1991 – *Walter & *Priscilla Niederlitz

photo-niederlitzSquare Dance Leaders

For more than thirty years, Walter and Priscilla Niederlitz have devoted their time, talents, friendliness and their organizational skills to promote the Square and Round Dance Movement.

They started dancing in 1958 and are currently members of the Whirlaways of East Greenwich, Rhode Island. During this time they have served in many capacities on committees and as officers: as delegates to the Rhode Island Federation of Square and Round Dance Clubs from 1974 – 1979, then as Vice Presidents, Presidents and are now serving as Past Presidents. During their term as Presidents, the Rhode Island bid for the New England Square and Round Dance Convention was submitted and accepted. They served as Vice-Chairmen of the 27th and 28th New England Convention held in Providence in 1984 and 1985. They have attended every New England Convention since becoming Square Cancers and five National Conventions.

As delegates to EDSARDA they have served as Vice-Presidents in 1988-89 and are now Presidents. They are EDSARDA representatives to the Square Dance Foundation, members of the Board of Directors and Charter “500” Club Members.

Walt and Priscilla have promoted many fund-raising events throughout Rhode Island for a number of charities. In 1973 they raised over sixteen hundred dollars for the Trudeau Center for the Retarded. They have supported their club by dancing at nursing homes, fairs, churches, and at the Rhode Island State House.

Walter and Priscilla have both been active in their local church: Walter as Moderator and a member of the Finance Committee for many years. Priscilla has served as Treasurer and still audits the books each year. They are members of the Christian Education Committee, the Social Committee and work at many church functions. Walt was a Boy Scout Leader and Priscilla a Den Mother and Girl Scout Leader. Priscilla is a guide for the Rhode Island Historical society and escorts groups of school children through many homes and buildings, telling of their historical heritage. During World War II Walt served in the Air Force and Priscilla sewed for the Red Cross.

Walt personally obtained pages of signatures promoting Square Dancing as the National Folk Dance. For many years he sold “Roses” to put on club badges to help finance the Square Dance Float in the New Year’s Day Rose Bowl Parade.

            With all this activity they have found time to raise a very caring, loving family. They have one son, four daughters and five grandchildren.

Walter and Priscilla Niederlitz were selected for their overall dedication to our activity and their community spirit, as they exemplify what the Yankee Clipper Award stands for.

33rd NEW ENGLAND SQUARE AND ROUND DANCE CONVENTION

April 27, 1991, Springfield, Massachusetts

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