Charles Stone, president of the Jefferson City Swing Dance Club, was inducted Sept. 5 into the American Bop Association (ABA) Hall Of Fame in St. Louis.
Stone's passion for dancing and introducing others to its benefits has grown steadily. Stone was introduced to the dancing community in 1984 while serving in the U.S. Army in Germany. He was immediately hooked on the physical and mental benefits of dance and took advantage of his travel in the armed forces to participate with dance groups in Germany, England and Ireland. He retired from the Army in 1994, returned to the United States and immediately affiliated with a dance club in Missouri.
In 1996, Stone relocated to Jefferson City and started his dream of promoting dance in Mid-Missouri and sharing his passion for dance with the community. Stone started by affiliating with the Hispanic Dance Group in Jefferson City and assumed the role of president of that club. In 1996, he served as president of the Jefferson City Swing Dance Club. He also serves on the board of the Midwest Swing Dance Federation and on the Board of American Bop Association.
Stone believes in being a community supporter. He has served on the board of Jefferson City Boys and Girl Club, the Jefferson City Multicultural Forum and Trustees of the Eagle Club, and has served as a member of the Vienna Lions Club and Jefferson City American Legion.
Stone is a certified imperial dance instructor. He works out daily at the YMCA to stay fit for dancing.