|
Lining Up To Dance
Seniors Find Fun And Fitness At Local Dance Class
By Kim Fink
 | | --Photo By Kim Fink Seniors in Whiting have enjoyed fitness and fun thanks to a popular line dancing class. |
|
If Sal Dalessio had his way, all the world would be dancing.
"It's fun, a great workout and it keeps you young," stated the 76-year-old dance instructor while taking a break from his weekly line dancing class held at Deerfield Hall in Whiting.
The two-hour class, which draws a large crowd each week, is held every Thursday afternoon and is open to all Whiting area residents ages 55 and over.
"It's a long class for some but we do some low impact dances for the beginners between 1 and 2 p.m. and then the more advance students stick around until 3 p.m.," said Dalessio.
And that's when the party really starts.
"We have so much fun. Sometimes we're still dancing way past 3," laughed newcomer to the class Eleanor Dyjeczynski. "Sal is a great teacher. He makes it enjoyable for everyone and we laugh the whole time."
The class, which varies from week to week, offers instruction in a variety of different dance styles. Typical line dances are taught in conjunction with some new original routines.
Crestwood Village resident Rose Emo says she waits all week for Thursday afternoons.
"Thursday is my favorite day of the week. I haven't missed a class in four years and I don't plan on missing any in the future," said Emo. "Sal is patient and kind to all of us; he's a pleasure to be around."
Modest to all the praise, Dalessio waved off the compliments and stressed the importance of exercise to senior citizens.
"Sometimes the ladies are having a good time learning new dances and they might not even realize they are building strength in their leg muscles at the same time," Dalessio said.
A few students though are fully aware that the class is more than just a good time and enjoy the feeling of being active.
"It's a wonderful workout. I started last spring and I enjoy it very much. It makes me feel good," said Else Halle of Whiting.
Classes are held in Deerfield Hall at Crestwood Village VI every Thursday from 1 to 3 p.m. No registration is required and new comers are always welcome. For more information, call 732-350-1493.
| 
)