Could the secret to a sustainable courtship be dancing?It certainly doesn’t hurt, said Don and Jo Verhaeghe, who will celebrate 64 years of marriage in June.The couple was among the approximately 150 people in attendance at the Holy Rosary Valentine’s Dance on Saturday, enjoying the music of the Starlighters Big Band.“We like the big band sound,” said Jo, moments after departing the dance floor with her partner. “You can’t dance to the things they’re playing now. Let’s face it. The music isn’t the same.”So the opportunity to travel back in time and enjoy the sounds of a variety of instruments was welcomed by the several dozen who strutted their swing.Dean and Joan Reaka were part of a large group representing the Lincoln County Kickers, an organization that offers weekly dance opportunities to all ages. Dancing with friends has been a longtime passion for the Reakas.“We’ve been dancing for about 60 years,” said Joan. “We’ve made a lot of friends.”Dean points out that music changed in the 1960s, prompting the beginning of solo and freestyle dancing.“People used to dance a lot more, but now it’s died off because of the demise of big bands,” said Dean. “It changed in the ’60s when Fats Domino came out with ‘The Twist.’ Up until then, people danced together.”It’s fleet-footed folks like those at Holy Rosary on Saturday who have kept the classic style alive.As for the Verhaeghes, spending quality time together has been paramount in sustaining their relationship.“We enjoy each other’s company,” said Jo. “They say marriage is a 50/50 proposition. It’s not. Some days it’s 90/10, or 75/25. If you learn to give and take, it works out.”The couple grew up in North County and crossed paths while attending separate high schools.“When we met, I was a sophomore, and here we are, going on 64 years,” said Jo. “We have been dancing since we met.”The Verhaeghes have five children, who are dispersed all over the country, including Hawaii.“You have to be good friends,” said Don. “We still find things to laugh about.”

Don and Jo Verhaeghe credit dancing as one of the strengthening aspects of their marriage. On Saturday they enjoyed the big band sounds at the Holy Rosary Valentine’s Dance. The Verhaeghes will celebrate 64 years of marriage in June.

Record photos/Derrick Forsythe

Dean and Joan Reaka dance to the music of the Starlighter Big Band on Saturday during the Holy Rosary Valentine's Dance. The Reakas say music has long been a part of their relationship and were thrilled to listen to the rare big band performance. 

Record photo/Derrick Forsythe

Members of the Lincoln County Kickers dance during the Holy Rosary Valentine's Dance on Saturday. Around 150 people danced to and enjoyed the big band sounds of the Starlighters. 

Record photo/Derrick Forsythe

The Starlighters Big Band performed during the Holy Rosary Valentine’s Dance on Saturday. Around 150 people were in attendance to enjoy the music and show off their dance moves.

Record photo/Derrick Forsythe