Clubmate Livvy Shilling reports that life inside the bubble is terrific and not too different from a typical nationals, except that they’ve had no day excursions, Covid precautions abound, and clever cardboard cutouts line the arena. But, she is pleased to share (maybe brag?) that compared to the typical Michigan winter surrounding her training rink in Novi, Michigan, the 70-degree Las Vegas weather is uplifting.
According to Livvy and her ice dance partner Alexander Petrov, “U.S. Figure Skating rose to the challenge to create a safe, yet fun and exciting competition for the athletes. We have plenty of time to manage our schedule and the in-house living conditions have been wonderfully accommodating.” Yes, all the usual excitement and hype is there, but “we’re just exceptionally Covid-aware.”

~ photo by Melanie Heaney / Ice-Dance.com ~
One tip Livvy & Alexander offer to USFS: keep the pets in the audience, but next year bring the real ones!
Want In On The Action?
Join Kiss & Cry Live
This year, U.S. Figure Skating is introducing a video wall in the Kiss & Cry. The live component of this wall allows fans, family, and friends to be part of the live in-arena show by watching the performances ‘live’ from the video wall and interacting with the athletes after their performance. The interaction will be video only (no audio).
Here are the direct Family & Friends Zoom links for Livvy & Alexander’s events:
Rhythm Dance (Friday, Jan 15 at 4pm EST on NBCSN): https://usfigureskating-org.zoom.us/j/96544085404?pwd=TWw1UmNtRC9KckhvUk1iSkJ3QW9mQT09
Free Dance (Saturday, Jan 16 at 9pm EST on NBCSN): https://usfigureskating-org.zoom.us/j/97352631944?pwd=dWtSMjlpLzR4cmdvWVlzcGxna3Budz09
FOR ALL FRIENDS & FAMILY MEMBERS: SIGN ON WITH THE NAME OF YOUR ATHLETE SO USFS CAN ENSURE THAT IT HAS THE CORRECT PEOPLE ON THE WALL DURING RIGHT SKATERS.
Example: Brian Boitano – Kevin Leonardo (Friend)

“See” you in Vegas, baby!!!