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Published: Thursday, Jan. 31, 2013 / Updated: Thursday, Jan. 31, 2013 05:36 PM

DWTS: Ron Kirby ready to hoof it

Ron Kirby: From ‘old streets of Myrtle Beach’ to the stage

By Jenny Overman - joverman@fortmilltimes.com

FORT MILL TOWNSHIP -- 

Tega Cay City Councilman Ron Kirby has only been practicing for Dancing With the Stars for a week. Mayor George Sheppard dropped out of the competition because he became busier than expected with city business, including the search for a new city administrator, and Kirby stepped in and has been practicing nightly to catch up. According to Kirby, being a little behind the other contestants isn’t going to trip him up.

“We are in it to win it,” he said.

As he prepares for the competition, we asked him a few questions.

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    " See it in person “Dancing with the Stars – Fort Mill” will be 6 p.m. Feb. 23 at the Glennon Center in Tega Cay. Proceeds go to the Fort Mill school district Athletic Board, which funds middle school sports programs. Tickets for the show and after-party are $50. VIP tickets are $100 and include dinner, dessert, cocktails and the after-show celebration. Event sponsorships are also available. Tickets can be purchased at fortmillathletics.com.

Q: Why did you want to participate?

A: “When I heard about it last year I was excited and I thought it was a great idea. I am an advocate for the school system, particularly the Fort Mill School District.”

Q : Do you have any dance experience?

A: “Yes, plenty. They’re trying to take an old guy like me and get his old ways out. I learned on the old streets of Myrtle Beach and they’re trying to tune me up a bit. I learned by watching “American Band Stand,” “Soul Train,” I love all kinds of music and dancing. I hear it and have a feel for it and do what I think I’m supposed to do.”

Q : What is your strategy for “Dancing with the Stars – Fort Mill?”

A: “Anyone who knows me knows that I think anyone who participate is already a winner but there is only one first place and I’m going to get there. A lot of practice, with the ladies and in front of the TV, with the chair, doorknob, wherever.”

Q: Why do you think middle school sports are important?

A: “Middle school sports are a transition for a child. I think that any type of activity, particularly sports, sets them up with the basics of life that build self esteem and understanding teamwork.”