the USA Dance National Adult Standard Championship. We modified our goals in anticipation of dancing in the Senior category.

After dancing in the Senior category, we started to achieve goals that we had set. That encouraged us to persevere.

Carson Zullinger

AD: What is it like behind the scenes for you, day in, day out?

L: David is very analytical; he really needs to understand everything. He likes to know the history behind dance figures, the reasons why a figure is danced a certain way. He is very patient and likes to take his time. He does a lot of mental practice. Both of us are very technical dancers, we like to get things “right”, so that when a judge looks at us, they can see good footwork, timing and body lines.

David has a background in musical theater, which helps him to be a good performer.

AD: Why do you dance?

D: My earliest memory comes from a home movie of me and my sister dancing around in the kitchen. Ever since that time I have danced for enjoyment. It is the purest expression of enjoyment and happiness that I know….Competitive ballroom dancing combined my love of social partner dancing with the challenge of training to master a discipline... Meeting Liva introduced a whole new aspect to dancing.

Now I dance as an expression of love.

L: I need ballroom dancing to express myself in an artistic way. I also find it is a great way to exercise as well as make friends. We have met such wonderful people while dancing, and now have good friends in various parts of the world.

AD: How did you feel about your win at Blackpool?

L: It was a wonderful experience. It was almost surreal to hear the Chairman of Judges Marcus Hilton announce us as the champions.

We worked very hard to achieve this goal, and are so glad our dream came true.

SENIOR I STANDARD CHAMPIONS USA Dance 2014 National DanceSport Championships

Blackpool Open Senior Modern Champions 2014 Peter Suba

D: We value the many traditions of Blackpool as the longest running competition in the history of ballroom dancing. We admire the dancing of our fellow competitors, acknowledge the many ways in which they have inspired us, and honor their dedication.

We hope that our accomplishment resonates with our fellow dancers and inspires them.

We feel a tremendous sense of responsibility in representing senior competitors everywhere. We hope to give back to the ballroom community which has given us so much….We could not have done it without them. We recognize the great effort of everyone in the ballroom dance community to prosper amidst competing interests.

Together we can show the world that ballroom dancing makes the greatest leisure activity on earth.

September-October 2014

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WDSF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SENIOR II LATIN, SENIOR III STANDARD – JUNE 14, 2014 Madrid, Spain

W

hether the World Championship division is Senior, I, II, III or IV, USA DanceSport couples are quickly recognizing just how fast growing and highly competitive Senior DanceSport has become around the world.

And as prestigious as it is for USA Dance couples to represent the USA at these events, the USA Dance World Team members know they still have to be on top of their game and train mentally and physically as athletes to overcome the extreme challenges they face every time they fly abroad. Jetlag (especially for the west coast couples) is simply inevitable. But dancing in multiple rounds against the best couples in the world and in large sports arena type venues rather than hotels, is both exhiliarating and taxing.

In June, USA Dance sent four National finalist couples to Madrid, Spain to the WDSF World Championships, two couples each in Senior II Latin and Senior III Standard.

On the floor in Madrid were 96 couples in Senior II Latin and 152 couples in Senior III Standard.

I

DanceSport in their country and realized that I did not feel any political pressure here.

AMERICAN

DANCER

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ROGER KORSIAK & HOLLI HORNLIEN (CA) USA Dance/WDSF Titles: Senior II 2014 National Latin Champions; Senior I 2014 National Latin Vice Champions

Roger Korsiak & Holli Hornlien

AMERICAN DANCER: How do you feel about your performances in Madrid?

Roger: I feel our placement matched our performance.

This was not what I consider to be my best performance. There are so many good couples out there. If you are not on your game 100 percent they will pass you by in a flash.

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Holli: To be honest, I had hopes of getting into the semi-final, or into the 24. When we arrived I immediately recognized a great number of recent Senior 1 world finalists and realized that the changes in the age rules meant we were really going to have to work for that! We just missed the quarter (which had 27 couples) by a handful of marks, so I feel like we can keep working and get there next year!

AD: How does a WDSF World event compare to USA Dance Nationals?

R: WDSF in Europe is a much grander scale so the amount of dancing is quite significant due to the amount of competitors.

Most events are televised or live streamed with stage lighting.

The Senior finals are usually an evening event and often get solo dance-on introductions and another intro by country following the Paso Doble.

AD: What did you learn about Senior II Latin DanceSport?

H: I learned that many couples from Europe are not offered any monetary support for their trips to World Championships, and felt grateful that we do get some. I also heard couples speak a great deal about the politics of

American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

WDSF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS SENIOR II LATIN

Roger Korsiak & Holli Hornlien

32 out of 96

Andrew Prouty & Llona Prouty

tied 61-65 out of 96

AD: What stood out among the top 6 couples?

H: That they were also Senior I couples. And they are really, really strong. Senior Latin is fierce in Europe.

ANDREW PROUTY & ILONA PROUTY (NY) USA Dance/WDSF Titles: 2013 Senior II National Latin Champions, 2014 2nd Place Senior II National Latin Championship Andrew Prouty & Ilona Prouty

AMERICAN DANCER: Was this your impression of this event compared to other WDSF experiences?

Andrew & Ilona: This was our second WDSF World

Championship. We had no idea of what to expect at our first World Championship. For this second World Championship in Spain, we felt better prepared, but we were totally blown away by the dance level of the top 24 competitors, quarter finalists.

Senior II has really evolved into a very technically, athletically, and artistically strong division.

AD: What did you learn about Senior II Latin DanceSport?

A&L: With competitors coming from all over the world, one would expect the differences to be what stands out, but the opposite is true. All of the competitors share the love of dance and competition, and this brings us together in a way that is hard to describe. Friendships are made easily, sacrifices and offers of assistance are generously given and graciously accepted, and lasting bonds are treasured long after the competition has ended.

AD: What stood out among the top 6 couples in the world?

A&L: The technical, athletic, and artistic level of the top 6 couples was higher than we had ever expected to see at a Senior II Championship.

HANS STORK & ANS STORK (AZ)

USA Dance/WDSF Titles: Senior III 2012, 2013, 2014 National Standard Champions, Senior II 2006, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 National Standard Vice-Champions; WDSF World Championship Senior III Standard 39th in 2014, 27th in 2012

DS Photo, Italy

Hans Stork & Ans Stork

AMERICAN DANCER: How do you feel about your performances in Madrid compared to your expectations?

Hans & Ans: Knowing roughly how many top ranked couples had entered, we had a chance to make the round of 48 provided we danced well. However we had a weak first round, but then danced better as the day went on and in the end felt good about how we performed.

AD: How does dancing at a WDSF World event compare to dancing at USA Dance Nationals?

H&A: Since there are about 10 times more couples dancing in a given Worlds event compared to the USA Dance Nationals, it takes a lot more stamina to last through the day, physically and mentally.

AD: What was your best dance/performance and why?

H&A: Our Viennese in our third and fourth round felt great since we kept the cadence and energy going for the full length of the music.

WDSF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS SENIOR III STANDARD

Hans Stork & Ans Stork

tied 39-43 out of 152

Vincent Feingold & Irina Feingold

tied 72-77 out of 152

AD: Was there any differences between USA choreography and that of other countries?

H&A: The couples in the top 24 seem to dance a lot of syncopation in the Waltz and Foxtrot. It produces good movement, flight, across the floor, but compromises the elegance of these dances.

AD: What did you observe about Senior III Standard DanceSport?

H&A: The competitive level at this age group has improved from year to year, perhaps because of having these world events. All couples demand their space on the big floor and perform throughout the long and modern music.

AD: What was your single most memorable moment at the World Championship?

H&A: The parade since Ans was asked to speak on behalf of the competitors and read the Oath by the WDSF.

VINCENT FEINGOLD & IRINA FEINGOLD (NJ) USA Dance/WDSF Titles: Senior III 2014 National Standard Vice Champions; Senior II 2014 National Standard Champions

AMERICAN DANCER: How did this WDSF World Championship compare to others in your experience?

Vincent & Irina: We have participated in three world events before. This one was different. It was held at a hotel which is unusual for competitions in Europe…It was convenient because we could relax between the rounds in our room…Organizers took a

great care about dancers….The comp was run very well, except the parade of nations was not on the published schedule and was announced very late…and we missed it. That was a major disappointment.

AD: How did you prepare mentally and physically for Madrid?

V&I: We did not do anything special. Our training cycle is fairly constant throughout the year. We practice and take lessons five days a week, every week, and we have continued this regiment from fall through Nationals up until the World Championship.

AD: How does dancing at a WDSF World event compare to dancing at the USA Dance Nationals?

V&I: It is very different. There were 152 couples; opening round had 14 heats, and we had to wait 30 minutes between dances. Physically it is easier, but mentally it is harder, as we had to maintain full concentration for much longer.

Generally the level of dancing in Europe is higher; couples are more aggressive on the floor and have more experience dancing at big competitions.

AD: What was your best dance/ performance and why?

V&I: Judging by self-impression and marks, our best dance was waltz, which was unusual for us, as we almost always lose it to our main competitors. This result is probably due to the fact that we worked on waltz the most between Nationals and the World. Quickstep also felt well and was marked well,

Vincent Feingold & Irina Feingold DS Photo, Italy

but that is not surprising to us.

AD: Was there any marked differences in USA choreography and others?

V&I: Choreography was not markedly different, but musicality was. Every routine was phrased perfectly, with a lot of changes in rhythm and speed.

European couples shape and sway much more than dancers in the U.S. do. Athleticism of the couples was remarkable with respect to the age.

AD: What meaningful things did you learn about Senior III Standard DanceSport?

V&I: It is amazing how many couples of our age are strong competitors. Seniors do not look like “seniors”, the movement is powerful, about as much as much younger couples in USA. People are very open and supportive, couples are cheering for each other, making many friends; everybody is ready to help a stranger.

AD: Anything that you’d like to tell other DanceSport competitors?

V&I: Our dancers should compete more often, as much as they can afford, here in the States, in Canada, and in Europe.

European couples compete every weekend in comps that have 70-90 couples, so they are much more used to long taxing competitions than we are. Work on phrasing. And dancing as part of the USA Dance team is an experience that cannot be compared to anything else.

September-October 2014

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WDSF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

UNDER-21 STANDARD, SENIOR I STANDARD, SENIOR I LATIN – July 12 & 13, 2014

Rimini, Italy

T

WDSF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS UNDER-21 STANDARD

he USA World Team was five couples strong in Italy for the WDSF World Championships, Under 21, Senior I Standard and Senior I Latin, in Rimini, one of Italy’s most picturesque holiday resorts. When asked about their most memorable moments, the USA athletes echo the same responses – proudly carrying the American flag in the opening ceremonies and competing in such a grand arena against the best dancers in the world. In Under-21, there were 65 couples vying for a place in the finals; in Senior I Standard, 48 and in Senior I Latin, 43. The World DanceSport Federation’s website www.worlddancesport.org and often on YouTube, there’ll be highlight videos of the events.

UNDER-21 STANDARD

I

AMERICAN

DANCER

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FLORIN VLAD & NATALIA O’CONNOR (VT)

USA Dance/WDSF Placements: USA DANCE Under-21 Standard National Champions, 2014.

Florin Vlad & Natalia O’Connor Helmut Roland

AMERICAN DANCER: How did you prepare mentally and physically for the Under 21 Standard?

FLORIN & NATALIA: Preparing for a World Championship takes 44

Vlad Florin & Natalia O’Connor

50 out of 65

Fernando Lareu & Nicole Palagashvili

58 out of 65

SENIOR I STANDARD

Thomas Yim & Kelly Cheng SENIOR I LATIN

Irsan Tisnabudi & Cami Tisnabudi

35 out of 43

Roger Korsiak & Holli Hornlien

36 out of 43

a lot of planning. Starting a few months before the competition we were doing rounds and concentrating less on the technical aspects and more on the artistic, mental and performance aspects.

FERNANDO LAREU & NICOLE PALAGASHVILI (MA)

AD: How does dancing at a WDSF World event compare to USA Dance Nationals?

F: As many of the WDSF World events are held in Europe, there is a tradition there of keeping them in big sport halls which creates a great feeling of competitiveness and sportsmanship, where as in the U.S., the competitions are mostly held in beautiful hotel ballrooms which gives you a great atmosphere, but less of a competitive environment.

AMERICAN DANCER: How do you feel about your performances in Rimini?

FERNANDO: We tried to dance our best during the whole championship but it was definitely difficult to get out of our comfort zones.

Although we really enjoyed the experience, it's different when you dance in a foreign country with more pressure and a less familiar atmosphere.

AD: Anything that you’d like to tell other competitors?

F&N: It takes a lot of work to get to a World Championship but. believe us: IT’S WORTH IT! Never give up on your dreams no matter the obstacles that you encounter and you’ll see that all the hard work will pay off sooner or later.

American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

23 out of 48

USA Dance/WDSF Placements: USA Dance National Championships Under-21 2nd; Amateur 10-Dance 2nd.

Helmut Roland

Fernando Lareu & Nicole Palagashvili

AD: How does dancing at a WDSF World event compare to Nationals?

F: I feel that the USA Dance Nationals felt more like "home turf" for us, since we were familiar with our competitors and the ballroom…

It was different at the World Championship, because it was a bit more intimidating not knowing the competitors or general set up.

NICOLE: I really enjoyed both events but the World Championship's arena stood out to us and really made us feel like true athletes. We were amazed by the large audience support as well as the talented dancers that surrounded us. I felt like everyone pushed each other to dance their best which was a great feeling.

AD: What stood out among the top six couples?

F: I personally think that the top six couples had to have great staminas to dance the whole day with the pressure. Also they showed big shapes and movement.

Young dancers tend to be fast, strong and creative.

AD: Anything you’d like to tell other DanceSport competitors?

F: We'd like to thank the USA Dance for such a great opportunity that helped us improve our dancing and compete against the best dancers in the world. It was an amazing and memorable experience that shows that hard work pays off.

SENIOR I STANDARD THOMAS YIM & KELLY CHENG (CA)

USA Dance/WDSF Titles/ Placements: USA Dance 2013 & 2014 Senior I Standard 3rd Place National Champions; WDSF World Championship Senior I Standard 2013 – 17th out of 49.

AMERICAN DANCER: How does dancing at the WDSF World event compare to Nationals?

THOMAS: For one, dancing at a WDSF World event means representing our country.

So there is certain pride and excitement. It is also very refreshing to compete with top couples from other countries.

KELLY: Competition at the USA Dance Nationals is getting stronger every year. All our competitors are improving, and the energy level is increasing. So we must dance and perform our best.

AD: What did you learn about Senior I Standard DanceSport?

K: We chatted with a few competitors from Europe Helmut Roland

Thomas Yim & Kelly Cheng

and they all mentioned about training camps and coaching in Italy and different part of Europe. They are all very much up to date with the latest trends.

T: Physical fitness is another observation. All the competitors are very fit and full of energy.

AD: Anything that Irsan Tisnabudi & you’d like to tell other Helmut Roland Cami Tisnabudi competitors?

T: We feel very blessed and fortunate to have the CAMI: The finalists were all truly opportunity to represent the exceptional; timing, technique, USA in a world event. This is a musicality, connection, and very inspiring experience for individual style. They had it all. both of us. It pushes us to do better….The event was massive AD: What was most memorable with great ambience. This is for you in Rimini? the first time I have ever seen C: The Opening Ceremony was competition to this magnitude most memorable for me. To be – eight dance competitions on the floor and introduced as happening concurrently in a USA representative is such eight dance halls the size of a an incredible honor. There was plane hanger. Just amazing! someone in the audience waving an American flag and I was overcome with emotion. We work SENIOR I LATIN so hard training and it can really be challenging at times, but to IRSAN TISNABUDI & CAMI TISNABUDI (TX) have the opportunity to represent the U.S. and to be recognized USA Dance/WDSF Placements: during the opening ceremony, USA Dance Six-Time Senior I Latin makes all the sweat and tears, National Champions, 2009 to 2014 and blisters and fights worth it.

AMERICAN DANCER: What did you learn about Senior I Latin ROGER KORSIAK & DanceSport?

HOLLI HORNLIEN (CA) IRSAN: …that we all have USA Dance/WDSF Placements: to work hard to maintain USA Dance 2014 Senior II Latin this level of dance quality to National Champions, Senior I compete; that each couple has Latin National Vice Champions the same goal and focus, and we have good camaraderie AMERICAN DANCER: What among all dancers. We would were your first impressions compete on the floor, but we at the Senior I Latin World are friends off the floor.

Championship?

Holli: Senior I was produced on AD: What’s worth noting a large scale. Very theatrical about the top six finalists in lighting and venue. Huge, the world? enthusiastic crowd. The Italian I: Only two couples from last DanceSport fans are like no year finalists were able to return others. Pots and pans, vuvuzela to the final this year. horns, pom poms and color

coordinated fan t-shirts in the stands were just the start.

AD: How do you feel about your performances in Rimini?

Roger: This year was the dawn of new era. With the lowering of the age requirements, it was expected that many newer, Ryan Kenner

Roger Korsiak & Holli Hornlien

younger and more skilled dancers would emerge in this field. So all expectations were out the window. Any past placements meant nothing and this would be the new benchmark by which Senior I will be measured. We danced each round like it was the final. We performed to the best of our abilities… and that doesn’t always happen. I left the floor with a smile on my face and gratitude in my heart.

AD: What was your most memorable moment?

H: During the opening ceremony, we stood on the dance floor with hundreds of other dancers, listening to the oath and hearing the welcome remarks from the WDSF dignitaries. I looked out into the audience, and saw a couple that I did not know, wildly waving an American flag, and waving to us. They were so proud, and so supportive.

I stood there and thought, “Don’t cry, Don’t Cry!” September-October 2014

45

L of

egacies Dance A Man of Integrity, Uncompromised

By Angela Prince, Director of Public Relations, USA Dance Inc.

ABCMediaNet

TRIBUTE TO

LEN GOODMAN Len Goodman: A Bit of Background.

L

en Goodman has been a head judge on Strictly Come Dancing, the original UK version of Dancing with the Stars. He was a professional dancer and dance teacher, and now runs his own successful dance school in Kent, England, where he resides.

Having performed his entire adult life — specializing in the form of Ballroom called Exhibition Dancing — Goodman has won the British Exhibition four times and was the runner up in the Exhibition World Championships.

Mr. Goodman has also been awarded the British Rising Star Award, the Carl Allen Award and, most recently, a Lifetime Achievement Award.

He is also an accomplished judge of Latin American and Ballroom professional dance competition, serving as a regular at the World and British Championships.

Resource: ABC.go.com

46 American Dancer | www.americandancer.org

American Dancer Magazine has chosen Len Goodman as a true legacy of dance, a man of global distinction, whose lifelong contributions to the teaching, coaching and adjudication of competitive ballroom and Latin dance have been appreciated for decades within the dance industry.

Catapulted into the celebrity limelight by the phenomenal success of two high profile television shows – BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing and ABC TV’s Dancing With The Stars, Len Goodman truly became a household name among multimillions of television viewers around the world, a distinction neither Len nor any other ballroom judge or dancer could have anticipated for our industry.

Yet, through all the red carpet affairs, the on-air and social media battles and the endless flights from Los Angeles to London, Len Goodman has remained, above all else, a true ambassador for ballroom dancing, passionate, on occasion ruffled, but at the end of the day, uncompromised in his conviction to preserve its integrity.

Len Goodman has made his mark on how the world views ballroom dancing, and whether or not the television shows blur the lines between strict ballroom dancing and entertainment, doesn’t prevent the ballroom dance world from recognizing that the doors of opportunity opened wide for all of us.

FOR 2015 (next six): Sep 20, 2014 NEW ENGLAND DANCESPORT CHAMPIONSHIPS Waltham, MA Oct 3 - 5, 2014 CAROLINA FALL CLASSIC & WDSF OPEN SENIOR I & II STANDARD & LATIN Charlotte, NC Oct 31 - Nov 2, 2014 CHICAGO DANCESPORT CHALLENGE Chicago, IL Nov 15, 2014 CALIFORNIA STATE DANCESPORT CHAMPIONSHIPS San Jose, CA Jan 16 - 18, 2015 MANHATTAN AMATEUR CLASSIC Manhattan, NY Feb 14 - 15, 2015 MID-ATLANTIC CHAMPIONSHIPS Bethesda, MD

For more information visit: www.USADANCE.org

National Qualifying Events

USA Dance 2015 National DanceSport Championships

Moondance Studios/Bobby Campbell

Kyle & Tina Ross (NC) Senior I , II Gold Standard Divisions 2014 Gumbo DanceSport Championships

Non-Profit Standard Class U.S. Postage

PAID

Lebanon Junction, KY Permit #542

USA DANCE 2015 NATIONAL DANCESPORT CHAMPIONSHIPS Renaissance Harborplace Hotel Baltimore, MD March 27, 28, 29, 2015

USA DANCE

NATIONALS www.USADANCENATIONALS.ORG PHOTO CREDIT: Ryan Kenner Photography

Angus Sinclair & Dara Campbell (CA) from the Manhattan Amateur Classic National Qualifying Event for the Adult Championship Standard Division