Boot Scooters invite you to join the fun

by John English Hoopla Correspondent

The Boot Scooters of Azle have a musical repertoire that some would describe as eclectic.

The dance group performs to everything from old school country to modern hip-hop, and while they are primarily comprised of senior citizens, the group is really open to anyone interested in dancing.

Member Laurie Dawson, who has been a part of the group for nearly seven years, said it started back in the mid oughts with five members who danced at the local senior center.

Pretty soon, it began to expand exponentially.

“The numbers kept growing and there wasn’t enough space,” Dawson said. “So they would go out and dance in the hallways and garages, or churches or just anywhere that they could find space to dance.”

The Boot Scooters now dance from 9 -11 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 404 Main Place in Azle, and currently have 43 members, a few of which are well into their 80s.

“Three of the original members are still with the group,” Dawson said..

The Boot Scooters of Azle is open to people of all ages and the music selection for their routines is diverse and expansive.

“We do line dancing,” Dawson said. “And we do all kinds. We do everything from George Straight to Pitbull. It’s a wide range of music.”

Dawson, 63, said she initially joined the group because she had recently retired and wanted to find something to do with her spare time.

“Someone suggested line dancing and I had never thought about that,” Dawson said. “I think it is the social aspect—making friends and getting to know people, and then just getting out there and exercising was what appealed the most to me. And you don’t even realize that you are exercising because it’s so much fun.”

The Azle woman added that she never imagined that her new hobby would have so many health benefits, both physically and mentally, when she was thinking about joining the group.

“I love it because, again, it’s great exercise and you don’t even feel like you’re exercising,” Dawson said. “It works your legs and it also helps your brain, because you have to remember the steps. Another thing is the socialization with other members and the friendships we have made through the group. Anybody is welcome to join us.”

The Boot Scooters perform at senior centers and assisted living facilities, and also volunteer for the Azle Chamber of Commerce and its annual Christmas on Main Street.

“We volunteer, and we will go and dance for whoever wants us to dance for them,” Dawson said.

And the response is overwhelmingly positive.

“People love it,” Dawson said, “especially when we go to the venues and just dance for an hour or so. They really enjoy it.”

Case in point, following a performance at Legacy Oaks of Azle, residents at the home were inspired to start their own club and learn some of their own moves.

To join the Boot Scooters, visit the group on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.

The first visit is free, and if a visitor decides to join, there is a $10 monthly fee to cover the cost of the venue at which the group dances.

Dawson said she has had a couple of especially good experiences in her time with the Boot Scooters that not only demonstrate an appreciation for the group, but also reflect the many benefits.

“I like it when we dance at Azle Manor,” Dawson said. “There was one resident there who loved dancing. She would get up in the middle of the floor and start dancing with us. That was always fun.

“Then I was also told that there was a doctor who used to refer his patients over to us for exercise. They would come to us for their health, because it works the brain and helps with balance. Dancing is really good for you.”

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