News Digest for Square Dancing in the United States

Square Dance News Digest

Recent examples of square dance news on a variety of topics from various publications around the United States. Excerpts appear below, please follow the link to the original article.

August, 2010

Good news for dance fans: a Miami City Ballet special is announced for PBS: Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles, California
August 31, 2010

While competitive, glitzy dancing has proliferated on commercial television, the venerable public series — produced by New York’s WNET as part of PBS’ "Great Performances" — has become a much less frequent presence. Economic realities — in particular the high cost of such programming and the withdrawal of major funding sources — have contributed to this decline. Now, for the first time in years, PBS is taking the plunge and presenting the type of program that made "Dance in America's" sterling reputation.; Next month, Miami City Ballet will be taped in studio performances of Balanchine’s “Square Dance” and “Western Symphony,” along with Tharp’s “The Golden Section.” All three are works for which the company — marking its 25th anniversary this season — has received particular acclaim. Balanchine works have been the troupe’s mainstay, and the company has cultivated a healthy Tharp repertory in recent years, commissioning an original work from her in 2008.
THIRTEEN’S Great Performances: Dance in America to Spotlight Edward Villella’s Miami City Ballet: Business Wire
New York, New York
August 30, 2010

In January 2009, Company Director Edward Villella brought the Company to Manhattan's City Center for its New York City debut, resulting in standing ovations and rave reviews.; "Miami City Ballet made its Manhattan debut on Wednesday night at City Center. To watch it dance Balanchine is to see aspects of his choreography more clearly than with any other company today. Energy; crispness; stretch; dance as a demonstration of music rather than as a response to it; the multidimensionality of the body in space: these basic ingredients of the ballet master's style shine bright here," enthused Alastair Macaulay in The New York Times.; In a follow-up review, Macaulay opined, "No company today performs ‘Square Dance' as well as Miami."
Sunday Profile: Randy Dibble: Statesman Journal
Salem, Oregon
August 29, 2010

In each corner of the dance hall, four couples form a square. Randy Dibble croons square dance calls in synch with the music, other times enunciating the instructed movements in baritone, sometimes belting out the lyrics.; Randy is a well-known professional square-dance caller in the Mid-Valley — he has gained a retinue of die-hard square dancers. He has recorded professional square dancing tracks, called professionally for more than 30 years and teaches throughout the region.; Most Fridays, Randy is a fixture at the Salem Square Dance Center in northeast Salem, a hall that was built by square dancers in 1960 on 45th Avenue NE. By 2005, the square dancing organizations gained ownership of the building and continue to rotate lessons and dances each night.
Celebrating red at 17th annual steam show
*** International ***: The Post
Hanover, Ontario
Canada
August 26, 2010

It was the biggest of the American tractor giants and there were dozens and dozens of International Harvester tractors and equipment on exhibition at the 17th annual Steam Show north of Walkerton on Aug. 20-22.; A big part of the show was Team Farmall Square Dancing Tractors from the Teeswater area. Eight tractors, from the 1950s, Farmall C's and H's driven by four men with wigs and dresses and four without, danced their tractors in tight formation along to a square dance caller. The fact that the C's and H's are small row crop tractors makes it easier to maneuver. Still there were some close calls and tire rubbing was essential for the thrill of the audience.
Twirl your partner and turn on those headlights!: Seminole Voice
Orlando, Florida
August 27, 2010

One way to stay safe on Sunday afternoons this fall is to join the new square dancing class with the BrenDon Squares at the Rural Heritage Center in Geneva. Throughout the year, we applaud the BrenDon Squares for all they do in the community and for their genuine, heartfelt and significant contributions to our rural heritage. Whether you come as a couple, an individual or with a friend, mark Sunday, Sept. 12 at 2 p.m. on your calendar and come see what square dancing is all about.; Don Whittaker is a nationally known square dance caller who settled his family here in the greater Geneva area and folks couldn't be happier. Don and his lovely wife, Brenda, seem like they have been here for years. As Don says, it's a great excuse to hold hands, get some exercise and forget your troubles while you are learning the rhythms and moves of a true American art form. The two hours will truly fly by as you dance on the beautiful wood floors of our own Rural Heritage Center. Don is an amazing talent not only as a caller but as a patient teacher.; He's seen it all — the clumsy and the coordinated, the smooth and the stumblers. In the beginners' class, everyone pretty much starts on an even dancing field, and you'll all giggle together when you turn the wrong way, bump into each other and look equally confused. My favorite line from Don is, "No honey, your other left."
It's hip to be square; Y Squares to host open house Sept. 14: The Star-Ledger
Newark, New Jersey
August 25, 2010

It is "grand" and it includes the "right" and the "left." Square dancing, that is. Learn a series of basic steps (nothing fancy, just walking to the music in a defined pattern) and a world of fun opens up for you. You'll meet some of the nicest people on earth, you'll exercise in spite of yourself and you will increase your power of concentration. Moreover, wherever you go you will find square dancers to welcome you. (Square dancing originated in the United States, so the standardized calls are in English anywhere in the world.)
Square dance club hosts Christmas in July event: The Commercial Appeal
Mempis, Tennessee
August 25, 2010

The Spurs and Saddles square dance club of Germantown recently held its "Christmas in July" dance at the Pickering Center. All the dancers came to the dance bearing gifts for the Mid-South Food Bank.; JoAn Adair, the club's current president, said that the club likes to do this annual food drive to help out the community. The Mid-South Food Bank told her that the club donated approximately 160 pounds of food -- enough food to provide 128 meals.
Square dance gala draws enthusiasts: The Republican
Springfield, Massachusetts
August 25, 2010

When 6,000-plus square dancers met to kick up their heels at the National Square Dance Convention in Louisville, Ky., earlier this summer, Gloria Vivier was among them.; In fact, Vivier was part of a select group who not only danced, but also "called" the dances. Calling takes skill and training, as the caller has to produce the stream of commands that guide couples from one move to the next as the music plays. This was the fifth national convention in which Vivier was a caller.
SQUARE DANCING CLUBS CALL FOR NEW MEMBERS
*** International ***: Community Newswire
London
England
August 24, 2010

People across the country have been encouraged to get fit and make friends with a new hobby next month - square dancing. This American form of dance involves eight people dancing in a group, learning a series of steps which are spontaneously combined rather than a fixed, ongoing routine.; During September, more than 150 square dance groups across the UK will try to attract new members by offering free taster lessons, allowing people to try out a few steps and make new friends.; Susie Kelly, 70, from Buckingham, has been square dancing since she was 15 years old. She said: "Square dancing is a brilliant and invigorating hobby for making friends and having fun. It appeals to a certain type of person who likes the challenge of learning dance and working together."; Square dancers are told which steps to take by a caller, who links suitable moves together every few seconds, meaning everyone must concentrate to take the right steps without bumping into one another. It is all done at walking pace and dancers wear casual clothes and comfortable shoes, with background music ranging from country and western to modern chart hits.
Nurse Promotes Health With Therapeutic Dance: Nursing Spectrum
Hoffman Estates, Illinois
August 23, 2010

McMahon, an experienced RN from Scotch Plains, N.J., who also is an accomplished dancer and teacher, has conducted programs that include movement, dance, stretching and toning with nurses in hospital and outpatient settings, patients in nursing homes and hospice, adolescents in shelters and children who have suffered loss, just to name a few.; "I use the words 'therapeutic dance' because I see the healing power of movement," McMahon said. "I've watched as people dance; they engage their emotions and feel a sense of life and resiliency. They are pulled out of their daily routine and stresses to be 'in the moment' with themselves and their bodies."; During a humanitarian visit to Africa, McMahon traveled to Saint Elizabeth's Hospice in Burundi, where she taught patients and staff dances such as the alley cat, Charleston, belly dancing and square dancing. "We did not speak the same language, and yet we communicated with one another through dance," McMahon said.
Square dance club to sponsor round-ups: Independent Mail
Anderson, South Carolina
August 23, 2010

The events will be held Sept. 9 and Sept. 23 at 7:30 p.m. at the Hart County Recreation Center on Clay Street in Hartwell. No dance experience is needed. These community dances are open to residents in Hart, Elbert and Franklin counties and other surrounding areas. Those who may have previously danced are invited to attend.; Square dancing is a fun-filled activity set to music and cued by a live caller. Caller Bob Morrison will provide a fun-filled evening of music and instruction. Come join us for this great recreation and social activity.
Visitors go back to the farm in Mokena: Southtown Star
Tinley Park, Illinois
August 22, 2010

The late summer sights and sounds of old-fashioned farm life drew more than 3,000 people Saturday to the Mokena Park District's Farm & Barn Fest at Yunker Farm on LaPorte Road. "We're trying to bring a little farm life back so people can experience it," Connie Eskoff, executive director of the Mokena Park District, said of the event.; Contests involving everything from ponytails to pies were conducted throughout the day, while the music of choice was decidedly Western. Jim Poorman called out the toe-tapping square dance tunes for the American Square Dancers and B&B Flossmoor Dancers as part of the day's entertainment.
In & Around Randolph Township: Randolph Reporter
Chester, New Jersey
August 20, 2010

FRIDAY, Sept. 17 -- Looking for fun, exercise and socializing? Come to a free "Friendship Dance" at 8 p.m. at the Ironia Elementary School. Attendees will learn the basics of square dancing from a live caller. The school is on Rte. 513. Free refreshments. Casual dress. Couples and singles welcome.
Movie segment shot on square: Clay County Progress
Hayesville, North Carolina
August 19, 2010

Folks driving by the Hayesville town square Sunday afternoon may have noticed an unusual scene. An old-time medicine show, banjo picker, circus performers, a small crowd and a film crew were gathered on the courthouse lawn.; Bruno Seraphin and Harrison Topp, of Kazoo Films, are in the process of creating an independent fictional film inspired by song and dance in western North Carolina. Filming started July 1 and they have been shooting scenes around the area that include square dancing at the John C. Campbell Folk School.
NATIONAL SQUARE DANCE PROMOTION MONTH
*** International ***: Response Source
Croydon, London
United Kingdom
August 19, 2010

September is the traditional month for recruiting new Square Dancers. This year we are holding special events all over the UK.; Square Dancing is a fun, healthy way to get gentle exercise, while making new friends. We dance to all kinds of music, with 'singing' Callers. There are over 150 clubs throughout the UK – so there is one near you.; Most people can Square Dance – just wear casual clothing and a comfortable pair of shoes and be prepared to join in and have fun while you learn.
Eat and dance like the pioneers did at the Philip Foster Farm in Eagle Creek: The Oregonian
Portland, Oregon
August 18, 2010

An evening of history, food and family fun will be featured Aug. 28 at the Philip Foster Farm National Historic Site. The community is invited to a Barn Dance and Pioneer Supper from 5 to 9 p.m. at 29912 S.E. Highway 211.; After dinner, the Country Cut-Ups Square Dance Club will demonstrate how to square dance -- which, by the way, was adopted as "Oregon's official dance" by the legislature in 1977. Then folks can show off what they've learned when the Heartland Country Band takes the stage.
Get down at Hoedown
*** International ***: Gatton Star
Gatton, Queensland
Australia
August 17, 2010

THE sign writing team has been busy preparing banners for the Helidon Hoedown on Saturday, September 4, at the Helidon Community Centre. This event will be in place of RockStock, which has been postponed to be held next year in September.; One of Queensland's leading bluegrass bands, The Pirate Brides will be playing a mix of lively, toe tapping dances (Gypsy Tap, Barn Dance, Heel toe Polka and the like). Square dance caller David Smythe, from Caloundra, will be calling the square dances for beginners and the more advanced.
Contra dancers to flash mob at painted pianos: Cincinnati Enquirer
Cincinnati, Ohio
August 17, 2010

Cincinnati contra dancers will be converging on Fountain Square at 2 p.m. this Sunday for a "contra flash mob." The dancing will tie in with the "Play Me, I'm Yours" painted piano installation honoring 150 years of public radio. A band with a pianist will accompany the dancers.; Because this is their first spontaneous event, Palmer doesn't know how many will show up on Fountain Square. But if you go, wear comfortable shoes, she says.
22nd Annual Downtown Branson Fiddle Festival: Ozarks First
Springfield, Missouri
Undated

The 22nd Annual Fiddle Festival encompasses ALL of the Downtown area which includes the Historic Area and the modern neighbor Branson Landing.; In Historic Downtown Branson we will offer Arts and Craft Vendors, Community Sponsors, Food Vendors a Children's Area with pony rides, inflatable and crafts for the kids! Entertainment all day Saturday and Sunday and a genuine Square Dance on Saturday night beginning at 7:00pm.
Contra and cavalry: Independent - Record
Helena, Montana
August 16, 2010

This year's Montana Wild West Fest boasted the largest gathering of Montana gunfighters and the state's biggest contra dance, a partnered folk dance that is a precursor to square dancing.; More than 50 re-enactors performed daily shootouts, and attendees could try their hands at gold panning among other western-themed activities. The 2nd U.S. Cavalry had a historically accurate military camp for the public to peruse.; About 220 people gathered Saturday night for the Frontier Ball, which was the largest to date, according to Melony Bruhn, program coordinator for the fest.
Square dancers say goodbye: The Topeka Capital-Journal
Topeka, Kansas
August 15, 2010

With the final dance of the 45-year-old Strato Jets Square Dance Club on Tuesday, local square dancers are striving to keep their dance from going the way of the minuet.; The remaining 19 members of the Strato Jets are encouraging past callers, officers and members to make a special effort to attend the final dance at 7:30 p.m. at Croco Hall, 6115 S.E. 6th. The dance will be free and club president Leland Kimball said anyone wanting to come out simply to watch the dancing will be welcome.; The club was named for the B-47 Stratojet planes that flew out of Forbes Air Force Base in the 1960s.
Dancing convention isn't just for squares: The Greeley Tribune
Greeley, Colorado
August 14, 2010

People from across the country are stomping, sliding and spinning at the Union Colony Civic Center this week.; The USA West Square Dancing Convention started Wednesday and finishes tonight. Several hundred dancers came to Greeley from across the West for the event.; "If you don't have fun, you're in the wrong place," said Julie Jenks of Roy, Utah. She and her husband, Tom, do more round dancing than square.; Members of the group have known each other for a decade or more, having met at national and regional square dancing conventions. They take it beyond the traditional two-step, too. Their favorite move is called "load the boat," where four dancers are sharks circling the "boat" of four pirates.
Come and learn to dance at Indian Lake's Fall Round-Up: The Ada Herald
Ada, Ohio
August 13, 2010

The Fall Round-Up for 2010 will be coming to the area at the end of this month. There will be TWO FREE DAYS of dancing on August 28 and 29 at Fisher's Flea Market at Indian Lake, a 9,000 sq. ft. building. There will be Western Square Dancing, Round Dancing (Choreograph Ball Room) and Line Dancing from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; There will be many dance demonstrations, so people who may not know anything about these styles of dancing can join in. Also all dancers are welcome to have a great time dancing with the many different Callers Leaders and Cuers. This year there will be 12 Callers, 3 Cuers and 3 Line Leaders, with all of these people donating their time. Also Lazy J Western Ware will be there with all the trimmings a dancer would need.
Shindig with the Stoney Creek Boys: Times News
Hendersonville, North Carolina
August 13, 2010

The Stoney Creek Boys have been the house band at Shindig On The Green in Asheville for 37 years. Now, that's a steady gig. "We've been fortunate," says bassist Boyd Black. "We open the show, and we play for all of the square dancing. And we help anybody else that needs help, like a fiddle player that needs backup, or a singer that needs a fiddle, banjo or guitar. That's what our business is as the house band."; "The only people that are guaranteed to be at the Shindig are the Stoney Creek Boys, and they always make sure at least two square dance teams will be there. The rest of it is just whoever shows up. We never know who may come."; "It's not a Carnegie Hall stiff-neck performance. They've never had anything this good in Carnegie Hall," Black laughs. "No, what I mean is, it's just a group of friends and neighbors and country people, and we all just let our hair down and do our thing. We help each other, and enjoy each others' performance."
Swing-a-lings dance club celebrates 50 years: The Suburbanite
Akron, Ohio
August 13, 2010

The Swing-a-lings Square dance Club celebrated its 50th anniversary on July 10 at the Church of the Lakes Church Hall with a beef barbeque, cake and memories. Later on there was square and round dancing. Round dancing is ballroom dancing with cues. The dance was enjoyed by many original and former members. The callers for the dance were Dick Mackey and Tom Strickland with cuer Kristy Lake.; The original President from 1960 Mr. and Mrs. Wm Condo, Vice President Mrs. James Martin, and Sec. Treasurer Mr. and Mrs. Omar Givler were in attendance. Original and former members of the Swing-a-lings were also there, they were thrilled that they were remembered and invited to this special occasion. They enjoyed watching the dancing but remarked that the current dancers dance faster and their skirts are a lot shorter today.; Square dancing is "Friendship set to music" and many lasting friendships have developed throughout the years. It is fun and a form of exercise for the body and mind. Square dancing is danced all over the world but only called in English. There is a National Directory where you can find every country for cities, times and information.
Harvey Community Days features new activities
*** International ***: The Daily Gleaner
Fredericton, New Brunswick
Canada
August 12, 2010

With many community fairs closing down, Harvey Community Days has revamped its lineup of activities.; On Saturday, there will be a square dancing workshop from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. under the direction of Ron Lowe. Learn how to square dance and then take in the Don Messer Barn Dance from 7-10 p.m. at the Harvey High School auditorium. Marg and the Boys featuring Allison Inch will be the dance band.
Square Dance Convention starts today in Greeley: Greeley Tribune
Greeley, Colorado
August 11, 2010

The 10th USA West Square Dance Convention will be today through Saturday at the Union Colony Civic Center in Greeley and is hosted by UCCC, Greeley Recreation Center and the Greeley Senior Center. More than 700 dancers will be present to dance and celebrate square, round and contra dancing.; Other activities will include ceremonies, a barbecue dinner, exhibitions, competitions, educational sessions, a talent show, the Wednesday Night Stage Show, dance history of the West and Midwest and a showcase of ideas.
Upton to mark its 150 year as a town: Sun Journal
Lewiston, Maine
August 10, 2010

Aug. 21 will be a big day for this tiny town of about 64 full-time residents. It's the celebration of the 150th year since Letter B Plantation became the town of Upton on Feb. 9, 1860.; The celebration will wind down with a square dance from 6 to 8 p.m. and a street dance from 8 pm. to midnight in the street in front of the former school. If rain, the dances will be held inside the former school.; Anyone may enter the parade, floral, photo and pie baking contests, or set up a table for crafts or other items.
Caldwell square dancers travel to annual convention: The Progress
Caldwell, New Jersey
August 6, 2010

Seventy-six square dancers from around the state, including eight from Caldwell Cross Trail Squares, traveled to the 2010 U.S. Annual Square Dance Convention held this year in Louisville, Ky.; Over the span of four days the dancers attended clinics, workshops and dances from beginner to more advanced challenge level. Attendance at the convention was 6,295 dancers from the U.S. and around the world including Japan, Germany and England, an increase of almost 1,300 more than last year.
South Shore mom's new book helps families navigate diabetes: Staten Island Advance
Staten Island, New York
August 5, 2010

September is National Square Dance Month, and the Northern N.J. Square Dancers Association, of which Staten Island's AleMo Dancers are members, are gearing up for the season.; Many people recall square dancing as a pleasant activity they enjoyed in high school. What many don't realize, however, is that there has been a resurgence of the hobby among empty-nesters, single parents and families seeking an activity that welcomes all, including adults looking to share their passion for this pastime with their children and grandchildren.; During September, the 20 clubs from New Jersey and the two from New York will sponsor barn dances and open houses to introduce non-dancers to the activity. Classes are held throughout the school year in churches, schools and other halls.
Round and square: Tribune-Democrat
Johnstown, Pennsylvania
August 4, 2010

Bow to your partner and do-si-do. The 17th annual Pennsylvania Square and Round Dance Federation Convention will be held Aug. 20-21 at Pasquerilla Conference Center. This is the first time the convention will be held in Johnstown, said Donna J. Earnest, who is first vice president of the organization, along with her husband, Barrett.; Dances will be open for the public to observe and will require dancers to wear traditional square dance attire. This means long-sleeve shirts with bolo or square dance ties and dress slacks or dress jeans for the men and a square dance dress or skirt with crinoline slip or prairie dress or skirt for women.; Those who come to watch the dancing will pay $1 at the registration desk and receive a VIP ribbon to wear. When they're ready to leave, guests will return the ribbon and get their money back. "The money is for insurance coverage while they are visiting our convention," Earnest said. "We would love to see many people visit us during the weekend."
Kids learn Jane Austen-era customs and dance moves: Lexington Herald-Leader
Lexington, Kentucky
August 3, 2010
Video Segment

Full skirts swooshed and buckled shoes gleamed as dancers moved not just across the dance floor but back through time. For a moment last week, the main room at the Hunt Morgan house was alive with music and dance as children re-created what it would have been like to have a ball, literally.; Katherine Goble, 12, was most impressed with the agility that went into not only getting into a hoop skirt but navigating the world once it's been secured. "Getting into the car was crazy," she said.; With a relatively short practice time, Lamm said, he didn't teach anything too complicated. Most of the dances, he said, were based on walking, beginning with the opening number, which was a grand march. Other numbers included moves that the uninitiated might relate to square dancing. (Editor's Note: There are lots of square dancing calls in the video! There are styling differences in the implementation of the calls.)
The Magic of a Maine Antique Tractor Show: Down East
Camden, Maine
August 2, 2010

The 19th annual Antique Tractor and Engine Show took place up to the Bouchard Brother's Farm last weekend. Hoo, boy! Charlie was like a kid, he was so jacked up.; Both men and women love this event! Men, because there are tractors, of course, and all them old engines, "antique" tools, and the like. Women love it because the men are occupied and out of their hair all weekend. It's a win/win situation.; I go to the pancake breakfast Saturday morning (Well, who doesn't like a pancake breakfast?). And Charlie and me partake of the festivities Saturday evening: the 4:30 Roast Dinner (served until sold out), followed by the square dance from 6 to 8 p.m.
National Night Out set for Tuesday in South Burlington: Burlington Free Press
Burlington, Vermont
August 2, 2010

South Burlington is again celebrating National Night Out, this year with a new parade route and a celebration for all who serve their community.; There will be a car show beginning at 6 p.m. in the parking lot of the Frederick Tuttle Middle School. The middle school will also be the site of a photography contest and the public is invited to judge. Food stands, a square dance, and a karaoke talent show are also part of the night.
Pizza Haven Is the Ron Burgundy of Pizzerias: Seattle Weekly
Seattle, Washington
August 2, 2010

Pizza Haven, like Ron Burgundy, was kind of a big deal. Founded in the University District in the '50s, it grew to include 42 franchises and 700 employees, with retail operations in Russia and the Middle East. Now, there's but one Pizza Haven left, with two employees at a time keeping the heat lamps warm.; What other venue in town holds a monthly Community Square Dance, not counting senior centers? Nowhere, that's where. It's got an Orange Julius too; and don't forget about the Monorail, the World's Fair-era relic of opportunity lost.
Going Places: The Telegraph
Hudson, New Hampshire
August 1, 2010

Join 50 dancers from Iowa on Sunday, August 8, as they tour the Lakes Region and teach passengers on the M/S Mount Washington how to square dance. Dance into the night with three floors of dancing while enjoying the sunset and a two-entree dinner buffet on Lake Winnipesaukee.
Kountry Squares courts new members: Taylor Daily Press
Taylor, Texas
August 1, 2010

For over ten years, the Kountry Squares have been kicking up their heels and square dancing. Recently, the group, which consists of 20 to 25 members from Taylor, Thorndale, Rockdale, Lexington and Elgin have been visiting other local sqaure dancing clubs to meet new people and publicize their dance and raffle, which will take place in September.; "One of the square wars is that if you take whole square of people and visit a club, you get to bring their banner home," group member Jeanne Sparlin said. A square is eight people, the number of dancers it takes to complete the square formation used in square dancing. "Then they have to come visit you with a square of people to get it back. That's really fun, you get to know all of these people." Kountry Squares does not currently have any other club's banner.
Tractors to the dance floor for a square dance: Carroll County Times
Westminster, Maryland
August 1, 2010

Donald Athey put on a red bonnet and pulled a long, flowery skirt over his coveralls. Then he clamored into the driver's seat of a red 1940 Farmall antique tractor, shaded by a yellow umbrella.; The Middle Creek Tractor Swingers did not have enough female performers for their eight-person tractor square dance ensemble at the Carroll County 4-H & FFA Fair in Westminster Saturday. So three men took on cross-dressing roles. They operated antique tractors with flowers attached to the front grills.; Athey didn't seem to mind his role. He smiled when square dance caller Charlie Benner joked about his appearance. "A little problem with our ladies' facial hair," Benner said to the crowd. "Maybe we'll do something about it another year."; Many of the drivers own the tractors they use in the performances. Others are simply volunteers who enjoy riding. They do their best to keep up with Benner's lickety-split commands. Benner, a retired farmer, sang and spoke throughout the 30-minute show. "We usually listen to him," driver Wayne Beck said.

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