SPARTANBURG, S.C. – You may be a tech-savvy senior adult, but you want to learn more about using your iPhone to stay better connected with your family and friends. Maybe you’ve always been interested in fly-fishing, but never had a chance to take it up. Or, the night skies intrigue you, and you want to learn more about astronomy. These topics and more are among the slate of fall courses for adult learners offered by Lifelong Learning at Wofford College.
The new eight-week fall 2019 Lifelong Learning term begins Sept. 16 and continues through Nov. 8 with weekly courses along with special programs, workshops and presentations. Enrollment as a member of Lifelong Learning at Wofford is open now, and the deadline for registration for the fall courses is Aug. 30.
“We have nearly two dozen weekly courses, ranging from a variety of writing courses, history, health and gentle movement classes to exploring different cultures, medicine and music,” says Morgan Jordan, director of Lifelong Learning at Wofford. “We’re so excited about the offerings for the fall session.”
A “no tests, no homework, just fun” philosophy is ingrained in every aspect of the program. Classes feature hands-on learning activities, audiovisual presentations and small class sizes to create interactive, fun learning, Jordan says.
Each class is taught by local or regional experts, providing the same high standard of instruction expected in a regular Wofford course. “It’s top-notch teaching in an atmosphere of variety and culture,” Jordan says.
Membership in Lifelong Learning at Wofford allows you to register for classes, receive newsletters and mailings from the program, and register for one-time presentations, workshops, seminars and field trips available exclusively to members. A yearly membership is $50 per person; the membership year runs from Sept. 1 through Aug. 31.
Members then select the course or courses they wish to take at $40 per course. Special events, workshops and trips may be free of charge to members or available at a minimal price, depending on the materials needed.
To join Lifelong Learning at Wofford and to register for classes, go to wofford.edu/lifelonglearning. For information, contact Tracey Southers, administrative assistant for the program, at 864-597-4415.
Lifelong Learning at Wofford fall 2019 term courses:
(Note: CUMC is Central United Methodist Church; unless otherwise noted, all other courses and programs are held on Wofford College’s campus.)
The Role of the U.S. Constitution in U.S. Politics
Dr. Olin B. Sansbury Jr.
Mondays, 10-11:30 a.m., Upper Room, CUMC
The U.S. Constitution is one of the oldest written governing documents in the world. It is viewed by most Americans as the bedrock of our democracy. However, we seldom agree on what its various provisions mean or how they might apply. In this course, participants will consider constitutional questions and discuss different interpretations. Short articles related to the chosen topics, such as impeachment, guns, religious freedom, terrorism, economic regulations, election laws, national security and social media, will be provided.
Operation Shoestring: Guadalcanal 1942
Ben Lineberry
Mondays, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Spartanburg American Legion Building, 94 W. Park Drive, Spartanburg
In 1942, the U.S. launched an offensive island action against the Imperial Japanese Army positioned throughout the outer ring of islands in the South Pacific. For months, the opposing forces fought several land-sea-air battles in and around Guadalcanal. In this course, participants will study and discuss those few months, dissecting battles and strategies using various movies, including “Guadalcanal Diary” and “Flying Leathernecks,” as well as strategic tabletop board games.
Home Brewing: Making Wine and Beer at Home
Randy Hurteau
Mondays, 10-11:30 a.m., Garrett Room, CUMC
Learn how to produce wine and beer at home using both step-by-step recipes and basic guidelines. Before the brewing begins, the class will discuss equipment needed to make fermented beverages and the laws associated with such activities. A list of home brewing suppliers and suggested supplies will be included. Hands-on demonstrations during two off-site visits are planned. Students must arrange their own transportation to and from the sites and are encouraged to carpool.
Yoga Basics for Strength and Flexibility
Catherine Querin
Mondays, 10-11 a.m., Fellowship Hall, CUMC
(Note: This is a one-hour class that begins on Sept. 30. Class will not be held Sept. 16 or Sept. 23.)
This six-week, one-hour yoga class will focus on improving balance, strength and flexibility. Find a few moments of calm on Monday mornings with this gentle class designed to help students feel more grounded and relaxed, regardless of age, flexibility or fitness level. All poses may be modified for comfort and safety, but participants should be comfortable getting on and off the floor with relative ease. Students will learn to honor their bodies and take what they learn on the mat out into the world. Students should bring their own yoga mats and personal necessities, such as a water bottle and towel. Wear comfortable clothing.
What if …? Contingency in History: Part II
Dr. Jim Farmer
Mondays, 1-2:30 p.m., Upper Room, CUMC
Though participation in the previous course is not necessary, this course will continue the discussions on things that might have come to pass and how. What if the Civil War had not occurred? What if Teddy Roosevelt had been elected in 1912? What if the Cuban Missile Crisis had been handled differently? What if…? This course will continue to explore the concept of contingency and the controversial idea of counter-factuals in American history. Class members should expect a series of interesting, fun discussions and should bring a spirit of creativity and critical thinking to class. Discussions will be based on historical reality and fun, free-ranging speculation.
A Matter of Balance
Julie Ward
Mondays, 2-3 p.m., Fellowship Hall, CUMC
This gentle movement course is designed to build muscles, strengthen bones, improve posture and balance and increase core strength through exercises that are possible and painless. Participants will discuss overall body health before participating in multiple movement exercises that may be done sitting or standing. Discussions will include topics such as diet, nutrition and the pursuit of lifelong well-being. Participants of all fitness levels are welcome. Movements will be individually tailored to each learner’s comfort. Loose, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are encouraged.
Turning Points in South Carolina
Dr. Phillip Stone
Mondays, 3-4:30 p.m., Library Conference Room, Sandor Teszler Library, Wofford College
Taught by a South Carolina historian, this course will explore eight events in South Carolina during which something significant happened to change the course of the state’s history. Topics may include the Stono Rebellion, the Battle of Fort Sullivan, the Nullification Crises, the Hamburg Riot and the Orangeburg Massacre. The class will discuss the background of each event, and explore what happened and the long-term impact of each event on the state (and nation). This class is taught in a mixed style of lecture and conversation.
Profiles in Appalachian Courage: Nation Building (1607-1820)
Dr. Maxine Appleby
Tuesdays, 10-11:30 a.m., Upper Room, CUMC
Look at the personal lives of the men and women who came to the new world to begin a life of adventure, settle a place that would give them a chance to make a life different from what they had known, find relief from oppressors, own land and be the masters of their own destiny. This course will be an examination of the cultural, ethnic, religious, social and economic characteristics of these settlers of the vast and wild Appalachian regions. Cultural patterns and belief systems passed down through generations also will be explored.
iPhone for Tech Savvy Seniors
Bill Vicary
Tuesdays, 10-11:30 a.m., Shepard Room, CUMC
Taught by a retired engineer and technology instructor, this hands-on class will teach participants how to effectively use their iPhones to be better connected with family and friends. This is an interactive class. Participants should bring their own iPhones. Topics include email, text messages, FaceTime, calendars, clocks, cameras, phone scams, emergency tools, apps, Wi-Fi, how to read and understand phone bills and more. This is an iPhones-only class.
A Mind-Body Experience: Meditation for Everyone
Dr. John Simmons
Tuesdays, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Room 126, Rosalind Sallenger Richardson Center for the Arts, Wofford College
This six-week course will be held from Sept. 17 to Oct. 29, with the exception of Oct. 8. Explore a habit shared throughout the world in countless spiritual traditions. Participants will be encouraged to slow down and cultivate a sense of calm in our fast-paced world. The class will learn the benefits of meditation as well as favorite techniques for relaxation and reflection.
Get to Know the West Main Artists Co-Op
Nancy Williamson with various artists and presenters, including Caren Stansell, Susan Eleazer,
Rosemary McLeod and Judy Martin
Tuesdays, 10-11:30 a.m., West Main Artists Co-Op, 578 W. Main St., Spartanburg
This location requires class members to occasionally climb a few steps. Led by multiple member artists, this course will begin with a tour of the 20,000-square-foot former church building that provides studio and exhibition space to more than 50 member artists and multiple guest artists. Participants will tour current exhibitions, then experience hands-on learning as a team of artists offer demonstrations of their specialties and lead workshops in each. Art projects will include work with clay, fused glass, jewelry metalwork, printmaking and mixed media. Students should bring an additional $51 to be paid directly to the organizer on the first day of class for materials, tools and kiln firing fees. All materials and tools will be provided. For the fused glass session, participants will be required to provide and wear safety glasses and closed-toe shoes. Wear comfortable clothes, bring an apron and be prepared to get dirty and exercise your imagination.
Sex, Money, Power and Sometimes Politics
Natasha Cimoszewicz
Tuesdays, 1-2:30 p.m., Upper Room, CUMC
This course will examine several financial, political and criminal cases that shocked the world with brazen disregard for the law and the resulting avalanche of devastating human consequences. From Bernie Madoff and the financial crisis of 2008 to Belgian criminal Marc Dutroux, who claimed ties to the highest political levels in the country, this class will focus on how criminals developed unnoticed and what changes their actions had on Western society. Students will explore a selection of seven unrelated cases during the first seven weeks and then vote for the case of their choosing for the last class. No prior knowledge of the cases is required.
Sacred Geometry: Constructing the Elegant Art and Design of Nature
Bill Barrick
Tuesdays, 1-2:30 p.m., Garrett Room, CUMC
Sacred geometry is all around us in art and nature, from Renaissance architecture and Egyptian pyramids to the spiraled nautilus shell or the cross section of an orange. Using only the classic geometer’s tools of a compass and a straight edge, this class will explore fascinating geometric constructions based on the golden section, nature’s elegant proportions and harmonious shapes to create traditional precision geometric art as well as original inventions. Explore creativity with colored pencils and water colors to develop a handmade, hardbound portfolio of geometric art. Bring the following materials to class each week: 12-inch straight-edge ruler, architect’s compass with adapter for pen or pencil, gel pens in several colors, pencils, white vinyl eraser and an 11-by-14-inch sketchbook. Occasionally, inexpensive water colors, colored markers and colored pencils will be needed.
Who is Who, What is What and Where is Where in 1st CE Palestine
James Ellis Griffeth
Wednesdays, 10-11:30 a.m., Upper Room, CUMC
This course will describe the context in which Jesus lived and in which Christianity emerged. Learners will study the geography, topography, history of invasions, languages, ethnic groups, political realities, religions, Greco-Roman lifestyles of the “rich and infamous” and the everyday realities of peasant life in first-century Palestine. The class also will explore the housing, fields, stables and burial customs of the century. A copy of the Oxford Bible Atlas, 4th edition, edited by Adrian Curtis will be needed for the course. The paperback version of this book may be purchased for about $20.
Exploring International Films
Dr. Omanii Abdullah
Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-noon, Shepard Room, CUMC
International cinema has taken the world by storm for decades, and cultures all over the world have adapted the media to tell powerful stories spanning time, cultures and continents. Students in this class will enjoy watching and discussing a variety of award-winning films and documentaries. For students already familiar with this genre and with Abdullah’s classes, new films and material will be included.
Fly-Fishing 101
Brandon Barber
Wednesdays, 9-10:30 a.m., Garrett Room, CUMC, and various other locations
Taught by an instructor with more than 30 years of fly-fishing experience, this course will give beginners an all-inclusive look at the sport of fly-fishing. Participants will discover fly-fishing origins and evolution along with techniques for fishing for multiple species. The class will receive hands-on casting instruction and fly-tying lessons as well as discuss rigging techniques and essential terminal tackle. Finally, the class will cover specific water types and techniques unique to each. For questions about equipment, call Barber at Riverblade Knife and Fly Shop, 864-699-9433.
Sharing Food in Literature
Dr. Susanne Kimball
Wednesdays, 1-2:30 p.m., Upper Room, CUMC
The ritual of sharing food is fascinating. Seemingly minor details can reveal a lot to the trained eye. Food can be a catalyst for the most profound, even disturbing, insights as James Joyce shows us in “The Dead.” What happens when food is withheld in Doris Lessing’s “The Old Chief Mshlanga”? When does food become pure magic? We find out in Laura Esquivel’s story “Like Water for Chocolate.” Other works as well as various passages from “The Odyssey” also will be discussed. Participants should be prepared to read weekly assignments.
The Films of Sidney Poitier I
Dr. Omanii Abdullah
Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m., Shepard Room, CUMC
This course will take a varied approach to the diverse films of Sidney Poitier, the first African-American to receive an Academy Award as a lead actor in the 1960s. Students in this class will see the growth of Poitier as an actor and discuss such topics as stereotyping, racism and cultural enrichment during the civil rights movement. Class members will watch a variety of films as a group and share in group discussions.
Retirement Readiness
Micah Valentine
Wednesdays, 1-2:30 p.m., Garrett Room, CUMC
The world of finances is perhaps even more difficult to navigate today than it was 40, 20 or even 10 years ago. Changing tax laws, social security concerns, investment strategies, emerging markets, estate plans and simple retirement plans all seem more complicated than ever before. This hands-on financial class will help members better understand and navigate this changing world. Participants will learn investment strategies and how to maximize income during retirement, as well as the difference between wills and trusts.
Food, Ethics and Philosophy
Lorena Mucke, Dr. Nancy Williams, Kerri Stewart and Lori Boyd; cooking demonstration by Terri Edwards
Thursdays, 10-11:30 a.m., Upper Room, CUMC
You may have heard of the term “clean meat,” but did you know that meat now can be grown in a Petri dish? With growing concerns about degradation to the environment, animal welfare and human health, more and more conversations are taking place about our philosophy behind food and how our choices can make a significant impact. Beyond simply looking at healthy eating or the amount of energy that goes into producing our food, this class will discuss the philosophy and ethics behind the way we eat as well as explore the relationship between food and gender identity. Carnivores, vegans and vegetarians alike are encouraged to participate in this class, which will be based on lecture, discussion and ideas brought forth by instructors and supporters of the Ethical Choices Program.
Even More Stories from Before, During and After the Civil War
James Crocker
Thursdays, 10-11:30 a.m., Shepard Room, CUMC
This course will explore and examine stories that take place before, during and after the U.S. Civil War. Stories will focus mainly on people and places and how both influenced and affected each other. Courses will be taught through lectures and presentations.
RSA: The Power of Arithmetic
Dr. Lee Hagglund
Thursdays, 10-11:30 a.m., Garrett Room, CUMC
One of the most powerful methods for keeping messages or data secret is called the RSA algorithm. Surprisingly, it depends only on simple arithmetic for its strength. Participants in this course will learn about how RSA works and the history of its importance. This course is for anyone who is able to do basic addition, subtraction, multiplication and long division. Calculations with large numbers and implementation of the RSA algorithm will be done by a computer.
Drawing in Reverse
Bailie of Bailie Studios
Thursdays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Room 128, Rosalind Sallenger Richardson Center for the Arts, Wofford College
Students will learn the technique of drawing in reverse – drawing high-contrast pictures from photographs using white charcoal pencils on black paper. Using a combination of varying pressure, blending stumps and eraser, students will expand their artistic boundaries by shading in highlights and fading in areas of darkness. Subject matter for projects may be found on the internet or brought from personal photograph collections. Students in this class will need to bring supplies to class each week. Supply list: Black paper (preferably 18-by-24-inch), “Generals” Charcoal White #558 pencil, a kneaded eraser, White Pearl eraser, Tombow Knock eraser stick and a variety pack of blending stumps. Supplies may be purchased for about $12 on dickblick.com. Examples of this type of drawing may be found on Bailie’s website, bailiestudios.com on the “Arts Education” page. For questions about the class or supplies, Bailie also may be reached at bailiestudios@gmail.com.
Sky Watchers: Backyard Astronomy
Dr. Greg Boeshaar
Thursdays, 1-2:30 p.m., Upper Room, CUMC
There is magic in a clear and starry night. This course is for all who have looked up at the sky and wondered at stars, planets and star clusters. Professional astronomers have access to the best ground and space telescopes, but with the right training, anyone can share in the wonders of the night sky with their naked eyes, binoculars, telescopes and cameras. Participants in this class will learn how to use telescopes, instruments and other resources to explore the night sky over Spartanburg.
U.S. Diplomatic and Military History: 1960- 2000
Bob Perrin
Thursdays, 1-2:30 p.m., Shepard Room, CUMC
Moving from U.S. involvement with Cuba to overseeing the endless Near East wars, this course will allow students to review the historical origins of today’s most pressing national and international conflicts. This class includes lecture and discussion. The class will discuss how these conflicts affect gas prices, congressional elections and many other current issues.
One-Time Events, Workshops and Presentations:
Lifelong Learning members are encouraged to attend and participate in the following lectures, workshops and presentations offered by Wofford College. Some events may require registration to ensure adequate seating.
Lifeline Learning Annual Kickoff Dinner
Aug. 26, 6-8 p.m., Harley Room, Richardson Physical Activities Building, Wofford College
Celebrate the fall semester. Dinner will be provided free of charge, but please register by Aug. 16 to ensure adequate seating and food. Free to members and their guests. Seating will be limited.
An Army of Women: Obstacles, Expectations, Sacrifices and Stories of Women in the Civil War
Dr. Tracy Revels, Department of History, Wofford College
Sept. 19 and Oct. 3, 11:40 a.m.-12:50 p.m., Gray-Jones Room, Burwell Building, Wofford College
Oct. 17, 11:40 a.m.-12:50 p.m., McMillan Theater, Campus Life Building, Wofford College
Lunch will be provided. This series of lunchtime talks will cover a number of topics concerning American women during the Civil War. Sessions will focus on the diversity of the female experience during the war, looking at how ordinary women survived this extraordinary time and how the war changed their lives. Free to members and their guests. Seating will be limited, so please register early.
“Art as Transformation,” LaToya Ruby Frazier
Oct. 3, 7 p.m., Leonard Auditorium, Main Building
Nationally known photographer LaToya Ruby Frazier, whose photographs and videos serve as catalysts for social justice in today’s world, will bring her personal story and the stories of others to Wofford for the Chapman Lecture in the Humanities. Free to members and guests. Registration is not required.
Roundtable Discussions
Wednesdays, 11:45 a.m.-12:50 p.m., Fellowship Hall, CUMC
Discussion leader Jim Badger invites various educators, leaders, innovators and speakers for roundtable discussions and lectures. Discussions typically include topics that range from politics and culture to history and our local community. Lunch will be available at each session, but members will need to purchase meal passes ahead of time. To purchase a meal pass for the term, register online or call 864-597-4415. The cost is $56 for eight meals. Individual weekly meal passes are not available at this time. Members are always welcome to attend and bring their own lunch at no cost. Free to Lifelong Learning members and their guests.
Autumn Color on Lake Jocassee
Jocassee Lake Tours
Nov. 1, 10-11 a.m., classroom portion; 11 a.m.-2 p.m., lake tour
Enjoy autumn’s splendor with a tour of Lake Jocassee. Nestled in a temperate rainforest on the front edge of the Southern Blue Ridge Escarpment, the Lake Jocassee area is one of the most biodiverse ecoregions in the country. Learn about the region, take photos, enjoy the lake and scenic waterfalls and bask in the changing seasons. Registration is required by Oct. 25. Members will need to provide their own transportation. Directions will be provided. Cost: $50, which includes the tour and a bagged lunch. Parking passes are an additional $5.