Cool Catz

Cool Catz - Boot Camp

2008-09-12T13:16:31Z

All,

as you may have already heard, it is with no small amount that I have to confirm that we have had to CANCEL the Boot Camp.

I firmly believe that the concept is sound, but competitive action by a number of local operators after our announcement made the project too risky.

Post Southport, I'll be contacting you all again to clarify the situation. The one remaining ray of sunshine is the Post-Xmas Charity Freestyle on Sat 27th December. It will be at a top Cheshire venue..... to be announced once we make sure the contract is signed ;-)

Reagrds

Gus

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Cool Catz - June Update

2008-06-08T09:52:31Z

Gus Teaching at Stockport

After nearly 18 months in �retirement� from teaching, I�m back on the regular teaching circuit again, based at Stockport Town Hall on Wednesdays. My current rota is:

Weds 18^th June

Weds 23rd July

Weds 30^th July

The idea is to introduce a focus on basic technique and style, making sure there is something in the lessons for dancers of all levels.

MJ Boot Camp � 25/26^th October - Wilmslow

Quick Headlines. Cool Catz is proud to announce we are launching its new workshop format in October. It�s a new concept, a series of technical workshops aimed primarily at the Intermediate and Advanced dancer groups. To make this happen we are using only the best, trained instructors.

The headline instructors are non other than Simon & Nicole (http://www.simonandnicole.com/). They are regarded as one of the best competition AND teaching couples in the UK and recently wowed the crowds at Southport.

The Boot Camp will feature 16 one and two-hour workshops, including 5 hours by Simon and Nicole. If you only do one workshop event this year, make sure it�s this one. We GUARANTEE this is the best learning opportunity you will have in the North this year.

Charity Freestyle

I know its very early BUT�. at work the nominated Charity is Christie's, the charity which raises funds for the Christie Hospital - one of the leading cancer treatment centres in Europe. Through my involvement in this I�m hosting a charity freestyle between Xmas and New Year (27^th December) at a great Cheshire venue. I�ll be releasing details nearer the time but please keep this date free. Aside from the cost of the hall, ALL proceeds will go to the charity as all crew on the night will be donating their time for free.

Resources

Once we re-launch the CoolCatz website (planned for end July) we will have a page dedicated to MJ resources you may find useful. In the meantime here are four websites that can be extremely useful:

www.UK-Jive.com Possibly the best guide to what is going on

www.ModernJive.com MJ resource website with great maps for venue locations

www.CerocScotland.com/forum The UK�s top MJ Forum

http://www.lyndaslist.com Lynda�s detailed list of what�s happening down South (the original list service)

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Cool Cayz - Apology.

2008-04-06T21:06:02Z

Its not often I find myself having to apologise for doing someone a favour, but in the light of recent comments I find it necessary to do so.

In my last newsletter I included a note on dancing over the weekend. I listed a few local events, but omitted the Revolution Jive freestyle at Northwich. This has attracted some negative comments, both in discussion at local clubs and rather more directly through emails. One email in particular said the following

Poor Show! What all dancers want is to encourage others and share and spread the joy that dancing can bring to many. We just want clear information and would love to see every one working together to '' spread the word '

AS YOU KNOW THERE IS A GREAT FREESTYLE ON AT NORTHWICH TONIGHT NOT JUST SANDBACH, MOLD AND DERBY

I have had respect for you since Nantwich days and in many ways owe you many thanks for bringing Victor, and Nigle and Nina but I have un-subscribe from your mailing list with immediate effect. I want straight honest unbiased information which is readily available from other sources and people�

I hope you appreciate that I need to explain why Northwich was omitted and hopefully counter any misinterpretation as to reasons.

First of all, let me say that there was no malice nor dark agenda. Cool Catz is committed to promoting dance development and, though I�m currently focusing on the dance job, will become active again in the latter part of the year. HOWEVER, the dance business IS a business. People don�t promote competitors � in fact most organisations don�t advertise anyone else! Cool Catz is unusual in that it does actually promote other dance organisations in its emails. I mainly promote Blitz Chester and LB Jive (Northwich) as the operators are personal friends of mine and I believe that Neil Franks (who both organisations use) is one of the finest DJs in the North.

If truth be told, the Cool Catz email has never been targeted as �the total dance picture�. I�ve always promoted UK-Jive.co.uk and ModernJive.com as the only two sources of impartial information for the N West scene. If you want to know what going on for weekender events UK-Jive is essential and ModernJive has a great map function to show you local clubs.

To make matters a bit more complex last week, Cool Catz has entered into a number of reciprocal advertising deals to ensure that our events get maximum exposure when they are launched. The flip side of these arrangements is that we can�t advertise competing events. Revolution Jive�s event was in competition with the Sandbach event so could not be listed. In addition Revolution Jive is now operating from what was LB Jive�s sole-use venue �. so that is obviously a cause of some difficulties

So, I hope people now better understand why Knutsford wasn�t advertised. If anyone has is keen for further clarification about this or any other issue, please feel free to email me at info@coolcatz.co.uk

Regards

Gus

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Cool Catz - Late March Notice

2008-03-28T08:14:32Z

Late notice CoolCatz Newsletter

Gus Teaching

I�ve now got a couple of confirmed teaching dates

Monday 28^th April � Blitz Chester

Monday 23^rd June � Blitz Chester

Hoping to confirm more in the coming months.

Dancing this weekend

First of all, we need to clear up some confusion.� There is NO LBJ NORTHWICH freestyle THIS weekend.� LBJ are at Northwich NEXT Saturday, 5^th April.

THIS Saturday there are freestyles at:

Sandbach Town Hall � Hot Roc
Mold � Strictly Modern Jive
Derby � Jive Addiction.

Hope to see you at one of them.

All the Best

Gus

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Cool Catz - Late March Newsletter

2008-03-23T15:50:13Z

Quick update as to whats going on

Gus Teaching

Well actually, from Cool Catz’s point of view, not too much. Gus’s return to teaching seems to have gone ok and dates are being sorted for Gus to return to teaching at Blitz Chester.

Forthcoming Workshops

The main activity at the moment is sorting out a major workshop weekender for later on in the year. Gus is in talks with some of the top UK instructors over a new concept in workshops and by the end of April hopes to have got provisional commitment to the 2008 and 2009 events. We hope to confirm details for the 2008 event in early May.

Not a MJ event as such, but it looks like there will be a major WCS event taking place in early August in the region. Organised by a major line dancing federation, the event is also likely to involve some MJ interest. We are expecting details over the coming weeks. As soon as we have them we will pass them on.

Few Notes on behalf of Friends of Cool Catz

This Monday

Chester is open as usual on Bank Holiday Monday (24th March). Beginners class starts at 7.30. Also they are running a Beginners workshop Sunday 27th April at 1pm – 5:30pm. Paula will be instructing. For more info call Steve on 07812 768033

LB Jive Freestyle - Northwich

Saturday 5th April Freestyle with LB Jive

Lou and Beth would like to welcome you to their next fabulous freestyle at Northwich Memorial Hall. The March event was a huge success with over 110 people attending. This April, Neil Franks will be back on the decks playing a unique mix of tracks for you to enjoy.

As usual, you can expect:-

· A friendly welcome from Louise and Beth

· A huge sprung dancefloor and large chill out area

· DJ Neil Franks – a firm favourite and very popular

· Fully licensed bar

· Plenty of free parking just behind the venue

Dancing starts at 8pm through until midnight and is £8 on the door – no ticket required.

For enquiries call 07842 135927 or email lbjive@hotmail.com

Lou and Beth look forward to seeing you there for a great evening of dancing.

See you soon,

Gus

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Cool Catz - Late Feb News

2008-02-28T09:24:26Z

Gus back Teaching :)

Well, it’s been nearly a year and a half, but I’m back teaching. Things have been a bit fragmented after recovering from a minor operation and taking on a new job, but I’ve now got confirmed dates for my first two lessons.

Weds 5th March - Latin Leroc Knutsford
Mon 10th March - Blitz Chester Chester

Other dates will be confirmed after seeing how these opening lessons go.

Gus DJing

Funny …. Not really had a lot to do on the local scene aside from the occasional gig at the Stockport freestyles, BUT I was recently guest DJ at the wonderful Red, Hot & Blue event at Edinburgh. This is Dance Demon’s baby, better known as one of the finest Southport DJs and King of the Blues Room. RH&B is focused on Blues and WCS …. So having a set there gave me chance to play music that I don’t normally get chance to. It went very well, I’ve been asked back, and had a great time with the ever friendly Scottish dancers.

I think this monthly event is probably the BEST dance event I’ve been to, possibly even better than the Southport Blues room. If you want some of the finest music and dancers, make an excuse to go. You won’t be disappointed.

CoolCatz Workshops

We’re not offering any workshops just at the moment but are open to teach for other operators. However, we are in talks with a number of parties to run something REALLY special later on in the year. We’re planning to have it all tied down by the end of May but we will keep you posted as soon as we have contracts signed.

Gus on Tour

I’ve been invited back to NZ again later in the year. This time in addition to teaching workshops, I’ve been invited to judge a National dance competition. Should be a great experience. Even better, I get to catch up with Paul Tavanasau and his partner. They are one of the premier MJ dance couples in the World and I'm looking forward to having some private coaching with them and learning loads of NZ moves to bring back.

Blackpool Champs

As usual, there are a number of local dancers competing at the Blackpool Champs (15th March). We wish you all the best. The main thing is to have FUN … but if we pick up a few trophies all the better. One of the key things is practice in the weeks remaining so make the most of your weekends. One good place to try would be the Northwich freestyle (see below). A huge dance floor and good music .... a perfect practice place.

Anyway, now I’m feeling nearly 100%, I’m hoping to get back on the dance scene and see you around on the dance circuit soon. If you know anyone who is interested in the type of thing that Cool Catz is looking to offer, please pass the word.

On behalf of our Friends at LB Jive (This is not a Cool Catz event)

Freestyle THIS Saturday (1st March) at NORTHWICH

Lou and Beth would like to welcome you to their next fabulous freestyle at Northwich Memorial Hall. The January event was a huge success and they would like to thank all of you who attended for your support.

As usual, you can expect:-
• A friendly welcome from Louise and Beth
• A huge sprung dancefloor and large chill out area
• DJ Daniel Whittaker providing a fantastic variety of tunes
• Fully licensed bar
• Plenty of free parking just behind the venue

Dancing starts at 8pm through until midnight and is £8 on the door – no ticket required.

For enquiries call 07842 135927 or email lbjive@hotmail.com

Lou and Beth look forward to seeing you there for a great evening of dancing.

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Cool Catz Message

2008-01-28T13:49:52Z

Quick update as to whats going on

Gus back teaching

Now things are more settled I’m going to start teaching again. As well as lessons being fun, I’m a firm believer that technique is more important than moves. I’ve been talking to a number of other teachers as to how best to achieve this and am looking forward to the opportunity to put this into practice.

I’m still in the process of confirming dates with a number of operators but the one confirmed date at this point is with Tony’s Latin LeRoc club at Knutsford on Wednesday 5th March (see more below). It would be great to see you all there 

Chester Freestyle

Unique in the North, Chester freestyles have such a good reputation that they ALWAYS sell out. The next Chester freestyle is on Saturday 8th March. To make sure you get to be part of the fun, contact Steve on 07812 768033.

LB Jive Freestyle - Northwich

LB’s first freestyle was a huge success, and their next event is on Saturday 1st March. Join Louise and Beth at Northwich Memorial Hall. Details on 07842 135927.

New Club opening at Knutsford Civic Centre

Tony & Sara are opening e new Wednesday night at Knutsford Civic Centre. Tony has booked a range of teachers, including your very own Gus. The opening night is THIS WEDNESDAY. Further details at www.hotlatinjive.co.uk or call Tony on: 01606 334698

See you soon,

Gus

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Cool Catz Notice

2008-01-10T22:08:43Z

First of all the boring bit ;)
After a number of approaches I hope to be teaching again from sometime in February. Commitments to the day job and a minor operation mean that it will be a few months before I work exactly what commitment I can make to teaching, but in the short term I’ll be working for a number of organisations, probably teaching around once a fortnight. I hope to be able to confirm bookings in my next email.

Secondly, in response to requests from a number of friends from the dance scene, I’ll be passing on details in my next newsletter of dance events, especially for Blues and WCS, that I would recommend. This will include details of the ‘Swinging The Blues’ event and Cat’s WCS workshops and lessons in London.

Thirdly, and most immediately, I’d like to publicise a very worthwhile event happening THIS FRIDAY (11th Jan). A fund raiser for Cancer Research.
The venue is Nantwich Civic Hall, the event running from 7.30 to 12.30. Tickets are £7.00. There is a licensed bar, Freestyle dancing, Cabaret Performance, Fun icebreaker lesson, Slave Auction, Team Quiz, jackpot Bingo, games areas and Grand Prize Raffle.
For tickets or more information contact Jayne on 07718094230

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On behalf of LB Jive - Northwich THIS SATURDAY

2008-01-03T19:29:41Z

Hi Guys,

not a lot on at the moment ......... EXCEPT!!! (on behalf of LB Jive)

Grand Opening - Freestyle Party Night

Lou and Beth will be hosting the grand opening of their first ever modern jive freestyle party night at the North West's premier dance venue, Northwich Memorial Hall on Saturday the 5th of January 2008.

The party will begin at 8pm with a friendly welcome to all dancers old and new. DJ Neil Franks will be on the decks playing all your favourite tunes new and old.

Dancers will be thrilled with the huge sprung dance floor, chill out area and fully licensed bar. £8 on the door. Lou & Beth hope to see you all there.

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Cool Catz Mail - on behalf of LB Jive

2007-12-16T09:26:12Z

OK Guys, Gus here.

As you all should now know, I've handed over the freestyles at Northwich to Lou and Beth. As part of this I've agreed to help promote them advertise their events as they develop their own mailing list.

I hope to be teaching in the New Year post Feb and will send you a note to let you know nearer the time. In the mean time the notice below is on behalf of LB Jive. Please support them as they continue to bring you the very best freestyle events at Northwich.

Post Christmas Freestyle with LB Jive – Saturday 5th January

LB Jive would like to welcome you to their first freestyle at Northwich Memorial Hall. Let this be the start of your New Year’s resolution and get those dancing shoes back on.

You can expect
• A friendly welcome from Louise and Beth
• A huge sprung dancefloor and large chill out area
• DJ Neil providing a fantastic variety of tunes
• Fully licensed bar
• Plenty of free parking just behind the venue

Dancing starts at 8pm through until midnight and is £8 on the door – no ticket required.

For enquiries call 07842 135927 or email lbjive@hotmail.com

We both look forward to seeing you there for a great evening of dancing.

Lou and Beth 

Note from one of our Friends

Special Christmas Eve Party Night - Sandbach Town Hall
Starts At 8.00 featuring a festive fun class at 8.15 (NOT TO BE MISSED) Dancing till 10.45 - Late Bar
Door Price £7.00

NEW YEARS EVE BALL - Sandbach Town Hall
Starts At 8.00 featuring a fabulous fun class at 8.30
Cabaret later on in the evening
Dancing till 12.45 with a late Bar
Dress to impress
Tickets £12.50 including a glass of bucks fizz or £15.00 on the night

For further details contact telephone Eunice on 01606 334 698 or e-mail on enquiries@hotrocjive.co.uk

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Cool Catz - LATE NOTE

2007-11-30T23:13:14Z

Guys,

really sorry but forgot two key things about this Saturday's Xmas Ball at Northwich:

1) Shoe Sale

Dave Martin will be there with his shoe shop! Don't forget to bring money and/or credit cards to take advantage of his vast selection :)

2) Change

If you book in advance ... ITS ONLY £10! If you pay on the door please have the correct money (£12) .... PLEASE!

OK ... See you Saturday.

Gus

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