2010
Arlington, Texas

The O.P.T. Crew / Orizon did an Electrifying and Awesome job at the National Dance Day “Dizzy Feet Foundation Celebration (SYTYCD)” event covered LIVE by FOX4. Thanks for assisting us in celebrating our 1st Annual event held at Six Flags Over Texas. We hope to see you again soon!

Jason Perrin (Sr. Supervisor of Concerts & Special Events)
www.sixflags.com
Six Flags Over Texas

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2010
Dallas, Texas

Thank you Orizon for all of your wonderful Energy, Spirit and Enthusiasm in dancing at the Jazz Music Festival, ABC / WFAA – Daybreak Live Media appearance and Taste Dance Addison Style!  We enjoyed your video clip - www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKjQFKksdew . “It's the Vision of Orizon's Heart that captures your imagination.”

Pam Deslorieux (Executive Director)
www.thedancecouncil.org 
Dance Council of North Texas

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2010
Dallas-Fort Worth (metroplex), Texas

Micaela is truly amazing at bringing the joy of dance to our youth through her Orizon Youth Sport & Dance Camp / O.Y.T program. There were many components to the camp that all came together to promote balance, agility, teamwork and to build confidence. It was a huge success enjoyed by all that participated.

We feel very fortunate to have the Orizon program & Micaela at Gold’s Gym. Her dedication and talent continually provides innovative and energetic classes for our members. Keep up the great work Micaela!

Tricia Houston (Group Fitness Director)
THouston@GoldsGym.net 
Valley Ranch Gold’s Gym

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2010
Texas (American Airlines Center/Victory Park)

The ABC / WFAA Daybreak – Live report lead by the lovely news anchor Shon Gables was outstanding while featuring the appearance of Orizon! The Orizon staff created an infectious rhythm of energy on the ABC program “Daybreak” LIVE from 6am until 8am that was well attended by different age brackets from the youngest of 6 years old up to the golden years of 80.

The Orizon members had a love and passion for the featured topic of fitness & dance cardio workout / creative movement in which they expressed their Spirit without hesitation of how this wonderful program has changed their lives on air - www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WhkWdTIJfc . We look forward to working with Orizon in the near future again.

Mary Shiroma & Kelly Hunter (Shiroma | Southwest Leadership Team)
www.shiromasouthwest.com
Shiroma Southwest Agency / Leading PR Agency in the Southwest

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2010
Coppell Creek Montessori

The O.Y.T. “Orizon Youth Team” After-School program held at the Montessori School welcomed the creativity, sports curriculum, team-building and self-worth that the Orizon program offered with open arms to each individual child....

Mrs. Lata (CEO & Director)
www.coppellcreekmontessori.com
Coppell Creek Montessori

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2010
Carrollton, Texas

I, Sharon Simmons, am proof positive that staying fit after fifty is fabulous and fun. In my book “Triple F – Fifty Fit and Fabulous” I talk about a defining moment I had in 2005 right before my 50th birthday and excitedly announced to my husband that I wanted to compete in Fitness. I knew nothing about competing, lacked a background in dance or even cheerleading experience to prepare. After my first choreographer rejected me for learning routines too slowly, I begged dance teacher, Ms. Micaela Brigida (Founder & CEO of Orizon), to come out of retirement and help me train.

With sheer determination and help from Micaela, I learned my first fitness routine to music and competed in over a dozen competitions alongside women half my age with six 1st Place awards. There have been articles written about me in newspapers and magazines including Ms. Fitness Magazine. Thank you Micaela for believing in me.

Mrs. Sharon Simmons (Author, Fitness Champion & Corporate Consultant)
www.FitnessAnyAge.com & www.TripleF.me

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2009
Los Angeles, California

The O.P.T Dance Crew energy is amazing! They filled the audience with lots of unpredictable movement and we didn’t know what to expect next from them “Now that’s REAL Street Hip Hop”. I enjoyed Emceeing the 14th Annual Dance for the Planet this year which the O.P.T. Dance Crew by Orizon performance titled “O.P.T. on Campus” participated in. Meeting the O.P.T. Dance Crew was my pleasure and I look forward to returning to Dallas when my time permits me to.

COMFORT FEDOKE (SYTYCD- Rated Best Hip/Hop Performer)
comfortivreal@gmail.com
So You Think You Can Dance Top 5 Finalist

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2009
Dallas, Texas

ORIZON “Micaela (Artistic Director)”:

You are one of the busiest young ladies I’ve known… The Larry North Fitness members have been absolutely thrilled we scouted your talents and teaching ethics which has brought forth a Spirit (energy) that we all have been waiting for. It has been an absolute pleasure of having you as one of our most desired Instructors. The LNF member feedback and my personal observations have been phenomenal!

In the past we have attempted in hosting a hip-hop program which hasn’t been successful until you started the “Orizon Hip-Hop Groove” for us. Your enthusiasm “Fire” for your classes and your level of professionalism with our staff and your students are second to none! It has been our pleasure in hosting a few of your O.Y.T. camps and O.P.T. auditions at the Larry North Fitness. We look forward in continuing our business with you. The Orizon guests, students and teachers have also been extremely pleasant to work with. I wish you continued GLOBAL success with the Orizon program and O.P.T Dance Crew. We hope that you are never to busy in balancing; Larry North Fitness and your future endeavors!

Joe Long
joelong@larrynorth.com
Larry North Fitness General Manager

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2009
Arizona

Micaela can MOVE! I had the pleasure in meeting Ms. Micaela Brigida during one of my many workshops throughout the United States; Swing and Latin conventions.

Micaela is definitely one to keep your eyes on. She possesses a keen insight in the true art form of (natural-silent spirit) Dance! I know the Orizon program and anything she creates will definitely be a success.

Colleen Kelly Beaman, B.F.A., M.Ed., Ed.D
cbeaman@pima.edu
Colleen Kelly Beaman is a third generation member of the famed Irish-American Kelly showbiz family which originated with her grandmother, Harriet Curran Kelly, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania in the early 1930s. She gave us such notable entertainment personages as her father Fred Kelly of Broadway and Uncle Gene Kelly of Hollywood.

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2009
California

Dear Micaela:
I want to thank you for being past of the show and lending your assistance. Also, I appreciate the O.P.T. Dance Crew performance - it was very entertaining and audience loved it. Finally, the judges were terrific - very professional and presented a great image for our brands. Thank you again for lending your assistance for the Fitness Texas weekend. Your presence and experience allowed the event to run smoothly.

You've always been a classy lady and welcomed at the Fitness Universe Tour! Continued best wishes with your career and I look forward to working with Orizon again, soon.

Louis Zwick (President/Founder & Producer)
Zwick@asntv.com
Fitness Universe and Fitness America Pageant Nationals

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2009
Cambodia (Siem Reap/Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh)

Micaela, you are one of the few Professionals and Inspiring Woman I’ve had the pleasure in meeting! Your presence for the Orizon Cambodia tour in Angkor Wat will never be forgotten. I hope that you will have the opportunity in returning soon! You posses a secret doctrine to life with eloquence, fear does not exist in your Spirit but this is a go-getter character that must not be misunderstood but only appreciated by the Heart. You have acquired faith in knowing that there is a higher purpose to life than just living (showing-up)…

Art Burton
artburtonny@yahoo.com
Vietnam Summer Program English Professor and IT Specialist.

You have inspired me to reach for higher planes in Life. Your thirst to understand our people was remarkable and not once did you stutter your movement in not knowing the Cambodian or Vietnamese culture. Your energy as a Humanitarian is admirable in how you consistently give without hesitation. Thank you for sharing your SPIRIT with us!

Phuong Pham
phamhoaphuong@gmail.com
California Wow Xperience Marketing Director for Vietnam

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2009 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam

The Orizon Youth Camp was a great success and appreciated here in Saigon. The O.Y.T. program raised the children’s spirit in so many levels that we “Binh Minh Warm House Directors” do not have enough words to express our appreciation for what the Orizon program has given us: Laughter, Joy, Happiness, Excitement and an unforgettable knowing that the celebration of Dance can remove you from your daily struggles!

Binh Minh Warm House (Children/Youth Shelter)
nguyenkimloc2607@yahoo.com

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2008
Honolulu, Hawaii

Micaela,
It takes a lot to put forth the kind of energy both physically and emotionally into working with youth overseas.

You are amazing!!! But I wouldn't be able to completely end your visit without giving you my appreciation for sharing your warmth. I am left with the feeling that a human being of a true heart has crossed my path. There are not many of you, and it was a blessing to have met you.

If there is anything I can do for you, please do not hesitate to let me know.

Mahalo Nui Loa for doing what you do in touching the lives of so many people around the World. I'm sure the Orizon program will enhance the Global future of Peace.
 
Me Ke Aloha Pumehana,

Dana P.M. Smith, GS-09
Hickam Assistant Youth Program Director

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2008
Honolulu, Hawaii

What an awesome performance (and cool down!!) by the Hickam Youth as their finale with the Orizon Program!

Each youth really did showcase their individual skills. I especially loved the energy I felt from the music and the dancers. It infused through the audience and sparked their enthusiasm. They couldn't help but clap and sway with the dancers. Well done!

Your efforts to bring a diverse week of dance experiences to the Youth across PACAF bases are much appreciated! I look forward to getting their after action reports.

Safe travels...

Dr. Kimberly B. Moore
Kimberly.Moore@hickam.af.mil
Headquarters- Youth Development Specialist
PACAF/A1SA

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2008
Tokyo, Japan

The dance camp was Amazing and absolutely Memorable for all the Attendees that participated. We thoroughly enjoyed both your presence and the opportunity you shared through dance. Please continue to enjoy your tour through the PACAF bases. We hope to see the Orizon program next year.

Cathy Catling
cathy.catling@yokota.af.mil
Chief, Airman & Family Services Flight

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2008
Tokyo, Japan

Micaela creator & founder of Orizon,
I want you to know it was all my pleasure to be Orizon POC/host. I would welcome the opportunity to do it all over again. I only wish we would’ve had more time to really show you around the area, definitely the next time- 2009 summer!!!

I just want you to know I’m a very good judge of character, I think you are a genuine sweet and beautiful person inside and out. I want you to just promise me one thing, don’t ever change, you are perfect just the way you are.

Take Care,
William L. Crockett
william.crockett@yokota.af.mil
Director, Yokota Youth Program

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2008
Okinawa, Japan

My name is Mrs. Tammy Colbert and I am a Dance/Fitness Instructor here in Okinawa, Japan. I’ve worked for the Kadena Airforce Base Youth Center for the last 8yrs. I enrolled my 10yr old daughter in the Orizon Youth Dance Program when the company came in Sept 2008 and she normally doesn’t warm up to people easily but Ms. Micaela treated her as a Superstar even though there were approximately 40 other dance camp students in class. She (Ms. Micaela Brigida) didn’t skip a beat during all the excitement in class.

The Orizon program was the star “Hit” in my daughter’s eyes and that is something our children here (Okinawa, Japan)  needed.  I know the program to be extremely professional and it upholds the highest quality in Dance as well in a personable level for both the children and the parents.

I would love to see Orizon come back to Okinawa for another Dance Camp.
 
Sincerely, Tammy Colbert
 tam.mark@hotmail.com

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2008
Misawa, Japan

The Oswald Family wrote...
We have attended many camps this summer, but this camp was definitely outstanding to say the least and so different than anything we have ever experienced as a Family. This was an excellent program (uniting the cultures coming together through Dance and Music) to experience the quality of care for the children as well as educating our youth of today was an amazing thing to see as a Parent. My family (Kids) hopes for the return of the Orizon program for the 2009 summer.

Safe travels,

Oswald Family

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2008
Misawa, Japan

Hannah had a Great time!!! The Orizon program was wonderful... Thank you so much. I hope you return to Misawa, Japan next summer cause if you do I will enroll both my girls. Hannah and Wittla -Mom

Hi, Micaela
Everyday- I look at the pictures and videos that you created for us and we are all so happy that you did that for us. I love watching them. I miss you and hope for you to come back this 2009 summer! =]

Have a great year,

Hannah
(Summer Dance Camp Student)

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2008
Misawa, Japan

Hi, Ms. Micaela

Not sure if you still remember me, my name is Brenda (from Misawa, Japan). We met when you were in Japan - 2008. I'm a mother to one of the many children from the 2008 O.Y.T (Orizon Youth Program) dancing program here in Misawa.

Thank you for keeping in touch with us by responding to our children’s questions about the Orizon program throughout the year. I’m sure you receive tons of emails daily. It means a great deal to us and our kids that the Orizon program left a positive impression in our children spirits that will last a Life time here in Misawa, Japan.

My daughter is always asking about Orizon, hoping that the program will be coming back to Misawa again! 

Thanks, Mrs. Brenda Charoensap

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2008
South Korea

Hello, Micaela
I am glad to hear your trip to Guam went well. The children in your class still talk about you and the Orizon Dance Camp. I hope you have an opportunity to come back to Osan again next year. You and your assistant did a wonderful job with the camp. The children and their parents were very pleased with the performance and professional level that Orizon provided to our Families. Please keep in touch. Take care and best wishes to you and the Orizon program.

Mrs. Wiyada Lee
Osan AFB Youth Program Director
wiyada.lee@osan.af.mil

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2008
South Korea

Sgt. Strode wrote...
I and my daughter’s (Brionna & Jassmyn) really enjoyed the dance camp and the performance was the icing on the cake to see both my daughters singing and dancing together that alone allowed my heart to fill-up with so much Joy. We hope you return with the Orizon program next year!

Sincerely,
Sgt. Strode

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2008
Fairbanks and Anchorage, Alaska

Hey there... Micaela
Sounds like you guys are working hard and fine tuning your camp
experience for the youth.

Youth, parents and staff are still talking about how great the camp was, how much the kids learned and how much fun everyone had. I hope you enjoy your time in Hawaii and your future travels to the other bases.

Once again thanks from all of us here at Eielson AFB.

Deborah Conklin
Eielson Youth Program Director
deborah.conklin@eielson.af.mil

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2008
Fairbanks and Anchorage, Alaska

Thanks for posting all those videos and pictures so that we can share it with our Families and Friends around the world... Now we can finally show our family how good of a dancer Nyejha has become...The kids had a blast... You did such an amazing work with all the 200 kids. The choreography was great “Versatile”!

The Bowens (Nyejha's family)

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2008
Parker College of Chiropractics- Dallas, TX.

THANK YOU Micaela!! We really appreciate you being a part of our event! The Orizon warm-up was a HIT and everyone gave you rave reviews especially after watching the Dean of Academics on stage with Orizon shaking it! Parker College of Chiropractics “Walk for Wellness” hopes you join us NEXT YEAR!!
It was a pleasure having you!!

Taryn N Tedder
TTedder@parkercc.edu
Parker College of Chiropractic Intern

 

Thank you so much for doing the warm up!  You and your assistants truly helped kick off the walk with the excitement and energy we were looking for! Thank you again from the bottom of all OUR hearts here at Parker College of Chiropractics. We hope to stay in touch and work together to spread the love of wellness!
Best,

Merissa Baker
walkforwellness@gmail.com
Walk for Wellness Team Leader

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2007
“We at the Dallas Concilio loved having Micaela Brigida and ORIZON perform for our ˇVive tu vida! Get up! Get moving! Hispanic Health Fair and Family Celebration. The combination of dance and culture was truly beautiful and inspiring. The child dancers provided a great example for our audience of how easy it is to engage our own children in physical activity and ensure their health. The additional vocal performance by Thomas Bracho added a festive touch, with ORIZON providing wonderful choreography.

“The entire team was nothing but patient and kind, even with scheduling changes during the event. They all were full of energy and gave a show that the entire family could enjoy. Micaela has instilled the idea of giving back in all her dancers, and it shows during their powerful performances.”

Angie M. Gonzalez
Business Manager
agonzalez@dallasconcilio.org
500 North Akard, 11th Floor Dallas, TX 75201
tel: (214) 818-0481
fax: (214) 818-0485
www.dallasconcilio.org

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2007
Orizon Performance Team, with Micaela Brigida as Artistic Director, has been a wonderful addition to our South Dallas Dance Festival and the Dance for the Planet 2007 (South Dallas Dance Showcase).

They were able to represent a thrilling mix of various cultural styles and pull it off with great panache at the festival. And then, in the showcase, even without a mic – what an exciting, riveting and beautiful presentation!

It was indeed a pleasure, for us and the audience, to have them join us.

Loris Anthony Beckles
Executive Director of ARGA NOVA DANCE
arganovadance_21c@yahoo.com
Coordinator of the South Dallas Dance Festival.
www.BecklesDancingCompany.org

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2007
Network Events, Inc. was thrilled to have Micaela Brigida, c/o Orizon-Combat & Soul and the Orizon Performance Team participate in the 7th Annual NBC5 HealthFit Expo in Dallas, TX.. Micaela’s carefree, confident style mixed with her passion for dance and her welcoming attitude has earned her many fans at the NBC5 HealthFit Expo. We hope she will participate again in 2008. The steps may look difficult but she really makes it easy to learn them. If I can do it, anyone can! I would highly recommend Orizon -Combat & Soul for any Fitness Enthusiast! Give it a try & see how much fun it really is!

The Orizon Performance Team that evening united all the spectators as well as performers through their Motto: Many Cultures…One Style. The choreography and audience participation exuberated their motto into the eyes of everyone that watched.

Margie Smith
msmith@networkevents.tv
www.networkevents.tv
Director, Exhibitor Services
Network Events, Inc.

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2007
The DFW International Festival of Directors was delighted to include ORIZON among our "Best of Dallas" performers in the 2007 Dallas International Festival at the prestigious Majestic Theatre. Their spirit and energy was a great addition to the festival performances this year. The audience was deeply engaged with Orizon through the never before held audience participation workshop that they led during intermission.

The Orizon Performance Team that evening united all the spectators as well as performers through their Motto: Many Cultures…One Style. The choreography and audience participation exuberated their motto into the eyes of everyone that watched.

Anne Marie Weiss-Armush
AnneMarieWeiss@dfwinternational.org
President, DFW International Community Alliance
Southern Methodist University

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2007
SMU Fitness is proud to have Micaela Brigida, c/o Orizon, as part of our Group X program. Micaela has transformed our basic cardio hip hop classes. She has tied flavors of salsa/meringue, Tahitian, and belly dancing, and blended them with hip hop to create a fantastic hybrid workout. Micaela’s hi-energy, non-traditional group fitness classes have taken SMU students out of their boring old workout slums and gotten them shaking their rumps, dumping their inhibitions, and sweating their rhythm-loving hearts out! Huge thanks to Micaela for her commit to driving all the way to Southern Methodist University twice a week at 9pm to give our night owls a workout worth staying up late for. Micaela has raised the bar for other instructors; she is a professional in every sense of the word.

Brook Dabbs, M.Ed.
bdabbs@smu.edu
Fitness Coordinator of The Department of Recreational Sports
Southern Methodist University

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2007
I, Mrs. Paulette Davis, have been taking part in fitness classes for the better part of 25 years. As an active person, I have always looked for aerobics classes that kept me motivated and enthused about continuing to have fitness as apart of my everyday life. After taking a vacation trip to Dallas and experiencing Orizon, I have finally after 25 years found an aerobics class which gave me an excitement to get up and go. So much so that I thought that it was a necessity to share that experience with other people back home in the Bahamas. Orizon traveled to the Bahamas in November 2006 and taught the Orizon Soul and Orizon Combat at three different facilities. The responses to the classes were overwhelming and everybody who participated in the classes embraced the experience with open arms and was left craving more. I am honored to have had the opportunity to arrange for Orizon to teach in the Bahamas and I can not wait for their return.

Paulette Davis -Bahamas, Nassau
amouraffairs@yahoo.com
President
Bahamas Event Planners

Jeff Rahming - Bahamas, Nassau
jeffarahming@hotmail.com
Bahamas Health Clubs

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2007
Orizon is a fresh new innovative company that encompasses every aspect of pure spirit. I have seen the company perform at numerous events including the American Heart Association's Heart Walk, South Dallas Dance Festival and an Orizon Master Class participant. Not only does the company perform various genres of dance they perform various styles of fitness and martial arts. In every performance, Orizon provides the audience with energy, knowledge, and a beautiful experience of diverse cultures. Orizon is unique in its approach to sharing and reaching its consumer, because it was created as a movement for humanity. I truly believe that Orizon strives to bridge the gap that we as humans have created between ourselves. One can see it in an Orizon performance that includes Afro-Brazilian martial arts, classical Indian Dance, and hip-hop or in another performance that may include elements of fitness, Latin, and traditional Arabic concepts. I look forward to seeing Orizon grow and become a pioneer not only for dance, fitness, and martial arts but for humanity.

Lela Bell -Dallas
lela_bell@hotmail.com
Dallas Dance Council, Southern Methodist University Dance Artistic Director, The Dallas Opera Company Member and Actress/Model

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2007
I, Teresa D. Marcano (Freelance Writer- Al Dia Newspaper), joined Life Time Fitness in March and soon I discovered Micaela's Orizon Soul classes at the Plano facility. Micaela's cardio/dance classes, known as Hip Hop and Latin Fusion at Life Time, are without a doubt the most exciting, innovative and culturally diverse cardio workouts the gym has to offer. She emits such vibrant, contagious energy that her class (the Latin Fusion one particularly) feeds off her dynamism and I have personally witnessed it come alive, literally.

Micaela creates such an encouraging and fun atmosphere that members of all ages join her class and eventually let go of their insecurities while in the studio. Her carefree, confident style mixed with her passion for dance and welcoming attitude has earned her many fans at the gym that have also befriended her. As one of her loyal ones from the group, I follow her when she teaches at other facilities (near and distant) and have attended some of her special events and public performances. One such event included a master class held at the Plano Life Time location in which she included a performance by elementary students she had worked with. It turns out that besides inspiring and motivating us adults, she also has heartened the lives of children by volunteering her time teaching and mentoring them.

Micaela is among the few people I have known to display such vigor and passion for what she does and tries to keep a positive attitude despite any obstacles she encounters along her path. Life Time Fitness is blessed to have her as an instructor. I can only wish we had more of her classes there and that we could enjoy her Orizon Combat class as well. Micaela is certainly a very valuable asset to our health club or any corporation for that matter. She is a remarkable individual and I am very fortunate to have met her.

Teresa D. Marcano- Dallas
Teresa_Marcano@yahoo.com
Freelance Writer/Educator/Plano ISD
Al Dia Newspaper (Belo Corp.) www.aldiatx.com
Published through The Dallas Morning News Co.

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2006
Dear Jo (Lifetime Fitness GM): I am a relatively a new Lifetime Fitness member. I want you to know you have a treasure in dance instructor Micaela Brigida. I live for her Friday 4:30 pm Hip Hop & Saturday 1pm Salsa classes and have told no less than three dozen non-members about the classes. I have lived in NYC, London, Moscow, Boston, Washington, D.C. and points between and have searched in each one of these cities for the highest caliber dance class that offers a truly global mix of music. The fact that Micaela can bring not only high energy (yet attainable) hip hop ... but blend it in with belly dancing, salsa, East Indian, Lebanese and offer it to members in North Dallas/Plano suburbia is truly remarkable.

I hope you will recognize her for the outstanding service she provides us as members and I encourage you to continue to host the 'Orizon -Combat & Soul' special event she had a couple of weekends ago featuring exceptional children from a public school in Oak Cliff, a rap artist from Chicago, and talented dancers from across the U.S.

You are lucky to have Micaela and I feel lucky to attend her classes. Her classes are the primary reason why I stay with Lifetime Fitness. -Shamsy Raye, Gigi

Thank you Gigi!
I agree Micaela is awesome. I hope we can get her on our schedule more! I hope you keep enjoying the Club!

Sincerely,

Jo Cullen -PLANO/FRISCO
JCullen@LifeTimeFitness.com
LifeTime Fitness GM

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2006
Micaela Brigida has created two new innovative fitness classes "Orizon -Combat & Soul" which allowed NBC 5 to view & televise first hand. As a consumer the moves seem difficult but she definitely makes it user-friendly to follow so that young & old can embrace these two energetic classes. While Micaela is instructing her class she's just not teaching, but motivating you to take yourself to the highest level when it comes to Martial Arts or Dance. I highly recommend Orizon -Combat & Soul for any Fitness Enthusiast or even that someone that just wants to let go and have fun while working out!

Denise Petty -DALLAS
Denise.Petty@nbc.com
Planning Editor NBC 5/KXAS-TV

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2006
Latina Magazine (May 2006 Issue)
"The Best Advice I Ever Got"
Never Take no for an answer. Always dream big. Hear from Micaela Brigida one of the four high-powered Latinas that was chosen across the United States to be published on the words of wisdom that helped her get ahead, as told to Vanessa Juarez.

"When I was 6, my dad worked as a Janitor at a doctor's office so my sister and I would often go along and help him out. At first we worked for free. Then we realized that kids are age received an allowance. So we started asking for money. He'd laugh and say, 'Here's your money now go away!' Even though we were supposed to be cleaning, sometimes we'd play. Whenever my dad caught us, he'd say, 'If you want money, you're supposed to work, not play.' Maya Angelou also inspired me. In her book Heart Of A Woman, she writes, 'Life loved the person who dared to live it.' Because of that line, at 19, I left Oklahoma and moved to Chicago. In my new city, I got involved in Martial Arts and danced professionally for the NBA Chicago Bulls. Two years ago, I moved to Dallas to be closer to my Family. Now I own my own fitness company that fuses martial arts & dance into two different class formats: COMBAT -capoeira, tae kwon do, boxing drills & ending with tai chi and SOUL- hip/hop, Latin America & Lebanese. None of this would have happened if I hadn't listened to my Dad & Maya. -Micaela Gutierrez-Brigida, CEO of Orizon in Dallas"

Patty Lamberti -NEW YORK
www.Latina.com
Article Editor

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2006
Micaela, we are so fortunate to have someone of your caliber on our Theatre Professional staff. You have been an inspiration to the after school & Community Youth Programs here in Texas: Dallas, Ft. Worth, Oakcliff, Pleasant Grove and etc. We here at Teco Theater appreciate all your hard work & dedication. Our staff looks forward in doing business with Orizon in the many years to come. Your Energy & Wisdom is what has allowed us to schedule (contract) your company to so many highly recommended programs in our DFW region. Thank you again for your time, patience and creativity that you bring forth to our Theatrical Production -Dolores Godinez.

Teresa Coleman Wash -OAKCLIFF
www.tecotheater.org
Executive Director

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2005
Micaela has been a wonderful asset to our program here at the TELOS Performance Center. Her passion for fitness and commitment towards continuing education is rare and is what makes her such a valuable instructor. As an Instructor for Telos she has an incredible level of energy and enthusiasm for her classes and is also known for her extra attentiveness to form and proper biomechanics. We are proud to have her as part of The Elite Team Of Dallas -TELOS PERFORMANCE CENTER.

Everett Aaberg - Dallas
eaaberg@telosperformancecenter.com
ACE, ACSM, CSCS, CIPT, MAT, NASM, RTS
Co-Owner & Director of Fitness Services- TELOS Performance Center

Louise Bunnell - Group Fitness Director
lbunnell@telosperformancecenter.com

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2005
Micaela Brigida has been the Main draw of “entertainment” at our U.S. Midwestern based Fitness America, Ms. Bikini, Musclemania Bodybuilding, ModelAmerica show for 3 years standing. Her progressive exchange of dance allows our audience some intense & upbeat movement to keep the show flowing & interesting to watch-we are all about keeping people’s eyes on the stage to see “what’s next”. I see an amazing spirit and faith as she conveys her message thru her own movement, her group’s emotions on stage & the “story” you get engrossed in called the “performance”. I BELIEVE in Micaela, therefore I have written this to express my strong feelings of gratitude to her for assisting in our fitness, health & bodybuilding productions live entertainment aspect. She has over-provided for our needs and given us a gift.

Thank you Micaela,

Stacy Stengel –Milwaukee
stacy@wtbp.net
Milwaukee Fitness America Pageant Promoter & Judge, Milwaukee Ms. Bikini Promoter, Milwaukee Musclemania Promoter, Milwaukee Swimsuit America Promoter, Milwaukee ModelAmerica Promoter, Current Hydroxycut Television & Print Model, Ms. Bikini/ModelAmerica competitor and NYC & Canada WNSO Promoter

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2005
Micaela has helped me improve my fitness routine from a 19th place standing to fifth place in one year.
Her energy and creativity are just what I needed to bring my routine to a competitive level.
While working together, Micaela was able to take my skills and abilities and teach me additional skills to become better.

She taught me skills in martial arts, dance, strength and performance.
Micaela's organization and attention to details created a wonderfully choreographed routine from beginning to end.
Not only was she patient working with me, the routine was entertaining and very precise.
She did everything from costume design, music selection and choreography. Micaela has definitely been what I needed to excel in my sport!

Thanks Micaela for all you are!

Jenny Williams Ermish -Dallas
jenny@getitfit.com
Women’s Tri-Fitness Champion, Oxygen & WTF Fitness Cover Model and Fitness Pro

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2005
I've known Micaela for over five years and in that short time I've seen an amazing growth and transformation that can only be described as miraculous. She shared with me her dream of designing a business in fitness - a total fitness experience (Mind, Body and Spirit). Her passion was evident but there was much work to do. I had the chance to see her work first hand while I was producing one of many reality television shows (Los Angeles, New York, Chicago -all across America, Europe, Canada, Mexico and etc.) that I've done in my 10+ years of experience. Micaela was selected and hand picked out of the thousands that had auditioned to appear on one of many reality television shows I've produced. She is a finely tuned athlete with a tireless spirit dedicated to helping others achieve physical and spiritual well being. It didn't take long for me to believe in her and everything she wanted to do. Five years later Micaela has brought us Orizon. She is a shining example to future entrepreneurs and children that hard work and focus equal success. She is an inspiration to me and to many others I know. I'd follow her into the heart of a lava-flowing volcano. She's that hot.

Jubba Seyyid -Los Angeles
jubba-seyyid@comcast.net
Director/Producer
Fox Television

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2005
As I stood on stage at the Ms Fitness World Competition this year -2005, I could not help but think of the one person who has worked relentlessly to help me get there. You (Micaela) have put your heart and soul into my choreography and I truly appreciate the gift you have given me. It is not often you find someone in the industry that has the contagious enthusiasm and dedication you have. The professionalism and standards you exhibit are rare. You have worked tirelessly over the past five years to pull the performer out of me and I truly appreciate all you have done. You are a true motivator (LEADER of your Time) and dedicated professional! Thank you for all you are, all you have given me, and for helping me grow in so many ways.

You are the BEST!

Cara Kokenes -Chicago
CKokenes@OptimusSolutions.Com
International Fitness Competitor
INBA World Champion, MS. Fitness Nationals & World, Triple-A Fitness Champion, Fitness America Pageant Nationals & Universe and NPC

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2003
Micaela is a model employee, appearing at every event on time and filling in with very short notice for models that were unable to attend an event. Micaela excelled as an ambassador for ESPN Chicago and our clients. Her quick smile and naturally upbeat personality made her one our most requested Spokes Models. She treated each person she encountered (client's staff or listeners) as if they were the most important person in the room. Micaela was strongest while working a room or event. She made sure to interact with as many people as possible, signing autographs, or just getting someone to laugh. Micaela Brigida has worked under my (Eric Tetens) supervision as an ESPN' Fuegos Spokes Model since 2000 to 2003. Her responsibilities included; posing in three consecutive ESPN Fuegos Swimsuit calendar, designing costumes to be used for our appearances (Chicago Bears games, Runway and etc.) and representing ESPN -Chicago at numerous events to include; The Walter Payton Golf Classic, Chicago White Sox Games & Cubs, Chicago Bears games and our black tie charity function "Decades of Dominance" to celebrate the storied legacy of Chicago Bears middle Linebackers featuring Dick Butkus, Mike Singletary and Brian Urlacher. Overall, Micaela is a very outgoing, conscientious and dependable employee. I certainly believe she has what it takes to make a wonderful addition to any organization she may choose to consider.

Eric Tetens -Chicago
eric.d.tetens@abc.com
Director of ESPN Events

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2003
Micaela -Thank you so much for teaching here at The University of Central Oklahoma (Wellness Center) during the summer semester. You did a phenomenal job and the students loved your classes. Good luck to all your Present & Future endeavors. You are a great person, hardworking and a positive influence to be around! You are always welcomed here at The University of Central Oklahoma -UCO Wellness Center. Thanks again :

Danielle Dill -Edmond, OK
ddill1@ucok.edu
Group Fitness Director
The University of Central Oklahoma

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2003
For the past three years, choreographer Micaela Brigida (assisted by: 2002 Tony, Angela, Jeanette, Tammy and Regan / 2003 Allegra and Hillary) has groomed the FAP contestants in a 3 minute, Opening Production Dance Performance. With just 4 hours of practice/rehearsal the day before performance. She separated the competitors based upon their athletic skills including dance, gymnastics, acrobatics, cheer or just aerobics. Then, with some sweat and relentless practice, the skilled groups were combined and like the stroke of a wizard's magic wand, the synchronized dance performance came to life. This FAP (Fitness America Pageant Nationals & Universe) tradition started back in 1991 and has become a hallmark of the event. There have been many choreographers representing hip/hop, cheer, classic dance and other disciplines. Micaela brings to the stage a unique combination of dance talent based upon her commercial and performance experience. Currently, she teaches dance in Dallas, appears in many television commercials and is an active Mentor speaker (Hip/Hop Workshop) for the Inner City Kids and Youth programs.

"Micaela you are definitely a rarity of your kind. You have brought forth of what a true professional should exuberate. I, Lou Zwick greatly appreciate your efforts and dedication. Hopefully, you will be available again this year!"

Lou Zwick -Redondo Beach, CA
zwick@asntv.com
The Fitness America Pageant (creator & founder)
American Sports Network, Inc.

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2002
I just wanted take a minute and say "THANK YOU" for all your efforts in making 'La Maquina Musical' so successful in Miami, Florida. During, our big bash event I received several compliments on your costumed designed outfits for our venue. Micaela you should be proud of your accomplishments. I'm very glad you are on the team. Thanks again for your continued professionalism and dedication.

Nick Aguirre -Miami
aguirre.nicholas@mbco.com
Marketing Manager

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2000
Micaela Brigida has worked for the Operating Room (OR) department at Lutheran General Hospital for nearly two years. During that time, she has had a significant impact within the department. She quickly learned the nuances of her position, assimilated very easily into the department and was soon a favorite of her colleagues. OR can be quite complex, demanding and requires good technical, great communication skills, and often incredible patience. Micaela possesses all of these attributes and practices them with a smile. In addition, she interfaced very well with the physicians, nurses and other OR medical staff. She is a dedicated, hard worker who is reliable and concentrates intensely on the task at hand. Her input and suggestions have led to many improvements in the overall function of the department. As Medical Director of the Operating Room, I have had the privilege of working closely with Micaela over these past two years and have enjoyed her camaraderie as well as her professionalism. She is an outstanding individual who would be an asset to any department. Frankly, it is with a fair amount of regret that I am asked to write this letter, as Micaela will be greatly missed here at LGH. Our loss will certainly be your gain.

Michael Hruskocy, M.D. -Chicago
Medical Director, Main OR
Lutheran General Hospital -Advocate

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2000
It has been my Pleasure to know Micaela for the past two years. She has served in the capacity of The BTF-Performance Team member and has contributed to this group for the past three years. Micaela is a very dedicated performer. She always gives 100% at each performance and practice. She is very creative and willingly to help the others on her team reach their full potential. I, Mark Rees, am sure that you will find Micaela to be an asset to your organization weather performing, choreographing, or assisting behind scenes.

C. Mark Rees -Chicago
cmarkrees@aol.com
Area Supervisor of Group Exercise

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1996
Micaela Brigida has been outstanding employee for The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and possesses several excellent qualities. Her upbeat and cheerful attitude is superseded only by her willingness to help. Micaela possesses excellent interpersonal skills and would be well suited for any position that puts her at an interface with the general public. She has a very high energy level and seems to thrive in a fast paced work environment. She is a well-rounded individual that adept at focusing on a task and seeing it through. Likewise, she arrives to her job (Patient Care -Nursing) ready to work and seems to have the ability to motivate those around her. Our staff at The Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ENT) believes that Micaela will succeed in any endeavor she chooses.

Jesus Medina, M.D. (ENT & Oncology Research Medical Director) -Oklahoma City
Department of Otorhinolaryngology
University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center

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1994
As Director of Promotions and Community Relations for the Oklahoma City Cavalry Basketball Team (Member of the Continental Basketball Association -CBA), I Debra J. Herrington have worked with the dance troupe as well as our "OKC. Cavalry Kids", both of which Ms. Brigida was integral part. Her organization and leadership skills paired with her excellent choreography and dance ability made her not only a very welcomed addition to our organization, but a wonderful personality/character as an Instructor to our young dance troupe. Along with these skills, Micaela has a spiritual up lifting within herself that bring smiles/laughter into the community (young & old) and was superb in all public appearances including; school pep assemblies, autograph sessions and dealing with corporate clients. Ms. Micaela Brigida has been a vital part of making our team and "CAV. Kids" a huge success and would make a wonderful addition to any organization.

Debra J. Herrington -Tulsa
Director of Promotions & Community Relations
Oklahoma City CAVS (Division Champions 1991-92, 1994-95)

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