SQUARE DANCING RETURNS
Event set for May 24 near Coudersport

Natalie Phelps has played a major role of bringing back square dancing to to the area.

Swing your partner, do-sido.

Square dancing is returning with new momentum in Potter County this year, kicking off with the Waterwheel Barn Dance on Saturday, May 24, in Colesburg. It's located on the former Lent farm along Rt. 49, between Coudersport and Gold.

In true barn dance tradition, those attending, whether to dance or just observe, are encouraged to bring a dish to pass.

The event is open to the public for a $3.00 admission fee. The program starts at 7:30.

Driving force behind the resurrection of square dancing is Natalie Phelps (274-7605), whose affinity for the pastime became more of a mission last year when she secured a modest grant from the Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts.

Phelps discovered that many of the best callers and dancers are no longer active.

She sought out those who are still around to document their knowledge so it can be passed on to future generations.

Results of her quest will be shared with anyone who's interested on May 24.