Jessamyn Grace West, Executive Director
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After moving to Astoria in 2005 Jessamyn began looking for a studio to further her Belly Dance practice which began in 1994 with instructors Saqra and Aziza. Over time she began to meet others who also sought a place in Astoria to both teach and take classes and, following that calling, Jessamyn founded the AAMC in 2011. Her dedication to the organization, its growth and those who believe in it, is the most meaningful endeavor she has ever been part of.
Andrea Mazzarella, President
Andrea grew up taking dance classes in Astoria and jumped back into dancing when she moved home and joined Marco Davis’ Dragalution in 2009. Some of her favorite things include dancing with Jessamyn, singing karaoke with Emily, and playing bass guitar with friends in the band Midas Digs. She currently serves on the City of Astoria Budget Committee and the Clatsop County Comprehensive Plan Review Committee and makes her living as a Realtor with RE/MAX River & Sea.
Graham Nystrom, Vice President
As a guitarist and pianist, making music is one of Graham’s primary passions, but the technological side of the music industry has been his trade since 2003. Starting out as a live sound and recording engineer for bands and venues, he eventually turned to broadcast radio as Technical Director for Live Wire Radio and Oregon Public Broadcasting. Now, he couldn’t be happier offering his skills and experience as the station manager of Coast Community Radio. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Liberty Theatre and is one of the founding members of the Rope Room recording studio.
Celeste Olivares, Treasurer
Celeste and her twin sister, Estelle are affectionately known as Astoria's "Tango Twins", having founded the Astoria Argentine Tango community in 2015 at the AAMC, teaching weekly to a growing tango community, always welcoming beginners. While her skillset lies in administration, Celeste feeds her soul by making handwoven & custom jewelry, continuing her contemporary dance training/performing with local modern group, Sparrow Dance Co., and singing with local band, Midas Digs.
Emily Geddes, Secretary
Emily first found the AAMC through their wildly wonderful dance parties, and fell in love with their mission of inclusivity after joining Triple Moon Belly Dance. Professionally, she works as the programming director for Coast Community Radio. With the rest of her time she focuses on a variety of personal creative projects.
Daric Moore, Member
Daric was involved with free form dance in Astoria when AAMC began and has been a supporter and participant since its inception. He is a carpenter/contractor by trade an actor and artist by hobby, and he loves making music with his band Midas Digs. He is currently co-founder of Pier Pressure Productions, a black box theater, just below the AAMC to further the options for performance art in Astoria.
Nancy Mazzarella-Tisch, Member
Nancy Mazzarella-Tisch has worked in public health and as an RN in Clatsop County for over 25 years. She currently serves on the board for Jordan’s Hope for Recovery and is an advocate for the arts, the environment and human rights.
Fun fact: Kindness is her religion and Nature is her medicine.