A proclamation: Square Dance Month, Feb. 12, 2013

BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF GEORGIA

A PROCLAMATION

SQUARE DANCE MONTH

WHEREAS:

Square Dancing, the official Folk Dance of the State of Georgia, has a long tradition of providing wholesome entertainment for Georgians, young and old, who participate in this exciting and friendly activity; and

WHEREAS:

The square dance is a popular type of folk dance throughout the world. This dance for groups of four couples is performed in a compact framework, each couple form ing a side of the square. Traditionally, it is accompan ied by modern country/western mus ic. The couples perform a variety of movements prompted by the patter or singing instruction of a "caller." Cooperative movement is the hallmark of well-executed square dancing; and

WHEREAS:

Square dancing is designated as the Official Georg ia Folk Dance by Code Section 50-3-73 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated; and

WHEREAS:

Folk dances such as squar e dancing, round dancing, clogg ing, contra, and line dancing are a traditional form of community ce lebration. They require teamwork and cooperation, and are a healthy and entertaining pastime that bring joy to thousands of Georgians; and

WHEREAS :

The Georgia State Square Dancers Association is hosting the 42nd ANNUAL STATE SQUARE DANCE CONVENTION on September 19-21 , 2013. They also wi ll dedicate September 20th to "Red , White and Blue" in honor of the servicemen and women who have lost their lives in battle and those who continue to serve their country around the world; now

THEREFORE:

I, NATHAN DEAL, Governor of the State of Georgia, do hereby proclaim September 2013 as SQUARE DANCE MONTH in t he State of Georg ia.

In witness thereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the Executive Department to be affixed this 12th day of February in the year of our Lord two thousand th irteen.

ATTEST

GOVERNOR

CHIEF OF STAfF