If you’re looking for enlightenment, entertainment and an opportunity to stretch your
brain this fall season, turn to Sandhills Community College for a menu of offerings
to get off the couch and learn something new.
“We have some new courses such as exploring memoir writing and learning about the
art and verse in Ekphrastic poetry to get the creative juices flowing,” said Danaka
Bunch, Director of Personal Enrichment and the Lifelong Institute at Sandhills Community
College. “We encourage anyone, no matter your age, to take advantage of the programs
we’re offering to community members. Our classes are a result of surveys and local
connections to ensure there’s something for everyone.”
Courses this fall with availability and start dates include:
Memoir Writing: Exploring 9/3
Get ready for this new and exciting class, “Memoir Writing: Exploring Your Story.”
Future writers will learn basic techniques, structure and tips of memoir writing.
During the course of the class, you will examine the characteristics of a memoir including
looking at examples of various memoir forms such literary, historical, travel, transformative
or spiritual. Memoirs can be creative non-fiction, narrative, poetry, letters, or
interviews such as StoryCorps. Participants will consider the reasons for writing
a memoir and will be encouraged to (not required) to write a piece of a memoir and
share their progress with the class. Held on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., cost
is $80.
Ekphrastic Poetry: Art/Verse 10/15
Get ready for this new and exciting class, “Ekphrastic Poetry: Where Art Meets Verse.”
Ekphrasis is a word derived from Greek meaning “description.” Ekphrastic poetry is
inspired by visual art such as paintings, sculptures and photographs. In this enriching
class, students will explore the intersection of poetry and art from ancient to classical
to contemporary works including examples like Keats’ Ode to a Grecian Urn. Each student
will experience both the visual and musical ekphrasis and will be encouraged (not
required) to create their own poem inspired by a work of art. Held on Wednesdays from
10 a.m. to 12 pm. The course fee is $150.
Beginning Card Making Techniques 9/23
Ready to enhance your card making techniques? In “Beginning Card Making Techniques,”
students will get hands-on instruction. You will learn step by step instructions for
crafting beautiful, themed handmade cards. Students will use card kits, stamps coordinating
dies, paper and ink. Learn how to bring your creative and artistic ideas to life.
This beginner class is perfect for anyone wanting to create unique heartfelt greeting
cards for every occasion. Held on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Course fee is $85.
Held on Mondays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Course fee is $85.
Sculpting Ceramic Face Masks 9/5
In “Sculpting Ceramic Face Masks,” future sculpturers will discover the fundamentals
of sculpting the human face by creating your own expressive mask. Starting with a
simple lump of clay and a few tools, artists will learn the essential techniques in
proportion, form and facial detailing as you hand build your own mask from clay slabs.
You will be guided by an experiment instructor in this creative, hands-on workshop
that is perfect for all skill levels. Your finished art will be kiln-fired and ready
to hang to show off. Supplies are included so just bring yourself and your imagination
and get ready to sculpt! Held only on Friday, September 5 from 1 to 5 p.m. Cost is
$75.
Anatomy Head Sculpting 10/3
In this hands-on workshop “Anatomy Head Sculpting,” you will be taught by sculptor
Luke Hulling. He will walk you through the basics of figure sculpting while discussing
the foundational skills of anatomy. You will be able to make your own half life-sized
head out of clay. While you are free to sculpt whomever you like, an emphasis will
be placed on using yourself as a reference. Mirrors will be provided to use. At the
end of this workshop, your piece will be collected and fired in the kiln. Note: The final product will be available for pick up 1-2 weeks after the workshop. Held on Friday October 3 from 1 to 4 p.m. Workshop fee is $75.
Make Your Own Mug 11/7
Get ready to “Make Your Own Mug.” In this hands-on workshop learn the basics of hand
building pottery by creating your own mug. Participants will shape, assemble and personalize
your own mug that will be functional. You will also get to decorate it with special
clay paints before glazing and kiln-firing your finished mug to make it food-safe.
You don’t need to be an expert to join – just bring your creativity! Supplies are
included. Please note that your mug will be ready for pick up 1-2 weeks after the workshop. Held one day only on Friday November 7 from 1 to 4 p.m. Course fee is $75.
Sterling Silver Rings 12/5
Want to make your own ring? In this “Sterling Silver Rings” workshop, you will explore
the fundamentals of metalsmithing and complete your own sterling silver ring band
in this 3-hour workshop. Students will gain a basic understanding of how to solder
with an oxy acetylene torch and use a variety of metal forming tools such as hammers
and mandrels. As a class, you will work step by step to measure your ring size and
then fabricate the rings out of sheet metal. No previous experience is needed. Please note that this class is currently on the wait list! If interested, you will
be put on a wait list and you will be contacted when a seat opens up. Held on one day only on Friday December 5 from 1 to 4 p.m. Course fee is $75.
Film:
Loner Laughter: Chuckles 9/16
Ready for some laughter? “Loner Laughter: Chuckles and Chortles” is a lighthearted
4-week film series celebrating cinema’s most delightfully awkward, hilariously offbeat
and endearing oddball characters. From the misunderstood to the magnificent misfit,
students will explore how these loners win our hearts with laughter through unexpected
adventures, clever wit, and a whole lot of charm. Each week will feature a screening
with discussion afterwards. You sure will get plenty of chuckles out of this course
as you dive into what makes these characters quirky and unforgettable. Held on Tuesdays
from 2 to 4 p.m. Course fee is $35.
History's Hollywood Heroines: Daring Women, Defining Moments 10/21
Want to learn more about some of Hollywood’s Heroines? During the four-week course
of “History’s Hollywood Heroines: Daring Women, Defining Moments,” you will explore
the powerful portrayals of real-life women whose courage, conviction and bold choices
shaped the course of history. Each session will feature a film screening and a guided
discussion as you examine how cinema shaped our understanding of these remarkable
women and their historical impact. Held on Tuesdays from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Course fee
is $35.
Career & Personal Focus:
Bartending Basics: Mixology and Responsibilities 9/6
Want to learn how to bartend for a future career or for your own pleasure? In “Bartending
Basics: Mixology and Responsibilities” future bartenders will learn the basics of
bartending for a profession, private events or just for their own private use. This
hands-on instruction will be provided in crafting popular mixed cocktails in a fun
environment. Participants will learn drink recipes that they can use, learn the different
utensils and glassware, fruit cutting, bar procedures and the ABC laws according to
North Carolina. Certification is provided upon passing. Held on Saturdays from 9 a.m.
to 3 p.m. Course fee is $75.
ServSafe Food Safety & Sanitation 9/8
Ready to enhance your food safety knowledge? In this 14-hour “ServSafe Food Safety
and Sanitation” course, students will learn safe food handling and storage, temperature
control, Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP), personal hygiene and safety
regulations, sanitary facilities and pest management. A current ServSafe Manager textbook
and exam answer sheet is required. This course is recommended for all food service
facilities, including supervisory staff and culinary professionals. At the end of
the course, students will be able to receive a certification upon passing. For your safety, please bring an apron and wear long sleeves, long pants or skirts
and non-slip, closed-toe shoes. Held on Mondays from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Course fee is $75.
Finance options:
Financial Decision Making/Retiree 9/9 and 9/30
“Financial Decision Making for Retirees” is designed to provide retirees with the
necessary knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions during their retirement
years. This course will aim to empower retirees to manage their finances effectively,
maximize their retirement savings and achieve financial security. During the class,
attendees will have the chance to hear from guest speakers that include an attorney
and an accountant. Held on Tuesdays from 3 to 5 p.m. Course fee is $40.
Retrain Your Brain: How to Age-Proof your Most Valuable Asset 9/25
It's natural to seek quick fixes when facing one of our greatest collective health
concerns: the loss of cognitive function. But with this course, “Retrain Your Brain:
How to Age-Proof your Most Valuable Asset,” you will explore why your brain may not
be the same age as your body, how cognitive health can impact your lifestyle and finances
and practical strategies to keep your mind sharp and resilient as you age. Please note: this class is currently on a wait-list, and you will be contacted once
a seat becomes available. Held one day only on Thursday September 25 from 3 to 5 p.m.
This course is free, but you will still need to register.
Annuities: Myths/Misconceptions 10/9
Not sure where to start when it comes to annuity investing? “Annuities: Myths and
Misconceptions” will answer that question by covering fixed, indexed, variable and
immediate annuities as well as covering the buying investing strategies. Workbooks
and helpful literature will be provided. Held on Thursdays from 3 to 5 p.m. Course
fee is $35.
Lecture:
Bridges of Faith: An Interfaith Dialogue 10/26
Want to learn more about the interfaith of the Jewish, Christian and Muslim communities?
During this lecture of “Bridges of Faith: An Interfaith Dialogue,” you will get the
opportunity to come together in a spirit of mutual respect and understanding. You
will hear from panelists representing the Jewish, Christian and Muslim faith in a
lively format moderated by noted author and speaker, Jason Howk. Through conversation,
shared values and personal stories, learn to build bridges across all faiths while
celebrating the rich diversity within our local community. Everyone is welcome to
attend regardless of background to come listen, connect and learn. There will be encouragement
of audience participation. Let’s come together for this special event to foster an
understanding, respect and companionship of faith. Held one day only on Sunday October
26 from 2 to 5 p.m. This is a free event, but registration is still required.
Culinary options:
Street Food Secrets 9/8
Fall is here and let the festivals begin! Ready to take a trip through the streets
of Mexico City? That’s exactly what you will be doing in “Street Food Secrets- De
mi barrio to your plate.” During this one-time class, learn how to perfectly grill,
char and prepare freshly grilled corn on the cob – calulejero style! Held just on
Monday September 8 from 5 to 7 p.m. Course fee is $75. Please bring an apron and wear long sleeves and long pants or skirts and non-slip,
closed toe shoes for your safety.
Puff Pastry Treats: Sweet & Savory Delights 9/29
Ready to make some flaky, buttery and oh so satisfying treats? During “Puff Pastry
Treats: Sweet and Savory Delights,” come unlock the secrets of puff pastry from scratch!
During this hands-on class, you will learn the art of making your own puff pastry
dough. You will also learn the essential laminating technique that creates those irresistible
layers you see in puff pastry treats. You will then create two of your own puff pastry
treats; sweet and savory. These treats are perfect for impressing your guests or indulging
in them yourself. After this class, you will leave feeling confident and inspired
to bake like a puff pastry chef pro! Held one day only on Monday September 29 from
5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Course fee is $75. Please bring an apron and wear long sleeves and long pants or skirts and non-slip,
closed toe shoes for your safety.
Fall Ferments - a chef's Secret Weapon 10/6
Bacteria?... Yum...? In this “Fall Ferments-a chef’s Secret Weapon” you will dive
into the world of fermentation. Come take your dishes to the next level by understanding
the processes, safety and versatility of fermentation. Even with a little preparation
and time, you will be able to turn almost any ingredient into a tangy, crunchy and
probiotic packed pickle. Held one day only on Monday October 6 from 5 to 7 p.m. Course
cost is $75. Please bring an apron and wear long sleeves and long pants or skirts and non-slip,
closed toe shoes for your safety.
Ghastly Good Cookie Decorating 10/27
Get into the Halloween spirit with this “Ghastly Good Cookie Decorating” class. Learn
how to transform a half-dozen sugar cookies into spooky-cute masterpieces using royal
icing techniques like flooding, outlining and more. All are welcome to join to have
a spooktacular good time. You will leave here not only with delicious creations, but
you will be able to impress others with your cookie decorating skills. Held only on
Monday October 27 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Cost is $75. Please bring an apron and wear long sleeves and long pants or skirts and non-slip,
closed toe shoes for your safety.
Salsas and Dips - Party Favors and Daring Flavors 11/10
Ready to get game day ready? In this “Salsas and Dips-Party Favors and Daring Flavors,”
you will tackle your way into this class because you not only want to have the best
homemade salsa, but you will also have fresh queso and the crispiest chips backing
you up. You will not loose with these party favors! Come learn the proper techniques
on how to perfectly roast salsa ingredients, turn butter and flour into a game winning
queso dip and expertly fry up potato chips in a pinch. You sure will impress everyone
at your next party. Held only on Monday November 10 from 5 to 7 p.m. Course fee is
$75. Please bring an apron and wear long sleeves and long pants or skirts and non-slip,
closed toe shoes for your safety.
Holiday Cookie Trays: Classics to Crave 12/1
Ready for the holidays? Get ready to bake some yummy treats during “Holiday Cookie
Trays: Classics to Crave.” This class will bring the warmth of the holidays to your
kitchen. Come learn to make a delicious and delightful variety of traditional holiday
cookies that would make any grandma proud. You will whip up buttery walnut horns,
colorful thumbprints, spiced ginger molasses cookies and decadent chocolate-peppermint
crinkle cookies. Your finished cookies will be perfect for gift-giving, cookie swaps
or stealing the spotlight at the dessert table. Let's get ready to bake! Held on
Monday December 1 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Course fee is $75. Please bring an apron and wear long sleeves and long pants or skirts and non-slip,
closed toe shoes for your safety.
Languages:
French Beginning Conversation 9/3
Want to hold a conversation in French? In “French Beginning Conversation” you will
be provided with the foundation to ask and respond to simple questions using basic
vocabulary. After completion of this course, students will be able to engage in easy
conversations and communicate in social, business and travel situations. Students
will also learn a variety of basic written materials and be able to master writing
simple sentences in everyday life. Held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 to 8 p.m.
Course fee is $75.
French II Conversation 10/20
Ready to level up your French? In this course, “French II Conversation,” students
will focus on the fundamental elements of the French language within a cultural context.
There will be an emphasis placed on the progressive development of listening, speaking,
reading and writing skills. Upon completion, students will be able to comprehend and
respond with increasing proficiency to spoken and written French while manifesting
further cultural awareness. The same text as French I will be used. Prerequisite: French I or Beginning French Conversation or prior experience. Held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. Course fee is $75.
Spanish Beginning Conversation 10/21
Want to be able to hold a conversation in Spanish? During “Spanish Beginning Conversation,”
come immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Spanish with this beginner class. You
will learn to build a strong foundation by learning to ask and respond to simple questions
using essential vocabulary. You will be able to practice easy conversations that are
perfect for social, business and travel situations. Through a mix of interactive speaking
exercises and basic written materials, students will master writing simple sentences
for everyday use. As a plus, come explore the rich culture behind the language as
you embark on your Spanish-speaking journey. Held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2
to 4 p.m. Course fee is $75.
Registration is available to all courses at: https://www.sandhills.edu/wce/personal-enrichment/enrichment.html