Another great year in our dance community is coming to a close. This year’s ABA Conventions were in Cincinnati in November and St. Louis in September. I hope each of you was able to attend at least one of these fine events. St. Louis’ “Rollin’ on the River” was this year’s site for our annual Hall of Fame inductions and presentation of the George Baer Award. Congratulations to this year’s Hall of Fame inductees, George and Millie Wood of Memphis Bop Club and Larry Fournier of Great Lakes Swing Dance Club and to Bill White of West County Swing Dance Club, recipient of the George Baer Award.

I understand from Gary Chaney that the bookings for the 2007 ABA Cruise already exceeded in September the impressive count for our first cruise this past January and February. Should be an excellent turnout and a great week long party.

This year we added one Regular member club and two Associate members to the ABA bringing our total current membership to 26 Regular and 9 Associate members. Our membership continues to grow and I’m proud to have our Association represent so many wonderful dance organizations. I estimate that ABA member clubs are comprised of well over 5,000 dancers.

Our next annual ABA Meeting will again be held in Nashville on January 13. Directors should already have received details on the meeting. Please try to have a representative of your club at the meeting.

At this year’s meeting, we will have elections for President and Treasurer. Both of these positions need new candidates as neither Jo Reynolds nor I will be running for re-election because of other commitments. Please consider stepping forward to run for one of these positions. It has been my great pleasure and honor to represent the ABA as its President for these last two years.

Here’s to a blessed and joyful holiday season.

Best Regards,
Jim Laux
President – American Bop Association