Posts from — July 2008

Happy birthday wishes to Paul Kaczkin, Al Bey, Rob Finocchio, Jim Bronke, Tybaldt Ulrich, Barbara Rosinski, Laura Eber, Barry Slovinsky, Mia, Jessica Nicolette and Nicky Andriole.

7 year old Cailie Rivera competed in the National Dance Showcase Finals in Atlantic City. Her group danced to Michael Jackson’s “Stop the love” and won Platinum honors, top line jazz dance in petit line/production category an electrifying energy award. Congrats to “Brandy’s Dance Unique”. Cailie is the daughter of dance pioneer Luis Rivera one of the members of the Disco Dance Dimensions.

Congratulations to Wendy Lippincott on the birth of her granddaughter, Kiera Viviano, 7lb.13oz. Mom, baby and grandmom are doing very well.

Congratulations to Mark James & Karen Lupo as they celebrate their 7th Anniversary Dance on August 2nd at the Wantagh Jewish Center in Long Island, NY, www.UltimateDanceZone.com - 516-835-9996 more details below.

Here are photos from Danielle Odhner’s birthday celebration from Michael’s Cafe, courtesy of Scott Michielli, what a great night it was.

This coming weekend is Swing Fling 2008. Its not to late to attend. See all the details below. http://barrydurand.com/swingfling/

The finals for Zachary’s monthly amateur dance contest is being held on Aug 1, Fri night. The couples competing are: Robert Lawrence & Rosette Varoula, Keith Harrison & Lena and Ozzi and Chris

Special thanks to all those who came out to celebrate my surprise birthday. Wow, what a wonderful evening it was. Your friendship is beyond words. I couldn’t ask for a better time. I truly believe that these are the best days of our lives…thank you for being part of mine. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Here are some photos taken by Scott Michielli, enjoy…go here.

The World Hustle Dance Championships is now in the history books. 37 states plus England were represented. Below are just some of the highlights. A big High Five to Diane Nardone and the entire staff for making the 2008 event an overwhelming success.

This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by Swing Fling and the Hudson Swing Affair. See more details below.

Make it a great week,
Ron

Hudson Swing Affair
A new event with a new flair, It’s the Hudson Swing Affair. Get ready for a weekend affair, taking place August 29th to Sept 1st (Labor Day) at the beautiful Jersey City Hyatt. John Festa invites you to a swing event like no other. You’ll be dazzled at this one-of-a-kind event. With years of experience competing, performing and DJing, John has arranged an event with many new twists. Leave your stress at home and plan to attend an exciting weekend at a scenic hotel where the focus is on fun. On Saturday evening your attend the Black & White Ball which will host a very special, glamorous show. This party will be like no other. A classy evening with the stunning Swing Affair Revue — a variety show with showgirls, comedian John Morgan & world-renowned burlesque dancer Jo Weldon, founder of the New York School of Burlesque. Ms. Weldon will be performing a classic strip tease. (Please see disclaimer) On Saturday Afternoon there is a Penthouse BBQ. This is a soulful BBQ in the penthouse ballroom at this stunning hotel. Your be overlooking Manhattan and the New York harbor while dancing to the swinging soul of DJ Peter Strom. What a Labor day it will be. The BBQ, along with all other parties and lessons, are included in your event ticket. In addition there will be a show, free workshops - from top WCS teachers; all included with your event ticket purchase. Also available are two Broadway show outings (Wicked and Gypsy) for an additional charge. The teaching staff includes: John Lindo, Blake Hobby, Sharlot Bott, Ramiro Gonzalez, Charlie Womble & Jackie McGee, Mary Ann Nunez, Sylvia Sykes, DJs: Victor Loveira, Peter Strom, Tom Hamrick, Greg Parmerton. The discounted Room Rate has been Extended till August 4th. The gorgeous Hyatt on the Hudson is not the least expensive of all hotels on the circuit — but surely is the most beautiful. The group rate of $175 has been extended until August 4th. Book your room! (The group rate is for double occupancy). www.HudsonSwingAffair.com.

Swing Fling 2008
One of the longest running dance competitions/conventions takes place this coming weekend. It’s Swing Fling 17. Get ready as this popular event returns to the Washington, DC area July 31 - Aug. 3. Event Director, Barry Durand, has an incredible weekend of non stop dancing planned, including West Coast Swing, Lindy, Shag, Hustle, Salsa and Hand Dancing. Conveniently located at the Hilton Washington Dulles hotel, with the low $90 special room rate. The event includes over $12,000 in prizes, Jack & Jill competitions, 4 dance floors, party by the pool, over 40 workshops, cabaret & team divisions, showcase divisions A & B, Classic Division A & B, separate rooms for WCS, Hustle & Lindy and non stop fun. For an exciting weekend of dancing you don’t want to miss Swing Fling. In addition to 4 rooms for dancing there is the uniquely, popular Lobby Dance Floor, where folks social dance & practice till the wee hours. The DC area has so much to offer. Take time to dance, then visit all the rich historical sites. There isn’t a better time of year or place to take it all in. Plan to stay for a full week. Barry has assembled some of the finest teachers and competitors in the country. This years invited staff includes: Robert & Nicola Royston, Robert Cordoba & Deborah Szekely, Mary Ann Nunez, Jason Barnes & Erica Berg, Michael Kielbasa & Jennifer Deluca, Sam & Lisa West, Terry Roseboro & Kara Pryzbyla, Bill & Brenda Barber, Robin Smith, Dave & Zoe, Roberto Pagan, Shari Huggett, Kevin Fitzhugh & Tammy Brown,Markus Smith & Deonna Ball, Debbie Ramsey Boz, Frank G. & Tara Stotz, Steve Neeren, Tony Nguyen & Shawn Martin, Ken Roesel, Debbie Lynn, Brad Bradford, Christopher Joe & Lisa Schaupp, Keith & Celeste Gussoni, Brian Gallagher, Joyce Szili, Billy Marti, George Garcia, Gary & Sue Caley, Jane Ford & Charlie Wyler, Tom Koerner & Debra Sternberg, Michael Johnson & Poppy Friske, Barry Durand, Victor Loveira, Wildman Louie, Hilton Washington. For complete schedule & updates visit http://barrydurand.com/swingfling/ Swing Fling is a NASDE Sanctioned event and a member of the World Swing Dance Council.

WHDC - highlights
The 8th anniversary of the World Hustle Dance Championships was a dance explosion. The energy ran high all weekend long. Many new stars rose & awards were presented. Diane Nardone and her talented staff packaged an incredible weekend, showcasing all styles of dance. Donna (Discoamerica) Boyle was the 2008 recipient of the Hall Of Fame award. Lori (NY Hustle Congress) was presented the 2008 Christopher M. Nardone award for her generosity and her spirit in dance. George Garcia was awarded the “Top Teacher”. The dinner show featured hip hop dancers, Mark James & Karen Lupo, Sophy Kdep & Jason Miklic, Roberto Pagan & Rosa Peredes, Ron & Lauren Bess, Robert & Nicola Royston, David Paris & Zoe Klien and special performances by American Dance Wheels. A 50/50 raffle was held to benefit those dancers restricted to wheel chairs. The winner of the raffle was Dean Marshall who donated his winnings back to the American Dance Wheels organization. In all, $1890 was collected, HOWEVER, Diane Nardone matched the amount giving a grand total of $3780 to this great organization. It truly was a great weekend of giving. Many dance superstars and DJs were on hand during the weekend including: Brian Gallagher, Donna DeSimone, Chris Bates, Kim Vanaman, Mark James, Karen Lupo, Silvana Gallagher, Bobby Gerard, Debbie Ferro, DJ Mark, Susan Fritz, Drew Axelrod, Robin Amante, Lawrence Rush, Arte Phillips, Tiffany Brown, Steve Salerno, Susan Marolda, Louie Orlando, Carolyn Grimaldi, Johnny O, Caren Casper, Jamie Serna, Connie Macdougal, Dave Muzzi, Evie Hoover, Andre Phelps, Fred & Tina Price, John Lindo, Mariann Gonzales, Jerry Hobbs, Dara Patrusky, Rob Finocchio, Laura Cozik, Angela Cameron, Anthony Lee, Ray Leight, Derrick Allen, Tybaldt & Hazel Ulrich, Leo Madden Jr, Trisha Caballero, Phil Lamothe, Joann Piazza, John Merisier, Jerise Massone, David Flynn, Michael Frank, Domingo, Billy Marti, Gary Ulaner, John Festa, Annette Alicanti, Wingo Hom, Carol Feldman…Thank you to the helpful staff & to all those dancers that came out to support this great weekend. Here are some of the results. For all the results visit www.hustledanceworld.com

New this year: Team Match Challenge
1) The Phantastic Philadelphia Pretzels - captained by Silvana Gallagher
2) Long Island Dance Force - captained by Derrick Allen & Donna DeSimone
3) New Jersey Grasshoppers - captained by Roberto Pagan

Pro-Am Hustle Newcomer new comer leader
1) Cathy Ricci & Diane Nardone
2) Bryan Toder & Dara Patrusky
3) John Durkin & Diane Nardone

Pro - Am Hustle Newcomer Female
1) Katherine Welch & Donna DeSimone
2) Annette Cioffi-Parker & John Lindo
3) Sarah Lane & George Garcia

Pro - Am Hustle Nov Male
1) Mike Reher & Silvana Gallagher
2) John Santiago & Diane Nardone
3) Howard Sklarek & Donna DeSimone

Pro - Am Hustle Nov Female
1) Kate Halka & David Flynn
2) Sara Jones & Brian Gallagher
3) Karen Cessna & Fred Price

Pro - Am Hustle Int Male
1) Joseph Badgeley & Donna DeSimone
2) David Czifra & Tina Price
3) Frank Parades & Rosa Parades

Pro - Am Hustle Int Female
1) Elizabeth Gutzwiler & Fred Price
2) Carmen Sanchez & Roberto Pagan
3) Roscel Garcia & George Garcia

Pro - Am Hustle Adv. Male
1) Michael Leyden & Silvana Gallagher
2) Steve Salerno & Diane Nardone
3) Jack Ciecka & Silvana Gallagher

Pro - Am Hustle Adv. Female
1) Anat Shamash & Billy Marti
2) Mihoko Ninomiya & Billy Marti
3) Danielle Odhner & Brian Gallagher

Pro Just Swing
1) John Lindo & Hazel Ulrich

Pro Just Hustle
1) Roberto Pagan & Rosa Peredes
2) Billy Marti & Tina Price
3) Wingo Hom & Angela Cameron

Pro Jack & Jill Hustle
1) Derrick Allen & Susan Kay Fritz
2) Chris Bates & Silvana Gallagher
3) Gary Ulaner & Silvana Gallagher

World Open
1) Tybaldt & Hazel Ulrich
2) Roberto Pagan & Rosa Peredes
3) Robert Lawrence & Rosetta Varoula
4) Catherine & Richard Rankel

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)

Hi Ron,
I am very pleased to announce our Grand Opening Party for the new Rhythm in Shoes dance studio space on Saturday, September 13th from 8:00p until 12:00p. Please help us celebrate our new space with it’s tall brick walls and cathedral ceilings, suspended lighting, Second floor balcony, kitchen and large maple dance floor. We will be offering a buffet of appetizers - desserts and beverages, door prizes, great music and of course dancing with your friends. The cost for the evening will be $10 per person and the attire for the evening will be dressy. I hope you can join us.
Phil LaMothe
Rhythm in Shoes 708A - 712A Main St. Boonton N.J. 07005 (973) 335-9920

Dear Phyllis in O-town…
You sound like you feel like you’ve been ripped off, and if you feel that way, then you probably have been. Your gut reaction is never wrong. For me, as a competing pro, an on-staff teacher at a Manhattan studio, & someone with an already relatively high level of dance knowledge, & 11 years of dancing and 8-9 years of competitive skating, etc, etc… in the past year, I have spent anywhere from $120 per 45 minutes of coaching to $70 per hour on coaching and teacher training, myself. You could argue that you don’t need to spend that much since you aren’t a pro (I’m assuming). My take on that is this. There are many hidden costs associated with providing dance education, like maintaining the space, the front desk staff, marketing, taxes, air conditioning, not to mention the teacher’s own dance training. What I would say is expect to spend anywhere from $60-100/hour, but choose someone whom you feel gives you your money’s worth and if they don’t, don’t go back and don’t make any apologies. I know of many very high-level teachers that are either charging as much or less as some pros who impart very little if any knowledge. I, personally, shop around for coaching and you should do the same. If I walk off of a lesson and don’t feel like “Wow, that was totally worth the money!” I don’t go back. Ask yourself if you would put up with a cleaning woman or a plumber being squarely focused on your wallet and acting like their services are an incidental by-product, and then not going all the way in their job? A good teacher will figure out what to say and how to be in order to get the best out of you, no matter what level you as the student are at. Another thing to consider is that your time is even more valuable than your money. Once it’s spent, you can never get it back. If you had 24 hours to live, would you spend even a minute allowing someone jerk you around with the “eyedropper method” on a dance lesson?
-Susan Fritz, NY-

Hi Ron,

Here is a suggestion for Phyllis in O-town:
Many studios ‘overcharge’ in my opinion as well. You need to try new studios and new teachers and see what fits for you. It’s not easy to start with a new instructor but sometimes it’s the best thing for you. You may find one that understands how you think and is more tuned to explain things to you in the manner in which makes more sense to you. Some may like to goof off and not teach you anything in order to drag out the lesson and make you spend more money. Unfortunately, it happens all too often, especially from the type of dance studio you mentioned. The price of $100 per lesson is too much. You should pay no more then $85 tops. You can also negotiate if you buy a group of lessons with an instructor. Just ask them. It may be a little out of your way to try new places, but you may find it worth it in the long run.
Good luck!!
Lisa

Auditions, Competitions, Socials, Cruises & More…

July 28, Mon - NY - Dancesport - Legendary Hustle Mondays at Paul Pellicoro’s DanceSport, with DJ Nelson “Paradise” Roman, 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.

Jul 29, 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

July 29, 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, SALSA Lesson by ABIGAIL DAVILA , door prizes & dancing to a Salsa, Latin, WC Swing & Hustle Dance Mix by DJ Cody. (631) 744-7777 www.LIDance.org

July 30, Wed - NY - “HUSTLEJAM” @ Stepping Out Studios, 37 W. 26th St.: Join your host Simone Assboeck 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.

July 30, Wed - Pa - Michael’s Cafe, The hot spot every Wednesday night for the best in Hustle, Swing and Latin in Between. DJ Mark plays classic and hot new club music from 8:30PM till 12:30AM, Never a cover charge and free parking. Come join the fun. Street Road in Bensalem

Swing Fling July 31 - Aug. 3, Hilton Washington Dulles, DC Area. 17th Annual Swing and Hustle event, NASDE Competition, WSDC Jack & Jill Competition, Over $12,000 in Prizes, 4 Large Dance Floors, Famous “Lobby” Dance Floor, Over 40 dance workshops, WCS, Hustle, Lindy, Hand Dance, Plenty of Open dancing because of various floors, Top Teachers & Judges in the world $90 special room rate, Swing & Hustle Pro Am competition, 1-800 -Hiltons, Ask for the $90 Swing Fling rate Event Director: Barry Durand visit http://barrydurand.com/swingfling/

July 31, 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. SALSA 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!

Aug 1, Fri - PA Dance Party w/ Donna Boyle, Holiday Inn, 432 Pennsylvania Ave., Fort Washington, Complimentary appetizers & drink specials 6:30 pm , Music starts at 8:00 p; $10 Dance Lesson at 8:15 pm DJ DONNA BOYLE playing your dance favorites, Dress Code: DressyBusiness Casual Fashionable! More info at www.donnaboyle.com/

Aug 1, Fri - PA Ballroom Extravaganza @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, PA, www.vaidance.com. The best of Ballroom and Latin music from contemporary to classic; Foxtrot, Rumba, Cha Cha, Waltz, Samba, Tango, EC Swing, and more. 7:30 PM begins the free Lesson w/ Silvana and an 8:30 Dance Party. Refreshments are included. $12.00 at the door.

Aug 1, Fri - NJ Salsa Hustle night, 9PM - 1AM, hosted by Eduardo Costa w/CostasMusicEntertainment with the Atomic Salsa band. Hustle music by DJ MC @ Mona Lisa Restaurant, 157 East Westfield Ave in Roselle Park, Info call Eduardo (908) 416-6184. Free admission before 9P or w/ dinner. $10 after 9P.

Aug 2, Sat - NY - 7th Year Anniversary Dance at the Ultimate Dance Zone hosted by Mark James and Karen Lupo, 8:30 - 12:30, Show -Special Performances - 8:30pm - 12:30AM - Wantagh Jewish Center - New Much Larger Floor - www.UltimateDanceZone.com - 516-835-9996 - $14

Aug 2, sat - NJ - No Name California Mix Dance, Country Two Step basics lesson by Carol Feldman at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton, 50 Cherry Hill Rd, lesson at 7:30 p.m. Open dancing WCS, ECS, Ballroom, Latin, Night Club Two Step, Hustle and more featuring Genesis 8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. $12. www.centraljerseydance.org. noname@centraljerseydance.org or 609-945-1883.

Aug 2, Sat - NYC - Lori Brizzi’s MILLENNIUM HUSTLE at IL Campanello is temporarily canceled until they obtain their cabaret license. Please stay tune for this popular party’s new location until then. For updates, please email loribrizzi@aol.com or call 516 728-6101

Aug 8-10 Mario “Swing Daddy” Robau visits the Del Val area! Rob & Sheila bring Mario Robau for workshops + Got Swing? Register now, don’t be left out. Save the DATE!! Rob: 609-519-0793 or 856-858-6753 Sheila:bpurkey@yahoo.com Rob:djrob01@comcast.net www.robandsheiladance.com

Aug 8, Fri - PA - Ballroom Extravaganza @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, PA, www.vaidance.com. The best of Ballroom & Latin music from contemporary to classic; Foxtrot, Rumba, Cha Cha, Waltz, Samba, Tango, EC Swing, and more. 7:30 PM begins the free Lesson w/ Silvana & an 8:30 Dance Party. Refreshments included. $12.00 at door.

Aug 8, 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

Aug 8, Fri - NJ Salsa Hustle night, 9PM - 1AM, hosted by Eduardo Costa w/CostasMusicEntertainment with the Atomic Salsa band. Hustle music by DJ MC @ Mona Lisa Restaurant, 157 East Westfield Ave in Roselle Park, Info-Eduardo (908) 416-6184. Free admission before 9PM or with dinner. $10 after 9PM.

Aug 9, 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 PETER-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

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 for $105.00 per night. Reservations accepted Now! ph 408-453-4000, fax 408-437-2898 toll free 1-800-222-TREE www.doubletreesanjose.com http://grandpacificdance.com/

Aug 15, Fri - NJ - Jersey Jumpers Swing Dance, Unitarian Universalist, Cong, of Princeton, 50 Cherry Hill Rd, Princeton, Beg. Lindy Hop lesson with Donna Reinhart 7:30PM ; Inter. Lindy Hop lesson at 8PM. Open dancing to swing & lindy music by dj’s Brandon & Glen 8:30-11:30 p.m. $12 , $8 student with ID. www.centraljerseydance.org jerseyjumpers@centraljerseydance.org 609-945-1883.

Aug 16, Sat - NJ - Dance At The Ranch, A great mix of Hustle, West Coast Swing, Latin and Salsa, 7:30p.m. to 1:30 a.m, Spinning W Ranch (Wendy Lippincott) N.J. Food as well as wine and mixers will be available. R.S.V.P.’s, directions: spinningw@aol.com $15.00 donation 266 Hartford Rd. Medford,

Aug 16, Sat - PA California Mix @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, PA, www.vaidance.com. 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 and an 8:30 Dance Party. Refreshments included. $12.00 at the door.

Aug 16, Sat - NJ New Year’s in August at the Nash Dancenter, 8:00-9:00Pm lesson, Dancing 9:00-1:00AM, Ballroom/Latin Mix & Lesson w/ Brian Nash, California Mix & WCS Lesson w/ John Festa, Hustle Lesson w/ Arte Phillips, Hustle Mix by Bobby Morales, dancing in all rooms! Tickets: $20 in advance/$30 event day 10-12 Emery Ave.Randolph, 973-328-7979 www.nashdancenter.com

Aug 16, 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

Aug 17, Sun NJ 100 % HUSTLE w/ DJ Johnny O at The Starlight Ballroom 9 PM-1 am, Early Bird Special $8 before 10pm Giveaways: party passes, CDs, dance classes & much more! 11 PM New music set by D.J. Johnny “O”

Aug 17, 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

Aug 23, Sat - VA - The All White Moonlight Salsa Boat Ride. Nino Torre & NiteMix Prod. presents 2nd annual floating Salsa party, The EAGLE of the James River. 3101 Wharf Street By Main St. Landing, 9:00pm to Midnight with two levels for dancing & socializing, Advance ticket’s $35 pp until Aug 2nd, $40 after. (free Hot Buffet & free After Party in downtown Shockoe Bottom) Call: Nino 718-926-3704
21 with ID to Drink alcohol. www.NiteMix.ws/SalsaBoatride

New York Hustle Congress Aug. 28-Sept 1, 2008 The 4th Annual hustle event in New York City. Hosted by Lori Brizzi. This is a Hustle weekend w/ more social dance time then any other event. Featuring the incomparable Trampps performing live, DJ Jenny Costa, Jack & Jill competitions & 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. WCSSocial Dance Event w/ instructors Ramiro Gonzalez, John Lindo, Mary Ann Nunez, Sylvia Sykes, Charlie Womble & Jackie McGee. www.HudsonSwingAffair.com or 212 779-2700

Swing Niagara Dance Championships Sept. 12-14, Adam’s Mark Hotel, 120 Church St., Buffalo, NY 14202 (800) 444-2326 Special rate: $110 per night, Confirmed Staff:Mario Robau Jr, Angel & Debbie Figueroa, Mary Ann Nunez, Parker Dearborn & Jessica Cox, Kyle Redd & Sarah Vann Drake, Arjay Centeno & Melissa Rutz, Bill Cameron, Jason Miklic & Sophy Kdep, Fred & Tina Price, Larry & Heidi Mongeau, Marc Levetin & Stephanie Brown, Lindsay Edgerton, Julie Epplett, Mike & Inge Evans, Antoinette Giancursio, Alysia Bonvino, Barb & Joe Tomasulo. www.swingniagara.com

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 & 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/

February 23 - 28, 2009 - Royal Caribbean’s Navigator Cruise 10th annual Hustle & Salsa Dance. This cruise will include: over 20 hours of dance workshops, 25 hours of social dancing, jack n jill dance contests. The ship has a fabulous discotheque & a 3000 sq. ft. dance floor in the main arena. Fares start only $590 per person, for an inside cabin:Category N plus taxes, port charges & fuel supplement. Call Caren Casper at 754-246-2874 to make your reservation and receive a discount of $50 off for booking by Sept. 15, 2008. For details go to our website at: www.HustleCruise.com.

Coming this weekend is the highly regarded World Hustle Dance Championships; organized by Event Director Diane Nardone, this is truly the Hustle dance lovers event.

Some notable Hustle Professionals on staff are Donna Di Simone, Derrick Allen, Gary Ulaner, Kim Vanaman, George Garcia, and the entire event will be MC’d by Dance Talk’s Publisher, Ron Bess.

There’s more than just Hustle; the WCS roster looks great too, Diane enlisted the upper echelon of Swing such as Sophi & Jason Miklic, John Lindo, Melody Cochran and more.

A great feature about WHDC; video passes will be available. That’s correct you can video tape workshops, competitions and social dancing thru out the entire weekend. (You can even video tape the MC???) but you must have a video pass, available at the main desk for only $25.00 (there is no video taping the Saturday night dinner show)

Get more information and register on the World Hustle Dance website here.

[Note:WHDC is no longer accepting faxes or emails for registration. You'll be able to register at the event starting Thursday, July 24 at 6:00PM. They are accepting Professional Just Dance & Jack N Jill entries at the event PLEASE NOTE DEADLINE will be as follows: Pro just dance hustle & Swing will be Friday at 5:00 Pro jack n Jill will be Saturday at 4:00PM. There is a Great meal and Fabulous show planned for you on Saturday with RESERVED SEATING. Show tickets will be available at the event with a purchase of your admission pass; you will not be guaranteed seating]

Thanks to Dance Talk and Ron Bess for the additional information.

Happy birthday wishes to Steve Neeren, Fred Price, Erica Smith, Jennifer Lopez, Dr. Joe Vanore, Danielle Odhner, Joyce Szili, Robert Ortiz and Samantha Kahn,

Wishing a speedy and healthy recovery to Lisa Berger. She just returned home after surgery. We hope to see her on the dance floor soon.

Congratulations to Lauren (Gleason) Costantini on her July 5th marriage to fellow dancer Mark Costantini. We wish them a life time of happiness and dancing.

Here is some exciting news, the dancing Doctor returns to the World Hustle Dance Championships. Direct from California, Gary Ulaner is on the staff.

Bill Davies, Master Teacher, Coach & Judge has received the Lifetime Achievement Award for Dance from the National Dance Council of America.

Television shows “Dancing With The Stars” received 8 Emmy nominations and “So You Think You Can Dance” has received 3 nominations, for last seasons shows.

This Saturday at the World Hustle Dance Championships, David Paris & Zoe Klein will be teaching a workshop on lifts. They are incredible adagio/acrobatic team destined for stardom. They will also be performing on Saturday nights at Cuba Libra located in the Tropicana in Atlantic City.

The Hustle Congress package prices will go up July 28th. Don’t delay. Anyone interested in being a sponsor, advertiser or a vendor for this year’s NY Hustle Congress, please check out http://nyhustlecongress.com/sponsors.htm

After a long absence, Evelyn “Champaign” King (Shame) is back on the charts with a new single release entitled, “The Dance”

The World Hustle Dance Championships takes place this week. The entire workshop schedule is now on line at www.dkndance.com/2008workshops.html There are still some limited tickets available for the Saturday night Dinner/show. Registration for pro & amateur Jack n Jill’s at the event, cut off Saturday at 2:00PM for Pros and Sunday at noon for Amateurs. Its not to late to register for the Open World Hustle Dance Championship and the Team Match Challenge, you can register up to 2PM on Friday. Volunteers needed, please contact Cathy at 201 566 2222

This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by Westie Weekend and The Grand Pacific Championships, read all the exciting news below.

Make it a great week,
Ron

The Grand Pacific Dance Championships
Dancing is about creativity and change. Evolve, and you will grow beyond your imagination. Its time to take the next step in dance, and experience The Grand Pacific Dance Championships. A brand new competition weekend that encompasses multiple styles of dance that will raise your dance meter. GPDC takes place Aug 14 - 18, 2008 in San Jose California. An IHDA sanctioned event, this is the newest event to take place yet it has seasoned professionals hosting - Billy Fajardo, Raul Ante and Debra Hampton. There will be competitions, social dancing and workshops all weekend long. The dance styles include, hustle, Salsa, WCS, Bolero, Rumba, Cha Cha, Merengae, ECS, Theater Arts and Cabaret. Competitions will be in all levels of Pro - Ams, Amateurs, and Professionals. To keep the weekend hot there will be Jack and Jill divisions as well as the ever exciting Triple Threats (Salsa, WCS and Hustle). The event will give all attendees the opportunity to explore new dance styles and experience studying under world recognized instructors. Its time to think outside your dance circle and try something new and challenging. You can register on line but be sure to book your rooms now. The GPDC organizers have years of experience and dance titles in Hustle, Swing and Latin. To compliment their talent they have gathered some of the top professionals from all over the country, in various styles of dance. Look who’s coming…The staff includes: Billy Fajardo, Katie Marlow, Debra Hampton, Raul Ante, Arjay Centeno, Melissa Rutz, Kelvin Roche, Loriann Greenhouse, Raul Santiago, Sergia Anderson, Danny McGee, Jamison Kilburn, Ava Apple, Gavin Calkins, Anna Botelho, Wendy & Wajih Dalal, Joy Ro-King, Stephen Ward, Jordan Frisbee, Tatiana Mollmann, Archie Dawson, Scott Patterson, Richard Kear, Michelle Kinkaid, Bud Ayers, Rodolfo Guzman, Keith & Celeste Gussoni …It all takes place at the beautiful Doubletree Hotel San Jose, 2050 Gateway Place, San Jose, California. The special room rates are available at only $105.00 per night. Reservations now available. Tel 408-453-4000, fax 408-437-2898 toll free 1-800-222-TREE www.doubletreesanjose.com
For more details on the schedule, staff and registration visit http://grandpacificdance.com/

Westie Weekend
Its Swing Daddy time. Time to get up close and personal with one of the most charismatic dancers you’ll ever meet, Mario “Swing Daddy” Robau. Mario visits the Del Val area on August 8th and 9th, hosted by Rob and Sheila for a Westie Weekend. But, please take note, his private lessons have already sold out…..need I say more. He is a nationally known dance star. Mario has been dancing since his early years growing up in Texas. He began breakdancing at the age of 8. When he was 16, his father introduced him to swing dancing by signing them both up for lessons. Mario learned to dance, not by the numbers, but by feeling it. Mario has been on the dance circuits since 1988. While traveling he has capitalized on learning and studying all forms of swing dance with many of the legends. In addition he was part of “Dancin…The Company”, a jazz and tap group out of Houston, for seven years. He also studied within the ballroom community for several years and was trained in Country & Western dancing by Laurie Sepulvado. His hard work & dedication has lead him to a number of titles including: 10 time Texas State Champion, Undefeated Slow Whip Champion, Undefeated Classic Dallas Dance Champion, Dallas Dance Hall of Fame, the Youngest Person Inducted into Swing Dance Hall of Fame, National Boppers Association Hall of Fame, 2 Times US Open Classic Champion, Team US Open Champion, Two Time Grand Nationals Classic Champion, Two Time Grand Nationals Strictly Champion, Two Time-Phoenix Invitational Champion, just to name a few. In addition Mario is a Masters Level Judge with UCWDC and has toured throughout the US as a Lead Dancer in Company Choreographed and coached winning Classic and Showcase routines at every major competition. Now you know all about Swing Daddy, so join him on August 8th & 9th for a special Westie weekend. For workshops and socials visit the website or call Rob and Sheila Rob: 609-519-0793 or 856-858-6753
Sheila: bpurkey@yahoo.com Rob: djrob01@comcast.net www.robandsheiladance.com

Two Messages
With Disco America 2008 now behind us, we can take a moment to catch our breaths and sit down to write a “Thank You” note to all those who supported our event making it, one of the best years ever. We have so many dedicated people to thank it’s almost impossible to name them individually, but we are going to give it a try. A big “Thank You” to our front desk people, Michael Couris, Lana May, Madeline Lane, Naomi Brownstein, Sharon Roberts, Erica Neil, Maria Dugan, Carol Ann Baltz and Donna Carleone, without them your check-ins would not have been as smooth and easy as they were. We would also like to thank the following people for their contributions to our event and for giving us the support we needed to make this event a success: Phil Dixon & Diane Weinberg who did a great job attending to the workshops. Art Bohus & Jack Cieka for managing the door. Dara Patrusky & Anita Giacone for all of their hard work and assistance. Connie Yesh & Eddie Gooden, who did a fabulous job keeping our staff nourished all weekend by organizing and managing the Hospitality Suite. Our staff of instructors including, Lori Brizzi, Joey Commentucci, Wendy and Wajih Dalal, Beth Darchi, Carlo DeJesus, Barry Durand, Brian Gallagher, Silvana Gallagher, George Garcia, Jose Gonzales, Loriann Greenhouse, Wingo Hom, Joe Kerner, Ettie Kurtz, Stephanie Risser, Jameson Kilburn, Billy Marti, Angela McCabe, Daniel McGee, Diane Nardone, Tony & Shawn Nguyen, Louie Orlando, Roberto Pagan, Arte Phillips, Kelvin Roche, Jaime Serna, Lynn Stevens and Tybaldt & Hazel Urlich, for teaching their best moves and sharing their talents with the students. Our DJ’s Bobby Morales, Nino Torre, Steve Neeren, Mark Sakowski and DJ Mark for playing their best music and keeping our dance floors going til the wee hours of the morning. Ron Bess, who did his usual stellar job MC’ing the weekend. Elizabeth Darchi, who handled our website, making it easy to read and navigate. Athina Dalamaras, Jean Sirabella, Lana May, Tony & Shawn Nguyen, Madeline Lane and Connie Yesh for their contributions to the Dance Scholarship Fund. The cast of dancers from the “10 years of Joy” dinner show, Carolina Almont, Stephanie Risser, Patty McConnell, Elizabeth Darchi, Angela McCabe, Joey Commentucci, Joe Kerner, Jose Gonzales and Sheryl Freas. Brian Fortuna and Sandra Fortuna for their beautiful Waltz Exhibition. Ralph Johnson our videographer. Arte Phillips for choreographing a great dinner show that will be remembered forever. And last, but definitely not least, we would like to thank all of our attendees. We know there are many events to choose from and we truly appreciate you spending your weekend with us. REMEMBER…Without “YOU” there would be no Disco America.
Thank You,
Donna Boyle
Joyce Szili

Recently my brother Barry Lederer passed away. His career highlights DJing on Fire Island in the 70’s, fashion music consultant to top designers, Graebar Sound for club sound systems. His career spanned many generations and genres. For more information regarding Barry, we have set up a website discobarry.com. Barry was a collector – and unfortunately I need to liquidate his collection. He has over 25k in LPs, 1k of 45’s and a couple of thousand CDs. Time is of the essence as I need to be out of his apartment by the end of July. Due to the amount of his collection ‘cherry-picking’ is not possible, I am looking for reasonable offers in bulk for the music. Below is the inventory of equipment available on a first come basis – all reasonable offers will be considered. To set up an appointment, please contact Jo Ann Chew at jac@c2va.com and mherz03@aol.com.

Auditions, Competitions, Socials, Cruises & More…
July 21, 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.

July 22, 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, SALSA Lesson by ABIGAIL DAVILA , door prizes & dancing to a Salsa, Latin, WC Swing & Hustle Dance Mix by DJ Cody. (631) 744-7777 www.LIDance.org

Jul 22, 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

July 23, Wed - Pa - Michael’s Cafe, celebrating Danielle Odhner’s birthday. The hot spot every Wednesday night for the best in Hustle, Swing and Latin in Between. DJ Mark plays classic and hot new club music from 8:30PM till 12:30AM, Never a cover charge and free parking. Come join the fun. Street Road in Bensalem

July 23, 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 Steve Neeren spinning the best in hustle & latin $9/PP; $5 for SO Students - Tonight’s Special is “Wear All Yellow”and get $2 off for tonite

July 23, Wed - NJ - Westie Wednesday! mostly WCS with a little Shag, NC2 and Country 2. $5. Free parking. Snacks. Atrium, Pennsauken, NJ. www.robandsheiladance.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! Staff includes: Anthony Lee, Bobby Gerard, Brian Gallagher, Chris Bates, Dave Muzii, David Flynn, Derrick Allen, Diane K. Nardone, Donna Boyle, Donna DeSimone, Fred & Tina Price, Gary Ulaner, George Garcia, Jason Miklic & Sophy Kdep, John Festa, John Lindo, Kim Vanaman, Krisna Creque Dodig, Mark James & Karen Lupo, DJ Mark, Michael Frank, Ron Bess, Silvana Gallagher, Tony Pace, Tybaldt & Hazel Ulrich Visit www.hustledanceworld.com

July 24, 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. SALSA 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!

July 25, Fri - NJ - NEW!!! SWING CITY MIX !! Rob, Sheila & Sascha join up for a fun night of SWING!! 30 min beginner lesson + 30 minute Intermediate lessons - 2 Dances. WCS mix room and Lindy Mix room! Dance Jam @ 10:30 ish! $15 Ticket to Ride compliments Rob and Sheila for one lucky winner. Free parking! Check it out! $12 per person . www.robandsheiladance.com

July 26, Sat - Pa - NO Salsa Rendezvous , on Summer Break, Returns Sept 6th, @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, www.vaidance.com

July 26, Sat - NJ - Highland Park, Hosted by Marc Liebeskind, Ballroom-Latin Dance Social with International Rumba Workshop with Brian Thompson, Workshop 5:00 to 7:10, Social 7:30 to 11:30 , $15 for Workshop and Social - $12 students, $10 for Workshop or Social separately., IM Gallery, 233 Raritan Avenue, Highland Park, NJ. http://hpds.webhop.org/events, 201-320-9176, hpds@optonline.net

July 26, 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. SAMBA Dance Lesson starting 8:30pm. Great Show!! State of the art sound system, AC, Door Prizes, Admission $15, call Louis at (516) 819 - 9016

July 29, 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, SALSA Lesson by ABIGAIL DAVILA , door prizes & dancing to a Salsa, Latin, WC Swing & Hustle Dance Mix by DJ Cody. (631) 744-7777 www.LIDance.org

July 30, 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.

Swing Fling July 31 - Aug. 3, Hilton Washington Dulles, DC Area. 17th Annual Swing and Hustle event, NASDE Competition, WSDC Jack & Jill Competition, Over $12,000 in Prizes, 4 Large Dance Floors, Famous “Lobby” Dance Floor, Over 40 dance workshops, WCS, Hustle, Lindy, Hand Dance, Plenty of Open dancing because of various floors, Top Teachers & Judges in the world $90 special room rate, Swing & Hustle Pro Am competition, 1-800 -Hiltons, Ask for the $90 Swing Fling rate Event Director: Barry Durand visit http://barrydurand.com/swingfling/

Aug 1, Fri - Pa - Dance Party with Donna Boyle, Holiday Inn, 432 Pennsylvania Ave., Fort Washington, Complimentary appetizers and drink specials 6:30 pm , Music starts at 8:00 pm; $10 Dance Lesson at 8:15 pm DJ DONNA BOYLE playing your dance favorites, Dress Code: Dressy/Business Casual/Fashionable! More info at http://www.donnaboyle.com/

Aug 1, Fri - Pa - Ballroom Extravaganza @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, PA, www.vaidance.com. The best of Ballroom and Latin music from contemporary to classic; Foxtrot, Rumba, Cha Cha, Waltz, Samba, Tango, EC Swing, and more. 7:30 PM begins the free Lesson w/ Silvana and an 8:30 Dance Party. Refreshments are included. $12.00 at the door.

Aug 2, sat - NJ - No Name California Mix Dance, Country Two Step basics lesson by Carol Feldman at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton, 50 Cherry Hill Rd, lesson at 7:30 p.m. Open dancing WCS, ECS, Ballroom, Latin, Night Club Two Step, Hustle and more featuring Genesis 8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. $12. www.centraljerseydance.org. noname@centraljerseydance.org or 609-945-1883.

Aug 2, Sat - NYC - Lori Brizzi’s MILLENNIUM HUSTLE at IL Campanello is temporarily canceled until they obtain their cabaret license. Please stay tune for this popular party’s new location until then. For updates, please email loribrizzi@aol.com or call 516 728-6101

Aug 8, 9 & 10 - Mario “Swing Daddy” Robau visits the Del Val area! Rob and Sheila bring Mario Robau in for workshops and for Got Swing? Register now for workshops, don’t be left out. Save the DATE!! Rob and Sheila Rob: 609-519-0793 or 856-858-6753 Sheila: bpurkey@yahoo.com Rob: djrob01@comcast.net www.robandsheiladance.com

Aug 8, Fri - Pa - Ballroom Extravaganza @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, PA, www.vaidance.com. The best of Ballroom and Latin music from contemporary to classic; Foxtrot, Rumba, Cha Cha, Waltz, Samba, Tango, EC Swing, and more. 7:30 PM begins the free Lesson w/ Silvana and an 8:30 Dance Party. Refreshments are included. $12.00 at the door.

Aug 9, 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 PETER-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

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 www.doubletreesanjose.com http://grandpacificdance.com/

Aug 16, Sat - NJ - Dance At The Ranch, A great mix of Hustle, West Coast Swing, Latin and Salsa, 7:30p.m. to 1:30 a.m, Spinning W Ranch (Wendy Lippincott) N.J. Food as well as wine and mixers will be available. R.S.V.P.’s and directions: spinningw@aol.com $15.00 donation 266 Hartford Rd. Medford,

Aug 16, Sat - Pa - California Mix @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, PA, www.vaidance.com. 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 and an 8:30 Dance Party. Refreshments are included. $12.00 at the door.

Aug 16, Sat - NJ - New Year’s in August at the Nash Dancenter, 8:00-9:00Pm lesson, Dancing 9:00-1:00AM, Ballroom/Latin Mix & Lesson w/ Brian Nash, California Mix & WCS Lesson w/ John Festa, Hustle Lesson w/ Arte Phillips, Hustle Mix by Bobby Morales, dancing in all rooms! Tickets: $20 in advance/$30 event day 10-12 Emery Ave.Randolph, 973-328-7979 www.nashdancenter.com

Aug 16, 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

Aug 17, Sun - NJ - 100 % HUSTLE with DJ Johnny O at the Starlight Ballroom. From 9 PM - 1 am, EARLY BIRD SPECIAL $8 before 10 PM GIVEAWAYS: party passes, CDs, dance classes and much more!
11 PM - New music set by D.J. Johnny “O”

Aug 23, Sat - VA - The All White Moonlight Salsa Boat Ride. Nino Torre & NiteMix Prod. presents 2nd annual floating Salsa party, The EAGLE of the James River. 3101 Wharf Street By Main St. Landing, 9:00pm to Midnight with two levels for dancing & socializing, Advance ticket’s $35 pp until Aug 2nd, $40 after. (free Hot Buffet & free After Party in downtown Shockoe Bottom) Call: Nino 718-926-3704
21 with ID to Drink alcohol. http://www.NiteMix.ws/SalsaBoatride

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. WCS Social Dance Event w/ instructors Ramiro Gonzalez, John Lindo, Mary Ann Nunez, Sylvia Sykes, Charlie Womble & Jackie McGee. www.HudsonSwingAffair.com or 212 779-2700

Swing Niagara Dance Championships September 12 - 14, Adam’s Mark Hotel, 120 Church St., Buffalo, NY 14202 - (800) 444-2326 Special rate: $110 per night, Confirmed Staff: Mario Robau Jr, Angel & Debbie Figueroa, Mary Ann Nunez, Parker Dearborn & Jessica Cox, Kyle Redd & Sarah Vann Drake, Arjay Centeno & Melissa Rutz, Bill Cameron, Jason Miklic & Sophy Kdep, Fred & Tina Price, Larry & Heidi Mongeau, Marc Levetin & Stephanie Brown, Lindsay Edgerton, Julie Epplett, Mike & Inge Evans, Antoinette Giancursio, Alysia Bonvino, Barb & Joe Tomasulo, www.swingniagara.com

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 with 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 Jan 25-Feb 1, 2009 7 nights on Costa Cruise Line’s 5-Star Costa Fortuna, 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, Saturda-At Sea, Sunday-back to Fort Lauderdale, www.stardustdancecruises.com/

February 23 - 28, 2009 - Royal Caribbean’s Navigator Cruise 10th annual Hustle & Salsa Dance. This cruise will include: over 20 hours of dance workshops, 25 hours of social dancing, jack n jill dance contests. The ship has a fabulous discotheque and a 3.000 sq. ft. dance floor in the main arena. Fares start at only $590 per person, for an inside cabin: Category N -plus taxes, port charges & fuel supplement. Call Caren Casper at 754-246-2874 to make your reservation and receive a discount of $50 off for booking by Sept. 15, 2008. For details go to our website at: www.HustleCruise.com.

As part of our new on-going series by Guest Editors we present you Partner Dance Basics with Lisa Nunziella.

[Editor: Many of you are already familiar with these points, but it's always good to refresh the basic tenets of good technique.]

1. Posture: The better your posture, the more confidence you will exude. Pull your shoulders back and down, abs are tight, neck long, lift the chest.
2. Work from your center. This is where your balance, strength and most movements initiate from.
3. Be an independent dancer. Even though you are dancing with someone does not mean that you rely on them to keep your balance for you. Get grounded and feel the floor as you stand tall and strong.
4. Enjoy every step you take. If you do, that comes through in your movement and your face.
5. Find your inner beauty. We are all unique. It is wonderful to be inspired by someone that you feel is a beautiful dancer. But find your own style and let it out. Be the best YOU you can be!
6. Gentlemen: Be strong and definite when you lead. If you make your partner look good, you look good!
7. Ladies: Connect with your partner with a strong frame. Look him in the eyes and let him know that you are ready and confident.
8. Breathe!!!! Breathe!!! Breathe!!!
9. A partnership is 50/50, whether it is social or competitive.
10. Enjoy the moment, feel the floor, stand tall and let the passion of the dance come through!

Lisa Nunziella
www.dancewithlisa.com

Happy birthday wishes to Roberto Pagan, Anthony Lee, Karen Pomager, Diane Weinberg, Rosalee Bucci, Shelly Cutler, Eddie Marks and Roy Tator.

We send our heart felt condolences to Bob Davis (editor of Soul-Partrol) on the loss of his father Robert S. Davis. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Its magic time, for the inaugural debut of Miami Dance Magic July 17 - 20, at the Miami Hyatt Regency, WCS, Hustle & Salsa. Lots of competitions, workshops, social dancing and the beauty of Miami. For details: Debra Lynn (954) 270 - 0232 email - MiamiDanceMagic@aol.com www.CoastalDanceConnection.com

Hey DJs and dance music lovers, DJ Fancy has his new CD available for only $15.00 (included shipping & handling). These are all new dance songs by Donna Summer, Natasha Bedingfield, Kylie Minogue, NeYo, Danity Kane, PussyCat Dolls, 16 hot new songs in all, write to sparda3636@yahoo.com for details.

Five time world champions, Ronnie DeBenedetta & Brandi Tobias are choreographing a “Two Step” for one of the couples this week on “So You Think You Can Dance” Wednesday, July 16th, 8PM EST, Fox network. Be sure to tune in to watch.

Dance pro Susan Fritz has a new video on YouTube featuring her dance team, from Sandra Cameron Dance Studio - Stephanie Hakun, Seth Asher & Irene Mou, Michael Zurich & Gail Brunje, here.

The King of Swing returns to the Philly area on Aug 8, 9 & 10 - Mario “Swing Daddy”, with hosts Rob and Sheila. Private lessons are already sold out. Wow, see more details below.

Discoamerica was a blast, special thanks to David Padilla for arranging the bus trip from NY to King Of Prussia and to our gal Slinky (Sheryl Freas) for stepping up as the lead in the dinner show.

The blonde bombshell, Ginger Rogers was born this week in 1911 in the great state of Missouri. She passed in 1995, but left behind an incredible legacy.

Check out images from Alan’s birthday celebration at Michael’s Cafe, courtesy of Fred here and photos by Scott Michielli here.

This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by the World Hustle Dance Championships taking place July 25 to 27th. visit www.hustledanceworld.com

Make it a great week,
Ron

World Hustle Dance Championships
The three C’s, to a great dance event: Community, Camaraderie, Competitions. Its time for the second leg of this summers “Triple Crown of Hustle” dancing. Get ready for the World Hustle Dance Championships, taking place July 25th till the 27th at the Hilton East Brunswick Hotel. Come join Diane Nardone as she presents her 8th annual event which is a “Dance Explosion.” Situated in central New Jersey, only a short drive from Philadelphia, Staten Island, Connecticut, Long Island, the DC area and all the burros of NY. There is something for everyone, Come out on Friday night and dance to the fabulous music of all the DJ’s competing in our second annual “Battle of the DJ’s.” They will be playing their best music for your listening and dancing pleasure and then you’ll have a chance to vote for your favorite DJ. Bobby Gerard, from Florida, won last year, will he repeat? Also on Friday evening, the new and exciting Dance Explosion Hustle Team Match Challenge. Friday will be a fabulous evening for all who those in attendance; get ready to wear out your dance shoes. Competition entries close on July 15th so if you are planning to compete, be sure to get your forms in soon. Here are the Jack-n-Jill schedules: Pro J&J Swing and Hustle competition entry will be available at the event until 4 PM on Saturday (no exceptions). Entries for the Amateur Jack-n-Jill Swing and Hustle plus our NEW Jill-n-Jack Swing & Hustle competitions will remain open until Sunday at noon (no exceptions). The Jill-n-Jack competitions on Sunday are for amateurs only. There’s still time to register for the World Open Dance Championship competition before the July 15 deadline! This is the premier dance comp open to all levels, if you think you have what it takes to take home the Gold. The Saturday Dinner last year was so fabulous that they are keeping the menu of mixed greens salad and the fantastic Balsamic Glazed Flank Steak with Roasted Rosemary Potatoes & fruited wild rice with delicious vegetable medley. The Chocolate Fudge Cake Drizzled with Raspberry Sauce will be a delicious ending! So get your dinner ticket now as the tables are going quickly and no dinner/show tickets will be available at the event. After dinner, you will remain at your ‘reserved’ table to watch a Dance Explosion show with a variety of All Forms of Dancing for your enjoyment. This year a special performance by American Dance Wheels, the organization that World Hustle has chosen to benefit this year, as part of the dinner show. The hotel is almost sold out … only 26 room nights are available at our special $99 room rate so don’t lose out on this fabulous rate. There will be vendors available all weekend as well as fabulous workshops and competitions. The hotel has a heated indoor pool and whirlpool and a state-of-the-art on-site Fitness Club as well as a newly renovated casual restaurant, The Cafe, in an atrium setting. There is also the Atrium Bar and Sips Coffee shop. Come join the fabulous line up of invited World Class Instructors, Judges, Performers and DJ’s: Anthony Lee, Bobby Gerard, Brian Gallagher, Chris Bates, Dave Muzii, David Flynn, Derrick Allen, Diane K. Nardone, Donna Boyle, Donna DeSimone, Fred & Tina Price, George Garcia, Jason Miklic & Sophy Kdep, John Festa, John Lindo, Kim Vanaman, Krisna Creque Dodig, Mark James & Karen Lupo, Mark Routzahn, Michael Frank, Ron Bess, Silvana Gallagher, Tony Pace, Tybaldt & Hazel Ulrich For more details visit www.hustledanceworld.com

Letters to the Editor
Greetings Ron, congratulators on 8 years for Dancetalk, I did want to speak on the hustle and disco topic and how it is portrayed on TV. A previous person wrote that Alex from California that does Salsa does a good job. He does an incredible job making the Salsa sexy, spicy and hot. What hot blooded women wouldn’t want to dance with him. That is what makes folks want to learn to dance. Hustle needs a face lift.
Sammie

Ron - I had a question and maybe some of the dance instructors can answers this or maybe you can. What do you think is the going rate for dance lessons and let me be more specific. I have been taking Hustle and Salsa lessons from a very well known franchised dance studio. They are all over the country need I say more. I am a mother of three kids so you know I have to watch my dollars. Every time I go to this studio all they care about is getting their money. If you don’t sign up for a group class or a party class they offer private lessons for $100.00 bucks a pop. I cannot afford $100.00 per class. My daughters both dance and they both dance Salsa they pay $70.00 and that is for a whole month of classes. Why does this franchise take advantage of the public. I have been dancing for years, I just started getting back into it now that my kids are older. If I was taking lessons from Alex Di Silva then maybe I wouldn’t mind so much. Can somebody comment on this?
Thanks,
Phyllis in O-town

May I add a comment to the lady who felt that Cyd Charisse “did not get the attention” that was given to Fred and Ginger and she based it perhaps on fair skin and fair hair color. Fred and Ginger danced in the early 1930s and early 1940s. They had no competition with other dancers at that time of early musicals. Fred was dark-haired in the early films and may have lightened his hair when films went to Technicolor because it made him look younger. By then Ginger no longer danced w/him for she had become a dramatic actress years before Technicolor films. Fred was still dancing until his 60s. Ginger stopped in her 30s. Studios wanted “younger, newer” dancers. Cyd Charisse, also fair skinned, danced in the late 1940s and 1950s, a decade or two after Fred/Ginger when there were many more female dancers who could sing, dance and act, so they all faced a triple threat. Musical films ended soon after but continued on Broadway. Cyd Charisse was a gorgeous dancer but she had so much competition. Studios had a “stable” full of dancers - Ann Miller (dark hair) Mitzie Gaynor, Leslie Caron (dark hair), Jane Powell, Debbie Reynolds (brown hair), Audrey Hepburn (dark hair); and too many others to mention. It was not the same during the very early days of Fred and Ginger. By the way, Fred and Ginger were never really known for their singing and neither was Cyd Charisse. Ginger went on to become a terrific non-dancing actress. Her lack of ballet training shows but who else had it in the 1930s? Certainly not Ruby Keeler nor Joan Crawford - both awkward dancers at the time of Fred/Ginger. Ginger was better than they but Cyd Charisse, who would be much better, was just a pre-teen at that time. I just wanted to clarify that “skin/hair color” had absolutely nothing to do with it. They danced in different eras and in worlds entirely different but they are all memorable.
Irene Jankowski

Hi Ron
I’d like to warmly thank everyone for the all the birthday wishes, cards & overall gestures of friendship I received at Michael’s on July 2. A very special thank you to all the great guys who participated in my birthday dance-you were all fabulous partners; to Mark for always playing a song or two he knows I love; to Ron for acknowledging my birthday in DanceTalk year after year (amongst the hundreds he tracks every week); to Scott and Fred for their expert photography; and last, but not least, to Terri my very, very good friend, who made all the arrangements for the party and convinced me to celebrate at Michael’s that night. I am blessed to know you all.
Love, Susan

By the way Ron,
my student Frankie is only 19 years old & loves the hustle the way we do it & teach it nowadays. Frankie has only been learning our hustle for 8 months & he placed in all of his comps at Discoamerica. His sister Rosa (21 years old) is going to be something special in a couple of years. They both love our style of hustle at the events. When Frankie is not practicing hustle or taking classes he’s on hi I-POD listening to new club style music, hip-hop, regaetton and salsa…I think that’s very cool. He’s a normal young guy that just happens to be in love with our hustle. They will be competing at the “Big Apple Comps” then Diane’s WHDC. I’ll see you at Diane’s.
Jaime

Hi Ron,
Even with several other dance events happening in NYC and NJ, the Crossroads at Mahwah Sheraton’s event had a great turnout with experienced and newbie dancers. Our Queen Bee of Hustle Diane Nardone conducted a beginners class to get the ball rolling. After the class Johnny O and Tom played a great California style mix and both, yes both, dance floors quickly filled up. The DJs kept the music going till 12:45AM. Dancers came from Poughkeepsie NY, Port Jervis, Staten Island, NYC and the Pa area. Diane provided a wonderful dance demonstration calling from the audience students (Ron, Debbie, Regina, Cathy and Gene) cheers, whistles and applause filled the ballroom as Diane and her students strutted their stuff. Dance pro George Garcia & is lovely wife Roesel graciously joined Diane to complete the demonstration. Here is a sample of feedback from the night. “Friday nights at the beginning of the month is a great time as not much is usually going on” “We had a great time we came to dance the space was great, the music was great, Diane was great and the Dancing was great, I guess all in all it was “great”, “I have been trying to get my husband into learning how dance and when I saw the news about the event we and another couple came. Such a nice group of people friendly, helpfully and my husband said damn those people are really good dancers. I really learned something from the lesson and felt confident enough to practice what was taught” The Sheraton is planning to have its next event after Labor Day so keep watching Ron’s Newsletter for updates. We would like to thank all of those you came out to support the event and am glad you all had a wonderful time. Any day that you can dance is a good day.
Thanks,
George McMahon

Auditions, Competitions, Socials, Cruises & More…
July 14, 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.

Jul 15, Tues - NY - IBBG, “The Original Tuesday Night Hustle Party” Spacious Dance Floor, celebrating Diana Gonzalez’s Birthday. Lina will be bringing Cake 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

July 15, 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, SALSA Lesson by ABIGAIL DAVILA , door prizes & dancing to a Salsa, Latin, WC Swing & Hustle Dance Mix by DJ Cody. (631) 744-7777 www.LIDance.org

July 16, Wed - Pa - Michael’s Cafe, the hot spot every Wednesday night for the best in Hustle, Swing and Latin in Between. DJ Mark plays classic and hot new club music from 8:30PM till 12:30AM, Never a cover charge and free parking. Next week we celebrate Danielle Odhner birthday. Come join the fun. Street Road in Bensalem

July 16, 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, With everyone’s favorite, DJ Bobby Morales 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.

July 16, 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

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

July 17, 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 Show, Great Hot Buffet, 45 Min. SALSA 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. EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT!

July 18, Fri - NJ - World Hustle Dance Championships Pre-Party, 8:00 to 9:00 Hustle Lesson with Diane K Nardone, 9:00 to 1:00 Social Mixer. (Hustle Swing Salsa Country Ballroom) with DJ Dave Muzii, Cash Bar, New Admission: Only $15.00 Jack n Jill Dance Competitions, Raffles, Coffee N lite refreshments, for info Diane 201 666 6224 dkndance@verizon.net or visit www.dkndance.com

July 18, Fri - NJ - Central Jersey Dance Society presents a Jersey Jumpers Swing Dance 5th Anniversary Celebration at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton, 50 Cherry Hill Road, Princeton. Beg. ECS lesson with Mike Davis 7:30 PM. Swing dancing 8:30 PM – 11:30 PM. No partner needed. $11 or $8 students with ID. www.centraljerseydance.org. 609-945-1883 or swing@jerseyjumpers.org.

July 18, Fri - NJ Salsa/Hustle night, 9PM-1AM, hosted by Eduardo Costa w/CostasMusicEntertainment with the Atomic Salsa band. Hustle music by DJ MC @ Mona Lisa Restaurant, 157 East Westfield Ave Roselle Park, Info call Eduardo (908) 416-6184. Free admission before 9PM or w/ dinner $10 after 9PM.

July 18, Fri - NJ - The Watermelon Dance! The Del Val Shag & Swing Club’s monthly dance. Mostly Shag & WCS but we’ll add in a little NC2, etc.here. $8 members; $11 non members. Everyone welcome. Free parking. www.delvalshag.org

July 18, Fri - FL - Swing Dance A Little Lindy Plus! Dance Lindy Hop, East Coast, West Coast, and Blues with Cindy. Dance Lesson at 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

July 19, Sat - PA California Mix @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, www.vaidance.com. 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 & an 8:30 Dance Party. Refreshments included. $12.00 at the door.

July 19, Sat-NYC Lori Brizzi’s Millennium Hustle’s “SATURDAY NIGHT SPECIAL”. 3 DJ’s, 3 Rms of dancing. DJ NELSON ‘Paradise’ ROMAN-Hustle, DJ FRANKLIN AYALA-Latin, DJ Mark-Ballroom (Tango,Swing) $15 incl.s 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

July 20, Sun - NJ 100% Pure Hustle VACATION, closed http://www.starlightdanceusa.com

July 20, Sun - PA Dance Party w/ Donna Boyle, at Holiday Inn Fort Washington, 7pm oldies, swing, hustle & latin , 432 Pennsylvania Ave., Ft Washington, DJ DONNA BOYLE playing your dance favorites, Dress Code: Dressy/Business Casual/Fashionable! More info www.donnaboyle.com

July 20, 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

July 22, 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, SALSA Lesson by ABIGAIL DAVILA , door prizes & dancing to a Salsa, Latin, WC Swing & Hustle Dance Mix by DJ Cody. (631) 744-7777 www.LIDance.org

July 23, Wed - NJ - Westie Wednesday! mostly WCS with a little Shag, NC2 and Country 2. $5. Free parking. Snacks. Atrium, Pennsauken, NJ. www.robandsheiladance.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 & to register on-line!

July 25, Fri - NJ NEW! SWING CITY MIX!Rob, Sheila & Sascha join up for a fun night of SWING!! 30 min beginner lesson + 30 minute Intermediate lessons 2 Dances. WCS mix room & Lindy Mix room! Dance Jam @ 10:30 ish! $15 Ticket to Ride compliments Rob & Sheila for one lucky winner. Free parking! $12 per person www.robandsheiladance.com

July 26, Sat - PA NO Salsa Rendezvous on Summer Break, Returns Sept 6th, @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, www.vaidance.com

July 26, Sat - NJ Highland Park, Hosted by Marc Liebeskind, Ballroom-Latin Dance Social w/ Int’l Rumba Workshop w/Brian Thompson, Workshop 5 to 7:10, Social 7:30 to 11:30, $15 for Workshop & Social - $12 students, $10 for Workshop or Social separately, IM Gallery, 233 Raritan Avenue, Highland Park, NJ. http://hpds.webhop.org/events, 201-320-9176, hpds@optonline.net

July 26, 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. SAMBA Dance Lesson starting 8:30pm. Great Show!! State of the art sound system, AC, Door Prizes, Admission $15, call Louis at (516) 819 - 9016

July 29, 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, SALSA Lesson by ABIGAIL DAVILA , door prizes & dancing to a Salsa, Latin, WC Swing & Hustle Dance Mix by DJ Cody. (631) 744-7777 www.LIDance.org

Swing Fling July 31-Aug. 3, Hilton Washington Dulles, DC Area. 17th Annual Swing & Hustle event, NASDE Competition, WSDC Jack & Jill Competition, Over $12,000 in Prizes, 4 Large Dance Floors, Famous “Lobby” Dance Floor, Over 40 dance workshops, WCS, Hustle, Lindy, Hand Dance, Plenty of Open dancing because of various floors, Top Teachers & Judges in the world $90 special room rate, Swing & Hustle Pro Am competition, 1-800 -Hiltons, Ask for the $90 Swing Fling rate Event Director: Barry Durand visit http://barrydurand.com/swingfling/

Aug 1, Fri - PA Dance Party w/ Donna Boyle, Holiday Inn, 432 Pennsylvania Ave., Ft Washington, Complimentary appetizers & drink specials 6:30 pm , Music starts at 8:00 pm; $10 Dance Lesson at 8:15 pm DJ DONNA BOYLE playing your dance favorites, Dress Code: Dressy/Business Casual/Fashionable! More info at www.donnaboyle.com

Aug 1, Fri - PA Ballroom Extravaganza @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, PA, www.vaidance.com. The best of Ballroom and Latin music from contemporary to classic; Foxtrot, Rumba, Cha Cha, Waltz, Samba, Tango, EC Swing, and more. 7:30 PM begins the free Lesson w/ Silvana and an 8:30 Dance Party. Refreshments are included. $12.00 at the door.

Aug 2, sat - NJ - No Name California Mix Dance, Country Two Step basics lesson by Carol Feldman at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton, 50 Cherry Hill Rd, lesson at 7:30 p.m. Open dancing WCS, ECS, Ballroom, Latin, Night Club Two Step, Hustle and more featuring Genesis 8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. $12. www.centraljerseydance.org. noname@centraljerseydance.org or 609-945-1883.

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

Aug 8, Fri - Pa - Ballroom Extravaganza @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, PA, www.vaidance.com The best of Ballroom and Latin music from contemporary to classic; Foxtrot, Rumba, Cha Cha, Waltz, Samba, Tango, EC Swing, & more. 7:30 PM begins the free Lesson w/ Silvana 8:30 Dance Party. Refreshments are included. $12.00 at the door.

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 available at $105.00 p/night. Reservations accepted May 18th. ph 408-453-4000, fx 408-437-2898 http://grandpacificdance.com

Aug 16, Sat - NJ Dance At The Ranch, A great mix of Hustle, West Coast Swing, Latin and Salsa, 7:30p.m. to 1:30 a.m, Spinning W Ranch (Wendy Lippincott) N.J. Food, wine & mixers will be available. R.S.V.P.’s and directions: spinningw@aol.com $15.00 donation 266 Hartford Rd. Medford,

Aug 16, Sat - PA California Mix @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, PA, www.vaidance.com. 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 and an 8:30 Dance Party. Refreshments are included. $12.00 at the door.

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. West Coast Swing Social Dance Event with instructors Ramiro Gonzalez, John Lindo, Mary Ann Nunez, Sylvia Sykes, Charlie Womble & Jackie McGee. Visit www.HudsonSwingAffair.com or call 212 779 - 2700

Swing Niagara Dance Championships September 12 - 14, Adam’s Mark Hotel, 120 Church St., Buffalo, NY 14202 - (800) 444-2326 Special rate: $110 per night, Confirmed Staff: Mario Robau Jr, Angel & Debbie Figueroa, Mary Ann Nunez, Parker Dearborn & Jessica Cox, Kyle Redd & Sarah Vann Drake, Arjay Centeno & Melissa Rutz, Bill Cameron, Jason Miklic & Sophy Kdep, Fred & Tina Price, Larry & Heidi Mongeau, Marc Levetin & Stephanie Brown, Lindsay Edgerton, Julie Epplett, Mike & Inge Evans, Antoinette Giancursio, Alysia Bonvino, Barb & Joe Tomasulo, www.swingniagara.com

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 with 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: 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 Fort Lauderdale, www.stardustdancecruises.com

Once again DJ Ron Cantwell has put together another hot mix. Definitely a micro trend, the Salseros mixing into Hustle here at The Hustle Lounge; putting the Latin back into Latin Hustle. Here’s a great accompaniment, DJ’s Ron’s Latin Hustle Mix:

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Happy Birthday wishes to Melissa Walker, Nancy Merle, Punkin Habet, Jeff Gessner, Nina Rosado, Paige Shoyer, Loriann Greenhouse, George Azpura, Roma Moon, Gregory Harrison, Manny “Gizmo” Alvarez, Paula Bove/Edgar, Giant Gene, Al Schmidt and Judy Smith.

Congratulations to Shana and the Society Hill Dance Academy. They are opening a second dance studio - SHDA West, in Manayunk, Pa. at Beat Street Station, just one block off of Main Street. Stay tuned for updates.

What a weekend. Discoamerica was the bomb. An incredible weekend of entertainment surpassing all expectations. Congratulations to co-directors Donna Boyle and Joyce Szilli. See the wrap up below.

This Christmas look out for the motion picture Bedtime Stories, with choreography by Adam Shankman (Hairspray and Stuck On You) featuring Adam Sandler, Dana Goodman, Keri Russel and dance pros Lacy Schwimmer and Travis.

Don’t miss the premier of the newest dance social, Dancing At the Cross Roads, this Friday, July 11th, at the Sheraton Mahwah Crossroad Hotel Grand Ballroom 1 International Blvd, Route 17 North, Mahwah New Jersey see details below.

Lori Brizzi has extended the early bird price package for the 4th Annual New York Hustle Congress. The prices do go up next week. The hotel is sold out & group rate almost gone so reserve your room at 1-800 Hilton and mention code SAL for the group rate immediately. www.nyhustlecongress.com

Nicky Siano, the legendary DJ will retire on his 55th birthday, March 2010, just 17 months away. He performs all over the world…best known from the Gallery in NYC and helping to launch the careers of so many artists.

Here is the pick of the week from DJ Fancy, “We Break The Dawn” by Michelle Williams of “Destiny’s Child” fame. This is her new single.

It will be a high kicking weekend at The Big Apple Country Dance Festival, the party takes place at the Renaissance Newark see all the details at http://bigapplecountrydance.com/

Did you catch Raul Santiago, on “So You Think You Can Dance,” he was assisting choreographer and friend Alex DaSilva.

This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by the Mediterranean Dance Cruise. Read all about it below.

Make it a great week,
Ron

Mediterranean Dance Cruise

There comes a point in life when you decide its time to create memories. There is no better way then to gather your loved ones, close friends or family and sail on the incredible Queen Victoria. This is bound to be an unbelievable journey that will be the topic of discussions for years to come. You will vacation for 12 wonderful days starting your trip in Athens which will include stops in Volos, Greece – Dikili, Istanbul, & Kusadasi Turkey, Port Said & Alexandria Egypt - Valetta in Malta - Messina Naples and ending in Rome, Italy. Imagine the history and beauty you will capture. The sites will be breath taking. This is a once in a life time event. The trip begins on November 17th thru November 29th of 2008. The rates start at approximately $2200 for the cruise, prior Cunard guests may get better rates. Please call now for the lowest rates, but don’t wait. The level of interest is high. 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. For the ultimate time to create special memories.

Discoamerica (the highlights)

On July 4th the country celebrated 232 years of independence. Philadelphia, the first capital of the United states, is also the home of the longest running dance event, dedicated to Hustle dancing. Discoamerica celebrated its 10th anniversary in grand style. Organizers Donna Boyle & Joyce Szili created plenty of fireworks on the dance floor. With so many surprises….many old friends returned to celebrate the 10 year anniversary. Many dance couples came back to encore previous performances. Hustle pioneer Arte Phillips was honored for his longevity in the dance world and for all of his contributions, the “Life Time Achievement Award” was bestowed on him. Pre dinner festivities featured the return of some of the best acts over the years *a performance from “Dancing With the Stars” Brian Fortuna, along with his mother, Ballroom pro, Sandra Fortuna, *an exciting acrobatic exhibition by David Paris and Zoë, *a high energy show by Eli Torres and Yen Dorado dancing their ESPN world Salsa number, *Donna Boyle and Jose Gonzales demonstrating a classic hustle. The dinner show honored the past 10 years. A tribute created by choreographer Arte Phillips. The show reflected back on previous shows featureing Loriann Greenhouse & Kelvin Roche, Tybaldt & Hazel Ulrich, Wendy & Wajih Dalal and the cast: Patty McConnell, Elizabeth Darchi, Angela McCabe, Stephanie Risser, Carolina Almont, Joey Commentucci, Joe Kernan, Louie Orlando, Jose Gonzales, Steve Neeren and Billy Marti,
The fireworks shined brightly on the dance floor along with Andre Phelps, Bobby Morales, Lori Brizzi, Steve Neeren, Brian Gallagher, Silvana Gallagher, Wingo Hom, DJ Mark, Diane Nardone, Angela McCabe, Dara Patrusky, Barry Durand, George Garcia, Billy Marti, Wendy & Wajih Dalal, Nino Torre, Joey Commentucci, Etti Kurtz, Mark Sokowski, Elizabeth Darchi, Louie Orlando, Tony & Shawn Nguyen, Carlo DeJesus, Jose Gonzales, Danny McGee, Jamison Kilburn, Joe Kerner, Stephanie Risser, Ginny Carey, Roberto Pagan, Carolina Almont, Loriann Greenhouse and Kelvin Roche, DJ Mark, Rosa Paredes, David Padilla, Robert Ortiz, Tariq Brown, Joanne “Fox” Piazza, Jessie Casendino, Erika Smith, Anita Giacone, Scott Michielli, Michael Leyden, Elizabeth Craner, Mary Keegan, Evie Hoover, Trisha Caballero, Walter Levy, Kathy Young, Jamie Serna & Jerise, Lisa Sands, Bill Pouter, Pat McDonnell, Terri Murphy…
Winners of the Book Ends competition were: (girls) Silvana Gallagher and Stephanie Risser and (boys) Tariq Brown and Mr Anthony. The traditional Philly Freeze was won by Sal and Wendy Dalal.
It was a wonderful weekend that will have folks marking their calendars now, for next years event.
Here are some of the results. For the complete list, visit the official website, www.discoamerica.com

Just Hustle Novice
1) Raymond Fabrisio & Michele Moyer
2) Mike Reher & Audrey Rigsbee
3) Gerald Marcus & Linda Marcus

Just Hustle Intermediate
1) Ricardo Villa & Sammy Shecter
2) Phil Dixon & Linda Marcus
3) Frank Paredes & Joan Matera

Just Hustle Advanced
1) Jesse Castenda & Erica Smith
2) Jack Cieka & Danielle Odhner
3) Scott Michielli & Elizabeth Craner

Classic Hustle
1) Joel Halsband & Mary Ellen Hood
2) Ricardo Villa & Sammy Shecter

Pro Just Hustle
1) Wajih & Wendy Dalal
2) Joe Kerner & Stephanie Risser
3) Daniel McGee & Ginny Carey

Female & Male Jack & Jill Pro-Am Hustle (individual winners)
Novice
1) Sara Jones Michael Couris
2) Judy Smith Bryan Toder
3) Stacy Sansevenino Daryl Pollansky

Intermediate
1) Joanne Piazza Ricardo Villa
2) Eileen Erlich Phil Dixon
3) Angelique Zuccolo Patrick Stewart

Advanced
1) Cindy Lehning Michael Leyden
2) Erica Smith Patrick Stewart
3) Mihoko Ninomiya Jack Cieka

Pro - Am 3 Dance Competition
1) Tybaldt Ulrich & Sammy Shecter
2) George & Roscel Garcia
3) Wingo Hom & Erica Smith

Professional Dance Off
1) Wajih & Wendy Dalal
2) Daniel McGee & Ginny Carey
3) Roberto Pagan & Rosa Paredes

Professional 3 Dance Competition
1) Roberto Pagan & Rosa Paredes
2) George Garcia & Diane Nardone
3) Carlo DeJesus & Lori Brizzi

Professional Invitational Jack & Jill Hustle
1) Wajih & Wendy Dalal
2) Brian Gallagher & Lori Brizzi
3) Louie Orlando & Elizabeth Darchi

Auditions, Competitions, Socials, Cruises & More…

July 7, 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.

July 8, 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, BACHATA Lesson by ABIGAIL DAVILA , door prizes & dancing to a Salsa, Latin, WC Swing & Hustle Dance Mix by DJ Cody. (631) 744-7777 www.LIDance.org

July 9, 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 Chilly Willy spinning the best in hustle & latin $9/PP; $5 for SO Students Tonight’s Special is “Munchie Night”: Snacks Galore!!!

July 9, Wed - Pa - Michael’s Cafe, the hustle party lives on, every Wednesday night in Bensalem, as DJ Mark spins the best hustle, Swing and Latin in between. Come join the party, no cover charge and free parking. 8:30 to 12:30, street Road

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 10, 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 Show you won’t want to miss!!! Great Hot Buffet, 45 Min. WCS 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.

July 11, Fri - NJ Dancing at the Crossroads, Dancing at the Sheraton Mahwah Crossroad Hotel Grand Ballroom, 1 International Blvd, Rt. 17 No, Mahwah. Doors open 7:30p, open dancing 9 PM - Midnight admission incls Hustle lesson from 8–9p w/Diane “Queen Bee” Nardone. Music DJ’s Johnny O & Tom R, Exhibition 9:15–9:30p, Cash Bar & light refreshments. Advance tix $20.00 call 201 684 6792, at door $22.00. Special overnight rate. Directions www.sheraton.com/mahwahquestions or William.Adamo@ihrco.com or catchthelight@hotmail.com

July 11, Fri - Pa - Ballroom Extravaganza Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, www.vaidance.com. The best of Ballroom and Latin music from contemporary to classic; Foxtrot, Rumba, Cha Cha, Waltz, Samba, Tango, EC Swing, and more. 7:30 PM begins the free Lesson w/ Silvana and an 8:30 Dance Party. Refreshments are included. $12.00 at the door.

July 11, Fri - FL - Swing Dance A Little Lindy Plus! Dance Lindy Hop, East Coast, West Coast, and Blues with Cindy. Dance Lesson at 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

July 11, 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. HUSTLE 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

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 www.loribrizzi.com or loribrizzi@aol.com

July 15, 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, SALSA Lesson by ABIGAIL DAVILA , door prizes & dancing to a Salsa, Latin, WC Swing & Hustle Dance Mix by DJ Cody. (631) 744-7777 www.LIDance.org

July 16, 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 Bobby Morales 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.

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

July 18, Fri - NJ - World Hustle Dance Championships Pre-Party, 8:00 to 9:00 Hustle Lesson with Diane K Nardone, 9:00 to 1:00 Social Mixer. (Hustle Swing Salsa Country Ballroom) w/ DJ Dave Muzii, Cash Bar, New Admission: Only $15.00 Jack n Jill Dance Competitions, Raffles, Coffee N lite refreshments, for info Diane at 201 666 6224 dkndance@verizon.net or visit www.dkndance.com

July 18, Fri - NJ - Central Jersey Dance Society presents a Jersey Jumpers Swing Dance 5th Anniversary Celebration at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton, 50 Cherry Hill Road, Princeton. Beg. ECS lesson with Mike Davis 7:30 PM. Swing dancing 8:30 PM – 11:30 PM. No partner needed. $11 or $8 students with ID. www.centraljerseydance.org. 609-945-1883 or swing@jerseyjumpers.org.

July 18, Fri - NJ - Salsa / Hustle night, 9PM - 1AM, hosted by Eduardo Costa w/CostasMusicEntertainment with the Atomic Salsa band. Hustle music by DJ MC @ Mona Lisa Restaurant, 157 East Westfield Ave in Roselle Park, Info call Eduardo (908) 416-6184. Free admission before 9PM or with dinner. $10 after 9PM.

July 19, Sat - Pa - California Mix @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, www.vaidance.com. 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 www.loribrizzi.com 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

July 20, Sun - Pa - Dance Party with Donna Boyle, at the Holiday Inn Fort Washington , 7pm oldies swing, hustle & latin, 432 Pennsylvania Ave., Fort Washington, DJ DONNA BOYLE playing your dance favorites, Dress Code: Dressy/Business Casual/Fashionable! More info www.donnaboyle.com

July 20, 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

July 22, 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, SALSA Lesson by ABIGAIL DAVILA , door prizes & dancing to a Salsa, Latin, WC Swing & Hustle Dance Mix by DJ Cody. (631) 744-7777 www.LIDance.org

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!

July 26, Sat - Pa - NO Salsa Rendezvous , on Summer Break, Returns Sept 6th, @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, www.vaidance.com Salsa Caliente w/ Merengue, Bachatta, 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.

July 26, Sat - NJ - Highland Park, Hosted by Marc Liebeskind, Ballroom-Latin Dance Social with International Rumba Workshop with Brian Thompson, Workshop 5:00 to 7:10, Social 7:30 to 11:30 , $15 for Workshop and Social - $12 students, $10 for Workshop or Social separately., IM Gallery, 233 Raritan Avenue, Highland Park, NJ. http://hpds.webhop.org/events, 201-320-9176, hpds@optonline.net

Swing Fling July 31 - Aug. 3, Hilton Washington Dulles, DC Area. 17th Annual Swing and Hustle event, NASDE Competition, WSDC Jack & Jill Competition, Over $12,000 in Prizes, 4 Large Dance Floors, Famous “Lobby” Dance Floor, Over 40 dance workshops, WCS, Hustle, Lindy, Hand Dance, Plenty of Open dancing because of various floors, Top Teachers & Judges in the world $90 special room rate, Swing & Hustle Pro Am competition, 1-800 -Hiltons, Ask for the $90 Swing Fling rate Event Director: Barry Durand visit http://barrydurand.com/swingfling

Aug 1, Fri - Pa - Dance Party with Donna Boyle, Holiday Inn, 432 Pennsylvania Ave., Fort Washington, Complimentary appetizers and drink specials 6:30 pm , Music starts at 8:00 pm; $10 Dance Lesson at 8:15 pm DJ DONNA BOYLE playing your dance favorites, Dress Code: Dressy/Business Casual/Fashionable! More info www.donnaboyle.com

Aug 1, Fri - Pa - Ballroom Extravaganza @ Vai Dance Studio, 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, PA, www.vaidance.com. The best of Ballroom and Latin music from contemporary to classic; Foxtrot, Rumba, Cha Cha, Waltz, Samba, Tango, EC Swing, and more. 7:30 PM begins the free Lesson w/ Silvana and an 8:30 Dance Party. Refreshments are included. $12.00 at the door.

Aug 8, 9 & 10 - Mario “Swing Daddy” visits the Del Val area! Rob & Sheila Dance bring Mario in for workshops & Got Swing? More info 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 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 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. West Coast Swing Social Dance Event with instructors Ramiro Gonzalez, John Lindo, Mary Ann Nunez, Sylvia Sykes, Charlie Womble & Jackie McGee. Visit www.HudsonSwingAffair.com or call 212 779 - 2700

Swing Niagara Dance Championships September 12 - 14, Adam’s Mark Hotel, 120 Church St., Buffalo, NY 14202 - (800) 444-2326 Special rate: $110 per night, Confirmed Staff: Mario Robau Jr, Angel & Debbie Figueroa, Mary Ann Nunez, Parker Dearborn & Jessica Cox, Kyle Redd & Sarah Vann Drake, Arjay Centeno & Melissa Rutz, Bill Cameron, Jason Miklic & Sophy Kdep, Fred & Tina Price, Larry & Heidi Mongeau, Marc Levetin & Stephanie Brown, Lindsay Edgerton, Julie Epplett, Mike & Inge Evans, Antoinette Giancursio, Alysia Bonvino, Barb & Joe Tomasulo, www.swingniagara.com

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 & 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

This weekend is it - Disco America ! This is the 10th Anniversary of Disco America, the longest running Hustle event in the entire world! Go on, Donna girl! (and you too Joyce!)…

Did you catch Donna Boyle promoting on Fox TV with Ron Bess and Joanne Piazza dancing Hustle? If not, go here.

Everyone is buzzing about the Happy Feet Dinner Show extravaganza choreographed by Arte Phillips, see our last post with the playbill here.

Arte is emphatic about his inclusive attitude as a teacher and as a steward of Hustle here is a very short Q&A with Arte and a few photos from past shows that Arte has choreographed following.

Asia - Arte, for the many social level dancers out there who know about you, but don’t know you, yet may feel intimidated to contact you for privates, what do you have to say?

Arte - I care not what level you are at , if you want to learn from me, my one prerequisite is that you want to move. People have said to me ‘I know you don’t work with beginners…’ and I go wait a minute, I do teach people all levels, it has to be their desire to want to move that I look at.

Asia - How do you feel about some of these teachers who are so rigid and sortof… I guess possessive and territorial with students, yet at the same time they are so exclusive in their own way. You know, not allowing them to dance with other teachers or studios, at the same time, they aren’t friendly and open in spirit.

Arte - I am not possessive like that, as you know I am all about being open, two of my favorite words are ‘Include Everyone’; I don’t want to be elitist either, my attitude is also; feel free to study with anyone, study other dances; it’s good to study with others.

Asia - Arte, what is your position about purists, who only want Hustle to be a certain way or the old way, without evolving?

Arte - Well first off, let me say, I must be true to be me; and Hustle is just one sliver of my life, whether it’s Swing or Broadway, for me it’s about the Art of Movement. I love Hustle, but Hustle is one means of expression. I just want to dance and to create great Art through Movement; Dance has to evolve.

Asia - Arte, what sign are you?

Arte - I am Aquarius

Asia - Arte, thank you for your time, we have to do an in depth Q&A at some point too; and I am so sad I won’t be seeing the Happy Feet Dinner Extravaganza show. Congratulations on 10 years!

Arte - Oh we’ll definitely do another interview, and thank you.

To register for the event or for more information about event details, go here.