Page 5 - Lake Front News January 2018

Dancing The Night Away
By JD Noll, Feature Writer
Doyt and Lois Echelberger don’t hesitate to describe their ballroom dancing experiences as “enriching and rewarding.” They encourage those interested to join the comradery of USA Dance Sandusky.
The mission of this chapter is to provide social dancing opportuni- ties, and the group occasionally demonstrates for local organizations. Their vision is to provide “self-expression through ballroom dancing, socially as well as competitively. The focus on ballroom dancing contributes to the mental and physical aspects of well-being... in short, it’s good for the body, heart, mind and spirit.”
Retired high school science teacher and chapter communications manager, Doyt Ech- elberger and his wife, Lois, a USPS retiree, have been dancing for 60 years and are still taking lessons. In 2013 they helped rebuild the Sandusky chapter along with President Duane Mills, Diane Springer and other dance enthusiasts. Today, about 40-50 people at- tend the monthly dances usually held in the Milan Township Hall. Dance parties include potluck snacks and beverages. A complimentary dance lesson, ballroom dancing, mixers, demos, line dancing and drawings complete each night. The next event is scheduled for January 20, 2018 at the Milan Town Hall Grand Ballroom.
Echelberger says, “Mixers provide an opportunity to dance with several partners.” He emphasized that when newcomers attend their dances, they are introduced to others, helping them feel comfortable. They often share literature and other dance opportunities. No partner, no worries. “Our chapter holds several mixers during every event where a half dozen singles, men and women, dance with new people. The agenda also includes a few line dances where partners are not necessary, and many of the regular couples dance with other people. Members reside in over 20 area communities, and most of them are not competitive dancers. There’s no need for long, flowing gowns or tuxedos, simply wear whatever makes you feel like dancing.
Board members, Mimi and Roger Krempa first joined the group after taking a complimentary class at the Sandusky YMCA six or seven years ago. “We were really impressed learning the fox trot,” Mimi says. The efferves- cent enthusiasm of both couples is evident when speaking of their experiences, and the fun they have with everyone.
Lois Echelberger dances with instructor Steven Velasquez of DanceSuave
It isn’t necessary to be a member, but it has its ad- vantages like lower costs to attend functions. “Members and guests meet and form associations with other dance enthusiasts and instructors, and get to help make dances happen,” Echelberger emphasizes.
The couples couldn’t say whether the popularity of the TV show “Dancing with the Stars” has created an uptick in interest, but would guess that the answer is “yes.” The Krempas stress that show personalities are performers as well as dancers and the choreography is outstanding.
“Dancing is an art. People come for the energy, enthu- siasm and the quality of the experience. You get bitten by the bug,” Lois remarked.
usaDANCEsandusky.org
usaDANCEsandusky@gmail.com Duane E. Mills, President Phone 419.929.1114
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Photo by Roger Krempa
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