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
