Weekly square dance lessons to begin Jan. 9

The Niles Friendly Squares, a local square dance group dedicated to keeping alive the uniquely American art form of square dancing, will begin a second session of weekly square dance lessons.

The introductory session will be Jan. 9 from 7-9 p.m. Each session builds upon the previous session and will include learning new steps along with plenty of review and practice each week to help attendees master the moves.

The sessions are designed to cover all the steps in the Basic Square Dance Program. Gene Hammond will be the instructor. The Tuesday evening sessions will run through April and there is a nominal fee of $6 per person per lesson.

The Friendly Squares also sponsors monthly dances with alternating dances, or tips, for new dancers to practice their skills as well as tips for more experienced dancers.

All the lessons and monthly dances take place at the Niles SCOPE Center, located at 14 E. State St. in Niles.

To sign up for lessons or for additional information, contact Gene or Frankie Hammond at 330-506-3370.

Square dancing is an activity that can be enjoyed by any age group as evidenced by the multi-generational families of grandparents, children and grandchildren within the Friendly Squares. Square dancing offers an excellent opportunity to exercise the mind and body while having fun and shaking off the winter blues.