Friday, November 11th, 2005
Swing Time! at the Gulfport Casino Ballroom
1940's USO SWING DANCE w/ The Ten O'Clock Band
( Click any photo to see a larger version )

In honor of Veteran's Day (which fell on the day of this event), Swing Time held its first-ever 1940's/USO themed swing dance... the event was dedicated to all veterans, past and present. A huge crowd of dancers and swing enthusiasts turned out for the occasion, decked out in their finest 1940's/WWII-era civilian and military attire! In addition, Lindy Hoppers from across the state came to kick off Lindy Hop 411's 5th Anniversary Party. The 18-piece Ten O'Clock Band provided the big-band musical experience for hours of swing dancing! The evening started with a dance lesson taught by Sailor Sam & Laurie (substituting for the vacationing Allison), and included a birthday jam for Cassandra, a giant Shim Sham, and a Jack & Jill dance jam. The hall was decorated in 1940's/USO/patriotic style, complete with 48-star flag as band backdrop. (That's right, there were only 48 states back in WWII; thanks to Steve for providing the flag!) A film crew from USF, headed by fellow swingster Danielle, came to shoot their documentary, "Swing Has Sprung", which later aired on PBS. All photos below were taken by dance photographer, Mike Vinson (contact Mike at 407-754-5692 to purchase prints), except for the section of photos at the very end, taken by dancer and photographer, Keith Shapiro. Check out the amazing photos below, over 400 in all! --Sam

First Shots of the Night... Strikin' a Pose... Camera People... USF Film Crew...