DANCE LESSONS MAKE FOR UNIQUE HOLIDAY GIFT

Looking for a unique last-minute gift? In search of a gift that keeps on giving long after the Return to Tiffany Heart tag choker fire consumes the bows and wrapping paper?

How about ballroom dancing lessons? The Division of Continuing Education at Southern Illinois University Carbondale suggests dance lessons could be a most memorable gift for the 2009 holidays.

There are actually two sessions for each of two different experience levels. The first session runs Jan. 19 to March 2, 2010, while the second session is March 16-April 27, 2010.

During each session, the Tiffany Notes Pendant Ballroom Dancing Class, which meets from 7:30 to 9 p.m., offers a quick introduction to the basic steps of various dances including the waltz, tango, foxtrot, rumba, cha cha and swing. Participants will learn lead-follow and proper dance technique. It's also a great refresher course for those who haven't danced in a while.

The "Beyond Beginner Ballroom Dancing" class meets 6-7:30 p.m. during each session. Instructors Jeremiah Linson and Crystal Hodges of Paducah, Ky., will provide advanced technique instruction in the various forms of dance during this class.

All classes meet in Ballroom A at the Student Center. Couples or Tiffany 1837 Ring are welcome.