Horizons education fall session to begin

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

GREENCASTLE -- After a very successful program last spring, Horizons of Putnam County is offering a rich and varied group of new courses for the current fall session.

Founded in 1996 to offer "an adventure in lifelong education," Horizons provides, in a non-traditional format, a variety of courses both academic and non-academic. Horizons strives to offer a broad range of courses, in various formats, which will provide opportunities for participants to expand their own horizons, developing old interests or encountering new ones.

Horizons is a non-profit organization sponsored by the Putnam County Library, Kiwanis and several local churches. Instructors come from many sectors of the community. Some are professional educators, but many -- often the majority -- are not and take part in the program out of their own enthusiasm for the subject and a genuine wish to share this enjoyment with others.

Programs are offered twice each year and are typically about six weeks long with one session per week. At the end of each course, students may evaluate the course and instructor, offering their own impressions of the course and suggestions as to how it might be improved.

There is a fee of $20 for the first course and $15 for each additional course. Additional fees may be required for some courses. These are included in the course description.

Courses for the upcoming session are listed below.

Computer class: Microsoft Word

A class in Microsoft Word, beginning with the basics, and help with more advanced skills for those who know the basics. Maximum 10 students. Instructors are Janice Heavin and Carolyn McKee, technology trainers for Greencastle Community Schools. Six sessions.

Grief relief

Focus on gaining knowledge of the grieving process -- a universal human experience which goes through phases and moves at its own pace -- and our resources for dealing with it. Minimum six students, maximum 12 students. Instructor will be the Rev. Dr. Paul Champion, minister of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and a hospital chaplain with specialty in emergency room and intensive Care ministry. Six sessions beginning Oct. 7.

Intermediate knitting

Learning intermediate knitting skills while creating a product of the student's choice. This class is for those who know how to knit and purl, but would like to expand their knitting skills. Minimum six students, maximum 10 students. Students furnish materials. Instructor is Cathy Walton, winner of champion prizes in knitting at the 2006 and 2007 Putnam County Fair. Six sessions.

Introduction to genealogy research

Learn how to begin doing research, using records, source and the computer. Material cost is $8. Maximum 20 students. Instructor is Margaret Champion, member of the Indiana Genealogical Society and owner/operator of Maggie's Genealogy Service in Greencastle. She has published several books on her subject. Six sessions: Oct. 5, 7, 12, 21, 26 and Nov. 2.

Introduction to Medicare and SHIP program

Learn the differences between Medicare parts A, B, C and D, as well as the different types of Medicare supplemental insurance plans. Course also includes information on annual enrollment periods and explanation of Part B premiums, co-pays, deductibles and prescription assistance. Instructors are Hal and Cindy Little, Putnam County SHIP volunteers. Minimum six students, maximum 12 students. Six sessions starting Oct. 4.

Investing for beginners

Learn the basics of investing, including mutual funds, retirement plans and annuities and life insurance. Instructor is Robert Hardwick of Edward Jones Investments. Four sessions: Oct. 5, 12, 26 and Nov. 2.

The New Testament book of Revelations from an historical approach

The historical settings of the book will be discussed, as well as its early use by the church and its subsequent impact on society, religion and the arts. The course offers an overview rather than an in-depth study. Instructor is Dr. P.T. Wilson, senior pastor at Gobin Memorial Church and chaplain of DePauw University. Five sessions: Oct. 17, 24 and Nov. 7, 14 and 21.

Watercolor painting

Tap into your creative side and have some fun with color and design. Instructor is Barbara Fuson, talented and well-known local artist. A list of necessary supplies is included in the fall course schedule available at the library. These may be purchased at Bright Futures, 12 E. Washington St., Greencastle. Five sessions: Oct. 8, 15, 22, 29 and Nov. 5.

Full descriptions of these courses may be found in the Horizons Fall 2010 Community Education Catalog, which is available at the Putnam County Library.

Students may register in person at the library on Sept. 16 from 4 to 8 p.m. or Sept. 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Students may also register by mail, by mailing the registration form to Horizons of Putnam County, P.O. Box 385, Greencastle, IN 46135. There will be no registration by telephone.

Anyone with questions may call the Putnam County Library at 653-2755 ext. 124.

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