Hello and Gainesville Ocala Social Dancers,

Dr. Stephen Rothstein passed away from cardiac arrest. I am sad to share this news. If I hear of a memorial service, I will pass that on to you.

Dr. Steve was a mensch. He was welcoming to all. He always had a smile on his face. He was someone I trusted to invite as a guest leader to my beginner classes. He could be depended upon to make new people feel comfortable, see that they had a good time, that they laughed, had fun and enjoyed themselves at dancing.

Dr. Steve used to host dance parties at his house. It is one thing for folks to go to dance socials at a studio. It is nice. This is what every group does. The public venue though does not have the intimacy of a private home. Dr. Steve's dances at his home helped our community build a sense of intimacy. People became more than dance acquaintances. People made friends.

Dr. Steve was a good friend in our dance community. We will miss him. He will continue to live on through his positive influence on us.

May your memories of Dr. Stephen Rothstein be a blessing,
Andy