I don't think so Sita. Paul is far superior in the artistic department. Okay, so Kurt is cute, but Paul gets my vote any day. Please no one erupt over this comment. I'm just trying to lighten things up a little. : )
Subj: Re:Oksana in Life 94-06-03 00:23:10 EDT
From: STERLINGK8
Morry,
I'm sorry, i didn't mean to imply that I was ready to take the most painful route to kill myself (train as an elite level athlete!), I just meant that from a physiological perspective, it would be interesting to read that data. Especially since that is what I am studying now, and will pretty much enter the field of physiology (med school) once I'm done with my master's in bio.
Kate
Subj: Re:Oksana in Life 94-06-03 11:42:56 EDT
From: MorryS
Kate,
If you are interested you might call the National Office 719 635 5200, ask for Daleene and ask if she would send you the hand out provided by the Medical Committee at the recent Governing Council.. Feel free to tell Daleen that I sent you to her. Let me know if this works for you.
Subj: Re:Oksana in Life 94-06-03 21:33:54 EDT
From: Faithfu1 1
With all this talk about weight I've become very interested in how height affects one's skating ability. I've noticed from the stats posted and from watching on TV that most of the top level skaters seem to be shorter than "average" height. I am curious because I am 5'9" (female) and stopped skating as a teenager. I would like to start again more regularly. When I have skated in recent years I've had a real hard time even with things that were very easy for me like front and back crossovers. I know alot of this is just the aging process (I am now in my thirties) but I never thought that my height would be a deficit. (oh to be 15 again and have no fear of jumping !) I also read someone's comment about chest size being an issue for female single skaters, but what about Katerina Witt? She also struck me (from viewing on TV) to be on the tall side. Anyway what do you cognocenti think?
I am also curious about recommendations for skating boots as my old ones kill my feet.
Subj: Re:Oksana in Life 94-06-03 22:03:19 EDT
From: CKSutcliff
I noticed how short the top male skaters are too. It seems to me that the women seem to be on the short side as well(?) Most of they guys I see in roller seems to be on the shorter side too. It's difficult to find many males 6' and over.
Subj: Short/long of it 94-06-03 22:42:17 EDT
From: JoAnneSK8
It's true that skaters, like gymnasts, on average, tend to be on the short side. I've given up finding a dance partner because I'm taller than most of the men who are not already skating with their wives. But there are exceptions to that rule. Tall skaters who leap to my mind include Robin Cousins and Lisa Marie Allen. I understand that the taller skaters sometimes have trouble learning triple jumps but at the lowest levels (where most of us adults dwell quite happily), I haven't seen much difference. The short people have just as much trouble as the tall ones. As an adult, I find that the mental attitude determines how much you can do, more than just the physical attributes.
As a sidebar, I have two friends who are former collegiate gymnasts (one male, one female) both gym teachers now and suberb all-round athletes. They swim, they run, they play basketball and tennis. I took them skating once on a public session and while Liz made it through the two hours with her sense of humor intact, John barely survived the first ten laps. Two falls and he was on the bench, sulking because he couldn't get the hang of balancing on blades. Neither one has gone back. Now we have a deal. They don't make nasty comments about my tennis and I don't remeind them about their skating disaster. Still, it's nice for me to remember that there is one sport that I'm better at than they are.
Subj: Re:Oksana in Life 94-06-04 00:11:57 EDT
From: STERLINGK8
Morry,
Thank you for the info. I'll try to call them and see what I come up with.
Kate
Subj: Re:Oksana in Life 94-06-04 02:09:17 EDT
From: Marie SD
<<height...chest size>>
I have read somewhere that sports physiologists say that there is no one body type that is good for skating except that it *does* help to be short. My own opinion is that is isn't the chest itself that stops young girls from progressing in their skating, but the major changes in the body coming in such a short time. As an adult learning to skate for the first time, I have had no problem with my chest (and I *do* have one! <g>) I certainly can't say that for EVERY sport I've tried.
Also, IMHO I think if you met Katarini in person, you would not think her chest is that large. She just seems big compared to the other skaters (and because she seems alergic to underwear.)
Subj: Re:Skating and Aging 94-06-04 11:29:52 EDT
From: LisaSeven
Dear Faithful,
In my state there are no ice rinks and so the only times that I can do any skating is if I go out of state or the once a year at Christmas when the local performing arts arena is iced over for a few weeks. It usually takes a number of sessions before I can begin to even do what I used to. However, I have found that since I have been running/jogging etc. every day that when I do go back it takes less time than before. I think that keeping up with off ice training might build up the legs' strength. Actually, I have found that my crossovers have become more powerful than
they used to be even with being off the ice for a good while. I'm
in my 40's so maybe this might help you.
Lynne
Subj: Re:Oksana in Life 94-06-04 11:31:55 EDT
From: LisaSeven
The male skaters seem to weigh a fairly normal weight from the statistics posted. It would seem that a good deal of it must be muscle and not much body fat, though. I thought that Mark and Brian weighed less that than they do just by going the time I saw them after the skating tour last year. It must be muscle.
Lynne
Subj: RORY FLACK - BURGHART 94-06-04 17:59:23 EDT
From: JeffP11082
RORY HAS RECENTLY MOVED FROM INDIANAPOLIS TO SEATTLE WITH HER HUSBAND RALPH, AND HER NEW BABY. AT LAST WORD, RORY AND RALPH HAD REINSTATED, AND ARE REPRESENTING AUSTRIA (RALPHS HOME COUNTRY) AS A PAIR. WITH THEIR SIDE-BY-SIDE TRIPLES AND HUGE THROWS, NOT TO MENTION RORY'S INCREDIBLE FLEXIBILITY, IT WILL BE INTERESTING TO SEE HOW THEY SKATE AT WORLDS.
Subj: To: IluvPWylie, re:Kurt,Paul 94-06-04 20:20:21 EDT
From: Sita895661
I know that (obviously) you prefer Paul over Kurt, but why do you think that Paul is "far more superior" than Kurt in the artistic dept?
-sita-
(who thinks Kurt and Paul are equally good)
Subj: Re:Weight ans to IGOTORIO 94-06-05 01:29:04 EDT
From: Axel 9
Geez, my first time back in this area in months and it's looking like the worst on internet during the height of the Nancy/Tonya fiasco.
Louise, don't worry about what strangers say about you. People who know you (such as myself) know you're a nice lady. BTW, what the hell is going on in the forums that IGGY is in danger of getting kicked out?
Kevin
Subj: Re:Weight ans to IGOTORIO 94-06-05 01:31:40 EDT
From: Axel 9
Oh yeah, I forgot to add: 20 for a 1/2 hour is CHEAP!!! Anybody who thinks otherwise is proving they don't know anything about that aspect of the sport.
Subj: Re:Skating Mag 94-06-05 15:22:30 EDT
From: GregoryPF
Has anyone looked at the new format of Skating magazine lately. Although the new size is nice, the layout and copy are juvenile and amateurish. They seem intent on using every desktop publishing special effect known to mankind! Otherwise beautiful photo's are reduced, distorted to fit into odd shapes, placed at unusual angles, or filtered in weird, inappropriate colors. Worse yet, print copy often runs over a backdrop of the pictures, or wraps around unusually shaped objects making the articles difficult to read. (Not that the articles have much of anything to say, the real uncensored dirt is in "Tracings"). An occasional special effect can have great impact, but this is ridiculous.
I realize the magazine is geared toward a "younger" readership, but do the publishers presume every young reader is afflicted with ADD (attention deficit disorder) and requires the attempts of flashiness to keep their attention? And what about those of us more "mature" readers?
Maybe I'm being too critical, but I would expect the only official publication of the USFSA to be a little more dignified and informative.
Subj: Re:Skating Mag 94-06-05 15:31:19 EDT
From: SKATINGMOM
YAY Greg--you put it perfectly. I was an editor on Jewler's Circular Keystone--the trade journal of the jewelry industry and my senior editor had a sign on his wall saying LESS IS BETTER--KEEP IT SIMPLE--
if the jewelry industry believes this what about the skating industry. This magazine is an insult to all of us even my 12 year old skater who complained he couldn't see the faces of the skaters so he would recognize them at competitions. I did hear that they hired a new editor effective March one so maybe it will take time for some of the changes. I personnally saw nothing wrong with the old format. At least they made the results fonts a little larger so the magnifying glass can be put away.
By the way Axle thanks for your support and nice words. I think of this as an area of friendship and sharing.
Great to hear Rory is doing pairs--she was so talented and never got the international recognition she so richly deserved..It is such a shame they dont represent the U.S. since our pairs teams are in such dissarray.
By the way Neil Smull and Natasha Kuchiki were named to the International Competitors list so hopefully we will be seeing these great dancers representing us well iin the coming year.
Louise--
Subj: Re:Skating Mag 94-06-05 18:07:42 EDT
From: JoAnneSK8
I agree totally about the new SKATING. I miss the old one. CANADIAN SKATER used to be my idea of the perfect blend for an official publication: big color pictures, good interviews with top skaters and very informative articles on the technical aspects of skating. Also SKATING is so outdated. All the news is months old. If the other skating publications can cover late-breaking news, why can't USFSA?
Is there a complete list of whos on the International Competitions Committee list yet?
JoAnne in MA
Subj: Re:Skating Mag 94-06-05 20:56:59 EDT
From: TerriNack
I agree with everyone's comments about Skating magazine. As an associate editor for a professional music teacher's association, I'm appalled at some of the things I see in Skating. For instance, justified text should only be used in wide columns with a fairly small typeface. I get annoyed when there's one or two words in a column. I'm also amazed at some of the typos and inconsistencies that I see. I see so many basic rules of design and editing broken that I cringe.
I hope I don't sound too harsh. I do appreciate the magazine and the information that's in it.
And some people I know like the new format--I have a thirty-year-old friend who thinks the magazine's great.
-Terri
Subj: Re:Skating Mag 94-06-05 21:36:23 EDT
From: Stobchatay
>Although the new size is nice, the layout and >copy are juvenile and amateurish. They seem >intent on using every desktop publishing >special effect known to mankind! Otherwise >beautiful photo's are reduced, distorted to fit >into odd shapes, placed at unusual angles, or >filtered in weird, inappropriate colors.
"USA Gymnastics"...official mag of the US gym fed. suffers from *exactly* the same problems...some people just should not have accssess to Macs. When federations (or any publisher) insults the intelligence of it's reader they lose credibilty.
Susan
Subj: Re:Skating Mag 94-06-05 22:13:58 EDT
From: KimLMB
My biggest complaint about the new format is that the printing of test results is so small, even peple with good eyesight can't read it. I really feel it is a n insult to all the skaters who work so hard to acheive to have their names and accomplishments printed in an unreadable size. It seems once again they want to focus on only that elite group of skaters and to H* with the rest of us who actually keep the clubs and ultimately the USFSA running.
Subj: Kurt Browning's book 94-06-05 22:57:44 EDT
From: Larwood
Hello:
Does anyone out there have a copy of "Kurt: Forcing the Edge" for sale or have an idea where to get a copy? I appreciate any help in tracking this down.
Thanks,
Grace
Subj: Skating Info 94-06-05 23:32:54 EDT
From: KJP 410
Hello! My name is Kristin and I am still learning about AOL and what it has to offer. Being a huge skating fan, I was very excited to see an area that was devoted to figure skating.
I enjoyed reading all of the comments and I had a question concerning the skating magazines. It sounded like many of you were not very impressed with the USFSA's magazine. I was wondering which ones were the most informational and if anyone could give some idea of where to write to get a subscription. I would appreciate it very much! Thanks!
Kristin
Subj: Re:Skating Mag 94-06-05 23:41:58 EDT
From: LauraP1808
JoAnne, I'm looking forward to seeing the list too. BTW, Neale Smull dances with Tamara Kuchiki, Natasha's sister. They train right in your[our]neck of the woods at Babson College.LauraI .
Subj: Re:Skating Mag 94-06-05 23:53:23 EDT
From: SKATINGMOM
OOPS Laura--I knew that, and I know both of them too so that makes it worse. The Kuchikis skate out of our region and it is always a pleasure to watch them. Neal came out here to help his old dance coach michael Tamres and took 22 dancers through tests in one session--phew that was truly amazing. Neal has also been working with one of our pairs teams who are going to the olympic festival Jeff Weiss and Erin Elbe. Louise
Subj: Re:Skating Info 94-06-06 02:28:04 EDT
From: Marie SD
>>I was wondering which ones were the most informational and if anyone could give some idea of where to write to get a subscription.
<<
I think there is list of skating magazines in the library area to download.
I personally enjoy American Skating World, for the skating news and gossip, and Skater's Edge for all the articles on skating technique. I haven't seen Skating yet but should be getting my first issue soon. Bad formats really get to me so I hope it isn't as bad as everyone says.
Here are the addresses:
American Skating World
1816 Brownsville Rd.
Pittsburgh, PA 15210-3908
412/885-7600
monthly
$19.95/yr or $37/2 yrs; $29.95 Canada and overseas; $38.95 airmail; $63.95 airmail Canada and overseas
Skaters Edge
Box 500
Kensington, MD 20895
5/year
$18; $25 Canada, Europe, Japan; $30 Australia
Subj: Re:Kurt Browning's Book 94-06-06 07:49:14 EDT
From: JulieD3964
Grace - The last time I recall someone checking, Kurt's book was out of print here in the States. There's a new second edition in paperback which covers thorugh the 92 Worlds so considering the speed in which the 2nd edition came out, it's somewhat possible that a third is in the offing. The publisher is Haper Collins if you want to try ordering it but your best bet is to either a) go to Canada or b) make friends with someone IN Canada or c) make friends with someone GOING to Canada.
Julie
Subj: Re:Kurt Browning's Book 94-06-06 07:51:15 EDT
From: JulieD3964
Sorry, the publisher is HARPER Collins and the ISBN # is 0-00-637885-4. That might help if you tried to order it but since it's a Canadian division of Harper Collins, I don't know. Perhaps someone in the book industry could shed some light on things.... Julie
Subj: Play nice 94-06-06 11:16:19 EDT
From: LeeAnn 1
Lately there have been some notes popping up on the board that are inappropriate. Personal arguments don't belong on a public bulletin board. Please try to be more considerate of other people's feelings and play nice.
Thanks.
LeeAnn 1
Winter Sports Board Leader
Subj: Re: Skating Magazines 94-06-06 19:39:32 EDT
From: JoAnneSK8
In addition to American Skating World and The Skaters Edge, I like TRACINGS, published 8 times a year, $18.00 (US), 21 Weybosset St. Weymouth, MA 02191. Even though it's the official publication of the New England Interclub Council, it's pretty objective in it's coverage and the news is accurate and timely. The pictures aren't in color though.
If you want color pictures of the big names, try BLADES ON ICE , 6 issues per year,
$25.00, 7040 N. Mona Lisa Road, Yucson, AZ 85741 I'm not fond of the style of writing in the articles (too much opinion presented as fact for my taste) but the pictures are nice.
JoAnne in MA
Subj: Re:Kurt Browning's Book 94-06-06 20:17:36 EDT
From: Sita895661
Or d) you can probably get it through the Canadian Figure Skating Association, here's their address:
CFSA
1600 James Naismith Dr.
Gloucester, Ontario
K1B SN4
Canada
but I would try Julie's advice first..the friend thing is the easiest way..also helps if the friend is a skating fan..!
-sita-
Subj: Re: Paul vs. Kurt 94-06-07 00:21:16 EDT
From: Kara sk8
Are you KIDDING? Unfortunately artistry is not something you can measure with a yardstick, so I suppose you can always argue against anything I (or LuvPWylie) says. Bur really, how can anyone even begin to compare Kurt with Paul? Paul has a gorgeous line, intensity, perfection of movement, and above all else, musicality. Kurt has none of the above. He may be fun to watch for some and a good actor. But that doesn't make him an artist. Oh well, I expect a big attack, on my first message on AOL, no less! Mercy, please . . .
Subj: Wylie & Browning 94-06-07 02:34:25 EDT
From: JulieD3964
Kara - I hope you don't mind that I changed the title of the subject but I feel that "Skater X vs. Skater Y" is way too confrontational. I've been working on a project (an idea for an article) for the past couple of weeks and I've been going through old videotapes of both Kurt Browning and Paul Wylie - the one thing that comes to mind immediately is that Kurt is extremely musical. He doesn't have the angular choreography that Paul Wylie does which draw attention to Paul's use of the music but it's a quality that is inherent in both skaters - for a prime example on Browning's part, I'd recommend checking out his long program from 91 Worlds. Julie
Subj: new club 94-06-07 11:19:07 EDT
From: KimLMB
There is a new rink being built in my town, and I am interested to find out whether or not a club has started to form there. If not, how to go about starting one. If anyone has any info on this, I would appreciate it if you could e-mail me.
Thanks,
Kim
Subj: Re:Wylie & Browning 94-06-07 19:30:57 EDT
From: Sita895661
When I first asked about Kurt losing in Paris little did I know that it would to a discussion about Kurt and Paul's artistry (I just wanted details on Miko Masters)...let me say this: Yes, I am a Kurt Browning fan, but I never meant to pit him against Paul Wylie, who I also think is a great skater..for me, every skater has their strength and weaknesses. As someone has pointed out: everyone has personal preferences, I prefer Kurt's skating, others prefer Paul's skating..
What I don't like about some statements posted so far is that people are trying measure artistry, statements like "Paul is superior to Kurt in the artistic dept", or "Kurt is fun to watch but that doesn't make him an artist".
When it comes to artistry, *preference* is the key word, and not who is better than who, because, IMHO, artistry is a matter of taste, and not something you can measure/ quantify, especially at Kurt and Paul's level of skating..
To Kara (and also to I luvPWylie), trust me, I'm not trying to slam you or anything :-)...if you prefer Paul's artistry, fine, but don't do it by saying that Kurt is less of artist than Paul, because, to repeat what you said, you can't measure artistry with a yardstick! Its just a matter of taste..
-sita-
(who still thinks Kurt and Paul are equal )
Subj: Re:new club 94-06-07 22:40:12 EDT
From: MorryS
Kim if you would give me the location of your City I can find out if there is a Club being formed. I can also if you wish send you the requirements for forming a USFSA Club. There are two basic requirements for a new club:
There must be at least 25 members and they must arange for ICE time exclusively for those memebers and after they have been operating as a group for one season they can be brought into the USFSA as an Interim-probationary member.
Subj: Re:Wylie & Browning 94-06-07 22:45:20 EDT
From: MorryS
Paul and Kurt are very different skaters and are not easy to compare. They are both wonderful to watch and I have seen them up close at both Worlds and Nationals. They have continued to develope during their professional experiences and are even better in some ways than when at the Olympic level.. Like Brian they have backed off on some of the athlectic features of their programs, but that does not take away from the overall performans of either skater.
Subj: Re:Short/long of it 94-06-07 23:09:04 EDT
From: Barfalomew
Denise Biellmann is very tall too. So is Larry Holllliday i think. And Rachel Mayer and Peter Breen but they don't dance together anymore. I think Lloyd Eisler is tall also or maybe it is just cause Isabelle is really short.
Barfy
Subj: Re:Skating Mag 94-06-07 23:15:27 EDT
From: Barfalomew
I <like> the new SKATING magazine. I think it is fun to go through every other month and find all of the mistakes <ha>. But the other magazines aren't much better reminder here. Tracings uses that awful courier typeface but at least they don't use all capital letters anymore and the columns flow weird so you can't tell wha they're saying really unless you really think about it a lot which is just like SKATING I think. And American Skating World has some really bad writers who think that everything has to be described in the biggest floweriest language and if you can throw in some literary quotes with some dead poet's poetry that's even better. Did anyone read that goofy article last summer about Mark Mitchell where they talked about him being frail and mortal. They don't do that in SKATING <thanks>. And Blades On Ice looks like a cross between Tiger Beat and a real magazine. Anyone remember Tiger Beat? Can you still BUY Tiger Beat? Or have they gone out of business?
Barfy
Subj: NealE Smull 94-06-07 23:17:43 EDT
From: Barfalomew
NEALE Smull (he spells his first name with an "e" at the end you know don't you) is a nice person - do you know him? I do.
Barfy
Subj: Re: Paul vs. Kurt 94-06-07 23:21:08 EDT
From: Barfalomew
But all of Paul Wylie's programs look the same Kara. He just gets new music and changes the order of things all of the time. Kurt Browning skates to a lot of different music and does different stuff to it. I saw him do this thing where he skated into a lunge which turned into a forward inside pivot and then into another lenge going backwards and I thought that was really stupendous. I've never seen Paul Wylie do that ever. But he does slide around on his back pretty good.
Barfy
Subj: Re:Wylie & Browning 94-06-07 23:21:58 EDT
From: Barfalomew
Who is Skater X? Is that like in Speed Racer with Racer X? <just joking I thought it was funny even if you didn't>
Barfy
Subj: Re: Skating Mag 94-06-08 08:00:54 EDT
From: CyberLark
My $.02: I liked the old one better, too.
Subj: Re: Paul vs. Kurt 94-06-08 08:21:27 EDT
From: LauraP1808
Barfy, Have you ever seen Kurt Browning's version of "Singin in the Rain"?[a la Gene Kelly?]. I have watched this program over and over again and I think it's outstanding. It takes a lot to impress me too.[g] Not only did I think his skating was great, but the way it was filmed was something too.[rain and all]Laura
Subj: Re: Help needed w/ Artistry vid 94-06-08 17:18:28 EDT
From: The Sieve
Got caught in a power outage during original Artistry on Ice. Would anyone have a tape available of it. Please e-mail me.
Thanks
Subj: Re:Skating Mag 94-06-08 19:04:42 EDT
From: JulieD3964
Barfy - I liked your omparison of Blades On Ice to Tiger Beat!
Julie
Subj: Re:Skating Mag 94-06-08 19:05:02 EDT
From: JulieD3964
I meant COMPARISON (sorry).....
Julie
Subj: Re: Paul vs. Kurt 94-06-08 19:11:57 EDT
From: JulieD3964
Laura - Isn't that latest special (You Must Remember This) of Kurt Browning's really something spectacular? That Singing in the Rain number is the most unique thing I've ever seen done on ice - I don't envy the poor people to had to clean up after it though - ALL of that water on the ice......Hey, what do you think Kurt's suit was made of? He never looked like he got wet! I also liked the Humphrey Bogart section which was in black and white because some of the lines were funny such as Christine Hough saying to Kurt "You're not very tall, are you?" and he replies "I try to be." That was neat. I think I also saw that thing Barfy was talking about with the lunge into the pivot and into a lunge - the part about building a standing ovation. This was a nigh budget production - just look at the sets and costume changes and lighting effects....... Wish we could do skating specials that way here in the States..... Julie
Subj: Wylie/Browning 94-06-09 01:49:46 EDT
From: Kara sk8
Hope it's not a capital offense over here to express an opinion. I didn't mean to offend anyone or be confrontational. (If I did, I apologize.) But I also think it gets very boring if we never admit that we like some skaters more than others. I agree that we can't measure artistry, so it's very hard to debate this subject. (Unlike jumps, etc.) But just because you can't measure something doesn't mean that everyone is equal and there is no such thing as a skater who is not as musical as another, for example. Sure, I can only express my opinion. And that is that Kurt Browning is not an artist. Obviously many of you don't agree with me, and I respect that. I didn't mean that comment as a put-down. Just an opinion. And by the way, I don't mean to say Paul Wylie is perfect. He's got his weaknesses, and I agree with the comment that all his programs tend to be very similar. He has basically one style he can do well. But it's .... oh, SOOO well . . . But I do appreciate the fact that other skaters, like Orser or Petrenko, have more versatility.
Subj: Re:Short/long of it 94-06-09 03:21:09 EDT
From: Mr Toy
Lloyd Eisler is about 5'10 or 11...Isabelle is 5'2", I believe....tall, definitely tall.
Subj: The Flag & Philippe Debate 94-06-09 10:03:17 EDT
From: JL Pooley
Just as a postscript to the intense debate that went on a couple months back over the disrespectfulness (or non-disrespectfulness, depending on which side you were on) of Philippe Candeloro's treatment of the American Flag in his "Rocky" number -- when I saw the Campbell's show in Birmingham, Alabama, he was NO LONGER wearing the flag vest.
Philippe now sports a fluffy white boxer's robe, with shiny blue and red stars embroidered on the shoulders and upper back, and "1994 Tour of Olympic and World Figure Skating Champions" printed across the middle of the back, and the five Olympic rings printed on the left side in the front.
It kind of cramps his style, in my opinion -- he looks a little silly running around the ice in what is essentially a bathrobe, and he doesn't, er, "remove it," shall we say, with the same amount of flair as the flag vest -- I think the robe's sash gets in his way. However, with practice, I'm sure he'll develop a more, er, "sensuous" style of taking it off, as he did with the vest. :)
As a side note, one of the most fun things about the tour this year has been the surprisingly high number of people around me in the audience who keep calling him "Phil-LEE-pay," instead of "Phil-LEEP." I think next year he should do a Latin American number, maybe a nice rhumba or a samba, hmmmmm? :)
JLP
Subj: Re:The Flag & Philippe Debate 94-06-09 19:41:38 EDT
From: MorryS
That was a good move by Philippe in the South. He wouln't have got out alive if he tried the Flag number with the "Stars and Bars"
Subj: Re:Wylie/Browning 94-06-09 22:38:14 EDT
From: LeeAnn 1
Kara -
I can't speak for everyone else, but I didn't think you were being very confrontational. You're welcome to express any thoughts you have on figure skating/skaters here. It's personal attacks on each other that we need to avoid.
Lee :)
Subj: Re:The Flag & Philippe Debate 94-06-09 22:58:01 EDT
From: JL Pooley
Actually, Morry, the Stars and Bars would have gone over real well in the South, I think.
JLP
Subj: Re: Paul vs. Kurt 94-06-10 09:51:08 EDT
From: Barfalomew
I think Kurt's suit was a regular suit but it had a lot of Scotchguard on it. That's what they make the Marines wear at Parris Island in the summers (I know). Have you ever seen a Marine with sweat stains under his arms? They Scotchguard the inside and the outside of the uniforms and the sweat runs right down their faces all summer but you don't see it on their clothes. Either that or he was wearing nylon in disguise.
Barfy
Subj: Felipe 94-06-10 09:52:56 EDT
From: Barfalomew
I think Felipe should skate to the Mexican Hat Dance.
Barfy
Subj: Forum Update 94-06-10 23:29:37 EDT
From: LeeAnn 1
Here's an updated listing of the upcoming forums. The forum is every Thrusday at 10:00 PM ET in the Press Box here in the Grandstand.
June 16--Selecting/maintaining your skating boots
June 23--Blast from the Past, JulieD3964
June 30--Effect of coaching on skaters
July 7--Fantasy program, Brenda will organize and host
July 14--Books, JulieD3964
July 21--Being aa skating parent - SKATINGMOM
July 28--Costuming - Nebula5
August 4 -- More skating journalism - Faxel 1
August 11 -- Future of Figure Skating - Linda8894
Subj: Tickets to San Diego Ice Tour? 94-06-11 03:48:36 EDT
From: Stobchatay
If any one knows where I can get one or two decent tickets to the Olympic Ice tour in San Diego, CA to be held on 30th June please contact me by private e-mail. I didn't think I would be able to go.
Susan Southall (stoby@aol.com.)
Subj: Re:Kurt Browning's Book 94-06-12 02:07:46 EDT
From: ONTIME5555
I got a copy of the book from rainbow sports shop out of Chicago I dont have the # here but you could probobly get it from infomation.
Subj: Tonya Again 94-06-12 17:02:45 EDT
From: Stobchatay
Heard a rumor that Jeff and Tonya were together again...will she never learn?
Susan
Subj: Dorothy Hamill 94-06-12 20:26:40 EDT
From: JoAnneSK8
On the subject of rumors, I heard that Dorothy Hamill has sold Ice Capades to some corporation connected with televised religion. Anyone sheard the same?
Subj: Re:Dorothy Hamill 94-06-12 22:50:02 EDT
From: LeeAnn 1
JoAnne -
Yes, I've heard the same about Dorothy Hamill selling the Ice Capades. I forget the exact initials, but I think it is something like IFE Corporation? That isn't exactly right, though. There was an article online about it, too.
Lee
Subj: Re:Kurt Browning's Book 94-06-12 23:23:20 EDT
From: Pep256
Speaking of Rainbo Sports store (which I've heard so much about in Internet :-)...does it put out a catalog? Does it list books and videotapes as well as skating equipment and such? Thanks in advance for any info I may get.
-- Angeli
Subj: Re:the Kwan sisters 94-06-12 23:45:20 EDT
From: Trevar
I don't know them personally but recently met Michelle at an ice revue in Burbank. They both skated in the show and both received equally warm (actually thunderous) applause. They seem like very sweet, humble girls and Michelle especially seems surpised by all the attention she's receiving. Their parents make great sacrifices to keep them skating and I think they are aware of this. It was a pleasure to see them and to feel the simplicity they both personify -- especially after seeing the arrogance expressed by some of the other world- and olympic-level athletes in recent months.
Subj: Rainbo Sports Phone # 94-06-12 23:55:00 EDT
From: Marie SD
>>Speaking of Rainbo Sports store (which I've heard so much about in Internet :-)...does it put out a catalog?
<<
Their number is: 312/275-5500, FAX 275-5506
Yes, they put out a (free) catalog. And I seem to recall that at least some of their video and book offerings are in it.
Subj: Re:Dorothy Hamill 94-06-12 23:57:29 EDT
From: Marie SD
The Hamills sold the Ice Capades to a company being run by Pat Robertson. Dorothy and her husband are committed to remaining in charge of the company for the next 5 years but Dorothy wants to turn her attention to producing skating productions for TV. I believe they will first be shown on Pat Robertson's company's network (The Family Channel??) and then released into syndication.
Subj: Re:Tonya Again 94-06-12 23:58:41 EDT
From: Marie SD
I heard that they were seen together at a hotel and spent the night there. Spokespeople for both parties claim, yes, they were there, but not together and that Jeff has a girlfriend.
Subj: Re:the Kwan sisters 94-06-13 10:46:40 EDT
From: MorryS
The Kwan sisters are just as they seem. I have known them for years. They belong to my Club, Los Angeles Figure Skating Club. All who have ever had anything to do with any of the family rate them very high as people.
Subj: Re:Dorothy Hamill 94-06-13 21:42:34 EDT
From: MaraEL
>On the subject of rumors, I heard that Dorothy Hamill has sold Ice Capades to some corporation connected with televised religion. Anyone sheard the same?
She sold it to Pat Robertson's company, which also owns The Family Channel and MTM Productions (Evening Shade, Christy, etc.)
Mara
Subj: ISU Congress in Boston this week 94-06-13 22:13:47 EDT
From: MorryS
The ISU Congress is being held this week in Boston ( Coply Center). I will be there on Wednesday and come back to LA on Saturday. If any of you are out there as observers, Please look me up. I will report the results of the Congress next week
Subj: Tour of Champions Music 94-06-13 23:02:55 EDT
From: Lawrentian
Hi skating fans,
I just went to see the Tour of Champions in Chicago, (which, of course, I loved)
But anyway, I am very curious about something. I just can't believe that the skaters chose their own music when the get introduced in the beginning and at the end. Somehow, I just can't picture Surya picking "Sometimes You're the Windshield, sometimes you're the Bug" by Mary Chapin Carpenter to do her intro to. Similarly, G&G don't really seem like Bryan Adams fans to me.
----curiously yours,
Molly
Subj: Re:ISU Congress in Boston this w 94-06-14 20:14:48 EDT
From: JoAnneSK8
Morry, I had signed on as volunteer driver for the Congress (carting people from the airport to the Copley Place Hotel, but I assume they didn't need me, since no one called. It's very hot and humid right now in Boston with afternoon thunderstorms predicted straight through until Friday night. I know you're from California and used to the heat but I wanted to warn you about the humidity. It's bad even for New Englanders.
Have fun. Let us know if something momentous occurs.
JoAnne in MA
Subj: Re:ISU Congress in Boston this w 94-06-15 18:15:54 EDT
From: KimLMB
It would be wonderful if someone could post info coming out of the ISU conference. I would especially be interested in the dances for the95-96 season, and if they vote to add any new compulsory dances.
Subj: Re:Tour of Champions Music 94-06-15 20:49:05 EDT
From: MaraEL
> I just can't believe that the skaters chose their own music when the get introduced in the beginning and at the end. Somehow, I just can't picture Surya picking "Sometimes You're the Windshield, sometimes you're the Bug" by Mary Chapin Carpenter to do her intro to. Similarly, G&G don't really seem like Bryan Adams fans to me.
I know what you mean, Molly. Also, G&G and M&D were on the same piece of music.
Mara
Subj: T.V. skating 94-06-15 21:11:10 EDT
From: LeaC526
Does anyone know of any skating exhibition or competition on television coming up? Thanks a lot.
Lea
Subj: Re:Tonya Again 94-06-15 23:32:27 EDT
From: Barfalomew
Well I heard a rumour on the radio today and maybe it's true and I think so because it's a reputable radio station with people who really know sports and LIKE skating and talk about it even when it's not big in the news. ANYWAY, they said that PENTHOUSE contacted Tonya to be in their anniversay or somthing issue and they're threatening her by saying if she doesn't do it that they're going to publish stills from the video where she did the striptease so she's going to end up in the magazine one way or another and she's been on the cover of half the magazines in Wurope with no top on already I've heard
BARFY
Subj: Music for Tours 94-06-15 23:36:29 EDT
From: Barfalomew
It all depends on the tour and when and where the tour is whether the skaters choose their own music or have someone else choose it for them. A lot of times a skater has a full-length exhibition number that they skate to a lot as a full-piece number and then they do a show and they do just a little bit of it as the introduction or the closing for the show in the groop numbers. A lot of skaters do that like Jill Trenary and Paul Wylie that I know of becasue I've seen them do it and I've talked to them about it. Other times the skaters have to skate to whatever they get told to skate to but that doesn't happen all that often not really but sometimes it does.
BARFY
Subj: Re:T.V. skating 94-06-15 23:42:22 EDT
From: Barfalomew
On my tv the next skating is whatever tape I want to watch. Ha ha ha. I think you should look in the tv guide at the pbs stations because they sometimes show the Jimmy Fund but it's called something else like Night of Championships Skating and they have Torvill and Dean documentaries a lot sometimes. The next new skating will probably not be until July when the Olympic Festival should be on tv and maybe thy'll show some roller skating too which would be mondo. But that will be around July. I would not want to see skating right now. Do you skate? All the skaters I know are eating corn on the cob becasue its the off season and they don't have to practice/train but they always have to practice but there aren't any competitions coming up for a long time for most of them until the fall so they do their new programs and maybe go to summer training camp but most everyone is sort of out of shape and not very exciting to watch becasue they are no where near being peaked and good thing too since that shouldn't be until December and January because of qualifying for Nationals.
BARFY
Subj: Oksana Baiul 94-06-15 23:46:29 EDT
From: Barfalomew
I haerd on the radio today that Oksana Baiul was going to train in Connecticut next year outside of Hartford and the people in CT were going to pay her $100,000 to train there BUT she decided it wasn't enough money and the Ukrainian government is building two new rinks in the Ukraine with one for her and one for Viktor with one in Odessa and the other someplace else near the Black Sea but I can't think of anyplace else in Ukraine near the Black Sea except for Odessa. Anyway, they are building her a new rink and paying her more money to stay at home to train. I also saw this on a board at the rink and someone had printed it off of a newswire I think. So I think it is a REAL rumor and not a fake rumor.
BARFY
Subj: Re:Barfalomew 94-06-16 10:49:48 EDT
From: The Sieve
Does your computer have any . (periods)?
Just wondering?
Subj: Re:Tonya Again 94-06-16 13:40:11 EDT
From: Bob Weaver
Ha! Ha! Well, I get Tonya's fan club newsletter, and there hasn't been any mention of Jeff or Penthouse. But then, I wouldn't expect there to be. Thanks for the gossip!
Subj: Re:Tonya Again 94-06-16 18:21:05 EDT
From: JulieD3964
I've heard two pieces of information on Tonya in the past two days. The first was on WMAL radio in Washington DC which is an all news radio station. The sportscaster told about how Penthouse has contacted Tonya about posing for them and if she wouldn't do it, they'd use the stills from Jeff's video of her when she was topless. I don't know where Barfy got his/her information but I heard about the same thing (I think). The second is from the Washington Post this morning which said that Tonya has a new agent out of Los Angeles (Ruth someone) and the agent is working on getting Tonya a skating deal in Vegas (at a casino?) and wants to remake her image ala Vanessa WIlliams.
One other thing - I wouldn't believe everything you read in the Tonya Harding Fan Club newsletter. I say that having read many issues.
Julie
Subj: Re:Tonya Again 94-06-17 03:10:52 EDT
From: Lawrentian
Well it's about time Tonya got a new agent!! Her old one certainly could not have done a worse job of painting a positive image of her client! (did she even Have an agent?)
Subj: Re:Tonya Again 94-06-17 10:49:32 EDT
From: CKSutcliff
I thought that when all that hoopla that was going on around Nationals and Olympics the news media said that Jeff was her manager and she didn't have an agent. I would say he screwed up big time, yes.... Connie
Subj: Re:Barfalomew 94-06-17 23:45:39 EDT
From: Barfalomew
My computer has periods but the key sticks a lot and doesn't always work so I try not to use it very often except when I really have to because I have to press the key super really hard and that might break the keyboard and I couldn't use it at all ever any more and I couldn't write any new notes then and then you might be sad becase I wasn't writing and I have lots of mondo stuff to tell because I know about lots of stuff and I know lots of skaters so I use runon sentences instead if you don't mind and even if you do it doesn't matter because I'll still write them anyway
Barfy
Subj: Re:Tonya Again 94-06-17 23:46:33 EDT
From: Barfalomew
Bob Weaver ---->>>>>>> Aren't you Tonya's lawyer? I think I saw your name in the newspaper as her lawyer
BARFY
Subj: Re:Tonya Again 94-06-17 23:47:42 EDT
From: Barfalomew
Jeff Booloony was her agent and got her lots of endorsements
BARFY
Subj: Re:Tonya Again 94-06-19 01:05:20 EDT
From: Bob Weaver
Very sharp, Barfy! But, no, I am no relation to Tonya's laywer who I share a name with.
Also, Tonya used to have an agent named Michael Rosenberg, but that was before this year.
Subj: Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-19 05:54:43 EDT
From: Foogoo
Hello everyone. This is my first post on this board. I recently discontinued my prodigy membership due to such a low intellectual level of comments on their skating bb.
First of all , I just returned home from the Campbells tour of Champions on Portland tonight 6/18/94. Overall the tour was wonderful (as always). Unfortunately Some of the top name performers were substandard, namely Nancy Kerrigan. I know that this kind of tour is very grueling on the performers, (so many cities in so few days) however To me, and to many others, Nancy didn't seem to try. Not only did she fall 3 times, but as she was attempting her tradmark leg in the air pose, her hand slipped off of her leg and she faltered visibly. I was impressed that she both attempted a triple lutz, and that she landed it well.
Perhaps being in Portland (Tonyas home town) had an effect on her, however their were other skaters who appeared to be visibly exhausted yet pushed themselves to the limit in order to give the audience the high energy, gold medal performance that we would all like to see. Viktor Petrenko was such a performer. His performance was the highlight of the evening. Nancy, on the other hand seemed to "take it easy".
Phillippe was wonderful, though I'm getting tired of seeing his "Rocky" exhibition for two years in a row on this tour. Also he wore a white terryclothe robe and not an american flag.
In March, after the news of Dorothy Hamils purchase of the Clackmas towne center rink. I had the priviledge of meeting Dorothy Hamil at the rink. She was gracious and delightful. She signed my "Cinderella program" and answered my questiones about future ice capades IE Hansel & Gretel.
Currently the Clackamas ice rink is under remodeling construction. Apparently Tonya has been asked by Dorothy Hamil to be an instructor there. According to the Portland Oregonion (a lousey newspaper) Tonya is currently serving meals to senior citizens as a part of her community service. She has paid her $100,000 fine, and her $10,000 fine. She still needs to set up the funding for $50,000 for the special olypics.
Her agent/manager has said that she is very marketable, and negotiations are under way for her to appear on American Gladiators. As a figure skating fan, I feel that we, the public who appreciate excellent skating, are the real losers in the Harding/Kerrigan controversy. Nancy has prosperred greatly. Tonya will probably prosper though not to the extent that Nancy has.. I don't condone anything surrounding the Kerrigan attack, however I regret that I will not get to see Tonya in ametuer competition. When she was "ON" she was spectacular. I believe that she has/had far more potential than Nancy, However now we'll never know. I wish both skaters well and was very "heartsick" when kerrigan was attached.
On another subject, I believe that kristy Yamaguchi is the greatest skater in ladies competion today. I,m sure that many of you have other views and will not hesitate in telling me about them.
Tom
Subj: Re:Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-19 12:50:39 EDT
From: JoAnneSK8
Tom, welcome. I can't say I agree with your opinion of Tonya (I don't care if I ever see her skate again and I certainly won't pay to see a show that hires her) but it could have something to do with the fact that I'm a New Englander and somewhat partial to Nancy.
Still, the post is welcome. Hopefully we can keep the discussion going here through the dry months of summer until the season starts in the fall.
JoAnne in MA
Subj: Results ISU Congress 94-06-19 13:05:24 EDT
From: MorryS
For those of you who are interested the US had great success in promoting our proposals and our Candidates for positions in the ISU.
Our greatest success was to get Claire Ferguson, USFSA President elected to the ISU Council. We also were able to have Ron Pfenning, USFSA Competitions Committee Chair elected to the Figure Skating Technical Committee and Pat French, our most knowledgeable Precision Judge was elected as the Chair of the ISU Precision Technical Committee. The only Committee we did not mange to infiltrate was the Dance Technical Committee. That Committee changed very little. We will continue our efforts and will get on that Committee next time.
US proposals passed that will allow us to modigy our Pro-Ams to include skaters from other countries. We can also change the events and have a competition that includes a Technical Program and an Artistic Program limiting jumps. Before our proposal was accepted it was always necessary to have a Technical Program and a standard Freeskating Program.
It was wonderfull to see that the US could gain the wide support that we received from the ex Soviet Countries and from the Asian block. It was like the UN, only this time the US manged to come out a real winner.
I hope you will all wish our USFSA Officials that were elected the best and provide support when needed.
The final banquet at the Coply Plaza hotel was a real happening. Most of the countries were there to honor the new President of the ISU, Mr Chinquanta of Italy. It was also wall to wall gold medalists . Carol Heiss, Alexander Gorshkoff, Terry McDermit, US speed skater and many others. Tom Collins was honored for his continued support of Skating. Personal note: Tom Collins is really a great person and we should all make sure that his tours are supported because he give back to the skaters and skater so much of his hard work.
Subj: Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-19 15:36:31 EDT
From: Foogoo
Hi JoAnne,
Thanks for your response. Perhaps by being from New England
you may have heard news about one of my favorite skaters that I have not seen or heard about since US Nationals. What's become of Mark Mitchell? Any information you may have about him would be appreciated. His long program at 92 Worlds was the highlight of that event for me.
Thanks again
Tom
Subj: Re:Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-19 19:09:40 EDT
From: LeaC526
I have to slightly disagree with your opinion of Kristi Y. being the greatest skater in Ladies competition. I respect your opinion, but I personally think that Oksana Baiul is. Kristi IS a fantasic and amazing skater, but Oksana overcame so much and put so much effort in order to perform her long program in Lillihamer. We all know that she (O.B.) didn't participate in the '94 Worlds because of a lower back injury and because of how busy she was over in the Ukraines, but during the Olympics she put her pain behind her and performed the best to her ability and ended up winning. I guess this is partly why I admire Isabelle Brasseure (please excuse my spelling), she too was going through much pain during the Olympcis, but skated HER best and ended up doing extremly well. Phew! I guess that's about all I have to say.
Lea
Subj: Re:Bob Weaver 94-06-19 21:23:49 EDT
From: Barfalomew
Michael Rosenberg is an agent and he represents lots of skaters but he said he would never ever ever never represent Tonya ever again.
BARFY
Subj: Re:Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-19 21:25:58 EDT
From: Barfalomew
I also would never pay to see Tonya skate. She spins really good though and they hardly ever never travel like a drill bit going into the ice. I wish I could spin like that but I can't but I'm I'm working on it so maybe one day I'll spin realy good.
BARFY
Subj: Re:Results ISU Congress 94-06-19 21:29:13 EDT
From: Barfalomew
Dear Mr. Morry,
I have a question for you - how does Tom Collins decide who is going to skate on his tours? He advertises World and Olympic champions but there are some people on the tour who are not World and/or Olympic champions like Scott Davis, Nancy Kerrigan and Gary Beacom who is only a minor pro champion but a mondo skater. And why is a skater on the tour one year and not the next? Like why not Aren Nielsen? Mark Mitchell got to skate in the tour when he was only a bronze medalist so why not Aren? I'd rather see him than that Alex guy.
Barfy
Subj: Re:Results ISU Congress 94-06-19 23:11:59 EDT
From: MorryS
Tom is in a business and his first consideration is which skaters will draw the most customers. He often adds a skater for a particular site because the skater is very popular in that area. A final consideration is the skater and the skater's agent. It the skater wants more than Tom is willing to pay he will not use the skater. At times Tom has even dropped Olympic skaters for business reasons.
Subj: TBS ad 94-06-20 16:23:35 EDT
From: Faithfu1 1
Has anyone seen a TBS or TNT ad with Michelle Kwan ? I saw it a few weeks ago and it was advertising an upcoming competition... maybe it's the Olympic Festival ? Anyway those who a looking for a skating event to watch...TBS has something in the works for this summer.
Faith
Subj: Re:TBS ad 94-06-20 17:49:01 EDT
From: Stobchatay
I think what you're thinking of is the Goodwill Games (late July and early August on TBS) which will feature figure skating. I'm not sure if Kwan will compete or if they're just using stock footage of her for the promos.
Susan
Subj: Re:Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-21 00:21:08 EDT
From: Ssqueak
Tom --- just sort of a comment about Nancy about the beginning of the tour (in DC). She was probably much better technicially (I don't remember there being any problems with her trademark spiral for example), but her numbers were some of the flattest (it seemed to me, anyway) just because I didn't like the music/cheography. It was just pretty dull.
And I agree with you --- Victor's number were some of the best of the evening!
Subj: Re:Michael Rosenberg 94-06-21 01:10:37 EDT
From: Bob Weaver
Yes, you're right. On one show I saw (I think it was Nightline) Michael Rosenberg did express that he would not consider representing Tonya again, but he tried to say it diplomatically and covered it over with niceties.
Subj: Re:Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-21 01:14:35 EDT
From: DenaT
Hello everyone--
I have been perusing the postings for a while now and thought it was about time I contributed. I have never skated myself (although I'm dying to learn), so I'm not well-schooled in the technical aspects of the sport. Basically I'm intrigued by the artistry that goes into the total performance. I'm afraid I have to give a thumbs-down to Tonya, as (lately, at least) she seems to lumber on the ice. Also, her musical choices border on the absurd ("Much Ado About Nothing" for the Olympics? Please!
I saw the Campbells tour at the Stadium and was most impressed by the following skaters: Nicole Bobek for her ebullience, Lu Chen for her grace, and Brian Boitano for just plain bowling me over in every detail of his performance (he also had the highest jump). Of course Victor Petrenko and Oksana Baiul were also outstanding (and drew HUGE applause, much more than Nancy Kerrigan (who was competent but seemed to phone her performance in).
I'd be interested in hearing from others who were there.
Dena
Subj: Re:Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-21 03:26:17 EDT
From: Lawrentian
I was at the show in Chicago and agree with all of you. Nancy could not get off the ice fast enough at the end--she bolted off as soon as the light was off her.
The biggest applause went to Oksana and Brian. Brasseur and Eisler were, obviously, amazing!
Subj: Re:TBS ad 94-06-21 09:26:24 EDT
From: MorryS
Michelle is promoting the the Goodwill Games that will be held in St. Petersburg, Russia. The Games are sponsored by Ted Turnner.
Subj: Internet Help 94-06-21 19:20:00 EDT
From: Skt123
To all the AOL er's that use Internet and hang out in rec.skate,
Is it possible for us through AOL to access the area in which all the GIF's of skater's are being posted? I've tried to add ftp.sunet many times, but it does not come up as a valid group.
Help.
Subj: Re:Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-21 19:32:56 EDT
From: Mr Toy
Lea,
You think Oksana went through a lot? Remember, Kristi skated for about 7 years (?) both as a pairs skater AND a singles skater winning both the gold medal at the World Jr. Championships in Pairs and in Singles. 1989-1990 season was a tough one for her as she had to move to Edmonton, Canada to train with her singles coach. There was a lot of travelling back and forth among her, her partner (Rudi Galindo) and her pairs coaches from San Jose to Edmonton and back just to get in as much training as possible in pairs. Later in 1989, she had to deal with the death of her grandfather and her pairs coach. From December, 1989, up until Nationals in 1990, there was a lot of running around to get the training in Pairs since she's Edmonton, Rudi's in San Jose, and their new coach, John Nicks was in Los Angeles (Costa Mesa to be exact). Nevertheless, she and Rudi managed to defend their National title in pairs, and she took home a second silver in the Ladies' event behind Jill Trenary. After a disappointing Worlds, she faced the decision to drop pairs ( a move, I heard, was strongly encouraged by the USFSA) and commit full-time to singles. From then, she has blossomed so much as a single skater. Now, she's possibly looking to finish off where she has left off in Pairs.
(Ok, it sounded absolutely biased, well, you guys know me...Personally, I adore Nathalie Krieg...her spinning has taken me over!)
Subj: Re:Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-21 19:37:03 EDT
From: Mr Toy
Dena,
I have to disagree with you about Tonya's choice for Much Ado About Nothing. First, that was chosen in the summer of 1993. She first performed to it at Skate America in Dallas in Oct., 1993. Secondly, the music is very powerful and lyrical. It's perfect for skating, especially for Tonya because of her huge jumps and fast spins.
Subj: Mark Mitchell 94-06-21 20:31:38 EDT
From: JoAnneSK8
I eard a rumor that Mark is back at the Skating Club of Boston, but have not confirmed it. I don't know what he's doing, although I'd like to. His skating has class, even if he's not always as consistent technically as he needs to be. But he has the disadvantage of age working against him.
I do try to keep my eye on as many of the New England skaters as I can. Unfortunately, I'm not skating at any of the high-test clubs this summer (my club has ice of it's own this summer so I'm saving on gas and milage for once) so I'll have to get my gossip second-hand.
There must be other New Englanders on here who know more though.
JoAnne in MA
Subj: Re:Mark Mitchell 94-06-21 23:59:11 EDT
From: LauraP1808
Joanne, He's been at the SCOB recently, but not often. This info is second hand too, but it comes from my daughter's coach[g] who teaches there every day.. Mark also spent some time skating at home in Connecticut. Don't know what he's up to, but I hope we'll see him skate again soon, either as an eligible skater or a pro.
Subj: Oksana/Kristy/Lea/Mr. Toy 94-06-22 00:31:18 EDT
From: Foogoo
Lea,
I agree that Oksana is a wonderful skater. She was superb in the last two Campbells tours. I know that she has overcome a very sad childhood having lost her parents, and Grandparents. There is no doubt in my mind that she deserved the Gold medal at the Olympics. I cannot fault anything about her skating and will do whatever I can to see her performances whenever possible.
Kristy too has had to overcome hardships, the most notable of which was a club foot. There were others as Mr. Toy pointed out
however I was not aware of these. I am a great admirer of both skaters, I just have a little more admiration for Kristy. This may change in the future as we will have a chance to see more of Oksana. So far all we've seen are a few competitive performances that don't adequetly demonstrate her versatility. She's great now, but just think how wonderful she can become as she matures and experiences all the emotions associated with young womanhood. Kristys performances are so superb. Whether competeing professionally to The Minute Waltz, or skating in the Stars On Ice Tour, her skating just gets better and better.
Actually both skaters are very similar. They're both petite, graceful, atheletic, appealing, and artistic. To me they're artistry is what sets them apart from the "jumpers". They can do the jumps, but don't rely on them as there only strength in performance. My basis for who I think is the best today is not based on hardships that they have overcome, but rather the quality of their skating. Deciding between Oksana and Kristy is very difficult. We're both entitled to our opinions, and I admire Kristy's skating a little more, but only by a hairs weight. Only the future will tell, but I for one can't get enough of either of them.
Tom
PS- The more I see of Viktor Petrenko the more I admire him. Not only are his performances superb, his taking oksana under his wing is heartwarming. His skating with Oksana to Rock around the Clock was one of the highlights of the Campbells tour. I hope they continue to perform together.
Subj: Re:Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-22 01:27:03 EDT
From: DenaT
Subj: More Harding news 94-06-22 02:37:18 EDT
From: Bob Weaver
Yes, the newspaper reports that Tonya Harding has hired an agent in Los Angeles, and one thing they hope to get going is a skating show in Las Vegas. There has been speculation that Tonya would join the "American Gladiators" but that's unconfirmed. Tonight on the news, there was Tonya with a group of professional wrestlers, and the story is that she will "coach" and "manage" a wrestling event. Two of the wrestlers started "fighting" in that phony way they have, and Tonya looked genuinely startled. It just gets weirder and weirder. Personally I think Tonya has riveting on-camera presence when she wants to, and she should become an actress, not a wrestler.
Subj: Re:More Harding news 94-06-22 04:36:35 EDT
From: MargeR1
Over on *P they had an online picture of Tonya with some of the wrestlers plus an online article about it. What will that girl do next? I read also on *P earlier that her present agent is the same one who help Vanessa Williams after her Miss America disaster to rebuild her career.
Marge
Subj: Re:Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-22 08:51:51 EDT
From: Mr Toy
Dena,
Sometimes when you've spent a better part of the summer choreographing a program (much the time spent on selecting music, editing and having costumes made to reflect the program), you just don't shelve it! In fact only Vern Lundquist has made a note on the irony of the selection to Much Ado About Nothing. No one else has. And usually, unless a program receives harsh criticism from judges or other members of the skating elite, a skater with the decision of the coach would most likely keep that program for the entire season.
Quite a few people mentioned that Nancy had bad taste for skating to music by Neil Diamond. I also disagree. I found that music to work quite effectively in excentuating her artistic side as well as her athletic side. In addition, it draws audience participation (synchronized clapping) and the music builds to a climax at the end that is very effective in exciting the crowd.
Subj: Re:Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-22 15:17:22 EDT
From: Marie SD
>>However, I still feel that with all the heat that was coming down on her and with her critics waiting with bated breath for something to pick on . . . she could have used better judgement.
<<
It would have been worse judgement to change her music at such a late date! It isn't easy choreographing a routine to music, learning it, perfecting it, etc. There is no way she could have started over so close to the Olympics and had any sort of performance at all.
Subj: Re:Tonya/Wrestling 94-06-22 16:54:00 EDT
From: Bob Weaver
By *P I assume you mean Prodigy, which I don't have or I'd read that article. I think there is still a lot of interest in Tonya, for some people just as a curiosity, but for others, as a real performer. I just don't personally think wrestling is the right path for her, but that's just my opinion. I think she should start by writing a book, not just about herself, but also about the figure skating world. Then, she should play herself in a movie version of the book. I think she's a natural on camera and has a good sense of humor. (Remember seeing her at the Olympic practice sessions: she fell just skating forward, then another time she fell out of a SPIN! What did she do? Just laughed it off.) Then if she does well in that movie, it would lead to other acting offers. That's the direction I would like to see Tonya go in, but then it's not up to me.
Subj: Re:Tonya/Music 94-06-22 16:55:21 EDT
From: Bob Weaver
On the subject of Tonya's music at the Olympics, I'd say it was good enough but not particularly memorable. In fact I can't even remember how the "Much Ado about Nothing" music goes. The "Jurassic Park" music she used in the long program starts out way cool, and it's nice through the middle, but it fizzles at the end. In my humble opinion, Chen Lu outclassed everyone, and I mean EVERY figure skater/dancer there, with the best musical choices of all.
Subj: Tonya & new programs 94-06-22 18:56:32 EDT
From: Barfalomew
I disagree with you Mr. Toy. Tonya wore an old costume for Nationals & the Olympics for her technical program - she did not spend the summer having that red halter showgal costume fitted! She shoulda worn the peachy one from Skate America but I thought that was ugly too. I liked the purple one she wore for her long in 93 when she came in 4th - it was pretty.
Also she COULDA done a new program - she's done it before - remember Worlds in 92 where she dumped her Olympic program and did Moon River instead? And how about Mark Mitchell in 92 - he dumped his long program too. She COULDA done it. It was a nice program and shouldn't have been dumped though except for the costume!
BARFY
Subj: Re:Tonya/Wrestling 94-06-22 18:57:24 EDT
From: Barfalomew
I think Tonya will make a good wrestler ike Ric Flaim.
BARFY
Subj: Re:Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-22 22:49:32 EDT
From: DenaT
M r. Toy
I must admit it had occurred to me that it would probably be difficult (if not impossible) for a skater to change a program that late in the game. It seems that Tonya had to make do with what was prepared.
Although there are obviously some objective standards for choosing music, one's personal tastes can get in the way of appreciating a skater's program. I'm not a fan of "adult contemporary" myself, so Neil Diamond (or Whitney Houston or Barbra Streisand) doesn't do it for me. On the other hand, truly great skating can transcend indifferent music. I didn't recognize (or care for) the ballad Brian Boitano skated to in the Campbell's show, but it really didn't matter--he was breathtaking.
Dena
Subj: Re:Tonya & new programs 94-06-22 22:55:03 EDT
From: CKSutcliff
Barfy: Speaking from one who sews costumes for people, OFTEN times skaters get their dresses days before or maybe even hours before they wear them in a contest. I'm witness to that every year! (-8 Remember the snafoo Nancy wore at Nationals the year before that creeped up so badly she literally mooned the TV camera at one point. Her dress maker was a very well known designer, but obviously the dress did not go through a dry run to make sure it was safe and functional. I suspect the same thing happened with Tonya's red one. You would think there would be more lead time when ordering a new dresss; but that's not always what happens, ice or roller. Connie
Subj: Oksana 94-06-23 00:33:36 EDT
From: NymphoSk8r
Hi, I'm new to AOL and to this board. I've actually accidentally ran into it after browsing through AOL for 2 hours today! And I am glad to see there is a good deal fo figure skating chat. I like to ad my two cents worth regarding Oksana Bayul. She is a nice skater, but I think she is overrated. For some reason, you can't think about Oksana without thinking about her past. Like I said, she's a nice skater, but there are a lot of things for her to improve on. I know style isn't one of them. She needs stronger landing on her jumps. She needs to stop travelling in her spins. And she needs to be more creative with positions in spins and such. I hate her layback spin. It travels and has no sense of style. Kristi Yamaguchi is a good skater, but she lacks any height or clean landings. She always seem to land cross-legged, like she barely completed the jump. I don't really have a favorite ladies skater because I don't think any of the ones we have seen are truly the best. That's my opinion.
Subj: Tonya Harding 94-06-23 00:36:52 EDT
From: NymphoSk8r
I can't see why anyone likes Tonya. She has no style. She does skate fast and has big jumps, but she seems to be digging her toepicks really hard into the ice just to get the height and rotations for her jumps making her landings very heavy.
What Tonya needed most was to lose 20 pounds. She looked like Roseanne on Ice in her skimpy Short Program outfit..
Subj: Re:Tonya/Wrestling 94-06-23 00:38:58 EDT
From: Marie SD
>>Then if she does well in that movie, it would lead to other acting offers. That's the direction I would like to see Tonya go in, but then it's not up to me.
<<
Well, it looks like you are going to get your wish. Tonya has signed a deal to play a waitress in a movie. I think the waitress is described as either "tough" or "wisecracking" in the press release.
The wrestling thing is just a one time deal--they call it being a "celebrety manager" which means that she gets to show up and lend her name to the wrestler in question. It's not a big, long-term commitment to the world of wrestling. (thank god.)
Subj: Re:More Harding news 94-06-23 02:45:10 EDT
From: Stobchatay
>I think Tonya has riveting on-camera >presence when she wants to, and she should >become an actress, not a wrestler
Hmm...for better, or more likely, worse Tonya is now an actress. She will appear in some film where she plays a "waitress with an attitude" named Gina. The film has nothing to do with skating to my knowledge.
Susan
Subj: Re:Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-23 17:09:30 EDT
From: LeaC526
Thank-you for what you say about Kristi and I have to agree that she too has been through a lot. I don't know, but I do know that Oksana's mother died when she was 13 (I think), I am 13 and I don't know how I would go on with my skating and be able to focus so well without a mother or a father. I guess you would haveto think from a child's point of view. Now Kristi has always said how much support her family has given her in her skating. Up until recently, Oksana has hardly had a family to encourage her, not even brothers or sisters. I consider that very hard on someone. Thankyou for what you said though.
Lea
Subj: USFSA Forms on computer 94-06-23 17:44:56 EDT
From: KimLMB
Does the USFSA have any of its test forms on a computer data base? I just took over as dance test chairman of my club and have been formating one along with scanning the test sheets in so I can keep records. It's a lot of work and thought I should see if it has already been done and available before I go to much farther.
Thanks, Kim
Subj: Re:Campbells/Tonya 94-06-23 18:07:12 EDT
From: Nebula5
I agree with Mr. Toy. If no one had pointed out the name of the piece, or if you were unfamiliar with the source, the name should be irrelevant. How often do you know the names of the music for other skaters' routines? Their choices may be equally ironic, for all we know sometimes...
The content of the music, and how well you can skate to it, should be of primary concern to a skater! I remember thinking during nationals that Tonya had made a very wise choice in music for skating, for once!
--Julie Z.
Subj: Real Skaters 94-06-23 23:10:08 EDT
From: JeffP11082
After reading this board for the past few weeks, I,m wondering how many of you out there are advanced skaters. I am not trying to offend anyone, but there are so many comments on this board about skating techniques that are so way off base. I get the feeling that some members are just repeating what they hear from t.v. commentators. How many of you really know how to skate? I am a pro who makes my living skating in shows and have skated a good portion of my life. I think it is great when anyone starts skating, but unless you have done a double axel or triple toe, please don't get into techniques that you know nothing about. One member wrote about Tonya Harding taking off on her toe picks in her loop jumps. Anyone that "really" skates knows that the toe is used along with your edge to vault the skater into the air. It also helps to land on the toe just a bit, and then rock back to the outside edge when landing your jump. These are the things that make me wonder about a persons skating skill/knowledge. I am not saying that I know anything more or skate better than anyone else, but I just wanted to seperate the "real" skaters from the "casual" skater.
Let me know if you think I am a total jerk, or if you understand what I am referring to. Thanks.
Subj: Re:Real Skaters 94-06-23 23:51:04 EDT
From: KimLMB
Well I've been skating for more years than I care to mention ( I might date myself) and do consider myself a real skater. I do agree with some of your points about some of the technique points, but I also think a lot of the comments are more about style on the technique. As they say 'there is more than one way to skin a cat' that is also true about skating. I see many different styles of technique out there, like spinning on an up or a down knee, neither is right or wrong, just different. I do have styles of technique that I prefer over others, and I may comment on that from time to time.
Subj: Re:Real Skaters 94-06-24 00:50:24 EDT
From: CKSutcliff
Jeff: Sure, there are some who may make way off base comments, but most of the time it seems to be someone who just happens by and wants to stir things up and are not even that interested in the sport. Most comments about a skater is more about style of which opinions can greatly vary.
I'm a skate mom, but my daughter is in artistic roller. I started with this group several years ago and have learned some very interesting things about ice (vs roller) from other skaters and pros. If you care to join in, your input from a professional skater's view would be very welcomed! Connie
Subj: Lay-back spin 94-06-24 01:43:43 EDT
From: Bob Weaver
Someone mentioned the lay-back spin and how they didn't like Oksana's. I think Rosalyn Sumners perfected the lay-back spin. When she does it right it's like no one else has ever done that spin. She holds the spin a nice long satisfying length of time, and she creates a picture in the air with her hands going up and down in the center. It is beautiful.
Subj: Re:Tonya the actress 94-06-24 01:46:37 EDT
From: Bob Weaver
Well, it's a start (Tonya playing a waitress). But I think she can go much further in the acting field. Does anyone deny that Tonya loves the spotlight and can effortlessly create drama out of thin air and "make a scene"? :)
Subj: Re:Real Skaters 94-06-24 02:40:28 EDT
From: NymphoSk8r
Jeff, I do recreational skating at the local rinks in Los Angeles. I've been a serious fan of skating for more than a dozen years. And believe me, I WOULD NOT make such a stupid error to say that a loop jump's takeoff is done off toepicks as opposed to the edges.
Subj: Re:USFSA Forms on computer 94-06-24 11:08:29 EDT
From: MorryS
The USFSA Central Office computers are not compatatble (using DEC mainframe for most of the data) with most other systems so there has been very little done along this line. They now have a few DOS system computers which are being networked. I have tried to send my reports in on disks but they can't translate. So far they don't even have a Modem. I am going to bring office automation up durning our next Executive Committee Meeting
Subj: Re:Real Skaters 94-06-24 11:12:59 EDT
From: MorryS
I hope there aren't a lot of Coaches that are teaching their skaters to land on the Toe Picks. Most Judges will mark down such a falty landing. Also I wonder how you teach a skater to use the toe pick on a loop when it takes off on a back outside edge.
Subj: Re:USFSA Forms on computer 94-06-24 12:39:11 EDT
From: KimLMB
Thanks Morry!
Kim
Subj: Re:Real Skaters 94-06-24 21:54:17 EDT
From: JeffP11082
Morry, I appreciate your thoughts on real skaters. I am sure coaches are not teaching skaters to land on their toe picks. I am only saying that the very bottom pick does many times come into play on a jump landing. As for the take off, I have trained at the Indiana/World Skating Academy for a few summers, and used video as a training tool. It clearly shows skaters using the very bottom pick to vault off of, along with their edge. Again, I know everyone has their own technique, and you seem to be very knowledgable about skating, so this is by no means trying to say one way is right or wrong. Again, I did not mean to downgrade anyones skating. I think it is great when anyone skates, especially adults.
Subj: Show Skaters Needed 94-06-24 22:01:05 EDT
From: JeffP11082
Hi. This is Jeff again. I am looking for any pro's in Ohio, Northern Kentucky, or Indiana area that would be interested in skating a tank show for the last week of November and the first two weeks of December of this year. Singles, pair/adagio, male and female skaters needed.E-Mail me or leave a message on this board. Thanks. Jeff
Subj: Re:Real Skaters 94-06-24 22:37:43 EDT
From: Skate
I agree with you Jeff on the use of the toe pick on edge jumps. One shouldn't overuse the toe pick but I definitley feel that I use it in my edge jumps. How else can you vault and get any height?
If toe picks were not used then perhaps we'd be seeing triple loops on hockey skates.
I can also remember the tremendous improvement in my jumps when I moved from MK Feista blades to Pattern 99. Wow! I thought I'd sail through the roof!
Subj: Re:loop jumps 94-06-24 23:40:13 EDT
From: GregoryPF
A perfect loop jump is silent and rolls off the back outside edge. It is generally considered acceptable to pivot off the bottom toe pick at the time of take off. However, I would never use the term "vault" for the loop takeoff - a loop should be a subtle jump.
Jeff, as far as my expertise goes, way back in the '70's I could do a triple loop. Also skated at the same club as Priscilla Hill, who was the first woman to do the triple loop. She could do the jump very cleanly with little or no use of the bottom toe pick (I must admit mine were usually cheated and often scratchy)
Subj: Re:Campbells/Tonya/et al 94-06-24 23:53:40 EDT
From: MaryAnnCat
Dena:
I agree with you completely if you're talking about the Chicago Stadium shows. I saw both of them and was amazed that most of the skaters could keep up the level of performing that they did.
At the first show, Brian Boitano was the only one who received a full standing ovation--except at the end for the entire cast. I don't know how much longer he can keep this up, but I am so happy that I was able to see him live one more time.
MaryAnn
Subj: Re:Real Skaters 94-06-25 00:26:34 EDT
From: MaraEL
>As they say 'there is more than one way to skin a cat'
As the mommy to 5 wonderful former strays, I wish people would stop using this phrase...
Mara
Subj: Re:Real Skaters 94-06-25 19:13:00 EDT
From: Faxel 1
Hi Jeff,
No, you're not a jerk and you're not offending anyone. (Okay, I can only speak for myself.) I think it's wonderful that we can debate things even if we disagree with each other sometimes. I agree with you that sometimes people venture opinions without really knowing the sport. However, I believe that we don't ALWAYS have to be able to land a triple axel in order to comment on one. I for one am working on my single jumps (the axel now, I hope!), but have followed skating very, very closely since I was a kid, so I think I know the sport better than many skaters. After all, look how many times you have TV commentators who were former champions who call the jumps wrong! (I can give you plenty of examples, but I'm sure you noticed yourself.) I think the important thing for all of us is to know our limitations and comment about things we feel confident about. And if once in a blue moon we make a mistake . . . oh well, the world didn't come to an end. Right? Look forward to your comments Jeff.
- Monica
Subj: Campbell's Houston 94-06-26 00:13:52 EDT
From: ONTIME5555
I just got back from the Houston show of the Cambells tour, and have several comments. First of all is Alexei Urmanov ever going to get an excibition program? Is Philippe Candeloro ever going to get a new excibition, same for Surya Bonaly. Scott Davis just about put everyone to sleep. Oksana needs to lose the head piece. All of Kerrigans jumps were slopy, and those shorts for the Madonna number just don't work. G&G were wonderful as usual. Oksana G's dress riped during their number, but somehow didn't trip when it was wraped around her skate.B&E, and Boitano both were great, B&E did the cross dresser one. Why can't Bonaly skate in compition like she dose in exibiton? Where were Kwan,P&s, and Beacom? I thought that Lu Chen had a Fractured foot and couldn't skate, she was excellent. And the biggest Question of all, why were M&D in the intro, but didn't skate a program, and were not in the closeing?
Cynthia
Subj: Re:Real Skaters 94-06-26 02:09:01 EDT
From: Amanita
Jeff,
There very well may be good reason to wonder how many of us are "real skaters." I, for one, have never claimed to be a skater at all. Others have, but I think you are way off base in your remarks. There is a very great difference between contributing your knowledge and/or correcting specific misstatements and implying (as I think you did) that only "real skaters" have anything to say. As far as I know, this isn't a contest.
Dena
Subj: Re:Real Skaters 94-06-26 10:20:46 EDT
From: JoAnneSK8
Jeff, thank you for the comment on skating adults. Too many times we who came late to the sport are not regarded as "real skaters" because we "aren't going anywhere". If I had a dollar for every time, Ive been told to overlook an error or a scheduling conflict because "It's only adults", I could probably pay my ice bills for the year!
I've been skating for more than 14 years now and even though I can't do a double axel myself, I can certainly recognize a good one when I see it. I expect that nine-tenths of the judges are similarly trained as observers not skaters. I've also learned that a very large number of high-level skaters can't evaluate even their own skating and tell you what they did right and wrong and why. Maybe it's just that theyve become so dependent on having a coach (or parent or judge) tell them that they don't think for themselves.
JoAnne in MA
Subj: Re:Real Skaters 94-06-26 19:00:20 EDT
From: MorryS
I don't know what JoAnn means when she indicates that Judges are only observers. However I do know that she has her mathmatics all wrong. More the 75% of USFSA Judges have been competitive skaters and all, (100%) of the new and accelerated Judges have skated at or above the Junior level. I am not downplaying the accomplishments of Adult Skaters but I cannot stand by and allow incorrect statistics about Judges to go unchallenged.. If you will investigate you will find that I am, an have been, one of the major proponants of creating an Adult Nationals.
Subj: Re:Campbell's Houston 94-06-26 23:33:05 EDT
From: The Sieve
Can't answer any of your questions. But glad to know someone else on line was there. Most of your exhibition criticisms stem from Houston being the tail end of the tour, instead of the beginning. We've seen it all on TV, read the reviews, read online.
Hopefully, as soon as the tour is over, the skaters will have a chance to find new material and costumes, specially Urmanov.
You forgot to mention that Boitano was feeling fit enough to throw in a 'tano' in his encore. Just as in the Portland review, he seemed to be one of the few skaters to give it his all and skate flawlessly.
Griskov's (sic) costume ripping really detracted from the number, Every moment the crowd was wondering if they'd trip over it & fall.
My favorite moment was the finale. For Houstonians, the Summit has been a very special place with the Rockets winning the NBA championships. When they started the opening bar of 'we will rock you' the crowd exploded - after all that's the Rockets theme - and 'we are the champions', which followed. I bet there isn't one of those skaters that had a clue as to why the crowd was soooooo charged by the ending.
At least, I got a chance to see Candeloro skate, and I didn't drool too much. ;->
Ya'll stay cool
Happy, Hot & Humid in Houston
The Sieve
Subj: Re:Adult Skaters 94-06-27 04:34:18 EDT
From: MaryLu
Morry,
We in Roller Skating created the JO program several years ago to bring in more skaters including the adults. Could you please explain in more detail what the USFSA is looking at in regard to an "Adult Nationals"?
Thanks,
MaryLu
Mary Lu Wehmeier, SRSTA
Subj: Re:Adult Skaters 94-06-27 10:22:21 EDT
From: MorryS
Within the USFSA Qualifying Competition System we now include Adult Singles and Adult Dance Events. There has so far been no Adult interest in Pairs. We have a Committee devoted to Adult events headed by a gentleman named Joe Kaplink and he is very active in our Board Meetings.
The ideas for a National Adult Competion are currently hung up on finding a location for the events. There is also a discussion on the method of qualifying for the Nationals. I favor an open Nationals where it would not necessary to qualify through Regonals and Sectionals.
I have kept aware of the developements in Roller Skating in the ARSA since I started as a Roller Skater before I switched to Ice. At one time I trained on Rollers at the Pop Brown rink under Joe Nazzro in Seattle.
Subj: Re:Adult Skaters 94-06-27 16:52:45 EDT
From: MaryLu
Morry:
Thanks for the reply. I had heard you were a former roller skater <-;
At times it's nice to see what the other skating cousin is doing. The JO Roller program, is as I think you know, closer to the Rec' Skating group's program vs the USFSA. Trouble is, as I think you will agree, (hopefully) it is difficult to get and keep beginners interested in the sport-- unless they have a place to show their progress. Thus this is one of the reasons USAC/RS put the program together.
Although I'm personally not thrilled at the idea of "Solo Dance" it is a place where beginners can show their progress in the basics. (And hopefully find partners!)
The problem with ice, as well as rollers is finding a facility that will encourage a program of test and competitve skating, and in today's economy, it is difficult. For most of us, it's a labor of love.
I'd appreciate any additional information you may have... or how to contact Joe Kaplink. I'd be interested to hear his views of your pending program.
Thanks!
Subj: Re:Adult Skaters 94-06-27 19:09:02 EDT
From: MorryS
Chair of the USFSA Adult Skaters Advisory Committe is:
Joseph Kaplenk Home 312 764 1212, Office 312 508 2268. FAX 312 465 0406. Joe lives in the Chicago area.
Subj: Re:Adult Skaters 94-06-27 21:48:34 EDT
From: JoAnneSK8
Morry, I'm a member of the Adult Skaters Advisory Committee, and have I think as much information as anyone else on the committee. Joe and I have different ideas on the committe's goals, however, and I don't think I'm high on his list of favorite people. However, I have made it a point to speak to every adult skater I can find in New England and down the East Coast as far as Florida. The idea of and Adult Nationals has appeal but the main question seems to be : why have qualifying competitions if the winners don't qualify for Nationals?
As I heard the proposal, the initial idea is to hold a sort of gigantic Adult Open, with age divisions as well ast test divisions. Fine, it could work. ISIA has done something similar for years successfully.
As for judges as observers, I meant simply that when they judge an event they are trained to watch what is done and how. With the average age of judges (according to Skating Magazine) creeping steadily up past fifty, I doubt that a high percentage of them have ever done the triple jumps that are so commonplace now among the skaters. That doesn't mean the judges can't recognize triples when they see them.
I have immense respect for judges; it's a tough job they do and they don't get enough credit for it. But (there's always a "but") they are also human and can make mistakes and there should be some protocal established to correct errors (one judge at a local competition admitted that he had mixed up his marks between two skaters when the referee changed the skating order because one skater missed the warmup while competing another event int the second rink. Yet nothing was done to correct that becasue the results h ad already been signed and posted and it would have caused too much trouble if they changed the posting. That's not fair.)
The accellerated judges program has such a high percentage of skaters in it because you have to be a high-test skater to get into the program. At least that's the way it was explained to me when I called headquarters for an explanation. My personal belief is that not all good athletes make good judges or good coaches, either. Some do, but some don't.
What system does USFSA use to evaluate it's judges and who decides if they're doing a good job or not? Here in New England we've been having a problem getting enough judges to hold the competitions we have scheduled. Plenty of skaters, but not enough judges. It's always the same two dozen names at local events, and eventually those people get tired or want lives of their own. I can't blame them. I'd like to know if there is some way to encourage the other joduges to do something besides qualifying competitions that look good on their record but don't reach the majority of skaters.
JoAnne on a soapbox in MA
Subj: Teen Skaters 94-06-27 21:56:57 EDT
From: ONTIME5555
Dose anyone know if the USFSA has any plans to start a program so that skaters age 16 through 22 can compete USFSA.I am 17 and have jumps through Axel and nowhere to compete in USFSA because I'm to old to compete Juvinile and to young for adults.
Cynthia
Subj: Re:Tonya & new programs 94-06-29 23:04:17 EDT
From: Barfalomew
Dear Connie,
About TOnya's dress, the red one she wore for her technical program at both the Olympics and at Nationals this year is a dress from last year - the same one that the clasp broke on at Nationals last year I think from pictures since I wasn't there. I don't understand why she didn't either a) wear the dress she wore for her technical program at Skate America this year instead or b) have a new dress made between Skate America and Nationals - a period of about three months (although with death threats and other things going on she probably didn't have time). I do understand how much work goes into making (and BEADING) costumes and how it's awful tricky to get them to fit JUST right. Thank you for answering.
BARFY
Subj: Re:Tonya the actress 94-06-29 23:07:46 EDT
From: Barfalomew
I think Tonya is more of a comedian than a dramatist.
Sorry - no intention of watching her in ANY movie or on American Gladiators either.
BARFY
Subj: Re:Tonya Again 94-06-30 10:30:14 EDT
From: KBenton
I thought Jeff was going to jail? When will that happen????? I want Tonya to get together with OJ.... because neither one of them did what they are accused of!! :)
Subj: Re:Tonya Again 94-06-30 12:30:06 EDT
From: Marie SD
>>I thought Jeff was going to jail? When will that happen?????
<<
His sentencing hearing was postponed again. They want to wait until Shaun Eckert is sentenced. I think it was postponed until July 29th, but I'm not sure.
Subj: Tonight's Forum 94-06-30 12:36:33 EDT
From: Marie SD
I can't make it to tonights online forum (I'm going to the World Tour of Champions. Yeah!) but it's a topic that greatly interests me. So, could whoever is in charge of logging it please e-mail a copy of the log? I don't care if it's raw and hard to follow. And I don't want to wait until it's posted to the library. (Yes, I'm impatient.)
Thanks!
Marie
Subj: Re:Tonya Harding 94-06-30 16:08:04 EDT
From: KIMKOJOY
I THINK THAT TONYA HAS BEEN DISHONEST AND SERVES AS A POOR EXAMPLE FOR THE YOUNG CHILDREN OF TODAY. SHE EXHIBITS A POOR ATTITUDE FOR SPORTMANSHIP. SHE NEEDS TO BE TAUGHT THAT BEING DISHONEST DOES NOT PAY OFF IN THE END. THIS IS STRICTLY MY OPINION AND I AM ENTITLED TO THAT.
Subj: Re:Tonya Harding 94-06-30 19:01:50 EDT
From: Bob Weaver
What words, specifically did Harding say that were dishonest?
Subj: Re:Tonya Harding 94-06-30 19:02:47 EDT
From: Bob Weaver
Morry, can you give any inside info as to how and why the USFSA arrived at its decision to ban Tonya Harding from competition for life and strip her of her 1994 national title?
Subj: Re:Tonya & new programs 94-06-30 20:06:59 EDT
From: MorryS
It was not the same dress as the one that came apart at Nationals. I know because I was Referee of the event and of course I got a front row veiw of the problem.
Subj: Re:Tonya Harding 94-06-30 20:09:43 EDT
From: MorryS
Can't talk about the case until the appeal process if any has been completed. Also, no one except the panel and Tonya's lawyers have access to the information that led to the decision. It is sealed.
