Weekly basic self-defense classes will be available beginning Monday at the Southwest Center in Texarkana, Texas.
The class is free, and anyone age 12 or older may participate. Each session will be a stand-alone, hour-long introduction to self-defense basics; there will be no need to return for multiple classes.
Instructor Donald Pruitt said he will emphasize situational awareness and physical readiness. Pruitt has a second-degree black belt in Shotokan karate, he said.
The classes will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Mondays as long as there is demand, said Eddie Aulds, recreation specialist with the Texas-side Parks and Recreation Department. Participants must arrive 15 to 30 minutes early to complete some paperwork.
The Southwest Center is at 3222 W. Seventh St. For more information, call the Parks and Recreation Department at 903-798-3978.