June 04th, 2016

LOHH LA 2016

SOUL MOVING WEEKEND!
I still can't believe we pulled off our first Los Angeles festival. And when I say we I really mean WE! Our LA partnership with Versastyle Dance Company was so great. Their entire team, especially the ladies, had everything on lock down. They planned everything from airport pick-ups to our first team in person meetup.  I have never been so relaxed during a LOHHF event. I have to send extra special thanks out to Jackie "Miss-Funk" Lopez for being game for such a partnership. it's rare that folks working in the same community, with similar missions can work together. Our partnership is an example of how it should be. 
The men!!!! We had so many guys taking class and at the battle. It reaffirmed my feelings that we need their support during LOHHF. It was so impactful I am changing a line in our mission statement, "given by women for women" to "given by women for everyone". Starting this festival, it was never my desire to exclude anyone. I love sharing, celebrating and creating with our men in this community. Thank you to Moncell "IllKosby" Durden, Sebela Grimes, Showtime and all the guys of Versastyle Dance Co for taking class, sharing at your vibes at the battle and every chat that happened during LOHHF LA. It was truly eye opening. 
Every year LOHHF takes a moment to honor our female pioneers and mentors in the Hip-Hop community. It's a way to keep the present connected to our foundation. We selected two female dance pioneers living in LA, Toni Basil & Damito Jo Freeman. It was my first time meeting both of these ladies. Damito Jo Freeman, Soul Train Legend and Toni Basil, first female in The legendary Lockers.  It was great being able to take a moment and say thank you. They were so gracious! During the panel they shared some juicy history and advice. I am so happy to have met them both and look forward to continuing our new friendship. If you don't know about them you should look them up. 
Lastly, I want to share a personal note, I haven't really danced, freely, in years. For many reasons I haven't been inspired to move. DJ Kaotic Blaze, DJ Sabine Blaizin, Toyin, Tweetboogie, Chi-Chi, Ms. Vee, Kara Janelle, Melly Mel, Nubian NeNe and our entire LA community moved my soul. THANK YOU! See you next year.

-Michele