Warmest greetings to all ABA Members

This years cruise is looking bigger and better then last year’s cruise. We have 330 dancer sign up. The same number as last year’s cruise and we still have 4 month to go.

With the recent price drop, I look for more people to sign up. 400 dancers isn’t that far away. I’m keeping my finger cross.

We have two workshops a day when we are at sea and dance every night. Last year we dance at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville in Jamaica and in the Cayman Islands. It was one BIG party from the time we step on the ship to the time we step off the ship. That’s why 166 people sign up for this cruise, before getting off the ship. I encourage you to sign up now so your name is put on a list for a possible up-grade.

The Princess Cruise Line has worked with us, giving us places to dance, letting us play our own music, using our own DJ and any thing that we need. The more people we have sign up, the easier it is to get the things that make the ABA cruise, a dance cruise. With a little nudging from Maureen and Bob things stay on track and they get as much from the cruise line as possible. I can’t say enough about Maureen and Bob at Just Cruisin. They have worked hard for and been with us from the beginning.

When Charlotte and I plan our dance trips for the year, we first list the ABA Conventions and go if possible. We think it importance to support our Conventions. One is held in St Louis, Rollin on the River and one in Cincinnati, Move Across the River. These clubs have supported the ABA for years and it time we show our gratitude. If you ask your self, why should I attend? First they’re great parties with great workshops and good friends. You will see old friends and meet new ones. Sign up early. This will allow the ABA and your club to receive a rebate from the clubs hosting the conventions. It a good time, to be had by all.

Every body has their favorite dance party that they like to go to every year and that great. But, try to add a new dance party every year. Each dance party has something special or difference to offer. This year we traveled to Chicago. “WOW” do they put on a party. The people, the music, the hospitality room, and the hotel were outstanding. We have been missing a great party and it’s only five hours from home. Now it’s one of our favorite. If you are like us, you would like to go to all the ABA parties. But, we can only go to so many. I suggest if you haven’t traveled to the Chicago party, do so; for you our missing a great time.

I like to thank the Choo Choo Shag Club in Chattanooga, TN for offering the President of the ABA tickets to their event, Shag Tracks XII. I’m planning on making their event in 2008. I have a lot of good friend in Chattanooga that I would like to see. I understand their event was a roaring success.

It’s an honor to serve as President of the American Bop Association. I’m promoting something I have done all my life “Dance, and to the music we all love.” Dancing has given me so much. My wife of 44 year likes the way that I dance and we have danced our way through life. It has open doors to new friendship, across the country.

Friendships are something Special, not to be taken lightly.

It’s God gift to all of us. For without a friend, we have nothing.

Gary Chaney
American Bop Association President