Speaker Testimonials

February 21, 1999

Dear Dee,

On behalf of the Centered Woman, I want to thank you very much for your inspiring, lively, and positive-focused presentation at our conference entitled "Self Esteem for Every BODY." You are such a good role model aod many people identified deeply with your struggles. The timing and variety of your comments left us laughing and then feeling the pain experienced by you and others who have suffered the devastating effect of our society's prejudice against fat. You held the audience's attention and we all wanted to march behind you, shouting "yes, Dee!" and "in, Dee." You made a memorable impact on Muskegon.

Although I don't have the exact count, I believe about 200 people attended the conference. The comments I heard from participants were all positive.

The Centered Woman is thrilled with the response we received from the community. We hope to continue to offer important opportunities to enhance the self esteem and well-being of women. As you know, we will be working closely with you to bring the New Face of Fitness to West Michigan.

Thank you again for your outstanding presentation, delightful personality, and unending enthusiasm.

Sincerely,

Patricia J. Dauser, Ed.D.
Conference Chairpersonr

April 21, 1998

To Whom It May Concern,

I very happily and enthusiastically endorse both Dee Hakala's New Face of Fitness program and Dee herself. The New Face of Fitness has been offered by the YWCA of Green Bay - De Pere since May of 1997 and nearly every week we continue to add new participants. The New Face of Fitness is reaching a segment of our population that has been sorely under served for much too long. New Face is opening the door to health and fitness that has long been closed to women and men who do not "fit" nicely into the archetypes of the fitness industry.

It was the YWCA's great fortune to welcome Dee for a visit in the Fall of 1997. During three days Dee worked non-stop leading classes, meeting with the media, and conducting training seminars for our staff. Her professionalism was unparalleled, her attitude was unsinkable, and her presence and presentation were motivating and invigorating. Dee's visit was, without a doubt, the kick start that really got our New Face of Fitness program up and running at full speed.

I look forward to the day when we will welcome Dee back to Green Bay. In her short stay here she endeared herself to our staff and class members. I am happy for those organizations who have the chance to know Dee and offer the New Face of Fitness because I know what a positive experience it will be for them.

Yours truly,

Patricia L. Payette
Executive Director

February 3, 2000

To Whom It May Concern,

The Hamilton YWCA and Hamilton Health Sciences are in the third year of presenting a series to our community entitled "Feel Good Wellness".

The series is directed primarily at women and their concerns; be they physical, emotional or spiritual.

Dee Hakala, the originator of the New Face of Fitness, was our featured presenter in January 2000.

Dee is one of the most dynamic speakers I have had the pleasure to listen to. She is a powerhouse of energy and exudes positive vibrations. She has a real gift in being able to reach out and touch her audience. I saw the response in others and certainly felt the response in myself. Her message is profound and touching. She presents her message with candor and humour. It was a pleasure to be part of the listening audience.

Sincerely,

Maureen O'Hare
Feel Good Wellness Series
Hamilton YWCA

Back to the Speaker Info Page