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May 16, 2026

Queen Laura’s Coronation Day began with Hospitality chaired by Sally Bailey. Stan Medina expertly mixed the margaritas. Queen Penny from Palomar, Queen Stacey from Bakersfield, Queen Roberta from San Fernando Valley and Queen Mum Carla from Fresno joined the gathering at the Exeter Veterans Memorial Building.

This is Laura’s second coronation as she was crowned a year ago. Laura is honored to serve again: “I look forward to another wonderful year of representing our chapter with pride, elegance and dedication while continuing to share the spirit of dance culture and community with all who join us on the dance floor.”

To get the 6 p.m social hour off to a good start, Craig McNeilly carefully prepared the wine and champagne service. Tamara Galli poured wine into glassware. More than 90 people, including several from out of town, were in attendance.

The coronation ceremony began with a pair of Royal Guards stepping forth with their scepters aloft so all the Queens and their escorts could enter the room with an extra flourish. Barbara Uichanco came up with the idea of Royal Guards, purchased the necessary accoutrements -- royal bearskin caps, capes, scepters -- then sought out a pair of volunteers. Paul Storey and Lew Griswold agreed to perform the role. Yvette Haworth served as Master of Ceremonies.

State Queen Vera placed the crown upon Laura’s waiting tresses.

For the Queen's Dance, Shane Nielsen and Laura performed a flowing Night Club 2 Step.

For the Queen’s Honor Dance, Greg and Barbara performed a Viennese Waltz.

The Happy Cookers from Tulare prepared a dinner of perfectly cooked tri-tip, plus chicken, baked potatoes, sweet potatoes, asparagus, salad and rolls. Frosted cakes provided by Queen Laura was served as dessert.

For post-ceremony entertainment, Ruth and Roberto of Fresno performed a wonderful tango.

Greg Uichanco ably supervised the dance music. Dance hosts JD, Franco, Rei, Joaquin, Artemi and Nathan were busy for an evening of ballroom and social dancing. So many were beautifully attired the dance floor was a sight to behold.

-- Lew Griswold

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Coronation 2 Registration & Hotel Info 2026-2.jpg

VSD Dance Lessons
at The Grange

5 pm Sundays
No Experience Req'd
Newcomers Welcome

Beginner Dance Lessons

$5 ($3 members)

Every Sunday at 5 pm

Visalia Grange Hall

327 N. Shirk Rd. Visalia

Singles and couples welcome

3 17 24

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New Events

Dance Workshop

MERENGUE

5 pm
Sundays
April 12 19 26

The West Visalia Grange

CORONATION
CEREMONY & DANCE

MAY 16, 2026
EXETER

See Flyer

* NO LESSON APRIL 5 *

APRIL Merengue

12 19 26 No class April 5

MAY Rumba

No class May 10

JUNE Samba

7 14 28 No class June 21

What are the responsibilities of membership?

Members are expected to support the Chapter by participating in club meetings and monthly dances, assisting with the work and duties required to arrange the monthly dances and the annual queen coronation event, volunteer to serve on committees and in Chapter officer positions, and pay dues on time.

What is the cost of membership?

The annual membership cost is $40 per person per calendar year.

Membership Application

Click the button below to fill out the electronic application form.

All new members are required to attend at least one club meeting prior to their application being considered. All fees are due before the new member is sworn in. For additional questions or concerns, use the Contact Us form in the navigation menu or consult a club officer.

Application Form