the Alzheimer's Association Memory Ball 2010

"DANCING STARS" Saturday April 24th 2010

...an evening of DANCE to raise money and awareness for care & support of all those affected by Alzheimer's

Raymond Mitchener and Chi Chi Bosworth contacted John in the beginning of January 2010 to train and choreograph them to compete at this years event. Local celebrities & individuals are asked to participate in a dance competition and raise funds to support the Alzheimer's Association, much like the popular show "Dancing with the Stars". Neither Ray nor Chi Chi have ever danced Rhythm/Latin dances before in this capacity, so this was a new experience to partner dance in a high level show.

Both of these wonderful, talented, and big hearted dancers worked very hard to perfect the dance skills John taught them. At least once a week and sometimes twice they would come to study and the would often meet together for practice as well. The dance they chose was a Rumba and the song was "Spotlight" by Jennifer Hudson. The dance was filled with tease and taunt, anger and aggression, love and loss. Chi Chi and Ray were an absolute delight to teach!

The Memory Ball was an evening filled with laughter, joy, and celebration to DANCE away the sadness and frustration unfortunately brought on to those who are affected by this disease. So many came together to support these 2 fine dancers. John was very honored and pleased to have the opportunity to instruct and come to know and befriend Ray & Chi Chi. Ray, who owns and operates Ruth Shaw at Cross Keys had his staff and supporters attend as did Chi Chi with her numerous family, friends, and colleagues. Congratulations to them both as they were 1st runner up winners AND also raised the 3rd largest amount of money for the event as well.

The event raised a total of $171,000 as of Saturday evening the 24th. Ray & Chi Chi alone raised $23, 575.00 to date.