Learn for the love of it! A variety of interesting classes are offered throughout the year for adults who enjoy the fun and excitement of learning new things. We offer classes in diverse areas such as history, science, nature, music, current events and places of interest in the Big Bend region. Discover something new, plan your next trip, or an amazing meal.
For questions about Lifelong Learning classes,
Contact Emily Starnes: email Emily.Starnes@talgov.com phone 850-891-4017
“Med Instead of Meds” Healthy Eating Workshop w/ catered Mediterranean Lunch
Monday, November 24, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
An educational, edible workshop to learn more about the Mediterranean diet – a healthy, delicious, and satisfying style of eating that promotes better health and decreases the risk of many chronic diseases. Learn about simple ways to prepare meals and enjoy a catered lunch. Taught by Amy Mullins, PhD, RDN, Family & Consumer Sciences Agent, University of Florida IFAS Extension – Leon County. Fee $20; Located in TSC Dining Room
Shanghai, an Unlikely Refuge for Jews Escaping the Holocaust
Monday, November 24, 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
In the 1930s and 1940s, as most countries closed their doors to Jewish refugees, the free port of Shanghai became an unexpected refuge for about 20,000 Jews fleeing Nazi persecution. Despite overcrowded conditions and Japanese occupation, a resilient community took shape, and most refugees survived the Holocaust and World War II before resettling in other countries, including the U.S., Israel, and Australia. This presentation explores Jewish life in Shanghai during this period, featuring personal stories and the diplomats who helped make escape possible. Presented by Lauren Ray, Volunteer Docent Educator at the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum. Fee $5. Located in TSC Dining Room.
Paper Mache Bird Sculptures
Wednesday, December 3, 10, & 17, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm (3 Week Workshop)
Love birds? Come create a fun paper mache bird with Leslie Cohen. She will teach you to show its own unique personality. Will your bird be ready to migrate or will it be enjoying the Florida’s beaches.
All skill levels, perfect for beginners.
The Art of Kumihimo (Make Your Own Friendship Bracelet)
Friday, December 5, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Kumihimo, meaning “braiding” in Japanese, dates back to 7500 BC. Initially done by hand, it now uses tools like the round loom. In this class, you’ll learn to use an 8-notch homemade loom to create unique friendship bracelets. All supplies are provided, and these reusable looms allow you to teach others this craft.
Paint Your Pet (Or Favorite Animal)
Friday, December 12, December 19, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm (2 Day Workshop)
The instructor talks about the art supplies used, technique and painting theory and starts demonstrating with step-by-step instruction for you to apply on an 8”x10” or 11”x14” canvas; concentrating with more detail to finish one painting in the two-day workshop OR for those of you with more experience, finish two pieces of art in the two days (one each day). In class you’ll paint your pet, friend’s pet or even holiday-related animal (your choice) in your own personal style. You will start with the basic shapes and then add highlights, mid-tones and shadows and finally the details.
December Spring House Tour
Tuesday, December 16, 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
While attending the 1950 World Federalist Conference at Florida Southern College in Lakeland, FL, George and Clifton Lewis of Tallahassee asked Frank Lloyd Wright to design a home for them, saying they “have a lot of children and not much money.” Wright agreed and the couple located a beautiful five-acre parcel on the outskirts of Tallahassee. Mr. Wright completed the plans in 1952 of an unconventional pod-shaped home, described as a passive solar “hemicycle” It took just nine months to build the house in 1954. Take a guided tour of this unique structure which is the only Frank Lloyd Wright designed private home in Florida. Most of the fee from this one-of-a kind tour goes to the restoration of this local treasure. Fee $37.
Holiday Model Trains
Thursday, December 18, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Toy trains are a big part of many of our holiday memories. Come to the TSC and celebrate the holiday season with the Big Bend Model Railroad Association. Four model train layouts, including a Disney set, will be on display in the Tallahassee Senior Center auditorium and members of the club will be available to answer questions. Holiday refreshments will be served. Pre-registration optional. Check ins at the door accepted.
Kids are welcome so bring the grandchildren. $5 donation for adults, kids are free. Located in Tallahassee Senior Center Auditorium.