Thursday, December 29, 2011

A Quick Look on The Wasabi for January

The WASABI Band still on fire and blazing through the month of January 2012. Get a load of Doreen's e-mail.
    (No forget to left click mouse to zoom in)

Line Dancing with Sandy Zook

Okay, Line Dancers, here's your calling to shine and slap those boots before saying adios to 2011. Friend Sandy Zook has got the Palladium locked in this Friday (Dec. 30) 9AM to 2:30PM for Beginners to Intermediate Line Dancing. See her e-mail for more info.

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

IBDI Inaugural Ball 2012


Aloha Students of Dance,
     If you are holding tickets to the IBDI New Years Dance at the Pacific Beach Hotel for this coming Saturday, you gotta be the lucky ones. I'm not sure if there are anymore tickets floating around at this late date but you can try contact any IBDI member. If not successful, then there is still time to get on board for the IBDI Inaugural Ball at the Pacific Beach on January 20, 2012. Scan over Lynn Nakamura's e-mail that follows or bettah yet...contact her for tickets.............
(left click to enlarge)

Hau'oli Makahiki Hou!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!
from: Frank & Lani
Well, another year is almost pau and it's time to wish everyone "Hau'oli Makahiki Hou" and good health for the coming new year. Also a time to start crafting a new year resolution. It's been a whirlwind 2011 for Lani and me. We've met many new faces who have become our friends (we hope they regard us as their friends also) during our journey to promote ballroom dancing. I was in deep thoughts while scrounging for a genuine resolution for 2012 but then I began thinking...hey! we had fun in 2011 and if it ain't broke, no need to fix it. The new year is a good time to think about the naughty things (couldn't think of any at this time) and all the nice things we did during the past year. Now, Lani and I gotta trust we have the strength to continue to do all the nice things and still have fun in 2012.

Monday, December 26, 2011

Ringing In The New Year with Divino Ritmo

 Aloha Students of Dance,
Photo of Lucas Jaime
courtesy Marie Laderta
    Divino Ritmo is welcoming the New Year with their year-end Social Dance at the Cupola this Tuesday. Good time to say farewell to the Rabbit and get in tune with the mighty Dragon. There's more thunder coming from my friend Marie Laderta. So read on--------
(left click to zoom in)

Saturday, December 24, 2011

Dance Magic 808 Dance Classes







Frank's note: Please surf to Dance Magic 808 website for Registration Forms. Mahalo.
                     Left click to zoom in.

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Starlight Dance Party and More hosted by Aloha Ballroom Dance Academy

Aloha Students of Dance. If you are or planning to be on the Valley Isle on December 21, you might want to contact Dance Professional Rita O'Connor for more info on the Starlight Dance Party and the Christmas Morning Special. (see e-mail address and phone number at end of this blog) Photos by Aloha Ballroom Dance Academy.



Maui, Hawaii –Aloha Ballroom Dance Academy hosts an evening with Dance Professional, Rita O'Connor and a FREE night of dance classes in Salsa & Quickstep starting at 6:30 pm on Wednesday, December 21, 2011. The "Starlight Dance" after-party starts at 8:00 pm saying "good-bye" to 2011 and "hello" to the upcoming arrival of 2012! The entire evening is FREE and open to the adult community!

This gala evening event at the Kihei Community Center is a pupu potluck and everyone's encouraged to participate! You don't need to dress up, but if you'd like to be in festive-wear, please feel free to do so! The educational 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit dance school welcomes outside financial donations to continue to support their efforts to bring professional instruction in partnership dancing to the island of Maui. Mayor Alan Arakawa previously commented: "it's always a treat to learn about another success story in our community - [the Academy] is clearly a testament to the enjoyment your students must find in the Ballroom dancing experience. My congratulations on your accomplishment...!"

Aloha Ballroom Dance Academy Makes Christmas Morning Special for Keiki of Homeless Resource Centers
Maui, Hawaii – As part of Aloha Ballroom Dance Academy's yearlong charitable mission, the non-profit annually hosts a drive for wrapped gifts which are donated to the Ka Hale A Ke Ola and Na Hale O Wainee Homeless Resource Centers so that the children can wake up to the magic of the holiday season! Academy Dance Professional, Rita O'Connor remarks “that for the past ten years, the Academy has provided every needy child at the Homeless Shelter(s) with a gift from Santa.” If anyone from the Maui community would like to make a donation of a wrapped gift for a child at the Homeless Resource Centers, they may bring them to the Kihei Community Center on Wednesday evenings through December 21st.

For more information about the Aloha Ballroom Dance Academy or the “December 21st Holiday Dance Classs & Party,” email ritaoc@hawaii.rr.com or call 879-0055 or visit their website at www.AlohaBallroom.com.

Tuesday, December 06, 2011

Gary Moore Coming To East Honolulu

From da Leeda of WASABI Oldies Band, Doreen Nakamoto...........

Hey all you fans of good ole rock your socks off dance music by the likes of Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis, & Elvis...if you missed seeing Garry's performance with us at Dot's in Wahiawa bcz it was too far a drive for ya, now's your chance! You must've all heard by now that Garry really rocked that stage at Dot's, and the energy was running HIGH that night. Well, here is another opportunity for you to catch Garry in action as he will be stopping by St. Louis Alumni this coming Thursday, December 8th, to grace us with his presence on stage! BTW, it's Garry's birthday that day, and he'll be celebrating with his family, but he's kind enough to share his day with us, so let's all show him the LOVE!!!

Mark that calendar of yours, and come on down to St. Louis Alumni this Thursday, December 8, from 7:00-10:00 p.m. It's gonna be a night to remember!
Love from me & da boyz,
Doreen

P.S. NO FORGET, WE'LL BE AT DOT'S IN WAHIAWA AGAIN THIS COMING SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10, TOO! This venue is getting to be THE HOT SPOT in Central Oahu, and we love it! Tell one & all to join us there, too!

Monday, December 05, 2011

A Quick Look @IBDI

Aloha Dancers,

       Just a quick reminder of IBDI events for this month and in January. No forget the IBDI Christmas Dance at the Palladium on Saturday December 17 also. Thanks to Nancy Shen and Marsh Ninomiya for sending the info. You might want to surf over to Dance Magic 808 Website for info on an upcoming Dance Workshop in December sponsored by IBDI, too.  Good bio on the dance teacher by Lynn Nakamura.

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Last Call For Hawaii's Own Broadway Production

Photo courtesy Marie (center)
Aloha Students of Dance,
   Before I go into the meat of my dear friend Marie's e-mail on "Last Call", here's a call for "Last Tuesday" at the Cupola for November.  Da guys and gals at Divino Ritmo have been busy preparing for the "Big Show" at the Sheraton Waikiki come this Saturday but they haven't forgotten their "last Tuesday" social dance at the Cupola this Tuesday at the Honolulu Design Center. Same good deal.....open to the public and admission is free. Party starts at 7PM and dancing till 10PM.

  Here's Marie's e-mail on "Last Call".............................

Aloha LAST CALL for Hawaii's own BROADWAY Production to Kick Off the Holiday Season!
By Marie Laderta

"THE CALL of BROADWAY," by Divino Ritmo
Folks, we are on our way to sweep you off your feet, we hope. At least that is our goal, to entertain you in the grand ol' Broadway style... Presented by Lucas & Yanna of Divino Ritmo Dance, "Neon Lights," THE CALL OF BROADWAY, in addition to being a chance to showcase the students, is also a dance production aimed at entertaining and razzle-dazzling you! The best adrenaline to kick off your holiday season! Come encourage our students, see the results of their hard work, come dance with us on our floor at the Sheraton Waikiki and let us take you away to 42nd Street!! Lucas & Yanna will top off the evening with their own professional show. Lots of general dancing in between.

WHEN: Saturday, Dec 3rd
WHERE: the Sheraton Waikiki Ballrooms
TIME: 6pm doors open; 7pm sit down dinner; 8:00p Dance Show begins
Tickets: $95 front row/ $85 all other rows (limited tickets left)

For more info contact: Lucas Jaime, (917)568-3173; divinoritmo@aol.com
Yanna Samkova, (732)499-0407; Yannajs@gmail.com

Correction: USA Dance Classic Holiday Ball

Ticket purchase deadline for the USA Dance Classic Holiday Ball has a minor change. See accompanying e-mail from Glenn......

Happy Holidays,
I had previously erred on the last day for purchasing a ticket (Wednesday afternoon, Nov. 30th) to our Classic Holiday Ball in December.The last day to purchase a ticket will be on Tuesday afternoon, Nov 29th.

So hurry and get your tickets ($10 presale w/ dinner) by Tuesday afternoon if you can, or you will be missing out on a fabulous dinner/dance with exhibitions by amateurs from various Honolulu ballroom clubs. Tickets purchased at the door ($10 @ door no dinner) entitle you to an evening of fun and dancing with light refreshment after the show. Dinner will begin at 6:00 pm and will be an epicurean event never to be compared with.

Enjoy the solos, formations and show dance exhibitions performed by our wonderful amateur dancers from Honolulu. As always, come and enjoy the best music and sound system in Honolulu, by USA Dance’s own Dee-J, GaryK. See you at the (USA) dance.
Glenn Okazaki
USA Dance Honolulu

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Dance Magic 808 Christmas Party

Hi All,
Poster courtesy Dance Magic 808
You are all invited to attend Dance Magic 808′s 1st Christmas Party at Hale Ikena, Ft. Shafter. Your friends are also invited. Seating is lmited so please rvsp and make payment no later than Friday, Dec. 9.

We would like to recognize all our instructors who taught this year, so if you are available, we hope that you can join us in celebrating and acknowledging our hardworking instructors and all our volunteers.

Dance Magic 808′s 1st Christmas Party
Date: Thursday, December 15, 2011
Place: Hale Ikena, Ft. Shafter
Time: 5:30pm – 9:30pm /dinner from 6:00pm – 7:30pm
Cost: $25 / includes buffet dinner, exhibitions, and lots of general dancing
RVSP and Payment due no later than Friday, Dec. 9, 2011
Music: Henry Rimas

Menu: Tossed Green Salad with Dressing, Macaroni Salad, Lomi Lomi Salmon, Poi, Steamed Rice, Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Chicken Long Rice, Shoyu Chicken, Kalua Pig, Haupia, Fresh Pineapple, and Coffee & Hot Tea.
You can purchase alcoholic beverages at Mulligan’s Grill & Bar and bring it into the banquet room. There normally is a “Happy Hour” price for alcoholic drinks before 6pm.

Please make payment to: Dance Magic 808
Mail to: 1676 Ala Moana Blvd. #1101, Honolulu, HI 96815
Payment can also be made at class on Wed. night, Nov. 30, at Hale Ikena.
No tickets will be given out. We will have a namelist and seat assignment will be based on first come basis after assigning the seats for the instructors and volunteers.
Thank you for your support this year.
Richard & Lynn Nakamura
http://www.dancemagic808.wordpress.com/
cell: 808-372-2256 (Lynn)

Reminder: USA Dance Classic Holiday Ball

Another great event is coming your way to the Palladium. It is USA Dance Honolulu’s Annual Classic Holiday Ball, scheduled for Friday, December 2 nd 2011. This year, our showcase will feature local amateur talents from various clubs here in Honolulu. The cost for a ticket is $10 presale w/ early dinner, or $10 at the door, cookies only.

Dinner service will start at approximately 6:00 pm and will be served on the ‘lanai’, overlooking our scenic Waikiki and the tranquil waters of the Ala Wai Canal. J We will prepare a succulent grilled steak and chicken dinner complimented with moist grilled vegetables on the side, all grilled with olive oil, and gently placed over a bed of rice…(It’s already making me hungry)… Dessert will be served during intermission at approximately 8:00 pm. Dessert will be cookies selected from one of our wonderful cookie outlets available in Honolulu. Also available with your dessert will be the aromatic flavor of ‘Folgers’ coffee blend and a refreshingly cold drink of H2O spiked with a hint of lemon. What a wonderful way to compliment your evening of dancing and dining.

Our ticket sellers are already out there, busily introducing our upcoming event to all of you ballroom dancers. Don’t hesitate, because these tickets are going out fast. In order to qualify for the great dinner we are preparing, you really have to purchase your tickets early.Last day to purchase tickets will be at noon on Wednesday, November 30th.
Mahalo,
Glenn Okazaki Pres.
USA Dance Honolulu

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

WASABI @Dot's In Wahiawa

Please join us at Dot's in Wahiawa this coming Saturday, November 26th, from 7:30-10:30 p.m. Milton's birthday falls on Thanksgiving Day, so we're celebrating his birthday at Dot's on Saturday cuz he cannot compete with the Turkey. Nothing real fancy like KingPins Harvey's Kanreki celebration last Friday, but I guarantee you it'll be a great night. I've ordered red velvet cupcakes for everyone, and we have a special set featuring Garry Moore. This will be a "dress rehearsal" for Garry as he sings tunes by Little Richard, Elvis, & Jerry Lee Lewis. Garry's doing a special show for a private function in December & WASABI will be his backup band, so this'll be a good time to get in a practice show. Hope everyone can make it. UH has a home game that night, so I know some of you are abandoning us for football! =( . But that's okay...I hope you all get rained on! LOL.
Love,
Doreen

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Happy Thanksgiving!

(Left click to zoom in)

Monday, November 14, 2011

The 63rd Narcissus Coronation Ball

Aloha Students of Dance,
This might be a bit early since it's not gonna happen until next year in January but I gotta tell you that this Narcissus Coronation event is Big Time. Here's a rare chance to see the Queen's Court perform in a dance routine with their escort. But first thing first: you gotta let the Chinese Chamber of Commerce know that you want to attend by sending a check to them or to Lynn to register. Neva can tell what the total number of guest they'll accept before closing the registration. Checkout the following e-mail from Lynn Nakamura for more info.
(Left click on flyer to zoom in or right click to print)

Hi All,
If you are available on Saturday, January 28, 2012, you won't want to miss out on attending the 63rd Narcissus Coronation Ball. There will be dinner, a program, and lots of general ballroom dancing.
.
The Mistress of Ceremony for this event will be Stephanie Lum, of KGMB and KHNL. The Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii always have a nice program and there is lots of ballroom dancing after the program ends up until midnight. We've been volunteering our services to teach the court and their escorts the waltz for 10 years and have performed for this ball several times. We always try to support them whenever possible


Cost to this grand event is $68 a person. It went up only $1 from last year. (Please see attached flyer)

We are putting together some tables and if you would like to join us, please advise us and send us a check payable to: Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii. The latest date to submit your request to us is Thursday, January 12, 2012. Our address is 1676 Ala Moana Blvd. #1101, Honolulu, HI 96815. You can either mail the check to us or give the check to us whenever you see us but do so no later than January 12, 2012.

You can also submit your own request directly to the Chinese Chamber of Commerce. You might want to notate on your reservation form to seat you close to the dance floor. Due date if sending directly to the Chinese Chamber of Commerce is January 18, 2012.

The Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii normally do not print tickets but did so last year for us. We don't think they will be printing tickets this year. Your check or credit card payment is your receipt. They will have your name listed on their registration sheet at the check-in desk.

Mahalo for your support.
Richard & Lynn Nakamura
Dance Magic 808
www.dancemagic808.wordpress.com
cell 372-2256 (Lynn)

Line Dance Party @the Palladium

Okay, Line Dancers! Here's your chance to "Party" with Hawaii's successful and popular Line Dance Teacher and really have some fun at the Palladium .  Long time friend Sandy Zook is hosting the "Come Dance With Us" on December 10th. Check out her e-mail and  poster for more info. (Left click on poster to zoom in or right click to print)

Aloha,
If this is a duplicate - sorry - please think of it as - I think of you a lot.  

Barry Durand (organizes World's Line Dance Competition) was going to come to Hawaii on Dec. 10th. He's unable to come until spring.

Since I rented the Palladium, I decided to have a Line Dance Party any way. I hope you can come. I would like to do oldies. I don't have a play list yet - so if you have requests, please let me know.
Thanks,
Sandy
988-1818

USAD Hustle Workshop

Okay, dancers! I finally got a brief history on the Hustle, the dance of the 70's from my friend Marie. Does Marie dance the Hustle? You bet she does! She and husband Paul danced some dazzling Hustle moves at the Kauai Ballroom Dance Club Anniversary Ball last month in Kauai. Here's her story.....

GET DOWN with Lucas Jaime at USA Dance's Hustle Workshop
By: Marie Laderta

Glenn Okazaki hit the nail on the head when he described the hustle as "this ever popular retro-dance of the 70's.". He sure is right about that!

Hustle's evolution is amazing when you consider that in such a short span of dance history, from the 70's to today, it has moved as a dance form from a disco/social in the 70's to being a part of the American rhythm style in many of today's ballroom competitions including the Hawaii Star Ball!

During its infancy in the 70's, even though the hustle was taught in many forms (4- count hustle, the old Latin Hustle or Rope Hustle), the most entertaining style was done by club dancers and competitors in New York who performed the 3-count hustle (& 1-2-3). Later, other dance styles such as American Smooth (traveling movements & pivots), and other Rhythm dances were incorporated.

In fact, whenever I have a chance, I always compete in ballroom hustle in both Pro-Am with Lucas and amateur couple with my husband Paul. It is a refreshing break for us in the competition because it allows for a bit more freedom of movement & variation than the more disciplined syllabus figures in Latin. Not to mention that I get to learn and dance the hustle with my teacher, a former Hustle Champion, who grew up with this genre of dancing in New York with the likes of "Hustle-great" Billy Fajardo.

So come on down to the Ala Wai Palladium on Saturday, November 19th and watch Lucas "get down" with the Hustle at USA Dance's workshop.

WHERE: The Ala Wai Golf Course Palladium
TIME: 12:30p Registration, 1:00p Workshop
COST: $10 for USA Dance Members
$20 for Non-members

For more information, call Glenn Okazaki at 428-1704.

Wednesday, November 09, 2011

DANCE! DANCE! DANCE! December

Aloha Students of Dance,
A whole lot of dance venues scheduled for December. So here's a recap of what's in store for your enjoyment to keep on dancing.....
(Left click on poster to zoom in then click on original for close-up).

Friday, Dec. 2, 2011 – USA Dance – Classic Holiday Ball @ the Palladium – 6pm – 9:30pm – Exhibitions & Refreshments. Advance Cost $10 Steak & Chicken dinner (for tickets – call Lynn Nakamura 372-2256)


Saturday, December 3, 2011 - Divino Ritmo "Neon Lights" The Call of Broadway - Sheraton Waikiki Hotel 6Pm-11:30PM. (Scroll down to previous blog for more info)

Saturday, Dec. 10, 2011 – Pan Pacific Ballroom Dance Society – Christmas Dance @ the Palladium – Cost $8.00 bento served at 5:30pm
Exhibitions & Door Prizes (for tickets – call Lynn Nakamura 372-2256)

Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011 – 5:00pm – ??? Dance Magic 808 Christmas Party at Hale Ikena, Ft. Shafter – please rsvp if you plan to attend, seats are limited. There may be a minimal cost – planning to have pupus but not definite yet – will advise you next week. Contact Lynn Nakamura at 372-2256


Saturday, Dec. 17, 2011 – International Ballroom Dance, Inc. (IBDI) @ the Palladium – 5:30pm-10:00pm – Cost $10 bento at 5:30pm. Exhibitions, Door Prizes & Refreshments (for tickets – call Lynn Nakamura 372-2256)


Saturday, Dec. 31, 2011 International Ballroom Dance, Inc. (IBDI) New Year's Eve Dance. 6PM-Midnight. Pacific Beach Hotel.

Hawaii Swings 2011 Workshop @The Palladium



Aloha Students of Dance.
More Dance Workshop at the Palladium featuring Robert Cordoba and Deborah Szekley on the Hustle, Nightclub 2 Step, West Coast Swing, and Styling coming your way in December. But you gotta sign-up before the deadline of November 26 to be counted. See poster for more info. Please contact Carolyn Noah for additional info.
(Left click on poster to zoom in then click on original for close-up)

Tuesday, November 08, 2011

Do The HUSTLE with Lucas Jaime


Hi All,
As promised, USA Dance is promoting Lucas Jaime with his incredible moves in the ‘HUSTLE”. Come join us for this ever popular retro-dance of the 70’s.

We had great raves and reviews from Lucas’s Night Club 2-step at our last workshop. Now be there for our new workshop ..THE HUSTLE..with Lucas Jaime, to be held at the Ala Wai Golf Course Clubhouse (Palladium) on Saturday, November 19. Registration begins at 12:30 pm and the class starts at 1:00 pm. Be there for our great prices for members $10 and non members $20. Workshop is 1 ½ hrs. See attached pdf file for more info. What can I say…..It pays to be a USA Dance member….
Glenn Okazaki
USA Dance Honolulu

Wednesday, November 02, 2011

The Call of Broadway


During our visit to Kauai for the KBDC 7th Anniversary Ball, Lani and I got to make small talk with Wes Numazu about the upcoming "Neon Lights", Divino Ritmo Dance 3rd Annual Grand Ball and Showcase. He mentioned that he and Professional Yanna Samkova will be performing the Jive exhibition that they did for the Bantay Bata Showcase a few months ago. So guys and gals, if you missed this delightful performance featuring a shy but not too elderly senior dancing with a professional dance teacher, here's your chance to see a repeat performance on December 3 at the Sheraton Waikiki.


We got to rub elbows with all the Honolulu dancers at our table at the KBDC Ball. There were 36 dancers and friends from the "Big City" in attendance at that Ball. And the KBDC was very appreciative of our numbers attending and the showcase dancers from Dance Magic 808.


Divino Ritmo Dance have always put on a good show for other dance organizations, too. Last year's annual showcase was a smash-hit and early this year "The Westside Story" was very entertaining and a successful production. This year's "The Call of Broadway" has an inviting pitch that it's a sure bet it will be colorful, very entertaining, and thrilling to the max.
(Left click on photo to zoom in then click on "original" for a close-up).

Monday, October 31, 2011

Meet My Friend Patrice Tanaka on KITV: Tonight at 10pm!

Aloha Students of Dance. Stay tuned to KITV 4 News after Dancing With The Stars tonight for an exclusive interview with competition dancer Patrice Tanaka. My friend Marie Laderta who has her thumb on the pulse of our dancing community sent me the following tip.
.................................

Hi Frank:
This is happening news for today! Hot off the KITV press!
If you are able to post this ASAP that would be great....if not, KITV will get it to the community!
Mahalo my friend!
Marie
-------------------

Hello my friends in Hawaii's Dance community!
Find out about the moving journey of one woman after she lost her husband, the love of her life, during a time when faith in humanity and country were severely shaken by 9/11, when her career was at an all-time low, about how this ONE simple woman, someone I got to
know and admire, my friend Patrice Tanaka, took the high road and rebuilt her faith and career through the throes of ballroom dancing.....

TUNE in TONIGHT (Oct 31) at 10:00pm on KITV to watch her exclusive interview.

Clips of her ballroom competition last month with professional Rhythm Champion Emmanuel Pierre-Antoine at the Hawaii Star Ball can be found on KITV's website. Check it out and don't forget to tune in tonight: http://www.kitv.com/slideshow/news/29632659/detail.html
.................................
Excerpt from KITV Website: At the age of 59, Patrice Tanaka has an accomplished career in public relations, but wanted to pursue her lifelong passion of becoming Ginger Rogers. See how she found an outlet for that passion on KITV 4 News Monday.

Monday, October 24, 2011

USA Dance Annual Classic Holiday Ball

Dance mania continues for the month and to December but prepare yourself for more to come before the 2012 New Years Dance. USA Dance-Honolulu hosting their Annual Classic Holiday Ball at the Palladium on Frday December 2nd with dinner of mouth-watering succulent grilled steak and chicken and the works, social dancing, and a showcase of exhibition dancing all for the price of 10 bucks. But here's the catch...you gotta buy the tickets presale. Otherwise, all you gonna get is cookies. But even with that, it's still a good bargain. Read on the e-mail from Prez Glenn Okazaki for more info...........

Aloha,
Another great event is coming your way to the Palladium. It is USA Dance Honolulu’s Annual Classic Holiday Ball, scheduled for Friday, December 2nd 2011. This year, our showcase will feature local amateur talents from various clubs here in Honolulu. The cost for a ticket is $10 presale w/ early dinner, or $10 at the door, cookies only.

Dinner service will start at approximately 6:00 pm and will be served on the ‘lanai’, overlooking our scenic Waikiki and the tranquil waters of the Ala Wai Canal. We will prepare a succulent grilled steak and chicken dinner complimented with moist grilled vegetables on the side, all grilled with olive oil, and gently placed over a bed of rice…(It’s already making me hungry)… Desert will be served during intermission at approximately 8:00 pm. Desert will be cookies selected from one of our wonderful cookie outlets available in Honolulu. Also available with your desert will be the aromatic flavor of ‘Folgers’ coffee blend and a refreshingly cold drink of H2O spiked with a hint of lemon. What a wonderful way to compliment your evening of dancing and dining.

Our ticket sellers are already out there, busily introducing our upcoming event to all of you ballroom dancers. Don’t hesitate, because these tickets are going out fast. In order to qualify for the great diner we are preparing, you really have to purchase your tickets early.

Mahalo,
Glenn Okazaki

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Trick or Treat @The Cupola

Yes! Yes! I know...it's a bit late for this announcement but no can help. I just got off the plane from Kauai and wen spark this e-mail from my friend Marie. But no huhu. If you go by Filipino time, got uku plenty time for make up your minds to go to the Trick or Treat kine dance at the Cupola this coming Tuesday. I like thank my friend Marie for sending me the following e-mail. I know she had to rush it because she was at the Kauai Ballroom Dance Club 7th Anniversary Ball, too...just like me........

Trick or Treat at The Cupola
Enjoy a ghoulishly good time at Divino Ritmo's Halloween Dance at the CUPOLA this Tuesday, October 25th, from 7-10pm.

CUPOLA is located on the 2nd floor of the Honolulu Design Center, corner of Kapiolani & Pensacola, at 1250 Kapiolani Blvd.

Dance the night away to live music by Jesse Gonzales & DJ Lucas Jaime!
Food and beverage are available for purchase.

Fab news, Tuesday wine special is back! 50% OFF ALL wine bottles are available for purchase.

ADMISSION is FREE and OPEN to the PUBLIC!
Costumes are encouraged but not required.

We dare you to dress like somebody you are not!!! Surprise us and enter our costume contest! We have cash prizes for best costumes -scariest, funniest and most original!!
Free trick or treat bags for the first 30 people!

So Get your dancing shoes and come on down to our Halloween dance and see if you can spot Uncle Wes in his Zombie Zoot suit, or Lucas & Yanna among the ghouls and goblins......

For more information, contact: Lucas Jaime, ph: (917) 568-3173; divinoritmo@aol.com
Yanna Samkova, ph: (732)499-0407; Yannajs@gmail.com

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

WASABI Oldies Night @ Dot's In Wahiawa

It's been many moons since hearing from the HOT WASABI Oldies Band but as usual da Band Leeda Doreen came through with their next venue. If you're in the heart of Wahiawa be sure to check them out. Here's Doreen's e-mail....

Just making sure you didn't forget about us . We're looking forward to another great night at Dot's in Wahiawa this coming Friday, Oct. 21, from 7:30-10:30 p.m. Gosh, we had so much fun there the last time, we were so blown away! Even my mom got up to dance with Richard, Jo-Lin, & Roz guys!
If you're planning on joining us, come early to have dinner in the main dining room before coming in to see us. I tried the Sizzling Hamburger Steak the last time cuz everybody who'd had it told me it was a winner, and you know what? It is!!! You gotta try it, if you haven't already. They have quite a menu with other offerings, too. Yummm!

Let me know if you need seats. I already have some tables reserved, and some of you have already responded to me from my WASABI schedule email. Thank you to the "early birds" who already let me know you're coming. hee hee!

Love from me & da boyz,
Doreen a.k.a. cho-cho lips (hmmmm Su, see what you started?)

Saturday, October 08, 2011

Dance Magic 808 Dance Classes


Dance Magic 808 opened the 4th Session Dance Classes this past Wednesday with the Argentine Tango with Robert and Vanelle Hirayasu, and Line Dance with "Roxie" Kaino and Elsie McGrew at Hale Ikena on the grounds of Fort Shafter. Not quite on the Moanalua Corridor but pretty much where the Corridor starts. If you haven't yet tuned in to the new Dance Magic 808 website, here's what's in store (left click on poster to zoom in). Richard and Lynn Nakamura continues the International Style of the Samba and the Waltz on Thursdays. For more info on Dance Magic 808 activities, please click on the link at the side bar.

Thursday, October 06, 2011

Neon Lights


Aloha Students of Dance,
Here's more info on the Divino Ritmo Showcase coming in December at the Sheraton Waikiki. Please scroll down to previous blog "Divino Ritmo Showcase" for other info. Poster created by Lucas Jaime and submitted by my friend Marie Laderta.
(Left click on poster to zoom in)

Wednesday, October 05, 2011

October 2011 Palladium Schedule of Events


Gotta thank KI for posting the monthly schedule of events for the dancing community on his Website. This is just a copy to my blog. So if you want to thank him in person, he's usually at most of the dances at the Palladium. Even though he is across the ballroom from where you stand, a SHAKA sign is good to show appreciation.
(Left click on poster to zoom in)

Tuesday, October 04, 2011

Three In One @IBDI Monthly Dance

This is truly a three-in-one event coming your way October 15 at the Palladium and get this.....hosted by IBDI. So expect an evening of good fun dancing, HAPPY BIRTHDAY RECOGNITION and a hilarious HALLOWEEN COSTUME CONTEST to tickle your funny bone. So if you come as ZORRO, or JACK SPARROW, or even SPONGE BOB..neva can tell..it might be your lucky night. But as Prez Chris Jay mentioned in the following e-mail, it's ELECTION NIGHT also....so gotta take care of business first. Anyway check out what's in store......(left click on poster to zoom in)


Hi Frank
Thank you so much for helping IBDI publicize its October 15th Saturday dance. Here are some of the details on it:

1. Election night for 2012 officers and directors

2. Birthday recognition for members who come in free. Otherwise, $3.00-members and $6.00-non-members.

3. Halloween Costume Contest: 3 Categories

a. Most Original

b. Most Scary

c. Funniest

Prizes will be awarded to the finalists and overall winner. Hope to see you there!
Mahalo,
Chris

Monday, October 03, 2011

Divino Ritmo Showcase Coming December 3

Aloha Students of Dance,
If you enjoyed the spectacular Divino Ritmo Showcase last year and found it entertaining to the max...or missed it...then mark your calendar for another spectacular showcase coming this December 3rd at the Sheraton Waikiki. My friend Marie who keeps Lani and me in the loop on dance events sent me the following e-mail.......

Hello Frank & Lani:
We don't have ALL the details yet but below is a short message I've written to our Family and Friends to save the date, and with some preliminary information. Hope you can post it on the blog for us!

Here it is:

Dear Family & Friends:
I hope you will be able to join us at our showcase. Mark your calendars for December 3rd, Divino Ritmo's SHOWCASE at the Sheraton Waikiki. Once again, our teachers Lucas & Yanna and their students, including us and uncle Wes of course, will be putting on a SHOW for you! This year the theme of our showcase will be BROADWAY!!!!!!!!!!!

Of course, just like last year we will have dinner and general dancing! Our DJ will be none other than Michael Yap unequalled in his choice of music and ability to spin those tunes that make your feet wanna wiggle!

Tickets are $95 for front row and $85 for all other rows. You can pay by cash or check. Checks should be made payable to: "Divino Ritmo Dance." Buy early for best seating!!!

Call, text or email me! My cell 222-3721.
My email is: Marie.C.Laderta@vzw.Blackberry.net

Hope to see you all!
Marie

Sunday, October 02, 2011

USA Dance-Honolulu October Schedule

Aloha Students of Dance. USA Dance-Honolulu is hosting their Golden Harvest Dance this coming Friday at the Palladium. A bit early for the "Great Pumpkin" night but as Prez Glenn Okazaki mentioned in his e-mail: es okay to come dressed in costume like goin' be "Spook" night. Should be plenty fun at the dance. There's more to Glenn's e-mail, so read on................

Our Golden Harvest Dance is coming this Friday, October 7. It’s a wee bit early before the great pumpkin, but you can come dressed in a costume if you want to share.

As usual, our Dee-J, GaryK will have the best music selections in town with his incomparable sound system. His sound system is so terrific, that our sister clubs often visit him to check out his system. Don’t forget our chef’s selection of light snacks to compliment your dancing!

USA Dance has the whole Palladium on Friday. Come on down and join us and our members for a swinging good time. A reminder to all of our members: MEMBERS ARE FREEEEEEE!!!!!! To our non-members, admission is $5.00. It pays to become a USA Dance member!! Holy Cow… USA Dance members are always getting discounts. This is our way of giving back to our members. See you on Friday!
Glenn Okazaki
USA Dance Honolulu

Friday, September 30, 2011

Aloha Ballroom Dance Academy Dance Classes on The Valley Isle

It's been many moons since we heard any sweet and gentle news from the Valley Isle. So here's the latest from Professional Rita O'Conner for you lucky dancers who will be on Maui from October through December. Check out excerpts of the News Release from Rita and if you need more info you can contact Rita at: phone 879-0055, or e-mail at ritaoc@hawaii.rr.com. Read on.......................

Aloha Ballroom Dance Academy Offers Bachata, Waltz, Salsa & Quickstep Dance Classes for October-December 2011


Maui, HAWAII – The Aloha Ballroom Dance Academy, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit featuring Maui’s ONLY Professionally-Instructed Ballroom & Latin Dance classes, hosts their Registration Night on Wednesday, October 5th to kick off their new dance series for October - December featuring Club favorites Bachata, & Salsa, along with Slow Waltz & (fast) Quickstep! This evening will feature a potluck as well as social dance and a FREE dance lesson! Everyone interested in learning to dance is welcome to join this Guinness World Record breaking class! Maui's International Award-Winning Dance Professional, Rita O’Connor, N.D.C.A., will instruct every Wednesday evening in Kihei from 6:30 – 9:00 pm. The total cost for the 3-month course is ONLY $50 per person with a 20% OFF Special Discount if registered by October 5th (only $40per person - that's less than $1.50 per class)! Open registration throughout the course. No partner necessary! Singles and couples welcome! Teens through adults! Beginners through intermediate dancers take the floor! Classes begin October 12th – students can join anytime! Visit www.AlohaBallroom.com or call 879-0055 for more information.

This new dance series highlights the ever-popular Club Dances: Bachata & Salsa! The smooth-style Slow Waltz, the energetic Quickstep (as seen on Dancing with the Stars - sign up early to secure a space in these exciting classes! “I make partnership dancing a fun and social event for both couples and singles,” says Rita O'Connor. “It’s a wonderful way for couples to build upon their relationship and share a new activity together in a relaxing atmosphere. Similarly, singles or those without a dance partner for the evening can enjoy the company of others who want to learn to dance without feeling social pressure to have a steady partner in order to do ballroom dancing.” `“Ballroom & Latin dancing has changed with the times,” Rita explains. “The success of “Dancing with the Stars” TV program has prompted a resurgence in Latin & Ballroom dancing. I enjoy featuring contemporary music selections as well as the traditional songs to make it easier for people to recognize a dance. Our students range from young adult to mature adult and crosses all cultural barriers!"
(Left click on poster to zoom in)

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Argentine Tango @Hale Ikena

Dance Magic 808 opens the 4th Session on October 5 with the Argentine Tango with Robert and Vanelle Hirayasu at 6:45PM. Line Dance by Roxanne Kaino follows at 7:45PM. Track the trail with Dance Magic 808 Prez Lynn Nakamura's e-mail...

Hi All,
Just an update on our Wednesday night classes that will be starting up on Oct. 5, 2011 at Hale Ikena at Ft. Shafter.

Here are the dates: Oct. 5, 12, Nov. 2, 9, 16, & 30.
Classes: 6:45pm - 7:30pm - Robert & Vanelle Hirayasu/Argentine Tango
7:45p - 8:30pm - Line Dancing by Roxanne "Roxie" Kaino who will be assisted by Elsie McGrew.
Cost: $6 per class/you can register on Oct. 5.

Please mark your calendar:
Thursday night is still in session for our 3rd session classes. We have 3 more classes, Oct. 6, 13, and Nov. 3. We are still working on Tuesday nights.

Reminders:
Dance Magic 808's Social Dance (end of 3rd session)-Thursday, Nov. 10, 2011
Dance Magic 808's Christmas Social Dance-Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011
Dance Magic 808's 1st Anniversary Ball-Friday, July 6, 2012 at the Pacific Beach Hotel
Dance Magic 808's logo shirts-$35.00/make checks payable to OH Hawaii, Inc.

Oct. 22-Kauai Ballroom Dance Club's 7th Anniversary Ball @ Grand Hyatt Poipu Hotel in Kauai. Cost $50. Please see Lynn if you're interested. We have 34 people from Oahu who will be attending this annivesary ball. Dance Magic 808 will be performing a group quickstep (4 couples) and a solo International foxtrot and waltz.

Oct. 28-Pan Pacific's 37th Anniversary Ball @ Pacific Beach Hotel. Cost $55. We have filled 2 tables and need to fill the 3rd table. Please see Lynn if you're interested.

May 18, 2012-IBDI & Dance Magic 808's 1st Las Vegas Showcase @ Sam's Town Live at Sam's Town Hotel & Casino. More details forthcoming.

See you all next week. No classes this week.

Lynn
President, Dance Magic 808
www.dancemagic808.wordpress.com

Sunday, September 25, 2011

Hawaii Star Ball Feature Article

Gotta thank Marie Laderta for sprucing up this Weblog by continuing to send articles of interest for the dancing community. Get a load of her recent article on WHO's WHO gonna be at the Hawaii Star Ball..........

Hi Frank:
Finally, here it is, and thank you again for your assistance in posting:
-------------------

ISLAND FLAVORS & SPECIAL FEATURES at Hawaii Star Ball
By: Marie Laderta

IN ADDITION to the usual parade of local talent, to celebrate its 20th year, Geoffrey Fells spices it up with home-grown flavors! Hawaii Star Ball this year features "local-girl-made-good" Patrice Tanaka; the Gonzales Band; and local dance wear retailer Cammy Divers.


PATRICE TANAKA:
Ballroom dancer Patrice Tanaka, born and raised in our backyard, recently featured in Midweek, tells her story in her new book, "Becoming Ginger Rogers...How Ballroom Dancing Made Me a Happier Woman, Better Partner and Smarter CEO." Her book was recently published by BenBella books and is available now in bookstores. It tells the tale of a Japanese-American born and raised in Hawaii who fulfilled her dream of "making it" in the dog-eat-dog," "scratch-your-eyes-out" world of public relations in New York. Patrice's book has been described as providing a "voyeuristic glimpse into the world of competitive ballroom dancing," as well as a business book about lessonslearned from ballroom dancing that have made one woman a better CEO.
Patrice will be here in Honolulu this coming week, not only to promote her new book, but to compete in the Hawaii Star Ball with her Professionalteacher & top-ranking American Rhythm dancer Emmanuel Pierre-Antoine.


I've recently read the book, which I found to be inspiring, touching and definitely easy-reading. I've recommended it to many of my friends and book afficionados in and out of the ballroom world, who agreed that Patrice'sstory is uplifting. Her book will be available for sale at the Hawaii Star Ball, and when she is not dancing with Emmanuel, you may be able to catch her for an autographed copy! Patrice has lined up a number of promotional events for her book including a book signing at Kahala's Barnes & Noble on Saturday, October 1, at 1pm. For more information check out her website: www.BecomingGingerRogers.com


GONZALES BAND:
Our local social dance band, an icon at the Hale Koa's Warrior Lounge for many many years, makes its debut on the stage of the Hawaii Star Ball on Friday evening, September 30th. Joining in the many festivities for the Star Ball's final & glitziest evening, Jesse Gonzales, wife Buffy, son Jesse Jr., accompanied by Bobby, will be playing their favorite tunes during the general dancing segments of the evening.

CAMMY DIVERS of Dancewear Hawaii:
Shoes, shoes and more dance shoes for your picking will be featured on the vending tables of Cammy Divers' Dancewear Hawaii. Cammy Divers, a dancer herself, the mother of 3 little girls who dance ballet and recently ballroom, is also an industrious entrepreneur who runs and manages Dancewear Hawaii, a newly opened store located at 1513 Young Street, Suite 204. Also a first timer at the Hawaii Star Ball vending scene, Cammy has brought in a good variety of dance shoes for men and women, for competitive and social dancing. Some more familiar name brands include "RAY ROSE," "SUPADance," and "Very Fine dancesport shoes." Come meet Cammy and check out her shoes! She will be at the Hawaii Star Ball Tapa Tower for all 3 days of the event.

Saturday, September 24, 2011

Divino Ritmo Social Dance @Cupola Put On Hold

Just as a reminder to dancers who look forward to Swing and Sway at the Cupola on the last Tuesday of each month. Please read on Marie's e-mail......

Aloha Frank!

As soon as you are able to, I thought we should put something on the Blog ASAP to let people know that due to the Hawaii Star Ball, there will be NO CUPOLA social dance next Tuesday, Sep 27th. Divino Ritmo will resume its Cupola dance in October, just in time for Halloween!
Appreciate if you can get the word out for us ASAP so that we won't have folks disappointed if they show up and we are not there!

Mahalo Frank!
Marie

Da Good News: USA Dance "Plan B"

WOW1 Talk about moving at the speed of light! Glenn, Anne, and USA Dance must've moved like greased lightning to make "plan B" work. Now I don't want to steal any thunder from the guys who worked hard to bring the International Foxtrot Workshop with Garry Foster back. So read on Anne Ho's recent e-mail to me.............


Hi, Frank,

This is Anne Ho emailing for Glenn Okazaki regarding the International Foxtrot workshop on Oct 1, with Garry Foster is still on as originally planned. So please keep both workshop notice on your blog. Thank you very much for helping USA Dance.

Anne

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

USA Dance Workshops

WOW! Another BLOCKBUSTER WORKSHOP by USA Dance Honolulu. Whoa! Not one but two this time within one week. Thanks to Prez Glenn and USA Dance Honolulu for opening up these innovative workshops for both the American style, and International style dancers. Read on........
................................................

Aloha Frank,
Can you please help us to publicize our workshops coming up next week? We would greatly appreciate it if you could post this email and attached posters on your blog site.

Mahalos,
Glenn Okazaki

-------------------------------------------------

From: Glenn Okazaki
Subject: USA Dance Workshops

Aloha,
USA Dance is proud to present, two great workshops starting next week. American (Smooth) Waltz on Tuesday evening Sept 27, and International Foxtrot on Saturday afternoon October 1st.



To all you smooth dancers out there, this is your opportunity of a life time. Come and learn from the best of the best. Our first workshop is American Smooth Waltz with Slawek & Marzena, United States Champions. It is not often that you will receive the opportunity to learn from Champions. During this exciting one and a half hour of American Style Waltz, Slawek and Marzena will introduce a short amalgamation and work on it to improve your style, movement and technique.

Cost is $20 for members and $30 for non-members. See attached poster for more information.

(Entry 9/23/2011)INTERNATIONAL FOXTROT WORKSHOP with GARRY FOSTER HAS BEEN CANCELLED. USA Dance is working on a "plan B."

Aloha,
Glenn Okazaki
USA Dance Honolulu

Saturday, September 17, 2011

12 Years and Still Going Strong


WoW! Has it been that long ago? 12 YEARS! Dat means the EARTH had rotated around the SUN 12 times. It was way back in 1999 that I met Joe (Pepe) Martel, the man who had a vision to promote Ballroom Dancing by way of his DANCING IN THE DARK publication.....you know da blue mini-zine that was distributed FREE to anyone who was on the dancing canoe (just taking a little idiom from the gov). And believe it or not..Pepe is still on that proverbial canoe to promote Ballroom Dancing. Man! that takes a lot of energy and dedication especially for Joe who now makes his home west of the great divide in Nanakuli and uses Da Bus and da bicycle for transportation to get more further West and sometimes crossing the great divide to Waikiki. Okay, it hasn't been smooth sailing for Pepe at times.. he has had lots of pat on the back and other times some criticisms and barbs thrown at him, too but he's weatherd them all like letting water running down a duck's back....and if you neva like read his mini-zine, dat's okay too. When I joined his staff of contributing editors, Pepe already had Roger Izumigawa and Ruth Morgan on board who were excellent authors of dancing news. It was a wonderful ride associating with those two writers and "da boss" Pepe who gave us a free hand to express our thoughts in "Dancing In The Dark"....no pressure. The only and one simple rule we had to follow was "no bang heads with the other contributing editors". After a few years, Roger and Ruth decided to retire and Geoffrey Fells came on board as a guest author for the mini-zine. Geoffrey is an experienced writer and he came on like gangbuster with a lot of fire in his articles....you know da kine that can scorch da okole if the dancers didn't perform the right stuff in exhibition dancing or competition dancing. I don't know fo' sure if the critique lighted some burning white coal fire under da okole of da dancers. One thing is fo' sure, it was constructive with good intentions from a well-known and professional judge who knows the ins and outs of competitive dancing. In 2009, computers and cyberspace seemed to be the way to go. So the "blue mini-zine" of Dancing In The Dark gave way to Weblogs a year later but the name continued on in cyberspace publication. The Weblog "Dancing In The Dark" exchanged hands twice between Pepe and me and finally was laid to rest in Pepe's hands. I went independent with "That's Dancing" and "The Dance Connection". Geoffrey went independent shortly after with his Dance News of The Pacific. So what's up with the history lesson, Frank? Just wanted to give recognition to "da man" Pepe Martel who started me on this long journey which have become my hobby and interest to provide some news of our dancing community...that is if I'm available to attend those events. Joe (Pepe) Martel is still active in blogging, so no forget to catch up with the news of dance activities in any of his blogs by clicking on the links on the side bar when you pau reading mine. Pepe has got more guest writers and contributing editors now that covers the social media and a bit about the history of dance, so he's got more coverage than anybody now fo'sure. Continue the long journey, Amigo. Felicitaciones y Buena suerte!

Friday, September 09, 2011

Buddy Schwimmer Workshop Part II

Aloha Students of Dance. Carolyn Noah is bringing back "Da Man" for Part II of the HUSTLE, NIGHTCLUB 2 STEP, and WESTCOAST SWING. Gotta register by September 15 if you got an eye for bento. Anyway for more info you can contact Carolyn at e-mail: Linedanceetc@aol.com or phone (808)271-0418
........................................

Carolyn Noah is one of our students at Dance Magic 808 at Hale Ikena, Ft. Shafter and she is making arrangements for Buddy Schwimmer to teach the Hustle, Night Club 2-Step, and West Coast Swing. Buddy is the created of the Night Club 2-Step dance. Carolyn brings in a lot of good professionals. (Sent by Lynn Nakamura)

------------------------------------------
Subject: Buddy Schwimmer
From: linedanceetc@aol.com
Date: Thu, 8 Sep 2011

Hi all..............

Sorry about the lateness in this. Too many things on my plate. Don't forget to register. Some people may be wondering why so soon. If you learn something and want to remember, it takes lots of repetition. Being reminded a few months after while things are still semi-fresh, would help.

We don't have pros coming through often, so it would to our benefit to take advantage of every opportunity that arises. Especially if you want to improve and not be mediocre. Buddy will be doing some of the same things as last time with new stuff in between. Pass the word on and hope to see you in September. Unfortunately I am up against Star Ball, however, if you don't attend that function please come to this.

As always workshop schedule subject to change. Privates are being held on Friday, possibly from 3 to 8, Saturday after the workshop and Sunday, maybe one before he leaves. Interested? $100/hour. Have 3 signed up so far.

Mark your calendars:
September 24 & 25...Buddy Schwimmer Part II
December 3 & 4......Robert Cordoba & Deborah Szekley

Hope you can make to these workshops. Please pass this on to someone I may have missed. Deadline for lunch has been extended to the 15th. See you soon.
Mahalo,
Carolyn Noah
808/271-0418

Thursday, September 08, 2011

USA Dance International Tango Workshop

Aloha Students of Dance. Just received the following email from Glenn Okazaki. A bit late but dancers have an extraordinary habit of rearranging their time to accomplish a set goal. So no need huhu 'cause get a little bit more time than one day to make up your mind fo' go to the USA Dance International Tango Workshop this Saturday. So I goin' make this wikiwiki short so you get plenty time to read Glenn's email. And if no mo' all the info you need to catch your fancy fo' the workshop, then no shame fo' give Glenn a jingle at phone numba 428-1704.

..........................................

Aloha,

Reminder to you that USA Dance, Saturday Tango Classes is right around the corner. Class dates are September 10 & 17.

Our registration desk is open at 12:30 pm and class begins at 1:00 pm (Hawaiian Time) Be there for an exciting Tango Class.

If you haven’t attended our classes before, you don’t know what you are missing. It is filled with technique to make dancing easier. If you know anyone who has recently attended our classes, ask them about it. We don’t just give fancy steps to the students to learn. We also go many steps further to make sure they are able to dance it with their partners by using proper technique and footwork. You can balance this decision on your own, you either shuffle you way thru the floor or you dance it!

See you all this Saturday at the Palladium.
Glenn Okazaki
USA Dance Honolulu

Wednesday, September 07, 2011

Happy 20th Hawai'i Star Ball

Aloha Students of Dance. The Hawaii Star Ball is just weeks away and there is more action ahead before the dance competition. But before I go any further here's a thunder of an announcement from my friend Marie Laderta. Go ahead an take a gander at the following email and get ready to rock and celebrate the 20th Birthday Party of Hawaii Star Ball. For more info on Tickets, Event Program, Registration, etc. please go to the Website at the bottom of the email. Dat's www.hawaiistarball.com

....................................................

Hi Frank:

Helping Geoffrey Fells get the word out about Hawaii's premier dance competition, and there is no better person than you to partner with in this effort!

Happy 20th Hawai'i Star Ball!


A sunset reception with leis, mai tais, and Hawaiian entertainment kick off three full days of celebration on this special birthday of Hawaii's premier dance event, the Hawaii Star Ball, brainchild of Geoffrey Fells. At 6:30p, September 27th, on the lawn of the Hilton Hawaiian Village, the festivities will begin. The competition itself will run from September 28-30.

In the evenings, there will be general dancing amidst a stream of spectacular entertainment that runs the gamut. Entertainers include but are not limited to: Ballroom Champions Victor Fung & Anastasia Muravyeva, Latin Champions Andre & Natalie Paramonov, as well as our very own local Merrie Monarch contender, Kumu Hula Michael Casupang and the ladies and gentlemen of his halau; Chinese Lion Dancing and Kenny Endo's Taiko drums.

This is Hawaii Star Ball's 20th Anniversary Year, a major milestone for this annual competition that has survived the vicissitude of time, due largely to the credit of one kama'aina Englishman who stubbornly shepherded what was an infant competition 20 years ago to what it represents in Hawaii today. The first Hawaii Star Ball was held in 1992 as a one-day event at the original Hawaiian Regent Hotel in Waikiki.

Yes, the competition may be "smaller" compared to mainland standards, but definitely respectable, and not without lackluster to attract a robust enough size of competitors both local and off our shores. Of course, thanks to the support of our local teachers, their students, participants and spectators, Hawaii Stall Ball has ripened into the pride of our island ballroom community.

For your information, attached below are the special rates for kama'ainas only, as well as the program for the entire 3 days of the event.

For more information here's the link to the Hawaii Star Ball website:

http://www.hawaiistarball.com/