Cotillion expansion plans include Lampasas County

The National League of Junior Cotillions, a program of etiquette, character education and social dance training for middle and junior high school students, has announced plans to establish its national program in Lampasas County.

"We will be selecting a director for a local chapter who will receive complete training and an exclusive territory for expansion," said Anne Colvin Winters, NLJC national director.

The organization has directors operating hundreds of chapters in 34 states including active chapters across Texas.

Said Winters, "This program is making a positive impact on students across the nation and we are delighted to know that more young people in this area will have the opportunity for this vital training."

Purpose of the NLJC program is to give students instruction and practice in the courtesies that make life more pleasant for them and those around them. Students actively learn courtesies through a creative method employing roleplaying, skits and games. Standard ballroom and line dancing is taught using nationally approved top 40 music.

In addition to the usual courtesies connected with dancing and etiquette, character instruction is also provided regarding honor, respect, ethics, sportsmanship, acknowledgments of gifts, behavior at cultural and civic events, correspondence, interaction in groups, introductions, paying and receiving compliments, receiving lines, table manners, instructional dinners, electronic etiquette, cell phone courtesy and many other areas of social conduct.

The program, with headquarters in Charlotte, N.C., was established in 1979 and has licensed local cotillions nationwide.

The cotillion includes monthly classes plus a Holly Ball and Spring Ball, and instructional three-, five-, and seven-course dinners.

"The program has met with equal success in metropolitan areas including Atlanta, Orlando, Minneapolis and Houston, and in small communities across the country," said Winters. "It will be an important addition to the training of young people in this area."

Applications or nominations for cotillion director are being accepted. For more information, phone (800) 633-7947, visit the website at www.nljc.com, or send an e-mail to cotillions@nljc.com.