Event Calendar 

Student Testimonials
 

Edie, I would like to thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and wisdom in the instructor class in Miami. I often think about that and how wonderful God is to have brought you here. I hope all is well with you. May God's grace, love and peace be with you. Much Love, Carmen Hey, Edie, Things here in Bangalore have returned to normal, although I'm still riding this weekend's high. In retrospect, I realized that the main reason I had such a great time was that I chose to feel good and feel happy. That feeling of joy that I maintained throughout the event was like a magnet for other good things. I made some great connections, got a couple of invitations to other congresses and had a couple of the artists ask if we could work together on some routines! Alex   Hi Edie! You did it Edie, BRAVO!!! You really inspire the world of salsa with your courage and beautiful dancing. I saw one of your DVD’s. They are super—but I have to really practice the spinning. I started salsa four months ago, and I’m already on a high level. But now I have to learn to dance beautifully as a real lady with nice lady moves. Your DVD’s are helping me on my to that dream. Thanks, Anouk Maes Dear Edie! Thank you for your wonderful letter and words you devoted to us. It is very nice to hear that the festival was great and that you had a great time. We have heard very many good words from people who attended the festival. They liked your workshops; they liked you, your friendliness, and your kindness. Best regards, Juta   Sent: Wednesday, July 25, 2007 9:38 AM To: wowedie@yahoo.com Subject: Thank you I purchased the beginner and intermediate salsa syllabus, LA Style (101-106) a couple of months ago and I just wanted to thank you because it worked wonders with my dancing style, and built my confidence a lot in such a short period of time. Everyone at the Salsa club I go to noticed the change and I recommended them the DVDs as well. Now I just bought the advanced DVD and the "Lifts and Tricks" DVD and can't wait to watch them and study!!! If you ever have a bootcamp in Tallahassee, I will definitely want to participate. If not, I am planning to take your classes at the next year's Salsa Conference in Miami. Again, thank you, from the bottom of my heart!!! Adi   I just attended your Bootcamp for beginners in Downey, CA last weekend.  I flew in from Arizona and brought my mom and best friend from Maryland with me.  I wanted to let you know that we had a blast and really learned alot.   I've never had any formal dance training at all and have never, ever learned to dance with a partner.  I used to enjoy going out to clubs when I was in my 20's and early 30's and dancing all night - but the club scene and the young crowd just isn't my thing anymore (now that I'm the big 4-0!!)  But I miss dancing so much!  I took a class last year at a gym I belonged to at the time.  It was a salsa class.  It wasn't partner dancing - it was designed to be aerobics, but it was so much fun and it was the best aerobic workout I'd ever had.   Then recently I was watching tv one night and came across a movie I hadn't seen yet called Dirty Dancing Havana Nights.  After watching that movie I went online and found your website and signed up for your Bootcamp.    Sat. night at the Grenada, my friend, Z and I were noticing that everyone seemed to be there for one thing (mainly) - to dance.   It didn't matter if your were young, old, tall, short, fat, thin, black, white, Asian or Hispanic - everyone was dancing with everyone.  It was the coolest thing.  I thought - hurray! I can go out dancing again and not feel like an old lady hanging with a bunch of kids!  Lastly, something that was really amazing and a huge compliment to you that I must pass along:  I danced with at least half a dozen different men that night, a few from our class and some that I'd never met before.   And even though I felt awkward and nervous, at least 3 of them said they couldn't believe that that was my first day ever salsa dancing.  Everything I knew to do I had learned only hours before in your class.  It was the best - I had so much fun - I can't wait to take more lessons and get better and better and I'm so looking forward to Palm Springs in July!!   Sincerely,  CJ Gray Hi Edie,   We miss you a lot already in Cyprus ! You have no idea how much you have positively marked my teaching skills from the instructors seminar in Nicosia! I'm certain you have heard this countless number of times, and I must join the pack, you are the finest dancer and instructor I have ever seen.  As I hope you may recall, I've been dancing for 11 years now, of all the dancers and instructors I have experienced, you are by far a leader in all aspects of Salsa dancing.  I hope you never stop dancing; I want my grand children to experience the legend of Edie the Salsa Freak!   Yes of course you may post my last e-mail in your student testimonial; I want the world to continue being reminded of your marvel! Maha Ok, I want to share an experience I had at the Bootcamp. Edie teaches a technique: "How to Ask a Girl/Guy to Dance Without Looking Like an Idiot" which basically kinda "makes" the other person to dance with you before you even know what's going on. Ok, so Edie demonstrates and I'm thinking: Ok, if I don't want to dance there's no technique in the world that will make me. Right!!!!! So fast forward 6 hours: I'm at the Salsa Social that night, and I'm thinking: "good opportunity to practice what I learned today"......OH-MY-GOD!!!!!!! there were these amazing dancers there that night and I was like: "Ok, so no dancing for me tonight, thank you!" I was totally intimidated.....anyway two guys asked me to dance (the traditional way) and I'm thinking "No way dude, am I gonna make a fool of myself"..so there I am and then this guy asks me to dance using "The Technique" (he was helping Edie out at the Bootcamp)....and before I knew it my hand is fully extended and I'm following this guy onto the dance floor and meanwhile I'm thinking: Ok, how did I get here????? So, I danced (and kept up by the way) ;) and on the way back to my spot I'm thinking: "Ok, "The Technique" worked because I somehow knew the guy and knew him to be not only an excellent lead but a kind person as well......that explains it.... Not!!!!!! Another great dancer approached me with "the technique" (now I don't know if he knew about it or it just worked out that way) but before I knew it my left arm took a life of its own and without my consent just totally agreed to dance with this dude!!!!!! Wow!!! The moral of this story? What Edie teaches works so pay attention....and her dance moves must work too...since I was able to keep up BOTH TIMES!! :) I loved Everything about the Bootcamp! It was fun! I love the way you teach. Each styling is short and can be remembered and actually be applied during dancing.   I just recently looked at all the printouts and am still studying them. I think it's great that they are available. Edie - keep doing what you're doing! You're a great representative of this beautiful and magical dance called salsa. I love the fun way you're teaching, including some personal experience of yours as well as encouring woman to go out there and enjoy expressing themselves on the dancefloor in a fun and confidential way. I have several of your DVD's, which are great and easy to follow. As you can tell, you have a big fan in LA! Britta I love your teaching style. I also like the way you rotate the lines so everyone has a chance to see you in action. Edie, I remember reading on your web site the statement that says "…Salsafreak Bootcamp will be your turning point. We will guarantee that you will be a better and more confident dancer, the next day, and the rest of your life.”  Before our bootcamp I wondered if that statement would apply to me, or if that was just marketing hype. I have been absolutely blown away and totally humbled by the changes since our bootcamp six weeks ago. I can’t see a faster way to get the tools needed to advance dramatically in a short period of time. Women I’ve danced with over the last few months are asking me what happened; men are stopping me, asking how I learned. One couple stopped me the other night during a break and said, “My girlfriend and I want to dance like you and your wife. What are you doing?” It is a totally different world and you are the one who opened the door. People are surprised to hear I’ve only been dancing salsa for around a year; they generally assume I’ve been in the scene much longer. It’s obvious my partners are comfortable and enjoying themselves. Our bootcamp practice, attitude discussions, techniques and insights into what a woman really wants in a dance partner have dramatically altered my view. A few other guys have more patterns, more style, stronger footwork, are younger or better looking, but I have the secret weapons I learned from you. (I occasionally feel sorry for the other guys learning the hard way…) I’m much more confident and I know that I know the “right things” to make my partner comfortable. Women dance with me differently, and I’m surprised how many strangers are asking me to dance. My wife is also having a blast and the side effects of my improvements are getting her noticed as well. Since the bootcamp we are in a vicious cycle of positive improvement. Other men see us doing great stuff you taught me and assume she is also more advanced. The stronger leads ask to dance with her and she learns more, so both of us are having more fun and growing because when we are not dancing together, we are dancing with much better partners. It’s amazing how it is all feeding on itself. My improvements are already dramatic, but I still have months of work to fully integrate the additional homework you provided me during the camp. My spins are cleaner and I can finally see how doubles and triples are within reach. Like most guys I want more patterns, better technique and overall more tools available to express myself and make my partner look great. I also see those technical areas are nice, but that is not the core of dancing. Every night I go dancing I silently thank you because the responses from my partners are so positive. The bottom line is your bootcamps are one of the best-kept secrets in the salsa world. Your ability to focus on the most important aspects of the dance and provide a foundation for growth is amazing and appreciated. I’m a dramatically better dancer today and will only get better thanks to you. Your site undersells the benefits of your camp. The world needs to know how amazing the results are, and you are too modest about the results available. If other guys really knew the power of working with you during a bootcamp, they would have you booked solid for the next few years. Over the next couple weeks I’m going to write up the total experience so other guys can get an idea of the power of the bootcamp. I’ll send that to you when I complete it. My only regrets are not doing it sooner and not scheduling my next session yet. One bootcamp was great , but I can’t wait to do another one. I was envious of the guy you told me about who did two days in a row; I’m sure he is in another world as well. Your coaching skills are excellent and I look forward to the next bootcamp. Sincerely, Don Baarns  I liked the way Edie presented the material in a fun, relaxed, upbeat way: never dull or boring!!! I was amazed at the mountain of details that were covered in this Bootcamp....so much that I didn't even want to take a bathroom break for fear that I would miss anything..and I did!!! The practice time was excellent: loved it. Many a times an instructor falls into the blah, blah, blah, and no action..not the case here.... She should be called: Edie, the Salsa Doctor!!!! Your workshop went from very professional to GREAT in the last year: very polished, yet informal. It is a great combination, and I really enjoyed myself. It is wonderful to see you looking so well and healthy. Reflecting on what you said, I realized that you are traveling to Europe a lot. If I am not mistaken, they like their women a bit “zaftig” (if I have the spelling right), and would try very hard to feed you if they think you might be too thin. You look great, so most of us would not realize your concern. You might declare yourself vegetarian! Well, maybe that’s a bad idea. Milk fat is the worst. I have become a grandmother twice this past year, and you really encouraged me to believe I can still dance. That is a real talent. Thank you so much for everything. Edie, I just want to tell you that you’re a big inspiration in my salsa dancing. I have been dancing off and on now for the past 5 years. I am in the Air Force and was previously stationed in Arkansas where I learned most of my dancing through your videos. I am now here in Colorado Springs Colorado where I dance in Denver mainly, unless I go to Latin Quarters. I have danced with Eric Freeman once, he is a great dancer. I am very excited about you partnering up with Henry, I can’t wait to see you two dances? Anyways, I just wanted to let you know that I admire you as a person. - Melissa Dear Edie, My name is Caroline and I'm 24 and from Germany. First of all I have to blame YOU for my addiction to Salsa. Well, not entirely, there's still the music, the dance itself and the most fantastic people I got to know since I started dancing in April. But it's all YOUR fault that I'm THAT addicted! For the first time I saw you at this year's Hamburg Salsa Congress and I was simply impressed. Well, I was impressed with most of the guys there since this was my very first congress ever, BUT I was definitely most impressed with you. I couldn't wait to see you perform again, which I finally did last month at the Wuppertal Congress and again you blew me away... Hell, what do I have to do to get any near to the way you dance?? In order to answer that question, I participated your two ladies' styling workshops in Wuppertal and had the most fun. Yeah, sure, Johnny Vazquez and Super Mario are fun, too. But hey, they're guys! :-) Not to speak of what I learned! To cut a long story short, I of course got me your ladies' styling DVD and practiced... practiced... practiced... I do get a lot of compliments for only dancing half a year, but I still feel I'm ever so far away where I want to be. OK, just don't get too impatient! I just started dancing. Yet, I can't find any good Salsa-classes around that teach like you do... They're all either bloody boring or too much ballroom-like (which looks great as well, but hey, I wanna DANCE! Maybe in a year or something... :-)) However, I do feel that your DVD really is helping me to improve more and more. Can't get enough of watching it (at times, I can actually speak along with what you're saying :-)) Anyway, I do have a question concerning your Bootcamps, which I'm dying to participate in. Do you also do them in Europe? I don't really have the money to get a flight to the US plus accommodation plus the bootcamp... So, if you don't do them over here, I probably won't have the chance to participate before the year of 2010 or something... or maybe I'll just rob some bank or blackmail my boss or something... Well, my boss is already wondering why it takes me so long to write that stupid letter to our English colleagues, so I should finish now. Oh, I mean, I don't know if you need such thing, but in case you ever need some German/English or vice versa translations, feel free to contact me... I'm SO looking forward to seeing you again... (which will probably be not until next year in July in Hamburg *sobs*) and I'm DYING to learn more Salsa (Well, in Hamburg then :-(()!!! Love, Caroline DEAR EDIE, My name is Nery Antonio, and i am writing you this short letter to show my appreciation for the joy and happiness you have brought into my life as well as my friends around me. You have been an inspiration for my dance partner and I, for about 2 years now. You are great at what you do and when i met you in person this year at the Miami Salsa Congress; i also realized that your 'persona' and attitude is just amazing. I was introduced to you by my friend Henry who is your partner now. I am glad that the both of you have gotten together to demonstrate your outstanding talents as dancers. I was very honored to have danced with you at the Salsa Congress. As and admirer and student, you have made this 'lil' boy's dream come true. But i wish you the best for the future, and i really cant wait to see you perform at the "Salsa Rueda Congress" with Henry. MY girlfriend, my best friend who is my dance partner (JUDY), and I will be there to cheer you both on! May God Bless you and everything that you do. This is my email: Antonio17252000@yahoo.com  you are welcomed to write me at anytime Enclosed with this email I have attached a picture to see if you remember us  bye now Nery Antonio Edie, I would love to dance with you again and have you teach me... you're a great instructor and an awesome and amazing dancer. Anthony Hello Edie, I am impressed with everything I have heard about your classes and in particular your boot camp. However, I llive in Washington D.C.. Would you ever consider doing a tour or boot camp up around this region in the future for those that cannot make it to Miami/LA?   Thanks,  Jennifer Ocampo Edie, I received the e-mail where you announced Henry was going to be your new partner and couldn't help but to notice how great you looked in your photo w/him. You share so much with your readers on your website as well as in your newsletters. I'm sure I'm not the only reader to have noticed how nice your looked in the photos. IF its not too much trouble, you may want to share with your readers through a link on your site some of the secrets to how you have toned your body to the great shape that its in now. I tell you, Edie, that flat stomach looks good and is inspiring! Continued success in all of your endeavors!!! Your newsletter is great and we love hearing about your travels and upcoming events. And one last note - the salsa community worldwide is in debt to you for the creation of Salsaweb. I check it often for news of upcoming events around the world as well as before I go out of town. My friend from SC just called me today and asked me to look up a city in FL to see where she should go tonight since she didn't have internet access. My other friend missed his flight to TN a couple of months ago and was stuck in Dallas and asked me to check Salsaweb to see where to go out that night as well. It's amazing just how important Salsaweb is in the lives of dancers worldwide. Thanks a million for your significant contribution! Take care, Sordaka Atlanta, GA Edie, I just wanted to thank you for the wonderful Bootcamp experience over the weekend.  Not only are you an amazing dancer, and performer, but you are an extraordinary teacher as well.  You were patient, considerate and had a true desire to ensure that the student fully understands the concept and technique.  That is what being a wonderful teacher is about.  Again, thank you so much for the wonderful experience.  You are a truly generous and a wonderful person.  Take care and hope to see you soon!  Khoa as in "Qua" - lity Edie, Forgive me for being late with this THANK YOU!  I enjoyed myself tremendously at your bootcamp!  You were terrific, I never learned so much so fast!  I returned home to SF and went dancing Sunday and Monday!  This week I'm on call and can't really go out.  :-(  I cannot thank you enough for all your hospitality, teaching and good cheer.  Saturday nite was a blast too--all your students, friends were just so much fun, and nice people.  I enjoyed myself to no end. I'm working on the Palm Springs weekend next--a few wrinkles to work out at work.  Hope you're having fun teaching overseas, and I hope to see you soon.  Your ever thankful student, and Christian friend,  Mich Hi,    My name is Uriel Hernandez, I'm from Puerto Rico but actually living in Orlando Fl. Let me tell you that your story about how you begin to dance salsa was amazing (and very funny too). Really I enjoy a lot your story and I'm so glad that the people count with salsa instructor's like you. Any person who dance or teach salsa needs to have the spirit and passion for this music, after read your article I'm sure that you have all que qualities.   I,m sorry for me because I would like you to be my salsa instructor, take care.   Uriel Hernandez    Edie, I just wanted to say thanks for everything.  I had a really good time during the Bootcamp.  I wish I could have taken another private lesson with you but things happened in LA which I had not planned for.  Also, I had a really great time dancing with your friend Gabe.  He's a really nice guy.  I was definitely impressed at Steven's Steakhouse.  I don't think I've seen such good dancers before.  I even got up the courage to dance with a few of those awesome dancers and even caught myself doing some somewhat decent double spins there.  It's funny but I think once I stopped thinking about what I was doing while I was dancing and just started dancing I started to dance that much better.  I even started free styling more.  It was really cool.  Anyhow, I had a really awesome time and next time I'm in LA I hope to be able to take some private lessons with you.                                                               Elana Edie,  BOOTCAMP... Again… I LOVED IT!  I can’t thank you enough… Lisa and I are practicing this afternoon so I’m optimistic it will be clearer as I work thought it.  I’m going to 424 tonight to take a stab at solidifying my gains… If it works great… if not I’ll keep doing it until it happens…Thanks again! Don Hi Edie.  Haven't seen U guys for a long time, just wanted to say hi and tell you that Your workshop and encouragement has made me a better dancer and person. (pic and profile in e-mail {You might remember me}salsero916@yahoo.com ) Thank You Two! Hi Edie, Just wanted to say hi and thank you again for all your instruction. When I first came back from Bootcamp and went out dancing, I had gotten a few compliments about my spins --because I was "punching" my spins -- saying I turned well and that I was right on the music; and then lately after watching some of your videos and practicing and practicing with a partner, who went to your boot camp this past week, I've gotten even more positive comments. It's just been more enjoyable. I've been dancing with some great dancers now, and it's so much fun. Everything just all came together -- dancing on the beat, rhythm, styling. Well, better stop there. Could go on forever talking about Salsa. Anyway, will probably see you sometime this summer. Take care, Karen Edie, My sister Mel and I loved your teaching yesterday. I was a piano teacher for over 25 years and appreciate all the little details/talks/tricks/experiences that you so generously and patiently share with us in your sessions. I just hope to be able to remember everything and put them into good practice.  Scarlet Hi Edie Hi there! I just want you to know that Chris, Karen and I were all super happy with the Bootcamp and we felt very lucky to have been able to go. I love the way you teach. You have a real gift for pushing someone to get better and demanding perfection. I just hope I can stay light, no thumbs, pivots and style! You really are the best. I would love to get your ladies styling video.  Also, we will work on getting you all up here to teach a workshop. Love, Bobbi Hi Edie, Just wanted to say thanks again to you.  I learned so much and had a great, great time.  The boot camp exceeded my expectations.  Went out dancing last night -- Thursday nights are big nights at Century Ballroom -- and practiced my styling for the first time dancing with a partner.  At first I felt uncomfortable adding the styling, but after a while I got used to it.  Might have even styled too much.  I don't know how I looked, but I had a great time experimenting.  I put the body roll in a couple of times in a couple of patterns, but it didn't come out right.  I might have even looked spastic.  I was so embarrassed.  I'll have to practice that one more at home in private.   My turns felt a lot better.  I punched my turns, at least when I could.  And one guy said, wow, Karen, that's pretty good.  I was so happy.  Chris looked really good out there.  She was more stylish with her arms and body movement than I've ever seen her before.  And Bobbi looked really cute out there.  I saw her arm styling that you showed us and it looked really nice, nice combination.  I could go on and on about dancing, so I'll let you go.  Karen Hi Edie, I've got to say from when I first bought your performance video in 1998 it was an inspiration because A: technically you were doing moves that no one else could do and still can't do and B: You and your partners danced with a passion and energy that I rarely see in England. Having met you personally I was surprised firstly how good a teacher you are and secondly how down to earth you are, considering you are the cream of the dance we call salsa. You don't seem to have the ego that most of us have when we get to the top. You are a very good example to many dancers and teachers. You have my respect and admiration. Thomas (uk England) www.spiritsalsa.com  Dear Edie, ....By the way Edie, again thanks for the training you have given me. It definitely has improved my skills. Even Joby Vasquez told me she likes my lead!! Your friend always, John "salsero loco" Morey Hi Edie, I would like to thank both of you for your kindness and unselfishness. You are wonderful human beings. I had a great time at the boot camp. My expectations were met plus some!! I wanted to take your bootcamp because I wanted to know where do I stand as a dancer and I wanted to improve on my leading skills and other techniques. This boot camp was an eye opener for me. I learned so much!! I learned I have a lot of bad habits. I enjoyed your guidance and the way you pointed out what I was doing incorrectly. I enjoyed how you illustrated the moves being taught. I liked that you were very patient with me. That was a big plus of the boot camp. Dancing for hours after the class session was great and I am glad we had lots of time and space to practice what you taught. Now I need to find a dance partner, may I clone you? ;-)!! I really had a lot of fun just dancing with you Edie!!! Incredible dancer!! I expected to be critiqued and I got it. I expected to be drilled and I was. I expected it to be mentally challenging, it was and I was pooped by the end of the boot camp. I did get a mental and physical workout!! WHEW!! But it was well worth it!!! I recommend this boot camp to anyone that either wants to learn how to dance Salsa or wants to improve themselves as dancers.  They know what they are talking about and they will guide you every step of the way. They know how to make the boot camp FUN!! Edie, thanks again for your patience, generosity, unselfishness and for your love of SALSA. I will see you again at the New Year's Eve SALSA Extravaganza!! I am excited!! John "Salsero loco" Morey Dear Edie, The video is a treasure not only for the lady, but for the gentleman as well in discovering invaluable tiny Salsa secrets Step-by-Step leading into the joy of movement in music.  Sincerely,  Ines U Eeri, Dresden, Germany  Dear Edie, My name is Tara. I have read your articles (you're an inspirational writer), and seen your instructional videos (which have helped immensely). I've seen you perform and recently even got to see you dance socially at the Miami Salsa Congress. Wow! Was that an event! It was my first congress, and besides the IHSC 2005 it was my first real professional salsa experience. But this time was different. I had the oppurtunity to perform. A both frightning and exhilarating experience. Especially since i was pulled into the routine only 3 weeks before the show, and wasn't "sure" of myself in the aspect. I've only been dancing for a little less that 2 years. My technique is not where I want it to be. But i'm working on it! :) I did get my roots in Casino, as most people do down here in south florida. But my style has evolved and i've been learning a lot of LA and Mambo. However, instruction for those styles down here is limited, especially in LA. So anyways to the point. After the performance was over...and my relief that i did not fall or get dropped set in....i got a chance to dance and watch some great dancers, such as yourself. I just want you to know that I could have spent the whole weekend watching you dance. I did even stop by the get my picture with you. Your not only a great dancer but a genuine person too. It shows in everything you do. I really appreciate that. I also heard that you will be dancing with Henry Herrera. So hopefully you'll be around the south florida area more. I guess my reason for this email- other than to profess my admiration- is to see if you will be teaching any workshops down here, or possibly be available for private lessons. If so that would be amazing! Either way, i look forward to seeing you more, seeing you perform, dance, read your writing, and learn from you as a dancer and a woman. Thank you for everything you do! See you around the salsa world! Sincerely Tara (aka La gringita) Edie, Just to say (in response to your request for feedback on your site) I thought Edie's ladies styling class in Birmingham (England) (@ the Custard Factory) was great. Her attitude is phenomenal. Being at that class made me want to invest more time and money in salsa - I bought her ladies' styling video. Watched it at the weekend and it is v good and well worth the money  (although she was much more reserved than at her class and didn't think this showed her at her best). Hope to see you at a class in London sometime. Leena Dear Edie, Hello, guys! This is Ed from Pittsburgh. I just wanted to thank you guys for the best weekend of salsa Pittsburgh has ever seen! I also wanted to thank you for the best workshop I have ever taken (and I have taken a number of workshops!) I learned SO MUCH! I wanted to thank you for being so generous to me last weekend. I really appreciate all the "props" you gave me all weekend. You didn't have to do that--YOU are the instructor, and should be the star of the evening. But you repeatedly gave me compliments in front of everyone else. It's very rare that someone with your talent is also so incredibly humble, encouraging, and over-the-top generous with sharing your knowledge. I definately hope to see you guys again soon--in Pittsburgh, LA, or elsewhere! Thank you for giving the Pittsburgh salseros so much, and for being such great people. With much gratitude, Ed Ribar Dear Edie, Greetings from Sydney. Just wanna say thank you for the Bootcamp last week, i really enjoyed it & learned a lot, you are an amazing teacher / dancer / person, you are the best. I have been learning / dancing Salsa for over a year, i have been to Cuba, Puerto Rico several times but you taught me how to do the proper cross body lead, we learned about 12 moves that night, now i can ask ladies for a dance with confidence. We both know that we still need to do lots of work on me for me to become a better dancer. All you guys & girls out there, if you wanna be a better dancer, no matter what your level is, go to L.A., Edie will take care of the rest. Ladies, you have to do Edie's styling class & guys, you have to take Al's pop n'Salsa class. By all means guys should also should take lessons with Edie. When we went out dancing, i felt as if i was on a night out with some one i have known  for a long time. Edie, thank you so much for the exciting Bootcamp.   My best wishes to you. Kind regards, Ajit I attended your classes in Pontins here in the UK last December and they were absolutely fantastic.  Hopefully you'll make it back here again in the future. - Gerry Hi Edie, I'm not sure if you remember me but I'm the guy from Seattle who you've taught up here and at your Santa Monica studio. Sorry for the long delay in getting this to you. I just returned from NYC and had a great time! I met Eddie and Maria Torres and danced the nights away at the Copa. I just wanted to say I've had several instructors since the passion for Salsa first took over my being, but none compare to the wonderful and intelligent approach you provide to your students. I have to admit no other teacher that I know has brought the kind of beauty and selflessness to the floor as you. Each time I've met you for a lesson I was treated like one of your family. Edie, you bring to Salsa a warm and infectious love that lifts this incredible art to a higher plane. Take Care, Timothy Corpus Edie, I know you prefer a phone call but I just hated to bother you again this week especially since this is something that I am so excited about especially cuz its not urgent. Edie-people have noticed how motivated I am but more than that I actually did better in my ballroom lesson and last night when I danced! Dan even said he liked the fact I threw in some styling. It was the first time I tried it since our lessons last week. YOU ARE AN AMAZING TEACHER! The "wave" or as I call body roll--peoples faces are dumbfounded that I can do it cuz I had given up till you forced me into submission :-) Edie--I could write pages but I just really want you to know how good you have made me feel about becoming a better dancer. The fact that you believe I can do it and you have already influenced my dancing where people notice is such a credit to you. You have put a smile on my face and I cant wait to see how I am after months of lessons with you. I look forward to our lessons the week of July 2nd and I plan to get to know the flight attendants well because I WILL be flying to take lessons with you on a regular basis. Cant you feel the energy in this email???...this is how I have been since your lessons!! Stay as special as you are and with all GOD's Blessings-- Sheila :-) ps-Lory and I are meeting tomorrow to "do" your video and all the freedom moves you taught me. Shiela Edie, Wanted to send you a thanks for Friday's Bootcamp. Don't want to seem like I'm trying to flatter you, but I'd by lying if I said it was anything less than amazing. In several ways. I've had a lot of teachers, Edie. Coaches in other sports or just life. But somehow you have this mysterious mix of smarts, insight, and humor that makes learning all come together. Which made for a lesson that was awfully memorable. And sweet. I think any dancer would come away feeling the same. Because you don't simply teach cool moves. You somehow tap into your partner's strengths and weaknesses, drawing on the former and transforming the latter. A friend of mine, a prosecutor and someone who has to impress juries on a daily basis, once described charisma as that rare ability to touch everyone they meet, making them feel happy or powerful or special. Happy to be alive and in their skin. Well, in that case, Edie, you have charisma in spades. As a dancer and as a teacher but most of all, as a human being! Thanks. It was lovely. Look forward to doing it again next time I come your way. Until then... Jonathan Field Hi Edie,     I just wanted to drop you a little note to say "thank you very much" for an awesome Bootcamp last week. I learned SO much in SO little time. It was amazing! Even though I still have TONS to learn, my confidence level leaped exponentially. As I told you, after the first hour I felt like the way I had been dancing before was quite brutish. Thanks for drilling me on the nuances of the dance and smoothing me out. If only I could take a Bootcamp a week; I feel like I could turn pro in no time at all!     "What's up?" And I'll catch up with you guys at one of your group lessons soon. Take care and thanks again.  Peace, Khori Dear Edie: I took a private lesson with you when you were visiting Seattle, Washington a couple of months ago. I have to say that I was so impressed by your kindness and patience that I decided to take a looksy at your website. Now I am addicted....I love that you have put so much information out to help people such as myself become better dancers. I have struggled for so long, and still do, because I want to dance well so badly. Your advise and special tricks have helped me so much. I still take classes (with Rico) and get out to dance every chance I get, but your online help has been priceless. Please, please, please...let me know when you plan to come back to the pacific northwest again. I would most certainly make it a point to take every single class you teach plus schedule more private with you. Also... last month I read your column regarding our ability to love dancing and God as well. Edie, please don't ever stop what you are doing. You are a blessing and a true ambassador for all of us who are God fearing and Salsa lovers as well. Thank you for time and patience. Ligia Maria Farfan ps: I bought your video on Ladys Techniques and love the Freedom Concept. I have actually used it out in the clubs here. hehehehe....thanks! Hi Edie, just a quick note to say, had a really nice experience with my lesson on Sat. I can tell you are even a better instructor than I thought. I'll set-up another private soon. Thanks again! James  jamesg8@hotmail.com "Edie, there aren't enough words to express just how much I enjoyed your private lesson and how much it has elevated dancing abilities. I've taken private lessons from several instructors and you are truly in a class of your own. Your ability to quickly and acutely break down and correct the fundamentals of Salsa is amazing. You exude compassion, energy, confidence and excitement. What's most important is that you gave me the confidence to feel like I'm the best dancer in the land.  Your lesson left me on such a high, I converted my garage into a makeshift dance studio. I'm hooked and I will always hear your voice of instruction, even when I'm practicing alone.  Thank you, Sheldon" Edie, Let me reintroduce myself. I am Ray Jones the gentleman who had the last private lesson on Friday with you. First of all, it was a pleasure having you in Seattle. It is amazing how the energy level of the dancers increase when we have outstanding teachers and dancers in town. I can tell by your attitude that you are a good teacher and that you are going to be a great one in the very near future. From the stand point of the private lesson, I got what I had hoped to get out the lesson. 1. Suggestions on improving leading. I got good info on leading the cross body lead, two fingers in leading the turns, and hand placement and pressure on the follow during certain movements. 2. Information on individual spinning (legs, feet, arms, spotting) 3. Hand styling points At this stage of my dancing, it is time to focus on the honing of my skills and attention on the little things that will make me a better lead. As my knowledge of leading becomes better, it will also make me a good teacher which will make me a better dancer. I hope the message regarding the need for teaching leading skills stays with you. You are in a position that will influence many people. Please emphasize to your fellow teachers and potential teachers how important it is to teach leading techniques from the early stages. I will cherish my private lesson that I had with you and hope to take another in the near future. If there is any thing I can do assist with your return to Seattle, please let me know. Thanks again and hopefully the year 2001 will see you grow insurmountably as an performer and teacher. RayJ Hi Edie, I was at Pontins in Brean Sands last weekend and had to write to tell you that you're not only an excellent dancer but also the best instructor I've ever seen.   I took your level 3 Salsa, the cha cha workshop and watched the level 4 Salsa. I've been dancing Salsa for about 5 or 6 years now and have taken many lessons from all kinds of teachers but your precision in describing the footwork, arm movements and body positions was better than anyone else I've come across. I guess I often get a bit annoyed with the way many other teachers count (have you had teachers that count tap, two three four although they dance on the one!). Even [famous instructor] has a very strange way of counting on her video (she counts steps and not beats). I tried to get to see you in LA a few years ago when I was travelling around California on holiday with a friend but he wasn't into the Salsa and didn't fancy staying in LA (I guess it's not quite the same as Yosemite). I'll have to make sure I only travel with other Salsa addicts in the future! Ciao, Dave (Another Manchester Salsero) Hi Edie, >I'm from Paris and I saw you in the salsa congress in Paris. Your show was wonderful !!! Your salsa lesson in La Coupole too. Thank you very >much for your good advises. Before seeing your show, I was fond of salsa, >now I'm salsa addicted.  cdelsol@noos.fr Dear Edie, My name is Shiran and i'm from Israel. Me and my friend, Noga, first saw you at the mediterranean salsa congress in Eilat. wa were astounded by you and your dancing style, and even now, mounts after - the impretion is still intanse... We would like to come to your studio in order to learn, but after we visited your web-site we couldnt find any details about an intensive program for a couple of weeks. We would like to know if there is such a program for people who come abroad especialy to learn in your studio, and if Jenuary is a good time to arrive at the u.s. (it is very important for us, that you would teach us in person, at least part of the time). We will be glad if you could answer our e-mail as soon as possible in order we could make plans accordinly... thank you in advance, best of wishes, Shiran & Noga Edie, I 've just got back from the Salsa Pontins weekend at Brean Sands, in the U.K. The classes you taught there were the absolute BEST. Non of the other teachers came near you! Your professionalism, charm, sense of humour and attention to detail were incredible. Your the best teacher I've ever encountered. And your a babe too! Best wishes and thankyou again  Jim PS:- When will you be over in the U.K. again? Hey Edie!! I just want to say how great your workshop was at the pontin's weekend. I'm busy trying to practice your acrobatic tricks every week now with my dance-parnter.  ok, need to go again, take care,muchos besos Evelyne Hey, sweetie...     I'm sorry about not writing you as soon as I got back, but I have been consumed in dancing since I got back. I have to congratulate you, thank you, and give you a big hug and a kiss... Ever since I got back, people have been telling me stuff like... "Hey, your leads have improved and I didn't know they could get any better!" "What did you do? You're dancing so much better!!!" Wow, I didn't think you had made such an impact on me in such a little time. I'm definitely going to your workshops on the 6th, 7th, & 8th. Oct. Plus maybe we'll get to dance together again, for fun. Anyway, I'll try to do my best to do you proud, when I tell people I trained under you. By the way, now that I'm back on my turf, I find it a lot easier to do the moves you taught me. I guess it's because I feel as if I am the Rogelio Moreno of Colorado. Don't take it as if I am conceited... cause you and I know that I still have a ways to go to dance in the levels of such an eloquent dancer as is Rogelio. Thanx again luv, Anthony "The Salsakidd" Dear Edie,  Sometimes I go to bed with something on my mind & wake up the next morning with fully developed thoughts about it, as if while I was sleeping my brain had been working on it somehow. I jotted down some thoughts the morning after meeting with you, and finally got back my notebook in the mail. I've attached two text files. For some specifics about the dance experience you gave me, below I tried to capture the biggest things I learned & why I consider you my first real teacher in spite of dozens of both private &group lessons before. That's pretty simple to figure. "Don't be weak!" Edie, I consider you my first real dance teacher because you made a real man out of me.  "Never start me with a basic!" That's supposed to be a little funny, but not far from the truth.   "Take me immediately into a cross body lead with a left turn, no thumbs, cross body lead with the waist, then another with a shoulder tap & show me who's boss!"  Through the dozens of private lessons and many group lessons I've had, only you stopped & showed me how to lead like a man.  "Dip me like a dove landing on a soft pillow."  I came to you because I knew intuitively that something was wrong, that something wasn't clicking, and I was frustrated.   "Brush the top of my head when you turn me."  And you showed me exactly - and I mean exactly - what I wanted to know.   "No icepicks - no thumbs!"  So now that I know what it's supposed to feel like, I can start to dance Salsa how I want to, and it's going to rock! In case you haven't gathered,  I'm pretty jazzed. Besides the real feel of what leading should be like, the most readily useful things you taught me were: - about forming little clumps of moves I like together to help me gain fluidity & not get stuck thinking about what to do next too much- about learning a move and variations on it to easily add variety (like the flavors of cross body leads) - how to practice spinning myself - the Cuban motion issue (it's a biggy!) The last two require many hours of practice on my own; the first two require some organization and some practice on my part. But I'm definitely on the road, whereas before I didn't even know where the road was. And you've given me the basic tools to do what I want. The rest is up to me to flesh it all out, and it's going to be lots of fun.  I've already got a basic overall structure in place, and I'm starting to fill things in. When I see you again, I'll lay it all out for you. I think you'll get a kick out of it. The organization seems to reflect my personality a bit.  - AC Hi Edie!  Thank god u replied my mail... :) First, I want to say that after i've seen you in the israeli salsa congress I can surely say that i am your no' 1 fan :) you r amazing and definitely an inspiration to me.  - Sagi Edie, No response required… I realize this is totally trivial stuff but I doubt anybody outside of you would ever appreciate it. It’s so interesting… I’m watching the [other instructor] beginners DVD… when he demonstrates a ladies outside turn for the first time it’s obvious he has a VERY selfish lead. He has his hand almost to his chest, while the lady is almost fully extended. Basically they are opposite… his is close to him and she is fully extended. He doesn’t come close to splitting the difference. It’s so obvious and clear to me because of you. There are so many little things you teach the guys which the other instructors never get. Additionally, you think about this stuff and because you learned as an adult, you see the world differently from those who learned “organically”. Your ability to analyze good and bad leads, combined with your experience dancing with so many men, provides insights few other instructors ever get. The guys get so caught up in the patterns that “how” we lead is overlooked. Guys don’t understand the importance of “the feel” of our lead. I have many women ask me if I’m an instructor… (I’m always surprised by that comment…). Part if it is my confidence that you helped instill and the other is the way I lead many things. It’s pretty regular that I have a gal say something to the effect of “your lead is very clear…” or “you are very easy to follow…” I realize these gals are often dancing with men who have never worked with someone like you, and their lead is selfish and somewhat sloppy. They may look decent (good footwork, body control) but the way they lead is underdeveloped. Note that I also watched the first [other instructor] video yesterday. I’m sure glad I didn’t pay for those… They show almost all the patterns at full speed, with very little breakdown. In the videos it’s basically full speed “monkey see, monkey do” mode. Those types of instructors frustrate me… I often need things broken down slowly and then I can speed them up… It’s not that I can’t won’t learn something from the videos, there is plenty to learn and as I continue to grow these will become more helpful. Some things I’ll see now but won’t be able to incorporate until I’m more advanced. Anyway… thanks for the videos… I love having all the material. I feel like a big sponge… and if I find one thing on each DVD, it’s a big win for me. I can tell by the way you talk sometimes that you don’t understand how good you are both performing and teaching. It’s so rare someone can perform so well and also teach it. Your skill sets are unique and I know they will serve you well as you move forward. Talk to you later. - a student Dear Edie, Thank you very much for your warm e-mail. I learned from you a lot and I hope to learn from you more in the future. It will be a pleasure to be your dance partner! I do hope to see you in Scotland or perhaps before that on a Cruise ship.... - Sam Just got back yesterday. It was all I hoped it would be & more. She has developed a keen analytical ability. She would sometimes dance with her eyes closed, really checking out my lead. I won't be dancing the same again. For me, confidence isn't an attitude I put on like a shirt from the closet. Belief isn't so haphazard. Edie gave me the basis to have confidence; the reason to believe I've got something going on. Encouragement doesn't go too far for me either, but the straight up - no chaser in-your-face experience she gave me really did the trick. So now I feel confident I'd make a good practice partner.   .... And Edie, .....you're the one who's helped me the most in getting up & running with this. I'm grateful. Thanks, Alex Edie; I want to thank you for the Bootcamp that we had together. The Bootcamp helped move my dancing to a higher level. Women who I've danced with before and after can tell a difference. I'm more confident in asking the really good women dancers to dance with me. I have enough transitional moves to make it more interesting and challenging for them. I've reinforced this experience with some private lessons where we have built on some of the things that you and I worked on in Bootcamp. I still break down occasionally, but you've freed me from the crutch of being stuck in "basic".   Thanks,  MB  Bootcamp was worth every penny! I went in only having taken group lessons in Salsa so that I could do a couple moves, but my Salsa dancing could pretty much be described as a holding pattern of the basic step wondering what to do next. By the end of Bootcamp, I had learned, by my count, about 17 different elements that could be mixed and matched, as well as a more aesthetically pleasing "holding pattern." After that one intense evening, I feel I can now Salsa with some confidence and even look decent on the dance floor. My favorite aspects of Bootcamp were Edie's patience and clarity of explanation, and the abundant time spent practicing moves again and again before being released to the madness of the Mayan dance floor. I highly recommend Bootcamp and am definitely doing it again in the near future. AJ I'd hit a wall with my dancing. Privates had brought me to a certain level, but lack of real practice left my new-found skills unchallenged.  You just can't improve at Salsa unless you are dancing consistently. Often, students find the club environment somewhat overwhelming and a bit intimidating. However, Edie's focused attention jumped started my Salsa neurons; the experience promoted new, tangible growth in my learning. A week later, I feel like a different dancer. If you're serious, consider the "Boot Camp" a fantastic way to hone your skill and get acclimated to the Salsa dance scene. Thanks Edie!! rlong1@home.com Edie, Last nights lesson was awesome for Lisa and me. We filled in some holes in my fundamentals and we fine-tuned a bunch of things that were bothering me. Because I missed some fundamentals my current world of patterns is much smaller than it should be and you opened my eyes (again…). Lisa and I are both excited and now just have to find the time to practice. I suspect we are on the brink of making some major moves forward and I really can’t thank you enough. Don Edie,   That was an amazing lesson. We learned—or at least started to learn—so many fun things, and clarified a lot of issues. Thank you so much!   Hugs, Lisa   Dear Edie: Great Class today Saturday. You are the best instructor I have ever had. Rocky Edie... I spent the entire day sitting in front of my computer reading articles and things on your webside! Before I go on forgive my english if I mistake sometimes (I am from Israel) . Anyway..I thought to myself :"WOW...this couple is absolutely unblievable!!" You are so inspiring!! I ve seen you the first time at the focus club in Israel (Lior's place..he is a good friend of mine) I didnt realize it was you..you were sitting there quietly watching everybody. And the second time was less than 2 weeks ago at the NYSC...and all I can think off now when I am back home was the warm and friendly genuine impression you made on me. You were sitting eating at your booth and I came up and told you that you were the greatest performers I ve ever seen. Anyway..all I want you to know is that my dream of all time is to be able to dance all my life ..having my studio one day..teaching in the world...having my own team and this is something I deeply belive is gonna happen. I want you to know that after xmas I am moving to NYC just to be able to take classes with the greatest dancers in the world and after reading on you and seing you on stage , I know I ll have to step in your studio...I ve heard you give the best classes ! I am sure you do...you have such a great energy! I hope you will help my dream come true!! I will listen to any little advice you have to get me started ! Thank you for being here. Maya April 15, 2004 Dear Edie: Thank you! I can only begin to express my gratitude in words for the world-class Salsa workshop you presented and your unbelievable, inspired performances last month. I learned at least several months worth of Salsa, and so much more from you, in several days, and confirmed that Salsa is a means of expression I wish to pursue and a community I want to be a part of as long as I am able. What I appreciated most of all were your genuine friendliness, generosity, professionalism, work ethic, sense of humor and showmanship. You guys are just too cool and too nice to be true! I’ve worked with a number of visiting celebrities in Korea, mostly musicians, and few were even 10% as down-to-earth and accessible as you. Your friendliness and accessibility definitely enhanced the workshop atmosphere, and build goodwill in the Salsa community. Most of the instructors and dancers in Seoul are also very friendly. Hopefully, your positive example will continue to influence the worldwide Salsa community. Thank you! We were all amazed by your seemingly effortless and expressive performances. You performed some of the same amazing moves and combinations you showed us during the 1st Korea Salsa Congress and a plethora of new moves and combinations, never seen before in Korea. Quite honestly, most of us were still trying to figure out “The M & M” we first saw at the Salsa Congress. And, you didn’t leave a single beat unexpressed. Many of us were probably thinking, “How did they do that? Wow, if I could only dance like that one day.” And amazingly, in the course of several days you made it seem possible. From the beginning of your workshop, you shared so openly: you didn’t hold back one single iota of your routines, knowledge or expertise. Furthermore, you prepared or came up with such clear and thorough breakdowns and explanations, problem analyses and suggestions. I hope your awesome example of openness and generosity will start changing attitudes about sharing. Unfortunately, some instructors, in an effort to maximize their earnings, refuse to share with students the moves students are most interested in, on demand. Instead, the student is advised to enroll in a different class than the one they are currently enrolled to learn that particular move. What the instructors they fail to realize is that in the long-term they are hurting their businesses by disappointing the student and building bad will. And, dancers who bring new moves to a club are often hesitant to share their discoveries – if not in word, then through non-verbal communication - wanting to enjoy their seemingly singular moves for eternity. Or even if they are willing to share, other dancers may be too proud, competitive, or afraid of embarrassment to ask how they are done. Eventually, however, some brave, frustrated dancer finds the courage to ask, and the move begins to spread. I believe these attitudes toward teaching, sharing, and asking for help create unnecessary competition animosity and stress, when Salsa can best serve a unifying rather than a dividing force. On a personal level, I have already shared several of the patterns I learned during the workshop with the members of my Latin dance club, “Latin Soguro (Latin Inside)”, including: (Please, excuse the awkward descriptions.) (1) The “Turn Around on “6”, Two-Arm Overhead Pull-over, Copa Wave Combination”, (2) The “Spot Turn, Shoulder Turn, Squatting Floor Slap on “1”, Touch Spins”, and (3) The “CB Wave, Double (L to R Hand) Turn and Stop, Triple Man’s Hip Pivot, Lady’s Left Hand Flick to Man’s Right Hand Catch”. And the moves were used in their recent “New Member Performance”. Net, it was much more fulfilling to give than to receive - especially when the recipients appreciated what was given. Thank you! During the workshops it also became clearer to me just how hard you must work and what kind of sacrifices you must make to perform and teach at such a high level. It’s obvious you spent countless hours preparing your routines, workshops, and materials before a trip. And, from the time you hit the ground, at Incheon International Airport, you were on the go. And, you never seemed to slow down, smoothly changing gears from performers to instructors, and then back again. Moreover, your enthusiasm and energy only seemed to build throughout your visit. In addition to the excellent Korean barbeque, between performances, the workshop, group lessons, private lessons, instructor training and promotions, I hope you actually found a few moments to enjoy more of the culture. I was really deeply touched by both of you at the closing party. Both of you couldn’t have been anything more than exhausted, after another full day! I certainly was. And Edie, when I wanted to say goodbye I found you seated on the floor, in a corner, away from the crowd, catching your breath, obviously exhausted. But when you saw me, you immediately forgot about your own physical state and found the energy to wish me a warm and sincere farewell. Your examples of professionalism and work ethic were so inspiring and instructional, and will be of great help as I plan to devote myself to teaching martial arts upon my return to the states. Thank you! Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how much I appreciated and learned from the two of you about the importance of having and exhibiting a good sense-of-humor and showmanship. Simply put, you thoroughly understand how to make people laugh, feel good, and respond, through your actions and words. Your costumes, make-up and other wardrobe were awesome. Your jokes and gags were hilarious, even to non-English speakers. And, I think they’re even starting to understand what you mean about dancing on the “Booyah!”  Edie, you did a tremendous job of picking up the most important Korean phrases relevant to teaching. If you would like, before your next visit, I can prepare a useful expression and pronunciation tape so you can “wow the crowd” even more. Edie, thank you for sharing this gift with us! And speaking of gifts, thank you both so much for the great CD, “Breakthrough”, by La Palabra Orquesta. I just received it. Actually, I am listening to it right now. All the best, and I look forward to our next encounter. Hopefully, we’ll meet at the 2004 Korea Salsa Congress, and I hope to attend your “Salsa Bootcamp” in Los Angeles, in early October! Love, Happiness, Peace and Blessings, Maceo Good Morning Edie! First of all, there is hardly anything that I don't like about your classes maybe the cold temperature at times, but that's just me. Your professionalism; the organized class syllabuses; your articles and inviting us to review them; your tips on techniques and the way you teach them; and most of all your generous patience, are all brilliant. At times, the class even feels a bit like a self-improvement workshop, but how could that possibly be a problem? You are so spiritual and so in touch with your life experiences that every bit of prep-talk and the anecdotes you share help me personally to move beyond my hang-ups about my ability, my body, by demeanor, etc., consequently pushing me forward. (It would a total loss to take that aspect of your teaching for granted!) I specially liked last session since we went through lots of repetitions. I also liked the fact that we had to perform while you watched us. It motivated us towards having to learn and remember. Moreover, ever since I've taken salsa classes, I have always wondered why on earth don't the teachers let the girls learn how to lead since it will help us understand the men's burden? Needless to say that you have fulfilled that dream too!! May you always be blessed with great health and that positive energy!!!  Bon Voyage and have a wonderful time!   Sincerely, Scarlet Hi Edie, My name is [studio owner] I own a dance studio in [city]. I met you at last year's West Coast Salsa Congress in LA. I think you are an amazing lady and your credentials and experience and knowledge and business sense are quite impressive. I am planning to attend this year's and would like to take the instructor training workshop. [studio owner] Hi Paul/Imogen/Salsa UK. Congratulations, congratulations on last nights success at La Finca last night. It was truly amazing! I couldn't sleep last night having witnessed probably the best dance performance (Edie) I am likely to see in my lifetime. Can I just say that Edie is one of the nicest people that I have encountered. Humble & gracious are just two of the words I would use to describe them. The vibes last night were second to none, you could smell the success at the club last night with so many special guests in attendance. I am glad that I was able to share that success and be associated with Salsa UK. - Andrew Dear Edie I just wanted to thank you both for taking the time to come to our UK Salsa Congress 2004 at Bognor Regis last weekend - it was the highlight of my weekend, meeting you both, attending your classes. I was on such a high leaving the weekend, I went to the Ion bar, a funky salsa club in Ladbrook Grove, London, the following night (even though my legs could hardly function after such an energetic and exhausting weekend), and some of the people to whom I mentioned I had been to this Salsa Congress were surprisingly dismissive of it, saying that there are too many happening to attend them all. I realise I am still very much a novice (having only been dancing for 11 months usually once a week), but to me it seemed this weekend just gone had such an array of salsa stars that it would be ludicrous to miss it! (And, yes, I am just about to write to Paul and tell him, plus let him know that it was you two who were the reason I came to the Congress in the first place!). My dance partner, Desmond Bobb, and I were very pleased to meet you both in person, so that we could pay you for our hooky copy of your Intermediate Moves DVD - we both were so inspired by seeing it (and yes, the first viewing made us go, gosh, we're never going to be able to copy that, but, after much pausing, re-winding, step-by-step note-taking and many practices, we finally managed to execute most of the moves passably, so that we realised they weren't impossible! [even if the stylishness was all your own and ours a long way to go...]) from borrowing a friend's DVD, that we had a copy made so that we could practice it. [We even had wanted to cheekily show you the Cuban over this weekend, but it never transpired!] We both felt very bad not having ordered the original version from you, so it was both a relief and a pleasure to finally be able to pay you for it in person, with much thanks and gratitude for the time and effort you put into making it, not to mention the humour and the clarity of your teaching! It's observations like that (plus watching you both entertain us greatly with that fantastic partner work class on Sunday morning, when we all sat down and listened and watched - by far the funniest and most inspiring class I have ever attended, I really wish that had been taped!) that make me in awe of the love you both share for each other, and that you have created a harmonious, humorous and loving marriage which has lasted (something which I have not yet managed to conquer, hence I have so much respect for you both for being the kind of people who have achieved it and maintained it for years, especially when considering that you work together!). So, Edie, it's your talent, your humour, your love and respect for each other, and your humility with your fans that has wowed me, and when I heard you were going to be starring at this Congress, I knew I just had to be there, and I'm grateful to you for that, because the whole weekend, of classes, shows, singing with our chalet foursome late into the night, the amazing costumes, the incredible talent (the lovely legs!) and the buzz from all these happy dancing people has created a memory that left me zinging, and wanting to attend every year until I die, or am no longer able to stand! I especially wanted to thank you Edie for all those tips and wisdom you shared on Sunday's Ladies' Styling Class. I've now started to practice the sexy walking bit, and the huge grin when concentrating really hard!! The compliment about my following thrilled me no end, so I'm now going to order your Beginner's starter kit (even though I always push myself to try the more complicated dancers in our class, and even two weeks ago led as a man in an advanced routine), because I realise I need to consolidate the basics, before I can add the styling that so impresses me and I yearn to exhibit! I'm sorry if this all sounds a bit disjointed and crazy - when it all came tumbling out in my head this morning, it sounded much cooler than this is! If you want a little glimpse of my craziness, I have attached some photos of three of the loves in my life : my pythons Samba (the female reticulated python, the largest one), Jed (the male African rock python, the second largest one) and Tommy (the male African Royal python, the littlest one). They are all twelve years old, and I love them dearly. Also, if it's not too embarrassing for you, I have appended my new mission, inspired by this weekend and by meeting you both. I love the innovation and inspiration with which you charm us all, and they do say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Strangely, on Saturday night, when I was quickly painting my stubby nails white (to match my white dress and to cover up the black nail I acquired from a mis-hit hammer when laying a wooden floor three weeks ago), my to-be dance partner Darren Alexander suggested I should paint his nails white for the evening also, just for fun! That's the sort of irreverent impulse I thoroughly enjoy, and I can't wait to buy all of your DVDs to see just what else you do and can inspire us to modify and grow from! As Jacqueline Bryden (Des's new girlfriend and Darren's old dance troupe member) remarked, it's heartening to see how your faith in God allows each of you to remove all worries before dancing and to express your inner child uninhibitedly and full of fun! Looking forward immensely to the next time you lovely couple return to the UK, a heart-ful fan, Colette P.S. The title refers to clothing colours Sunday night...! P.P.S. I wrote this on Tuesday 28th September 2004, still on a high from the weekend, but was waiting to find a scanned-in picture of my middle snake, Jed, but can't find one so am sending this anyway, before it becomes too out-of-date, and will forward a picture of Jed when I have scanned a new one in! Thanks once again for being my dance heroes and such great guys! Mission: To be able to live a life filled with love and dance & sensuality & helpfulness & kindness & generosity & exploration, and good health & good fitness & good looks, and an inner vitality and positivity, and great inventions & useful contributions to policy & process & structure wherever I am able, and good organisation & good humour & good wisdom & good connectedness to the world, with all bills paid, all debts cleared, an excess of £1,000,000 in my UK bank accounts and an excess of R500,000 in my SA bank account and an excess of SF500,000 in my Swiss bank account, and an increasing passive income always in excess of £200,000 p.a. and an income stream from me to my family members & selected friends, past loves, & acquaintances & charities always in excess of £100,000 p.a., and to teach others by example how to live a life filled with love Monday 27th September 2004 inspired by Salsa Congress 2004 in Bognor Regis, and meeting (and dancing with)  Edie the Salsa Freak my dance hero -- Dear Edie:   Your Salsa bootcamp was remarkable yet tiring.  My boyfriend and I, nevertheless, took a lot of moves, inspiration, and motivation home with us…at least that’s what I thought at the time of departure.   My boyfriend went home very frustrated and his emotions transcended over to me. There was nothing I could do or say to ease his emotions.  I knew that he wanted to become a better dancer but all I could tell him was about your “Beginner’s Curve”.  This made sense.  He was feeling “beginner’s frustration”. Just how you explained it in class.   I went to bed last night feeling that the only reason why my boyfriend wanted to learn was because he knew that it would make me happy but not because he actually wanted to learn for himself…..and actually enjoy it while learning.   This morning, however, it was a different story.  He called me and said he was watching your Hip Hop DVD at work.  He loves it and he’s already motivated enough to go to Home Depot to buy wooden tile to tape out in his background.  I feel better and relieved. <<Sigh with a big breath>>.  Thank you Edie for being an inspiration to all those around you.   Please let me know how I can purchase the Salsa 101 videos.  Thank you.         Best,   Ela M. Pappo ela@pginside.com   Hi Edie,   I don't know you but just wanted to send a message to say thanks for the newsletter and to share that everything I've heard about you (your rise to the top in salsa, your ability to recreate your life, your positivity...), it's admirable and inspiring!  You're obviously an empowered go-getter and women are lucky to have you as a teacher!    Allie   Nina's Comment: "Edie i'm sooooooooooooo glad i got to attend the salsa festival at palm springs :) i would say that was my best salsa exprience ever! and thats all thanks to you! you are one of the most amazing people i have ever met....... you are a great exciting inspiring person.......you have taught me soooooooo much more in those 4 short days then anyone in my 8 month salsa experience! anyone would be more than lucky to be your student and i hope that sometime in the near future i'll be at least half as good as you are.......jesus has given you an amazing talent and i'm glad you share it with others :) i cant wait for next year to come again! i hope to hear from you! and thanks so much again :) p.s. you are my inspiration :)" Edie- Thanks for responding! I have 10+ years of ballet training....and keeping my toes pointed straight is an issue for me and probably a good cause of my dilemna. I am working on this as diligently as possible. (Salsa is much more fun than ballet). I had sent this before I went to the Palm Springs Salsa Congress end July weekend....I took all your classes and they were great!!! You were an absolute kick, a great teacher and a joy to watch dance. In one of your classes you talked about the hottie: JJ who you taught at 8am one morning....well, that night I danced with him (he WAS adorable!)....he tried a new move on me that I had never done....poor guy, I think my fingers went up his nose by mistake. BTW, I have a Salsa friend in Melbourne, Australia who also raves about you...he was so proud of himself that he asked you to dance at one of the Australian Congresses. Good Luck to you with your dancing and in life. I hope I have the chance to take another one of your classes in person. Lori Zorn Dear Edie!!   Just wanted to say that you are a WONDERFUL person. I was at the Arhem congress and had a great time, although I am always impressed by so many great dancers together! Please DO move to Europe, and Holland is a great place to live, with an open culture and LOTS of Salsa. The Salsa scene is growing so fast (and it is already HUGE as you know), and people are so hungry for more, they want to learn as much as possible. You being around here would be a blast!   Take care, and see you at one of Holland's parties!   Bas Smeets Dear Edie, Hello.   I'm allways reading Your articles, and what is you writing it so true, about the lead, the style, the life on the dance floor. You making me feel that i'm not alone. Thank you. Are You Coming to the congress in Israel? please come.   Anna. Subject: thanks for helping Midge Hi, Edie, My dance partner, Midge Shigemura, took a private lesson with you yesterday (Saturday 7/9/06) at the Orland Salsa Congress. I just wanted to thank you for the helpful techniques you provided to Midge, and for the positive approach you used. Midge has been in group classes where the instructor called her "klunky" in front of the other students, and she has taken private lessons where she has gotten inadequate, dismissive, or inconsistent instructions -- so she sometimes suffers from a crisis of confidence in her own abilities. Despite that, she is a good dancer who can spin 15 or 20 times and can follow almost any lead. You pointed her to a way to improve her dancing style and appearance, and that's what she was looking for. Again, many thanks! Skate Sent: Friday, April 07, 2006 9:30 AM To: wowedie@yahoo.com Subject: Re: Salsa FREAK April 2006 Newsletter!!! Edie, You are a blessing to the salsa world. May God continue to bless and keep you. In Him, A Fan