WEDNESDAY, MAY 12, 1999

Club promises a swingin' Sunday night

By Ken Hanson

On-Line Forty-Niner

All swinging students, listen up. Sunday nights, there is a place in Long Beach where swing is king and students are the royal subjects.

Hosted by disc jockey Retro Rhonda, the PCH Club at the Golden Sails Hotel offers the "Sunday Night Swing Thing" beginning at 8 p.m.

The hottest thing about this joint is that admission is only $5. And if students bring their identification cards, they get in for $3.

The price of admission also covers free dance lessons for beginning dancers and those who want to refresh their moves.

Lessons are given for the first hour of the evening. Dance instructors vary week to week, but the club promises a slew of guest instructors, Rhonda said.

Rhonda spins her collection of vintage big band and jump swing while dancers show off their best moves and practice new ones. The club is open to all ages and offers dinner until 9:30 p.m.

After swinging to the DJ's collection of jumping tunes, dancers can bask in the cool marina air on the patio while they attempt to catch their breath.

The club also offers a full bar for those with valid I.D.s. When not cutting a rug, dancers can also mingle with others at pool tables and couches.

Another great thing about the "Sunday Night Swing Thing" is that the regulars are more friendly than at some of the swing clubs in the area.

"We're just here to dance," said Jack Poitras, who comes to the "Sunday Night Swing Thing" on a weekly basis. "We like it here because it's not a fashion show. The people here are just out to have fun and don't try to put anyone down."

The fact that the club does not provide a live band does leave a different impression when one is used to going out and listening to some swinging bands rock and reel. Nevertheless, it is a great place to relax and practice some moves.

"Sunday Night Swing Thing" offers dancers a spacious 14,000-foot dance floor and an excellent sound system to keep lindy hoppers on their feet.

The PCH Club is at 6285 E. Pacific Coast Highway. For more information, one may call (562) 596-2332.