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		Mad Hot Ballroom Reprinted from April 2006 Issue -by PAT HORNE I would very much like to share with you an aspect of this wonderful documentary film, Mad Hot Ballroom. There is so much interest and emphasis in Ballroom Dancing, whether it be radio, TV or newspapers. Now there is more interest for the schools to present Learning Swing, Latin and Ballroom to their students. America Ballroom Theater (ABT), is a non profit organization founded by Pierre Dulaine. They provide Ballroom dance in public schools in New York City. I understand this program was introduced in two schools ten years ago and that it has grown to more than 60 schools. What I really like about the movie is an inspiring look into the lives of New York City school kids as they discover attitude, movement, style and commitment. The transformation is from typical urban kids into ladies and gentlemen, with emphasis on how to learn to be a good dancer, and interestingly enough, they even have competitions between different schools. The last I heard, 48 schools chose to compete in various levels of dance. I have often said, “Wouldn’t it be great if all our schools had a form of Ballroom dancing for all kids as part of their P.E. program?” Of course you’d have to make it a fun and social environment for everyone, If you wish to rent Mad Hot Ballroom, I believe it is available at local Hollywood Video Stores—check it out! Update: Cha/Tango Workshop Our February Workshop was filled with eager students on Sunday, February 19th, learning the original “Fandango” routine that is so popular with our students. Bob then proceeded into the American Tango which is so easy to learn. Thanks to everyone—students and volunteers. March Update: Gotta Dance Our March series began with a Free Swing Class on March 2nd—great crowd! New March classes featuring Bob’s Nite Club began on Monday March 6th and also on Thursday, March 9th. Besides Bob’s dance, we are teaching new material in the Latin classes. We have young people attending which ties into the “Red Hot Ballroom” theme for singles and couples! Bob makes the classes fun, so it’s easy to learn. Everyone is having uch a good time! Gotta Dance, April Workshops Get ready for the new four week session where we will specialize in Swing and Latin Dances. We always teach two levels each night—”Easy Does It” and “Steppin Up” level! A student receives quality instructions and best of all everyone has a great social and fun evening. Call for reservations early because the classes fill up quickly. Call Pat at 547-9647. Premium Dance Event ‘06 Our 22nd Annual Holiday 2 Dance, Exrava/Dance will be held on Friday, August 18th and on Saturday, August 19th at the AmeriSuites Hotel in Pasco (next to TRAC). Our featured celebrities will be Buddy and Laurie Schwimmer, swing specialists from L.A. and Terry West, “The Best In The West” (DJ). More details later! Don’t miss this terrific weekend! So in the meantime—live, laugh, dance!