Twirl for a Cause: AIDS Walk San Francisco Fundraiser

On Saturday, July 6, 2013, local pole dancers came together to help us raise money for my good friend, Jimmy Gale, and AIDS Walk San Francisco.  We received a ton of awesome raffle prizes from friends, local businesses and some online pole companies.  Club 1220 graciously hosted the event and Twirly Girls Pole Fitness was a co-presenter.

I want to thank Dew Point Pole for sending a box FULL of goodies to raffle.  I also want to thank our friends Lety, Rita and Mary, who donated items and baskets.  Liquidpulp Photography donated three beautiful prints.  Vanessa Howell donated a Bedroom Kandi goodie bag.  Grace from Twirly Girls donated an hour class for ten people.  Diana from Twirly Girls donated adorable Harry Potter jewelry.  There was also a gift certificate from Everything Under the Rainbow.  The Starlight Room donated tickets to Sunday's A Drag for auction.  Plus, there were many, many other prizes that I haven't listed.  Thank you thank you thank you to those who donated!

We had many dancers from around the Bay Area, including recent transplant, Amy from Boston Pole Fitness, Kate and Sasha from Pole Etak, and the amazing Jill Anne.  From Twirly Girls, we had Sean Michael (who is also a coach at Kinetic Arts Center in Oakland), Diana, Kim, Patrick, Robert, Alyssa, Grace, Jimmy and Yolanda (aka Team Greazeh!).  I want to thank the dancers who donated their tips to the fundraiser.  Thank you to Diana and Kim for arriving early and setting up Diana's pole.  Thank you to Diana for letting us borrow that pole!  Thank you to Bel for allowing us to use her stage pole and for trusting us to honor the Twirly Girl name at an event when she had to work at the studio.  Thank you to Patrick for helping me set up the pole and to AJ and Robert for helping me take it down (it was a little difficult to do anything but stand upright in that corset).  Thank you to Robert and Rita for taking photos.  Thank you to 1220 for allowing us to use their bar for our fundraisers.  Thank you to DJ Mikey for not only running the music but for always donating his own money to tip the dancers and join in on the auctions!  I especially want to thank Farrah from Twirly Girls, our tireless pole cleaner and doctor-in-training. 

I really cannot thank everyone enough for coming out to dance, to donate raffle items and to watch the show.  You helped raise about $1,200 towards Jimmy's $10,000 fundraising goal.  If you couldn't make the show but would still like to donate, please click THIS link. 

And one more thank you to anyone I may have inadvertently forgotten.  My brain...it's getting old and it doesn't remember everything anymore.  :-)  I have never met a more giving group of people.  If you missed the event and you'd like to watch a playlist of the videos, please click THIS link. 

Dancing with a Partner

So, as many of you know, I spent a lot of March and April preparing for the Lovely Rita Fundraiser.  Not only was I trying to help wrangle donations for raffle prizes, I signed up to do TWO full routines.  For the first time ever, though, I danced with a partner!  My brand new pole dancing student, Robert (check out his blog about the performance HERE -- but don't read it until the end!!), was game to perform with me.  

Our adventure actually started with a Twitter conversation about whether Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson belonged to Robert or me.  Read Robert's post HERE.  His post is great, so I won't rehash the details here.

What I do want to talk about is how amazing and inspiring Robert is.  He was so worried about going up against his pole dance teacher in a "dance off" for The Rock.  I wasn't worried because, even though I have more experience, thanks to my food issues, I'm still not pulling off advanced moves.  However, Robert showed up to class early each Monday and also joined us on Wednesdays for the class where I am a student.  He practiced hard and pulled off some really difficult moves for a brand new pole dancer.  I cannot even come up with the proper words to say how proud I am of how hard he worked.  He's so much fun in class and I was slightly surprised but really excited he wanted to perform already.  

We had two months to plan our routine and practice.  Bel helped us choreograph a very simple but fun routine.  I normally don't like to perform with anyone else.  That way, no one knows when I forget my part.  But Robert and I danced really well together.  

In the end, Robert kicked my butt.  He deserved the win.  The event was fun and Rita very sweetly made photos of The Rock for both Robert and me.  Trick or Twirl is coming up in October.  It may be time to think about a re-match!  

Here's a video and some photos of our performance.  Let me know what you think!

For fun, here's the link to the Twirly Girls blog post with all of the videos and here is my burlesque-inspired routine to The Stripper.

http://twirlygirlspolefitness.wordpress.com/2012/05/10/the-third-annual-lovely-rita-fundraiser-videos/

Twirly Girls Photoshoot with Liquidpulp Photography

We recently held another fun photoshoot at Twirly Girls with Andrew of Liquidpulp Photography. 

We did a pin up shoot last year:  http://lolorashel.blogspot.com/2011/02/twirly-girls-pin-ups.html

We always have a lot of fun on photoshoot days.  I didn't want to publicize anyone else's photos but you can check mine out.  And, if you're in need of a photographer, please give Andrew a shout!

A Twirly Girl Weekend With Philip Deal

Not too long ago, I interviewed the bad boy of pole, Philip Deal.  On Facebook anyway, Philip does have a reputation for being a little racy and raunchy.  That's my kinda boy!

So when I heard Philip was coming to the West Coast for a Bad Boy Tour, I wasn't sure what to expect when I met him.  Philip did a meet and greet performance at Twirly Girls last Friday.  Philip greeted me with the biggest smile and hug -- like we were old friends.  Turns out the Bad Boy of Pole is really a sweetie and softie deep down. 

Philip has an extensive background in classical dance training.  But he's also got a naughty side.  If you haven't watched his Polesque video, check it out here:

Philip's performance at Twirly Girls was a little mix of pole strength and bad boy fun.  He was wearing these fantastic patent leather pants (made me think of the "gimp suit" in American Horror Story).  His performance came complete with a little chair dance and lap dance for one lucky audience member.  It was pretty hot.

On Sunday, I had the pleasure of taking a beginner workshop with Philip.  He gave us some great strengthening exercises to help get us pole-ready.  He also worked well with such a large group -- making sure everyone could do the moves, even if we needed a little help. 

After the workshop, Rita and I sat down with Philip for a quick video interview (to be released soon...).  And I think that is where I fell in love with our darling Philip.  I know all too well that sometimes when a person is very in-your-face and happy to be labeled "bad," it is usually because they are protecting themselves.  I think for those who haven't met Philip in person, and might think he's a little over the top on Facebook, they should take the time to meet him in person.  They will walk away with a very different opinion of him.  I don't want to say that I found him to be fragile because that might insinuate he was weak.  But I did find Philip to be a very open, honest and sweet person -- not nearly as "BAD" as I expected.  I am really excited for his video interview to be released.

Philip was a really good sport and came out to the drag show at Club 1220, even though he'd had a long day of workshops and adventures around town with Bel.  The queens seemed delighted to have such a cutie in the audience and Philip happily played along when he was brought on stage.  It was truly a fun night.  (What happens at the drag show, stays at the drag show!!!)

Philip heads off to Vegas this weekend for the National Aerial Pole Art Championship.  He told Rita and me about his routine and we were already in tears just hearing about it.  My brother gets married this weekend, so I can't make it out to Vegas but I am hoping there will be video released of the event.  We definitely wish him good luck!!!!!!!!!!

Many people have preconceived notions about the Bad Boy of Pole...and I realize that not everyone will like everyone else...but I really am happy I got to meet Philip in person and I look forward to the next Twirly Boy adventure!

Twirly Girls at the Sarah & Vinnie Secret Show!

So on Valentine's Day, the Twirly Girls were part of the Sarah and Vinnie live Secret Show at the Supper Club in San Francisco (Alice @ 97.3 FM on the radio in San Francisco or www.radioalice.com).  What an EPIC day to add to the list for the Year of the Viking!

When I first saw Uzette talk about pole dancing on Facebook a couple of months ago, I had NO idea this was going to be the ultimate outcome.  Initially, she went to some classes at Poletential in Redwood City.  When she mentioned that she was going to do a performance for an event, I invited her to come to Twirly Girls for some one-on-one lessons to prepare her.  I still had NO idea how awesome the event was going to be.

Uzette only came to Twirly Girls twice for private lessons with Bel and me.  I know a lot of people think that pole dancing is easy but learning all the right moves in a safe way really can't happen in two classes.  Plus, she was nervous about performing and learning a routine.  We decided to go the silly route.  It gave her lots of room to just dance around, and then she only had to spend about a minute on the pole.  Bel entered the picture as Uze's pimp just to make sure there were no issues with crowd control.  Uzette has an amazing body and legs and she ROCKED her dance!!!!  I give her HUGE props for getting up at a public event in booty shorts and stilettos!  I thought she did a great job and the response to her performance seemed to be pretty positive.

Last week, they started talking about an additional performance:  Icky stripping.  Icky's performance was ...  almost indescribable.  I know he was super nervous but he looked SO handsome in his dress-up clothes, and has an amazing body, so he looked GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRREAT with his clothes off too!  Former intern, Bryn, was also off the hook...showing off his awesome body and some pretty advanced Chinese acrobatic moves.  

Shelly did her first performance next and, as always, she is so impressive to watch.  Diana is so freakin' adorable and I love that her performances are more dance-inspired (she had no reason to be nervous!!).  It reminds me that I need to get in and take a class with her soon.  Shelly finished up with a slow Metallica song...I love Metallica.

I really want to thank EVERYONE for yesterday's event.  The entire Sarah and Vinnie Morning Show and Alice Radio for including Twirly Girls and for all of the mentions on the air.  Uzette for coming all the way to Pleasanton so we could teach her (and to Johnny V for driving -- Bel does expect you to come back for a Twirly Tuff workout someday, JV!).  Icky for being so brave and HOT!  Bel for allowing me to pimp out her studio without even asking.  Shelly for busting her ass to bring that heavy stage pole and perform twice.  Diana for performing when I know she was SO nervous.  Grace for giving us a mini warm-up performance before the show started.  Andrew and Rita -- my TEAM HONEY BADGER.  All of the Twirly Girls and honorable TGs who were able to come to the city on a week day to support us.  And Supper Club SF for offering up a pretty cool venue. 

I know that my usual purpose in life is to promote the positive image behind pole dancing, although I recognize the stripper roots, which has a negative connotation for some.  I always go back and forth on the subject.  Sure, what I do is different from stripping.  I don't get naked and I don't get tips for what I do.  But is there anything wrong with the people who DO strip for a living?  I don't think so.  I hate bringing up Claire's quote so often, but it is my favorite:  "If for some reason, the idea of your dancing being connected to the strip club scene is upsetting to you, if you desperately need to distance what you do from what those 'other girls' do, if you truly believe that you are doing this because it’s just a really good workout, then I strongly suggest you spend some time thinking about why you chose pole dancing.  Because there are a million ways to get fit without putting on six inch stilettos, a bikini and swinging sensually around a pole."  Quote from The Pole Story.

Yes, I get that many are trying to insert a fitness-only aspect.  Circus and contortion.  Aerial acrobatics.  Chinese Pole.  All non-stripper aspects.  And that's okay too.  But the history is still there.   I accept the whole history.  Anyway, stepping off my soap box...  I had a great time.  I really love my pole sisters (and brothers) and I am looking forward to our next adventure. 

Oh yeah!  Andrew of Liquidpulp was with us to take photos and Rita ran our video cameras.  Rita's husband, Dave, even got in on the action when the owner of the club asked him to run the spotlight.  I ran around with the tools to change the pole from static to spinning and made sure the pole was wiped down between performances.  I was a sweaty mess (as usual) by the end, so I felt like I didn't even get to see the show as it happened.  I'm looking forward to the videos and photos. 

I will be linking podcasts, videos and photos below as they become available.  Were you at the show?  Tell me what you thought!

The podcast of the live Secret Show (from Tuesday, February 14): http://radioalice.radio.com/2012/02/15/podcast-valentines-day-live-secret-show/

The podcast of the aftermath (the "Lost 30" from Wednesday, February 15):  http://radioalice.radio.com/2012/02/15/podcast-aftermath-from-yesterdays-live-show-on-the-lost-30-2-15-12/

Video of Shelly (1):  COMING SOON!

Video of Shelly (2):  COMING SOON!

Diana: COMING SOON!

Link to Andrew's photos:  COMING SOON!

Power of Pole - A Day of Giving the Gift of Pole

I want to thank Pole For A Cause and Pole Spin Magazine for giving me a wider audience for my request to get other pole studios involved in fundraising this year!  

http://poleforacause.com/2011/12/power/

Lovely Rita Fundraiser For National Kidney Foundation

December 30, 2011 By admin Leave a Comment

 

Lovely Rita Fundraiser For National Kidney Foundation

On Sunday, April 22, 2012, Twirly Girls Pole Fitness will hold the third annual  Lovely Rita Fundraiser.  I wrote a blog about this fundraiser (and others), in a previous Pole For A Cause post, Fighting The Good Fight.  Rita, a student at Twirly Girls and close friend of mine, has been blessed with three kidney transplants.  It is important to Rita to support the NKF, so it is important to us as well.

Supporting charities in our pole community is an important topic.  We at Twirly Girls would like to ask pole studios all over the world to join us on April 22nd to raise money for a charity that is important to their studio.  There are many ways to raise money.  You can offer classes and workshops and donate any money raised.  You can have a student and instructor showcase or an open house with raffle and/or silent auction.  You would be surprised at how willing local businesses are to donate gift certificates or items if you are willing to advertise their donations to your studio members.

We have started a group on Facebook called Power of Pole – A Day of Giving the Gift of Pole, to help coordinate the event.  If your studio is interested in joining us, please join us on Facebook.  The most important thing to remember is that there is no pressure.  We are not keeping track or asking you to give money to us.  Find a cause close to your heart and donate directly to that charity.  It will be fun to report back on Facebook and celebrate all of the good that the Power of Pole can bring to our lives!

Written by Lory Myers. Photo by Liquidpulp Photography.

Project 365: Days 62-68

Day 62

Monday, August 15

Hi, friend!

Day 63

Tuesday, August 16

Day 64

Wednesday, August 17

See ya later, Bally Total Fitness.  Thanks for going out of business overnight!  It was a fun ten years.  

Day 65

Thursday, August 18

Riding my bike around.

Day 66

Friday, August 19

Henry

Day 67

Saturday, August 20

The Dive Bar mermaid.  Sacramento, California.

Day 68

Sunday, August 21

The amazing Shelly Lamb at the Twirly Girls 2012 calendar photoshoot with Andrew of Liquidpulp Photography.

Pantera's visit to Twirly Girls!

In my year and a half at Twirly Girls (wow, almost two years now), Pantera has stopped by three or four times.  Every single time, I've been sick.  She travels the world teaching pole classes, so I have avoided coming to see her perform so I don't pass it on.  This time, however, I was all good and I came out for the meet and greet (definitely not advanced enough for the workshop). 

She was so sweet.  She sat and chatted with the group, telling us stories and talking to us about how she came up in the pole dancing world.  She looks SO young, but she's very well spoken and extremely smart about being in this business.  I really liked her.  And her performance was really awesome to watch.  Bel is always talking about how amazing and nice Pantera is...and now I know why!  Thank you to Pantera for the great performance and spending so much time talking with us!  I know she had a rough week and probably needed some rest, but she answered every question and made us feel like old friends.

Here is her Facebook fan page:  https://www.facebook.com/PanterasPoleWorld

Here are some of Andrew's photos from the evening.  If you have never seen Pantera perform in person, make sure you do!