Dear Editor:
I am writing as a very grateful parent to thank Derrick Ladson for all his hard work with the Fire Dance Squad.
A few years ago, I began a search for a fun and interesting class for my very active daughter, when I heard about a Hip Hop class being offered at the Boys & Girls Club. I was very impressed and was welcomed to enroll her as their youngest member at four years old.
Although it was a very tight knit group, many of the students attended school together, she was warmly welcomed into their group. All the students are so sweet and caring, and treat her like a little sister. It has been wonderful watching the “family” grow to over 40 students. It has been equally wonderful watching these amazing children grow and blossom individually as well over the years.
With Derrick leading them on, they are encouraged to work hard and always do their best. The children are dedicated to their teacher and their craft. They rehearse three times a week (now at Hoboken High School), all year long, for more than 6 hours per week. They have performed for the Senior Citizens Thanksgiving Dinner at the Multi Service Center, The National Night Out at the Mama Johnson Field, the Halloween Party for the B&G kids, the Hoboken Artist Studio Tour and for the Hoboken High School Talent Show. None of this would be possible without the amazing talent of their dedicated and loving dance instructor, Derrick Ladson. He has the compassion and patience of a saint when it comes to teaching a complicated dance routine to 40 kids of all different ages, sizes and skill levels. They thrive under his leadership and quiet authority and look up to him as a role model. I just wanted to recognize this leader in our community and to say thanks!
Sincerely,
Theresa Minutillo
Gabriela’s mom