FALL 2023

THURSDAY CLASSES 

EASTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

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9:00 AM

WHAT IN THE WORLD:  Robin Cramp (bio) has traveled extensively throughout the world and lived overseas giving him a deep insight on how the U.S. is viewed by our friends and foes.  His weekly sessions cover current events, and surveys the geographical limitations, political upheavals, and economic struggles of these areas.  Robin’s abounding professionalism and his enchanting British delivery causes this class to fill up rapidly.  

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MAGIC FOR EVERYONE:  Tom Sanders (bio) is again teaching this class for both beginners and experienced magicians. The class is aimed at anyone interested in entertaining grandchildren and family. The course will cover magic with cards, ropes, coins and other everyday items. Tom introduces new “tricks” each session, so returning students can learn something new also. Please bring a deck of “new” cards to the first class.

 

CRAFTY CORNER:   Join Bernadette, Margaret, and Nancy as they guide you in turning yarn, buttons, paint sample cards, scraps of material and more into Christmas angels, trees, and gnomes!   You might paint a rock, decoupage an ornament, or even design a pinecone.  Best of all, you’ll join a group of friendly Shepherd Center members who enjoy conversation and camaraderie while you keep your fingers and mind working.  

 

CANCELLED BASICS OF PERSONAL FINANCE:  This course is designed for those new to investing who would like to more deeply understand some concepts related to budgeting, investing, and planning. Rusty Stuart, (bio) financial advisor for Edward Jones, will explore areas many retirees utilize but would like to know more about.  His eight-week lesson plan is as follows: 

 

SEP 28            Rules of the Road

OCT 5            Ready or Not? Preparing for the Unexpected

OCT 12          Stocks: The Nuts and Bolts

OCT 19          Creating your estate plan

OCT 26          Focus on Fixed Income

NOV 2            Health care and your retirement

NOV 9            Outsmart the scammers 

NOV 16          Tax Free Investing

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THURSDAY CLASSES @ EASTMINSTER

10:00 AM

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THE SCIENCE OF MODERN PHYSICS:  This entertaining DVD course is taught by a researcher from Fermi Labs.  In the course, the lecturer will cover most all the topics of Modern Physics from Relativity to Quantum Physics to the Universe.  In all the lectures, he will concentrate on HOW we know that these theories are correct.  Of course, we will also discuss current topics in science as they come up. The course moderator is Tom Sanders (bio).

 

FLORIDA GARDENING:  This term we will look at the heritage plants that help Florida's ecosystems. Our island area is specific as to what will grow here. Salt, temperature, wind, and our time help us decide what is best in our yard or patio. Join me for the discussion and bring your questions.  Jane Mandeville, (bio) master gardener with the Florida department of agriculture for 26 years, loves to join the adventure of seeing plants thrive. Whether you are new to Florida plants or have always gardened, join us for a fun discussion of Florida's colorful flora. 

 

INTRODUCTION TO THE SPANISH LANGUAGE:  Señora Isabel Ochoa-Youssef (bio) will introduce us to easy Spanish phases and sayings in this session.  If you are new to this language, this is the session for you.  Basic terms such as days, time, counting, food, and travels are a few of the topics Isabel will cover.  This term, in our Spanish Made Simple book, we will start with Chapter 10.  To catch up, it is suggested that you read the short stories in chapters 1-10 in English, then in Spanish. Copies of Spanish Made Simple are available for purchase in class.

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MYSTERY AS LITERATURE:  This class looks at mystery writers and their works.  Join Leslie Johansen (bio) as we look at works from some of the world’s greatest mystery stories from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Edgar Allen Poe, and Agatha Christie.  If “whodunnits” are your cup of tea, come and curl up with a good book!

 

GENTLE YOGA:  Jim and Mary Ann Loafman (bio) have been a team for over 50 years and return with their very popular classes.  This session consists of gentle stretching and breathing exercises (no headstands) and finishing with 15 minutes of relaxation.  Goals are to become more flexible, relaxed, and centered.  Every part of your body will be used from your head to your toes.

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CHAIR YOGA:  Mary Ann and Jim Loafman (bio) are certified Yoga instructors since 1988.  This session is for those who do not feel comfortable or able to do floor exercises.  The exercises are gentle and enable students to relax and become more flexible.  Bring a big smile and enjoy a lovely time.

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THURSDAY CLASSES @ EASTMINSTER

11: 00 AM

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MINDFULNESS: POWER IN STILLNESS:  A survey of current scientific research on mindfulness and various practices being used to increase mental and physical well-being. We will look at several different techniques and focus methods.  We’ll discuss the background and history of modern mindfulness theory, introduce silent meditation, and consider how to extend the benefits of it into everyday life with the goal of creating a lifelong practice.  Come share an exploration of applied mindfulness with Amy Akbas.

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POSTURCIZE:  Learn a fun and simple exercise routine that will strengthen your muscles for good posture and improve joint movement.  Look and feel great, keep fit, and prevent pain!  This session is led by Janet Harazda,(bio) a Registered Nurse (FL 936802) and Licensed Massage Therapist (MA24421) specializing in Hoshino Therapy©, a manual technique and body of practical knowledge for the rejuvenation of overused or stressed tendons.  Wear loose comfortable clothing and bring an exercise mat.  

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CONVERSATIONAL SPANISH:  Señora Isabel Ochoa-Youssef (bio) will offer, using various modalities such as talking, reading, and writing, experiences that will help you master and speak basic and intermediate Latin-American Spanish.  Spanish has become the second language of many Americans especially here in Florida.  Some knowledge is almost mandatory in south Florida.  You have an opportunity to learn from a native of this language.  Isabel suggests purchasing Spanish Made Simple.  This term, the class will pick up at Chapter 29.  Some Spanish background is required as new enrollees are responsible for “catching up” to this point.

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EXOTIC DESTINATIONS AND A PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY TO THE END OF THE EARTH:  Pack up your Steamer Trunks and travel stickers from the National Parks and around the World! As Lee Rosenkranz, CTC (Certified Travel Counselor) and International Tour Guide for Florida Greeters/Dayaway Travel takes you back to the day of the Exotic Grand Tour   On our beautiful blue planet, there are more than 57 million square miles of land to explore. Prepare for the Adventures of a Lifetime as we Journey to at least 7 Exotic Destinations, that’s one for each Continent or Ocean. For more information request a syllabus from floridagreeters@yahoo.com

• Alaska

• Antarctica

• Galapagos Islands

• Bali

• An African Safari

• Iceland

• Thailand

• And Around the World

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BEGINNING UKULELE (Ukulele I):  Beginning Ukulele will start at the very beginning. Parts of the instrument, some history, how to hold a uke, tuning, strumming, some chords, and several simple songs. Teacher, Linda Paul, (bio) will cover techniques to improve as a player and resources. Students should bring pencils and paper; a ukulele and a music stand if they have them. Several handouts will be provided. A few loaner ukuleles and music stands will be available for in class use only, but students are expected to provide their own instrument after the first class. (They need to be able to practice at home.)  A ten-percent discount can be had for ukuleles purchased at Balsa Bill’s in Satellite Beach.

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BEACHSIDE BOOK CLUB:  Jan Case leads this group and invites new members to join all the veterans for a fascinating hour.  The group has selected the following contemporary books for the fall term:

FALL  2023:

SEP 28            The Music Shop by Rachel Joyce

OCT 5             Surviving Savannah by Pattie Callahan Henry

OCT 12          Dinners with Ruth (nonfiction) by Nina Totenberg 

OCT 19          The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett

OCT 26          West with Giraffes by Linda Rutledge Stephenson

NOV 2            The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell by Robert Dugoni

NOV 9             Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

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ASCENSION LUTHERAN CHURCH

1053 Pinetree Drive

Indian Harbour Beach, Florida

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FRIDAY CLASSES @ ASCENSION LUTHERAN

9:00 AM

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ZUMBA GOLD WITH RO - EXERCIZE IN DISGUIZE:  Join Rochelle Lawandales (bio) and find your happy place as you dance your way to fitness, having fun, staying healthy while not even realizing you are   exercising!  This class is designed for everyone, but primarily those new to Zumba, returning to or starting an exercise program – or just wanting to shake it!  Designed for “older” folks – this class will have you smiling and shaking.

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TRIVIA:  You asked, and we brought back this exciting game!  Teams will have a great time trying to remember songs from their youth (distant past), and try to answer trivia questions on travel, geography, history, current events, literature, etc.  Want to have great fun, laugh, be challenged, and rewarded, then come join the game.  Maryann Risi (bio) is the moderator for this delightful class.  

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BEGINNING BRIDGE - THIS IS A TWO (2) HOUR CLASS:   Marie Gerlach’s session is for those who have never played or need to relearn a lost skill.  PLEASE, this is a class for beginning players, not a place for the experienced to practice.  Marie will cover the basics:  bidding, responding, making a plan, conventions, and practice…practice…practice! 

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FRIDAY CLASSES @ ASCENSION LUTHERAN

10:00 AM

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Continued from 9:00

​BEGINNING BRIDGE - THIS IS A TWO (2) HOUR CLASS:   Marie Gerlach’s session is for those who have never played or need to relearn a lost skill.  PLEASE, this is a class for beginning players, not a place for the experienced to practice.  Marie will cover the basics:  bidding, responding, making a plan, conventions, and practice…practice…practice! 

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INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL ADVENTURES (AND MISADVENTURES):  Do you have a serious case of wanderlust? Whether you are an independent, group, or armchair adventurer, come and enjoy! A couple travel junkies (Bob Cox & Stan Helm) will share experiences on how to save money, stay safe and have the adventure of a lifetime! Each class will focus on a different country: Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, France, Japan, Italy, China, and Peru. The presenters are academic colleagues and bring different approaches to travel. Stan Helm is a retired accounting professor for several international universities and a CFO. Dr. Bob Cox is the retired director of Webster University’s Melbourne campus and an adjunct for Barry University.

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MAHJONGG FOR BEGINNERS and INTERMEDIATE PLAYERS - THIS IS A TWO (2) HOUR CLASS:  Mahjongg is a tile-based game that originated in China during the Qing Dynasty.  It is commonly played with four players, and is a game of skill, strategy, calculation and involves a degree of chance.  Sally Dunn and Judy Lukeman willhost this two-hour class. New players will be given specialized attention to learn the game while the more experienced players will play independently.

 

HAVING FUN COOKING WITH ROSI:  Be one of the twenty people who get accepted for this class.  Due to the small size of the kitchen, registration is limited.  Rosi Oberlander (bio) has traveled all over the world and has accumulated many delightful recipes and culinary tidbits along her journeys.  Rosi’s cooking talents are renowned locally and she is willing to cook for us and share her recipes.

 

SURVEY OF OUR PRESIDENTS of the UNITED STATES (POTUS):  This class is about the How’s, Who’s and What’s of our first 16 presidents.   From George Washington through Abraham Lincoln, you will learn many facts and secrets you may not have known such as, how much does the President earn, are presidential executive orders enforceable, what was the imperial presidency, and what can the President accomplish without Congressional approval?  About three presidents will be covered each week. Bill Ross will be the instructor, a former history teacher for 40 years.

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BEGINNING LINE DANCING:  Join Vicki Little as she, once again, leads us in the fun and exercise that is Line Dancing.  This is a class for both the beginner and the experienced since Vicki introduces something new each week.  One of the joys of Line Dancing is it requires no partner, so come join the fun of this low impact exercise

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THREE TIMES THREE:  Join Candy Drake (bio) as she relates to you her multiple near-death experiences (NDE) and how she embraced Gaia during these esoteric journeys.  What is Gaia? Quite simply, Gaia is life. She is all, the very soul of the earth. She is a goddess who, by all accounts, inhabits the planet, offering life and nourishment to all her children. In the ancient civilizations, she was revered as mother, nurturer, and giver of life. She goes by many names, but to better connect and understand this energy, let’s explore the myriad of forms in which she appears on Earth.

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FRIDAY CLASSES @ ASCENSION LUTHERAN

11:00 AM

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Hallelujah! Get Ready for Christmas (Bible Study)

HALLELUJAH: THE BIBLE AND HANDEL’S MESSIAH PART I:  Last Spring, we introduced you to Handel’s Messiah as it was related to the theme of Jesus’ resurrection. This time we examine the Messiah as it relates to Jesus’s birth. That’s right, we take up the Incarnational Cycle; Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany. 

Rev. Robert L. Cosmas, (bio) senior pastor, Ascension Lutheran Church, will be teaching and moderating this course. Important: No previous experience necessary!  You need not have taken my previous course. A curious mind and a love for Christmas is the only prerequisites. All are welcome!

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Join Pastor Rob as he takes you to the 18th century to explore the most renowned Oratorio in all of Christendom.  This time we will meet Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and the Ghosts of Christmas’ Past, Present and Future.  

“Say boy, what day is it?”  “Why it’s Christmas Day sir!”

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GAMES PEOPLE PLAY:  Nancy Dennee (bio) is back in a new role!  Now, she will conduct this three-ring circus of games.  Rummikub, Dominoes and cards are some of the games from our past times that can once again be enjoyed.  Do not delay since class size is limited and it fills up quickly.  Come join the fun - let’s do it again! 

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QUILLING:  Jeanie Grabka will be introducing us to a new art form - Quilling, which is the art of rolling narrow pieces of paper, forming shapes, and gluing them closed.  The shapes are then put together to make earrings, greeting card, pictures, or mobiles.  The class will make several projects; your imagination is all that is needed.  Bring a small pair of scissors and a 12" ruler.  Paper, quilling tool and glue will be provided. 

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CANCELED. LOCAL, STATE, AND NATIONAL CURRENT EVENTS:  As a former history and civics teacher, as well as a championship Florida high school football coach, Mike Vogt (bio) blitzes the classroom with his arsenal of knowledge about local, state, and national events that shapes the week.  He will begin the class discussing beachside current events and moving on to state and national news.  Occasionally Mike will detour off on that dreaded p-word (politics).  Class participation is highly encouraged!                          

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LINE DANCING – HIGH BEGINNER/IMPROVER:  This class is a follow-on to our beginner class.  High beginner adds different steps and Improver is just a little harder. If you are a beginner, you should be able to keep up with us.  Don’t let it scare you – Vicki Little wants you to know Everyone is Welcome!

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