Usdsc

[jump'n'jive]

well its just a few months away and dealines are approaching. i have a quick question. this will be my first year attending with students and i had a question on the packages for this. is the a al a carte comp? meaning you have to source your own hotel and just buy the pass to all events for the week? just trying to put it together to present to my students. thanks

[Laura]

Did you check the competition web site at www.usdsc.com? There's info there on how to contact the organizers. However, looking at the web site, it does not seem that there are any packages, especially since the hotel page specifically says:

Each Individual is responsible for making their own hotel accommodations directly with the hotel, the cut off date is Monday, August 11th, 2008 (6pm EST)

[fascination]

the hotel is a lowes hotel...royal palm I believe...and you need to book it separately if you choose to stay there..otherwise, orlando is chock full of places to stay and at this juncture you may need to look into that...not sure...the organizer is very responsive...you might want to email them

[jump'n'jive]

sorry i was just reading the packet sent to me. i actually spent time reading the website. had all the info lol. guess i should have taken the time to check it out. anyway answered my questioned and got it all squared away now. thanks

[Laura]

Glad you got the info you need and I hope you & your students have a great time at the comp!

[syncopationator]

its all a la carte. no packages

[Easy]

For being the comp of comps, this one has always bugged me. It's so much easier to price a comp when it's packaged. In this one, you must book your hotel, meals, everything separately.....don't forget the $20-$30 for a program...they aren't included either :(

[samina]

FWIW, I have never comped on a package...always handled everything separately. I find it easy...Easy. ;)

[Laura]

For being the comp of comps, this one has always bugged me. It's so much easier to price a comp when it's packaged. In this one, you must book your hotel, meals, everything separately.....don't forget the $20-$30 for a program...they aren't included either :(
I feel completely the opposite. I would much rather know what the price of each item is and decide what I want rather than having to pay for tickets or meals or even programs that I don't particularly want. I always compare a la carte to the package and go with whichever gives me the better value. There are a few comps where it is better for me to go on package, so of course I do it for those, but the vast majority of the time I do things a la carte.

[reb]

The Easy way to go might be to have samina and Laura as students . . . :D

[ChaChaMama]

I agree with Laura and Samina. I almost never get the package. And by almost never, I think I mean that I only have twice, for Philly Festival in 2005 and 2006, as it is the only comp I've been to where the package priced out.

Generally speaking, if you add up hotel, tickets, and a reasonable estimate of the meals (say $15ish for a hotel breakfast and around $35 for a hotel dinner), most ballroom comp packages do NOT price out. Yes, package holders get first dibs for seats in most cases, and that is *definitely* worth something, but when the package is WAAAAAY pricier than the a la carte price, I can't justify it.

On top of that, I don't necessarily want to eat all meals at the hotel nor will the scheduled times necessarily work with my schedule (e.g., I can't eat anything too substantive right before I compete, but I may want a pretty decent size meal after. It's a little annoying to squander a meal voucher you've already paid for and buy a meal two hours later.)

I *LOVE* it when comps allow you to buy front row/table seats separate from packages. MAC, NJ Dancesport Classics, and USA Dance Nationals do, and so do some NDCA comps, like Yankee. Worth the extra cash to me!

[Easy]

I definitely can see the advantage of a la carte...you get to choose your own hotels and exactly what and when you want to eat. You do get to pay for your individual experience.

Trying to give a student the bottom-line price...a la carte makes it a little difficult. In the past, I've usually told my student my expenses, and they take care of all of the rest. I'm safe if I just charge my fees, but some of my students in the past didn't realize they had to pay for everything extra even though I explained it clearly...."no I'm not having breakfast, lunch, or dinner with you if you're not paying for it...I'll choose where I want"..would be one example. Then you have the student that did pay for the meals, etc, and the others want to join you...really a tough thing to handle tactfully. Not a biggy most of the time, but for students used to being with their teacher for all of the meals and activities, this is a big change.

This, as I said before, is the only event I've ever experienced in almost 25 years of dancing where everything is a la carte. If you think about it, when people take the risk to organize a competition, the hotels demand a certain number of rooms, meals, etc. At most comps, I know people are trying to save as much money as possible, but the people who always do the minimum package and don't really support the comp are usually somewhat frowned upon. Yes, they can just pay for their minor expenses, but they always seem to be there for the last 2 nights when the formal dinners and expensive shows are happening. And you wonder why most organizers need the students pictured in the programs as sponsors in order to pull off the event...and the same people who paid a minimal amount are looking at these sponsors like they're suckers.

Yes, at usdsc, it's cool that you can just buy the tickets for the sessions you want to attend, but my above writing is actually in reference to the 90-something percent of the rest of the comps held in the United States.

[ChaChaMama]

At most comps, I know people are trying to save as much money as possible, but the people who always do the minimum package and don't really support the comp are usually somewhat frowned upon. Yes, they can just pay for their minor expenses, but they always seem to be there for the last 2 nights when the formal dinners and expensive shows are happening. And you wonder why most organizers need the students pictured in the programs as sponsors in order to pull off the event...and the same people who paid a minimal amount are looking at these sponsors like they're suckers.


I'm going to have to dissent from one or two of the premises above, even though I'm sure you have much more experience than I do, Easy, and I very much respect that experience.

If I am paying a comp $35 for each 1- or 2-dance event, which takes 1.5-3 minutes, AND am paying another $25-35 for admission to the ballroom for my own session (in most cases), AND am buying $50-60 seats for each evening event, AND am paying for a hotel room in the comp block, AND buying a $15-25 program (I always buy the program), AND perhaps buying an item or two from the vendors...I don't think my contribution is SO minimal. My cash is still green, and I don't expect to see a lot of frowning in my direction!

The comp organizers apparently appreciate the a la carte folks to some degree, because they could make buying a package a criteria for entering the comp! They don't. Apparently the a la carters' little contributions help the bottom line significantly enough that they don't want to alienate this constituency.

I in NO WAY think the sponsors of events are suckers! In fact, I would love to be an event sponsor someday. But if I do it, I will probably sponsor a USA Dance event. USA Dance comps are non-profit and the organization NEEDS the money to be able to offer scholarships for the ams. NDCA comps run to profit the owners of those comps. Some of them do very well, some barely limp by...I get that. But I still would rather help out the non-profit event, and put money directly into the scholarship pot for young, up-and-coming dancers. I feel like I could make more of a difference there.

I'm not trying to be a cheapskate when I don't buy the NDCA comp package. But if the only way the comp prices out is if I assume that the comp chicken dinner at a Marriott/Hilton with no drinks included is an $85-90 meal...I'm not there. That's just not a good value...plus it locks me in to eating at the hotel, at a particular time, and means I can't eat with local friends, etc.

[mamboqueen]

The comp organizers apparently appreciate the a la carte folks to some degree, because they could make buying a package a criteria for entering the comp! They don't. Apparently the a la carters' little contributions help the bottom line significantly enough that they don't want to alienate this constituency.

I in NO WAY think the sponsors of events are suckers! In fact, I would love to be an event sponsor someday. But if I do it, I will probably sponsor a USA Dance event. USA Dance comps are non-profit and the organization NEEDS the money to be able to offer scholarships for the ams. NDCA comps run to profit the owners of those comps. Some of them do very well, some barely limp by...I get that. But I still would rather help out the non-profit event, and put money directly into the scholarship pot for young, up-and-coming dancers. I feel like I could make more of a difference there.

I'm not trying to be a cheapskate when I don't buy the NDCA comp package. But if the only way the comp prices out is if I assume that the comp chicken dinner at a Marriott/Hilton with no drinks included is an $85-90 meal...I'm not there. That's just not a good value...plus it locks me in to eating at the hotel, at a particular time, and means I can't eat with local friends, etc.


Do you think people would be more discriminating about what comps they do if they were only given the option of a package? I know it would reduce the ones I do. There are some comps that I can drive to - why would I want to pay a hotel and extra meals if I don't have to?

I agree with you, CCM. I am supporting the comp with my entry fees, the entrance into the ballroom, buying stuff from vendors. I'm also supporting, if I'm traveling, the local economy by eating out, supporting the airlines and the hotel..and supporting my teacher. That's quite a bit of supporting! I don't really know any competitor who goes to a comp and says "let's see how much money I can spend here". Most of us are trying to cut the costs. To me, a good organizer will figure out how to keep most everyone happy and still make a few bucks.

[fascination]

for me...a very fortunate woman...it really is only partly about the money...I dance alot ...I do not want to go back into the ballroom in the evening if I am not dancing...i want to go back to my room...and I probably don't want mass produced hotel food either...those just aren't my preferences...BOT re: usdsc...particularly not in orlando when the choices are so fabulous

[ChaChaMama]

Do you think people would be more discriminating about what comps they do if they were only given the option of a package? I know it would reduce the ones I do. There are some comps that I can drive to - why would I want to pay a hotel and extra meals if I don't have to?

Oh, absolutely! But if an organizer really didn't want anyone going a la carte, they could try this and see how the market responds.

My response would be to pick another comp. I think most organizers are savvy enough to realize that the a la carte dollars add up.

[syncopationator]

At most comps, I know people are trying to save as much money as possible, but the people who always do the minimum package and don't really support the comp are usually somewhat frowned upon. Yes, they can just pay for their minor expenses, but they always seem to be there for the last 2 nights when the formal dinners and expensive shows are happening. And you wonder why most organizers need the students pictured in the programs as sponsors in order to pull off the event...and the same people who paid a minimal amount are looking at these sponsors like they're suckers.

Couldn't disagree more. I don't know how Paying $35-$50/entry that lasts a minute and 15 seconds at most is not supporting the comp. FYI - comps are a huge money maker for the organizers. They wouldn't be in it otherwise. As for me, I like to have the freedom to eat what I want when I want it. I do the math, if the the most economical way to do it is to buy a package, then I do it, otherwise its a la carte - and no, I don't think that the sponsors are suckers, they have their own agenda when it comes to sponsoring the events - could be political, could be social, could be that they are ridiculously wealthy and could care less about the cost. For those of us on a budget, the a la care or minimum package options are helpful because otherwise we may not be able to go.

And by the way, I usually speak to the organizers at every competition to give my thoughts on the event - which they seem to appreciate - and I never get the impression that they feel I am not supporting their competition because I don't buy a package.

[tanya_the_dancer]

Trying to give a student the bottom-line price...a la carte makes it a little difficult. In the past, I've usually told my student my expenses, and they take care of all of the rest. I'm safe if I just charge my fees, but some of my students in the past didn't realize they had to pay for everything extra even though I explained it clearly...."no I'm not having breakfast, lunch, or dinner with you if you're not paying for it...I'll choose where I want"..would be one example. Then you have the student that did pay for the meals, etc, and the others want to join you...really a tough thing to handle tactfully. Not a biggy most of the time, but for students used to being with their teacher for all of the meals and activities, this is a big change.

I would say an adult should be able to figure out what they want to pay for, and should be allowed an option to do so.

[Chris Stratton]

I would say an adult should be able to figure out what they want to pay for, and should be allowed an option to do so.

Yes, that's important to a key segment of the population that attends competitions. But there's also another important segment that doesn't want to worry about the little stuff, and just buy an overall experience. Not unlike going on a cruise or vacation that has an overall package price. If Easy's students want this, reliably figuring out the ultimate cost figure to present to them may be quite challenging

[Standarddancer]

I agree with Samina - separate a way easier!

Can't agree with ccm & Mamboqueen more, choice of where, when to eat dinner/lunch are important, don't want to be stuck with a fixed schedule; some of comps I need to go out eat with my local friends and go around to siteseeing a bit, and I can stay with friends for other comps so why should I pay for hotel? a la carte money do adds up, a la carte people do spend $50-$60 for an admission tickets to enter ballroom for multiple sessions, buying things from vendors, buying photos & videos of their own heats, support their own teachers, paying registration fees, these are all sorts of revenues, all of those are support to the comp, otherwise we won't be choose to participate for the comp.

There are so many comps on NDCA calendar, competitors and spectators have many choices as which ones to attend, most comp organizers are savvy enough to know it's important to make most people feel get their money worth so they'll be happy to come back next year.

[syncopationator]

Entry deadline is today.

[mamboqueen]

Couldn't disagree more. I don't know how Paying $35-$50/entry that lasts a minute and 15 seconds at most is not supporting the comp. FYI - comps are a huge money maker for the organizers. They wouldn't be in it otherwise. As for me, I like to have the freedom to eat what I want when I want it. I do the math, if the the most economical way to do it is to buy a package, then I do it, otherwise its a la carte - and no, I don't think that the sponsors are suckers, they have their own agenda when it comes to sponsoring the events - could be political, could be social, could be that they are ridiculously wealthy and could care less about the cost. For those of us on a budget, the a la care or minimum package options are helpful because otherwise we may not be able to go.

And by the way, I usually speak to the organizers at every competition to give my thoughts on the event - which they seem to appreciate - and I never get the impression that they feel I am not supporting their competition because I don't buy a package.

I agree with everything you have written, except I'm not sure that all organizers are raking it in on every comp.

I also think it's great that you give feedback. I would think it would be useful for an organizer to hear the good, the bad and the ugly. How else would they know what to change/fix/leave as is? I always, always make it a point to let the organizer know how well their staff/volunteers have treated me (I was only barked at once, and she was pregnant, so I gave her some slack). In fact, I also tell those people to their faces. I know I would greatly appreciate hearing that I was doing a good job, especially under hectic or stressful circumstances. Makes me want to do it all over again.

So a word of advice: hug your local comp volunteers! or smile if you're not the touchy/feely type!

[Standarddancer]

Mamboqueen, you are right, we got to let organizers know how well they did and how could they also make improvements. Certainly all hardworking volunteers deserve big awards!!!

[hereKittyKitty]

Looks like they only have "open to the world" amateur standard. Does anyone have an idea as to how many entries they have in this division?

[Casey]

The Winners Circle is still up from 2007 - there were 13 in amateur standard --

[Standarddancer]

Looks like they only have "open to the world" amateur standard. Does anyone have an idea as to how many entries they have in this division?

We should be going and so far I only know at least another NY champ couple will be going.

[syncopationator]

They should have significantly more couples in the open amateur events this year than they did last year. Last year there was that whole issue with the IDSF forbiding member couples from dancing in non-IDSF events. I believe that is no longer the case this year.

[hereKittyKitty]

I asked Wayne Eng and even he didn't know. He said it will probably be about 2½ weeks before he knows. I think it will be larger than last year.

[Standarddancer]

They should have significantly more couples in the open amateur events this year than they did last year. Last year there was that whole issue with the IDSF forbiding member couples from dancing in non-IDSF events. I believe that is no longer the case this year.

that's what I heard too.

[hereKittyKitty]

We were thinking, with Embassy only a week before, some couples may stay over and do USDSC the following week. We are doing Windy City Open instead of Embassy and we noticed that there was 1 couple from Slovenia entered in our division. It could be that, to get the most for their money some couples are choosing to stay here and hit a few different comps.

[fascination]

bummer...I usually do that comp (WCO) but am not now...will miss you guys

[hereKittyKitty]

bummer...I usually do that comp (WCO) but am not now...will miss you guys
:( That stinks. Do you have plans for your next comp?

[fascination]

yea lost 5 due to the transition...but I will be at usdsc and ohio...those are certain...well, as certain as anything in life can really be...which is...not so certain

[Standarddancer]

We were thinking, with Embassy only a week before, some couples may stay over and do USDSC the following week. We are doing Windy City Open instead of Embassy and we noticed that there was 1 couple from Slovenia entered in our division. It could be that, to get the most for their money some couples are choosing to stay here and hit a few different comps.

slovenia couple entered Windy City open? That's interesting!!! Windy city usually small; this might be the first time foreign couple entered!!!

[fascination]

the comp made alot of improvements last year...it is my favorite local one

[Standarddancer]

yea lost 5 due to the transition...but I will be at usdsc and ohio...those are certain...well, as certain as anything in life can really be...which is...not so certain

oh so you do plan to fly!!! I recall reading another thread that you don't fly:) good maybe I got to meet you at USDSC:)

[fascination]

I am driving to usdsc ;) ....I will look forward to meeting you

[Standarddancer]

the comp made alot of improvements last year...it is my favorite local one

Well I was thinking of going Windy city right after Embassy, but did a search finding out 3 ways tickets NY-SNA-chicago-NY cost around $500 per person Vs. 2 way tickets NY-SNA-NY only around $300 per person so gave up the idea of Windy City open this time:(

[Standarddancer]

I am driving to usdsc ;) ....I will look forward to meeting you

Driving from Indianna to Miami? quite a distance!!! Looking forward to meet you too:)

[fascination]

it's in orlando and I am spending the night in atlanta

[Standarddancer]

Isn't Miami near Orlando too? or like 1 hour drive? Sorry I have no clue about Florida.

[fascination]

longer...(depending upon one's observation of the speed limit)

[SDsalsaguy]

longer...(depending upon one's observation of the speed limit)
Definitely longer (regardless of one's observation of the speed limit ;))

[liz]

How long will the drive take you? You really don't like to fly. Me, I don't like to get into elevators with alot of people. Maybe 2 or 3 at the most. At my last comp, I kept telling everyone that I will take the next one. After about 5 times passing the chance, the people I was with grabbed me and pulled me in. I just don't feel like I can breathe with so many people in there with me.

I will be at USDSC. Will get there on Monday, dance Tuesday, then going back home. Hope to see you all there.

[Standarddancer]

I don't like fly either, hate the airline security, such hassle. But most of time no choice, flights are faster than driving. Also hate in a room with too many people too. I'm with you on this one too. Elevator is ok with me, since I would only be with all those people for a few minutes.

[Laura]

Isn't Miami near Orlando too? or like 1 hour drive? Sorry I have no clue about Florida.
No, they're about 250 miles apart (so like a 3 1/2 hour drive). USDSC used to be in Miami, but it is in Orlando now.

[fascination]

How long will the drive take you? You really don't like to fly. Me, I don't like to get into elevators with alot of people. Maybe 2 or 3 at the most. At my last comp, I kept telling everyone that I will take the next one. After about 5 times passing the chance, the people I was with grabbed me and pulled me in. I just don't feel like I can breathe with so many people in there with me.

I will be at USDSC. Will get there on Monday, dance Tuesday, then going back home. Hope to see you all there.
dunno...have ot mapquest it but I did it last year...drove from ny place (tip of lake michigan to atlanta) leaving home around 7 and getting to atlanta around 5-ish.....then from atlanta leaving around 7 and getting to orlando in the early afternoon...no biggie...

[fascination]

my own pace...better meals...lots of space....all good

[tanya_the_dancer]

Not going this year. Will wait until I don't have a school age child without a driver's license.

[sambanada]

What venue did you like better? Miami or Orlando?

[fascination]

I wasn't dancing when it was in miami...BUT I love the Orlando location...particularly, also think it's better given that usdsc is smack in the middle of hurricane season

[cantskiforlife]

I'll be there dancing pro-am. Are we going to set up a DF booth at this comp?

[fascination]

no...

[Laura]

What venue did you like better? Miami or Orlando?
I've only been to Miami but I must say that was a good location. Flying into Miami you have the choice of two airports so that helped with airfare shopping, and the comp hotel (the Fountainbleau) was a five-minute walk from a bunch of other much lower-priced hotels (including a Sheraton Four Points and a Day's Inn -- I stayed at the Day's Inn and it only cost $69/night because USDSC weekend was actually very much the OFF season down there). It was really fun and easy to get out of the hotel and go down to South Beach for food, shopping, and fun.

I'll have to give Orlando a try, but not this year.

[ChaChaMama]

Also never attended USDSC when it was in Miami, but love Miami! I think I have stayed at that same affordable Day's Inn. (Something like 30th + Collins?) If I'm thinking of the right place, it was right on the beach, a pretty easy walk on the boardwalk to the Fountainbleu, and used to have a fabulous Jewish deli across the street, Wolfie's (which has since closed). Mmmm! Also a great latin club about a block or two away (don't know if that's still there). And a great beach!

That said, Orlando could be good too. (Agree with Tanya that for those of us who have to pay attention to school calendars, the timing is tricky: my school year starts August 25 and my dd's starts September 2.) Since my dd is only 5.5, I would currently be more tempted by a Disney location rather than Universal, but once The Wizarding World of Harry Potter opens, that may change! (Dd is a HUGE HP fan.)

[Laura]

Thing is, the year I was there, USDSC fell during ... not sure ... was it Rosh Hoshshona? Anyway, *everything* was closed -- the Kosher Chinese restaurant at the Day's Inn, the Deli across the street...but no matter, I just kept going down to South Beach for Cuban food :)

[Mandicraft]

I haven't been back to USDSC since it moved to Orlando because the location is not as appealing to me as the Westin Diplomat in Hollywood, FL. I loved being able to spend the days on the beach/pool or going down to South Beach and then going to watch dancing at night. It was the most relaxing vacations I've ever had! I miss it...

[samina]

I haven't been back to USDSC since it moved to Orlando because the location is not as appealing to me as the Westin Diplomat in Hollywood, FL. I loved being able to spend the days on the beach/pool or going down to South Beach and then going to watch dancing at night. It was the most relaxing vacations I've ever had! I miss it...
The last time it was venued there, I had a vacay at that hotel just a few weeks before and it was so wonderful...

I bet the Orlando hotel will be great tho...in a Disney sort of way.

[Mandicraft]

The last time it was venued there, I had a vacay at that hotel just a few weeks before and it was so wonderful...

I bet the Orlando hotel will be great tho...in a Disney sort of way.

Well, with the hotel that it's at, it's more the Universal sort of way. However, it's missing the beach. Also, I take a "vacation" to Orlando every late Oct/early Nov each year for another type of compeition that I help out at, so two that quickly back to back is not as appealing.

[fascination]

royal pacific is a great hotel and not as thematic as disney...

[latingal]

royal pacific is a great hotel and not as thematic as disney...

with the looks we were getting the first year at the royal pacific, you would think us ballroom types were the disney part.... *grin*

(lots of double takes going on as we walked by with the make up and hair done)

[fascination]

lol...doesn't even phase me anymore...though I did have a few little girls think I was some sort of princess

[njdancegirl]

with the looks we were getting the first year at the royal pacific, you would think us ballroom types were the disney part.... *grin*

(lots of double takes going on as we walked by with the make up and hair done)

Got this this past weekend in New York (Times Square)...who would have figured?!? Freaked out all the tourists...NYers were unphased!

[gingerbread]

I've only been to Miami but I must say that was a good location. Flying into Miami you have the choice of two airports so that helped with airfare shopping, and the comp hotel (the Fountainbleau) was a five-minute walk from a bunch of other much lower-priced hotels (including a Sheraton Four Points and a Day's Inn -- I stayed at the Day's Inn and it only cost $69/night because USDSC weekend was actually very much the OFF season down there). It was really fun and easy to get out of the hotel and go down to South Beach for food, shopping, and fun.

I'll have to give Orlando a try, but not this year.

I so agree with you, Laura. The inexpensive hotels just 4 blocks away, the beach, going to South Beach, going downtown to Little Havana. It was so much more fun to get away during the day, even the evening, and so much more affordable. The Westin was in the middle of nowhere but at least it was gorgeous, fantastic pools and beautiful beach. I hate the Orlando setting, not interested in Universal and NO BEACH. Got sick of the same food in the only restaurant I could afford. I heard there were other places to eat if one took the boat across or something, but I didn't try. Can anyobdy recommended healthy and affordable food? Or places to buy food to take back? I would really appreciate it.

[samina]

so... having found a way to draw blood from a stone... have just booked my flight to orlando for USDSC. :)

before i wade into hotel-reservation waters, anyone going who'd appreciate a roomate? i'd be staying over wed, thurs, fri... i'm quite low maintenance. and... bring my own tequila.:cool:

[njdancegirl]

so... having found a way to draw blood from a stone... have just booked my flight to orlando for USDSC. :)

before i wade into hotel-reservation waters, anyone going who'd appreciate a roomate? i'd be staying over wed, thurs, fri... i'm quite low maintenance. and... bring my own tequila.:cool:

YEAH Sam! Glad you were able to find a way!

[fascination]

so... having found a way to draw blood from a stone... have just booked my flight to orlando for USDSC. :)

before i wade into hotel-reservation waters, anyone going who'd appreciate a roomate? i'd be staying over wed, thurs, fri... i'm quite low maintenance. and... bring my own tequila.:cool:
see my pm

[syncopationator]

Party in Sam and Fasc's room it looks like. I'll bring the mixers...

[latingal]

yay! It's smackdown time!!

[samina]

YEAH Sam! Glad you were able to find a way!
Me too!

I was determined...and Providence responded. :):D

[fascination]

AFTER friday day session...I have serious work to do ;)

[latingal]

sounds like there will be some serious DF partying at usdsc this year....

[fascination]

I think you may well be right

[samina]

yay! It's smackdown time!!
*grin* Flight & accommodations sorted out now...it's a go. :)

As for a smackdown...no Open for me this year, I decided. I'm doing all silver, so don't know who all will be in my events.

Sync, are you doing the closed standard and latin championships? If so, I don't think we're in the same age division for those -- I'll be A2.

For silver 10-dance, I'm in the age bracket with the young folks so...meh...I'll do what I can. Are you doing 10-dance, sync? Am wondering also if fasc's pro's daughter will be doing silver 10-dance...she's so good and she did silver in VA.

But am so tickled that I can make it...yay! It's gonna be fun!

[mamboqueen]

hey..where there's a willl...! good for you, Sam.

I'll think about you all when I'm out buying school supplies. Oh the joy!

[fascination]

*grin* Flight & accommodations sorted out now...it's a go. :)

As for a smackdown...no Open for me this year, I decided. I'm doing all silver, so don't know who all will be in my events.

Sync, are you doing the closed standard and latin championships? If so, I don't think we're in the same age division for those -- I'll be A2.

For silver 10-dance, I'm in the age bracket with the young folks so...meh...I'll do what I can. Are you doing 10-dance, sync? Am wondering also if fasc's pro's daughter will be doing silver 10-dance...she's so good and she did silver in VA.

But am so tickled that I can make it...yay! It's gonna be fun!
well we won't be dancing against each other b/c the only place he had room for me in silver was in rhythm...as low girl in seniority and with only a month under my belt with him, I am back to bronze for smooth and standard b/c he had no place for me there...and no latin yet...a temporary casualty of the switch...dunno what his other ladies are doing but one or another of them will certainly be doing the 10 dance in your age group...living up here I am out of the loop and that is probably just as well

[fascination]

and as for open...those open smooth routines are probably lost for the foreseeable future...trying hard not to think about that...have enough on my plate trying not to look like NP didn't just pick up a hitchhiker on the way to Orlando and throw her into a ballgown...hyperventilating

[samina]

I think you may well be right

Most definitely...if I have anything to say about it...;)

[fascination]

and on that happy note...off to make sure I have something to celebrate rather than self-medicate

[fascination]

so glad you are going to make it

[danceronice]

I saw this thread, and I just realized--for ONCE, I lined up my vacation for when my pro's going to be out of town anyway! (Well, one of them, at least.) Not that I don't wish I were going to FL, but at least I don't feel like I'm skipping out on lessons.

[samina]

hey..where there's a willl...! good for you, Sam.

I'll think about you all when I'm out buying school supplies. Oh the joy!

*sigh of relief*
Have already said a prayer that next year we'll be able to enjoy the comp together, MQ. Have plans for graftable money tree...

[njdancegirl]

hey..where there's a willl...! good for you, Sam.

I'll think about you all when I'm out buying school supplies. Oh the joy!

I'll be there with you MQ (DD starts first grade!)...

Hopefully next year...looking around for money tree and dance daddy...;)

[mamboqueen]

*sigh of relief*
Have already said a prayer that next year we'll be able to enjoy the comp together, MQ. Have plans for graftable money tree...

Yeah, I'll give anyone a really nice sprig off our awesome fig tree for just a teeny seed of that ever-elusive money tree. Well, rest assured, we'll be enjoying *some* comp together soon! In the mean time, I expect full reports (party inclusive) from USDSC! I wish one of you guys had that little flip video. We may have to chip in and have a DF camera....!

[mamboqueen]

I'll be there with you MQ (DD starts first grade!)...

Hopefully next year...looking around for money tree and dance daddy...;)

That silly Staples commercial keeps running through my head "It's the most wonderful time of the year....". Honestly, I wish it was a week before or a week later so I could get this comp in. Having said that, my pro has been gone for the weeks leading right up to this one for the two years I have been with him...so it would not likely be an option anyway. :(

[syncopationator]

*grin* Flight & accommodations sorted out now...it's a go. :)

As for a smackdown...no Open for me this year, I decided. I'm doing all silver, so don't know who all will be in my events.

Sync, are you doing the closed standard and latin championships? If so, I don't think we're in the same age division for those -- I'll be A2.

For silver 10-dance, I'm in the age bracket with the young folks so...meh...I'll do what I can. Are you doing 10-dance, sync? Am wondering also if fasc's pro's daughter will be doing silver 10-dance...she's so good and she did silver in VA.

But am so tickled that I can make it...yay! It's gonna be fun!

I will be doing in Latin: Closed Silver A, Open Gold A, Open Scholarships, RS Open Champs, and 10-Dance. Then there's standard: Closed Silver A and Closed Gentlemen's Championship.

Yes she is very good.

[samina]

I'll be there with you MQ (DD starts first grade!)...

Hopefully next year...looking around for money tree and dance daddy...;)

I've wondered many times why USDSC is scheduled the first week of school.

[mamboqueen]

they allow for closed silver *and* open?

[samina]

I will be doing in Latin: Closed Silver A, Open Gold A, Open Scholarships, RS Open Champs, and 10-Dance. Then there's standard: Closed Silver A and Closed Gentlemen's Championship.

Yes she is very good.

The national championships categories are broken into A1 & A2, aren't they? That's what I saw when I filled out the form...

[samina]

they allow for closed silver *and* open?
There's no gold...just goes straight from silver to open gold.

[syncopationator]

The national championships categories are broken into A1 & A2, aren't they? That's what I saw when I filled out the form...

I guess A1 then

[LucyDiamond]

so... having found a way to draw blood from a stone... have just booked my flight to orlando for USDSC. :)

before i wade into hotel-reservation waters, anyone going who'd appreciate a roomate? i'd be staying over wed, thurs, fri... i'm quite low maintenance. and... bring my own tequila.:cool:
EXCELLENT sam - I'm so happy for you!!! :banana: :banana:

[mamboqueen]

There's no gold...just goes straight from silver to open gold.

but, does one generally do both? Seems a little sandbaggy to me...if someone is doing open routines, I'd be a little miffed if I were in silver going against that person.

[syncopationator]

they allow for closed silver *and* open?

Yes, but I'm dancing up to open, not down to silver. In fact, I'm just doing my syllabus silver routines in the open events. No sandbagging here.

[mamboqueen]

Yes, but I'm dancing up to open, not down to silver. In fact, I'm just doing my syllabus silver routines in the open events.

glad to hear that, because I was going to hunt you down with one of Larinda's noodles and slap you silly!

[njdancegirl]

glad to hear that, because I was going to hunt you down with one of Larinda's noodles and slap you silly!

Or retract my answer about letting guys into the ladies singles heats since I also dance A1 Silver Latin...;)

[mamboqueen]

Or retract my answer about letting guys into the ladies singles heats since I also dance A1 Silver Latin...;)

ya know, he's a really good dancer...and heck, what's half-way to Virginia??? Someone should scoop him right up!

[syncopationator]

Someone should scoop him right up!

What am I... Ice cream?

[mamboqueen]

What am I... Ice cream?

I'll behave.

[njdancegirl]

ya know, he's a really good dancer...and heck, what's half-way to Virginia??? Someone should scoop him right up!

For you, MQ, probably New Jersey? And for me in NJ...maybe Maryland?

Sync, Are you up for various partners up and down the eastern seaboard? I can pretend to do Standard if 10 dance is necessary...;)

[mamboqueen]

For you, MQ, probably New Jersey? And for me in NJ...maybe Maryland?

Sync, Are you up for various partners up and down the eastern seaboard? I can pretend to do Standard if 10 dance is necessary...;)

Oh lordy...I think he could be my child. You can have him! I'll take a social dance...!

[syncopationator]

For you, MQ, probably New Jersey? And for me in NJ...maybe Maryland?

Sync, Are you up for various partners up and down the eastern seaboard? I can pretend to do Standard if 10 dance is necessary...;)


:ladiesma:

[syncopationator]

Oh lordy...I think he could be my child. You can have him! I'll take a social dance...!

I'm older than I look.. I swear...

[liz]

I will be in town only Monday and Tuesday.Anyone gonna be around for the Rhythm?
I know that it will be the first time for Natalka and I to compete against eachother.NOt sure who else from DF is in my division. Dancing Open Gold Rhythm, open to the world and national ladies A...... Will be sporting a new hair do. We have been talking about that on another thread. Can't wait to see everyone.

[mamboqueen]

I'm older than I look.. I swear...

And I've been told I act a lot younger than I look *LOL*.

[mamboqueen]

I will be in town only Monday and Tuesday.Anyone gonna be around for the Rhythm?
I know that it will be the first time for Natalka and I to compete against eachother.NOt sure who else from DF is in my division. Dancing Open Gold Rhythm, open to the world and national ladies A...... Will be sporting a new hair do. We have been talking about that on another thread. Can't wait to see everyone.

Liz...you could do a really funny thing and come with Natalka's hairstyle. Heh....

[njdancegirl]

I'm older than I look.. I swear...

A1...you aren't that old!

[syncopationator]

I will be in town only Monday and Tuesday.Anyone gonna be around for the Rhythm?
I know that it will be the first time for Natalka and I to compete against eachother.NOt sure who else from DF is in my division. Dancing Open Gold Rhythm, open to the world and national ladies A...... Will be sporting a new hair do. We have been talking about that on another thread. Can't wait to see everyone.

I'm not getting there until wednesday morning.

Liz - didn't you used to dance latin too?

[Natalka]

Liz...you could do a really funny thing and come with Natalka's hairstyle. Heh....

HA HA HA!!!! That would be awesome!:banana:

Mamboqueen...why don't you do your hair like mine TOO! ???
Put some platinum streaks in!!! We can have a section in the bleachers where everyone comes with HUGE Chunky Highlights! THAT would be sight to see!

[Larinda McRaven]

I get in on Monday... I have 3 guys competing Rhythm on Tuesday, Smooth on Wednesday, Standard on Friday and back to Smooth on Saturday.

[liz]

I'm not getting there until wednesday morning.

Liz - didn't you used to dance latin too?
no, only rhythm... did some smooth. But, have put it on the side for the last year. gonna pick it back up after Ohio.

[liz]

HA HA HA!!!! That would be awesome!:banana:

Mamboqueen...why don't you do your hair like mine TOO! ???
Put some platinum streaks in!!! We can have a section in the bleachers where everyone comes with HUGE Chunky Highlights! THAT would be sight to see!
That would be funny... Hey, what color dress you wearing? Wouldn't mess with the judges... Guess everyone will have to check the other thread tomorrow and see what I come up with....

[Mandicraft]

I get in on Monday... I have 3 guys competing Rhythm on Tuesday, Smooth on Wednesday, Standard on Friday and back to Smooth on Saturday.

You sound like you're going to be a busy girl Larinda! Good luck to you and your students! Also, good luck to all of the other DF'ers, kinda wish I was going now to get to cheer on all of you!

[samina]

Yes, but I'm dancing up to open, not down to silver. In fact, I'm just doing my syllabus silver routines in the open events. No sandbagging here.

Yes, that is common. I have no problem with that at all...that's the route I took to get into dancesport.

[samina]

glad to hear that, because I was going to hunt you down with one of Larinda's noodles and slap you silly!
Don't anger the queen...!

[syncopationator]

Don't anger the queen...!

I wouldn't dare

[samina]

I will be in town only Monday and Tuesday.Anyone gonna be around for the Rhythm?
I know that it will be the first time for Natalka and I to compete against eachother.NOt sure who else from DF is in my division. Dancing Open Gold Rhythm, open to the world and national ladies A...... Will be sporting a new hair do. We have been talking about that on another thread. Can't wait to see everyone.
There's the DF smackdown for this comp!

[fascination]

Yes, that is common. I have no problem with that at all...that's the route I took to get into dancesport.agree...if I had been going with FP I would have have done bronze, silver and open RS smooth...dancing up to the open...we are all in process...I am not one of those folks that gets too many knots in my underwear about that stuff...granted, 10 year in bronze so that you can do the local comps and clean up isn't cool but both FP and NP are big believers in bronze being the most important level and in not leaving it too soon in comps and ever outside of them....which goes back to my original point on the segregation thread...there are so many irractic potential inequities or weird things that might skew how a result goes at a comp that I simply don't put myself through the heartache of setting a result goal...obviously we all want to win but...that can't be the primary goal b/c...well, weird stuff happens

[Larinda McRaven]

Perhaps I will bring my DDR and Guitar Hero/Rock Band... then we can have a smackdown in the room!

[samina]

Perhaps I will bring my DDR and Guitar Hero/Rock Band... then we can have a smackdown in the room!

omg... what a great idea. never tried guitar hero/rock band, myself...

[fascination]

after friday day session...am living the chaste life til then you people

[samina]

chaste...lol. ok...

[Larinda McRaven]

:shock:.

[samina]

:shock:.


i think she means no drinking???:rolleyes:

[fascination]

no fun... period...until after friday day session

[samina]

ok. go for it, chica... you've got a lot on your plate to pull this off.

[fascination]

meh...will party either way...but I don't intend to go in there less than 100%

[fascination]

and if I drink...I will

[fascination]

plus...I require alot of sleep incase you haven't noticed the multitude of naps

[syncopationator]

whatever happened to partying all night and dancing in the morning?
:rocker::bouncy::cheers:

[fascination]

they can do that in your room...I have work to do...will party when the occasion merits

[Standarddancer]

Perhaps I will bring my DDR and Guitar Hero/Rock Band... then we can have a smackdown in the room!

oh feel bad for your neighbors;);)

[Natalka]

That would be funny... Hey, what color dress you wearing? Wouldn't mess with the judges... Guess everyone will have to check the other thread tomorrow and see what I come up with....

Hey there!
I haven't decided yet...the usual Electric Pink & Yellow tend to be my tried & true colors...but I am toying with Red & also something totally different, Jade...which I really like. So, it will be one of those...
I can't wait to get there since I see so many of my friends will be there...this will be fun!

[liz]

Hey there!
I haven't decided yet...the usual Electric Pink & Yellow tend to be my tried & true colors...but I am toying with Red & also something totally different, Jade...which I really like. So, it will be one of those...
I can't wait to get there since I see so many of my friends will be there...this will be fun!
Just kidding about wearing a dress like you..... Jade would be really cool on you...Can't wait to get there either... Pictures up on my new hair!!!

[Natalka]

Just kidding about wearing a dress like you..... Jade would be really cool on you...Can't wait to get there either... Pictures up on my new hair!!!


Oh my gosh!
Is your hair RED now???? That's hot!

[latingal]

whatever happened to partying all night and dancing in the morning?
:rocker::bouncy::cheers:

says the A1...

just wait 'til you get to my age.... *grin*

[fascination]

precisely...the A2 doesn't bounce back by the next day

[syncopationator]

its part of the whole experience. Afterall, we are having fun here, right???

[fascination]

I will have fun dancing ONLY if I am not hungover...anf then, if I like my dancing, I will have uber-fun

[syncopationator]

I wouldn't want dance hungover either. that's not much fun. but can still enjoy hanging out, especially if I'm not scheduled to dance really early in the morning.

[samina]

i remember seeing one DFer compete here and i was wondering... oh dear... she's not herself. when i saw her and asked how it went, she said she was miserably hung over, puking on way to comp. poor thing... but what a trooper that she actually went for it anyway! :)

[syncopationator]

heat lists are up!

someone had told me that entries were down, but I have a lot more competition in my heats than I did last year.

[syncopationator]

not to start any controversy, rumors or whatever but one high profile and former national champion couple is missing from the National Latin field. Could be that they just haven't sent their entry in.

[liz]

Where do you find the Heat list???? Can't locate them anywhere..

[GJB]

Heat lists are under Winner's Circle.

[hereKittyKitty]

Is there a way to view all of the entries for a particular heat?

[Larinda McRaven]

not to start any controversy, rumors or whatever but one high profile and former national champion couple is missing from the National Latin field. Could be that they just haven't sent their entry in.

It is not a rumor if they are not listed. But we would like the controversy and rumors that might follow kept to minimum.

[syncopationator]

Is there a way to view all of the entries for a particular heat?

go to winners circle and go to your event

[samina]

go to winners circle and go to your event
it's very nice that they all display for this comp, rather than having to "view source" to compile a list.

sync, we're in silver 10-dance together. along with the young thing from VA. :)

there's another family pairing in the same event. another father-daughter couple, i wonder?

[syncopationator]

there's another family pairing in the same event. another father-daughter couple, i wonder?

Husband-wife

[samina]

ah... gotcha. ok, i know who that is.

well, that's quite a good group.

[syncopationator]

ah... gotcha. ok, i know who that is.

well, that's quite a good group.

competition is good! last year it was only a 4 couple final.

[samina]

yep, we're gonna have fun. :)

[Larinda McRaven]

The poor site must be flooded with people looking at heats... it is so ssllllooooooooooooow.

[samina]

The poor site must be flooded with people looking at heats... it is so ssllllooooooooooooow.

thankful i quick got in & out before the rush...

[Standarddancer]

only 3 couples for amatuer championship? how could this be possible? US open!!! unless this heat not updated? last year 12 couples.

[Larinda McRaven]

it's very nice that they all display for this comp, rather than having to "view source" to compile a list.


I still find this format as tedious as the other in trying to find out who is in what heat.

[star_gazer]

only 3 couples for amatuer championship? how could this be possible? US open!!! unless this heat not updated? last year 12 couples.Small and expensive

[tanya_the_dancer]

Small and expensive

Inconvenient timing, too.

[fascination]

I love it...I will get there on my birthday

[samina]

birthday comps have a special energy. you're sun'll be shining on you, that's for sure! hope it's a fun one for you.

mine was yankee... good memories from that one.

[mamboqueen]

birthday comps have a special energy. you're sun'll be shining on you, that's for sure! hope it's a fun one for you.

mine was yankee... good memories from that one.

a bottle, a bag and women in drag... ;)

[samina]

you got it

*grin*

[Standarddancer]

Inconvenient timing, too.

timing ok actually, just small & expensive

[tanya_the_dancer]

timing ok actually, just small & expensive

Not if you have a child in school or your day job is in any way related to education.

[DancingJools]

What is the problem with the USDSC web site? It's been down for a day now. Can anyone see it? They changed the address to unitedstatesdancechampionships.com [a surefire way to get a lot of typos while you try to type in this superlong address - what where they thinking?] but anyway, can anyone access this site?
I needed to check somethings about the schedule, and perhaps also order some evening tickets.
This is not good.

[SDsalsaguy]

I also haven't been able to access it Jools. Not good a week out from the event. :?

[fascination]

no problem yesterday, but yes, today it is down...shrug

[DancingJools]

I was trying to get an idea about the number of people showing up this year as compared to previous years. Am trying to make a last minute decision to go or not. My work schedule is sooooo very tight (would have loved to go to Embassy, but really can't). On the other hand, I need a break and would like to go to a competition. I haven't been to one since Blackpool.
I need the sun.
I need a pool.
I don't want to go and find the event shrinking year after year.
Advice?

[fascination]

it isn't shrinking I can tell you that...but I have no idea about your particular category...maybe pm the organizer....they were very responsive last year when my entries were messed up

[DancingJools]

I'll take your word for it, then, Fasc. I did check the heat list a couple of days ago, but just to look for some names, not to count or estimate the # of registrants.
Thanks.
Edit - We seem to be posting like crazy here (and I appreciate that). I like to watch pro-am Latin, and Standard if I'm not too distracted with other stuff. But it's the evening sessions I'm interested in. It's a bummer that some US amateurs still steer clear of this comp. But it's not the time to get into that now.

[fascination]

i just added to my post fwiw...also, you might want to check the extended forecast if the pool is a priority ;)...was great last year but ya never know w/hurricane season

[latingal]

DJ, if and when the site is back up, the winners circle link was available and allowed you to see the event participants without having to count or estimate the number of people based on scrolling through the heat list names.

[fascination]

yep...that is what my response was based upon...I know that my events are bigger than last year

[DancingJools]

Hurricane Shmuricane!! I swim at night anyway (the sun is a metaphor. I never sit in the sun).
Thanks, all.

[latingal]

p.s. if you type in www .usdsc.com (without the space of course) instead of the longer name it takes you to the same site.

[DancingJools]

Whaddya know? Some of the site is back up.
I betcha someone at accessdance is visiting these forums and didn't want egg on their faces.

[fascination]

let's go with those delusions of granduer ;)

[latingal]

are you guys actually getting in to the site? it kinda' just hangs for me right now...perhaps they're working it. will try again later.

[Joe]

Maybe it's because y'all are hammering it! ;)

Dance-Forums Denial of Service!

[ChaChaMama]

I'll take your word for it, then, Fasc. I did check the heat list a couple of days ago, but just to look for some names, not to count or estimate the # of registrants.
Thanks.
Edit - We seem to be posting like crazy here (and I appreciate that). I like to watch pro-am Latin, and Standard if I'm not too distracted with other stuff. But it's the evening sessions I'm interested in. It's a bummer that some US amateurs still steer clear of this comp. But it's not the time to get into that now.

I could be wrong about this, but I think one of the issues for US amateurs is that this is NOT their nationals.

They already have two:
-USA Dance Nationals (this year, April in B-more)
-NDCA Nationals (this year and every year, March at BYU)

I'm talking about the championship level dancers. For people on my lowly spot on the food chain (syllabus am), I'm not even sure this IS an event to enter at USDSC. (NOT a complaint--there are plenty of other comps for me to enter, and I can't see how they could add anything else to that schedule.)

I would very much like to go as a spectator again (went in 2006, I think?), but not this year. (Unless I lose all common sense and book a last minute ticket.)

I will look forward to everyone's reports!!!

[hereKittyKitty]

What is the problem with the USDSC web site? It's been down for a day now. Can anyone see it? They changed the address to unitedstatesdancechampionships.com [a surefire way to get a lot of typos while you try to type in this superlong address - what where they thinking?] but anyway, can anyone access this site?
I needed to check somethings about the schedule, and perhaps also order some evening tickets.
This is not good.

Its not just this website but most of access dance websites are down as well. Including access dance itself.

[Larinda McRaven]

not a good time for server issues....
and I hope they have good backups.

[syncopationator]

not good timing at all :(

[gingerbread]

Site is still down. Not good.

[syncopationator]

I was trying to get an idea about the number of people showing up this year as compared to previous years. Am trying to make a last minute decision to go or not. My work schedule is sooooo very tight (would have loved to go to Embassy, but really can't). On the other hand, I need a break and would like to go to a competition. I haven't been to one since Blackpool.
I need the sun.
I need a pool.
I don't want to go and find the event shrinking year after year.
Advice?

the events that I am entered in (A division) actually have higher participation than last year :D

[ChelD]

site is up this am

schedule changed - starts at 7 am Tues instead of 9. bleh.

[syncopationator]

still having trouble

[ChelD]

yes, me too it turns out. I thought when it came up that it was going to be ok but.... it is VERY slow. I was able to get to the schedule page but gave up on the churning when I tried to go to the printable version. maybe they are loading latest entries and info?

[Standarddancer]

site still not working:(

[latingal]

can't get in either.

[Merrylegs]

I am not attending this event but I have a thought: could someone contact an organizer and ask them to post the schedule here? It wouldn't have to be elaborate but at least a lot of people would know what's going on.

I do not have their contact info.

Just my $.02.

[gingerbread]

I got in by going through the NDCA webpage.

NITED STATES DANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS
September 2nd - 6th, 2008 - Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando®
2008 Final Schedule of Events


Monday, September 1st - Registration - Pacifica Ballroom- 12noon
Registration open from 12noon to 10pm by the Pacifica Ballroom.
12noon to 10pm Studios & Competitors
Please use this time to collect heat sheets, programs, competitor number,etc.


Tuesday Morning, September 2nd - SESSION 1 - Pacifica Ballroom - 6:30AM
PACIFICA BALLROOM (times are tentative and subject to change)
6:30AM 6:30AM - Doors open for admission
7:00AM - "All-American" Pro/Am American Rhythm One Dance Competitions (All Ages & Levels)
2:50PM - U.S. National Pro/Am American Rhythm Closed Multi-Dance Championships (All Ages & Levels)
5:05PM - U.S. Open to the World Pro/Am Senior American Rhythm Championships (Multi-Dance Championships)
5:29PM - U.S. Open to the World Pro/Am American Rhythm Scholarship Championships (The Final round of the "A1" unisex age division will be held this evening during session 2)
6:23PM - U.S. National Pro/Am American 9 Dance Championship - Rhythm Section

7:30 PM - End of Session 1

Tuesday Evening, September 2nd - SESSION 2 - Pacifica Ballroom - 8:00PM
PACIFICA BALLROOM (times are tenative and subject to change)
8:00PM 8:00PM - Doors open for admission
8:30PM - U.S. National Professional Rising Star American Smooth Competition (QF)
8:50PM - U.S. National Professional Rising Star International Latin Competition (QF)
9:20PM - U.S. Open to the World Grand Senior Amateur (50+) Standard Championship (F)
9:40PM - U.S. Open to the World Pro/Am American Rhythm Scholarship Championship ("A1") - Final
10:30PM - U.S. National Professional American Style Nine Dance Championship – Rhythm (SF)
11:10PM - U.S. National Professional Theatrical Dance Championship (F)
11:15PM - U.S. National Professional Int'l Style Ten Dance Championship – Standard Section (SF)

12:05AM - End of Session 2

Wednesday Morning, September 3rd - SESSION 3 - Pacifica Ballroom - 7:30AM
PACIFICA BALLROOM (times are tentative and subject to change)
7:30AM 7:30AM - Doors open for admission
8:00AM - "All-American" Pro/Am American Smooth One Dance Competitions (All Ages & Levels)
1:20PM - U.S. National Pro/Am American Smooth Multi-Dance Championships (All Ages & Levels)
3:05PM - U.S. Open to the World Pro/Am Senior American Smooth Championship
4:15PM - U.S. Open to the World Pro/Am American Smooth Scholarship Championships (The Final round of the “A1” unisex age division will be held this evening during session 4)
5:36PM - U.S. National Pro/Am American Style Nine Dance Championship - Smooth Section

6:30PM - End of Session 3

Wednesday Evening, September 3rd - SESSION 4 - Pacifica Ballroom - 7:30PM
PACIFICA BALLROOM (times are tentative and subject to change)
7:30PM 7:30PM - Doors open for admission
8:00PM - U.S. Open to the World Pro/Am American Smooth Scholarship Championship (“A1”) - Final
8:15PM - U.S. National Professional Rising Star International Standard Competition (QF)
8:25PM - U.S. National Professional Rising American Rhythm Competition (QF)
9:55PM - U.S. National Professional International Style Ten Dance Championship – Latin (SF)
10:05PM - U.S. National Pro/Am Show Dance Championship (F)
10:35PM - U.S. National Professional Cabaret Championship (F)
11:15PM - U.S. National Professional American Style Nine Dance Championship (SF)
11:25PM - U.S. Open to the World Amateur Under 21 Latin Championships (F)

12:10AM - End of Session 4

Thursday Morning, September 4th - SESSION 5 - Pacifica Ballroom - 7:30AM
PACIFICA BALLROOM (times are tentative and subject to change)
7:30AM 7:30AM - Doors open for admission
8:00AM - "All-American" Pro/Am International Latin One Dance Competitions (All Ages & Levels)
12:35PM - U.S. National Pro/Am International Latin Multi Dance Championships (All Ages & Levels)
2:42PM - U.S. Open to the World Pro/Am Senior Latin Multi-Dance Championship
3:35PM - U.S. Open to the World Pro/Am International Latin Scholarship Championships (The Final round of the “A1” unisex age division will be held this evening during session 6)
5:17PM - U.S. National Pro/Am International Style Ten Dance Championships – Latin Section

6:15PM - End of Session 5

Thursday Evening, September 4th - SESSION 6 - Pacifica Ballroom - 7:30PM
PACIFICA BALLROOM (times are tentative and subject to change)
7:30PM 7:30PM - Doors open for admission
8:00PM - U.S. Open to the World Pro/Am International Latin Scholarship Championship (“A1”) - Final
8:10PM - U.S. National Professional International Standard Championship (First Round)
8:30PM - U.S. Open to the World Amateur Under 21 International Standard Championships (F)
8:45PM - U.S. Open to the World Professional Rising Star International Latin Competition (QF)
9:25PM - U.S. National Professional American Rhythm Championship (QF)

11:30PM - End of Session 6

Friday Morning, September 5th - SESSION 7 - Pacifica Ballroom - 7:00AM
PACIFICA BALLROOM (times are tentative and subject to change)
7:00AM 7:00AM - Doors open for admission
7:30AM - "All-American" Pro/Am International Standard One Dance Competitions (All Ages & Levels)
12:10PM - U.S. National Pro/Am International Standard Multi Dance Championships (All Ages & Levels)
3:16PM - U.S. Open to the World Pro/Am Senior International Standard Championships
4:10PM - U.S. Open to the World Pro/Am International Standard Scholarship Championships (The Final round of the “A1” unisex age division will be held this evening during session 8)
6:02PM - U.S. Open to the World Pro/Am Gentlemen's International Standard Championships
6:35PM - U.S. National Pro/Am International Style 10 Dance Championships – Standard Section

7:30PM - End of Session 7

Friday Evening, September 5th - SESSION 8 - Pacifica Ballroom - 8:00PM
PACIFICA BALLROOM (times are tentative and subject to change)
8:00PM 8:00PM - Doors open for admission
8:30PM - U.S. National Professional International Latin Championship (First Round)
9:00PM - U.S. Open to the World Professional Rising Star Int’l Standard Competition (QF)
9:50PM - U.S. Open to the World Pro/Am International Standard Scholarship Championship (“A1”) Final
11:00PM - U.S. National Professional American Smooth Championship (QF)
11:20PM - U.S. Open to the World Amateur International Standard Championships (F)
11:50PM - World Professional Cabaret/Exhibition Championship (F)

12:50AM - End of Session 8

Saturday Morning, September 6th - SESSION 9 - Pacifica Ballroom - 8:30AM
PACIFICA BALLROOM (times are tentative and subject to change)
8:30AM 8:30AM - Doors open for admission
9:00AM - U.S. Open Pro/Am Rising Star American Rhythm Competitions
9:18AM - U.S. Open Amateur American Rhythm Championship (F)
9:54AM - U.S. Pro/Am Pre-Teen & Junior American Rhythm Championships (F)
10:20AM - U.S. Open Pro/Am Rising Star American Smooth Competitions
10:52AM - U.S. Pro/Am Pre-Teen & Junior American Smooth Championships (F)
10:52AM - U.S. Open Amateur American Smooth Championship (F)
11:35AM - U.S. Open Pro/Am Rising Star International Latin Competitions
11:44AM - U.S. Pro/Am Pre-Teen & Junior Latin Championships (F)
12:29PM - U.S. Open Amateur Pre-Teen Latin Championship (SF)
12:38PM - U.S. Open Amateur Junior Latin Championship (SF)
1:15PM - U.S. Open Pro/Am Cabaret Championship (F)
1:55PM - U.S. Open Pro/Am Rising Star International Standard Competitions
2:13PM - U.S. Pro/Am Pre-Teen & Junior Standard Championships (F)
3:08PM - U.S. National Pro/Am Mambo Championship (SF)
3:13PM - U.S. Open Amateur Pre-Teen & Junior International Standard Championships (F)
3:50PM - U.S. Pro/Am Grand Championships
(The winners of the U.S. Pro/Am A1”Open to the World” Latin, Rhythm, Standard, Smooth, Ten Dance and Nine Dance Championships vie for this Grand Championship title)
4:10PM - U.S. National Professional Classic Show Dance Championship (F)
4:25PM - U.S. National Professional South American Show Dance Championship (F)

4:55 PM End of Session 9

Saturday Evening, September 6th- SESSION 10 - Pacifica Ballroom - 6:00PM
PACIFICA BALLROOM (times are tentative and subject to change)

6:00PM 6:00PM - Doors open for admission
6:30PM - U.S. Open to the World Professional International Standard Championship (A WDC World Series Event (1st Round)
7:00PM - U.S. Open to the World Amateur International Latin Championship (QF)
9:00PM - Presentation of the John Monte Award and the U.S. Dance Championship Hall of Fame Awards
9:05PM - U.S. Open to the World Professional International Latin Championship (A WDC World Series Event (1st Round)
9:35PM - Presentation of Top Students, Teacher & Studio Awards
10:50PM - U.S. National Professional Mambo Championship (F)

11:30PM - End of Competition


[back to UNITED STATES DANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS]


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[Larinda McRaven]

bless you

[latingal]

Lovely! Thank you gingerbread!

[Larinda McRaven]

it isn't shrinking I can tell you that...

No it is not shrinking. But the dancers that attend have changed over the past few years.

***************


And the site is up and lightening fast now.

[Standarddancer]

However that winner's circle section that people used to check entries was gone?

[Merrylegs]

However that winner's circle section that people used to check entries was gone?

I suspect that was the culprit for the slow/not loading site.

Also, I think given that the competition is 6 days away, you're either in or you're not.

[Larinda McRaven]

yeah! We crashed all of AccessDance!!

[Merrylegs]

yeah! We crashed all of AccessDance!!


Woot! Down with the establishment!!

(just kidding)

[syncopationator]

at least you can still check your heats now.

[Larinda McRaven]

wow Sync, your signature line took me quite by surprise!

[syncopationator]

wow Sync, your signature line took me quite by surprise!

not what I was originally contemplating, but thought this would be more fun...

you approve?

[Standarddancer]

very funny signature line sync;)

[samina]

very funny signature line sync;)

love it! did you click on the link, SD, to see the photo of sync up there on the podium? very cool...:cool:

[Standarddancer]

love it! did you click on the link, SD, to see the photo of sync up there on the podium? very cool...:cool:

sure I did! hilarious:nope:

[syncopationator]

Thank you, Thank you... What can I say? I get creative sometimes...

[Joe]

Wasn't there some hullabaloo within NDCA about Pro/Am specifically not being considered to be "Dancesport?"

[Joe]

yeah! We crashed all of AccessDance!!
LOL, another D-F Denial of Service attack! ;)

[reb]

I don't buy it - the scholarship/dancesport series/ etc., are judged on the couple, so - if anything - males and their influence on the partnership are compared to the other males (including male pros) and their influence on the partnership

not male vs female

Its couple vs couple, and when it comes to my own actions (the only thing I can control), its me vs the other guys.

[syncopationator]

Wasn't there some hullabaloo within NDCA about Pro/Am specifically not being considered to be "Dancesport?"

are you kidding me???

[gingerbread]

are you kidding me???

What does THAT mean? We SUPPORT the dancesport industry! All we get for that (besides the joy of dance, the ability to study with and be partnered by world-class professionals) is disrespect. But what on earth did you mean, not part of Dancesport? Not worthy of teaching, I know that, not worthy of anyone's respect, at least no respect from AmAm couples. What now?

[Larinda McRaven]

Now don't get all crazy. Joe did not say that. Joe was ASKING if that was part of the NDCAs stance a few years back.

But until someone can come up with an NDCA quote and start a thread to address it specifically we just aren't going there. And is isn't like we don't ALREADY have a bazillion threads on that.

[fascination]

ditto that man...fight about it when I get back ;)

[syncopationator]

Yes I agree. And their stance may have had to do with regard to dancesport athletes teaching. Not in regards to the competition aspect. But there are plenty of threads about this.

[ChaChaMama]

Without "going there"--I seem to recall that this statement was made around 2002, when amateur competitors were first required to register with the NDCA if they wanted to compete in NDCA comps, in addition to registering with USA Dance to compete in USA Dance comps.

I think the unfortunate statement to which Joe referred might have been made in an attempt to clarify why pro-am student competitors would not also have to register with the NDCA.

[Laura]

Now don't get all crazy. Joe did not say that. Joe was ASKING if that was part of the NDCAs stance a few years back.
In my recollection it was not the NDCA that was saying this, and it wasn't USA Dance's position either. As to what specific individuals within these organizations may have thought and said...well, that is something different and yeah find some quotes and then we can get all upset and argue about this yet again. So we can all chill now :)

[Joe]

Yes, it did have something to do with the issue of amateurs having to register with NDCA, but pro/ams not having to register (i.e. pay), or something like that. No need for y'all to get your panties in a bunch.

[njdancegirl]

No need for y'all to get your panties in a bunch.

We're a sensitive group...lots of hot buttons ;)

[Joe]

Mmmm...buttons to push. :raisebro:

[liz]

I am so ready to get to Orlando!!!!! I will be around on Monday evening. Anyone else gonna get in on Monday? Best of luck to all..

[fascination]

yes...

[liz]

Will look for you.. Remember I have red short hair now... Kinda worried at how it is going to look..

[fascination]

will watch for you...off to practice

[reb]

Good Luck fasc, red-head liz, and everyone . . .

So what's the story about comp plans given the Hurricane - is it near?

[fascination]

dh says it will be well to the west

[fascination]

not that it would deter me regardless

[reb]

not that it would deter me regardless

I believe those are the fighting words of a winner!








(swim inland)

[latingal]

Best of luck to all at USDSC. Hope to see some of you there!

[reb]

Good luck lg!

[fascination]

thanks reb...see you soon LG...hug

[dancerman]

Hey everyone,
I just wanted to wish my DF family the best of luck at Orlando this week ( a little extra good luck to those in my own backyard , of course). Wish I could be there. Maybe next year!!!
ENJOY!!
:cheers:

[mamboqueen]

ditto; good luck to everyone!

[samina]

good luck, all!

i'll be getting down there wednesday, dinner-ish. hope to see you all there!

[Larinda McRaven]

Arriving Monday evening.

[ChelD]

Arriving late afternoon Monday.

[chilipepper]

Good luck, everyone!

[liz]

Thanks Reb!!!! Hope All Make It There Safely... Be Sure To Say Hi...

[syncopationator]

Arriving wednesday morning. See you all by the pool!!!

[syncopationator]

Anyone interested in a DF meet up for drinks Saturday before the evening session? Say by the hotel bar around 6ish???

[samina]

Count me in...

[SDsalsaguy]

Anyone interested in a DF meet up for drinks Saturday before the evening session? Say by the hotel bar around 6ish???
Will try to make it!

[latingal]

Thanks for the well wishes reb, fasc and others! Will be looking forward to seeing you all around the venue! Best of luck to all!

[Merrylegs]

have fun, everybody!

good luck!!

[ChaChaMama]

Just curious--is there going to be a USDSC Diaries section on the board, the way there was for Emerald?

[samina]

What a great idea, CCM!

[SDsalsaguy]

Just curious--is there going to be a USDSC Diaries section on the board, the way there was for Emerald?
Will do!

(although I don't think I won't have a computer with me in Orlando :?)

[SDsalsaguy]

...and now done! :)

[Larinda McRaven]

I am here. Flew in and got my DDR and Rock Band set up!!!

[samina]

I am here. Flew in and got my DDR and Rock Band set up!!!

no way... seriously? DDR awaits?

dang, chica... that is so hard-core. can't wait...! :D