Wednesday, August 26, 2009

"Stars, Stripes and Skates" set for Sept. 26

On Saturday, Sept. 26, Olympic figure skaters and young local talent will partake in the eighth annual Stars, Stripes and Skates ICEtravaganza, which honors the memory of September 11 and benefits The Heritage Foundation of 9/11. The show will take place at 7:30 p.m. at the Danbury Ice Arena in Danbury, Conn.

Confirmed guest skaters for this year's show include world champion Miki Ando, three-time U.S. champion Johnny Weir, current U.S. champion Jeremy Abbott, Japanese national champion Nobunari Oda, and U.S. Olympians Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov.

Weir and Abbott are United States hopefuls for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games being held in Vancouver and plan to showcase their talent at Stars, Stripes and Skates.

In addition to the world-class roster, young area skaters will share the ice with their idols in a performance celebrating the patriotic spirit of the United States.

Weir competed in the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy, and recognizes his role as a model for young skaters.

"As a representative of the United States and as an Olympian, I understand the beauty and splendor of my country," said Weir. "I am so honored to be taking part in this year's Stars, Stripes and Skates."

"I am happy to lend my time to such a cause and help raise awareness about an epic disaster that should never be forgotten or repeated," continued Weir. "I am training hard for the 2010 Olympic Games, and I am excited to show my skills for such a loving audience this September."

With a star-studded cast, Stars, Stripes and Skates plans to build on the success it has had in past years. In previous shows, the event has featured an all-star cast including Olympic gold medalist Sarah Hughes, vocal recording artist Ashanti, Emmy-nominated choreographer Shane Sparks, actor Steve Buscemi, various American Idol finalists and many others. This is the second year in a row that the show will be held in Danbury, Conn.


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