Adult Enrichment Classes

Adult Enrichment

All Spring Adult Enrichment classes will be

IN PERSON, ONLINE, or HYBRID and the

AAPS COVID & Health Guidance will be followed.

Scholarships

Senior Discount

Refund Policy

Just Added! Spring Classes

Retirement Planning Today

Tuesdays

6:00PM - 9:00PM

5/14/24 - 5/21/24

Ages: 18 - Adult. In simple language, Retirement Planning Today® explains time-tested strategies that help you to make informed financial decisions. Whether your objective is to build a nest egg, protect your assets or preserve your lifestyle throughout retirement, this course helps you plan your future with confidence. By attending Retirement Planning Today®, you learn about the many ways to save for retirement as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each. You discover how to save money on taxes, manage investment risks and protect your assets from potential long-term health care expenses. Above all, this course shows you how to assess your financial situation and develop a personalized plan to achieve your retirement goals. This course includes a 223-page illustrated textbook for each participant. Register a second person for only $10! Instructor: Patrick Shope is a financial advisor serving the specific needs of retired and soon to be retired investors. 2 classes.

Retirement Planning Today

Thursdays

6:00PM - 9:00PM

5/9/24 - 5/16/24

Adult/Child: Exploring Clay Together

Sundays

10:00AM - 12:00PM

4/7/24 - 6/23/24

Grades: K - 6th with an Adult. Fee is per pair. Adults and children learn classical techniques of tile making, slab construction, sculpture, press molding, coiling, and glazing. This class is NOT structured in such a way that everyone makes the same thing in each session (i.e. a pinch pot, a bowl, etc.). Each participant will decide on their own projects and the instructor will advise on the best way to construct the piece. Children will not be able to use the wheel in this class. Fee includes glazing and firing of 3-6 medium to large pieces and material costs. Each pair receives one 25lb bag of clay per session. 100% scholarship recipients pay $55 (needed for cost of supplies). Additional clay can be purchased from Rovin Ceramics. Instructor: Mae Huynh. 10 classes. No class 5/26 and 6/2.

Adult Pottery

Sundays

12:00PM - 3:00PM

4/7/24 - 6/23/24

Grades: 10th - Adult. In this open studio format, create pieces to be proud of! Create as many as 4-6 medium to large pieces incorporating techniques such as tile making, slab construction, sculpture, press molding, wheel throwing, coiling, extrusions, and glazing depending on your interests. Some experience is helpful but not required. Class size is limited to allow access to equipment and assistance from the instructor. To maintain a reasonable number of participants in the studio, you may only attend class on the day of the week for which you are registered. Please do not show up to another section if you have missed your scheduled section unless you have contacted the instructor. Fee includes one 25lb bag of clay (either red or white). Full scholarship participants pay $55 to cover materials. Additional clay can be purchased from Rovin Ceramics. Instructor: Mae Huynh. Due to limited space and high demand for this activity, Rec & Ed is unable to offer senior discounts. 10 classes. No class 5/26 and 6/2.

Adult & Child: Exploring Clay Together

Sundays

3:00PM - 5:00PM

4/7/24 - 6/23/24

Adult/Child: Let's Sew Together - Level 2

Sundays

1:30PM - 3:30PM

4/14/24 - 5/19/24

Grades: 1st - 6th with an Adult. This class builds off of the Adult-Child level one class and introduces new skills and fabrics. Students will be given a choice between two projects with the option to complete both if time allows. The backpack project will teach students about zippers, buttons, and 3D shapes, while the knit t-shirt will teach students how to use a standard garment pattern while working with stretch fabrics. Both child and adult are expected to have basic sewing skills, including threading, using seam allowances, and sewing both straight and curved lines. Sewing machines and basic supplies will be provided. Instructor: Elise Blaauw. 6 classes.

Happy Birthday, Ann Arbor!

Theatre History Tour

1:00PM - 2:15PM

Sunday, May 19 ONLY

Grades: 9th - Adult. Ann Arbor has been a center of entertainment since the opening of its first Opera House. In honor of our bicentennial, join us for a walking tour of downtown Ann Arbor that will take us past these former entertainment spots and learn about these long ago movie palaces and the people behind them. Instructor: Patti Smith is an Ann Arbor townie, special education teacher, storyteller and author of Images of America: Downtown Ann Arbor and co-author Forgotten Ann Arbor. and Michigan Beer: A Heady History. 1 class.

Blom Meadworks

Tour & Tasting

12:00PM - 1:00PM

Sunday, June 2 ONLY

Ages: 21 - Adult. At Bløm Meadworks (pronounced “bloom”), we make what we like to call session meads and ciders – they’re light, dry, carbonated, and remarkably sessionable. For our meads, we start with the same ingredients as a traditional mead - honey, water and yeast - which means we can source all of our ingredients from Michigan. Unlike most meads though, we ferment it like a dry craft cider, so the result isn’t nearly as thick or sweet as traditional mead. During this event, you'll learn all about how mead is made, tour the taproom and production area, taste the ingredients and sample two of our current meads and ciders. **Participants must be at least 21 years of age.** Materials fee, $10 (cash or credit card), due to instructors at class. Instructors: Lauren Bloom and Matt Ritchey, owners of Bløm Meadworks. 1 class.

Woodworking with Hand Tools 1

Beginning

Mondays

6:30PM - 8:30PM

4/1/24 - 5/20/24

Adult. Discover the satisfaction that comes from shaping beautiful objects out of wood using just 3 versatile hand tools: the chisel, plane and saw. Learn the craft of woodworking and practice essential techniques that have been handed down through the centuries. The first half covers selection, construction, maintenance and use of all three tools. The second half covers dovetail joinery, which creates a strong, snug fit without nails, glue or screws. Leave this class knowing how to achieve better results with your woodworking projects. Option to work on a simple box or picture frame. No prior woodworking experience necessary. All materials and tools are provided. Instructor: Ken Ray. 8 classes.

French: Level 2 - ONLINE

Mondays

5:00PM - 6:30PM

4/8/24 - 5/6/24

Grades: 10th - Adult. This course is designed for learners who have mastered French Level 1 or for advanced learners who want to further improve their written and spoken French grammar, as well as their vocabulary. Course is taught in nearly 100% of target language with focus on the past, imperfect and conditional tenses. Instructor: Towela Okwudire, French Litl. 5 classes.

Introduction to Tai Chi

Mondays and/or Thursdays

10:00AM-11:15AM (M)

6:00PM-7:15PM (TH)

4/29/24-5/20/24 (M), 5/2/24-5/23/24 (TH)

Adult. Join our Tai Chi community today and embark on a path of self-discovery, strength, and harmony. After finding success in this 4-week introductory class, you will be given the chance to elevate your practice even further by joining us for an additional 8 weeks. We will email you details about the 8-week extension class soon after the 4-week class begins. The studio is located one flight downstairs and there is no elevator available. Instructor: Master Wasentha Young. 4 classes.

Woodworking with Power 101

Tuesdays

6:30PM - 9:00PM

4/2/24 - 6/4/24

Adult. Have you always wanted to try working with wood but were intimidated by the power tools? Learn to safely cut, drill, form and join wood using a variety of power tools. Once comfortable, begin a woodworking project of your choosing and complete it under the guidance of your instructor. Tools and safety goggles provided. Come with ideas for projects or ask the instructor for suggestions. Instructor: Mark Williams. 8 classes. No class 5/7 and 5/14.

French: Level 1

Tuesdays

6:00PM - 7:30PM

4/9/24 - 5/14/24

Grades: 10th - Adult. BEGINNING/INTERMEDIATE. Learn to speak French in this immersive approach to learning world languages. Basic vocabulary, present tense grammar and conversational phrases are studied. Content varies every term so repeat students are welcome. Instructor: TBD. 5 classes. No class 5/7. Required text: Basic French 3rd Edition ISBN-13 978-1264257317

American Sign Language (ASL)

Level 1 - HYBRID

Tuesdays

6:00PM - 7:30PM

4/9/24 - 6/11/24

Grades: 9th - Adult. Sign language vocabulary, finger spelling and grammar are presented to develop conversational signing skills for communicating with individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. Practice conversation fluency and understand cultural aspects that influence American Sign Language (ASL). This class will be offered simultaneously in person and virtually through Zoom. Instructor: Brooke McCully. Materials will be provided in class. 8 classes. No class 4/30 and 5/7.

Adult Pottery

Tuesdays

6:00PM - 9:00PM

4/9/24 - 6/11/24

Sewing 2: Next Steps

Tuesdays

6:30PM - 8:30PM

4/9/24 - 5/28/24

Adult. Now that you know the basics, let’s take the next step! We will tackle several skills that beginners find scary including zippers, buttonholes, working with knits and essential hand stitches. Projects include a zippered pouch, color-blocked t-shirt scarf and tablet/laptop sleeve. Sewing machines and basic supplies will be provided, and all work will be done in class. Please do not bring your own sewing machine. Instructor will provide a materials list at the first class session. Prerequisite: Completion of Beginning Sewing or ability to sew a plain pillowcase. Instructor: Patricia Na. 8 classes.

Adult Ballet

Tuesdays

6:45PM - 8:00PM

4/9/24 - 5/14/24

Adult. An approachable and comprehensive ballet technique class open to beginners and those with prior dance experience. Focus on basic positions, alignment, and terminology while increasing flexibility, balance, and strength. A holistic workout for your body and mind. Instructor: Lisa Dietz. 5 classes. No class 5/7.

Estate Planning Basics

Tuesday

6:00PM - 8:00PM

Tuesday, April 16 ONLY

Adult. Probate, long term care and tax laws are constantly changing. Find out how to prevent your assets from going through probate, how to protect unnecessary taxation, how to retain control of your affairs and how to protect yourself against the costs of long term care. Discover the dangers of using joint accounts and quit claim deeds as estate planning tools. Learn about medical and financial powers of attorney, wills, "Ladybird" deeds and living trusts. Understand how "gifting" can affect you and the recipient, including gift tax laws, capital gains tax laws, as well as eligibility for Medicaid and Veterans benefits. The class will cover recent changes in Michigan's real estate laws, which prevent the reassessment of the taxable value of the property for transfers to family members. Learn about Michigan's "Estate Recovery" law, whereby the State can seek repayment from a person's estate for governmental benefits paid, and ways to prevent that from happening. Attendees receive a Personal Affairs Organizer. Register additional people for only $10 each! Instructor: Christopher Lindsay, Elder Law attorney. 1 class.

iPhone Photography

Tuesday

6:00PM - 8:00PM

Tuesday, April 16 ONLY

Grades: 10th - Adult. Begin to understand the photographic possibilities of your Apple iPhone. In this course we will cover the basic settings in your iPhone, filters that come preinstalled and some of the editing options available. Instructor: Katelend Rosaen is a fine art photographer who has exhibited her art work in multiple countries and has a European Masters of Fine Art Photography; Katelend changes people’s perspective one project at a time. 1 class.

NEW! Basic Insight Meditation

for Mindlful Living

Tuesdays

7:00PM - 8:30PM

4/16/24 - 5/14/24

Grades: 9th - Adult. Mindfulness is a gateway to lasting personal transformation. In this class, develop mindfulness using insight and concentration meditation techniques. The class provides a kind and supportive environment for practicing and discussing these techniques. There is also a strong emphasis on cultivating the open heart as a support to experiencing the full benefits of mindfulness. All are welcome, the class is suitable for beginners and anyone seeking a refresher. Wear comfortable clothing and feel free to bring a pillow to sit on if desired. Instructors: Ken Morely and Karen Mori, Still Mountain Buddhist Meditation Center. 4 classes.

Long Term Care/Medicaid Planning

Tuesday

6:00PM - 8:00PM

Tuesday, April 23 ONLY

Adult. Did you know that 50% of people 65 years or older will spend some time in a nursing home and that it costs $8,000 a month for such care? Because neither health insurance nor Medicare covers these costs, losing your life savings in these situations is a natural fear. Learn about ways to avoid the nursing home, in-home care options, payment options, long term care insurance, life insurance conversions and hybrids, Veteran's and Medicaid benefits, special needs trusts and more. There have been significant changes to the Medicaid and VA rules. Learn how to prevent Medicaid's estate recovery process from impacting your family. Register additional people for only $10 each! Instructor: Christopher Lindsay, Elder Law attorney. 1 class.

NEW! Woodworking with Hand Tools 2

Intermediate

Wednesdays

6:30PM - 8:30PM

4/10/24 - 6/19/24

Adult. Prerequisite: Woodworking with Hand Tools Beginning or instructor approval. This class is designed to build on the skills and techniques used in the hand tools beginner class. With the guidance of our experienced instructor, you will be taken step by step through the process of creating a wooden box and lid made from beautiful North American hardwoods. The project was chosen to teach you the skills and traditional joinery of cutting and properly fitting dovetail joints and hinges using only hand tools. This 10 week course has intentionally small class sizes to ensure that proper attention will be given to each student. Through demonstrations and practice, this class will give you the necessary skills and experience to allow you to design future pieces, such as a jewelry box. Your imagination will be the limit with the knowledge of planes, chisels, saws, and scrapers that you will take away from this class. The spring session project will be a keepsake box with hinges using dovetail construction made from Black Cherry wood with a Walnut lid. The finished size is 13 x 8 x 5 3/8. We’re excited to share the joy of creating usable wooden heirlooms and foster a love of working with your hands and simple tools in a functional way. ALL REQUIRED TOOLS WILL BE PROVIDED! However, if you would like to use your own tools, here is a suggested list: -6” 4R ruler (Imperial/inches) such as the Shinwa brand -3 good quality chisels in 1/4, 3/8 and 3/4 sizes. A suggested brand is the Narex Richter brand -A woodworking marking knife. A suggested brand is the Lee Valley plastic handle model -A 4” saddle square. A suggested brand the the Lee Valley -A low angle block plane -A joinery back saw such as a dovetail saw. ALL participants are required to pay a materials fee of $60 due to the instructor by check or cash on the first day of class. Last day to register will be Monday, March 25th. Instructor: Aaron Landy. 10 classes. No class 5/29.

Bollywood Dance

Wednesdays

7:15PM - 8:15PM

4/17/24 - 6/5/24

Grades: 10th - Adult. Bollywood or South Asian dancing is a colorful, dynamic and theatrical dance style seen in Indian films. It combines the classical form of dance including traditional Indian folk, bharatanatyam, kathak with contemporary western and freestyle. This class is all about dancing your heart out for some rhythms and to feel fresh mentally and physically after the class. Instructor: Seetha Wenner. 8 classes.

Virtual Cinema Club - ONLINE

Wednesdays

7:00PM - 8:30PM

4/24/24 - 5/22/24

Adult. Enjoy cinema from around the globe and absorb some cultural history! Watch a themed series of movies exploring a cinematic style, region or concept, and engage in discussion. Foreign language movies are subtitled. No need to be an expert: everyone is welcome! Stream movies on your own and join an online video conference to discuss. You will need high-speed access to the Internet, an Amazon account (not the Prime service), and devices that will allow you to stream movies and video conferences. Instructor will provide a film schedule before activity begins. Note: registration closes at the end of Friday, 4/19. Instructor: Mark Ziemba, former editor of arts and entertainment magazine Current. 5 classes.

Exploration in Jewelry & Metalsmithing

Thursdays

9:30AM - 12:30PM

4/11/24 - 5/30/24

Grades: 10th - Adult. This beginning and continuing course provides the fundamental techniques for the design and creation of handmade jewelry and small objects. We will explore forms and techniques that will incorporate exploration of the qualities of metal- its ability to be textured, shaped and formed. These experiments will familiarize you with the tools and materials in the studio while creating your own pieces. Starting with a series of copper and silver hollow forms you learn how to size, texture, file, form, and silver solder with an acetylene torch, saw, pierce, drill, oxidize, finish and follow safe studio practices. Your next project may involve fabricating a setting for a cabochon stone pendant or ring. Enameling equipment is also available. We will work with sterling silver, copper, red brass and stones will be available for purchase. This class is appropriate for beginning jewelry students and for jewelry/ metalsmiths looking to increase their skills and knowledge. A $35 materials fee is due to the instructor at the start of the class which covers metals and studio supplies; Bring a sketchbook to class. Instructor: Idelle Hammond-Sass. 8 classes.

Improv for Non-Actors

Thursdays

6:00PM - 7:30PM

4/11/24 - 5/9/24

Grades: 9th - Adult. Increase your confidence and your ability to think on your feet. Improv promotes teamwork, creativity, innovation and helps people overcome their fear of public speaking. The exercises taught in this class are applicable to careers in music, classroom teaching, business and a wide variety of other professional fields where you interface with the public. Experience a variety of improvisational exercises in a safe and supportive environment. Instructor: Mike Fedel has an M.A. in Performance and has studied improvisation at Second City in Chicago. 5 classes.

Camera Basics

Workshop

6:00PM - 8:00PM

Thursday, April 11 ONLY

Grades: 10th - Adult. Begin to understand how to master your camera's basic settings. Topics covered include scene modes, aperture priority, ISO, shutter priority, and manual mode. (This course is geared towards point and shoot, DSLR and mirrorless. Always bring your device charged and ready for in class activities!). Instructor: Katelend Rosaen is a fine art photographer who has exhibited her art work in multiple countries and has a European Masters of Fine Art Photography; Katelend changes people’s perspective one project at a time. 2 classes.

Adult Pottery

Thursdays

6:00PM - 9:00PM

4/11/24 - 6/13/24

Beginning Sewing

Thursdays

6:30PM - 8:30PM

4/11/24 - 5/30/24

Adult. Want to sew but don’t know where to start? Come join us and learn how to work with a sewing machine, patterns, fabric and more. No experience needed! Projects include a pillow cover, tote bag and pajama pants, and all work will be done in class. Sewing machines and basic supplies will be provided. Please do not bring your own sewing machine. Instructor will provide a materials list at the first class session. Instructor: Patricia Na. 8 classes.

Woodworking: Continuing

Thursdays

6:30PM - 8:30PM

4/11/24 - 6/6/24

Adult. This class provides supervised access to the woodworking lab for experienced students. You will work independently on a project of your choice. Bring all of your own materials to class. A working knowledge of power tools is expected and Woodworking 101 is recommended for those new to the woodshop. Supervisor: Joe Kyle and Mark Williams, experienced woodcrafters. 8 classes. No class 5/9.

Cinema Club

Thursdays

7:00PM - 8:30PM

4/25/24 - 5/23/24

Adult. Enjoy cinema from around the globe and absorb some cultural history! Watch a themed series of movies exploring a cinematic style, region or concept, and engage in discussion. Foreign language movies are subtitled. No need to be an expert: everyone is welcome! Stream movies on your own and discuss in person. You will need high-speed access to the Internet, an Amazon account (not the Prime service), and devices that will allow you to stream movies. Instructor will provide a film schedule before activity begins. Note: registration closes at the end of Friday, 4/19. Instructor: Mark Ziemba, former editor of arts and entertainment magazine Current. 5 classes.

Creating Tempeh from Scratch

Thursday

6:00PM - 8:00PM

Thursday, May 2 ONLY

Adult. DEMO. Come and discover the art of creating delicious and nutritious, calcium-rich, protein-packed tempeh from scratch. Did you know this popular vegan meat replacement, originally from Indonesia, is actually fermented? During this demo, you will learn the traditional fermentation techniques, starting from beans to finished tempeh. By the end of the workshop, you will have gained the insights into the health benefits of tempeh and cooking techniques from an experienced tempeh maker. You will have the option to take home a tempeh kit with all you need to make your first tempeh at home (additional $10 paid to instructor). Instructor: Peisy Sulimin. Peisy grew up in Indonesia and has been researching and making tempeh for several years. With her expertise and passion for this traditional Indonesian delicacy, she is eager to guide participants through the art of Tempeh-making. 1 class. Don’t miss out on this fun and interactive learning opportunity - that will also be good for your gut!

Traditional Argentine Tango

Beginning: Level 1

Fridays

7:00PM - 8:00PM

4/5/24 - 5/3/24

Adult. No dance experience needed. Learn the basics of traditional Argentine Tango dance including the music and culture. Instructors teach you the cabeceo, how to use your eyes to invite your partner to dance, the milonga, an Argentine Tango dance party, the ronda, the flow of the dancers that allows large numbers of people to dance socially in the tango community and the tanda, how Argentine music is played to entice dancers to join in the ronda. Registration fee includes the practica where you can practice your technique; ask your instructors for details on dates and times. Fee is per individual. Partner is required. Senior recipients pay: $24.50. Instructors: Lisa and Dennis Larkin and Tango Experience Ann Arbor teachers. 5 classes.

Traditional Argentine Tango

Beginning: Level 2

Fridays

7:00PM - 8:00PM

4/5/24 - 5/3/24

Adult. Prerequisite: Beginning (Level 1) or instructor approval. Build on what you learned in the Beginning (Level 1) class and develop a greater appreciation of traditional Argentine Tango dance including the music and culture. Instructors continue to teach you the cabeceo, how to use your eyes to invite your partner to dance, the milonga, an Argentine Tango dance party, the ronda, the flow of the dancers that allows large numbers of people to dance socially in the tango community and the tanda, how Argentine music is played to entice dancers to join in the ronda. Registration fee includes the practica where you can practice your technique; ask your instructors for details on dates and times. Fee is per individual. Partner is required. Senior recipients pay: $24.50. Instructors: Lisa and Dennis Larkin and Tango Experience Ann Arbor teachers. 5 classes.

Traditional Argentine Tango

Intermediate

Fridays

8:00PM - 9:00PM

4/5/24 - 6/7/24

Adult. Prerequisite: Beginning (Level 2) or instructor approval. Hone your dancing skills, with specific emphasis on improving the structure and mechanics of basic tango techniques like the boleo and sacada. Work on exercises and strategies that lead to improved clarity in the lead, sensitivity in the follow with the goal of finding a comfortable and precise connection on the social dance floor. Registration fee includes the practica where you can practice your technique; ask your instructors for details on dates and times. Fee is per individual. Partner is required. Fee is per individual. Partner is required. Senior recipients pay: $59.50. Instructors: Lisa and Dennis Larkin and Tango Experience Ann Arbor teachers. 10 classes.

Traditional Argentine Tango

Beginning: Level 1

Fridays

7:00PM - 8:00PM

5/10/24 - 6/7/24

Traditional Argentine Tango

Beginning: Level 2

Fridays

7:00PM - 8:00PM

5/10/24 - 6/7/24

Adult & Child: Let's Sew Together Level 1

Saturdays

10:00AM - 12:00PM

4/13/24 - 5/18/24

Grades: 1st - 6th with an Adult. Do you know a child who wants to learn to sew? Are you looking for a fun class to take with them? Come take an adult-child sewing class, where you and a child in your life can learn the basics of working with sewing machines, patterns, fabric, and more! No experience needed! Projects include a drawstring bag and pajama pants. The adult and child will share a sewing machine and workspace during class, taking turns "teaching" and reminding each other of safety and steps. Sewing machines and basic supplies will be provided. Materials list will be provided at the first class session. Instructor: Elise Blaauw. 6 classes.

Adult Ballet

Saturdays

12:30PM - 1:45PM

4/13/24 - 5/11/24

Adult & Child: Let's Sew Together Level 1

Saturdays

12:30PM - 2:30PM

4/13/24 - 5/18/24

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Adult Enrichment

Just Added! Spring Classes