Date: 19 April 2010
The August intensive telecom began with opening prayer by Andrew Smith, Sergeant at Arms of the ISA. A brief introduction of the following callers was completed before discussion began.
ISA Members on call:
1. Timothy D. Wilson, President, Washington DC **
2. Crystal Johnson, Treasurer, Virginia Beach, VA ** +++
3. Bonita Williams, Detroit, MI ** +++
4. Buford Collins, Detroit, MI * +++
5. Anissa Leigh, Detroit, MI +++
6. Andrew Smith, Sergeant of Arms, Fort Lauderdale, FL * +++
7. Darryl Wilder, VP of Education and Training, Miramar, FL ** +++
8. Zakeeyaw Toney, Las Vegas, NV ** +++
* Charter Member
** Life Member
Interested intensive guest:
1. Mentha Manning, Detroit, MI
2. Sonia Harris, Boston MA +++
3. Patricia Alexander, Detroit, MI +++
4. Valerie Morman, Memphis, TN
5. Chaundra Satchell, Hampton, VA +++
6. Damon Rose, Virginia Beach, VA
7. Denise Leichter, Los Angeles, CA
+++ Interested in August training (10 Steppers minimum required)
1. The telecom discussion involved a brief introduction of the ISA organization, officers, purpose, goals and objectives. The primary purpose of the ISA is to provide an umbrella administrative function to ensure that Steppin is annotated, codified and standardized under a single curriculum that identifies Steppin as a legitimate dance from under the Swing umbrella of social dances. Similar to other Six beat rhythm patterns (Lindy Hop, West Coast Swing, Shag) Steppin shares many of the common elements which allows for creativity and innovation. The training of seasoned Steppin instructors will allow for more uniform and consistent explanations thereby retaining students and adding a new generation of dancers. Likewise, the ISA will be the central organization to support each Stepper, regional and local chapters with youth programs and scholarship opportunities utilizing the ISA nonprofit status. The telecom involved over 16 callers who covered over 1313 minutes of talk time. The meeting ended with prayer by Andrew Smith and was adjourned at 8:02 pm. If you are interested in listening to the recorded conversation, please call 218-862-1099, access code: 307375#.
2. The ISA began on 1 January 2010 with its first ISA telecom meeting on 30 January 2010. Since that time the ISA has raised over $1200 from nine (9) fully paid members. The organization is open to all dancers, instructors, teachers, promoters, disc jockeys and others who are interested in moving Steppin to the international body of dancers. With over 6.6 billion customers the ISA is posed to reach out to the existing body of dancers as well as new customers who have yet to see Steppin in its full elegant format.
3. Membership in ISA is a simple process of logging on to www.paypal.com and entering in the “service” payment to Dweylan@aol.com. If you do not have an account simply log on as it takes just five (5) minutes to complete. The cost to join is as follows: Membership dues: $35 (non-voting members), $50 (voting members), $100 (Charter Members), $200 (Life Membership). All fees are set until 26 June 2010. Membership fees will be reassessed after the ISA is chartered by majority vote. Membership numbers (Charter/Life Membership) will be based on payment date. All membership fees pay minimum $10 towards youth scholarship programs. Local Chapter dues (must have 7 paid members) are $100. Detroit Michigan and Miami Florida areas have the largest concentration of paid members to date.
4. The ISA is sponsoring two dance intensives in association with the Golden State Dance Teachers Association. Ms. Skippy Blair and her wonderful staff of instructors will be teaching on 6-12 August and 27-30 August respectively. The location is Downey California. These sessions are open to all Steppers and uniquely designed for those desiring certification by a nationally recognized certification organization. The GSDTA is headed by Ms. Skippy Blair (WSDC co-founder, former Arthur Murray Dance instructor). Ms. Blair and her team of dance professionals have assisted in the codification of Steppin by utilizing the Universal Unit System®. Basic patterns such as the extended right, roll up roll back, spins and turns are a part of the basic elements of the beginning curriculum which was introduced at the March intensive. Movements are now associated with the music providing sound explanation of the dance as well as the music. The GSDTA does not teach weight changes or arbitrary labeling methods (8 or 6 count) as it does not represent music or dance theory. In addition, the use of the Universal Unit System dancers can now annotate, document and explain all movements to the students based on sound principles. This system will be taught to all participants during the August intensive. The use of the rolling count improves critical timing, overall understanding and clarity of movements and positioning of Steppin. Critical timing accounts for all beats of music in the dance pattern. The cost for the intensive is $325 which includes a general membership to ISA and the cost of the GSDTA Steppers Intensive. Associated school material will be provided on site. There will also be additional study material you may be able to purchase that will enhance your classroom instruction. ISA and the GSDTA will provide an overall agenda and curriculum of instruction for all registered and paid students by 26 June 2010.
5. ISA Chartering: The chartering planning and ceremonial dinner is being scheduled for 26 June 2010 in Washington DC. Members should arrive on Friday 25 June 2010 and depart on Sunday 27 June 2010. Pictures will be taken for the official ISA archives and the national news release. The draft agenda is:
0900 Business Meeting
1300 Charter Ceremony (Lunch/Dinner)
1900 Social Meeting and Dance with local DMV based Steppers
6. For further questions or comments, please log on to FACEBOOK. Specific questions can be addressed to the ISA membership committee at Internationalsteppersassociation@yahoo.com.
o Upcoming important activities:
o US Grand Nationals 27-31 May 2010
o ISA Chartering Ceremony, 26 June 2010
o US Swing Nationals Championships, Saturday 27 November 2010
o ISA National Convention and General Assembly, 24-26 June 2011
7. Committee and volunteer leaders are needed for (Marketing and Advertisement, Awards, Dance Competition, Scholarship, Youth, and General Assembly meeting). ISA is looking for a local city chapter to host the 2011 Annual Scholarship and Awards Convention. The chapter must be active (7 voting members) and provide a location, agenda and program to host the larger Steppin community. Detroit and Miami are 3 members short of having the first chapter in ISA.
8. ISA TOP 5 MARKETS: Market potential data is based on overall city population, GDP, Household income, computer usage and Stepper/student ratio. Future data will include competitive dance participation on national and international scale. Data is informational in nature only.
Chicago 192.1
Los Angeles 29.2
Atlanta 14.9
Detroit 4.5
Cleveland 2.5
9. The next ISA meeting will be held on Sunday 25 April 2010 at 7 pm Eastern Standard Time. You may call in at 218-862-1000, Access Code: 307375# to listen in or contribute to the overall enhancement of Steppin .
Sincerely,
ISA Planning Committee
ISA ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
The International Steppers Association: fully funded, self-organized and operated professional association for Steppers and affiliate members interested in furthering the development and education of Steppin as a Swing dance forum under the World Dance Council and World Swing Dance Council.
2010 ISA overview draft agenda:
• Establish administrative International Headquarters with full constitution and bi-laws
• Seek fully paid members with established membership and associated privileges (discounts, charter membership, life time members, localized and regional affiliate chapters)
• Provide full time information and media support (1-800 #, email, website and Post Office Box)
• Develop and promote a centralized website, activities and calendar of events
• Join and support the US Swing Dance Association programming (intensive judge and instructor training, international membership and affiliate chapters and international and national competitions)
• Document and establish historical references, terminology and definitions, standardized movements and techniques and publish efforts in official periodicals
• Develop and maintain full time youth and charity programs
• Establish legitimate annual and five year budget programs to obtain 501 c 3 membership
• Host annual conventions, business and membership meetings for paid members
• Advocate for Steppers on media, legal and public relations activities
• Provide venue for international members and affiliate chapters
• Develop centralized training curriculums for judges, instructors and teachers
• Seek and obtain grants and funding from private sector donors
The bylaws and constitution will be voted upon from 1-31 May 2010. If you are interested in participating in this open dialogue or assisting with your talents and resources in the future please email the POCs below.
Contact us at: internationalsteppersassociation@yahoo.com
International Steppers Association Conference Call # 218-862-1000 Access Code: 307375#
Monday, April 19, 2010
Monday, April 12, 2010
International Steppers Association Chartering Weekend (Tentative)
Proposed: OFFICIAL CHARTERING CEREMONY AGENDA
Friday, 25 June 2010
1pm ISA Officers begin arriving (Baltimore, Dulles or Washington Reagan Airport)
6pm ISA Reception Dinner (Zanzibar on the Waterfront)
9pm ISA Members Meet and Greet (Zanzibar on the Waterfront)
Saturday, 26 June 2010
0900-1000 ISA Business Meeting (6005 Plata Street, Clinton MD)
330pm – 430pm Official Chartering Ceremony
Activity: Official membership cards, Chartering of ISA, Pictures, News release (Washington Post, Miami Herald, New York Times, LA Times, Chicago Sun, Detroit News, Atlanta-Journal-Constitution, Essence, Ebony)
Location: TBA (National Archives, Smithsonian complex)
7pm-until ISA Celebration Events (Steppers Set TBA)
Washington DC Historical U Street
Locations: The Park at 14th, Club Tabaq, Bohemian Caverns
Sunday, 27 June 2010
0800 Sunday Church Service - From The Heart Church Ministries (4949 Allentown Road, Suitland MD 20746)
1200 ISA Officers Depart (BWI, DCA, Dulles)
The International Steppers Association: fully funded, self-organized and operated professional association for Steppers and affiliate members interested in furthering the development and education of Steppin as a Swing dance forum under the World Dance Council and World Swing Dance Council.
2010 ISA Program Goals and Objectives:
Establish administrative International Headquarters with full constitution and bi-laws
Seek fully paid members with established membership and associated privileges (discounts, charter membership, life time members, localized and regional affiliate chapters)
Provide full time information and media support (1-800 #, email, website and Post Office Box)
Develop and promote a centralized website, activities and calendar of events
Join and support the US Swing Dance Association programming (intensive judge and instructor training, international membership and affiliate chapters and international and national competitions)
Document and establish historical references, terminology and definitions, standardized movements and techniques and publish efforts in official periodicals
Develop and maintain full time youth and charity programs
Establish legitimate annual and five year budget programs to obtain 501 c 3 membership
Host annual conventions, business and membership meetings for paid members
Advocate for Steppers on media, legal and public relations activities
Provide venue for international members and affiliate chapters
Develop centralized training curriculums for judges, instructors and teachers
Seek and obtain grants and funding from private sector donors
Contact us at: internationalsteppersassociation@yahoo.com
International Steppers Association Conference Call # 218-862-1000 Access Code: 307375#
Friday, 25 June 2010
1pm ISA Officers begin arriving (Baltimore, Dulles or Washington Reagan Airport)
6pm ISA Reception Dinner (Zanzibar on the Waterfront)
9pm ISA Members Meet and Greet (Zanzibar on the Waterfront)
Saturday, 26 June 2010
0900-1000 ISA Business Meeting (6005 Plata Street, Clinton MD)
330pm – 430pm Official Chartering Ceremony
Activity: Official membership cards, Chartering of ISA, Pictures, News release (Washington Post, Miami Herald, New York Times, LA Times, Chicago Sun, Detroit News, Atlanta-Journal-Constitution, Essence, Ebony)
Location: TBA (National Archives, Smithsonian complex)
7pm-until ISA Celebration Events (Steppers Set TBA)
Washington DC Historical U Street
Locations: The Park at 14th, Club Tabaq, Bohemian Caverns
Sunday, 27 June 2010
0800 Sunday Church Service - From The Heart Church Ministries (4949 Allentown Road, Suitland MD 20746)
1200 ISA Officers Depart (BWI, DCA, Dulles)
The International Steppers Association: fully funded, self-organized and operated professional association for Steppers and affiliate members interested in furthering the development and education of Steppin as a Swing dance forum under the World Dance Council and World Swing Dance Council.
2010 ISA Program Goals and Objectives:
Establish administrative International Headquarters with full constitution and bi-laws
Seek fully paid members with established membership and associated privileges (discounts, charter membership, life time members, localized and regional affiliate chapters)
Provide full time information and media support (1-800 #, email, website and Post Office Box)
Develop and promote a centralized website, activities and calendar of events
Join and support the US Swing Dance Association programming (intensive judge and instructor training, international membership and affiliate chapters and international and national competitions)
Document and establish historical references, terminology and definitions, standardized movements and techniques and publish efforts in official periodicals
Develop and maintain full time youth and charity programs
Establish legitimate annual and five year budget programs to obtain 501 c 3 membership
Host annual conventions, business and membership meetings for paid members
Advocate for Steppers on media, legal and public relations activities
Provide venue for international members and affiliate chapters
Develop centralized training curriculums for judges, instructors and teachers
Seek and obtain grants and funding from private sector donors
Contact us at: internationalsteppersassociation@yahoo.com
International Steppers Association Conference Call # 218-862-1000 Access Code: 307375#
11 April 2010 ISA Minutes
Date: 12 April 2010
The meeting began with opening prayer by Andrew Smith, Sergeant at Arms. The
21 March 2010 meeting minutes were approved by majority vote. The meeting hosted 7 callers.
Members present:
1. Timothy D. Wilson, President, Washington DC **
2. Crystal Johnson, Treasurer, Virginia Beach, VA **
3. Bonita Williams, Detroit, MI **
4. Buford Collins, Detroit, MI *
5. Anissa Leight, Detroit, MI (Guest)
6. Andrew Smith, Sergeant of Arms, Fort Lauderdale, FL *
Members absent:
1. Darryl Wilder, VP of Education and Training, Miramar, FL ** (Proxy)
2. Zakeeyaw Toney, Las Vegas **
* Charter Member
** Life Member
Current Officers
• Timothy D. Wilson (Organizer) Email: Dweylan@aol.com
• Geno Spears (Public Relations) Email: info@onegsteppers.com
• Darryl Wilder (Education/Training) Email: onmygrindprodz@yahoo.com
• Crystal Johnson (Treasurer) Email: petuniaisback@aol.com
• Wendy Brewster-Maroun (Secretary) Email: marounlaw@yahoo.com
• Andrew Smith (Sergeant at Arms) Email: dru1060@yahoo.com
• Vice-President of Membership Vacant
• Old Business:
• Membership dues: $35 (non-voting members), $50 (voting members), $100 (Charter Members), $200 (Life Membership). All fees are set until 26 June 2010. Membership fees will be reassessed after the ISA is chartered by majority vote. Membership numbers (Charter/Life Membership) will be based on payment date. All membership fees pay minimum $10 towards youth scholarship programs. ACTION: Executive Body
• Codification: The ISA is sponsoring two dance intensives in association with the Golden Dance Teachers Association. Ms. Skippy Blair will be teaching on 6-12 August and 27-30 August respectively. The location is Downey California. These sessions are open to all Steppers and uniquely designed for those desiring certification by a nationally recognized body of instructors. The GSDTA is headed by Ms. Skippy Blair (WSDC co-founder, former Arthur Murray Dance instructor). Ms. Blair and her team of Swing professional and amateur ranked participants have assisted in the codification of Steppin by utilizing the Universal Unit System®. Basic patterns such as the extended right, roll up roll back, spins and turns are a part of the basic elements of the beginning curriculum which is currently being taught by the GSDTA. Movements are now associated with the music providing sound explanation of the dance as well as the music. The GSDTA does not teach weight changes or arbitrary labeling methods (8 or 6 count) as it does not represent music or dance theory. In addition, the use of the Universal Unit System dancers can now annotate, document and explain all movements to the students based on sound principles. This system will be taught to all participants during the August intensive. The use of the rolling count improves overall understanding and clarity of movements and positioning of Steppin. Critical timing also accounts for all beats of music and in your dance pattern. Perspective participants who desire to attend the ISA/GSDTA intensive can find out more information by calling in on Sunday 18 April 2010 at 7pm. Questions and concerns will be answered accordingly. ACTION: Darryl Wilder, VP of Education and Training
• AUGUST DANCE INTENSIVE TELECON: Conference Call # 218-862-1000 Access Code: 307375# TIME: 7PM EASTERN STANDARD TIME
• ISA Chartering: The chartering planning and ceremonial dinner is being scheduled for 26 June 2010 in Washington DC.
o The draft agenda is:
0900 Business Meeting
1300 Charter Ceremony (Lunch/Dinner)
1900 Social Meeting and Dance with Metro Steppers and Guest
o Guests from the broader dance community will be invited to participate
o ACTION: President and VP of Public Relations Geno Spears
• LLC and 501 C 3 activities are under way and will be completed by 1 June 2010. ACTION: Crystal Johnson, Treasurer; Timothy D. Wilson, President
• Marketing and Advertisement: ISA now has a Facebook and Yahoo account. Internationalsteppersassociation@yahoo.com. ISA will be adding an e-Commerce and e-Marketing capability shortly. ACTION: VP of Public Relations; President
• Business meeting: The semi-Annual meeting will be held during the World Swing Council meeting on Saturday 27 November 2010. This will be during the World Swing Dance Council National Competition weekend. ISA there will attend as observers in an effort to prepare for 2011 participation. ACTION: ALL
• Upcoming Swing competitions: Steppers are invited to participate in all national competitions. Participation in these events will add to overall points which will allow Steppers to participate in the annual US Swing Championships. Participation will also add to the credibility of the dance. The basic 6 beat pattern allows for an ideal parallel to partner dances. Please view the informational and competition schedules below.
i. http://www.atlanticdancejam.com/winners.htm
ii. http://www.americasclassic.com/
iii. http://www.usaswingnet.com/top_dj_tunes.htm
iv. http://www.usaswingnet.com/
v. http://www.swingdancecouncil.com/
• USA Grand National Dance Championship Celebrating the 16th year as the Premier Shag/Swing Event, offering the best in Competition, Social Dancing and Accommodations. "Sweet Sixteen" Less Than 2 Months Away!!!! ****It's going to be GREAT! Memorial Weekend May 27 - 31, 2010. Don't forget to book your rooms and purchase tickets early. Tickets will be available only at the door after MAY 17th. Entry fees increase after April 27th. Contact: 770-953-4500 www.usagrandnationals.com
• Constitution/Bi-laws: The constitution will be submitted and reviewed from 1 May 2010. Once all amendments are completed we will vote the constitution by majority vote. ACTION: ALL
• Chapter affiliations will be offered in the upcoming bi-laws and constitutions. This will allow local and regional participation at the ISA level. Chapter fees are $100 per chapter. There must be seven (7) paid members per chapter. Chapters must be separated by 150 miles. The goal is to have on chapter per city distance and encourage local cooperation among Steppers. Official rules will be set at the Charter business meeting on 26 June 2010 by vote. ACTION: Executive Members
• Committees (Awards, Dance Competition, Scholarship, Youth, and Community) will be developed and promoted after all offices and officers have been filled in June 2010. At this time the priority is Executive and full membership before future programming is developed. ACTION: Executive Body
• Budget report: ISA has raised a total of $1200. ISA has a surplus of $175 after all identified expenses are paid (Social networking sites, legal, insurance, administration). We have a total of 9 paid members. The official ISA logo is paid and is legally trademarked. ACTION: Treasurer
• ISA is looking for a local city chapter to host the 2011 Annual Scholarship and Awards Convention. The chapter must be active (7 voting members) and provide a location, agenda and program to host the larger Steppin community. Detroit and Miami are 3 members short of having the first chapter in ISA. If you have questions, please email us. ACTION: Awards Committee Chair
• Market potential data: Future date will include competitive dance participation on national and international scale. Data is informational in nature only.
1. Chicago 192.1
2. Los Angeles 29.2
3. Atlanta 14.9
4. Detroit 4.5
5. Cleveland 2.5
6. Milwaukee 2.4
7. Oakland 0.8
8. Miami 0.6
9. New York 0.5
10. North Carolina 0.4
• Marketing assistance needed: The ISA is looking for new members who have a foundation in advertising, marketing and social networking in the international arena. We would like to branch out to the international dance arena. If you are interested please email us.
The meeting ended with prayer by Andrew Smith and was adjourned at 8:00 pm.
The next ISA meeting will be held on Sunday 25 April 2010 at 7 pm Eastern
Standard Time.
Sincerely,
ISA Planning Committee Secretary
ISA ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
The International Steppers Association: fully funded, self-organized and operated professional association for Steppers and affiliate members interested in furthering the development and education of Steppin as a Swing dance forum under the World Dance Council and World Swing Dance Council.
2010 ISA overview draft agenda:
• Establish administrative International Headquarters with full constitution and bi-laws
• Seek fully paid members with established membership and associated privileges (discounts, charter membership, life time members, localized and regional affiliate chapters)
• Provide full time information and media support (1-800 #, email, website and Post Office Box)
• Develop and promote a centralized website, activities and calendar of events
• Join and support the US Swing Dance Association programming (intensive judge and instructor training, international membership and affiliate chapters and international and national competitions)
• Document and establish historical references, terminology and definitions, standardized movements and techniques and publish efforts in official periodicals
• Develop and maintain full time youth and charity programs
• Establish legitimate annual and five year budget programs to obtain 501 c 3 membership
• Host annual conventions, business and membership meetings for paid members
• Advocate for Steppers on media, legal and public relations activities
• Provide venue for international members and affiliate chapters
• Develop centralized training curriculums for judges, instructors and teachers
• Seek and obtain grants and funding from private sector donors
The current bi-laws and constitution are being drafted and developed however we need more assistance from Steppers from all areas. If you are interested in participating in this open dialogue or assisting with your talents and resources in the future please email the POCs below.
Contact us at: internationalsteppersassociation@yahoo.com
International Steppers Association Conference Call # 218-862-1000 Access Code: 307375#
Thursday, April 8, 2010
How to earn points and compete at US Swing events!
Steppers, here are all the rules needed to make sure you begin to build points to compete in the respective categories. The WSDC breaks it down so that you earn points and compete commensurate with your skill level. Once you get going the easier it is to move to the next level. Start at your local "Strictly Swing" and "Jack and Jill" competitions to learn what the expectations are. Obeserving first may be beneficial in the long run as well. The key is to get started now.
Points Registry Updated 11.2008 1 of 2
World Swing Dance Council
407 Dahlia Corona del Mar, CA 92625 www.swingdancecouncil.com
WSDC Points Registry Document
Division Requirements Recorded/Tracked
Newcomer None – normally beginner, perhaps never competed Recorded
Junior None – normally age-based Recorded
Masters Check event rules - normally age-based + other requirements Recorded
All Star Recommend at least 40 Advanced points – check event rules,
may have other requirements
Recorded
Champions/Invitational/Pro Check event rules - normally have specific requirements Recorded
Division Minimum Points Required Recorded/Tracked
Novice None – normally new to dancing in competitions Tracked and points used to move forward
Intermediate 20 Novice Points Tracked and points used to move forward
Advanced 25 Intermediate Points Tracked and points used to move forward
This new structure and points recorded/tracked will be effective January 1, 2009. This new point structure is from this
date forward, and past points will not be affected. These Tiers are based solely on the number of competitors and not the
size of the event. The Competitor's Points Registry is meant as a tool to assist both the Promoter and the Contestant.
Only current WSDC Registry Member Events for Jack & Jill competition results in the Points Registry Books for
male/leader and female/follower competitors. The WSDC records points for: Juniors, Newcomer, Masters, All Star, and
Champion/Pro/Invitational but do not necessarily consider them a "level of dance". These divisions are recorded but do
not require points to move into them (normally). We track points for: Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced. Points will
be tracked based on the tiers below determined by number of competitors and used to decide appropriate divisions or to
move up. Please be sure to check every individual event rules regarding their requirements to dance in any division.
The event director is responsible to report the results of Jack & Jill competitions to the WSDC within 10 days of their
event. They are also responsible for advising the WSDC how many contestants were in each category, thereby setting up
the Tier level for recording points, as stated below. Event Directors are also responsible for informing contestants of the
point structure detailed below. The WSDC determines recorded or tracked points based on this input.
The competitor is responsible for knowing your WSDC assigned competitor ID number. Please use this ID number when
signing up for J&J contests at events. Competitors should know what division they should be competing in but use the
Points Registry for guidelines if you are unsure. If the event allows you to petition down or up, please do so according to
that event’s requirements. Know the rules of every individual event prior to competing!
Points are recorded/tracked as follows: When couples are not even, the “number of couples” is determined by the
lowest number of dancers between leaders and followers. The minimum number of couples to make a contest eligible for
recording/tracking is five (5).
Tier / # of Couples 1st Place 2nd Place 3rd Place 4th Place 5th Place Additional
Tier 1 = 5-15 5 4 3 2 1 0
Tier 2 = 16-39 10 8 6 4 2 6 to 10th 1 pt
Tier 3 = 40+ 15 12 10 8 6 1 pt all finalists
TIER 1 - 5 to 15 Couples (Could be run as a "finals only", or perhaps semi and final)
TIER 2 – 16 to 39 Couples (Should at least be run as a semi/final, but could be prelim / semi / final)
TIER 3 – 40+ Couples (With this number of competitors, should be 3 rounds – prelim / semi / final)
Points Registry Updated 11.2008 2 of 2
World Swing Dance Council
407 Dahlia Corona del Mar, CA 92625 www.swingdancecouncil.com
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS & FURTHER CLARIFICATIONS
We hope to answer some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about how points are recorded/tracked in the Points
Registry. It’s the responsibility of the Event Director and Competitor to be aware of these rules.
1) The WSDC only tracks and records points for Jack & Jill contests. Points will only be tracked or recorded for
those who danced in the final round only.
2) Points are tracked and recorded for female-followers and male-leaders.
3) Contests where the leader or follower dances and places twice in that division (Tier 2), that individual will only
be awarded points in the highest of the two placements.
4) For events that combine divisions (i.e. Novice/Intermediate), points will be tracked for all contestants in the
lower of the two divisions.
5) For events that offer only one division (i.e. “Open”), points will be tracked in Advanced.
6) For events that have different category names per division, please verify with the Event Director as to how points
will be tracked/recorded within the WSDC Points Registry guidelines. We recommend that Event Directors
cover this terminology in their competition rule package. Note what divisions are recognized by the WSDC.
7) For events that are held over New Years’ holiday, points will show as of December-end of that year (versus
using January of the New Year).
8) Points received prior to the last five (5) current years will not show on the Event Director’s copy of Registry
Books. They will be archived and available to see on the website (in other words, they are not “taken away”).
Note: Removed original #2 referencing point assignments
Recommendations:
Novice: A competitor must stay in Novice until they have earned at least 20 points in Novice. In addition, a competitor
may stay in the Novice division until they have both 20 points and a first place win in Novice.
Intermediate: A competitor must stay in Intermediate until they have earned at least 25 points in Intermediate. In
addition, a competitor may stay in the Intermediate division until they have both 25 points and a first place win in
Intermediate.
Advanced: You must have at least 25 points in Intermediate in order to move into Advanced.
All Stars: Not all events offer this division. We recommend that at least one of the qualifications to dance in All Stars is
that the competitor has at least 40 points in Advanced. However, this is at the event’s discretion.
Petitions: If an event offers petitions, we suggest that a committee, including the chief judge, consider the requested
reclassification/petition after reviewing the dancer's record. We recommend that the Event Director will select this
committee prior to the Event. For competitors, please note that if you have petitioned to dance in a higher division at one
event, this does not "carry over" to the next Event. You may need to petition at the next Event as well.
In addition to the above recommendations, the WSDC also recommends that a competitor only be allowed to dance in one
Jack & Jill division/category per event.
Please remember to check every individual event’s rules/guidelines regarding their competitions and their
requirement. Sometimes they will vary from the WSDC recommended rules/guidelines.
The Points Registry is available at http://www.swingdancecouncil.com/registry_search.asp. A published version (hard
copy or soft copy), detailing the individual results up to 60 points and showing the past five (5) years of competing, is
given to the Event Director (WSDC Members only) just prior to their Event.
Points Registry Updated 11.2008 1 of 2
World Swing Dance Council
407 Dahlia Corona del Mar, CA 92625 www.swingdancecouncil.com
WSDC Points Registry Document
Division Requirements Recorded/Tracked
Newcomer None – normally beginner, perhaps never competed Recorded
Junior None – normally age-based Recorded
Masters Check event rules - normally age-based + other requirements Recorded
All Star Recommend at least 40 Advanced points – check event rules,
may have other requirements
Recorded
Champions/Invitational/Pro Check event rules - normally have specific requirements Recorded
Division Minimum Points Required Recorded/Tracked
Novice None – normally new to dancing in competitions Tracked and points used to move forward
Intermediate 20 Novice Points Tracked and points used to move forward
Advanced 25 Intermediate Points Tracked and points used to move forward
This new structure and points recorded/tracked will be effective January 1, 2009. This new point structure is from this
date forward, and past points will not be affected. These Tiers are based solely on the number of competitors and not the
size of the event. The Competitor's Points Registry is meant as a tool to assist both the Promoter and the Contestant.
Only current WSDC Registry Member Events for Jack & Jill competition results in the Points Registry Books for
male/leader and female/follower competitors. The WSDC records points for: Juniors, Newcomer, Masters, All Star, and
Champion/Pro/Invitational but do not necessarily consider them a "level of dance". These divisions are recorded but do
not require points to move into them (normally). We track points for: Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced. Points will
be tracked based on the tiers below determined by number of competitors and used to decide appropriate divisions or to
move up. Please be sure to check every individual event rules regarding their requirements to dance in any division.
The event director is responsible to report the results of Jack & Jill competitions to the WSDC within 10 days of their
event. They are also responsible for advising the WSDC how many contestants were in each category, thereby setting up
the Tier level for recording points, as stated below. Event Directors are also responsible for informing contestants of the
point structure detailed below. The WSDC determines recorded or tracked points based on this input.
The competitor is responsible for knowing your WSDC assigned competitor ID number. Please use this ID number when
signing up for J&J contests at events. Competitors should know what division they should be competing in but use the
Points Registry for guidelines if you are unsure. If the event allows you to petition down or up, please do so according to
that event’s requirements. Know the rules of every individual event prior to competing!
Points are recorded/tracked as follows: When couples are not even, the “number of couples” is determined by the
lowest number of dancers between leaders and followers. The minimum number of couples to make a contest eligible for
recording/tracking is five (5).
Tier / # of Couples 1st Place 2nd Place 3rd Place 4th Place 5th Place Additional
Tier 1 = 5-15 5 4 3 2 1 0
Tier 2 = 16-39 10 8 6 4 2 6 to 10th 1 pt
Tier 3 = 40+ 15 12 10 8 6 1 pt all finalists
TIER 1 - 5 to 15 Couples (Could be run as a "finals only", or perhaps semi and final)
TIER 2 – 16 to 39 Couples (Should at least be run as a semi/final, but could be prelim / semi / final)
TIER 3 – 40+ Couples (With this number of competitors, should be 3 rounds – prelim / semi / final)
Points Registry Updated 11.2008 2 of 2
World Swing Dance Council
407 Dahlia Corona del Mar, CA 92625 www.swingdancecouncil.com
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS & FURTHER CLARIFICATIONS
We hope to answer some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about how points are recorded/tracked in the Points
Registry. It’s the responsibility of the Event Director and Competitor to be aware of these rules.
1) The WSDC only tracks and records points for Jack & Jill contests. Points will only be tracked or recorded for
those who danced in the final round only.
2) Points are tracked and recorded for female-followers and male-leaders.
3) Contests where the leader or follower dances and places twice in that division (Tier 2), that individual will only
be awarded points in the highest of the two placements.
4) For events that combine divisions (i.e. Novice/Intermediate), points will be tracked for all contestants in the
lower of the two divisions.
5) For events that offer only one division (i.e. “Open”), points will be tracked in Advanced.
6) For events that have different category names per division, please verify with the Event Director as to how points
will be tracked/recorded within the WSDC Points Registry guidelines. We recommend that Event Directors
cover this terminology in their competition rule package. Note what divisions are recognized by the WSDC.
7) For events that are held over New Years’ holiday, points will show as of December-end of that year (versus
using January of the New Year).
8) Points received prior to the last five (5) current years will not show on the Event Director’s copy of Registry
Books. They will be archived and available to see on the website (in other words, they are not “taken away”).
Note: Removed original #2 referencing point assignments
Recommendations:
Novice: A competitor must stay in Novice until they have earned at least 20 points in Novice. In addition, a competitor
may stay in the Novice division until they have both 20 points and a first place win in Novice.
Intermediate: A competitor must stay in Intermediate until they have earned at least 25 points in Intermediate. In
addition, a competitor may stay in the Intermediate division until they have both 25 points and a first place win in
Intermediate.
Advanced: You must have at least 25 points in Intermediate in order to move into Advanced.
All Stars: Not all events offer this division. We recommend that at least one of the qualifications to dance in All Stars is
that the competitor has at least 40 points in Advanced. However, this is at the event’s discretion.
Petitions: If an event offers petitions, we suggest that a committee, including the chief judge, consider the requested
reclassification/petition after reviewing the dancer's record. We recommend that the Event Director will select this
committee prior to the Event. For competitors, please note that if you have petitioned to dance in a higher division at one
event, this does not "carry over" to the next Event. You may need to petition at the next Event as well.
In addition to the above recommendations, the WSDC also recommends that a competitor only be allowed to dance in one
Jack & Jill division/category per event.
Please remember to check every individual event’s rules/guidelines regarding their competitions and their
requirement. Sometimes they will vary from the WSDC recommended rules/guidelines.
The Points Registry is available at http://www.swingdancecouncil.com/registry_search.asp. A published version (hard
copy or soft copy), detailing the individual results up to 60 points and showing the past five (5) years of competing, is
given to the Event Director (WSDC Members only) just prior to their Event.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
ISA Presents Professional Dance Intensive from GSDTA
FOR RELEASE 9 A.M. PST, 1 APRIL, 2010
PRESS RELEASE
ISA invites all Heavy Hitters, Master Instructors, Teachers, Competitive Dancers and Steppin practitioners to the Golden State Dance Teachers Association professional intensive
Washington DC, April 18, 2010: The International Steppers Association has formed a professional organization to advocate on behalf of over 14,000 urban dancers who desire to take Steppin to the mainstream ballroom. There are over 6.6 billion consumers internationally and 29 existing US cities who currently make up the Steppin market. Steppin is prepared to embrace a new direction.
Steppin’s grassroots have been popularized by Chicago’s urban dance community for the past 20 years. Today the mature adult and new age trend is taking its rightful place in the international Swing community. ISA has responded to student request to seek a codified standard curriculum and syllabus for all Steppers. ISA is working toward developing a single training standard. This process begins with inviting instructors who continue to impact students through teaching, promoting and instructing to participate in a collaborative process of classroom instruction on dance methodology, genre awareness and parallel exploration. With the assistance of the GSDTA, professional certification of teachers is one step away. The benefits of certifying teachers include bringing fees and services in parity with certified teaching professionals, enhancing music and dance theory in the classroom, improves professional resume of instructors and leverages a standard that the World Swing Dance Council currently promotes. Students will now have teaching tools, books, CDs, DVDs and written documentation that match music theory and timing. “The end result will ensure access to over 100,000 dancers in the broader market will be exposed to traditional Steppin patterns and retention of students will increase,” says Darryl Wilder, Education and Training committee chairman. “Without a credited foundation it is difficult to ensure students are learning dance and music terminology consistently from one instructor to the next. This is pivotal time in Steppin history and we are leading the effort on behalf of all Steppers.”
The benefits of participating in this dance based intensive are to transition Steppin to a professional career choice. The positive direction standardizes instruction and promotes a clear choice between amateur and professional status. This effort encourages participation in certified professional and amateur competitions. With the proper training and recurring educational studies our Steppers can provide a equitable living and universal association through cross migration from sister dances. From this effort more students will be available above the beginning levels and therefore remain longer with the community.
ISA will be collaborating with the GSDTA and Ms. Skippy Blair (Co-founder of World Swing Dance Council) who utilizes the Universal Unit System ® of instruction. Her system has been in existence for over 50 years. A former Arthur Murray instructor, Skippy is world known for her critical annotation of all dances. The GSDTA will be offering two intensive courses (August 6-12 or August 26-30). All Steppers are invited to attend either course however a minimum of 10 Steppers much register through the ISA for either course to be conducted. All registrants will receive a one year membership to the ISA. After completion of the course work students will earn credits to take an exam for certification from the GSDTA.
The GSDTA has incorporated Steppin in their curriculum and is teaching Steppin rhythm patterns to world ranked instructors. This is your chance to be a part of the development of what is sure to be a dynamic curriculum for the future of Steppers internationally.
Interested participants should call in to the ISA conference call # 218-862-1000 on 18 April 2010. The access code: 307375#. The call will be recorded for those who are not able to phone in. The conference call will begin promptly at 7pm Eastern Standard Time and is open to all Steppers. Make sure you are a part of moving Steppin international and taking the first steps toward professionalizing your resume!
PRESS RELEASE
ISA invites all Heavy Hitters, Master Instructors, Teachers, Competitive Dancers and Steppin practitioners to the Golden State Dance Teachers Association professional intensive
Washington DC, April 18, 2010: The International Steppers Association has formed a professional organization to advocate on behalf of over 14,000 urban dancers who desire to take Steppin to the mainstream ballroom. There are over 6.6 billion consumers internationally and 29 existing US cities who currently make up the Steppin market. Steppin is prepared to embrace a new direction.
Steppin’s grassroots have been popularized by Chicago’s urban dance community for the past 20 years. Today the mature adult and new age trend is taking its rightful place in the international Swing community. ISA has responded to student request to seek a codified standard curriculum and syllabus for all Steppers. ISA is working toward developing a single training standard. This process begins with inviting instructors who continue to impact students through teaching, promoting and instructing to participate in a collaborative process of classroom instruction on dance methodology, genre awareness and parallel exploration. With the assistance of the GSDTA, professional certification of teachers is one step away. The benefits of certifying teachers include bringing fees and services in parity with certified teaching professionals, enhancing music and dance theory in the classroom, improves professional resume of instructors and leverages a standard that the World Swing Dance Council currently promotes. Students will now have teaching tools, books, CDs, DVDs and written documentation that match music theory and timing. “The end result will ensure access to over 100,000 dancers in the broader market will be exposed to traditional Steppin patterns and retention of students will increase,” says Darryl Wilder, Education and Training committee chairman. “Without a credited foundation it is difficult to ensure students are learning dance and music terminology consistently from one instructor to the next. This is pivotal time in Steppin history and we are leading the effort on behalf of all Steppers.”
The benefits of participating in this dance based intensive are to transition Steppin to a professional career choice. The positive direction standardizes instruction and promotes a clear choice between amateur and professional status. This effort encourages participation in certified professional and amateur competitions. With the proper training and recurring educational studies our Steppers can provide a equitable living and universal association through cross migration from sister dances. From this effort more students will be available above the beginning levels and therefore remain longer with the community.
ISA will be collaborating with the GSDTA and Ms. Skippy Blair (Co-founder of World Swing Dance Council) who utilizes the Universal Unit System ® of instruction. Her system has been in existence for over 50 years. A former Arthur Murray instructor, Skippy is world known for her critical annotation of all dances. The GSDTA will be offering two intensive courses (August 6-12 or August 26-30). All Steppers are invited to attend either course however a minimum of 10 Steppers much register through the ISA for either course to be conducted. All registrants will receive a one year membership to the ISA. After completion of the course work students will earn credits to take an exam for certification from the GSDTA.
The GSDTA has incorporated Steppin in their curriculum and is teaching Steppin rhythm patterns to world ranked instructors. This is your chance to be a part of the development of what is sure to be a dynamic curriculum for the future of Steppers internationally.
Interested participants should call in to the ISA conference call # 218-862-1000 on 18 April 2010. The access code: 307375#. The call will be recorded for those who are not able to phone in. The conference call will begin promptly at 7pm Eastern Standard Time and is open to all Steppers. Make sure you are a part of moving Steppin international and taking the first steps toward professionalizing your resume!
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