Dance

Dance has always been an important part of my life. I've been dancing for 18 years. Being a dancer has provided me with many opportunities. I have been lucky enough to work with professional dancers and judge national competitions. But what I am most thankful for is being asked to participate in the North Dakota Special Olympics' event called Dancing For Special Stars. This is a fundraising event that pairs a local celebrity with an experienced dance partner/choreographer. This past year I was paired with Marcus Tanabe who is a local oral surgeon. Together Marcus and I spent over 45 hours putting together a routine. With about 3 months of practice and one dress rehearsal, we were excited and eager to perform our jazz routine to a Justin Timberlake mix. This is a very large event for the Grand Forks community. The event sells out every single year. In fact, there is a waiting list for tickets for people that wish to attend. There were 12 couples competing for the "Mirrored Ball" trophy. Each couple is judged based upon the amount of money they raise along with their dance skills. Couples raise money by selling tickets for the show as well as soliciting donations from family, friends, and local businesses. Together Marcus and I raised over $9,000 for North Dakota Special Olympics. Overall, the entire event raised over $91,000!!!! To be a part of this great event has meant a lot to me. I am grateful to have been selected to take part in this wonderful event. This is my third year being a part of Dancing For Special Stars, and I look forward to many more years to come :)  My spring has been filled with royalty duties, but I am glad I was able to find the time to complete this service project that I find both rewarding and fulfilling. Although we didn't win, I am proud of the fact that we were able to raise so much money for such a great cause.

Kacie Bartholomew
2014 Inver Grove Heights Princess