Plain Text Listing of Course Descriptions
Current Semester

This is a listing of course information for the current semester in plain text, i.e., no images or fancy formatting. It is good for browsing just the course information or printing it at home. Courses that have been withdrawn or canceled are not included.

Press Ctrl + P (Cmd + P on Mac) to print. It is about 35 pages, depending on your printer settings. If you are only interested in a few courses, you can go to the course index, open the page for each of those courses, and print them from there.

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Exploring Windows

Meets: 5 Mondays
Date(s): Aug 18, 25, Sep 8, 15, 22 (no class 9/1)
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 8
Cost: $25.00
Description: This course covers an overview, new features, apps (including the Start Menu), Edge Browser, and new ways to organize and track your work in Windows 11. Also included are methods of personalizing Windows 11, how to manage and back up files, protect your computer from malware, and recover from hardware failures or software corruption.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Russ Beckmeyer received his PhD from the University of Missouri. Dr. Beckmeyer has more than 50 years of applied computer technology experience: micro-computers, super-computers, networks, software, and computer security. After an extensive career at the Savannah River Site, he spent the last 5 years of his professional career as an engineering director for two different small nuclear reactors. Dr. Beckmeyer has been with the Center's Tech Section since 2018.

Graniteville Company

Meets: 3 Tuesdays
Date(s): Aug 19, 26, Sep 2
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $10.00
Description: This course introduces William Gregg, the founder of the Graniteville Company, and explores the company's history and its impact on the CSRA. This course will also look at the innovative ideas Gregg employed at the company that even today impact our modern workforce.
Instructor Biography: Marty Bailey was born and raised in Texas, moving to Aiken when she married her husband, a true Aikenite. Volunteering at the train museum and the county historic museum, she learned about and fell in love with Aiken, opening her own private touring service to share Aiken's rich history with her patrons.

Introduction to Digital Networks

Meets: Monday
Date(s): Aug 25
Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 20
Cost: $15.00
Description: This course introduces attendees to the capability of digital networks. Attendees will gain a basic knowledge of various digital networks used to connect phones, computers, home automation, and home security. This includes network data limits and availability in this area. This lecture-based course with limited hands-on activity will acquaint attendees with a broad overview of network digital options.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Russ Beckmeyer received his PhD from the University of Missouri. Dr. Beckmeyer has more than 50 years of applied computer technology experience: micro-computers, super-computers, networks, software, and computer security. After an extensive career at the Savannah River Site, he spent the last 5 years of his professional career as an engineering director for two different small nuclear reactors. Dr. Beckmeyer has been with the Center's Tech Section since 2018.

Information Literacy, Fake News, and Civil Discourse in a Digital Environment

Meets: Tuesday
Date(s): Aug 26
Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 122
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: Since the 2016 presidential election, fake news has become a topic of much discussion, and librarians have been eager to share their information literacy expertise, creating and circulating articles about and guides for spotting fake news. But fake news isn't the problem. In this session, we'll look at the various factors that contribute to the spread of disinformation online, its impact on civil discourse, and what people can do to address these issues. We'll also discuss the problematic nature of the "fake news" frame and how it distorts the issue and efforts to address it.
Instructor Biography: Brandy Horne is the head of instruction and reference at USCA's Gregg-Graniteville Library. Her research interests include information seeking motivation/behavior and how this impacts civil discourse; trends in book challenges/bans and censorship; and information literacy instruction. Prof. Horne has an MLIS from Valdosta State University and has been at USCA since 2012.

iPhone 101

Meets: 3 Thursdays
Date(s): Aug 28, Sep 4, 11
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $20.00
Description: In this hands-on class, we will cover the following: Navigating the iPhone, Apps, passwords/codes, Notes, Contacts, how to make a call, Messages/texts, and Email. Attendees must bring their charged device to the class.
Instructor Biography: Vicki Gibboney has a BS in Education. She taught elementary school and has taught and coached for the Center's Tech Section for over 20 years. Gretchen Pooler has been a coach for the iPhone courses for many years.

Excelsior! The Mighty Magic of Marvel

Meets: 4 Tuesdays
Date(s): Sep 2, 9, 16, 23
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $12.00
Description: Marvel Entertainment is one of the hottest media properties on the planet. The comic books, favorites of the young for nearly a century, in more recent years have spawned a series of popular television shows and movies (featuring, for example, "Spider-Man" and "The Avengers"). This course will look at the cultural connections Marvel has had going back to World War II. We will look at some of the major creators of Marvel, its rivalry with DC comics, its partnership with Disney, and how the 21st Century movies and television shows have introduced Marvel to a new generation and demographic.
Instructor Biography: Corey Rogers is a native of Augusta, Georgia. He earned a BA in History from South Carolina State University and a MA in History from Georgia Southern University. He is the Executive Director of the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History.

Cruising the Mediterranean

Meets: 2 Tuesdays
Date(s): Sep 2, 9
Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: 12
Cost: $8.00
Description: Much of human history has occurred in and around the Mediterranean Sea. A two-week cruise through the Mediterranean included a number of historical and geographic sites, including Pompeii, Knossos, Ephesus, Istanbul, Mykonos, Athens, Santorini and Sicily. This course is a travelogue view of those places with numerous photos and stories about our experiences there. From the ruins of Pompeii to the magnificent architecture of the Acropolis to the halls of the Vatican, this course offers a look at what we saw.
Instructor Biography: Jeff Wallace is a retired editor of the Aiken Standard. He worked for more than 30 years on the staff of the newspaper and has been an adjunct faculty member at USC Aiken for more than a quarter of a century. He has lived in Aiken for more than 70 years and enjoys family and traveling with his wife.

Apple Watch

Meets: Tuesday
Date(s): Sep 2
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 20
Cost: $15.00
Description: Learn to use the basics of your Apple Watch. Your watch can do some interesting things like calculate a trip, record a memo, take a picture through your iPhone, and get turn-by-turn haptics through Apple Maps. This class will cover choosing a watch face, opening watch apps, notifications and control center. Learn the dock, the Digital Crown, the flashlight and Siri. Learn how to enable Fall Detection—a lifesaver. There will be a handout for you to take home. You must have your own Apple Watch and have it paired with your iPhone. A knowledge of basic iPhone fundamentals is expected.
Instructor Biography: Vicki Gibboney has a BS degree in Education. She taught elementary school. She has taught and coached for the Center's Tech Section for over 20 years.

Presidental Powers

Meets: 4 Wednesdays
Date(s): Sep 3, 10, 17, 24
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $12.00
Description: The President of the United States has specific powers delegated by the Constitution; however, the last 100 years have seen their power grow exponentially.
Sessions 1-2: Learn the Constitutional duties of the office and explore how administrative and societal changes have allowed the presidency to go from a figurehead position to the power wielded today.
Sessions 3-4: Discuss current political events related to presidential powers as chosen by the instructor and attendees. This course will provide attendees with an understanding of these topics from a broad historical and legal perspective. All political viewpoints are welcome; classmates holding various viewpoints should be respected.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Allison Hamilton has worked on elections and has taught political science courses for over 20 years. She is currently the executive director of Citizens for Nuclear Technology Awareness in Aiken, SC, and teaches political science for Middle Georgia State University. Dr. Hamilton has a doctorate in Political Science from the University of Iowa.

Practicing Mindfulness

Meets: 2 Wednesdays
Date(s): Sep 3, 10
Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $8.00
Description: The challenges of daily life often prevent us from taking care of ourselves. Embark on a guided journey learning science-based approaches to physical, nutritional, emotional and spiritual well-being. Discover yourself through personal growth and introspective activities that embrace practices supporting mindfulness, self-care and building resiliency.
Instructor Biography: Cheryl Murga, BA, MS is a retired educator living a Zen life in Aiken. She strives to support the common good and local community through outreach and enrichment programs. Her early career as a paralegal working with wills, estate planning, lots of research and her own personal loss of loved ones provides the knowledge for being prepared when someone you love dies.

What is Digital?

Meets: Thursday
Date(s): Sep 4
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: We live in the digital age, but what does "digital" mean? We are surrounded by devices that utilize computer chips, from smartphones to automobiles. We use the internet and cloud storage—where did they come from and how do they work?? What is a transistor? When and where was it invented? What is digital logic, and how is it used? What is a chip? What are binary numbers, and how are they used in a computer? Simple illustrations and demonstrations will provide visual emphasis to the answers.
Instructor Biography: Dr. George Hummert is an Electrical Engineer who spent most of his career at the Westinghouse Research Laboratory in Pittsburgh. He has lived and worked in Aiken since 1993. His experience includes computer programming, as well as design of both digital and analog circuits.

The American Homefront During WWII

Meets: 3 Thursdays
Date(s): Sep 4, 11, 18
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $10.00
Description: The Home Front was mobilized like never before in our history. Men went to war; women went to work. Blackouts, ration books, and Rosie the Riveter. We'll relive America's Homefront at War.
Instructor Biography: John Karas is a graduate of The University of Toledo and has taught at Harper College in Illinois. His lifelong interest in history led him to become a member of the 250 Committee preparing and educating about the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.

Relativity and the Genius of Albert Einstein

Meets: 4 Mondays
Date(s): Sep 8, 15, 22, 29
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $12.00
Description: In this course, we will examine some of the scientific discoveries that laid the groundwork for Einstein's 1905 breakthrough papers on relativity. This course does not require advanced mathematics and is structured around Einstein's "thought experiments", which ask very simple questions about common events leading to profound conclusions. This course first examines "special" relativity and then introduces the concepts contained in "general" relativity. Each session will consist of an informal lecture, including "light flash" demonstrations supported by handout notes emphasizing key points. Since his private life was interwoven with scientific discoveries, this course includes descriptions of his family and close associates. We will review a few excerpts from several of his famous papers and find his thought process very clear and straightforward.
Instructor Biography: Dr. George Hummert is an electrical engineer who spent much of his career at the Westinghouse Research Laboratory in Pittsburgh. He has lived and worked in Aiken since 1993. His technical background includes a doctorate from Carnegie Mellon and studies of electric and magnetic field theory, which sparked his interest in relativity.

South Carolina Suffragists

Meets: 3 Mondays
Date(s): Sep 8, 15, 22
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $10.00
Description: This three-session course will introduce attendees to the fascinating South Carolinians who advocated for women's suffrage. Class presentations will cover South Carolina suffragists from the antebellum Grimke Sisters through the Rollins Sisters, Virginia Durant Young and many others to 1969 when the SC General Assembly finally ratified the Nineteenth Amendment. Aiken's own Eulalie Salley, suffrage proponent, attended that historic occasion.
Instructor Biography: Alexia Jones Helsley, Senior Instructor in History/University Archivist, worked for the SC Department of Archives and History before coming to USCA. Her recent book, The Lost History of Aiken, covers USCA's Banksia beginnings. Recipient of the Governor's Archives Award & a career achievement award from the SC Archival Association, Helsley currently serves on the association's editorial board.

TV Streaming

Meets: Monday
Date(s): Sep 8
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $15.00
Description: The world of TV streaming can be quite confusing because of the many options available now to watch your favorite TV programs. Are you thinking about "cutting the cord" or exploring the TV streaming options available to you? Comparisons and features of live TV streaming, on-demand streaming and free TV streaming are presented. Smart TV technology and Internet connectivity for TV streaming are also presented.
Instructor Biography: Darrell Pluff has a bachelor's degree and post graduate work from San Diego State University for teaching certification. He is a retired business education instructor who has taught at the high school and college level in the United States and Australia. He has been with the Center's Technology Section for over nine years.

Attracting Butterflies

Meets: Tuesday
Date(s): Sep 9
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: This course will dive into the world of the monarch butterfly and other South Carolina butterflies. We will provide resources, tools and best practices for attracting these beautiful butterflies to your garden and what can be done to help save the monarchs. Live exhibits include eggs, caterpillars, chrysalis and hopefully live butterflies. Attendees will be provided with informational handouts to include South Carolina native plants, which are host plants to butterflies, and nectar plants for pollinators.
Instructor Biography: Susan Potter and Pat Dunlop, board members, established the Butterfly Monarchy Club (BMC) in 2020. They were also responsible for starting the first and only chapter of the North American Butterfly Association in South Carolina. Both have extensive knowledge of growing milkweed and raising monarchs and swallowtails. They have been instrumental in educating and raising awareness of the importance of providing host and native nectar plans to local garden clubs, civic organizations, etc.

Facebook Security

Meets: 2 Tuesdays
Date(s): Sep 9, 16
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 15
Cost: $18.00
Description: Get your Facebook questions answered while reviewing your privacy settings. This two-session course includes updating your Facebook account and privacy settings. A Facebook account is required to take this course. Attendees will need their Facebook user ID and password since they will be using their own FB page in class on classroom computers.
Instructor Biography: Wayne Rickman has a master's degree in computer management and has been an instructor with the Center's Tech Section for over 20 years. He is a retired U. S. Navy (Nuclear Submarine) officer.

Nuclear Fundamentals

Meets: 6 Tuesdays
Date(s): Sep 9, 16, 23, 30, Oct 7, 14
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:15 PM
Location: RPSEC, Room 117
Class Size Limit: 27
Cost: $18.00
Description: This course will provide attendees with a broad and basic understanding of nuclear science fundamentals. Attendees will learn about the atomic nucleus, isotopes, radiation, radioactive half-life, and the uses of nuclear technology in our world today in a unique and approachable manner. Each of the six sessions will involve innovative simple hands-on activities, performed in pairs or teams, designed to engage participants and to reinforce key concepts. These hands-on activities use materials ranging from marbles and cookies, to custom-made science-related kits that have proven engaging to novice as well as experienced attendees.
Instructor Biography: Bill Wabbersen, a nuclear engineer, worked at the Savannah River Site for almost 30 years and retired from SRNS and later from NNSA. Bill has conducted nuclear science educational outreach activities across the US. Honors include the ANS Landis Public Communication and Education Award and CNTA's Nuclear Service Award.

Home Security

Meets: Wednesday
Date(s): Sep 10
Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 20
Cost: $15.00
Description: Most of us would like the peace of mind and convenience of knowing our home and everything in it is safe and secure. From burglar alarm systems to full security Systems, with and without cameras, this course covers all the systems available today. This class will help you determine the type of home security system that is right for you, your home, your needs, your lifestyle, and your budget.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Russ Beckmeyer received his PhD from the University of Missouri. Dr. Beckmeyer has more than 50 years of applied computer technology experience: micro-computers, super-computers, networks, software, and computer security. After an extensive career at the Savannah River Site, he spent the last 5 years of his professional career as an engineering director for two different small nuclear reactors. Dr. Beckmeyer has been with the Center's Tech Section since 2018.

The East India Company

Meets: 2 Wednesdays
Date(s): Sep 10, 17
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $8.00
Description: The East India Company was the original CORPORATE RAIDER. They were instrumental in the birth of the ENGLISH EMPIRE. From their beginning to their demise, from England to India, from cotton trade to drug trading, they did it all with their own army and navy. They put the GREAT into Great Britain.
Instructor Biography: John Karas is a graduate of The University of Toledo and has taught at Harper College in Illinois. His lifelong interest in history led him to become a member of the 250 Committee preparing and educating about the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.

Aiken's Pine Lawn Cemetery: The New and Old

Meets: 2 Thursdays
Date(s): Sep 11, 18
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $8.00
Description: The Pine Lawn Cemetery is a poorly understood historical jewel that was established in 1852. Years of cleaning, documenting, and restoring have uncovered very interesting information about its history. Pine Lawn is notable in that 1,200 headstones are known, but an estimated 5,000 unmarked graves are also there, including slave-era graves. This course will discuss cemetery history and related historical documents, and the trove of new information that has been discovered in the past few years.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Andy Dyer has been a biology professor at USC Aiken since 2000. He has published two general science books: one on pesticide resistance and agriculture (Chasing the Red Queen, 2014) and the second on the microbiome (Eaters Digest, 2022). His interest in life-history patterns led him to study cemetery records and death certificate data to better understand patterns of death in Aiken County over the past 100 years.

Gardening in Fall and Winter

Meets: Friday
Date(s): Sep 12
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 124
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: This garden talk will discuss what's needed in fall and winter gardens: what to prune, when and why to prune. This will include pruning for blooms and for pollinators. We'll talk about adding plants to your garden for winter blooms, including new winter hardy plants that will survive our zone 8 areas. We'll also cover which fall/winter plants will grow to feed pollinators in this area during this cold season.
Instructor Biography: Gloria Wade was born and raised as a middle Georgia farm girl. Her mama and granny were big gardeners, growing great plants in the Georgia clay. She is a retired Culinary Arts teacher, an Aiken Master Gardener and the lead in the Aiken FFA Booster Club at Aiken High.

Introduction to AI: Understanding the Future Implications

Meets: Tuesday
Date(s): Sep 16
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Penland Administration Building, Room 106
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $15.00
Description: This course demystifies Artificial Intelligence (AI) for adults seeking to understand how AI shapes our modern world and impacts daily life. No technical background is required - just bring your curiosity and life experience. Are you curious about ChatGPT, wondering about AI in healthcare, or concerned how AI might affect your profession and the future of work? This course provides a clear, jargon-free exploration of AI technology and its real-world applications. Through interactive discussions and hands-on demonstrations, you'll gain practical knowledge about using AI tools while understanding both their potential and limitations.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Larry Deschaine will guide you to the practical world of Artificial Intelligence. As team Lead for Data Science in the Savannah River National Laboratory, Dr. Deschaine brings over 40 years of real-world expertise in making complex technology accessible and practical for everyday life. His expertise and approachable teaching style will ensure you walk away with valuable, immediately applicable skills. Join us for this unique opportunity to learn from a leading expert who understands how to make technology work for you.

Gullah Geeche and the Linguistics of the Lowcountry

Meets: 4 Wednesdays
Date(s): Sep 17, 24, Oct 1, 8
Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Penland Administration Building, Room 106
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $12.00
Description: This course will be an introduction to the rich linguistic tapestry of the Southern Lowcountry, with an emphasis on Gullah Geechee, an English-based creole language spoken mainly in South Carolina and Georgia. We will focus on the connection between language and society and the role of language in the social lives of individuals and communities. This knowledge can then be used to better understand the role language plays in our lives, especially with regard to the relationship between Southern identity, culture, and language. Attendees will learn how our perceptions of race, ethnicity, and class have shaped the linguistic landscape of the South and how to appreciate the contributions of Gullah Geechee to the English language.
Instructor Biography: Dr. John "Spud" McCullough is an Aiken native who received his PhD in Sociolinguistics from the University of South Carolina and his master's degree from the University of Hawaii at Mãnoa in Language Documentation and Conservation. He is currently a Lexicographer for the forthcoming Oxford Dictionary of African American English.

iPhone 102

Meets: 3 Thursdays
Date(s): Sep 18, 25, Oct 2
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $20.00
Description: In this hands-on course, we will cover the following: Safari, The Clock App, Calendar, Maps, Wallet, Translate App, Security and Accessibility features. Attendees must bring their charged device to the class.
Instructor Biography: Vicki Gibboney has a BS in Education. She taught elementary school and has taught and coached for the Center's Tech Section for over 20 years. Gretchen Pooler has been a coach for the iPhone classes for many years.

Hidden World of Moths

Meets: Friday
Date(s): Sep 19
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: As the sun sets, another world awakens. Often overlooked in favor of their daytime cousins, moths are diverse, beautiful, and ecologically essential. In this talk, we'll explore the fascinating world of moths—from their incredible camouflage and night-flying strategies to their critical roles as pollinators and food sources in ecosystems. You'll learn how to spot local species, understand their life cycles, and even attract them to your garden. Whether you're a gardener, nature lover, or just curious about the creatures of the night, open your eyes to the secret lives of moths. Come see what's fluttering in the dark!
Instructor Biography: Dr. Lisa Ennis is an avid gardener with an affinity for native plants and their role in nature. She has a Certificate in Native Plant Studies from the Birmingham (Alabama) Botanical Gardens and completed the Alabama Extension's Master Gardener course in 2012. She is currently the Dean of the Gregg-Graniteville Library at USCA and holds several academic degrees and honors. She is often found outside gardening, sketching, or playing with her three rescue pups.

Computer Security

Meets: Monday
Date(s): Sep 22
Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 20
Cost: $15.00
Description: You have read about rogues hacking into commercial, government, and financial computer systems so why do you think your computer is any safer? It is a lot easier and a lot cheaper to prevent an intrusion than it is to clean up after your computer has been compromised. Learn about protecting your Windows computer from viruses, worms, adware, spyware, and malware. The second half of the class will address basic Internet privacy and tracking. Learn how to protect your online identity.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Russ Beckmeyer received his PhD from the University of Missouri. Dr. Beckmeyer has more than 50 years of applied computer technology experience: micro-computers, super-computers, networks, software, and computer security. After an extensive career at the Savannah River Site, he spent the last 5 years of his professional career as an engineering director for two different small nuclear reactors. Dr. Beckmeyer has been with the Center's Tech Section since 2018.

Home Surveillance Systems

Meets: Tuesday
Date(s): Sep 23
Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 20
Cost: $15.00
Description: Should you decide that a home surveillance system might be right for you, this course will acquaint you with security camera systems along with the integration of burglar alarm/security systems and camera surveillance systems. Residential surveillance systems range from single to multiple cameras and can be incorporated into a comprehensive whole-house security system. Attendees will learn about the interactions between these various systems and the networks that can be used to support their functions.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Russ Beckmeyer received his PhD from the University of Missouri. Dr. Beckmeyer has more than 50 years of applied computer technology experience: micro-computers, super-computers, networks, software, and computer security. After an extensive career at the Savannah River Site, he spent the last 5 years of his professional career as an engineering director for two different small nuclear reactors. Dr. Beckmeyer has been with the Center's Tech Section since 2018.

Edgefield Pottery History

Meets: 4 Tuesdays
Date(s): Sep 23, 30, Oct 7, Nov 4 (note 4-week gap)
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $12.00
Description: In this course, you will learn the importance of Edgefield Stoneware Manufacturing through firsthand experience in identifying the distinctives of Edgefield Stoneware, the manufacturing process, and the social implications of slave-produced pottery and the life of David Drake, a.k.a., "Dave the Potter." Dr. McClendon's family began the first Edgefield Pottery Museum and his relatives still own the original 105 ft kiln site of Abner Landrum's "Pottersville," north of Edgefield. A field trip to the kiln site is a possibility for this 4-session class.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Tim McClendon has taught at Emory University and has been an avid potter since early life; his works have been in a number of museums and galleries. As a native of Edgefield and having literally grown up in Pottersville, he has unique insight into the Edgefield Stoneware tradition and importance.

Applied Artificial Intelligence (Section A)

Meets: Tuesday
Date(s): Sep 23
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 20
Cost: $15.00
Description: Discover how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can make your daily life easier in our engaging 2-hour workshop. We will show you how to use ChatGPT and similar AI assistants to write emails and letters, plan travel, research health topics, understand and visualize information, write computer programs, and more. The workshop includes hands-on practice with popular AI applications. Perfect for adults who want to leverage technology to maintain an active, interconnected, and informed lifestyle. No technical background needed - just bring your smartphone or tablet and your curiosity. Small class size ensures personal attention and plenty of time for questions. The same course will be taught again on September 30.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Larry Deschaine will guide you to the practical world of Artificial Intelligence. As team Lead for Data Science in the Savannah River National Laboratory, Dr. Deschaine brings over 40 years of real-world expertise in making complex technology accessible and practical for everyday life. His expertise and approachable teaching style will ensure you walk away with valuable, immediately applicable skills. Join us for this unique opportunity to learn from a leading expert who understands how to make technology work for you.

Modern America Through Women's Eyes

Meets: 4 Wednesdays
Date(s): Sep 24, Oct 1, 8, 15
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $12.00
Description: This course views twentieth-century American history through women's eyes, focusing on the stories of Alice Paul, Wonder Woman, Katherine McCormick, and Henrietta Lacks. Through their experiences and voices, we will explore topics such as voting, marriage and family life, portrayals of women in popular culture, race, and medicine and medical ethics.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Elizabeth Georgian is a Professor of History and chair of the Department of History, Political Science, and Philosophy at USCA, where she teaches a variety of courses, including women's history. In her spare time, she enjoys camping, kayaking, and hiking with her husband and rescued greyhounds.

Hospice and Palliative Care

Meets: Thursday
Date(s): Sep 25
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: This course will be an overview of the hospice philosophy that includes when to consider hospice care. Information on the difference between hospice and palliative care will be covered. We will discuss goals of hospice such as the ability to stabilize and maintain symptom control and management, prevent unnecessary rehospitalizations, and give patients a better quality and end of life with their families and loved ones.
Instructor Biography: Rachel Thomas started her career as a Hospice Nurse for Hospice of the Nature Coast. She has been a Hospice Liaison for the Agape Care Group for 14 months. Hospice is her heart and passion. Getting patients on hospice services has proven to have better outcomes for both patients and their families.

Who's Afraid of Opera: The Met in HD

Meets: 6 Thursdays
Date(s): Sep 25, Oct 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $18.00
Description: Dr. Simpson, Aiken's own resident diva soprano, will discuss the following operas:
1. Vincenzo Bellini's La Sonnambula
2. Richard Strauss' Arabella
3. Umberto Giordano's Andrea Chenier
This course will introduce historical and musical background, composer issues, performing problems, and plots, providing both beginner and veteran operagoers with a deeper insight into each work.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Maureen Simpson has performed in over two dozen operas in the United States and Europe, as well as numerous appearances with symphonies and choral societies. She attended the Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia; the American Institute of Musical Studies in Graz, Austria; and received graduate degrees from Indiana University-Bloomington and the University of South Carolina. Dr. Simpson is currently Artistic Director of the Aiken Choral Society.

Introduction to Bicycling Touring

Meets: Friday
Date(s): Sep 26
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: If you enjoy cycling and have a sense of adventure, you may like to pursue the hobby of bike touring. Bike touring is a type of travel where you ride a bicycle over long distances, usually over several days or even weeks, carrying all your gear with you. It's a great way to explore places at your own pace and see things up close. In this course, the instructors will present how they plan and implement their bike tours. They will also suggest several bike trails in the U.S. that may be of interest to you, and, hopefully, demonstrate that cycling is not merely exercise but can offer opportunities to explore diverse landscapes and discover new experiences. Come see if bike touring is a good fit for you!
Instructor Biography: Jeff and Ellen DeGange met through the hobby of mountain biking, and after getting married, continued to pursue different types of cycling. They have found that their favorite way to travel has been through bike touring and continue to look forward to other areas of the country (and world) to travel. Jeff is a retired mechanical engineer from Savannah River National Lab and Ellen is a retired elementary school teacher who worked in public and private schools in GA and SC.

Book Banning and Censorship in the U.S.: Examining Current Trends and the Recent Surge in Book Bannings

Meets: Monday
Date(s): Sep 29
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: The American Library Association's Office for Intellectual Freedom tracks the number of book challenges across the country, and the number of challenges and individual titles has surged in recent years, from approximately 250 unique titles per year for the last 20 years to over 4000 unique titles in 2023. This presentation will discuss trends in book challenges, as well as motivations and other factors contributing to the current surge. We'll also look at how libraries and other groups have responded to the drastic increase in challenges and discuss how people are advocating for intellectual freedom.
Instructor Biography: Brandy Horne is the head of instruction and reference at USCA's Gregg-Graniteville Library. Her research interests include information seeking motivation/behavior and how this impacts civil discourse; trends in book challenges/bans and censorship; and information literacy instruction. Prof. Horne has an MLIS from Valdosta State University and has been at USCA since 2012.

Apple Help Lab (Section A)

Meets: Monday
Date(s): Sep 29
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 20
Cost: $5.00
Description: Your Questions Answered! Don't need a full course? Join our Apple Help session! This is a flexible Q&A format where you can get personalized assistance with any Apple product. Our Apple course instructors will be on hand to answer your questions. Feel free to drop in, get the help you need, and share experiences with fellow Apple users. No set presentations, just helpful answers. Registration required.
Instructor Biography: Wayne Rickman has a master's degree in computer management and has been an instructor with the Center's Tech Section for over 20 years. He is a retired U. S. Navy (Nuclear Submarine) officer.

Hadrian's Wall: History and Photographs

Meets: 2 Mondays
Date(s): Sep 29, Oct 6
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Penland Administration Building, Room 106
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $8.00
Description: Hadrian's Wall, built by the Roman Empire, extended 73 miles across northern England. Construction began around the year 122. It was "in operation" for almost 300 years. The wall was actually a complex system that included gates, forts, watchtowers, roads, and supply depots. Much of this system still exists, in a ruined state. Despite extensive (and ongoing) archeological excavations, many mysteries remain. This course describes the layout and history (to the extent it is known) of the wall system. This course includes many photographs, some of them quite striking since the wall traverses some of England's most spectacular terrain.
Instructor Biography: Carl Fields is a retired Westinghouse and Savannah River Site engineer who has lived in Aiken since 1990. He has been a member of the CLL and its predecessor organization since around 2005 and taught three previous CLL courses. He still enjoys traveling and (especially) returning to Aiken after each trip.

Advance Planning of Your Final Funeral Wishes

Meets: 3 Tuesdays
Date(s): Sep 30, Oct 7, 14
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $10.00
Description: Not everyone likes to plan ahead, but pre-planning your funeral arrangements not only gives you peace of mind about your final wishes being honored but also alleviates some of the stress and burden your loved ones are going through as they experience the grief associated with the loss. This class will explore the idea of preplanning these wishes while also answering the wide array of questions associated with death.
Instructor Biography: Graham Hall is a licensed funeral director/embalmer and the President of Shellhouse Funeral Home & Shellhouse-Rivers Funeral Home here in Aiken. He has been serving in the funeral industry for over 15 years. Graham is a lifelong Aiken resident and has degrees from Clemson University and Piedmont Mortuary College.

Rilke's Life and Poems

Meets: 2 Tuesdays
Date(s): Sep 30, Oct 7
Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $8.00
Description: Rainer Maria Rilke is one of the best writers of the 20th Century, and perhaps in the US, the best-known one who wrote in German. Austrian by birth, he truly was cosmopolitan in every sense of the word. This course will briefly review the Austria-Hungary and Europe in which he lived, and then look at his poetic output. The New Poems, Life of Mary, Duino Elegies and Sonnets to Orpheus come into consideration, with attention being paid to the Dinggedicht (Thing Poem).
Instructor Biography: Dr. Arthur Turfa has a MA in German from UC-Irvine, where he took a Rilke seminar. Having studied, traveled, and lived in Germany, he has taught German on university and secondary levels, and served in bi-lingual Lutheran parish settings. A published poet, he considers Rilke one of his main influences.

Applied Artificial Intelligence (Section B)

Meets: Tuesday
Date(s): Sep 30
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 12
Cost: $15.00
Description: Discover how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can make your daily life easier in our engaging 2-hour workshop. We will show you how to use ChatGPT and similar AI assistants to write emails and letters, plan travel, research health topics, understand and visualize information, write computer programs, and more. The workshop includes hands-on practice with popular AI applications. Perfect for adults who want to leverage technology to maintain an active, interconnected, and informed lifestyle. No technical background needed—just bring your smartphone or tablet and your curiosity. Small class size ensures personal attention and plenty of time for questions. The same course will also be taught on September 23.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Larry Deschaine will guide you to the practical world of Artificial Intelligence. As team Lead for Data Science in the Savannah River National Laboratory, Dr. Deschaine brings over 40 years of real-world expertise in making complex technology accessible and practical for everyday life. His expertise and approachable teaching style will ensure you walk away with valuable, immediately applicable skills. Join us for this unique opportunity to learn from a leading expert who understands how to make technology work for you.

Theory of Generations

Meets: Wednesday
Date(s): Oct 1
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: This short course explores Strauss and Howe's Generational Theory, offering participants insight into recurring generational cycles. Through development of a generational framework rooted in historical epochs, participants will examine how generational archetypes are both product and producer of history and societal change. This course highlights key generational eras with a focus on Baby Boomers, Silent, Gen X and Millennials. Participants will better understand generational dynamics and anticipate future societal trends.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Phillip B. Bridgmon is the Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the University of South Carolina Aiken (USCA), a role he began on July 1, 2024. Before joining USCA, he served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at the University of Central Missouri. He earned his Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Alabama and has completed specialized studies at Harvard, Cornell, and the University of Michigan.

History and Current Status of the Wild American Mustang

Meets: 4 Wednesdays
Date(s): Oct 1, 8, 15, 22
Time: 10/1, 8, 15: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM; 10/22: 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: 10/1, 8, 15: Business & Education Building, Room 144; 10/22: 555 Kimball Pond Rd., Aiken
Class Size Limit: 20
Cost: $12.00
Description: Wild Mustangs of the American West embody the untamed, free spirit and diversity that our great nation was founded on. Their history in America is rich and full. Mustangs are a symbol of freedom and beauty. Their thundering hooves, manes and tails flying in the wind, along with their unmatched attitude and beauty, are found in only 10 of our western states. This course will discuss the history of the American Mustang horse, legislation regarding Mustangs, and the status and issues these beautiful creatures face. The final session of this course will be a field trip to meet Mustangs at Halfway to Heaven Mustang Rescue's farm in Aiken.
Instructor Biography: Lisa Mallory and Bill Finger own Halfway to Heaven Mustang Rescue in Aiken. Lisa manages the horses at the rescue. Meanwhile, Bill runs Finger, Nelson, and Macguire, PLLC, a law firm specializing in Environmental Law. Lisa and Bill are passionate advocates for the Wild Mustangs of the American West.

Unlocking Microsoft Word

Meets: 4 Thursdays
Date(s): Oct 2, 9, 16, 23
Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 15
Cost: $22.00
Description: This course is tailored for participants who want to master Microsoft Word through engaging, hands-on practice. Participants will learn to create, edit, and format documents, making it easier to write letters, create flyers, and manage personal projects. By the end of this course, participants will feel confident using MS Word for various everyday tasks. No prior experience with MS Word is required. This course is ideal for participants who are new to MS Word or want to enhance their document creation skills.
Instructor Biography: Terry Hallman holds a bachelor's degree in education and a master's degree in Instructional Technology. Recently retired from Aiken County Public Schools, Terry boasts a 38-year teaching career. Her teaching experience spans all grade levels, from K-12 to offering professional development technology courses for fellow educators. Terry's approach to education aligns with the inspiring motto: "Ageless Minds, Timeless Learning: Embracing Wisdom in Every Chapter of Life," attributed to an unknown author. "

My Heart's Aflutter

Meets: Friday
Date(s): Oct 3
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: In this course we will review the normal conduction system of the heart and discuss what atrial fibrillation is and what goes wrong when the heartbeat is out of sync. Symptoms and potential complications will be covered as well as available treatment options.
Instructor Biography: Susan Steinbis is a Registered Nurse with a background in critical care and a specialty in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension.

A Journey Through the Dark Ages via Chess Moves

Meets: 5 Fridays
Date(s): Oct 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Time: 12:30 PM – 1:45 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $15.00
Description: Challenge yourself by journeying through little-known facts about the Dark Ages in relation to the game of chess. Examine the reasoning behind assigned movements of Chess pieces by experiencing medieval life. Dare to step into the past - delving into the lifestyles of noble and humble lives alike to see where they are represented on the Chessboard! Who knows what we will discover and uncover! You will gain an understanding of the effect of Chess piece placement inspired by characters in the Dark Ages by immersing yourself in their mindset. Don't be left behind! It's your move! Participants need to bring a chessboard with them to class.
Instructor Biography: Margaret Betaudier has toured the United States in various tournaments and has been an avid chess player and instructor for the past 25+ years. Margaret welcomes newcomers who have always wondered if they could learn to play chess successfully! She has taught for numerous college programs before relocating from New York.

Geology of South Carolina

Meets: 3 Mondays, Saturday
Date(s): Oct 6, 13, 20, 25
Time: 10/6, 13, 20: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM; 10/25: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: 10/6, 13, 20: Business & Education Building, Room 116; 10/25: TBD (Augusta)
Class Size Limit: 40
Cost: $12.00
Description: A major geological boundary, the Fall Line, runs right through Aiken County, separating the Piedmont (very old igneous and metamorphic rocks) from the Coastal Plain (younger sediments, with fossils). This course will be an exploration of the geological processes which shaped South Carolina over the last half-billion years, and how they influenced the human development of the Palmetto State. Field trip: We will make a 3-hour visit to a rock quarry in Augusta to learn the importance of rock quarrying to society, and to see various types of metamorphic rocks, as well as the Augusta Fault, a major boundary between two different geologic terranes. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to the quarry office. A van will be provided for access into the pit. Participants may collect rocks. Participants must be able to walk without a cane or other assistance.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Walt Kubilius is a geologist who has worked professionally in Alaska, New Mexico, Arkansas, and Nova Scotia, before coming to Aiken in 1992. He retired from SRS, where he worked in the fields of hydrology, radiochemistry, and reactor decommissioning. He is president of a local earth science hobby club, the Aiken Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Society.

South Carolina in the Revolutionary War

Meets: 3 Mondays
Date(s): Oct 6, 13, 20
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 122
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $10.00
Description: South Carolina played a pivotal role in the quest for American Independence. Join Instructor Alexia Jones Helsley for a three-week journey through those momentous years. Meet the men and women, black, white & indigenous who fought and died to make the United States a free nation. This course will focus on key military engagements (such as the Battle of Sullivan's Island, Siege of Charlestown, King's Mountain, Cowpens) as well as the final days of British occupation.
Instructor Biography: Alexia Jones Helsley, Senior Instructor in History/University Archivist, worked for the SC Department of Archives and History before coming to USCA. Her recent book, The Lost History of Aiken, covers USCA's Banksia beginnings. Recipient of the Governor's Archives Award & a career achievement award from the SC Archival Association, Helsley currently serves on the association's editorial board.

Army Chaplains: A Personal View

Meets: Monday
Date(s): Oct 6
Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: Military Chaplaincy in the US Army- A Personal Story with Stories of True Heroes: I will share my own experience in uniform from 1983-2006. In various Army components on three continents, I will discuss my motivation for enlisting and speak to balancing military and civilian careers. I will also speak about some more notable chaplains, such as the Four Chaplains of the Dorchester, and some of the chaplains who were awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor, including one who is being considered for sainthood in the Roman Catholic Church.
Instructor Biography: Arthur Turfa is a Retired Reservist with Veteran Status with 23 years' service in the National Guard, Army Reserves, and Regular Army. He was on Team Spirit 88 in the Republic of Korea and was also deployed to Germany.

Using the iPhone/iPad Camera

Meets: Monday, Friday
Date(s): Oct 6, 10
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 12
Cost: $18.00
Description: In this course attendees will learn how to make the most of the camera and photo app on their iPhone and iPad, learn to access and use the various camera controls and settings for photos and video and then how to view them. Attendees will also learn how to use the photo app to edit photos or videos. Attendees must bring their own device to the class along with their Apple ID and Password with them. Knowledge of iPad or iPhone is required.
Instructor Biography: Bob Hood holds a BA degree from Franklin & Marshall College and completed the Executive MBA program at the University of Pittsburgh. He has designed and taught computer network courses and also ran his own technology consulting practice where he designed, installed, and managed computer networks, infrastructure and training for small business and non-profit clients. He has been with the Center's Tech Section for six years.

Line Dancing

Meets: 6 Mondays
Date(s): Oct 6, 13, 20, 27, Nov 3, 10
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Aiken County Shrine Club, 1526 Columbia Hwy N, Aiken
Class Size Limit: 45
Cost: $18.00
Description: Line dancing is a choreographed dance with a repeated sequence of steps in which a group of people dance in one or more lines or rows without regard for partnering, all executing the steps at the same time. Lessons begin with basic steps, broken down and taught slowly for beginners and progress to more intermediate dances. A new dance is taught each week and dances learned in previous weeks are reviewed. Line dancing provides good exercise and is great food for the heart and brain as well as a way to meet new friends. Come out and join the fun.
Instructor Biography: Brenda Taylor is a lifetime resident of Aiken; an active lifetime member and past president of CSRA Shag Club Aiken-Augusta; a line dance and Carolina shag instructor; a member of SOS in North Myrtle Beach, SC for over 30 years. She teaches and attends club events all over the South.

Picasa Photo Editing

Meets: Tuesday
Date(s): Oct 7
Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 8
Cost: $15.00
Description: Picasa is a free program to be used for organizing and editing photos taken with a digital camera or an Android cell phone. It cannot be used on Apple computers or photos taken with Apple products. Google no longer provides support for this program; however, it is still in use by millions of enthusiasts to organize and edit their photos. Google support is not necessary. Attendees will be given a thumb drive with the program to be installed on their home computer. Once installed on your computer, it automatically finds all the photos on your computer and organizes them by date. You will learn a simple four-step process that allows you to quickly correct most of the common problems with most candid photos and you will be able to easily find photos taken even years ago.
Instructor Biography: Douglas Leader graduated with a BS in mechanical engineering from the University of Illinois. He worked his entire career at what is now the Savanah River Site, starting in the Reactor Technology Dept. and finally retiring from the Savannah River National Laboratory. He is a life member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Doug's interest in photography started when he was very young. For many years he had his own darkroom for developing and printing black and white photographs. He has been with the Center's Tech Section since 2010 and has coached and taught sessions in Picasa and Photoshop.

Using iCloud with iPhone/iPad

Meets: Thursday
Date(s): Oct 9
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 12
Cost: $15.00
Description: Having trouble making sense of the iCloud? In this course attendees will investigate syncing their iPad/iPhone to other devices and backing up their devices using iCloud for photo-management, as well as looking at other non-Apple cloud storage choices. Attendees must bring their devices and have their Apple ID and Apple password with them. iPhone 101 or equivalent knowledge is a prerequisite.
Instructor Biography: Bob Hood holds a BA degree from Franklin & Marshall College and completed the Executive MBA program at the University of Pittsburgh. He has designed and taught computer network courses and also ran his own technology consulting practice where he designed, installed, and managed computer networks, infrastructure and training for small business and non-profit clients. He has been with the Center's Tech Section for six years.

Growing Fruit at Home

Meets: 4 Thursdays
Date(s): Oct 9, 16, 23, 30
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $12.00
Description: In this course, we will discuss growing fruit at your home in the Central Savannah River Area.
Session 1: Grafted fruit trees such as apples, pears, Asian pears, peaches, nectarines, plums, and plumcots.
Session 2: Small fruit such as blackberries, blueberries, juneberries, goumis, muscadines, mulberries, etc.
Session 3: Controlling fruit pests and other problems, including spraying, fertilizing, and pruning.
Session 4: Tropical fruit such as short-cycle bananas, pawpaws, feijoas, Pindo palms, very cold-hardy citrus, figs, loquats, fuzzy kiwis, pomegranates, and non-astringent persimmons.
Instructor Biography: Brent Ruggles has made many presentations on fruit growing and is the author of the book, Teachings of the Fruit Docta: Growing Fruit in the CSRA. In his yard, he is currently growing apples, pears, peaches, figs, many types of berries, pomegranates, goumis, mandarin oranges, persimmons, and muscadine grapes.

Wading Birds of South Carolina

Meets: Friday
Date(s): Oct 10
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: This course will be a visual journey to discover the fabulous wading birds of South Carolina. From reclusive Least Bitterns to the stately Great Blue Heron, this course will cover many species, individual feeding habits, interesting facts, and tips to help you identify these beautiful birds.
Instructor Biography: Liz Malyszek is a certified Florida Master Naturalist and a hobbyist nature photographer. She has lectured for University of South Florida OLLIE in Tampa, FL, and was a University of Florida Extension Florida Master Naturalist Instructor prior to relocating to Aiken. Liz was also a Nature Guide in Florida for over 15 years.

Using Android Devices

Meets: 2 Mondays
Date(s): Oct 13, 20
Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 17
Cost: $18.00
Description: Android phones are five times more numerous than iPhones in the world, and with a 2-1 advantage in this country. Android devices are manufactured and sold by many companies all over the world because the Android operating system is not proprietary. This course will help attendees navigate the sometimes-confusing settings and app functions of Androids. Also, attendees will learn about some of the most popular apps for the Android. Attendees must bring their Android phones or tablets with them to the class. Attendees should also have their passwords that allow them to download apps, if their Android devices require passwords.
Instructor Biography: Dennis Harkins was a teacher and technology specialist in schools in Pennsylvania for over 30 years. He was also an adjunct professor at Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia. He was also a member of the Philadelphia Area Computer Society. He has been with the Center's Tech Section for more than 15 years.

How to Use OneDrive

Meets: Tuesday
Date(s): Oct 14
Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 8
Cost: $15.00
Description: OneDrive is one of Microsoft's most powerful yet often not well understood computer technologies. OneDrive is a file hosting service based on the cloud storage model. The free service allows users to access the file over the internet from any computer or phone. Topics to be covered include: file access anywhere, free storage, no accidental deletes, extra security, and automatic backups.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Russ Beckmeyer received his PhD from the University of Missouri. Dr. Beckmeyer has more than 50 years of applied computer technology experience: micro-computers, super-computers, networks, software, and computer security. After an extensive career at the Savannah River Site, he spent the last 5 years of his professional career as an engineering director for two different small nuclear reactors. Dr. Beckmeyer has been with the Center's Tech Section since 2018.

The 45: How Not to Restore the Stuarts

Meets: Tuesday
Date(s): Oct 14
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: Previous Jacobite attempts to restore the House of Stuart failed. The 1745 Rising, led by Prince Charles Stuart, came the closest to usurping the House of Hanover from the throne. An army of Highlanders, Lowlanders, and some English Jacobites came within 100 miles of London. After defeat at the Culloden in April 1746, Prince Charles was forced into hiding and George II never faced another threat to his reign. Things did not have to end this way for Charles. While some things were beyond his control, nevertheless at critical junctures, he made wrong decisions. We will never know what the outcome would have been, but we will see that all roads did not lead to Culloden.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Arthur Turfa holds a master's in history from Binghamton University. A Retired Reservist with Veteran Status, he has taught military history classes, and taught History as an adjunct at several post-secondary institutions in Pennsylvania. From his other studies and courses offered, he is eminently equipped to address the issues surrounding the 1745 Rising and Jacobinism.

Pieces of Eight

Meets: 2 Tuesdays
Date(s): Oct 14, 21
Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $8.00
Description: Silver 8 Reales coins were the mainstay of the Spanish Colonial Realm. Popularized by Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island, pieces of eight spread throughout the Americas through Caribbean trade, Asia, and exportation of wealth to Spain and Europe. Treasure ships were targets for pirates and victims of storms. Sunken treasure discoveries yield these types of coins. The history timeline of the Spanish conquest of Central and South America, silver mining, and mint establishment will be traced. The making of cob and milled coins of shield, pillar, and bust types took place over a period of 250 years. They were accepted as legal US tender until 1857!
Instructor Biography: Chuck Goergen earned a BS in Chemistry from the University of Detroit. He spent his career of over 40 years at the Savannah River Site working with nuclear materials in laboratories, production, engineering, and projects in numerous facilities across the site. He spent a year on loan to the DOE Office of Nuclear Weapons and has interfaced with many DOE sites and liaised with IAEA. His international work took him to Japan, Austria, the UK, and Russia. He enjoys ancient and military history as well as coin collecting.

Introduction to Meditation

Meets: 2 Wednesdays
Date(s): Oct 15, 22
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: 20
Cost: $8.00
Description: Meditation is known to decrease anxiety and stress, and to lower blood pressure. In this course, we will practice breathing exercises, exercises for stress reduction and engage in a meditation session at the end of class.
Instructor Biography: Sharon Preston believes meditation is a time to quiet the mind. This provides one with a sense of calm throughout the day. She has been leading guided meditation groups for several years.

Using MacBooks and iMacs

Meets: 3 Wednesdays
Date(s): Oct 15, 22, 29
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 12
Cost: $20.00
Description: Moving from a Microsoft Windows computer to an Apple MacBook laptop or Apple iMac computer can be tricky. This course is designed to help attendees get familiar with the many features available on those Apple computers. An introduction to Pages, Apple's answer to Microsoft's Word, is included. For those who do not have an Apple laptop computer, the Center has four Apple iMac computers that are available on a first-come-first served basis. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own Apple MacBook laptops. A flash drive is required for this course.
Instructor Biography: Patricia Pluff has a bachelor's degree from Southern Connecticut University and a master's degree in computer science from Kent State University. She is retired and uses her computer skills for volunteer work with the Center for Lifelong Learning and her local community. Wayne Rickman has a master's degree in computer management and has been an instructor with the Center's Tech Section for 20 years. He is a retired U. S. Navy (Nuclear Submarine) officer. Darrell Pluff has a bachelor's degree and post graduate work from San Diego State University for teaching certification. He is a retired business education instructor who has taught at the high school and college level in the United States and Australia. He has been with the Center's Technology Section for over nine years.

Dining Out In Aiken: The Highs and Lows

Meets: 2 Thursdays
Date(s): Oct 16, 23
Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Etherredge Center, O'Connell Theater
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $8.00
Description: In this course, we will take a restaurant-by-restaurant look at Aiken's restaurant scene. Restaurants that are romantic, fashionable, practical, boring, exciting, delicious, and horrible. What's new, what's gone, what's great, what's needed. Highlights and low points of the last 10 years. What is currently trendy? What do we have to look forward to?
Instructor Biography: Michael Stern has written over 40 books about food & popular culture. Michael and his former wife, Jane Stern, wrote for Gourmet Magazine for 17 years. Their monthly column won three James Beard journalism awards. From 2021 to 2024, Michael wrote a weekly restaurant review, "Taste of the Town," for The Aiken Standard.

Street Names of Aiken

Meets: 3 Fridays
Date(s): Oct 17, 24, 31
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $10.00
Description: The city of Aiken has interesting street names and through this course you will learn how some streets were named. You'll discover for whom or what they were named and whether some of the existing streets still follow their original path.
Instructor Biography: Marty Bailey was born and raised in Texas, moving to Aiken when she married her husband, a true Aikenite. Volunteering at the train museum and the county historic museum, she learned about and fell in love with Aiken, opening up her own private touring service to share Aiken's rich history with her patrons.

The Erie Canal

Meets: 2 Fridays
Date(s): Oct 17, 24
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Penland Administration Building, Room 106
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $8.00
Description: Celebrating the 200th anniversary of the completion of The Erie Canal. At the time, it was one of the longest canals in the world. It was the Erie Canal that made New York State, the Empire State, and New York City the biggest in the country. New York City is what it is today because of the canal. Getting the canal started, murder, and a group of interesting events took place during the building. THE WEDDING OF THE WATERS brought together Lake Erie and the Atlantic Ocean, Buffalo to New York City, and the opening of the Midwest.
Instructor Biography: John Karas is a graduate of The University of Toledo and has taught at Harper College in Illinois. His lifelong interest in history led him to become a member of the 250 Committee preparing and educating about the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.

What's New in the Nuclear Fusion Industry?

Meets: 2 Mondays
Date(s): Oct 20, 27
Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $8.00
Description: Scientific and technological advancements continue to be made providing encouragement that fusion power plants are getting closer to implementation. A brief review of nuclear fusion science will be provided along with a discussion of major advancements achieved over the past several years. Several of the fusion companies representing a cross-section of popular fusion technologies will be highlighted with discussions of their concepts and progress.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Fred Beranek started work at the Savannah River Laboratory in 1978 after receiving his PhD from the University of Wisconsin. He has worked at the Savannah River Site (Site Chief Engineer), Hanford Site, UK Sellafield Site, and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories. He currently serves as the Director of Engineering for Fluor Nuclear Power.

Witches, Vampires, and Superstitions in the Early-Modern Age (1500-1800)

Meets: Tuesday, Thursday
Date(s): Oct 21, 23
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Penland Administration Building, Room 106
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $8.00
Description: Two of the most widespread episodes of public hysteria in Europe were associated with the great witch craze and the vampire hunts of the 16th and 17th centuries. Witches were persons (most often old women) who allegedly made a pact with the devil and were accused of blaspheming against God, doing harm to their neighbors, eating children, destroying livestock, spreading disease, and engaging in sex orgies with demons and were responsible for other mischief through their satanic rituals. The folkloric vampires, meanwhile, were deceased local persons who often died violently or mysteriously and were thought to have risen from the dead. Like the witch, vampires were blamed for bringing plagues and death to their former communities—in some cases killing by sucking the blood of victims—and haunting neighbors. The belief in witches and vampires provided early-modern Europeans with explanations for fairly common misfortunes that could not be explained by the science of the time. The retributions Europeans exacted against witches (often burning) and vampires (often staking) provided these pre-industrial peoples with solutions to their supernatural and real problems. In this two-session course, we will explore why many preindustrial people believed in witches and vampires. We will account for the differences between the fictional and folkloric, or "real," witch and vampire. We will investigate how early-modern people and the authorities confronted and dispatched suspected witches and vampires. Finally, we will account for why the beliefs in these supernatural beings gradually subsided during the eighteenth century.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Daniel Heimmermann became the fifth Chancellor of the University of South Carolina Aiken on July 1, 2021. Originally from Wisconsin, Chancellor Heimmermann received undergraduate degrees in history and Spanish before earning an MA and PhD in early-modern French history from Marquette University. Before coming to USC Aiken, Dr. Heimmermann served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at the University of Texas Permian Basin where he ranked as the most senior chief academic officer in the University of Texas System. A historian of early-modern France, Dr. Heimmermann has taught undergraduate and graduate courses in early-modern European history and the French Revolution and Napoleonic periods. His scholarly work has been presented at both national and international conferences on French and European history, and his research has been published in academic articles and a book.

Cathedrals, Cloisters, and Crypts

Meets: 2 Tuesdays
Date(s): Oct 21, 28
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $8.00
Description: This course provides an overview of the importance of cathedrals in medieval Europe, with a particular focus on medieval Spain. This course will: examine the multiple construction decisions (location, materials, professionals, structure, aesthetics, orientation), inspect the social and economic factors behind cathedrals, study the architectural evolution (Romanic, Gothic, Neogothic), and unfold the less-known stories and mysteries surrounding these massive structures, especially the role of cloisters and the usage of crypts within the medieval rhetoric of power and representation. The main objective is to learn how buildings can speak to us.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Angel Rañales is Assistant Professor in the Department of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures at USC Aiken. His research expertise focuses on medieval studies, with special attention to book history and visual culture. He teaches courses on Spanish language, culture, and literature.

Basics of Nuclear Medicine

Meets: Tuesday
Date(s): Oct 21
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:15 PM
Location: RPSEC, Room 117
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: This course will provide attendees with a broad and basic understanding of nuclear medicine technology and techniques. Attendees will learn the foundational principles of nuclear medicine instrumentation, patient care, diagnostic imaging, and therapeutic procedures. In addition to radiation safety considerations, radiopharmaceutical design and use will be discussed. An engaging and active learning environment will help reinforce the nuclear medicine topics discussed.
Instructor Biography: Amy Yarshen, Certified Nuclear Medicine Technologist, Associate Professor, and Nuclear Medicine Program Director at Augusta University has 20 years' experience providing patient care in the hospital setting, 17 years directing and delivering nuclear medicine educational content in the classroom, and 15 years leading accreditation efforts as a JRCNMT site evaluator.

Current Political Events

Meets: 4 Wednesdays
Date(s): Oct 22, 29, Nov 5, 12
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $12.00
Description: Understanding our current political realities is difficult and requires understanding the complex interplay of political power.
Session 1: Overview of separation of powers, delegated powers, and how our political system is designed to work.
Sessions 2-4: Will discuss current events within our political framework as chosen by the instructor and attendees.
This course will provide attendees with an understanding of these topics from a broad historical and legal perspective. All political viewpoints are welcome; classmates holding various viewpoints should be respected.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Allison Hamilton has worked on elections and has taught political science courses for over 20 years. She is currently the executive director of Citizens for Nuclear Technology Awareness in Aiken, SC, and teaches political science for Middle Georgia State University. Dr. Hamilton has a doctorate in Political Science from the University of Iowa.

The Battle of Trafalgar

Meets: Wednesday
Date(s): Oct 22
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: Trafalgar, whose 220th anniversary occurs this year, was the second of three famous victories that safeguarded Great Britain from invasion. Shakespeare's "sceptered isle", with smaller territory and fewer natural resources than some major rivals, wound up as the 19th century's greatest superpower. And it was Nelson's mortal triumph that made it so. This course will focus on how Britannia came to rule the waves.
Instructor Biography: Steve Gordy is an active volunteer. After his retirement from the Savannah River Site and Piedmont Technical College, he took up creative writing and volunteer work, which led him to the Center for Lifelong Learning. He has taught numerous courses for the Center and hopes to continue being actively involved for years to come.

Smart Home Solutions

Meets: Monday
Date(s): Oct 27
Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 20
Cost: $15.00
Description: Are you intrigued by the idea of a smart home? You might be curious about what exactly a smart home entails. Whether you are interested in enhancing security, optimizing energy usage, or simply making daily life more convenient, our comprehensive course has you covered. You will learn what a smart home is and how it works. We will explore the most common smart home features, including voice assistants, smart lighting, security cameras, and more.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Russ Beckmeyer received his PhD from the University of Missouri. Dr. Beckmeyer has more than 50 years of applied computer technology experience: micro-computers, super-computers, networks, software, and computer security. After an extensive career at the Savannah River Site, he spent the last 5 years of his professional career as an engineering director for two different small nuclear reactors. Dr. Beckmeyer has been with the Center's Tech Section since 2018.

Loyalists in the American Revolution

Meets: Monday
Date(s): Oct 27
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: Loyalist Colonials are the "dirty little secret" of the American Revolution. Estimates vary, but around 25% of the White population of the Colonies remained loyal to Britain with around 19,000 carrying arms. We will examine the reasons why some Americans remained loyal to the Crown and identify regions which were strongly Loyalist. In addition, we will look at what groups tended to be loyal to Britain, and how Loyalists sought support from enslaved Blacks and allied with Native American groups. A few of the prominent Loyalists will be mentioned, with special attention being paid to South Carolina and the other Southern colonies.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Arthur Turfa holds an MA in history from Binghamton University. A retired Lieutenant Colonel in the USAR, he has long been fascinated with US Colonial History in the 18th Century. As an adjunct instructor, he has around 40 courses at two- and four-year schools in PA and SC, in history, English, religion, and German.

Apple Help Lab (Section B)

Meets: Tuesday
Date(s): Oct 28
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 238F
Class Size Limit: 20
Cost: $5.00
Description: Your Questions Answered! Don't need a full course? Join our Apple Help session! This is a flexible Q&A format where you can get personalized assistance with any Apple product. Our Apple course instructors will be on hand to answer your questions. Feel free to drop in, get the help you need, and share experiences with fellow Apple users. No set presentations, just helpful answers. Registration required.
Instructor Biography: Wayne Rickman has a master's degree in computer management and has been an instructor with the Center's Tech Section for 20 years. He is a retired U. S. Navy (Nuclear Submarine) officer.

Fight Back Against Computer/Tech Scams

Meets: Tuesday
Date(s): Oct 28
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $15.00
Description: Attendees will learn how to defend themselves against a growing spectrum of scams that are targeting individual users more than ever before. Anti-viruses, firewalls, and modern security tools are no match for the evolving landscape of sophisticated phishing campaigns and fraud attempts that target a wide variety of devices and services. The hackers are becoming more sophisticated as they become richer. The average scam is between $500 and $2,500, but there are cases where the amounts scammed were tens of thousands of dollars with no hope of recovery. All techniques presented in this class are identified in real work situations gathered from real cases.
Instructor Biography: Gabriel Lemnaru has 20 years of hands-on experience in the computer and network security field. He has a Master of Science Degree in Information Security and Assurance. He is a Certified Ethical Hacker; Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator; a Cisco Certified Network and a Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate, also recognized with the formal NSA and CNSS 4011 Certification.

Virtual Tour of Aiken County

Meets: 3 Wednesdays
Date(s): Oct 29, Nov 5, 12
Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Penland Administration Building, Room 106
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $10.00
Description: Take a virtual tour of Aiken County, learning about other towns such as North Augusta, Montmorenci, Salley, Wagener, and many more. You'll learn their history and interesting tidbits that make them special towns even today.
Instructor Biography: Marty Bailey was born and raised in Texas, moving to Aiken when she married her husband, a true Aikenite. Volunteering at the train museum and the county historic museum, she learned about and fell in love with Aiken, opening up her own private touring service to share Aiken's rich history with her patrons.

Research Innovation - SRNL

Meets: 3 Wednesdays
Date(s): Oct 29, Nov 5, 12
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $10.00
Description: Savannah River National Laboratory performs research and development to provide solutions addressing mission needs for the Department of Energy and the National Nuclear Security Administration. Unique technical challenges associated with environmental management risk reduction and national security often require large teams with unique expertise and deep understanding of nuclear materials, processes, and their associated challenges. This course will highlight three areas of interest to the DOE/NNSA which require unique technical solutions to complex challenges. Each area of need will be identified along with approaches the laboratory takes to respond to the technical challenge with applied solutions.
Session 1: Artificial Intelligence Applications: Opportunities for artificial intelligence to advance the technology and development.
Session 2: Advanced Manufacturing Capabilities: Exploration of advanced manufacturing techniques and breakthroughs to drive advances in the Department of Energy mission.
Session 3: Developments in Materials Science: A review of developments in materials synthesis and testing capabilities to yield solutions via advanced materials performance.
Instructor Biography: E.N. Hoffman has worked at SRNL for over 15 years with a background in materials science and engineering. She is currently the Director of Innovation and University Engagement. For each session, E.N. Hoffman will be joined by a different subject matter expert and early career researchers in the area of discussion.

How to Read a Company's Financial Statements

Meets: 2 Thursdays
Date(s): Oct 30, Nov 6
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $8.00
Description: This course is a short primer on how to obtain, read and understand a public company's financial statements. Perhaps you are thinking of investing in the company, or have already invested and wonder how they're doing, or are just curious because a friend or family member works there. While no substitute for a full college course, our two sessions should provide you with many tools and insights. Attendees are welcome to bring a device (smart phone, tablet or laptop) that can access the internet to follow along with the web searches being demonstrated during the lectures.
Instructor Biography: Laura Roden is a Professor Emeritus of Accounting & Finance at San Jose State University where she taught for 21 years before retiring to Aiken. She holds undergraduate and MBA degrees from Harvard University and FINRA Series 7 (securities sales), 65 (investment advisor) and 79 (investment banking) certifications.

Yellowstone National Park

Meets: Thursday
Date(s): Oct 30
Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: This course will explore the unique circumstances which lead to the discovery and preservation of this unique and magical place and the creation of the First National Park in the world. We will discuss the early struggles to save this resource and the ongoing threats to its continued preservation, including the role of the Federal Judiciary in this process.
Instructor Biography: Mark Carman graduated from Colorado State University in Wildland Hydrology and obtained his law degree from the University of Wyoming in 1981. He was a litigation attorney practicing in many western states until his appointment to the Federal Bench in 2013 with his primary chambers located in Yellowstone National Park where he presided over cases arising within Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park and the vast federal lands of Western Wyoming.

The Story of Aiken: A Tale in Three Parts

Meets: 3 Mondays
Date(s): Nov 3, 10, 17
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 116
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $10.00
Description: Aiken has had a remarkable history, a story that can be told in three parts: a backwoods rail depot became a tourist destination, a tourist destination survived the Great Depression, and war changed everything. By the time we are finished, you will know stories of fascinating characters and understand a little better the Aiken we enjoy today.
Instructor Biography: Linda Johnson is an engineer with a life-long passion for history. She is a researcher, lecturer, and tour guide for the Aiken County Historical Museum, and provides community lectures on topics like Aiken's Winter Colony history, Aiken's churches, and more. She is also President of the Historic Aiken Foundation supporting its mission to preserve Aiken's historic resources.

History in Headstones: Jewish Changemakers

Meets: 3 Mondays
Date(s): Nov 3, 10, 17
Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $10.00
Description: L'chaim…"To Life!" From GI Jews to Jewish composers of the best-loved Christmas music, History in Headstones looks at the rich lives of Jewish contributors to American culture. Who was the legendary Jewish magician and escape artist? Look up in the sky, it's the superheroes created by Jewish scriptwriters and illustrators. Soft drinks, scientists, actors, and musicians will be featured in this series that looks at the popular past through the lens of the headstones of people involved. Join us for the final art, epitaphs, stories, and symbolism of Jewish Change Makers.
Instructor Biography: Jeanmarie Bronson is a longtime member of Civil War Round Tables, the Clearfield (PA) Historical Society, the Lincoln Forum (Gettysburg), the Association of Gravestone Studies and other historical organizations. Prior to an interest in the American Civil War, she started studying the geography, society, and symbolism in cemeteries and the lives that make up the history of an era.

Brain and Body Fitness–Advanced

Meets: 3 Tuesdays
Date(s): Nov 4, 11, 18
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:45 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: 22
Cost: $10.00
Description: This advanced course is designed for those who have taken a previous Brain and Body Fitness course. It focuses on fall prevention/balance and breathing techniques. A foot workshop and body brushing techniques will be incorporated.
Instructor Biography: Carol Gerson is a Certified Ageless Grace Educator. She has been passionate about the subject of fitness and wellness all her life. Carol is proud to educate individuals about the benefits of staying functionally active and healthy. Managing the care of incapacitated parents for 21 years gives her a unique awareness of the medical and social challenges of living a long life.

US-China Trade War: Why Did it Happen and How Will it End

Meets: Tuesday
Date(s): Nov 4
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Penland Administration Building, Room 106
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: This course provides an in-depth discussion of the US-China trade war, a pivotal economic and geopolitical conflict that is reshaping global trade dynamics today. We will examine the origins, key events, economic impacts, and broader implications of the trade war, analyzing its role in US-China relations and its effects on global markets, supply chains, and international diplomacy. Origins of the conflict since China's accession into the WTO, geopolitical stakes, and prospects for escalation, de-escalation or further conflict will also be discussed. Insights into the interplay of economics and power, great power competition, and evolving trade norms will also be discussed.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Frank Tian Xie is the John M. Olin Palmetto Professor of Business and Professor of Marketing at USC Aiken. Dr. Xie currently teaches business statistics, international marketing, quantitative tools of business analysis (MBA level), advertising, marketing research, and sales management. Originally from China, Dr. Xie is an expert on Chinese affairs and author of Dragon's Vault, a book on Chinese business and economy. Dr. Xie has been an avid Falun Dafa practitioner for 24 years.

Best of New Zealand and Fiji

Meets: Wednesday
Date(s): Nov 5
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: This talk starts with some scenes from our departure site, Los Angeles. Once in New Zealand, we will visit the cities of Auckland and Rotorua in the North Island. We then fly to the South Island where we see Queenstown, Arrowtown, and Franz Joseph Glacier. We finish the New Zealand portion with a final stop at Christchurch. This talk concludes with a visit to the island of Fiji.
Instructor Biography: Bob Hartung taught mathematics and coached various sports for 32 years at Port Clinton High School on the shores of Lake Erie. He and his wife Nancy have traveled to 67 countries around the world. He has presented various travelogue talks to civic and fraternal organizations, nursing homes and veterans' groups in Ohio.

Incidental Experts: Developing Information Literacy Skills Through Hobbies and Special Interests

Meets: Thursday
Date(s): Nov 6
Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: Expertise is built by gaining in-depth knowledge of a subject. While expertise is mostly associated with careers or academics, people can develop expertise through other things like hobbies, special interests, or being enthusiastic fans of something. In this session, we'll discuss how people actively involved in hobbyist or fandom communities can develop a sort of expertise that makes them aware of the nature of information and misinformation found online. This realization can be used as a starting point for helping people to develop practical information literacy skills.
Instructor Biography: Brandy Horne is the head of instruction and reference at USCA's Gregg-Graniteville Library. Her research interests include information seeking motivation/behavior and how this impacts civil discourse; trends in book challenges/bans and censorship; and information literacy instruction. Prof. Horne has an MLIS from Valdosta State University and has been at USCA since 2012.

Making your own Wine Vinegar

Meets: Friday
Date(s): Nov 7
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: Learn how to make your own red wine, white wine and balsamic vinegar with minimum effort and delicious results. Home-made vinegar tastes so much better than store-bought and is an all-natural product created by a simple organic process, no chemicals added. And it's a great use of leftover or disappointing wine. We'll discuss all aspects of making wine vinegar including sourcing ingredients, recommended equipment, tips for fermentation, aging and bottling, and suggested uses.
Instructor Biography: Laura Roden is a Professor Emeritus of Accounting & Finance at San Jose State University where she taught for 21 years before retiring to Aiken. She holds undergraduate and MBA degrees from Harvard University and FINRA Series 7 (securities sales), 65 (investment advisor) and 79 (investment banking) certifications.

Advanced Computer/Tech Scams

Meets: Tuesday
Date(s): Nov 11
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $15.00
Description: This course is designed for those who want to learn more about modern scams that target the digital frontier of the 21st Century. No matter how advanced or new you are with technology, you will have a lot to learn from this class. Knowledge is power when it comes to technology and keeping your digital assets safe online. The next few years will bring more technology into our lives and there will be no shortage of advanced scams that target the users. Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be better leveraged by hackers and scammers rather than the security tools developed to keep us safe. Learn how to protect yourself and rest better at night. Intermediate knowledge of computers and technology is desired for attendees in this class but is not required.
Instructor Biography: Gabriel Lemnaru has 20 years of hands-on experience in the computer and network security field. He has a Master of Science Degree in Information Security and Assurance. He is a Certified Ethical Hacker; Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator; a Cisco Certified Network and a Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate, also recognized with the formal NSA and CNSS 4011 Certification.

Essential End of Life Preparation

Meets: 2 Thursdays
Date(s): Nov 13, 20
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $8.00
Description: This course is designed to help participants understand and prepare the essential documents and financial information needed when facing the death of a spouse, loved one, or themselves. Attendees will learn practical steps for navigating the complex processes involved, including creating an In Case of Emergency or Death (ICeD) binder. The binder acts as a comprehensive guide, providing vital information to assist spouses or family members in the event of sudden death, illness, or injury, ensuring a smoother transition during challenging times.
Instructor Biography: Cheryl Murga, BA, MS is a retired educator living a zen life in Aiken. She strives to support the common good and local community through outreach and enrichment programs. Her early career as a paralegal working with wills, estate planning, lots of research and her own personal loss of loved ones provides the knowledge for being prepared when someone you love dies.

Freaky & Fabulous Fungi

Meets: Friday
Date(s): Nov 14
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: Enter the strange and unusual world of fungi. Some stink, some look like they are bleeding, some look like ears, and some are extremely toxic. Where do they come from? Why are they important? You will learn what criteria experts use to identify different fungi, why you should not forage mushrooms on your own, and how the mycelium network supports the health of ecosystems.
Instructor Biography: Dr. Lisa Ennis is an avid gardener with an affinity for native plants and their role in nature. She has a Certificate in Native Plant Studies from the Birmingham (Alabama) Botanical Gardens and completed the Alabama Extension's Master Gardener course in 2012. She is currently the Dean of the Gregg-Graniteville Library at USCA and holds several academic degrees and honors. She is often found outside gardening, sketching, or playing with her three rescue pups.

Jerusalem Travelogue

Meets: Friday
Date(s): Nov 14
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Location: Business & Education Building, Room 144
Class Size Limit: None
Cost: $5.00
Description: Journey back with me to the religious and historical epicenter of the world, Jerusalem. Together we will retrace Jesus' final steps through Jerusalem through pictures taken while walking the Via Dolorosa, also known as the "Way of Suffering". This route traces the path Jesus walked from his condemnation to his crucifixion.
Instructor Biography: Susan Steinbis has been an avid traveler for most of her life. She has traveled to almost all US states as well as many countries. This trip to Israel was one of her favorites.