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ShareKimmie’s 2007 All-Star Diary
On January 23, 2006 it was announced that Kimmie would represent the 76ers in the first ever All-Star Dance Team during the All-Star Weekend in Las Vegas from Feb. 15-18. Kimmie will be providing Sixers.com with a personal All-Star Diary detailing her thoughts throughout the experience, as well as exclusive photos. Check back often to find out if Kimmie has added another entry.
Final Entry - February 20, 2007
"It's Tuesday afternoon and I just woke up. I flew in from Vegas yesterday and went straight to rehearsal. I missed the girls so much and was very excited to see them. They asked me so many question and showed me so much love. After rehearsal I was out like a light. It felt so good to be home and in my bed.
"I have such a delayed reaction. All last week felt like one long day. I had so much to do that I kept moving and didn't really have time to react emotionally. Now, after the fact, I'm sad because its over. I learned a lot about myself. I have grown as a dancer. I made so many new friends and contacts. And I can honestly say I made Philadelphia Fans proud. The actual All Star Game was the only familiar thing because it was like a home game only with lots of celebrities at eye level. Prince walked right by me. P Diddy, Nelly and Jermaine Dupri also strolled on by. Chris Tucker was by our tunnel and Jay Z and Beyonce made eye contact with us the whole time. It was so incredible. Sunday Night was bitter sweet because it was the beginning of the end. Most of us went to the NBA wrap party at the ROCKHOUSE. Some of us got in a giant bird cage and danced. (I was one of them.) And I danced on stage a little. Then we went over to PURE. We chilled in VIP with Joe Simpson. I stayed up all night and got on the plane at 8:00 am. They say, 'That's how you do it in Vegas!'
"I just would sincerely like to thank EVERYBODY for all the continued love and support. I am truly Blessed. To the entire Sixers Organization, Thank you for having faith in me to represent you. You had your pick and I am honored it was me. You all work so hard and it doesn't go unrecognized. To Debbie, you are an incredible director and because of you I was one of the best. You have prepared me for anything and everything. I appreciate all you do for me and the team. To Adrienne and the Sixers Dancers, I love you all and will forever be grateful for each and everyone of you. You all have been in my corner supporting me from day one. Throughout everything my family has supported and loved me. There's so many of you to mention but you know who you are. I love you and thank you from the bottom of my heart. And last but not least I thank God. Through Him all things are possible."
Entry No. 10 - February 17, 2007
"Oh My Goodness!! Tonight was awesome. Our call time this morning was noon so I slept in. We all met in the hotel and Lori Ann surprised us all with gift bags. She has a clothing line coming out with Frontline and we are the first to wear it. Off we went to the arena for fittings, hair and makeup. I got a message from Sixers teammate Julie which was a pleasant surprise. She wished me good luck and told me again how much she loves Lori Ann. Everybody here and back home has been showing me so much love. All Star Saturday Night was awesome. So many celebrities. I was two feet away from USHER. Ahhhhhhhhhhh! He is my favorite artist. P Diddy was there, Ciara, Queen Latifah and Chris Tucker too. It was so exciting. I can't wait for tomorrow night. It's bitter sweet because its all over tomorrow."
Entry No. 9 - February 16, 2007
"This week has felt like one long day. (I went through 1/2 the day thinking it was Thursday.) The first rehearsal we had was for All Star Saturday Night. We went over our positions for the contests happening. Then we went over to Mandalay Bay for Jam Session and the Celebrity Game. I was very nervous but after our 1st performance, it was all good. We performed twice. Lori Ann led us in prayer and everyone was emotional. After the West beat the East, I did some shopping. We all headed to the arena to catch the end of the rookie game. We practiced on the court in our heels. Very scary but I'm very confident in the routine. Its now 12:30am and I'm just hitting my room. Want to catch the comedy show with Arnez J but my body is telling another story. I had a good day and saw two familiar Sixer faces. Tomorrow is a big day. One of the big days we have been working so hard for. Make sure you look for it on tv, everyone has been showing Philly a lot of love."
Entry No. 8 - February 15, 2007
"It’s about 10:30 p.m. and I'm at Thomas & Mack Arena. Tonight I was fitted for costumes and rehearsed for All-Star Saturday Night with Fan Patrol and the Sacramento Kid's Hip Hop Crew. Everybody is awesome. I also received shoes and another All-Star bag from Adidas. Crystal from Washington, Erica from Memphis and myself interviewed with Essence, which is so hot! I'm making so many new friends. Dana, a Sixer’s dancer, flew in today. So I'm going to meet her and hang out for just for a little. When I get back to my hotel I'm going to pack and get everything ready for tomorrow because it’s going to be another long day."
Entry No. 7 - February 14, 2007
"It’s after 12 a.m. here in Vegas, which means its after 3 a.m. back home in Philadelphia. I'm just getting in from rehearsal at the Thomas and Mack Arena. The city is decorated with All-Star gear. New York New York’s Statue of Liberty is wearing an East jersey, while MGM’s giant lion is representing the West. It’s incredible! I'm feeling very special right now. On my lunch break I came to my room and was surprised with flowers and a proclamation of achievement from Mayor Street. How awesome is that! I am very blessed with this opportunity and the support of so many people, but I am also very tired and sore. Some of the girls can sleep in until 2 p.m. tomorrow, however I have appearances all morning. They are definitely keeping this Philly girl busy."
Entry No. 6 - February 13, 2007
"It was a long day. This morning I was one of the girls requested for an early appearance at the Las Vegas committee board meeting. While I was there I met the mayor of Las Vegas, who is from Philadelphia. He gave me a big GO SIXERS! After my appearance we went straight to rehearsal, where we had practice from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The choreography is hot! Lori Ann is so nice and full of great energy. She calls us her Muffs. I'm exhausted and I know I'm going to be sore. Since we don't have to start until 11 o'clock tomorrow, I'm going to sleep in and maybe do some shopping!"
Entry No. 5 - February 12, 2007
"I got up bright and early this morning and was off to the airport for my 8:45am flight to Las Vegas. The week has officially begun. As I'm checking in and making my way to the gate several people noticed me. Each person congratulated me and wished me success in Vegas. Our first layover was in Pittsburgh. Soon after that we had a medical emergency stop in St. Louis. Five and a half hours later I landed in Las Vegas. I first met Jennifer from the Atlanta Hawks at the baggage claim and we were off to the hotel. We had plenty of time to settle in and get ready for our business meeting and dinner at 7:15. At this meeting I met my All-Star teammates, and everybody is gorgeous. We took pictures with the CEO of the LVCVA and Lori Ann Gibson. The NBA gave us each a leather goodie bag with awesome gifts inside. Everybody is smiling and taking pictures with each other, each of us realizing how big this really is. After dinner I decided to go to bed. I am scheduled for an appearance early tomorrow morning before rehearsal which starts sharply at 9am and will last until 9pm. GoodNite..."
Entry No. 4 - February 6, 2007
"I barely slept last night, again. After our win against the Nets, I drove to Borgata and worked a little. Then I drove back home and began packing and doing other little things. Before I knew it, it was about 7:30 am. I closed my eyes for a second and it was 9am and time to go. I went to Lindenwold Elementary School right around the corner from my house where I met up with Hip-Hop (the Sixers mascot). We were surrounded by so many excited third, fourth and fifth graders. We talked about how important reading is and everybody's favorite books. My favorite book is written by Debbie Allen (my idol) named "Dancing in the Wings." It inspired me at the age of 17 when I was reading it to my youngest dance class. At the assembly I read Hip-Hop's favorite book and the kids loved it! The principal thanked us and invited us back. After I left the elementary school, I drove to my hometown and taught a dance at my old school (Queen City Charter School). Later that evening I had dinner at Friday's with a very special friend of mine. It was a long day but I enjoyed myself and that night I slept like a baby..."
Read to Achieve - Feb. 6
Entry No. 3 - January 30, 2007
"I had a rough night last night. I had a flat tire and didn't make it home. I had to stay in a hotel and get ready for my appearance this morning on the NBC 10! Show. Despite my misfortune, I was able smile and dance at the NBC studios. I performed SEXYBACK and I believe the audience enjoyed it. After NBC, I went over to Power 99 and Eddie F interviewed me. I was more nervous for the radio interview. Eddie F was really nice and I thanked him for having me on his show. After my interviews Brandon, one of the hardest workers for the Sixers organization, took me to my car and made sure I was okay. I know things could have been a lot worse so I'm very grateful. Right now, I am safe in my home with two brand new tires. I plan on relaxing tonight by drinking some hot tea and watching American Idol."
Entry No. 2 - January 28, 2007
"I barely slept last night....again. I was very anxious about meeting the other dancers and being on Fox and Friends. I got up really early, did my make-up, had a piece of fruit and was on my way 2 New York City. I met Courtney (from the Celtics) first and she is tall and beautiful. We talked about how exciting things have been lately. We were the first to arrive at Fox Studios. Shortly after Sarah (from the Knicks) arrived. She was very nice and full of energy. Then Jaclyn (from the Nets) walked in the door and the gang was all there. We soon realized that Sarah, Jaclyn and I all auditioned to dance for Beyonce in the beginning of December together. What a small world! The show was awesome. We danced outside in the cold 5 times. It was freezing, but I enjoyed every minute of it!"
Entry No. 1 - January 22, 2007
"The night before the results for the 2007 All-Star Dance Team voting were to be announced, I tossed and turned. I was so nervous about finding out the results I didn't get a wink of sleep. On Monday, Jan. 22, when Hip-Hop, Miss Debbie (Apalucci) and the Sixers crew came to my door I screamed. I couldn't believe it. I can't believe I held back my tears until they left. I cried all day long. Later that evening we had rehearsal. Adrienne (or "A" as we all call her) and Kristy were so supportive and happy for me. The rest of the lovely ladies on the team gave me hugs and kisses. They also teased me about my puffy eyes. It was such an emotional day but I wouldn't have it any other way."
See Kimmie getting surprised here.
"It's Tuesday afternoon and I just woke up. I flew in from Vegas yesterday and went straight to rehearsal. I missed the girls so much and was very excited to see them. They asked me so many question and showed me so much love. After rehearsal I was out like a light. It felt so good to be home and in my bed.
"I have such a delayed reaction. All last week felt like one long day. I had so much to do that I kept moving and didn't really have time to react emotionally. Now, after the fact, I'm sad because its over. I learned a lot about myself. I have grown as a dancer. I made so many new friends and contacts. And I can honestly say I made Philadelphia Fans proud. The actual All Star Game was the only familiar thing because it was like a home game only with lots of celebrities at eye level. Prince walked right by me. P Diddy, Nelly and Jermaine Dupri also strolled on by. Chris Tucker was by our tunnel and Jay Z and Beyonce made eye contact with us the whole time. It was so incredible. Sunday Night was bitter sweet because it was the beginning of the end. Most of us went to the NBA wrap party at the ROCKHOUSE. Some of us got in a giant bird cage and danced. (I was one of them.) And I danced on stage a little. Then we went over to PURE. We chilled in VIP with Joe Simpson. I stayed up all night and got on the plane at 8:00 am. They say, 'That's how you do it in Vegas!'
"I just would sincerely like to thank EVERYBODY for all the continued love and support. I am truly Blessed. To the entire Sixers Organization, Thank you for having faith in me to represent you. You had your pick and I am honored it was me. You all work so hard and it doesn't go unrecognized. To Debbie, you are an incredible director and because of you I was one of the best. You have prepared me for anything and everything. I appreciate all you do for me and the team. To Adrienne and the Sixers Dancers, I love you all and will forever be grateful for each and everyone of you. You all have been in my corner supporting me from day one. Throughout everything my family has supported and loved me. There's so many of you to mention but you know who you are. I love you and thank you from the bottom of my heart. And last but not least I thank God. Through Him all things are possible."
"Oh My Goodness!! Tonight was awesome. Our call time this morning was noon so I slept in. We all met in the hotel and Lori Ann surprised us all with gift bags. She has a clothing line coming out with Frontline and we are the first to wear it. Off we went to the arena for fittings, hair and makeup. I got a message from Sixers teammate Julie which was a pleasant surprise. She wished me good luck and told me again how much she loves Lori Ann. Everybody here and back home has been showing me so much love. All Star Saturday Night was awesome. So many celebrities. I was two feet away from USHER. Ahhhhhhhhhhh! He is my favorite artist. P Diddy was there, Ciara, Queen Latifah and Chris Tucker too. It was so exciting. I can't wait for tomorrow night. It's bitter sweet because its all over tomorrow."
"This week has felt like one long day. (I went through 1/2 the day thinking it was Thursday.) The first rehearsal we had was for All Star Saturday Night. We went over our positions for the contests happening. Then we went over to Mandalay Bay for Jam Session and the Celebrity Game. I was very nervous but after our 1st performance, it was all good. We performed twice. Lori Ann led us in prayer and everyone was emotional. After the West beat the East, I did some shopping. We all headed to the arena to catch the end of the rookie game. We practiced on the court in our heels. Very scary but I'm very confident in the routine. Its now 12:30am and I'm just hitting my room. Want to catch the comedy show with Arnez J but my body is telling another story. I had a good day and saw two familiar Sixer faces. Tomorrow is a big day. One of the big days we have been working so hard for. Make sure you look for it on tv, everyone has been showing Philly a lot of love."
"It’s about 10:30 p.m. and I'm at Thomas & Mack Arena. Tonight I was fitted for costumes and rehearsed for All-Star Saturday Night with Fan Patrol and the Sacramento Kid's Hip Hop Crew. Everybody is awesome. I also received shoes and another All-Star bag from Adidas. Crystal from Washington, Erica from Memphis and myself interviewed with Essence, which is so hot! I'm making so many new friends. Dana, a Sixer’s dancer, flew in today. So I'm going to meet her and hang out for just for a little. When I get back to my hotel I'm going to pack and get everything ready for tomorrow because it’s going to be another long day."
"It’s after 12 a.m. here in Vegas, which means its after 3 a.m. back home in Philadelphia. I'm just getting in from rehearsal at the Thomas and Mack Arena. The city is decorated with All-Star gear. New York New York’s Statue of Liberty is wearing an East jersey, while MGM’s giant lion is representing the West. It’s incredible! I'm feeling very special right now. On my lunch break I came to my room and was surprised with flowers and a proclamation of achievement from Mayor Street. How awesome is that! I am very blessed with this opportunity and the support of so many people, but I am also very tired and sore. Some of the girls can sleep in until 2 p.m. tomorrow, however I have appearances all morning. They are definitely keeping this Philly girl busy."
"It was a long day. This morning I was one of the girls requested for an early appearance at the Las Vegas committee board meeting. While I was there I met the mayor of Las Vegas, who is from Philadelphia. He gave me a big GO SIXERS! After my appearance we went straight to rehearsal, where we had practice from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The choreography is hot! Lori Ann is so nice and full of great energy. She calls us her Muffs. I'm exhausted and I know I'm going to be sore. Since we don't have to start until 11 o'clock tomorrow, I'm going to sleep in and maybe do some shopping!"
"I got up bright and early this morning and was off to the airport for my 8:45am flight to Las Vegas. The week has officially begun. As I'm checking in and making my way to the gate several people noticed me. Each person congratulated me and wished me success in Vegas. Our first layover was in Pittsburgh. Soon after that we had a medical emergency stop in St. Louis. Five and a half hours later I landed in Las Vegas. I first met Jennifer from the Atlanta Hawks at the baggage claim and we were off to the hotel. We had plenty of time to settle in and get ready for our business meeting and dinner at 7:15. At this meeting I met my All-Star teammates, and everybody is gorgeous. We took pictures with the CEO of the LVCVA and Lori Ann Gibson. The NBA gave us each a leather goodie bag with awesome gifts inside. Everybody is smiling and taking pictures with each other, each of us realizing how big this really is. After dinner I decided to go to bed. I am scheduled for an appearance early tomorrow morning before rehearsal which starts sharply at 9am and will last until 9pm. GoodNite..."
"I barely slept last night, again. After our win against the Nets, I drove to Borgata and worked a little. Then I drove back home and began packing and doing other little things. Before I knew it, it was about 7:30 am. I closed my eyes for a second and it was 9am and time to go. I went to Lindenwold Elementary School right around the corner from my house where I met up with Hip-Hop (the Sixers mascot). We were surrounded by so many excited third, fourth and fifth graders. We talked about how important reading is and everybody's favorite books. My favorite book is written by Debbie Allen (my idol) named "Dancing in the Wings." It inspired me at the age of 17 when I was reading it to my youngest dance class. At the assembly I read Hip-Hop's favorite book and the kids loved it! The principal thanked us and invited us back. After I left the elementary school, I drove to my hometown and taught a dance at my old school (Queen City Charter School). Later that evening I had dinner at Friday's with a very special friend of mine. It was a long day but I enjoyed myself and that night I slept like a baby..."
Read to Achieve - Feb. 6
"I had a rough night last night. I had a flat tire and didn't make it home. I had to stay in a hotel and get ready for my appearance this morning on the NBC 10! Show. Despite my misfortune, I was able smile and dance at the NBC studios. I performed SEXYBACK and I believe the audience enjoyed it. After NBC, I went over to Power 99 and Eddie F interviewed me. I was more nervous for the radio interview. Eddie F was really nice and I thanked him for having me on his show. After my interviews Brandon, one of the hardest workers for the Sixers organization, took me to my car and made sure I was okay. I know things could have been a lot worse so I'm very grateful. Right now, I am safe in my home with two brand new tires. I plan on relaxing tonight by drinking some hot tea and watching American Idol."
"I barely slept last night....again. I was very anxious about meeting the other dancers and being on Fox and Friends. I got up really early, did my make-up, had a piece of fruit and was on my way 2 New York City. I met Courtney (from the Celtics) first and she is tall and beautiful. We talked about how exciting things have been lately. We were the first to arrive at Fox Studios. Shortly after Sarah (from the Knicks) arrived. She was very nice and full of energy. Then Jaclyn (from the Nets) walked in the door and the gang was all there. We soon realized that Sarah, Jaclyn and I all auditioned to dance for Beyonce in the beginning of December together. What a small world! The show was awesome. We danced outside in the cold 5 times. It was freezing, but I enjoyed every minute of it!"
"The night before the results for the 2007 All-Star Dance Team voting were to be announced, I tossed and turned. I was so nervous about finding out the results I didn't get a wink of sleep. On Monday, Jan. 22, when Hip-Hop, Miss Debbie (Apalucci) and the Sixers crew came to my door I screamed. I couldn't believe it. I can't believe I held back my tears until they left. I cried all day long. Later that evening we had rehearsal. Adrienne (or "A" as we all call her) and Kristy were so supportive and happy for me. The rest of the lovely ladies on the team gave me hugs and kisses. They also teased me about my puffy eyes. It was such an emotional day but I wouldn't have it any other way."
See Kimmie getting surprised here.
