June 28, 2010. Jackson, Miss. Youth.

I am so impressed with the youth of today. They try things that I never dreamt about. Especially last evening while watching the performance of the winners of the USA International Competition. These young people from all around the world came to Jackson to compete and compete they did. Last evening was Encore Gala, for the medalist to perform. They were astonishing with their expertise. Even Ken loved the dancing. So much attention and dedication and effort by all the competitors but the winners were definitely a cut above the others. Three of the dancers we saw at round two were award winners so we enjoyed their performances again, except not the same one.

In order to compete at Jackson the young person must first send in an application which includes a video of their dancing. The dancers come from all over the world. From the thousands of applications they end up with three hundred and fifty dancers, who then must sen a tape of a specific dance. Finally one hundred and ten arrive for the competition, held every four years in Jackson. The first round is classical ballet. Half of the dancers go on to round two which is modern dance. Round three is optional but requires specific dance steps incorporated into the dance. Medals are awarded to the Junior and Senior division, also the pairs. Bronze, Silver and Gold medals are awarded, and the winners dance at the Encore Gala doing yet another dance.

These young people are so impressive. Forget about the problems with the youth of today. Our young people are top drawer. Just listen to Molly. She says "Yes Ma'm" whenever you ask her a question, just like every polite Mississippi child!!