DanceTalk - The Archives
July 2006
Thank for
Visiting the Archieves of Ron's Dance Talk
Ron Bess & daughter
picture courtesy of Eric Novoa
LINKS of INTEREST - for HUSTLE
Click on Flames to Burn on to the -
From iTunes & Mark James
DanceTalk * 8-29-06
Have a safe and happy
Labor Day weekend.
Happy Birthday wishes to Tricia Caballero, Kathy
Brunni, Raye Avery,
Maryann Rosa and Jose' Gonzales.
The Woodbine is hosting an amateur Salsa Dance Contest.
Preliminary rounds are (Mondays) Aug. 28 & Sept. 4th.
Semifinals are on Sept 11th, Finals on Sept 18th. Contests
held at 11:00PM. GRAND PRIZE is $500, register at 215 638-0418 or send
an email to info@lalunadancestudio.com. You can also register at the
Woodbine, Pennsauken, NJ, between 8 PM and 9:30 PM on
Monday.
Look out for the new release from Jody Watley - "The Makeover." The new
CD includes remakes of classics like Borderline by Madonna and Love
Hangover. Plus, other new dance tracks from the lady that sung
for
Every Monday night (closed on Labor Day) , the hottest spot to dance is
Dancesport in NYC. The longest running hustle party hosted by Paul
Pelicoro (1845 Broadway). Starting in September, Hustle Legend Ricky
Quintana returns to teach hustle every Friday night at Dancesport from
7:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
December 16th, Saturday night, the Holiday Spectacular takes over the
Stardust Ballroom in Pennsauken, New Jersey. Donna Boyle and Ron Bess
present their 14th annual holiday dance......geared for all ages. We
will crown the 2006 King and Queen of hustle. Hold the date.
Congratulations to Randy Atlas, he was the recipient of the Lifetime
Achievement Award at the Miami Salsa Congress On August 4th 2006. Randy
has been very active in the Latin dance community for three decades.
He's at it again, DJ Mike Brooks just appeared in the Disney movie,
"Invincible" the real life story of Vince Papali of the Philadelphia
Eagles. Mike is currently working with Queen Latiff in the up coming
movie 'Perfect Christmas' and in a Russell Crowe movie "American
Gangster."
This weeks edition of DanceTalk® is sponsored by the NY Hustle
Congress, taking place this weekend in NY. Good luck to all the
competitors. See all the details below. http://www.nyhustlecongress.com
Make it a great week,
Ron
Last Dance Event of the Summer
Its time to say good bye to summer and the fireworks are taking place
inside this year. The NY Hustle Congress kicks off this weekend with a
big bang in Manhattan. Lori Brizzi is on top on her game as she hosts
the 2nd annual NY Hustle Congress. This event is all about
dancing. You can watch, participate, compete take a workshop or do all
thee above. With a talented staff of teachers you don't want to miss
the last major dance event of the summer. Consider it the last leg of
the triple crown of dance. Just added to the staff are dance pros
Roberto Pagan and Derrick Allen. The party starts Aug 31 and runs the
entire weekend till Sept 3rd at the NY Hilton Hotel 1335 Avenue of the
America (1-800Hiltons). The official After party on Monday (Sept 4,
Labor Day) will take place at Club 412 from 9:30pm - 1AM.
Don't miss this exciting weekend of dance. For all the details, staff
and more visit the website at http://www.nyhustlecongress.com
Letters to the editor
Hi Ron,
How about asking the instructors or the dancers their favorite
songs? The DJ's play the same old stuff and don't seem to
look for any new music that's exciting. It's all the same
slow speed and is dull. I'm still in search of high energy
hustle music at the dance studios. It seems that everyone is
used to doing the same old steps
to the same old beat that no one wants to move forward or introduce new
moves, experiment or mix it up in any way for some new excitement. I
dance for fun, to improve my technique, learn new things and have a
blast. When you do the same moves over and over again, it
gets very boring. At some socials, you'll see
people zoning out when they are sitting down waiting for the next
dance. I would like to give everything something to think about to help
make the hustle scene more exciting...and it starts with the music.
Thanks,
Lisa
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Hi Ron,
I didn't even realize until the day after the final night of So You
Think You Can Dance, when talking with a co-worker, that this was the
case. All along, I thought that it was one male and one female -- and,
from discussions with others who have been watching the show, many had
believed the same. For all of the MORE THAN 12 MILLION viewers who
voted and even more who didn't, the show has to be making enough of a
profit from advertising to award both a male and a female. Let's hope
that they make this change, next season.
Diane J. Weinberg
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<.
Hey Ron;
Just sending a letter to try 'n' link up with Hustle dancers here in
NC... I'm a NYC / NJ DJ, that has taught dance for years, and actually
has a gang of Latin Hustle enthusiasts that get together on a regular
basis... I'm in the process of building my own night club here in
Raleigh, and would love to hear from Latin Hustle, and Hand Dancing
lovers that live here. Anybody in the area can e-me at the info
below... Hope to hear from ya soon... Regards,
Michael McKnight
Icon Entertainment Group.„¢
DEEP GRUV Inc.„¢
Street Chef Inc. „¢
depgruv@netscape.net
deepgruv@gmail.com
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Hey Ron,
I got a grab bag of points for you. I think Bobby Gerard from Florida
is the best damm DJ around, Donna Boyle pulled off a great event, John
Lindo is a great organizer and his Liberty was off the hook, Saturday
night at Diane Nardones weekend was the best dance party to date,
Starlight ballroom is the best dance club around, Happy birthday to
Chris Bates, Benji Schwimmer was terrific on So you think you can dance
and I agree with you there should have been a lady winner too, Jamie
and Jerrise have become a great dance couple, looking forward to IHSC,
Discoamerica and WHDC 2007 and your newsletter is the very best.
Loretta J.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
I want to thank everyone for attending Florida's First Dance Jam Social
this past Saturday night at Feathers Dance Studio. We had
lots of fun. We had Jack n Jills in Hustle, Salsa &
West Coast Swing, prizes, and name that tunes. I want to
thank personally Noel Colon for playing the greatest music and keeping
the party going even after hours. Carl
Charles presented a wonderful and fun dance lesson
for people who were new to hustle as well as experienced.
Carl was also a great MC, who kept everyone
entertained, and had the party flowing. Next month promises
to be another exciting night full of fun, dance, and
excitement! The next Florida Dance Jam Social will be on
Saturday, September 30, 2006, mark your calendars!
Caren Casper
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Dear Ron,
I wanted to share some thoughts on dancing, competitions, DJs and the
attitudes as in bad attitudes among some. I have been part of the
hustle dance crowd for about 7 years. I attend dances 2 and sometime 3
socials a week. I think the location is a big part of the attitudes.
Since I live in Paramus New Jersey i attend socials in NY, LI, NJ and
PA. It is the people that make the difference. Some of my favorite
places don't have the best DJs or dancers (for that matter) but nice
friendly dancers. usually it is dependent on the host or hostess of the
event. I am not going to bash any individual place but I recommend to
dancers, don't give up on the dance if your not getting asked to dance.
Just boycott that location and attend new ones. Dancetalk lists them
all. Keep it up Ron,
thank you,
Deborah
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Hey Ron:
In 1973 I was working at a big dancehall in Queens, NY, called
Community Gardens. They featured bands with a DJ on the
weekends, but on Wednesdays I played the whole night as their only DJ
that could do a full evening of non-stop music. I just bought
my new music for the week and there was this instrumental that I REALLY
liked, but it was quite different from the usual material that was
being played at the time, but I REALLY liked it! I put it on
at the peak of the night and everyone stopped dancing and just stayed
where they were and listened. NOT ONE PERSON
DANCED! At the end of the song, I got on the microphone
(which I did not do frequently) and I let the crowd know that this was
my favorite new song and I hoped that they would come to enjoy it as
much as I did and I would continue to bring them music that they might
not hear elsewhere. I liked this song SO MUCH that I played
it again during the latter part of the night and made the same
announcement (after nobody danced again). The owner came up to me at
the end of the night and asked me if I knew what "his" people wanted
musically, and I told him that if you don't experiment with new music,
you won't get a reputation for being the best club in the
area. I am not sure that he agreed with me but I didn't get
fired, so I guess he knew what I was talking about (or maybe he just
didn't have a suitable replacement yet?) I wondered if taking
risks to the extent that it might jeopardise my job was worth it? The
next week, I played the song again and people were dancing to
it. The following week, people were coming up to the DJ booth
and asking if I would play the "pretty instrumental". Then,
to my surprise, when I played it, LOTS of people came up to the DJ
booth asking for the name of the song and who did it. It
became a favorite there, with the dancefloor becoming packed EVERY time
I put it on. Customers would tell me that whenever they heard
that song, they would remember where they heard it first and who played
it for them. I enjoyed taking risks as a DJ and believe that
is what makes one DJ stand apart from the others. Oh, the
song was "Love's Theme" by the Love Unlimited Orchestra.
Regards,
Jackie McCloy
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Hello
Ron
I would like to thank everyone who came to Michael's on August 15 to
celebrate my birthday. I want to thank DJ Mark for playing Chris music,
as he would call it, all night long that kept us on the dance floor all
night. I would like to also thank Natalie for a great cake, it's the
best cake every made. It's a Natalie cake. I would like to thank Trish
Caballero for making all of this happen. I also like to thank Diane
Nardone for making the long drive to be there. Michael's Cafe is a nice
place to dance and to meet new people and have a
great time. As always Dance with an ATTITUDE!!!!!!!
THANKS CHRIS
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Hi Ron
I have just completed and released the following three picture albums:
*Nancy's Pool Party
*Wendy's Spinning W Summer Dance Party
*Danielle & Rosalie's Birthday Celebration
Please let your readers know. They can all be found at http://www.fredf.fotki.com
Thanks Ron
Best Regards,
Fred
DanceTalk * 8-22-06
Happy birthday wishes to Doreen Casali, Susan Conn,
Marybeth Mernin, Terri Murphy and Billy K.
Emergency surgery was performed on Lydia Pezzetti (Pa) this past week
for a brain tumor. She is now home recuperating. Please keep Lydia in
your thoughts and prayers.
To view and /or purchase photos from this years SwingFling 2006 visit
Sam Snapshots for the best in dance photos. http://www.samsSnapshots.com
Cheers to Sunny Leigh, she will be singing in a French - American,
Friendship Cabaret featuring songs of Josephine Baker, Nina Simone,
& Dee Dee Bridgewater, at the Triad Theater 158 W. 72nd St. 2nd
Floor, Friday Sept 15, at 7PM Reservations http://www.triad.com
August 25th, Idlewild opens at theaters nationally. The motion picture
"Step Up" earned more then 22 million dollars in its first week
opening.
This years NY Hustle Congress is only days away, visit the website for
the workshops, schedule and registration. http://www.newyorkhustlecongress.com
This week is the last chance for sponsors to get their ads in the NYHC
program which will be distributed at the Hilton Hotel. Sponsorships
include not only ads but vendor tables and announcements made from the
podium during the Congress.
The Paso Doble Ballroom in Levittown, Pa is no more. It will fall to
the wrecking ball. This large, wonderful ballroom has been sold and is
now closed forever.
Mark your calendars for March 1 - 4, 2007 for the 5th annual MadJam,
mid Atlantic Dance Jam in Virginia http://www.atlanticdancejam.com
Next week, tune in for a special edition of Letters To The Editor.
This weeks edition of DanceTalk® is sponsored by the Caribbean
Dancesport Classic taking place November 1 - 5, 2006. Read all about it
below.
Make it a great week,
Ron
Caribbean Dancesport Classic
Pack you bags for an incredible dance event taking place in Puerto
Rico. Don't forget your suntan lotion, bathing suit and dance shoes.
The Caribbean Dancesport Classic is quite different from all other
events. This new and unique event is the partnership of organizers
Danny Villavencio, Gary McDonald and Jami Josephson. What can you
expect? How about the greatest dancers from all dance worlds. We expect
this partnership to be a great infusion of
the Ballroom World, Salsa World,
and LOTS OF FUN World. Taking place November 1st to the 5th,
at the El San Juan Hotel and Casino. Caribbean Dancesport will be
holding the hottest DanceSport Competition to hit America. Why would
anyone expect less.
Dance sensation Jami Josephson, melts your heart, as she burns the
floor. Whether its Latin or hustle she is a true show stopper. A Salsa
world champion, her on floor presence is dynamic. Jami has won over 100
competitions including US Mambo Champion in 1997. She now trains,
teaches and choreographs shows all over the country. Jami has now put
her focus and energy on the Caribbean Dancesport.
A perfect compliment to Jami is American heartthrob, Gary McDonald. He
is nothing less then spectacular. Whether he is competing, teaching
or coaching (Richard Gere and Jennifer Lopez in "Shall We
Dance") he is a true inspiration to us all. Along with his
wife Diana, Gary has competed in 24 World Championships and was the
first American couple to win the World Ballroom title. They are also
the undefeated United States 10-Dance Champions for the past 10 years,
competing in ten styles of ballroom. You may have seen them
dance or co-host on television stations NBC, ESPN, A&E or PBS.
CDC 2006 highlights will host the "Open to the World" Professional
Salsa Championship with competitors from all over the world and is
recognized by the NDCA as well as Pro-Am Dance Competitions, along with
a Series of Open Professional Dancesport Competitions, $60,000 in
Amateur Scholarship Awards & Top Teacher Prizes. Plus-The
Caribbean Dancesport Classic Open Professional Showdance Challenge and
awards some of the highest cash prizes. (Over $100,000 Total Purse).
Two of the top instructors on staff are none other then Nelson Flores,
NYC (Director of Latin Madness) and Edie the Salsa
Freak (THE top salsa instructor in the world).
Register now and make this event a true dance/vacation get away. Don't
forget a fan because this event is sure to sizzle. Discounted Tickets
On Sale Now! For more info visit http://www.Caribbeandancesport.com
DJs Favorites
Great music moves the heart & soul while your feet take
control.
Some of the finest music was composed during the disco era. Music
arrived via Europe and from the states - New York, California and
Philadelphia. Intricate pieces put together created some of
the greatest instrumental dance music of all time. We asked the DJs,
which instrumental songs were some of their personal favorites?
Our DJs cover the full spectrum from the classic days at Studio 54 to
the top mixers and personalities on the airwaves today.
Check out the similarities in the song selections from various DJs from
different parts of the country. With literally thousands of songs to
pick from, the over lap is amazing. Music truly is the universal
language of love.
Thank you to the great DJs, that understand the music and accommodate
us on the dance floor.
DJ Bobby Gerard - FL
Love At First Sight - Van McCoy
Souvenirs - Voyage
My Suite Summer Suite - Love Unlimited Orchestra
DJ Bobby Morales - NY
1. Love Is The Message - M.F.S.B.
2. Melting Pot - Booker T. & the M.G.'s or Boris Gardner
3. My Suite Summer Suite - Love Unlimited Orchestra
Honorable mentions: Everything El Coco, Love Unlimited, Salsoul
Orchestra & M.F.S.B.
Dave Muzzi - NJ
Whistle Song - Frankie Knuckles
Brooklyn Heights - Down to the Bone
Walter Beasley - Coolness
DJ Jimmy YU - FL
"It's Good For The Soul" - Vince Montana & The Salsoul
Orchestra - 12"
"My Sweet Summer Suite" - Barry White & The Love Unlimited
Orchestra - 1976 - 12"
"Manhattan Melody" - Herb Albert - Magic Man - 1981 - Album
DJ Jackie McCloy - LI Record Pool
"Love's Theme" by the Love Unlimited Orchestra.
DJ Rene Hewlett - NY - Inferno
Lamont Doziers - Going Back To My Roots,
Dr. Buzzards Savannah Band - Chez Chez, La Femme, and
Dan Hartman - Relight My Fire.
DJ Steven Wright - Toronto - Lazers
Ultimate by Ultimate
Its Good For The Soul - y Salsoul Orchestra
Under Water - Harry Thurman
DJ Mark Routzahn - Philadelphia - Michael's Cafe
Santa Maria “ Gottan Project
Jingo “ Candido
Ooh I Love It “ Salsoul Orchestra
DJ Jenny Costa - NY - WKTU, Mirage
"Love's Theme" by "The Love Unlimited Orchestra"
"Magic Bird of Fire" by "The Salsoul Orchestra"
"Summertime" by "MFSB"
"Brother's Theme" by "The Brothers"
"Love Is The Answer" by "The Stylistics"
"My Sweet Summer Suite" by "The Love Unlimited Orchestra"
"Love Is the Message" by "MFSB"
"Spanish Lei" by The Love Unlimited Orchestra"
"Satin Soul" by "The Love Unlimited Orchestra"
"From East To West" by "Voyage"
DJ Billy Carroll - NY
"Philadelphia" by B.B. King
" K-Gee" by MSFB
"Street Player" by Chicago (from the mid-break on)
DJ Johnny O - NJ - Starlight
Who Needs Forever “ Thievery Corporation
Whistle Song “ Frankie Knuckles
Your Just The Right Size “ Salsoul Orchestra
DJ Radar - Miami
12" Love Attack by Ferrara
12" Action 78 Erotic Drum Band
12" Touch Me Take Me Black Light Orchestra
12" Afrodisia El Coco
Johnny V - Long Island - IBBG
Sweet Summer Suite.....Barry White/Unlimited Orch.
Manhattan Melody..... Herb Albert
DJ bob Superman Frione - Connecticut
Summer of 42 the Biddu Orchestra
The Break, by Katmandu
Dreamin a Dream - (I saw CrownHeightsAffair in 2000 at the top of the
World Trade Center. What a performance)
DJ Nino Torre - Virginia -
1. Quiet Village - Ritchie Family
2. Spring Rain - Silvetti
3. Ooh, I Love It - Vince Montana
4. Love Is The Message - MFSB
5. My Sweet Summer Suite - Love Unlimited Orch.
6. Peanut Vendor - Ritchie Family
7. Erucru - Jermaine Jackson
8. Magic Bird Of Fire - Salsoul Orch.
9. Love In C Minor - Cerrone
10. WOW - Andre Gagnon
Mike Brooks - Atlantic City
Magic Fly by Kaybeck Elektrik on TK records
The Break By Kat Man Du TK
records
The Summer Of '42 by the Biddu Orchestra
Epic Records
People's Choice " Do it any way you wanna do it" on the TSOP
label
Nicky Siano NY - Studio 54
lanzana's preistess by Donald Byrd
los conquistadores by Donald Byrd
mister magic by Grover Washington
music for gong gong by ossibissa
Dominick Lauriano.....Hicksville, NY
#3-Spring Rain (Silvetti)
#2-My Sweet Summer Suite (Love Unlimited Orchestra)
#1-Magic Bird Of Fire (Salsoul Orchestra)
Frank Pellici - NJ
Montana & Friends - African Tracks
Dreamin' A Dream - Crown Heights Affair
SalSoul Hustle/Quiet Village/212 North 12th St/Whistle Bump/Sexy
& Trammps Disco Theme
James Alexander - Texas - Chayn's
"Havana" (Rhythm Mix) Kenny G 122 BPM.
The 1st Annual People's Choice Dance Awards
Robin Amante & Barry Bernstein present The 1st Annual
People's Choice Dance Awards event to be held at Club IBBG, 1100
Stewart Avenue Garden City, NY
Exit M3W off the Meadowbrook Parkway September 12, 2006
This is just for fun and recognition. You can vote for whoever you feel
fits the category best. If you can't think of anyone for a particular
category, leave it blank. A ballot is attached, if you want to download
it or we will have blank ballots every Tuesday night that you can fill
out & return to us. You can e-mail your votes to me or if you
want to vote anonymously, you can hand in your ballot on Tuesday at
IBBG anytime at least 1 week before the event. All votes must be in no
later than Tuesday, September 5th. Favorites will be
announced at IBBG on Tuesday, September 12th, and prizes that have been
donated will be given out. As an added attraction, DJ Chris makes his
return that evening. If anyone wants to help with the festivities on
September 12th, and bring some snack foods such as cookies, brownies or
chips, all be appreciated. Remember, this is all just for fun.
1st Annual People's Choice Dance Awards
Favorite male Hustle
dancer
Favorite female Hustle
dancer
Favorite male Swing dancer
Favorite female Swing
dancer
Favorite male Latin
dancer
Favorite female Latin
dancer
Favorite male Freestyle
dancer
Favorite female Freestyle
dancer
Most improved dancer over the last 5
years
Least likely to turn down a
dance
Person helping our group live
on
Up and Comer, under the age of 21
DanceTalk * 8-15-06
Happy Birthday
wishes
to Steve
Salerno, Karen
Hill, Derrick Allen, Jami Josephson, Chris
Bates, Rosalee
Lapergola, Stanley
Smalanowicz, Elizabeth Craner and Johnny
Ortiz
The 2006 USA World Showcase winners Deonna Ball &
Markus Smith
will be competing on television Monday, August 28th PAX satellite
directv 255 12:30PM EST, You have to vote visit http://www.usatvbroadcast.com
September 9, 2006 , there will be a fund raiser for Dennis
Koi,
a long time dancer and supporter of the dance
community in Texas.
Dennis has an inoperable brain tumor. Please see all the details below
to help Dennis.
The hit television show "Dancing With The Stars"
returns
for its third season and has announced their all star line up: Jerry
Springer, Vivaca A. Fox,
Tucker Carson, Mario Lopez,
Joey
Lawrence, Emit Smith, Harry
Hamlin, Monique Coleman, Shania Moiler, Willa Ford and Sara
Evens.
Hold the date, the biggest one night dance party of the year returns.
The 14th annual Holiday Spectacular
presented by Donna Boyle and Ron Bess is slated
for December 16, 2006
Saturday night. Please make note. More details coming soon.
Here are some pictures from last weeks Swing Fling.
Visit the site courtesy of Scott Michielli,
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8FYuW7Rw5Yf4
Next week, in DanceTalk, we list the results of our DJ's
Favorite Instrumental Songs. You don't want to miss the dance
song selections by the top DJs from across the
country. Stay tuned.
This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by the US
National Dance Championships, read all about it
below. http://www.usndc.com
Make it a great week,
Ron
US National Dance Championships
The US National Dance Championships returns this fall, October 6-8,
2006 to the Westfield's Marriott in Northern
Virginia. This event has
something for everyone. The competitions have a broad range of dance
styles including Foxtrot, Waltz, Salsa, ChaCha, Night Club, East Coast
Swing, Two-Step, Lindy, Carolina Shag, Hand Dance, Hustle, Rumba, West
Coast Swing, and Argentine Tango. If you love "Dancing with the Stars"
and "So You Think You Can Dance" then slap the two together and you
have the US National Dance Championships.
There are cash prizes for competitors, plenty of professional
instructed workshops, hours of social dancing...plus lots more. Kicking
off this years event are the pre-event Jack & Jill dance
contests
taking place all over the country - Hustle, Argentine Tango, WCS, 2
Step and more. Visit the website for the details as well as other
exciting event details. This years staff includes: Larry Black, Cindy
Goree-Black, Brennar Gorree, Tammy Brown, Molly DeMeulenaere, Poppy
Friske, Brian Gallagher, Silvana Gallagher, Keith Gussoni, Rex Jones,
Michael Johnson, Jennifer Jeffries, Randy Jeffries, Tony Lee, Michael
Robinson, Teresa Robinson, Louis Schreiber, Jaimee Simon, Clive
Stevens, Joyce Szili, Gretta Thorn, Christine Wetzel, Sam Wetzel, Linda
Zerden, Mal Zerden, Barbara Bernstein, Jeff Booth, Fabio Bonini, Deonna
Ball, Andrea Hale & Tony Pututau, Mike Kelly, Jim Keisel, Lisa
Marion, Shawn Martin, Lewis Neal, Johnny PerMar, Robert &
Nicola
Royston, Markus Smith, Dawn & Dean Garrish, John & Dea
Soares,
Brian Sipes, B.J. Brown,
Book your room early so you are not shut out. This
is the same great
hotel as last year. Westfields Marriott Conference Center 1450
Conference Center Drive
Chantilly, VA 20151 - (703) 818-0300 or 1-800-635-5666 The hotel is
just minutes away from Dulles International Airport and close to
downtown Washington, DC and the Reagan National Airport. In addition to
lots of dancing, this venue offers an on-site Spa and an excellent Golf
Course. This year promises to be explosive.
Reserve your room by
September 22 to receive the exclusive $99 USNDC room rate! Just ask for
the U.S. National Dance Championship Rate when you call or book your
room on-line by going to Hotel Reservation and follow the provided
instructions. There is a free shuttle to and from Dulles International
Airport.
For any additional information visit the website or contact Anita
Huffman-Strawser
703-803-9621 http://www.usndc.com
Letter From The Editor
This
week brings to a close the second season of "So You Think You Can
Dance." Clearly, people all over the country love to watch great
dancing. The viewership this past season has grown as have the ratings
and the demand to create more dance reality shows. This is Reality TV
at its best. The 2006 season has been very exciting. They have already
announced a dance tour for the top 10 finalists. This cements the
success of the show. The talent this season has been incredible. How
wonderful to watch two dancers from the world of Swing progress to the
top four.
When children are as young as two years old, parents are already
enrolling them in dance school. But to be specific - ballet, tap and
jazz. The USA has not embraced ballroom dancing the way other countries
have. Even still, dancing for boys is still firboten. While European
countries produce some of the finest male dancers, the USA is still
sports minded and considers dancing less masculine. Cheers for Benji
and/or Heidi as they move closer to being crowned the dance champion.
In addition to the title and money they are contracted to perform in
Celine Dion's Las Vegas show. This season has demonstrated the
necessity for today's dancers to be versatile and well rounded not only
in classical dance but in touch dancing, hip hop as well as a strong
knowledge of gymnastics. My only regret is, with a show as successful
as "SO You Think You Can Dance," with a big budget, sponsorships and
high ratings, it would have be more enjoyable to see both a female
champion and a male champion, instead of limiting it to just one
winner!
DanceTalk * 8-8-06
Happy Birthday wishes to Lana
May, Jim Bronke, Luis Rosa, Lauren
Gleason, Stacy Redler and Phil Lyons.
This has been a sad & challenging week for many of our dear
dance friends. Please join us as we send our condolences, support and
prayers to their family and friends.
Terri Murphy (PA) - her sister unexpectedly passed
away last week.
DJ Charlie Quattrone (NY) -
passed away on August 4, 2006. Charlie was the DJ at parties and at
club Trilogy in East Meadow.
Carmen Wright's (NJ) - her mother passed away this
past weekend.
Noel Colon's (FL) - his mother is
currently in the hospital and we pray for her healthy & speedy
recovery.
Special Disco anniversary wishes to Raymond &
Karen Velez. This young couple is celebrating their 20th
anniversary. "the greatest gift of all is our beautiful 4.5 year old
& another sibling on the way. We could not have asked for a
better Family, 25 years ago, while we were young & naive,
dancing our ass off, we met at Roseland Ballroom. Here we are still in
love & still dancing with the children."
Now that is true love.
For the best dance music compilation CD check out KTU's
Summer Mix '06,
Available at the Music Factory in Sewell, NJ. (856) 589-5009 or visit
the website danceclassicshowcase.com
This Friday, August 11, the TouchStone motion Picture "Step Up"
opens in theaters. The story of a street dancer that takes on classical
dance, starring Channing Tatum, Jenna Dewan and Mario.
http://www.myspace.com/stepupmovie
ABC-TV "DANCING WITH THE STARS" returns for the
new season on Sept. 12th, 7PM with the results show on Wednesday
evenings. Next Monday, Aug 14th, 'Good Morning America", they will
reveal the new celebrity dancers. check out
http://abc.go.com/primetime/dancing
Please visit the Hustle Hall Of Fame. Many new
candidates and photos.
Don't forget to nominate your friends, students and teachers for
induction.
http://www.HustleHallofFame.com/
Coming to a store near you on Tuesday, August 8, the brand new CD Gwen
McCrae Sings TK! You will find it in major retailers, music
stores and on the big online music stores and download services. Get a
taste of this great music right now with three new demos on the
website,
http://www.henrystonemusic.com.
Gwen McCrae Sings TK has been getting
rave reviews all over the Internet. Lets Straighten It Out?
is the big hit on the airwaves right now.
Its down to the last four contestants on "So you think you
Can Dance," wow two of the finalists are avid Swing dancers.
Please watch and vote for Heidi and Benji. This type of television
exposure helps the entire social dance community.
This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by Feathers
Monthly Dance Jam.
Make it a great week,
Ron
Swing Fling - recap
It was a hot
weekend, inside and out. Although the air-conditioning was working just
fine, the dancing was ultra hott. The beautiful Hilton Washington
Dulles was the setting for what was truly a fun filled weekend.
Organizer Barry Durand covered all the bases as the level of excitement
was off the meter. The competitions kept the viewers on their feet. The
Classic Swing Solo gave nobody a chance to sit down. Some of the finest
swing dancers performed flawless routines which had the audience
screaming for more. The lobby dancing is the place to have fun, dance
and be seen. The music featured a California style mix which appealed
to everyone. On Saturday, the party went till 5AM and even featured an
impromptu free style jam. The music took on a hip hop beat
and local dancers were popping, locking & breaking and
challenging the likes of Arte Phillips. Many professionals were on hand
to join in the festivities including: Billy Marti, Dave Moldover, Brain
Gallagher, Debbie Ramsey - Boz, Debbie Lynn, Robin Smith, Keith
& Celeste Gussoni, Silvana Gallagher, Robert Cordoba &
Deborah Szekely, Ron Bess, Jane Ford, Christopher Joe
& Lisa Shaup, Dean & Dawn Garish, Joyce Szili, Kevin
Fitzhugh, Mary Ann Nunez, Erica Berg, Ken Roesel, DJ BJ Brown, Darlene
Long -Cree....
Here is a peek at the highlights of the contests. For the complete
list, please visit the website at http://www.SwingFling.com
Invitational jack & Jill Pro Swing
1) Marcus Smith & Deborah Szekely
2) Kevin Fitzhugh & Mary Ann Nunez
3) Jason Barnes & Deonna Ball
Classic Swing Solo
1) Marcus Smith & Deonna Ball
2) Jason Barnes & Erica Berg
3) Joe Palmer & Autumn Bear
Show Case Solo
1) Yuval Hod & Nathalie Gomes
2) Robert Cordoba & Deborah Szekely
Florida get ready
Years gone by, one had to decide just which dance club to go too, there
simply were too many choices. Fast forward to the new millennium and
the selection has narrowed. In fact, in some markets, it doesn't exist.
The music venue caters to free style, garage, rap, industrial,
electronica.... The "dance du jour " does not lend itself to
touch dancing. To help fill the void, Caren Casper, Carl Charles and
Noel Colon, the Three "C"s, have joined together. Each lending their
skills to create a great new place to dance once a month in Florida.
The launch of this new project takes place Saturday, August 19, 2006 at
Feather's Dance Studio, 4343 S. State Rd. 7/441 South, Davie, FL 33314.
It kicks off with a Hustle Lesson from 8PM-9PM with Carl Charles then
get ready for the dance social from 9PM - ?
The Lesson and Social are just $15 - Just social, $10. The party is
BYOB and food will be available. Florida's own DJ, Noel Colon will be
playing your favorite tunes and accepting special requests all night
long. There will be surprises and prizes thru out the night. For
additional information contact Caren Casper at (754) 244-2684
OR Visit http://www.MrCdance.com
for details including directions.
Its now up to you Floridians to come out and support this brand new
social.
Note: Follow-up regular monthly dance party will be on the LAST
Saturday of each month. Next party will be on Saturday,
September 30, 2006.
New York Hustle Congress "Club Challenge"
Next up is the New York Hustle Congress, plan to join this annual dance
event August 31 to Sept 3, 2006, in Manhattan at the Hilton - 1335
Avenue of the America (corner 3rd St). Today is the deadline for
registration. NYers can register at the IBBG club Tuesday
night as organizer Lori Brizzi will be on hand.
The Hilton Hotel has struck a deal with the New York Hustle Congress to
extend the cut off date to book rooms (at the discounted room rate of
$158 per night) until August 7th. After that, the rates go up.
Remember, this is a five star hotel and you will not get anything in
mid town Manhattan for less.
New this year, the "Challenge."
All hustle clubs, dance studios, etc., are welcome to join the team
"Challenge,"
A team consists of 1 Pro/Am Female
Pro/Am Male
Amateur Couple
Professional Couple
Each team will round up and be introduced into the ballroom. They then
will parade onto the dance floor representing their city. They can hold
banners, signs displaying their logo, studio etc.. There will be a
designated section for each team on the dance floor. The contest will
be a "Just Hustle" dance, one level for all. Each couple from
the team will compete against others teams in the same category and
will be judged on a point system. After the four competitions
are completed, the total points will be tallied and the team with the
most points will be recognized as the team Challenge winners. The
champions will be the recipients of the Challenge trophy.
The team fee is $80. Call the Hilton Hotel at 1-800-Hilton and make
your reservations but you must mention the NY Salsa Congress to get the
rate (The NY Hustle Congress rate is already sold out!). If you have
any questions visit the website or call 516 728-6101
Come join: Arte Phillips, Billy Fajardo & Katie Marlow, Bobbie
Petri, bonnie Herbert - Diaz, Brian Gallagher, Donna Boyle, Donna
DeSimone, Elizabeth Darchi & Louis Orlando, Erik Novoa, Jami
Josephson, Joyce Szili, hazel & Tybaldt Ulrich, Keith &
Celeste Gussoni, Lori Brizzi, Maria Torres, Mark James & Karen
Lupo, Paul Pellicoro, Silvana Gallagher.
http://www.nyhustlecongress.com
DanceTalk * 8-1-06
Happy Birthday wishes to Gregory Harrison ,Mia, Fred Price, Jessica Nicolette and Keith Gussoni.
He is the newest born dancer on the scene. Lets welcome Tristan, born June 22, 2006, to dance champions Tybaldt and Hazel Ulrich .
Heidi Groskreutz, is now one of the top 6 dancers on "So You Think You Can Dance." Heidi is one of La Luna's (Bensalem Pa) WCS instructors. Please watch the show this Wednesday from 8 PM to 10 PM on Fox and vote for Heidi to help her go all the way to the top. The inside scoop from Heidi herself: she will be dancing with Travis this week. This September the top 10 dancers from the show will be going on a National tour.
Congratulations to Leonardo Medina Jr. and Lisa Firoito . They recently became engaged. They will be performing in Puerto Rico later this year.
The deadline for the reduced registration rate for the New York Hustle Congress is this Tuesday, August 1st. You can register on line. The price is going up. Make plans now to attend this annual event August 31st to Sept 3 in New York. Hosted by Lori Brizzi. http://www.nyhustlecongress.com
Listen for a brand new version of the hit song "One Night Only." From the Broadway Musical "Dream Girls." The song is hott, Beyonce gives it a dance beat and will be in the motion picture coming soon.
Interested in discussing dance floor etiquette? Visit http://www.danceweb.net and share your feelings and comments. Its a great site.
Looking forward to seeing everyone this weekend at Swing Fling . I will be one of the Emcees for this weekends dance convention. See all the details below.
Make it a great week,
Ron
World Hustle Dance Championships - Recap
Congratulations to all the competitors, teachers, DJs and staff members at the 6th Annual WHDC. You were all winners. Twenty-three states were represented this year as the WHDC sets a new attendance record. Organizer Diane Nardone presented a weekend of dancing with the theme of giving. And they gave. Even Santa Clause made a surprise visit giving gifts to the little ones. This years recipient of the WHDC Hall Of Fame Award, recognizing a true pioneer in the hustle, was given to Artie Phillips. The Christopher M. Nardone award, acknowledging the spirit of giving, was awarded to Carol Feldman. A special recognition for her support and assistance went to Connie Macdougal. On hand were many professionals from all over the country: Carl Charles, Gregory Harrison, Tony Pace, Mark James & Karen Lupo, Brian Gallagher, Cody Melon, Debbie Ferro, Derrick Allen, DonaMarie Portelli, Chris Bates, Grant Austin, Nino Digiulio, Ricky Quintana, Silvana Gallagher, Tybaldt and Hazel Ulrich, John Merisier, Keith & Celeste Gussoni, Robert & Nicola Royston, Donna Disommone, Paul Pelicoro, Phil LaMoth, Billy Marti, Fred & Tina Price, George Azpuri, Miquel Merrier, Donna Boyle, Angie Cameron, Susan Fritz, Artie Phillips, Anthony Lee, Roberto Pagan, Raul Santiago, Tiffany Brown, Water Levy, Stacy Redler, Jerry Hobbs, Lisa Paternoster, Kelvin Roche and LoriAnne Greenhouse. Johnny O, Kim Vanaman, Lori Brizzi, Hector Berrios, Laura Cozik.......
Congratulations to Diane Nardone and the entire staff for providing a wonderful weekend. Hold the date for the 7Th annual WHDC as it returns to the Hilton in East Brunswick July 26 to the 29th, 2007.
Here are some of the results of the many competitions. For a complete listing and to purchase a copy of the video of the weekend, visit the website at http://www.hustledanceworld.com/
Pro Am Nov Female
1) Hanna Lee and Silvana Gallagher
2) Lleana Alexander and Roberto Pagan
3) Carrie Richards and Nino Digiulio
Pro Am New comer Female
1) Arlene Relova and Donna Boyle
2) Marina Peredo and Donna DeSimone
3) Jennifer Fazio and Brian Gallagher
Pro Am Nov Male
1) Jack Cieka and Silvana Gallagher
2) Howard Sklarek and Donna DeSimone
3) Noel Lorenzana and Angela Cameron
Pro Am Int Female
1) Katherina Conti and Roberto Pagan
2) Anat Shamash and Gregory Harrison
3) Patricia Caballero and Chris Bates
Pro Am Int Male
1) Michael Leyden and Silvana Gallagher
2) Steven Shaughnessy and Donna DeSimone
3) Chris Tackett and Tina Price
Pro Am Adv Female
1) Erica Smith and Keith Gussoni
2) Leslie Bricker and Fred Price
3) Suzanne Conway and Billy Marti
Pro Am Adv Male
1) Jamie Serna and Donna DeSimone
2) Robert Lawrence and Lori Brizzi
3) Tariq Brown and Donna DeSimone
Pro Am Spotlight
1) Joelle DePalo and Roberto Pagan
2) Jewell Reid and Keith Gussoni
3) Tracey McGrade and Cody Melin
Pro Am Spotlight Classic Hustle
1) Peggy Polk and Keith Gussoni
2) Leslie Bricker and Fred Price
3) Beth Baird and Kim Vanaman
Just Hustle Nov
1) Hank Penland and Jewell Ann Reid
2) John Rajchel and Mary Keegan
3) David Burge and Carol Browne
Just Hustle Int
1) Michael Leyden and Anat Shamash
2) Allan DeNola and Megan Bursey
3) Steven Shaughnessy and Kathryn Johanessen
Just Hustle Adv
1) Wajih and Wendy Dalal
2) Jaime Serna and Jerise Massone
3) Wingo Hom and Angela McCabe
Amateur Classic Hustle
1) Achim Schmale and Meggy Schymik
2) Wingo Hom and Angela McCabe
3) Jim Call and Leslie Bricker
Professional Just Swing
1) John Lindo and Tina Price
2) Nino Digiulio and hazel Ulrich
3) Fred Price and Nancy Tuzzolino
Professional Just Hustle
1) Fred Price and Donna DiSimone
2) Ricky Quintana and Lisa Paternoster
3) Keith and Celeste Gussoni
World Open Hustle Dance Championships
1) Kelvin Roche and Lori Ann Greenhouse
2) Keith and Celeste Gussoni
3) Wajih and Wendy Dalal
4) Ricky Quintana and Lisa Paternoster
5) Jaime Serna and Jerise Massone
6) Wingo Hom and Angela McCabe
7) Achim Schmale and Meggy Schymik
8) Barry Lawton and Kim Vanaman
9) Richard and Catherine
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