Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter

Smoky River Family and Community Support Services is excited to announce its next family dance and is hoping people from around the region will come out to enjoy an evening with their loved ones.

“The family dances are an opportunity for members of the community to socialize and enjoy dancing and music for low cost,” says FCSS community program coordinator Anita Portsmouth.

“Music is provided by local volunteers. We have a few local musicians who are kind enough to donate their time and talents to providing music to dance to,” she adds.

January’s family dance will be held on Jan. 10 at McLennan Elks Hall beginning at 7 p.m. and organizers are hoping to have many people in attendance to make the event a great time.

“Our family dances this year are kept simple and will be just a family dance,” says Portsmouth, noting that at one time they had themes.

“People like attending as it gives them the chance to socialize and enjoy local music.”

The intent of FCSS is to host various events in the region at low cost to allow people to enjoy time with fellow residents that will not break the bank. The coordinators at FCSS work hard to ensure there are a variety of events for people to choose from and are diligent to ensure all age groups are included in their planning processes.

“It’s a great opportunity to visit and meet people from the area,” Portsmouth expresses.

“You can dance and be entertained by our local musicians. If you don’t know how to dance, it’s a great place to learn, there are usually people there who are more than willing to teach you how,” she adds.

Portsmouth says everyone and anyone is welcome to attend. If you’re unable to attend, don’t fret. The group plans on continuing to host dances in upcoming months.

“We try to host a dance once a month,” Portsmouth says.

“We didn’t hold one in December but are planning on having them monthly from January until April.”

The next dances are planned for Feb. 7, March 14, and April 11.

If you cannot attend in January, Portsmouth urges you to consider attending one of the next dances.

The dances are entry by donation, will all funds going towards FCSS programming. Snack foods will be served.