Dance Talk 11/24/08

Make it a great Thanksgiving

Happy Birthday wishes to Julia St. Marie, Alex Abraham, Jo Jo Jack, Jose Bolivar, Barry Bernstein, Connie Macdougal, Frankie Heebner, and Lauren Sipkovich.

Tragically, Jim DeFato passed away last week in Brooklyn, NY. He was a retired NYC Firefighter and a creative freelance videographer who filmed at many dance competitions including “NY Hustle Congress”, “Disco America”, “Hustle USA” & provided work for “Stepping Out” and “Dance Manhattan”. Jim was a great Hustle/Swing/Ballroom/Latin Dancer. He had a kind soul and was ready to help anyone at any time, day or night. He is deeply loved and will be greatly missed. He died of a heart attack.

To view photos of Arte Phillips, from his early years with the “Disco Dance Stars” and videos from “Star Search”, visit: http://www.mjames.org/arte_phillips.html

The Grand Opening of the new club, Candybar at Taylor’s Night Club, Rt. 70 in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, 10PM November 28th, with guest DJ Paulie Day

Photo images from Brian “the King” Gallagher’s birthday bash at Michael’s Cafe, courtesy of Fred, here.

Global Dance TV www.globaldance.tv Is online in beta form for the public to view now. This a new full screen Internet/cable venture with 24/7 dance, with servers around the world, with Swing, Balboa, Shag, Hand Dance, Country 2 Step, dance instruction and more coming. View previous years of the US Open Swing Dance Championships. Production facilities are being set up around the nation with the main production facility in Emeryville, CA by 37 year veteran TV Broadcast Engineer/Technical Director and Hustle Dancer/Instructor Gregory Harrison. Global Dance TV will be airing this years’ US Open Swing Dance Championships live on Friday Nov. 28, 2008.

“Dancing With the Stars” had its Master P, Cloris Leachman and Jerry Springer, inadequate dancers but fan favorites. It appears that the UK has a bigger problem, “Strictly Come Dancing” is weeks away from the finale and John Sergeant is close to winning. Len Goodman told Sergeant a BBC political correspondent) “he makes a nonsense of the show.” He has been called “dancing pig in Cuban heels.” The audience loves him, although he can’t dance but now he has declared he is quitting the show. “the trouble is that there is now a real danger that I might win the competition.”

Enjoy these candid photos of Arte Phillips and friends taken in Miami, New Orleans, Puerto Rico and at Michael’s Cafe, here.

Combine the performance skills of a Broadway star & the vocal abilities of a soulful power house and you have recording artist Shoshana Bean. Best known for her roles in the Broadway smash hits Wicked & Hairspray, she is about to release her debut solo album “Superhero” on December 2nd. Her transition from the Broadway stage to the music industry has challenged her to grow creatively, personally and professionally. “It became a revelation of personal feelings that I have found everyone can relate to. Unifying and connecting people through my own music the ultimate fulfillment for me.” Check her out here.

Pictures from Carole Phelps and Mary Keegan’s birthday celebration at Michael’s Cafe, courtesy of Scott Michielli, here.

Some people talk about their dreams, Arte Phillips lived his. Please enjoy our Letters To Arte, along with our “Letters to the Editor” section.

Next week, the results of the 2008 DanceTalk Readers Choice Awards, you voted and we have the winners. Be sure to tune in.

This weeks edition of DanceTalk is sponsored by the Hustle Salsa Dance Cruise, read all about it below. www.hustlecruise.com

Make it a great week,
Ron

Hustle & Salsa Dance Cruise
Where can you find a vacation where you can dance with all of your friends and experience a cruise to the exotic Caribbean all at the same time? Come join event organizers Drew Axelrod & Caren Casper to celebrate their 10th National Hustle Dance Cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas voted a Conde Nast top-ten cruise ship, from Feb. 23 - Feb. 28, 2009, from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The pre-cruise party is on Sunday night, Feb. 22nd at the popular Palladium night club in Margate, Florida. The next day starts the adventure-at-sea which includes a star-studded staff: Diane Nardone, Event Director; Connie MacDougall, Event Coordinator; and top instructors: Billy Marti, of Stepping Out Studios, Tina Price of Cash Bash, Carl Charles, Isaac & Laura Altman of World Salsa Federation, plus great deejays: Nino Torre, Johnny V and Bobby Gerard. With an attendance of more than 200 dancers each year, the Hustle & Salsa Cruise has Jack’ N Jill contests just for fun, over 20 hours of Dance Workshops and 25 planned hours of social dancing. They’ll have 3 complimentary themed cocktail parties which are loads of fun. There’s also a great professional group photograph taken as a remembrance of your spectacular time. There 2 elegant formal nights, fabulous meals, buffets, a separate dining room area. Incredible Broadway shows, Ice-skating performances, our Western Caribbean itinerary will sail from Ft. Lauderdale to Cozumel, Mexico to Belize City, Belize and back, along with other exciting activities to do at a non-stop pace that will leave you exhilarated. Cruise fares start only $590 (inside cabin, category N) + taxes, port charges and fuel supplement. Your dance package is all-inclusive no hidden or extra charges. Hotels and airfares are still very low, so book your reservation early, come join us to celebrate this spectacular dancing-at-sea vacation! There is just so much to do on this 5-night sailing you will never be bored! If you need a flyer and a registration form please call Caren at 754-246-2874 or go visit our website at: www.hustlecruise.com and download the registration form. Come join us with all our friends and let’s have a spectacular time on the water and in the sunshine. Everyone will totally love this ship!

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,
Okay. The ballots have been counted, the people have voted and the results are in: Doreen’s Tuesday Hustle Party at Backstage in Woodmere, LI should take front and center, above all the rest. From the moment you walk in, one is captivated by the chic yet warm ambience of the club. A rather large , fully stocked bar is directly in front of you, pool tables to the left and ample, intimate seating is to the right - Just Perfect! A large, beautifully polished wood floor ( no powder needed) with flashing lights await your every dance step. Overall, the place is tastefully decorated with clean restrooms(very important). You can even order a snack from the bar and or watch TV on one of many screens available. The commute there is closer than it sounds and is quite centrally located in Nassau, near the Queens border. You must come and experience the Backstage for yourself. You are going to leave wondering ( as I did), ” where has this place been all my life?”
See you all on Tuesdays.
Robert D. Lawrence

Hi Ron,
I MISS MY LIFE AS A “HUSTLER”!! Some of the best years I’ve ever spent were following the Hustle dance circuit, along with all of it’s amazing, dedicated, passionate dancers, across the country. Competition has always been in my blood and I loved every minute of it, especially the late night dancing and sleeping until noon. Recently though I found a new addiction. Three years ago I signed up for my first triathlon, with absolutely NO swim experience. I hired a wonderful coach to teach me how to put my face in the water, then told her she had 12 weeks to prepare me for a ½ mile open water swim. It took 3 weeks just to get me from one side of the pool to the other, lol. I had been biking and running, so that was not much of an issue. Crossed my first finish line and was completely sold on a brand new sport. Seeing as triathlon takes just as much practice and training as competitive Hustle, I had to give up a dance that was one of my deepest passions in life for 12 years running. But it was replaced by something that I felt equally enthusiastic about. This past summer I started an all-female triathlon team called “TEAM LIPSTICK”. We are currently 30 athletes, plus 5 coaches, competing in sprint and olympic distance races across the country. I have never been so fit in my life!! This sport will lean out your body like no other. And the commaraderie that goes along with being part of a team is priceless. Especially since it’s just us girls! My alarm clock goes off at 5am everyday, which is precisely when I think “Why did I give up dancing?”. But I haven’t actually given it up, I’m still out there socially, and still loving it. To all of those dancers I haven’t seen in so long, please know that I still think about you and will never forget having the time of my life. Hopefully our paths continue to cross. You can keep in touch with me through
Big hug to everyone reading this. Laura
P.S. I took Tiffany with me!

Dear Ron,
I’m writing to pay tribute to my great friend Jim DeFato, a terrific hustle/all-around dancer, a devoted, loving father, and a passionate videographer and dance documentarian. Jim’s life was celebrated today during a beautiful service in Brooklyn, near his family home. Colleagues, friends and family joined to share their grief at his sudden passing as well as to express their joy for having known such a loving, generous spirit. Jim was a retired New York City Firefighter. Approximately 20 current NYC firefighters were on hand to honor him, standing ceremoniously in formation outside the entrance to St. Dominic’s Catholic Church. During the service, a heart-rendering poem, written by Jim’s lovely daughter Heather, was read by a family friend. Audrey Melikian, an opera singer, fellow dancer and Jim’s best and dearest friend, paid tribute to him by filling the church with her incredibly beautiful, soaring voice. It was a moving, unforgettable farewell to a very sweet and kind man. A real hero.
Jim was my true friend. We just spoke the Friday before last, both of us expressing our sadness over Arte’s passing. Jim was one of the first dancers I met when I moved to New York. occasion, I used to help him record the dance events he loved so much. He has always been there for me. I was shocked and heartbroken when I learned that he, too, had passed away. Another lovely person taken away far too soon. Ron, thank you for giving us this forum to express ourselves. It goes without saying that this has been a time of tremendous loss for our hustle community. Many blessings to you and your loved ones. I hope to see you soon at events scheduled during the holiday.
Sincerely
Daria Sanchez (NYC)

Hi Ron,
There is no point to berating the level of competence of any of the dances/dancers presented on Dancing With the Stars because the music is so abysmal. The quality of music this season is consistently horendous. The dancers do the best they can. It is a great show and I love watching it. I just have a really hard time listening.
With thanks,
Margaret

Dear Mr Bess,
Thank you for all that you do with the DanceTalk I would love to write for you It would be my honor. As a young women not born in this great country I have become in love with dancing I grew up in and studied classical dance in school Everyone had too We did not socialize dance The city of New york has so much to offer and I have found great dance studios to learn and enjoy. I’m sophomore in city university As a dancer we all speak the same language I find a friendliness among the dancers that I love I wish to share my sadness and prayers to others for the loss of Mr Artie Phillips. He was king of hustle.
Thank you Mr Bess and I really would love to write for you,
Sophia Svenn

I’ve made (what was a difficult) decision to leave Radio Mixshow and devote the extra time to Family travel and other very important music industry business. I’ve enjoyed a fine relationship w/ all the stations I’ve mixed for and represented; namely WKTU 103.5 fm (the beat of new york). After 20 years mixing music (1988-2008) (every weekend & some weekdays) on several radio stations, I’ve made my contribution to listeners from many lands. Being comitted to such a task is making a major sacrifice. Accepting that, I was more than willing to take it all on; and did for 20 years. I never compromised my focus or goals with any mixshow program I was commissioned to produce. I loved it! My name, brand and reputation (as a DJ & Producer) have been solidly built and I’m both fortunate and honored to have had such a nice opportunity. I will continue to have more. You will all continue to hear alot from me…..just not in Radio Mixshow. I’m not going anywhere…just growing and doing many other things that I’ve wanted to do with both my Family, Friends & in the Music the business.
JohnnyRocks

Ron,
I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone for making my birthday special at Michael’s Cafe. I was going to cancel my birthday dance after the very sad news about Arte. But after talking with some very close friends I changed my mind. I was reminded that Arte was all about celebration. The more I thought about it I realized that Arte would always make a point to dance the birthday dances with any and all of the lady’s. It didn’t matter to him if they had ever met before or if they just started to learn the hustle and didn’t even no a step. Arte would have them dancing. I could go on, but enough could never be said … Arte we all miss you. DJ Mark’s Tribute to Arte Phillips was very special and heart felt. When he did the moment of silence, you could of hear a pin drop. Then (I’m not sure if you could hear this, but) someone walked in the front door…and my heart seemingly stopped beating for a few seconds. I wanted that to be Arte walking in… Moments passed… Then softly I heard Mark’s voice once more…You announced that you were playing Arte’s favorite tunes in a set and that we should all dance in his memory… I know that Arte was there with us… I felt it… I will never forget that moment.
Pat Stewart

Hi Ron,
It’s been a pleasure to have shared moments with my friends Mr. Jim DeFato, a humanitarian, a confidant, a great talent behind a camera and on the dance floor and Mr. Arte Phillips, dancer, showman. Teacher of teachers, choreographer, comedian and now an angel of dancers. When you hear a good song and have to decide to sit or dance when someone asks, on behalf of my friends Jim and Arte, I hope you say yes and DANCE!”
Nino Torre (Virginia)

Letters For Arte
Hi Ron,
I received a phone call from Star Search asking me to come on the show and compete. It was a wonderful offer but I turned them down saying I needed to find the right partner. Star Search responded by saying to just come on the show as soon as I found one. I immediately thought of Arte Phillips, and even though we had never really met, we new of each other being dancers in the New York dance scene. Arte was the perfect choice with his boyish Hollywood Brad Pitt looks, his incredible speed and versatility as a dancer. He of course, said yes, and we quickly went to work as we had to create at least five routines for the show. The shows format had changed: instead of dancing one number per week, we had to compete Monday morning, then Monday afternoon, Tuesday morning, Tuesday afternoon, and so on, until you ultimately lost. We had approximately two months to pull a partnership together. Dancing with Arte was like dancing at 78 rpm’s- every lift, dance step and transition was fast- but it was the perfect formula for Star Search as we had only 90 seconds in which to show our stuff. Dancing on Star Search together was truly exciting. We did very well and won enough times to make it into the final rounds. This next part of the story was very hard on both of us. When the finals ended in a tie, the vote was supposed to go to the bused in section of the audience. We were told by the producers that unfortunately all the ballots had been pre- filed out by our competitor’s friends. Since the show had already been taped there was nothing they could do about it. We lost, without ever really knowing who should have won that night. We went onto dance in the Miss America pageant the next two years in a row. We also performed together in Peter Maxwell’s ballroom dance company which toured the Hawaiian Islands. I was surprised when we were both asked which number we enjoyed the most that we both picked the piece that was most out of our own comfort zone and element. I loved the Prince number, “She’s a Dream” and “Diamonds”- as it was more jazzy and sexy. Arte chose “Night and Day” which was very lyrical and had an old Hollywood ballroom style – which we performed in a long black dress and tuxedo. What I will remember most is Arte’s nonstop infectious energy. He livened up each and every rehearsal, performance and event with his fun loving, upbeat personality. When he danced he lived on the edge and it was always very exciting, daring and risky. He lived how he danced. Anyone who has ever met or known him will miss him. I already do.
Sharon Savoy (Virginia)

Ron,
My most powerful memory of Artie was when he and Lisa won the title for the USBC in Hustle at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel. They did what Augie and Margo did for the Mambo 20 years before them. I can’t describe how proud I was of the fact that they were representing “our” dance, “the hustle”. I wasn’t the only one that got goose bumps watching them win that competition. The whole grand ballroom was on its feet screaming and cheering in excitement. This moment was my most memorable and to me. This was Artie me at his best. He was still young, raw and hungry. What he and Lisa had finally done was make the conservative “strictly ballroom” world stand up and take notice of the newest dance on the block. The Hustle was not to be considered a passing trend any longer. Hustle was setting the trends and their performance confirmed that!.. They put Hustle on the map that weekend! Many thought Hustle was a street dance that was going to fade away.…That night Artie proved them all wrong. Hustle had finally come into its own. From that moment on Hustle and Artie earned the respect of the whole dance community. Artie helped it break through to the other side…
For the rest of my years I will always remember Artie… Monday nights at DanceSport , always in front of the DJ booth, dancing full-out with his many friends. He danced full throttle right to the end . What more could a dancer want? It’s really hard to believe that he has left us so abruptly. But his spirit of dance will continue to live on in the people that he touched and inspired! We will all miss him! Each in our own way.
~Paul Pellicoro (Dancesport NYC)

Dear Ron,
I met Arte Phillips at the Poor Peters Parlor dance contest years and years ago in Long Island, and I couldn’t believe how good a dancer he was. I asked all my friends and aquaintances WHO was THAT GUY? I was told that this guy came from Queens & was THE MAN. Since then I have seen him every where from Roseland to the Ice Palace, Alexis, Phil Blacks Studio, every borough, new jersey,upstate, the catskills, cruise ships, Madison Square Garden, Ipanema, Boombomakow, the Latin Quarter, Cat Club, Starship, Infinity, Plato’s Retreat, The Electric Circus, The Hop, Yakity Yak, Fred Astair’s, The Lemon Tree, Elephas, Seconds, Kisses, Act 111, Fudgies, The Milky Way, Darions, Dance studio, Scandals, Fantasy Island , 2001 Odyssey, The Golden Dove, Pastels, Penthouse, Uncle Sams, Harpers, The Winners Circle, Jupiters, Metro 700, Fokus, Feathers, Channel 80, Zachary’s, FKA Penrods, Decamerons, Chaz, The Bijou, Long Island exchange AKA the Savoy, Regines, Les Poulets, The Limelight, Palladium, Funhouse, Melons, Broadway 48, Adams Apple, Lamaganette, Tatou…to name a few. Before you knew it before during and after TV, Broadway, Dance Feveer, Star Search, He started dancing all over the United States and then the world. I will never forget when I asked him to dance at KIKKERS bar a tiny corner neighborhood bar in QUEENS in a dance contest that I was running and he showed up and danced wearing Red and Gold with Maria Torres, they brought the house down! There was a congregation of Rock people that hated the Hustle, hated DISCO hated my contest, They lost their collective minds after they saw their routine to My Sweet Summer suite by the Love Unlimited Orchestra. I will never ever ever forget the impact that that night made on me and just as I have been in such awe of his accomplishments seeing him perform in so many different stages, dance floors and venues this really hit home harder. May he rest in piece…Let him dance in the heavens and look down on us- there will be countless people that will never forget what he brought and will continue to bring to the dance world. My request to everyone that has kids that do the Hustle or not, talk about Arte Phillips, share pictures, share the Dvd’s and videos of what he has done and try to pass on the great things that he has done perhaps people could immortalize him as we do Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, Bill Russell, Michael Jordan, and all the greats of our lives so our children’s children know….
BOBBY O (Tampa)

Hi Ron:
After reading your article Immortal Arte Phillips I had to stop and shed a few tears. You chaptered Arte. After I moved away I only heard about what he was doing but never got to connect. You my friend have made it possible for people like me who have moved out of the NY area to still remain in-touch. For that I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
George Velazquez (Georgia)

Dear Ron,
Beloved Arte Phillips My deepest condolences to his Family. I was so saddened to hear of the passing of Arte Phillips. This is a great loss for the dance community. He mesmerized the world with his dancing. He was caring and kind. A classy, gracious and true gentleman. Arte was such an inspiration to me and I miss him terribly. I will always remember his everlasting smile and will cherish his Memory, Love and Friendship. It has been an honor. May Arte rest in peace
Donna J Boyle (Disco America )

Auditions, Competitions, Socials, Cruises & More…
Nov 24, Mon-NY Dancesport Legendary Hustle Mondays at Paul Pellicoro’s DanceSport, w/ Nelson “paradise” Roman spinning every Monday night, best in hot dance music from 9:30PM $10 admission; DS students free 22 W. 34th St East Entrance 4th Fl bet. 5th & 6th Aves. www.dancesport.com

Nov 24, Mon-FL Dancesport Monday Nights in Boca Raton at Virtuous Production Dance Centre. Hustle lesson from 7-8PM w/ Carl Charles, then open dancing 2880 N. Federal Hwy (bet. NE Spanish River Rd & NE 20th St.), Boca Ration. 561 750 6700 only $15 www.carlcharlesdance.com

Nov 25, Tues NY BACKSTAGE NIGHT CLUB A new elegant night club to call home for our Tuesday Night Dance Party Opening early 8PM!!! With mixed CDs from 8-8:30PM DJ starts 8:30PM, Come early for light menu. Spacious Dance Floor, Great Sound System, Beautiful Bar! (Parking lot across street opposite CVS) 948 Broadway, Woodmere NY 11598 Admission $8 (Anyone who needs detailed directions, contact Robin)

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 9PM to Midnight Feature DJ Nelson “Paradise” Roman on the mix. This will be our last No Cover Party, welcome in the Holiday Season. Huge Dance Floor & Great Sound System. Bet U Can Dance, 3032 Jericho Tpke, East Northport, NY (631) 623-6559 www.betucandance.com for directions.

Nov 26, Wed, NJ Back In the Day dance party, Classics & 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 & La Villa Restaurant for info write to DJabradley@yahoo.com

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

Nov 26, Wed-Pa Springfield Country Club, Thanksgiving Eve dance party, w/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, celebrating Jo Jo Jack’s birthday. 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 “2 for $15″ Admission: You & a New Friend MUST show up together to get this special admission price.

Nov 27, Thurs-NY MIRELLE’S CLOSED, HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

SUNSHINE STATE DANCE FESTIVAL Nov 27-30 (Thanksgiving Weekend) at the beautiful Bonaventure Resort and Spa, 250 Racquet Club Rd, Weston (Fort Lauderdale) Florida 33326; (954) 616-1234. http://bonaventure.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp DJ Vicki Kay will be playing your favorite tunes (swing & the mix). Excellent Instructors and Workshops, Tons of Social Dancing with Top Notch Deejays. See http://www.ssdcinfo.com/ for more information.

Nov 28, Fri-NJ DKN Dance Monthly Friday Social Diane K. Nardone Knights of Columbus, 16-16 N Maple Ave, Fairlawn, 8:30 pm to 9:00 pm Salsa Lesson. 9:00 pm to 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 www.dkndance.com

Nov 28, Fri-NJ California Friday! Come to the California Mix Dance with DJs Rob & Brian G at The Atrium, Rt. 130, Pennsauken, and dance the night away from 8:30 til ?? ! $2 discount for Del Val members! 8:30-9:15 we’ll kick this one off with a Country 2 Step lesson w/Brian G. followed by a great mix of music with DJs Rob & Brian G sharing the DJ booth with the dancing done in one big room!! $25 Ticket To Ride Gas Card and more!

Nov 29, Sat-NY DanceSport presents A New Social Dance Night Hosted by Donna DeSimone, 22 West 34Th St. (bet 5th & 6th) (212) 307-1111, every 4th Sat of month. Hustle, Latin Swing & More. The Thanksgiving weekend Kick Off Party w/DJ JOHNNY O & Nino Torre. Cash Bar w/ Snack Menu Group Classes:$8 Dance Social: $15 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 29, Sat-Pa Second Story Reunion, at the River Club, Manayunk Brewery 7:00 - Until ??? One of Phillys all time best clubs, reunites for one night. Tix: $20.00 Includes 2 Drinks Theme: Black & White Dress For TV

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

Dec 2, Tues-NY Special guest DJ Johnny O at BACKSTAGE NIGHT CLUB A new elegant night club to call home for our Tuesday Night Dance Party. Opening early 8PM. With mixed CDs from 8-8:30PM DJ starts at 8:30PM, Come early for light menu. Spacious Dance Floor, Great Sound System, Beautiful Bar! (Parking lot across street opposite CVS) 948 Broadway, Woodmere NY 11598 Admission $8 (need directions, contact Robin)

Dec 3, 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 “Lucky Draw” Everyone has a chance to win perx!

Dec 4, Thur-FL THURSDAY NIGHT WEST COAST SWING class and Party at Shall We Dance; WCS Class starting at 7:00 pm-basics, then on to Int-Adv from 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm every Thursday Night with MrDancePro Christopher Hemmer. $5 for the lesson; $10 for the party; Party after the Lessons will start at 8:30 pm WCS, Country, Cha Cha, etc. 600 S Federal Hwy, Deerfield Beach, (561) 876-1099, email: Chris@MrDancePro.com or DJVic@MrDancePro.com www.MrDancePro.com

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. 7:30 PM Cha Cha Lesson w/Silvana Gallagher 8:30pm Dance Party w/refreshments. $12 at door 801 West Chester Pike, Havertown, www.vaidance.com

Dec 5, Fri-NY “ABSOLUT DISCO” presented by Simone Assboeck. DJ’ed by the fabulous Nelson ‘Paradise’ Roman. 9.30pm-2.00am at Stepping Out Studios, 37 West 26th St (9th floor), Separate Salsa Room! We are happy to announce that our FREE Buffet now offers ORGANIC and Dancer light food. Also enjoy the OPEN BAR and Intriguing Performances! Admission: Current Stepping Out Students $10. General Public $15.

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. Please plan to join us. Dance Contest, group lesson, give aways, food and 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 information contact: Donna at donnaboyledisco@aol.com or Ron at 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 13, Sat-NJ Central Jersey Dance Society presents Ballroom Blitz social & dance w/ Samba lesson 7:30-8:30pm by Robert Sweeney Dance to DJ Marc Liebeskind mix of Latin, Ballroom, Hustle, ECS, WCS and more 8:30-11:30p Suzanne Patterson Center, Monument Drive, off Route 206, Princeton, NJ. Everyone welcome No partner needed. $12, $8 students w/id www.centraljerseydance.org

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 pm Waltz Lesson, 9-12:30 am Hustle/WCS/Salsa/Country/Ballroom & More Class & Social $15 Social Only $15 Dance to the sounds of DJ Dave Muzii Coffee, Tea, & cake will be served Everyone Welcome (201) 666 6224 Email:dkndance@verizon.net 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

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/

Dec 21, Sun-NJ 100% Pure Hustle w Johnny “O” $8 before 10pm/$10 after. GIVEAWAYS! Party passes, CDS, dance classes, more. New Music Hour Johnny O 11pm Dont miss out! starlightdanceusa.com 973-235-9835

Dec 27, Sat-NY Holiday party Donna DeSimone teaching WCS Level I 7:30-8:15 & Derrick Allen Teaching Inter/Adv Hustle 8:30-9:15. Also a special performance by Donna DeSimone & James Hamm to celebrate the holiday season, Dancesport NYC

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/

Discoamerica June 26 - 28, 2009 11th annual Dance Championships, King Of Prussia Pa. Donna Boyle and Joyce Szilli invite you to join them at the Crown Plaza, Hustle, Swing, workshops, social dancing, competitions all weekend long. Www.discoamerica.com