Sorry it has been a while since I have had a chance to post a thought. We are fast approaching our first nationals of 2009 in Des Moines, Iowa (starts on June 17). We will then head into our Branson Nationals starting July 7. I am very excited to see how all of the wonderful talent has come together this year. It is a lot of fun from our (staff) perspective to see the various cities compete against each other. If you have been with us before at Nationals we are glad to have you back. If you have not been to a TOP Nationals I hope you have a wonderful experience. This time of year we take numerous phone calls each day and it seems that at the end of many of those calls someone will ask me, "Who's coming? What is the talent like? How do you think we will do?" I want to give a little "word of advice" for everyone coming. I think you will all do great... as long as you come into the experience with expectations of fun, family and growth as a performer or studio. I cannot predict who is going to come out victorious in the traditional sense of the word. The outcome will be in the hands of dance professionals from all walks in the dance world and from all parts of the country. As such, it all boils down to professional opinion. Yes, opinion! Did you watch So You Think You Can Dance recently? The top 20 spots came down to 6 professional opinions, and it was amazing to see some of the outstanding talent that didn't make it. I'll bet you could have changed a single member of that panel (with different opinions) and there would have been a few differences in that top 20. By the way, congratulations to Ade, a former Talent On Parade National Champion who made that top 20. We will be rooting for him! That said, here's my take on what generally makes an Overall TOP Champion. It's an most likely an act that is well rehearsed by all performers (remember if you are in the back row it is just as important as front and center for that national score). It will probably be a routine that has good sportsmanship projected. I truly see and believe that dancers who perform with a good heart come out on the winning edge more often than not. Drama does not create champions. This goes for performers, teachers and parents. Remember that once judges see poor sportsmanship from a team, whether it is backstage, during awards, walking off the stage, or during a routine, they remember you (and not for the reasons you may want them to). And, the routine will probably be performed by performer(s) with E-N-E-R-G-Y. The performers have to want it, not just the moms who want it, but the ones on stage have to dance with the drive and determination to be successful. Take it to the limit. Don't hold back. I challenge each performer to go for their personal best, which may be a purple ribbon, a TOP First, a finish in the TOP Ten or representation in the Dance Off. There are only 10 Overall Championships up for grabs yet hundreds of routines. Keep it perspective! And most of all have fun! See you soon! Kim