SIDNEY — The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office is hosting a free basic self-defense class for women on Thursday, June 28, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Sheriff’s Office, located at 555 Gearhart Road.

Deputies Dave Spicer and Kyle Gee will teach the course, which is open to all women ages 18 and older.

Participants will learn and practice situational awareness, defense from common holds, ground defense, and effective body strikes.

The course will involve physical activity and participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing.

A maximum of 20 women will be allowed to join the course. The entrance “fee” is a donation for New Choices. Donations can include things like tissues, air fresheners, flushable wipes, hand soap, hand lotion, hair brushes, combs, citronella candles, and bug/mosquito spray.

Those interested may contact Lt. Cori Steiner by calling 937-494-2109 or emailing [email protected].