Hi Jim,

I wish you a wonderful Holiday Season & a thanks for your work in keeping the wheels turning (Grin)

After winning Nationals in 1954, in Senior Mens Singles & Mixed Pairs, my life took a turn when my pair's partner, Pat Ryan, met with a tragic boating accident.  With my/our hopes to compete for a World title diminished, I decided to retire & pursue other interests.

I had been taking ballroom lessons, to augment my skating, & became attracted to ballroom dancing because of it's similarity to skating. That lead to becoming a professional ballroom dancer...followed by an exciting adventure & career that's now spanned over 54 years.

I progressed up the ladder with the Arthur Murray Dance Studios & since the organization was world-wide, I've had the opportunity to teach, manage & own studios all over the nation.

I finally settled in Phoenix, in 1967, where I eventually acquired the Arthur Murray franchise for the State of Arizona...a marvelous opportunity that lasted until retirement, 30 years later.

Being in such an exciting industry for 4 decades, made retirement
very difficult, so I decided to become a traveling consultant for Arthur Murray International & it opened up a whole new phase of my life.  I'm now judging, coaching & management consulting, all over the country & love every minute of it...I don't know if I'll ever retire !

I've lived in Scottsdale, Arizona, for over 40 years & since leaving the wonderful world of skating, have been blessed with 2 sons, 7 grand children, 6 great, grand children & 1 great, great, grand child.

Over the last 15 years, I've had the opportunity to re-unite with my old skating friends in the Washington D.C. area.  We've had several re-unions that have brought both laughter & tears.  Thanks to cyber-space, many of us have corresponded & brought back many fond memories of a time that literally forged our lives !

I want to thank you, Jim, for keeping the flame alive, or should I say, "Wheels turning."  Your re-unions & future re-unions will bring much joy to many of us who have reach a time in our lives when nostalgia plays such an important role. 

I send my good wishes to everyone who's experienced America's truest pastime...Roller Skating !

With warm regards,

Jacques De Beve 

11350  E. Whitethorn Drive
Desert Diamond Estates
Scottsdale, Arizona  85262
Res: 480-502-5015
DNZBIZ@COX.NET