Just returned from Chicagoland and must say it was refreshing to attend an event where line dancers were appreciated and noticed.  There was plenty of space for dancing on a really nice floor and you cannot go wrong with the “Wildman” Louie playing requests.  Instructors include (besides me) Scott Blevins, Bryan McW, Judy McDonald, Eve Yeaton, and Donna Caudill.  Good dances were taught throughout each day. (It’s hard to determine the reaction for the beginning of an event when Friday is a work day, especially for the locals.)  A “Max” pass was available to include all paid workshops, but there was only a few paid classes...dancers should know by now that when Scott introduces a new dance---it’s going to be paid!  Speaking of which, Scott’s latest “creation” Cold Blooded (yeah, I know he is spelling blooded funny) is fun and believe it or not, really not to bad, just one 360 on 1 count, but you can cheap pretty easily on it!  With the numbers being down, it was fun to get to meet each dancer and spend some time with all.  Randy and Jennifer Jeffries, your new event directors, made a special appearance to personally thank all for attending and hopes to see you and a friend next year.  A FREE step description book was included with your pass (something new!).  Rhonda Shotts, who has always taken care of the concerns of line dancers, was always there to listen and address any needs or concerns.  WE HAD AIR so dancing was quite comfortable!  Also, it was great to have Jennifer and Rhonda on the floor with us dancing and learning.  Over all, I came away having that “good time” feeling that I had when I first started dancing.  I don’t know what the awards were, but I do know that a free pass for next year’s event was part of the choreography prizes.  Competition was held on the main ballroom with Jennifer and Bryan McW doing the honors of MCing.  Lynn (Diamond Advanced) danced beautifully and I look forward to her competing at Worlds.  Congratulations to Bob for Sensible Shoes winning Choreography and to Paul and Ken for their really cute dances—Ken’s was a production!  Paul is a young, new dancer who will be noticed in the upcoming dancing events.  Be sure to check our my web site at www.thejamiemarshall.com for upcoming news on line dancers not being considered on the same level as couples.  There really is a logical reason behind all the madness.  I have been on both sides of the fence and hope to shed some light to better education all of us in the dance community.  My challenge to each of you is to not give up on events, but provide solutions to making the event what you want it to be...not by bitter responses.  It’s okay to complain, but if you are complaining, you should have a suggestion to improve the situation.  Please mark you calendar for next August’s Chicagoland and give Randy, Jennifer, Rhonda and Randy another go at it.  I truly feel you will not be disappointed!

Jamie

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