EASY COUNTED CROSS STITCH FOR BEGINNERS     New Course!     Here you will learn basic stitches and how to select projects based on counts, which relate to the size of the stitches.  The instructor will provide kits for a small project, including thread, material and needle.  These can illustrate flowers, animals, landscapes and inspirational images sayings – let her know your preference.  Material fee to be provided.  Class size will be limited.

EASY COUNTED CROSS STITCH FOR INTERMEDIATES     New Course!     In this course we will do a larger project for which you will learn more intricate stitches, and how to blend colors by using strands of differently colored thread.  Students will select and purchase their own kits based on their count choice.  Class size will be limited.

EDIBLE FLOWERS     New Course!     Do you know that many flowers are edible?  Flowers that are edible have unique tastes.  Some have a peppery taste, some have sweet taste, and some taste just like they smell.  In this course you will learn what flowers are edible, what their different flavors are, how to grow flowers so they are edible, where you can purchase them, and their different uses in preparing foods.  Some flowers work well in salads, some are great garnishes, some can add flavor and pop to a dish, and some have differing uses in cooked dishes.  Handouts and recipes will be provided, and we’ll have demonstrations and tastings.

ESSENTIAL OILS AND HEALING HERBS     Uplifting, purifying, energizing, calming -- the use of essential oils and herbs you can grow in your own garden or on the windowsill for medicine, emotional clearing, flavoring, and fragrance dates back thousands of years.  Experience the best nature has to offer when you use essential oils or homegrown herbs for skin care, first aid, stress relief, and so much more.  You’ll also come to know the twelve significant oils of scripture, from spikenard (John12:3) to "the rose of Sharon" (Song of Solomon 2:1).  The refreshing scents of myrtle and cedarwood, the pungent aroma of galbanum, and the rich fragrances of frankincense and myrrh are yours to experience, learn about, savor and enjoy. 

ESTATE PLANNING   Get all your questions about estate planning issues answered in just one class.  This course will cover the basic planning principles, with an emphasis on reducing or avoiding estate, gift and generation-skipping taxes; the non-tax aspects of planning, including wills, trusts, and the probate process; the need to coordinate insurance and retirement assets; ways to avoid probate; methods of property transfer at death; durable powers of attorney and health care declarations, and more.  In accordance with the Canon of Ethics of the Alabama Law Association, no representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers. 

FOOTBALL 101     New Course!     Whether you are a football widow or someone who is somewhat knowledgeable about the game, this course will enhance your game-viewing.  We’ll cover rules, positions, plays, penalties and strategies, and come away with a firm grasp on what all those X’s and O’s mean in the TV commentary.  Let’s get your game on!

THE FOUNDATIONS OF DRAWING   This course for new and returning students is based on Betty Edwards' Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain.  Students will develop the five basic perceptual skills of realistic drawing: (1) the perception of edges, (2) the perception of spaces, (3) the perception of relationships, (4) the perception of lights and shadows, and (5) the perception of the whole, or gestalt.  Returning students will pick up where they left off at the end of their last course.  Everyone will be given individual attention.  The required textbook is The New Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain Workbook: Guided Practice in the Five Basic Skills of Drawing by Betty Edwards.  The instructor will provide a list of art supplies.  Class size will be limited. 

FRENCH EASY     Speak French now, beginning with the very first class.  This course emphasizes interactive speaking with some reading and writing, accommodating all levels, from beginners to advanced.  As a continuation from last term, we will concentrate on conversational French for travel with highlights of French culture and history.  Anyone can join any session and with this method, start speaking right away.  The last class of each session will be a French party.   Small fee for the course materials.  Students should bring a French-English dictionary and notebook, or purchase these from the instructor.

GULF COAST GOURMET, REDUX     Offered in Silverhill.     Gulf Coast Gourmet, Redux (“Made New”) is a trip through a Gulf Coast cookbook that will teach you the basics of Gulf Coast seafood cookery, with an emphasis on knowledge, technique and fun.  In this hands-on course, a variety of dishes fundamental to Gulf Coast seafood will be prepared (and eaten!)  The cookbook to be used was compiled by the instructor’s late mother in the early 1960s.  The book has been in print for many years but has the simple fault of assuming you know about Gulf Coast seafood and really know how to cook, besides.  Facts about choosing, handling and cooking Gulf Coast seafood will also be covered.  For a preview of the course, take a look at the hilarious and informative blog on gulfcoastgourmetredux.com.  Supply fee $60.  Class size will be limited.

THE HOLOCAUST:  PEOPLE AND ISSUES     This course presents an overview of the Holocaust.  There will be a discussion of the destruction of Jewry in European countries, the targeting of non-Jews, and such issues as the role of Christianity and the church, Holocaust denial, and Holocaust education. 

ITALIAN FOR TRAVELERS….OR NOT!     New Course!     Whether you are planning a trip to Italy or you just want to learn a new language, you are going to enjoy this course.  Grammar and translation will be kept to a minimum while we focus on more fun conversation.  No textbook is required but an Italian-English dictionary would be helpful.  Class size will be limited.

A JEWISH WALK THROUGH THE BIBLE     Offered in Spanish Fort.   We continue our studies of the Jewish Bible and examine excerpts from Amos, Ezekiel, Isaiah, Ecclesiastes, Esther, Ruth and more.  This course is open to people of all backgrounds, no prior knowledge required.  Please bring your own copy of the Bible to all classes. 

THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF IGOR STRAVINSKY      New Course!     Igor Stravinsky was born into an upper middle class Russian family in 1882 and ultimately became one of the most influential composers of the 20^th century.  In 1908, he moved to Paris to work with the Diaghilev’s newly formed Ballet Russe, composing the music for the ballets, Firebird (1909), Petrushka (1911) and the electrifying Rite of Spring (1913), which created a riot at its premier!  Students will investigate many of his compositions, be surprised to learn of his vast number of acquaintances, and be fascinated by his compositional techniques. 

THE MAGIC OF WATERCOLORS     New Course!     In this introductory course students will gain confidence in the basics of watercolor using a limited palette.  The course concentrates on types of washes, paint, paper, and brushes and all of their uses.  Participants will learn the techniques of dry brushing, masking, lifting, washes, glazes, bubbles and more!  You will have sufficient knowledge to create and complete paintings on your own, and get to take home a palette with paints, paper and four brushes for a supply fee of $50.  Class size will be limited.

PAINTING IN ACRYLICS     Learn the ease and enjoyment of painting in acrylics.  Discover the many methods and techniques of this highly versatile medium.  Bring your ideas, photos or drawings, but above all simply bring your desire to paint – on canvas, paper, or whatever!  The instructor will coach you personally, yet allow you to express yourself in painting landscapes, still life, abstract, human or animal subjects, or whatever interests you.  You will be provided a supply list.  Wear old clothes or a painting smock to protect against spillage.  Class size will be limited. 

PHOTOSHOP ELEMENTS® TECHNIQUES I    Students will be provided step-by-step instruction in how to use the powerful software tool, Adobe ®Photoshop Elements®, to organize, store and edit digital images.  The course text is Adobe®  Photoshop Elements® Classroom in a Book.  No pre-requisite – beginners are welcome.  Class size will be limited. 

PHOTOSHOP ELEMENTS® TECHNIQUES II    New Course!   This course continues where Photoshop Elements ® Techniques I left off last term.  We will cover in more depth making selections, advanced editing, processing Camera RAW files, using layers and other techniques.  The pre-requisite is Photoshop Elements ® Techniques I or equivalent experience.  Class size will be limited.

PINE NEEDLE BASKETRY     New Course!     Students will create a pine needle basket from the local longleaf pine needles.  The supplies provided will include pine needles, a needle, waxed linen thread and walnut slice centers for a $15 materials fee.  A list of internet sites for purchasing ongoing supplies will be provided.  The instructor will demonstrate the simple stitch, the V stitch and additional decorative techniques.   Class size will be limited.

RAISING READERS:  Strategies for Helping Children Become Lifelong Readers     New Course!     Participants will be exposed to age-appropriate, quality children's literature and reading strategies that will help children become lifelong, successful readers.  Through discussions and activities participants will receive information on research-based reading strategies as well as share their experiences that can be used to help children become fluent readers, encouraging an appreciation for literature and creative writing.  Some of the topics that will be covered are: Five Important Areas of Reading Instruction, Helping Your Child Choose the Right Book for His/Her Reading Level, and Reading Comprehension Strategies.  The course is based on children's literature and will feature discussions and interactive, hands-on activities.   See our related course, Tell Me a Story!

SHORINJI KEMPO - SELF DEFENSE MARTIAL ART     Shorinji Kempo is a Japanese martial art for lifelong learning of self defense.  It is non-aggressive and is not used in competition.  This style is especially geared toward smaller-framed people because it doesn’t require a lot of strength.  We simply use very effective pressure points, joint locks and body mechanics to elude an attacker in order to protect ourselves and family.  The course will include meditation, philosophy, stretching, cardio (kicks/punches/blocks), and escape techniques.  Safety is first; you will be asked only to participate according to your own physical abilities, and no one will pressure you beyond your limits.  It’s fun, easy and healthy, and offers the possibility of saving your life. 

“A SPOONFUL OF THIS AND A SPRINKLE OF THAT”–- COOKING WITH SPICES AND HERBS     This course will start with an overview of spices and herbs. Spices and herbs for salads, soups, appetizers, entrees, desserts and drinks will be discussed. The course will also cover blending and storing of spices and herbs, as well as what spices and herbs are good parings with chicken, fish & seafood, vegetables, and meats. There will be examples, discussions, and recipes for spices and herbs used in international cuisines.  Handouts and recipes will be provided.

A TASTE OF GERMAN     New Course!     Here is a very original and fun way to begin to learn German.  We’ll give you a “taste” by teaching you the traditions and vocabulary around the topics of food and meals.  And then, we will cook a typical German dish, so you can get a real taste.  Everyone who is curious is welcome!  There will be a supply fee for food and copied material.  Class size will be limited.

TELL ME A STORY!     New Course!     This one-day workshop is always lots of fun!  Come learn how to tell stories to children.  Your Instructor will demonstrate storytelling, reciting poetry and singing songs for children, and teach you easy techniques to learn stories.  You will have access to many resource books and materials, practice a bit yourself and leave with a handout full of useful information to set you on your storytelling journey (small copying fee).  See our related course, Raising Readers:  Strategies for Helping Children Become Lifelong Readers.    

TEMARI – JAPANESE EMBROIDERED THREAD BALLS     Historically, temari were Japanese kick toys constructed from the remnants of old kimonos that were bundled into a ball and then stitched with fabric strips.  Later, as functional stitching became more decorative and detailed with intricate embroidery, it transitioned into an art of the Japanese upper class, with noblewomen competing to create increasingly complex patterned objects.  Today, temari are highly valued and cherished gifts, symbolizing deep friendship and loyalty.  The brilliant colors and threads used are symbolic of wishing the recipient a long and happy life.  You will learn how to prepare the temari for sewing while learning the Spindle, Rose Garden, Interlocking Diamonds, and Chrysanthemum patterns.  Each temari is uniquely yours for display in bowls or use as an ornament.  Past participants are encouraged to return to learn a different ball division and additional patterns in accordance with their skill level.  Supplies for four temari balls cost $30, or past participants may bring their own supplies.  Bring scissors.  Class size will be limited. 

TRAVEL SECRETS     Learn what the travel experts know, and save money, time and aggravation.  We’ll tell you how to track down travel bargains here and abroad.  Whether you like to go by the seat of your pants, camp out in hostels or develop a nailed down plan of attack for your vacation, we will have tips to address all that.  We welcome your own additions to travel secrets.  

TWINED RAG RUGS      New Course!      Learn to make placemats or rugs from recycled cloth or new fabrics using twining, an ancient textile technique.  Twining with fabric strips became popular in the 1850s with pioneers, farmers and ranchers as it creates durable yet attractive items for the home.  Looms are simple and the materials can be found anywhere.  One or two samplers will be made during this beginners course using the simplest patterns.  Sampler-sized looms will be provided for use in class, or students can make their own.  Students will need to gather their own fabrics, and bring sharp-pointed sewing scissors.  A supply list will be sent to students upon registration.  Class size will be limited. 

UKULELE FOR BEGINNERS     Learn basic ukulele skills, such as tuning, simple chords, strumming and playing songs.  Students will achieve skills to play several chords and different strums, all while playing many popular songs.  No musical knowledge is required, just a willingness to have fun.  Students must bring a ukulele.  The instructor can provide information about purchasing one.  Class size will be limited.

UKULELE – INTERMEDIATE     New Course!     Learn to play melody on the ukulele using the finger-picking method. Student will learn the finger playing techniques along with the notes on the fret board.  Several songs will be taught.  Also, basic music theory will be discussed. Student should have ukulele skills to play chords, strum and play songs.  Class size will be limited.

VISITS WITH SIX LOCAL ARTISTS IN THEIR STUDIOS     Back by popular demand and featuring a whole new group of artists, each week we will visit two artists in their studios, after which we’ll enjoy a Dutch lunch at a local restaurant and discuss what we’ve seen and heard that day.  Class size will be limited. 

WILDFLOWERS OF BALDWIN COUNTY    “What flower is that? Does it have a story to tell?  Can I grow it?” These are just a few of the questions we will answer.  The course will include the basics of plant identification, sessions on historic and medicinal plants, and great native plants for home landscapes.  We will tour the hardwood bottomland and the pitcher plant bog at Weeks Bay Reserve, and visit Historic Blakeley State Park to explore the spectacular natural habitats along the riverfront.  Field trips will be non-rigorous, mostly on boardwalks.  Students are encouraged to bring native plant specimens or photos to class for identification and discussion.  The required text is East Gulf Coastal Plain Wildflowers by Gil Nelson (available at Amazon.com at $21).  Class size will be limited.  

WRITING YOUR STORY / YOUR FAMILY’S STORY     New Course!     To write your story or to write your family’s story requires two skills:  how to write and how to remember.  Writing your story requires learning creative writing techniques that we will explore in this class.  Exercises will be designed to make you more creative in your writing by applying non-fiction techniques.  We will explore what some of the best non-fiction writers do to make their stories more interesting.  To write our memories, we must learn how to look back and collect the best, and the worst, of our lives.  We will learn how senses affect memory and how to collect on our memories using senses.  Plus, we will learn how to make the stories we write more readable.

YOGA FOR FITNESS AND STRESS MANAGEMENT    Join us to learn yoga poses that will increase your flexibility and balance, and breathing techniques that will improve your health and calm the mind.  Reduce stress and tension with these relaxation exercises.  This course is scheduled several times in this term, at the same level of comfort.  Sign up for two or more sessions for the best results.  Bring a yoga mat and towel.