Washington Square Sparks

M.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For AutismM.O.V.E. For Autism
Photography By James Koroni
DANCERS
Nicole Johnson,
Pierce Cady, Javier Gonzalez, Clare Maceda, Alex Sala, Randel Santangelo &
Anthony.

MOVE For Autism, April 26th at 52 Street Project

You are cordially invited to an enchanted evening, with 'Mover' Nicole Johnson, where you will be inspired by artists united by their unique voice, "movement." Javanna Productions' M.O.V.E. (Motivation Opportunity Vision Entertainment) and Broadway Dance Center presents 'M.O.V.E. For Autism.' A night of movement and dance to raise funds and awareness for the autistic community. Featuring students from BDC's ISVP, Pro Semester, and Training Program along with original M.O.V.E. members and a few special guests!MOVE For Autism

FOOD: Part 6 of 6

Increase Intake of Clean Water

Water Tryptic, Warhol Tribute, Enforced ArchWater Tryptic, Warhol Tribute, Enforced ArchWater Tryptic, Warhol Tribute, Enforced ArchAdequate water intake is vitally important. And the more one sweats from being physically active and in hotter environments, the more one ought to drink. Water is a component of many foods and beverages; the healthier of these would be fresh vegetables, fruits, soup made from veggies, and teas. Though it's a point of contention, moderate consumption of coffee and alcohol may also be considered in this group, though these beverages are certainly not necessary for good health. In the end, drinking more pure water is obviously the most reliable way to increase the amount of water your body receives. It is possible to drink too much water, but this is rare. Generally speaking, if your urine is mostly clear or only slightly yellow, you are getting enough water. If it is dark yellow, you are dehydrated and your body is not functioning at its best.

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For more on the Author, Sebastian Grubb, visit his ‘Movers’ page!

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

MOVE for AutismOur compassionate 'Mover' Nicole Johnson created an initiative for dancers to contribute their "voice" to assist communities with compromised living conditions. She developed JP, Javanna Productions, when she was thirteen years old and since then has had a very positive response from audiences across the country.

JP's 'M.O.V.E.' is their most recent endeavor which is ultimately trying to make the world an easier place to live in. They focus on many different social issues and reach out to those who are in need of resources such as the Autistic community, the Cambodian community, Cancer stricken patients in the U.S. and an orphanage in Uganda. They intend to raise awareness and funds for these causes while using their craft and doing what makes them happy.

Check out their promotional video:

Here's where you can contribute. Simply stop by and enjoy the show! The most charming aspect of Nicole Johnson's 'M.O.V.E.' is all her efforts inspire happiness in the lives of those involved.

Move For Autism

LINKS: AutismSpeaks.org jpmove.webs.com BroadwayDanceCenter.com

Nicole Johnson

Nicole JohnsonNICOLE JOHNSON

Nicole Johnson is a freshman at NYU studying social entrepreneurship via public administration and the arts. After moving from Miami, FL in the Fall of 2008, Nicole re-launched her production company, Javanna Productions, and presented an effort entitled M.O.V.E which stands for Motivation Opportunity Vision Entertainment. Javanna Productions' M.O.V.E is an effort that not only promotes awareness and raises funds for rising issues, but it provides today's generation and generations to come with an example of brotherly responsibility. JP's MOVE seeks to encourage pre-teens, teens and young adults to be productive, be creative, be aware of local and worldly issues and develop a stronger sense of community within their neighborhoods. This year, Javanna Productions' M.O.V.E. is raising funds and awareness for the need for education in rural parts of the world. Nicole is working with the Bernie Krisher Rural School Project Foundation to build a school in rural Cambodia within the next two years. Since 2008 M.O.V.E. has raised money and awareness for organizations like Autism Speaks, QSAC, Children of Uganda, Church Of Christ in Ghana and the Fivers Foundation. In addition to the productions and events she hosts monthly, Nicole has performed in runs of A Chorus Line as Cassie, Into The Woods as the Witch and Rosie in Bye Bye Birdie receiving the National Youth Theater Awards' Best Actress in a Musical title for all three roles.

"M.O.V.E. is innovation. M.O.V.E. is inspiration. M.O.V.E. is change and change is needed." -Nicole Johnson

FOOD: Part 5 of 6

Ensure Regular Consumption of Nuts and Seeds

NUTS and SEEDSNuts and seeds contain many beneficial nutrients, including healthy fats that play a role in  reducing the risk of heart disease. Regular consumption of nuts and seeds is often quantified at 1-2 servings daily, depending on one's level of physical activity. If you are so physically active that you have a hard time eating enough food, nuts and seeds are an energy-dense (i.e. calorically high) food. A serving is loosely defined as a small handful. Some members of this food group, such as ground flaxseeds, hemp seeds and walnuts, contain a significant amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which are an extremely important -- and an often missing--dietary component. Generally speaking, increasing one's intake of omega-3 fats is a good way to improve one's health.

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For more on the Author, Sebastian Grubb, visit his ‘Movers’ page!

KAIGHT

KAIGHTBeauty Bombshell Bettina May & I took a trip to KAIGHT, an Eco Boutique, this past weekend in search of Earth friendly attire. You can find them in the Lower East Side off of Orchard at Broome St.

Here are a few items we couldn't overlook:

KAIGHTKAIGHTKAIGHTKAIGHTKAIGHT From top to bottom; TOMS Shoes, Melissa Plastic Dreams, Nina Payne Ballet Flats, Waiting For the Sun (Sunglasses) & more. Visit them at the following address:

KAIGHT 83 Orchard Street New York, NY 10002

Bag Lady

Bag LadyLauren Cox makes her moves despite the weight of this social issue. Domestic violence can be found in many forms. In her piece entitled 'Bag Lady,' Lauren exudes bravery and is determined to free others of what turmoil they are experiencing in their daily lives. She uses her choreographic voice as a platform to inspire and inform others that there is a support system in place for you to fall back upon. The story tellers, or Freedom Sisters, introduce you to a woman lost in a whirlwind of confrontation. Past "baggage" holds her to prior relationships where love was never the foundation. Rather emotional insecurity and manipulation lived as a means to control her heart. As the story unfolds you see the character build confidence through her loving friends. When she finally takes a stand these women are there to assist her in the process of letting go. For upcoming performances of 'Bag Lady' & the Freedom Sisters check back with Enforced Arch!

Domestic Violence Resource Center (DVRC)

Choreographer Lauren Cox

Assistant Choreographers Andrea Queens & James Koroni

Dancers Andrea Torres, Andrea Queens, Federica Paoli, Klara Beyeler, Lauren Cox, Maria Del Rosario Aviles, Raphael Dw Thomas & James Koroni.

FOOD: Part 4 of 6

Decrease Intake of Processed Foods and Animal Foods

Decrease Intake of Processed Foods and Animal FoodsIn general, the more nutrient-dense the food one eats, the healthier one is. Eating more veggies, fruits, and legumes is a direct response to this principle. But since you only have so much room in your stomach, the only (comfortable) way to eat more of these foods is to eat less of other foods that contain fewer nutrients per calorie. On the spectrum of nutrient- density, unrefined plant foods are at the top and processed foods such as pastries, cookies, candy, most food bars and breakfast cereals, bread made with refined (e.g. "white") flour, oil, and others are at the bottom. Higher consumption of processed foods is associated with decreased overall health. This could be due to many reasons, but a likely one is that eating more processed food means eating less unrefined plant food, and it is the latter of the two that can actually protect your health.

Animal foods, such as meat, fish, yogurt, cheese, etc., also are less nutrient-dense than veggies and fruits, but generally contain more beneficial nutrients than processed foods. Therefore it is prudent to eliminate processed foods, begin to eliminate animal foods as much as you can and opt for the base of your diet to be unrefined plants instead. An additional reason for most westerners to eat less food from animals is that animal foods are virtually the only source of saturated fat in the human diet. And consumption of saturated fat is considered one of the main contributors to heart disease, a disease that increasingly strikes Westerners. And some animal foods, such as fish, contain the highest level of contaminants such as mercury, PCB's, dioxin, and others. These contaminants pose a serious threat if eaten in too high a quantity, especially for children and fetuses. Again, the main issue with over-consuming animal foods is likely that it means under-consuming health promoting plant foods such as fruits, veggies, whole grains, legumes/pulses, nuts, and seeds.

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For more on the Author, Sebastian Grubb, visit his ‘Movers’ page!

FOOD: Part 3 of 6

Replace Refined Grains with Whole Grains

Grains are refined primarily so they store longer and for the 'lighter' texture. When a grain is processed and refined, such as whole wheat into white flour, many valuable nutrients are lost.

This is because a grain is made up of a bran, germ, and endosperm; the bran and germ are typically removed with processing even though they contain the highest concentration of many nutrients. What is left is the endosperm, which is mostly starch. Almost without exception, when given the option one should eat a whole grain instead of a refined grain. Whole grains include whole wheat, brown rice, quinoa, corn, rolled oats, etc., and have traditionally been the dietary staple of the majority of human civilizations.

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For more on the Author, Sebastian Grubb, visit his ‘Movers’ page!

Sasha

James Koroni, ChoreographerI had the opportunity to choreograph and dance for Sasha the "Russian Madonna." Making her debut in the US has been effortless for this fashion forward recording artist. After watching my YouTube Channel she contacted me with much enthusiasm. She wanted me to develop an eclectic performance for her upcoming single release at a local NYC nightclub. James Koroni, Choreographer

With three days to prepare a jaw dropping performance I needed a talented and tirelessly diligent dance choreographer to team up with. I called on my friend Tracey Katof to assist me in the studio the very next evening. She and I completed the piece on the second day and taught the dancers shortly thereafter. Special thanks are owed to our dancers; Jac-Louis Snyman, Lauren Cox & Kelsey Furhman. Their performance energy, positive attitude and professionalism coalesced into a captivating dance experience that no one had anticipated!

James Koroni, Choreographer

Our costumes are pleather military couture tops with chains and prominent shoulder pads. Check out some photos from our performance.[imagebrowser id=10]

Photography by Andrew Werner

James Koroni, ChoreographerI was especially impressed with Sasha for her interest in social issues. Our initial meeting over coffee in the West Village was all about sharing our common interest in communicating world issues and offering compassion through artistry. She is an advocate for a charity called Pencils of Promise. Their work reflects their commitment to sustainable educational opportunities. Their role is to create more than just four walls; the schools they build must continue to provide generations of quality education. To ensure their success, they approach works from the bottom up, finding and working with communities who don't just need a school, but who are invested in creating a successful one. (source)

I appreciated the opportunity to work for an artist that is unconditionally interested in the minds of tomorrow. I wish her the best in all that she does!

For more on Sasha, visit SashaNow.com!

FOOD: Part 2 of 6

Increase Intake of Vegetables and Fruits

Vegetables and fruits are the two most nutrient-dense foods in the Fruit Vegetable, Enforced Archworld. This means, per calorie, they pack the highest concentration of vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and other health-promoting nutrients when compared to all other foods. This is true of vegetables and fruits that are raw or minimally cooked, and as close to their natural form as possible. (A french fry comes from a potato, but it is not a health-promoting food.) Consuming a higher quantity of nutrients from food (versus from supplementation) is considered one of the most important things you can do to protect and ensure your health. I won't get into detail here, but the science shows many exceptionally high correlations between higher consumption of these foods and increased lifespan.

Fruit  Vegetable, Enforced Arch

-improved health of the cardio-circulatory system (better circulation of blood, reduced heart disease, reduced incidence of strokes, etc.)

-decreased risk of a number of diseases, including various cancers

-improved and quickened recovery from disease (stronger immune system)

-decreased mental decline with age (better thinking)

-decreased ocular degeneration with time (better vision)

The implications reach far and wide, and there are many other Fruit Vegetable, Enforced Archbenefits not listed here. But it is also important to mention that, among those populations already consuming high levels of these foods, those who consume more dark leafy greens (e.g. salad) and more legumes/pulses (i.e. beans, peas, and lentils) have even better health and live even longer. (Disclaimer)

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For more on the Author, Sebastian Grubb, visit his ‘Movers’ page!

FOOD: Part 1 of 6

Like many branches of science, nutritional science is constantly being updated, added to, and changed. But unlike most other scientific disciplines, the general population, at least Food, Enforced Archin western and westernized countries, wants to know these changes and feels directly implicated by them. This is because what nutritional science has to say--or at least what the popular media have to say about findings in nutrition--carries great implications for everyone's health and appearance. It is also in part because highly-westernized countries such as the U.S. do not, relatively speaking, have a traditional food culture, and so what people eat is frequently subject to change based on governmental and commercial interests.While many finer points are disputed within this field, there exists a handful of guidelines that are almost universally promoted. According to general recommendations made by many top health authorities, most people would improve their health by:

1) increasing intake of vegetables and fruits; 2) replacing refined grains with whole grains; 3) decrease intake of processed foods and animal foods; 4) ensuring regular consumption of nuts and seeds; 5) increasing intake of clean water.

While there are many other recommendations for improving nutritional intake, I believe these five serve as a strong foundation for most people looking to benefit their health. I'll explicate these five points one at a time in future articles. (Disclaimer)

FOOD: Part 2 of 6 FOOD: Part 3 of 6 FOOD: Part 4 of 6 FOOD: Part 5 of 6 FOOD: Part 6 of 6

For more on the Author, Sebastian Grubb, visit his ‘Movers’ page!

Broadway Dance Center Loves Nippon

Broadway Dance Center Loves NipponAll proceeds from these charming shirts go to support the American Red Cross in the Japanese Earthquake and Tsunami relief efforts. The Japanese text on the back reads, “Ganbare, Nippon!” which means “Stay strong, Japan!” Show your love for our Japanese friends and contribute to a worthy charity while you’re at it! (source)Broadway Dance Center Loves NipponVanessa Irena Pomiechowski

Get yourself one here!

Graphic Design by Vanessa Irena Pomiechowski. She is also a compassionate 'Mover' that lives a vegan lifestyle. See more of her work here!

Dancers Are Also Athletes

Dancers Are AthletesAdditional exercise outside your dance program should be chosen to complement what you are already doing. For many this means strength training for muscle groups not targeted by dance, and activities that are even more aerobically demanding, such as running. Dancers may also want to consider reducing the impact on their joints by selecting (non-dance) exercise forms such as bicycling and swimming. Drink 1-2 cups of water before activity, sip throughout, and generously replenish afterward.

If exercising strenuously, and to speed recovery, ensure adequate intake of foods high in carbohydrates within 30 minutes and foods high in protein within 60 minutes following activity. Healthy foods high in carbohydrates include fruit and whole grains. Plant foods high in protein include beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds.

Ensure adequate intake of carbohydrates and fluids before, during, and between dance sessions to improve energy levels and digestion. Dancers often dance many hours per day, with small breaks in-between rehearsals and classes. Focus on small snacks high in carbohydrates, fluid replacement, and save a larger meal for the beginning of a break of 2+ hours and after the day's activities are over. Under-eating is a surefire way to have inadequate energy during class or rehearsal.

Warm-up appropriately, starting with a low dynamic and keeping initial stretching light and in short duration (approximately 5 seconds). Take time to cool-down at the end of each activity session, gradually reducing activity intensity and finishing with deeper stretching, especially for muscles that worked extra hard or are excessively tight. Take at least 1 rest day per week from intense activity. Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep every 24 hours.

Ensure adequate intake of Vitamin D for optimal bone health. In some sunny climates nearer the equator, this can be accomplished with sun exposure on your own skin. In winter and in areas far North or South of the equator, supplementation is highly recommended by many health agencies. Vitamin D plays many important roles in the body, including the process of utilizing calcium to increase and maintain bone density. (Disclaimer)

For more on the Author, Sebastian Grubb, visit his 'Movers' page!

Night Life, Night Lights

I took a trip to the Public Assembly in Williamsburg where the one year anniversary of Beatles Burlesque took place. The experience was whimsical, enchanting and not only did I get to see one 'Mover' perform but there were two compassionate ladies in the line up! Anja Keister & Bettina May each took the stage that evening.

Anja Keister, Enforced ArchAnja Keister & James KoroniBettina May & James KoroniBettina May, Enforced Arch

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These ladies never fail to impress to me. They live to shed light on the burlesque industry which is traditionally rife with feathers and fur. Anja Keister created The Trials and Tribulations of A Vegan Burlesque Performer which features creative and responsible leading ladies while Bettina May makes all of her own garments! You can see more of her wardrobe here!

Check back for more performances by these two Beaming Bombshells!

'Movers' Contribute!

'Movers' Contribute! This controversial ballet featured dancers from Cirque du Soleil, Mozart, and Dracula. It was performed in Paris outside the historic venue, Paris Opéra, just after Stella McCartney's fur-free fashion show. (source)

The french certainly aren't afraid to speak their mind. Why should we be? As artists there are so many ways we can help end inhumane practices. Have you heard of PINNACLE: Reinvent The Icon? With references to fashion and artistry I'd like to mention this initiative that is specifically designed to inspire taste makers to reevaluate the fur industry and create a symbol of rebellion. This can be interpreted in many ways. These talented dancers are making change simply by expressing their opposition to the amount of cruelty that goes into a fur garment.

Numerous industry professionals are already against the use of fur and for apparent reasons. Contribute your work! Create a performance piece or choreograph a dance video and submit it. (here)

Introducing, 'Arrest Yourself'

Ignorance Is Bliss. By avoiding inconvenient and unpleasant information we hide from the worlds current state. Whether it be Factory Farming, Green House Gas or Climate Changes we must understand and address these issues before it's to late. Visit the following link for more about Arrest Yourself!

Arrest Yourself Choreography by James KoroniFEATURING: Lauren Cox Scott Hamilton James Koroni Kiet Lam

VIDEO PRODUCER: Joshua Katcher

CHOREOGRAPHER: James Koroni Contact: JamesKoroni@gmail.com

Nutrient Density

Nutrient DensityThe more nutrients-per-calorie a food has, the more nutrient-dense it is and the healthier it is for you. Numerous scientific studies have shown that the incidence of many diseases can be reduced or eliminated by increasing the nutrient-density of one's diet through increased consumption of whole plant foods. The healthiest diet you can construct centers around vegetables, beans, fruits and whole grains. The more you eat from these four food categories, the more nutrients you give your body to be healthy. These foods are also the highest in fiber and water, which means they can fill your stomach without giving you excess calories. This is why one of the keys to healthy weight-loss and weight-maintenance is eating as many whole plant foods as possible. (Disclaimer)

For more on the Author, Sebastian Grubb, visit his Movers page!

Sebastian Grubb

Sebastian Grubb

SEBASTIAN GRUBB

Sebastian Grubb is a dancer and personal trainer based in San Francisco. He tours nationally with AXIS Dance Company, having joined the company in 2009. He also performs regularly with Scott Wells & Dancers, freelances, teaches, and creates his own work. As a choreographer, Sebastian draws from his background in theatre, athletics, and philosophy to create work that seeks to be beautiful, conceptual, and a bit odd. As a dance teacher, he places great focus on developing healthy movement patterns that support a lifetime of dynamic movement.

In addition to dancing, Sebastian is a private fitness instructor for individuals and small groups. Most of this work is done outside in parks, on stairways and up hills. He is a firm believer in training the body and mind as an integrated whole in order to achieve sustainable results on all levels. He also offers nutrition coaching to his clients and writes about many health-related subjects.

I became vegan for my health and have remained so out of compassion for other animals and the planet. I lead by example when I perform on stage or workout with my clients, showing that a vegan diet is more than adequate for a healthy, vigorous lifestyle.” -Sebastian Grubb

Sebastian GrubbCheck back for contributing articles by Sebastian Grubb on nutrition and athleticism.

"Dinner" by Cynthia King

"Dinner," James Koroni

Dancing for Cynthia King was both an emotional and empowering experience. "Dinner" begins with a man enjoying his meal at a table. After a few bites he finds himself distracted by the reality of who is on his plate. He stops eating... now mesmerized by what life or lives the individuals on his plate may have lived. A beautiful larger than life fork and knife lies on each side of a white spotlight  to symbolize the "Dinner" plate upon which the story takes place. Five dancers, including myself, slowly lift our heads and begin to reclaim memories of our existence.

I look forward to dancing for Cynthia King again. Her artistic voice is brave and deliberate and her work inspires me to fearlessly communicate. Living Enforced Arch is no stranger to her.

For more info on Cynthia King visit: Cynthia King Dance