Recently I saw a Post by a good friend of mine. What she wrote was very diplomatic and well thought out. It was a shame that her post was censored and taken from view. I recovered that post to set an example for future posters. We want to create a swing dance scene that supports one another and a forum where we feel comfortable expressing our thoughts. That being said, I do feel it is inappropriate to abuse our rights and attack others. In short, we welcome all discussion but do so with diplomacy and an open mind.

The following is her original post. Thank you Mary for your insight.


"Although some people may consider it good fun to tease and jab, it often is interpreted by others to be snide, rude, and mean. I often see people in the Swing Des Moines organization pick on others in a way I find inappropriate. When someone calls me out on being inappropriate my initial reaction is to re-evaluate myself to determine in which way I was inappropriate and to try not to repeat my mistakes. The incorrect response is to blame others for "misinterpreting" my actions and words.

Good social skills, especially when leading a scene, tend to revolve around making others feel good about their hard work and efforts. I want everyone that works hard to help support a strong swing scene in Iowa to feel good about their hard work.

Sarah and Randy: You have done an excellent job jump starting the swing scene in Iowa. Swing Des Moines is a very well known organization and has had a strong hand in building the Iowa scene. Your monthly dances are staple to the Iowa scene and I know I wouldn't have met so many wonderful people without you.

Michael: You rock so hard. You put so much energy into Iowa that it is unfathomable. I am envious of your charisma and your ability to have such an incredible college scene. UofI's dance scene is not just "another college swing scene." The HSF is a direct result of your perseverance and I am honored to be a part of it.

Rae and Larry: Step into Swing is an excellent organization and has the best DJed music in Iowa. I can't believe how much work you put into Step into Swing. It just blows my mind. I wish you all the luck in the world.

Synopsis: If people call you mean, stop being mean. Don't blame others for you being mean."

That was very well said, I'm glad I had the chance to read what you wrote Mary. BTW you rock really hard too! Miss you, and have fun in Seattle.

-m@

Crazy Mary, your words are appreciated more than you can imagine. Keep rockin', er, swingin'.

Mary you will be missed by many, myself included. Also thank you for the kind words. Maybe some day I will be able to express myself as well as you. In the mean time. You Rock!!!!!!!

AWWW!!! You guys are so sweet. I just hate to see people so openly disrespected without any remorse or re-evaluation. It's just so sad that we can't all just trust and respect each other.

Mary you are always so eloquent. I'm glad that post could be recovered. You are going to leave a huge hole in the Iowa swing scene. Your contribution to this community will not be forgotten. We hope you will come back and visit often!