Posts from — June 2008

Once again, more news that Hustle is changing and evolving, as background power players in the dance world are willfully aiding the evolution of our fabulous dance. The North American Dancesport Championships has added the Pro/Am Theater Arts Hustle Championships to their Competition line up. This is big!

Look for new Competitors (new to Hustle), who have been quietly seeking coaching, privates and choreography with some of the established Pros to join the competitions in the near future; and cheer on your favorite younger known Hustle Pros who have been bubblin’ up to make a power play.

Also watch how many in the Hustle establishment will covertly monitor this event and it’s positive reverberations.



While fatalists keep blowing the tired tune; ‘Hustle is dying’, no one person has been able to successfully predict where Hustle will go.

Despite the naysayers, Hustle is indignantly and stubbornly reincarnating itself with an energy, pride and life of it’s own, no where near death.

Happy birthday wishes to Jaime Serna, Spinning Cindy, Caesar Rivera, Angela McCabe, Lynette Allen, Lori Brizzi, Frank Badolato, BU, Lacey Schwimmer, Franklin Ayala and Evelyn “Champagne” King.

The dance world has lost an icon. A personal favorite of mine, the glamorous and gifted Cyd Charisse. She was called “beautiful Dynamite” by Fred Astaire, whom she danced with in a number of motion pictures. She also appeared with Gene Kelly in the landmark film, “Singing In The Rain.” Growing up, most adolescents clinged to Wonder Women, I adored Cyd. I am fortune to have an original poster from the film “Bandwagon,” with Astaire holding her in that famous split. It’s magnificent. MGM films insured her legs for 5 million dollars. She was simply a gorgeous performer.

DJ Nick Siani has informed us the sad news that Manny Santana collapsed while dancing at Club Santos. Later that evening when being transported to the hospital by EMS, Manny passed away. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Simplicity, its a Stardust Weekend. June 27- 29th at Hudson Valley Resort & Spa Kerhonkson, NY. All inclusive weekend of fun & dancing. Its not to late to join the party. www.stardustdance.com/

Our dear friend Mary Keegan and her family have received sad news. Her sister, Nancy is undergoing chemotherapy for Acute Leukemia. Please keep the Keegan family in your thoughts and prayers.

DanceTalk® celebrates eight years of bringing you the weekly dance news. Thank you to our dedicated readers. Check below for a peek back at some early features.

Congratulations to dance pro Lisa “Sparkles” Paternoster. Her boyfriend, Dario Cortes asked for her hand in marriage while they were on vacation. We wish them both only the best.

For the entire family, the High School Musical “Get in the Picture,” auditions reality show, starts July 20th on ABC 8PM EST, hosted by Nick Lachey.

Only 10 rooms left at the inaugural Miami Dance Magic taking place July 17 - 20, at the Miami Hyatt Regency. Don’t miss the WCS, Hustle and Salsa party. For info Debra Lynn (954) 270-0232, www.CoastalDanceConnection.com

DJ Fancy picks the new release by NeYo - Closer as his top song of the week. Next week, his complete list of hot songs for the fancy summer. Stay tuned.

The 8th Annual World Hustle Dance Championships starts July 24th. There is still some space left in the program for your well wishes. For more information or to get your message in the program, contact Carole at a2zsec@rcn.com

This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by Dancing at the Crossroads, the hot new dance socials. See all the details below.

Make it a great week,
Ron

Dancing at the Crossroads
Dancing is on a rocket ship. Virtually every television network has released a dance show, contest, reality competition to ride this successful galactic flight. With dancing reaching new levels in popularity, why not create a dance venue for folks in the Mahwah, New Jersey area. A think tank of some of the top professionals shared their ideas to help make this happen. The results are, Dancing at the Cross Roads at the Sheraton Mahwah Hotel, for a monthly dance event. What makes this special is each month the dance venue will change. One month it will be geared for Hustle, one month West Coast Swing, one Month Latin one month ballroom etc… The goals of the event are to provide a new and exciting dance venue for dancers and provide an opportunity for new dancers to get their feet wet by getting a lesson in the featured dance style of the month. The teachers are the best from an excellent pool of instructors. The Sheraton Mahwah Ballroom is a great facility to make this happen. It will feature two dance floors, great music and top teachers. There is plenty of parking and, for those who want to stay overnight, there is a special room rate at the hotel. The Sheraton Mahwah is close to NYC, Rockland, Westchester, Orange counties and of course Northern, NJ. Located in Mahwah at the intersection of New York State Thruway and Interstate 297 and Route 17 North it is easy to get to.
The initial event kicks off on Friday night July 11. The doors open at 7:30 PM. there will be open dancing from 9 PM - Midnight. Your general admission includes a Hustle lesson from 8 – 9 PM with Diane “The Queen Bee” Nardone. Music by DJ’s Johnny “O” & Tom R. There will be exhibitions from 9:15 – 9:30. Don’t miss this special night. Crossroad Hotel Grand Ballroom, 1 International Blvd, Rt. 17 North, Mahwah. There will be a cash Bar & light refreshments. For advanced ticket sales, $20.00, call 201 684 6792, at door $22.00. For special overnight room rate ask when you call for tickets. Directions go to www.sheraton.com/mahwah questions you can Email William.Adamo@ihrco.com or catchthelight@hotmail.com Tell you friends to meet you at the Crossroads.

Look Who’s Turning 8
The DanceTalk® newsletter is celebrating it’s eighth year of publication. Here is a short look back at a couple of our early features. Many thanks you to all the sponsors, promoters, club owners, dance pros, DJs, artists and my family for eight years of your unwavering support…and to my tireless staff, Stacy and Chris and naturally to you, our devoted readers.
Enjoy,
Ron

Dance Trivia
The term Discotheque was coined in Paris. It was a play on the word Bibliotheque (Library). This was because the disco was a library of records instead of live bands. Chubby Checkers (the original Twister), wrote a song called the Discotheque and was known to use the expression first in the USA. (this was back in the early 70’s). The dance sound during the late 70’s was influenced by punk and new wave. But in 1979, Donna Summer had five songs hit the top ten and were all recognized on Billboards 1979 Top 40. Bad Girls, Hot Stuff, No more tears (with Barbara Streisand), Dim all the Lights and Heaven Knows (with Brooklyn Dreams). Madonna holds the record for the most Dance Club play singles. To date she has had 22 # 1 singles on Billboard Magazine “Dance Club Play.”

The 2002 Winners Readers Choice Awards
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

“Time Capsule”
Feathers Dance Contest
Back in the day, the most exciting dance contests were held at some of the best discotheques in the country. Prizes could range from cold cash to exotic trips or even shiny new automobiles. The night clubs that sponsored the contests typically would run preliminaries then bring the weekly winners back for the semi and/or final competition. The clubs would be packed. A contest was such a great draw and the atmosphere was just right: The sound systems, lighting and special effects would create the ultimate setting. These contests, in most cases, were open to anyone and pretty much had an anything goes policy. One memorable contest took place in the summer of 1981, at the beautiful Feathers Disco in Long Island, NY. Each week the best couple qualified to return for the finals. These were some of the best couples in the country. The Silver Screen never witnessed the high energy provided by these teams. Their electrifying performances would still stand the test of time:

• Roma Moon and Joseph Harris danced to Salsoul’s “It’s good for the Soul”
• Lucas Jamie and Kathy Young chose the classic “Shine on Silver Moon”.
• Ricky Quintana and Lee Rafrano danced to Melba Moores “Pick Me Up I’ll Dance”
• *Derrick Allen and Lilia Parra performed to Meco’s “Star Wars”.
• George Velazquez shocked the crowd dancing to “Savage Lover” in caveman attire
• Billy Fajardo and Sandra Rivera selected the theme from “Star Wars”
• Ralph Rameriz and Maria Gomez chose “Latin Odyssey” by Voyage
• Miquel Marrero and Annette performed to “In the Socket”
• Billy Assmus and Annabelle danced to “Fame”.

And first place went to Eddie Vega and Laudes Jones as they performed effortlessly to “Ten Percent” by Double Exposure. The applause was deafening.

“One Hit Wonders”
Billboard Magazine tracks those artists that have had one song place on the top POP 40 list but were unable to do it again. This is not to suggest that they aren’t still writing music but only that they have failed to strike gold twice. I have listed those musicians that are the one hit wonders in the Dance Music category during the 80’s.

• Royal Philharmonic Orchestra - Hooked on Classics - 1982
• SOS Band - Take Your Time - 1980
• Lipps Inc. - Funky Town - 1980
• Taco - Puttin on The Ritz - 1983
• Shannon - Let the Music Play - 1984
• Limahl - Never Ending Story - 1985

Spotlight
“Cerrone”
I sat intensely, strategically positioned, in front of the family TV, watching the weekly Saturday morning dance show, “Dick Clarks American Bandstand.” The year was 1977. The studio audience on the Bandstand set went into a frenzy. It wasn’t a Hitchcock flick but a new superstar from France, making his US debut. At first I didn’t understand it. It was reminiscent of the fab four that descended here in the sixties. This new artist had a different sound and style. This was Cerrone. ” The trick’ to the fresh new sound was my reputation as a drummer: A kick drum, high in the mix, was to serve in his entire career and to this date,” states Jean Marc Cerrone. Cerrone was not anticipating such a reaction from the American public when “Love in C Minor” hit the East coast in a monumental fashion…

The Top Songs
So your getting ready for that big dance contest. You know, the one where the DJ selects the song - HMMMMMMM, whether its a Jack & Jill contest, getting down at the club or just shaking your groove thang, … you never know what tune the DJ may play? DanceTalk® polled some of the most knowledgeable and influential DJs on the Planet, to get their selection for best hustle songs. Here are the experts top picks.
Thanks to all the DJs for their input. Here are their selections

• Romeo & Juliet by Love & Kisses - (DJ Lenny B.G.)
• Love Is The Message by MFSB - (DJ Rene Hewitt)
• All I Do by Stevie Wonder - (DJ Donnie Shields)
• Haven’t Stopped Dancing Yet by Gonzalez - (DJ JohnnyRocks)
• Circles - (DJ Kenny Arditi)
• Close to Perfection by Miquel Brown - (DJ Johnny “O” )
• Love is the Ultimate (Medley) by Ultimate - ( DJ Radar )
• Jingo by Candido - ( DJ Mark Routzahn )
• Date with the Rain by Eddie Kendricks - ( DJ Stan )
• Love In C Minor by Cerrone - (DJ Jerry Lane )
• Native New Yorker by Odyssey - ( DJ Jimmy Yu )
• Runaway by Salsoul Orchestra - ( DJ Joey Tess )
• Too Hot for Love by THP Orchestra - ( DJ Mike Gormley )
• You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine by Lou Rawls - ( DJ Dave Muzii)
• Save The Last Dance by Free expression - ( DJ Johnny V )
• Peanut Vendor by Ritchie Family - ( DJ Frank Pellicci )
• Aint Nothin Gonna Keep Me From Lovin You by Teri Desario - ( DJ Frankie Z )
• Love is the Message by MFSB - (DJ Bobby Morales )
• Ten Percent by Double Exposure - ( DJ Marty Angelo )
• Love Unlimited Theme by Love Unlimited Orchestra - ( DJ Roscoe Alverez )
• Heaven Must Be Missing An Angel by Tavares - ( DJ Nino Torre )
• Was That All There Was by Jean Carn - ( DJ Bobby Gerard )
• The Hustle by Van McCoy - ( DJ Giant Gene )
• “Dancin” by the Crown Heights Affair - ( DJ Steve Tursio)
• More, More, More by Andrea True Connection - ( DJ Cesar Ricuarte )
• Midnight Love Affair by Carol Douglas - ( DJ Mike Brooks )

Auditions, Competitions, Socials, Cruises & More…
June 23, Mon - NY - Dancesport - Legendary Hustle Mondays at Paul Pellicoro’s DanceSport, with DJ Donnie Sheilds, 9:30PM -$10 admission; DS registered students free. 22 West 34th St East Entrance 4th Fl between 5th & 6th avenues. www.dancesport.com for more information.

Jun 24, Tues - NY - IBBG , Celebrating Millie and Bu’s Birthday. Robin will be bringing the cake. “The Original Tuesday Night Hustle Party” Spacious Dance Floor, DJ Chris playing the best of old & new Hustle with a dash of Latin & WCS hosted by Doreen. 50/50 Raffle & door prizes. 1100 Stewart Ave. Garden City, Exit M3W off Meadowbrook 9 PM. Only $8

June 24, Tues - NY - LIDANCE 8th ANNIVERSARY PARTY at CLUB 56 (56th Fighter Group Restaurant Lounge, Rt. 110 at Republic Airport, Farmingdale, 7:00 to 11:00 PM, Only $10 includes Showcase Performance, Hot & Cold Buffet Dinner, free water, HUSTLE Lesson by JOSE BOLIVAR, door prizes & dancing to a Salsa, WC Swing & Hustle Dance Mix by DJ Cody. (631) 744-7777 www.LIDance.org

June 25, Wed - NJ - - Westie Wednesday! mostly WCS with a little Shag, NC2 and Country 2. $5. Free parking. Snacks. Atrium, Pennsauken, NJ. www.robandsheiladance.com

June 25, Wed - NY - “HUSTLEJAM” @ Stepping Out Studios, 37 W. 26th St.: Join your hosts Simone Assboeck & David Padilla for a WEEKLY Hustle & Latin party, 9:30pm til 12:45am, DJ Nelson “Paradise” Roman spinning the best in hustle & latin $9/PP; $5 for SO Students - Tonight’s Special is “2 for $15″ Admission: You & a New Friend MUST show up together to get this special admission price.

June 25, Wed - Pa - Michael’s Cafe for the best dance night of the week. DJ Mark spins the best in hustle, swing and Latin in between. Great dancers, friendly atmosphere. No cover, free parking. Dance 8:30P-12:30A, where Philly, NJ, NY goes to dance. Street Road in Bensalem, near Casino/Race track.

June 26, Thurs - NY - LATIN, HUSTLE, WCS at MIRELLE’S,!! 170 Post Ave, Westbury, Long Island, Presented by LOUIS DEL PRETE, 7:30PM to 11:30PM, Great Hot Buffet, 45 Min. WEST COAST SWING Dance Lesson starting at 7:30 w/Louis. State of the art sound system, Air Conditioned, Door Prizes, Cash Bar Available, Admission $14, call Louis (516) 819 - 9016. EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT!

June 27, Fri - NJ - DKN Dance Monthly Social, 8:00 to 9:00 Nightclub Lesson with Diane K Nardone, 9:00 to 1:00 Social Mixer. (Hustle Swing Salsa Country Ballroom) with DJ Dave Muzii, Cash Bar , no outside drinks in the Hall, New Admission: Only $15.00 Coffee N lite refreshments will be served Contact Diane for more info 201 666 6224 dkndance@verizon.net or visit our website www.dkndance.com

Stardust Dance Weekend June 27- 29th Upstate New York at the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa Kerhonkson, New York, Vegas caliber shows and food. Rates starting at $285 Includes dance workshops for all levels! (plus tax and gratuities) www.stardustdance.com/

June 27, Fri - NJ - SWING CITY MIX !! Brand New, Rob, Sheila & Sascha join up for a fun night of SWING!! WCS mix room and Lindy Mix room! Free parking! Check it out! $12 pp. The Atrium Rt 130, Pennsauken, www.robandsheiladance.com

June 27, Fri – Pa - Swing Dance at Swingkat, Ballroom on High; 2nd floor, 310 East High St., Pottstown, PA 19464, Beginner Jitterbug Lesson at 8 pm, New Moves at 8:45 pm, dance 9 pm - midnight - Lindy Hop, Balboa, East Coast Swing, Shag, Charleston, and more. DJ Kat Moyer. $10. More info available at 610-348-6727, www.swingkat.com

June 27, Fri - FL - Swing Dance A Little Lindy Plus! Dance Lindy Hop, East Coast, West Coast, & Blues w/Cindy. Dance Lesson at 8:00 to 9:00p. Social Dance from 9:00 to 11:00p. $10 , lesson included. SHALL WE DANCE, 600 South Federal Hwy, Suite 219, Deerfield Beach, 954-254-3221 or 561-495-7571

June 28, Sat - NY - BALLROOM, LATIN, HUSTLE, WCS, at DEER PARK V.F.W. 588 Long Island Ave. Deer Park, LI, Presented by LOUIS DEL PRETE, 8:00PM to 12:00AM, Coffee, Tea, Cake, Fruit & Veg.Platter! 40 Min. Dance Lesson at 8:00w/Louis. State of the art sound system, Air Conditioned, Door Prizes, 50/50 Raffle,Cash Bar Available, $14, call Louis for info (516) 819 - 9016

June 28, Sat - NJ - Highland Park Ballroom- Latin Dance Social with 2 hour latin workhop taugh by Dany Joshua, Hosted by Marc Liebeskind, Bachata 5:00 to 6:00 pm, ChaCha 6:10 to 7:10 pm, Ballroom–Latin Dance Social 7:30 to 11:30pm, $10 – Workshop or Social, $15 - for both , IM Gallery, 233 Raritan Ave, Highland Park http://hpds.webhop.org/IMGallery.htm Marc 201-320-9176, hpds@optonline.net

June 28, Sat. - NJ - Do the Hustle w/ Nelson “Paradise” Roman 9 pm-1am - Come Do the Hustle Great music, great company on a great floor. $12 or $10 w/ pass or print out Starlight Dance Center 7 High Street, Nutley, NJ 07110 973-235-9835 www.starlightdanceusa.com

June 28, Sat - PA Ballroom Dance at Swingkat, Ballroom on High; 2nd flr, 310 East High St., Pottstown, PA 19464, Argentine Tango Lessons at 7:30 pm & 8:15 pm with instructors & DJs Carol & Gene Wise, dance 9 pm - midnight, $10. More info available at 610-348-6727, www.swingkat.com

June 29, Sun-NY CANCELLED Lori Brizzi’s Millennium Hustle party at TAJ LOUNGE, see July 12th below.

Disco America July 4-6, 2008 Crown Plaza Valley Forge 260- Mall Blvd., King of Prussia, PA Hosted by Donna Boyle & Joyce Szili. This is the 10th Anniversary of DiscoAmerica: Dance Workshops, Social Dancing, after Dinner Show, Exhibitions & Championships, Pros: Nino Torre, Brian Gallagher, Lori Brizzi, Raye Avery, Silvana Gallagher, Wingo Hom, Stephanie Risser, Irene Griffin, Diane Nardone, Wendy & Wajih Dalal, Bobby Morales, Ron Bess, Elizabeth Darchi, Joe Kerner, Louis Orlando, Arte Phillips, Angela McCabe, Roberto Pagan, LoriAnne Greenhouse, Jameson Kilburn, Billy Marti, DJ Mark, Danny McGee, Kelvin Roche, Hazel & Tybaldt Ulrich. contact Donna J. Boyle - Donnaboyledisco@aol.com, Joyce Szili - JoyceDancr@aol.com www.discoamerica.com/

July 6, Sun - NJ - 100% Pure Hustle with Johnny O, New Summer Hours! 9 pm - 1 am, Great music, great company on a great floor. $12 or $10 with pass or print out - Starlight Dance Center 7 High Street, Nutley, NJ 973-235-9835 www.starlightdanceusa.com

Big Apple Country Dance Festival July 10 - 13, Renaissance Newark, NJ Airport Hotel, Hosted by Anthony Lee, On line Registration. Country, Swing, Hustle, Jack & Jill and Ballroom competitions, 50 different classes taught by the very best instructors, Dinner Show extravaganza packed w/ fabulous high-energy entertainment by top dancers, Swing, Hustle, Country Couples & Line Dance social dancing bigapplecountrydance.com Hotel reservations at 908-436-4600, http://bigapplecountrydance.com/

July 11, Fri - NJ - Dancing at the Crossroads, Dancing at the Sheraton Mahwah Crossroad Hotel Grand Ballroom, 1 International Blvd, Rt. 17 North, Mahwah. Doors open 7:30 pm, open dancing from 9 PM - Midnight admission includes Hustle lesson from 8 – 9 pm with Diane “Queen Bee” Nardone. Music by DJ’s Johnny O & Tom R, Exhibition from 9:15 – 9:30, Cash Bar & light refreshments. Advance tix $20.00 (201) 684 6792, at door $22.00. Speical overnight room rate ask when you call for tickets. Directions www.sheraton.com/mahwah questions Email William.Adamo@ihrco.com or catchthelight@hotmail.com

July 12, Sat - NJ - American DanceWheels Performance, Ocean County Library welcomes you to a free performance,demonstration and discussion of wheelchair ballroom dancing with a mini-lesson at 3:00 pm at Toms River South High School. Presented by the first & current United States Wheelchair Dancesport competition champions Melinda Kremer & Ray Leight. Free and open to the public. 55 Hyers Street in Toms River, NJ 08753, www.americandancewheels.org.

July 12, Sat - NYC - Lori Brizzi’s Millennium Hustle’s “SATURDAY NIGHT SPECIAL”. 3 DJ’s, 3 Rooms for dancing. DJ JOHNNY O-Hustle, DJ JEFF-Latin, DJ NOAH-Ballroom (Tango,Swing) $15 includes free class either hustle, latin or ballroom 8-9pm & Dancing 9pm-1am.Cash Bar. CLUB 412, 412 8th Ave bet. W30/31,4th Fl. 516 728-6101 loribrizzi@aol.com

Miami Dance Magic July 17 - 20, Miami Hyatt Regency Hosted by Debbie Lynn, first annual event. WC Swing, Hustle & Salsa. Triple Threat competition, Showtime Contest, WCS & Hustle Strictly, Pro/Am and Jack & Jill’s. Skippy Blair Summer Intensive. Workshops and continual social dancing. 2 ballrooms. Debra Lynn (954) 270 - 0232 MiamiDanceMagic@aol.com www.CoastalDanceConnection.com

July 19, Sat - Pa - California Mix @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, It’s the night for Hustle & WC Swing w/ a splash of Country 2-Step, Salsa, Cha Cha, and more. The most contemporary mix with a classic twist. Don’t miss out on this one! 7:30 Free Lesson w/Silvana Gallagher and an 8:30 Dance Party. Refreshments are included. $12.00 at the door.

July 19, Sat - NYC - Lori Brizzi’s Millennium Hustle’s “SATURDAY NIGHT SPECIAL”. 3 DJ’s, 3 Rooms for dancing. DJ NELSON ‘Paradise’ ROMAN-Hustle, DJ FRANKLIN AYALA-Latin, DJ MARK-Ballroom (Tango,Swing) $15 includes free class either hustle, latin or ballroom 8-9pm & Dancing 9pm-1am.Cash Bar. CLUB 412, 412 8th Ave bet. W30/31,4th Fl. 516 728-6101 or loribrizzi@aol.com

July 20, Sun - NJ - 100% Pure Hustle with Johnny O, New Summer Hours! 9 pm - 1 am Great music, great company on a great floor. $12 or $10 with pass or print out - Starlight Dance Center 7 High Street, Nutley, NJ 07110 973-235-9835 www.starlightdanceusa.com

World Hustle Dance Championships July 24 - 27 The 8th Annual hustle competition returns to East Brunswick New Jersey. Host Diane Nardone brings hustle, Swing, Salsa, Ballroom & country to the Hilton East Brunswick, 3 Tower Center Boulevard, East Brunswick. Lots of great workshops, competitions, a FABULOUS dinner/show and much more! Vendors will be available throughout the entire event! Visit www.hustledanceworld.com for regular updates and to register on-line!

July 26, Sat - PA - Salsa Rendezvous @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown,PA. Salsa Caliente w/ Merengue, Bachatta, and Cha Cha mix in for an all out dance party. 7:30 free Salsa lesson w/Victor Colon and an 8:30 Dance Party. Refreshments are included. $12.00 at the door. Subscribe to our E-Newsletter, coupons and more. Subscription has it’s privileges.

Aug 8, 9 & 10 - Mario “Swing Daddy” visits the Del Val area! Rob & Sheila Dance bring Mario in for workshops & Got Swing? More info coming soon. Save the DATE!! Rob and Sheila Rob: 609-519-0793 or 856-858-6753 Sheila: bpurkey@yahoo.com Rob: djrob01@comcast.net

Grand Pacific Dance Championships, AUG 14-18, 2008 San Jose California. A new dance event hosted by Billy Fajardo, Raul Ante & Debra Hampton. The Doubletree San Jose, 2050 Gateway Place, San Jose, Rooms available at rate of $105.00 p/night. Reservations accepted May 18th. ph (408) 453-4000, fx (408)437-2898 1-800-222-TREE www.doubletreesanjose.com http://grandpacificdance.com/

New York Hustle Congress August 28 - September 1, 2008 The 4th Annual hustle event in New York City. Hosted by Lori Brizzi This is a Hustle weekend with more social dance time then any other event. Featuring the incomparable Trampps performing live, DJ Jenny Costa, Jack & Jill competitions and more at the Hilton. 1800Hilton, mention SAL before rooms sell out. (516) 728 - 6101 Loribrizzi@aol.com www.nyhustlecongress.com

Hudson Swing Affair August 29 - Sept 1, 2008 Hyatt Regency, Jersey City on the Hudson, presented by John Festa. WCSwing Social Dance Event w/instructors Ramiro Gonzalez, John Lindo, Mary Ann Nunez, Sylvia Sykes, Charlie Womble & Jackie McGee. www.HudsonSwingAffair.com or212 779 - 2700

International Dance Cruise - Oct 10 - 16th, 2008 on the Queen Mary 2, Six day cruise, enjoy a complete dance program for ballroom enthusiasts. The largest grand ballroom at sea, Live Big band and DJ, 3 cocktail parties, 3 formal balls, dance workshops w/championship instructors and demonstrations. Rates start at $1,499pp for details call 754-246-2874 www.BallroomCruise.com

Swing City Chicago Oct 31 - Nov 2nd, 2008 At the Westin Lombard Hotel in Chicago. The perfect spot for a Halloween weekend. Jack & Jill, Strictly Swing and DJ Challenge, plus a pro-show/Exhibition, Friday night Pizza Party and Saturday, late night buffet. Come join Maren, Jason Barnes, Erica Berg, Bill Cameron, Jason Miklic, Fred & Tina Price, Mario Robau Jr, Mike Topel for an incredible fun weekend of dancing. For more details and registration information visit: www.Swingcitychicago.com

Mediterranean Dance Cruise, November 17th - 29th 2008, A once in a life time event, on the Queen Victoria for 12 wonderful days starting in Athens and stops in Volos, Greece – Dikili, Istanbul, & Kusadasi Turkey, Port Said & Alexandria Egypt - Valetta in Malta - Messina Naples and ending in Rome, Italy. From about $2200 for the cruise, prior Cunard guests may get better rates. Call for lowest rates. This cruise is selling out fast. 25% of cruise fare due at cabin assignment & final payment due Aug.12, 2008. All prices per person based on double occupancy & include special dance events open to our group only. Call 215-855-2711 or info@blsdc.com for more information and a brochure.

Stardust Dance Cruise III January 25 - February 1, 2009 7 nights on Costa Cruise Line’s 5-Star Costa Fortuna, now accepting reservations, Departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Sunday: Fort Lauderdale, Mon. - Key West, Tues.- Cozumel, Mexico, Wed. - at Sea, Thurs. - Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Fri. - Grand Cayman Island, Saturday - At Sea, Sunday back to Fort Lauderdale, www.stardustdancecruises.com

To celebrate the upcoming 10th Anniversary of Disco America, let’s take a look back courtesy of the Disco America doyenne, Donna Boyle. Maybe some kind folks will log on and name some of these very, very familiar faces…hmmm…

Make your reservations and register for Disco America today; taking place July 4th-6th at Crown Plaza Valley Forge at King of Prussia Mall. The Dinner show choreographed by Arte Phillips is called “Happy Feet, 10 years of Joy!”

Some of the invited Pros are: Brian Gallagher, Raye Avery, Silvana Gallagher, Stephanie Risser, Irene Griffin, Diane Nardone, Ron Bess, Elizabeth Darchi, Joe Kerner, Louis Orlando, Arte Phillips, Angela McCabe, Roberto Pagan, LoriAnne Greenhouse, Kelvin Roche, Hazel & Tybaldt Ulrich.

Please keep all our friends and dance buddies from Iowa and Mississippi in your thoughts and prayers as they deal with the deadly floods.

Happy birthday wishes to Karen Lupo, Mark Rappa, Jimmie Billups, Billy Marti, John Festa, Carol Feldman and Louise Symington.

Twenty-one years ago, the premier dancer of the 20th century passed away. Fred Astaire did it all. Pick up one of his classic DVDs and experience him in action for yourself. A true triple threat.

Congratulations to Renne & Dominick Ali, they took the plunge. To view photos from their wedding see here.

Joey Lawrence is the host of “Masters Of Dance,” an amateur reality show putting contestants to the free style dance test, Mondays at 8PM EST on TLC.

The Philly Sound Works has just posted its new store on eBay. Lots of great products for sale: classic vinyl, CDs and auctions for rare 12″ vinyl as well. All the new products from Vince Montana Jr. (Godfather of Disco) will be featured there first. Visit http://stores.ebay.com/Philly-Sound-Works

Cashing in, another dance reality show? ABC TV launches their newest show, Dance Machine, starting June 27th, 8PM EST.

For photos from Mona Walker’s birthday party at the Palladium, in Florida, courtesy of Ed Viera, go here.

This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by The Big Apple, read all about this exciting event below. http://bigapplecountrydance.com/

Make it a great week,
Ron

The Big Apple
The long running event for all styles of dance returns to Newark New, Jersey. Kick your heels and grab your hat for this years Big Apple Country Dance Festival. One of the biggest shin digs of the year takes place July 10–13th at the Renaissance Newark Airport Hotel, at the Newark Airport. Conveniently located only minutes from Manhattan. Country, Hustle and swing dancers all meet for this fascinating weekend of dance. It wount be the same without you…so book your room now at 908-436-4600. There will be all levels of workshops and competitions with many new divisions this year. The Big Apple has something for everyone. Challenge your self to learn the fundamentals of a new dance. They are offering special deals for newcomer line dancers as well. For the competitions, there is Just dancing newcomer and the new ProAm newcomer, where you get to dance out on the floor with the 3 DANCE-A-TEERS. There will be many professionals on the floor helping to acclimate the new dancers. They will also be hosting a Weekend Warrior Dance. This is where the pros help the dancers all get together, learn a performance dance (in about 2 hours) and then go out and perform as a team on the floor. It doesn’t get anymore exciting then that. Also, new this year at the Big Apple is “Dance with a Pro.” This is a fun way to dance w/ an advanced dancer & put your new skills to the test in 2-step or West Coast Swing. You will meet your partner Friday night, get a chance to practice a bit; then out on the floor Saturday morning. The invited professional Staff includes: World renowned instructors, judges & performers: Sam Arvidson, Mona Brandt, Bob Bahrs & Paula Graves, Brian Barakauskas Jeff Bartholomew, Barry Durand, Dean & Dawn Garrish, Dave Getty, Sloan Hansen & Gretchen Lutz, Rex & Rachel Jones, Gary McIntyre & Susan Kirklin, Cody Melin, Toby & Harmony Munroe, John Knapp & Meredith Stead, Diane K. Nardone, Roberto Pagan, Debbie Paulhus, Robert & Nicola Royston, Clive Stevens, Shawn Swaithes & Donna Bonham Steinfeld, John & Dee Soares, Kathy St. Jean & Randy Deats, Albert & Antoinette Tailleur, Mike Wagner, & John Whipple. 2008 World Champions on Staff: Line Dance Male SuperStars-Brian Barakauskas, Couples Open 1 Showcase-Rex & Rachel Jones, couples Open 1 Advanced-Sloane Hansen & Gretchen Lutz, World Invitational Showcase Swing-Gary McIntyre & Susan Kirklin. These top teachers will be hosting 50 different classes & as always, the incredible Dinner Show extravaganza is packed w/ fabulous high energy entertainment by top dancers. So if you like to dance, watch, learn new steps or just be entertained this years Big Apple is for you. Hotel reservations at 908-436-4600, http://bigapplecountrydance.com/

Time Capsule
30 years ago, our country had a different landscape. The population was 80 million less then it is today. A peanut farmer by the name of Jimmy Carter was in the White house and the Dallas Cowboys won the Superbowl. Somehow, New York is always on peoples minds as the disco era was front page news. The NY Yankees would go on to win the baseball World Series and in the world series of dance, Tony and Susan Marolda would capture first place honors at the Harvest Moon Ball in the All Around and Hustle divisions. We would lose a gifted artist Norman Rockwell who looked at America and painted his expressions like no buddy else could. Tragedy struck when Pope Paul VI died, then unexpectedly the new Pope, John Paul I, would pass only 34 days in office. It was a year of ups and down. The movie box office rang big with ” The Buddy Holly Story”, “Coming Home”, ” The Deer Hunter” “Halloween”, “Heaven Can Wait” , “Midnight Express” and “National Lampoon’s Animal House”. The country had the dance fever. The top dance album sales in June of 1978 in Los Angeles and San Diego were:

1. Come Into My Heart USA-European Connection
2. Voyage - Voyage
3. Rio De Janeiro - Gary Criss
4. If My Friends Could See Me Now - Linda Clifford
5. Romeo & Juliet - Alec R Constindinos & the Symphonic Orchestra
6. Gimme Some Lovin - Kongos
7. Macho Man - Village People
8. Let’s All Chant - Michael Zaeger Band
9. West Side Story - Salsoul Orchestra
10. Sloth - Lawin Rinder & Michael Lewis
11. Dance With Me - Peter Brown
12. Play With Me - Sandy Mercer
13. Lets Get Together - Detroit Emeralds
14. Gettin the Spirit - Roberta Kelly
15. Risky Changes - Bionic Boogie

Letters to the Editor
(our goal is to post readers letters twice a month, unfortunately due to space limitations we cannot publish them all)

Hi there Ron:
I’m a fairly new reader and do enjoy your on line publication. I was wondering when does the ‘readers choice awards’ take place? How do readers vote and when?
Thank you
Karen
Response from Editor:
It is held on an annual basis each October. We include a ballot in DanceTalk for all readers to participate and vote for their favorites.

I would like to comment about this past weeks tv show so you think you can dance. I think it is a great show. I really enjoy watching it. this past week they had disco. One couple had to do a disco routine. As one of the people that has written into you has said - the disco thing is always cheesy, pretty much making fun of the dance and the era. I know that the dance is the hustle but the name disco is still added and gives the dance a bad name. As much as I love hustle, it was the worst part of the tv show on so you think you can dance.
Thanks,
Harris Sulken

Ron, I wanted to respond to Paul Jones letter about “Marketing Hustle”. To sum up, Paul makes two assertions common from the NY styled dance crowd lately: 1.) Use current music 2.) Get our dance out there where kids can see it. I respond - Using current music would change nothing, because tired, slow music of any generation will never get young people away from the faster more exciting Lindy, Salsa or the night clubs of today. West coasters use current music, but having a faster dance than hustle - have more musical choices and a larger following - but NOTHING like when hustle was done at club speeds in the late 70’s. Putting NY styled Hustle out where it can be seen has been tried folks. And when we have done it, it was fatal. Kids at the competitions see hustle and west coast together, and pick west coast every time. If you put NY styled Hustle on TV, or in the clubs, it would poison the well so kids seeing it would never give any other hustle style a chance. After you demonstrate how completely “out of touch” we really are to kids even one time - they’ll never give you another chance. Best bet - keep NY style a useful “secret”, so people doing faster hustle styles that DO have a shot with the young can be seen and actually succeed.
David Flynn

Hi Dancetalk,
I can’t believe the story on David Padillia. Just when you think you know someone, then, bang. Oh my God. I knew David had been dancing for a long time but I had no idea he was on the Dance Fever show. We watched that show religiously, every week. I gots to see that video. Great job to let everyone know about David and what he has done for the hustle dance.
Peace
Robert

Good morning Ron
Greetings from Charlotte, I enjoy your newsletter and wanted to throw out a question to your readers. I attended the Brunswick New Jersey Campus for Rutgers Univ. I graduated in 1984 and spent just about every spare minute going dancing at the clubs in Woodbridge, Brunswick, Elizabeth and Nutley, NJ. I even danced in a contest at a place called 3 Brothers and took first place. I got to know a lot of the hustle dancers back then and just every now I wonder how they are doing? So basically this is a shout out to Gail (pretty blonde) and an incredible dancer Butchie, (tall, black gentlemen). They really helped me make it thru school when I was basically home sick and blue. They were four years of the best times in my life. Should they contact you, or anyone knows their where abouts, please forward them my contact information.
Thank you so much Ron,
Mary from Charlotte

Auditions, Competitions, Socials, Cruises & More…

June 16, Mon - NY - Dancesport - Legendary Hustle Mondays at Paul Pellicoro’s DanceSport, with DJ Donnie Sheilds, 9:30PM -$10 admission; DS registered students free. 22 West 34th St East Entrance 4th Fl between 5th & 6th avenues. www.dancesport.com for more information.

June 17, Tue – FL – Hustle/Salsa Party every Tuesday with DJ Noel C at the Paladium Night Club in Margate, Florida. Dance from 9PM to 1AM to some of the best Hustle, Free Style, Club Classics and Salsa music. The Paladium is Located in the Pepper Tree Plaza on the SE corner of Sample Rd and 441. Admission is $5. for more info call: Noel (954) 868-7505

Jun 17, Tues - NY - IBBG, Celebrating Robert Lawrence’s Birthday. Lina will be bringing the cake. Also visiting are Jeannie and Barry. IBBG, “The Original Tuesday Night Hustle Party” Spacious Dance Floor, DJ Chris playing the best of old & new Hustle with a dash of Latin & WCS hosted by Doreen. 50/50 Raffle & door prizes. 1100 Stewart Ave. Garden City, Exit M3W off Meadowbrook 9 PM. Only $8

June 17, Tues - NY - HOT LATIN, WCS & HUSTLE TUESDAYS at CLUB 56 (56th Fighter Group Restaurant/Lounge, Rt. 110 at Republic Airport, Farmingdale, 7:00 to 11:00 PM, $14 includes Hot & Cold Buffet Dinner, free water, HUSTLE Lesson by JOSE BOLIVAR, door prizes & dancing to a Salsa, WC Swing & Hustle Dance Mix by DJ Cody. (631) 744-7777 www.LIDance.org

June 18, Wed - NY - “HUSTLEJAM” @ Stepping Out Studios, 37 W. 26th St.: Join your hosts Simone Assboeck & David Padilla for a WEEKLY Hustle & amp; Latin party, 9:30pm til 12:45am, DJ Nelson “Paradise” Roman spinning the best in hustle & latin $9/PP; $5 for SO Students - Tonight’s Special is “Dancers Request Hour”: 60 minutes of your requested songs.

June 18, Wed - NJ - Westie Wednesday! mostly WCS with a little Shag, NC2 and Country 2. JACK & JILL contest tonight! No entry fee - prizes! $5. Free parking. Snacks. Atrium, Pennsauken, NJ. www.robandsheiladance.com

June 18, Wed - NJ - DKN Dance, NJ Knights of Columbus 16-16 N Maple Ave, Fairlawn with Diane K Nardone, two great Hustle lessons & social dancing, 7:30pm to 8:30PM Beg. Hustle, 8:30PM to 9:15PM 1st half of practice social, 9:15PM to 10:15PM Inter/ Adv. Hustle, 10:15PM to 11:30PM 2nd half of social. 1 Class $10, 1 Class & Social $15, 2 Classes & Social $23, Social only $7. Contact Diane for info 201 666 6224 dkndance@verizon.net or visit our website www.dkndance.com

June 18, Wed - Pa - Michael’s Cafe for the dance night of the week. DJ Mark spins the best in hustle, Swing & Latin in between. Party starts at 8:30PM no cover, free parking. This is where dancers from the tri state area hang out. Located on Street Road in Bensalem near the Race track/Casino.

June 19, Thurs - NY - LATIN, HUSTLE, WCS at MIRELLE’S,!! 170 Post Ave, Westbury, Long Island, Presented by LOUIS DEL PRETE, 7:30PM to 11:30PM, Great Hot Buffet, 45 Min. HUSTLE Dance Lesson starting at 7:30w/Louis. State of the art sound system, Air Conditioned, Door Prizes, Cash Bar Available, Admission $14, call Louis (516) 819 - 9016. THIS EVENT RUNS EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT!

June 20, Fri. – Swing Dance at Swingkat, Ballroom on High; 2nd floor, 310 East High St., Pottstown, Beginner Jitterbug Lesson at 8 p, New Moves at 8:45 p, dance 9 p-midnight Lindy Hop, Balboa, East Coast Swing, Shag, Charleston, & more. DJ $10. More info at 610-348-6727, www.swingkat.com

June 20, Fri - NJ - The Watermelon Dance! The Del Val Shag & Swing Club’s monthly dance. Rob & Sheila teach NC2 at this one. Mostly Shag and WCS but we’ll add in a little NC2 here. $8 members; $11 non members. Everyone welcome. FREE parking. www.delvalshag.org

June 20, Fri-FL - Swing Dance A Little Lindy Plus! Dance Lindy Hop, East Coast, West Coast, & Blues w/ Cindy. Dance Lesson 8:00 to 9:00 PM. Social Dance from 9:00 to late night. $10 , lesson included. SHALL WE DANCE, 600 South Federal Hwy, Suite 219, Deerfield Beach, 954-254-3221 or 561-495-7571

June 21, Sat - NYC Lori Brizzi’s Millennium Hustle’s “SATURDAY NIGHT SPECIAL”. 3 DJ’s, 3 Rooms for dancing. DJ NELSON ‘Paradise’ ROMAN-Hustle, DJ FRANKLIN AYALA-Latin, DJ MARK-Ballroom Tango, Swing $15 includes free class either hustle, latin or ballroom 8-9pm & Dancing 9pm-1am.Cash Bar. CLUB 412, 412 8th Ave bet. W30/31,4th Fl. 516 728-6101 www.loribrizzi.com or loribrizzi@aol.com

June 21, Sat - PA - “California Mix @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown: DJ JR mixes Hustle & WCS w/ a splash of Salsa, Country 2 Step, Waltz, Night Club Two & more Hustle and WC Swing: starting with a 7:30 Free C2Step Lesson and an 8:30 PM dance party w/refreshments. Every 3rd Sat) $12.00 at the door.

June 21, Sat - Pa - Televised Live Music Event at Sunnybrook Ballroom, Pottstown, PA 19464, lesson at 8 pm, dance 9 pm - midnight with the great live music of the Slicked Up Nines, $15. More info available at 610-348-6727, www.swingkat.com

June 21, Sat - Pa - Carousel Ballroom Dance at Swingkat, Ballroom on High; 2nd floor, 310 East High St., Pottstown, Lessons at 7:30 pm & 8:15 pm, dance 9 pm - midnight - Instructor & DJ Carlos Maldonado. $10. More info available at 610-348-6727, www.swingkat.com

June 21, Sat - NY - BALLROOM, LATIN, HUSTLE, WCS at SURBURBAN TEMPLE, 2900 Jerusalem Ave. Wantagh, Long Island, Presented by LOUIS DEL PRETE, 8:30PM to 12:30AM, Coffee, Tea, Cake, & Bagels! 30 Min. FOXTROT Dance Lesson starting at 8:30pm. Great Show!! State of the art sound system, Air Conditioned, Door Prizes, Admission $15, call Louis at (516) 819 - 9016

June 22, Sun - NY - BALLROOM, LATIN, HUSTLE, WCS, at DEER PARK V.F.W. 588 Long Island Ave. Deer Park, LI, Presented by LOUIS DEL PRETE, 7:00PM to 11:00PM, Coffee, Tea, Cake, Fruit & Veg.Platter! 40 Min. Dance Lesson at 7:00w/Louis. State of the art sound system, Air Conditioned, Door Prizes, 50/50 Raffle,Cash Bar Available, $13, call Louis for info (516) 819 - 9016

June 24, Tues - NY - LIDANCE 8th Anniversary Party at CLUB 56 (56th Fighter Group Restaurant Lounge, Rt. 110 at Republic Airport, Farmingdale, 7:00 to 11:00 PM, Only $10 includes Showcase Performance, Hot & Cold Buffet Dinner, free water, HUSTLE Lesson by JOSE BOLIVAR, door prizes & dancing to a Salsa, WC Swing & Hustle Dance Mix by DJ Cody. (631) 744-7777 www.LIDance.org

June 25, Wed - NJ - - Westie Wednesday! mostly WCS with a little Shag, NC2 and Country 2. $5. Free parking. Snacks. Atrium, Pennsauken, NJ. www.robandsheiladance.com

June 27, Fri - NJ - DKN Dance Monthly Social, 8:00 to 9:00 Nightclub Lesson with Diane K Nardone, 9:00 to 1:00 Social Mixer. (Hustle Swing Salsa Country Ballroom) with DJ Dave Muzii, Cash Bar , no outside drinks in the Hall, New Admission: Only $15.00 Coffee N lite refreshments will be served Contact Diane for info 201 666 6224 dkndance@verizon.net or visit our website www.dkndance.com

Stardust Dance Weekend June 27- 29th Upstate New York at the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa Kerhonkson, New York, Vegas caliber shows and food. Rates starting at $285 Includes dance workshops for all levels! (plus tax and gratuities) http://www.stardustdance.com/

June 27, Fri - NJ - SWING CITY MIX !! Brand New, Rob, Sheila & Sascha join up for a fun night of SWING!! WCS mix room and Lindy Mix room! Free parking! Check it out! $12 pp. The Atrium Rt 130, Pennsauken, www.robandsheiladance.com

June 27, Fri – Pa - Swing Dance at Swingkat, Ballroom on High; 2nd floor, 310 East High St., Pottstown, PA 19464, Beginner Jitterbug Lesson at 8 pm, New Moves at 8:45 pm, dance 9 pm - midnight - Lindy Hop, Balboa, East Coast Swing, Shag, Charleston, and more. DJ Kat Moyer. $10. More info available at 610-348-6727, www.swingkat.com

June 28, Sat - NJ - Highland Park Ballroom Latin Dance Social w/ 2 hour latin workhop taughy by Dany Joshua, Hosted by Marc Liebeskind, Bachata 5:00 to 6:00 pm, ChaCha 6:10 to 7:10 pm, Ballroom Latin Dance Social 7:30 to 11:30pm, $10 – Workshop or Social, $15-for both , IM Gallery, 233 Raritan Ave, Highland Park , http://hpds.webhop.org/IMGallery.htm Marc 201-320-9176, hpds@optonline.net

June 28, Sat. - NJ - Do the Hustle with Nelson “Paradise” Roman 9 pm - 1am - Come Do the Hustle - Great music, great c ompany on a great floor. $12 or $10 with pass or print out - Starlight Dance Center 7 High Street, Nutley, NJ 07110 973-235-9835 http://www.starlightdanceusa.com

June 28, Sat - Pa - Ballroom Dance at Swingkat, Ballroom on High; 2nd floor, 310 East High St., Pottstown, PA 19464, Argentine Tango Lessons at 7:30 pm & 8:15 pm with instructors & DJs Carol & Gene Wise, dance 9 pm - midnight, $10. More info available at 610-348-6727, www.swingkat.com

June 28, Sat - NY - BALLROOM, LATIN, HUSTLE, WCS, at DEER PARK V.F.W. 588 Long Island Ave. Deer Park, LI, Presented by LOUIS DEL PRETE, 8:00PM to 12:00AM, Coffee, Tea, Cake, Fruit & Veg.Platter! 40 Min. Dance Lesson at 8:00w/Louis. State of the art sound system, Air Conditioned, Door Prizes, 50/50 Raffle,Cash Bar Available, $14, call Louis for info (516) 819 - 9016

June 29, Sun - NY - Lori Brizzi’s Millennium Hustle party at the TAJ LOUNGE, 5pm-10pm. Celebrate all June birthdays including Franklin Ayala & Lori Brizzi. The club has been renovated. Performances, Hustle DJ HERB MARTIN, Salsa DJ FRANKLIN AYALA, 5 hours of Hustle & Salsa dancing. Only $10 admission. 2 for 1 drinks 5pm-6:30pm. 48 W. 21st St. bet 5th/6th Aves. www.tajlounge.com or call lori at 516 728-6101 or email loribrizzi@aol.com for more info

Disco America July 4-6, 2008 Crown Plaza Valley Forge 260 Mall Blvd., King of Prussia, PA Hosted by Donna J. Boyle & Joyce Szili. This is the 10th Anniversary of DiscoAmerica: Dance Workshops, Social Dancing, after Dinner Show, Exhibitions & Championships, Pros: Nino Torre, Brian Gallagher, Lori Brizzi, Raye Avery, Silvana Gallagher, Wingo Hom, Stephanie Risser, Irene Griffin, Diane Nardone, Wendy & Wajih Dalal, Ron Bess, Elizabeth Darchi, Joe Kerner, Louis Orlando, Arte Phillips, Angela McCabe, Roberto Pagan, LoriAnne Greenhouse, Jameson Kilburn, Billy Marti, Danny McGee, Kelvin Roche, Hazel & Tybaldt Ulrich. contact Donna Boyle-Donnaboyledisco@aol.com, Joyce Szili - JoyceDancr@aol.com http://www.discoamerica.com/

Big Apple Country Dance Festival July 10 - 13, Renaissance Newark, NJ Airport Hotel, Hosted by Anthony Lee, On line Registration. Country, Swing, Hustle, Jack & Jill Ballroom competitions, 50 different classes taught by the very best instructors, Dinner Show extravaganza packed with fabulous high-energy entertainment by top dancers, Swing, Hustle, Country Couples & Line Dance social dancing Hotel reservations at 908-436-4600, http://bigapplecountrydance.com/

July 11, Fri NJ Dancing at the Crossroads, Dancing at the Sheraton Mahwah Crossroad Hotel Grand Ballroom, 1 International Blvd, Rt. 17 North, Mahwah. Doors open 7:30 p, open dancing 9 p-Midnight admission includes Hustle lesson from 8–9 pm w/ Diane “Queen Bee” Nardone. Music by DJ’s Johnny O & Tom R, Exhibition 9:15–9:30, Cash Bar & light refreshments. Adv tix $20.00 call 201 684 6792, @ door $22.00. Special overnight room rate ask when you call for tix. Directions www.sheraton.com/mahwah questions Email William.Adamo@ihrco.com or catchthelight@hotmail.com

July 12, Sat - NJ - American DanceWheels Performance, Ocean County Library welcomes you to a free performance,demonstration and discussion of wheelchair ballroom dancing with a mini-lesson at 3:00 pm at Toms River South High School. Presented by the first & current United States Wheelchair Dancesport competition champions Melinda Kremer & Ray Leight. Free and open to the public. 55 Hyers Street in Toms River, NJ 08753, www.americandancewheels.org.

Miami Dance Magic July 17 - 20, Miami Hyatt Regency Hosted by Debbie Lynn, first annual event. West Coast Swing, Hustle & Salsa. Triple Threat competition, Showtime Contest, WCS & Hustle Strictly, Pro/Am & Jack + Jill’s. Skippy Blair Summer Intensive. Workshops j& continual social dancing. 2 ballrooms Debra Lynn (954) 270-0232 MiamiDanceMagic@aol.com www.CoastalDanceConnection.com

World Hustle Dance Championships July 24 - 27 The 8th Annual hustle competition returns to East Brunswick New Jersey. Host Diane Nardone brings hustle, Swing, Salsa, Ballroom and country to the Hilton East Brunswick, Three Tower Center Boulevard, East Brunswick. Lots of great workshops, competitions, a FABULOUS dinner/show and much more! Vendors will be available throughout the entire event! Visit www.hustledanceworld.com for regular updates and to register on-line!

Aug 8, 9 & 10 Mario “Swing Daddy” visits the Del Val area! Rob & Sheila Dance bring Mario in for workshops & Got Swing? More info coming soon. Save the date! Rob & Sheila Rob: 609-519-0793 or 856-858-6753 Sheila:bpurkey@yahoo.com Rob:djrob01@comcast.net www.robandsheiladance.com

Grand Pacific Dance Championships, AUG 14-18, 2008 San Jose California. A new dance event hosted by Billy Fajardo, Raul Ante & Debra Hampton. The Doubletree Hotel San Jose, 2050 Gateway Place, San Jose, Rooms available at $105.00 p/night. Reservations accepted starting May 18th. ph 408-453-4000, fx 408-437-2898 or 1-800-222-TREE www.doubletreesanjose.com http://grandpacificdance.com/

New York Hustle Congress August 28 - September 1, 2008 The 4th Annual hustle event in New York City. Hosted by Lori Brizzi This is a Hustle weekend with more social dance time then any other event. Featuring Jack & Jill competitions and more at the Hilton. 1800Hilton, mention SAL before rooms sell out. (516) 728 - 6101 Loribrizzi@aol.com www.nyhustlecongress.com

Hudson Swing Affair Aug 29 - Sept 1, 2008 Hyatt Regency, Jersey City on the Hudson, presented by John Festa. West Coast Swing Social Dance Event w/instructors Ramiro Gonzalez, John Lindo, Mary Ann Nunez, Sylvia Sykes, Charlie Womble & Jackie McGee. Visit www.HudsonSwingAffair.com or call 212 779-2700

International Dance Cruise - Oct 10 - 16th, 2008 on the Queen Mary 2, Six day cruise, enjoy a complete dance program for ballroom enthusiasts. The largest grand ballroom at sea, Live Big band & DJ, 3 cocktail parties, 3 formal balls, workshops w/championship instructors and demonstrations. Rates start at $1,499pp for details call 754-246-2874 www.BallroomCruise.com

Swing City Chicago Oct 31 - Nov 2nd, 2008 At the Westin Lombard Hotel in Chicago. The perfect spot for a Halloween wee kend. Jack & Jill, Strictly Swing and DJ Challenge, plus a pro-show/Exhibition, Friday night Pizza Party and Saturday, late night buffet. Come join Maren, Jason Barnes, Erica Berg, Bill Cameron, Jason Miklic, Fred & Tina Price, Mario Robau Jr, Mike Topel for an incredible fun weekend of dancing. For more details and registration information visit: www.Swingcitychicago.com

Mediterranean Dance Cruise, November 17th - 29th 2008, A once in a life time event, on the Queen Victoria for 12 wonderful days starting in Athens & stops in Volos, Greece–Dikili, Istanbul, & Kusadasi Turkey, Port Said & Alexandria Egypt-Valetta in Malta-Messina Naples and ending in Rome, Italy. From $2200 for the cruise, prior Cunard guests may get better rates. Call for lowest rates. This cruise is selling out fast. 25% of cruise fare due at cabin assignment & final payment due Aug.12, 2008. All prices per person based on double occupancy & include special dance events open to our group only. Call 215-855-2711 or info@blsdc.com for more information and a brochure.

Stardust Dance Cruise III Jan 25 - Feb 1, 2009 7 nights on Costa Cruise Line’s 5-Star Costa Fortuna, now accepting reservations, Departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Sunday: Ft Lauderdale, Mon.-Key West, Tues.-Cozumel, Mexico, Wed.-at Sea, Thurs.-Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Fri. - Grand Cayman Island, Saturday-At Sea, Sunday-back to Ft Lauderdale, http://www.stardustdancecruises.com/

Check out Hustle Professional Louis Orlando being led by Stanley Smolanowicz, taken from Madjam 2008, earlier this Spring. Louis is widely known as a favorite lead by many of the top Pro and Amateur Hustle dancers, but here he shows he can dance the role of the follow just as well, you go Louie - do it!

The Hustle community is evolving and growing. At thehustlelounge.com we have new dancers inquiring about private lessons, studios and events in their town as well as dancers visiting the site and inquiring from over 50 countries worldwide.

Recently Hustle Pros Raul Santiago & Sergia Anderson performed their Salsa routine at Steven’s Steakhouse in Commerce, CA (a Salsa venue); they were requested to perform their Hustle routine by a large part of the audience who knew of their Hustle routine; the younger generation of Salsa dancers are discovering Hustle.

Watch for an upcoming post on the Hustle’s relationship with Salsa.

Happy birthday wishes to Mona Walker, Ginny Carey, John Merisier, Robert Lawrence, Margaret Tuttle, Rick Barney and Shawn Brennan.

Marie Izzo has informed us that “Lydia Lee Aiello has lost her year-long battle with breast cancer. Lydia Lee worked for Dale Dance Studios along with Henry Dior for many years. Many of us worked with her, in the day, and have many fond memories. She was one of a kind, an original dance diva. She is survived by her son, his wife & her beloved grandchildren. In the end, she was a believer so she has gone to be with her Lord. She was a dear friend & will be missed by all who knew her”.

Dance professional Minnie Ruiz has relocated to San Diego, and is now teaching at Champion Ballroom Academy, (619) 291-7722. We wish her the best of luck.

June 20th, Friday, is the next amateur dance contest at Zachary’s in Long Island, NY, the home of the $1000. in cash and prizes contest.

It’s round two for Randy Jackson’s Battle of the Crews dance competition. The second season returns on June 19th, Thursday nights, 10PM, EST on MTV.

[Read more →]

Derrick Allen bears the grace and style of Fred Astaire with the confidence and realness of the streets of New York. Derrick’s strength is his consistency of dance, regardless of the time he has spent out of dancing. Here is a video of Derrick dancing with Donna De Simone for which they won the Pro Open Theatre Arts category at the 2006 NY Hustle Congress.

Here’s the Q&A:

Q - Derrick, how did you become interested in dancing?

Derrick - Actually I was into playing football and my sister was studying dance; I had to take her to dance school everyday and I did. I would sit there at her class watching and basically absorbing; my sister’s dance teacher was the principal dancer of the Alvin Ailey Dance Company at the time. It was incredible exposure for me and eventually, I came to really like the idea of dancing.

Q - So what made you want to dance Hustle?

Derrick - At the time, as a young guy in High School and towards graduation in the mid 70’s, Latin Hustle was a pop dance. You learned cause, that’s where the girls were [laughs], if you didn’t learn it, you were gonna stand around all night [laughs]. So it was do or die, go to clubs, dance; that’s what it was about, people danced. I didn’t choose Hustle, Hustle chose me; and it’s a great dance, plus its a touch dance, a partner dance. I kinda evolved from social dancing to competitive from around that point in my life.

Q - So tell me about the transition to competing and what are some of the highlights of your competitive career?

Derrick - Competing was also something I sort of slipped into, I hadn’t thought of competing or set that as a goal. A friend of mine named Keith, he was an attorney; I saw him compete at a small club in Queens called Seconds and later on that night he saw me dance and pushed me to compete.

Q - What year was that Derrick?

Derrick - That was in ‘77, and I didn’t start competing right away but I started dancing more seriously and I started looking for a partner; and the funny thing, the very first person I asked to partner with me was Lisa, Lisa Nunziella. We were at a small club in Queens, right on Queens Boulevard…

Q - Which club was it?

Derrick - Oh, wow, it was in the Woodhaven, Ridgeway section of Queens, a real small club, I don’t remember the name, Lisa probably would. Anyway, She didn’t know who I was, and I didn’t know who she was. She was at a club and I saw her dancing and she was the right height, size and frame, ya know to partner with me me and I saw her dance and I thought ‘Wow, she’s really good’. So I finally walked up and asked her to dance and she said no thank you. I explained to her I was looking for a dance partner, and she politely declined, but it was just a fluke and she probably didn’t even remember that happened. Right behind that was the contest at Cherries and I couldn’t find a partner so I taught my girlfriend at the time some of my moves; I know how put some stuff together from watching my sister and we did it, we danced to and ended up winning Cherries, we won the two cars. That was my first contest and from there I took it more seriously.

Q - So what ever became of you and Lisa Nunziella dancing together?

Derrick - Well, back in the day, when you made a name for yourself dancing, the small clubs would hire you to come out and dance and I remember I used to get hired alot by Philips Dance Studio and I would see Lisa’s mother there a lot and she would often comment that Lisa and I would make such a good team together. I remember her so fondly and to this day, Lisa tells me her mother still remembers me; But yeah, we never ending up partnering together, even though we are so fond of each other to this day. Eventually she asked me to fill in and partner with her, but I couldn’t because of my partner, but we love each other and she’s a dynamite person.

Q - Derrick, you were telling me one day you decided to hang up your shoes and you did just that, you decided to stop dancing and did not resume for nearly 25 years. Tell me how you came back.

Derrick - Well, first of all 20 years is a long time and I had not thought of getting back into it except for two, no three people. My wife, Diane Nardone and Donna De Simone. I don’t know how the subject got opened up but Diane had been trying to get in touch with me regarding dancing at her event, World Hustle Dance Championships, and finally she and I got on the phone and she really wanted me to come out that particular year and I truly considered, but I remember it exactly because it was my wife and I’s 15th Anniversary and I knew I couldn’t do that because we would be Tahiti, so I promised Diane I would make it the following year and I did, and it all kinda started from there.

Editor - Here is what Diane Nardone said about the first dance at the big night Saturday when Derrick finally came back in to Hustle at her event:

“I’ll never forget, it was the big opening night dance and Derrick and I opened the night with the first dance, no one else was on the floor, just Derrick and I. The lights were dimmed and the spotlight was on and the music started and we just took flight and everyone was in awe. After the dance people were coming up to me going, ‘Wow, who is that?’ ‘That was incredible’ etc., a lot of the younger dancers didn’t know Derrick and they were just mesmerized. They had never seen his incredible unique style. It was a memorable re-entry into the dance”.
Diane Nardone

Editor - Here’s what Donna De Simone said about getting back into the dance:

“Taking a 25 year break from competitions had it’s challenges but we had a great time choreographing our come back routine “Last Dance” which we performed and won at the ” New York Hustle Congress” in 2006. I know Derrick would agree that without the support we received from our families & fellow Veteran Pros such as: Bonnie Herbert Diaz, DonaMarie Portelli & Chuck Fetta who’s input served in our vision to deliver our best performance, our sincere thanks to all”.
Donna De Simone

Q - This question isn’t meant to alienate anyone or be territorial or controversial but for posterity reasons, why is Hustle so unique, and particularly Hustle in New York?

Derrick - I think there are a couple reasons for that, this is the birthplace of it and you have the original old school dancers that contributed to it. Not that there is any one person, that could say they created it, but there is definitely a class of dancers that contributed to it, who lived this dance, I’m talking about the Lisas, Billys, the Maria Torres’, myself, Lee, Ricky Quintana, George Velasquez and all these people were outta New York, and we laid a good foundation for this dance. We took this dance and gave it a certain look and feel.

Every dance has it own character and look, Hustle has a definite rhythm, a definite step pattern and characterization and New York gets that. And we borrow a lot of it from the Salsa world. Essentially, the Hustle basic is half of a Salsa basic. I think that New York is unique in that that fundamental deep-rooted understanding of the dance is here because it started here.

Q - There are so many misconceptions of where Latin Hustle started. I mean I refer to it as Latin Hustle here to make a point, because when I was growing up in New York, it was always called Latin Hustle. I don’t even know where this description of NY Hustle began and proliferated for that matter, and I personally never refer to Hustle as NY Hustle. I have a very interesting Q&A coming up with Billy Fajardo on the relationship between Salsa and Hustle, also the Caribbean connection with New York that identifies Hustle so strongly with the Latin essence. Derrick, if you can touch on your experiences with people misunderstanding the roots of Latin Hustle.

Derrick - Okay, I remember one of the young male dancers from that huge dance show on TV, (that I won’t name) was out here for an appearance and they had a Q&A afterwards and they asked him about the origins of Hustle and he said ‘You know where the Hustle started, the Hustle is derived from West Coast Swing’. That is totally incorrect, he made that statement and I said ‘No you’re wrong, period. You’re wrong’. Hustle was created here in New York, and Hustle IS unique to New York because of that fundamental true flavor of the dance and the understanding of the dance and the roots of the dance is inherently New York.

Q - That’s not to say that other’s can’t do a brilliant Hustle because obviously some of the winning-est Pros currently are outside of New York, nor am I dismissing new movement ideas and inspirations, but I make this point so as to publicly acknowledge the importance of the foundation and roots of the dance, the patterns, the rhythms; can you talk more about this Derrick?

Derrick - The original dancers, the enduring Pros, the Lisas (Nunziella), Billys (Fajardo), Arte Phillips, we know and understand the dance and timing, the patterns. Now what we, the community has got to do is get some of these younger dancers into the fold. Hustle started here and there really is a basic fundamental understanding of the dance by New York that goes beyond what people try to say otherwise.

And I don’t want to get too winded on this next statement but… I know there is this discussion here and there about ‘the music is too fast or not fast enough’, ‘we need this type of new sounding music, or this type of classic sounding music’ and my feeling is ‘Hey this is the count…&123, the count doesn’t change’, people can enjoy that count and dance at 135 bpm, or 110 bpm, who knows, but the dance is still the dance. How well you are able to move, how fast you are able to transfer your weight, is a matter of your conditioning, but the dance is the dance, if you change the count, you are not doing Hustle.

Q - I really want to give clarity to this thought because I sense a very, very small group of dancers who are New York haters, not in the literal sense to New York but disdainful of the roots, who may, through the subject of music and beats per minute as the sacrificial lamb, want to subvert the essence of the dance. To give clarity, at the end of the day what you are saying is, it’s &123 and that’s all there is to it.

Derrick - That’s all there is to it, period. Okay, whether it’s And123, or Uh123, it’s still a half beat followed by two steps, that is all there is to it, period. And the music, for me would dictate how I deal with that rhythm and how I do my footwork with that, given the speed of the music, how much melody it has through it or whatever the case might be, that basic, basic count, doesn’t change. That is The Hustle. If I change that count, it ain’t Hustle anymore, it’s something else.

To me when you have people saying ‘Oh you gotta change this and that’ it’s because either they can’t do it or they don’t understand it. You gotta go back to that fundamental understanding of partner dancing in general. There’s a technique to partner dancing to get two people to dance as one and there’s a timing, there’s a connection all those things go together and that’s what makes this dance happen. If you change that character, if you change that rhythm, you got a different dance, not the Hustle, period, end of story.

Q - Do you see Hustle evolving and growing of late?

Derrick - There is a resurgence and an interest in the dance, but we gotta get beyond the borders that we have and get the young people involved and show them how cool a dance this is; and one of the coolest things about this dance is that it’s the only touch/partner dance that can be done to pop music.

Q - What would you tell people who want to do this dance who are struggling, whether they are just social dancing like myself or even Pros who are struggling with evolving and growing. Because lots of people compete in the amateur categories, and people do take this dance seriously sometimes getting down on themselves.

Derrick - It’s like anything else, you get the fundamentals down and everything will come, if you understand movement and moving through your center; through your core, all those things, everything will come. Get good coaching; when I came back out after 25 years, I knew the dance, but I needed that third eye to tell me I wasn’t standing up straight, work on my line or work on the choreography, whatever it may be. You can’t be afraid to seek help, but you have to get someone who is willing to help you achieve your vision, not just do it for the money. You gotta be willing to take constructive criticism, but more importantly keep a strong mental attitude. And whatever you do, you gotta remember everybody started somewhere.

Q - Speaking of partnering, tell me about some of your favorite follows to partner with?

Derrick - Wow, that’s a tough question…oh wow, [laughs] is that a trick question?

Q - It’s not a trick question, but; coming from a strong lead, I’m interested in what makes a great follow too.

Derrick - Wow, the ideal partner to me, a great partner is some one who is not selfish, someone who is all about the we on the floor, the two of us, we’re going for a ride together. When you can tell that the dance is nothing more than both of us having a good time, that is an ideal situation for me. For me it’s not about how I can make myself look good, it’s about how good I can make you look; doing that we both will have fun together.

Q - As far a dance partners?

Derrick - I gotta a shout to my best buddy Denise, Denise Dema, she and I have a lot of fun on the floor, we’re constantly busting each other’s chops. And then of course, there’s Lisa, I love dancing with Lisa Nunziella, Debbie Farrow, oh and Donna De Simone of course; oh and my wife! I have fun with them, it’s not about egos it’s about the love of the dance and having a good time with together. Those are the names that come to mind right now, but ya know, you always forget someone…

Q - Having said that, who are some of the Male Leads you enjoy watching or who’s style you like?

Derrick - Lemme see, uh there are a handful that I do like watching, I like watching Hector Berrios, I find Hector a lot of fun to watch, I love his energy, I love his turns. He’s got more turns than I think he knows he has. John Merisier I like to watch, I don’t know how he dances in his boots [laughs]; but the thing is you could tell he’s having fun out there, I enjoy watching him. Umm, I like watching Raul (Santiago), cause again, he’s giving on the floor.

Q - Thank you Derrick for sharing with us, it’s been great talking to you. Hope to see more of your dancing soon…

See Derrick Allen’s bio and photos on his Hustle Pros page here.

Contributing photos: Donna De Simone
Contributing video: Lori Brizzi, NY Hustle Congress

Happy Birthday wishes to Mark Ballas, Mike LoCicero, Erik Novoa, Michelle Russomanno, Lisa Berger, Collette Antonelli, Sandra Rivera, George Dudley, Nellie Cotto, Cindy Lehning and Philip Taylor.

We sadly report that Disco DJ pioneer Barry Lederer was found dead this past weekend in his NYC apartment. Barry helped shape the disco sound in the early 70’s. This is a great loss for the music industry. “The difference between ignorance and awareness is wisdom. We don’t know where we are going unless we know where we’ve been. Without that knowledge history is gone with the wind” by Barry Lederer

Six years ago, an angel was tragically taken from us. A young dancer that had just begun to touch on her potential. Wanda Soto was magical. We miss her and honor her on the Hustle Hall Of Fame.

Who says you can’t find love on the dance floor. Congratulations to Steven Shaughnessy and Kathy Johanessen or their recent wedding engagement. They have been dance partners and will now tie the knot.

Please note: the hustle dance party held at Michael’s Cafe (Bensalem Pa) has now been switched to Wednesday nights. DJ Mark will be spinning, no cover, free parking. The club is now closed on Tuesdays. Unfortunately, the irresponsible management failed to give us adequate notice.

Cheers to Keith Harrison and Lena Spurdis, the winners of the May 23rd dance contest at Zachary’s. Get ready amateurs for the June contest.

FYI - June 7th, Saturday night Millennium Hustle party has been CANCELLED at Campanello. The next party will be August 2nd. Please pass the word.

Don’t miss the Cha Cha amateur dance contest this Saturday at the ULTIMATE DANCE ZONE, hosted by Mark James & Karen Lupo. Swing, hustle and more from - 8:30pm -12:30 am, see more details below. http://www.mjames.org/zone.html

June 7th, the annual NY Daily News Salsa Contest, 2:30PM, McCarren Park, Lorimer & Driggs St. Greenpoint Brooklyn. Susan Fritz is a judge. Free to participate, no lifts or tricks. Fabulous prizes, 1st place a five-day Caribbean Salsa Cruise/round trip airfare to Fort Lauderdale, two $100 Rincon Musical gift cards & 2 Daily News Gift bags. Great 2nd & 3rd place prizes also plus trophies to the winners. Register on-line www.nydailynews.com/features/2008salsaregistration/

June 2nd, Monday, the new reality show “Legally Blonde” begins where ladies audition for the lead role “Elie Woods” for the Broadway Musical. MTV 10PM EST.

This past Saturday, Louis Del Prete hosted an extraordinary “Evening of Dancing with the Stars” presenting Karina Smirnoff & Louie Van Amstel. The Surburban Temple was sold out as Louis came out singing “Quando, Quando, Quando”, followed by the “Lorenz Salsa Group.” Then the “Stars” Karina & Louie danced onto the floor a Cha Cha to “She bangs.” Followed by a Rumba, Jive, then a very informative Q & A section and ending to a Tango/Paso climax. If that was not enough Karina & Louie - stayed and took pictures with “All” their fans from the crowd. As usual Louis Del Prete delivered the goods.

This weeks edition of DanceTalk® is sponsored by Stardust Weekend. The all inclusive dance weekend. http://stardustdance.com/June08Faculty.htm

Make it a great week,
Ron

Spot Light “David Padilla”

In the early 70’s, this tall talent literally began by dancing in the streets. He would go to vacant lots, the parks, even basketball courts to practice dancing with his friends. This is where the hustle was born. “We just did it, no one taught us” shares dance pioneer David Padilla. He was one of the originators of the hustle, a true pillar in the dance community. In the beginning it was called the Latin Hustle, ” we started to do a salsa style dance back in 1968,” says David. “there were no actual steps to this dance at first, nothing was formalized.” Raised in Spanish Harlem, David never took formal dance lessons, but his natural skills took over as he applied himself, working his craft along with fellow dancers William “Butchie” Everett, Floyd Chishom and Melvin Curry. This band of self taught dancers were very creative and leaps ahead of the pack. In 1975, David along with Floyd, Annette Rivera, Eddie Espinosa & Gina Figoroa had the luxury of appearing in the first motion picture, “Roseland” that exposed the hustle to a national audience. Although he didn’t have a starring role, he was on the ground floor of a dance bubble that was still 2 years away from turning the country upside down with hustle frenzy. Standing six foot two, with long side burns, David stood heads above the other dancers. In the late 70’s, while hanging out at the “Silver Slipper Club” in Brooklyn, David met one of his first dance partners. An unknown dancer at the time by the name of Maria Torres. Together they would practice and then exhibit their skills on television competing on the popular New York dance show “Soul Alive.” Good friends Melvin and Butchie helped develop and refine the young Maria, “we taught her how to become a diva.” The experience of competing on television would be a major turning point for David, lifting his confidence & challenging him to be better. He set his goals to capitalize on the opportunities that were popping up for dancers. David was driven to be a part of this cultural revolution. His ingenuity and powerful expression set him apart. In the dance turnstile of life he found himself training and developing new partners. He struck it very big with a tiny partner he met when dancing at Club Ipeniama. Migdalia Medina also known as “Baby,” (before Dirty Dancing), created instantaneous chemistry with him. “She was another partner that was fierce.” He taught Baby how to do the cork screw then while spinning place her other leg behind her head. David was a dance wizard but practicing was a challenge as Baby had a jealous boyfriend who didn’t appreciate her dancing. They were forced to sneak out to practice, compete in dance competitions and ultimately had to hide her costumes from her boyfriend. Their hard work paid off as they would be victorious in several dance contests including Zachary’s where they won approximately 7 times in a row. They also took part in the first hustle contest that was held as part of the Harvest Moonball. It was a dramatic event as some 60 couples competed in this landmark competition. David & Baby captured third place. This was a special time in David’s life as he would see his picture displayed in the popular magazine “Details” which covered the Harvest Moonball. David was in his glory. Another memorable contest took place at Cherry’s, in Long Island, where the owners gave away matching new cherry red Chevrolet Corvettes for the grand prize. Although they didn’t win, they took third place, besting some of the finest couples of all time. The turnstile of dance would spin again for David, as Baby would leave dancing to marry and start her own family. David’s dance compass now pointed him towards Hollywood. He would join forces with one of the premiere dancers from Philadelphia. Donna Boyle, was also a “fierce partner” that complimented his dance repertoire. “We took turns going to each other city’s to rehearse,” David recalls. ” Donna would drive to New York and I would take a two hour bus ride to Philly.” This new partnership set their eyes on the syndicated televisions show “Dance Fever.” Winning the preliminaries earned them the privilege to compete on the televised show filmed in California. An all expense paid trip landed them on this top ten television show. ” When I danced on Dance Fever with Donna, the trip was as much fun as the competition.”, shares David, ” that was my first time to California, it was a fabulous time.” Their successful win advanced them to the semi finals. This exposed them to a national audience as their pictures would pop up in newspapers and magazines everywhere. David would once again get the opportunity to appeared on the silver screen as he auditioned for the New York thriller “Summer of Sam.” Not only did he perform but he was hand selected by director, Spike Lee, to train the acting stars, Miro Sorvieno & John Leguzamo, ” the correct way” to dance the hustle. Although the stars had been personally training for a month on the hustle, the director asked David to give them the real look and feel for the dance. In 1991, David didn’t see this one coming, as he became the victim of a bad accident. Subsequently, both of his ankles were severely broken. It left him confined to a wheel chair for one entire year. Doctors were very skeptical and warned him that he may never walk again. Support pins were placed in both of his legs, which he has been living in pain with ever since. This gave David even more determination to get back on the dance floor. He pushed himself to new heights in efforts to regain his dance skills. The turnstile would spin once again as David would begin working with a new up and coming dancer, Wanda Soto. They competed at Hustle USA and began performing in shows and contests when tragically, this budding star was killed in a horrific motorcycle accident. A with drawn David was left speechless. His heart was broken. Management at the popular dance studio “Stepping Out” was looking to re-energize their weekly hustle socials after relocated to 37 west 26th street. They pursued David to co host along with Simone Assboeck. David provided a keen knowledge on how to attract dancers to the gathering, similar to how it was back in the 70’s & 80’s. Not an easy task, but after applying his years of experience, they have enjoyed tremendous success. “We have the best place to dance Hustle & Salsa every Wednesday night”, explains David. This great achievement has lent itself to the creation of the first Friday of the month party at the studio. ” It brings back the memories of the old school dancing (Dale Dance studios in Brooklyn & Alexis Dance studios combined)”, shares David. Over the last 4 years while holding down a full time job, running his dance gigs at Stepping Out, David has partnered with Jesus Candelario. They took first place in the annual Queens Pride Salsa Contest in both 2006 & 2007. They also won a Salsa contest held by the Joyce Dance Theater at battery park in NYC which was hosted by his old friend, Maria Torres. There were 7 couples and one male & male Couple (David & Jesus). The crowd in attendance went wild when they saw two men dancing together. The decibels went even higher when they won the $1,000.00 dollars first place prize. This past April, after nearly 16 years of living in pain, David finally had the pins removed from his legs. Now recuperating, he is ready to launch the next chapter in his dance career. “Hustle has been a great part of my life it has kept me in great shape, great spirits, dancing is an excellent stress reliever. I’ll be dancing till the lord says that is enough time till sit down, until then I will keep the hustle alive” explains David. His dance turnstile swings again as he will compete with Simone at this summers Discoamerica. David has gotten his mojo back. His statuesque physic has always framed him above the majority of dancers, but his kind soul has made him a great asset to the dance community. Expect more great things from this hustle pioneer.

Stardust Weekend
Get ready for an exciting weekend of non stop dancing. Celebrating their 75th Stardust Dance Weekend at the HUDSON VALLEY RESORT. Len Moss, your host, invites you for a splendid weekend of dancing. Over the past few years this lovely hotel has undergone a multimillion-dollar transformation and is now the most beautiful resort in the Catskills. (This was formerly the Granit Hotel). It includes luxurious guest rooms, beautiful public space and superior dance floors, all combined to make this a memorable dance weekend. An all inclusive weekend where you can focus on having fun and not over spending. The setting is simply incomparable this time of year. You just can’t go wrong with a Stardust Dance Weekend. From June 27th to June 29th, at the Hudson Valley Resort and Spa, located in Kerhonkson, New York, your be treated to a fun thrilled dance party. This is a true dance vacation. Activities for indoors and outdoor fun, performances and more. The weekend includes dance workshops for all skill levels of dance. Your be treated to just about every style of dance on the map. Improve your favorite dances and learn new ones. The weekend rates start at $269 plus tax and gratuities. Come enjoy the talented staff and all they have to offer in all styles of ballroom, Swing, Latin and Hustle. The All star staff includes: Fran Chesleigh, Donna De Simone, Jackie Horner, Nick Lecakes, Teddy Kern, Norton Hyman, Ben Murtha & Esther Odescalchi, Frank Elia, Ed Britten, Nell Mooney, Solomon Singer, Norma Granofsky, Fidel E. Gonzalez, Gene & Naomi Anolick, Jason Myra, Kristina Maria, Karina Romero, Dardo Galletto, Paolo Lanna & Vanessa Telona, Tybaldt & Hazel Ulrich. Enjoy the beautiful month of June in New York. For more details, rates and information visit the website at http://stardustdance.com/June08Faculty.htm

Letters to the Editor
(our goal is to post readers letters twice a month, unfortunately due to space limitations we can not publish them all)

Hey Ron, thanks for keeping us updated on all the dance news, old and new. Your a God send. I wanted to say that losing Nan Bohrar was a great loss. Nan was one of those people that did so much to promote and advertise hustle dancing for all the new yorkers. As many had written she was a competitor at hustle USA and helped organize the event. She gave so much of herself. I hope everyone realizes and appreciated Nan and all the other dancers that give so much.
Forever missed,
Gloria,

First, Ron,
Congratulations on raising that much $ for scholarships. Second, perhaps the name of the dance…the Hustle…should be changed if people want the dance to be taken seriously, or at least to not be thought of in one lump package as leisure suits, Studio 54, and the little ditty “Do the Hustle”.
Here’s a little true and humorous story. During a conversation at a family party with an older gentleman friend of my Dad’s, a danceable piece of music started. Rather than abrubtly leave this man in mid-sentence to seek a partner, I politely asked him if he would like to “Hustle”. He declined, but not because he didn’t know the dance, but because as I later found out, he thought I was propositioning him! We all got a chuckle when the mis-understanding was brought to light. So, maybe the name of the dance should be altered.
Paige

Ron,
I’d like to respond to Ava Apple’s call for discussion about how to market Hustle. I’ve written in this news letter and on the IHDA site several times about doing something to improve Hustle’s image. My
proposals have been 1) to use music that is currently popular: House, Hip Hop Merengue, Latin House, Dance, and Euro, and their variants; and 2) take hustle out where it can be seen…take groups to popular clubs that play this kind of music and blow people away with the hottest club
dance ever! I will be doing this, this coming summer in Chicago. Anyone interested in joining me, let me know. I have more ideas too.
Paul Jones
pbj [at] cmicdo [dot] com

Hi Ron,
Look forward to seeing you and your family at Disco America this summer. I wanted to echo the song selection by DJ Louis Del Prete. Begin the Beguine by Johnny Mathis is a Classic. What a song, romantic and energetic at the same time! One of my favorites, ever!! I agree with some of the readers that the hustle dance has bad connotation attached to it. Most people think of being hustled as a bad thing, being taken advantage of or given the run around. I vote to give the hustle a make over. Hope you had a great memorial day,
Rich Castor

Auditions, Competitions, Socials, Cruises & More…..

June 2, Mon - NY - Dancesport - Legendary Hustle Mondays at Paul Pellicoro’s DanceSport, with DJ Donnie Sheilds, 9:30PM -$10 admission; DS registered students free. 22 West 34th St East Entrance 4th Fl between 5th & 6th avenues. www.dancesport.com for more information.

June 3, Tues - Pa - Michael’s Cafe is Closed…now on Wednesday nights.

June 3, Tues - NY - IBBG, “The Original Tuesday Night Hustle Party” Spacious Dance Floor, DJ Chris playing the best of old & new Hustle with a dash of Latin & WCS hosted by Doreen. 50/50 Raffle & door prizes. 1100 Stewart Ave. Garden City, Exit M3W off Meadowbrook 9 PM. Only $8

June 3, Tues - NY - HOT LATIN, WCS & HUSTLE TUESDAYS at CLUB 56 (56th Fighter Group Restaurant/Lounge, Rt. 110 at Republic Airport, Farmingdale, 7:00 to 11:00 PM, $14 includes Hot & Cold Buffet Dinner, free water, HUSTLE Lesson by JOSE BOLIVAR, door prizes & dancing to a Salsa, WC Swing & Hustle Dance Mix by DJ Cody. (631) 744-7777 www.LIDance.org

June 4, Wed - Pa - Michael’s Cafe, now on Wednesdays, spread the word, same great music and dancing. (the club is closed on Tuesdays) the best in hustle, Swing and Latin in between. DJ Mark plays the grooves from 8:30 to 12:30. No cover and free parking. Join us for the best dance night of the week. Located on Street Road, Bensalem near the Casino/Race track.

June 4, Wed - NY - “HUSTLEJAM” @ Stepping Out Studios, 37 W. 26th St.: Join your hosts Simone Assboeck & David Padilla for a WEEKLY Hustle & Latin party, 9:30pm til 12:45am, DJ Nelson “Paradise” Roman spinning the best in hustle & latin $9/PP; $5 for SO Students - Tonight’s Special is “Lucky Draw” Everyone has a chance to win perx!

June 5, Thur - Step It Up, finale of the weekly dance show. Bravo network

June 5, Thurs - NY - LATIN, HUSTLE, WCS at MIRELLE’S,!! 170 Post Ave,
Westbury, Long Island, Presented by LOUIS DEL PRETE, 7:30PM to 11:30PM, Great Hot Buffet, 45 Min. HUSTLE Dance Lesson starting at 7:30w/Louis. State of the art sound system, Air Conditioned, Door Prizes, Cash Bar Available Admission $14 call Louis (516) 819-9016. This event runs every Thursday.

June 6, Fri (Every 1st Fri) - PA - “Ballroom Extravaganza” @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown: w/ Host & Instructor Silvana Gallagher! The best mix of ballroom favorites; DJ JR mixes Foxtrot, Cha Cha, Waltz, Rumba, Tango, Bolero, EC Swing/Jive, Quick Step: 7:30 PM Free Samba Lesson - 8:30 PM dance party w/ refreshments. $12.00 at the door.

June 6, Fri - Pa – California Dance Mix at Swingkat, Ballroom on High; 2nd floor, 310 East High St., Pottstown, PA 19464, West Coast Swing Lessons at 8 pm and 8:40 pm, dance 9 pm - midnight DJ & instructor Lynne Stevens. $10. More info available at 610-348-6727, www.swingkat.com

June 6, Fri - NY - “A Salute to the Puerto Rican Day Parade” @ Stepping Out Studios, 37 W 26 St - Simone Assboeck & David Padilla present their monthly Hustle Classics & Latin party, 9:30 till 2:00, DJ Bobby Morales spinning the best in Classics and Latin. $15/PP, $10 SO students, special performances, free buffet, open bar. Hats, t-Shirts, jackets by David Padilla, for sale just in time for the Parade & a Special Treat Pasteles by Fran Can Cook!

June 7, Sat - NJ - Central Jersey Dance Society presents “No Name” Hustle workshop with Brian Gallagher & California mix social dance. Int. Hustle workshop 6:15 PM to 7:15 PM, $12. Beg.hustle lesson 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Open dancing 8:30 PM to 11:30 PM.Workshop. Cost $12. Dance $12, $8 per student with ID. Workshop/dance combo $22. www.centraljerseydance.org or call 609-945-1883

JUNE 7, Sat - NYC - CANCELED Lori Brizzi’s MILLENNIUM HUSTLE at IL Campanello. Next party is August 2nd. www.loribrizzi.com or loribrizzi@aol.com

June 7, Sat -Pa - Swingkat will be closed for the Pottstown Car Show

June 8, Sun - Pa - Havana in New Hope…West Coast Swing dancing with the David Barry Trio. Get ready for this awesome 5 man band that plays for WCS dancers. Join them from 6 -10PM. Free lesson in WCS with Dave Kim, followed by three live sets with David Barry and DJing in between with Dave Kim. No Cover, 105 S. Main Street, New Hope, 215-862-9897 http://www.havananewhope.com/

Great American Jack & Jill O’rama June 12 - 15th Santa Maria, CA Hyatt Regency Orange County, Jack & Jill contests, 5 day Skippy Blair mini intensive, workshops & tons of open dancing. Music by David Koppelman, Mike Pyle, Jack Smith. Costs: $115 p/p by May 29, $135 at door. Hyatt Regency $99. room rate call (714) 750-1234 visit www.centralcoastswingdance.com ccsd@thegrid.net

June 13, Fri - Pa – Ballroom Dance at Swingkat, Ballroom on High; 2nd floor, 310 East High St., Pottstown, PA 19464, Lessons at 7:30 pm & 8:15 pm, dance 9 pm - midnight - DJ Carol Coffinger. $10. More info available at 610-348-6727, www.swingkat.com

June 13, Fri - NY - BALLROOM, LATIN, HUSTLE, WCS, at DEER PARK V.F.W. 588 Long Island Ave. Deer Park, LI, Presented by LOUIS DEL PRETE 8:00PM to 12:00AM, Coffee, Tea, Cake, Fruit & Veg.Platter! 40 Min. Dance Lesson at 8:00w/Louis. State of the art sound system, Air Conditioned, Door Prizes, 50/50 Raffle,Cash Bar Available, $13, call Louis for info (516) 819 - 9016

JUNE 14, Sat-NYC-Lori Brizzi’s Millennium Hustle’s “SATURDAY NIGHT SPECIAL” & AFTER PARTY for DANCE PARADE ‘08 3 DJ’s, 3 Rooms for dancing. DJ JOHNNY O-Hustle, DJ JEFF-Latin, DJ ASHLEY Ballroom (Tango,Swing) $15 includes free class either hustle, latin or ballroom 8-9pm & Dancing 9pm - 1am.Cash Bar. CLUB 412, 412 8th Ave 4th Fl. 516 728-6101 www.loribrizzi.com or loribrizzi@aol.com

June 14, Sat - Pa - Ballroom Dance at Swingkat, Ballroom on High; 2nd floor, 310 East High St., Pottstown, PA 19464, Lessons at 7:30 pm & 8:15 pm with John & Kathy Augustine, dance 9 pm - midnight with DJ Philip Spinka, $10. More info available at 610-348-6727, www.swingkat.com

June 15, Sun - NJ - 100% Pure Hustle with Johnny O 8 pm - 12 am, or whenever Johnny stops spinning - Great music, great company on a great floor. $12 or $10 with pass or print out - Starlight Dance Center 7 High Street, Nutley, NJ 07110 973-235-9835 www.starlightdanceusa.com

June 21, Sat-NYC-Lori Brizzi’s Millennium Hustle’s “SATURDAY NIGHT SPECIAL” & AFTER PARTY for DANCE PARADE ‘08 3 DJ’s, 3 Rooms for dancing. DJ JOHNNY O-Hustle, DJ JEFF-Latin, DJ ASHLEY Ballroom (Tango,Swing) $15 includes free class either hustle, latin or ballroom 8-9pm & Dancing 9pm - 1am.Cash Bar. CLUB 412, 412 8th Ave 4th Fl. 516 728-6101 www.loribrizzi.com or loribrizzi@aol.com

June 21, Sat-PA California Mix @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown:DJ JR mixes Hustle & WCS w/a splash of Salsa, Country 2 Step, Waltz, NC2 & Hustle & WC Swing: start with a 7:30 Free Country 2-Step Lesson & 8:30 PM dance party w/refreshments. Every 3rd Sat $12.00 at door.

Stardust Dance Weekend June 27- 29th Upstate New York at the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa Kerhonkson, New York, Vegas caliber shows and food. Rates starting at $285 Includes dance workshops for all levels! (plus tax and gratuities) www.stardustdance.com/

Disco America July 4-6, 2008 Crown Plaza Valley Forge 260 Mall Blvd., King of Prussia, PA Hosted by Donna J. Boyle & Joyce Szili. This is the 10th Anniversary of DiscoAmerica: Dance Workshops, Social Dancing, after Dinner Show, Exhibitions & Championships, contact Donnaboyledisco@aol.com, Joyce Szili - JoyceDancr@aol.com www.discoamerica.com

Big Apple Country Dance Festival July 10 - 13, Renaissance Newark, NJ Airport Hotel, Hosted by Anthony Lee, On line Registration. Country, Swing, Hustle, Jack & Jill and Ballroom competitions, 50 different classes taught by the very best instructors, Dinner Show extravaganza packed with fabulous high-energy entertainment by top dancers, Swing, Hustle, Country Couples and Line Dance social dancing Hotel reservations at 908-436-4600, http://bigapplecountrydance.com/

July 12, Sat - NJ - American DanceWheels Performance, Ocean County Library welcomes you to a free performance,demonstration and discussion of wheelchair ballroom dancing with a mini-lesson at 3:00 pm at Toms River South High School. Presented by the first & current United States Wheelchair Dancesport competition champions Melinda Kremer & Ray Leight. Free and open to the public. 55 Hyers Street in Toms River, NJ 08753, www.americandancewheels.org.

Miami Dance Magic July 17-20, Miami Hyatt Regency Hosted by Debbie Lynn, first annual event. West Coast Swing, Hustle & Salsa. Triple Threat competition, Showtime Contest, WCS & Hustle Strictly, Pro/Am & Jack & Jill’s. Skippy Blair Summer Intensive. Workshops & continual social dancing. Debra Lynn (954) 270 - 0232 e mail - MiamiDanceMagic@aol.com www.CoastalDanceConnection.com

World Hustle Dance Championships July 24 - 27
The 8th Annual hustle competition returns to East Brunswick New Jersey. Host Diane Nardone brings hustle, Swing, Salsa, Ballroom and country to the Hilton East Brunswick, Three Tower Center Blvd, East Brunswick. Lots of great workshops, competitions, a FABULOUS dinner/show and much more! Vendors will be available throughout the entire event! Visit www.hustledanceworld.com for regular updates and to register on-line!

Grand Pacific Dance Championships, AUG 14-18, 2008 San Jose California. A new dance event hosted by Billy Fajardo, Raul Ante and Debra Hampton. The Doubletree Hotel San Jose, 2050 Gateway Place, San Jose, Rooms will be available at the rate of $105.00 per night. Reservations will be accepted starting this May 18th. phone 408-453-4000, fax 408-437-2898 toll free 1-800-222-TREE

New York Hustle Congress August 28 - September 1, 2008 The 4th Annual hustle event in New York City. Hosted by Lori Brizzi This is a Hustle weekend with more social dance time then any other event. Featuring Jack & Jill competitions and more at the Hilton. 1800Hilton, mention SAL before rooms sell out. (516) 728 - 6101 Loribrizzi@aol.com www.nyhustlecongress.com

Hudson Swing Affair August 29 - Sept 1, 2008 Hyatt Regency, Jersey City on the Hudson, presented by John Festa. West Coast Swing Social Dance Event w/ instructors Ramiro Gonzalez, John Lindo, Mary Ann Nunez, Sylvia Sykes, Charlie Womble & Jackie McGee www.HudsonSwingAffair.com (212)779-2700

International Dance Cruise - Oct 10 - 16th, 2008 on the Queen Mary 2, Six day cruise, enjoy a complete dance program for ballroom enthusiasts. The largest grand ballroom at sea, Live Big band & DJ, 3 cocktail parties, 3 formal balls, dance workshops with championship instructors &demonstrations. Rates start at $1,499pp for details call 754-246-2874 www.BallroomCruise.com

Swing City Chicago Oct 31 - Nov 2nd, 2008 At the Westin Lombard Hotel in Chicago. The perfect spot for a Halloween weekend. Jack & Jill, Strictly Swing and DJ Challenge, plus a pro-show/Exhibition, Friday night Pizza Party and Saturday, late night buffet. Come join Maren, Jason Barnes, Erica Berg, Bill Cameron, Jason Miklic, Fred & Tina Price, Mario Robau Jr, Mike Topel for an incredible fun weekend of dancing. For more details and registration information visit: www.Swingcitychicago.com

Mediterranean Dance Cruise, November 17th - 29th 2008, A once in a life time event, on the Queen Victoria for 12 wonderful days starting in Athens & stops in Volos, Greece – Dikili, Istanbul, & Kusadasi Turkey, Port Said & Alexandria Egypt; Valetta in Malta, Messina Naples & ending in Rome, Italy. From about $2200 for the cruise, prior Cunard guests may get better rates. Call for lowest rates. This cruise is selling out fast. 25% of cruise fare due at cabin assignment & final payment due Aug.12, 2008. All prices per person based on double occupancy & include special dance events open to our group only. Call 215-855-2711 or info@blsdc.com for more information and a brochure.

Stardust Dance Cruise III January 25 - February 1, 2009 7 nights on Costa Cruise Line’s 5-Star Costa Fortuna, now accepting reservations, Departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida Sunday: Fort Lauderdale, Mon-Key West, Tues-Cozumel, Mexico Wed-at Sea Thurs Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Fri Grand Cayman Island, Saturday - At Sea, Sunday - back to Fort Lauderdale, www.stardustdancecruises.com/