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Music- "Take You Out" - Luther Vandross
Sandy Brown
says "I feel invisible when I dance, it is good for the
soul!" -
Mission Statement:
To
provide our customers with professionalism through dance
and pleasure while instructing and performing at our utmost
effort to enhance an atmosphere that is meaningful,
favorable and enjoyable at all events.
My Family
Christmas 2009
May 6, 2010
SANDY'S BLOG - "I feel much better now. I am still on
cloud 9 about my 9th swingout graduation. It was great
and if you missed it, you missed the party of the year.
Congratulations goes the new Jazzee Jewels: Dena Adams,
Deborah Burge, Thomasina Carter, Pamela Fleming, Janet
Ford, Tanisha Harper, Deborah Sadler, Wanda R. Murray,
April Norwood (beginner), Alicia Payne, Patricia Smith,
Yvette Vasquez, the first class of Jazzee Jewelettes:
Prisci Gbodi, Vernicia Tipton and Rayvan Williams, the
new Jazzee Jems: Herman Burge, Chaz Evans (beginner) and
Bryan McNeal (Wichita, KS), the OKC Real Men of Swing:
Derek Dugar, Alexis Heatrice, Clarence Hedge, James
Keel, Keith Laskey, Eugene Reaves, Rodney Simpson, Jeff
Stevenson, and Lowell Williams, my staff, Evelyn,
Jocelyn, Myra and Stephanie for their help. Jazzee
Jewels, Willa, Lorinda, Judi, Angela, Cynthia, Felecia,
Tina, my honorary graduates Ms. Betty Robinson, Lanora
Proctor and Brendalyn Smiley for helping with the
decorations and food, DJ Poo Bear that rocked the house,
the fabulous showcasers: Jeremy, Jillian, Dominque and
Lauren champion dancers from Dallas, "X" the eXception
of Swing and Kenya from Austin, special guest and
friends Line Dance Queen Cheryl Williams and Larry
Duncan from Houston, DFW SwingDance Brigitta and Starr,
Legend Tracy Maloney, Dazzling Starzz Sherri Thompson,
Will, Gentry, Lenny, Mark, Ray, Derrick, Shelley,
Lynn, and all the rest of my out of town guest that were
present, my former Jazzee Jewels & Jems graduates, TKO,
OKC and Tulsa Swing Teams, my family Cassandra, Sly,
Dustin, Denae, Jordan and Lailah, my cousin, Regina. I
am sure I left some out but my head it not thinking
clearly right now. I just want everyone to know that if
it had not been for the Lord, this would not have
happened. Trust me!!!!
APRIL 22, 2010
JEWEL’S ADVICE
-"Sometimes you could find yourself so structured,
paralyzed and operating on automatic pilot, that you
realize you're not living. Or you can find yourself
fantasizing wishing you were somewhere else or dwelling
too much about past pain. Been there --- done that ---
had to tell myself, "Snap out of it and COME BACK." The
present moment is filled with joy and happiness. Wish
for yourself and everyone around you happiness and
health, chose to be alive in this moment. Take a deep
breath. Talk to yourself in a confident, reassuring and
positive way. It's necessary to work with all the messy
and delightful parts of yourself. It takes courage and
faith to not run away from yourself. Place your feet
firmly in this present moment and yet still have hope,
dreams, goals and a plan for the future you desire.
Whether you are suffering from past choices or
circumstances out of your control, know that you can
make it through this. Learn to motivate yourself. Have
the courage to live, learn, laugh and let go of any
thought, habit or person that is harmful to your well
being. The thoughts you think, the words you speak, the
prayers you pray and the actions you take have power to
create. They shape your world and create your destiny.
Mind the gap between reality and illusion --- between
faith and fear --- between action and procrastination
--- between adventure and stagnation --- between hate
and love --- between anger and peace --- between
forgiveness and bitterness --- between despair and hope
--- and the gap between you and your next opportunity to
grow."
SANDY’S BLOG
– “I was devastated when I heard the news about the
death of the beautiful 24 year old Ashlee Madison that
was killed early Saturday morning as a drunk driver was
going the wrong way on a major highway and crashed into
the car Ashlee was riding in. I was in Dallas lying in
bed early Saturday morning when I heard the news and
cried for a long time and started calling my relatives.
Ashlee was my cousin, Jemar’s, girlfriend and they
ignited as musicians and as a couple. Ashlee was lead
singer in my cousin’s band, TAJJ and serenaded me at my
last birthday party! I often said she could have been
my daughter because she is so free spirited and never
met a stranger. Dear Lord, please hear my plea and put
your arms around Jemar, Blith and Ashlee’s entire
family. In Jesus’ precious name I pray, Amen. R.I.P.
Ashlee, R.I.P.
April 8,
2010
JEWEL’S ADVICE – “You know that issue you're struggling
with? There is a solution. It may require you to do
something different and out of your comfort zone. You
may need to ask for assistance, delegate, brainstorm and
collaborate with others. Or this time, you may have to
go it alone. Your solution may be revealed to you only
in part or you may have to make a sudden change. You may
not understand how your steps are being ordered or you
lack confidence. Anger, denial and depression only add
to your problem. Whatever issue you're dealing with ---
know that your behind will follow your mind. If your
train of thought is negative, you are doomed to crash.
So start thinking positive and creative thoughts. Don't
allow past blunders to blur your vision for victory. You
are smarter than you give yourself credit for. Put on
your thinking cap. C - Concentrate without distractions;
train your brain to focus. A - Affirm the positive, be
optimistic. P - Pray for discernment, wisdom and
courage.
SANDY’S BLOG
“For the next three weeks I am going to do some “Good
for Me” news about what I have accomplished for the week
because of my health. Here is for this week: I have
been getting up even when I didn't feel like it. I
continue to do the right thing even though I may not get
the credit or feel unappreciated. I handle my
responsibilities even though it gets difficult at
times. I held my tongue and controlled my temper even
though I had some "choice" words for that person who
disrespected or hurt me. I spoke up even though I took
the risk of criticism or rejection. I finished
what I started. I supported those that did not support
me! I feel so much better and the week is almost
gone.
Thank you, thank you, and thank you! I first must thank
everyone that attended the Jazzee Js
Swingout/Line Dance Boot Camp on Saturday.
It was a great success and I plan on doing Part 2
on Saturday, March 27, 2010 from 4 pm – 7 pm! If you
were unable to attend because of work or other plans,
you now have plenty of time for planning. Secondly,
Master T, who did not only teach how to lead and
follow, he teaches the fundamentals of swing and the
importance of respecting your partner. He was
absolutely marvelous and worked our butts off!!! He
taught some of the best dancers in Texas and reminded me
of my FB message this week, “great dancers are not great
because of their techniques but because of their passion
to keep on learning” and that is what I did…learned!
Lastly, but always my first, are the Jazzee Jewels,
Evelyn, Jocelyn, Judi, Lorinda, Myra, Cynthia, and Willa
who organized the event, prepared the food and took some
stress off of me. My soul smiles because of these
ladies and I love you! The Jazzee Jems are REAL
MEN and we know what REAL MEN do…thank you guys so
much! Boot Camp Part 2 is scheduled for Saturday, March
27, 2010 and you really need to attend!
I have always supported the swingout dance community in
Oklahoma and Texas and I will continue to do so because
I love the dance and I love the people that do the
dance. What I do not understand is why some people do
not support each other!! There were some dancers at my
boot camp that attends other classes in OKC that knew
nothing about my classes or about me! Unbelievable,
since I was the 1st female swingout dance
instructor to teach swingout in Oklahoma and have
brought 98% of the line dances to Okc. Evidently they
had a wonderful time because they were back in my class
on Tuesday. I always tell my class about other swing
dance events and usually sell tickets not mentioning
blasting them on my newsletter each week. My last
Good for Me News is “I am ready to
release the hold and stress of anger. Right now I
breathe in peace, love and relaxation because I believe
what I do is right!”
On 4th Friday night, the Jazzee Js (8 tables) went to
the Grenadier’s 1st Ladies of Swing 4th
Friday and had a ball. Let me thank the SwingOut
Teacher, Master T, Mark and S-Factor’s
own Lenny from Dallas for attending with us and I
want to thank LJ for announcing my boot camp
throughout the night! We will be back again to celebrate
LJ tha DJ's birthday party on 4th Friday, March 26,
2010.
On Saturday night about 15 Jazzee Js and the
Dallas group went to The Tree Lounge and partied
like it was 1999, literally. We kept the place jamming
until everyone was so tired they got weak in the knees!
Thank you, Stephanie and The Tree Lounge staff for all
you do!!! Jazzee Js love you
January 6, 2010 - Left up for another week
JEWEL’S ADVICE
– “I am challenging myself in the New Year and I
challenge you to join me in doing SOMETHING DIFFERENT in
2010. Get out of any rut. Get out of a box of old
thinking and old habits. Dust off your dreams. Change
your program. Stretch out on faith. Ask for what you
want. Act on your goals. Let go of some grudges,
drama, messy living and false starts. Treat your body
well with better foods, laughter, activity and a
makeover in your wardrobe. Pray and press more to
defeat the trickster and your own self-sabotaging
habits. Go back to class. Get to work on time.
Prepare different meals. Forgive a family member.
Enjoy the company of a new pet or a new friend. Let
someone off the hook that you have been blaming for your
failures and disappointments. Feel, heal and deal with
your wounds so you can start living instead of dying.
Choose to watch more empowering and entertaining TV
programs. Travel somewhere new. Start your web site.
Be more consistent in reusing and recycling. Never be
too ashamed, too busy or too prideful to ask God for
help. Clean out your closet. Volunteer in your church,
neighborhood or nearby school. Drive a new route to
work. Finish what you start. Paint a room in your
home. Talk to a young person and let them know they will
survive tough times because you are still standing.
Procrastination is a thief, so create another stream of
income, even if it is a trickle, just get started.
Stop worrying about what other people think. Be more
of your authentic and real self...no more masks, no more
games. Throw out an old piece of furniture or broken
dishes. Take someone to lunch to really talk, listen
and bond without gossip, complaining, selling them
something or rushing. Work on your shortcomings.
Promote your strengths, passions and creativity. Simply
your life! If you can't pay for it... pray for it.
Confront your challenges one task at a time. Develop a
recession proof kind of faith, joy and courage.
Increase your vocabulary, savings and confidence.
Share about God's glory in your life by telling your
story. Collaborate and spend more time with people
on-the-grow. Make each day count. Continue learning
and solving problems to keep your mind/brain healthy and
active. Remember those who help you instead of giving
energy to those who hurt you. Remember wisdom, good
health, faith, family and friends are more precious than
diamonds and pearls. Wake up the sleeping giant inside
of you and pursue your destiny, purpose and
possibilities. Use your imagination, trust your
instincts and create empowering affirmations for
yourself. The quality of your life is shaped by the
quality of your thoughts and feelings. Be gentle, yet
be more firm with yourself to motivate yourself to win
in 2010”. ~
www.DoNotGiveUp.net
December 2, 2009
ON
DECEMBER 2, 1977 I WAS SO HAPPY TO GIVE BIRTH TO A BABY BOY THAT I NAMED
DEREK. TO THIS DAY I ABSOLUTELY ADORE HIM AND PROUD OF WHAT HE HAS
ACCOMPLISHED. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SON AND I LOVE YOU! ALSO HAPPY BIRTHDAY
TO ALL DECEMBER BIRTHDAYS – TRACY, LYNN, JUDI, CLARENCE, DANIEL, ARRIC,
JUDY, HARLENA, GEORGE, TRISHA, MARY J, GREG AND CHERONDA!!
JEWEL’S ADVICE
– "If you need acceptance, praise, affirmation and a pat
on the back from everyone around you --- then you are
giving your power away. This mindset fragments your soul
and spirit. With every action and decision comes risk or
reward. Allowing others to define your worth and waiting
for their stamp of approval drains your energy and self-
esteem. You cannot get through your life without
disappointing others or experiencing regrets. Get out of
your holding pattern of procrastination and fear. Take
your happiness out of the "lay- away." Find your
strength, integrity and courage. Find your voice. Trust
your decisions. Learn from your choices. Use your
imagination. Trust your instincts. Pray for guidance and
discernment. Explore your ideas. Walk by faith. Action
speaks louder than fear. You are enough!"
SANDY BLOG'S
- “I am worn out! Too many parties, too much
celebrating, too much food, too much shopping, too much
Face book but never enough of praying and giving
thanks! I want to thank the Lord, my family and my
friends for helping me enjoy and receive another year!
I know this is not a very good time for many people
because when I was celebrating life, many lost theirs.
Please keep the family of Charles “Chuck” Cooper in your
thoughts and prayers. Chuck passed away on November 25,
2009 from an apparent heart attack. His services were
today, Thursday, December 3, 2009! RIP my friend, RIP.
My birthday weekend was fantastic. I am not going to
say much about it because it was my fun and you missed
out. The Kliff Klub and Ms. Barbara’s graduation was
great and saw many of the best dancers in Dallas!
Shopping at Sam Moon’s and Pappadeaux on Friday was
fulfilling and a little expensive (my fault but I had a
ball)!!!!! Coaches’ Corner on Friday night was
fantastic, just so good, thank you T!! Razzoos on
Saturday was wonderful and the nap afterwards was
better. My birthday party at DFW 3rd
Saturday Swing was off the chain! I want to thank all
of the Oklahoma folks that joined me and the Jazzee
Jewels and Jems that drove down for my special weekend.
Again thank you! Next road trip is December 18, wanna
go?
I have got to thank everyone that helped with my class
at The Tree Lounge last Thursday when I was away. Thank
you Myra, Evelyn, Lowell, Clarence, Willa, John, Nikki
and Avery for taking the lead and having fun!!! I have
always wanted a class like I have now on Tuesday and I
thank God for allowing me to produce such good dancers
and wonderful friends. Last night we had four classes
going on. There was the ladies’ beginners class, the
men’s beginner’s class, the intermediate class, and the
advanced class. We had a class in every corner of the
gym and I sat back and watch with tears in my eyes (yes,
I cry when I am happy)! Everyone was having such a good
time and we did not have a break for two hours, we just
danced, drank water and sweated! Let me thank my
assistants; Stephanie, Jocelyn, Myra, Tyrone and John
because you are the best and I love you!!
November 12, 2009
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHANTEE ROLAND,
JORDAN BROWN, BRIDGET CARR,
LANORA PROCTOR, MICHELLE GLOVER, VICKIE COLEMAN, SEAN
LOVE, BRENNA KING, STEPHANIE JACKSON
HENRY, JAMIE GREEN, CATHY
PERKINS ROLAND, CYNTHIA WILLIAMS, MORGAN
STEPHENSON, JAMES THOMAS,
SANDY NELSON, KAY EDWARDS,
RICO RIDEAU, KO OVERSTREET,
TINA SMITH, MY SWEET COUSIN, LONDON
THAT WAS BORN ON MY BIRTHDAY, NOVEMBER 21
(LAST DAY FOR SCORPIO) AND ALL THE OTHER SCORPIOS!!!
CELEBRATE WITH US THIS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2009
AT THE TREE LOUNGE, 203 NE 36TH,
OKC. THE GREAT TAJJ BAND WILL BE PERFORMING AND
DJ CALVIN WITH THE LATEST R & Bs! FULL BUFFET
AND THE BEST OF THE BEST GROWN FOLKS! NO
CHARGE FOR MEN BEFORE 9 PM AND LADIES BEFORE 11 PM!!
SEE YOU ON THE DANCE FLOOR
JEWEL’S ADVICE
- "To build better relationships, refrain from
criticism. Criticism is dangerous and causes people to
be withdrawn, rebellious, resentful and defensive. When
someone is broken and wounded by criticism they begin to
build fences to protect their pride and self-esteem from
attack. These emotional fences are deFENSE mechanisms
that soon block out any valid or helpful "perfecting
suggestions."
Besides wanting the basics like health, shelter, food,
sleep, sex, money, and safety for one's family, humans
crave a feeling of being important and appreciated. SO
COME TO MY BIRTHDAY PARTY – smile!!!
SANDY’S BLOG
– The Jazzee Js went to Brown Suga Lounge
Grand Opening last Friday and had a great time. I had
to be in Ardmore on Saturday and could not attend DJ
KO’s party so I made up for it on Friday. He danced me
all over the floor, it was all good! Trey and I
introduced the “Super Bad” line dance and had folks on
the dance floor trying hard to do it. If you want to
learn this dance, check me out on Tuesdays at NE High
School small gym, 3100 N. Kelley Ave., 6:30 pm or
Thursdays at the Tree Lounge, 203 NE 36th, 7
pm. This past Tuesday swing/line dance class was
fantastic. There was so much room and everyone was
spread out on the entire floor. I would like to thank
everyone that attended, especially the first timers
because they left with a big smile on their face. I
would also like to thank the Jazzee Js that were there,
Cathy, Tysha, Candace, Pat, Toni, Cynthia, and my staff:
Jocelyn, Myra, Evelyn, Lowell & Clarence. Thank you,
thank you, thank you!!! Hope so see more of you out
(especially MEN!) next week!
*********************************
November 4, 2009
JEWEL’S ADVICE
- "People are often unreasonable, illogical, and
self-centered --- forgive them anyway! If you are kind,
people may accuse you of selfish ulterior motives --- be
kind anyway! If you are successful, you will win some
false friends and some true enemies --- succeed anyway!
If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you --- be
honest and frank anyway! What you spend years building,
someone could destroy overnight --- build anyway! If you
find serenity and happiness, many people may be jealous
--- be happy anyway! The good you do today, people will
often forget tomorrow --- do good anyway!"
SANDY’S BLOG
– “I am so tired of haters I do not know what to do. I
wish they would all get together and move to another
planet!! I say to myself every morning “Sandy, be kind
today!” I talk to so many people daily that I have to
be kind, patience and understanding. Why is it so hard
for others to do that? Yes, I get upset at folks and I
tell them, I do not tell five other people! There is
nothing wrong with pulling someone to the side and let
them know how you feel. Believe me, I do it all the
time and at the end of the conversation I give a hug and
let the person know that I love them!!!
*********************************
OCTOBER 28, 2009
JEWELS
BEST ADVICE EVER – “I define a “serial quitter” as
someone who looks for quick fixes, short cuts,
drive-through spiritual fast food and all green lights
on their road to success. They often are running in the
wrong lane towards the wrong finish line. Sometimes
their ladder of success is propped up against the wrong
wall. Have you said “yes” to the right
assignment/purpose for your life?
Once you become clear, determined, diligent, relentless
and resilient... no thing and no one can
stop you. Yes, they can discourage you, but you learn
to overcome restlessness, impatience, pain and
obstacles. Moments of uncertainty and impatience will
come, but they subside.
Have you ever stood in line at the grocery store; the
line was too long, you were in a hurry, someone ahead of
you was taking too long. In your frustration, you kept
changing lanes. You exhaled loudly and complained that
the store needed more clerks. This is a test of your
patience.
On the way to your dream/goal/destiny/task, you will
experience discouragement and delays. It’s a test!!!!
Can you wait without reward? Can you endure waiting?
Can you endure when God is silent in your valley? Can
you enjoy the moment? Patience is one of the fruits of
the Spirit. Patience comes from the Latin word
“suffer.” Worship while you wait. Work while you
wait. Give thanks while you wait. Prepare while you
wait. When there is a delay, faith says "STAY! "Don’t
catch another train because things are not going your
way. Overcome a short attention span. Don’t quit,
stick with your plan. No longer start and stop.
Procrastination is a thief. No more excuses. Instead
of venting your complaints or getting bent out of shape
with impatience, be diligent. Get up and keep the main
thing...the MAIN THING!
My
word of encouragement for you today is to stay in your
lane. Stay on track. Laziness, procrastination, lack of
confidence and lack of self-control are the enemies to
your success. Be diligent in your faith and actions.
“The soul of the diligent shall be made full (blessed by
the Lord and made to prosper.). Proverbs 13:4.
SANDY’S BLOG – “I was feeling absolutely stressed until
I woke up this morning, got on my knees and asked my
Heavenly Father to give me strength, faith, and
patience. He told me to repeat after him “I can do all
things through Christ who strengthens me”. I got off my
knees, took a long hot shower and let the water run
through my hair (knowing I should not have done that)
and down my face for 10 minutes while I was meditating.
After I arrived at work, I had a long talk with one of
my graduate who is like a daughter to me and that is how
I came up with the Jewel’s Advice. Friendship is an
awesome thing but love is wonderful. I always tell
people to love others as they want to be loved and I
know better than anyone else, it can be a real
challenge!
October 14, 2009
PLEASE PRAY FOR MY DEAR FRIEND AND JAZZEE
JEWEL GRADUATE, MARGUERITE PAYNE, WHO’S SON WAS
SHOT AND KILLED THIS WEEKEND. TODAY WOULD HAVE BEEN
THYLER PAYNE’S 20TH BIRTHDAY! SERVICES
FOR MR. PAYNE WILL BE SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2009 AT MT.
OLIVE BAPTIST CHURCH, 1020 NE 42ND, OKC, 11
AM.
THESE SENSELESS ACTS OF VIOLENT MUST STOP
BEFORE IT IS ONE OF OUR CHILDREN OR GRANDCHILDREN!!!
WE, THE ADULTS, MUST STOP IT!!!
“Even though I walk through the valley of
the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for thou art
with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me”.
(Psalm 23:4)
Jewel’s Advice from
V. Jackson
“Quit
arguing with people about the same old foolishness!
Respect their position and keep it moving! Quit
telling people your secrets when you know they are not
going to keep them! And if you keep telling them, then
quit getting mad when they tell your secrets!
Quit trying to pull people on your journey who don't
want to travel with you. Either they believe in you and
value you...or they don't! Quit complaining about
things you can't and won't change! Quit gossiping
about other people! Minding our own business should be a
full time job! Quit blaming each other for things
that in the big picture aren't going to matter three
weeks from now! Talk solutions...and then implement
them! Quit eating things you know are not good
for you! If you can't quit...eat smaller portions!
Quit buying things when we know we can't afford
them! If you don't have self control, then quit going to
the stores! Quit charging things, especially when
you don't NEED them! Quit staying in unhealthy
relationships! It is not okay for people to verbally or
physically abuse you! So quit lying to yourself!
It is not okay to stay in the marriage for the children!
Ask them and they will tell you that they really would
prefer to see you happy and that the misery you and your
spouse/partner are living with is affecting them!
Quit letting family members rope you into the drama!
-Start telling them you don't want to hear it! Quit
spreading the drama! Quit calling other relatives
and telling them about your cousin or aunt! Go back to
#5 minding your own business should be enough to keep
you busy! Quit trying to change people! IT
DOESN'T WORK! Quit cussing people out when you
know that they are just being the miserable and jealous
people that they are! Quit the job you hate!
Start pursuing your passion. Find the job that fuels
your passion BEFORE
you quit! Quit volunteering for
things that you aren't getting any personal fulfillment
from anymore! Quit volunteering for things and
then failing to follow through with your commitment!
Quit listening to the naysayers! Quit
watching the depressing news if you are going to live in
the doom and gloom of it all! Quit making excuses
about why you are where you are or why you can't do what
you want to do! Quit waiting on others to give
you the answers...and start finding the answers for
yourself! If what you are doing isn't working for
you...then quit it! Quit settling and
start making your dreams a reality!- Quit being
afraid and START LIVING YOUR LIFE! CREATE THE LIFE YOU
WANT! If you want something different than what you have
had in the past....you must quit doing what you
have done before and DO something different! JUST
QUIT IT ...... and START DOING something to create
the experience you want!”
SANDY’S BLOG
– “That advice was powerful wasn’t it! Ouch, ouch,
ouch!!! My heart goes out to the Payne’s family.
I could not even imagine losing a child or grandchild.
I know you have to pray for strength, but that would put
me over the edge. I pray the Lord takes me before one
of them. Children and grandchildren of mine, I love
you!
Please tune in to 1140 am (Oklahoma
station) on Thursday, October 15, 2009 at 12:15 because
I will be on there with the Wyldchild, Scott Wright.
I’m not sure what he is going to ask me but I promise to
keep it clean (smile!). If you have not purchased a
ticket to the Jazzee Js “All Black
Masquerade 8th Swingout Graduation”,
please do!
July 9, 2009
HAPPY 39TH BIRTHDAY TO MY DAUGHTER AND BEST
FRIEND, CASSANDRA! I LOVE YOU SWEETIE!!!
Please keep my friend and swingout student, Anjanet, and
her family in your prayers. She lost her dad on Monday
and after talking to her on Saturday night and telling
her that she needed to get to him as soon as possible.
I am so grateful that she made it to Dallas in time to
see say until we meet again!! God Bless you!
Remembering the Greatest Entertainer in the World,
The King of Pop! The Bio History of MICHAEL
JOSEPH JACKSON began when he was born on the 29th of
August 1958 in Gary, Indiana. He was the 7th of nine
children. (brothers: Sigmund "Jackie", Toriano "Tito",
Jermaine, Marlon, Steven "Randy", and sisters Rebbie,
Janet and La-Toya Jackson
Michael began his musical career at the age of 5 as the
lead singer of the Jackson 5 who formed in 1964. In
these early years the Jackson 5, Jackie, Jermaine,
Tito, Marlon and lead singer Michael played local clubs
and bars in Gary Indiana and moving further afield as
there talents grew and they could compete in bigger
competitions. From these early days Michael would be at
the same clubs as big talented stars of their days, such
as Jackie Wilson and would be learning from them even
back then. In 1968 the Bobby Taylor and The Vancouvers
discovered the Jackson five and from there they got an
audition for Berry Gordy of Motown Records. The Jackson
5 signed for Motown and moved to California. Their first
4 singles, "I Want You Back", "ABC", "The Love You
Save", and "I'll Be There" all made US No1 hits. The
Jackson 5 recorded 14 albums and Michael recorded 4 solo
albums with Motown.
The Jackson 5 stayed with Motown until 1976, wanting
more artistic freedom they felt they had to move on and
signed up with Epic. The group name Jackson 5 had to be
changed as it was owned by Motown, so they reverted to
The Jacksons as they had be known in the early days.
Brother Jermaine married Berry Gordy's daughter and
stayed with Motown. Youngest brother Randy joined in his
place. The Jacksons had a number of hit records and in
total made 6 albums between the years of 1976 and 1984.
In 1977 Michael made his first film debut when he
starred in the musical 'The Wiz' playing Scarecrow with
Diana Ross in the lead role of Dorothy. It was at this
time Michael met Quincy Jones who was doing the score
for the film. Michael teamed up with Quincy Jones as his
producer for his first solo album with Epic Records. The
album titled "Off The Wall" was a big success around the
world and the first ever album to release a record
breaking 4 No1 singles in the US.
In 1982 Michael Jackson released the world's largest
selling album of all time, 'Thriller'. This album
produced 7 hit singles, breaking yet again more records,
and went on to sell over 50 million copies worldwide.
Michael was keen to use music video or short films as he
called them to promote his singles from the album. He
worked with the best directors and producers, using the
latest technology and special effects, for the hit song
'Billie Jean' The short film 'Thriller' used the latest
make-up artists technology combined with fantastic
dancing and choreography, to produce a 14 minute video,
with a start, a middle and an ending. So successful was
this video that 'The Making of Michael Jackson's
Thriller' became the world's largest selling home video
combined with soaring album sales. In 1983 Michael
performed the now legendary moonwalk for the first time
on the 'Motown 25 years' anniversary show. This
performance alone set Michael undoubtedly into the realm
of a superstar.
In 1984 Michael won a record breaking 8 Grammy awards in
one night. The awards were for his work on the
'Thriller' album and his work on the narrative for the
'ET Storybook'.
On December 9th 1984 at the last concert of the
Jackson's Victory Tour, Michael announced he was
splitting from the group and going solo.
In 1987 Michael released his much awaited third solo
album, titled 'Bad', and launched his record breaking
first solo world tour. 1988, Michael wrote his first
autobiography talking for the first time on his
childhood and his career. At the end of the 1980s
Michael was named 'Artist of the Decade' for his success
off of his 'Thriller' and 'Bad' albums.
In 1991 Michael signed with Sony Music the largest ever
recording contract and released his fourth solo album,
'Dangerous'. He toured world again in 1992, taking his
concerts to countries that had never before been visited
by a pop/rock artist. Also Michael founded the 'Heal the
World Foundation' to help improve the lives of children
across the world.
In 1994 Michael married Lisa Marie Presley, daughter of
rock legend Elvis Presley. The marriage only lasted for
19 months, as they divorced in 1996.
1995 saw Michael release a fifth solo album, 'HIStory',
which was a double album, first half new material and
second half greatest hits. Michael toured again over a
legs covering a 2 year period. In between legs of the
tour on November 14th 1996, Michael married for his
second time to Debbie Rowe who was a nurse that Michael
had met in the treatment of his skin pigment disorder.
Together they had their first child Prince Michael
Joseph Jackson jr born on February 13 1997 and a
daughter Paris Michael Katherine Jackson born on April
3rd 1998. In 1997 Michael released the remix album
'Blood On The Dance Floor' which also contained 5 new
song linked with a 38min film "Ghosts". This film
Michael played 5 roles using the latest special effects
and make-up artistry, combined with his dance and music.
In September, 2001 Michael celebrated his 30th
anniversary as a solo artist with two concerts to be
held in New York, USA. Many artists such as Whitney
Houston, Usher, Destiny’s Child, Shaggy and many more
performed their own and Michael Jacksons past songs.
Michael then reunited with all of his brothers performed
their biggest hits. Michael then went onto perform solo
some of his biggest hits. In October 2001 Michael
released the album 'Invincible' so far releasing only 2
singles including the big hit "You Rock My World". Since
the release of this first single the album has been
surrounded by rumors of a rift with Sony Music and a
clear lack of promotion of the album.
Jewel’s Advice: “A sister called me the other day after
her husband walked away from a long marriage, her passed
away a month ago, her dog died and her son moved away to
go to college. She had a crash course in "surrender and
letting go." Sometimes love don't love nobody...it
seems. Yet when you have faith and constantly seek ways
to keep your sanity and self-esteem, the storm soon
passes over. Pain in your life will motivate you to pay
attention to the small things in life and be grateful.
It's a wakeup call to stop putting your happiness in
lay-away to start living. Life is too short and too
unpredictable to wait until everything is perfect in
your life to be happy and content with self. People come
in your life for a reason and for a season. Be happy
now! Be grateful what you have and where you are now!
Follow your dreams now! Do something with your life now!
SANDY’S BLOG – This is the first 4th of July
weekend in 7 years that I was in Okc. I am usually in
Dallas, Las Vegas or New Orleans and this year I stayed
home. I did a lot of soul searching and praying and
came up with, I can do good all by myself and that is
just what I did…good all by myself! Thursday night I
had to teach all classes by myself again since the
majority of my staff was vacationing (thank you Myra for
staying in OKC with me and helping out) but we had the
best time. I do not know what I would do if Okc’s Men
of Swing did not come out to help me. We almost had as
many men as women and it is a wonderful site~! Thank
you guys!
June 17,
2009 - HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY DEAR SON DUSTIN, MAY YOU
HAVE MANY, MAY MORE! LOVE YOU, MOM
One week
after my 7th graduation
JEWELS ADVICE – "On
a regular basis, get off the fast track of working,
going, worrying, chasing love and chasing success. Be
willing to experience the healing sweetness of silence,
solitude, stillness and serenity.
So often a stressful event in your life can seem like a
swift kick in the butt or heart (believe me, I just
barely made it through my 7th swingdance graduation one
day after a close friend passed). Nothing can prepare
you for these painful times. When grief and stress
becomes your unwelcome guest, try not to remain stuck in
your misery. If you spend a lot of energy just trying
to stay well/sober, pay your bills, go to work and just
keep your head above water.....you are in a survival
mode. You have no time or energy to work on your
goals. When you dread waking up, going to work,
answering the phone or even just getting dressed, you're
in a survival mode. If you are constantly looking over
your shoulder with fear, worry and procrastination, you
are in a survival mode. Once you are organized and
stabilized to get rid of or cope with the drama in your
life you can grow into a success mode. Instead of
looking over your shoulder dreading that bad things are
gaining on you, in a success mode you are looking
forward to making great strides of improvement. In a
success mode you pursue your goals on a consistent
basis. When you're excited about getting up and
keeping up with the necessary steps to take your life to
the next level, you are in a success mode. When you
have an attitude of gratitude, a plan for your life,
peace, faith and a proactive vs. reactive mindset, you
are in a success mode. What mode of action are you in
today? If you're in a survival mode, it doesn't mean
you are a failure. You are a success because you are
not giving up. You are doing the best you can until
your change comes. Continued dissatisfaction and
problems in your life will keep you in a survival mode.
Pray for the strength and breakthroughs to get you into
a success mode."
SANDY BLOG’S –
CLICK HERE FOR GRADUATION PICTURES "I just said to myself, which is the best advice I have
given myself in a while,
that
just when I decided to leave the negative, stupid and
toxic habits and people, others want to drag me down and
hold me back. I simply think or say ... "Don't confuse
me with someone who is unfocused, lacking determination
or weak in self-worth or self-esteem. I acknowledge my
priorities and God's power, potential, promise and
presence within me. Therefore, I do not spend major time
on minor things or with minor people. I have learned to
tell all negative, gossipy, critical, judgmental and
dream-stomping people to kiss my positive attitude. I
learned within the last week that if a friend will lie
to you, betray you, or take from you, you DO NOT need
that friend. Let him or her go! I need a long
vacation!!!
Last Thursday in my dance class, my son-in-law’s
wireless microphone was taken and no one seems to know
where it is. My son-in-law was generous enough to let
me use it each week during class as we rehearsed for
graduation and for someone to take it knowing it did not
belong to them, is just wrong (this is called
stealing!). I am putting up a nice reward for the
return or information leading to the microphone. So
good friends of mine, if you see someone in our circular
of acquaintances with a wireless microphone that usually
do not have one, please give me a call and I will be
there to check it out.
Let me thank everyone that came to my 7th
swingout and 1st line dance graduation. It
was held at the Tree Lounge and when the graduates began
to dance on “Smaller the Club, The Bigger the
Party” everyone knew what it meant. There were
more folks standing up, than sitting down. Folks were
dancing and fanning (like in the old days) because it
got a little warm but cooled off after the owner came in
and checked out the thermostat. Planning a big event is
not easy and when it is over, you sleep like a baby!
Let me thank first, the Jazzee Jewels that assisted with
the decorations and food: Jocelyn, Judi, Myra, Patty,
Stephanie, Toni, Carmencita, and Shirley. Towels by
Lorinda, Shoe Bags by Big Smooth, Sly the door keeper,
Smiley, showcasers, Horace and Phyllis, DJ Calvin,
Saxophonist Moe Williams and band, Stephanie G and the
entire Tree Lounge staff, all the Jazzee Jewels and Jems,
Okc Men of Swing, Dallas Dancers, LJ & the Grenadier’s 1st
Ladies of Swingout, Oklahoma SwingDance Team, DJ KO, TKO
Dance Team, Tyrone, Rodney, family and dear friends. We
started graduation with the Jazzee Jewels walking in as
police women doing the Gangster Walk dressed in black
and white, badges, whistles, handcuffs, police/sheriff
hats, and flashlights! As we did a short version of the
Gangsta Walk, the music stopped and we flashed our
flashlights on our dance partner and summoned them to
the dance floor. DJ Calvin then played “Mrs. Officer” by
Lil Wayne and Valentino and we showcased. Showcasers
were Stephanie & Rodney, Shirley & Derek, Judi & Eugene,
Carmencita & Keith, Toni & Darrell, Jocelyn and someone
she flashed (not sure of his name but thanks!) and Larry
& I. I was so busy, I forgot to put on my dance shoes
and just had on bare backs. I would never advise anyone
to showcase in bare backs! Our partners took us into
the diva walk as we left the dance floor. My good
friends Horace and Phyllis, showcased old school fast
dance to show the
audience where swingdancing originated. The couple
danced for our good friend, Willie Young that had passed
the day before. It was an emotional time for me but
Horace and Phyllis tore up the floor! After the Jewels
changed into their jungle attire, I began the
graduation. I was so proud of the first group of
immediate dancers because most had only been dancing for
three months (12 lessons) and the passion was so great,
I could feel it. They were: Patti & Derek, Judy &
Clarence, Rhoda & Larry, Joyce & Keith, and Felecia &
Phillip! Thank you guys so much!! My second group was
the advanced couples who have been dancing for over 3
months, except for Evelyn, only 2 months (8 lessons),
diva walked to the floor were Jamila by Derek, Lalonda
by Eugene, Evelyn by Larry, and Cynthia by Lowell.
After the showcasing of the advanced group we had the
graduation ceremony. The new Jazzee Jewels and Jems were
proud and I am so proud of you all. It was all about the
graduates and they had a great time. When you haven’t
danced in front of people that you do not know or
unfamiliar with me or if you have never danced before,
you get a little nervous and when it is over you feel
like you have conquered the world and that is exactly
how my graduates felt. I hope everyone saw the good out
of this graduation, I surely did! All venues are not
the same and none have the same policy. So for The Tree
Lounge to welcome us each week and let us do pretty much
what we want to during our allotted time, I am so
grateful. The Jewels received, framed certificates, shoe
bags, fans, and earrings. The Jems received embroidered
towels with “Real Men Swing Dance” and
their name, battery operated fans, President Barack
Obama key chains, and my poem titled “There is
Nothing More Beautiful Than a Black Man that Swing
Dance”! I also presented the Tree Lounge with a
certificate for being an official place to swingout and
line dance, bags for the ladies with an embroidered tree
on front, and a 24x30 framed art of a band and
swingdancers! After the ceremony the dance floor was
opened and everyone flooded the floor as the band
played. At 9:30 pm and the Jazzee Jewels and Jems took
line dances to a different level and I could finally
breathe a sigh of relief. Believe me, graduations are
not easy when you do as much as I try to do. It was a
great surprise and shock when Jazzee Jewel Carmencita
agreed to sing with the band after I gave her my famous
speech about following your dreams and all things are
possible because God had her back! She brought tears to
my eyes with her rendition of Nat King Coles’ “When
I Fall in Love” and received a standing
ovation. Good job, Carmencita, you are now on your way
to big and better things!! You made all of us so
proud!!! I’m sorry if I seemed a little quiet and did
not get around giving everyone a hug and saying hello,
but my mind was working faster than my body and at 11:30
pm my body shut down and I had to retire to my bed! All
graduates, I would just ask you to do a small favor for
me…remember to keep practicing, keep dancing and I hope
you will continue to come to class and enhance your
style!!! I hope everyone liked their gifts. I really
try hard!!! Thanks again and I love you! If you want to
learn the latest line dances, please stop by The Tree
Lounge and we will show you how!!
I have a few dancers going to Tulsa on Friday night to
lend a helping hand at my swingout/line dance class. If
you are available and want to get away and enjoy some
Tulsans, come to The Living Room, 2610 N. Yale. If you
would like to spend the night, the Jewels got a $50 bid
on
Priceline.com
for the Doubletree Downtown. All you have to do is name
your own price, choose Tulsa Downtown and bid $50. You
must pay for the bid at that time so have your debit or
credit card ready. The Jewels bunk together so our
stays out of town are minimal. We know how to do the
darn thang! Hope to see you there! Also, remember,
the Langston Alumni Dance-a-thon will be on
Saturday, June 27, 2009 at Langston OKC from beginning
at 10 am. If you are interested in dancing or giving a
donation, please call Derek Dugar at 405-417-0459, you
will be much appreciated. I will be judging a dance
competition at the AEC in Arlington, TX on that
day and will be unable to attend. My thoughts and
prayers will be with each of you. In case you are in
the Dallas area next weekend, please let me know and I
will give you our itinerary!!!
Life is not about weathering the storm; it's about learning to
dance in the rain!"
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