AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: THIS IS AN OLD BLOG, VISIT THE NEW BLOG! DATE: Tuesday, March 06, 2007 ----- BODY:

This is an OLD Blog and is not updated anymore, with any salsa dance news! We may return to it, once google is out of Beta.

Come visit our NEW blog,
http://www.salsacrazy.com/salsanews/

That's right, come visit our new blog, because this blog is not being updated anymore (and is more than a little broken). Our New blog is located at,
http://www.salsacrazy.com/salsanews/

That's right, come visit our new blog, because this blog is not being updated anymore (and is more than a little broken). Our New blog is located at,
http://www.salsacrazy.com/salsanews/

That's right, come visit our new blog, because this blog is not being updated anymore (and is more than a little broken). Our New blog is located at,
http://www.salsacrazy.com/salsanews/

That's right, come visit our new blog, because this blog is not being updated anymore (and is more than a little broken). Our New blog is located at,
http://www.salsacrazy.com/salsanews/

That's right, come visit our new blog, because this blog is not being updated anymore (and is more than a little broken). Our New blog is located at,
http://www.salsacrazy.com/salsanews/

That's right, come visit our new blog, because this blog is not being updated anymore (and is more than a little broken). Our New blog is located at,
http://www.salsacrazy.com/salsanews/

We hope to see ya' there!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: SalsaCrazy Salsa Dance News For the Week of 10/23/06 DATE: Tuesday, October 24, 2006 ----- BODY:

SalsaCrazy.com gives you a blow by blow of the biggest events fot he week of 10/23/06 in the San Francisco Bay Area. All the Salsa Dance events, and big salsa news in the city by the bay.

Don't know how to Salsa Dance yet? Let DanceSF.com show you how, visit, http://www.DanceSF.com

Afraid of group classes? Want to learn faster, or at your own pace? Try out our award winning Salsa DanceDVDs and Videos:
http://www.SalsaDanceDVD.com

Visit our online calendar: www.SalsaCrazy.com

Want to submit news? email, baysalsa@yahoo.com

Labels: ballroom, cafe cocomo, dance, dancing, salsa, salsa classes, salsa clubs, salsa dance, salsa san francisco

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: SalsaCrazy's Salsa Dance Podcast, 10/17/2006 DATE: Tuesday, October 17, 2006 ----- BODY:

Sala Crazy's Weekly Salsa Dance New for the San Francisco Bay Area, 10/17/2006. We review all the nightly hotspots for Salsa around the Bay Area. http://www.SalsaCrazy.com for news & information.

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Salsa Crazy's Salsa Dance New for the San Francisco Bay Area, 10/17/2006 DATE: Tuesday, October 17, 2006 ----- BODY:

Ok, we've got a big week in store for you, but first, let's give you the overview.

Have you registered yet to join us at the Hawaii Salsa Festival? Should be a lot of fun, and the airfare is very cheap right now. Don't wait! Check out the website, get your tickets, and join us at the Hawaii Salsa Festival, Feb 1-4, 2007. It's going to be a fantastic salsa dance vacation!

Now, it's just a couple of weeks until we head to the Mexican Riviera on our next Salsa Cruise (Nov. 2007), but you won't want to miss the one after that (to the Caribbean). Remember, this one sold out 2 months early, so move fast to get on the next one. Check out our SalsaCruise website, at http://www.SalsaCrazyCruise.com!

Our biggest news of all is that Salsa BootCamp is launching next week (next Monday, Oct. 23rd to be exact), and you will not want to miss it! This amazing website has it all. Everything you could possible ask for in an online dance school . . . have you seen it yet? You owe it to yourself. It's cheap, fun, and amazing well done (if I do say so myself). We sold out of pre-launch memberships in just one month, and we expect the FREE DVDs that we're offering to our first memebers (move fast) to cause us to sell out again, quickly. Don't wait, don't dawdle, join us now, and get in on the fun, at http://www.SalsaBootCamp.com, Your Place to Salsa Dance, and Your Online Dance School!

But wait, I thought what you really wanted was just to hear me hit the weekly favorites, in our brand new, Itunes ready, SalsaCrazy Bay Area Podcast. Right? That's what you really want? So let's get to it. Next . . .

Sala Crazy Weekly Salsa Dance News for the San Francisco Bay Area, 10/17/2006. We review all the nightly hotspots for Salsa around the Bay Area. http://www.SalsaCrazy.com for news & information.

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Salsa Dance Greatness, Summer's Over! DATE: Wednesday, September 20, 2006 ----- BODY:

First up, Salsa Congress News, as our Roving Report, Dakin Ferris, Reports on the New York City Salsa Congress, 2006. The New York City Salsa Congress was quite amazing this year, so it's time to go see what you (and I) missed this year. Check out our full report of the exciting goings-on, at the New York City Salsa Congress, 2006.

Next up, Salsa Dance BootCamp, SalsaCrazy's New Online Super Salsa Dance School, has sold out before launch. That's right, before launch. We've had to seal up memberships. So, run their now and get on the waiting list. We have big plans for the school, and you want to get in, while the getting is good!

And of course, the San Francisco Bay Area Salsa Dance Academy, is still going strong, and DanceSF has it's October schedule up and online.

What else? Well, there's plenty! But you'll have to wait for our next exciting issue!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Salsa Dancing in the SF Bay Area DATE: Monday, August 14, 2006 ----- BODY:

Yes, it's already the middle of the year, and as you can tell, we have been VERY busy indeed. Yes, very busy indeed. I can't believe it's been six months, and we haven't updated the blog. We've been doing so much new stuff, it's hard to keep it all straight.

But first, the imporant new, The San Jose Jazz Festival happens this week, and the Spanish Harlem Orchestra is there. Don't miss it!

Also, our Mexican Riviera Salsa Dance Cruise continues to fill up, and yes, there's still room for YOU. So stop thinking about it, and start doing it! Really, this is going to be a great cruise, filled with fun, sun, and dance crazyness. It's an amazingly cool vacation, and we hope to see you on board.

SalsaCrazy's Salsa Dance Cruise to the Mexican Riviera

Our DanceSF classes continue to be very full, each and every month, and we've got great teachers (and great students). If you haven't joined us yet, now is the time, and you should do it right away!

Learn to Salsa Dance With DanceSF in the San Francisco Bay Area!

But wait, we've also launched our complete Online Salsa Dance School, and it's the hottest thing on the internet. Perfect for existing students, and new students alike, whom can't make it to our San Francisco Bay Area Salsa Dance Classes.

SalsaBootCamp: Learn to Salsa Dance Online, Online Dance School

We've got classes starting every month, so join us today! We just keep getting better, and yes, you are missing out big time by not learning how to Salsa Dance right now. Not tomorrow . . . not next month . . . right this very second. I mean it -- you will thank me later (over, and over, and over . . .).

Also, don't forget, if you sign up for SalsaBootCamp before our launch, on September 15th, you get a HUGE special bonus, so do it now. Register for the BootCamp!

Also, our Salsa Dance Workout, and Pilates for Dancers Videos have both hit the market, and you'll want to take a close look at both, so do that too!

Ok, on a slightly unrelated note, if you are into Internet Marketing, you might want to check out our Internet Marketing site (set to launch in 2008, but you can see some stuff now, and get some very valuable business tips).

Oh, and we've begun work on our DanceCrazy website, our future! With DanceCrazy, we're expanding to cover all dances, bringing you the entire world of dance. But it's not ready yet, so don't look at it. ;)

Visit Marketing Crazy: Your Online Marketing Business Tips and Business Strategies!

And, of course, the San Francisco Salsa Congress is coming into town in November, don't miss this stellar San Francisco Salsa Dance Congress (The SF Salsa Congress).

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Are we there yet? Are we Dancing in 2006? DATE: Sunday, January 01, 2006 ----- BODY:

I think we made it! I think we've actually survived until 2006. It almost sounds like some science fiction movie. It's 2006, and it's 9am, and I was out dancing all night last night, but for some uknown reason, am up this morning. So, let me wish you all a happy and healthy 2006.

This is it! The first post of the SalsaCrazy New Year. Congratulations - you made it this far, and are actually reading a salsa related blog. So, what next? Well, chances are your already a dancer, so, for the first post of the New Year, I'm going to do something crazy. Something wild. Something exciting. And I'm going to do all of that . . . later! Right now, I'm going to go back to sleep.

I hope you'll join us for dance classes, at DanceSF, or at the very least, become inspired to start some type of dancing. Remember, you don't need a partner, and you don't need any experience to take our classes.

Also, don't forget, we just came out with the DanceSF Salsa Dance Guide, which will probably answer a lot of your questions, and help you get started!

Join us, and Dance Your Way Through this Year!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Holiday Thoughts and Big Dogs DATE: Tuesday, December 13, 2005 ----- BODY:

Did you miss the latest blog post at DanceSF.com? Remember, we've got a cool blog going there as well!

So, what about the Holidays. They're coming, at breakneck speed! In fact, we're pretty much here. So, before I go any farther, Happy Holidays everyone. Thanks for visiting, and I want to wish you all a great Holidays, filled with fun and cheer (and of course, dancing).

What's coming your way? Well, on Dec. 22nd we've got Jingle all the Way at Roccapulco Supper Club in SF, with 3 bands, tons of door prizes and total madness ensuing before the Holidays. Highly recommended. The Same day, Cafe Cocomo will host a customer appreciation night, with two bands as well. Battle of the Big Dogs? Perhaps - but as dancers, we win! As always, our choices in the city are varied and we've a reason to be truly thankful for our salsa scene, and the promoters in it!

After that, it's pretty much Christmas/Chanukah/New Years - so relax, and feel the love. Most places are not open, but check the newsletter for the latest. Of course, the SalsaCrazy Calendar will be entirely up to date, and as always, completely free. Hey, y'know, if you don't see your venue listed there, or if we're not listing events you know of, make sure to tell your local club and promoter that they can list for free, it's entirely self-serve! http://www.baysalsa.com

Oh, and before I forget, if you didn't already know, Salsa Dance Videos make a GREAT gift. We even have a webiste, http://www.salsagift.com, where you can give these great Learn to Salsa Dance Videos to your friends and family for the Holidays. There's really no greater gift, so by all means, give freely!

Remember, DanceSF's Salsa Dance Classes resume in January - with some cool new classes. Check out the schedule for all the details, at http://www.dancesf.com, and register online for your salsa classes next year. It's time!

New Years: Argh - the most hyped day of the year. Why - oh why - does New Years have to be the best night of the year? I'm thinking - since I can't seem to find anything special to do, and it's "Amateur Night" in terms of crazy drinking (and yes, unfortunately, driving too), that I might stay home this New Years, and do the unthinkable . . . watch some TV.

Regardless of whether or not I actually have the sense to do that, one thing I always do, is a list of resolutions. Yes, I keep them from year to year, and yes, I even refer back, and it's SO cool. Highly recommended. Goals are a great thing! Be honest with yourself - set them down, and don't necessarily share them with other people. These are for you. In five years - you'll be able to look back, and think to yourself "what the hell was I thinking back then?". ;) Happens to me all the time!

What can dancers do? Here's the coolest thing. Track your dancing by getting a video recorder, and make a video of yourself dancing - perhaps with your current partner if you have one, or just friends. I've been doing this for <# Omitted> years, and it's so much fun to look back and the way your dancing has changed over the years. Totally cool.

Cool websites, you may have missed, include, Salsa Bootcamp for Dancers, which is a great Ebook about dance, and all sorts of insider tips. Or how about, Salsa Dance Secrets, sells our videos (and has videos on the site), or Secrets of Salsa Dance, which is a great website that sells our videos, but also tells a real (yes, it's true) story. Finally, the brand new DanceSF Salsa Guide! This is HOT. http://www.dancesf.com/guide/ . Yes, there's more - but that should hold you for now.

This season, here are a couple of thoughts to live by:

Follow the Three R's: Respect for self, Respect for Others, and Responsibility for your actions.

Judge your success by your effects on others, and what you've given up, in order to achieve it. (i.e. not by what you get, but what you give).

Happy Holidays!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: It's SalsaCrazy Holdiay Party Time, and a Crazy Good Salsa Week DATE: Monday, November 28, 2005 ----- BODY:

The Ultimate Gift for the Holidays, to give anyone (friends, family, pets . . .), is a SalsaGift, and the Gift of Dance! So, if you're searching for the perfect gift, make it a Salsa Gift, and change someone's life! Really, do you want to get them the same old books, scarves & gift certificates, or soemthing they'll remember forever!

Now, first off, don't forget the Canvas Salsa Dance Party is coming This Saturday (yes, that's THIS Saturday) Dec. 3rd! You'll want to plan on it! Special SalsaCrazy Holiday gifts for the first 200 people. :) This is the last party of the year, and it's one to plan on. Beginner's Salsa Dance Lesson at 8pm Sharp, and there's NO experience, and NO Partner Required! Come early, make the lesson, and get your super cool Salsa present for the Holidays. :)

A quick review of Salsa this week has Avance at the Glas Kat on Tuesday (Woohoo!), Top of the Mark rockin' on Wendesday, Julio Bravo at Cafe Cocomo on Thursday (and the first day of the Philipine Intl. Salsa Congress in Manilla), Friday there's two great options, Jillians has Rumba Cafe and a Xmas Salsa Competition in the Sony Metreon, and in the South Bay, Felipe (el dela Clave) presents Mazacote at Monte Carlo (228 Castro St., Mtn. View). Wow - great line up for this week. Are you ready to dance? Because, the SalsaCrazy's Canvas Salsa Dance Party is This Saturday!

There's time, join us in the Caribbean! If you haven't looked at this cruise yet, now's the time to do it. 30 DAYS UNTIL FINAL PAYMENT -- CALL AND BOOK TODAY because The Next SalsaCrazy Salsa Cruise to the Caribbean has been announced, and we'll be leaving from Miami, and returning for Calle Ocho! Wow - you do not want to miss this cruise. These are the best salsa vacations you'll ever have. We'll be hitting some fantastic locations along the way - so register today at, http://www.salsacrazy.com/travel/ ! NEW: Pre and Post Cruise Packages announced WITH airfaire from all over the world, including a special from the San Francisco Bay Area! Flights are filling, so now is the time to plan your trip.

Are you ready to join Salsa BootCamp? It's out there, and it's coming!

Oh, and DanceSF's New Salsa Dance Guide is now available at, http://www.DanceSF.com/guide/. If you're thinking of taking classes with DanceSF, don't miss this super cool guide to start in 2006! In addtion, Salsa Dance Class schedules are now up for December and January!

But wait, that's not all . . . or is it? No, there's more! How about an interview of Salsa History with Rita Hargrave of SalsaRoots.com?

Hold on, can that be it? Is that all we have to say? Naw - we also want to wish everyone a Happy Holidays! They're starting in earnest, and it's time to ease into "December Mode". We hope everyone joins us on board the Caribbean Salsa Cruise, because that's always a good time, and an amazing vacation. We'll leave you with this one parting thought, this Holiday, do something nice for someone. Doesn't have to be someone special, and it can't be asked for, just do it to make the world a cooler place. Once you do it once, keep doing it. It might not make you feel good, it might be difficult, it might not be reciprocated, . . . but before you know it, one day (if you're very lucky), you wake up, and you've made a difference.

Happy Holidays! More to come . . .

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Salsa in Mid November - A Dancer's Dream! DATE: Monday, November 14, 2005 ----- BODY:

It's Mid November, and the week that the SF Salsa Congresss rolls into town - more on that later, but let's cover local events:

Tuesday Night - a special Pre-Congress night at the Glas Kat. Should be fun - Quimbombo is playing and they're always great. This Wednesday, its "Tribute to the Conga" at the DownLow Lounge, with an exciting night of Conga Tribute backed by an All Star band of hte Bay Area's Top Players! Thursday, it's grand opening night for the Congress at Cafe Cocomo in SF, and in the East Bay Avance plays at Kimballs! Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the Congress rolls in, at the Oakland Marriott Hotel, with some stellar live bands each night, including Oscar De Leon and Jose Alberto. My haunts as of late have Los Compos at the Cigar Bar (dangerous floor for dancing, but super fun place to "be"), and Julio Bravo at Cafe Cocomo.

Wow - big weekend eh? Yes it is - it's a big week and weekend, with all the variety that the Bay Area is known for. Great Headlining acts, and fantastic smaller clubs, all come together to give everyone some fantastic dance possibilities! Choose wisely . . . :)

Now, don't forget the Canvas Salsa Dance Party is coming back on December 3rd, and it's coming up in just 3 weeks. You'll want to plan on it! Special SalsaCrazy Holiday gifts for the first 200 people. :) Remember, no experience and no partner required for the Beginning Lesson at 8pm. Invite your friends, it's for everybody!

Check out, Salsa Dance San Francisco, another directory site that popped up, like Salsuba.com. Hmm - I wonder where are this information comes from? ;)

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: October Ends with Crazy Salsa Dancing! DATE: Tuesday, October 25, 2005 ----- BODY:

Now that was a GREAT Canvas Salsa Dance Party eh? I know! It was so good, we're going to do it again in December (and I though I was going to get to retire). :) Check out the details, and get your tickets at, http://www.CanvasParty.com. Wow - that was really a lot of fun.

This week and Weekend: Top of the Mark Hopkins Hotel This Wednesday, I'll even teach the lesson! Thursday, Sensual at Cocomo. Friday, Alf and Alf. Saturday, Tito Garcia at Cocomo, Sunday - Mambo Romero at Cocomo, and Monday - Halloween at Cocomo. Oh my god - that's A LOT OF Cocomo.

Next Tuesday - Glas Kat Anniversary with Anthony Blea! Don't miss it.

Oh, and "Ask SalsaCrazy" has launched, so now you can ask me anything, and I'll tell you no lies (ahem), so - ask away if you want!

November? What's ahead?! So much . . . we've got the Salsa Congress coming to town, and they're bringing some great bands this time around. More on this soon!

It's geting time to really think about the salsa cruise! Deposits, and all, need to be in soon. If you haven't done so already, register now for the email list, and get your deposit in! This is eight amazing days in the Caribbean, out of Miami, and yes, it's affordable too. What an amazing trip - so get in gear, and get started making your plans.

Salsa Dance Instruction, Salsa Dance Secrets,

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Even more Salsa for October DATE: Tuesday, October 11, 2005 ----- BODY:

Ok, it's THIS Saturday, It's Canvas Salsa Dance Party month! If you haven't gotten your tickets yet, join in for this incredibly fun and social salsa dance party. It's a total blast, and coming at you mid month, so get your tickets today. It's on Saturday, Oct. 15th, at the Canvas Gallery (1200 9th Avenue, SF), and Beginning lessons are at 8pm, dancing 9pm on. Woohoo! Don't miss it - invite your friends, and we'll see ya' there.

Also, just in, for that last weekend in October, get this (details on the calendar), we've got: Friday's Alf and Alf Party at the Westin and Gran Combo at Roccapulco. Then Sunday, we've got a salsa social at Cocomo with Mambo Romero (their spooky Halloween party), and then Monday (Halloween), Cocomo again for a fantastic halloween party! Wow, that weekend is just going to be crazy! Wow, crazy stuff.

Now, you need to know, next week Plena Libre is in town as well, at La pena (don't want to miss that). Check out their music at Amazon! For those wondering, no, probably won't make it to Top of the Mark this week (the finest upscale salsa venue in town), but it will still rock (because it always does). :)

Oh, and the SalsaCruise is filling! Visit, http://www.salsacrazy.com/travel/ to book your salsa cruise (it's the vacation of a lifetime). You get all sorts of benefits when you book with SalsaCrazy. Don't miss it - call and get more information today. Visit the site, or call direct and ask about the "SalsaCrazy Salsa Cruise" (1-866-DanceFUN). It's going to be a BLAST.

Let's see - what else? I know there's some more big news, but nothing else new this week! Keep Dancing.

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: It's big, big Salsa Month, and Scary too! DATE: Monday, October 03, 2005 ----- BODY:

It's Canvas Salsa Dance Party month! If you haven't gotten your tickets yet, join in for this incredibly fun and social salsa dance party. It's a total blast, and coming at you mid month, so get your tickets today. It's on Saturday, Oct. 15th, at the Canvas Gallery (1200 9th Avenue, SF), and Beginning lessons are at 8pm, dancing 9pm on. Woohoo!

oh, and Jillians in the Sony Metreon has now switched to a bi-weekly schedule, but this month, Live bands like Conjunto Allegre on October 7th, and Avance on October 21st, mean that you should go check it out. This has always been a fun venue, and they have a new website at salsafrisco.com. Don't miss it!

Towards the end of the month Alf and Alf and Aykut are bring you a super scary Halloween party, at none other than the Westin Hotel (Swanky) right off of Union Square, with five venues of fun, including of course, our beloved salsa room (the most happening place at the party - always). :) You can get two types of tickets, regular tickets and VIP tickets (with open bar and skylounge) - whatever you do, get SOME tickets, and join us for this awesome event.

And finally, Cafe Cocomo has a scary Halloween party coming your way at the end of the month - it's on a Monday night, and this will undoubtedly be an amazingly cool party - and tons of fun. Multiple bands, and a spooky evening await!

Oh, and if that wasn't enought, El Gran Combo (one of, if the not THE biggest, longest running band in the biz) is playing at Roccapulco at the end of the month. more on this later - but they are the REAL Deal, and unquestionably worth seeing! hot-dance-dancing.com for your dance needs.

And . . . what else is there? I can't imagine -- What else could there be? I think this should be enough to hold people over for a bit, but expect some more amazing details soon, like Plena Libre is playing at Yoshis this month, and more. Check out the Calendar as always for the biggest details.

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: The Big Seminar in Los Angeles, Marketing at a New Level! DATE: Sunday, September 25, 2005 ----- BODY:

So, people are always asking, where do you get your marketing info? How can I start a business on the Internet? How can I learn more about working on the net, quitting my day job, or learning how to use the internet to market myself or my business? Well, here's the deal. It's easily one seminar that can change your entire life. If you're an entrepeneur - or thinking about becoming one - this is the place to start. Click here to get the info!

Do I go? Hell yes! I'll be there (and I'm glad to meet with other's whom are attending). It's the one week in my life where I make plans that last all year. I know it may seem hokey, and it may not seem like it's for you - but if you're complaining about your day job, or really interested in learning how to make money on the net, this IS the place to start (or get to the next level).

What does this have to do with salsa? Not much at all I'm afraid, but I thought I'd let everyone know about it, and encourage you to take a step towards something that might have a large impact in your financial life.

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Salsa in New York City - A Travelogue! [Final Part] DATE: Thursday, September 22, 2005 ----- BODY:

Ok, so the New York trip is officially behind me (finally), and I’m on my way back home, courtesy of Jet Blue. Plenty of leg room, dozens of channels of TV – who would choose any other airline to travel? I’m not looking forward to the six hour flight, but if ya’ gotta do it, I suppose this is the way. We’ve had turbulence the entire trip so far (no fun there).

I’m amazed at how quickly the time passed in New York – through the entire trip from beginning to end, it transpired in an instant. New York is so vibrant and pressing, it’s like time passes more quickly there than anywhere else. Tuesday I hit the CopaCabana again, Wednesday a final night at LQ, and then honestly, I was done dancing – I needed a break (yes, even SalsaCrazy needs a break). I spent the rest of my days on huge walking tours and hanging out with friends.

Bryant Park – ok, since this is my last email from New York, this is the last time (I promise), that I’m going to bring up Bryant Park. One day, sitting listening to Opera in the park, a friend called to tell me of an upcoming outdoor salsa concert - - guess where? That’s right. Bryant Park! As unbelievable as it sounds, there was a salsa concert taking place that very evening, in Bryant Park, with none other than Rey Ruiz (a classic sonero), and Orquesta Broadway (historic band, amazing). Wow – so, let me get this straight. There’s live opera and broadway musicals performed during the day, and mind-blowing salsa at night? Only in New York! Well, in a nutshell – the salsa was amazing. I saw Anthony Blea in the audience (from San Francisco – violinist, and band leader), whom actually got onstage and jammed with the band (Orq. Broadway – many of the songs that he plays of theirs in his band back at home). I met people whom recognized me from Puerto Rico, and even from the videos (uh-oh). Rey played “You’re my Everything” – his classic, incredibly sappy salsa rendition of this song. Broadway played amazing hit after hit, in their classic, charanga style. Wow – pretty amazing stuff! A huge crowd, a large number of dancers – it was simply the coolest thing. After that, a classy eatery in the Village, and you’ve got a pretty cool New York day, filled with dining, dancing, and . . .

Density! New York is just a dense, dense, place. From people walking around, to stores lining the streets, to food, to entertainment, you just can’t escape the amazing “density” of the place. Every few blocks is a completely encompassing, self-sufficient, and unique neighborhood. Very cool. Yet, with all the density, sometimes you’re struck by the amazingly impersonal nature of the place. The disconnection you can feel walking down the street, surrounded by people, and yet absolutely alone. It’s bewildering at times, but I can definitely see how New York might be the loneliest place on earth for many. Even in the parks, where people are pressed together, you’re simply amazed at the number of people eating alone, and the noticeable lack of PDA (New Yorker’s definitely don’t seem to be into that). To be surrounded by people, and yet so yearning for physical/emotional contact. It’s crazy. I could probably write some sociological study on this, but I’ll save it for another email.

The new hotel, now in “Korea” town, offered the opportunity for about six massage parlors and spas, plus dozens of Korean BBQ’s, all within walking distance. While I never did get that massage, I did have the BBQ, and it was awesome. You have all these classy, upscale places, within blocks of each other (sometimes right next door to each other) but we opted for a whole in the wall (the only place that had a line out the door). It was great stuff! Disregard the hype and always go where the lines are . . . at least for food choices in NY (especially applies to street vendors). Also, note that this hotel has a roof bar, and a fairly cool view of the Empire State building, looming directly above you. Very cool – but it closes absurdly early (by 12 or 1).

I know it sounds like I’m crazy about New York, and that perhaps I should just up and move there, but I’m still in love with the Bay Area and while I love to visit New York, I think the hectic pace of life there would wear on my happy, low key, and casual personality fairly quickly. It’s just too much to take in, which is why it such a fantastic place to visit, unlike anywhere else on earth. It was still hard to leave – with Larry Harlow, El Gran Combo, and Eddie Palmieri all scheduled to hit the club circuit next week. In addition, the New York salsa congress is rolling into town next week (which is not a big seller for me, since I’ve become completely bored by the Congressos). But, over the long term, I’m fairly certain a city like New York would be severely detrimental to my health, as I’d never find the time to relax, kick back, and smell the roses. And we all know – I like to do that a fair amount! Two months ago – this trip didn’t even exist, and as always, I’m amazed at the pace of life’s changes.

A quick note on the salsa scene, since no matter where I travel, I’m constantly amazed at how our salsa scene in the Bay Area is truly one of, if not THE, finest in the world. There is simply no where in the world I’ve traveled, from Asia to Eurpoe through Canada and most US cities, that rivals our amazing salsa dance scene here in the Bay Area. We have an enormous amount of talented bands and world class musicians, we have endless clubs and nightlife (usually multiple choice on any given night), and more importantly, we have a very friendly crowd, that welcomes newcomers and is just plain fun. I can’t think of a dance scene anywhere which offers all of these pieces, so readily. Even New York, a mecca of music and dancing, with 10x the population, can’t rival what we’ve created in the Bay Area. In many ways, their club scene is actually smaller than ours (as amazing as that sounds), and less diverse. While it is by no means as unfriendly as say, Miami – it lacks the warmth and camaraderie that we see in the Bay Area (yes, even with all of the petty infighting that goes on between what’s left of the dance troupe or promotion scene). Anyway, not to babble on, but it makes it a joy to come home, from each and every trip!

After this trip – I’m tired! I can easily just sleep for a week. However, I’m also ready to get back to work, invigorated to get the company working well, and start production on the new projects. I’ve got endless ideas, so it’s really going to be about which ones I actually have the time to follow up on.

Don't forget to visit, SalsaCrazy San Francisco Salsa Dancing Guide, and DanceSF: Salsa Dance School.

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: This Thursday, Salsa Katrina Benefit at the Mighty! DATE: Tuesday, September 13, 2005 ----- BODY:

SALSA BENEFIT w/ BORINQUEN & ANDY y su Callao @
MIGHTY!
NEW LOCATION FOR SALSA LOVERS! Let us do this
fundraiser together at this new spot to help raise
funds for those in need. Please come. Let us make
this possible for them. ALL donations to The
American Red Cross to benefit hurricane relief efforts.
Any $ donation welcome.

Doors open 8pm with a Bachata lesson by Rodney
8:30pm Salsa lesson by Juan Gil of DanceSF.com
DJs spinning: Bosco, Chino, El de la Clave, Nic, Oscar
O, Tony O and more
Live Salsa with Bill Ortega y BORINQUEN
Also, Andy y su Orq CALLAO
Easy to find * Lots of street parking
Hardwood floor
@ MIGHTY, 119 Utah St. corner of Utah and
15th Street off of Potrero in San Francisco one block
from Potrero Center next door to Gourmet Bay Cafe
near Jewelry Center

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Tonight, Katrina Benefit at Cafe Cocomo - Be there! DATE: Sunday, September 11, 2005 ----- BODY:

Tonight is the first of the Katrina benefits at Cafe Cocomo! Don't miss it. It all starts at 7-8pm, and then dancing to bands all night. $10 (but you can donate more). Great bands, great cause . . . don't miss it.

Also, coming NEXT Thursday, another amazing benefit, details below:

BENEFIT FOR HURRICANE KATRINA VICTIMS

ALL donations to The American Red Cross to benefit hurricane relief efforts.

Any $ donation welcome.

Doors open 8pm
8pm Bachata lesson by Rodney
8:30pm Salsa lesson by Juan Gil of DanceSF.com

DJs spinning:
Bosco, Chino, El de la Clave, Nic, Oscar O, Tony O and more

Live Bands:
Bill Ortega y BORINQUEN
Andy y su Orq. CALLAO
Anthony Blea
and more to be announced
Musicians and bands welcome!
(please call 650-888-5795)

New LOCATION with a good dancefloor

@ MIGHTY, 119 Utah St.
corner of Utah and 15th Street
off of Potrero in San Francisco
one block from Potrero Center
next door to Gourmet Bay Cafe
www.mighty119.com for map
Easy to find * Lots of free parking

NEW LOCATION FOR SALSA LOVERS!
Let us do this fundraiser together at this new spot to help raise funds for those in need.

Please come. Let us make this possible for them.

All the djs, musicians, instructors, Mighty staff, www.salsagang.com, www.salsacrazy.com, www.salsasf.com, www.salsaroots.com, www.dancesf.com, 1 Production, BV Productions, Tyrone of Malodibujos are participating and donating their services from the kindness of their big hearts. Thank you in advance for all the support.

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Katrina Benefit and the BIG Seminar! DATE: Friday, September 09, 2005 ----- BODY:

Ok, so the Benefits for Katrina are starting to come in, and there's NO better way to mix your salsa dancing with doing something important in the world! The first is this Sunday, at Cafe Cocomo - with 3 bands. It' starts at 8pm, so don't miss it.

Also, for those Marketing people, or really ANYONE whom is interested in building a business online, or even has a website, the Big Seminar is the ultimate Marketing event. It takes place in LA, and it's $2000, so you have to be serious, but IF you are, this is the big enchilada. You'll learn a lot of what MarketingCrazy.com is all about, and you'll skyrocket any website you own (yes, even a hobby website), to amazing status. Plan on attending the Big Seminar, and be amazed at the results! Here is the link to get more information. Click it, and start making serious money online!

Back to Salsa related news - There's also a benefit coming next Thursday, at a place called "Mighty", and it's going to be equally amazing, and equally important! Details soon . . .

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: August in New York, Salsa - Salsa, and Salsa - Part 2 DATE: Wednesday, September 07, 2005 ----- BODY:

New York, New York, what a Wonderful Town!

Ok, so I've gone a little New York crazy. The weather has really been great this past week, with cool breezes, fair days, and temperate nights. Great to wander around the active streets, sipping iced coffee. J I did my usual routine, but on Sunday night – got treated to the most awesome of “socials”, Jimmy Antons.

Jimmy Anton throws what is, inarguably, the best “social” salsa dance in NY. There were hundreds of people there, a live band, and endless dancing. I recognized many people from San Francisco, some past students even. The amazing Cobo brothers were in attendance (I really like the smoothness of the way these guys dance), and women outnumbered men by a small margin (never a bad thing). I had a great time dancing the night away, and getting a bite to eat afterwards – at a great thai restaurant, right off University and 13th (highly recommended for a light curry). This night alone would have been enough of a reason to come back to New York. The whole night was just that fun! There were even a few beginner’s on the floor there, which is a rarity in New York (where are all the beginner dancers?). It’s been hypothesized that since the dance level is high in New York, beginners don’t dare venture out until after a year or more of classes – but that can’t be it.

I wanted to take a class with Jimmy Anton, as I’ve heard many good things, but caught a little cold, and my desire to dance and learn has been waning a little as the trip gets longer. Now that it’s coming to an end, perhaps I’ll take a private lesson with someone (and perhaps I'll just sit around in the park, soaking up the sun).

I continued my stay at the Super8, but found an even better hotel, the La Quinta, which is even less expensive, while offering free breakfasts and wireless access. I’m becoming quite adept at saving money so I can squeeze every last day out of this adventure.

Now, even though I spoke of this earlier, I have to come back and talk about Bryant Park. This park, on 41st and 6th, is really great. It’s got all sorts of food and drink (and I’ve become addicted to the fantastic Root Beer floats they have - one a day), plus wireless access, plenty of seating, and endless people watching possibilities. The parks, scattered throughout New York, are really awesome. Union Square and NYU’s Washington Park, are also beautiful places to relax and soak in some afternoon sun (and they’re great places to write long, in-depth travel diaries). ;) It’s just a great time of year to be here.

Visit SalsaCrazy.com to get all the latest details about the salsa scene in the SF Bay Area!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: August in New York, Salsa - Salsa, and Salsa - Part 1 DATE: Tuesday, September 06, 2005 ----- BODY:

New York, New York, what a wonderful town! 25 dancers from the SF Bay Area all descended upon an unsuspecting New York this week, and caused an unbelievable amount of trouble for seven days of workshops and dancing. It's Sunday morning - the day after the Copacabana (fantastic band - Conjunto Classico), and about six too many tequila shots. Alex (our New York co-ordinator for the trip) just called - I'm late for our Descarga Latina (Nelson Flores) workshop. After the last few days of Delille Thomas, and yesterday's Santo Rico (Thomas), I'm completely worked. I must admit - the life and vitality of New York (let's not even talk about the dancing), is really amazingly fun. There's just no where else like it. And yes - my intentions were to run out the door to the Bronx and catch the workshop, but alas, I'm opting for a good breakfast, and to write a blog entry instead (lazy, lazy . . ). I need a little break time!

Returning to New York is all about learning. From the dancer's you dance with, to the teachers whom are giving us workshops, it's always been super invigorating for me, and always totally humbling. Dancing is a never-ending progression - and there's always more to learn. I really enjoyed this chance to take classes, and learn some real On2 style New York flavor. It's my plan to try and make it at least once a year! Our group is a mix of levels, but overall a lot of fun people. I can't believe today is our last workshop. This trip is zooming by . . .

It's funny, in every workshop, we learn at least some contradictory information, each teacher completely committed to their style, and their teaching, as the "right" way to dance! Amaryllis - shoulders go back and flow while you dance. Thomas, roll the shoulder's forward into your steps. Delille, never mix chacha and mambo comment, versus Santo Rico's chacha shine footwork (danced to an incredibly fast mambo I might add). It's fun and enlightening to see all the different styles of dance here, all within the relatively small "On2" community. Apart from Eddie Torres - I'm not sure anyone focuses on bringing new people into the scene, which might explain why at a population over 10x San Francisco, the dance/club scene has relatively few dancers (the largest New York social, still smaller than Allegro Ballroom). The music however . . . is just simply phenomenal. And the band, which recently have found far fewer places to play, are really the finest musicians you'll find almost anywhere.

A "coup" at the Copa: We waited in line after dancing at the Pier to get into the Copa, where we were one of the first people inside this monstrous club. All the tables were reserved ahead of time, but, amazingly enough, some creative thinking, a little pleading, and a connection with the hostess (along with all our available cash - thanks to Dakin), got us the ONLY table left in the entire place. A table at the Copa - not that easy to get (woohoo). Huge floor - which we had to ourselves for the first hour, before it became incredibly (and I do mean incredibly) crowded. First class band, and a fun dance crowd, made this a night to remember. Perhaps I'll return here on Tuesday! This was the only club where the air conditioning was adequate. Even with one thousand people.

This is my 1st quick update from the streets of New York!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: August Info for the Salsa Dance Masses (Kinda) DATE: Tuesday, August 02, 2005 ----- BODY:

And now . . . August! Yes, it's almost September, and that's a birthday month. Time is flying. First, a special site just for Blog readers (a preview), of "MarketingCrazy".

Yes, it's a site that I've created for people who want to understand how to be successful on the internet (and I mean, really, really, successful). It discusses online business creation and marketing in a simple no-holds barred, give it all away for free, fashion. Why? Well, you'd definitely be able to answer that question after you're involved in the site. For now, head on over to: MarketingCrazy.com, and see what it's all about. If you're going to do business on the internet, follow what it says very closely, and signup for the free Report, and ebook, coming soon!

Leaving to New York next week, for my yearly "Dance Training". Doing it a little different and joining a group led by local dance teacher Gabriel Romero. Should be fun, and I'm definitely looking forward to it! A little nervous, since work has been so busy lately, I'm outta shape, and the dancer's are amazing over there, but I'll hopefully survive the heat to tell you about it.

This week, Don't miss, Avance at Cafe Cocomo this Thursday night (bound to be a stellar night). Check out the Bay Calendar for other events happening too. Monte Cristo has become quite a hot spot as well.

This is also the last week to register for the Palm Springs trip, next week! Unfortunately, I'm gonna miss this one due to the New York trip, but it looks like a good time.

Also, don't forget about the Salsa Dance Cruise to the Caribbean! This is huge, and we now have special airfairs from the Bay Area (and around the world). Visit, http://www.salsacrazy.com/travel/ for the latest scoop, and register now by calling the 1-800 # (or for those out of the country, we provided the regular number too). You've got to get on this cruise now, because things are selling VERY fast. Remember to say you heard about it from "SalsaCrazy".

Also . . . well, more coming soon! That's it for now. Look for updates from New York next week!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: It's about time for another salsa update, don't ya' think? DATE: Tuesday, July 19, 2005 ----- BODY:

Oh my - I typed a huge blog entry, and it was lost due to a sudden power outage. Don't you simply hate when that happens?

Hello Everyone - welcome to another exciting edition of SalsaCrazy's blog. Lots to go over, but first, the announcements:

We're still hiring some of the positions listed in our previous post, if you have not applied yet, now is the time. In addition, we are now looking for:

New Positions: Yoga and Pilates Instructors sought for exercise Videos! Are you, or do you know, a great Yoga or Pilates instructor? Someone fun, very charismatic, and a fantastic teacher? We're looking for them. This is a contract position, for a single and multi-day video shoot, for commercial projects. Union affiliation, or not, is ok! You must have significant experiece, be currently teaching, and be comfortable on camera (we'll coach you to get you there). This is filming this month and next - you must send picture, resume and cover letter, immediately, to: baysalsa@yahoo.com.

Now, on to the recap! Cafe Cocomo had an exceptional free night last week, huge crowd, celebrating their brand new dance floor, new look, etc . . . The club looks great, and they had fantastic weather, which allowed people to wander the outside, and enjoy the free barbecue. Could this be the start of a trend? We sure hope so (read on to find out). This brought out a lot of new people! In addition, Roccapulco brought in Johny Polanco and Ray De La Paz last saturday, after a great afternoon in Vacaville (at the Festival de la Isla), they came to Roccapulco and rocked the house. This, right after a week where we had Sonora Carruseles and Victor Manuelle, shows that July has really been a great month for salsa in the Bay Area.

We've noticed our DanceSF classes are packed, with more people than ever, and we're thinking with all the national exposure that dance is getting on TV (and no, I haven't actually seen any of the new "dance" shows), that it's only going to get better. Have you learned to dance yet? If not, now is the time! Visit your local school or club, and get started!

Free Night Alert: Monte Cristo is having a free salsa night this Saturday at their beutiful (and I do mean beautiful) club on the Embarcadero, overlooking the bridge and the Ferry Building. It's amazing, and if you haven't seen it, you owe it to yourself to check it out! This is truly an exceptional location, and adds a lot to our fantastic salsa dance scene in San Francisco. Lessons are at 9pm, with Ricardo Tellez and Louise. Pass it on . . . It's going to be SO much fun.

Yoshis has also been doing some exceptional concerts this summer, so check out their website and see all the great things going on that historic jazz club. Lots of fun and interesting groups are passing through - and yes, the dance floor IS open for some of them (like Palenque this Wednesday night).

Also, if you haven't booked the salsa cruise yet, you're missing out. It's going to be full, so for the best rates, you should book early. Read previous posts to the get the details! Woohoo - what else can I talk about? It's Rodney's birthday, from that den of salsa brother/Sister-hood known as salsagang, and he's celebrating tonight at Glas Kat - should bring out a lot of dancers. Happy Birthday Rodney! It's also Sensual tonight, so that will definitely be nice.

Coming Soon??? Submit your news to baysalsa@yahoo.com!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Where did half the Year go? Oh, and Salsa Stuff too. DATE: Tuesday, July 05, 2005 ----- BODY:

Happy Post-July 4th! This year is absolutely screaming by. I can't believe - it's half over. How's everybody doing on those New Year Resolutions?

First up, let's talk job openings. We are currently looking for people to fill the following positions, all contract, Part-time positions, and are immediately available:

1) Website Design: HTML (nothing fancy) with an excellent design and SEO background. Copywriting skills are a plus. You need to know your stuff! This is clean, proper, simple web design. Hand coded HTML/CSS - Dreamweaver/Frontpage is great.

2) Marketing and PR: We are looking for a professional marketing and PR person to help with a variety of projects and events. If you are a contract PR person, or work (or know of a firm), please let us know!

3) Admin Assistant: On site work required/3 Days a week (San Francisco, Sunset/Richmond). 2 days at home. Must have laptop with high speed internet (or computer with high speed internet).

4) Hostesses: As the name suggests, hostesses for events throughout the Bay Area. Dance experience required. Picture required with resume.

5) Website SEO (firms or individuals): Everything from running website SEO, to a creating and managing a PPC Campaign from Scratch!

6) High Level internet Marketers: If you do it, you'll know who you are. Names like Cory, Kern, etc . . .should not be new to you.

7) Shipping and Handling Clerk: You'll be responsible for shipping and handling. $10/hr.

To apply, please send resume, AND cover letter, and picture (for jobs requiring it) to: baysalsa@yahoo.com.

We are also currently looking for office space in San Francisco (preferably SOMA or Richmond) - so anyone that can help locate something, we're interested.

Ok, so now that all the chores are out of the way, let's talk salsa! This is a big week. We've got Sonora Carruseles at Jillians on Friday Night, Advance tickets are available at, http://www.salsafrisco.com, and that'll be a great show. We've also got Victor Manuelle on Saturday night at the Gift Center Pavillion (www.ticketslatinos.com). In addition, a great Saturday salsa night continues at Monte Cristo, each and every Saturday in San Francisco, and we won't even start on Cafe Cocomo's grand unveiling of their brand new dance floor next week, with two bands and a free salsa night. Big things coming!

There's a lot more going on! But, first, have you been to Top of the Mark? Ya' gotta check it out. It's a dazzling Wednesday night location in San Francisco. Lessons at 8pm (Beginners). Band at 9. Thursday? We all know it's Cocomo. But, be aware of some hot more cuban venues around town, such as Elbo Room (a place where I used to go in High School -- shhh, don't tell anybody), El Rincon, and of course, the Summer crazyness of weekends at Jellys, El Rio, and the Ramp. Salsa is crazy in the city, so get out there and dance!

And, if you're looking for lessons, check, http://www.dancesf.com with now six new classes on the weekends. And our Salsa Dance DVD's.

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Salsa Dance Thoughts, Street Fairs, and A Great July! DATE: Monday, June 27, 2005 ----- BODY:

First, a meandering diatribe on the Fillmore Street Jazz Festival, which takes place next weekend. After seeing my friends over at SwingTalk/SwingDancers had a booth last year, I was intent on getting a booth this year. SalsaCrazy was going to be there in force - a perfect fit for a jazz festival which rarely includes much, if any, latin jazz (although they've had Pete in the past). Unfortunately, I was told that in order to be present we'd have to pay a sponsorship fee, versus a table fee - about a 6x difference. Well, after asking why, I wasn't really given an adequate answer, especially since the swing dancers just have a regular booth - "swing has more to do with the event". What? So Swing dancing has more to do with a jazz festival than salsa, or latin? Anti-salsa? Then it switched to "we weren't craftsmen or artisans" - which I really can't agree with either. Stange, I think a salsa booth would have been a total hit at the fair. Well, this really got me going - but the long and short of it is - we won't be there. There's always next year right? We will try again.

Now, we are still looking for people intersted in canvassing/flyering the fair. It pays $10 an hour, and work is from 11-5, on both days. You need to be presentable, charismatic, and of course, fun. You need to be able to smile for a few hours at a time, and you don't need to know how to salsa dance. If you, or anyone you know fits the bill, have them contact: baysalsa@yahoo.com.

Ok, now on to the busiess at hand! What to look forwad to next week and next month, in the world of salsa. First, one of my favorites, Avance, is at Glas Kat this week, followed by Top of the Mark on Wednesday (the classiest venue in SF, at least before Monte Cristo opened), Orq. Sensual at Cafe Cocomo on Thursday (love em - smooth groove music), and Ricardo Lemvo at Yoshis the coming weekend.

As mentioned before, the following week will bring Sonora Carruseles to Jillians, and Victor Manuelle to the Gift Center! Also, in Pena Adobe Park, a HUGE lineup of salsa bands, including Ray De La Paz, Johny Polanco, Verdad, Sensual, etc . . . coming on Saturday, July 16th, called the Festival de la Isla! Followed by Avance at Monte Cristo, and a brand new dance floor (too cool), unveiled during a customer appreciation night (FREE) at Cocomo!

But wait, is that all? Not by a longshot! Check out the upcoming August Palm Springs trip. Great event, with fantastic dancing, at a beautiful resort venue. http://www.salsacrazy.com/palmsprings_2005.htm.

And then, there's the biggest thing of all, our fantastic SalsaCrazy cruise to the Caribbean (again), but this time, out of Miami and Calle Ocho! This fantastic cruise in March of 2006 is already filling up. You need to get started on this thing now, reserve your space, and plan out your trip. There's a 1-866 # to call, and you can find all the information about the trip and the ports of call at, http://www.salsacrazy.com/travel/. Don't forget to tell them "SalsaCrazy referred you", for the best rates, and to save $100 per cabin. :)

But, hold everything, could there be more? Can there actually be any more happening? Of course there's more, but you'll have to wait for the next update to hear about it!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Post Miami Quick Salsa Update! DATE: Tuesday, June 21, 2005 ----- BODY:

Woohoo - made it back from Miami yesterday, and went to the Mambo Romero social at the Glas Kat, which was exceptionally good as always. Lot's of fun, and a good way to come back to SF.

Miami is a party town! I stayed in South Beach, at the super trendy Shore Club. What an amazing bar area (the Sky Bar) - and got to see a few celebrities too (Shaq). Do I recommend the hotel? No way. Great place, but just come to hang out! While I did get a great deal, it's nowhere near worth the prices. Check out Nobu sushi while you're there - it was amazing. The Delano, right down the street, also has a beautiful bar area. I also went to Mangos in South Beach for some "salsa". But, as already written about, there's NO salsa in South Beach. I finished the trip off at Bongos (Gloria Estafans club) - and it's very nice. Beautiful place - with indoor and outdoor dancing. Not much salsa - but still fun - and a HUGE crowd. Gets underway at around 11pm, but be early to avoid the long lines.

Sonora Carruseles is coming to town in July, quickly followed by Victor Manuelle! This will make for a very fun July. We'll have more information soon AND a ticket giveaway, for both shows! Also, expect another surprise in July from Cafe Cocomo (and that's all I'm saying about that - for now).

In addition, Agenda Lounge is celebrating it's seven year anniversary this week. Congratulations to this stellar Wednesday south bay hotspot. If you haven't been there yet, it's a great club - and kind of unique for the Bay Area.

The San Francisco Salsa Congress, now renamed the San Francisco Bay Area Salsa Congress, is moving too . . . Oakland?! I just read about this - while I'll reserve comment, I did notice that the online tickets are now for sale at, http://www.sfsalsacongress.com, and they are CHEAP! Yes, you hear me right - cheap. Three days of hotel, plus FULL Congress pass for $250. That's a great deal - and makes it affordable to stay at the hotel for all 3 nights. In addition, they have the worldwide Salsa Congresso favorites, El Canario and

DanceSF.com will have classes on seven days of the week, starting in July! Check out all the classes, and our new locations and teachers, at, http://www.DanceSF.com .

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Heading to Miami - What to do, what to do! DATE: Wednesday, June 15, 2005 ----- BODY:

So, it's time to experience the Miami Salsa scene. I'm already here, staying at a place called the Shore Club, and it's pretty nice. I haven't seen Gloria Estefan or Will Smith yet, but the night is young! Any ideas of where to go dancing, on which days? Specific hints of where to eat? Email me at: salsacrazy@hotmail.com .

Look for a Miami Salsa Review soon! :)

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: SalsaCrazy News, Trips, Salsa Dance, and Dance Mayhem DATE: Tuesday, May 31, 2005 ----- BODY:

And so, yet another West Coast Salsa Congress has come and gone! This one was great, and was a rollercoaster ride for many - we'll have reviews up soon. And wow - Yoshis with Jimmy Bosch was truly amazing (for those that stayed in SF). I mean - it's shows like that which truly remind me why I love dance so much. The music was excpetional, the dance was fantastic, and the location is just a great place to see a show.

This week, note, Glas Kat has DJ's - so it's a great night to go and dance. Cafe Cocomo, on Saturday, has Julio Bravo - a great night out. Also, DanceSF.com has new salsa dance classes are starting this Saturday, June 4th with Alison Hurwitz, and Sunday with Tianne Frias and Brian (and then there's Monday nights, with yours truly). New salsa dance classes on Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday - in San Francisco and the East Bay! These are complete new sessions - and all the info is online, at http://www.DanceSF.com.

Also, we have a special, on our entire DVD "Salsa Dance Mastery System", which is our five DVD's, that take your progressively through intermediate salsa dancing. You can access the special at,
http://www.salsadancedvd.com/mastery.htm. Remember, these DVD's are truly unique in that they truly take you progressively from never having danced a step, through to an intermediate level. There's no need to fear, and you WILL get it. All our DVD's are of exceptional quality, and feature fantastic dance music - by such international acts (and local talent) as: Benny Velarde y Supercombo, Anthony Blea y Charanga - and more!

But that's not all! We've got two EXCEPTIONAL dance trips and vacation planned. Wait until you hear about this. :) First, this Summer, Join us in Palm Springs, for our 4 day getaway at the Wyndham resort hotel. Workshops, dancing, classes, shows, and competitions await EVERY LEVEL of dancer, from beginning to intermediate! Sign up with SalsaCrazy, and get a discount for entry on this very fun trip. Get details here. http://www.salsacrazy.com/palmsprings_2005.htm

But what about the big trip? Yes, the BIG trip! How about seven days in the Caribbean, follwed by several days in Miami, at the biggest salsa dance festival in the world, Calle Ocho! Yes - it's happening. Our next big salsa dance cruise has been announced, and you're invited to sign up with SalsaCrazy for this fantastic adventure. Every year we take one big salsa cruise - and this is it. The adventure and vacation that you'll remember forever! Get more information and join us on the cruise of a lifetime, to the Caribbean, and to Calle Ocho. :)

Oh, and we're just getting started - rest assured! Don't forget, summer is here. The Ramp, El Rio, and Jelly's are all open and thriving with fantastic dancing, music, and sunshine.

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: This Week in Salsa - Jillians, Roccapulco, Cocomo and Yoshis! DATE: Tuesday, May 17, 2005 ----- BODY:

Ok, this Wednesday, Roccapulco is hosting the 5th Annual Salsa Dance Troupe Competition. It's bound to be a lot of fun, and there are a lot of troupes competing. Don't miss it! It's all this Wednesday, starting at 8:30 with a lesson by Ciro and Maryann.

This Friday, at Jillians in the Sony Metreon, they're celebrating their one year anniversary, with two live bands (Borinuen and Pepe)! Lots of dancing. This should be great - and an exciting event. In the South Bay, it's Hot Salsa Friday.

Saturday, Cafe Cocomo has Julio - that's the hot ticket, and definitely not something to miss. In the South Bay, don't forget about Club Mirage, newly opened, and a lot of fun (live band too).

Also, for those not attending the amazing West Coast Salsa Congress, never fear! It looks like Jimmy Bosch will be at Yoshis on Monday the 30th (crazy as that is). This should be fantastic, and the dance floor is open (with two shows, 8 and 10). Yes, the word is he will be here with the WHOLE band, so this is something that's pretty unique. To get to see this in such a fine, small venue - quite a treat. I wouldn't miss it.

Now, some other unique things in the city:

The Cigar Bar and Grill, at 850 Montgomery, has salsa on many nights of the week (Wed/Thursday/Frday - sometimes saturday). Check their schedule! Great drinks, great food, great music - but NO dance floor. You can still dance there though, and it's a very nice location (and no, you don't have to smoke). Usually it's only $5 or $8.

The Ramp has opened for Salsa on Saturdays, and El Rio is open for Salsa on Sundays (along with Jellys), so there are a lot of options for Weekend, mid-day, salsa! These locations are all a lot of fun!

There's a new musical/dance thing coming - called . . . The Mambo Kings. You'll be seeing posters all over town. Looks interesting eh?

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: SalsaCrazy's Salsa Clubs and Salsa Classes List DATE: Saturday, May 14, 2005 ----- BODY:

Did you know that SalsaCrazy keeps an up to date listing of all salsa clubs and all salsa classes throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.

We're always looking for updates! Do you know of a club that isn't listed?

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: On the Horizon, a Salsa Dance Vacation, and Deep Thoughts DATE: Wednesday, May 11, 2005 ----- BODY:

Let me start by giving away a true San Francisco secret! Most people who've grown up here already know where the best Margaritas can be found, but now, I'd like to invite the rest of you to: "Tommys", on 24th Avenue and Geary. Yes, the Richmond District. I know, it's incredibly bold to state such a thing, probably blasphemy to many, but it's true. These are the best Margaritas in town! Don't say I never gave you anything . . .

This week, I wouldn't miss Salsa Wednesday's at Top of the Mark (because they're awesome). Top of the Mark is located at the Top of Nob Hill, at the Top of the Mark Hopkins hotel. Salsa lessons at 8pm, Band at 9pm. Don't be late!

Also, on Saturday, at Cocomo, Borinquen should be plenty of fun! Of course, check out our complete calendar for all the events, all over the Bay Area - we leave nothing out!

Two Notable Events on the horizon: Jillians is celebrating their one year salsa anniversary on May 20th, and there's a Salsa Dance Troupe Competition at Roccapulco, on May 18th!

And finally, who doesn't need an amazing salsa dance vacation. I'm not talking about the West Coast Salsa Congress, although that's going to be a blast, happening at the end of this month. I'm talking about Palm Springs! There are two events in Palm Springs, so don't be confused. We're working with this one (Wyndham Resort!), and we're going to give you a special to come and JOIN US. This is going to be an amazing and fun trip, at the end of the Summer, but you'll be able to get your tickets, directly from us, shortly! I'll get more into this later, but I love these trips - and always have a great time, dancing til' dawn. They're great for beginners and advanced dancers alike!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: It just keeps getting crazier - Salsa Dance Party Options this Week! DATE: Wednesday, May 04, 2005 ----- BODY:

Ok, too much too cover, so let's get right to it:

Thursday: Free buffet at Cafe Cocomo starts at 5:00 pm, with a great happy hour for Cinco de Mayo. Julio Bravo is playing live on that night (this Thursday), with lessons with Jake and Techi at 8pm! What a fantastic celebration this is going to be . . .

but wait, that's not all!

Adrian presents: Ruby Skye (NOT only salsa, but hip hop and other tropical stuff as well), in a big 5/5/5 celebration. Salsa lessons with John and Liz, 9-10pm! Details Here.

Oh, and if that's not enough, Orq. Borinquen is playing at Jillians tonight (yes, a Thursday), and they open at 6pm with all sorts of treats!

Plus, a hearty congrats to my buddy Eugene, currently an inspiration for hard work and dedication (an amazing transformation indeed, losing over 40lbs), freakin' looks great - and his success is really awesome. It's his birthday, and he deserves a great one, - so let's by him a drink (JD/Diet Coke of course).

Enough chatter, let's talk about Friday - another great night! We're doing ROE, which for those of you who don't know, is an absolutely beautiful club across from the W Hotel in downtown SF. This is going to be our hip/swanky event, and features European House music, as well as a dedicated Salsa Room! Get details, and purchase tickets here!

But is that all - not by a longshot, Saturday bring Avance to Cafe Cocomo, and Julio Bravo to Club Mirage (a new club for all you South Bay and Peninsula folks - it's gotten some good review)! Wow - great lineup . . . but is that all?

Those of you alive by Sunday, and enjoy Timba and great music (be aware of the song length though), can see Jesus Diaz y QBA at Jellys, Pier 50. Wow! Had enough yet? Need even more?

Stay Tuned for:
The 5th Annual Salsa Dance Troupe Competition, May 18th, at Roccapulco!
Jillians 1 Year Anniversary, with Two Bands, on May 20th, Sony Metreon!
And of course, the one and only, West Coast Salsa Congress in LA!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: What A Weekend of Salsa Dancing Options! DATE: Friday, April 22, 2005 ----- BODY:

It's a hefty sized serving of salsa this weekend, with a lot of great events happening. I'll briefly talk about some of them, right here!

First, Tonight, Spanish Harlem Orchestra is doing two shows at the Russian Center in SF. Details are Here! That's a nice way to start off the weekend.

Tomorrow, Cafe Cocomo has Julio Bravo, and that promises to be a great night too! Also, on Sunday at Cafe Cocomo, Mambo Romero has a "social" which promises to be a lot of fun. It's called "Havana 1956", with live band Salsa Caliente (starts at 7pm, shows at 8:45).

If that's not enough, there's a new club in the South Bay too - called Mirage! Salsa One will be playing there this Saturday too, for all you South Bay folks. Lessons by Ricardo and Michelle at 8:30. Details 408-661-4024. Location: 4926 El Camino Real, in Los Altos.

Sunday - well, the myriad choices of Allegro, Jelly's (Julio Bravo), Cocomo (Mambo Romero), and Caribbean Gardens, should keep you all quite busy.

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: DanceSF.com - Learn to Salsa Dance. New Classes, New Teachers! DATE: Wednesday, April 13, 2005 ----- BODY:

Check out the new DanceSF.comwebsite, where we highlight our newest teachers, and newest classes. Now, we have classes on four nights of the week, at multiple locations! There's no better time to Learn to Salsa Dance around the San Francisco Bay Area, then right NOW - so take that first step, check out our brand new website, and come on out to Salsa Classes.

All of DanceSF's studio classes take place as a four week progressive series, that start on the first day of each month. You can pay for the entire series safely, and securely, online - and you are also welcome to drop in to any of our classes, at ANY time. We'd love to see you there.

Exceptions to the four week progressive class schedule include our Club Classes, which are all drop in only. Wednesday nights at Top of the Mark Hopkins Hotel (at the Top of Nob Hill), and Thursday nights at the Starlight Room (top of the Sir Francis Drake hotel, off of Union Square).

So visit the website, learn to salsa dance, visit the salsa clubs, and, of course, keep it crazy. http://www.DanceSF.com

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Reno Review, Salsa Highlights for this Week! DATE: Monday, April 11, 2005 ----- BODY:

Reno - what a show, what a show! In Reno, after seeing almost every salsa congress in the world, I finally saw a show in a real, high tech, well lit, huge (really huge), vegas style theater. All I can say is . . . wow. The theater itself almost stole the show. However, the performers were up to the task, and the show was really great. I was especially impressed by the West Coast Swing performers, who were incredibly clean, but our Bay Area stars, John and Liz held their own and did the salsa scene proud. Is this what Albert has planned for his Vegas Congress at the end of the year? It's simply amazing! The Reno Dance Sensation is still very much a "Swing" event, but has an enormous salsa potential (at this point, still unrealized). Next year, look for busses to whisk us safely and swiftly to Reno, and plan on it now - it's a fun event, and an amazing show. I lamented the fact that I did not know Swing, and couldn't dance with the large crowd of swingers. I'll tell you one thing, after Reno, I'm going to be getting into West Coast Swing quite a bit this year (along with continuing my Tango education). Oh, and did I mention Tap? And Pilates? Who the hell has time to write a blog anyway.

This week and next, we've got GREAT stuff going on! I mean, really great. But first, have you come to Top of the Mark Hopkins yet and seen it? It's every Wednesday night, with Benny Velarde playing live! 8pm for Beginning Salsa Dance Lessons, and 9pm for the band. I'd check it out - it's an amazing night.

This Friday, Johny Polanco visits Jillians at the Sony Metreon. Saturday, an event at Roccapulco for Jewish World Services (which is a volunteer groups that does worldly good deeds), http://www.ajws.org , and Cafe Cocomo has Avance. Next Week, the Spanish Harlem Orchestra brings it's Grammy winning New York Style mambo to San Francisco on April 22 for 2 dynamic shows. This event is a benefit for HIJOS DE LA MUSICA LATINA, an organization that provides free music instruction at-risk children who have a certified talent or gift for Latin music. Get your tickets here!

And yes, there's more! My friend and dance partner, Alise, and her merry crew of DanceEvents teachers, are throwing a benefit! They're great people, and excellent instructors, details below:

THE MAIN EVENT
Sunday April 24th, 1pm-5pm
Lake Merritt Dance Center
200 Grand Avenue, Oakland
$15 (student discount $10)

To reserve tickets, please call (415) 820-3979
1-2pm - Beginning Dance Lesson (Foxtrot and Salsa)
2-5pm - DJ Dance Party, Includes Lesson and Professional Dance Performances

There will be two beautiful and elegant rooms for your dancing entertainment. The Lounge Room with salsa and argentine tango and the Main Ballroom with Ballroom, Latin and Swing. Light hor d'eouvres and beverages served. We will also be having a massage therapist to get out the kinks and a painting corner for all you creative souls.

And you still want more? It's coming, rest assured!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Reno Dance Sensation and Cuba Caribe Festival! DATE: Wednesday, April 06, 2005 ----- BODY:

Some random salsa dance things you should know about:

First, this weekend is the Reno Dance Sensation, which higlights Salsa, Swing and West Coast social dancing, shows, perofrmances and competition! Details are at, http://www.renodancesensation.com.

Second, The First Annual Cuba Caribe Festival—four groundbreaking and provocative weeks of performance, workshops, discussions, and celebration—will feature the choreography of Ramón Ramos Alayo and Susana Arenas Pedroso, the dance of members of Ban Rarra, and many other Bay Area Cuban artists and dancers. The festival will promote the rich and diverse traditions of the Afro-Caribbean diaspora as reflected in music, dance, theater, social concerns, and religion.

It will highlight the many dance and music forms of Cuba from the sacred Orisha dances, to the more joyous salsa, to the groundbreaking mixture of African and Modern Dance, and popular forms such as mambo, son, and rumba. There will also be musical presentations of the Nueva Trova (new song) movement that pays homage to the revolutionary spirit of Cuban people and their strong sense of internationalism. Details at, http://www.dancemission.com

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: DanceSF Salsa Dance Classes Start Again in April! DATE: Sunday, March 27, 2005 ----- BODY:

As the Asia tour winds down, we're getting ready for our DanceSF classes to restart in April. On Monday April 4th, San Francisco classes will re-start, and on Tuesday, April 5th, Tuesday classes in Lake Merritt will begin. These are 4 week progressive series, beginners at 7pm, intermediates at 8:30. No Partner and No experience necessary!
DanceSF.com to register and get more info.

Wednesday's will bring salsa to Top of the Mark, and yes, Evan will be teaching! Class is at 8pm sharp, Top of the Mark Hopkins Hotel, at the top of Nob Hill, followed by a live band. $10.

Thursdays, we're at the Starlight Room - live band at 10pm, dance lessons at 8:30! Harry Denton's Starlight Room is located right off Union Square, at the top of teh Sir Francis drake.

Also, we've got a couple of new DVD's coming out - a 2 volument intermediate series. You can get more info at, SalsaDanceDVD.com.

Lots of fun stuff going on! More details later soon . . .

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Tokyo, Tokyo, Tokyo - Really Salsa Crazy! DATE: Wednesday, March 23, 2005 ----- BODY:

What's not to love about the Japanese New York City? The night life is insane, and there's the crazy nightlife, and then there's just that nightlife that's totally crazy. This place is Salsa Crazy - as in many salsa clubs, all within blocks of each other, happening every night of the week, and all of them doing well. It's a salsa-goers paradise (but you better be prepared to take up heavy drinking and smoking), but more on that later . . .Tokyo was the last city on this Asia tour, and I wish I had spent more time there! In short, Tokyo deserves it's own stay, rather than the week I spent.

If you're gonna do nightlife, best to stay in an area known as Roppongi, even though it could be a bit pricy (~$100 a night). I finally understand why people kept telling me how expensive Japan is - it's all about Tokyo! Tokyo IS pricey. Very comparable to NYC (in many ways), in that's it's a little more expensive than pretty much any other city I visited. My stay there literally cost about twice as much as anywhere else. You'll be eating out, drinking out, etc . . . All clubs usually cost between 1000-1500 yen including a drink ticket (10-15 USD), and are DJ only (although there is live music in Tokyo, I did not get a chance to see it). Some clubs are better on some nights, while others cater to a specific type of music or salsa (Timba or On2 for example), and all of them have some very fun dancers in them. Then there's the big clubs, like Velfarre once every 2 weeks (think of a Tokyo Ruby Skye), or Salsa Caribe (a place that is happening on EVERY night you go there). Most clubs are crazy small, which, at first, I thought would drive me crazy - but it actually works (somehow). People are fairly space conscious, except on weekends, where it's a battleground.

Seems like a fair amount more people stay out ALL night here. The clubs stay open past 12, into the whee hours, and strangely enough - many people don't leave! I came into one club at 4:00 am, it was doing quite well, and you actually had people passed out (sleeping), waiting for the trains to re-start. Now that's crazy. ;) There are also many great sites to see in Toyko, and we'll go over all of them, with travel tips, and day-by-day salsa guides, in our big travel update.

I can't believe this trip is already over! What a whirwhind. I'll be heading back to San Francisco in a flash. It barely feels as if I left. I ran into so many travellers who were taking half a year to travel, and sightsee - what a life eh? I'm certainly happy I got this opportunity to see this part of the world, and I'll be educating others as to the sights, sounds, salsa, and pitfalls with a lenghty review. In a future trip I'd like to visit Thailand and Beijing to round out my travels, but perhaps it's too early to be talking about the next trip. ;)

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Kyoto - Amazing Beauty, Culture and Salsa! DATE: Wednesday, March 23, 2005 ----- BODY:

Kyoto was a highlight of the trip! I wish I had been able to spend more time there, as the city is just unbelievably stunning. I opted for an English walking tour of the city with Johny Hillwalker - this fairly hysterical older Japanese guy who is a master at promoting himself. The tour is a lot of fun, and was completely packed with people. He takes you see some of the more famous sites and shrines, and down a few back alley streets, where you see Kimonos being made (and you can try them on), pottery, and even tatami mats. All in all, it's a pretty good way to get in touch with the city.

As opposed to Osaka, I was actually able to find my way around Kyoto! It actually had street names (don't laugh - many japanese cities do not), and it's a very kind place for the English speaker. Anyway, after the tour, a small group of us split off, got some food, and did his recommended after-walk. This is where it really got incredible! At night, the streets and shrines are lit by lantern, and you just wander the streets where there are beautiful flower arrangements, lakes of lit candles, and of course, many temples and shrines. Hands down the most beautiful place on the trip! Absolutely stunning night - wandering the streets of Kyoto (on a completely clear and crisp night), lit by lanterns, with plenty of open shops, and throngs of people. This was the week before the cherry blossoms were blooming - so don't ask. We did see some early blossoming going on.

Yes, I also went salsa dancing, although only on one of the nights I was there, to Cafe Rumbita. A really nice, small place, run by a very friendly husband and wife. Lots of people for the class, and a very friendly atmosphere, made this a really nice club. As with most clubs in Japan, outside of Tokyo, it ends early (by 12), mostly because the people leave to eat, or catch a train, versus the club actually shutting down. While the Kyoto salsa was fun, the highlight was the beauty and culture of the city, which is simply breathtaking! You can expect some pictures, and more details, in the full travel report.

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Osaka Salsa is Hot - Home Base in Japan! DATE: Monday, March 21, 2005 ----- BODY:

A shout out to Edwin and Fumiko, my salsa hosts in Osaka whom always kept me going to the right places! Some of you will remember them from the days of Sol Y Luna and Alex da Silva (and Gary & Isabel, Tu Pueblo, etc . . .). They live and teach (and DJ, and promote) in Japan, and they're stars over there. Check out their website at, http://www.salsala-salsa.com .

Osaka was my home base while visiting Japan, and from there I travelled to a variety of different small and large towns. I got a chance to dance in Osaka on almost every night of the week, and it was great! Monday night was especially good, in a small place called Toca Te (right in Umeda - a nighlife area in Osaka). Also very good was Edwin and Fumiko's Black and White party, where dancing happens all night long, with great music and a lot of space. I can't believe how much I danced there - it was SO exhausting (but a lot of fun)!

Shinsaibashi is where my friend Eri set me up to stay, and it was both affordable, and in the heart of the coolest of the Osaka neighborhoods! It had everything - shopping, nightlife, and filled with people. I got the chance to visit a Hip Hop club after salsa one night (at about 2am), and it was packed - with a live 2 woman rap show, and a four guy hip hop dance performance (that was pretty amazing). It's a great area for young people - and it just doesn't stop. Great place to plan on staying if visiting Osaka (Comfort Inn is a deal at less than $50 a night).

Every night there is salsa, except for Friday's (where special parties happen, but it's great to go to Nagoya), or Sundays. Salsa in Osaka is very much run by the train schedule! People have to leave by 12 midnight to catch the last train - and a good portion of people clear out by then on most week nights. Usually the mid-week clubs close at around that time. Rarely does a party go until 5am (the exception being Edwin/Fumikos Black and White). This is in contrast to say a city like Tokyo - which I'll detail later, but tends to run easily into the 5am range.

A shout out to Alex as well, salsa DJ and Promoter, who organizes some large events over there (like Spanish Harlem etc . . .), who was very nice and also a great DJ, as well as Angel, DJ at a Thursday event in Shinsaibashi which was a lot of fun (a lot of on2 dancers and music) and Miho and her boyfriend - who were just all around cool people to hang out with.

As the longer "review" will tell you, I was using a Japan Rail Pass, and it's a great deal, allowing you to travel near and far on the fast and very cool bullet trains. You'll want one if you're visiting Japan and want to see more than a couple of places!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Hiroshima, A City of Peace and Hope DATE: Friday, March 18, 2005 ----- BODY:

After all this dancing, and all this travelling, I arrived for the absoulte most gut wrenching portion of my adventure, to view the A Bomb memorial and museum in Hiroshima. Throughout this 3-4 hour ordeal, I ran the entire gamut of emotion, and afterwards, I was exhausted. The museum is excellent, and presents a very fair and balanced view of the war, Japan's history, and the history of Hiroshima itself. I learned an enormous amount! However, as a guy who sheds a tear or two at most Disney movies (come on now, who doesn't?), this memorial was an enormously moving and powerful experience. An entire city, completely destroyed in a second, with the effects of the blast felt for years and years. It's hard to shake it afterwards, and you feel enormously saddened, yet enriched, by the experience.

What you see in Hiroshima is a thriving city, born and rebuilt out of ashes, with some of the friendliest most down-to-earth people in all of Japan! The city itself is great, and the people even more so. Fun and very friendly. I can say, I did not see any other Americans here, strangely enough. Actually, I haven't really seen that many Americans anywhere in Japan (except briefly for Roppongi in Tokyo). Was it difficult being an American, and seeing this exhibit? Absolutely yes, for me, it was. Shame definitely rules the day. But my feelings of shame and guilt were really just my own manifestation - everyone here treated me very, very, well.

Hiroshima ia a must for anyone visiting Japan! Add it to your itinierary, and plan to spend a day. Did I salsa dance afterwards? Yes, emotionally exhausted, I still managed to drag myself out for a fun night of dance. Definitely add a night to your Hiroshima trip at El Barco, and Barco Latino, two clubs (one dancing, one bar), in the same building. Lots of fun salsa dancers, beginning lessons, and a really freindly and enthusiastic crowd.

It's part of human nature to forget, or outright close ourselves off, from painful experience. How many times a week do we think about nuclear weapons, war, or the atrocities that are committed around the globe. Hiroshima is so far away, and most of us were not alive when these events occurred, but they are so real, and so poignant, I hope everyone gets a chance to visit this city which conveys such a fantastic message of peace, hope, and unity.

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Hong Kong Salsa - A night out at the Clubs DATE: Wednesday, March 16, 2005 ----- BODY:

Hong Kong has a thriving salsa scene and has been the host of Congressos and Festivals for a few years now. I visited during the Hong Kong Salsa Festival, and it was quite busy. There are clubs on almost every night of the week, although Sunday and Monday seem to be a little harder to find something. On most nights, perhaps due to the Salsa Festival, salsa went until quite late, 4-5am or later, each morning.

I was absolutely dead-tired after Hong Kong, which I suppose, is a good thing! Lots of fantastic dancers, although I did dance a bit more with visitors from places like Beijing (super fun, and well represented), Shanghai, Korea (really, really good), Singapore (really, really good), and other Asian countries. Japan was noticeably almost completely absent (due to salsa politics I hear).

Anyway, Hong Kong was certainly a fun place, but the clubs are struggling with the capacity crowds! Dance space, and dance etiquette, was non-existent at most venues, with people crashing into one another at random. I got the feeling it was quite the norm, as no one seemed overly phased by it, but it did dampen some of the dances always having to protect your partner from a flailing (fill in the blank).

Hong Kong is bustling, huge city! I didnt even begin to scratch the surface of it. It would be nice to return for a few days, outside of the salsa festival, to visit the clubs on regular nights, and see what the scene is like. However, the salsa festival was great, totally packed, and quite exciting! As I said before, Alex and Chi, Bay Area performers, were totally fanastic, even if they keep on telling everyone how tired I looked. ;) Five in the morning, five nights in a row? Dancing, drinking, and eating that crazy food, doing heaven knows what, Im happy I survived.

Youll be able to read more in our upcoming in-depth Hong Kong Report. We will detail every club, and every instructor that we ran across, and let you know the ins and outs for your next visit. A special shout out to Sebastien (http://www.salsaseb.com), whom hosted me over there, pointed me in the right direction, and where I danced with his excellent and connected dance team members!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Singapore Salsa, Hot Nights in Singapore! DATE: Wednesday, March 16, 2005 ----- BODY:

Salsa in Singapore is alive and well (im certain everyone was worried). Singapore Salsa thrives around one major nightclub called Union Square, where they have salsa every single night. Not hard to imagine where I was . . . every single night! ;) Singapore, which will be part of the upcoming "SalsaCrazy Asia", has some of the finest, and nicest, salsa dancers Ive yet to visit.

Singapore has a very tropical climate, and as opposed to everywhere else I visited, it was HOT. I mean, out at 4am, eating curry, take off your shirt because I cant seem to cool off from dancing, kinda hot. During the day, when there might be brief spurts of rain, it cooled down, and the city is great to walk in. At night, it pretty stays the same temp. It can get VERY hot!

But lets talk food for a second. I had some really great meals, from Dim Sum (thanks to Jean from Two Left Feet, more on her later, http://www.two-leftfeet.com), to an enormous chili crab on the banks of the river (courtesy of Singapore Airlines), the food was non-stop, and excellent! I mean - I barely stopped eating the entire time I was there - and even though I danced a lot, I dont think I made up for the eating overload.

Early on, I was lucky enough to meet Jean and Wendy from Two Left Feet Dance Studios, and they were great. Apart from being fantastic dancers, they are super nice people - and all of their students were great fun. Check out their website, and if you visit Singapore, this should be your first stop (http://www.two-leftfeet.com)! Also, a shout out to Dixon and Panda, whom were also super friendly, and showed me the 3am Indian food circuit. ;)

Look for one of our very own San Francisco on2 teachers to visit Singapore, perhaps soon, for a series of workshops and performances!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Singapore Airlines, unbelievable! DATE: Sunday, March 06, 2005 ----- BODY:

Ok, it's going to be hard to ever fly another airline after flying Singapore. After suffering through a 16 hour flight on United, in the most crowded seat imaginable, barely able to ask a question or raise even an ounce of notice from a stewardess, I tried out Singapore, and WOW. There's no need to travel anyone else!

Big seats, more leg room, videos and multiple movies built into every chair, excellent stewardesses who are actually nice, pleasant and extremely efficient, that actually SERVE you (isn't that amazing) - and they're all super-models. I don't know if I could ask for any more out of my airline!

I'm going to be doing a fair amount of travelling, and Singapore Airlines tops the list so far!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: A Report from the Hong Kong Salsa Festival DATE: Sunday, February 27, 2005 ----- BODY:

Last night were the shows at the HK Salsa Festival with heavyweights Saeon Stylist and Santo Rico (who both were amazingly stellar), our very own Alex and Chi absolutely rocked the house! I mean - they really nailed it. Alex was completely
pumped, and Chi was flying. They performed twice, and closed the show, to a standing ovation that went on forever - and I do mean forever (the crowd wouldn't stop until they came out for another bow). They did a fantastic job, and they had the crowd absolutely wild. They actually had everyone screaming for an encore. It was awesome - they're super stars. ;) Major props and congratulations - they're definitely representing!

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Random Thoughts on Salsa in SF! DATE: Tuesday, February 22, 2005 ----- BODY:

A few thoughts that definitely need to be passed along to the public-at-large!

Cafe Cocomo on a Saturday is simply hard to beat. I haven't been making it on Saturday's as much as I used to, but this club is simply rockin' these days. Some fantastic improvements have freed up a lot of the dance floor, and I danced the entire night without being bumped. In fact, for the last couple of Saturdays I've visited, I've had plenty of room to dance, both times. That's not to say there isn't a crowd, because there certainly is - but it feels more roomy, and It's been great. The classes, at 8pm, on both Thursdays and Saturday, continue to be a great place for beginners and intermediates to pick up some fun new moves. I have to say, I've had a blast at Cocomo's in the last few weeks, so don't miss it!

Jelly's at Pier 50 remiains my choice for the absolute best sound, and most "dance-with-the-band" experience! When I'm there, I'm simply moved by the music. It's great. That place, dancing in an incredibly small space, right in front of the band - you just feel "it". It sounded incredible (hats off to Andrew as well - the sound guy) for the double-header with Mazacote and Anthony Blea y su Charanga! Both of these top notch bands were in top form this last Sunday. An absolutely stellar concert and dance! No lesson, small floor, absolutely incredible feel. Don't miss Anthony's fundraiser (the band's going to NYC!) at Jelly's on March 4th, 9-1. Should be absolutely stellar.

Allegro Ballroom, which I attendeded afterwards, continues it's reign of Bay Area Salsa. The largest non-club venue in California (although Enio's place in So. Cal. might be larger now?), this place regularly draws in hundreds upon hundreds of dancers each and every Sunday night, and this past Sunday was no exception. In fact, it was so packed, there was a line out the door, and people were waiting for more than an hour just to get in! That's just incredible. The dancing was fantastic as usual, and hats off to DJ Antonio for some excellent music all night long.

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: We've Got Big Things! DATE: Friday, February 18, 2005 ----- BODY:

We've got Oscar De Leon at Roccapulcos (http://www.roccapulco.com), visiting on the 11th of March! TICKETS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS ARE AVAILABLE AT DISCOLANDIA - 415.826.9446, JULIO RECORD'S - 415.648.1054, and MUSICA LATINA - 415.647.2098. Don't miss it, should be a great show.

Also, it's Competition Madness time with 3 Competitions going on a Down Low Lounge, Dance Spectrum and the newest one announced at Roccapulco. See individual website for details, and to get your competitive spririt going.

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: Valentines Party - Recap! DATE: Sunday, February 13, 2005 ----- BODY:

Wow - that was a really great party! The Canvas Gallery was hoppin' last night, with hundreds upon hundreds of people for class, and dancing for the entire night. It just kept getting better and better, all night long. I had a great time - and from the look of it, so did everyone else. That's the last party for a couple of months at Canvas, but look for us back there in April. That was a lot of fun!

I'll be heading to the Hong Kong Salsa Festival in about a week, and from there, through some Asian hotspots (Singapore, Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Shanghai, and perhaps Bangkok). All events will continue as normal in my absence. If you know anyone in any of these area, or have any advice from hotels to hotspots, feel free td drop me a line, baysalsa@yahoo.com .

This week, we have two notable events happening. First, Monday (Valentines), Cafe Cocomo has Julio Bravo. Second, on Tuesday, Glas Kat has a Tsunami Benefit with Bakan and dance performances. After that, don't miss Top of the Mark on Wednesday, with Benny Velarde.

Are you reading this? Did you know that you can leave a comment on any post! Share your opinion and let yourself be heard. Add your voice.

-------- AUTHOR: SalsaCrazy TITLE: SalsaCrazy's Valentine's Canvas Salsa Dance Party, This Saturday, Feb. 12th! DATE: Sunday, February 06, 2005 ----- BODY:

Here it comes - We're back at the Canvas Gallery (1200 9th Avenue, SF). This Saturday, Feb. 12th, for another fantastic Canvas Salsa Dance Event! Come alone, come with friends, everyone will have a great time.

The Beginning Salsa Dance Lesson is perfect for everyone - no partner and no experience necessary. There's no better way to spend valentines day. 8pm sharp for the lessons.

After that, dancing all night, to the best salsa music! The finest salsa dancing in all of San Francisco. $10 online (or with a student ID), $15 At the Door. Don't miss it! Plan on it - and invite your friends. http://www.canvasparty.com

We'll see ya' there!
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SPECIAL: 10 chances to win a pair of free tickets for reader's of the Blog! Just invite 5 of your friends to the party (via email), and cc' us at "baysalsa@yahoo.com". Don't forget to point them to, http://www.canvasparty.com. It's easy to win - so let your friends know. Winners notified by email.

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