Sunday, May 18, 2008
(Belated) Wedding Bells for Kristen and Rob
('scuse me folks. Seems like I'm always playing catch-up these days...)
Earlier this month former Cincinnatti Ben-Gal Kristen Schneider tied the knot with her fiance Rob Bolt. BIG TIME congratulations to the newlyweds, who have been together for almost nine years.
Those Ben-Gals are a tight family. The Bride was a Ben-Gal. The groom caught himself a Ben-Gal, two former Ben-Gals were in the wedding, and the bride's "Man of Honor," her brother Brandon, was stationed overseas with the US Army for several years and helped arrange the first Ben-Gals overseas tour in 2003. And of course, past and present Ben-Gals turned out en masse to show the couple some love, including Allison Leonard, Christi Ray, Sherri Keyes, Amber Sterbling-Lanich, Jessica Kantner, Daphne Seldon, Deanna Hazeley, Traci Napier, Charlotte Jacobs, Sharon Jacob-Schultz, and Tara Willson.
Now Kristen, some of you will remember, was a fashion major in college and designed the 2004-05 Ben-Gals uniforms and the Cincinnati Reds Crew uniforms for 2006 and 2007. But her talents extend far beyond costuming pro dance teams. (If you've been with us for a while, you may remember the beautiful wedding gowns Kristen designed for her senior project.) It should be no surprise then, that Kristen designed and made every single dress in the wedding. She made her own gown, six different dresses for the bridesmaids, the flower girl's dress, the groomsmen's ties and vests, the groom's tie, and the aisle runner. She pulled all of this off in addition to the usual pre-wedding insanity that goes on. (Oh please, don't even act like I'm the only single chick watching Bridezillas, Say Yes to the Dress, and Whose Wedding is it Anyway? We all watch, ok? We know what goes on during the wedding planning.)
Also ladies, let me reassure you on one point: Despite the couple's love for the Cincinnati Bengals, the bride did not choose Orange and Black as her wedding colors. Not that there would be anything wrong with that.;-)
Our friend Allison (Bride's BFF-slash-Cincinnati Reds Crew director-slash-former Ben-Gal) shared a few photos with us.
On the morning of the big day, it's important to start off with the right outfit and a hearty breakfast.
Check out the detail on the bride's gown.
FYI: this kind of thing takes a heckuva lot more than a BeDazzler and some good ideas.
Kristen's good friend and former Ben-Gals teammate Missy models her bridesmaid gown. Ooh la la!
The flower girl in her KristenSchneider Bolt Original
Kristen and Alison on their way to the ceremony. It was a tad bit windy.
Loading the bride into the limo proved to be somewhat challenging.
Five minutes later...
Still working on it...
Whew!
Bridesmaids Allison, Deanna, Missy, Suzanne, and Sara in the golden gowns designed for them by the bride. (Allison and Missy are both retired Ben-Gals)
Kristen designed this runner with the newlyweds' first initials
Just married!
The Man of Honor - Kristen's brother Brandon. (With wife Sara)
Missy and Allison
Former teammates Christi and Jessica
Former teammates Jessica, Deanna, Allison, Tracy, and Sharon
Mr. and Mrs. Bolt showing off their rings at the reception
Congratulations Rob and Kristen!
Earlier this month former Cincinnatti Ben-Gal Kristen Schneider tied the knot with her fiance Rob Bolt. BIG TIME congratulations to the newlyweds, who have been together for almost nine years.
Those Ben-Gals are a tight family. The Bride was a Ben-Gal. The groom caught himself a Ben-Gal, two former Ben-Gals were in the wedding, and the bride's "Man of Honor," her brother Brandon, was stationed overseas with the US Army for several years and helped arrange the first Ben-Gals overseas tour in 2003. And of course, past and present Ben-Gals turned out en masse to show the couple some love, including Allison Leonard, Christi Ray, Sherri Keyes, Amber Sterbling-Lanich, Jessica Kantner, Daphne Seldon, Deanna Hazeley, Traci Napier, Charlotte Jacobs, Sharon Jacob-Schultz, and Tara Willson.
Now Kristen, some of you will remember, was a fashion major in college and designed the 2004-05 Ben-Gals uniforms and the Cincinnati Reds Crew uniforms for 2006 and 2007. But her talents extend far beyond costuming pro dance teams. (If you've been with us for a while, you may remember the beautiful wedding gowns Kristen designed for her senior project.) It should be no surprise then, that Kristen designed and made every single dress in the wedding. She made her own gown, six different dresses for the bridesmaids, the flower girl's dress, the groomsmen's ties and vests, the groom's tie, and the aisle runner. She pulled all of this off in addition to the usual pre-wedding insanity that goes on. (Oh please, don't even act like I'm the only single chick watching Bridezillas, Say Yes to the Dress, and Whose Wedding is it Anyway? We all watch, ok? We know what goes on during the wedding planning.)
Also ladies, let me reassure you on one point: Despite the couple's love for the Cincinnati Bengals, the bride did not choose Orange and Black as her wedding colors. Not that there would be anything wrong with that.;-)
Our friend Allison (Bride's BFF-slash-Cincinnati Reds Crew director-slash-former Ben-Gal) shared a few photos with us.
On the morning of the big day, it's important to start off with the right outfit and a hearty breakfast.
Check out the detail on the bride's gown.
FYI: this kind of thing takes a heckuva lot more than a BeDazzler and some good ideas.
Kristen's good friend and former Ben-Gals teammate Missy models her bridesmaid gown. Ooh la la!
The flower girl in her Kristen
Kristen and Alison on their way to the ceremony. It was a tad bit windy.
Loading the bride into the limo proved to be somewhat challenging.
Five minutes later...
Still working on it...
Whew!
Bridesmaids Allison, Deanna, Missy, Suzanne, and Sara in the golden gowns designed for them by the bride. (Allison and Missy are both retired Ben-Gals)
Kristen designed this runner with the newlyweds' first initials
Just married!
The Man of Honor - Kristen's brother Brandon. (With wife Sara)
Missy and Allison
Former teammates Christi and Jessica
Former teammates Jessica, Deanna, Allison, Tracy, and Sharon
Mr. and Mrs. Bolt showing off their rings at the reception
Congratulations Rob and Kristen!
Labels: Alumni, Bengals, NFL, Weddings and Engagements
Ravens Spirit - Punta Cana Edition (Day 3)
Cheerleader Leslie A. fills you in on what she did on her day off.
May 14, 2008
Baltimore Ravens
Hola Baltimore Fans! Today was absolutely wonderful!
Six different girls started their days at 4am this morning, while the rest of us had the day off. This could not have come at a better time because I feel like I’ve been going 110 mph since we found out we were selected to do this calendar shoot!
My day started at 8am with a run on the beach and a very intense ab workout. Afterwards, I joined the other girls for a delicious buffet breakfast at the hotel. Most of the talk at breakfast was about how pleased each of us were with our individual shoots yesterday.
After breakfast we jumped on the hotel trolley to our only planned activity for the day. We arrived at the other side of the resort and the views of the beach and palm trees were amazing! We were greeted by our hostess who informed us we could choose between playing futbol (soccer) or taking dancing lessons as our activity for the day. As you might have guessed, we choose dance lessons! We had fun learning the local dances and acting goofy with the beautiful beach and white sands as the backdrop.
Following an hour of dancing lessons, we were ready to go back to our hotel. When we returned, the next set of girls prepared for their 2pm shoot while the rest of us grabbed lunch.
When we finished lunch, most of the girls who were off decided to lie out poolside and catch some sun. A few of them went to the beach and actually practiced some cheers. I used the free time to walk around the resort and admire the gorgeous scenery—complete with beautiful palm trees and lush green gardens. It was all a picture-perfect, peaceful setting with a panoramic view overlooking the ocean. HEAVEN!
The day ended with another team dinner. Lights outs…we have a 4am shoot tommorow morning. ADIOS!
May 14, 2008
Baltimore Ravens
Hola Baltimore Fans! Today was absolutely wonderful!
Six different girls started their days at 4am this morning, while the rest of us had the day off. This could not have come at a better time because I feel like I’ve been going 110 mph since we found out we were selected to do this calendar shoot!
My day started at 8am with a run on the beach and a very intense ab workout. Afterwards, I joined the other girls for a delicious buffet breakfast at the hotel. Most of the talk at breakfast was about how pleased each of us were with our individual shoots yesterday.After breakfast we jumped on the hotel trolley to our only planned activity for the day. We arrived at the other side of the resort and the views of the beach and palm trees were amazing! We were greeted by our hostess who informed us we could choose between playing futbol (soccer) or taking dancing lessons as our activity for the day. As you might have guessed, we choose dance lessons! We had fun learning the local dances and acting goofy with the beautiful beach and white sands as the backdrop.
Following an hour of dancing lessons, we were ready to go back to our hotel. When we returned, the next set of girls prepared for their 2pm shoot while the rest of us grabbed lunch.
When we finished lunch, most of the girls who were off decided to lie out poolside and catch some sun. A few of them went to the beach and actually practiced some cheers. I used the free time to walk around the resort and admire the gorgeous scenery—complete with beautiful palm trees and lush green gardens. It was all a picture-perfect, peaceful setting with a panoramic view overlooking the ocean. HEAVEN!
The day ended with another team dinner. Lights outs…we have a 4am shoot tommorow morning. ADIOS!
Labels: Calendar, NFL, Ravens, Trips
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Warrior Girls Auditions
Auditions for the 2008-09 Warrior Girls will take place in July, and those wishing to try out for one of the top dance teams in the NBA can register today or take part in one of the upcoming Audition Preparation Classes.
All you need to know about Prep Classes and Auditions at Warriors.com.
All you need to know about Prep Classes and Auditions at Warriors.com.
Labels: Auditions, NBA, Warriors
Eagles Cheerleaders Shoot Eco-friendly Calendar
By Peter Mucha
The Philadelphia Inquirer
The Philadelphia Inquirer
You've heard of eco-friendly cleaners, cars and businesses.
Add bikinis to the list.
Last week the Eagles Cheerleaders were in Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic, creating the NFL's first "eco-sexy" calendar, according to Barbara Zaun, the team's director of cheerleading.
Each of the team's 38 Cheerleaders was photographed in a natural setting - on the beach, alongside a stream, amid forest trees - while wearing makeup, swimsuits and accessories that are kind to planet Earth, she said.
The project was part of the club's "Go Green" program, which has worked recycling and alternative energy into the fabric of the club's daily operations, from biodegradable beverage cups to the solar panels atop the corporate headquarters.
The new calendar, which will go on sale in July, will use recycled paper - as tickets, programs and stadium toilet paper already do.
Vinyl records, CDs, computer cables, watch parts, candy wrappers and even old traffic lights were used to craft the jewelry and other accessories used on the shoot.
"Every item that you see Cheerleaders wear is made out of the recycled, upcycled, or repurposed items," Zaun said.
Jennifer Kaiser, 25 - who also works as a financial systems analyst for the Defense Department - did her posing in front of a palm tree on May 4, the day the shoot began.
Only natural dyes were used to color the organic cotton used in her bikini, she explained. She sported a belt made of bamboo and recycled glass.
Other swimsuits were made of fibers from plastic soda bottles, and the Aaron Chang designs are reversible.
"So again, it's about living more simply and making choices that prevent additional waste," Zaun said.
Five-year veteran Amy
Amy Mecca, 25, who also works as an operating room nurse at Methodist Hospital, had her ocean's-edge photo shoot at dawn on May 4 - after an hour-and-a-half hair-and-makeup session that started at 4 a.m.
The cosmetics were "natural minerals and natural ingredients," she said.
Besides her brown cotton bikini, she wore a big seashell earrings and a bamboo necklace.
Everybody on the squad is "really excited" about the eco-friendly theme, Mecca said.
"It's really going to be cool when the calendar comes out," she added, because a writeup with each photo will tell "the story behind each girl's outfit, each girl's accessories."
The calendar will cover 16 months - the football season plus next year.
No Cheerleader will be left out, Kaiser said. The front and back covers, and pages of collages, ensure that photos of all 38 women will be included.
Zaun hopes the calendar helps spreads a message, and is more "just the latest fashion trend."
"We're hoping that this is seen as a cutting-edge calendar," Zaun said. "... I think it's important to know that every person can make a difference. ... We really do feel that if each person on the Earth takes these steps, we can reduce the harm that we're placing on the Earth."
Former ROAR Cheerleader on the Cover of Water's Edge Magazine
For member of the Jacksonville ROAR Erin Carlisle is on the cover and featured in Water's Edge Magazine's annual swimsuit issue.
Of course Erin is no stranger to swimsuits. She was one of the 12 NFL Cheerleaders in the 2008 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.
Even on Erin here.
Of course Erin is no stranger to swimsuits. She was one of the 12 NFL Cheerleaders in the 2008 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.
Even on Erin here.
Friday, May 16, 2008
MVC Final Auditions
By Mike Wobschall
Vikings.com
5/14/2008
The long, challenging and rewarding road to earn a spot on the 2008 Minnesota Viking Cheerleader team ended at the Mall of America on Tuesday night as the 34-member team was chosen among a class of 50+ talented and charismatic finalists.
The finalists collaborated to perform a multi-faceted program that included an impressive variety of dances in front of a large panel of judges and hundreds of fans and mall shoppers at the Rotunda inside the Mall of America. The program consisted of kick and modeling segments, routines to jazz, funk and rock music and a pom/cheer segment.
The process of forming this year’s squad began with a tryout workshop in March that was open to everyone and anyone interested in exploring the opportunity to be a MVC. The workshop offered helpful hints and pointers to cheerleading hopefuls as they decided whether or not to audition for the team.
The first official stage of selecting the new squad was held in March when open auditions were held at Winter Park and MVC Coach Tami Krause and here panel of consultants narrowed a large group of more than 150 women down to a smaller group of 55.
The next step was training camp, a three-week period of practices, conditioning and interviews. The finalists also learned their routines, which they performed Tuesday night during the final round of the selection process.
Throughout the process, the candidates spent countless hours with each other learning routines and developing chemistry. In fact, they are split up into groups of four called “tryout teams.” These teams practice the routines and dance steps with each other in preparation for the final audition. What results is a strong sense of camaraderie among the ladies and friendships that will last beyond their time with the team.
The chemistry built among the team was on display just minutes prior to the final auditions beginning when all 54 candidates huddled on the stage and broke the huddle while shouting a cheer in unison.
After that, it was time for the show to begin.
Vikings.com
5/14/2008
The long, challenging and rewarding road to earn a spot on the 2008 Minnesota Viking Cheerleader team ended at the Mall of America on Tuesday night as the 34-member team was chosen among a class of 50+ talented and charismatic finalists.
The finalists collaborated to perform a multi-faceted program that included an impressive variety of dances in front of a large panel of judges and hundreds of fans and mall shoppers at the Rotunda inside the Mall of America. The program consisted of kick and modeling segments, routines to jazz, funk and rock music and a pom/cheer segment.The process of forming this year’s squad began with a tryout workshop in March that was open to everyone and anyone interested in exploring the opportunity to be a MVC. The workshop offered helpful hints and pointers to cheerleading hopefuls as they decided whether or not to audition for the team.
The first official stage of selecting the new squad was held in March when open auditions were held at Winter Park and MVC Coach Tami Krause and here panel of consultants narrowed a large group of more than 150 women down to a smaller group of 55.
The next step was training camp, a three-week period of practices, conditioning and interviews. The finalists also learned their routines, which they performed Tuesday night during the final round of the selection process.
Throughout the process, the candidates spent countless hours with each other learning routines and developing chemistry. In fact, they are split up into groups of four called “tryout teams.” These teams practice the routines and dance steps with each other in preparation for the final audition. What results is a strong sense of camaraderie among the ladies and friendships that will last beyond their time with the team.The chemistry built among the team was on display just minutes prior to the final auditions beginning when all 54 candidates huddled on the stage and broke the huddle while shouting a cheer in unison.
After that, it was time for the show to begin.
Labels: Auditions, NFL, Vikings
2008 Eagles Cheerleaders - Rookie Uniform Shots
Preliminary uniform shots of the 2008 cheerleaders have been posted on PhiladelphiaEagles.com. This is also your first look at the rookie class.
(Paige, Jenna, and Marissa pictured above)
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Cheerleaders selected for 2008 Titans squad
By Chris Holmes
Titans Online
NASHVILLE, TN, May 14, 2008 — The 2008 Tennessee Titans’ cheerleading auditions came to a close on Tuesday in front of a packed house at City Hall in downtown Nashville.
The final audition, presented by Sun Tan City, consisted of the remaining 53 hopefuls performing in front of a panel of 12 celebrity judges. The judges were joined in the private seating area by Titans staff and players, including safety Michael Griffin, kicker Rob Bironas, cornerback Eric King and wide receiver Justin McCareins.
Outside the private seating area, family members and supporters of the cheerleading candidates waved signs and cheered enthusiastically for their favorite contestant. Many of them were experiencing their first Titans cheerleading audition. Each lady had a chance to show off her best moves in groups of three, performing to contemporary dance music while host, “DJ Clyde the Glyde” riled up the crowd.
The grueling process of selecting the final squad began April 19 with nearly 200 applicants and culminated with the selection of 32 girls that now make up the 2008 Titans Cheerleading squad. Each member of the final 2008 squad was called to the stage and presented with a rose during the night’s final ceremony.
Kristen, and her twin sister Alyson from Hendersonville, Tenn., made the squad this year for the first time.
“I tried out last year and didn’t make it, so this year we were so excited,” Kristen said. “The most challenging aspect was learning the dance and going out and doing it in front of all these people. I was really nervous.”
Jocey, a recent graduate of Nashville School of Law, also made the team for the first time. Her father, Floyd, from Savannah Tenn., spoke about what she did to prepare for the competition. “She’s worked hard since she was five years old and has gone to schools all over and has about 20 years of dance experience,.” He said.
Titans Director of Cheerleaders Stacie Kinder was pleased with the judges’ final choices.
“This was one of our best pools of talent yet and it is always a tough decision,” Kinder said. “The judges did a wonderful job and we are pleased with who we have. We are looking forward to a great year.”
The next step for the Titans’ cheerleading squad will be a photo shoot at the Sandestin Golf Resort in Destin, Fla. during the last week in May.
[Final Audition Slideshow](photos by Bub Edwards)
Labels: Auditions, NFL, Titans
Ravens Cheerleader Richelle K. talks about swimming with sharks
BaltimoreRavens.com
May 13, 2008
Hello Ravens fans! This is Richelle K. reporting to you on our first full day in Punta Cana. After a long day of traveling yesterday and a good night’s sleep, we cheerleaders were super anxious to wake up and get going. We started out the day with a 6am barefoot jog on the beach and haven’t stopped moving and shaking since!
The main event today for some of us was our much anticipated “swim with the sharks.” When seven of us girls found out that shark swimming was on our itinerary, we could not believe it! And even after learning that they are docile and harmless, we weren’t sure if we were convinced it was something we wanted to do.
So after our run, we took to the sea on a glass bottom boat full of vacationers and local staff and off we went—to the middle of the ocean to find the sharks! It was a really fun ride, during which lots of island music was played and tons of pictures from all angles were snapped of us. Our production crew had us running all around that boat and the vacationers were just loving it, jumping in our pictures and snapping some of their own.
When we arrived we found that they had the shark area sectioned off for those of us who are less-experienced snorkelers. So we started out small.
Of course, before we could even get near the sharks, we had to make sure our production crew got the perfect shots of us getting into the water and give them time to get in as well. Hey, if we cheerleaders were going to swim with sharks you better believe that the other Ravens staff members had to also!
When we started to swim over, I think I had a mini panic attack and all the scenes from Jaws started running through my head. Somehow I managed to calm myself down. I thought, “If I can fly through the air flipping and twisting in front of hundreds of thousands of people then I think I can handle some wimpy little sharks, right?”
Well, it turns out I was right. They weren’t so bad after all. I mean, they were huge and definitely real sharks, but they mainly stayed at the bottom of the ocean, away from us. We also saw some sting rays which were a little scary and I have to admit I didn’t get too close. I had an underwater camera so I just started taking bunches and bunches of pictures during this perfect photo opp to prove to my friends and family that I actually had done this!
After our swim, we got to hang out in some shallow water near by and mingle with the others on the boat and have a little more fun. Some of us stunt girls were working up stunts and pleasing the crowds like we always try to do. All and all it was a blast, and we have tons of pictures to prove it!
So now I’m just hanging out in my room getting ready for tonight – our first official shoot at sunset. We aren’t all shooting tonight but you better believe we’re all going to watch and cheer our friends on! So far, we’ve bonded so much and are having the best time. It’s hard to believe it’s only Tuesday!
Tomorrow there are more shoots and fun things planned which means there’s more blogging to come…So stay tuned to the website to get the day by day updates of our trip and thanks for all your interest so far!
Xoxo,
Richelle K.
Labels: Calendar, NFL, Ravens, Trips
Ravens Spirit - Punta Cana Edition (Day 2)
Cheerleader Leslie A. spent Tuesday having fun and doing her first calendar shoot.
May 13, 2008
Baltimore Ravens
Hola Amigos! It’s Leslie checking in again from Punta Cana. It’s kind of late already so I might have to keep this one short, but I wanted to let you know about the good times we had today.
We woke up this morning ready to have a fun-filled day full of activities and shoots! This morning half of the girls went swimming with the sharks, while the remainder of us stayed at the resort to participate in different activities.
First up was our yoga class on the beach. We made sure we got all stretched out—maybe a little too stretched out. What a way to start the day!!! Afterwards we teamed up for a game of beach volleyball. It was the Blondies vs. the Cockroaches. For some of the girls, I’m pretty sure it was their first time hitting a volleyball since high school gym class. Paige put Team Blondie on a nice roll with her dominating serves, but Team Cockroaches pulled out the win in a close finish: 15 to 14!
Right around 12:30pm, six of us headed back to our rooms to prepare the first round of shoots. You don’t think we can just jump out of the shower and throw a bathing suit on to shoot this calendar, do you? It takes time to look good!
By 3:00pm, I was off to hair and makeup to get glamorous for my shoot. Although I’ve done hundreds of photo shoots, I was still very nervous about my first shoot for this year’s calendar.
Each girl spent about an hour in hair and makeup before we headed out on the sand. Around 5:30pm—just before sunset—I was ready to go show the world what I was made of.
All I have to say was…MY SHOOT WAS AMAZING!
After it got dark, Day 2 was a wrap. In the end, all six girls had successful shoots, and we look forward to seeing the finished product. I can’t wait for you all to get a copy of the calendar and see my picture! (I wonder what month I’ll be featured on.)
After a long day of working, we went to dinner and the six girls that participated in the shoot, got ready for a special event the hotel had planned for us. We arrived in our Ravens attire, all ready to go, and found out we had to perform karaoke in front our fans and hotel guests. Boy, were we ready!!! We sang everything from Destiny’s Child’s “Bootylicious” to the Weather Girls’ “It’s Raining Men.” We had a ball, as we unwound from the day’s activities.
We will start the second round of shoots tomorrow at 4am. Yes. That’s AM. I have the day off (except for my mandatory workout), and I plan to enjoy it!
Wish us the best. Until tomorrow, ADIOS!!!
Leslie A.
May 13, 2008
Baltimore Ravens
Hola Amigos! It’s Leslie checking in again from Punta Cana. It’s kind of late already so I might have to keep this one short, but I wanted to let you know about the good times we had today.
We woke up this morning ready to have a fun-filled day full of activities and shoots! This morning half of the girls went swimming with the sharks, while the remainder of us stayed at the resort to participate in different activities.
First up was our yoga class on the beach. We made sure we got all stretched out—maybe a little too stretched out. What a way to start the day!!! Afterwards we teamed up for a game of beach volleyball. It was the Blondies vs. the Cockroaches. For some of the girls, I’m pretty sure it was their first time hitting a volleyball since high school gym class. Paige put Team Blondie on a nice roll with her dominating serves, but Team Cockroaches pulled out the win in a close finish: 15 to 14!Right around 12:30pm, six of us headed back to our rooms to prepare the first round of shoots. You don’t think we can just jump out of the shower and throw a bathing suit on to shoot this calendar, do you? It takes time to look good!
By 3:00pm, I was off to hair and makeup to get glamorous for my shoot. Although I’ve done hundreds of photo shoots, I was still very nervous about my first shoot for this year’s calendar.
Each girl spent about an hour in hair and makeup before we headed out on the sand. Around 5:30pm—just before sunset—I was ready to go show the world what I was made of.
All I have to say was…MY SHOOT WAS AMAZING!
After it got dark, Day 2 was a wrap. In the end, all six girls had successful shoots, and we look forward to seeing the finished product. I can’t wait for you all to get a copy of the calendar and see my picture! (I wonder what month I’ll be featured on.)
After a long day of working, we went to dinner and the six girls that participated in the shoot, got ready for a special event the hotel had planned for us. We arrived in our Ravens attire, all ready to go, and found out we had to perform karaoke in front our fans and hotel guests. Boy, were we ready!!! We sang everything from Destiny’s Child’s “Bootylicious” to the Weather Girls’ “It’s Raining Men.” We had a ball, as we unwound from the day’s activities.
We will start the second round of shoots tomorrow at 4am. Yes. That’s AM. I have the day off (except for my mandatory workout), and I plan to enjoy it!
Wish us the best. Until tomorrow, ADIOS!!!
Leslie A.
Labels: Calendar, NFL, Ravens, Trips
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
SI Gallery of the Week - NBA
Matt Walsh, the New England Patriots and the Charger Girls?
Just when you thought the New England Patriot Spygate controversy couldn’t get any more bizarre, it did. The NFL released the edited tapes that Matt Walsh, the former New England Patriot employee, shot during the 2000, 2001 and 2002 seasons. The tapes showed opposing coaches' signals intercut with the subsequent play. But, that wasn’t the only thing the tapes revealed. According to the AP’s Rachel Cohen, “the most scandalous part of the tapes shown before Goodell's news conference had nothing to do with stealing signals - it was several minutes of close-ups of San Diego Chargers cheerleaders performing during a 2002 game.”
The good news is that no new revelations of improper videotaping were uncovered. NFL commissioner Roger Goddell is satisfied with the previously imposed sanctions against the Patriots and considers the matter closed. NFL fans can finally close the book on perhaps the most disappointing and egregious example of organizational cheating in professional football.
But, what’s all the interest in the 2002 Charger Girls? Well, I dug deep into the archives and came up with a few photos for our reader’s pleasure.
Danielle D. – One of my favorite Charger Girls from 2002.
April A.
Ashley B. - the youngest Charger Girl on that 2002 squad.
Lori E.
Sara Beth G. – who can be found today, prowling the sidelines along with Lori E. as Charger Girl coordinators.
Robin – who was on the squad as recently as last year. The following photograph is from her most recent stint with the Charger Girls, looking better than ever.
Well, I am still a little confused how video of the Charger Girls relates to game footage of opposing teams play calling. That’s a question only the Patriots staff can answer. But until we get an explanation from Bill Bilichick, I’ll still keep shooting…photos of cheerleader, not coaches!
Epilogue: rumor has it that the reason why the Chargers prohibited video and still cameras at this past weekend's minicamp was because of concerns directly related to Spygate. Thanks Bill.
The good news is that no new revelations of improper videotaping were uncovered. NFL commissioner Roger Goddell is satisfied with the previously imposed sanctions against the Patriots and considers the matter closed. NFL fans can finally close the book on perhaps the most disappointing and egregious example of organizational cheating in professional football.
But, what’s all the interest in the 2002 Charger Girls? Well, I dug deep into the archives and came up with a few photos for our reader’s pleasure.
Danielle D. – One of my favorite Charger Girls from 2002.
April A.
Ashley B. - the youngest Charger Girl on that 2002 squad.
Lori E.
Sara Beth G. – who can be found today, prowling the sidelines along with Lori E. as Charger Girl coordinators.
Robin – who was on the squad as recently as last year. The following photograph is from her most recent stint with the Charger Girls, looking better than ever.
Well, I am still a little confused how video of the Charger Girls relates to game footage of opposing teams play calling. That’s a question only the Patriots staff can answer. But until we get an explanation from Bill Bilichick, I’ll still keep shooting…photos of cheerleader, not coaches!
Epilogue: rumor has it that the reason why the Chargers prohibited video and still cameras at this past weekend's minicamp was because of concerns directly related to Spygate. Thanks Bill.
Lady Outlawz at the Raiders-Outlawz Game
The Lehigh Valley Outlawz fell to the visitng Rochester Raiders 45-26 last Saturday. Our friend Mid-Atlantic Dave was on hand. He reports that all mothers received a pink flower as they entered the game in observance of Mother's Day, and he sent us a few photos of the Lady Outlawz.
Robyn
Jes, Valerie, and Shaina
Kate and Jackie
Kate (with her pillow, pillows of the Lady Outlaws are for sale at souvenir stand)
Genie and Shannon (after game signing autographs for fans)
Jes, Valerie, and Shaina (after game signing autographs for fans)
Bethany (after game signing autographs for fans)
Online home of the Lady Outlawz here.
Robyn
Jes, Valerie, and Shaina
Kate and Jackie
Kate (with her pillow, pillows of the Lady Outlaws are for sale at souvenir stand)
Genie and Shannon (after game signing autographs for fans)
Jes, Valerie, and Shaina (after game signing autographs for fans)
Bethany (after game signing autographs for fans)
Online home of the Lady Outlawz here.
ROAR Alumni on The Bold &The Beautiful
Thanks to our friends from the Professional Cheerleaders Alumni for this bit of news:
Starting Thursday afternoon you'll have a whole week to watch the episode online at CBS.com.
Heather Butler-Huckle, ROAR Alumni 2001, has been living in Los Angeles and pursuing her dream of acting. Her first television appearance is this week! She will be appearing as a nurse on the CBS soap opera, The Bold & The Beautiful, on Thursday, May 15th.
Heather also has an "independent short" lined up for this summer and two independent feature films in the fall. She's really enjoying her time in LA and thankful for all the opportunities that she has had. All of her ROAR alumni family are very proud and can't wait to see what else the stars have lined up for her.
Congratulations Heather!
Starting Thursday afternoon you'll have a whole week to watch the episode online at CBS.com.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
"I Love My Job Blog"
BR.com's web guy Dave Lang explains why he loves his job as he departs for Punta Cana with the Ravens cheerleaders.
by Dave Lang
May 11, 2008
BaltimoreRavens.com
Hello fans and welcome back to BaltimoreRavens.com. I’m Mike Duff…
Actually, I’m not Mike Duffy. Mike will remain at team headquarters in cloudy/rainy Owings Mills this week and continue to provide you with the latest news surrounding the football side of the Ravens. I, on the other hand, will be spending my week in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic to bring all you faithful BR.com visitors daily coverage of the 2008 Ravens Cheerleaders Swimsuit Calendar shoot.
Before we get into what’s in-store for the week, let me first introduce myself and tell you why I love my job.
My name is Dave Lang and I’m the Ravens’ web guy. (The official title on my business card is New Media Coordinator.) My normal job responsibilities include updating BaltimoreRavens.com, posting Duffy’s stories, and creating graphics for the site. Most of the things that you see go up on BR.com were put there by me.
I absolutely love what I do.
Although I’ve never worked for another sports team, I imagine there are few other organizations that exude as much class as the Baltimore Ravens. (And I’m not saying that just because they sign my paychecks.) Every part of this organization—from the training facility to the equipment to the food—is top-notch. And each employee—from the front office to the coaching staff to my fellow members of the New Media Dept—is extremely good at what he or she does and is a pleasure to work with. (Plus, I wonder how many other NFL owners and presidents will sit and eat lunch with an intern as both Steve Bisciotti and Dick Cass each did with me when I first started with the team.)
This week however, my job responsibilities are changing slightly and I will honestly have a little extra love for my job.
In a meeting a little over a week ago, it was decided that someone needed to go on this trip to coordinate the content that will appear on BR.com. And since Duffy will be occupied with reporting about players and coaches this week, I stepped up, took one for the team, and assumed the duty of covering the 18 cheerleaders who will be shooting a swimsuit calendar in sunny, sandy Punta Cana. Hey! It sounds cliché but someone’s got to do it! And, with the best interests of the Web site in mind, I was more than happy to accept the extra responsibility.
2008 Swimsuit Calendar ShootI called my younger brother that night and told him where work would be sending me this week and what I’d be doing. His first words were, “Can I go with you?”
Over the weekend, I bumped into Ravens defensive coordinator Rex Ryan and mentioned in conversation I’d be covering the shoot. He shook his head and sarcastically asked if I needed an assistant.
Even the doctor who administered my Hepatitis A shot last week mentioned to me that he normally feels bad sticking people with large needles but didn’t have any sympathy for me since I’ll be spending a week on the beach with a bunch of beautiful women.
Despite my attempts to remind all my friends that this is a work trip, they still don’t want to hear about it. Working in Punta Cana, they remind me, is still better than working in an office in Baltimore.
So if you are now in the camp that everyone else I know seems to be in right now—the group that hates me because my employer is paying me to travel to the Caribbean and follow around a group of cheerleaders for a week—let me tell you what I am going to do for you…
This week, I will be your eyes and ears of everything that is going on with the Ravens cheerleaders as they shoot the photos for their 16-month swimsuit calendar. I plan on bringing you exclusive behind-the-scenes content that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.
This entry is the first edition of my I Love My Job Blog that I will be updating each day. Besides my written accounts, I will also be carrying around a small video camera wherever I go and let you see what I see. So when the girls go snorkeling with the nurse sharks on Tuesday, you will feel like you’re right in the water with them. And I have no clue what unexpected things might happen on this trip. But I do know that I will be there to capture the memories and share them on BR.com.
In addition to my reports, Leslie A. will chronicle the week from the cheerleader perspective in her RavensSpirit blog that she will update every day.
Melissa M. will take her personal camcorder around and give you an inside look at the trip from her point of view in her daily Cheer Cam video blog.
You can also expect to read a new feature each day, written by several other cheerleaders and staff members who will be on location in Punta Cana.
And if all of that is not enough, I’ll also be posting loads of photos taken during the swimsuit shoots and around the resort, as well as video interviews with our cheerleaders and video recaps of each day.
It might sound like a shameless plug for our web site, but BR.com is the only place where you will find this in-depth coverage of the Ravens cheerleader calendar shoot.
And I promise you the coverage will be awesome. How could it not be? The Ravens forced me to make the cheerleader swimsuit shoot my sole responsibility this week.
(Did I mention that I love my job?)
P.S.- Duffy…Say hi to Joe Flacco for me! I’ll send you a postcard from the DR.
Ravens cheerleader Kate S. blogs from Punta Cana about traveling from Baltimore to the Dominican Republic.
BaltimoreRavens.com
May 12, 2008
Hey Ravens fans! This is Kate S. I’m here in beautiful, sunny Punta Cana typing this blog by the poolside. There is nothing better than being surrounded by palm trees and relaxing in the 86-degree weather. Our trials and tribulations of getting here were another story in itself.
We began our morning with an early wake up call around 4 AM. After hearing the treacherous weather all night, I was beginning to wonder if our flight to the Dominican would be delayed.
All the Ravens cheerleaders arrived to the airport at 6 AM—completely decked out in our cheerleader warm-ups—in hopes that our flight would be on time! I instantly took notice of how much every girl over-packed. I guess you can never have too many shoes! Some girls had two gigantic suitcases along with two carry-ons. I think some forgot that this is only a seven day trip. Luckily my luggage made the 50-lb limit by a hair—weighing in at 48.7 lbs. J
After going through security, we managed to haul all of our bags to gate E where we waited until 8 AM to board. We stirred up a bit of commotion in the airport. People were looking at us, wondering who in their right mind would be in full hair and make-up and purple rhinestone outfits at six in the morning. As we waited to get on the plane, we took pictures, signed autographs for fans and chatted about the trip and what bathing suits we’d be wearing for each shoot.
We were lucky enough to meet the pilots of our flight to Punta Cana, and before they boarded the plane we had a chance to grace them with our presence in some photos. Our flight took about three hours. During the time, some of the Ravens girls listened to their iPods, some slept, and others watched the in-flight movie: Ice Age.
Towards the end of our air excursion, the flight attendants had all the passengers write their seat number on a dollar bill and put it in a bag. When the plane landed, the flight attendants picked a dollar bill out of the bag. The seat number they called was 19A, which happened to be one of our photographer’s seats. He ended up winning the entire bag of money, which turned out to be $160! What a way to start off a vacation to the Dominican Republic! If we’re lucky, maybe he’ll treat us to a nice dinner. J
After lunch, a few girls got changed and headed down to the beach to get some sun. I felt like being lazy and decided to just lounge by the pool. The soothing sound of the fountain right next to me is really helping me to relax, as we’re about to start a busy, busy week.
I’m glad I had a chance to check in with all our fans out there, but I have to run right now. The hotel managers are holding a reception tonight for all the cheerleaders and you know we have to look our very best for it!
Hope everything is well in Baltimore! Thanks for reading! J
Kate S.
May 12, 2008
Hey Ravens fans! This is Kate S. I’m here in beautiful, sunny Punta Cana typing this blog by the poolside. There is nothing better than being surrounded by palm trees and relaxing in the 86-degree weather. Our trials and tribulations of getting here were another story in itself.
We began our morning with an early wake up call around 4 AM. After hearing the treacherous weather all night, I was beginning to wonder if our flight to the Dominican would be delayed.
All the Ravens cheerleaders arrived to the airport at 6 AM—completely decked out in our cheerleader warm-ups—in hopes that our flight would be on time! I instantly took notice of how much every girl over-packed. I guess you can never have too many shoes! Some girls had two gigantic suitcases along with two carry-ons. I think some forgot that this is only a seven day trip. Luckily my luggage made the 50-lb limit by a hair—weighing in at 48.7 lbs. J
After going through security, we managed to haul all of our bags to gate E where we waited until 8 AM to board. We stirred up a bit of commotion in the airport. People were looking at us, wondering who in their right mind would be in full hair and make-up and purple rhinestone outfits at six in the morning. As we waited to get on the plane, we took pictures, signed autographs for fans and chatted about the trip and what bathing suits we’d be wearing for each shoot.
We were lucky enough to meet the pilots of our flight to Punta Cana, and before they boarded the plane we had a chance to grace them with our presence in some photos. Our flight took about three hours. During the time, some of the Ravens girls listened to their iPods, some slept, and others watched the in-flight movie: Ice Age.
Towards the end of our air excursion, the flight attendants had all the passengers write their seat number on a dollar bill and put it in a bag. When the plane landed, the flight attendants picked a dollar bill out of the bag. The seat number they called was 19A, which happened to be one of our photographer’s seats. He ended up winning the entire bag of money, which turned out to be $160! What a way to start off a vacation to the Dominican Republic! If we’re lucky, maybe he’ll treat us to a nice dinner. J
After lunch, a few girls got changed and headed down to the beach to get some sun. I felt like being lazy and decided to just lounge by the pool. The soothing sound of the fountain right next to me is really helping me to relax, as we’re about to start a busy, busy week.
I’m glad I had a chance to check in with all our fans out there, but I have to run right now. The hotel managers are holding a reception tonight for all the cheerleaders and you know we have to look our very best for it!
Hope everything is well in Baltimore! Thanks for reading! J
Kate S.
Cover Girl
Jade Skidmore, former cheerleader with the Jacksonville ROAR, won the 2008 Jacksonville Magazine Cover Model Search and is featured in the current issue. You can view the magazine on-line. Skip to pages 82-88 to find Jade.
More on Jade here.
Baltimore Lady Mariners
Saturday Night at the 1st Mariner Arena the Baltimore Mariners crushed the visiting Carolina Speed 48-23. Meanwhile, the Lady Mariners under the direction of Audra Weaver proved to be real fan favorites.
The Lady Mariners are currently in their first season.
Pre-game performance
Cheering on the team
Post-game autographs
Lots of fan friendly activities at the game. This young lady was part of a hula hoop competition.
More photos in the gallery.
The Lady Mariners are currently in their first season.
Pre-game performance
Cheering on the team
Post-game autographs
Lots of fan friendly activities at the game. This young lady was part of a hula hoop competition.
More photos in the gallery.
