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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 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.

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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!

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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.  Although not required, a textbook (American Sign Language for Dummies with Online Videos, Adan R. Penilla II, Nov 2016) will be available for purchase at Shepherd's Center.

 

LIFESTYLE and DISEASE PREVENTION: Please join Cecilia Ghanbari, M.D. (bio) if you want to live longer and healthier lives, come and join us for an informative presentation on lifestyle and nutrition facts. Chronic diseases do not have to dominate our daily living. This can be prevented and even reversed, come and be inspired. You can even learn new recipes.

 

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FRIDAY CLASSES @ ASCENSION LUTHERAN

10:00 AM​

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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. 

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INVESTING MEETUP – Join John Yoepp (bio) and discover the confidence and clarity you need to take control of your financial future in our Investing Meetup Class, designed for individuals ready to build long-term wealth with knowledge and purpose. This course provides a practical, easy-to-understand introduction to essential investment concepts, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, diversification, and risk management. Through clear explanations and real-world examples, you’ll learn how financial markets work, how to evaluate investment opportunities, and how to construct a balanced portfolio that aligns with your goals and comfort level.

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Each session combines guided instruction with interactive activities to strengthen your decision-making skills and help you develop a personalized investment strategy. You’ll also explore topics such as compound growth, asset allocation, and the importance of staying disciplined during market changes. Whether you’re new to investing or looking to refresh your understanding, this class offers the tools and support to help you make informed, confident financial choices. Join us and start building a smarter financial future.

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FROM SLAVERY to CIVIL RIGHTS – THE AFRICAN AMERICAN EXPERIENCE: This term will explore the institution of slavery in North America, free black communities, the Civil War and its aftermath, the institution of Jim Crow, and the 20th century struggle for civil rights by blacks.  Included in this history course will be landmark U S Supreme Court decisions, attitudes towards blacks, and parallels between women’s liberation and the black civil rights movement. Lou Covotsos, (bio) a retired lawyer of 30 years, will guide us through this relevant subject.

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The Land of Israel – Biblical Perspectives

“What’s it all about?”

Surveying the Biblical Debate

– Pr. Rob Cosmas, B.S., J.D., Mdiv. (bio)

 

THE LAND of ISRAEL – BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES: The modern debate over Israel's historic claim to the land revolves around competing narratives of biblical covenant, indigenous rights, and historical continuity versus claims of indigenous Palestinian presence and modern displacement. This course is designed to take up the biblical covenant portion of that hotly contested debate.

 

When speaking of the covenantal land there are widely varying views within Christianity. We will frame and explore those biblical/theological positions in order to seek greater understanding.  

 

Anselm of Canterbury described doing theology as fides quaerens intellectum, faith seeking understanding.  This is a method describing theology as an active, rational, and loving investigation of truths already believed through faith. It means faith is not blind, but prompts a quest to understand God’s revelation deeper, blending heart and mind in a "belief in order to understand" approach. 

 

Pastor Rob Cosmas’ goal is to increase our understanding of one dimension of the ongoing controversy over the land. Currently, politicians and pundits need clarification of this internal debate within Christendom in order to better inform and educate. Then, other pieces of the controversy (ingenious rights, modern displacement, historical continuity) can be considered with a more complete understanding.

As always, “my goal is that of Anselm, ‘faith seeking understanding’. May God bless our journey together.”

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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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FRIDAY CLASSES @ ASCENSION LUTHERAN

11:00 AM

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GAMES: Connie Lalonde will be leading this session of games with Margaret Moore and Nancy Dennee helping when needed. There’ll be card games of every sort or board games 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!

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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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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.

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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.

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ADVANCED LINE DANCING:  Step into the rhythm with our Advanced Line Dancing Class, designed for experienced dancers ready to elevate their technique, precision, and performance quality. This high-energy course focuses on mastering complex choreography, including faster footwork patterns, syncopation, directional changes, and stylistic variations across multiple line dance genres—from modern country to pop routines. Each session emphasizes musicality, body control, and smooth transitions, helping you dance with greater confidence and flair. Vicki Little will provide detailed breakdowns, individual coaching, and professional tips to help refine posture, timing, and floor presence. This class offers an exciting and supportive environment to push your abilities. Join us and experience the artistry, athleticism, and joy of advanced line dancing!

 

 

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