Best of Swing

Vancouver in the Rain

2009-10-20T10:44:00.001-07:00

Something lovely we found engraved on a stone while walking on a beach in Vancouver...

"Vancouver is famous for its rain. It can rain here for weeks on end, but it does not usually bother me. However several years ago I found myself close to being thoroughly disgusted with the rain.

I walked home from work one evening in the pouring rain mumbling under my breath the whole way that this weather was only suited to ducks. The building I lived in was large and square and it surrounded a brick courtyard. I came around the corner into the courtyard and there, to my amazement, was a beautiful Peking duck, in a huge puddle in the middle of the courtyard, quacking and splashing with obvious delight. I had to smile, glad that such joy could be found in the gray wetness of such a day.

I have often thought that we do not have nearly enough words for the rain, especially as this was once a rainforest. There is blooming rain, whispery rain, rain that lulls you to sleep, and rain on the leaves which sings you awake; there is soft rain, hard rain, sideways rain, rain that makes you instantly wet, and rain that leaves soft kisses on your cheek, like wings on a butterfly.

Rain brings us all the shades of gray, but it also brings us all the wonderful greenery that surrounds us and blesses us." ~~ Reagan D. Andrade - December 1999

Isn't that beautiful?

That's my friend Ian on the rock with that engraving.

Five years ago, I was on the S.S. Caribbean Princess. After a full night of swing dancing, I went outside about 4:00 am to get some fresh air. A bit exhausted, I placed my arms on the highly polished wooden railings and watched the rushing waves below as well as gazed out into an endless sea. At that moment, I whispered a prayer of thanks as I felt warm winds caress my face and lift my hair.

Throughout all this, I had no idea that eyes watched me. Ian quietly approached me, said hello and asked if I would like to dance. I smiled a silly grin. We walked back into the ballroom inside and waltzed every song until the first rays peaked over the pink horizon...

Thank you, Ian, for being a gracious host to my visit to breathtaking Vancouver
...and for a being true friend.

2009 Dancing Under the Stars back on!!

2009-07-20T21:20:00.000-07:00

I went with a few friends to Paseo Colorado and had a great time! This past Saturday, Kid and Nic were playing and they were awesome!! I had such a great time. Not as big a crowd as other years - which I prefer, because you actually have some swing-out room. Hope to see you guys there and please be Golden Sponsor!

More information below:

Saturday nights for four weeks this summer we will be swing dancing outdoors under the stars at the Paseo Colorado. We are putting down a large wooden dance floor, and we have hired a line up of the best local swing bands. We will teach a lesson from 6:30 to 7:00, and bands will play from 7-9:30pm.

JULY 11th- Flattop Tom and the Jump Cats

JULY 18th- Kid and Nic Band (They were awesome!!!)

JULY 25th- The Esquires Big Band

AUGUST 1st- The Eric Ekstrand Ensemble

The Paseo has always sponsored this event, but due to hard economic times this year they feel they cannot. Therefore, PBDA is putting this together ourselves because we believe this wonderful event should continue.

If you are interested in helping support this effort, we are looking for sponsors. Every evening we will be selling 20 seats at a Golden Sponsors table, which includes: reserve seating, recognition for you and/or your business, and a chance to win 10 free passes ($150 value) to our regular Saturday night dances when they resume in September. Reserve your seat today, please contact us at 626-799-5689 or e-mail them at pbda1@earthlink.net.

Frankie Manning 1914 - 2009

2009-04-27T21:00:00.000-07:00

I received some sad news today as I was going through airport security. I had heard a week a go that Frankie had gone into the hospital, Last night Kyle had told me that Frankie had was not doing well and the doctor had given him less than 24 hours. This isn't happening, I was in total denial. I prayed last night him and his continued comfort.

As soon as I saw Cindy's phone number show up (she lives in Denver), I knew it couldn't be good news and the truth was spoken when I heard her voice and the sob she tried to stiffle. Frankie had passed this morning around 7:00 a.m. EST. He went into a coma last night and never came out.

It was so hard not to start sobbing right there in the boarding area. A steady stream of quiet tears poured out of me and I tried to control it as much as possible. After I got off the phone with her, I called Kyle then Mariah to inform them. It was the same sadness in our hearts that we shared.

Frankie, to me, was such an inspiration. When I first got into swing dancing I was heavily overweight, less than confident and unmotivated after going through a divorce. At Camp Catalina, I met this spry, energetic, smiling 86-year. I went to my first Frankie Shim Sham and Big Apple class.

He just.. wanted us to dance and with free abandon and open hearts. I remember sitting through one of Frankie's storytime when he spoke of his first experiences at the Savoy in New York.

Throughout the years I looked forward to seeing him and different venues. He was beautiful person and am so priviledge to have danced with this man. Goodbye Frankie and until we dance again, look out over us.

Congratulations to Jaime & Kathy!!

2008-09-03T16:55:00.001-07:00

Yeah!! Jaime & Kathy won 2nd place in the Dancing Under the Stars Dance Contest at the Paseo Colorado in Pasadena!! So proud of both of them!! Can't wait to party with you guys at the Paseo condos!! Whoo Hoo!!

DO YOU WANT TO PLAY A GAME?

2008-07-24T23:23:00.000-07:00

Uhm....

YES. I WANT TO PLAY GLOBAL THERMONUCLEAR WAR.

OKEE DOKEE PROFESSOR FAULKIN

GOOD W.O.P.R. NICE COMPUTER.

Man, that was a lot of fun!! I haven't watched that movie since... well... a few decades. In fact, it was *almost* like watching it for the first time. Here are the highlights of this fun group night:

- I haven't been back to Century City Mall in a few years. I like the improvements! Especially the addition of Zara, my favorite store from Spain!! (I think I hit every Zara store there was. Love the style and the materials.) Sorry, I digress.

- Met Sher and she introduced me to Joe Malone fragrances and products! I loved the lightly sweet scent of White Ginger and Mint enough to take some home with me.

- The new food court rocks. Dinner was more than I expected - we went to Lawrys Carvery. It was like a little taste of the real thing. More than great considering it's mall food. I have very happy with my 6 oz. Prime Rib with horshradish mashed potatoes and asparagus with lemon and basil aioli. Yum-mo!

- Nice to see Rockapella posse: Linda, Cindy and Glenn!

- We laughed and chuckled at all the little 80's references in the film: 8 inch floppy disks, that clicking noise old keyboards loved to make, leg warmers, Galaga, rotary phones, NORAD tourists, etc...

BASICALLY, THE MOVIE WAS AND IS STILL AWESOME!!

Side note: It was fun to remember all those memories. In fact, I was reminded on an incident I had as a high school summer intern in Northrop Gruhman back in the late 80s. I was part of their corporate information systems. One afternoon, I was bored and just started to "browse" the many, many folders that were out on the system (back then I knew enough DOS, TSO or JCL to get me into real trouble).

My mother told me that two people from corporate systems security went to her cube and brought them into their manager's office. They asked her what she was doing "snooping around the system." She was alarmed, but didn't have a clue to what the men were talking about. They showed her the commands that were being entered and monitored. She peered in close and started to get angry... she pointed and said, "that's not my login, that's my daughter's!!"

Long story short, I had my mother and three other adults immediately found me and brought me in. They berated me in a small ofice for an hour on how curiosity killed the cat. What I didn't know was, back then, that the company had a code named "Black Hole" - which was basically the B2 Stealth Bomber project and I had started to get down into some of the files that belonged to it. Big Ooops. Most were CAD files and there were no interesting Word Perfect documents anyway... LOL. Serves them right for not securing system folders.

Ooops. See?? Teenagers do like to play games....

Swingout Pasadena 2008

2008-06-09T17:21:00.000-07:00

My goodness I haven't posted in a while! That's what happens when you work in the bay area for a year! Swingout Pasadena 2008 featured a dance right under the Rose Bowl sign - how friggin cool is that??! There were hundreds of people there, wathcing us as we danced under those neon signs. Our favorite Ambassador of Swing, Frankie Manning, broke his hip right before, so in honor of him, everyone donned on Frankie on a stick masks as we danced the Shim-Sham - I hope he loves it!!

Portland Exchange 2008

2008-03-08T17:16:00.000-08:00

Mariah and I had a great time. Kyle and Rhonda joined us tihs time round. It was good to Dawn and David! It was fun and hope that they repeat this every year instead of bi-annually!

Lindy Hoping at SF Union Square!

2007-10-03T10:08:00.000-07:00

So there I was, furiously working at my client, planning on another late night when my new phone rings. It was an "unknown caller". With a bit of trepidation, I answer the phone. "Jenny, it's Mark Knapper!" I was all smiles after that.

He quickly told me that this was the last Wednesday for lindy hopping in San Francisco's Union Square...and that there was going to be a live band! I told him that sounds wonderful, but I don't even have dance shoes. He added that Louisa (cabin mate from SONH) and her brother were visiting from London and that they were going to be there too.

Well, that's all it took before I started to power down my laptop, head out to a find a Payless Shoe store, buy a shoe and race to Union Square. I got there with plenty of time to dance and to catch up with Louisa and meet her very nice brother too!

The band was fun, there was about 30 couples dancing and a square full of onlookers. The night brought blistery winds, but when you're dancing, it doesn't really matter...

After the dance, we all headed out to a good ol' America greasy spoon, Lois Diner, where we slid into the red vinyl booths and just talked about everything!

I had so much fun, thank you Mark and Louisa, I will be in London soon!

For more information, go to:
www.lindyinthesquare.com

Swing Out Pasadena with Frank Manning!!

2007-06-19T16:25:00.000-07:00

Tami, Frank and Erin leading the original Shim Sham

At 93, Frankie Manning still amazes me! Equally amazing are the sisters, Tami and Erin of the Pasadena Ballroom Dance Association! This weekend Swing Out Pasadena was in full swing with plentiful classes and thanks to the popularity of Dancing With The Stars, jam-packed classes of hopeful follows and leads!

It was so much fun!! I attended my personal favorite class, led by Kenneth & Helena (with two adorable kids in tow!), the Swing Rueda! A sort of swing ho-down complete with call-outs by the teachers!

The evening dance and dinner, held at the beautiful Altadena Country Club, also celebrated a belated dinner for Frankie!

Swing Out Pasadena was a lot of fun and thanks to all who taught, worked it or attended!

Best wishes Steve and Masako

2007-02-26T14:58:00.000-08:00

Another one of the "Met at PBDA" couples wed over the weekend!

Congratulations and Best Wishes to Steve and Masako!!

May we follow in your happy footsteps.

Love, Jenn

Click Here to View Wedding Photos

Having a Blast at Camp Jitterbug!!

2006-05-29T04:48:00.000-07:00

I've seen the sunrise the last 3 days... dancing until 4 or 5am in the morning then driving folks to and from the airport... so tired, but having so much fun!! Awesome leads!! Friendly follows!! Catching up with old friends and making lots of new ones! Shout out to Calle, Orville, Joel, Kevin (you did great at the Charleston finals!!), the lovely gals form Melborne, the teachers from Lismore, Tonya (great job!!), Lia and all the friendly Seattlites!! Thank you for being such warm and welcoming hosts!!! Love ya, Jenn!

Click here to see the 2006 Camp Jitterbug Photos!

Barbara Morrison at Huntington Beach Pier!!

2006-05-24T15:30:00.000-07:00

What a blast that was!!! Dancing to the incomprable Barbara Morrison, out in front of hundreds of people with the pier, beach and ocean as a backdrop. Oh, yeah, it was a perfect 75 degree, sunny and not a cloud in the sky California day!!

Click Here for the complete Huntington Beach Pier photos!
Jealous much?!! ;) Don't be!! Join us again at the Huntington Pier, 1-3pm with Steve Lucky and the Rhumba Bums! What could be better!!!

I LOVE CALIFORNIA!!!!!!!

Kirk Tuey up and about!!!

2006-05-03T09:20:00.000-07:00

Everyone, please, please continue to pray for the rehabilitation and full recovery of Kirk Tuey. This is a picture from May 1st. He is in good spirits and is now walking the hallways.

You can join the online Prayer Group for him at: praying_for_kirk@yahoogroups.com

Here is the address and phone info for Kirk:

Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center
7601 E. Imperial Hwy
Downey, CA 90242

Room 2058

Kirk's Direct Line: 562-401-8357

Rancho Main Number: 562-401-7111
Then press 6 for an operator or
press 2 for directions from various freeways

http://www.rancho.org/

Visiting Hours: 10am - 8pm

Be my pal again!!

2006-04-20T16:07:00.000-07:00

Chris,

I was a jerk! I'm sorry...

I miss you. Friends again?

Jenn

Portland Lindy Exchange Full of SURPRISES!!!

2006-03-07T10:35:00.000-08:00

WOW!! What a fun time we all had!! Those who came down/up and joined me and the Portland gang for the exchange:
- My brother Kyle (as part of his birthday present!)
- Jeff from PBDA (came up early on Thursday!)
- the lovely Mariah from LG/PBDA
- our gal Cindy, former PBDA, now in Colorado
- Calle, infamous Swede from Seattle and the 007 of the swing scene (ssswwwwoooooooonnn!!) I think he averages 10 phone numbers per dance, eh?
- and the biggest and best surprise of all… ORVILLE!!! Former PBDAer who went up to Alaska and is now living in Seattle!!

Wouldn’t you know it?! I caught the flu the week prior the exchange and was, for the most part, out of commission. Dang it!! Don’t get me wrong, I went to half the stuff, but could only dance 3-4 songs the whole night. For once, I was thankful for the slow, bluesy numbers.

The exchange officially started on Thursday. Jeff came up early and asked me if I would go to Nocturnal, a small, but fun venue for the lesson and dance. He called me as I sat coughing away at the Emergency Room in the Hospital and rightfully declined.

Friday, I dragged myself to my Portland office only to be turned away by my co-workers. I believe the words, “What the hell are you doing here, get out of here!!” were used. As returned back to my hotel, Jeff called and asked if I’d like to join him while he “drives around Portland.” No walking and being chauffeured around sounded good to me so I joined him.

Our little drive ended up as a 5-hour tour of the beautiful Northwest. We followed the Columbia river, north of Portland, then headed west to the coast. We saw one of the most picturesque monoliths, “Haystack rock”, which Kyle later pointed out to me was the setting for the movie, Goonie’s – when the pirate ship broke away and sailed the Oregon coast. It was stunning, similar to what you would see at Big Sur.

Along the way, I urged Jeff to drive to Tillamook to visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory, which is, admittantly, my absolute favorite cheese! (TMI, I know…) Anyway, it was really interesting and got to fill up on all the curd and cheese we could stomach!

We drove back in time to get ready for the first dance at the Crystal Ballroom! Jeff decided to join me in taking the light rail and walking to the dance. As we ascended the stairs and walked into the ballroom, he, (and later… my brother and Mariah) wore the expression of wonder, awe and a smile and said… ”Wow!”

The ballroom has an amazing floor, it’s very, very bouncy. Even in the sidelines, when you’re not dancing, you feel like you are! The ballroom depicts several round murals surrounded by white lights and you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

There were already lots of folks there. I was greeted by Karen and other folks that recognized me from the Steven & Virginie workshops. I was able to dance with some of my favorite Portland leads like big hair & crazy Jason, the cool and colleted Joel, the ever-talented, ever-energetic Kevin from Seattle - just to name a few. They’re all fantastic and super-friendly!

Cindy made it to the dance!! It was so good to see her again!! Also… I saw this guy… who I swore I’ve danced with before, back in my early PBDA days. I hesitantly approached him and said, “Hi, did you use to dance in Pasadena?” He shook his head, smiled and said, “Jenny!! It’s me, Orville!!!” I nearly knocked him down!! God, we lost a good one at PBDA!! OMG, I forgot how fun (and tiring) it is to dance with him! I asked him where he is now. He was in Alaska, but has been living in Seattle for the last year and a half. I told him I’ll be up for Camp Jitterbug and he’s looking forward to it as well!

The dance was filled with so many people, the band was good – a lot of blues – which was surprising but the DJed part had some good songs. Because I was still under the weather, Jeff and I decided to leave a little early. It was a long wait for the light rail and Jeff commented that he’s going to take the car tomorrow. That sounded good to me.

Saturday morning I slept in until I got the call from Kyle at the airport. He’s just about to jump on the train, so I said I’d meet him at the stop in 25 minutes. The day was shaping up to be a beautiful one. I am so glad it didn’t rain that day.

I met him at the train stop, walked him back to the hotel, he checked in and we immediately headed out the door and took the train to downtown. He loved Portland’s public transportation system! We happened upon the Saturday Market at Skidmore Fountain and decided to explore a bit. I bought us both a pair of cheap sunglasses because 1) the sun was out and 2) because of my weakened immune system, I developed a second viral infection in my eye, conjunctivitis, or “pink eye” and looked liked the I was possessed by the devil. (I know what you’re thinking... don’t even go there…) It didn’t hurt but looks awful… you’ll see in the pictures.

Anyway, it was the first day of market for the year and so there was such a lively feeling in the air. There were arts and craft, jewelry and food vendors. It actually made me homesick for the Montrose Farmers Market back in California (though not half as big…).

We jumped back on the train and proceeded towards downtown. We passed Pioneer Square, where the afternoon dance would be, I pointed it out to Kyle and we just stared because there was about 400 protesters carrying signs and banners. We didn’t know if it was anti-war or anti-fur, the train moved on before we could discern what all the hub-bub was about. Too bad I was sick too because the night before, there was a Portland Pillow Fight at Pioneer Square. Around 300 adults and children wildly swinging synthetic or feather and down pillows – I saw it on the news, everyone was laughing and it looked like such a fun time. Remind me to put one together in L.A.

Kyle and I enjoyed a sibling, birthday lunch at the world famous (so says the plaque on the wall) Jack’s Crawfish and Seafood. He wanted some yummy clam chowder and cod fish and chips and he got exactly that! After lunch, we headed back to Pioneer Square where the demonstrators had dispersed; a canopy was up with the band, Pork Pie, blasting out the awesome tunes and a bevy of swing dancers filling the square!!

I stepped into the corn-mealed brick square, threw my backpack at Kyle and ran towards Joel for my first few dances!! Kyle met to some of really cool follows like Lia from Hawaii. All in all, the band, the singer and all many, many spectators and the crowd watching made it such a fun event!! Heck, it was even free, paid for by an music performance grant by the recording industry and arranged by the local federation of musicians in the Portland area. (How cool is that!) In fact, one of the dancers, Kevin, surprisingly picked up a sax and started to wail with Pork Pie! Totally impressive! Musician and awesome dancer to boot! ;)

The dance ended way too early, we said hurried good-byes as Kyle and I ran to catch the train. We met Mariah - who just arrived - at back at my hotel and we got ready for dinner. Dinner was at Fenouil (pronounced "fen-wee") a new upscale french bistro in the heart of the Pearl District in Portland. Hey, it's my brother's birthday and I thought, why not? Jeff, Mariah, Kyle and I were joined by Calle and Cindy. We had awesome appetizers. Mariah opted to try something new so she ordered the French Fried Frog Legs! Kyle was brave enough to taste a sample, but no one else dared venture this culinary treat. The group filled up on wonderful entrees and I took the liberty of ordering the petite chocolate souffles all around. Much to Kyle's delight, his plate had a lit sparkler on it!

With awfully full stomachs we head on out to the Crystal Ballroom! That night we still got there fairly early for the ballroom handn't yet filled up. I saw this as an opportunity to get to dance the more popular Portland leads who have follows that flock around them! The band that night was DK Stewart and the DK4. They were wonderful! They could played all types from lindy to smooth to blues and sounded great! It's nice to know that where ever you go, swing dances are the same. They do birthday dances and the Shim-Sham. The one thing I have to tell you that Portland swing dancers love to do is the Big Apple and Charleston - these guys are nuts over it and they really enjoy and fun with it! I'll have to take a class again on this. The last Big Apple lesson I took was with Frankie at Camp Catalina. Portland's version is about three times as fast and 10x as wild!!

I guess when you have fun, time goes faster. I wanted to dance with Calle all weekend long, but there (as always) was a line of gals ready to tackle anyone who would get in their way. Cindy ran with Calle in hand and handed him over to me. Unfortunately, they just played the last song. I said, no problem, I'll get to him at Camp Jitterbug. He took me into his arms and we started to slow dance as he sang to me Elvis' "Are you lonesome tonight?" Damn him and his manly charms!! We dance the whole song as others watched me blushed through all of it. Thanks Calle, you really know how to get to a gal. :)

As everyone readied for the late night, we were done. Except for Mariah - she got a ride and I wished I had the energy for it. It was going to be at Village Ballroom - which is a cool, vintage building. Lindy hop upstairs and blues downstairs - the best of both worlds.

Ok, this is where the long story ends because all the excitement and dancing eventually landed me back in the ER Sunday afternoon (that's another story...). There was another dance at the Crystal Ballroom which Jeff and Cindy attended and I opted to rest and watch the Oscars back at the hotel.

Know that the exchange was beyond any of our expectations and that the Portland dancers are so genuinely warm, kind, generous and full of life. I really feel that it was a privilege to be able to be part of this fun and awesome exchange!! Thanks Portland, we had a BLAST!!

Click here to view the 2006 Portland Lindy Exchange photos

Please pray for Kirk Tuey

2006-02-24T00:14:00.000-08:00

For those who don't know, Kirk is a southern california swing dancer who is probably one of the most energetic dancers I know. He's a free spirit who always expressed himself with vigor on the dance floor. Imagining him being so still is ...so very sad and heartbreaking. Please keep him in your prayers and hope he wakes up and recovers!

Message: 1
Date: Sun, 05 Mar 2006 22:41:33 -0000
From: "Norman"
Subject: Latest

Great news on updates from Lois His Mom and brother Laney

I really feel that Kirk is getting much better. I told him is
friend Scott G sent him a card today I asked if he would blink his
eye if he knew Scott G. Kirk actually wrinkled his eye forehead.
Next I explained that if he is alert enough, I will have Perry talk
to him tomorrow which is Sat....This is just great news....I am really
excited about this turn of event. I know he understood the
question and what I was saying to him.

LT

THIS IS LANEY'S REPORT ON HIS 3-6 AM SHIFT

Here's the report on Kirk... he seems to be doing much better this
morning. Another big progress step at 6am. Kirk was able to follow
multiple commands (a 100% improvement over last night when he
followed only 1 command). This morning he held up his thumb on
command, wiggled his toes on command, raised his thumb on command
again, and raised his pointer finger on command. He was a little
weak on the raise 2 fingers (he actually raised 3 fingers).

His heart rate is down this morning (he's asleep) at 74,
temperature down to 100.9 degF, Blood Pressure down to 128/78, and
Respiratory Rate at 12.

If he keeps on doubling his progress each morning, he should be
out skiing again soon.

Love, Laney

Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2006 8:32 AM
Subject: Kirk Tueys condition

As most of you must know by now Kirk had a fall Friday while skiing
and is now in a Reno hospital in critical condition. His cousin
Jeni who is an MD and his Mom, Lois are with him and keeping me
posted. I will send updates as I know stuff- feel free to tell all
the swing crowd - we need to keep positive thoughts and prayers his
way!

Jeni wrote: "! spoke with the trauma surgeon, Dr.Watson. Kirk's
condition is about the same: his eyes are closed. He is moving his
feet. He is NOT brain dead, but the extent of his injuries are such
that we expect him to be waking up---but he is not. More
information will hopefully be elucidated tomorrow. MRI of the brain
to be done tomorrow. Every day could be a different story. We are
just standing vigil."

Sent: Wednesday, February 22, 2006 11:53 AM
Subject: Update on Kirk Tueys condition

This was sent via his brother Perry.

When I hear how the MRI went I'll forward email responses from Perry. Thank
you all for praying for Kirk. The family is on auto pilot right now. Every hour is a wait and see how Kirk responds to things. Here is a bit of other news..

Perry informed me that he has all of Kirk's ski clothes and boots. Nothing was cut. We had all figured that the Mammoth Hosp. had cut the clothes off since he was unconscious. Near as we can guess.. Doctors had said Kirk was talking to them in the
Mammoth hosp. and wanted to go back to ski. We assume he was aware enough to change into a hosp. gown. The doctors told us that thank goodness Kirk had a helmet
on or the head injuries would have been much worse. None of us knew he had a helmet because it was not delivered at the hosp. with his ski clothes and boots.
I called the people he was skiing with yesterday to confirm that he was wearing a helmet. It is hard to believe that even with a helmet there is this much
brain injury. Well that is it for now. Thanks everybody God is answering prayers and progress is slow, but Kirk is still here and fighting hard to come back. - Laureen

Here's a quick update on Kirk. While progress is slow, Kirk continues to slowly improve. They removed the intercranial tube in his head, because it was apparent that his intercranial pressure in his head had stabilized (no more bleeding since the
original accident)He had an MRI today. They'll have the results tomorrow and know whether or not he suffered any neck injury. If not, they should be able to pull the neck brace off tomorrow. While this morning, he seemed to be totally out of it,
this evening, he was able to keep his eye open a lot longer and he understands (as far as I can tell) what we are saying. I asked him to lift up his thumb and he could do that. I asked him to show 2 fingers and he was able to do that. I also was showing him a slide show with music, and he seemed very responsive to that.
He's still getting morphine for pain. They started a feeding tube today. Depending upon Kirk, the ventilator will be on for another few days, at which time, hopefully, they'll start weaning him off of it. Obviously, that is dependent upon him being lucid and able to breath on his own. That's it for now. Thank you for all the prayers. They're working. There are over 300 people praying for Kirk's recovery (friends of ours and Kirk's from various churches, who heard about the accident). It's nice to know that Kirk has such a strong network of friends.

And I did find out today that Kirk "was" wearing a
helmet. Thank goodness Costco had a sale on helmets
this winter. And, he didn't fall into the "big" half
pipe, but rather the smaller one. The smaller one is
only about 12 feet deep as opposed to the large one,
which is almost 20 feet deep. Apparently, when he
fell, he was unconscious, but awoke and was talking to
the hospital people at Mammoth and wanted to hurry up
and get back to skiing. But then, our assumption is
that the injury and bleeding started to set in and
that's when his brain shut everything down and he went
into a coma. Obviously, he is slowly recovering from
that and hopefully will continue to improve.

According to pamphlets that the hospital has given
out, Kirk may be in this particular hospital for 15-21
days. Hopefully, he'll be able to exceed the averages
and get transported back to Southern California where
he can begin his rehabilitation. My father is
returning to Hermosa Beach on Friday and will be back
later. I will probably be returning home sometime
around then also.

Herrang's Last Hoorah????!!

2006-02-10T13:20:00.000-08:00

Most of you may have gotten word about Herrang's politicians trying to closed the school down. This is sad, swing news for the world around!!

Here's the scoop on Herrang's website: (http://www.herrang.com/en)

The Herrang Dance Camp 2006 will take place during 1st of July and 29 of July!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HERRÄNG'S SCHOOL UNDER THREAT!

POLITICIANS WANT TO SHUT DOWN THE SCHOOL IN HERRÄNG! THIS WOULD BE DEVASTATING FOR THE VILLAGE AND THE CAMP DURING SUMMER 2007. IT WILL NOT AFFECT THE SUMMER TO COME BUT THE FUTURE! PLEASE WRITE TO THE POLITICIANS EMAIL-ADDRESSES BELOW AND DESCRIBE WHAT HERRÄNG DANCE CAMP MEANS TO YOU. THE DECISION WILL BE TAKEN ON FEBRUARY 13, SO PLEASE EMAIL THEM BEFORE THIS DATE:

kjell.jansson@norrtalje.se, bengt.ericsson@norrtalje.se, goran.pettersson@edu.norrtalje.se

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

OK folks, since this may possibly be the Herrang's last summer and I am getting a little panicked. One way or another I can get myself to Sweden. Most likely the first week of July since my company is giving two holiday days that week.. and that it's my birthday week as well.

My only and constant issue is: lodging??? I haven't contacted Lennart on accomodations and but will do soon to see what is still available. Any of you planning to go...and which week? Let me know ASAP!

Call for Exchange Dancers - Portland LX!

2006-01-24T18:32:00.000-08:00

My brother and I will be attending the Portland Lindy Exchange (http://www.portlandlx.com). Join us as we dance indoors and outdoors in the Rose City. The venues are awesome and the natives are friendly!! There are one or two more folks from PBDA who will be attending. If you are interested, email me and let's show them what L.A. is about!!

Steven & Virginie Workshop in Portland

2006-01-15T01:52:00.000-08:00

Since I am working in Portland, OR these days, I thought I'd take advantage of Steven & Virginie's workshop happening on Jan 13-15, 2006.

Mariah came up and we had a blast!! I took half a day off and Mariah and I started our weekend in Portland with a birthday lunch at one of new French restaurants in the Pearl District. After hopping back on the Trolley, we happened on a little knitting shop which we spent some time looking at patterns and all the beautiful yarns. Makes me want to take knitting up. Mariah was in seventh heaven!

We got back and got ready for the dance, I called the cab and we headed out to Tigard Grange!! Our enthusiasm was a bit deflated as the meter climbed well above $40!! We got in and the band, Pork Pie, was already in full swing!! We had so much fun dancing, meeting folks and being part of something very new to us.

We met David, who turned out to be our Weekend Angel and volunteer chauffeur and new friend! Once he heard about the tale of our high-priced cabbie, he insisted that we are not to do that again and drove us to ALL the venues ALL weekend long!! David, thank you so much - you rock!!!!!!!!

All workshops were at Paradise Ballroom. Side note, the Paradise ballroom is behind a Chinese Restaurant whose owner loved to dance and built his own dance studio behind the restaurant. It was made for dancers: mirrors, side-tables, hooks for purses, coat racks and a self-serve shoe stand in the corner! Though early, long and hard, were fun and gratifying! Steven & Virginie's style of teaching did not spoon feed and were so informative! I always have a bunch of take-aways. It is worth every penny to attend any of their workshops.

Saturday dance was at the Village Ballroom - a venue in the middle of residential neighborhood in a historic (is that a nice word for older?) building. The BEST part of the weekend was hearing Casey McGill and his band play. For those who don't know, Erin and Tami always plays their songs at PBDA. For some reason, I never imagined this band as a current band that plays in the Northwest - what a treat!!! I have their CD and wished I brought it over to for them to sign.

It was so hard to wake up for the Sunday workshops. We decided to have a nice leisurely brunch and got to the workshops a tad late. ;) After dancing until 1:00pm, Mariah and I said our good-byes to everyone. I explained that I work here now, and will try to make their swing dancing venues. After making sure Mariah got on her plane, I took a cab to Noctural Cafe - this venue proved to be the "regular" swing venue. I think I'll have to start flying in on Sundays!

I've convinced my brother, Kyle to come to the Portland Lindy Exchange on March 2-5. If you are interested, email me and let's make arrangements!

Travel safe and keep swinging!

New Year's Eve 2006 with Stompy Jones

2006-01-04T09:55:00.000-08:00

Thank you to ALL my sponsors!!!

2005-12-06T13:55:00.000-08:00

I have to give credit where credit is due!! These folks helped me raise over $2500! Thank you, again, for your love, encouragement and support!!!

Alan S Las Vegas, NV
Amanda D San Diego, CA
Anna A Sydney, Australia
Annie C Brooklyn, NY
Barry D Pasadena, CA
Bill J Mountain View, CA
Byrna G Boston, MA
Camp O Seattle, WA
Chase M Los Angeles, CA
Christie & Ed M Las Flores, CA
David D Brooklyn, NY
Diana A Costa Mesa, CA
Don M Bagdad, Iraq
Ed M Irvine, CA
Eduaord Paris, France
Emma M Kent, United Kingdom
Eunice W San Diego, CA
Filbert C Bellflower, CA
Frank C Phoenix, AZ
Gene & Kathy H Ontario, CA
Gene B San Francisco,CA
Gwen P Pasadena, CA
Juan U Pasadena, CA
Jeff & Tami N Pasadena, CA
Jeff S Pasadena, CA
John M Los Angeles, CA
Johnny C Ontario, CA
Kathy S Granada Hills, CA
Kellie M Dallas, TX
Ken H Irvine, CA
Kim F Oakland, CA
Kristie C Irvine, CA
Kyle D Glendale, CA
Lewis T Seattle, WA
Lili L Aliso Viejo, CA
Marc D Huntington Beach, CA
Marco S Detroit, MI
Margot & Ojay L Canyon Country, CA
Mariah B Altadena, CA
Mark K San Francisco,CA
Matt D Stevenson Ranch, CA
Meilyn D Santa Monica, CA
Mylene & Yggy R Cerritos, CA
Nancy V Los Angeles, CA
Noel T Los Angeles, CA
Patty P Pasadena, CA
Rafat Q Irvine, CA
Ray K Los Angeles, CA
Renato V Los Angeles, CA
Rhonda H Panorama City, CA
Ric T Culver City, CA
Rich B San Mateo, CA
Roger S Wildomar, CA
Rosemary D Las Vegas, NV
Roshaun H Pasadena, CA
Sabine K Geneva, Switzerland
Sandeep J Irvine, CA
Sherry S Monrovia, CA
Stephanie P Los Angeles, CA
Sune M Pasadena, CA
Terrika Pasadena, CA
Tony J Los Angeles, CA
Veronica S Ithaca, NY
Victor G Carlsbad, CA

Belated Thanks to my Sponsors!!

2005-12-04T22:42:00.000-08:00

Hi guys - this is SOOOOOO late, but I just wanted to thank all those wonderful folks who contributed and supported me and our team for the 24-Hour Dance-A-Thon!

The event raised $48K for the City of Hope. Thank you Thank you!! Our team, Team PBDA, was the first place team for the event, raising over 10K!! I came in 3rd place over all and first on our team by raising over $2500!

I couldn't have done it without all of you!! Thank you so much!!

Make a Donation for a Dance-A-Thon!

2005-10-18T15:02:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone -

On November 5rd & 6th, I'm participating in a 24-hour dance-a-thon where I'll be part of a group (Team PBDA) that'll be swing dancing for 24 hours straight in Irvine, CA. (I'll probably be able to manage only 1 or 2 of the 3-hour blocks, but at least 1 person on our team will be dancing at any given moment for those 24 hours.)

100% of all proceeds will go to The City of Hope Hospital (http://www.cityofhope.com), which is world renowned for cancer research.

It would be awesome if you could donate any amount of $ to the cause, using my participant name (Jenny D. - Team PBDA) along with your donation.

You can donate on-line easily. They have a secure donation system using PayPal, but you don't need a PayPal account to do it--just a credit card will do. (I tested it out myself & it worked fine--I have a PayPal account already and used it for online shopping and such)

Here's the link for convenient donation (note, I've found their website to be sloooooooow, so please be patient--I mean *REALLY* patient...) Look for Donations section on the left-hand side and pick my name and click on PayPal button.
http://www.swingcontest.com/danceathon/default.asp

Or, if you're old-school, you can use your pen, lick a stamp and mail an your check and make your payment to:
24 Hour Cancer Dance-a-Thon
900 Saint Vincent
Irvine, CA 92618
(Again, kindly put my name and Team PBDA on the memo line).

You can find out more about the event here (again, it's a slooow website for some reason--sorry) or even learn how to participate (you don't have to know how to swing dance--there'll be people teaching) http://www.danceathon.org/

Thanks so much!

Jenny

Live from Swing Out New Hampshire!!

2005-09-01T10:46:00.000-07:00

To view all the photos, click HERE!!

Hey guys!

Am blogging to you LIVE from Swing Out New Hampshire. Mariah and I flew Jet Blue out to Boston Logan Airport. Ro and Gina shortly joined us at our hotel, the Boston Marriott Long Wharf. Thanks to my platinum status at Marriot, we were able to chill out and have drinks at the Concierge Level Lounge. It offered a fantastic view of the Boston Harbor - new Bridge all the way down to planes landing at the airport. We could have traveled by water taxi or the "T" (Boston subway), but with our heavy bags, we opted for door-to-door service.

That night Charlie joined the ladies for a wonderful dinner at Legal Seafood. We had the famous clam chowder that the was served at the last 7 presidential inaugurations. It was very rich and filling. Mariah and I shared a 2 lbs. live Main Lobster - it was fantastic. It was a wonderful dinner, we toasted to the camp ahead of us. Wouldn't you know it? Charlie picked up the tab for the ladies. Charlie, you can be such a sweetie sometimes!! (Thank you!)

The next morning, while the ladies were asleep, I snuck out to quickly Market to have lunch with on old (boy)friend that I hadn't seen in over a decade! Bob took me through a quick walking tour and into the North End where he bought me and the ladies some yummy Italian desserts. (Thanks Bob!!) With a bittersweet goodbye, I went back and found the girls had just had their breakfast at the Concierge Lounge. We packed up and headed back up to Boston Logan Airport where we started to see a large gathering of swing dancers!

This gave everyone a chance to meet and greet folks from all over the US (mostly Northeastern folks) but also some folks from abroad, such as Chantal & Robert from the Netherlands. We packed the bottom of the bus with luggage and boarded the bus! It was about a 2 1/2 hour drive to the mountains of New Hampshire and through the city of Hebron. We stopped at a mall for a quick bite to eat. Although some people (AhemMariahAhem) saw it as a shopping opportunity!

After sitting through the last half of "Napoleon Dynamite" (thanks to Izzy), we finally made it to camp! Wow!! It was just as I imagined it and more!

2005 San Francisco Lindy Exchange

2005-08-22T09:42:00.000-07:00

Nate, Roshaun and I had a blast at the bi-Annual San Francisco Lindy Exchange. We danced until 4am on Friday night/Sat Morning and 5:30am on Saturday Night/Sun Morning. Meeting old and new friends throughout the event was great! So many people were in attendance. There were still about 100 people at sunrise! Stay tuned for the pictures!

A big Thank You!!

2005-07-14T23:47:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone who came to the Birthday BBQ-Dance!! It was so much fun celebrating it with friends! A big thanks to Joshua our awesome DJ!! Kyle and I will try our best to make this an annual event! Thank you cards will be on their way. As well as the photo albums. Keep checking back!

Summer Swing Sizzles

2005-06-01T10:23:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody!! Welcome to June! Summer is almost here and swing dancing festivities have already started!! This is the season of outdoor swing. We started off with the L.A. Music Dance Center. Currently there are venues such as the 3rd Street Swingers in Santa Monica. This past Memorial Day a good number of us were at the La Canada Memorial Park dancing to the tunes of Captain Cardiac and the Coronaries! (Link to photos to follow!) Here's a small sample of upcoming outdoor swing events:

Along with Saturday Nights, Disneyland has added Friday Night Swing Dancing starting on June 17.
One Colorado in old town Pasadena will once again begin their Outdoor Dancing series - starting with Steve Lucky and the Rhumba Bums on June 25.
Sunday "Concerts in the Park" at Library Park in old town Monrovia will start to host Live Bands on Friday Nights. (Check calendar for bands)
"Swinging Sounds from Downtown" at the AMC Plaza in Burbank will have outdoor dancing on July 21 featuring several swing bands in July. (Check calendar for bands)
July 4th - The Warner Center will be featuring Captain Cardiac & the Coronaries.
Furman Park in Downey will be hosting some bands - Jumping Joz on July 13.
A few of us are still checking on The Gene Autry Western Heritage Museum to see if they will repeat their live music and dancing this summer.
Check the Hollywood Bowl calendar for any upcoming bands. (Last year we lucked out and danced to several awesome venues: Big Band events, Harry Connick Jr., Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, etc.)

Again, for all these and more is on or will be added to the Calendar. BIG thanks to Alan Low and Steve Walter for helping me keep up with the calendar entries and notification of upcoming Swing Events. Keep 'em coming! Hope to see you guys on the dance floor soon!!

Keep checking the calendar for details and any changes/additions. Bookmark: http://calendar.mail.yahoo.com/bestofswing

L. A. Music Center Swings!

2005-04-30T17:17:00.000-07:00

I was surprised to see how many folks for all the local venues showed up at last night's outdoor swing at the Los Angeles Music Center. There were so many familiar faces and it was a full dance floor for four hours!

For those who missed it, you missed a super fun venue! The live band was Mora's Modern Swingtet. We danced under the stars and Japanese lanterns. Admission was free and there was free swing lessons at the beginning and during the set break. I danced almost every dance. I also met some new folks and encouraged them to take swing dancing lessons at PBDA!

Unfortunately this event is only once a year. Last year, however, they did have two nights. I wish I took my camera. If anyone took any pictures, please pass it to me to post here. (That means you, Byron!) Thanks!

2005-04-20T11:32:00.000-07:00

Kyle and Jenny Astro Blasting!!

Disneyland Swings!!

2005-04-20T11:18:00.000-07:00

It is the happiest place on Earth!

A bunch of us saw Stompy Jones in the Carnation Plaza at Disneyland last Saturday and it was absolutely fantastic!! There was a large crowd that night - thanks to Rose and Dubby's 66th Anniversary Celebration.

Folks from PBDA, Lindy Groove, Atomic and Memories were there! It was so much fun.

A few of us took a break when the band completed a set to visit Tomorrow Land's newest addition: Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters ride. It was a hit!! (Literally....Not to brag, ok... a little: I had the highest score among our little group! Yee Haw!!!)

Anyway, Pete Jacob's Wartime Radio Review is on this Saturday and it's just too tempting not to go.

Hope to see y'all there!

Swing Beat: April 9-16

2005-04-11T14:24:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone -

Just for PBDA folks, am starting a new "what's happening?" email for events for this week, aptly named "Swing Beats."

I know that this past Saturday, lots of folks, including me, didn't get the Claremont College Swing Dance information - it was free and they had an 18-piece orchestra. I heard it was fantastic!! If and when this happens again, we'll do our best to get the word out.

Disneyland - Stompy Jones - Saturday, April 16.

This coming Saturday, lots of people have told me they are heading out to the happiest place on Earth to dance to Stompy Jones.

Future bands:
April 23rd: Pete Jacobs Wartime Radio Revue
Arpil 30th: Swingtown

For those that would like a free pass to Disneyland:

Below is a link which, if you Apply, get approved, and use your card once before July 31st 2005, you will get a free pass to Disneyland. In 4-6 weeks they will send you a free 1-Day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper ticket. No annual fee. The park hopper ticket must be used before December 15th 2005.

http://www.disneylandfriendfree.com/

2005-04-07T23:05:00.000-07:00

Jenny at Seattle's Farmer's Market

Seattle's Camp Jitterbug - Memorial Day Weekend

2005-04-07T11:55:00.000-07:00

Do you want to be re-inspired with your lindy hop? Do you want to bring your lindy hop to the next level? Then you need to go to Camp Jitterbug in Seattle this Memorial Day Weekend, May 27-30th!

Signing up is easy! Go to www.campjitterbug.com where you can check out the schedule of events and register online via check or credit card. All three days of workshops are only $135 if pre-registered by April 25th. You do not need a partner to sign up...the only requirement is that you are comfortable with the fundamentals of lindy hop. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Tonya at swing@jitterbugclub.com . We look forward to seeing you in Seattle!

Spend a weekend sightseeing around Seattle and attending one of the best lindy hop events in the country. There are great airfare specials on www.alaskaair.com and there are great group rates for Camp Jitterbug dancers at a hotel two blocks from the venue. Travelling to lindy hop events is a great way to meet new people and learn a lot in a short amount of time.

What should you expect at Camp Jitterbug? First of all, some of the best instructors in the world will be featured at Camp Jitterbug this year, including your own Shesha & Nikki! There will be several competitions and performances this year. There will be live bands and world renowned dj's throughout the weekend...and if you don't get enough dancing in the evenings, there will be after hours dances until 5am!

COST:
Workshop Weekend Pass
$135 if you register and pay by April 25th
$150 if you register and pay by May 9th
$165 if you register and pay after May 9th

WHERE TO STAY IN SEATTLE

Looking for a swing host? Go to http://forums.delphiforums.com/seattleswing/start and find the Camp Jitterbug Hosts topic. If there isn't one there, feel free to start one yourself!

We have group rates at the The Silver Cloud Hotel. Room rate includes a hearty continental breakfast. This is a new hotel that is very nice and is only a couple of blocks from the Century Ballroom. There is a 24 hour heated indoor pool and hot tub, so bring your swim suits! They also have a complimentary shuttle to downtown and around Capitol Hill if you want to sightsee! Parking is available for $12 per day.

Check out the Cayenne Restaurant and Bar in the hotel...they have a great happy hour! www.cayennebarandgrill.com/happyhour.htm

Camp Jitterbug out-of-towners will receive a discounted rate:
$109 group rate for a room with 2 queen beds.
**In order to get this discounted rate, you MUST make your reservation by April 27, 2005

The Silver Cloud Hotel
1100 Broadway
Seattle, WA 98122
800) 590-1806

Herrang Bound!!

2005-04-06T11:53:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone -

I talked to Lennart last week and secure a room for me and Mariah for Herrang. I have yet to buy the airline tickets. We're trying to get creative and by the roundtrip ticket from LAX to London, Heathrow. Stay the night at a friends in Kent and take a cheap Ryan air flight to Stockholm. Cindy has offered her Swedish friend's pad as a place to crash in Stockholm. We'll see. If any of you want to coordinate, we are going the 3rd week of July - approx July 15-23. Let me know and we can make the group pilgrimage.

For those who need more info, below is the March Newsletter email from the Herrang Camp folks!

HERRÄNG DANCE CAMP NEWS LETTER

The below late March information is written while Herräng is still covered with snow and ice. We nevertheless believe that things will be different within a few months, and we are therefore happy to pass on the following comments and news in connection to the 2005 Herräng Dance Camp.

EVENINGS AND NIGHTS

One of the trademarks of Herräng is probably its late night/early morning dances. These events are normally very well attended and often the dance floor becomes crowded. We are however happy to announce that we this summer will be able to make use also of our second main dance area (Dansbanan) until early morning.

ACCOMMODATION

HDC can today offer three kinds of accommodation: general, private or camping. Most people stay in the general one which comes with no additional cost. This type of housing is normally busy and no doubt crowded. For the summer to come we are however happy to inform that we will have access to more space within this alternative. At the same time we take the opportunity to remind people interest in private accommodation to get in touch with us sooner rather than later. We still have a fairly good supply of alternatives but know from experience that they can disappear quickly once the summer is around the corner.

TEACHERS

Except for the positive fact that Ursula Ledergerber and Lorenz Ilg have been added to the Lindy Hop program for week 3, there are no changes compared to the information available in our brochure or through our website.

DANCE TENTS

In addition to the two tents that we have used for many years, we are planning to build also a third one. We have also found better floors and we hope that we will be able to provide all three tents with theses new ones.

Thank you very much for your time and hearty welcome to the 2005 Herräng Dance Camp.

HERRÄNG DANCE CAMP: Fatima, Frida, Daniel, Lorenz and Lennart.

-------------------------------------------------------------
Herräng Dance Camp, Vetegatan 5, SE-118 59 Stockholm, Sweden
Phone/Fax: +46 (8) 6434058 e-mail: info@herrang.com
http://www.herrang.com

2005 Swing Camp Catalina - CANCELLED

2005-03-24T17:50:00.000-08:00

Hi folks... Sad day for all. For those who are not on PBDA's email distribution, the following was sent out today:

We regretfully announce that due to recent circumstances we have decided to cancel our 12th annual "Swing Camp Catalina" (June 10th-12th) this year, and we wanted to get the word out right away. We realize the disappointment and inconvenience this will cause some of you, and we are so very sorry. Many of you look forward to the event each year and have recommended it to friends and acquaintances. We APPRECIATE all that support--and ALL OF YOU who have ever attended! (We're disappointed too, and we'll aim again for Catalina in 2006.)

In the meantime, however, we WILL HAVE Frankie Manning joining us in Pasadena that weekend of June 10th-12th, along with additional top-notch instructors. And the awesome swing band from San Francisco, "Stompy Jones" will play for our Saturday night dance on June 11th. We will make it an exciting LOCAL event, 'Swing Out Pasadena' (more details will follow soon), and we hope you will be able to join us.

Sincerely,
Erin and Tami Stevens, Pasadena Ballroom Dance Assoc.
www.pasadenaballroomdance.com

2005-03-02T15:13:00.000-08:00

Jenn, Joan and Sue at Swinging with the Stars

Swinging with the Stars under Arizona Skies

2005-03-02T14:02:00.000-08:00

Big thanks and shout out out to Joan, Sue, Dawn, Lennart & Chester!

Great job well done! For his birthday, I treated my brother to an impromptu trip to Phoenix Arizona to attend the (1st Annual) Swinging with the Stars. It was good event with sweat-generating workshops, great performances, swinging music and good people!

More information on what went on can be seen on the main website at:
http://www.profundityllc.com/swingingwiththestars/payNow.aspx

See my Photo Albums links for pictures to this event.

Swing Camp Catalina Class of 2003

2005-02-24T17:53:00.000-08:00

Catalina Group 2003

2005 Swing Camp Catalina - Planning & Logistics

2005-02-24T17:42:00.000-08:00

Hi guys -

In anticipation for Swing Camp Catalina, a few of us started making our reservations ahead of the formal PBDA announcements. I thought I'd share some of the logistical information/weblinks to help those who are Avalon bound!

Please feel free to pass on to your swing friends in other cities, states & countries. The more the merrier!

Swing Camp Schedule - (Not yet up) - click on the Swing Camp Catalina icon at:http://www.pasadenaballroomdance.com/

Catalina Hotels and Rentals Information page: (Lots of good links..)
http://www.catalinahotels.com/Catalina_Hotels/catalina_hotels.htm

Catalina Express main website: http://www.catalinaexpress.com/index.html

Schedule for June (IAlso attached as pdf): http://www.catalinaexpress.com/public_html/sched_next.htm
Fares:
http://www.catalinaexpress.com/public_html/fares.html

Someone.. Betty? Has plans for Margaritas in the main strip Friday afternoon. I'll get more info and pass to the group closer to the Swing Camp. I'll also be compiling a list of "Campers" and their cellphone numbers well as any lunch and dinner plans for the group for the whole weekend.

Stay tuned for more updates. If you have any updates, blasts or request for roomies to pass on the group, let me know. I will post the latest info on my blog devoted to Swing: http://bestofswing.blogspot.com/

Hope you guys can make it this year!

Jenny

2005-02-23T18:07:00.000-08:00

Great LA Air Raid of 1942

3rd Annual Great LA Air Raid Event - Swing venue - Sat Afternoon 2/26 - San Pedro

2005-02-22T18:03:00.000-08:00

Hi guys -

Just passing along information. Don't know if I can make this one but sounds interesting. Some of you may be closer than others. Remember, it's an outdoor event, so let's keep our fingers crossed that we get a reprieve from the rain:

On Saturday February 26, 2005 The Fort MacArthur Museum is proud to present what is quickly becoming one of our most popular signature events.
The Great Los Angeles Air Raid of 1942 is the museums celebration of one of the most fascinating and controversial events in Los Angeles History. A night when literally thousands of people both Military and Civilian were convinced that Los Angles was being attacked from the air!!
What really happened that night is a debate that will probably go on for years, but for those of us at the Fort MacArthur Museum, it is a time to remember feeling of those early days of the war. In February 1942, the realities of the second world war was just starting to become evident here is the southland, and many community events continued on almost like nothing had ever changed.
The Great LA Air Raid of 1942 is a fundraiser for the Fort MacArthur Museum and attempts to recreate the atmosphere of a 1942 social evening out, interrupted by the reality of war.
For the full story of the Great LA Air Raid, visit the website of Maxwell DeMille.
What to expect:
The Great LA Air Raid event is held outdoors, under the stars in the courtyard of the Fort MacArthur Museum. The weather along the Pacific Coast in February can be unpredictable and can be cold at times.
Music by Mora's Modern Swingtet, a 1940's Dance Band
the Legendary Maxwell DeMille as our Master of Ceremonies
Delicious food and drink available for purchase
A larger 600sq foot Dance Floor
A great performance by the Swing Shift Fliers
A vintage atmosphere in a historic location
1940's vintage dress encouraged, but not required for admission
Ample Free Parking
How to get to the museum:
The Fort MacArthur Museum is Located in Angels Gate Park, San Pedro.From Los Angeles, take the 110 Freeway South to the Gaffey Street exit. Turn left onto Gaffey and continue through the city. When you reach the 25th street signal, stay to your left and continue towards the ocean. As you round the second hill, look for the 36th Street (Leavenworth Drive) entrance. Follow the access road to the museum's main gate.To Maintain traffic flow, we ask that you do not park along the north fence of the access road.
*This program is subject to change without notice, due to conditions beyond the control of the Fort MacArthur Museum.*More info, visit their Ft. Mac's website:

http://www.ftmac.org/airraidinfo.htm

Band website:

http://morasmodern.com/default.html

The Arizona Swing Jam with Frankie Manning and a Battle of the Big Bands

2005-01-13T16:10:00.000-08:00

This event is sponsored by Jerry's Audio VideoJanuary 14-16, 2005 (Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend) @ Arizona State University in Tempe

Join legendary lindy hopper Frankie Manning for a weekend of classes and dances.
ALL AGE DANCES with great live music!!FRIDAY NIGHT "SWING JAM SESSION" with top national and local musiciansin the Arizona Ballroom - 2nd floor of the Memorial Union @ ASU. Josh Workman, Mike Vax, Paul Anderson, Hurricane Carla, Mark Decozio, Dwight Killian, Dom Moio, Mel Bridges, Blaise Lantana, and a surprize vocalist!

SATURDAY NIGHT - "STOMPIN' AT THE SAVOY" in the Arizona Ballroom - 2nd floor of the memorial Union @ ASU.A BATTLE OF THE BIG BANDS- the Arizona Big Band featuring Dennis Rowland and the Mike Vax All-Star Big Band with special guest Joe Bourne. The bands will trade short sets, songs, and even do a couple tunes together (making a 36 piece Big Band!) on two stages, side by side.

The battle between big bands was a long standing tradition at the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem . We will be recreating a night at the Savoy (including rebuilding the bandstand) in a 10,000 sq. ft room with wall to wall wood flooring (just like the Savoy Ballroom). Furnishings will be provided by Rezurrection Gallery of Tempe to create a vintage jazz lounge atmosphere.

THE WORKSHOP:CLASSES - SATURDAY AND SUNDAY DAY (See class schedule below)in PE Building East (next to the bookstore) at ASUDuring the day we have workshops with Frankie and great instructors from around the Country. We are doing something new with the workshop by tracing through African influenced dances. So, we will start with a West African dance class that forms the roots of Charleston and Lindy.

We will then have classes in Charleston, Lindy Hop, Shag, Balboa, Boogie Woogie, Aerials, Hip Hop, and Lindy Hip Hop. Frankie Manning - New York. Teaching: Lindy Hop 1, 2, 3, & 4. Now over 90 years young, Frankie will delight students from beginners and experts. He will be here to share his passion and knowledge of the dance that he has helped spread for more than 70 years. The inventor of air steps in Lindy Hop, Frankie has continued to contribute to dance through his performances and/or choreography in films like "Hellzapoppin'" (1941) and "Malcolm X" (1992), and he won a Tony award for his choreography of Broadway's "Black and Blue" (1989). This is a unique opportunity to learn from one of our true national treasures and this is his only visit to Arizona.

Plus instructors from all over the country:Chris Lee - Sacramento; Nate Sartain and Tertia Miyashiro -San Diego; Jofflyn Valencia and Amber Villa - Orange County, CA;Nate and Kaia Landon - Salt Lake City, UT;Mike Johnson and Trisha Anderson; Isaac Hingley and Ashley Palmer; Matt May and Becky Walters; Steve Conrad; Jeff Wheatcraft; Jonathan Lindsay; Chris Adams; Heather Hill; Ben and Ellen- Nebellen Dance Troupe; Members of Kawambe Omowale

THE SCHEDULE:FRIDAY, JANUARY 14th - Arizona Ballroom in the ASU Memorial Union. 6:30pm - 7:30p.m. Stories with Frankie
7:30 pm - 12:30am - All Ages dance - Jam session with top national and local musicians. (7:30-8:00 East Coast lesson) HUGE dance floor!
1:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. - Late Night dancingSwing '37 (Steps Dance Center)37 W. Southern Ave - TempeGuest DJ's

SATURDAY, JANUARY 15th at ASUPE East RM 190 and PE East RM 192
10:00am -11:00am
West African Dance"The Roots of Lindy Hop" Kawambe Omowale
Spins and Slides (Int/Adv) Jeff Wheatcraft
11:15 am - 12:30pm
Lindy Fundamentals Steve and Teri
Big Apple (jazz steps of the 30's) Jofflyn and Amber (L.A.)
12:30pm - 1:30pm
Lunch
1:30pm - 2:45pm
Lindy Hop w/ Frankie pt 1 Frankie Manning and Heather Hill
Int./Adv. Lindy Mike and Trisha
3:00pm - 4:15pm
Hip Hop Nebellen Dance Troupe
Boogie Woogie Nate & Kaia (Utah)
4:30pm - 5:45 pm
Lindy Hop w/ Frankie pt 2 (beg./int.) Frankie and Heather
Advanced Lindy Jofflyn & Amber (L.A.)
7:00pm -12:30am "Stompin' at the Savoy"
A battle of the big bands- the Arizona Big Band featuring Dennis Rowland and the Mike Vax All-Star Big Band with Joe Bourne. We will be recreating a night at the Savoy, including the design of the giant, legendary room. A preview performance from "Ain't Misbehavin'" by the Black Theatre Troupe.
(7:00-8:00 East Coast lesson) HUGE dance floor!
1:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. - Late Night dancingSwing '37 (Steps Dance Center)37 W. Southern Ave - TempeGuest DJ's

SUNDAY, JANUARY 16th @ ASU
10:00am -11:00am
Charleson Josh LeitzTrankey Doo (Jazz Routine) Chris Lee (Sacramento)
11:15 am - 12:30pm
Lindy Hip Hop Chris Adams
Balboa Beg./Int. Isaac and Ashley
12:30pm - 1:30pm
Lunch
1:30pm - 2:45pm Lindy Hop w/ Frankie pt 3 (int.) Frankie and Heather
Aerials Mike and Trisha
3:00pm - 4:15pm
Dips and Tricks Jonathan and TrishaBalboa Int./Adv Nate & Tertia (San Diego)Blues - Matt May and Becky Walters - just added

4:30pm - 5:45 pm
Lindy Hop w/ Frankie pt 4 (int.+) Frankie and Heather
Lindy Hop - Instructors Choice Chris Lee (Sacramento)

Note: It is highly recommended that beginners take the Lindy Fundamentals class before Frankie's first class in order to be familiar with the swing out.
No partner needed, no experience necessary, all ages welcomeIndividual classes: $12; Individual dances Friday - $10, Saturday- $19; Late night dancing - $5 each nightor Only $99 for the whole weekend if paid by January 13th. $125 at the door. Tip: Tickets will still be $99 at Zia Records on Friday and Saturday so if you were planning on paying at the door, stop by the Zia on University (just West of Mill Ave.) and save $26 for the full weekend pass. Plus, no lines when you get to the event.
Tickets: 480-840-0456 www.TicketForce.com Any Zia Records location statewideOnline at http://www.SavetheArts.org/frankie Battle of Big Band tickets also avalable at Jerry's Audio Video.
Visit http://www.SaveTheArts.com register or for more information.
BONUS FOR READING THIS WHOLE E-MAIL: If you go to ReZurrection Gallery at 601 West University you can pick up a discount coupon that will get you into the Saturday night dance for $4.00 off. No purchase necessary but feel free to look around the place, they have great vintage furniture.

Saturday Swing Dances in Zurich

2002-08-27T09:31:00.000-07:00

So you ask....What are they like? Much more similar than I expected.

How I get there? A 20 minute tram and a 10 minute walk. How I get back? I pray that someone will drive me back to my flat or luck out and get a cab home. Tram service stops promptly at midnight and the dances continue until 4am in the morning. I was only able to dance until 2pm before pooping out.

The dance hall: It's a little bigger than the the PBDA kitchen. You have to go through a dark alley before you hear the swing music. It looks like it's in a warehouse. You walk up these very dark and red-lighted stairs; It's on the 1st floor. What I found out when I walked out of the building was that there is a techno dance in the basement. So you can imagine Swing people miggling with trance folks. It's... different.

It was special this past Saturday because they had a band. The band looked more like a 3 string quartet... but they were good! I was amazed at the sets, it really was fantastic. After midnight though, it becomes a DJ set which is fine.

The big difference is the full-bar. I was good though, only had a coke. There were bistro type tables and chairs lining the room and a little power-room/closet for the girls and boys to slip into their swing shoes or change their shirts. The women have no qualms of taking off their blouse and changing to another while people draw the curtain back for all to see. Fun stuff. LOL...

The swing style - almost all Lindy Hop. You rarely see Shag or Balboa. Absolutely NO 6-step smooth or Hollywood style lindy. I have been told that my style is Savoy because I tend to keep my arm up waist level. The crowd here keeps their hands very low... and maybe it's the culture, but they are all VERY light leads! The men don't believe in pushing around the women. I admit it's very hard to follow because I really don't know what they want me to do... but I am watching a lot and learning.

They have birthday dances, they do the Shim-Sham and the Jitterbug Stroll... I got major brownie points for know them... they were surprised at a newcomer, out of nowhere doing these dances with them. They do it twice as fast as PBDA, so my suzie Q's don't look as lame. ;)

BUT

it just isn't the same. They are not YOU guys...and it makes me miss each and every one of you all the more.

Jenn