SHEPHERD'S CENTER-BEACHSIDE
Adventures in Learning for Adults
ASCENSION LUTHERAN CHURCH
1053 Pinetree Drive
Indian Harbour Beach, Florida
FRIDAY CLASSES @ ASCENSION LUTHERAN
9:00 AM
ZUMBA GOLD with Melanie: Join Melanie Matz (bio) 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.
THE FIRST ZUMBA CLASS WILL NOT BEGIN UNTIL 10 OCTOBER!!!
TRIVIA: Think you know your music history? If you can name the legendary bandleader who died in a mysterious plane crash and recall the song his orchestra made famous about a Tennessee train, you’ve already scored two points for your team. If not, don’t worry—join our trivia class and you’ll leave with the answers (and maybe a few bragging rights). Fun facts, friendly competition, and a chance to stump your friends—are you in? Join Maryann Risi (bio) for this happy hour of fun!
iPHONE BASICS and BEYOND: So, you bought an iPhone but really don’t know how to use it effectively. Debbie Olinick will challenge you to learn the basic functions of your iPhone. It is a phone, a camera, a mailbox, a calendar, filing cabinet and a computer all in one neat package. This class is designed to address the topics you are struggling with daily. Debbie promises to keep it simple. You must have an Apple iPhone 11 or newer to use in class.
INTRODUCTION to AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE (ASL): This class will introduce students to frequently used signs in American Sign Language (ASL). Join Laurel Valentine as she guides you in how to sign the Manual Alphabet, numbers, and common phrases and vocabulary for basic conversations. Through engaging and interactive methods such as videos, games, puzzles, and activities, students will develop their vocabulary and signing skills in a fun and supportive environment. A textbook American Sign Language for Dummies with Online Videos, Adan R. Penilla II, Nov 2016 is recommended and will be available for purchase in class.
THE CIVIL WAR: CAUSES, CONFLICT, and CONSEQUENCES: This course offers a comprehensive exploration of one of the most transformative periods in American history. Students will examine the complex political, economic, and social factors that led to the outbreak of the Civil War, including the deepening sectional divide over slavery and states’ rights. The course will analyze key battles, strategies, and turning points of the war itself, while also highlighting the experiences of soldiers, civilians, and enslaved people. Major historical figures such as Abraham Lincoln, Jefferson Davis, Ulysses S. Grant, and Robert E. Lee will be studied in depth. Finally, the course will assess the aftermath of the war, focusing on Reconstruction, the reintegration of the Southern states, and the lasting impact on American society and governance. Through primary sources, discussion, and critical analysis. Historian, Bill Ross, will lead you through this journey of the grimmest chapter of our American history.
FRIDAY CLASSES @ ASCENSION LUTHERAN
10:00 AM
MAHJONGG FOR BEGINNERS and INTERMEDIATE PLAYERS (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 with the assistance of Beverly Sheffer 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.
THIS CLASS IS CLOSED FOR FURTHER REGISTRATION DUE TO ROOM SIZE
INVESTING MEETUP – Join John Yoepp (bio) for a lively, interactive deep dive into the markets and the economy. We’ll explore investing and trading strategies, practical tactics, and the theories behind them—plus presentations from fellow members and the occasional foray into the fascinating world of taxes. And yes… there’s a stock-picking contest. Are you ready to prove your market savvy?
NOT JUST A GHOST IN THE MACHINE - Christianity on Trial: We will continue our series of Christianity on Trial with an examination of the Person of the Holy Spirit.
Our lectures will examine Jesus’ farewell and promise of the Spirit’s coming. We will apply the same intellectual rigor to the Spirit’s arrival and role in ‘Defending the Faith’. Especially important will be our consideration of Holy Scripture and the role of the Holy Spirit in God’s revelation.
We continue our methodology of examining the biblical case for Christianity using rules of evidence. We will examine Jesus’ promise of the Paraclete, advocate, comforter and guide as well as the mystical arrival on the day of Pentecost. We will take on both the gifts and fruit of the Spirit and look at the 1st century practice of Glossolalia (Tongues).
“Ghost in the Machine” is a useful phrase for our subject. It is not only a 1980’s album by the rock band The Police. It has been used metaphorically in dozens of movies and television shows in the last fifty years. It once represented a psychological critique of the mind’s existence separately alongside the body. Today, it is useful to imagine the Holy Spirit’s indwelling as more than Casper the Friendly Ghost taking up residence in the believer.
Join Pr. Rob Cosmas, (bio) B.S. Criminology, J.D., Mdiv. as he prepares a defense for a skeptical world. One might call this “Apologetics 101”.
WHAT DO LAWYERS DO? (law for non-lawyers):
“First, let’s kill all the LAWyers.” Shakespeare, Henry VI, Part II.
“The United States is a nation of LAWS.” John Adams
“No one is above the LAW.” Sect 1, 14th Amendment, U.S. Constitution
What is “the LAW”? How is the LAW applied to our everyday lives? How do the courts—the judicial branch of government—interact with the legislative and executive branches of government?
While these topics might seem dry and way too abstract, they are about as current and relevant as anything in today’s headlines. Every attempt will be made to present the material understandably to the non-lawyer. The answers to the questions above are exactly what first-year law students are supposed to understand. In fact, the materials used in this course will be exactly those used in the law school curriculum.
This course was also taught to the non-lawyers--administrative staff--of a law firm for them to more fully understand and appreciate their roles in the administration of the legal system. Lou Covotsos, (bio) a retired lawyer of 30 years, will guide you through the vagaries of law and lawyering.
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.
🎄 CRAFTY CORNER: Back to Basics – A Christmas Celebration 🎄 This session, we’re embracing the holiday spirit by going back to basics and celebrating Christmas! We’ll be creating beautiful ornaments for your tree and decorations for your table—perfect for adding that handmade touch to your festive season.
Join Nancy Dennee (bio) and our super friendly group of ladies, always eager to share, support, and inspire one another. Whether you’re an experienced crafter or just starting out, you’ll enjoy keeping your hands nimble and your heart warm, just like an old-fashioned circle of friends.
✨ Make. Laugh. Learn. Create memories. ✨
THIS CLASS IS CLOSED FOR FURTHER REGISTRATION DUE TO ROOM SIZE
FRIDAY CLASSES @ ASCENSION LUTHERAN
11:00 AM
GAMES: Whether you started playing games as a child with your family or finally have the time and desire to try something new, come join us for games. There’s something for everyone: card games of every sort or board games such as Rumikub, Mexican Train, or Qwirkle. There’s a new game called Uzzle that will be sure to challenge everyone and perhaps there will be backgammon. Come join Nancy Dennee (bio) for loads of fun. Limited number of slots fill up quickly!
THIS CLASS IS CLOSED FOR FURTHER REGISTRATION DUE TO ROOM SIZE
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!
LET’S TALK ABOUT IT - Medical planning for Life's Final Stages: This class provides a thoughtful, compassionate exploration of what happens as we approach the final stage of life — addressing the physical, medical, and emotional transitions involved. Whether you're planning for your own end-of-life care or supporting a loved one through this deeply personal journey, this course equips you with essential knowledge and practical tools to navigate this difficult process with confidence and clarity.
Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the natural physiology of dying, offering insight into what to expect as the body gradually declines. The course also delves into the complex landscape of healthcare options, including palliative care, hospice, and life-sustaining treatments. You’ll learn how to decode medical terminology, interpret care plans, and make informed decisions that align with your values and preferences. With an emphasis on reducing uncertainty, this course empowers you to approach these difficult decisions with peace of mind and greater emotional support for both you and your loved ones. Come join Lynn Devlin (bio) as she guides you along this journey of understanding, compassion, and acceptance of our or our loved one’s passing.
THIS CLASS IS CLOSED FOR FURTHER REGISTRATION DUE TO ROOM SIZE
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!”
MAKING GREAT PICTURES - The fundamentals of remarkable photography: In this class you will learn all about the fundamentals of digital camera operation, composition design principals, best practices for photographing people, as well as tips and tricks for remarkable camera phone 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. We welcome Chuck Palmer (bio) as a new instructor for Shepherd’s Center. Come join his inaugural teaching debut.
THIS CLASS IS CLOSED FOR FURTHER REGISTRATION DUE TO ROOM SIZE