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2026 Fall Term Classes

Thursday Classes

What in the World
Robin Cramp

Robin Cramp 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.  Even if you do not take this course, see Robin and sign up for his monthly newsletter on current world affairs. 

All Things Financial
Erik Bryan

Gain clarity and confidence for your financial future. This class equips you to better understand the strategies behind your retirement plan and provides DIY investors with the tools to build a complete financial plan on their own. Learn the essentials of investments, retirement income, taxes, and risk management so you can make informed decisions with confidence. Led by Erik Bryan, who is passionate about teaching financial literacy and helping others pursue financial freedom.

Culinary Tourism Goes Around the World
Lee Rosenkranz

. . . in recipes, wines, and foods found globally and grown locally: Let’s combine two of Life’s great Passions, Dining and Exploring Places. Let’s view and discuss restaurants throughout Florida and the world virtually. Then we’ll discover what they’re serving, where the ingredients came from, why do they use them, are they healthy and what countries are known for what specialties. Join Lee Rosenkranz as he explores delicacies for the palate while expanding your mind and horizon. Where are the local opportunities for international cooking classes, cafes and restaurants? For viewing the syllabus or contacting Lee Rosenkranz, CTC (Certified Travel Counselor) by text @321-544-3758 or by e-mail at floridagreeters@yahoo.com.

Creative Play Through Art Exploration
Laura O' Connell

Please join Laura O'Connell as she returns to Shepherd’s Center. Each week she will explore different artistic media like watercolor, acrylic, patterns in nature, drawing and collage. If possible, please bring an old hard cover book that you can work in as paper, and scrap journal. It will go home severely changed. Also, basic art supplies like scissors, pencil, eraser, markers, glue and waterproof ink pen, whatever you may have on hand. Laura will have additional supplies available to work with.

Chair Yoga
Jim and Mary Ann Loafman

Join Jim and Mary Ann Loafman who 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.

The Bible 101
Rev. Dr. Rob White

Pastor Rob’s next lesson of The New Testament will be starting with the book of Acts and continues looking at each book of the Bible in-depth. Using some resources from The Bible Project, you will explore the major themes, historical understandings, and significance of each book. This class will be a continuing class for the next several semesters until we've explored every book of the Bible. The course instructor/moderator is our Eastminster host, Rev. Dr. Rob White.

The Science and History of Numbers and Mathmatics
Dr. Tom Sanders

In this class we will use a DVD from The Great Courses to explore the history and science behind our numbering systems and some of the math that result from them. Tom Sanders will again teach this science class. Whether you struggled through algebra or majored in mathematics you will find the approach in this course both understandable and stimulating. If you think math is just problems and formulas, prepare to be stimulated and entertained.

Fiction Writing After Fifty
James R. Nelson

Ready to elevate your fiction writing from promising to powerful? Join acclaimed author James R. Nelson for an immersive masterclass that distills the wisdom of his 16 published novels into a hands-on, story-shaping experience. Jim brings decades of insight, grit, and literary finesse to the table. Whether you're just starting your first novel or short story, or refining your tenth, this class offers a rare opportunity to learn directly from a writer who has mastered the art of suspense, character depth, and regional authenticity. In this dynamic, 8-week program, Jim guides you through the essential building blocks of compelling fiction: how to develop emotionally resonant characters, structure a plot that grips readers from page one, and updates you on the latest “rules of writing.” Drawing from his popular series—including the Stephen Moorehouse and Archie Archibald mysteries—he shares behind-the-scenes strategies for pacing, dialogue, and revision that have earned him a loyal readership and critical acclaim. Participants will engage in writing exercises, receive personalized feedback, and leave with a toolkit of techniques that can be applied immediately to their own work. If you're serious about fiction—and ready to learn the ins and outs of how to publish your works, this is the class that could change everything. Spots are limited, so reserve yours now and take the next bold step in your writing journey.

Law and Disorder: Planning for the Golden Years - Part 2
Cheryl Ward

Topics include: 


  • Who Decides If You Can’t – Medicare and Legal Planning “What happens between the ER and the courtroom?” 

  • The Family Home: Planning Today to Prevent Court Battles Tomorrow Out-of-state heirs and absentee ownership problems 

  • When Families Fight: How Guardianship Disputes Actually Start How the court determines incapacity and deals with family in-fighting 

  • When Plans Go Wrong in Blended Families Spousal rights v. child protection 

  • Serving in a Fiduciary Role: What No One Tells You before You Say Yes When to hire a professional and dealing with family pressure v. legal duty 

  • Cognitive Decline Without a Diagnosis Capacity v. competency 

  • After the Funeral: What Actually Happens in the First 30 Days Understanding those initial few weeks following the funeral 

  • “Now What?” The Real-Life Role of a Trustee or Personal Representative What these roles require and the real-life challenges that accompany serving in them 


Your instructor is Attorney Cheryl Ward, who serves on the Board of Directors for Helping Seniors of Brevard, and she is deeply committed to educating the senior community about the legal tools and resources available to them. Her mission is rooted in meaningful community engagement and outreach. In addition to her work with seniors, she has also served as the Mock Trial Team Coach for Satellite High School, reflecting her passion for educating both the youth and older adults.

Let's Get Fyzical : Understanding Balance, Mobility and Healthy Aging
Dr. Peter Renz

Please welcome our newest teacher/instructor, Dr. Peter Renz, along with selected clinical staff from his company, FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers-Brevard Beaches. FYZICAL combines traditional orthopedic rehabilitation with specialized programs in balance, fall prevention, vestibular disorders, concussion, neurological conditions, and healthy aging. This class will combine interactive lectures, slides and demonstrations, along with simple activities and movements that involve you directly. You’ll learn why movement is a skill, why balance involves much more than “two good legs,” how your brain and body work together to keep you moving safely, and what you can do to maintain strength, mobility, balance, and independence as you age. If you are experiencing balance, neurological, or orthopedic challenges—or simply want to better understand how your body moves—this class will provide practical information you can use in everyday life. You’ll leave with a better understanding of your body, ways to improve your movement and balance, and questions you can discuss with your physical therapist or primary care physician.

The Best of Charlie Rose
Dr. Joel Sturman

Charlie Rose conducts a dialog with remarkable men and women about their lives and the ideas that define us and those from science and technology that change us. We will witness the extensive, in-depth “Zoom” interviews by Rose, an American Journalist and talk show host, with contemporary writers, politicians, businesspersons, leaders and scientists. 


Guests include: 


  • David Ignatius – Foreign Affairs Columnist and associate editor of the Washington post 

  • Tim Cook – CEO of Apple since 2011 

  • Zbigniew Brzezinski – Former national security advisor to President Carter 

  • Tom Freedman – You will see an aspect of Freedman that will surprise you. 


Rose, a personality who frequently appeared on PBS, Bloomberg, and CBS has been off the air since 2017 due to allegations published in the Washington Post of sexual harassment. The issue is now settled with the plaintiffs acknowledging that there was no ill intent on the part of Charlie Rose for his conduct. He is now returning to us with outstanding interviews and content as challenging and stimulating as ever. The sessions will be facilitated by Dr. Joel Sturman.

Beachside Book Club
Joanne Birnberg

Joanne Birnberg 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. 


Books for the Fall Term - 2026 


  • 10/01  - Theo of Golden – Allen Levi* 

  • 10/08 - Measure - Nikki Erlick 

  • 10/15 - A Far-Flung Life - M.L. Stedman 

  • 10/22 - The Correspondent - Virginia Evans 

  • 10/29 - The Street Lawyer - John Grisham 

  • 11/05 - Meet Me in Italy - Brenda Novak 

  • 11/12 - The Ending Writes Itself - Evelyn Clarke 

  • 11/19 - Never Let Me Go - Kazuo Ishiguro 

[*For extra credit, what actors would you cast when the movie is made?]

Ukulele II
Karen Enderle

Karen Enderle will lead participants through a year-long ukulele adventure that will bring participants through three different classes from just starting out with a new ukulele to mastering finger independence and finger picking.  This term, Ukulele II will focus on learning finger independence by rotating through basic riffs and finger picking patterns. This class if for people who are comfortable playing the 21 basic chords and who want to learn to play riffs and finger pick. Everyone is welcome. All the lesson materials are provided, so students can progress at their own pace if they need to miss some lessons or fall behind. All students in each class should bring a smile, a ukulele, a tuner, a pencil, a 3-ring binder with paper and be willing to play and sing. All learning material will be given over the internet by accessing Karen’s G drive. You must have a valid Gmail address by the first day of class to access the G drive. (Gmail addresses are free from Google.com) Participants will print the class materials, put them in a 3-ring binder, and bring the binder to each class. Plan on practicing at least 30 minutes every day to master each lesson. Class prerequisites include a ukulele, a valid Gmail address and the ability to print lesson materials.

The Early Church - Acts of the Holy Spirit
Rev. Rob Cosmas

This term and the next two terms, Rev. Rob Cosmas will teach on the Early Church from the Ascension to the Council at Constantinople in 381. Each term will cover roughly 100 years of the early church beginning with the coming of the Holy Spirit (Pentecost). Specifically for the fall term, he will explore the Acts of the Apostles. The course will focus on the Book of Acts through the eyes of Early Church Fathers and Mothers. He will explore recognizable similarities with today’s challenges. Pastor Rob will examine early polemics, martyrdoms, heresies, and the varying belief systems of early Christianity. Our backdrop: “What is going on in the lives of early Christians?

Avoiding Financial Fraud
Lisa Roberts

Please join Lisa Roberts, attorney with the Miami Regional Office of the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which includes protecting investors. As part of her job, she will present safeguards regarding saving and investing and how to avoid becoming the victim of investment fraud. Unfortunately, seniors are a big target of fraud. Lisa will make her presentation interactive and share cases where seniors have been victims. This class is a onetime only event on November 5.

Friday Classes

Zumba Gold with Melanie

Melanie Matz

Join Melanie Matz for a fun & easy to follow group dance class for all ages looking for a modified Zumba class with the moves you love at a lower intensity. We will dance to music from all over the world focusing on cardio and muscle conditioning, incorporating flexibility, balance, range of motion, coordination, and of course, FUN! Wear comfortable clothes and sneakers (not running shoes) and bring water.

Trivia

Maryann Risi

Do you enjoy “Jeopardy”? Do you remember “Name That Tune”? Are your favorite memories from the ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s? Do you like to laugh out loud? Then you are a perfect fit for our Trivia class. Come join us on Friday mornings and find out how much you remember of the good old days. Join Maryann Risi for this happy hour of fun!

Beginning Bridge

Marie Gerlach

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, planning, conventions, and practice…practice…practice!

Time to Sign

Laurel Valentine

This class is for those who are looking to practice and improve their "handiness" in American Sign Language (ASL). The student should already be familiar with the manual alphabet and numbers. Join Laurel Valentine as we develop our fundamental ASL skills through games, activities, and basic conversations in a fun and friendly setting.

Mahjongg for Beginners and Intermediate Players

Sally Dunn

(This is a two-hour class from 10:00 to 12:00): 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 will host this two-hour class. New players will be given specialized attention to learn the game while the more experienced players will play independently.

Beginning Line Dancing

Vicki Little

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.

Crafty Corner

Nancy Dennee & Bernadette Matousek

For this session of crafts bear this is mind: while crafts may appear to simply provide members with a creative outlet and enjoyment, scientists assert that crafting is unique in that it can exercise many areas of the brain, including memory, attention span, visual-spatial processing, and problem-solving. Join Nancy Dennee and Bernadette Matousek for crafts relating to Halloween, Christmas, and more, keeping your fingers flexible and helping your brain at the same time. This group of ladies always enjoys having new members and will surely make you welcome. Plan to join us in October.

Clash of the Cultures: White and Native Americans

Dr. Lou Covotsos

This term will explore the time of the first encounters between white settlers and Native Americans, whites sought to deal with the “Indian Problem” through annihilation (genocide?), and/or removal, and/or assimilation. What is revealed is the clash of cultures, a perspective on United States history through the Native American experience. Dr. Lou Covotsos, a retired lawyer of 30 years, historian, and watercolorist, will guide us through this relevant subject.

Investing with Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Dr. John Yoepp

Join Dr. John Yoepp for an educational and entertaining interactive discussion about the most important technology of the current moment and how it can help with our investments. Learn about Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT (hey, what does the GPT stand for?). Get answers to questions like what is a chatbot, a prompt, a token, an agent, a skill, a hallucination? What can LLMs create and how are they useful for investing? Which LLM applications are available and what are the pricing tiers? What are the dangers of the technology and how are the bad guys (hackers, scammers, foreign governments) using it? There will be real-time demos based on student requests and discussions. Will be fun for all!

Cultivating Inner Sanctuary

Dr. Dawn Tepperman

An 8-week Journey in Self-Compassion and Stress Management: Join Dr. Dawn Tepperman as she presents this specifically designed class for older adults. This gentle, eight-session program places self-care and self-compassion at the very heart of healing. Blending evidence-based stress reduction with somatic mindfulness, participants will explore practical tools to soothe the nervous system, release lifelong habits of self-criticism, and foster a deep, restorative sense of inner peace.

Posturcize

Jan Harazda

Jan Harazda, retired RN, LMT MA24421/ Hoshino Therapist® This series of movements reinforces and improves all the basic movements that make our bodies fully functional, bio-mechanically speaking. It’s so convenient that while we are working on function, we can inadvertently improve our form—in other words, our posture! You Can: Improve your posture Stay pain-free and injury-free Reduce stress Look good, feel great, keep fit! http://www.hoshinotherapyofmelbourne.com/

Making Great Pictures

Chuck Palmer

The fundamentals of remarkable photography: Professional photographer Chuck Palmer is back with us once again to teach you about the fundamentals of digital camera operation, composition design principals, best practices for photographing people, as well as tips and tricks for remarkable phone camera photography. Course instruction will include class presentations and supported photo walks. Who should attend: All experience levels are welcome. Whether you are new to photography and want to get more familiar with your digital camera, or you want to be able to capture remarkable photos with your phone camera, this class is designed for you.

Games

Monique Mclamb & Carol Johnson

Teaming up to lead this session of games. There’ll be card games of every sort or boardgames such as Rumikub, Mexican Train, or Qwirkle. Want to learn cribbage or Uzzle? Or perhaps you have a game you want to teach, this is the place for you. Limited number of slots fill up quickly!

German Baking

Siggi McGlothlin

Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of German baking with this hands-on class designed for both beginners and enthusiasts. Learn the secrets behind classic German bakery treats. Guided by native German, Siggi McGlothlin, you’ll master essential techniques like working with yeast doughs, layering pastries, and achieving perfect crusts and fillings. Along the way, you’ll discover the cultural history and regional variations that make German baking so distinctive—from Bavaria’s hearty breads to Swabia’s delicate tortes. Participants will enjoy plenty of tasting opportunities and take home their freshly baked creations along with detailed recipes to recreate them in their own kitchens. By the end of the class, you’ll not only have a box full of authentic German pastries but also a deeper appreciation for the precision, warmth, and craftsmanship that define this beloved European baking tradition.

Let's Talk About It - Living Well, Leaving Well

Lynn Devlin

A compassionate, practical conversation about the final stages of life. We’ll explore the natural changes that happen as life comes to an end, what patients and families may experience with several disease trajectories and how to navigate the healthcare system. We’ll talk about palliative care, hospice and other choices that can help provide comfort and support. We’ll also focus on the conversations that matter most: sharing our wishes, talking about what matters to us, and helping our loved ones understand the kind of care we want. The goal is not to have all the answers, but to feel more prepared, informed, and comfortable talking about an important part of life, the final chapters. Come join Lynn Devlin as she guides you along this journey of understanding, compassion, and acceptance of the final stages of a loved one.

Local, State, and National Current Events

Mike Vogt

As a former history and civics teacher, as well as a championship Florida high school football coach, Mike Vogt 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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