I want to address a crisis in America. The crisis is that too many Americans are overweight, stressed out, and have very little fun. I would like to bring awareness of an activity that addresses these three issues. It is America’s best kept secret, and I want everyone to know about it. I am talking about Modern Western  Square Dancing, and it is not the square dancing you learned in elementary or junior high. It’s good for mind and body. With all its moving, twisting, and turning, square dancing provides more than the daily dose of heart- and bone-healthy physical activity. Remembering all the calls — from “do-si-do” to ‘alemand’ — keeps the mind sharp, potentially staving off age-related memory loss, experts say. And the companionship that regular square dancing offers is an antidote to depression and loneliness. According to a 1994 Mayo Health Care Clinic Health Letter, “in one study researchers attached pedometers to square dancers and found that each person covered five miles in a single evening.” People want to exercise more but find it difficult to motivate themselves. Square dancing combines fun, socializing, making friends, and exercise.

Submitted by Barbara Veres

Garland Smith: Square Dance Caller & Entertainer

Square Dancing is a great activity for any kind of social event. Square Dancing provides a synergy and team-building experience that is unlike any other activity that I know of. Garland Smith specializes in providing square dance and line dance entertainment for parties and social events. Garland uses Square Dancing, line dancing, circle mixers, contras, and other specialty dances to provide a unique party experience that will leave you with a smile on your face and a song in your heart.