Town of Hempstead Supervisor Rich Guardino invites town residents to "learn the form" this season. One of the ancient Chinese martial art forms of meditation and exercise called T'ai Chi Chuan will be taught by instructors from one of Long Island's respected schools at two town parks, Echo Park in West Hempstead and Levittown Hall in Hicksville.

Instructors will teach a basic style of T'ai Chi Chuan. This entry level "form" will enable adults of all physical conditions to easily learn a series of movements that will permit them to enjoy the benefits of this meditative exercise. Participants may experience heightened concentration, stress control, improved strength, and improved stamina. Seniors are especially encouraged to participate, as the exercises and movements performed in this program are simple and beneficial in developing flexibility and balance.

Registration is in-person and the fee is $42.50 for town residents, $21.25 for senior citizens, payable by check or money order made out to the Town of Hempstead. Proof of Town of Hempstead residency is required.

Town residents have a choice of taking either day or evening classes at Echo Park on Thursdays, Oct. 4 through Dec. 13 from 1 to 2 p.m. or 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. The registration date is Thursday, Sept. 20 from 1 to 2 p.m. for day sessions and from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. for evening classes. Persons in the Levittown area have an opportunity to sign up for classes offered at Levittown Hall on Saturday, Sept. 22 from 9 to 10 a.m. Classes there run from Sept. 29 through Dec. 8.

Echo Park Pool Complex is located on Nassau and Roosevelt Boulevards in West Hempstead. Echo's phone number is 483-7400. Levittown Hall is located on Levittown Parkway and Beech Lane in Hicksville. The phone number for Levittown Hall is 933-6400.

In addition to T'ai Chi Chuan lessons, the Hempstead Town Department of Parks and Recreation has prepared a superb lineup of varied fitness programs. Lessons in Aerobics, Aqua-Exercise, Karate, Men's Shape-Up Time, Slimnastics, Walking, and Yoga register soon. For more information call the Hempstead Town Department of Parks and Recreation at 292-9000, ext. 219. Parks and Recreation information "on demand" may be obtained by visiting the town's website at www.townofhempstead.org.