DanceTalk - The Archives
September 2005
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 * 9-27-05
Happy Birthday wishes to Wendy Bess, Sue Edelstein, Dominick Lauriano, Kathi O'Neil, Barb Marone, Chris Harding and Jerise Marrone.
Congratulations to Joyce Szili, she is a grand mother, again. Her daughter just gave birth to a baby girl. Mother and daughter are doing well.
This Friday, September 30th, is the Big New Jersey/New York Fund raiser for the Hurricane Victims. Please pass the word to those not on line. Lets show how much the dance community cares by attending. These events run simultaneously.
See all the details below.
Dancer Greg Olsen will be part of the Soviet Soyuz crew space launch on Oct 1st. They will blast off from Baikonur (3 hours from Moscow) at 9:30 AM. Many friends & family (including Bob Grundstrom) will attend the launch. Greg plans to perform the first inter galaxy hustle dance. Lets say a prayer for a safe voyage and return.
A Mambo-Mentary? airing on BET television, Thursday, Oct. 6 at Noon, 8 PM, & 1 AM, and Saturday, Oct 8 at 1 PM, 9 PM, & 2 AM, Thursday Oct 13 at Noon, 8 PM, & 1 AM. Featuring Cuban Pete, the foremost Latin dancer in the world, a true living legend, who is archived in the Smithsonian Institute. Referred to as the greatest mambo dancer ever by LIFE magazine along with Barbara Craddock a schooled ballroom dancer who specializes in Latin dance. She produces, choreographs, directs and performs in Latin dance revues for public and private events.
Hey NJ, The Yellow Rose is back for country dancing. Bring your friends and show the management that they should continue with the country format at Rhythms of the Night (formally Yellow Rose). See all the details below.
Kicking off National Hispanic Heritage month, Sept 15- Oct 15, Let™s Dance: Bailemos? stamps are at your postoffice now: Salsa, Cha-cha, Mambo & Merengue Latin dances. USPS dedicated the stamps at first-day-of-issue ceremonies in New York City at the Copacabana nightclub and in Miami at the Coconut Grove Expo Center.
What would you look like in a Ballroom Dance Competition? TLC gives you a real life average Joe and Jane transformed by any method necessary, poetic to brutal, into Ballroom Dance Competitors! Ballroom Bootcamp starts Oct 7, Friday at 9PM EST, a 10 week reality dance series on TV.
To view or purchase pictures from The New York Hustle and Salsa Congress please visit http://www.SamsSnapShots.com Thanks to Sam Habet.
A fundraiser account for Keith & Celeste has been arranged. Please go to: http://www.i-h-d-a.com/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=12772&module_id=5337 And those who would like to contribute can go to Bank of America.
This issue of DanceTalk is sponsored by Westie Weekend with Jen Lyons.
This incredible weekend of dancing takes place Nov. 18-20 at the Atrium,
Rt 130 in Pennsauken, NJ. Friday, Nov 18th is Got Swing? Saturday, Nov 19th is privates and Sunday, Nov 20th will be two workshops. http://www.homestead.com/robandsheila or call 609-519-0793.
Make it a great week,
Ron
Hustle Congress (Results)
Amateur Intermediate Just Hustle
1) Scott Michielli & Elizabeth Craner
2) Michael Leyden & Cindy Lehning
3) Steve McArthur & Hyunki Raab
Amateur Advanced Just Hustle
1) Wajih & Wendy Dalal
2) Jaime Serna & Jerise Massone
3) Juan Hernandez & Lana May
Professional Just Hustle
1) Kelvin Roche & Lori Ann Greenhouse
2) Louie Orlando & Elizabeth Darchi
3) Raye Avery & Irene Griffin
Amateur Classic
1) Wajih & Wendy Dalal
2) Robert Lawrence & Rosetta Varoula
Pro Am Ladies Newcomer
1) Anita Giacone & Donna Boyle
2) Sandra Gonzales & Raye Avery
3) Dottie Johnson & Chad Lakridis
Pro Am Ladies Novice
1) Karen Farina & Billy Fajardo
2) Alysa Haas & Rob Finocchio
3) Jean Wittig & Doug Hagwood
Pro Am Mens Novice
1) Ralph Granger & Donna Boyle
2) Frank Scheideli & Irene Griffin
3) Rafael Figure & Lori Ann Greenhouse
Pro Am ladies intermediate
1) Pamela Conway & Billy Marti
2) Beth Baird & Kim Vanaman
3) Wendy Khentigan & Chad Lakridis
Pro Am Mens Intermediate
1) Bruce Levy & Irene Griffin
2) Michael Leyden & Silvana Gallagher
3) David Raines & Kim Vanaman
Pro Am Ladies Advanced
1) Pamela Conway & Billy Marti
2) Punkin Habet & Brian Gallagher
Pro Am Advanced
1) Jaime Serna & Beth Darchi
2) George Garcia & Lori Ann Greenhouse
3) Jesse Castaneda & Donna Boyle
Pro Am Theater Arts
1) Billy Fajardo & Mona
2) Lori Ann Greenhouse & George Garcia
3) Billy Marti & Masako Chen
Pro Theater Arts
1) Kelvin Roche & Lori Ann Greenhouse
2) Luis & Maryann Rosa
3) Raye Avery & Irene Griffin
J & J Hustle Ladies Novice
1 Erika Smith
2 Judy Smith
3 Dottie Johnson
J & J Men's Novice
1 Steve Shaughnessy
2 Kim Ufford
J & J Ladies Intermediate
1 Cindy Lehning
2 Erika Smith
3 Wendy Khentigan
J & J Mens Intermediate
1 Bruce Levy
2 Michael Leyden
J & J Ladies Advanced
1 Wendy Dalal
2 Mihoko Ninomiya
3 Jerise Massone
J & J Mens Advanced
1 Jaime Serna
2 Wajih Dalal
3 Jesse Castenda
Invitational Pro jack and Jill
1) Billy Fajardo & Maria Torres
2) Brian Gallagher & Donna DeSimone
3) Bobby Morales & Elizabeth Darchi
Please visit http://www.nyhustlecongress.com for all the results
Letters To The Editor
Hi Ron,
I wanted to let you know that hustle dancers in the Washington, DC metro area raised $4,350 for Keith Gussoni and Celeste Pfeferle, and for Punkin Habet (who has a home, a business, and family in New Orleans). Joyce Szili should be commended for her efforts to organize this collection during her Monday Night Hustle lesson and dance for September 8. It was her idea, and she also donated her proceeds from the admission fees for that night. Joyce's co-organizers for Monday Night Hustle, Shawn Martin and DJ Doug "Gator" Levitas, should also be recognized for their assistance and generosity. This significant collection is indicative of three things: the closeness of the Hustle dance community in general, the fondness and friendship the DC area dancers feel for Keith and for Punkin, and Joyce's generosity and loyalty. Our hopes and prayers continue to be with Keith, Celeste, Punkin, and the all the dancers from New Orleans, as well as all those who have been affected by this terrible tragedy.
Juan
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Hello Dancers,
The Richmond Cares event for the Latino Community was a great success. We drew quite a good looking and diverse audience. Our guests were the most attractive group of people of any of the seven Clubs I visited since I came to Richmond three weeks ago. To all our attendees for that evening, my co-host Tony Tan and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We'd like to give a special thanks to Ms. Antoinette Essa of NBC12, our guest MC for the evening; our live Latin band Son Quatro, who gave us a wonderful performance of classic Salsa, along with Odiee, Richmond, up and coming Reggaeton artist. Our energy and efforts were noticed at many levels. The management of The Matrixx Management has asked us to host and manage Saturday nights. They have a few blocked dates in mid October which allows us our starting date of October 29th, 05. This will be a Hollywood Theme, Halloween Party. More details will be coming. This will be the first of our COPACABANA Nights in Richmond, VA. In November we will launch the area's first $1000 Salsa Dance Contest. In closing, we officially handed The American Red Cross $1,260 from the efforts of Richmond Cares Latino Community Fundraiser! Again - Thank you, Nino Torre...and, Yes I have taken a residence in Richmond, VA.
DanceTalk * 9-20-05
Happy Birthday wishes to Brian Fortuna, Sunny Leigh and Natalie Petosa.
This is another full pack issue with information on up coming events, fund raisers, features and letters to the editor. Be sure to read from top to bottom.
We wish a speedy recovery to Bobbi Petri. She has been under the weather and we hope she is able to get back to the hard wood soon.
Many thanks to Wendy Lippincott, along with her caring guests, we raised $1000.00 for Keith Gussoni and Celeste Pfefferie, who live in New Orleans. It was a wonderful turnout as DJ Kenny Arditi spun the music, Carole Pheleps captured the night on video, to send to Keith and Celeste along with signed cards.
Good luck to Joey Commentucci, he had knee surgery last week. We look forward to seeing him out on the dance floor soon.
Have you been a good dance samaritan? As a society of dance lovers we have to ask ourselves, what can we do to help others. Please make an effort to attend a dance benefit and/or make a donation to help our friends who have been ravaged by Hurricane Katrina. On September 30th, we will host 2 events, simultaneously to aid the victims. One in New York - one in New Jersey. Dancers from various states are coming out to hustle for the victims. In NJ at the Starlight Ballroom, come join, Nina Marks, Ron Bess, DJ Johnny V, Diane K. Nardone, Nino Torre, Luis & Maryann Rosa, DJ Johnny O, Lori Brizzi.... We may even roll out the Kissing Booth to help raise money. Are you ready to work it?????? If your interested in being a volunteeer....let us know.
In NY at the Soho Dance Studio, Funky Fridays becomes " All Join Hands," along with DJs Bobby Morales and Nelson " Paradise" Roman. Finger food and B.Y.O. anything. Lessons and performances with Danny McGee, Jameson Kilburn, Billy Fajardo & Katie Marlow and Archie Burnett, See all the details below.
Rockin' the nation's capitol for the 4th year! Mad Jam 2006
March 2-5, 2006 at the Sheraton Premier,
Tysons corner Virginia, http://www.atlanticdancejam.com/
Dave Moldover is making it bigger and better.
Philadelphia steps up, DJ Mark, DanceTalk reg and Michael's Cafe join forces to host a fund raiser for the Hurricane victims on October 9th, Sunday afternoon from 1:00PM till 5PM. This will be an afternoon of dancing, Live music with Melissa Martin & The Mighty Rhythm Kings, exhibitions, food and fun at Michael's Cafe in Bensalem Pa. Come join us as we raise money for those in need. All the details next week. We need volunteers, so please write Rowenlb22@aol.com
I hope you enjoy our article on our Dance Fever Alumnus. We take an inside look to see how many doors opened after appearing on a nationally televised dance show? See the responses below.
This weeks edition of DanceTalk ® is sponsored by the US National Dance Championships taking place Oct 7- 10, 2005 in Virginia. See all the details below.
Make it a great week,
Ron
US National Dance Championships
Competitor Registration ending soon, DON'T GET LEFT OUT ...
cash & other fabulous prizes ... round-trip Independence Air tickets ...
SEPTEMBER 30th is the DEADLINE for Competitor Registration for US National Dance Championships. ringside seating is still available***
http://www.usndc.com to register online, 703-803-9621 to register by phone
$99.00 special Hotel Rate going fast ends September 22nd***
http://www.usndc.com to register online 703-818-0300 or 800-635-5666 by phone
***Fun in the Sun and Golf registration ends September 30th***
Pohanka Lexus is supplying the hole-in-one Car http://www.usndc.com to register online
703-803-9621 to register by phone
Becoming a *Star* in the dance world
If baseball is America's favorite past time ... then how would you rate the field of Arts? Does voice take first place over dance and acting?
Clearly, the world is mesmerized by singing and less entertained by dancing.
While the hit show, " Dancing With the Stars" was a major success this past summer. (The rematch is this week) other dance shows have fallen short in the ratings war. At the same time, American Idol has been a spring board for many singers, catapulting them on to major recording deals and national tours. Unfortunately that doesn't hold true for dancers.
I have gathered the responses from a number of dancers that have performed on the Nationally broadcast " Dance Fever" television show, including the updated show that aired last year.
For the most part, there is nearly an unanimous confirmation that dancers did receive their 15 minutes of fame, but, for all intensive purposes, life returned to normalcy. Yes, they did enjoy wonderful exposure but no knocks from movie producers, agents or choreographers offering major opportunities.
Many thanks to all the Dance Fever Alumnus for sharing their memories.
Here is a sampling of some of the letters that responded to the question,
" Did Dance Fever lead to any big opportunities?"
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The quality of the show was so poor that it did little to nothing for Erik and me. Just a lot of people congratulating us!! American Idol is no comparison to the Dance Fever revival that we were a part of. It's a shame, but it's true.
Laura Cozik - NY
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Hi Ron, I would say that we did not get much out of Dance Fever. Star Search was a different story, we had much more exposure and a lot more calls and work from this show. It made our presence known very quickly in LA and nationally. We booked a top agent immediately after the first show aired and started getting called in for everything.
Lisa Nunziella - CA
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Nope. But it sounded good when we were promoting ourselves. Now I guess it just makes me sound " old" so I leave it off unless it has historical significance.
Barry Durand - VA
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Hi Ron:
Unfortunate no it did not. We had friends and fans of our watching but it was just another show. Today, with the show dancing with the Stars and Do you think you can dance, The dance seen has increased and the opportunities are there but it is just 30 years to late. Why? Because if we were now in our 20's we would kick some butt cause we had what it took, the drive to be the best and I am sure that at one time or another we would all be out there in TV shows and even in movies Like Saturday night Fever, Dance with me, Save the last dance, Shall we Dance etc... Yes it did fizzle out for us but we are survivors we are still around and we are still dancing, which means we still have a shot at it. We just have to find the way as a whole to get it out there and let it be known.
George Velazquez - GA
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Hi Ron
Absolutely. Tony and I received a lot of recognition and I do believe some work came out of it for us. Not only that, but there were hustle couples from the West that saw us and copied my red jumpsuit and routine step-for-step to last dance! lol It was definitely a positive part of our dance career.
Susan Marolda - NJ
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Hi Ron,
For me the notoriety of Dance Fever was good. I got more dance gigs after the showing............
Scott Nurse - NY
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Not for me and my partner, basically it fizzled but we did have our 2 minutes of fame and I still have it on tape, which I show to my students and they get a big kick out of it. Some even thinks that it was a " big deal"
Joyce Szili - VA
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Hi Ron,
I have great memories from appearing on the show. We won and moved onto the quarter finals. When we returned home we received a lot of attention from local television and the Philadelphia Inquirer newspaper. This lead us towards more dance work, shows and other connections........... It was a great experience.
Donna Boyle - Pa
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As far as Dance Fever goes ....We did get a lot of attention after we danced there. Seemed people remembered us for quite a few years after that. When we did other Competitions like The Playboy Contest we would get calls in our room from other contestants that wanted to meet us. It was fun.
We were also on the beginning promo for each week and I guess that helped too.
Anthony Lee - NJ
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Hey Ron,
For Donna and me, our appearances on Dance Fever did not necessarily produce any additional dance jobs or bookings. Back then, all our time was spent on practicing to improve our dancing, as well as preparing for competitions (and, as you know, there were many comps back then, locally regionally and nationally). We also worked (in order to make some money and to cover our dance expenses). Consequently, we did not seek to get " booked" for performances, or on cruise ships (as some of our friends did). We did not have a talent agent, nor a prepared photo portfolio, nor a dance resume for promotional purposes. A dance coach might have guided us in this direction of self-promotion, but we did not have a coach, and we were not living in an area with a " show business" environment (like New York City or L.A.). Dance Fever did give us a lot of notoriety back then -- what one of my friends said was " semi-celebrity" status, especially in the local dance community. It always surprised me how many people we met -- whether local or halfway across the country -- who would mention that they had seen us on Dance Fever.
Juan Hernandez - VA
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Ron,
Dance Fever did give me the chance to get some shows and meet new contacts........ I was dancing with Lisa Rivera from NY and after returning home we were approached to do some shows with Ralph Lew. It was a great experience for us since we were a new dance team........
Steven Mitchell - Pa
Letters To The Editor
Hey Ron, love reading your newsletter, as you know and most of the dance crowd, I DJ for parties, weddings and dances for dancers. Some know I've played in bands off and on for 30 years. I see a huge problem in the hustle world, from the (big hustle events) I've been too the Miami, philly, nj, New York ones. (the music is just plain bad) I'm speaking here for at least 60 people, we all think the same on this matter. There is no classic hustle music at these events, hardly at all, the so called songs have know lyrics, they are nameless songs that all have the same terrible studio sheep groove, in fairness the (NJ WHDC) event is not in this category and Bobby Gerald is not in this category, Dave Muzzi from the NJ event does a great job as well as the WCS DJs. There are never radio hits of today (from America or Europe) at the hustle events. I can't dance to bad music and I'm telling you from experience that people still love classic hustle music from 18 to 70 year old women and men. I'm not saying play that (all night) of course not, but there is a lot of cool music from the radio of today, old school, underground hustle music, music from other countries with hustle beats. Where and why cant this be played? Another huge problem is jack and Jills at 11'30 at night or whatever after the (shows) I'm there and a lot of other people too dance, do your jack and Jills early. Anyway I'm not a paying customer too this type stuff anymore.
DJ Kenny Arditi.
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I'd like to personally thank all our friends, colleagues, and fellow dancers who came out to show their support for the victims of Hurricane Katrina at Sept. 8th's Benefit for the Bayou @ Bobbi Petri's Dance upon a time.... It was a great start, and it looks like around $400 was raised for a charity to be determined. Special thanks to Paul Rubin and Pat Banner, local instructors from the L.I. area for their wonderful Peabody lesson (which we all danced to " When the Saints Go Marchin' In" ), and their donation of their time and money. Also, a special thanks to World Champions, Mary and Luis Rosa,
who performed a spectacular Theater Arts Hustle performance in the late night session. Their warmth and generosity of spirit exemplifies the faith, hope, and charity we wish we all had. Jay Berman, a student of Bobbi's, generously re-donated his 50/50 raffle winnings, so that 100% of the money collected for the raffle will be donated to charity. Lastly, all the other dancers and friends who attended deserve a heartfelt thanks for participating on such short notice.
There are 2 more weeks of these Benefits for the Bayou. We ask for your support, and donations of any kind. We could use the participation of other dance professionals, donating their energies to teach a class or perform, or just come out and dance with the attendees. Donations of money, of course, would be gladly accepted, but baked goods, such as cookies, cakes, etc., would be greatly appreciated as well. Anything that could be raffled off, cars (just kidding), bottles of wine/champagne, dance lessons, admittance to other local events, etc. $400 is a good start. We are already adding the profits we earned from the previous week's Hustle & West Coast Swing Workshop/Themed Dance Night. I know we can raise a lot more. After seeing more and more of the devastation, and being particularly moved by this weekend's concert events, we are concerned that waiting until our September events are over will be too late for many of those in need. So Bobbi and I have decided to " front" a donation of $2,500 in anticipation of the money we expect to be donated over the balance of the month. Please be part of that charitable effort.
Doug Hagwood
DanceTalk * 9-13-05
Happy Birthday wishes to Gladys Torres, Valerie Hunt and Ester Hohenberger.
This edition of DanceTalk covers and features the many events created to help benefit the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Please don't miss the letters and postings listed below. This edition is a bit long but you don't want to miss a word.
Please give a big thanks to those leaders that have put their hearts out there for those in need. They have inspired us with their generosity and kindness: Wendy Lippincott, DJ Nino Torre, Doug Hagwood, Paradise Dance, Nina Marks, DJ Johnny V, Bobbi Petri, Steve Haas.... These leaders have organized fund raisers to help those devastated by hurricane Katrina. When we dance, we lead a partner, in life, we have to lead our partners, family and friends to do the right things. Please attend these events and make a contribution. More details below.
Here are photos from Nancy's August 13th Pool Party in Pennsylvania. http://public.fotki.com/FredF/ Thanks to Fred Fedak for the wonderful shots.
A major hit by Vince Montana Jr. has just been released. He is back to producing, writing and recording new vibes....his new single is climbing the dance charts in Europe..." Thats What Love Does," recorded by Vince Montana and written by his daughter Eileen.
Put the rumors to rest, we have confirmation that the WHDC - World Hustle Dance Championships will return next July for their 6th annual event. More details coming soon.
One of the most exciting social dancers on the scene has just launched his own website. Steve Salerno is more then just a dancer....you have to check this out. http://www.stevesalernojazz.com
This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by Stardust Dance Weekend. This is the ultimate get away in upstate New York this coming weekend, with a wonderful staff of teachers. For more details visit the website http://www.stardustdance.com and see below.
Make it a great week,
Ron
Fund Raisers for the Victims of Katrina
MA
Paradise Dance is hosting a hurricane relief benefit on Friday, September 16. Smoke free. All ages welcome. Come alone or with friends. Beginner waltz lesson, 8:15, dance party 9-11:30. Sliding scale admission. Pay what you can - - no one turned away. DJ playing a mix of swing, Latin, ballroom, hustle, tango, two step & club music. Bake sale to help raise funds. Cash bar on premises. Funds raised will be donated to the American Red Cross for emergency relief. For more info call 413-586-5678 or email paradisedance@comcast.net American Legion, 162 Russell St., Hadley, MA.
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VA
Project Richmond Cares - Latin COMMUNITY Fundraiser A night of Dance, Unity and Pride Saturday, September 17th, 05 The MATRIXX Room 401 E. Grace St (at E. 4th St.) Downtown Richmond Doors Open 8:00pm (804) 225-8686 Live Performance by Salsa band Son De Quattro DJs Steve Greene, Rick Danger, DJ Eddie, DJ Duro & NYCs Nino Torre Enjoy a Live Band, Raffles, Spotlight Dancers, Give-Aways & Games Many Richmond area sponsors participating for this cause Special Guest MC, News Co-Anchor Antoinette Essa (NBC12), Donation $20 at Door - All Profits Going To The RED CROSS, $15 Advance Tickets Available Only At Matrixx, Limited Reserve Seating Available - Must Show ID for 21 And Over, Upscale/Casual Dress Code, A Tan/Torre Production
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NJ
Hustle For The Victims Of Hurricane Katrina
The Starlight Ballroom in Nutley, New Jersey has identified Friday, September 30th, the night to dance for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. 100% of the money raised will go directly to those in need. Nina Marks was the first to contact me and generously offer her magnificent ballroom so we could dance for those stricken. There will be complimentarily dance lessons, Classic DJs, exhibitions and much more. Come join us for this special night as New Jersey shows their support, featuring a dance lesson by Diane K. Nardone, the music of DJs Johnny V, Nino Torre, Johnny O, Nelson " Paradise" Roman........a dance exhibition by Maria Sidnjova & Anatoliy Shir and dance champions Luis and Maryann Rosa. If you have never experienced the Starlight, now is your chance. The huge dance floor is awesome. Your donation of $15. or more, lets you enjoy all this and more to come.
If you would like to help write to me at Rowenlb22@aol.com
Stay tuned, next week we will have more details.
Starlight Dance Center
7 High Street,
Nutley NJ 07110
(973) 235-9835
http://www.starlightdanceusa.com
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NY
The love goes out to all the people who attended our first in a series of 4 benefits for disaster relief to the victims of Hurricane Katrina. If they tell 2 friends, and they tell 2 friends, we could raise SO MUCH MONEY by the end of the month. Last night was a great start. And the since we already decided that we were donating the profits from Sept. 1st (which was not an actual benefit, but one of our regular quarterly functions), we are well on our way. Please don't let the month go by without stopping in for a fun, inexpensive night, with TONS of great dancing, wonderful instruction, and beautiful showcase performances. A special recognition to Paul Rubin & Pat Banner, for contributing their time and money and a GREAT Peabody class, to World Champions Luis and Mary Rosa for an AMAZING Theater Arts Hustle performance (WOW!), and to student Jay Berman for generously donating back his 50/50 raffle winnings to the benefit. (Now 100% of the proceeds of the raffle will be sent along with all the rest of the money raised.) Looking forward to your continued participation if you were there, and to seeing you sometime in the next three weeks if you couldn't make it last night. With love from, Bobbi Petri and staff.
Doug Hagwood, Studio Manager / Instructor Dance upon a time.... Dance Studio 917 566-3445
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FL
As you know, the American Red Cross has set up temporary places for families left homeless as a result of Hurricane Katrina. One of these places is in Groveland, Florida (Lake County). Joanie Masterson (a long-time Dance Club of Central Florida board member) is collecting relief items to take to this shelter. There are already a few families there, with many more expected in the coming days and weeks. After speaking with a couple of people at the shelter, we know that they are in need of basic toiletries such as: Toothpaste, Toothbrushes, Shampoo , Soap, Deodorant, Etc. There is also a need for baby items such as:Diapers, Baby Wipes, Baby , Lotion, Dry Baby Foods (cereal, formula, etc.). They have plenty of clothes, shoes and toys at this point. Making a difference could be as simple as placing an extra item or two in your grocery cart this week. Or you can make a cash donation (to be used at the Groveland shelter). Please make checks payable to The American Red Cross. Joanie will be taking the donations (merchandise & checks) directly to the shelter. To arrange a pick-up or drop-off for your donation, please call 407-463-6729, or simply respond to this e-mail. Items can also be brought to The Dance Club of Central Florida this Sunday (3:30 - 6:30 pm) at Tropical Magic. This is an opportunity for the Central Florida Dance Community to make a difference for some families in desperate need of help. Thanks for your support. Steve Haas
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PA
Dance for Hurricane Disaster Relief
DANCE FOR HURRICANE DISASTER RELIEF: Calling all dancers, dance companies and dance schools -- we need your help this Saturday, September 17th, 10AM - 9:30PM at the Montgomery Mall, Rtes. 202 & 309, North Wales, PA. All proceeds will go directly to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. There will be hustle, Latin, WCS at the Macy's Court from 1:00 to 2:30. We need dance companies and dance schools willing to donate performances to run throughout the day to draw the public's attention and to raise much needed funds. Rainbow Promotions has donated sound and tech services for all stage areas. The Montgomery Teen Board will be assisting in staffing donation tables throughout the mall. Double Exposure Communications has donated their time to press and PR services and we anticipate the support of local television and radio stations. IF YOU ARE ABLE TO PERFORM FOR THIS EVENT, we are now asking for performers to sign up on line at: http://www.music-and-motion.com/relief.html
Letters To The Editor
Celeste and I would like to extend our thanks to all of you who have expressed concerns for our well-being in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. With everything we have endured from the wrath of Katrina, the outpouring of love from the dance community across the nation has definitely made it easier to bear. The love felt from all of you, whether it be through prayers, emails, telephone calls and/or donations has been overwhelming and has touched us very deeply. We feel privileged to be a part of such a caring and generous group of people that we so proudly call our " dance family" . We have shed many tears of happiness from all that you guys have done for us in this time of need. As we sort through our losses and wonder why things of this nature happen, we realize how much we take for granted...that we figure will always be there...family, friends, pets, homes and jobs...and we thank God that we still have each other and all of you...
From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you!!
Sincerely,
Keith and Celeste
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Dear Ron,
Dance studios all over the United States are in need of instructors. Anyone needing to relocate temporarily or permanently from the Katrina zone should be able to do so. Wilson's Dancesport Studios in Sarasota, Florida is looking for dance instructors all levels all styles. We are willing to help with relocation etc. We can be reached at 941-955-8558 or email info@wilsonsdancesport.com Thanks,
Margaret Burns
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aloha ron,
thank you so much for sending me updates, events, disco music. i am in hawaii & disco is not hot here. i am from new york & grew up in the disco era with billie fajardo, eddie vega, arte phillips, maria torres, lisa nunziella, & many more. where ever i go i take my disco LP mixes. i have two big boxes, i used to hang out at alexis dance studio, epanema, & other disco clubs & entered many dance contest...i entered one with george azpuru at romeo & juliet in brooklin.. we did not win but their was a couple who cracked the dance floor...remember the floors that were lit under.....i was a dance instructor at murray kossover school of dance on 29th & b'way....that is how i met george.... aloha,
minnie ruiz
hawaii http://www.alohaactivitycenter.com/minnieruiz
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Dear Ron, I had such an amazing time at the Hustle Congress. From start to finish this event was spectacular. The kickoff party, Thursday night was held at Dance NY. The dance floor was great, the music was amazing but the best part of the night was when the pros went around the room and danced with many of the people.............Hustle Congress had competitions, shows, and even a comedian emcee but what set this event apart from all the other events that I have attended was that this event was truly all about dancing. There were just enough competitions so that I could see many great dancers in action, yet the comps did not take over the event. The 2005 Hustle Congress was fast paced, exciting, fun and extremely well organized. Nelson and Bobby did an awesome job as deejays and they kept the nightly dancing going till the wee hours of the morning. The pros were gracious and friendly and I was inspired by watching them dance. The nightly Artie & Smitty shows were especially entertaining! Lori made a point of remembering the victims of hurricane Katrina. She created two Circles of Love which consisted of two circles of pros, male and female, with attendees who donated money, rotating in to dance with each of them. The proceeds of the circles are to be sent to Keith and Celeste, two instructors who could not attend the event due to the losses they suffered as a result of Katrina. I wanted to thank Lori for organizing a fantastic event and I hope all future Hustle events will be modeled after her event. She is lively, friendly, not to mention a great dancer and is always making sure everyone is having a great time. My compliments to her!!!!Estelle Hedaya NYC
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Hey Guys,
Our prayers are with Keith Gussoni & Celeste Pfefferle & the Orleans Dancers in the Katrina aftermath. Keith & Celeste are safe in Baton Rouge for now. However they still need our help because their incomes have been interrupted. They are still undecided whether to return to New Orleans, once it's reopened (which will take several months at best) or start fresh in another city. COME TO HOUSTON!!!! Sandra has set up a Fundraiser account for them at Bank of America. Anyone can make a donation at any Bank of America branch nationwide. Those funds will be at Keith's disposal.
Keith Gussoni Relief Fund
Bank of America Acct# 005861369008
DanceTalk * 9-6-05
Happy birthday wishes to Amy Lefkowitz, Joe Kernan, Patty Kozel, Sandra Gonzalez and Kat Clark.
Dear readers...this edition of DanceTalk® is dedicated to those struck by hurricane Katrina. In efforts to serve the vast community and provide urgent information on upcoming dance fund raisers, we ask you to lend your suport. NY/Phila/NJ dance leaders are in the planning stages of holding dance(s), fund raisers, to aid the victims. I have also heard from other states that are aggressively doing the same. It is vital that we lend our hearts to those in need. I recommend and challenge other cites to follow suit. This is the time for everyone to come together to help make a difference transcending politics and personal differences. Get involved in your community.
Thanks to all those who have already volunteered and offered their services. Dancers truly are the best. See (below) events already planned. Stay tuned as we will post additional information next week.
The first New York Hustle Congress was a big hit this past weekend.
Kudos to Lori Brizzi, who organized the event. Folks danced till 5:30AM and raised $2000.00 for Keith Gussoni and Celeste Pfefferle in a fund raiser called "Circle Of Love." Mark your calendars as the Hustle Congress returns Sept 1-3, 2006. Next week, a list of the winners from the dance competitions.
The Philadelphia Festival DanceSport Championships returns on April 7 - 9, 2006. This is the Superbowl of Ballroom dancing. visit the website at
http://www.phillyfestival.info
The ABC television casting director is still searching for the perfect family for the hit show Wife Swap. If you are a dancing family that wants to be on national TV and make 20K ta boot. Contact me for additional information.
Don't miss this coming weekends performance of The Spirit of Dance 2005 “ 10 Years of Top Hat? at Canstatters Volksfest-Verin in Northeast Philadelphia. Tickets are still available. See all the details below.
13th Anniversary Celebration takes place March 9-12, 2006 for the Big Apple Country Dance competition at The Beautiful Parsippany Hilton Hotel. Reserve now for the Exclusive $89 Big Apple Room Rate Call Hotel for Reservations This year, the must see Broadway show is the musical HairSpray. Visit http://http://www.bigapplecountrydance.com/
This edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by Bristol Pike Dance Wear, the ultimate stop for all your dance needs. Read all about it below.
Make it a great week,
Ron
Dance your best with the right dance wear
If the suit makes the man then the shoes make the dancer. Bristol Pike Dancewear LLC has been in business since the spring of 2005. With a large assortment and selection, specializing in Latin, Ballroom, Salsa, Jazz shoes & dance sneakers for men, women and children. Dance Sneakers are the hottest craze for dancers but getting the right size, fit and style is vital. Go to the experts. Bristol Pike Dancewear are the wholesale and retail distributor of the RUMMOS dance shoes imported from Portugal. "Our shoes are made of soft Italian leather and suede with extra cushion adding comfort for your feet" explains owner Nelly Dicupe. "We carry narrow, medium and wide shoe in an assortment of heel sizes for ladies and men."
Nelly is so excited about her business and meeting new customers she is making her services available for dance studios as well as at dance workshops, competitions and special events. Wholesale pricing is available for dance studios and/or dancewear stores. So before your purchase your next pair of shoes or dance wear, shop Bristol Pike first, for excellent service and price. And don't forget, the perfect gift for the holidays.....the gift of dance wear.
The hours of operation for the duration of the summer is by appointment ONLY.
We will resume regular business hours after Sept. 7th Call them for more details.
Our retail/wholesale store is located at 2133 Bristol Pike, Bensalem, PA 19020
For an appointment or to arrange for Bristol Pike to be at your event, please call 215-639-1996 (store) or our cell 267-984-1986
Benefit Dances & Workshops
New York
Fellow Dancers,
Without fanfare, without hoopla, I'm announcing our new Thursday Night format. On September 8,15, 22, and 29th, Dance upon a time.... is introducing it's Mad, Hot Ballroom Dance Party. Why such a low-key announcement? We are postponing all the fanfare until after September because we have a solemn purpose over the next 4 weeks. We would like to offer our resources, manpower, time, venue to assist in the disaster relief for the unfortunate victims of Hurricane Katrina. We are donating all the profits from ALL our September parties to the victims of Hurricane Katrina, including the profits from Thursday, September 1st's Workshop/Themed Dance Party event. (BTW -- what a great turnout. We'd like to thank you for your participation AND the crew from VH1 was very happy with the footage). So join us this month, let your friends know, and if you know of anyone who would like to perform, instruct, or help in anyway, possibly with food donations for the party itself (cakes, cupcakes, cookies, hot dishes, etc.), any help and/or donations would be greatly appreciated. Our format for our new Mad, Hot Ballroom Party is as follows:
* Ballroom Mix starting at 7:00PM
* Ballroom Dance Class at 7:30pm
* Ballroom Dancing resumes after class until... < Dance performances?
* "Club Dance" Class at 9:00PM (Hustle, WCS, Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, etc.)
* Dancing continues in the NY HOT MIX format (see dance listed above) with a splash of ballroom dancing. We will have 50/50 raffles with all the "House" money being donated to the charity (to be determined), auctions, dance contests, etc.
September is the time to come out and support our brothers and sisters laid waste by this terrible tragedy. We hope you will join us in this effort.
Located at 71-46 Main Street, Kew Gardens Hills, NY. Near Flushing Meadow Park in Queens, it is accessible by several bus lines from MTA trains stations in Jamaica, Main Street Flushing, and Forest Hills (where the L.I. Railroad stops also).
Doug Hagwood - Studio Manager / Instructor
Dance upon a time.... Dance Studio
917 566-3445
DHDanceTeacher@aol.com
New Jersey
Sept 17th, Dance at the Ranch??.Is now a benefit dance.
Wendy Lippincott has opened her heart and her home to provide a fund raiser dancer for our dear friends Keith Gussoni and Celeste Pfefferle (New Orleans dance instructors and victims of Katrina). We will be asking for a $10.00 or more donation.
Please bring a dish or desert to share.( let Wendy know what it is by Sept.12th)
Wine/ ice tea/ soda/ ice available. B.Y.O.B. Bon-fire for late evening toasting!
The party starts at 7:30PM on Saturday night and goes till the wee hours!
Come join us for a great time of dancing for an important reason. Easy to reach in Burlington County New Jersey. 266 Hartford rd. Medford N.J. 08055
(609) 953- 2793 r.s.v.p. Sept 12st
Pennsylvania
Calling all dancers, dance companies, and dance schools -- we need your help.
Saturday, September 17th, 10AM - 9:30 PM at the Montgomery Mall, Rtes. 202 & 309, North Wales. We are in the planning stages, but moving very fast to put together an all day dance program at the Montgomery Mall to raise funds for disaster relief for the recent hurricane victims. All proceeds will go directly to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. We need dance companies & dance schools willing to donate performances to run throughout the day to draw the public's attention and to raise much needed funds. The mall has donated the full use of the mall for the entire day, providing us with up to three major court spaces in which to stage performances. Rainbow Promotions has donated sound and tech services for all stage areas. The Montgomery Teen Board will be assisting in staffing donation tables throughout the mall. Double Exposure Communications has donated their time to press and PR services and we anticipate the support of local television and radio stations. IF YOU ARE ABLE TO PERFORM FOR THIS EVENT, we are now asking for performers to sign up on line at http://www.music-and-motion.com/relief.html
Letters to the Editor
Thanks brother...we are so so touched by the response of our dance friends around the country....I've been crying from so much of our friends that have been sending emails...today is the 1st day we have electricity...we are finally able to communicate to the world thru the internet...our cell phone were virtually unuseable....I will be get back to you soon...Please let our friends know that we are alive & well...
we love all you guys and thank you so so much for your love & prayers...
Keith & Celeste (New Orleans)
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Dear Ron,
I want to say thanks to you and to all my friends at Michael's for helping me celebrate my birthday. What a night! The cake was awesome, my birthday dance was so much fun, all the good wishes and cards from everyone...it was overwhelming! DJ Mark kept the night moving as always! Thanks to all.
Sincerely,
Terri Murphy
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Hi Ron, wonderful information you share with dancers of all ages and generations.
I am enjoying many of these new shows on TV which feature dancing. My feelings are the more dancing they show the better for us all know matter what type of dance you do. I just wish dancers got the breaks that the singers get on all these reality shows......These people go on to getting recording contracts and national recognition. It just doesn't seem fair to the trained dancers even when you study and put in years. I have had the chance to perform on stage and TV but I have little to show for it......I read in dancetalk that the show Dancing with the stars was a big sucuess. It would be fair to say viewers love to watch dancing, wouldn't you agree? Right now there just doesn't seem to be many places for dancers to go from there.
Thanks for listening,
Andrew
DanceTalk®. response: I have an article coming up, soon, on life after television for dancers, stay tuned)
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Dear Ron;
Please, help me let all my friends from Michael's Cafe know how lucky I feel to be part of such a nice crowd. Last Tuesday I had a great time celebrating my Birthday among all my friends. I would like to thank everyone for being there and for giving me such a great positive energy throughout the whole night. Thanks to all the gentlemen for the birthday dance... it was really fun! Thanks to DJ Mark for the great music he played all night. He kept us all dancing non-stop! Special thanks to my very special friends Ron and Susan Marolda, Diane Nardone, Alex, Carmen, Mark, Paula, and Frank. It was a very long ride for all of them, and it meant a lot for me that they all made it to Michael's to join me in my birthday celebration. Thank you!
Thanks to my sister for surprising me at Michael's with hundreds of balloons!
Thanks to you, Mr. Ron Bess for bringing so much positive energy to the dance floor that night. It is such a pleasure to dance with you and just to be in your company. You are a great friend. And last, but not least, special thanks to my dearest friend Chris Bates for coordinating my birthday celebration, for the great delicious cake (with a tiara on top), for all the balloons, and for making sure that all our friends would come out to celebrate my birthday. I felt very loved and very lucky to have you all in my live. Thank you. I love you all.
oxoxox Trisha
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