Thank You to....
What I'm trying to show via my site, Fan Page, etc., is that there's more to Casino Dancing than "just" Casino Dancing. As such, I've had many influences from within and outside the Salsa Cubana Scene. I'd like to thank the following people who have influenced me the most in all facets of my life:
John Abiol, my uncle: For displaying the value of showing strength by staying calm and staying relaxed. Admittedly, it's something I haven't practiced frequently for a while. I am trying my best.
Dianna Abiol, my aunt: For showing me that I shouldn't take b.s. from anyone. May she rest in peace.
Dianna Abiol, my aunt: For showing me that I shouldn't take b.s. from anyone. May she rest in peace.
Louis Reynaud, current special assistant Men's Basketball coach for the University of California at Santa Barbara: For giving me the stern wake-up call when I really needed it, and showing me the value of hard work and tireless dedication.
Out of all the people I've ever met in my life, he's the one I owe the most to.
Jill Henderson: For letting me know that I'm "more valuable than [I think I am]."
Out of all the people I've ever met in my life, he's the one I owe the most to.
Jill Henderson: For letting me know that I'm "more valuable than [I think I am]."
Duane Wrenn: For showing me concepts I had never been shown before, and for sound advice on becoming an Instructor.
Mike Eskeldson: For displaying the value of showmanship and charisma while instructing and performing (another thing I'm still working on), and for gently pushing me into teaching more in late 2011.
I owe you a ton of lunches, Mike.
Mike Eskeldson: For displaying the value of showmanship and charisma while instructing and performing (another thing I'm still working on), and for gently pushing me into teaching more in late 2011.
I owe you a ton of lunches, Mike.
Rumbanana Salsa Group: For planting the "Why don't you just move to Oregon" thought in my head in October 2010, and for your full support on my move to Portland in April 2012.
Allison Lee: For being the voice of reason and professionalism, and for keeping me grounded. I may not listen all the time, but I'm glad to know that voice is there!
Royland Lobato: For showing me how high-quality Guaguancó should be done.
Allison Lee: For being the voice of reason and professionalism, and for keeping me grounded. I may not listen all the time, but I'm glad to know that voice is there!
Royland Lobato: For showing me how high-quality Guaguancó should be done.
Richenda Hawkins and Alana Dobner: For listening, being a confidant, and letting me crash in your spare room/couch whenever I really needed it.
Oh, and for all the trail mix and chocolate almond milk.
Anejo Productions and DJ Antonio: For providing the countless venues and quality Timba for me and other San Francisco Casineros to perfect their craft.
Oh, and for all the trail mix and chocolate almond milk.
Anejo Productions and DJ Antonio: For providing the countless venues and quality Timba for me and other San Francisco Casineros to perfect their craft.
and lastly, to salsanick: for my first steps, and more importantly, for teaching me invaluable lessons about great leadership and class.