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The official
national folk dance
By Elaine Bailey
It did not take an “Act of Congress” to get these folks swinging,
circling, or sashaying. However an Act of Congress in 1982 signed by
President Reagan recognized square dancing as the official national
folk dance of the United States… an activity enjoyed by many.
Folks from Darke and neighboring counties joined members of the Darke
County Swinging 8’s in the swine barn during the 2014 Great Darke
County Fair.
Mark Libert (caller) and Elaine Wintrow (cuer) directed partners while
playing recorded music for the square and circle dancers. Calls
included instructional tips for the beginners.
The Darke County Swinging 8’s are gearing up for the new instructional
season beginning Monday, September 8 in the basement of the Second
National Bank, across from McDonalds on Wagner Street in Greenville.
Each Monday evening from September until April, participants will learn
Mainstream and Plus calls as taught by caller Mark Libert, a member of
the Darke County Swinging 8’s. Club members will be on hand as
instructional aides. Classes are open to singles, as well as
couples.
In addition to providing square dance lessons, the Darke County
Swinging 8’s host a monthly dance on the fourth Saturday of September
through June at the First Congregational Christian Fellowship Hall on
the corner of Devor and Washington. The dance is open to
anyone. It is attended by dancers from counties in Ohio, Indiana,
and Kentucky.
The Darke County Swinging 8’s was chartered in 1966 and is part of the
Miami Valley Council. The current officers are:
Presidents: Phyllis and Harvey Crick
Vice Presidents: Paul and Rita Erdman
Secretaries: Mike and Cheryl Clark
Treasurers: Chet and Sharon Wirrig
Raid and Retrievers: Mike and Edna Carrico
Square dancing is a way to meet people. It is a low impact
exercise…one way to stay in shape. It is also low-cost
entertainment.
There is no cost for the first lesson. All other lessons are
$2.50 a week.
Those interested in additional information are welcome to call Mike or
Edna Carrico at 937.338.4311.
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