2026 SPECIAL SESSION I

ENROLLED

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2098

Commending Dance's Sporting Goods.

Agreed to by the House of Delegates, June 22, 2026

WHEREAS, Dance's Sporting Goods, an esteemed purveyor of hunting, fishing, and outdoor lifestyle equipment and products that is currently based in Colonial Heights, celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026; and

WHEREAS, Dance's Sporting Goods was founded in Petersburg in 1976 by brothers Forrest and Marlon Dance and their father W.F. Dance, who started without experience operating a sporting goods store, yet possessed the work ethic, family support, and drive to make their vision a success; and

WHEREAS, as Dance's Sporting Goods' reputation grew, the business steadily expanded to feature new product lines and developed engaging promotions and events, such as its truckload ammunition sales and gun auctions, to draw in more customers; and

WHEREAS, in the 1990s, Dance's Sporting Goods operated store locations in Emporia and Waverly, and then later relocated its Petersburg store to Colonial Heights, where it has proudly served the community for many years; and

WHEREAS, Dance's Sporting Goods' dedication to quality and service has earned the trust of countless customers across several generations, all of whom have come to rely on the store as the unrivaled destination for their hunting, fishing, and outdoor lifestyle needs; and

WHEREAS, the accomplishments of Dance's Sporting Goods are the result of the leadership of its owners and the steadfast efforts of its employees, who place their customers' satisfaction and well-being above all else; and

WHEREAS, moving into the 21st century, Dance's Sporting Goods continues to adapt and thrive, creating a unique and personal shopping experience that keeps patrons returning time and again; and

WHEREAS, with a deep and unwavering commitment to the customers it serves, Dance's Sporting Goods has made an extraordinary and lasting impact on the Central Virginia community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Dance's Sporting Goods hereby be commended for its legacy of service on the occasion of its 50th anniversary; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Forrest and Marlon Dance, founders of Dance's Sporting Goods, as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for the business's contributions to Central Virginia and the Commonwealth.