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Western U.S. Region Irish Dancers
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Psychological Evaluations should be required... -- Stop the madness, 12:36:41 08/29/09 Sat [36]
Okay, so is it just me or is this sport filled with crazy parents (actually, they're probably everywhere)? Some of these moms are off the charts! Sometimes I feel like I need to send my daughter out in a bullet proof vest to protect her. The kids seem to make it work, but the parents will stop at nothing. I’ve seen more than a fair share of successful educated people stoop so low in order to get their dancer noticed. Throwing around money like there’s no tomorrow….bullying dancers, parents, teachers (whoever they can get their hands on) in order to show their “clout”(which doesn’t even exist). It’s all so disgusting, and even more shameful, they seem to get away with it because behaviors don’t seem to change. (or maybe those $$$$’s do prove useful) I guess they take their dancers’ failures and successes so personally – as if they are reflection on them directly. I can’t come up with any other excuses for those dreadful souls… Funny thing about it is that they aren't fooling anyone but themselves because they reek of insecurities. Why don't they put all those $$$ to good use and get some much needed therapy!

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Replies:
- I avoid those types. There are plenty of nice people in ID if you know where to look. I could care less how much money someone spends. (NT) -- Happy, 13:01:02 08/29/09 Sat
- We quit because of sicko mom and her sicko daughters.who stop at nothing to get rid of the competition by making life hell. She pretends to have lots of money except she has borrowed from many people and never paid back. Definately needs psych help. (NT) -- Poor soul, 13:55:58 08/29/09 Sat
- We had one of these moms kicked out of our school. She had crossed too many lines and there was hardly any parents or dancers that she hadn't hurt, bullied, or offended at some point. (NT) -- People were glad, believe me..., 14:05:49 08/29/09 Sat
  - Sounds like the same mom that is still floating around out there. Probably the same one. (NT) -- Evil woman, 14:51:31 08/29/09 Sat
- I try to focus on the absurb side of the whole thing-it helps you cope with the parents who are providing entertainment and drama for the rest of us. Go read Z&B and FeisDad-if we don't laugh at ourselves, someone else will. (NT) -- Pat, 14:24:53 08/29/09 Sat
  - Wait, wait! Absurd? I always felt my insights and stories were poignant and touching.... (NT) -- ZandB (I'm hurt), 15:46:21 08/29/09 Sat
    - I love your web site! My favs are ad copy for selling dresses, and the t-shirts! The take-off on the visa commerical "watching her fall on her butt in the slip jig" is a favorite at our house. DD did just that her first time out in solo dress. You are a ROCK AND AN ICON! We need more like you! (NT) -- Pat, 19:01:36 08/29/09 Sat
      - What is with the slip jig? DD was only one dance away from dress-slip jig. At 3 Feis in a row she fell on butt/forgot step. Before 4th Feis TC told DD to do the most basic steps and stay upright! (NT) -- LOL, 19:44:08 08/29/09 Sat
- No, I don't think this activity has more crazy parents than any other. It's easy to avoid them, and you should feel free to do so. Always be courteous, then excuse yourself and move on. (NT) -- life is too short, 14:39:27 08/29/09 Sat
- What happened to you to make you post such a thing? (NT) -- maybe it's you, 16:02:12 08/29/09 Sat
- re crazy parents -- ua, 19:10:06 08/29/09 Sat
  - Great perspective. I think the crazy parent syndrome is similar to those people on Idol who are completely convinced they can sing. Somewhere along the journey these ID parents were told their kid has what it takes when it's really not true. (NT) -- let's be honest, 19:25:47 08/29/09 Sat
- As the OP said, if they have such "insecurities", just let the drama ride on without you. I try to use those types as part of lifes education for my dd, there are all types and you choose who you are and who you want to be friends with.... (NT) -- maid, 20:11:34 08/29/09 Sat
- That's really sad, and not a little bit pathetic. Obviously their child is not talented so the parents are scrambling for attention. Hard for parents like that to swallow that the kids that do get noticed by everyone don't have to work for it. Yeah sometimes their parents can get caught up in the "what should I do for this talented kid" or listen to the compliments and consider moving schools etc, but at least they're not pathetically scrambling for recognition or worse yet, bullying for attn. (NT) -- ,, 01:32:40 08/30/09 Sun
- Now I´m corious, what have they done to you and your daughter to set you off like that? And besides, try dressage or show jumping, this will open your eyes about "crazy parents". (NT) -- mm, 06:27:48 08/30/09 Sun
- I would have to say that the "Crazy Parent Syndrome" is due to a lack of ability/confidence in parents..(more) -- MsCounselor, 06:48:34 08/30/09 Sun
  - It is competition, I see nothing wrong with wanting to win. And I am not a crazy parent, I stay away from the inner circle and this isn't my daughter's only activity. It's a child's hobby-nothing more. (NT) -- ., 07:32:43 08/30/09 Sun
    - Are you saying the crazies are the inner circle? I'm not sure if I've ever come across the kind op is describing. What do they look like, what sorts of things do these types do? Who are "their" friends? Are they loudmouths? Attention seekers who are always there? (NT) -- outta loop, 08:22:27 08/30/09 Sun
      - weirdos -- ID Mom, 08:41:24 08/30/09 Sun
        
        Haha, thanks for the lowdown, will keep a watchful eye! (NT) -- me again, 11:32:52 08/30/09 Sun
    - There is nothing wrong with wanting to win. However there IS healthy competition and UNhealthy competition. (more) -- mscounselor, 08:37:34 08/30/09 Sun
    - I only see this with one or two parents at our school. Doesn't matter if they are older or younger. It is the personalities involved. Life is like this sometimes you get these ambitious types that stop at nothing. It is chance to teach ethical behavior. (NT) -- rmom, 08:55:28 08/30/09 Sun
- We all want to do well , and for our kids to do well in life, but there are some downright evil, nasty parents (intense Dads - yikes) and it trickles down to the then nasty daughter - just miserable competitive and unpleasant - and it looks like they really need to "get a life" honestly, put it in perspective -its a hobby! Appears Dad has no other hobby or life himself! Just hanging around feises all the time being rude- just can be unhealthy in some cases - not of the christian/irish culture may be that is norm for their culture - not ours? (NT) -- yuck they ruin it for everyone, 10:15:24 08/30/09 Sun
  - Maybe it is odd, but I have never seen this in the dads though I have seen it, rarely, in a mom or two. Most of the people I have met in ID are warm, supportive, friendly and people I would like to see more often. Maybe you go to the wrong events (NT) -- or just see the world differently., 12:26:10 08/30/09 Sun
    - I don't think thats a fair statement you are making, I think all the posts here validate that bad attitude is "out there" at all sports not just feises, maybe you are lucky to not be close to it in your dancer's competition - if so thats great, but its there just the same, its not just "me" as you claim - its obvious if you read all the other posts- are you feeling defensive? What would you say that? (NT) -- focus on the good I say, more good than bad always!, 14:17:41 08/30/09 Sun
      - WARNING!! Disconnect altert! I make the comment that most of what I have found in ID is positive and agree that there are some, albeit just a few, knuckleheads out there. Then, you accuse me of failing to see and of having a bad attitude. Are you the one mom I was commenting about above? (NT) -- Sheesh, 21:17:38 08/30/09 Sun
        
        they may have been trying to reply to the same poster YOU replied to, but accidentally replied to you instead. (NT) -- ., 14:03:45 09/02/09 Wed
- This lack of character goes on outside of the sports area... I have seen it in class rankings (GPA,etc) musical theatre (who gets what lead), and the list goes on. When I see it I usually do two things: 1) call it to my kids attention and use it as a learning experience for their future; 2) play devil's advocate in my mind, ie "they must have a void in their life to need this win so badly for their child, I hope the void is filled.... (NT) -- Never stoop to the level of judging them, pray for them., 10:18:35 08/30/09 Sun
  - great advice - I try that too! It just kinda sours the feises at times if you know what I mean - I try to focus on the good - the pleausre I get in watching my dd dance and do her best and most of all enjoy it and do it for fun and with a good mindset... (NT) -- amen, 14:12:30 08/30/09 Sun
- If we all are more accepting of individual strengths and weaknesses you wouldn't have to be so negative, judging, making these parents out to be monsters. Have some compassion, you don't know what it's like to walk in their shoes. (NT) -- sayin', 17:08:35 08/30/09 Sun
  - ummmm, okay -- just sayin' what?, 09:17:15 08/31/09 Mon
- It's funny because some of this hits home.It is easy to get caught up in this thing we call Irish dance.Especially when you have a teacher that really pushes.Though I don't think we were ever mean or nasty or anything like that we were the ones falling for all the extras like privates extra classes doing the teachers crud work ect.Then when the lightbulb comes on you are not sure how to stop it all without hurting your child.So you finally have the guts to stand up and tell the teacher no and I'm not spending my hard earned money for rediculous things. Then you have to explain to your kid why the teacher won't so much as say hello. Yes it's easy to get sucked in and it's hard to fix it. (NT) -- --, 22:26:05 08/30/09 Sun
  - I know (NT) -- right?, 23:48:45 08/30/09 Sun
  - Been there, done that... -- it's never easy, 09:26:26 08/31/09 Mon
- Sadly there are those types in every activity. Fortunately the sane folks tend to outnumber the (NT) -- crazies!, 15:45:50 08/31/09 Mon
A true feis dad? -- feis dad, 10:42:18 08/29/09 Sat [20]
Go to www.feisdad.blogspot.com if you would like to check out a random picture of a feis dad at a performance.

-- feis dad

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Replies:
- Which one? Yikes. The one with the guy holding a beer? (NT) -- is that you?, 19:28:01 08/29/09 Sat
- Definitely not feis dad, just a joke on what dance can drive some dads to..... (NT) -- LOL, 20:12:48 08/29/09 Sat
  - o.k., I must admit this guy's blog is really funny. (NT) -- read his posts, 21:20:29 08/29/09 Sat
- Feis Dad?? wow.. sounds like someone is overinvolved and needs to step back a bit and maybe go play a round of golf. (NT) -- just sayin', 01:34:25 08/30/09 Sun
  - Why not, should be glad that there are a few dads left who are interested in their children´s activities and watch rather than play golf. (NT) -- nn, 06:25:00 08/30/09 Sun
    - I'm always envious of the moms who have their capable husbands play feis dad to the kids. You gotta admit you must be too! (NT) -- wishful thinking on my part, 07:48:37 08/30/09 Sun
      - Not me, thank you very much. Kid makes cell phone call to Dad after competition and reports in. That's all. Torture for husband to hang around the crazy feis crowds and the pageant mad momma's unless it's an out of towner and we need a bodyguard. (NT) -- I'm serious!, 11:19:09 08/30/09 Sun
        
        I have to disagree. There are some dads I see more than the moms and they seem to help their dds stay ready but calm. Sometimes I think the guys understand how to handle competition better than we do and give better advice to our dds. My H has to work weekends otherwise he would be there all the time. For those with Hs than come and help, consider yourselves lucky. (NT) -- !, 12:32:25 08/30/09 Sun
        
        I've seen the opposite. I think it's the testosterone, LOL! stage daddies are FAR worse than the mommies from what I've observed. (NT) -- ., 15:55:34 08/30/09 Sun
      - DH has taken DD to several feis (I hate flying) and the pictures are great (wig awry, crown down on forehead, no sock glue, etc). Rushing to the stage last minute, missing results...sounds bad, but DD laughs and has such great memories. Completely different experience for her. (NT) -- We love our Feis Dad, 17:07:28 08/30/09 Sun
        
        :-) that so reminds me of some of my feis dad memories... -- Aine, 13:01:23 08/31/09 Mon
  - Really?? A Dad that goes to a feis with his daughters is overinvolved. WOW?? Is a mom who takes her son to baseball games overi nvolved too? Or are the gender sterotypes only slapped on the dads. -- We also have a feis dad., 15:04:18 08/31/09 Mon
    - Lucky you! (NT) -- and good for him!, 15:54:35 08/31/09 Mon
- Trust me, this feis dad is not the equivalent of the average "feis mom", he just likes getting to joke around.... (NT) -- feismom, 09:03:32 08/30/09 Sun
- My kids have the best feis dad ever. He comes to every competition and helps out in anyway he can. Many mommies are jealous of our feis dad and have even told me so. We just feel very lucky and blessed to have the support of dad too! (NT) -- me, 16:44:47 08/31/09 Mon
  - wish my husband was a good feis dad. He hates going and avoids when he can. However, I am expected to show up at all sporting events for my sons (which I would anyway, they are MY SONS!!). Wish he would finally realize how much he hurst dd's feelings and stop being selfish at least a few times a year. I go to sporting events nearly every weekend I am not at a feis! (NT) -- fed up, 19:42:59 08/31/09 Mon
    - good for you that you support all your children... (NT) -- hopefully some day he will come around..., 22:39:08 08/31/09 Mon
      - I hope so too. He does like to watch during St. Patrick's dance outs, but the girls like him to be there for comps once in a while -- daddy hugs, 05:10:48 09/01/09 Tue
- Show your husband the feis dad blogs...maybe if he can find the humor in it, he can tolerate coming once in a while...my husband only comes occasionally, usually when we are at the hotel so he can escape to his room, and I text him when the girls are dancing,LOL! (NT) -- maid, 15:30:54 09/01/09 Tue
Distance Help -- Cdn Mom, 09:40:15 08/29/09 Sat [13]
Can someone please tell me how long a drive it would be (during the week) from Santa Monica to Long Beach (along the coast)? Thanks.

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- About one and a half to two hours driving time. But you would definitely want to stop along the way, maybe at Palos Verdes. (NT) -- have a great time!, 11:34:28 08/29/09 Sat
  - Yikes - mapquest told me 48 minutes! (NT) -- ., 11:45:43 08/29/09 Sat
    - Along coast makes it longer, but much prettier! (NT) -- if you have time, 16:13:59 08/29/09 Sat
- If you are wanting a scenic drive, this isn't a good idea. It will be slow and tons of traffic and you will rarely see the coast from the road. -- la native, 12:09:06 08/29/09 Sat
- We are staying in Santa Monica and want the quickest way to the ferry for Catalina Island (NT) -- ??, 12:17:51 08/29/09 Sat
  - Then if you just stick to the direct route via the 405, 45 minutes is right--allow an extra 30 minutes or so if the traffic is bad. (NT) -- la lative, 12:29:56 08/29/09 Sat
    - You'll need to take the 405 South to the 7 South to get to the Catalina terminal. It's not off of the 405. The terminal is about at the end of the 7. (NT) -- LB Native, 14:23:28 08/29/09 Sat
      - True. I figured they looked that up on mapquest. They didn't ask for directions. (NT) -- la, 17:36:01 08/29/09 Sat
        
        I thpught people were laid back in LA; who cares if she gave her directions too. I wish I was going to Catalina. Have a great time. (NT) -- ca dreamin, 08:58:36 08/30/09 Sun
        
        Sorry! I guess I need a cill pill. I thought I was being corrected unnecessarily. (NT) -- Uptight, 09:27:42 08/30/09 Sun
        
        No worries. I just thought that since they're coming from Canada, they might not be as familiar with the LA area freeways and the extra info couldn't hurt.. (NT) -- LB, 10:35:48 08/30/09 Sun
- Thank you so much, and I do appreciate every piece of information (MORE) -- CdnMom, 19:01:36 08/31/09 Mon
Another view on university/college: Running the Gauntlet -- Parent, 07:21:58 08/29/09 Sat [4]
http://www.lewrockwell.com/north/north414.html

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- Thank you for this link. It is so true. I read it to my son who is in college and he agrees with the author! (NT) -- EM, 18:19:35 08/29/09 Sat
- I totally disagree, at least with parts of that. College worthless and boring? I'm sorry, that depends on what you're willing to make of it. And although there's plenty of drinking at most schools, there's still individual choice -- I did my share of drinking but never felt the need to down 20 shots. I think the author's slightly jaded... (NT) -- --, 00:19:13 09/01/09 Tue
- We live near Branson, MO, where there is a college termed "hard work u". ..more inside -- dance mom, 13:13:51 09/01/09 Tue
OT -- The CA case involving the kidnapped girl held captive for 18 years is one of the most disturbing cases I've ever heard. -- deeply saddened mom, 22:00:33 08/28/09 Fri [5]
The neighbors who live on the same street had so many clues this offender had kids in his backyard yet no one acted on it. One neighbor said they chose to mind their own business. Another is reported saying "we only mind our own".

This is something we should all give much thought to, especially regarding feising. Let's all keep a watchful eye on all children at all times. Use the buddy system and take a minute to make sure all our kids are ok all the time. Let's become a closer and caring community for our kids.

Please don't bash me for posting this here, I'm pretty sure off topics are allowed. I'm happy the girl, now a woman is still alive but I'm hoping nothing like this can ever happen again. Awareness is key.

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- unfortunately, we live in a society of mixed messages.One minute, it's ok, even encouraged to watch out for your neighbors, and the next, we're told we have to live and let live. that it's wrong to judge others' lifestyles and behavior, especially if they don't conform to the so-called norm. To become suspicious over odd activity and to act on it would invite criticism from others who will castigate you for being judgemental, or for being "a hater". And for the record, at least one neighbor insisted they contacted the sherriff's dept. about suspicious goings-on there, and nothing was ever done about it. I read in the paper today that the sherriff apologized, admitting as much. (NT) -- sometimes it's hard to know what to do, 00:00:55 08/29/09 Sat
- I watch out for others people's children as I do my own. Because of that I speak up when I see a child doing something that is a danger to themselves or others, or not being respectful of anothers property. Can't count the number of times I have been called a b**ch by a child or been told by a parent to mind my own business. I am blown away at how some young people speak to adults. (NT) -- Oldtimer, 08:10:46 08/29/09 Sat
- Actually one neighbor did call the police to report suspicions. The police visited, and determined nothing was amiss. (NT) -- anon, 09:29:08 08/29/09 Sat
- I can't believe how stupid the police were regarding this case! It sickens me they didn't follow up on the report of kids living in tents--a neighbor reported it that way. The guy and his wife are slime, worst of the worst evil and should be put to death. (NT) -- !, 10:00:41 08/29/09 Sat
Blogging About Life -- Irish Julia Child, 17:35:19 08/28/09 Fri [23]
I went to see the movie Julie&Julia today - loved it! It made me think about my life and being the mother of an Irish Dancer - maybe a 'MAID'? How many people really cook anymore, and how many of have Irish Dancers for children?

So I googled 'Irish Dance Blogs' and OMG-what is out there! No, I don't need the excel chart of dd's placements-totally scary! The only thing I do on excel is the family budget-not my dd's placings!

We seem to get so wrapped up in the qualifications for 'Os' and 'NANS' and what level should solo dresses be worn at! I would love to read first person stories from Moms who are in the trenches of the competition.

What it takes to be 'graceful' when dd is getting 2nd place for the 8th time as classmate has earned dress and her mom is complaining about having to buy the solo dress! When teams are being picked and dd is too tall for one team, but too young for another. When dd's school dress is too small, but new school dress is put in limbo because TCs can't keep a dress maker for longer than a year - all the while they have a laundry list of dances DD HAS TO HAVE IN PW before we can get a solo dress - which would probably cost less than the latest rendition of the 'new' school dress. My dd can't compete w/o school dress(at any other school in our area she would have solo dress), but her school dress is 'too short'-while TC says 'oh she has to have all her dances in pw before she can wear a solo'. She can't feis w/o a dress, but if she doesn't feis she doesn't move up! And no, she should not be penalized for 6mos because of 'costume issues'!

I read all the boards - no I am not the only one dealing with this. I would love other people's stories-no I don't care what you call them! At the end of the day we are only trying to do the best for our kids. Should I launch a blog of my own? Is something already out there?

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- For the most part, it can be what you make of it. We have tried only to keep the competition to within each girl and their own goals. The dresses have been modest and loved. So some can be done if you want. However, I feel for the rest of your post. (more) -- Mom, 17:58:40 08/28/09 Fri
- Where are you dancing? I went through this with DDs TC-they had a hissy fit anytime someone looked at them wrong-more inside -- Gaellic Lawyer, 18:30:39 08/28/09 Fri
- You named many of the reasons why my DD quit after 8 yrs of beautiful dancing. Just got tired of the BS (NT) -- Glad she's on to better things., 18:54:33 08/28/09 Fri
- We can only tolerate so much, everyone has their own breaking point. You pay tuition, you are the consumer/customer paying for a service with the option of also paying a penalty if you choose to take your business elsewhere. Tc's are "different" and I honestly don't think they comprehend that part of the transaction. (NT) -- my $0.02, 21:16:48 08/28/09 Fri
- This same situation happened to my dd. You are your childs advocate. Buy a inexpensive solo dress (you can find them for $200 or less) and get one that fits. If the TC says anything, let her know that your dd will be wearing this until a suitable school dress can be found. Better to ask forgiveness than permission! (NT) -- BTDT, 04:35:00 08/29/09 Sat
  - Be careful with this, some teachers are not forgiving at all, mine is, if they caught us with an unauthorized dress, we would be sent packing. (NT) -- nn, 09:19:34 08/29/09 Sat
    - It is exactly this mindset that messes people up. If TC kicks someone out of school for getting a dress so they can compete, particularly in the scenario given by OP, it would be good riddance to bad TC garbage. There is SO much more out there--this attitude is ridiculous. We tolerated it for 7 years & then transferred to a school where the TCs were adults & treated people fairly. We DO have the ability to make sound consumer decisions--and sometimes that means taking action, like "Gaellic Lawyer" describes above. Or just transferring. (NT) -- ..., 11:40:10 08/29/09 Sat
      - I am lurking from another region, but can so relate to this! If "Gaellic Lawyer" is right, then why are we putting up with this? The TC won't like us? Should not the national rules prevail? If TC can't keep a DM, why should our dancers have to suffer? My DD should not be benched for 6 mos because TC can't figure out her costumes! I salute "Gaellic Lawyer" and hope she takes on the National Board! I have Moms who will kick in legal fees! (NT) -- Katerina, 19:12:01 08/29/09 Sat
        
        I just have a question though. Would the teacher forbid your dd to dance in a skirt and blouse? If she forbids that too... then I'm on your side in this arguement. IF... that was an option, and you just were not willing to dance in skirt and blouse... then My vote is still out on this. Doesn't sound like great TC... but sometimes people get too wrapped up in the solo dress thing. (NT) -- my opinion, 17:43:05 08/30/09 Sun
        
        BTDT-spent $100 on skirt set-materials, seamstress, shirt-all in correct colors. Amazing how TC who doesn't care how dirty school dresses (worn by other dancers) are, is concerned about what 'shade' is being used! DD wore skirt set, only to be dissed by peers! Comments included "don't your parents care enough to buy a decent dress? Are you not a good enough dancer to have a dress?" These are 13/14 yr old girls who could give Anna Wintour lessons in fashion. I don't want to hear that I am a bad mother because I don't want DD to put up with slurs. What I want is a level playing field-if one school has solos at the novice level, ALL SHOULD! Why doesn't the National Board step in? (NT) -- Irish Julia Child, 18:44:24 08/31/09 Mon
- To the OP-DD and I read your post last night and our hearts go out to you. We had a 15 month period-really-more inside! -- Mother/DD, 05:59:43 08/29/09 Sat
- Omg, so sad about the parent actually using Excel to track her daughter's progress and placings. Even scarier are the moms who track -- other people's kids, 07:01:47 08/29/09 Sat
  - I keep an excel file of my kid's placings (not other kids!). What is so sad about that? Do I need medical help???? (NT) -- LOL, 07:11:04 08/29/09 Sat
  - I did not do it -maybe bc I cant excel-at one point I was keepinjg a written list in grades -- inside, 08:19:15 08/29/09 Sat
  - I don't use Excel to track my dancer, but how would this be scarier than moms who track other people's kids... (NT) -- ?????, 09:11:46 08/29/09 Sat
  - I can´t find anything wrong with this. How else should people keep track of whether their dancer fullfills the requirements for moving up or not? And if the are familiar with exel, why not use it? (NT) -- nn, 09:22:24 08/29/09 Sat
  - A dad at our old school kept an excel spreadsheet on all of his dd's competitors. But the whole family was a bit loopy. It would have been funny if they weren't so influential at the school (NT) -- What a laugh, 09:34:27 08/29/09 Sat
  - I wish my mom had. I had a break of 8 years and when I came back I had no idea what level I was in anything because we never kept track! (NT) -- could have saved time., 08:10:45 08/30/09 Sun
    - Oh brother. (NT) -- Missing the point, 22:27:16 08/30/09 Sun
      - What is your point? (NT) -- lost history dancer, 07:18:08 09/02/09 Wed
  - You should see the little league parents with 500 different stats on each kid on every team! (NT) -- ., 13:54:45 08/30/09 Sun
  - I used to...it was the only way I could answer TCs questions about where she'd been and what she got...but what WAS TOTALLY SICK OF ME WAS.... -- go on inside..., 14:52:02 08/31/09 Mon
Toe stand question: Watching DD try to master toes, I can't figure out what part of the foot is carrying the weight. Is it really the tip of the toe? No ballet experience, either. Can't visualize what's going on inside her shoe. Can any of the experts explain it to a -- confused mom?, 10:43:15 08/28/09 Fri [5]
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Replies:
- There was a good explanation of toe stands on Dance.net. I'll put the link inside. -- good luck, 16:51:36 08/28/09 Fri
- This is a great explanation, thanks so much for the link! (NT) -- idma, 09:04:45 08/30/09 Sun
- toe walks -- my two cents, 14:27:57 08/31/09 Mon
  - Wow, you are so great! Thanks for taking the time for this great reply! -- Thank you again!, 09:41:52 09/01/09 Tue
Looks like estes park feis will have good numbers this year -- yay, 21:50:28 08/27/09 Thu [4]
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Replies:
- Glad to hear it! -- Hoping for good weather..., 07:04:30 08/28/09 Fri
  - Is there a place to sell dresses ( i.e. a rack) at this Feis?? (NT) -- m, 07:40:43 08/29/09 Sat
    - Sometimes they have it under the covered area where they give out medals and awards. Good luck selling. (NT) -- CO, 10:51:14 08/30/09 Sun
Volunteer requirements for the Oireachtas: -- wr mom, 20:11:22 08/27/09 Thu [19]
What does your school have the parents do to volunteer? Who do you contact to find out more about your options to fullfill your required hours?

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- Required hours? How is that possible? I've never been asked to volunteer before, is this something new? Volunteerism--isn't it voluntary? I enjoy volunteering for different things but not when it's required or mandatory, that's not volunteering, I'm paying to be there & resent anyone TELLING me what to do (NT) -- on my mini vacation, 20:29:47 08/27/09 Thu
- Typically, the schools in the area holding the feis are asked to provide volunteers to fill various slots. Usually each school is assigned a responsbility--usually only ends up being an hour or so of volunteer time for each. (NT) -- ..., 20:50:36 08/27/09 Thu
- All of the teachers are required to contribute at least 5 hours of time. (NT) -- TC, 22:13:10 08/27/09 Thu
- I am confused, in 8 times going to the O our parents have never been asked or required to volunteer. We are required to do so at our Feis and are happy to do so. I know that our TC's have to volunteer but that has nothing to do with the parents. Please clarify, maybe you are mistaken. (NT) -- confused, 09:48:45 08/28/09 Fri
  - Wow ... I am dying to know how in 8 years you have never had to work at the O. Each school has to pitch in when it is in your area. Do you live close to any of the O's in the last 8 years? (NT) -- wondering, 13:57:31 08/28/09 Fri
    - Yes, that would be a good question? What is considered close though? Is 1200 miles away considered being a local school? (NT) -- spread the wealth people., 14:57:09 08/28/09 Fri
- Where did you get the idea that parents were supposed to volunteer for anything, they are not, only the TCRG's. Maybe someone is pulling your leg, is this your first O? Tell them you already signed up and see what they say. (NT) -- Last laugh, 09:59:28 08/28/09 Fri
- Asked out TC and she said, not volunteering necessary. (NT) -- Answer Mom, 10:00:56 08/28/09 Fri
- I beleive when the "O" is held in your town all of the hosting schools have volunteer positions they need to fill.. when it was in Portland each school was given a list of positions and then we were asked by TC's .. I think our school were the door monitiors.. another was the registration help ect.. When "O" was in Phoenix last year our TC's just had to do their volunteer stuff not the parents. (NT) -- :), 10:52:02 08/28/09 Fri
- There are some schools whose TC's and parents volunteer their time every year at the WRO. I have noticed that it is mostly the smaller schools who step up and help. In the past parents have pased out numbers, sold programs & wristbands, monitored doors, etc. I believe Larson has run the dress consignment shop consistently for the last 4-5 years with their parents help. Don't see much vounteering from the two biggest schools. (NT) -- Oldtimer, 13:16:11 08/28/09 Fri
  - So is this the region requiring the volunteer time? Why would it be mainly smaller schools- that doesn't make sense? Also, why would one school need to do the same big job every year for 4 to 5 years? Maybe it should be another schools turn? (NT) -- Should be fair., 13:49:59 08/28/09 Fri
- I don't recall ever being asked to put in some time at the Oireachtas, but absolutely did when the NANs were in San Diego. 4 hours of checking for wrist bands. What a great time. (NT) -- ;(, 15:19:28 08/28/09 Fri
- We were asked to volunteer when O was in LA and NANs were in SD. It wasn't required, but appreciated, so we volunteered both times. (NT) -- SD Parent in SD School, 15:25:14 08/28/09 Fri
- I might be a little confused - but isn't there more to do than all the TC's can do alone? Doesn't there have to be parent volunteer's? Like a parent said above, when it was in Portland, the larger area schools helped with the O and the smaller schools ran the mini-feis. We all want things to run well, and I guess we also want everyone else to make it run for us. (NT) -- Mom, 15:42:51 08/28/09 Fri
- Isn't the dress consignment room like a vendor? They chage a hefty fee for their service, I would doubt that this is strictly volunteer job. It has been well run in the past, but way too pricey with the low resale prices of dresses. (NT) -- seller, 17:54:31 08/28/09 Fri
- Thanks for the responses. I have decided it best to ask the teacher about it. I was just wondering what others did and if we were unique in being required every year. (NT) -- op, 20:05:02 08/28/09 Fri
- Our TC was one of the chairs last year and we had a list of todo's that our parent volunteers were "strongly encouraged" to sign up for, which we did. If your school is one of the hosting schools it makes sense to me that parents would volunteer just as they/we do at our own feis.... (NT) -- wrmama, 09:07:48 08/30/09 Sun
- That makes perfect sense. But what if you are not one of the hosting schools and your TC is not one of the chairs, just a not close school, would you still think that people coming from out of state should be expected to volunteer? I think not? (NT) -- out of stater, 22:13:49 08/30/09 Sun
Kerry Dance Troup Autumn Auditions -- Kerry Records, 17:20:05 07/24/09 Fri [26]
Date: Sunday, September 13th, 2009
Time: 10:00am – 12:00noon
Location: MADILYN CLARK STUDIOS (ROOM E)
10852 Burbank Blvd.,
Hollywood, CA, 91601
818)506-7763

The Kerry Dance Troupe is looking for great champion-level
dancers to join the ranks. You must love to perform, be able to connect with an audience, and you must have a strong desire to be on stage.

**Please e mail: kdtchor@gmail.com if you are interested in auditioning**

Qualifications: You should be a championship level dancer.

We are looking for:
• Excellent timing
• Excellent rhythm
• Musicality
• Stage presence
• Ability to listen to and connect with the music while dancing
• Ability to learn choreography quickly

Thanks you for your interest in The Kerry Dance Troupe.
Don’t forget to sign up for our mailing list to receive information on all Kerry Records events.

We look forward to meeting you!
www.kerryrecords.com

FAQs
I understand there are many questions regarding this new troupe. The following is a list of answers that seem to cover most questions. If you have additional questions, however, please feel free to email them to kdtchor@gmail.com

RESTRICTIONS: We are primarily looking for dancers who have retired from competition. If you are planning to retire within the next year, it would be good to audition now, keeping in mind that you may/may not be able to perform in one or more shows if you've missed rehearsals. If you plan to continue competing but feel it will not impact your ability to learn and practice show material and you can commit to the rehearsal schedule, you will still be considered.

AGE: We are open to all ages, however most dancers tend to be over 18. Most of the Kerry Records productions are presented in a variety show style – switching between music, song and dance – however, elements within the show often are linked by a bit of story or theme. This often times sets up a “village” or “full Irish community” element on stage, so all ages can be used depending upon the show and its casting needs.

GEOGRAPHY: Our members are local, unless you intend to commute a lot of weekends. They range from San Diego to just north of Los Angeles. We have brought in guest dancers before, but do not anticipate that this year. Rather, we have decided to open up and expand the local troupe instead.

SHOWS: These auditions are not for a particular Kerry Records show, but all dancers in the shows will come from the troupe. KDT will have material ready for all shows that come up and constantly be working on new material as well as stock pieces.

SHOW RUNS: We do not “tour” (as of yet) like Riverdance or LOTD for example, so we do not employ dancers full-time, thus the need to be locally available. We have a couple of main shows per year. The largest is An Irish Christmas, which is in its fifth year. The show is updated and most elements change every year, but the format is retained. In 2008 there were seven performances over three weekends, the smallest theatre having just over 400 seats and the largest at 1800. This year will most likely stretch over four weeks, economy willing. We also perform at smaller venues, private events, are hired for conferences, etc. Dancers will be selected from the troupe based on what is needed and availability for each performance as they typically do not require more than one or two dancers at these smaller events.

COMPENSATION: All performances are paid performances, but the compensation varies depending on what it is.

REHEARSALS: Rehearsals are primarily held in Hollywood and are not paid rehearsals. If selected for this year's production of An Irish Christmas, you can expect to rehearse at least one day every weekend from late September through to the show tour.

Current performances are planned from the San Francisco and Modesto areas down through to San Diego, and some 2010 offers are being vetted from other states for either of the larger shows.

I hope this answers many of your questions. Let US know if you need more information or have specific questions.

We do not check this board often, so please email questions to kdtchor@gmail.com

[Edit]

Replies:
- Is this who Bobby Clark and hsi sister perform with now? (NT) -- ??, 11:27:25 08/28/09 Fri
- Yes they are so is Tori Lopez and Alyssa Perez. I am not sure who else but looks like some good dancers, (NT) -- MC, 13:59:14 08/28/09 Fri
  - So they have all retired from competition? (NT) -- Good dancers, 15:27:36 08/28/09 Fri
- No still all competing (NT) -- valerie, 16:15:06 08/28/09 Fri
  - You might want to check with those dancers before posting that. (NT) -- No O's, 00:43:01 08/29/09 Sat
- Why "no o's" lotssssssss of dancers still compete and dance in shows such as Riverdance and LOTD. (NT) -- no rule on that, 09:17:25 08/29/09 Sat
  - This group has shows during the Chiristmas season. Their rehearsal schedule might have changed since my dd was in it, but they did't encourage any missed days for O practice or competition during the time they are rehearsing. -- makes sense, 10:24:32 08/29/09 Sat
- These are all top open champ dancers so I very much doubt that they would need much rehearsal time for any show. (NT) -- in my opinion, 13:45:20 08/29/09 Sat
  - bfd no one really cares what they are doing this is an ad for more to join not about who's already in it (NT) -- ., 20:26:17 08/29/09 Sat
    - You soblcwund like the psycho being discussed further up the board. Go away with your filthy mouth we all know who you are. (NT) -- .,.,., 22:06:23 08/29/09 Sat
      - Inquiring minds want to know who you think that poster is. How could you know? Seems impossible being the internet and this website is open to anyone globally! (NT) -- got crystal ball?, 15:18:27 08/30/09 Sun
  - Perhaps they don't. But they were required to be available most every weekend from June (no July or August) through December when my dd was with them. -- Silence is golden, 23:38:08 08/29/09 Sat
  - This is your opinion, as you stated, and your opinion really does not matter when faced with the reality of a show. Please read the part about "Restrictions" for the qualifications for the dancers from their advert, -- read carefully, 23:43:36 08/29/09 Sat
  - I know of those dancers and agree they are great dancers but I disagree about not needing much rehearsal time. No matter how great your solo dancing is you still need to learn to work with all the other dancers and their styles. From the description it sounds more like dance dramas and show numbers.. I also think you don't necessarily need to be a top placer in order to be a good show dancer and have great stage presence. Competition is a bit different. -- Heard not all are top champs., 22:11:47 08/30/09 Sun
    - Very few dancers don't get in. This is not a competition or a show that will keep them busy year round. (NT) -- Be careful., 01:39:48 08/31/09 Mon
      - This is not anything like Riverdance, it is mainly a Christmas show, check with TC before you do this (NT) -- advice, 12:26:50 08/31/09 Mon
        
        Just looked at the website and I cannot imagine that Darren McGuire would choreograph anything less than Riverdance type dance troupe. Darren is very good I have seen some of his choreography and it is great. (NT) -- """, 16:26:41 08/31/09 Mon
        
        Oh, is he doing this again? I thought last year was his last, especially since "We have brought in guest dancers before, -- Have fun!, 18:24:13 08/31/09 Mon
        I must have missed something. I just looked at their website and can't see his name or photo anywhere. -- Please tell me where it is?, 18:34:02 08/31/09 Mon
        
        If you look at their website and click on the show ad it is Darren so why would they be showing something with him dancing in it if he is not in the show. I just looked at it however they should change the dancer in the beginning she does not look good. (NT) -- LL, 20:20:38 08/31/09 Mon
        
        I did click on it. Maybe there is something wrong with my computer. I saw him in last year's show, but the ad does not click through for me to show him in this year's show. -- No one really cares..., 01:22:03 09/01/09 Tue
        
        If no one really cares you obviously do or you would not be checking out the show, what is your problem? (NT) -- so what, 08:33:38 09/01/09 Tue
        
        Just curious. My computer has not been working well, so I didn't know if I just couldn't click on the link -- see you!, 11:23:59 09/01/09 Tue
- You sound like the psycho being discussed further up the board. Go away with your filthy trashy mouth. We all know who you are!!!!! (NT) -- Not too hard to figure out., 22:09:24 08/29/09 Sat
- CHANGE OF VENUE / TIME OF AUDITIONS -- Kerry Records, 19:09:48 08/31/09 Mon
Crossroads Feis Update -- Aubree Shelley, TCRG (Power Academy), 18:48:58 08/27/09 Thu [5]
Thanks everyone for your well-wishes and offers of support for our first feis to be held October9-10 in Provo, Utah.

After a few phone calls, I decided to give y'all a little update for our feis.

We have contracted Feisworx to do our registering. Our syllabus is in the good hands of the Western Region for approval, after which we should be able to open registration.

For your planning convenience, our preliminary schedule is as follows:

Friday: Figures, Adults and Music Competitions Starting at 5pm and going until we're done ;) (8-9pm)
Saturday: Champs in one ballroom, solos in the other, starting at 8 or 9am and we are planning on finishing by 6 or 7pm with our big specials.

Thanks for your patience as we navigate the "new feis" system. We look forward to seeing you in Utah in October!

[Edit]

Replies:
- Click on my name to email us with questions. Thanks! (NT) -- Aubree Shelley, TCRG (Power Academy), 18:54:39 08/27/09 Thu
- Thanks for posting the info. (NT) -- appreciative mom, 19:33:50 08/27/09 Thu
- We're so excited and thankful for another Utah feis!!!! It's hard to always travel (NT) -- to compete!, 10:17:06 08/28/09 Fri
- www.angelfire.com/dragon/poweracademy/crossroadsfeis.html (NT) -- Feis Website, 14:44:36 09/01/09 Tue
Does anyone know if it is true Celtic Steps in opening a school in Southern California. -- My DD loves that school, 07:56:18 08/27/09 Thu [21]
[Edit]

Replies:
- I have heard that too--go Celtic Steps! (NT) -- go !, 19:08:59 08/27/09 Thu
- that would be awesome! Great school, World class ceili! (NT) -- j hope so!, 21:45:08 08/27/09 Thu
- Does anyone know when they might be opening out here (NT) -- would love to transfer soon, 07:35:55 08/28/09 Fri
- Where in So Cal? (NT) -- caMOM, 08:31:04 08/28/09 Fri
- celtic steps -- dancer, 12:20:54 08/28/09 Fri
  - Okay. So where in Southern California are they planning to open? Southern California is a big place. (NT) -- ?, 13:11:23 08/28/09 Fri
    - joining with another school will be one big merger (NT) -- kt, 18:21:08 08/28/09 Fri
- you'd have to pry them away from their students and parents, too well loved (NT) -- kp, 14:52:06 08/28/09 Fri
- Will it be another case of good teachers spread too thin? (NT) -- hard to manage too many locations, 07:12:55 08/29/09 Sat
  - I think that's too bad...the school in CO will suffer. It's too hard to be in two places with the same gusto. (NT) -- ,, 07:44:29 08/29/09 Sat
- With 6 days a week of commitments, in 2 major locations (among others) and 50 miles apart, I surely hope they are not expanding. Yes, we are selfish and LOVE our TC's. They are the best and totally committed to their dancers and families. (NT) -- A Celtic Steps parent, 08:10:21 08/29/09 Sat
  - I know nothing about this situation. Don't know these teachers... but I see school doing this more often (expanding to distant cities) and I personally, don't understand the desire to do this. (more) -- xx, 09:04:47 08/29/09 Sat
    - I totally agree...our school suffers from this. Teacher spreads herself over 3 states and dancers are frustrated and impotent to do anything about it. (NT) -- ., 13:45:31 08/29/09 Sat
      - Another thing is how do teachers afford all that travel? It must be so expensive starting up a new school and traveling back and forth. Anyone care to give a clue where the new school is set to open and who they will be merging with? A big So. Cal school or a smaller one? (NT) -- ???, 21:48:22 08/29/09 Sat
    - I think they do it for the notoriety, certainly not for the students. The more tc's spread themselves thin the less each student from every location gets. No one is benefitiing except maybe the tc if the money is big enough. Seems to me the costs would outweigh the income. The costs to the students is enough to make many leave. (NT) -- seen it, 17:13:01 08/30/09 Sun
- I know it is a great school--and they are loved by their parents. It is growing exponentially. Are all those parents happy? I mean, it just seems like a dream come true if that is the case. (NT) -- not so happy CO dancer, 15:52:56 08/29/09 Sat
  - We already pay a small fortune for this sport. I wouldn't be happy if I had to pay this much, for a lot less instruction for my DD & DS. Or settle for instruction from other students filling in for TC's. Seen it done before. Please don't do it. (NT) -- A mom, 10:55:18 08/30/09 Sun
- You are so right!!! We feel lucky to see our TC, more often we have students teaching these days, really a bad situation. Please do not say "Change Schools" a very poor and very expensive option. (NT) -- I agree, 22:09:19 08/30/09 Sun
- Celtic Steps has quickly become a well known name in the dancing community, but even luckier are their dancers whose teachers are not opening a school elsewhere, although flattered by the interest, are busy focusing everyday on preparing their dancers for Oireachtis, their 13 teams and 3 figure choreographies, for an amazing competition in our hometown, they have taken a group of dancers and parents and made a committed family,new students are always welcome but you will have to move to Colorado (NT) -- parent, 14:37:45 08/31/09 Mon
  - Is it really that great!! No wonder many of our dancers transfer (NT) -- I hear it is professional and run like a business, 01:20:31 09/01/09 Tue
HIDDEN VALLEY FEIS: The schedule is now posted on Feisworx!!! This year we will be announcing First Feis, Championship and Specials outside on the patio to keep the ballrooms moving. We will also be having a BBQ Swim Party on Saturday night again at the Trellis Pool. Fresh flower leis will be given to all special winners as well, except the Family Special. We are looking forward to seeing you next weekend for a fabulous feis! Thanks for all of your support!! -- Hidden Valley Feis Committee, 22:12:56 08/26/09 Wed [12]
[Edit]

Replies:
- Thanks so much for getting the schedule up early. It's much appreciated! (NT) -- NW mom, 00:34:51 08/27/09 Thu
- VERY appreciative of the early schedule - thank you! (NT) -- .., 05:52:08 08/27/09 Thu
- me too, thanks for getting the schedule out so fast! (NT) -- feisgoer, 07:10:51 08/27/09 Thu
- I noticed that the U15 Open Championship is at the same time as the Open Figures. We don't have a conflict, but I was wondering if in fact the championship would start after the figures, in which case we wouldn't need to get there quite so early? We're drivng in late the night before. (NT) -- Thanks., 10:00:23 08/27/09 Thu
  - That's a good point--I hadn't realized that as we are coming in late the night before too like this poster. (NT) -- got me thinking too, 10:15:30 08/27/09 Thu
  - Sorry ... no such luck for that extra sleep. There are only a few particpants in the figures and so far there are no conflicts with U15 Open Champs. We are still receiving entries though and if a conflict develops, we will delay the start of the U15 Open Champs. As of now, there is no conflict. (NT) -- Hidden Valley Feis Committee, 14:35:59 08/27/09 Thu
- Will the awards be announced at a set time or as available? If as available, how will the people in the ballroom know when something is being announced? (NT) -- We like the awards done this way, 15:52:03 08/28/09 Fri
  - Or, the people out visiting the vendors and not in a ballroom? (NT) -- ?, 21:08:49 08/28/09 Fri
  - We will be announcing them as they are ready. We will announce in the ballrooms and in the lobby as well as the vendor room. It may turn out that we do them every 2 hours or so. (NT) -- But we will keep you informed. HV committee, 01:29:55 08/30/09 Sun
    - Thanks. Getting the word out to eveyone has to be one of the most difficult issues with holding awards away from the ballrooms. (NT) -- Thanks!, 09:57:48 08/30/09 Sun
  - If you have an internet connection at the hotel, has any thought been given to having a cellphone number for each dancer/parent, then sending a text to everyone to let them know their awards are happening? Have people voluntarily opt in to this service and do in addition to other communications. Twitter might even work, too. (NT) -- Time to use techonology?, 09:41:44 08/30/09 Sun
We are considering Feile Samhain this year, and want to make a family trip of it. Will we miss the fall colors along the Columbia River Gorge? -- Thanks, Shutterbug, 17:31:48 08/26/09 Wed [27]
[Edit]

Replies:
- re fall colors -- ua, 21:16:01 08/26/09 Wed
- OK here we go, was wondering how long it would take for the ads And don't even start compaining about "oh a negative post, go away" (NT) -- All aboard the andaire train, 21:17:27 08/26/09 Wed
  - its not that your post is negative, so much that you felt the need to vocalize your annoyance which is based on weak assumptions and... jealousy? I didn't know that the area was known for "Fall Colors" and may now trade this feis for one less idyllic. A chance to get out and see some pretty trees seems a welcome change of pace. (NT) -- ., 21:40:03 08/26/09 Wed
  - I don't understand why someone always finds it necessary to put down this school for putting info up about their feiseanna. All the other schools that host feiseanna post info here. What is the problem? (NT) -- Nor Cal Mom, 22:33:06 08/26/09 Wed
  - You're wrong, the Claddagh feis had more horn tooting about their feis, they win hands down. (NT) -- in more ways than one, 05:52:32 08/27/09 Thu
    - I will never understand the venom that can be found in 10% of the postings on this board. I wish EVERY feis would write about their feis and put it here. I wish EVERY feis would identify the things outside of the feis that are worth doing. Making decisions about which feis to attend is easier with good information. Have you noticed the feis committees are ading things to their feis? Is this a response to lower numbers and a desire to make ID better? I would guess it is. And, having these things added and posted here makes it easier for us to decide. In fact, I suspect this is exactly one of the things this board was first set up to do. (NT) -- Write on Feis Comittees!, 09:47:02 08/27/09 Thu
    - Hi there, AGAIN, mom or dancer who didn't win at the above school's feis that where you or your dancer didn't win. You are pathetic and your manipulative and morally-challenged persona is transparent (NT) -- and pathetic. God, how SAD., 17:57:16 08/27/09 Thu
  - OP--go back to your spider hole. Clearly you have a grudge against this school (and we don't dance with this school either) but no one else needs to hear it. (NT) -- go back to your web., 12:02:48 08/27/09 Thu
    - SORRY! Didn't mean the OP but rather the snarky (NT) -- responder., 12:03:49 08/27/09 Thu
  - Regarding the post signed "All aboard etc." (sigh): (NT) -- Trollita is here again. Can't escape., 12:22:54 08/27/09 Thu
    - We have seen her in many a post. Trollita is a good possible name, but how do we know the suffix "ita" is right? Maybe it is "Trollgrande". How about we use the alliteration "Boring Omnipresent Nihilist & Every Headache Everyone Always Dreads... (NT) -- or BONEHEAD for short., 13:49:39 08/27/09 Thu
- Thanks for the tip. For the record we are not at all involved with the host school, nor have we ever been to one of their feisanna. We just like to see something beyond a hotel ballroom. (NT) -- op, 02:31:33 08/27/09 Thu
- No this is not an ad. Just an answer to a question. You shouldn't miss the colors at that time of year in the Pacific Northwest. The gorge is a nice drive at that time of year. (NT) -- not from andaire, 02:39:42 08/27/09 Thu
- We live up the Columbia Gorge, and it would definitely be worth the drive. My suggestion--go up the Washington side on State Rt 14 rather than the freeway on the Oregon side--much more picturesque. Might even consider stopping in Stevenson (40 min east of Vancouver)--lots of great places to eat. We love the area! (NT) -- :-), 08:26:44 08/27/09 Thu
  - If you're local, you can answer this question. We drove up the river from Portland once and went to a fish hatchery. It was fun and interesting. There were some tanks with HUGE sturgeon in them -- like 7 feet long!! It was cool to see them. YOu could also feed the trout (I think) in a pond. It was quick, low key and cheap! So, is this place up "the Gorge" ... it would be a fun little side trip. ( Lets all just ignore the trolls!) (NT) -- nother nor cal mom, 13:54:10 08/27/09 Thu
    - Up the Columbia toward the gorge? Which side of the river were you on & how far did you go? there are a LOT of fish hatcheries in the area on both sides, so I'm not sure which one you went to. You can also go to Bonneville Dam (about 35 mi east of Portland) and tour it--it has a huge fish ladder & can usually view large fish there. (NT) -- :-), 20:47:12 08/27/09 Thu
      - We were on the south side of the river, I believe. I'll ask around (in my family) and see if anyone remembers more details. I think it was only 30 or 40 minutes up river from Portland. (NT) -- nother nor cal mom, 07:45:20 08/28/09 Fri
        
        I live on the WA side, so I'm not as familiar about the ones on the OR side. Hope you find it! (NT) -- :-), 07:57:25 08/28/09 Fri
- re "all aboard" -- ua, 16:56:51 08/27/09 Thu
  - This is my first post and I am confused about where the negativity is, certainly not from the op. (NT) -- are you all assuming or what, 19:36:30 08/27/09 Thu
    - the all aboard poster (Second) response seems to have issues with questions surronding events by a particular school ... (NT) -- its too bad., 07:34:16 08/28/09 Fri
  - Well spoken, ua. Thanks! (NT) -- Another local..., 21:00:15 08/27/09 Thu
- re Fish Hatcherty -- ua, 15:39:26 08/28/09 Fri
- re fish hatchery correction -- ua, 15:42:43 08/28/09 Fri
  - I-5 doesn't go down the gorge. I-84 is the highway on the Oregon side. If you rent a car at the airport, I'm sure they can tell you the best way to get to 84, or to cross to the Washington side and follow SR-14 (I may have the wrong number...can't remember!). Just want to make sure no one follows I-5 expecting to see The Dalles or Bonneville! (NT) -- -, 09:47:15 08/29/09 Sat
- re fish hatchery recorrection -- ua, 19:22:17 08/29/09 Sat
who won the rose of tralee? -- inquiring minds, 17:31:15 08/26/09 Wed [2]
[Edit]

Replies:
- Charmaine Kenney (NT) -- Congrats!, 18:40:25 08/26/09 Wed
So my daughter left to go to college today. We live on the west coast. She will be on the east coast. Please share some coping strategies. She is ready and mature. I know it is the best and am not a hovering parent but we are very close. -- Can't stop crying :(, 01:36:56 08/26/09 Wed [19]
[Edit]

Replies:
- I was very close to my dd too...all that travel gave us a lot of mom/daughter time. Is she on facebook? Plan a visit around parent's weekend or Thanksgiving if you can and try to give her space before then. It is hard to let them go...but it is so wonderful when they return excited about their new life! (NT) -- Fellow empty nester dance mom, 06:27:43 08/26/09 Wed
- Mine will be going to jr college for the first two years near home, she's not ready for the real world alone and that would frighten me. Get unlimited texting and try to switch your focus on other things. (NT) -- time will ease, 06:33:53 08/26/09 Wed
- Dear OP mom, I was in your shoes a year ago and I feel for you. Your daughter going to college is a HUGE change for you & your family and the distance makes it even harder. But she will be OK and so will you. Really. It's OK to cry but let her navigate these first few weeks on her own and let her call you to ask questions & share her experiences. I bet you have done a great job raising her and she will be fine. You are in good company with feeling the loss and the change of your family but it will be OK. One day at a time, k?? Hugs to you. (NT) -- collegeDDmom, 06:57:03 08/26/09 Wed
- Boy can I relate to this...last year I felt as though a part of me was ripped out and left 2000 miles away. This year I didn't shed a tear..she was SOOOO happy to be back and her friends are wonderful. Advice: make a clear communication plan, date and time, and stick to it. Otherwise you may feel brushed off and hurt. (NT) -- She still needs you, just in a different way :), 08:33:16 08/26/09 Wed
- My oldest is only in 8th grade today (her first day)...I can't imagine sending her off to college in a few more years. Your posts were all making me cry... =( (NT) -- hang in there mom., 09:00:03 08/26/09 Wed
- when I went to college I had a roommate whose mother sent her a weekly care package... she typed a letter adding bits and pieces all week and mailed it on Friday. It was so nice and her daughter (and friends) were always excited to get the goodies. Try to give her her wings and try something new yourself. A class, set up a coffee time with a newish friend... (NT) -- You both will be fine, 09:15:30 08/26/09 Wed
- i know your pain -- went through it last sept., 09:58:48 08/26/09 Wed
- I think the care package idea is a good one, as well as the texting as long as you don't go overboard! I went to private boarding school out West and lived on the East Coast and I loved it, but felt more connected whenever the care packages would come.... (NT) -- boardgirl, 10:02:10 08/26/09 Wed
- Just dropped mine off at the airport for the third year. The first year it helped me to write down all the reasons why that college so far away was the right choice for this child. I oftened referred to it that first month! I also went to visit after the first month. Just a long weekend. Needed to get her out to by winter clothes that she would need. It was a great way to see how she was doing, meet frineds, and remind each of us again that it was the right spot for her. (NT) -- and lots of prayer!, 12:27:46 08/26/09 Wed
- Therapy: cleaning out their room and getting rid of all that junk that has accumulated over the years! -- Mom of freshman, 14:21:59 08/26/09 Wed
  - OMG if my mom decided to clean my room and throw out "junk" as HER therapy, I would need to go to therapy. I'm glad he gave you the green light, but for those Moms out there... ASK before you start doing ANYTHING to your new college kid's room. I LOVED coming home to my room *exactly* how I left it, and it would have broken my heart to see my parents cleaning it out, like I didn't belong there anymore. (NT) -- Its still my home!, 21:45:26 08/26/09 Wed
    - Bear in mind, this is a boy I'm talking about. I was JUNK. I have two daughters who declutter their own rooms frequently. In this case, his room had not been decluttered for years and was badly in need. There is no way he would ever do that, so I did. I love him dearly and he is welcome here, but when you leave for college with your room a cluttered mess, then the homeowner has every right to clean things up. (NT) -- Mom, 06:20:36 08/27/09 Thu
      - Ive already graduated college, and in my home, things were different. It was understood 100% that, although I was at college for part of the year, my primary permanent residence was in my parents house. It was still MY room. My parents never had to go in there for anything, so it was my responsibility. In my family, leaving for college does NOT equal moving out of the house. (NT) -- it was still my HOME, 22:01:15 08/27/09 Thu
        
        That is fine. I would assume you earned the privilege by leaving your room orderly when you left. -- Mom, 07:18:40 08/28/09 Fri
- My mom gave me a big box filled with little presents. Each present was numbered and I could open one a day. Mostly they were from the 99¢ store, but she also gave me a few nicer things. She did this for my siblings and some close family friends as well. (NT) -- ., 21:47:09 08/26/09 Wed
- Hang in there mom--this is our 2nd yr w/daughter on east coast. It was a tough transition, but all went well & she's grown up a LOT having to be on her own. Thank goodness for cell phones, though--it's so nice to keep in touch. (NT) -- ..., 08:31:36 08/27/09 Thu
- My daughter got into her first choices..however if I had it to do over again, I'd give her the choice of Community College or -- must get scholarship, 07:10:27 08/29/09 Sat
  - As the parent of one in an expensive college and one still in high school, I applaud your opinion and wise insight. It seems to evolved into an elitist, keep-up-with-the-Joneses kind of thing. Many tried and true cliches come to mind .. "bloom where you are planted" "make the most of what you have to work with". Todays kids need to learn how to utilize what resources they have. (NT) -- /, 10:30:01 08/29/09 Sat
Does anyone know if the Hyatt, Oireachtas hotel, has airport shuttle service? -- Thanks!, 01:34:27 08/26/09 Wed [4]
[Edit]

Replies:
- Not really. They recommended Supershuttle and said it was $34 RT per person. Taxi is about $43 plus tip one way. You could share the taxi with another dance family? (NT) -- xx, 07:32:33 08/26/09 Wed
- Poster below suggested the bus. $8 each way & kids are free. (NT) -- No name, 08:39:36 08/26/09 Wed
- Denver airport shuttle -- Budget Mom, 08:40:26 08/26/09 Wed
Time for a new subject! -- Me, 17:07:34 08/25/09 Tue [10]
Okay, it is three months before the Oireachtas. School is starting or has started for just about everyone. Are you focusing on the Oireachtas already or still in feis mode? Do you think there will be less people at the O or the same? If not the same, will it be more the dancers that are not as likely to recall that will stay home or will those staying home run across the board? What are you hopes and expectations?

[Edit]

Replies:
- Focus on the O local feises, going to, but just practice for new material, etc so dd not going expecting to try and win, more to iron out the O steps and she is a prelim not open (NT) -- Our school O is important, feises not so much, 20:10:33 08/25/09 Tue
- We're more focused on the feisana as my dd is going to the O for the first time in solos, no expectations, just do your best and have fun! (NT) -- firstOmom, 10:04:04 08/26/09 Wed
- Definitely expecting less teams (NT) -- now that Worlds is back overseas, 12:59:06 08/26/09 Wed
  - I hadn't thought of that. I also expect fewer teams as Denver is more difficult to get to than Phoenix for all those schools in Southern California. I do expect the numbers to be down as a result of the location and cost, but not significantly. I also expect the competition to be a bit better, overall. There will likely be fewer dancers giving the O a first try till it gets closer to home. For those first timers that are coming: Good luck to you all! (NT) -- :), 13:08:42 08/26/09 Wed
    - Could be close to home for a lot of Denver dancers. (NT) -- just pointing out, 14:15:38 08/26/09 Wed
      - And I sure hope they come in droves, no matter if they have any real expectation of recalling. Who knows if they will be dancing next year or if they would be able to go to the O if they are? I say come on and have the experience. (NT) -- More the merrier, 16:43:17 08/26/09 Wed
- first ime dancers fr colorado will be going, O is not just for california (NT) -- mh, 15:02:55 08/26/09 Wed
  - There are a lot of dancers and schools in CO. There are at least a half dozen CO feis each yr. (NT) -- ID is big in CO, 15:40:29 08/26/09 Wed
    - I didn't mean in any way to say Colorado, New Mexico, etc. dancers shouldn't come. I say come on and have a ball. Still, the total number of dancers on the far west coast is likely higher than the total number in the Eastern side of the Western Region. As a result, distance may push some number down. Thanks to those in Colorado helping to put on the Oireachtas. (NT) -- Looking forward!, 16:45:52 08/26/09 Wed
What's going on? -- concerned, 09:14:40 08/25/09 Tue [51]
How often are dancers supposed to be taught by a TCRG versus an "assistant"? Also, what kind of qualifications should an assistant have? It has been brought to my attention that some unqualified students have been teaching classes (unqualified = no "how to be a teacher" training and doesn't remember dances other than those s/he competes,has poor technique as a dancer, etc.)Not sure how s/he could "teach" what they don't know.... Has ID lost so many dancers that this is all that is left? What should we expect out of the quality of dancers from the up and comers? Pretty sad for those who pay $$$ for those lessons. Schools should be taking this opportunity to reorganize, not to lower standards.

[Edit]

Replies:
- thought there was a rule against assistants teaching classes. Problem is other TCRGs would have to turn in the TCRG using assistants. Not sure they would do that to each other....too tight a group and it would start a "narking" frenzy. (NT) -- ., 10:01:09 08/25/09 Tue
- I know that I have seen it posted that a TCRG should teach (or be present at) every class. I don't know if there are exceptions. I have read that "in remote areas," there is. I can guarantee you that our area is not remote. I know at my kids school there are a couple of non-certified teachers that have regular scheduled classes. They can be decent and actually add to what the TCRG teaches at times. Other times, especially lately, they don't seem too up on current stuff and are therefore not much help. It seems almost pointless to go to their classes. -- frusterated too., 10:03:08 08/25/09 Tue
  - I think it's sad that the students and familes have to abide by so many rules in this sport, but not so much for anyone else. Irish dance is a weird sport that's for sure. (NT) -- ., 10:07:51 08/25/09 Tue
    - Rules... -- **, 10:46:31 08/25/09 Tue
      - then according to the rules, we are not getting our due share of teacher time. Don't say go to another school, don't care for the teachers there. I actually like our tc, just don't like having to pay full price for a tc my dd sees maybe once a month and non-tc the rest of the time. If you say anything, you are causing trouble. (NT) -- frustrated by it all, 19:55:49 08/31/09 Mon
- I guess if you don't like it change schools. (NT) -- m_mom, 10:40:57 08/25/09 Tue
  - And go where??? -- Um, okay, 10:48:00 08/25/09 Tue
    - We are in the same situation is a different region. And no choices... (NT) -- frustrated, 16:37:42 08/25/09 Tue
- While I understand the value in speaking to others in a community to get input and even to just vent frustration - I wonder if you have also addressed your concerns with your school. We do also need to be direct with our concerns. (NT) -- Mom, 10:41:39 08/25/09 Tue
  - Let me know if any of you have any more success than my dd and I did for the past 8 years, and I will take lessons from you! She just tried again a few weeks ago and was told that there are no choices, no options, because this is how the school is run now. (NT) -- No cert needed, 21:33:11 08/25/09 Tue
- Not all Irish dance schools have uncertified “assistants” teaching classes. It’s a shame when they do because all teachers are fully aware they are not to do this. Not very good for the school or the “assistant” who is teaching since the TCRG’s are putting them in the position of lying about, or at least hiding, who is truly teaching the classes. Great example they are setting. For other TC’s to turn them in, they would have to have evidence that a TCRG is not teaching all their classes. Hard to sometimes prove since most families don’t want to turn in their own TCRG’s. I’m sure if you looked around your area, you can find a school who has a TCRG who teaches all their own classes. (NT) -- There are still schools who follow the rules, 10:46:33 08/25/09 Tue
  - Our school follows the rules. (NT) -- probably in the minority...though, 16:55:02 08/25/09 Tue
- My OC DD assists her TC in teaching a beginner class. These beginners get class time alternating between my DD and the TC. Works great. Probably not a good idea for any student dancer below the prelim / OC level to be an assistant to the TC. We have also had instances where the champ dancers ran their own class because the TC had an emergency. Worked great because the OC dancers watched each other and critiqued the prelim dancers. No studio time was missed! (NT) -- Sometimes it works!, 10:50:49 08/25/09 Tue
- Last I heard, a qualified TCRG only has to teach one class per month and an assistant working on the TCRG can teach all other classes. (NT) -- ., 10:56:12 08/25/09 Tue
  - A certified TCRG must be present in the class every week, not just once a month. If there are several classes taught in a location by a school, a TCRG must be there for all classes. So if your school has classes on say tues & wed, the TCRG can not just be there for one day and let the assistant teach the other days. Doesn't matter if the assistant is working towards their TCRG. Whoever say otherwise is not being accurate and is misleading (NT) -- TCRG in every class, 12:47:26 08/25/09 Tue
    - that is so not true (NT) -- 1, 16:55:38 08/25/09 Tue
      - The Rule from An Coimisiun about teacher attendance -- TCRG, 21:15:42 08/25/09 Tue
    - Wow--that being said, how could a TC make a living if he/she had to teach every class? Just think of how many students would be in one class. Personally, I like that we have a very good assistant because we can keep class size to a minimum, and we have more class choices. (NT) -- co mom, 18:51:00 08/25/09 Tue
      - Our school has just less than 100 students in one studio, but our TCRG teaches every class from beginners to champs and brings in assistant teachers to teach alongside with her while she's teaching (NT) -- It can be done. I think it's important to have TC on hand, 21:08:47 08/25/09 Tue
        
        Will he/she still be able to do that when 65 or 70 years old? When pregnant? When health issues arise? Family problems? Just something to (NT) -- think about, 23:47:15 08/25/09 Tue
        
        there are lots of tcrgs that let their non-tcrg kids teach in their stead (NT) -- ,, 01:14:02 08/26/09 Wed
        
        Yes, I know. And lots of teachers who let there non-TCRG students (who are not their children) do the same. It often works pretty well. It works in our school. Some of us parents actually prefer the "assistant" lead classes. (NT) -- think about, 07:22:13 08/26/09 Wed
        
        She doesn't need to teach the class, she just needs to be present when the class is held. At 60,70, pregnant etc she could still be there. Emergencies are emergencies.. (NT) -- :(, 19:38:42 08/26/09 Wed
- bottom line.... let your money do the talking....but let TCRG know why. (more) -- no name, 11:08:46 08/25/09 Tue
- DD from a branch off of big school in another state. Took lessons for 3 years with this school only seeing a certified teacher a handful of times. All weekly classes were run by non certified teacher who ran the location (phone, tuition, schedules, shows, etc...). Joined another school and talked to previous TCRG who didn't even know my DD's name. We loved our assistant teacher and didn't care too much for the certified teacher who visited about once every 5-7 months (only now knowing that was against the rules). Not all "assitant" teachers are unqualified, but agree, it just depends on what you get. Wouldn't know the differance if our assistant teacher was certified or not. (NT) -- Don't stay somewhere you aren't happy with, 13:45:21 08/25/09 Tue
  - Wow, I bet you are from our school. (NT) -- Same situation, 08:17:04 08/26/09 Wed
- Hmmm - puts you in a dilemma. Can't really complain to authorities cuz the real TCRG will kick you out of the school (oh yeah, happens all the time and I'm sure at the school OP is referring to), and can't complain to the TCRG cuz they will blackball you and demand payment regardless. Either put up and shut up, or transfer - not always easy in some areas. (NT) -- ., 14:01:36 08/25/09 Tue
  - Many schools use assistants from time to time and even regularly. It is unfair for you to suggest that you know who the OP is talking about unless you are the OP. Take a big breath, admit that you don't have the first clue and that your assertion that dancers are kicked out of school "all the time" for bringing complaints to "authorities" is pure fiction crafted in your own mind. I do have some advise for the OP. Many of the "experts" on this board simply don't know what they are blabbing about. Take your own counsel and decide if your dd is getting what you pay for. Is she doing well? Is she having fun? Does she want to go to class or do you have to push her out the door? (NT) -- Time to decide for yourself., 14:46:08 08/25/09 Tue
    - Not the person you responded to.We are from another region.Have watched people at our satalite school being asked to leave because they have brought up this concern.Have watched kids be black balled because the parent had the audacity to expect to get what they payed for.It really is sad but each of us were taught early on to keep our mouths shut or pay the price. All because of a greedy assistant.We are actually deciding if we will allow our child to continue to dance or not. As much as she truly loves to dance the poor treatment gets worse all the time and the fees have gone over the top. It would one thing if we had a real teacher but to pay for incompetence year after year is insane. (NT) -- It does happen, 20:26:04 08/25/09 Tue
      - well if the teacher is incompetent (certified or not)... then why would you pay to go there. That doesn't mean that ALL assistants are in competent..OR that ALL TCRG's are competent. I know some dancers/parents who prefer the assistant. (NT) -- your choice 2pay, 21:01:03 08/25/09 Tue
- If a TCRG is willing to let people teach his/her classes that are not good teachers... doesn't that make a statement about the TCRG too? Are you sure you would be any better off with this TCRG? (more) -- x, 21:07:26 08/25/09 Tue
- Ours has been on vacay for two months with an asst that won't teach steps, just runs them through and also takes a turn doing own steps (showoff). Not thrilled with what my dd is getting, she's not getting what she needs and I'm paying the same. How do these kids get ready for the O when there's all the down time? Summer is the time! (NT) -- ugh! I feel your pain op, 06:40:20 08/26/09 Wed
  - We must be at the same school, same story with my dd. Not happy about it either but we know it will never change and sounds like we're all stuck. (NT) -- keep on dancing, 10:02:17 08/26/09 Wed
- My dancer's assistant this summer is the one making up the Oireachtas steps! (NT) -- count your blessings, it could be worse!, 13:23:24 08/26/09 Wed
- Careful people. Your absent TCRG will get wind of this and recognize that is is they and will NOT be happy. You might think your posts are vague enough, but they're not. (NT) -- just a warning, 13:40:42 08/26/09 Wed
  - It is more common than you think. My story is identical to a few posted here and I am from the midwest region so yeah it's happening everywhere and there's nothing anyone can do about it. (NT) -- can relate, 05:56:08 08/27/09 Thu
    - Same here. Very frustrating. (NT) -- indeed, 09:20:03 08/27/09 Thu
- What is the difference between a "class" and "practice"? Our TC runs class but assistants (OC dancers) hold extra "practice" sessions. Is this a loophole or just semantics? (NT) -- dance mom, 06:10:32 08/27/09 Thu
  - One would think that there would be a significant difference in what are charged for those classes verses practices. (NT) -- who am I kidding, 06:45:38 08/27/09 Thu
- What if the assistant teaches the dancing all wrong? (NT) -- waste of time, 06:29:12 08/27/09 Thu
  - How do you know it's all wrong? (NT) -- have you talked to TC about it?, 10:57:35 08/27/09 Thu
    - The potential is there, didn't say it was happening. (NT) -- if so, then what?, 14:15:29 08/27/09 Thu
  - then you should choose to NOT go, and NOT pay for those classes. If you keep paying,...why would it change. (just be sure it is actually wrong, before you howl about it). (NT) -- x, 13:58:34 08/27/09 Thu
- Let's fact it. There aren't enough certified TCRGs around to teach all the classes that need to be taught...from pre-Bs to OC. Most have outside jobs and teaching ID is a love, not a career. If they had to be at every class, many would either not teach or have to leave their full time jobs. Schools would close and tuition would go up. None of this is an excuse for appointing the periodic assistant who is not able to teach the steps correctly. The more able TC and assistants, the more individual instruction time. I say to try and work with your TC. If the assistant isn't doing a good job, try to make things better. Work with the TC to help the assist learn to teach better. (NT) -- Answers work better than complaints., 10:25:47 08/27/09 Thu
  - Agree to some extent, but is it the student's fault TC is spread too thin? -- still consider what is representing the school..., 15:55:54 08/27/09 Thu
- Frustration is just part of the problem, when the TC takes several unannounced vacations a year, works a full time job, cuts the time of the classes and has non TC's teaching while she is gone-is just wrong. Change schools? with older dancers the 6 month layoff is very difficult. How do you address these situations to someone who seems to be oblivious to them? (NT) -- troubled, 11:05:20 08/27/09 Thu
  - Which is more difficult for your dancer: the problems you listed, or a six month ban? Only you can answer this, but imho the problems you listed would be more troublesome than a six month ban. (NT) -- might be time to go, 11:52:00 08/27/09 Thu
  - Honestly... if you class time is so unproductive... is your dancer really going to achieve that much at Oireachtas, or even at feis... just switch schools already. There are some that have the TCRG teaching ALL the classes... but choose carefully. YOu might actually find that many successful schools have assistant teachers. (More) -- trying to help, 14:04:18 08/27/09 Thu
- Absolutely correct, we did change schools and found that we are worse off at the new school. The TCRG cut the hours for the classes to a bare minimum, she has unqualified people teaching her classes while she is gone for a week at a time. A nice person who seems to have "dis-engaged" from what was supposed to be her passion, but continues to put in a minimal amount of her time and not retire. (NT) -- Been There, 09:56:16 08/28/09 Fri
  - You bring up a good point. I wonder how many TCRGs realize what a commitment it is to head up a school. (NT) -- Huge, 22:39:05 08/28/09 Fri
Anyone have an economical idea for transportation from denver International to the O hotel? I do not want to rent a car. -- Thanks..., 08:56:07 08/25/09 Tue [11]
[Edit]

Replies:
- Call Super Shuttle or something like that to get prices per preson then a Taxi company to find out the cost from airport to downtown. (NT) -- I believe the taxi is the best value, 09:40:39 08/25/09 Tue
- airport has shuttle services contact them (NT) -- mom, 13:51:22 08/25/09 Tue
- We live in the Denver metro area and typically ride the bus to get to the airport instead of driving & parking. $8 each way, kids u15 are free. Link to schedules, etc inside -- CO mom, 18:58:43 08/25/09 Tue
  - Thanks, I just bookmarked it for later reference. (NT) -- on to Denver!, 20:08:20 08/25/09 Tue
  - I looked at that, but the bus stops are blocks away from the convention center and the hotel. Didn't like that option much...seems like poor city planning not to have a stop at the convention center. Was I missing something?? (NT) -- xx, 07:40:56 08/26/09 Wed
    - Take the AF from the airport to the Market St station. Take the free 16th St mall bus ("MallRide") to California. MallRide stops on every corner along the 16th St mall. (NT) -- Looks pretty straightforward, 11:22:05 08/26/09 Wed
  - The price is $10 each way to the convention center. I live in a different part of the city & gave the price to my house! Sorry. (NT) -- CO mom, 13:51:42 08/26/09 Wed
- we are going to take Skyride, then the free bus at that goes along the Mall. It looked pretty straight forward on the internet. Can't afford to rent car, and then pay for parking... just for airport transportation. (NT) -- round and round..., 21:09:07 08/25/09 Tue
- We used hotwire for Denver earlier this year, and got a car for $20/day including taxes. Also, found that the closer to the date you need it, the lower the prices are. If you can keep that as an option, wait 'till the week before, you will probably get a great rate. Then you have the car to sight see, too. Don't know if there is parking fee, though. (NT) -- hth, 08:24:23 08/26/09 Wed
  - Keep in mind that self park at the hotel is $24/day. I don't know if the block has a reduced O rate. (NT) -- dancing mom, 14:36:55 08/28/09 Fri
2 Gavin Doherty dresses have been posted today - Ref 40 & 41 on page 5 -- Both almost new ~MO~, 16:25:57 08/24/09 Mon [3]

http://www.maureenonesti-dressesforsale.co.uk/

[Edit]

Replies:
- Just added ~ Doire Designs Dress by Shauna Shiels ~ Ref dress 42 on page 5 (NT) -- MO, 05:24:52 08/25/09 Tue
  - Beautiful! (NT) -- sure it's sold already, 06:50:54 08/25/09 Tue
Poll about Oireachtas Schedule -- researcher, 13:46:14 08/24/09 Mon [9]
Could you please copy this Survey, Paste it into a reply and submit it here? Thanks very much for your time.

1. Would you like the Oireachtas Schedule to be more predictable?

2. Would you miss a day of school, before or after the Oireachtas, to be able to attend?

3. Do you like Teams on Saturday?

4. Do you stay at the Oireachtas Hotel?

5. Do you fly or drive to the Oireachtas?

6. Can you see the benefits of rotating the schedule so that up to 14 and 14 and over trade Fridays and Sundays every other year?

7. Do you have anyone at your school who does not compete on Saturdays or Sundays for religious reasons?

8. Which Day of School is better to miss, Friday or Monday?

9. Which level of school do you feel it is harder for your children to miss? (Elementary, Middle, High School or College)

10. Does your teacher require you to make certain travel plans? (ie arrive for a rehearsal Thursday or Friday, or stay until results are presented Saturday or Sunday)

Thank you for your time.

[Edit]

Replies:
- inside -- la mom, 14:26:56 08/24/09 Mon
- response -- been to every oir for the past 10 years, 16:29:37 08/24/09 Mon
  - made a mistake all about teams on Saturday (NT) -- oops!, 16:32:50 08/24/09 Mon
- Inside -- Portland Mom, 18:36:21 08/24/09 Mon
- this will be our 8th Oireachtas -- CO mom, 19:03:07 08/24/09 Mon
- Answers inside. Sorry for the caps on responses -- what will u do with results?, 01:12:27 08/25/09 Tue
- reply -- what is this for?, 18:23:09 08/25/09 Tue
- reoly -- why not, 07:47:23 08/26/09 Wed
2 more dresses added to feisanne pre-loved dresses. -- feisanne, 09:03:23 08/24/09 Mon [1]
http://feisanne-preloved-dresses.blogspot.com/2009/08/fabulous-gavin-dress.html

http://feisanne-preloved-dresses.blogspot.com/2009/08/ruffle-skirt-dress.html

[Edit]
Any one know of a seamtress in Denver that can alter a solo dress? We are getting desperate! -- jrmom, 03:18:57 08/24/09 Mon [4]
[Edit]

Replies:
- I can suggest several. Email me using the "CO mom" link & I'll send you the information. I'd rather not put emails & phone #s on a public board. (NT) -- CO mom, 06:10:11 08/24/09 Mon
- Yes! As a former Denver area DM myself - before I moved out of state - I know most of them personally... -- Terrie, 06:32:06 08/24/09 Mon
- http://www.knotworkme.com/ (NT) -- denver dancer, 09:56:30 08/25/09 Tue
Where are the Hawaii feis results?? -- xo, 23:32:28 08/23/09 Sun [49]
[Edit]

Replies:
- Would they even matter anyway?? I think it was just a fun-getaway-feis this year. Great that they honored the registrants by following through, but results this year won't count for anything with such limited contestants. (NT) -- hopefully better next yr, 23:54:56 08/23/09 Sun
  - If you had a friend who had gone to the time, trouble and expense to go there, it might matter more to you. There were enough entrants for dancers to move up, so if you know the answer to the question it might be nicer for you to just answer it than it was for you to try to sound so superior. (NT) -- Just saying., 02:12:59 08/24/09 Mon
    - Maybe ask your friend how they did?? (NT) -- just sayin', 04:46:22 08/24/09 Mon
      - What is your problem? I am not looking for a friends results. If you can't speak nice then go off the board. (NT) -- have a nice day, 07:37:48 08/24/09 Mon
        
        Wow. your post is the one that sounds rude (and bossy). It was so great of An Daire to continue with the feis in light of the few attendees. I really hope they had some good financial grants from that Irish Society and don't get stuck with huge expenses. (NT) -- ., 10:50:50 08/24/09 Mon
      - I'm not the one who has a friend who went there, I am the one who suggested you could have answered their question nicely. You responded to two different people on here with your opinions instead of answers. That's not nice, that's argumentative. (NT) -- No reason for pettiness, 11:07:43 08/24/09 Mon
        
        Two different people?? lol, or one person with different personalities??! ; ) RELAX! it's just a message board. Have fun with it instead of taking on the unsolicited role of Director of Operations. We're all free to give our opinions here whether you like it or not. You are not the boss. (NT) -- ., 11:38:03 08/24/09 Mon
        
        You do have an active imagination. Yep, I am one person and whoever wrote the other post is someone else. It seems that more than one person can share a concern on here! (NT) -- You are very silly, 21:40:10 08/25/09 Tue
  - HOW MANY ACTUALLY WENT? Shows that only 51 were paid. Did more enter late? (NT) -- To late for us with school., 15:54:14 08/24/09 Mon
  - Of course it would matter. Obviously you are not a dancer (NT) -- or you wouldn't have answered like that!, 22:50:04 08/24/09 Mon
- I got a text my friend got a 2nd in Open Champs!! She said it was really really fun and people were having a good time! (NT) -- it will only get better next year:), 06:09:11 08/24/09 Mon
- All comps were combined so that results would qualify. Do NOT start bashing this feis....they went through a ton of work to put it on for the few who were able to attend. (NT) -- hope to go next year!, 06:44:26 08/24/09 Mon
  - Just please don't hold in August...we are already back in school! Many CA schools now start in early to mid-August... (NT) -- Would love to attend, 07:10:34 08/24/09 Mon
- I too would like to see results and I know absolutely NOONE who went. Is that such a crime in Irish Dance Competition? (NT) -- Jeesh!, 08:52:25 08/24/09 Mon
  - Us too! Interested in seeing from where people came, if anyone we knew ended up going (several were thinking about it). (NT) -- ., 11:01:58 08/24/09 Mon
- I heard it was just a fun feis this year, nothing to take seriously because it wasn't really competitive. Hopefully they'll hold it during spring break or in the winter next yr. Can't see that it'll ever hold much appeal for people and attract the #'s it needs to become successful by holding it in August . (NT) -- ., 10:31:02 08/24/09 Mon
  - July would work. Spring break is a no go for us - have kids in 3 different schools, NONE with same spring holiday! Even Winter breaks skewed, plus travel is expensive over the holidays (especially to Hawaii - high season then). (NT) -- July please!, 11:05:11 08/24/09 Mon
    - July is for Nationals, and these teachers have to be there with their students. I am amazed that they worked this hard and did this - they can't please everyone, but I hope there is enough interest for them to do it again! (NT) -- oldermom, 11:10:39 08/24/09 Mon
      - August just doesn't work. They'll have to do it in high season. People go to Hawaii at that time anyway, so it's logical that that would be the only time they'd get enough people to cover costs and make it worthwhile. The only other way is to get it underwritten every year and I can't see that happening on a continuing basis. (NT) -- ., 11:41:11 08/24/09 Mon
        
        They would need to announce far, far in advance for the tourist seasons. Hard to find affordable flights and accomodations to Hawaii from our area over winter or spring break unless planning a year ahead. (NT) -- have tried..., 12:21:21 08/24/09 Mon
        
        But what about in December?? I've seen good flights during that time... would be a nice relief after the stress of preparing for the O and as the kids get out of school (NT) -- ., 12:33:03 08/24/09 Mon
        
        We only have 2 weeks winter break and during those weeks (xmas and new years) there aren't cheap flights from our area (Pacific NW). (NT) -- ., 14:01:04 08/24/09 Mon
        
        Plus being so close to the Oireachtas, many might not want to travel to Hawaii for another feis. It's fun and all, but that's Thanksgiving and Christmas taken up by feiseanna and then Easter too if you qualified for Worlds. (NT) -- ., 10:05:59 08/25/09 Tue
        
        Why not? Most schools in CA go back mid/late August. Why couldn't early August work? (NT) -- Would like an Aug feis., 12:33:15 08/24/09 Mon
        
        I agree. Last weekend in July/1st weekend in August would work. (NT) -- Just a suggestion, 13:59:23 08/24/09 Mon
        
        2nd weekend in Aug is good for us, too. (NT) -- If anyone is noting, 14:40:57 08/24/09 Mon
        
        Maybe a date close in time after the July 4 NANs would "catch" a lot of dancers on their way home from USA to Australia and New Zealand, for more attendance. They could stop over in Hawaii and feis and extend their vacation a little after leaving mainland USA. But would that reduce attendance for Americans, if it was too close to NANs? (NT) -- Just a thought., 23:22:57 08/24/09 Mon
        
        The expense of another feis so close to Nat'ls, seem to be a deal for those from outside the US. I know Nat'ls is major $$$$$. Need to get home to family and business matters. Cann't add another feis back to back. Few weeks in between, makes it much easier (NT) -- 1st week in August, 00:22:11 08/25/09 Tue
  - 1st weekend in August would be great. Schools went back on the 17th (NT) -- July has Nat'l and SVC, 15:46:12 08/24/09 Mon
- I expect them to post the results on the webpage when they are back from Hawaii. Also heard rumors that the dates will change for next year. (NT) -- of course, you can't please everyone!, 12:48:04 08/24/09 Mon
- This is a PAN PACIFIC feis with the idea being (NT) -- involvement of Aussie and Japanese dancers, not just US, 22:53:12 08/24/09 Mon
  - Yes, but the Australian dancers didn't come because it is very close to their Os. It is not a good date if you want the Aussies to come. (more) -- WRMom, 09:12:51 08/25/09 Tue
    - I'm sure there will be a lot of brainstorming for next yrs Hawaii Feis (it's a wonderful idea and wouldn't that be something to bring the Aussie and Japanese dancers together with N Am's at a feis). The decisions are in good hands with An Daire, as we can be sure they will thoroughly consider all the angles before making any decisions about next yr. (NT) -- very honorable of them to follow through this yr, 11:00:25 08/25/09 Tue
- OMG! I JUST ASKED WHERE THE RESULTS WERE! (NT) -- GEEEESSSSHHHHH, 21:30:09 08/25/09 Tue
  - You're showing your age. (NT) -- Calm down. They will be posted eventually, 21:49:35 08/25/09 Tue
  - No need to yell! Are we not allowed to "chat"??? (NT) -- Princess??, 22:56:54 08/25/09 Tue
    - I understand the OPs feelings. This was not a chat; you all carefully dissected her post, made comments on it and on her inability to wait, criticized other posters, -- Queen, 00:01:54 08/26/09 Wed
      - go get a life control freak. let the rest of us that know how to have a good time be irish together and chat (NT) -- ., 01:17:40 08/26/09 Wed
        
        Hahaha! Your words made me laugh. (NT) -- *, 06:46:10 08/26/09 Wed
        
        good stuff ! can never laugh too much or too often imo (NT) -- ., 09:46:20 08/26/09 Wed
        
        You know, I've never been called a control freak before and it is an amazing feeling. If you know who I was and how little I want to control anyone, you would laugh! -- ., 13:35:37 08/26/09 Wed
- Pan Pacific feis results -- FC, 15:05:16 08/26/09 Wed
  - What does FWI mean? (NT) -- Would like to know, 15:30:12 08/26/09 Wed
  - I think she meant 'FYI', but you know what.. the results are for you because that feis was just a feel-good feis. The results really don't matter. The important thing was the time well spent in Hawaii and HUGE KUDOS to An Daire for going ahead with a 50 competitor feis. It was smaller than most school feis' so the results would only really matter to the people that were there. VERY classy of An Daire not to publish them and just keep them in-house like a small school feis. (NT) -- ., 23:11:34 08/26/09 Wed
    - Yes results do matter. We watch certain age groups to see who is moving up. Its just part of the competition. YOU all sound like you all flew to Hawaii for a vacation and just decided to have a feis. If this was another feis like St Ambrose and no results posted (NT) -- you would be screaming on this board or chatting about it, 09:24:13 08/27/09 Thu
      - Well hopefully the age grps were large enough so your obsessing about other people's results pays off for you. (NT) -- ., 13:25:35 08/27/09 Thu
- Results are up on PanPacific's web site. http://www.panpacificchampionships.com/ Link is under the big wave on the right. (NT) -- FYI, 07:14:47 08/28/09 Fri
  - wow. it looks like 1/2 of the 50 registered actually danced. barely any champion competitors but way to go to Julia Gats who came out on top in almost every category. (NT) -- ., 01:44:34 08/30/09 Sun

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