Dayton, Ohio

1995 Honor Dancer Adele Nellis

In addition to her regular participation, she has distinguished herself within the group by her many artistic contributions. She has, for example, designed the syllabus covers for over twenty?five international folk dance weekend workshops, often illustrating (with researched accuracy) the cultural dress of the country being featured. Adele also designed nametags and ethnic table decorations for many of these events. The quality of her work has helped to make the MVFD workshops unique among the many folk dance activities in the tri-state area. In addition to her artistic contributions, Adele has often shared her dancing expertise with the group, teaching many dances (particularly Greek dances) that have remained popular over the years.

Adele's interest in recreational dancing has extended beyond the Miami Valley Folk Dancers. She and her late husband John were members of the Dayton Folk Dance Club many years ago. Adele was an instructor and former President of this club, and did all of their art work. Both she and John were also members of the Miami Valley Round Dancers and the Date'n'8's. Adele remains active in both of these groups.

Through many signs, posters, murals and general decorations, Adele's artwork has enhanced the dancing environment for all recreational dancers at the Michael Solomon Pavilion. Since 1988 she has been involved with the Pavilion Christmas decorations. For the Square Dance Club's annual Festival of Trees, Adele created the International Christmas Tree. The highlight of the 1989 Christmas decorations were the wall murals painted by Adele, which we again enjoyed this year.

Adele's contributions to the Miami Valley Dance Council's Square Dance Convention in 1991 were significant ones. She designed the invitations, badges, posters and the theme insignia for all the dancers attending this event. Adele also decorated the entire ballroom for the teaching of rounds. All of these efforts will be repeated for the Dance Council's1995 convention.

Adele's other contributions of time and effort include planning the entertainment for the Christmas dinner for the Date'n'8's for 1992 and 1993, and being in charge of the kitchen in 1991 and 1992 for the Round Dancers. She has also been very willing to participate in demonstrations that bring recreational dancing to the attention of the Dayton community.

In summary, the Miami Valley Folk Dancers feel that Adele Nellis deserves to be recognized for her 40 years of active participation, service and artistic contributions to the dance groups of the Miami Valley.

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