Members of Fallon's square dance club, Oasis Squares, were at the state Legislative Building to support Assemblywoman Robin Titus's bill, AB 123, to make square dancing the state dance of Nevada. They included Linda Hartweg, Joe Bera, Joye and Zak Kinkade, Len and Darlene Denning and Jim Falk. There were also 13 members of other Northern Nevada clubs present. The dancers gave testimony why they thought Nevada, like 31 other states should make square dancing its state dance, and they did a demonstration dance for the committee considering the bill.
Costumed square dancers who do-si-doed in a legislative meeting room say their hobby is good for everything from losing weight to picking up on women.
The Assembly Government Affairs Committee heard testimony Wednesday on AB123, which would make square dancing the official state dance of Nevada.
Republican bill sponsor and Assemblywoman Robin Titus said dozens of states have already adopted the dance as their own, and noted Reno will host the 68th Annual Silver State Square and Round Dance Festival in May.
Dancers in Western outfits did a demonstration for lawmakers as the audience clapped along.
Witnesses testified square dancing helps fight the blues, build friendships and keep participants fit.
Nobody spoke out against the bill, which could be up for a vote as early as this week.