Spirit Stick Rules in Cheerleading: Traditions, Superstitions, and Impact

What are the origins of the spirit stick in cheerleading. How does the spirit stick tradition impact team dynamics. Why is the spirit stick considered a powerful symbol in cheerleading culture. What are the consequences of dropping a spirit stick. How do cheerleaders protect their spirit sticks. What role does the spirit stick play in cheerleading competitions and camps. How has the spirit stick tradition evolved over time.

The Origins and Significance of the Spirit Stick in Cheerleading

The spirit stick is a unique and intriguing aspect of cheerleading culture that has captured the imagination of both participants and spectators alike. This cylindrical object, typically measuring about 1.5 inches in diameter and 12 inches long, has become a symbol of team spirit, unity, and superstition within the cheerleading community.

The origins of the spirit stick tradition can be traced back to cheerleading camps organized by the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA). These camps began awarding spirit sticks to squads that demonstrated exceptional teamwork, spirit, and skills during daily activities. The practice quickly evolved into a cherished tradition, with the spirit stick becoming a coveted prize and a source of both pride and anxiety for cheerleading teams.

What makes the spirit stick so special?

The spirit stick’s power lies in its representation of a team’s collective energy and dedication. It serves as a tangible reminder of the squad’s achievements and the importance of maintaining a positive, spirited attitude. The superstitions surrounding the spirit stick add an extra layer of significance, creating a shared experience that bonds team members together.

The Superstition: Never Let It Touch the Ground

The most well-known rule associated with the spirit stick is that it must never touch the ground. This superstition has become deeply ingrained in cheerleading culture, with teams going to great lengths to protect their spirit sticks from even the slightest contact with the floor.

Why is dropping the spirit stick considered bad luck?

The belief that dropping a spirit stick brings bad luck to the team has been perpetuated through generations of cheerleaders. While the exact consequences of this misfortune are rarely specified, the fear of potential negative outcomes is enough to keep cheerleaders vigilant in their care of the spirit stick.

Some cheerleaders believe that dropping the spirit stick could lead to:

• Poor performance in competitions
• Increased risk of injuries during stunts
• Loss of team morale and cohesion
• Bad luck for the sports teams they support

Although these consequences are not based on any concrete evidence, the power of superstition and collective belief can have a real impact on team dynamics and performance.

Spirit Stick Protection: Creative Solutions and Constant Vigilance

The importance placed on keeping the spirit stick safe has led cheerleaders to develop various creative methods for protecting their prized possession. One popular approach is the use of a “spirit stick protector,” often in the form of a stuffed animal.

How do cheerleaders use stuffed animals to protect their spirit sticks?

Many experienced cheerleaders bring a special stuffed animal to cheerleading camps and competitions specifically to act as a guardian for their spirit stick. The stick is typically attached to the stuffed animal in some way, ensuring that even if the team needs to set it down, there will always be a barrier between the stick and the ground.

Other creative protection methods include:

• Designating a team member as the official “spirit stick keeper”
• Creating custom holders or cases for the spirit stick
• Developing a rotation system to share responsibility for the stick’s safety

Despite these precautions, constant vigilance is still required. As illustrated in the informant’s account, even placing a spirit stick protector on the ground can result in penalties from camp instructors, highlighting the seriousness with which this tradition is taken.

Spirit Sticks in Popular Culture: “Bring It On” and Beyond

The spirit stick tradition gained widespread recognition outside the cheerleading community through its portrayal in popular media, most notably in the 2000 film “Bring It On.” This movie brought the superstitions and rituals surrounding the spirit stick to a broader audience, both satirizing and reinforcing its importance in cheerleading culture.

How did “Bring It On” impact the perception of spirit sticks?

The film’s dramatic portrayal of a spirit stick being dropped, complete with slow-motion dives by camp instructors attempting to save it, simultaneously mocked and celebrated the tradition. This scene, along with the subsequent “curse” that befalls the main character, introduced many non-cheerleaders to the concept of the spirit stick and its associated superstitions.

While the movie exaggerated some aspects of the spirit stick tradition for comedic effect, it also helped to solidify its place in the public imagination as an integral part of cheerleading culture. This increased visibility has led to:

• Greater awareness of cheerleading traditions among non-participants
• Discussions about the role of superstition in sports and team dynamics
• A renewed interest in the history and evolution of cheerleading

The Psychological Impact of the Spirit Stick Tradition

While the superstitions surrounding the spirit stick may seem trivial to outsiders, they can have a significant psychological impact on cheerleading teams. The shared belief in the stick’s importance creates a unique team dynamic and can influence individual and group behavior.

How does the spirit stick tradition affect team psychology?

The spirit stick serves as a focal point for team unity and shared responsibility. The collective effort to protect the stick can foster:

• Increased team bonding and camaraderie
• A sense of shared purpose and mission
• Heightened awareness and focus during practices and performances
• A tangible representation of team achievements and pride

However, the pressure to maintain the spirit stick’s safety can also lead to stress and anxiety among team members. The fear of being responsible for dropping the stick or causing bad luck for the team can create tension and potentially impact performance.

Spirit Sticks in Competitions and Camps: Rewards and Consequences

The spirit stick plays a significant role in cheerleading competitions and camps, serving as both a reward for exceptional performance and a tool for enforcing discipline and team spirit.

How are spirit sticks awarded at cheerleading events?

At NCA cheerleading camps and similar events, spirit sticks are often awarded to teams that demonstrate outstanding qualities such as:

1. Exceptional teamwork and cooperation
2. High levels of enthusiasm and team spirit
3. Impressive stunting or tumbling skills
4. Positive attitude and sportsmanship
5. Dedication to improving and learning

These awards serve as a motivational tool, encouraging teams to maintain high standards of performance and conduct throughout the event. The temporary nature of the awards, with spirit sticks being redistributed daily at some camps, adds an element of ongoing competition and encourages consistent effort.

What are the consequences of mishandling a spirit stick?

While the superstitious consequences of dropping a spirit stick are largely imaginary, real penalties can be imposed by camp instructors or competition organizers for mishandling or neglecting the spirit stick. These consequences are designed to reinforce the importance of the tradition and maintain discipline among participants.

Examples of penalties might include:

• Writing instructors’ names on arms and legs, as mentioned in the informant’s account
• Extra physical training or conditioning exercises
• Temporary suspension from certain camp activities
• Public acknowledgment of the mistake in front of other teams

These penalties, while often lighthearted, serve to reinforce the spirit stick’s significance and encourage teams to take their responsibilities seriously.

The Evolution of the Spirit Stick Tradition

Like many aspects of cheerleading, the spirit stick tradition has evolved over time, adapting to changes in the sport and broader cultural shifts.

How has the spirit stick tradition changed over the years?

While the core concept of the spirit stick remains largely unchanged, several aspects of the tradition have evolved:

• Increased personalization: Teams now often decorate their spirit sticks with colors, emblems, and other personal touches.
• Digital adaptations: Some teams have created virtual spirit sticks or incorporated technology into their physical sticks.
• Expanded use: Spirit sticks are now used in a wider range of cheerleading events and competitions beyond just NCA camps.
• Commercialization: Spirit sticks and related merchandise have become available for purchase, allowing teams to own permanent sticks.

Despite these changes, the fundamental principles of team spirit, unity, and superstition continue to be central to the spirit stick tradition.

Critiques and Controversies Surrounding the Spirit Stick

While the spirit stick tradition remains popular within the cheerleading community, it has not been without its critics and controversies.

What are some criticisms of the spirit stick tradition?

Some of the main critiques of the spirit stick tradition include:

• Reinforcement of superstitious thinking: Critics argue that promoting unfounded beliefs can be detrimental to rational decision-making and personal growth.
• Unnecessary pressure: The fear of dropping the spirit stick can create undue stress for team members, potentially impacting their enjoyment of the sport.
• Distraction from skill development: Some argue that the focus on spirit sticks takes attention away from more important aspects of cheerleading, such as technique and safety.
• Gender stereotypes: The phallic symbolism of the spirit stick, as mentioned in the original text, raises questions about gender dynamics in cheerleading.

Proponents of the tradition counter that these concerns overlook the positive aspects of team bonding and shared tradition that the spirit stick fosters.

The Future of Spirit Sticks in Cheerleading

As cheerleading continues to evolve as a sport and cultural phenomenon, the role of the spirit stick is likely to change as well.

How might the spirit stick tradition adapt to future changes in cheerleading?

Potential future developments in the spirit stick tradition could include:

• Integration with technology: Spirit sticks could incorporate LED displays or smart features to enhance their visual appeal and functionality.
• Emphasis on inclusivity: The tradition may be adapted to be more inclusive of diverse team structures and individual needs.
• Focus on positive reinforcement: The superstitious aspects might be downplayed in favor of using spirit sticks purely as symbols of achievement and team unity.
• Expansion to other sports: The concept of spirit sticks could be adopted by other team sports as a means of fostering team spirit.

Regardless of how it evolves, the spirit stick is likely to remain an important part of cheerleading culture, continuing to inspire and unite teams for years to come.

Superstition – United States of America

–Informant Info–
Nationality: Caucasian
Age: 19
Occupation: Student
Residence: Los Angeles, CA
Date of Performance/Collection: April 30, 2008
Primary Language: English
Other Language(s): French

Cheerleading: The Spirit Stick

Beyond pom-poms, tumbling, and stunting, there exists within cheerleading a superstition. This superstition is about the “spirit stick;” it must NEVER touch the ground. If a squad’s spirit stick does touch the ground, it is considered very bad luck—although the actual consequences are never really specified…it’s just “bad.”

What exactly is a spirit stick? It’s a cylindrical stick about 1.5 inches in diameter and 12 inches long. Often, it is decorated in the squad’s colors, but sometimes spirit sticks are given from one squad to another. At a National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) cheerleading summer camp a couple of years ago, certain squads were given spirit sticks as a result of having done particularly well on a given day. Squads were given spirit sticks based on how well they worked together as a team, how much team spirit they exhibited, stunting prowess, or other qualities. The spirit sticks were handed out at the end of the day, and it was crucial for team members to ensure their stick’s safety until the next day, when the stick would have to be turned in and redistributed to another squad (or sometimes, it would be returned back to the squad it came from).

During meals, while practicing, and even while sleeping, the spirit stick’s safety was always a factor. Many seasoned squad members bring a stuffed animal to cheerleading camp to act as the spirit stick’s “protector.” While the squad is in possession of the spirit stick, it is usually attached to one of the stuffed animals somehow. This way, if the squad needs to work on a routine and set the spirit stick down, the protector will come between the stick and the ground. However, constant vigilance is still necessary. The first time I was at cheer camp, one of the squads set their protector (with spirit stick) down on the ground, and one of the camp instructors walked by and took the protector and the spirit stick away. Later that night, the instructors announced the squad’s punishment for their lack of attention towards their spirit stick: they had to write the instructors’ names all over their arms and legs for the next day of camp. At the end of cheer camp, each squad received an NCA spirit stick as a kind of souvenir for having participated.

I first became a cheerleader just before I turned 14 (spring 2002). During my first year cheerleading, I had no interaction with a spirit stick, but I had heard about them before. The first time I went to cheerleading camp was during summer 2004, and I went again during summer 2005.

Most people outside the realm of cheerleading have heard of a “spirit stick,” largely due to its prominence in a popular 2000 cheerleading movie called Bring It On. In this film, the main character, Torrance is dared to drop the spirit stick in front of the entire cheer camp. As she does this, the seriousness of the spirit stick is satirized, with the camp instructors all diving in slow motion after the spirit stick, in an effort to save it from touching the ground. Later, one of the instructors tells Torrance that whoever drops the spirit stick “goes to Hades.” Throughout the rest of the movie, she feels like she’s cursed from the spirit stick. If anything doesn’t go smoothly for her, she blames it on her dropping the spirit stick.

Cheerleading, in general, is a pretty light-hearted sport. Yes, there is a competitive side to it, but cheerleading is not typically taken very seriously. The presence of the spirit stick is a very serious phenomenon though, contrasting the rest of the nature of cheerleading. Once being a cheerleader myself, I am able to understand the importance cheerleaders place on the spirit stick; however, the whole idea probably seems very silly for those who have never been on a squad. Granted, some cheerleaders don’t take the superstition seriously. As for myself, I didn’t really think that bad luck would come to me if I dropped the spirit stick, but I made sure to handle it with care whenever it came into my possession. The bad luck associated with the spirit stick is unclear—a definite outcome for dropping the spirit stick is never named. Sometimes, the bad luck might be attributed to the cheerleading squad itself, or the sports team they cheer for.

One possibility for the spirit stick is that it is a phallic symbol. Although the sport began as an all-male spirit group, cheerleading has evolved to include females. Currently, females account for the vast majority of cheerleaders in America, effectively making it a “girl’s sport” in some people’s eyes. However, I’m not sure exactly how a status as a phallic symbol would have significance for the superstition about the spirit stick touching the ground—perhaps some kind of loss of power? The origin of the spirit stick, as I learned from fellow cheerleaders, is that the first one was broken from a tree branch and given to a squad that had exhibited tremendous spirit and team unity, because there wasn’t a trophy set aside for this particular category. This origin doesn’t seem to have any kind of gender-related or phallic symbolism basis at all.

The Spirit of the Stick.

Lacrosse is the oldest sport in America. The game originated in the 1100s when the Mohawk Tribe started the medicine game across the lands by Lake Ontario . The game started as a form of entertainment, it resembled a battle. There could have been  hundreds of men on either team throwing the ball through the air. The wooden sticks hardly resemble what we see in today’s game. The sticks were constructed from wood found from hickory trees. One large piece of wood would be cut and carved to form the entirety of the stick. The stick was then strung together with animal products and leather. This construction was the norm for centuries. 

The biggest evolution came in the 1860s when Dr. George Beers created rules and standardized the sport. Beers wanted to make the game the national game of Canada. Even as lacrosse grew and regained prominence throughout North America, there was not as much progress made in regards to the lacrosse stick. 

The first major innovation to the stick occured in the 1970s, STX was the first to see the lacrosse stick as two parts; the head and the shaft. STX kept the shafts wooden, but they created the heads separately. STX, is a subsidiary of 

Wm. T. Burnett & Co. a large manufacturer headquartered near Baltimore. The manufacturing company had the technologies to develop triangular plastic heads for the lacrosse stick. The addition of a symmetrical plastic head meant that sticks could be used either right handed or left handed players, and sticks no longer needed to be individualized. At the end of the decade the first form of mesh netting was created. The heads could now be strung together with mesh opposed to leather. The mesh was lighter and performed better than the hand strung leather heads of old. The change permitted lacrosse to play in all forms of weather.

The next big change to the stick came to the shaft, the old method of wooden sticks was becoming burdensome for players- the sticks were heavy. In the 1980’s an aluminum shaft was created. The light weight aluminum provided players a lighter stick, one that permitted easier carrying and quicker shots. 1992, a Princeton defender name Dave Morrow advanced the sticks a step further. Morrow’s dad owned a metal tubing company and with those tools Morrow created the titanium shaft. Titanium retained the sticks light nature while providing more durability to the product.

The shaft had been constantly evolving while the head remained in the same triangular shape STX established in the early 70’s. 1995 Brine established the offset head we are accustomed to today. The new shape had a lower the pocket of the netting, lowering the stick’s gravitational center. All these advancements lead to players having a more accurate feel for the stick, and a better feel for where the ball would be going. This is the design brought us the model lacrosse players everywhere are using. As technologies are improving all aspects of the stick are gradually getting better. Today the shafts are genuinely comprised of carbon-fiber. The mesh has also seen improvements. Players have a myriad of choices when it comes their netting. Mesh comes in many forms, colors, and shapes. Needless to say, these stylistic options are more than the Mohawk Tribe had nearly 1,000 years ago.

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Golden Girls Introduce The Spirit Stick

Starting this year, Golden Girls is introducing a new competition that not only gets their club members involved in school activities, but the rest of the student body as well. This competition is between all of the high school grades, to determine who has the most school spirit.

Senior, Teresa Toranzo comments, “I think that all the grades at AHN are extremely competitive. So, with the spirit stick I think its going to encourage everyone to attend games so that in the end, their grade will be the winner.”

With such a competitive student body, The spirit stick will “measure” the amount of spirit a specific class has, depending on how many people from that class attends any Academy sport competitions. The rules are listed below:

Spirit Stick Rules

• Every person counts as a point towards their grades total.
• Points are calculated as a percentage of class size because class sizes vary and we want to be fair.
• The game you attend must be a jag nation event at Academy, which will be publicized on the Jag Nation twitter and on posters made by Golden Girls.
• You must arrive at the beginning of the game and stay until at least halftime to be counted.
• You must check in with the teacher representative present at that game which will be announced on the Jag Nation Twitter.
• The spirit stick competition ends during spirit week.
• If you are on the JV team or required to attend a game by a coach, you do not count towards your classes spirit stick points.
• The competition ends during Spirit Week and the winner will be announced and will receive the Spirit Stick.

Follow Jag Nation on Twitter for the most up-to-date events to attend. Credit: Chloe Paman

Students that participate in athletic teams will truly appreciate the support from their classmates at their games.

Member of Golden Girls and Senior at Academy, Ashley Lambert comments, “It stinks when you’re playing in a game and the only people in the crowd are the parents, so hopefully having a competition will make students want to come to the games!”

The main goal of the competition is for everyone to have fun, the athletes, audience, coaches, as well as the other team and their athletes.

Lambert closes, “I think it will be fun because it will make the athletes feel appreciated because there will be more people at their games and hopefully unite the grades because they can cheer on the teams together at the games!”

Students can start attending sporting events are also located on the Academy website and the Jag Nation Twitter page.

Seniors Dominate Pep Rally and Claim Spirit Stick – Ship’s Log

Once again, the seniors claimed the spirit stick for the 2014 Cinnaminson High School Spirit Week.

The theme for this year Spirit Week was “CHS Knows How to be Super.” The five options that were available to the grades were superheroes, supernatural, Superbowl, superstars, and Super Mario Brothers.

With the first pick, the seniors chose superheroes. The juniors then chose supernatural. The sophomores selected Superbowl, which consisted of all sports-related events. Finally, the freshman flipped a coin between superstars (celebrities) and Super Mario Brothers (all video games). The coin landed on superstars.

To many people’s dismay, spirit week was a bit broken up this year. Due to the lack of Friday home football games, the Homecoming game and the annual Thanksgiving game were consolidated into one. So with the game on Thursday, November 27th, the week started on Thursday, November 20th with Disney Day. The next day was Western Day. Saturday, November 22nd was the Homecoming Dance. Then Monday was Pirate Day. Tuesday was Theme Day. Finally, Wednesday was class color day and the much anticipated Pep Rally.

With Spirit Week comes the Penny Race and the Canned Food drives. Because of last years aggressiveness with the Penny Race, the rules were changed. Instead of having the water jugs outside the front office, the coins were brought to Student Council advisers Ms. Iaconelli and Mr. Matt Perekupka who were then informed with the desired location of the silver or pennies. The winners of the Penny Race were the seniors. In order from second to fourth were the sophomores, juniors and freshmen.

The canned food drive followed the same rules as years before; each class attempted to bring in the most amount of canned food for the Jane Weilenbeck fund. Classes got extra points for the more complete meals they had. The winners of the Canned Food Drive were the sophomores. In order from second to fourth were the seniors, juniors and freshmen.

The most anticipated event of Spirit Week is the Pep Rally. With all the grades dressed from head to toe in their designated class color, the school spirit is overwhelmingly prominent the minute you walk in the doors. With only 16 minute classes on this half day, all students could focus on were the games they would be playing and the cheers they would be screaming from the minute they entered the gym at 10:30 to the minute they left at 12:02.

As always, the Pep Rally started with a performance by the CHS Cheerleaders.

After the cheerleader’s performance was the Tug-of-War. The first round was the seniors versus the freshmen and the seniors, without surprise, the seniors won that one. The juniors and the sophomores then battled each other. That battle resulted in a win for the sophomores. To determine first and second place, the seniors took on the sophomores. Ultimately, the seniors overpowered the sophomores and won the first game of the pep rally.

The senior class of 2015, who have beaten the Class of 2014 in pep rally games the previous two years, went on to win the first four games. They didn’t lose until a new game called “donut on a string” where the sophomores made their presence noticed. A person from each grade had to eat three donuts off of a string. The catch is that they can’t use their hands. If the donut were to fall off the rope, the student then had to eat the donut off the tarp that was laid out for them. The sophomore representative Jimmy Sullivan finished his three donuts before any other grade, giving the sophomores the first place spot. The sophomores then cheered for themselves by screaming “we eat donuts!”

There were only four more games left after the donut eating contest. One of them was the coveted Apple Sauce Sip. Senior Dylan Wolfinger walked into this years pep rally as a three-time champion in this game. With whatever strategy he came up with on how to eat apple sauce the fastest, he once again won for the seniors.

Megan Morris
Senior Dylan Wolfinger casually, but quickly, drinks his applesauce through a straw, bringing home a victory for the fourth year in a row.

Due to time restrictions, the pep rally was cut short and some games had to be cut out. After the last game, the results of Spirit Week were announced by Ms. Iaconelli. Third and fourth places were relatively easy to predict with how the week played out. The freshmen were given fourth place with 288 points. The juniors earned third place with 353. First and second place were nerve racking to wait for the results. The sophomores had high participation in dress-up-days and won the canned food drive so they were only 10 points away from the seniors before the pep rally. But as it always seems to work out, the seniors won spirit week and the spirit stick. The seniors beat the sophomores with a score of 452 to 396.

After this holiday break, school will return to normal. There will no longer be posters covering the windows or students dressed as superheroes or Disney characters.

Spirit Week 2019 – Beth Haven Christian School

February 4th-8th

This is meant to be a wonderful time of celebrating being a Bearcat so we will be having competitions in school for the “Spirit Stick” award to be given to the winning class at the end of the week at our Pep Rally on Friday.  As you may know, we have specific guidelines when it comes to dress down days and we want to protect the appropriateness of this event by upholding these guidelines strictly. We want to have fun but we will not allow anyone to break the rules and go uninhibited because we do not want to ruin the fun for all because of a few.  Please make sure that your child follows the guidebook (p. 26) that is pasted at the bottom of the page so we all can have good, clean fun this week. Below is the title and brief description of each of the spirit days with a few additional cautions.

• Monday: Mathlete vs. Athlete – Are you a nerd or jock? Students will dress in their best nerd or athlete outfits. They may wear jerseys of their favorite players on this day. If they choose to wear a uniform, it must not be immodest in how it fits as the guidelines indicate.
• Tuesday: Twin Day – Students will pick a partner that they would like to dress identically like.  Please just make sure that the outfits fall into the guidelines but have some fun with it. We do ask that we remain gender appropriate i.e. no boys dressing up in girls’ clothing.
• Wednesday: Decades Day– Pick your favorite era of history and dress like the “good ole days.” Obviously there are certain cultural and historical trends “80s KISS rocker, men in tights, ect.” that would be obviously inappropriate.
• Thursday: Tourist Day – The traditional tourist who looks out of place.  Sunscreen lotion on the nose, high socks, camera, etc.
• Friday: Color Wars – The students will be divided into teams and have “team colors” for the week which are as follows. They will be allowed colored hair for this day and may MARK their face with face paint.  However, we will not be allowing full painting of faces, ect. due to the amount of mess that can be made as we go through the day. We also expect the students to come and leave the same. In other words, there is no applying paint during school hours nor is there any washing off during the day. This needs to be coordinated outside of the school hallways and bathrooms and locker rooms or we will not be able to have this in the future.
  • Seniors and 5^th grade A: Black
  • Juniors and 5^th grade B: Red
  • Sophomores and 4^th grade: Blue
  • Freshmen and 3^rd grade: Pink
  • 8^th and 2^nd grade: White
  • 7^th and 1st grade: Purple
  • 6^th and K5: Green

Handbook Guidelines

Dress-down days may be announced occasionally, at the discretion of the Administration. Students will be notified well in advance of any upcoming dress-down days, as well as any changes to dress down attire as previously noted.

If dress down policy is violated, student will be sent to office to put on a uniform provided and will receive detention and discipline point.

• Students may wear loose fitting sportswear (no undergarment lines visible), which includes t-shirts, shorts, wind pants, joggers, etc.
• T-shirts should not have any inappropriate logos or messages.
• Clothing should still be neat and modest, not ripped or torn.
• No sweatpants, leggings or jeans should be worn.
• Shorts should be no more than two inches above the top of the knee (no cheerleading style “short shorts” are allowed).

Cheerleader guidelines – CYFL Cavaliers

Character Rules and Squad Rules
        Be kind and uplifting
        Always try your best
        Be a good example
        No cursing or foul language/gestures
        No stunting without an adult
        Everyone must stretch/warm up
        No gum
        Be respectful and courteous

Practice Attire
        NO JEWELRY (exception: If a cheerleader recently received new ear
piercings then she is not required to remove them; however,
        she is NOT allowed
to participate in any stunt that might cause the earring to be ripped out of
her ear (example: shoulder sits). )
        Hair pulled away from the face
        Thigh length shorts
        Spirit shirt or other appropriate t-shirt
        Athletic shoes. Absolutely NO sandals or bare feet. Your child will not
be allowed to practice without the appropriate footwear. 
        This is for their safety.

Game Attire

·        
Cheer bow – Hair pulled away from face

·        
Poms

·        
Shell

·        
Skirt

·        
Bloomers

·        
White athletic shoes

·        
Good attitude

Practice conduct

·        
Respect – It is important that cheerleaders respect and listen to the
coach during cheer. We want all of our cheerleaders to learn and enjoy this season;
therefore it is imperative that ALL cheerleaders be respectful and attentive during
practice. If a cheerleader is not being respectful during practice she will be
asked to sit out and return when she is ready to participate respectfully.

·        
Attendance – Cheerleaders must attend practice to perform in the half
time routine unless otherwise stated by the head coach.

·        
Tardiness – Cheerleaders must be on time to practice and games to allow
time for proper warm up.

·        
Water – Girls must bring water to ALL practices.

·        
Prayer – Practices should end with a devotional and a prayer (it’s
great to begin with a prayer as well J )

Game conduct

·        
Stay put – Cheerleaders MUST stay with their coach at all times during
the game unless otherwise stated by the head coach.

·        
Water – Water bottles should stay with the coach or the team mom. The
girls should not have to leave their coach to get water.

·        
Walking – Any time the squad is traveling across the field they should
do so in a straight line (tallest to shortest with their hands behind their
back).

·        
Devotional – All squads are required to attend the pre-game devotional.
The devotional begins fifteen minutes before kickoff.

·        
Injured player – If a player is injured, all cheerleaders (regardless
of team) will take a knee and remain quiet and respectful until the player
walks off the field. When the player exits the field, the cheerleaders are to
stand up and clap.

·        
Sidelines – Cheerleaders will cheer between the 25 and the 10 on ONE
side of the football team. Please do not have your cheerleaders travel between
sides.

·        
Sideline position – Cheerleaders should stand in formation at all times
during the game unless it is half time or a break.

·        
Breaks – To be determined by the coaches only. Cheerleaders are not to
exit the sideline unless directed to by the coach.

·        
Uplift – No derogatory remarks or cheers should be stated against the
opposing team at any time.

·        
Half time

·        
Home team cheerleaders will perform half time first followed by the
visiting cheerleaders.

·        
Half time performances should be no longer than three minutes when
sharing half time with another squad.

·        
Music should be respectful and preferably Christian.

·        
Squads may walk down the fifty yard line and perform a welcome cheer to
the opposing team.

§ 
End of game

·        
Cheerleaders are to walk with the football team to high five the
opposing team.

·        
Cheerleaders are to stay with their coach until dismissed.

·        
Spirit stick awarded

·        
Spirit poms returned

·        
Snack and drinks distributed

·        
Team chant and prayer

Full Synopsis | Music Theatre International

Full Synopsis

Act One

On her last day of junior year, Campbell Davis prays to be named captain of the Truman High School cheerleading squad (“What I Was Born to Do”). The rest of the squad — including Steven, Campbell’s “so handsome it hurts” boyfriend; Skylar and Kylar, two cheertastic besties; and the fresh-faced sophomore, Eva — dream of the notoriety that comes with being a Buccaneers Cheerleader.

Skylar savors the moment as Tryouts are underway and Campbell does make captain. The spunky, full-figured Bridget is cut for the fourth year in a row and relegated to yet another season of being the mascot. The very green, but eager, Eva, however does make the squad. As the rest head off to celebrate, Campbell reflects on the difficulties to come and dreams of that “One Perfect Moment.”

At summer Cheer Camp, Eva’s nervousness threatens the squad’s chance to win the coveted Spirit Stick, an honor that almost always indicates an upcoming Nationals win. To boost Eva’s confidence, Campbell takes her aside and names her the Sophomore Spirit Leader — which means that, if Campbell were to lose her position, Eva would be third in the “line of succession” after Skylar and Kylar. After Campbell lifts Eva’s spirits, Truman triumphs and celebrates their Spirit Stick win.

Two weeks before the end of summer, Campbell receives a letter with terrible news: she’s been redistricted to inner-city Jackson High School. A horrified Kylar informs her that, “They don’t even have a squad!” Despite her attempts to stay at Truman, Campbell’s fate is sealed, her dream is gone (“What I Was Born to Do – Reprise”) and even Steven can’t console her.

Campbell arrives at Jackson and discovers that Bridget has been redistricted as well. (“Do Your Own Thing”) Amidst all the hard knocks and rough words, the girls meet the charming Randall, an aspiring music producer and self-proclaimed multi-clique mingler. Intimidated and amazed, the pair is wowed by an impromptu performance from Jackson’s resident dance crew trio: Nautica, La Cienaga and Danielle, the head of the crew. Campbell’s interaction with the “fee-yearce” Danielle is more of the rejected same, but Bridget is an unexpected hit, not only with the three, but especially with the hormonal Twig, who loves her curves. Campbell offers her talents to the crew, but a verbal slip-up turns the Jackson women against her. Danielle firmly explains that “We Ain’t No Cheerleaders,” and lets Bridget in the crew.

Adding insult to injury, the discouraged Campbell receives a series of voicemails from her old squadmates exclaiming how wonderful the season is going. Sympathetic, Bridget consoles her by taking her to the Burger Pagoda — where, it just so happens, Danielle works. Campbell tries to make amends, but Danielle is unmoved. Danielle’s tune changes a bit after Campbell earnestly confronts a pair of entitled rich girls who are harassing Danielle. Impressed and amused by Campbell’s spunk, Danielle reconsiders and offers Campbell a one-time chance to dance with the crew. The caveat, though, is that she must do it dressed in an old leprechaun mascot suit (“Friday Night, Jackson”). After a shaky start, Campbell kills it as the leprechaun and causes Randall to become quite smitten. An impressed Danielle gives Campbell an official spot on the Jackson crew.

Later that night, Skylar and Kylar share shocking news: a reduction in Skylar’s grades means that she can’t be captain… and Kylar has contracted mono. By the rules of succession, Eva is now captain. Campbell suspects that “Something Isn’t Right Here.” A visit to Eva’s house seems to confirm her suspicions. Eva has taken on Campbell’s appearance, and Campbell discovers a half-clothed Steven “studying” there, as well. Unconvinced by their explanations, Campbell breaks up with Steven and feverishly goes to Skylar and Kylar, who accuse her of paranoia and jealousy. Assessing the situation with Bridget, Campbell learns that Eva’s mother is on the school board — the body in charge of redistricting. Outraged and certain of a conspiracy, Campbell decides to get back at Eva by assembling a squad at Jackson and crushing her at Nationals. It’s time to “Bring It On.”

Act Two

Campbell approaches a reluctant Danielle about creating a cheerleading squad at Jackson. When Campbell reveals that a Nationals win includes college scholarships for each winning member, the determined and educationally driven Danielle agrees. The girls set out to assemble a squad (“It’s All Happening”), but some of the facts that Campbell uses to recruit members are somewhat questionable. Nonetheless, a squad — that includes Bridget — is formed.

Training is off and running. Randall flirtingly presents Campbell with the routine music that he’s put together, and a few of the squad members present a saucy dance that Campbell has to inform them would cause the judges to “deduct hella points” if they were to do it. The understanding ladies are then given a crash course in “cheer faces.”

At the Regional Competition weeks later, Truman watches Jackson perform. While Eva, Steven and Kylar are wowed, Skylar is smugly convinced that “Truman Is Better.” Although Jackson takes second to Truman, they accumulate enough points to qualify for Nationals. The squads exchange a few backhanded compliments, and the competitive tension becomes palpable.

Back at school, Twig asks Bridget on a date, and Bridget shyly declines. This calls for an intervention from Nautica and La Cienega, who assure her that “It Ain’t No Thing” when it comes to her insecurities. Her self-esteem boosted, Bridget chases after Twig. Meanwhile, Randall asks Campbell on a picnic date on the cliffs above their town, to which she happily accepts.

Moments later, the furious Jackson crew confronts Campbell. Danielle has discovered that Campbell lied about the college scholarships as a Nationals prize, and, as a result, Danielle discontinues their friendship and disbands the squad. Although disconsolate and disgusted with herself (“What Was I Thinking?”), Campbell still shows up for her date with Randall. After some playful ribbing, he encourages her to “Enjoy the Trip” that is this life, as opposed to stressing out so much.

Eva dishes and embellishes on the story of Jackson’s squad troubles to Skylar and Kylar. Then, in a private moment, Eva celebrates the “Killer Instinct” she showed in creating her path to captain by blackmailing her own mother to get Campbell transferred, hacking the school’s system and changing Skylar’s grade, hiring “some sick guy to lick Kylar’s toothbrush.”

At Jackson, Bridget shows off her Twig hickey to the girls. Campbell pulls Danielle aside and offers a profuse, pained apology. Danielle is still hurt by the lie, but acknowledges the joy that their work brought her. Campbell explains that the experience changed her to the point where she no longer felt any ambition to go to Nationals — their friendship should have always been paramount. Despite her conflicting feelings, Danielle decides to continue working together (“We’re Not Done”). Nationals is back on!

At Nationals, Truman gives a legendary performance of their routine. As the squad recovers, Campbell congratulates Skylar and Kylar. Shocked at Campbell’s presence, Eva tries to undermine her confidence in the holding area among the entire Jackson squad. Eva’s efforts escalate, and the conversation culminates with the revelation of her villainous behavior (“Eva’s Rant”). Nonetheless, Jackson takes to the mat and offers an exuberant, mind-blowing routine that breaks the rules of cheerleading, but inspires wild cheering from the arena (“Cross the Line”).

They leave the floor, confident in the fact that they said their piece and got the crowd “ROWDY,” but, because of their disregard for the rules, Jackson doesn’t place and Truman wins Nationals. Campbell is offered a trophy by Randall, though. Sure, it’s his Pinewood Derby trophy from Cub Scouts, but thanks to a sharpie, it reads “First place for everything that matters. “

Together in celebration, the Truman squad and Jackson squad forge a friendship that is worth far more than any National Title (“I Got You”).

Rules of exchange and return

HOW TO RETURN OR EXCHANGE GOODS TO MUZTORG?

It’s very simple!
If you find a defect, or decide to change the product for another product, or just change your mind on the way home, we are always happy to help you!
Exchange / return process:

1. You fill out THIS FORM and your appeal will be automatically sent to the specialists of the client department.
2. Within 3-4 working days a manager will contact you to clarify and resolve the situation. We usually contact the next day, but there may be delays.

You can also fill out THIS FORM and print it (after filling it will come to the e-mail that you indicate when filling out) and come with it and with the product to one of our stores *.

General conditions of exchange / return, according to the Federal Law of the ZoZPP: For high-quality musical instruments and equipment, the return period depends on the category of the instrument and the nature of the purchase.For acoustic instruments, it is 14 days. For electronics purchased through the online store – 7 days. Retail electronics are non-returnable. This is possible only on the basis of the conclusion of the service center.

For more information, please contact our customer service department by phone: 8 (800) 555 00 75.

* Returns of goods purchased in stores on Vyatskaya and Neglinnaya are accepted only at the place of purchase.

METHODS OF RETURN / EXCHANGE OF GOODS

In order to return or exchange the product you need:

• If you purchased the product in a retail store or through Self-pickup – you need to contact the store where the purchase was made.
• If you have purchased goods with delivery in Moscow – please contact the store at the address: Moscow, metro Taganskaya radialnaya, Krasnokholmskaya emb., d. 3. Export of low-quality goods in Moscow by courier service of the Muztorg company is carried out in exceptional cases and only if the weight of the goods exceeds 5 kg.
• If you have purchased goods with delivery in St. Petersburg – please contact the store in St. Petersburg, metro Ligovsky prospect, st. Marata, 53. The export of low-quality goods in St. Petersburg by the courier service of the Muztorg company is carried out in exceptional cases and only if the weight of the goods exceeds 5 kg.
• If you have purchased goods with delivery within Russia – please fill out an application for a return and wait for a call from a specialist in the client department, who will tell you how this is feasible.Nothing complicated – just send the goods to the address: Moscow, Krasnokholmskaya nab. , 3, but without a call from a specialist, we ask you not to send the goods. When the examination recognizes the return as a warranty case (within 3-4 working days), we will fully compensate your cash costs for moving the goods. A refund or sending a new product is carried out after receiving and checking the product for the integrity of the packaging, completeness and operability.
• In the process of receiving the goods in the store or by courier – just tell us what it didn’t fit – this will help us improve our service and products.
• Returns for goods paid through third-party delivery services upon receipt of the goods are carried out by bank transfer. To return such goods, you must provide an identity card, bank details of the card / account, cash register receipt

RETURN OF GOODS OF PROPER QUALITY. If you change your mind, for example …

In accordance with paragraph 4 of Art. 26. 1 of the Federal Law “On Protection of Consumer Rights” and clause 21 of the Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation “On Approval of the Rules for Selling Goods by Remote Way”, the consumer (buyer) has the right to refuse goods of good quality if it was NOT IN USE) at any time before its transfer, and after the transfer – within 7 days.At the same time, the exchange of goods of good quality is possible only if the goods are not included in the list of goods of good quality that cannot be returned, approved by Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 55 of 01/19/1998. Also, a prerequisite for the return and exchange of a purchase is to preserve its presentation , picking, packaging, as well as a sales or cash receipt.

How long does it take to return an item?
The return period depends on the category of the instrument and the method of purchase.When purchasing acoustic instruments from a retail store, it is 14 days. High quality retail electronics are non-refundable. For goods purchased through the online store, the return period is 7 days.
Returns are possible provided that the product was not in use, the software was not activated, the appearance, consumer properties, packaging and equipment, factory seals and labels were preserved.
In the event of a malfunction, the decision to return is made on the basis of the conclusion of the service center.
Return policy does not apply to discounted items.

What are the refund rules?
The amount paid is subject to return, with the exception of the costs of delivery of the goods, as well as other costs of the online store, subject to compensation at the expense of the Buyer (Art. 26.1 of the Law “On Protection of Consumer Rights”). The maximum refund period for returned goods is 10 days. As a rule, this happens within 2 business days. We do our best to ensure that you receive funds as quickly as possible.

RETURN OF FAULTY GOODS

What to do if a defect is found in the purchased product?
If you find defects in the product , we ask you to immediately contact us at the Customer Relations Department by phone: 8 (800) 555 00 75 or by e-mail: quality@muztorg. ru

IT HAS PASSED UP TO 7 DAYS FROM THE MOMENT OF PURCHASE
Upon receipt of a low-quality product from the buyer, the goods are inspected for mechanical damage, traces of opening and misuse.After the damage to the goods is excluded, the client fills out an application for a return and, depending on the location, transfers it personally, or sends a signed scan by e-mail.

MORE THAN 7 DAYS HAS BEEN PASSED FROM THE TIME OF PURCHASE (GOODS ON WARRANTY)
In this case, it is necessary to diagnose at the service center and identify the cause of the malfunction. The result of the examination, confirming the warranty case, is the basis for the return of funds and is attached to the application for the return.
If the case is out of warranty, the Buyer pays for transportation and diagnostics costs.

WARRANTY ENDED
Please contact any convenient Service Center.

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How to sterilize manicure tools at home

A good manicure is the perfect addition to any look. We are used to the fact that you can do it yourself at home. You can find many articles and videos about removing cuticles, filing nails to get the desired shape, coating with gel polish, but how often do we think about the cleanliness and sterility of our instruments?

When we come to the master for a manicure, he has everything ready, disinfected and sterilized in advance. This part of the procedure remains behind the scenes for us, but this does not mean that it is not important. The instruments get not only particles of nails and skin, but also microorganisms from them, which live everywhere, therefore, it is necessary to process the instrument both in the salon and at home.Neglect of sanitary standards can lead to unpleasant diseases such as various fungi and mycoses. Also, with the slightest wounds or scratches, you can pick up an infection.

In this article, we will look at ways to handle the tools, thanks to which your manicure will always be clean and safe.

With a home manicure, it is necessary to decontaminate the materials after each use. If only one person is using the tools, minimal processing is sufficient.If you are doing a manicure for your girlfriends or clients, you need a more thorough method. Let’s start with the first case.

Processing of individual instruments

If you’re the only one using the tool, start with minimal machining, which involves two simple steps.

Step 1. Mechanical cleaning from contamination

Use regular soapy water and rinse all tools with water.

Step 2.Disinfection of the instrument with an antiseptic

A regular antiseptic from the cosmetic department will do. Be sure to disinfect your hands and your work area. Before a manicure, professional masters treat clients’ hands with a special alcohol-based disinfectant. At home, you can use vodka, cologne, boric acid, etc. You can also wash your hands with antibacterial soap before a manicure.

WARNING! It is not recommended to use antibacterial soap regularly, as it destroys not only harmful, but also beneficial bacteria.

Processing tools used by several people

Even if you are doing a manicure for family or friends, the tools need to be carefully processed. This must be done in three stages: cleaning, disinfection and sterilization.

1. Mechanical cleaning from dirt

As with individual tools, soap works here, you can also use dishwashing detergent or liquids with antimicrobial additives.Wash the instrument in warm water, then rinse off the rest of the products.

2. Disinfection

This stage allows you to get rid of microbes on surfaces and infectious agents. At home, it can be done in different ways: treated with chemicals, cleaned with an antiseptic or boiled. Let’s start with the chemical treatment.

Chemical treatment

This is a method in which metal objects are kept in a disinfectant solution.The exposure time depends on the composition of the solution, and it is worth removing objects with gloves or tweezers to protect against the harmful effects of chemicals. Let’s take a look at some of the chemical disinfectants.

• Estilodez
  An effective and inexpensive tool. Kills HIV and hepatitis viruses, as well as tuberculosis bacteria and fungi. Also suitable for cleaning work area and towels.

• MultiDes
  Another inexpensive product that contains fewer chemicals but works great. Kills viruses, fungi and most bacteria. It is used in medical institutions, sports complexes and catering points.

• Alaminol
  Effective but non-toxic, if it comes into contact with the skin, it can simply be washed off with water. Fights fungi, viruses, rotaviruses and HIV.

• Neosteril
  This tool deals with fungi, HIV viruses, bacteria, etc., also has a healing effect and is suitable for treating wounds, cuts. Neosteril does not cause allergic reactions and does not require rinsing the instrument after processing.

• Desecon
  Thoroughly removes skin particles, dirt, cream and oil. The higher the water temperature, the more efficiently the decon will work.

Antiseptic treatment

Antiseptic products are medical and cosmetic. As a rule, it is written on the packaging if they are suitable for processing a manicure tool. They often have a pungent smell, but you can pick up a product with fragrances that soften it.

WARNING! After treating instruments with chemicals or an antiseptic, rinse them under running water, except for products that do not require this.

Boil

This is a popular way to handle tools at home. There is an opinion that in boiling water all microbes and harmful bacteria die, but this is not the case. Boiling disinfects instruments, but does not sterilize them. Sterility is achieved at temperatures much higher than 100 degrees.

3. Sterilization

Unlike disinfection, sterilization completely destroys all harmful microorganisms, leaving the surface of the instrument perfectly clean and safe.During sterilization, all pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms, including spores, are destroyed. The likelihood of transmission of infection after such a procedure is completely excluded.

As with the previous processing steps, sterilization can be carried out in different ways depending on your capabilities. First, let’s look at how tools are sterilized in manicure studios.

How are instruments sterilized in manicure salons?

The main technique used in studios is a dry oven and an autoclave.

A dry oven (also called an “air sterilizer”) works like an oven. In it, the instruments are treated with dry hot air. Products are sent to a dry heat for 1 hour, where, under the influence of high temperatures (about 180-190 degrees), all harmful microorganisms dry out and die.

The autoclave sterilizes instruments with steam under pressure. As a result, microorganisms die from high temperatures (110-140 degrees) and rupture of membranes by pressure.At the same time, the processing time is reduced to 20-30 minutes!

Each device has its own advantages and disadvantages. The dry oven wins in cost. Also, dry air treatment in it is not as harmful to metal tools as steam autoclaving, in which they corrode. However, non-heat-resistant instruments cannot be sterilized in a dry heat, and processing takes a long time. The autoclave is suitable for glass and silicone materials, the instruments are less blunt, but it is also more expensive.

How to sterilize instruments at home?

What if there is no opportunity to purchase a dry heat or an autoclave? There is an alternative! A miniature and more affordable device – a glasperlen (ball) sterilizer – can replace the salon equipment. It is a container filled with small balls that are heated to high temperatures (230-240 degrees).The instruments are lowered into this device and completely disinfected.

The balls are heated from a normal electrical network. It is necessary to warm up the glasperlen sterilizer in advance. When it is ready to load instruments, a special light will come on. Tools are processed very quickly – less than a minute! This is a big plus, but there are also disadvantages. The device is not suitable for everything; only miniature tools can be processed in it: files, tongs, scissors.In addition, only the main part of the instrument is lowered, and its handle sticks out and remains without sterilization.

Another method of sterilizing instruments at home is processing in a conventional oven. A steamer or multicooker is also suitable for this purpose. Please note that this method is considered obsolete and undesirable. The oven is more suitable if you are doing a manicure only for yourself. Firstly, it is saturated with food odors, residual fats and dirt, which is bad for sterilization.Secondly, complete tightness cannot be guaranteed.

And yet, if you have to use the oven, how to do it right?
Suppose you have already cleaned the tools from dirt and disinfected them.

1. Preheat the oven to 180-200 degrees. Prepare tools, baking sheet, metal tongs or tweezers, oven mitts, and oven mitts.
2. Place the tools on the baking sheet so that they do not touch, and place them in the oven for 13-15 minutes.
3. Using oven mitts and oven mitts, remove the baking sheet and allow the tools to cool.

WARNING! This method is only suitable for metal tools. Do not place sand-coated cardboard or plastic files in the oven!

We have considered methods of sterilizing instruments, but it is equally important to store them correctly, otherwise there is no point in processing. If you put sterile instruments in an open box, they will quickly become covered with dust particles and will no longer be suitable for the job.

Tool storage

In manicure studios, tools are sterilized in special craft bags, in which they are stored after the procedure.

To store tools at home, use kraft bags or some maximally airtight container, for example, a container.

We looked at the methods and stages of tool processing, as well as the principles that need to be adhered to. Unfortunately, not all craftsmen comply with sanitary standards.What mistakes do they make?

Major errors in tool handling

1. Only tools are processed, but the foreman forgets about the hands or the workplace.

It is very important that everything that you or your client (or the friend you are nailing) comes in contact with is perfectly clean, including your hands and all surfaces. Microorganisms are everywhere – to protect yourself and the client, always disinfect your hands and work with gloves.

If you are only doing a manicure for yourself, also treat your hands and all surfaces so that in the event of a cut, you can be sure that nothing gets into the wound.

2. Tools should only be treated with alcohol or boiling water.

If you are only doing a manicure for yourself, then this treatment will be enough, but if you work with other people, do not limit yourself to alcohol or boiling water.As we have already noted above, only sterilization, which requires very high temperatures, fully protects against harmful bacteria and viruses.

3. Instruments are not stored correctly.

Store tools in airtight bags or containers, especially if they touch other than your hands. Otherwise, the instruments will become dusty and sterilization will be useless.

Summary of Conclusions

The accuracy of the processing of tools depends on their application and your capabilities.If you are doing a manicure only for yourself, it will be enough just to disinfect it, but if you are a practicing manicure master, then processing is necessary in three stages: cleaning, disinfection and sterilization.

BETA57A User Guide

Shure BETA 57 ^® A is a precision dynamic microphone designed for professional amplification of live sound and studio recordings. The narrow supercardioid radiation pattern provides high pre-feedback gain, maximum isolation from other sound sources, and minimum off-axis coloration.

With its specially matched frequency response, the versatile Beta 57A microphone enhances the tone of amplified and acoustic instruments, especially in high sound pressure level (SPL) environments. The field-proven pneumatic shock absorber, hardened steel mesh and superior workmanship ensure trouble-free operation in continuous daily use.

Main features

• Premier live performance microphone with Shure quality, durability and reliability
• Uniform supercardioid radiation pattern for maximum pre-feedback gain and superior off-axis rejection
• Frequency response specially adapted for guitars, drums and vocals
• Neodymium magnet increases sensitivity and power output
• Enhanced pneumatic support shock absorber to minimize transmission of mechanical noise and vibration
• Anti-squeeze steel mesh and enamelled cast metal housing are durable and will withstand abuse

General rules for use

• Do not cover any part of the microphone mesh with your hand, as this will adversely affect its performance.
• Aim the microphone towards the selected sound source (speaker, singer, or instrument) and away from unwanted sources.
• Place the microphone as close to the selected sound source as possible.
• Work closer to the microphone to get more bass.
• Use only one microphone for one audio source.
• For best gain before feedback occurs, use fewer microphones.
• The distance between microphones should be at least three times the distance from each microphone to its sound source (three-to-one rule).
• Place microphones as far away from reflective surfaces as possible.
• When using the microphone outdoors, install a windscreen.
• Avoid excessive handling of the microphone to minimize the effects of mechanical noise and vibration.

Applications and Placement

The following table lists the most common applications and guidelines for microphone placement. Keep in mind that the method of working with microphones is largely a matter of taste; there is no single “correct” microphone position.

For a supercardioid microphone, the directions of maximum sound suppression are 120 ° with the back of the microphone.Position the microphone so that unwanted sound sources such as monitors and speakers are at this angle and not directly behind the microphone. To minimize feedback and ensure optimum rejection of unwanted sound, be sure to check the microphone placement before performing.

Recommended speaker placement for supercardioid microphones

Unidirectional (cardioid) microphones progressively enhance low frequencies (bass) 6-10 dB below 100 Hz when the microphone is about 6 mm (1/4 inch) from the sound source.This phenomenon, known as the proximity effect, can be used to create a warmer, more powerful sound. In order to avoid producing very strong low frequency sound when used at close range, the low frequency response is gradually reduced. In this way, greater controllability is provided and the user can take advantage of the proximity effect.

Type

Dynamic (Moving Coil)

Frequency response

50 to 16,000 Hz

Radiation pattern

Supercardioid

Output impedance

290 Ohm

Sensitivity

@ 1 kHz, open circuit voltage

-51 dBV / Pa (2.8 mV) [1]

Weight

Net

0.275 kg (0.6 lb)

Connector

Three-pin male professional audio (XLR), balanced

Body

Cast silver blue enamel and hardened brushed steel mesh

[1] 1 Pa = 94 dB SPL

Overall dimensions

Typical frequency response

Typical polar diagram

Wiring diagram

Accessories included in the kit

Optional accessories

Spare parts

This product meets the essential requirements of all relevant EU directives and is CE marked.

The CE Declaration of Conformity can be obtained at the following address: www.shure.com/europe/compliance

Authorized European Representative:

Shure Europe GmbH

Headquarters Europe, Middle East & Africa

Department: EMEA Approval

Jakob-Dieffenbacher-Str.12

75031 Eppingen, Germany

Phone: 49-7262-92 49 0

Fax: 49-7262-92 49 11 4

Email: [email protected]

Proper care of your saxophone

When the chores associated with the choice and purchase of a saxophone are left behind, the life of the instrument and its owner begins. It usually consists of a lot of labor and periodic public appearances.And so that at these key moments the instrument does not fail, and also looks the best way, it is necessary to competently and carefully look after it.

Daily care of the saxophone includes preparing the instrument for practice and final cleaning, which consists of removing moisture from the inside and outside of the instrument. To do this, we need simple, but necessary equipment and lubricants for every saxophonist.

When the chores associated with the choice and purchase of a saxophone are left behind, the life of the instrument and its owner begins.It usually consists of a lot of labor and periodic public appearances. And so that at these key moments the instrument does not fail, and also looks the best way, it is necessary to competently and carefully look after it.

Daily maintenance of the saxophone includes preparing the instrument for practice and final cleaning, which consists of removing moisture from the inside and outside of the instrument. To do this, we need simple, but necessary equipment and lubricants for every saxophonist.

Part one. Preparation for classes.

To prevent creases and better preservation of the cork on the escut, we need to treat it with a special lubricant. In English it is called Cork Grease. Which of the offered – you choose: almost all lubricants, with the exception of complete Chinese ones, meet the requirements of musicians. Chinese are bad because they melt in the heat and leave greasy stains on tools and fabrics. We offer one of the lubricants
of your choice.Such a lubricant lasts for a long time, and it must be applied as needed. It will not be superfluous to do this every time at the beginning of classes. Excess grease must be removed with a napkin – there are special wipes, but you can also use a regular paper one.

If the esc on your instrument fits very tightly, then you can be happy: this is good in itself. A side effect is that you will most likely need to lubricate metal joints and mechanics from time to time. You can lubricate the Eski socket with almost any synthetic tool oil, but its amount should be minimal: it has nothing to do inside the tool.Also, this oil can be used to lubricate the ligature screws. However, oil with a dispenser is better here, which we will talk about below.

Our tool is ready to go, let’s go!

Part two. Caring for the instrument after class.

First we need to remove moisture from the saxophone barrel. Most of it can be drained simply by turning the instrument over. And to remove condensate from the walls, you will need some tools.You can use a brush, but it has one drawback – you cannot wipe the bell of a saxophone with it. To remove moisture from the entire inner surface of the instrument, wipes with weights are suitable. They come in two types: just microfiber cloth and silk-laced cloth
and an inner insert for more thorough care. The insert provides some elasticity so that the fabric is pressed firmly against the inner surface of the instrument. Which one to choose – the decision is yours. They are used in the same way, regardless of the material.It is necessary to push the weight through the channel of the instrument, starting from the socket. When the weight is at its lowest point, the saxophone will have to be turned over, and then the rubbing pulled out through the narrow end. Of course, the esca must be removed before this procedure – a separate, narrow wipe is provided for it.

Next, we remove moisture from the eska and the mouthpiece. To do this, you can use a special wiper, it is suitable for both parts of the saxophone. Before wiping, the mouthpiece can be washed with running water and, if necessary, remove contamination from the grease with soap.The cane can be simply wiped with a dry cloth and put into the saver. A saver is a case designed for drying a cane on a flat surface to avoid the appearance of irregularities on the site with further use of the cane. In principle, savers are distinguished by the presence or absence of a dampening element. It is needed so that you do not waste time preparing the cane for the game, it is already in a playable state, regardless of climate change.

The next step is wiping the surface of the tool.There are small nuances in the choice of surface care products, which depend on what your instrument is covered with. Now we will try to consider all types of coatings, and even their absence.

The surface of a new varnished instrument can be wiped with a regular soft cloth. If there are traces of grease or other dirt on it, then you can moisten the cloth with alcohol or an alcohol-containing solution, or use any means for caring for varnished tools. If you have a very old instrument, and there is little or no varnish left on it, then you need a metal care product.It is also suitable for initially unlacquered instruments. If you have a silver or silver coated instrument, then only a silver care product will work for you. It perfectly removes dark spots from the silver surface and gives it a mirror shine. Non-specialized substances can be not only useless, but even dangerous for coatings containing precious metals. All described products are applied to the surface of the instrument with a cloth and removed with another clean cloth.

Part three. Periodic maintenance and lubrication of the mechanics.

Your tool needs mechanical lubrication about once every six months. For this, there are special oils that differ from others in their higher viscosity and an additional applicator tip for lubricating hard-to-reach tool assemblies. The oil must be applied pointwise, in a minimum amount. Keep in mind that after application it flows down, so select the points for application at the top of the lubricated axle.Try to avoid smudges as they can leave marks on the surface of the instrument.

By observing these simple but important rules for caring for your saxophone, you can extend its life and maintain its attractive appearance for a long time.

Oven convection: 3 main varieties

The average oven today is often equipped with an important option called convection mode. Why is it needed in the oven, what is it in general and what is its use – more on this below.

Read also: Electric or gas oven: 5 selection criteria

How the oven works

It’s worth starting simple: classic oven models consist of one or more heaters (burners), above which trays are placed at different heights. In such ovens, food is heated only from below, and natural convection, or heated air, acts on top. This is how the dish often bakes unevenly.

Innovative models have top heating.For example, in the Zanussi ZZB 510301 X model, it is possible to turn on both heaters at once. An additional source speeds up and facilitates cooking. Many models – for example, the Gorenje BO625E01BK – have a grill.

Types of ovens:

A fan takes part in preheating the oven and combines hot and cold air currents. In multifunctional ovens, the upper heating is adjustable and can be switched on independently, or together with the lower one.

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What is convection?

It is not difficult to understand what a convector is in an oven.Inside the cabinet, light warmed-up air occupies the upper part, and cold air descends below, where, in turn, it warms up. And so – until the temperature is completely stabilized. This phenomenon is called natural or natural convection.

Even in old models of ovens, it is present, but in a natural order the process is very slow and does not always cope with its intended purpose. Therefore, in modern versions – for example, HANSA BOEI 68434 – it is compulsory.In such devices, there is a fan that evenly distributes air throughout the working chamber.

What is convection in the oven for? Its presence will give the opportunity:

• Bake large and thick cuts of meat;
• get crisp;
• to dry a large amount of evolved juice;
• Defrost vegetables or meat quickly.

When the convection mode is started, the full volume of the oven is used effectively.You can put several trays, and not worry about even baking the dish. It is not necessary to run the function every time you bake it, but it is indispensable for baking poultry or large pies.

What convectors are there?

Convection is decisively present in all types of ovens. It happens:

• Natural. Well known to any person, it is provided in standard ovens. Based on the natural process of moving hot and cold air through the oven.Not the most convenient option to use.
• Forced. Equipped in multifunctional models, such as Electrolux EOB55351AX. The heat in such ovens is evenly distributed by the fan. Sometimes it is combined with electric heating elements for full baking.
• Wet or steam. Assumes steam saturation of the air inside the oven. So the dough rises better, the food does not dry out and does not fry, retaining all the useful properties.

Convection is sometimes combined with a grill – for example, as in the PYRAMIDA F 105 S IX. In some ovens, convection is combined with a reinforced grill (this is combined with the top heating, for cooking large portions and browning).

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The answer to the question whether convection is needed in a gas or electric oven is quite simple. It will definitely not be superfluous, but still useful.Convection is useful for lovers of healthy food and simply for those who love crunching outside and juicy inside. Combining with different types of heating, grill, convection contributes to a fuller realization of the possibilities of a multifunctional oven. With this option, baking any dish is hassle-free.

miswak – natural toothbrush

Miswak – natural toothbrush

Miswak has many names: Salvadora Persica, Salvador, Miswak, Meswak, Siwak, Sivak, Sewak, Siwan, Peelu, Pilu, Arak.Translated from Malay “Kayu Sugi” – “chewing stick”.

It is a traditional toothbrush in the Middle East, South and Southeast Asia. Miswak has been used since ancient times (about five thousand years ago – found in Egyptian tombs) and has not lost its popularity until our time.

Misvak is a stick (root of a tree), which must be peeled from the bark and rubbed (chewed) into fibers before brushing your teeth.

Why is miswak so popular?

Miswak is a 100% natural product.

Miswak contains a large amount of bioactive substances: tannin, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponin, vitamin C, fluorine, silicon. These substances prevent the occurrence of caries, fight against pathogenic bacteria, restore the acid-base balance, remove plaque and freshen breath (more precisely, after brushing with miswak, there will be absolutely no smell from the mouth). There are no preservatives, dyes, or fragrances in Miswak.

The World Health Organization recommended Misvak for use back in 1986.

The use of Miswak helps to strengthen the gums, prevent caries, eliminate bad breath, polish and whiten tooth enamel.

Teeth cleaning

Gently peel the tip of the stick (0.5 – 1.0 cm) from the bark (the bark of the miswak is soft and can be easily cleaned with clean hands or even teeth). If the bark has hardened, you can moisten it with water.

Lightly press the cleaned tip of the stick with your teeth several times so as to separate the fibers and turn the tip of the stick into a brush.

Brush your teeth like a regular toothbrush: sweeping movements from the gum to the edge of the tooth crown from the outside and from the inside. There is no need to use toothpaste, as miswak contains all the necessary components.

After using such a brush, cut off the used fibers with scissors, again making a stick out of the brush. This makes Miswak a very hygienic cleaning agent because bacteria will not collect between the bristle fibers and get into your mouth the next time you brush your teeth!

This also makes this brush “marching”, i.e.That is, you can always carry it with you and, if necessary, use it in any conditions, because the absence of paste, and, accordingly, the absence of rinsing the mouth ?, makes the procedure for brushing your teeth available at any time and under any circumstances.