For many adults, the phrase “Swing your partner, do-si-do” inspires fluttery stomachs and sweaty palms. At some point, the California public education system decided that the best way to introduce nervous adolescents to the singular joys of handling the opposite sex was through square dancing. Country music and shin-kicking became synonymous with awkward sixth-grade courting rituals. But square dancing has a rich history in the U.S., and is the state dance of no less than 19 states. And it’s not a relic that only 6-year-olds and 60-year-olds participate in. People square dance all over the world. There’s an official organization that accredits callers and holds an annual convention. San Francisco is home to the world’s first GLBT square-dance club. So put on your carefully scuffed vintage cowboy boots on, grab your partner, and... More >>>