Dance Talk ® 11/17/08

Today we cried. One of the most compelling dancers of our generation has passed away.

Loved by so many, Arte Phillips is a dance legend.

Our condolences to his thousands of students, teachers, friends, family and admirers, world wide. Only three months shy of his 50th birthday, the dance world is heart broken. We have posted a special letters section, below, in memory of our beloved Arte.

Happy birthday wishes to Stephen Silver, Carole Phelps, Mary Keegan, Bobby Morales, Charlie Taylor Jr., Pat McDonnel, Sandy Lizzi, Vince Colluci, and Marvin Haberman.

The Swing World has just suffered a grave loss. Judy Holland and Rodney Tison were in a horrific car accident. Judy is undergoing surgery but Rodney Tison passed away. Rodney was the current President of the South Florida Swing Dance Society. Rodney was also on the Board of Directors for Dance Broward, a non-profit organization that was created to teach children & young adults to express their feelings through dance instead of abusing drugs www.dancebroward.org. Please keep Rodney and his family in your prayers. We wish Judy a speedy recovery.

Dance friend Marco Andrade, from Yonkers New York, has suffered the loss of his mother this past week. Please keep Marco and his family in your thoughts and prayers during these difficult times.

The hot new club for dancing is Backstage Night Club. This week they are celebrating Robin Amante’s Birthday. It’s an elegant night club for the Long Island dance scene every Wednesday night. 948 Broadway, Woodmere, NY 11598 Admission is $8 See more details below.

Congratulations to the winners at Mark James & Karen Lupo’s Dance Zone social. The top three couples in the Jack & Jill hustle contest (30 couples competed) were: 1st Sam Clemente & Mariann, - 2nd Ken & Christine - 3rd Bill Sherman & Nancy P

The Gold medallists are gone as is the Emmy award winning actress, it’s down to the semi finalists on Dancing With The Stars: • Lance Bass, singer, 29, & Lacey Schwimmer, • Warren Sapp, former NFL star, 35, & Kym Johnson • Cody Linley, 18, actor, & two-time DWTS champ Julianne Hough, • Brooke Burke, 36, TV personality, & Derek Hough

This weeks edition of DanceTalk is dedicated in loving memory of our dance leader, Mr. Arte Phillips.

Make it a great week,
Ron

Immortal - Arte Phillips
The dancers’ dancer, Arte was admired by all. He had an innate talent that can’t be taught. A contagious smile, full of charisma, that was immeasurable. It is virtually impossible to have a discussion of hustle dancing, without his name coming up. The hustle world has lost a favorite son.
Arte Phillips was hustle.

His dance roots go back to the mid 70’s when he helped develop many of the fundamental hustle steps utilized today. From his early days as a member of the “Disco Dance Stars”, partnering with Lisa Nunziella, representing New York proudly on “Dance Fever” with Maria Torres, competing on “Star Search” with Sharon Savoy, performing for Prince Ranier of Monaco with Nelly Cotto and then on to Broadway, he was unique, every dance step of the way. He experienced so many highlights that others can only dream about.

Arte was a leader in life. He loved to be out front, the wind in his face when riding his motorcycle, as president of the “International Hustle Dance Association” or when choreographing a show. The pride he displayed escorting the great adagio master Francois Szony, out onto the stage for his Lifetime Achievement Award at the 1999 World Disco Classic and when performing live on national television for the “Miss American Pageant” along with Sharon Savoy.

A fashion connoisseur, he was the James Dean, the John Lennon of our hustle world.

We love him.

With a dance arsenal bursting from its seams, he could glide across the dance floor with speed and delicate precision. A beautiful dancer inside & out, he had Hollywood good looks, skills on the dance floor that were exemplary. He covered all the bases, choreography, adagio, performer, competitor, adjudicator and teacher. He was honored over the years by his peers receiving the very first “Eddie Vega Award” at “Hustle USA”, the Life Time achievement awards from both “Discoamerica Dance Championships” and the “World Hustle Dance Championships”, and the prestigious “Gypsy Award” on Broadway.

Confirmation in greatness comes from you. He always had the largest attendance at his workshops across the country, because you loved him. For the last 6 years he was voted by his students, peers and friends as the best dancer and/or teacher in “DanceTalk’s Annual Readers Choice Awards”. Confirmed by you.

He had leadership qualities that revealed his love of fashion, for dancing, performing, teaching and compassion for his fellow human beings. I remember his passionate express when he embraced Gladys Torres, I remember the look on Ginger DiMaio’s face when he held her close at “Ginger’s Wish”. He relit their flames.

We will miss his entertaining shows at Discoamerica, his wit, the humor, his incredible dance skills on the floor whether leading or following (everyone was in awe), his informative workshops, his knowledge at making learning fun, his sincere friendship and nonjudgmental out look towards others.

Arte was more then just dancing.

I had an extensive conversation with Arte, just a few weeks gone by, as he shared with me his personal memories of Eddie Vega. Arte idolized him. He described how caring, loving Eddie was, “Eddie would virtually give the coat off his back to a complete stranger”. He shared how Eddie would dance with anyone and happily share his knowledge on dance. “Eddie, to me he was the most incredible, influential, and the sharing dancer in the Hustle world that I have ever met. He “talent wise” was the Baryshnikov of the Hustle,” explained Arte. This was Arte’s mentor and companion. Careful analysis reveals that Arte, the student, had surpassed those important lessons. He emulated Eddie through admirable eyes, and Arte’s life had become all that he adored about Eddie: Loving, caring, putting others first and being a friend.

Arte was a teacher, he taught us lessons on how to shine on the dance floor, but the critical lessons were taught outside the classroom. How he treated us and his fellow dancers. The impact he has had on all of us. The times he spent dancing with senior citizens or speaking encouraging words to my children. He made the time. These are the lessons that best describe the character and the size of his heart. When Arte danced at socials, in the clubs, he loved to be front and center…but for those who knew him, understand best, it wasn’t for him, it was for all of us.

What Arte had, which set him apart, was an internal glowing light. This light reflected and lit your brain and lit your heart. He simply made you feel good, loving life and lighting up your spirit for dance. He did this for Gladys and Ginger and countless others.

I was told that Arte passed away quietly, in his sleep. His heart had failed. When a man gives so much of himself to others, gives so much love, gives so much time, we wonder, did he save enough for himself.

For the last 15 years, I have had the distinct pleasure of introducing Arte at dozens of dance socials, award ceremonies and national dance competitions.

For the last time, I would like to say, “Ladies and Gentlemen, please put your hands together for Mr. Arte Phillips”

Thank you for all the letters, poems, IMs, videos, pictures and thoughtful wishes we have received. We are overwhelmed, a true testament to the love and respect dancers have for Arte.

Please enjoy the loving letters below. Regretfully, we are limited on space and can’t post them all at this time.

Sincerely,
Ron

A photo tribute to Arte Phillips can be seen at Fred’s website, here.

Please visit The Hustle Lounge to view the score of letters that have come in. You may post your own thoughts and comments also, here.

Enjoy these youtube videos of dance champion Arte Phillips performing on the nationally televised “Star Search” with the beautiful Sharon Savoy, here.

Letters for Arte
Dear Ron,
Thank you so much for your support. It has helped to know that you loved Arte and what he was about. Please let everyone know that there will be a Memorial Party in honor of Arte (near his birthday Feb 13) in late January 09. Arte’s family wants everyone to come celebrate with Arte. I will be sending the details to all soon.
Love, Peace and Unity for Arte,
Beth Darchi

Hey Ron
Sorry to be talking to you under these circumstances. My condolences to the Sniederman Family.
I am, and always will be honored and privileged to have had such a wonderful, beautiful, friend in my life. He was a phenomenal, extraordinary person. Arti was (One of a kind) with amazing talent and personality. His Love for dance and people was sincere and divine. It’s no wonder that he’s had such an impact in my life and the lives of many. My memories of him will never be forgotten, he’s fulfilled my life with joy and laughter as well as many experiences and opportunities to last a lifetime that will never be forgotten. Arti had a heart of gold which he shared with many people in his life. I will always cherish his Memory, Love and Friendship. His laughter will always linger in my heart. Truly a sad and unexpected lost, but his memory will never be lost in my heart. I Love you Arti Philips, you were an inspiration to many. Peace Be with You my Friend.
Always’ your Friend,
Nelly Pacatun Cotto (NYC)

Hello Ron,
thank you for thinking of me I heard about Arte the day before yesterday. I am truly sorry. He was a very special person in my brothers life while they were partners and after they broke up they were very, very close friends.
Best regards,
Smiley Vega (Eddie Vega’s older sister)

hey ron
it is unbelievably shocking and sad about arte. only shows how fragile life is
festa

Dear Ron,
With so many memories of Arte going back so very many years, where does one begin? Roseland, Alexis, Darians, Fred Astaire, Infernos…just to name a few. From contests, shows, a place to dance every night and Arte with his larger than life smile and laugh was as amazing then as it was for all the rest of days afterwards. I remember when Arte first started dancing … it wasn’t just hustle. Arte tried anything and everything and whatever he touched was amazing. Eddie Vega, Arte Philips, Ricky Quintana, Maria Torres were always dancing for fun, but they entertained everyone anywhere. Yes, back then Arte was the ‘white boy who could dance’, as Bobby Morales reminded everyone. My colleague, the recipient of The 2007 World Hustle Hall of Fame Award, Entertainer, Choreographer, and most of all friend. You will always be on our minds, always in our hearts, always on the dance floor and never forgotten. God Has Blessed You and He has blessed us for knowing you ~

Diane K Nardone (World Hustle Dance Championships)

Ron,
The loss of Arte is stunning. I’m surprised how emotionally his loss has affected me. I cried when I got the email and tears are in my eyes as I write this. He was one of the greatest dancers I’ve known, my favorite instructor and a friend to all. The loss of Arte is like the loss of John F. Kennedy, he was a beloved leader who gave us hope for a better tomorrow along with the direction and confidence on how to get there. Then, abruptly, he was taken from us, far before his time, far before his work was done, leaving us all suffering this great loss.
May Arte rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Dave Lach (Grand Rapids MI)

Hi Ron,
As many others, I was devastated by the news of Arte’s passing away. Philadelphia got to know him better over the last couple of years as he became a regular. We enjoyed that. He is one of our stars of hustle. I feel bad for all those that enjoyed him but I feel worse for the next generation that will never get to experience him. I do wonder how it is that the others entertainers are given a high level of regard then dance. With all he has accomplished, will I see a write up in Time Magazine? Entertainment weekly? Newsweek? local news reports? I thank you Ron not just for covering the life of a creative being like Artie but for all the countless reports you have shared with us.
May Arte rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Doris (Phila)

My heart felt condolences to Arte’s family. I have fond memories of him when he first started out with Floyd Chilsolm’s team.
Luis Rivera (Disco Dance Dimensions)

Dear Ron,
I am really sad to hear that Arte passed away. He always made me laugh, and was a joy to dance with. I will miss him.
God Bless,
Ricky Quintana (Disco Dance Stars)

Hi Ron,
I was so saddened to hear of the passing of Arte Phillips. He not only was a talented dancer, he was a gentleman as well. I was one of the “dancers” that got to dance with him. He never said no to anyone, no matter what level they were at. I was lucky enough to be his “dance dummy” at one of his workshops. At the end of the workshop he said to me…”Susan, let’s show them what we had rehearsed.” of course we hadn’t rehearsed anything…I said to him that I had been rehearsing with him in my dancing fantasies for 15 years. His response was genuine and sincere. It was the highlight of my weekend. I loved every minute that I had on the dance floor with him. I will never forget how much fun he was to watch on the dancefloor. I’ll miss him terribly, like so many others. The dancing world is mourning the loss of a great dancer and a great guy!
Susan C (Long Island)

Hi Ron:
By now, you’ve probably heard the very sad news that Arte Phillips passed away. Simone Assboeck announced this very sad news at the Hustle Jam party at Stepping Out. A memorial fund has been started by Simone at Stepping Out. Arte Phillips was simply the best of the best, and his passing has shocked the hustle community to its very foundations. I personally saw Arte dancing at Stepping Out the previous Wednesday, wearing a red t-shirt with Coca Cola in Hebrew (from a recent trip to Israel)…… Little could I have believed he would no longer be with us by the following week. Arte was an incredible and gifted dancer. He was a constant source of inspiration for me….. He will be greatly missed.
Very sadly,
David Slater (New York)

Dear Ron,
I taught ballroom dancing, I fell in love with this dance and my partner, Pat Taverna and I began competing anywhere we could around the City. It was our “first place” win at Club Regines, in NYC that became the defining moment in my dance life. That’s how I first met Arte. We were approached by the producer of a new Dance troupe, called the Disco Dance Stars and asked if we would like to join. Recruited for the team, at about the same time, was a fairly young and very talented couple, Lisa Nunziella and Arte Phillips. After weeks of practice and rehearsals it was off to perform in the Holy Land. Arte was the “kid” always joking and clowning around. I remember him excited with the newness of his surrounds, always inquisitive and exploring. He was always thinking of different moves, ways to dance an old step, Always “on”. I never saw him get moody or cross with anyone, (and when you work so closely with the same people day in and day out, stuck on a bus for hours at a time cramped, tired and hungry, you had every right to get a little touchy). Not Arte. We were kept over an extra week by the Tel Aviv Sheraton Hotel to do nothing more than dance in their Disco at night and be a draw for the tourists and locals. I was paid to dance with Arte. What fun! People would clear the dance floor to watch us and we made up the routines as we went. That’s when I first became aware of Arte’s ability to dance and feel the music so beautifully. He would later come to say “it’s not about the steps”. He was so right. 29 years ago he danced with the same joy that we all have seen and experienced at one time or another today. We all have experienced that feeling of the room lighting up because Arte has just arrived. That “Wow” factor which anyone blessed to have danced with him knew first hand. After not seeing him for 27 years, not only did he recognize me, but remembered my real name. That is the true testament to who this person was. Yes, he was one of the most gifted dancers we will ever have the privilege to know, but more than that, he was a man who looked outside of himself. He cared about others. He made sure that you knew that you mattered. And we mattered to him. I will never forget those wonderful moments watching Arte dance at Michael’s, I will treasure them. I only had to say his name and his face would light up. His eyes would radiate such joy when he knew that his friends were watching and enjoying him “feel the music”. (Thank you Arte for letting me “feel the music” with you.) That was breath to him. He loved us too! “To know that even one life has breathed easier Because you have lived, this is to have succeeded”. Ralph Waldo Emerson
“The humble in spirit will retain honor” Proverbs 29:23 Arte your life was a huge success.
Arte we honor you and love you always.
Evie Hoover (Disco Dance Stars)

Arte-our inspiration, our ambassador, our most creative, beautiful dancer, teacher, coach, choreographer, entertainer, competitor, NY boy, loving son and brother, dear friend, kindred soul. The dance community has sadly lost one of it’s icons. I looked it up. Icon, an object of extreme and uncritical devotion. Everyone loved Arte, including me. When he was in the room dancing, there was no other place to be. The room was illuminated with his energy, smile, physical style and spirit. It is not difficult to describe Arte- unique, rare, one of a kind, positive, handsome, friendly, charismatic, sexy, smart, super cool, life of the party, one God’s most special creations. They say that God often takes the very special ones for himself too early. Arte - one of the most creative and musical people I have ever had the honor of knowing and calling my friend and it was my privilege he referred to me as family. Many of us lost a dear friend who had such a magnetic personality, we just wanted to be where he was. Arte made everything more interesting and fun. He made you think, laugh, be creative, be free, be silly…he made you want to be more. He was a sensitive man and he found many subjects interesting and could converse about them for hours. And then there was dancing. God did that man love to dance! He had an immense passion for dance as a creative and physical way for people to express themselves and music. Arte loved all kinds of dancing but he especially loved the hustle. We would have many long discussions about our hopes and efforts of getting young people interested in hustle dancing. We agreed that encouraging them to dance to the music of their generation would be one of the ways to insure it’s place in the future. He would always say to me, “I getcha, you’re preachin to the choir.” It was important to him. His students were devoted to him and his work was proudly seen in their performances and shows he choreographed for dance events. I remember seeing Arte compete ‘back in the day’ and he was one of our superstars. Then one night I remember sitting in a Broadway Theatre for a performance of Victor Victoria and there was Arte in one of the opening dance numbers. I was pleasantly surprised and proud to know him as one of 1st generation street hustle dancers done good. Another time I was watching a TV show and he was dancing on one of the awards shows. But, he will be remembered most by what he gave to us on the social dance floor, always showing us by example to have fun, express ourselves and the music, be creative and get out of that box! His energy had no limits and he loved to entertain. I have been asked if I will cancel my dances but instead we will honor Arte’s life in the way he loved the most, by dancing! We will be dancing in celebration of Arte at the 92nd Street Y next Saturday, Nov 22nd. I encourage everyone to wear an ‘Arte’ hat. Bring your pictures and thoughts of Arte and we will have a wall to display them in honor of him. We will have performances inspired by Arte. Arte gave us and taught us many things and now he is teaching us that life is fragile and we must take care of ourselves and each other, appreciate each other and enjoy each and every day. Yes, the thought of how much we will miss him is painful but in so many ways, how he has touched us has left a permanent mark in our lives forever and every time there is hustle dancing, he will be with us and his spirit will live on.
Dance on, Arte!
With much love, gratitude and respect,
Lori Brizzi (New York Hustle Congress)
‘No Day But Today’

To Everyone
The dance community lost one of it original members/founders & creators. - As you looked at Arte - the smile/ the joy of doing what he loved to do strikes the viewer right in the face. Back in April 2007 - I asked Arte if it was ok to put his “Star Search” performances up onto You Tube and he said of course. Here is a link to the You Tube box - with some other Gems found on the web - there is also a short bio from Ron Bess there.
As I was trying to compose this I realized I could not both write & have any Clips of Arte playing in the background - because as you can guess - I totally forgot where my trend of thought was going. - It was always brought back to his “Smile - His Love of the Dance”. Here is a link to Arte’s Site -

It is strange, organizing with Alan Paris, Tuesday night to bring Arte up in December - and finding out - Thursday he has danced on. Karen Lupo would always comment how, she always loved watching him dance @ the events because - time stood still and the moment took over. There was so much joy as he danced, I pray that he is happy & at Peace. and The Beat goes on - for Arte as the ideas and limitations of his earthly body have just been erased - I see him, in my mind - with one of of his hats on, looking up - and saying, one word with that Smile of his - “WOW”
Your friends,
Mark & Karen (Dance Zone)

Hi Ron,
The passing of Arte is devastating. I found comfort in these words. Could you share with your readers a poem that others may find some comfort in these words. I think Arte would like it.
Thanks, Mary K. (Pa)
I am the wind…
…I am the rain
I am the sunlight…
…through your window pane
I am the leaf…
…turning brown in the fall
I am the faintest whisper…
…on the breeze when you call
I am the snowflake…
…that kisses your cheek
I am the child in the park…
…playing Hide “n” Go Seek
I am the scent of the flowers…
…that fills the Spring air
I am all around you…
…I’m everywhere
I’ll always be with you…
…from this moment on
I’m in your every dance…
…I’m in your every song
You see, when we move on…
…we never truly die
We become one with nature…
…we unify
Take care my precious one…
…on my passing don’t dwell
Remember the love…
…we shared together
…See you again someday
All is Well…
Taken from messagesofsympathy.com

Auditions, Competitions, Socials, Cruises & More…
Mediterranean Dance Cruise, Nov. 17-29th 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 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.

Nov 17, Mon-NY Dancesport Legendary Hustle Mondays at Paul Pellicoro’s DanceSport, w/ back by popular demand, Nelson “paradise” Roman 9:30PM -$10 admission;DS registered students free. 22 West 34th St East Entrance 4th Fl bet. 5th & 6th avenues. www.dancesport.com

Nov 17, Mon-FL Dancesport Monday Nights in Boca Raton at Virtuous Production Dance Centre. Hustle lesson 7-8pm with Carl Charles, followed by open dancing. Located at 2880 N. Federal Hwy (bet. NE Spanish River Rd & NE 20th St.), Boca Ration. 561 750 6700 only $15 www.carlcharlesdance.com

Nov 18, Tues-NY Bet U Can Dance-the Newest Hustle Dance Party in Western Suffolk County, Dance to all the hustle classics at our New Huge Beautiful Studio. This is not your average Dance Studio. It feels more like a club. Bring your friends as well. No cover charge. Pre Grand Opening Party. Doors open at 9PM till 11:30PM. Parking in the rear. www.betucandance.com for directions and information.

Nov 18, Tues-NY BACKSTAGE NIGHT CLUB Celebrating Robin Amante’s Birthday. Susan will be bringing cake. A new elegant night club to call home for Tuesday Night Dance Party. Open early 8pm w/mixed CDs 8-8:30PM DJ@ 8:30PM, Come early light menu. Spacious Dance Floor, Great Sound System, (Parking lot across street opposite CVS) 948 Broadway, Woodmere NY 11598 Admission $8

Nov 18, Tues-NY HOT LATIN, WCS & HUSTLE TUESDAYS at CLUB 56 (56th Fighter Group Restaurant Lounge), Rt. 110 at Republic Airport, Farmingdale, 7-11PM, $14 incl.s Hot & Cold Buffet Dinner, FREE water, BACHATA Lesson by ABI DEVILA, door prizes & dancing to a Salsa, Latin, WC Swing & Hustle Dance Mix by DJ Cody. (631) 744-7777 www.LIDance.org

Nov 19, Wed-Pa Michael’s Cafe, the ultimate dance spot, celebrating birthdays for Carole Phelps, Mary Keegan and Pat Stewart. Come out for the dance, cake and fun. Its the best of hustle, Swing and Latin in between. Dance to tunes of DJ Mark, every Wednesday for the best classics and contemporary music. No cover, plenty of free parking. Street Road in Bensalem near Philadelphia Casino race track.

Nov 19, Wed - NJ - DKN Dance, with Diane K Nardone at Knights of Columbus 16-16 N Maple Ave, Fairlawn, 2 great Hustle lessons & social dancing, 7:30pm to 8:30PM Beg. Hustle, 8:30PM to 9:15PM 1st half of practice social, 9:15PM to 10:15PM Inter/ Adv. Hustle, 10:15PM to 11:00PM 2nd half social, 1 Class $15, 1 Class & Social $18, 2 Classes & Social $25, Social only $8. Diane 201 666 6224 dkndance@verizon.net or visit our website www.dkndance.com

Nov 19, Wed-NY “HUSTLEJAM” @ Stepping Out Studios, 37 W. 26th St.: Join your hostess 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 “Dancers Request Hour”: 60 minutes of your requested songs.

Nov 20, Thurs-NY LATIN, HUSTLE, WCS at MIRELLE’S,!! 170 Post Ave, Westbury, Long Island, Presented by LOUIS DEL PRETE, 7:30-11:30PM, Great Hot Buffet, 45 Min. CHACHA Lesson starting 7:30 w/Louis. State of art sound system, Air Conditioned, Door Prizes, Cash Bar Available, Admission $14, call Louis (516) 819-9016. THIS EVENT RUNS EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT!

Nov 20, Thur-NY Sapphire Lounge, celebrating Bobby Morales birthday. Dance 10PM on, no cover, DJ’s Bobby Morales & Al Rivera. 249 Eldridge St. 212- 777-5153

Nov 20, Thur-Pa Starry Ferrari Salsa Social at BALLROOM ON HIGH, 310 E. High St. Pottstown, Salsa socials every 2nd & 4th Thurs. of the month (if the social falls on a holiday, then the social will be held on the 3rd Thursday of that month). Huge hardwood floor! 8pm Beg. Salsa lesson w/ Star Seguinot included w/ $10 admission (Full time students with ID $5); for only $5 come at 7pm for an Adv. Beg/Inter. Salsa lesson with Star or beg. Bachata or Merengue lesson with Remi. Social dancing from 9-11pm. For additional info, Star 215-920-4511 or www.swingkat.com.

Nov 21, Fri-NY Hustle & Salsa party hosted by Zulma at Bogart, 99 Park Avenue at the corner of East 39th Street downstairs, in NYC. Great hustle and Salsa music, dancing begins @ 9pm til 2am. The admission is $10.00. For info call (646) 678-0687

Nov. 21, Fri -NJ Jersey Jumpers Swing Dance at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton, 50 Cherry Hill Rd, Princeton. Beg. Lindy Hop w/ Donna Reinhart 7:30 p.m. Inter.Lindy Hop w/Donna 8PM. Open dancing 8:30-11:30pm w/ DJ Mike Davis $12/$8 student w/ ID. No partner needed. Everyone welcome. www.centraljerseydance.org or call 609-945-1883.

Nov 21, Fri-NJ THANKSGIVING BIG BASH AT ROBERTO’S DANCE STUDIO. knights of Columbus, 39 Washington St, Lodi NJ 07644. Come celebrate Thanksgiving w/ us! Best Hustle & Latin Dance Party in Jersey! Start w/free class at 8pm, party after. Great Music, Performances, Light Buffet, Large Ballroom and Cash Bar! Call: 201.600.3152 or e-mail us: robertohustle@yahoo.com

Nov 22, Sat-NJ Ballroom - Latin Dance Social, w/ 2 Hour adv-beg/int level WCS Workshop by Jason & Marybeth Lane. $12Workshop, $10 Social, $15 for both. Students $10 for Workshop, $8 for Social. $12 for both. More info http://hpds.webhop.org, hpds@optonline.net, 201-320-9176, Location, 233 Raritan Avenue, Highland Park, NJ 08904

Nov 22, Sat-NY92nd Street Y Special Millennium Hustle Thanksgiving Party. 1395 Lexington Avenue. $15 Admission in advance, $20 at door incl. free hustle class by Lori from 8-9pm, Music by Nelson ‘Paradise’ Roman from 9-2am, turkey, cranberry, nuts, apple cider soda, wine, coffee, tea, cake (& maybe some green apple martini punch). Advance ticket sales available to CLUB 412 at the two Saturday Night Special parties Nov 8 & 15 or call 516 728-6101 or email loribrizzi@aol.com

Nov 23, Sat-NJ The Three Amigos!!! They’re back!! 9pm-1am Johnny “O”, Bobby Morales & Nelson “Paradise” Roman Don’t miss this night Great Music by three DJ’s starlightdanceusa.com

Nov 22, Sat-NY BALLROOM, LATIN, HUSTLE, WCS, at DEER PARK V.F.W. 588 Long Island Ave. Deer Park, LI, Presented by LOUIS DEL PRETE, 8:00PM to 12:00AM, Coffee, Tea, Cake, Fruit & Veg.Platter! 40 Min. Dance Lesson at 8:00w/Louis. State of the art sound system, Air Conditioned, Door Prizes, 50/50 Raffle,Cash Bar Available, $14, call Louis for info (516) 819 - 9016.

Nov 23, Sun-Pa DANCE PARTY at CROWN PLAZA HOTEL, 4:30PM Hustle Dance Lesson Party 5:15 - 10pm $12, King of Prussia Mall. Add’l info Donna 215 740 3472 donnaboyledisco@aol.com
http://www.donnaboyle.com

Nov 25, Tues-NY HOT THANKSGIVING DANCE PARTY CLUB 56 (56th Fighter Group Restaurant/Lounge), Rt. 110 Republic Airport, Farmingdale, 7-11PM, $14 includes SHOWCASE Performance, Hot & Cold Buffet Dinner, FREE water, BACHATA Lesson by ABI DEVILA, door prizes & dancing to a Salsa, Latin, WC Swing & Hustle Dance Mix by DJ Cody. (631) 744-7777 www.LIDance.org

Nov 25, Tues NY Bet U Can Hustle Tuesday Night Parties at Bet U Can Dance continues to grow. Tuesday Nov 25th from 9PM to Midnight Feature DJ Nelson “Paradise” Roman on the mix. This will be our last No Cover Party to welcome in the Holiday Season. Huge Dance Floor and Great Sound System. Come see what all the excitement is about. Bet U Can Dance Studio, 3032 Jericho Tpke, East Northport, NY, 631-623-6559. Visit our website at www.betucandance.com for directions.

Nov 26, Wed NJ Back In the Day dance party, Classics and old school, music by DJ Anthony Bradley at La Villa Restaurant in Hamilton, proceeds to Benefit The Sunshine Fund, $10, Doors open at 8PM till 1:30AM, sponsored by DJ Anthony and La Villa Restaurant. for info write to DJabradley@yahoo.com

Nov 26, Wed-Pa Michael’ Cafe NO HUSTLE PARTY, the club is using weekend format, top 40. DJ Mark will not be spinning. Hustle party, DJ Mark returns next week.

Nov 26, Wed-Pa Springfield Country Club, Thanksgiving Eve dance party, with DJ Bob Pantano and “Don’t Call Me Francis” playing live. Disco classics and a large dance floor. The dance floor is large. Party starts at 7PM, $10 http://springfieldcc.net/

Nov 26, Wed-NY “HUSTLEJAM” @ Stepping Out Studios, 37 W. 26th St.: Join your hostess Simone Assboeck for a WEEKLY Hustle & Latin party, 9:30-12:45am, 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.

Nov 28, Fri-NJ DKN Dance Monthly Friday Social Diane K. Nardone Knights of Columbus, 16-16 N Maple Ave, Fairlawn, 8:30-9:00 pm Salsa Lesson. 9pm-12:30 am Hustle/WCS/Salsa/Country/Ballroom & More, Class & Social $15 Social Only $15 Dance to the sounds of DJ Dave Muzii. CASH BAR for your convenience. Coffee, Tea, & cake will be served Everyone Welcome Phone: 201 666 6224 Email:dkndance@verizon.net Website: www.dkndance.com

Nov 29, Sat-NY DanceSport presents A New Social Dance Night Hosted by Donna DeSimone, 22 West 34Th St. (between 5Th & 6Th ) (212) 307-1111 , every 4Th Saturday of the month. Hustle, Latin Swing & More. The Thanksgiving weekend Kick Off Party with DJ JOHNNY O at the mix. Cash Bar with Snack Menu. Group Classes: $8.00 Dance Social: $15.00 7:30-8:15: Beg. WCS 8:30-9:15: Hustle Level I CONTACT Donna (631) 399-7171 or (516) 375-8498 email: dancxchange@yahoo.com www.dancesport.com

Nov 29, 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.Dance Lesson starting 8:30pm. Great Show Featuring MARK JAMES & KAREN LUPO!! State of the art sound system, AC, Door Prizes, Admission $15, call Louis at (516) 819-9016

Nov 30, Sun-NY SUNDAY NIGHT CLASSIC 70′S, come hustle as Johnny V spins classics. 7PM-TIL ? at LEVEL CAFE located at 8216-3RD AVE. BAY RIDGE BROOKLYN 718-921-2174 VALET PARKING!! $12 HORS D’OEUVRES FREE DANCE LESSON STARTING PROMPTLY 6:30, a percentage of proceeds will go to Anthony of Padua Gifts for Children a non-profit organization for under-privileged children.

Dec 5, Fri-PA Vai Dance Studio - Ballroom & Latin Extravaganza Dance Party. The best of Ballroom & Latin [Waltz, Rumba, Foxtrot, Samba, Tango, Cha Cha, EC Swing, Merengue, and more. 7:30p Cha Cha w/Silvana Gallagher 8:30 PM Dance Party refreshments included. $12 at door. 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, www.vaidance.com.

Dec 6, Sat-NJ The 16th annual Holiday Spectacular, hosted by Donna Boyle & Ron Bess at the wonderful Stardust Ballroom in Bellmawr. The Holiday dance event of the season. Dance Contest, group lesson, give aways, food & more, kids are welcome. Dance to hustle, Swing and Latin with DJ Mark. Hustle dance lesson with Ron & Donna at 7PM, dance till ???? Kids under 16 are free. We will crown the new “King & Queen” of Hustle at our dance contest. Lots of surprises, door prizes and a friendly smoke free atmosphere. Located at 363 W Browning Rd. Bellmawr, NJ 08031 $25 per person Stardust (856)931-4000 For info: Donna-donnaboyledisco@aol.com or Ron-Rowenlb22@aol.com

Dec 6, Sat-NY MARK & KAREN’S ULTIMATE DANCE ZONE monthly dance social, Holiday Party from 8:30-12:30a at the beautiful Wantagh Jewish Center For all the details www.mjames.org/zone.html

Dec 6, Sa-PA Vai Dance Salsa Rendezvous Dance Party. The best of Salsa w/ Cha Cha, Bachata, and Merengue. 7:30 PM Salsa Lesson w/Victor Colon 8:30 PM Dance Party refreshments included. $12 at door. 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, PA 19083. www.vaidance.com.

Dec 7 - Sun-NJ 100% Pure Hustle with Johnny “O” $8 before 10pm/$10 after. GIVEAWAYS! Party passes, CDS, dance 9pm-1am classes & more. New Music Hour by Johnny O at 11pm Dont miss out!
starlightdanceusa.com 973-235-9835

Dec 19, Fri-NY Hustle & Salsa party hosted by Zulma at Bogart, 99 Park Avenue at the corner of East 39th Street downstairs, in NYC. Great hustle and Salsa music, dancing begins @ 9PM till 2am. The admission is $10.00. For info call (646) 678-0687

Dec 19, Fri NJ Christmas Party Grab Bag up to $15 1 for ladies 1 for gents DKN Dance Monthly Friday Social Diane K. Nardone Knights of Columbus, 16-16 N Maple Ave, Fairlawn, dress up a bit for the holidays8:30-9:00 pm Waltz Lesson, 9-12:30 am Hustle/WCS/Salsa/Country/Ballroom & More Class & Social $15 Social Only $15 Dance to sounds of DJ Dave Muzii Coffee, Tea, & cake will be served Everyone Welcome (201) 666 6224 Email:dkndance@verizon.net Website: www.dkndance.com

Dec 21, Sun-FL “United Hustle Dance Party”, presented by Carl Charles 5-6PM NY style hustle lesson for all Levels. 6-7PM Beginners class American Tango. 7pm dance social, 3 dj’s-all forms of dance music on two floors. Professional Cash Bar Opens at 5pm-2:00Am, Admission $30 all 3 events (lessons and dance social) $25 one lesson and dance social $20 for just social For more details on the United Hustle Dance Party and Carls Monday night socials & lessons, visit www.CarlCharlesDance.com www.SalsaHustleSummit.com

Rockin’ The Boat Cruise January 18-24, 2009, The Cruise Connection invites you to journey on the “Independence Of The Seas” with dancing & more. Five days, to Belize, Costa Maya, Cozumel, Rates start as low as $659 P/P. Join Disco Queen Donna Boyle and Miss Vicki on the Royal Caribbean.
www.cruiseconnection.org

Stardust Dance Cruise III January 25-February 1, 2009 7 nights on Costa Cruise Line’s 5-Star Costa Fortuna, now accepting reservations, Departing 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, http://www.stardustdancecruises.com/

Shall We Dance Cruise Feb. 1-7, 2009 Goldcoast Ballroom hosts a 6 night exotic Western Caribbean fantasy, dancing under spotlights, sunlight, moonlight and stars. Sailing out of Ft. Lauderdale on Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship. The Independence has an arena w/ 3,000 sq.ft. dance floor. Fares start at $687 p/p plus taxes & this includes hallmark dance classes, dance socials, entertainment. Last 3 cruises sold out early, please call: 754-246-2874 or visit: www.GoldcoastDanceCruise.com.

Hustle & Salsa Dance Cruise February 23-28, 2009 10th annual cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas, This cruise will include over 20 hours of dance workshops by world class instructors, 25 hours of social dancing, & jack n jill dance contests. The ship has a fabulous discotheque & 3000 sq. ft. dance floor in 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. 15th www.HustleCruise.com

Mad Jam, March 5 - 8, 2009 7th anniversary, Sheraton Premiere Hotel, Tyson’s Corner, VA. One of the most exciting events, anywhere. With over 50 dance experts on staff it’s the largest swing/hustle event in the mid atlantic. http://www.atlanticdancejam.com/