Carli Berry
reporter@pqbnews.com
Lynette McLoud has been dancing with the Sand Dollars square dancing club since 2005 and has been square dancing since she was in Grade 3.
“It’s good for your mind and your health,” she said. McLoud’s been dancing for 47 years. She started in Bella Coola in 1962 with her uncle. When she moved to Port Alberni in 1969 she picked it right back up again but took a few years off when the club closed.
With the Sand Dollars, McLoud said she “queues the rounds” which she elaborated, is like ballroom dancing.
“It’s good exercise to reduce stress.” McLoud choreographs the classes.
The Sand Dollars will be hosting an open house Sept. 14 at the Bradley Centre on Shearme Road in Coombs. Coffee and tea will be provided.
“You don’t need to have a partner… you don’t need to dress up,” Debbie Schmidt, caller and cuer of the club, said.
You don’t have to be a good dancer either — the class is set for beginners.
Square dancing is typically done in pairs, with eight people dancing in a square. It is believed to have originated in 17th century England, but was common throughout France and Europe.
Classes start on Sunday evenings
Sept. 20 from 7:30-8:30 p.m. with the first lesson free. For more info, contact Ray or Debbie Schmidt at 250-951-0135.