By Mary Ekene

“I do not like to exercise. I wanted something that would be fun for everyone to enjoy and lose weight too,” Michelle Cole stated to me as we were having conversation in passing one day.

“Well what do you want to do hun?” I asked. “I want to have a dance class where it is open to everyone, free and fun.” This is how Dance the Fat Away was born.

Michelle Cole was born and raised in Orange.

I remember meeting her a year ago and she was a pleasure to meet. She was funny, witty, humble, sweet and a hard worker in the community.

“I believe it is always important to give back. We are the community, therefore, it is our duty to do so,” Cole stated.

I have grown to love this young woman for her love for people and the community.

The first Dance the Fat Away class was a hit. John Gray, who is also from Orange, was the young man instructing the class.

“I could have taught the class with my back ground in dance and gymnastics but I wanted to be a part of the class as well,” Cole said.

I also attended the class and we danced to modern music and it was amazing.

“I wanted something or people to come let loose, dance and just be themselves without someone judging their size or how they look,” Cole said to me in conservation.

Dance the Fat Away has had six classes so far and they usually resume every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. – 8:30p.m. at the North Learning Center gymnasium. Anyone is welcome to attend the dance classes and enjoy a great work out.

“I just try to give back in any way I can. I love my community and I am here to always share fun ideas and activities,” Cole said.

Not only is Michelle Cole a dear friend of mine, she is a sister. I truly love who and what she represents, a positive role model in the community.

John Gray does an excellent job of teaching the class and keeps the men and women pumped with exciting energy.

Michelle Cole, Orange, Texas is proud of you and keeps up the great work and letting us DANCE THE FAT AWAY through dance and music. We appreciate you!

 

Mary Ekene/ Founder of Black Women Unite/ Owner/CEO of Livol/ Owner/CEO of Painter’s Paradise