Give a touch of elegance to your personalized invitations, posters, and greetings. Great for beginners; this course focuses on uppercase, lowercase, and basic italic lettering using the broad pen. The final class will be devoted to a display of skill where each student will create an original calligraphic design. All materials included; no extra fees.

This course will cover the basic fundamentals of drawing in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. We will cover line drawing, placement and proportion of objects, perspective, appropriate shading of colors and other basics. By the end of the course, students should be able to understand and replicate various essential drawing skills into a simple image suitable for display.

This class is designed to help students apply their creative talent in landscapes, still life, master copies, portraits, and more. Students will discover the flexibility of acrylic paint and learn how to correct mistakes. Required materials: paint, brushes, and canvas.

Learn secrets your piano teacher never told you in this 3-hour session. Students will learn all the chords needed to play any song, any style, and any key. Students will then perfect their technique at home using the student manual issued during class. A cash or check payment of $29 is required for the student manual and supplies.

This course succeeds the Jewelry Making-Techniques for Beginners course. Students will learn stitches such as: peyote, herringbone, and netting. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to work with wire and learn some new bead-weaving techniques. A supply fee of $70 is payable to the instructor at the first class. Please bring cash.

Flex Delivery Method

For your safety and convenience, we now offer our professional certificate courses in this new format.

Flex:

Do you prefer to learn in our classroom or the comfort of your home? With our new Flex course format, you decide what works best for you. Our courses are taught live at a specific day and time in our clean, socially-distanced classroom and are simultaneously broadcast to our virtual classroom. With this flexible format, you choose one option when you register: to join the instructor in the physical classroom or join the class meeting remotely. Either way, you get the same quality instruction from an industry professional in a live meeting with other learners.

In this course, students will learn several techniques for making their own beautiful, custom jewelry in the color of their choice. Techniques to be taught will include: simple stringing, silk knotting, bead weaving, crochet, wire work, and more. A supply fee of $70 is payable to the instructor at the first class. Please bring cash.

In this course, students will learn how the flute was originally used by the Plains Indians and how it has re-gained popularity in the music industry. Students will also be introduced to basic steps on how to play the Native American flute. Students are encouraged to bring their own flute; however, flutes will be available for purchase.

An introduction to the world of Plein Air! Gain skills that allow you to craft paintings of local landscapes. Students begin with an evaluation of their basic skills. A checklist of essential materials will be provided. With some classes taking place outdoors, the course will conclude with tips on how to enhance your work for presentation including: varnishing and framing.

An introductory course for those who wish to begin painting in oil. Students will explore the uses of oil paint within the modern perspective with an emphasis on realism/impressionism using a limited palette. After students’ evaluations of skills, the course will begin with the set-up of a proper palette, brush selection, thinners, and dryers. Safe studio habits will be discussed.

For oil and acrylic painters with some experience. Work on your own projects with guidance and technical assistance. The instructor will stress design, value relationships, color and emotional impact. There will also be opportunities for Alla Prima still life and Plein Air to keep your skills growing. Through a combination of individual and group critiques you can judge the effectiveness of your work and find solutions and inspiration to move to the next level in your art.

Designed as an introduction for those who would to start and a refresher for those who are currently painting in oil or acrylic. We will explore traditional painting with an emphasis on realism/impressionism using a limited palette. The students’ knowledge and skills will be evaluated along with their needs and goals so they can create successful paintings. The course will begin with methods of setting up a proper palette, brush selection and the basics of good composition, value (tone), light and color.  We will start with color mixing and demonstrate the power of a limited pallet.

Whether you doodle in stick-figures or wish to advance your hobby in a different style for more realism, this class will help the beginner artist to succeed! Draw what you see" through patient, expert guidance and practiced technique. Requirements: one #2 pencil. Additional supplies will be recommended when suitable to your interests."

Expanding from the Pencil, Pen and Ink Drawing-Beginning course, students will continue to work with techniques such as: shading, creating depth, and contrast. Additionally, students will be granted the opportunity to personalize their study based on their own interests. With one-on-one guidance, students will individually incorporate their personal style into their crafts.

Contrary to popular belief, anyone can learn to play by ear. Learn the inside secrets professional pianists use (but never reveal), how to pick tunes right out of your head, how to get songs off the radio, and how to transpose. This workshop goes beyond mere ear training" Open to all musicians (not just pianists) who have a basic understanding of chord theory. Beginners should take Instant Piano as a prerequisite. Bring cash or check for $34 to pay instructor directly for the student manual and accompanying materials."

This course will examine the wonderful range of Howard Hawks films. From Gangster films and Screwball Comedies, to Westerns and Musicals, Howard Hawks produced and directed some the movies that became classics of the their genres. During this course we view some of films that established Hawks as one of the top 5 directors of the first half of the 20th century.

A voice class for anyone who enjoys singing and wishes to improve their technique. In this course, students will vocalize as a group and individually. Each student should bring a piece of music to work on. The class will be constructive and non-judgmental so students gain confidence with solo performance.

This 8 week course will examine the films of the great writer/director Billy Wilder. The creator of such films as Double Indemnity" and "Sunset Boulevard" in the 1940's and 50's morphed into the great comic director of "Some like it Hot," "The Apartment," and "The Seven Year Itch" in the latter part of his career. In addition to his Oscar awards and nominations, Billy Wilder received the American Film Institute's Lifetime Achievement Award in 1993. By viewing an discussing 8 of this most popular films, we will come to a greater understanding and appreciation of this cinema icon."

The Zentangle Method is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Almost anyone can use it to create beautiful images. It increases sense of personal well being. The Zentangle Method is enjoyed all over the world across a wide range of skills, interests and ages.

Learn Basic Ballet Barre with stretching to improve strength, flexibility, and balance, all in a safe and non competitive environment. Then enjoy a low impact aerobic to improve stamina and brain power. Finally completing the class with a relaxing cool down.

Learn ballet technique and terminology while boosting brain power! Our ballet class promotes strength, flexibility, and balance, all in a safe and non-competitive environment. Students begin at the barre with some mild stretching while the instructor demonstrates proper ballet postures. Included focal points are: center floor work for proper body positioning and continued balance, and floor exercises for core strengthening.

Enjoy the benefits of a class that leaves you feeling refreshed and relaxed, yet energized in a heightened state of awareness. This beginners class consists of gentle yoga stretching and is open to people aged 50 and over. A signed waiver is required at the start of the first class session.

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) brings to its members a free hearing screening with Dr. Laurie Nelson, who carries a Doctorate and Masters in Audiology. She is also the owner of the Marietta Hearing Center. Screenings will take approximately 10 minutes per person. Registration is required due to limited space.

Ideal for seniors, joint-friendly Pilates increases strength and flexibility through gentle toning exercises and can be adjusted to suit all fitness levels. Boost your stamina and muscle tone without the risks of high impact exercise. Wear loose clothing and bring a towel or yoga mat. Students must sign a waiver prior to class.

In this beginning class, learners will be shown QiGong and Tai Chi moves and postures designed to: improve balance, strengthen and tone muscles, improve concentration, and encourage an overall sense of health and well being. Students will also be taught QiGong breathing and relaxation techiques. This is done without high impact/strenuous activity. A signed waiver is required prior to start. 

This course, expanded from its precursor QiGong/Tai Chi I, will have the same beneficial breathing and exercise techniques but with more advanced skills. Learners will be taught Yang style 48 move Tai Chi as well as advanced QiGong style forms and meditation. Completion of QiGong/Tai Chi I recommended for admission.  A signed waiver is required prior to start.  

The discovery of the Americas by Europeans was a watershed in the history of food. It brought major changes to the diet of millions of people as various types of food stuffs were transported from continent to continent.  In this class we will look at the new foods of the Early Modern World, and how they migrated and were transformed as well as new methods of preservation and transportation. In addition, we will look at the way climate encouraged the development of regional cuisines and conclude with a discussion of the growing importance of food and food preparation as entertainment and the rise of the celebrity chef.

During this course, students will explore Lieutenant General James Longstreet's military career from his days at WestPoint, his involvement in the Mexican-American War, the various battles he participated in during the American Civil War, and his postwar life in Gainesville, Georgia.

This eight-week course will cover the post World War II situation in Korea, the initial invasion and battles that would result. A blatantly unprepared occupation army from Japan, lack of domestic support, UN Forces, the Chinese intervention, and specific battles will be covered. Also discussed will be the military and political similarities of the French Indochina War with the Korean War during the 1950-1953 period. Course charts and a source-reading list will be handed out during class. Photos, maps and videos will be a major portion of the class, questions and discussions are encouraged.

This eight-week course will cover the post World War II situation in Korea, the initial invasion and battles that would result. A blatantly unprepared occupation army from Japan, lack of domestic support, UN Forces, the Chinese intervention, and specific battles will be covered. Also discussed will be the military and political similarities of the French Indochina War with the Korean War during the 1950-1953 period. Course charts and a source-reading list will be handed out during class. Photos, maps and videos will be a major portion of the class, questions and discussions are encouraged.

The American Presidency is unique to the United States. The founders feared the Executive Branch" and did not want a monarchy. During the Constitutional Convention of 1787 there was much discussion about the selection and power of the office. Since the ratification of the Constitution each president has personalized the office to his style and the nations needs. There have been dynamic presidents, accidental presidents and during the Gilded Age they were called the "Forgotten presidents." This class will cover the establishment of the office and review the dynamics of the office and the interesting personalities that have occupied it."

Flex Delivery Method

For your safety and convenience, we now offer our professional certificate courses in this new format.

Flex:

Do you prefer to learn in our classroom or the comfort of your home? With our new Flex course format, you decide what works best for you. Our courses are taught live at a specific day and time in our clean, socially-distanced classroom and are simultaneously broadcast to our virtual classroom. With this flexible format, you choose one option when you register: to join the instructor in the physical classroom or join the class meeting remotely. Either way, you get the same quality instruction from an industry professional in a live meeting with other learners.

Georgia: a state rich with Civil War history, from the struggles for her coastal fortifications, to an attempt to steal a steam locomotive, and the many battles fought on her soil. This course will explore the various wartime actions and key participants, beginning with the January 1861 secession vote and culminating with the May 1865 capture of Confederate President Jefferson Davis near Irwinville.

Much of the history of WWII has focused on the battles and military tactics. This class will provide personal biographies of those who lead the Allied effort to defeat the Axis powers in North Africa and Europe. Get to know their personalities along with their strengths and weaknesses as well as the cooperation that won WWII.

The course is designed for students who have completed Part I through IV of the certificate program Spanish Is Fun!, as well as Beyond Spanish Is Fun, or who have intermediate-level skills in Spanish. The primary focus of this course will be on conversation of various topics and themes, including movies, news articles, current events, and analysis of expressions. Special notice: This class will be delivered online. You will need access to a computer with an internet connection that remains stable for the duration of the class. Though a chat feature is available, a microphone is preferred. For most productive audio/video participation, a webcam and/or headset are encouraged. All virtual classes will be recorded.

Have you ever read a novel that left you feeling as if you had visited another world? Have you ever wanted to WRITE a story like that? If you have ever dreamed of creating worlds and bringing characters to life on the page - but you are not sure where to start - this is the course for you! Using lively prompts and in-class reading, you will develop your storytelling powers to awaken your spirit to the craft of writing fiction.  Class requires a notebook, a fast-writing pen, and a willingness to be inspired.

In this course, rather than focus on their own writing process, students will spend this course peeling back the layers of an actual bestseller. Students will study what structures/styles the author uses, plot points demonstrated, and all other elements the author utilizes to create gripping scenes and intriguing characters.

This course is designed to introduce students to the French language and francophone cultures. No prior knowledge of French is required. Through a fun, interactive, and communicative approach, you will be placed in real life situations allowing an acquisition of basic language skills. All four language skills (listening, writing, speaking, and reading) will be presented with a strong emphasis on listening and comprehension and oral communication. Various cultural topics will be explored to expand one’s awareness of French culture around the world.

How do poets use limited language to describe the inexpressible human experience? They learn through purposeful habits of reading, writing, and revising. In this six-week course, we will examine how contemporary poets describe their worlds with risk, intentionality, and wonder. We will read poems aloud, study how they are built, and learn valuable tools of the trade. At the end of each class, students will craft their own poems, eventually choosing one to share at the end of the course. Join us as we discover the joy of reading and writing poetry! Book Required:  In the Palm of Your Hand, Second Edition: A Poet's Portable Workshop by Steve Kowit (ISBN-13: 978-0884485315) and a journal or notebook.

In this course, students will learn the basics of communication in sign language. Students will learn the manual ASL Alphabet, greetings, introductions, and a variety of vocabulary words and phrases. Deaf Culture will also be introduced. Class size is limited to 20 students.

Flex Delivery Method

For your safety and convenience, we now offer our professional certificate courses in this new format.

Flex:

Do you prefer to learn in our classroom or the comfort of your home? With our new Flex course format, you decide what works best for you. Our courses are taught live at a specific day and time in our clean, socially-distanced classroom and are simultaneously broadcast to our virtual classroom. With this flexible format, you choose one option when you register: to join the instructor in the physical classroom or join the class meeting remotely. Either way, you get the same quality instruction from an industry professional in a live meeting with other learners.

This course is for students who wish to take time aside to practice the simple past, present, and future tenses in Spanish. Students will engage in basic drills and short dialogues in which they will practice alternating among the tenses listed.

Hyflex Delivery Method

For your safety and convenience, we now offer our professional certificate courses in this new format.

Hyflex (Hybrid + Flex):

Our hybrid classes offer a blend of scheduled live course meetings and online coursework. For live meetings, you may register to join the instructor in the physical classroom or join the class meeting online broadcast from your preferred location. You will complete the online coursework on your own while adhering to the course schedule and completion date.

Discover the tricks and techniques novelist, Josh Langston uses to produce a new novel every year. Learn how to write a gripping novel using story-telling techniques; gain insight on different styles of writing and tools for editing. Participants will also receive tips on finding an agent, editor, and publisher.

Let us gradually unlock the mysteries of this iconic game. Do you know the fundamentals of chess, and ready to take your game to the next level? Join us as we delve deeper into the world of beginning chess. We’ll explore important tactics such as pins and forks, learn chess notation to record moves and more!

During this 8-week course, participants have the ability to play, draw conclusions, and develop ways of thinking about the game. While designed for players interested in duplicate bridge, social bridge players are welcome. Books (included in course cost) will be provided by the instructor on the first day of class.

This is Part II of the course, Bridge in the 21st Century-Part I. This class can be taken as a stand-alone; no prerequisite is required, however, participants should be familiar with bidding concepts introduced in the first class. This course will focus on the play of the hand, particularly declarer play.

This class will identify resources available at genealogical/historical societies, libraries/archives, and government entities for students to research their family history. Topics to be explored include creating a research plan, vital records, citing sources, organizing information, census records, cemetery records, military records, and much more.

In this course, students will learn several techniques for making their own beautiful, custom jewelry in the color of their choice. Techniques to be taught will include: simple stringing, silk knotting, bead weaving, crochet, wire work, and more. A supply fee of $70 is payable to the instructor at the first class. Please bring cash.

This course focuses on the many facets of independent publishing. In addition to the most common forms, novels and memoirs, the instructor will offer expertise in developing other subject material and alternative formats. Students will have the opportunity to find the best platform for their work, and develop useful publishing strategies.

Exploring your family history is a journey that begins with you and takes you to the past to find your ancestors that is supported by facts, family stories, and traditions. Join the journey in learning / re-learning the fundamentals of family history research to find those long, lost relatives. Students will be able to identify resources available at genealogical / historical societies, libraries / archives, government entities and in their possession. Topics to be explored include: creating a research plan, vital records, citing sources, organizing information, census records, cemetery records, military records and pensions, libraries / archives, land / deed / tax records, old handwriting, newspapers / city directories / church, immigration, ship, and passport records, genealogy software, and migration patterns. By the end of the course, you will be able to create a resume for your ancestor. The research methodology focuses on U.S. records but can be applied worldwide.

This is a fun, basic, hands-on class. Students will use software involving the basics of Microsoft Word. Learn the fundamentals of navigation and selection techniques used in email and the Internet. This class uses Microsoft Word 2016 to create, edit, save and print a letter format. Prerequisite: Introduction to PCs.

This course covers elements from Chapters 5-8 of Spanish Is Fun, Lively Lessons for Beginners, Book 1. In Chapter 5 students will study numbers 0-30. The numbers will be practiced via selected areas of the textbook, in individual responses as well as group and partner activities. Students will then apply their knowledge of the numbers in Chapter 6 as they study how to tell time in Spanish. Following a brief review of –ar verbs from Spanish Is Fun - Part I, Chapter 7 will then expand the lesson into an introduction of regular –er verbs in the present tense. Students will also use a special “er” verb to express what one does versus what one wants to do. Chapter 8 will explore colors as well as adjectives and their opposites. Finally, students will use adjectives to ask about and express another’s personality or character. Each chapter will include a “Cultural Capsule” in which specific components of Spanish/Latino culture will be examined and discussed.

Hyflex Delivery Method

For your safety and convenience, we now offer our professional certificate courses in this new format.

Hyflex (Hybrid + Flex):

Our hybrid classes offer a blend of scheduled live course meetings and online coursework. For live meetings, you may register to join the instructor in the physical classroom or join the class meeting online broadcast from your preferred location. You will complete the online coursework on your own while adhering to the course schedule and completion date.

This course covers elements from Chapters 9-12 of Spanish Is Fun, Lively Lessons for Beginners, Book 1. In Chapter 9 students will learn to identify the names of various professions as well as people in those professions. Chapter 10 will introduce students to the present tense of verbs ending in ir, and students will use one of these verbs to express going out, and leaving for versus leaving from. Chapter 11 will present students with the verb meaning “to be,” and students will study this verb in describing location and temporary conditions. The lesson will further extend into the application of the verb in expressing actions that are happening in real time. In Chapter 12 students will study how to express dates as well as the names of the months of the year. Students will then identify various celebrations and events that take place during specific months. Each chapter will include a “Cultural Capsule” in which specific components of Spanish/Latino culture will be examined and discussed.

Hyflex Delivery Method

For your safety and convenience, we now offer our professional certificate courses in this new format.

Hyflex (Hybrid + Flex):

Our hybrid classes offer a blend of scheduled live course meetings and online coursework. For live meetings, you may register to join the instructor in the physical classroom or join the class meeting online broadcast from your preferred location. You will complete the online coursework on your own while adhering to the course schedule and completion date.

This course offers an introduction to Amazon and the selling opportunities available for third-party merchants. Students will learn how to set up a merchant's account and identify which type is best for them. They will also learn how to list and price products on the Amazon platform. Class will cover how to use Amazon's fulfillment service and why.

Participants enrolled in this seminar will learn all about eBay. This includes: an introduction to eBay, eBay safety, a synopsis of opportunities available on eBay, setting up a secure seller's account, pricing strategies, putting together a complete listing, and completing the sale.

•The 3 documents everyone MUST HAVE in retirement •The USELESS WILL-it’s a good thing! •Basics of a Revocable Living Trust •How to avoid DEATH Probate and LIVING Probate •How to BLOW UP 401K’s and IRA’s with unnecessary TAXATION •How to accidentally disinherit children and grandchildren •2nd marriage solutions in Estate Planning •What to do if you have a Retirement Account and a Revocable Living Trust •Beneficiary Form mistakes to avoid-Retirement Accounts, Life Insurance, Annuities

Flex Delivery Method

For your safety and convenience, we now offer our professional certificate courses in this new format.

Flex:

Do you prefer to learn in our classroom or the comfort of your home? With our new Flex course format, you decide what works best for you. Our courses are taught live at a specific day and time in our clean, socially-distanced classroom and are simultaneously broadcast to our virtual classroom. With this flexible format, you choose one option when you register: to join the instructor in the physical classroom or join the class meeting remotely. Either way, you get the same quality instruction from an industry professional in a live meeting with other learners.

Medicare Plans can be confusing! Join us so that you can better plan your benefits strategy – or –help you guide your parents in their choices. Learn the many facets and particulars of Medicare. Gain a foundation of Medicare Part A, B, C (Medicare Advantage) and D (Prescription Drug Plan) and Medicare Supplement plans. What are deadlines? What are any penalties? Learn what factors to include in choosing the right plan. We also discuss Pros and Cons of growing trend of working past age 65 at your employer but leaving employer benefits plan to enroll in a Medicare plan to save money on premiums.

An active and engaging class for individuals within 5 years of retirement or who have retired within the last 3 years. This class will focus on information needed in order to make important and lasting decisions for living your best financial life in retirement, including: •How to make the right pension decision •Different strategies for taking Social Security •How to maximize retirement income •Tax-free retirement income strategies •Advanced Roth IRA strategies-even if you are already retired! •401k advantages and disadvantages in retirement •Estate Planning documents to be updated in retirement •How to keep your financial affairs private and avoid probate •Basics of Revocable Living Trusts •Dynasty Trusts-not just for the wealthy! •Asset protection

Flex Delivery Method

For your safety and convenience, we now offer our professional certificate courses in this new format.

Flex:

Do you prefer to learn in our classroom or the comfort of your home? With our new Flex course format, you decide what works best for you. Our courses are taught live at a specific day and time in our clean, socially-distanced classroom and are simultaneously broadcast to our virtual classroom. With this flexible format, you choose one option when you register: to join the instructor in the physical classroom or join the class meeting remotely. Either way, you get the same quality instruction from an industry professional in a live meeting with other learners.

This course is designed for those with a desire to learn how to sell on the internet. This class will introduce students to topics such as: how to get started, what options are available for a quick start up, proven methods for fast entrance into the world of ecommerce, and the utilization of various platforms.

In this informative class, students will learn strategies and techniques that may reduce or eliminate certain tax liabilities.  Have you ever wondered what strategies you could use that some of the richest Americans have used for decades?  Many of the strategies discussed include: •  How to reduce and eliminate taxes on Retirement Account Distributions •  How to reduce and eliminate Capital Gains taxes •  Take Required Minimum Distributions in the most tax-advantaged way •  Avoid Inheritance Tax-Traps with IRAs, 401ks and other Retirement Accounts •  How to pass assets generationally while minimizing taxes and providing asset protection •  Learn some of the most tax-favored ways to give money to charity and heirs •  How have wealthy Americans passed assets generationally TAX-FREE, even before ROTH IRAs were created This class will be interactive and high energy…which you need when discussing Taxes!

This course offers an introduction to Amazon and the selling opportunities available for third-party merchants. Students will learn how to set up a merchant's account and identify which type is best for them. They will also learn how to list and price products on the Amazon platform. Class will cover how to use Amazon's fulfillment service and why.

Participants enrolled in this seminar will learn all about eBay. This includes: an introduction to eBay, eBay safety, a synopsis of opportunities available on eBay, setting up a secure seller's account, pricing strategies, putting together a complete listing, and completing the sale.

This course teaches students how to use the Microsoft Office Program, Excel. Students will learn how to: make columns of information, manipulate large amounts of data, insert basic formulas, use auto format and auto fill, and create a presentable spreadsheet. Additionally, students can learn how to make a graph from their data.

This is a fun, basic, hands-on class. Students will use software involving the basics of Microsoft Word. Learn the fundamentals of navigation and selection techniques used in email and the Internet. This class uses Microsoft Word 2016 to create, edit, save and print a letter format. Prerequisite: Introduction to PCs.

This course is designed for those with a desire to learn how to sell on the internet. This class will introduce students to topics such as: how to get started, what options are available for a quick start up, proven methods for fast entrance into the world of ecommerce, and the utilization of various platforms.