Cereal City Classic - Kalamazoo, MI
1-23-10:  Cereal City was held at the campus of Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI this year instead of the Kellogg Arena in Battle Creek.  While the meet was organized and run as thoroughly as ever it just didn't feel like the usual "Breakfast of Champions" at the Big "K".  Can't wait to be back at the Kellogg next year.
     The entire Flames squad (boys/girls) took part at the WMU venue.  They placed well, bringing home some nice banners for the first time from Cereal City (like the banners Al!)
     Congrats to the teams that finished at or near the top:
Level 7 Girls - 1st
Level 6 Girls - 2nd
Level 4 Girls - 2nd
Level 5 Boys - 4th
Level 4 Boys - 4th
     While it's still early in the season, the State Championships will be here before you know it, and both groups have some work to do if they want to be ready by states.  The competition is always tough, but this season looks like we have to play catch-up!

Battle Of Champions - Toledo, OH
1-17-10:  The Battle of Champions moved from its Region 8 home in frigid Florida to sunny Toledo, OH for the first time :)  With the close location and the promise of strong competition, All American Flames couldn't resist throwing their hat into the ring to see where it would land.  The Seagate Center was the venue, and the competition was challenging.  The Lady Flames managed to stand their ground while taking some painful blows.  The resulting bruising can be described as follows: 
Level 7 Team 2nd Place lead by Rita Koenigbauer.
Level 6 Team 3rd Place lead by Sophie Jackson.
Level 5 Team 3rd Place - Daijah Medrano.
Level 4 Team 3rd Place - Annabelle O'Neil.

Some highlights from our Optional Teams:  Sam Pennazoli's first 9.0 on bars @ L9.  Amanda Holderby's 1st Place Vault.  Katie Karadjoff cornered the "3" Market.  Holly Manter nailed her 180 Switch-leap to the beam and has the literal mark to prove it - after all, it wouldn't be a "Battle" without the bruises :)