The members of the Mineola High School Rockettes Winter Guard kickline continue to outdo themselves this season. In their last outing at Copiague High School, they once again took the top spot, getting the attention of the National Judges Association (NJA). The Rockettes have now officially advanced to National Class status in the NJA.

"We are incredibly proud of our Rockettes," says District Supervisor of Fine and Performing Arts Rob Ratner. "They will be performing with the best of the best now." Ratner says that although competition can be fierce, respect is the true name of the game. "The level of sportsmanship involved is extremely high," he observes, "and the teams help each other out. The camaraderie between groups is wonderful to see," he adds. "It's a great performance atmosphere."

The MHS Winter Guard's impressive performance is due, in part, to this year's routine, La Nouba from Cirque Du Soleil-a complex and elaborate production that engages the imagination from beginning to end.