Ron's Dance Talk - The Archives

DanceTalk - The Archives
May 2005

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Ron Bess & daughter
picture courtesy of Eric Novoa

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DanceTalk * 5-31-05

Happy birthday wishes to Jenae Rubin, Jennifer Gessner, Michele Russomanno, Nellie Cotto, Erik Novoa and Colette Antonelli.

Move over Brittany Spears, wedding bells rang for Colette Antonelli as she was married this past week in Las Vegas to Frank DePalma. A formal reception will take place in March 2006. Congratulations to them both.

Get well soon Angela McCabe. She will be out of action for a short term but this amateur dance champion will be back soon.....just hurry up.

The dancing doctor Gary Ulaner and Ettie Ben-Shoshan won the $500.00 first place disco dance contest at Circus Disco in Hollywood, California on May 22nd.

Fox Television has announced the debut of their new dance show entitled, "So You Think You Can Dance." The new series debuts in July. Stay tuned.

The Hustle Ambassadors are off to Amsterdam, Holland on a three week Hustle Dance engagement from June 4th to the 25th. Carl Charles and Pro-am Partner Lauren Liufermoza will spread the dance and create hustle dancers before returning home to Florida. His plan also includes having his new students enter future US National and International Dance competitions. Carl was hand picked from a long list of national hustle instructors for this mission. Let give Lauren and Carl a big hand for reaching out beyond our shores to recruit, teach and mentor young adults into this dance, as it is so desperately needed.

The new resident Classics DJ of the "Flashback Wednesday" party at Club LQ in NYC is Bobby Morales. The festivities start afterwork at 6pm and goes till 12:30. There are 2 rooms offering Classic Latin, The best Salsa bands in the world, Classic Disco & House and a free Salsa dance lesson. Catch Bobby every week.

Thank you to all those that entered our DanceTalk Contest sponsored by the wonderful folks at DanceClassic. All the letters were great but we had to narrow it down. BUT, three cheers for the management at DanceClassic. They were so impressed with our five finalist they made them all grand prize winners. www.DanceClassicShowcase.com
See the letters below.

Lets remember our dear friend that left us just three years ago....much too soon....
Wanda Soto, We still see and remember your smiling face.

Make it a great week,
Ron

        DanceTalk Readers Contest - Winners

Here are the winners, and their letters, from our celebration for the 5th anniversary of DanceTalk®. Our generous sponsor, DanceClassic will be sending all five of our finalists a complete library of the DanceClassic CD's. This is a 8 volume set plus the addition CD, the "Remakes."

The grand prize winners are:
Marisol Duprey - Philadelphia, Pa.
Gloria Juat - Long Beach, Calif.
Dominick Lauriano - Huntington, N.Y.
Susan Hiser - Blue Bell, Pa.
Bobby O - Long Island, N.Y.

Congratulations to all the winners....and wait till you hear these classics.
Thank you to all those that entered our contest and special thanks to
www.DanceClassicShowcase.com
.................................................................................

Dear Ron,
Without a doubt, my favorite dance songs are those that bring a flood of sweet moments that mark my life as a "Disco Diva." "Souvenirs" by Voyage takes the number 3 spot. I grew up as a "bookworm" academic in Brooklyn, NY, sans any trace of a social life. When I moved from my parents' nest to Los Angeles in 1977, disco music helped me transition from "bookworm" to "butterfly." "Souvenirs" was playing when I took my first dance lesson, and again when I entered my first dance contest....AND WON! I met my husband-to-be at Osco's Disco in LA. I had seen him before and finally got the nerve to ask him to dance. He said no (how dare he?), saying "you're too good a dancer-give me two more weeks." I replied that I was getting married next week [NOT], so this was his last chance. We danced to the strains of "Love is the Ultimate" by Ultimate. Needless to say, we met again next week and when he asked about my wedding, without missing a beat, I replied, "Oh, that! I called it off." Love is truly the ultimate...married 20 years & still dancing! In 1994 my mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and I became her caregiver. Although a devastating tragedy, I soon learned that mom loved disco music as much as I. Her favorite song to sing? "You'll Never Know How Much I Love You" by Love & Kisses. She knew all the words and as the disease progressed, and I was reduced to a friendly, smiling stranger, she never forgot those words. As I write this, my eyes fill with tears of joy as I still hear her sweet voice singing, You'll never know how much, how much, how much, how much, how much!!" Mom died in 1999, we played the song at her memorial, and I treasure this moment above all others. Thank you for letting me share my Happy Disco Moments!
Sincerely, Gloria Lo Pinto Juat
............................
Hi Ron,
There are so many great dance songs from back in the day, that it's hard to choose only three. However, the titles below are songs that I consistently love because:
The melody is lyrical and musical and flows with a perfect, not too fast, not too slow, tempo (I can dance all three, in a row, and come off the dance floor still able to breathe, with my hair in tact)
The lyrics are poetic and I'm a real romantic
And the most important reason... I just want to dance whenever I hear them!
Footsteps Following Me
Close to Perfection
Under Your Spell

Take care,
Susan Hiser
............................
I want this collection so I've dug deep into my "Dance Classic" memory & came up with these 3 songs and why they are my favorites.
3-I Found Love by Love & Kisses
A disco classic that has become a wedding ceremony theme song. I Found Love was a chosen song for many dance routines & I have been lucky enough to see many great performers do their routine to this classic.
2-Romeo & Juliet by Alec Constindinos
No matter what time of the night this song played in your favorite nightclub & no matter how packed your dance floor already was, all hustle dancers would try to cram on the floor to hustle to this classic.
1-The Hustle by Van McCoy
This is the song that started it all. Without this song, "the hustle" (dance), as we all know it, could have & might have been named something else.

Dominick,
............................

----THREE SONGS
FIRST----"UNDERWATER" BY H. TRUMAN. THIS WAS AN UNDERGROUND SMASH HIT INSTRUMENTAL THAT IS A MIX OF HARD ROCK (ELECTRIC GUITAR LICKS) WITH ORCHETRATION--STRINGS/BRASS - TO A HIGH ENERGY DISCO BEAT. THIS SONG WAS USED BY EDDIE VEGA/LOURDES---NELLIE COTTO--DANNY AND LISA NUNZIELLA- KENNY GONZALEZ AMONGST MANY OTHER PEOPLE THIS SONG HIT THE DANCE WORLD WITH IMPACT.
SECOND- "THE MORE I GET THE MORE I WANT" BY TEDDY PENDERGRASS-BACK IN THE LEMON TREE IN FOREST HILLS, NEW YORK DJ JENNY COSTA USED TO PLAY THIS RECORD AND THE CROWDS OF DANCERS USED TO GO BERSERK--NOW A DAYS- DJ JOHNNY V--DJ BOBBY MORALES AND DJ NELSON PARADISE ROMAN PLAY THIS SONG AND THE CONTEMPORARY CROWD RUSHES TO THE DANCE FLOOR --DEJA VU FOR Me
THIRD-- MY SWEET SUMMER SUITE-BY LOVE UNLIMITED ORCHESTRA BARRY WHITE-----I WISH PEOPLE TODAY WERE AROUND THEN, TO SEE AND HEAR IT-WOW
OK RON
Bobby O

............................

Hi Ron: Wow, you are going to make us work for the CD set. What a challenge you are presenting as it is almost impossible to narrow down to 3 songs from 70 & 80. Nevertheless, here are my picks:
Love Is The Message “ TSOP/1973

Back in 1973 (Phila) Gamble-Huff cleverly and uniquely brewed up a formula that created and set the foundation to what later become the standard for the disco beat. This song is considered œThe Mother of All Disco? and I agree. I love that it begins as a low key R&B and slowly shifts to a smooth, polished, sleek and groovy deep jazzy melody flavored with style and sophistication. It not too R&B and not too funky, its just right “ perfecto! Disco was born and I was hooked. Make That Feeling Come Again “ Beautiful Bend/1978 (Boris Midney) Although the entire LP is a masterpiece œMake That Feeling Come Again? stands out. I consider this œsmart disco? because it is conceptual and it appeals to those œthinking listeners?. When I first heard this record, it was played in its entirety, and I couldn't get myself to dance, because it was so different “ I just wanted to listen and I couldn't believe what I was hearing. I was totally flabbergasted and amazed. The next day I ran to the record shop and purchased two copies of the LP. I couldn't really compare it to anything else I've previously heard but it had a similar feel to El Coco Cocomotion in that it contain that shift in mood and pace transcending listener into a romantic melodramatic multilayered rhythmic journey. Ooh, what ecstasy! Undoubtedly, straightforward bona-fide hustle dance music. Its a disco opera, its an epic. Boris Midney œBeautifully Bend? disco music and heighten it to a level of superiority “ This is Disco at its finest. Outstanding!
Problemes d™ Amour “ Alexander Robotnick (Fuzz Dance LP) 1985
By the mid-80 dance music was rapidly evolving and had gone through a lot of changes in style and beats. There was euro-beat, hi-Nrg, nu-wave, freestyle, electric-funk hip-hop, be bop and much more. Problemes d™ Amour took a little piece of all these styles and blended them all into one. This song was unique and what I loved most was that a dancer could hustle to it. At the time, people were getting away from the hustle dancing and more into freestyle type dancing. Nevertheless, I was elated because we could still stamp our way to the dance floor. Because the lyrics were in French, I didn't know what the song was about - neither did anyone else. I thought it sounded kind of sad in undertone however the groove was uplifting and current with the vibe of the time. Still today, this classic remains on my play list. Ron, thanks for keeping the boogie alive and making it fun for your readers - Keep it coming! Cheers,
Marisol D.

           Letters to the Editor
Dear Friends and Family,
It is with great joy to be writing you today. This will be my last email news regarding disco.
Only a few of you know the real story behind me. Many of you have read some interviews on my website or watched me in a disco documentary.
The fact is ? I have been fighting from within and keeping back part of my life which I feel all of you need to know now.
My life was changed dramatically back in 1980. Which was the actual death of disco to me. You can read about for awhile on my site in the form of a Voice Magazine testimonial. http://www.discostepbystep.com/ma_testimony.htm. I hope it maybe an inspiration to you or someone you know. Please feel to share it.
Some of you have asked what I've done since that time frame - 1980-2005. The article will bring you up to date to about 1987.   I didn't have any involvement in disco after 1980. Since 1987 I began working for a drug treatment center in Florida call The Drug Abuse Foundation. This tremendous organization continues to help thousands of people with substance abuse problems. I began to have a feeling of hypocriticalness because I was trying to help people and many of them did not really want help. But my father became seriously ill and he needed my help so I resigned my position and began a faith journey which I wasn't sure where it would end up.
During my time helping my dad I started tinkering with the Internet and met Bernie Lopez, founder of the great Discomusic.com.   He encouraged me to start a disco website and actually .. the rest is history. The birth of Disco Step-by-Step.com began.
By doing this project I was actually being drawn back into my past? which truthfully wasn't the greatest of times. But I persuaded it anyway to keep busy making sure my dad's needs were met. He passed away seven years ago. Then ? my mom needed my help so I continued taking care of her. And also keep my mind busy with the disco website. My mom passed away in Jan. 2004.
Why I am sharing this all with you is so you will have a better grasp of why I am announcing my further dis-involvement in disco and dance.
God saved me from a life that was empty, unhappy and useless in 1980. It is now 2005 and I find again I am almost in the same situation. No vision! Empty! But I've asked God to re-open the doors he opened for me in 1980 so that He would restore my victory, happiness and peace.
I can no longer involve myself in the day to day workings of disco. Disco NEVER brought me happiness .. maybe momentary .. but it truly was a false negative sense of self worth.
So .. I am moving forward asking for God's guidance and direction for my life. I've completed a soon to be published book and will actively promote it. It is a self-help encouragement work which has taken over 25 years to complete.
Thank you all for your wonderful comments, emails, photos and meetings. May God bless you and never take his shinny light from your life.
I am sorry for keeping my past a secret to most of you. But the "PRESENT" ? the "NOW" is too important to me and where I need to be living my life. Doing and staying current.
The website will remain on line for another two weeks and then will be donated in its entirety to the U. S. Library of Congress.   Whatever happens to it then ? is not for me to say. The L.O.C. is a good keep of history and hopefully it will remain in the same state it was in when donated ... including the various Halls of Fame.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart? and thank you for your supporting understanding.
Marty Angelo http://www.discostepbystep.com/ma_testimony.htm

DanceTalk * 5-24-05

Have a safe and fun Memorial Day Weekend.

Happy Birthday wishes to Steve Tursio, Magique and Raluca Georgiana.

.....................................
We wish the God Father of Disco a speedy recovery. Vincent Montana, Jr. is
presently in the hospital preparing to take his first step toward a healthy recovery. He has touched many hearts with his music and if you would like to wish him well, please do so at phillysoundworks@aol.com He is the man that brought us Tangerine, Magic Bird of Fire, Runaway, Salsoul Hustle, Heavy Vibes and so many more classics. Keep this musical genius in your thoughts and prayers. Cards can be sent to: Vincent Montana, Jr. 203 West Sixth Avenue, Cherry Hill, New Jersey   08002. Also, this Tuesday night attend either the IBBG club in Long Island, the Paladium in Margate Florda or Michael's Cafe in Philly and the Gold Coast in Florida on Friday and sign the Get Well Card for Vince.
.....................................

Come to Club IBBG as they celebrate DJ Johnny V's birthday on Tuesday night.
1100 Stewart Ave. Garden City, (516) 227-2472

My apologies to those that did not receive DanceTalk® last week. DanceTalk goes out every week - rain or shine. Unfortunately, AOL had shut me down for exceeding the bulk mail limit. If you don't receive DT, go to one of the websites to view it.
Also, please forward DanceTalk® to your friends, students and enemies.
http://www.discostepbystep.com/     http://www.mjames.org/ronbess.html

Check out all the great pictures from Wendy Lippincott's Spring Fling and Birthday dance at http://fredf.fotki.com/

If you are still looking for a room for this years Discoamerica check out the Best Western Hotel located at 1416 Pacific Ave. in Atlantic City. (609) 344-7116

Latin Superstar, Shakira, returns to the dance charts next month with a new CD. The early release sounds great and should be a summer sizzler.

On May 31, Tuesday, something new comes to Michael's Cafe, in Bensalem Pa.
A pro mixer, where the professionals dance with the beginners. Read all about it in next weeks issue.

You can now make donations on line to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Carmen Wright will be participating in the Nike Women's Marathon.
Visit   http://www.active.com/donate/tntnonj/tntnonjCWright

Thank you to all those that wrote in for the DanceTalk® readers contest. Next week, we will post the winning letters. Lets see who won the complete library of DanceClassic CDs with over 300 dance favorites - courtesy of www.DanceClassicShowcase.com

This weeks issue of DanceTalk is sponsored by Passport Entertainment, as we celebrate the release of Disco: Spinning the Story. As a fan and historian of the disco era, I'm proud to say, this is a wonderful presentation. The feature doesn't get bottled necked in Studio 54. The producers see thru the clutter revealing the positive message from the disco generation. They felt the pulse of disco and deliver the right story. See my review below. www.passportproductions.com

Make it a great week,
Ron

Disco: Spinning the Story - Review

For years, the disco era was labeled with negativity. Finally, a true, accurate portrayal has emerged via "Disco: Spinning the Story". Clearly the disco era was not limited to sex, drugs and Studio 54. The overwhelming majority of disco warriors brought a positive energy that is revealed in this DVD. The documentary takes an indepth look at the industry, the music and the people that made this such an overwhelming success. What sets this apart from other disco documentaries is the inclusion and the importance of the dance. Your experience rare footage from movies, television shows, vintage performances, interviews and popular shows including Bandstand and Marty Angelo's Disco Step By Step. Narrated by the queen of Disco, Gloria Gaynor, she takes us on a historical adventure thru the roots of discoville. The graphics and quality photography are captivating. The birth of disco is discussed as the climate in our nation was changing - leaving the Vietnam 60's for a happier time where folks yearned to get dressed up and touch dance to a new rhythm.
Early footage shows the impact that James Brown and Sly and the Family Stone had on the music. Their funky sound shook the dance floor and set the stage for the four on the floor disco bass beat. The funk was smoothed out with new grooves to transcend into harmonious releases by artists like George McCrae and the Hues Corporation. Many notable artists and disco stars share their memories of this decade including members of the Village People, Earl Young of the Trammps, Thelma Houston, Karen Lynn Gormley, Marty Angelo, Georgio Moroder, Kurtis Blow, Tom Moulton.....
During the mid 70's, the early disco sound was lead by Gloria Gaynor, Van McCoy and KC & the Sunshine Band. Your see the fashions, the artists and the DJs in their booths creating the magic of the night. Clips from the original television Show "Disco Step By Step" display the infancy of the hustle dance as teachers show you the early steps. The movie takes you thru the evolution of the music as disco goes from the underground clubs to mainstream - enjoying international fame. The release of the motion picture "Saturday Night Fever" launched disco into the upper hemisphere. The music continued to grow as Donna Summer, Bee Gees and Chic take us to the top of their game. Not leaving out the dark side....the Chicago Stadium that held the Disco back lash is covered along with the stars that attended the infamous Studio 54 for dancing, parting and some high jinx. But "Disco" shows the up side and positive effects from the era. Many rock musicians jumped on board to take a stab at this popular disco beat. Your get the opportunity to see how the records were created and mixed in the studio. The movie is very informative and takes a comprehensive approach in just 90 minutes of run time.
Winding up the era, the abundance of commercialized (watered down products) burden the industry and shifted the interest level towards punk and rap. The word 'disco' developed a bad connotation and eventually was replaced with the broader term 'dance music'.
Like Gloria Gaynor sang, "I will Survive" and so will the music and dance of this important era.
The music documentary is a must for all those inspired by this era. It clears up the fallacy's of disco and focuses on the positives. Also included in the DVD is a bonus feature - live, on stage, performances by Gaynor singing "I will Survive" in 1979 and "Never Can Say Goodbye" in 1974. Whether you lived thru the era or not your want to see and hear the music and life style that defined this generation.
The DVD "Disco: Spinning The Story" will be available on June 7, 2005 wherever DVD's are sold. www.passportproductions.com

Letter to the Editor

Today Rick & I met with Dr. Pudavali and we received GREAT NEWS!
Gladys Torres had her last MRI 2 months ago and has not been on chemo since then. Yesterday the MRI showed a substantial decrease in size over the last MRI. Praise the Lord!!!!!!
We are going to continue the same course - no chemo, just vitamins, the Keppra, and build up her immune system and prayerfully will see continued decrease and hopefully no sign of any lingering cancer on our next trip in July.
We appreciate your prayers and keep praying!!!
PRAISE GOD FOR A WONDERFUL REPORT AND CONTINUED HEALING!
In His Grace & Love, Deborah

DanceTalk * 5-17-05

Happy Birthday wishes to Cathy Rankel ,Bobby Gerard, Michele Kahwajy and Mark James.

We send our heart felt condolences to the friends and family of Anita Secchia .
CLICK HERE VISIT PICTURES of ANITA
For many years Anita has been a big part of the Long Island hustle scene. She taught hustle lessons at Club IBBG prior to her illness. She had been battling cancer for the last 18 months. She will be missed. Please keep her in your prayers.

June 1st, premiers the international televisions show, Dancing With The Stars ,
on ABC at 9PM EST. Watch as six celebrities are paired up with six renown dance masters competing, LIVE. This new weekly series includes Boxing champion Evander Hollyfield, model Rachel Hunter, actor John O'Hurley, actress Kelly Monaco...Each week a new routine and competition.

Starting Sat. April 30th, DJ Mike Brooks will be at Bobby Dee's Rockin Chair in Avalon, NJ. You can hear Mike's radio show every Sunday evening on Kool 98.3 entitled 'Sunday night at the 70's'. Visit his website http://mikebrooks.rock.com Read more about Mike in next weeks issue of DanceTalk®.

Now in theaters, limited release, for the new motion picture Mad Hot Ballroom . This documentary looks at a group of 11 year old students from New York City and their involvement in an intense ballroom dance program.

Why wait till someone is gone to have a tribute? Visit Soul Patrol for the Donna Summer Tribute. This broadcast features great songs taken from the newly released 2 CD compilation from our friends at Universal called "Donna Summer Gold", plus their own commentary http://www.soul-patrol.net/donna.ram

Fox TV is preparing a new dance series . They are holding open casting calls. They are searching around the nation for all styles of dance - ballet, hip-hop, ballroom, rhythmic gymnastics, belly dancing, jazz, cheerleading or bring your own unique style. Casting is open to US citizens or legal residents between the ages of 18 and 30. Visit www.fox.com and click 'Now Casting' for more information. Please prepare a 30 second routine that showcases your best talents. Line will form at 8am.
NEW YORK - Thu, May 19, 2005 - 10AM (9am registration) / all dancers
Manhattan Center Studio, 311 W 34th Street NY, NY 10001

Check out the new website for dance club, Michael's Cafe, in Bensalem Pa, http://www.michaelscafebensalem.com

Don't' forget, this is the last call for the 2005 DanceTalk contest . We are celebrating five years of our weekly newsletter. The deadline to enter is May 20th. The first place winner will receive a complete library, 9 volume set, of the DanceClassic CDs, the best dance music of the 70's and 80's. www.DanceClassicShowcase.com
Write me at Rowenlb22@aol.com with your three favorite dance songs, from back in the day, and a short paragraph why you selected these songs. We will post the top letters and the winners in two weeks right here, in DanceTalk®.

On June 7th, "Disco: Spinning the Story" hosted by the Queen of Disco - Gloria Gaynor, will be available, wherever DVD's are sold. Look for a complete review in next weeks DanceTalk®.

This weeks issue of DanceTalk®. is sponsored by the World Hustle Dance Championships. http://www.dkndance.com/2005worldhustlehome.html

Make it a great week,
Ron

Look Who Turned Five

Did You miss any issues of DanceTalk? Here is a sneak peek back at some of the highlights over the last five years. DanceTalk was created for those with a common interest in the music and dance of yesterday and today.
I would like to thank all the dance and music artists along with our wonderful readers.
With your continued support, we will bring you five more years of DanceTalk®. Thank you,
Ron Bess

...........Ricky Quintana and Lee Rofrano would add a page to that book and introduce classic adagio moves including: over head lifts, the back roll down and the magical snake maneuver. Her nude-style costume had the Dance Fever television staff biting their nails? They had her do a special dress rehearse before taping the hit show. "They were afraid something might pop out," a laughing Lee reminisce. Ultimately, they would win the first round and go onto the "Dance Fever" semi - finals............

By the age of 14 Susan partnered with Tony Marolda. The chemistry was magical. In 1976 they became the USBC Amateur ballroom champions. The following year they captured the Untied States Amateur Hustle championship. Their training and hard work was paying off. In 1978 they won New York's crown jewel, the prestigious "Harvest Moonball" All around title, held at the Felt Forum in Madison Square Garden.................

The 2002 DanceTalk® Readers Choice Winners
Favorite DJ - Mr. Bobby Morales
Favorite Female Dancer - Debbie Ferro
Favorite Male Dancer - Donnie Shields
Favorite Dance Couple - Brian & Silvana Gallagher
Favorite Dance Couple (not hustle) -
   Robert Royston & Laureen Baldovi
Favorite Female Instructor - Diane Nardone
Favorite Male Instructor - Arte Phillips

......The partnership clicked and Debbie Ferro & Perico were making things happen.
Together they won an all expense paid, nine day trip to Brazil to compete in an international competiton..They won the prestigious televised "South American Dance Championships" held in Venezuela. Back in the states, Perico established an alliance with Billy Fajardo and the "Disco Dance Dimensions" were underway.
The act took off...........

While producing music for Mericana Records, Ralph Lew (RIP) befriended Vince Montana, Jr.
Vince asked Ralph and his dance company to join him for what would become the famous launching of "Vince Montana Jr., The Salsoul Orchestra" at Radio City Music Hall. What an event. Ralph brought along the darlings of Hustle, Floyd and Nelly. Over the years, wonderful teams performed with him including:                        Derrick & Lilia, Billy & Sandra, Ray Bogart & Kathy, Kenny Gonzales, Billy & Annabel, Ron Bess & Lisa, Bobby & Lynn, Denise & George and the Latin Symbolics.....................

When an opportunity knocked, Deano Georgio moved to California to join forces with long time friend Lisa Nunziella. He quickly became a screen actor guild member. Together they would embark on a partnership including movies - sitcoms - commercials and videos, that had never been achieved in the hustle:
Dance doubling for Jim Carrey and Cameron Diaz in "The Mask,"..............

He loved the television show American Bandstand soooo much,.... he started his own TV dance show. As one of Dick Clark's biggest fans, his mission was to show the world that touch dancing was back. All the dance shows focused on freestyle.
Marty wanted to expose the hustle and the wonderful music that went with it.
Marty Angelo's life began in the 70's, so to speak..................

While recuperating in the hospital her older sister visited her to exclaimed "there is a new dance out" where upon she began to teach her the hot new craze, right there in the hospital. She was only 13 years old. She started studying ballet when she was only 3. Nelly Cotto hasn't stopped dancing since. For almost 30 years, Nelly has dazzled audiences all over the world. She was destined to become the premier hustle dancer of our time..............

Back in the day, the exciting dancers went to the clubs where the best Disc Jockeys performed their craft. When Disco and hustle dancing were at a national peak, clubs like: Starship, 1018, Studio 54, Paradise Garage and The Loft were the places to be seen. But then, one of the most exciting night clubs of all times emerged.
The Inferno with DJ Rene Hewitt...............

The year was 1972. The motion picture 'God Father' was a box office bonanza, Helen Reddy released her classic song "I am Woman" and a guy from Brooklyn opened a dance studio called "New York Hustle." Jeff and Donna Shelley helped teach NY to hustle dance...............

His spins were so quick he earned the nick name "White Lightning." But this dynamic dancer would experience a turn in his dance career that wasn't choreographed. George Velazquez was the victim of a horrific automobile accident that took him in a new direction. His will power and determination never diminished as he continues to be a dance inspiration to others..............

Known as the Queen of Disco, she has decades of number one hit songs, but what does the Disco Queen think of the hustle and the dance phenomenon?
"I love dancing, it makes me feel good to see people dancing to my music." reflects Gloria Gaynor. She has done it all, as a singer, performer and author she describes her love for dancing - "I'm more passionate about dancing then I am of singing. But I'm also very critical. I know good technique and form and what its suppose to look like."

He danced on the original, " American Bandstand Show," hosted by the ageless Dick Clark, in his home town, Philadelphia. Virtually born with a microphone in his hands, Giant Gene Arnold started singing and doing rock n' roll shows in the early 60's. As a young performer he would grow to leave an indelible mark on the music industry.

He was always up beat, always with a smile on his face.
He didn't win the most trophies or claim the most titles but he had the biggest heart on the dance floor. As a gifted dancer, teacher, competitor and friend, he had a fan club as long as your leg. James "Jimmy" Garcia (RIP) will be missed by thousands......

His dancing was so amazing, he was booked to perform with all the greats:
Sinatra, Judy Garland, Bob Hope, Jerry Lewis, Liza Mineli, Rosemary Clooney, Jan Pierce, Liberace and Dean Martin. His repertoire includes hundreds of lifts (and nearly a dozen with one arm over head). The Szony's did special appearances on the most popular television shows including, The Merv Griffin Show, The Hollywood Palace, Ed Sullivan and The Show of Shows............

........winning the semi finals on the nationally televised "Dance Fever", Perico was not limiting himself to Hustle. In 1983 the quintessential Hip Hop movie "Beat Street" emerged starring Harry Belafonte, Perico was cast and put his acting skills to the test. In 1985 he began choreographing for major entertainers (free style) but then took it to a new level when he composed a hit song for Corina. In 1991 he wrote the highest charting free style song ever recorded, "Temptation" also performed by Corina. At this time he decided to return to the dance arena, this time staging the club sequence in the hit movie "Carlito's Way".............

In 1979, it was all over the airwaves, WKTU was promoting the biggest dance contest of its kind. Cherry's Discotheque was holding a weekly contest where the grand prize winners would be the owners of brand new Cherry Red Corvettes. Lifts were not permitted. Dancing to "Shine on Silvermoon," Derrick Allen & Lilia drove home in matching new cars.

Letter from the Editor

Carmen Wright has been dancing for over 25 years and through her dancing has met many wonderful people, some of which have become her extended family. "I consider myself very lucky to have this in my life and fortunate that I am healthy to be able to enjoy such a great and happy sport.  However, I've come to a point in my life that I feel that I need to give something back and help those who are less fortunate", explains Carmen. To help make a difference, Carmen has made a commitment to support the "Leukemia and Lymphoma Society".
As a dancer, Carmen supports and attends many of the dance competitions, Discoamerica in Philadelphia, the World Hustle Dance Championships in New Jersey and the IHSC in Miami. "My favorite place to dance,  locally, is Dancesport.
"You know Ron, I've always wanted to do something that makes me feel like I am making a difference somehow and, makes me feel like I was helping others, this is it." Carmen had an awakening of her own when she explored the fight against Leukemia. "These blood-cancers are diseases that can attack at any age, at any time....it was scary to hear and meet people that are fighting this disease.   Even scarier to know that when it happens, it's usually without a hint, clue or a sign that you are about to be struck down with this."
On Sunday, October 23, 2005, Carmen will be walking in the Nike Women's Marathon (26.2 miles) to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team in Training program and on behalf of her co-worker Mr. Phil Kayne and the many others that are fighting this disease. She will be participating in this event as a symbol of endurance and hope to raise funds for all blood-related cancer research, education and patient services. All donations should be mailed directly to her. (There's a form that she turns in with all donations.) at: 45 Rodak Circle, Edison, New Jersey 08817 and, checks should be made payable to "Leukemia and Lymphoma Society".
Sadly, there are more than 617,000 people in the United States who are fighting blood cancers-leukemia, Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma and myeloma-and although research is responsible for increasing survival rates for these diseases, the battle if far from over. Every five minutes, someone in this country is diagnosed with blood cancer. Every nine minutes, someone dies. Carmen is honored to be walking for such a great a cause in hopes that one day, we will find a cure.
"I am confident that we can win the battle against blood-related cancers and give those living with cancer and their families hope for the future." A contribution in any amount will bring the Society "one step closer to a cure." Here is a very poignant quote that Carmen saw displayed on a billboard near Ground Zero on September 11, 2002. "The human spirit is not measured by the size of the act, but by the size of the heart." Hats off to Carmen, lets get behind this important cause.

DanceTalk * 5-9-05

Happy Birthday wishes to Shannon Johnson

Congratulations to Raluca Georgina , she is the choreographer and performs in "Luceafarul - The Legend of the Evening Star" from May 22 - 23, at the Kirk Theatre in New York City. See the details below.

It's never to early to mark your 2006 calendar for the return of Mad Jam .
March 2-5th, at the Sheraton Premiere in Tysons Corner, Virginia. Dave Moldover has selected a finer location with a bigger ballroom for hustle, WCS and Hand dancers. www.atlanticdancejam.com

The wait is over, Andy Fortuna's "The Ultimate Latin Jam," will be available in three weeks. Go to www.latinjam.com for this and the other Latin Jam CDs. Music that has been used on NBC, ABC, ESPN & The BBC, and in the movie "Mad About Mambo". It will also be used in the upcoming new show starting in June called, "Dancing With The Stars." Possibly on Fox network.

Millennium Hustle is celebrating their 3rd year anniversary with a special party on May 21st. Come celebrate 3 great years with Lori Brizzi in NYC. See details below.

This weeks issue of DanceTalk® is sponsored by Discoamerica . This is the first time a hustle convention takes place in Americas favorite playground, Atlantic City, NJ. If you have never been to AC....now you have a good excuse. www.discoamerica.com

Make it a great week,
Ron

Discoamerica 2005

It only happens once a year. Come experience Discoamerica 2005. Could there be a better place to celebrate the Lucky 7th year then in Atlantic City New Jersey! Discoamerica has gotten a face lift. Organizer Donna Boyle has been pursing the opportunity to take her annual event to this adult playground and now it's finally going to happen. What a setting. Folks from all over the globe come to AC to enjoy the casinos, beaches, board walk, shows & reviews, fine dining and night time action. Its all here. Can you spell Borgata, the billion dollar casino or the new Quarter at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino. Check out Ripley's Believe it Not, Steel's famous Fudge, world class shops, The Steel Pier, Donald Trumps Taj Mahal Casino, White House Sub shop, Fralinger's Salt Water Taffies, Planet Hollywood, comedy shops and miles of beach and fun under the sun. Plan to stay at least a week. But you must, let me repeat, MUST book now. Rooms are almost all gone. Join this years staff: Silvana Gallagher, Raul Ante, Elizabeth Darchi, Arte Philips, Tybaldt & Hazel Ulrich, Keith Gussoni & Celeste Pfefferle, Brian Gallagher, Bill Cameron, Billy Fajardo & Katie Marlow, Jami Josephson, Joe Kerner, Ron Bess........and more to come.
Visit the website for all the details....but do it now.
www.discoamerica.com

2005 DanceTalk Contest

Did you enter out contest yet??
Its not to late, you could be the proud owner of a complete library of the DanceClassic CDs....9 CDs in all, the best of the classic dance songs of the 70's and 80's. In recognition of DanceTalk's 5 year anniversary, along with www.DanceClassicShowcase.com we are holding a readers contest.
Write us with your three favorite dance songs, from back in the day, and a short paragraph why you selected these songs. We will post the top letters and the grand prize winner will receive a complete library of Dance Classic CDs - the complete 8 volume set of the Dance Classic Showcase plus the Dance Classic Showcase Remix CD which features dozens of the greatest dance songs of all time.
Visit www.DanceClassicShowcase.com to see and hear all the great dance songs of yesterday. All entries most be received by May 20th.
There will be a first and second runner up.
Mail your letters with your three favorite songs and why to, Rowenlb22@aol.com
Good luck,

Letters to the Editor

Ron, I feel the Hustle Dance World owes a debt of gratitude to Miguel Marrero for stepping up to the plate and with very short notice made it to the Tribecca Film Festival last Saturday.
When I found out about this event and learned Tribecca was going to have a "Saturday Night Fever" night with dancers, I immediately got a hold of one of the producers and asked if the dancers were hustle dancers. I think the gal I spoke to wasn't even born when the movie first hit so her thoughts were not on getting hustle dancers there but just dancers. I informed her the movie was all about "hustle dancing" and if I could round up some dancers I would try to get them there. Well ... we had a couple of days to get it together and the only one who could make it was Miguel Marrero. He did not have his regular partner with him but took one of his students ... and made it to the event. According to Miguel .. he was the only one who knew how to hustle. Can you believe it? All "Saturday Night Fever" is about ... is the Hustle .. besides the silly but somewhat true story line. When people think of "Saturday Night Fever" ... they think HUSTLE!! Miguel even took time to work with some of the younger dancers who were there and even got to do a spotlight feature ... with just him and his partner. I cannot commend him enough for his "true spirit" attitude... and with such short notice! The Hustle was alive and well at the Tribecca Film Festival ... which had a lot of press coverage. We all lucked out by Miguel's loyalty to the dance. If you check out the photos at this site: http://www.pbase.com/dme_nyc/tribecasatnightfever you will see for yourself that the only ones Hustle dancing were Miguel and his partner. I am not sure what the others were doing... but it certainly was not the Hustle!!!
Marty Angelo
Disco Step-by-Step - http://www.discostepbystep.com/tribeca_festival.htm
.........................................

Hi Ron,
I was just notified that I got a 3 week assignment to assess the situation as it developed over the weekend. Another hostage situation with an Australian this time. The Italians are contesting the findings of the shooting of a freed hostage that wounded one and killed her bodyguard. Zarquawi threatens the white house and the Vatican. There were 6 car bombs that went off today. Just in 2 F-18 fighter jets collide in mid air over Iraq. This is only Monday.
I told some people I was going to be retired but in lieu of recent circumstances I will be on assignment for 3 weeks. Most likely Willow Grove, possibly Harrisburg. I will be back next month God willing and I hope to be dancing again soon.
Technically I won't be officially discharged until 9-12-05. You remember it was 911 that got me reactivated 4 years ago in Texas. Has it been that long already? You have been a good friend in the beginning, in the middle and hopefully at the end of this ordeal.
Please tell all of my friends that I will be missing them and I hope to see them soon. I will always be available when my country needs me, I took an oath that has no expiration date.
As always, thanks for being the link to my alternate life. Even though Intel analysis is what I do I will always be a dancer in my heart.
K@
Kat Clark

DanceTalk * 5-9-05

DanceTalk * 5-2-05

Happy Mother's Day to all our lovely mothers.

Happy birthday wishes to Bobby O, Norma Rivera, Laura Cozik, Tony Pace, Frank Pellici and Stevie Mitchell.

Condolences to Karen Pomager and her family. Her father passed away this past week. Please keep her in your prayers.

Come out to Michael's Cafe on Tuesday, for the special "Remake Tuesday Night" Experience the original and remakes of some of the greatest dance songs. We will also have a birthday dance for Wendy Lippincott .

Club IBBG will be having a birthday party for Bobby O , come out and hear DJ Johnny V spin the best hustle, Salsa and WCS on Tuesday, from 8:30PM on at 1100 Stewart Ave, Garden City New York.

It's not too late to attend two of the biggest spring dance events this coming weekend. Read all about the Easterns, in Virginia and the Cinco De Mayo in Texas.
Good luck to all the competitors.

Wishing a speedy recovery to dance champion Luis Rosa. He should be back in action in a couple of weeks from his leg injury.

Check out the 2nd Anniversary Celebration at La Luna . Hosted by Sonya Saamova, the Salsa Dance will take place on Friday, May 13th in Bensalem Pa.

How would you like to win a complete library of dance music? You can in the DanceTalk /www.DanceClassicShowcase.com readers contest. Hundreds of the best songs from the 70's and 80's.
Read the rules below and send in your letter.

This weeks edition of DanceTalk® is sponsored by the LIBERTY SWING DANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS - JUNE 17-19, 2005 in Jersey City, New Jersey. www.libertyswing.com

Make it a great week,
Ron

2005 DanceTalk Contest

In recognition of our 5 year anniversary, DanceTalk® along with www.DanceClassicShowcase.com are holding a readers contest.
Even if you can't hum a tune or have two left feet...you can win.
Just write us with your three favorite dance songs, from back in the day, and a short paragraph why you selected these songs. We will post the top letters and the grand prize winner will receive a complete library of Dance Classic CDs - the complete 8 volume set of the Dance Classic Showcase plus the Dance Classic Showcase Remix CD which features dozens of the greatest dance songs of all time. The contest begins May 3rd. All entries most be received by May 20th.
There will be a first and second runner up.
If you love dance music from the 70's and 80's you got to hear these CDs.
Visit www.DanceClassicShowcase.com to see and hear all the great dance songs of yesterday.
Mail your letters with your three favorite songs and why to Rowenlb22@aol.com
Good luck

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