We are here tonight to celebrate the Square Riggers 45th Anniversary by presenting to its Founder, John and Judy Thompson, the Square Dance Foundation of New Englands Local Legend Award. John and Judy have a long history of giving many, many years of dedicated service to the dance community. The Local Legend Award was established by the Square Dance Foundation of New England, Inc. to honor those couples and individuals who have advanced the goals of the SDFNE by their actions, within their local areas. These goals are the Promotion, Preservation and Perpetuation of the square and round dance activity.
The Thompsons, by their spirit and dedication, have exemplified the meaning of leadership in the square and round dance community.
John was the Founder and Caller for the Square Riggers SDC, originally of Natick and now of Westwood, Massachusetts, and the Sixteen Footers SDC of Littleton, Massachusetts. Now that he is living in Maine, he calls for the Swingin Bears in Paris, Maine.
Both Judy and John held Leadership Conferences for the Square Dance Foundation of New England, Inc. for many years. The people who attended these benefitted from the knowledge the Thompsons gave them not only for themselves, but for the clubs to which they belonged. It was a Win-Win situation for everyone.
John has always answered the need to promote square dancing at all levels. He has been calling for decades and decades. He gave freely of his time and energy by calling at conventions, square dance demonstrations and local town anniversaries. John has been an active member in Caller Associations, as well as NECCA (New England Council of Callers Associations) Chairman.
As a caller, he has a passion and enthusiasm towards square dancing. His style and manner of calling beckons not only the experienced dancer, but also the newer dancers who have not yet enjoyed the fun and excitement of square dancing. Now that John has retired, dancers will surely miss his calling. Everyone wishes John and Judy a happy, healthy retirement.
The Square Dance Foundation of New England, Inc. is extremely fortunate to have this opportunity to honor John and Judy Thompson in presenting this Local Legend Award to them with heartfelt appreciation and gratitude.