Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Gulf Park Courses
"Come be OPEN with us.
Open to learning,
Open to fun and friends,
Open to new experiences."
—OLLI Advisory Board President Dallas Gorbett
Register for Intersession Exercise!
See Below for Upcoming Summer Courses
Register now for intersession exercise classes. They will begin Monday, May 2nd and end on Thursday, May 26th. Choices are:
Tai Chi for Health on Zoom, Intersession | $20
Mondays and Wednesdays | 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
May 2 - May 25 | Zoom | $35
Exercise Class led by Susan Nodurft
This class is an introduction to the principles and practice of tai chi. In general,
tai chi practice involves slow, mindful movements with the breath. The benefits of
tai chi are well documented—stress reduction, improved balance, lower blood pressure,
just to name a few. This program is based on Dr. Paul Lam’s medically developed Tai
Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention. This safe and easy to learn routine will provide
participants an opportunity to learn the basics of tai chi and experience the benefits
of this life-giving practice.
Chairobics on Zoom, Intersession | $20
Mondays and Wednesdays | 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
May 2 - May 25 | Zoom
Exercise Class led by Valerie Webber
Chairobics combines fun and fitness while moving to music. This class is designed
to increase muscle strength and range of movement as well as improve cardiovascular
health. Small hand weights and elastic bands are used for toning. A chair is used
for seated exercises and standing support. No on-the-floor exercises.
Tai Chi Chih, Intersession | $20
Tuesdays and Thursdays | 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
May 3 - May 26 | GP In-Person
Exercise Class led by Susie Pham
This class will teach traditional physical meditative practice. It is designed to build strength, improve health and flexibility, reduce stress, and increase energy flow. It is for newcomers to learn and for existing Tai Chi followers to enhance their skills.
Tuesdays and Thursdays | 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
May 3 - May 26 | GP In-Person
Exercise Class led by Susie Pham
This class will teach traditional physical meditative practice. It is designed to build strength, improve health and flexibility, reduce stress, and increase energy flow. It is for newcomers to learn and for existing Tai Chi followers to enhance their skills.
Guided Forest Therapy Experience, Intersession | $10
Saturday | 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
May 14 | Meet-Up
Seminar led by Nadine Phillips
Meet at 1216 Parkway Drive, Wiggins.
Come along and relax during a guided Forest Therapy session. This guided walk is about slowing down in nature, nurturing your well-being and enhancing your connection to the natural world. The activities offered will enable you to unwind and calm your busy mind so you can best receive the medicine of the forest. Forest Therapy arose from a practice developed in Japan called Shinrin-yoku, which roughly translates as “forest immersion." It is an easeful, de-stressing practice offering many health benefits to mind, body and spirit. This inviting way of immersing our senses in the atmosphere of the forest is backed by significant medical and scientific research—and the plethora of health benefits are wide-reaching. Forest Therapy is emerging worldwide as a publicly accessible means to reduce stress and a pathway to a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life. This trip is rated “Easy” and limited to 12 people.
On the coast? Register online, email your class list to Maryann.Herodes@usm.edu, or call 228.214.3277.
In Hattiesburg? Register online, email your class list to olliFREEMississippi%2C or call 601.266.6554.
Ready to Register?
Call 601.266.6554 in Hattiesburg or 228.214.3277 in Long Beach if you have questions about joining or registering.
Course or Field Trip Suggestions
Arts
Perspective, Plain and Simple | $20
Mondays, June 6 - June 27 | HB In-Person and Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Dana Stratton
Each time we draw or paint we use some form of perspective. In this class, you will learn and explore several approaches you can use in creating depth in your art work. You will be responsible for your own supplies and subject matter. Dana Stratton is a retired art and art history teacher as well as a practicing (if I practice hard enough, I might eventually get it right) artist who has taught at OLLI since 2000.
China-Inspired Cards | $15
Tuesday, June 7 | HB In-Person and Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Cathy Garner
This seminar is a card-making workshop where you will create a China-Inspired 5 1/2" square card. You will use Anna Griffin Embellishments to produce the elegant cards, assemble the layers and add embellishments to make “China Cabinet.” Class fee includes some supplies. Supply List: Clear glue. Cathy Garner is a retired high school chemistry teacher. Since retirement she has spent many hours in her craft room painting and using her silhouette cameo for cutting vinyl and paper crafts.
Polymers and Art | $10
Tuesday, June 7 | HB In-Person
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Dr. John Pojman
During this seminar, you will explore how polymers have been used in art since art began and work with a new material called QuickCure Clay. You will also use QuickCure Glaze. Dr. John Pojman is Chair of the Department of Chemistry at Louisiana State University and an expert on "cure-on-demand polymerizations." He invented QuickCure Clay and QuickCure Glaze, which are products participants will use as part of the seminar.
Silent Film Appreciation | $20
Wednesday, June 8, then, Mondays, June 13 - June 27 | HB In-Person
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Dr. Douglas Rust
Silent Film Appreciation is a four-week summer class that will meet in the OLLI Annex. Each week, the class will be assigned to read a chapter from our textbook, Silent Film: A Very Short Introduction (Oxford Univ. Press, 2020), Donna Kornhaber ($11.95 ISBN 0190852528). During class, we will discuss the current week's chapter and watch some silent films. Dr. Rust will moderate discussions and present brief talks about the history and culture of these films. If you like interesting movies and fascinating conversation, please join us for Silent Film Appreciation! Dr. Douglas Rust accompanies silent movies on the organ and performs organ shows each summer at the Plaza Classic Film Festival in El Paso, Texas. His Halloween silent movie at the USM Marsh Auditorium has become a local holiday tradition. Dr. Rust serves as Associate Director of the USM School of Music.
Beginning Drawing | $20
Wednesdays, June 8 - June 29 | HB In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Marty Broadus Turnbo
This is a drawing class for those who would like to practice drawing objects and shapes and learn shading techniques. You will learn about perspective, how to enlarge and much more. Let's draw! Supply List: #2 pencil, mechanical pencil (optional), eraser, colored pencils, Sharpie with two tips (fine and medium), small drawing pad and 10-12 sheets copy paper. Marty Broadus Turnbo is a retired art and drama teacher from Oak Grove and is a longtime member of the South Mississippi Art Association.
Let's Play the Uke! | $20
Fridays, July 15 - August 5 | GP In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Gina Aguilar
In this class, OLLI members come to understand the ukulele as a musical instrument, learn to read ukulele chords and play while reading the chords. Left-handed members will need left-handed ukuleles. Supply List: Soprano, concert, tenor or baritone (with GCEA strings) ukulele and a ukulele tuner (tuned before each class begins). Gina Aguilar is retired and has taught ukulele to OLLI members on a regular basis. Playing the guitar and the ukulele is one of her hobbies.
Sterling Silver and Gold-Filled Wire-Wrapped Bracelet | $35
Monday, June 13 | Off-Site
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Sue West
Meet at Gallery 782, 773 Jackson Street, Biloxi
Come learn how to make a beautiful wire-wrapped bracelet you will be proud to wear home. Come join the fun! Supply fee included in class fee. Sue West is a retired financial manager who is interested in making wire wrap jewelry. Sue studied at William Holland Lapidary School and is a member of the Mississippi Craftsman's Guild, Gallery 782 and the Pearl Gallery, where she teaches and shows her work.
How to See a Photograph | $10
Monday, June 20 | HB In-Person
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Dr. Steve Coleman
Come and discover the way your eye sees an image. In this seminar we will explore how ordinary scenes can be turned into a "WOW" moment through your images. You will look beyond the usual scene and take it up a notch to change the perspective of the viewer. We will focus on composition, framing, use of light, shadow usage; and you will learn about manual shooting techniques. Don't forget your camera: it is required! Dr. Steve Coleman is an assistant teaching professor in the School of Communication at The University of Southern Mississippi. With 43 years of photojournalism history, he has photographed numerous events and had the opportunity to photograph Super Bowls and Pope John Paul II's visit to the US, fly through the eye of a hurricane and work with the Associated Press at the 1996 Summer Olympics. Steve was awarded a Fellowship Grant with Mississippi Arts Commission.
Mondays, June 6 - June 27 | HB In-Person and Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Dana Stratton
Each time we draw or paint we use some form of perspective. In this class, you will learn and explore several approaches you can use in creating depth in your art work. You will be responsible for your own supplies and subject matter. Dana Stratton is a retired art and art history teacher as well as a practicing (if I practice hard enough, I might eventually get it right) artist who has taught at OLLI since 2000.
China-Inspired Cards | $15
Tuesday, June 7 | HB In-Person and Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Cathy Garner
This seminar is a card-making workshop where you will create a China-Inspired 5 1/2" square card. You will use Anna Griffin Embellishments to produce the elegant cards, assemble the layers and add embellishments to make “China Cabinet.” Class fee includes some supplies. Supply List: Clear glue. Cathy Garner is a retired high school chemistry teacher. Since retirement she has spent many hours in her craft room painting and using her silhouette cameo for cutting vinyl and paper crafts.
Polymers and Art | $10
Tuesday, June 7 | HB In-Person
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Dr. John Pojman
During this seminar, you will explore how polymers have been used in art since art began and work with a new material called QuickCure Clay. You will also use QuickCure Glaze. Dr. John Pojman is Chair of the Department of Chemistry at Louisiana State University and an expert on "cure-on-demand polymerizations." He invented QuickCure Clay and QuickCure Glaze, which are products participants will use as part of the seminar.
Silent Film Appreciation | $20
Wednesday, June 8, then, Mondays, June 13 - June 27 | HB In-Person
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Dr. Douglas Rust
Silent Film Appreciation is a four-week summer class that will meet in the OLLI Annex. Each week, the class will be assigned to read a chapter from our textbook, Silent Film: A Very Short Introduction (Oxford Univ. Press, 2020), Donna Kornhaber ($11.95 ISBN 0190852528). During class, we will discuss the current week's chapter and watch some silent films. Dr. Rust will moderate discussions and present brief talks about the history and culture of these films. If you like interesting movies and fascinating conversation, please join us for Silent Film Appreciation! Dr. Douglas Rust accompanies silent movies on the organ and performs organ shows each summer at the Plaza Classic Film Festival in El Paso, Texas. His Halloween silent movie at the USM Marsh Auditorium has become a local holiday tradition. Dr. Rust serves as Associate Director of the USM School of Music.
Beginning Drawing | $20
Wednesdays, June 8 - June 29 | HB In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Marty Broadus Turnbo
This is a drawing class for those who would like to practice drawing objects and shapes and learn shading techniques. You will learn about perspective, how to enlarge and much more. Let's draw! Supply List: #2 pencil, mechanical pencil (optional), eraser, colored pencils, Sharpie with two tips (fine and medium), small drawing pad and 10-12 sheets copy paper. Marty Broadus Turnbo is a retired art and drama teacher from Oak Grove and is a longtime member of the South Mississippi Art Association.
Let's Play the Uke! | $20
Fridays, July 15 - August 5 | GP In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Gina Aguilar
In this class, OLLI members come to understand the ukulele as a musical instrument, learn to read ukulele chords and play while reading the chords. Left-handed members will need left-handed ukuleles. Supply List: Soprano, concert, tenor or baritone (with GCEA strings) ukulele and a ukulele tuner (tuned before each class begins). Gina Aguilar is retired and has taught ukulele to OLLI members on a regular basis. Playing the guitar and the ukulele is one of her hobbies.
Sterling Silver and Gold-Filled Wire-Wrapped Bracelet | $35
Monday, June 13 | Off-Site
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Sue West
Meet at Gallery 782, 773 Jackson Street, Biloxi
Come learn how to make a beautiful wire-wrapped bracelet you will be proud to wear home. Come join the fun! Supply fee included in class fee. Sue West is a retired financial manager who is interested in making wire wrap jewelry. Sue studied at William Holland Lapidary School and is a member of the Mississippi Craftsman's Guild, Gallery 782 and the Pearl Gallery, where she teaches and shows her work.
How to See a Photograph | $10
Monday, June 20 | HB In-Person
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Dr. Steve Coleman
Come and discover the way your eye sees an image. In this seminar we will explore how ordinary scenes can be turned into a "WOW" moment through your images. You will look beyond the usual scene and take it up a notch to change the perspective of the viewer. We will focus on composition, framing, use of light, shadow usage; and you will learn about manual shooting techniques. Don't forget your camera: it is required! Dr. Steve Coleman is an assistant teaching professor in the School of Communication at The University of Southern Mississippi. With 43 years of photojournalism history, he has photographed numerous events and had the opportunity to photograph Super Bowls and Pope John Paul II's visit to the US, fly through the eye of a hurricane and work with the Associated Press at the 1996 Summer Olympics. Steve was awarded a Fellowship Grant with Mississippi Arts Commission.
Introduction to Book Arts | $5
Thursday, June 30 | GP In-Person
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. | Mini-Seminar led by SusanMary Reynolds
This mini-seminar will introduce participants to the possibilities available through
the book arts. Both artist books containing the instructor's content and journals
will be discussed and available to the class for hands-on review. The seminar will
include a time for input from students on what interests them the most. SusanMary Reynolds is a studio artist, author, genealogist and adventurer. She currently identifies
herself as an artist focusing on the book arts. SusanMary's award-winning artist books
have exhibited from NYC to Portland and her journals and art journals are often collected
by other artists and art instructors. SusanMary currently lives in Bay St. Louis.
Silhouettes: Paper, Scissors, Portrait | $15
Monday, July 11 | GP In-Person
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Shanlie Whittington
During this seminar, learn about the history of silhouettes, the different techniques
used by artists over the centuries, see examples of silhouettes as an enduring and
effective art form. Hear about experiences as a modern silhouette artist and ask any
questions you may have. Join in a workshop where you can try your hand at making your
own silhouettes, using your classmates as live models. Supply fee is included in class fee. Shanlie Whittington is a self-taught freehand silhouette artist, working in traditional 18th century
style. Freehand silhouetting is an exceedingly rare art form and Shanlie enjoys sharing
her love of the craft with the public. She has given presentations on silhouetting
and the history of early American portraiture at museums and historical sites throughout
the southeastern United States. Shanlie has also led hands-on workshops for children
and adults.
Watercolor | $20
Mondays, July 11 - August 1 | HB In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Marty Broadus Turnbo
Join us to learn watercolor basics such as color theory, tricks and techniques, wet-on-wet
vs. wet-on-dry. This class is for all who love watercolor or want to try. Supply List: Watercolors, round watercolor brushes (assorted sizes, S - L), watercolor paper (9
X 12 or so), painter’s tape, resist medium such as crayons, pastels and masking fluid.
Marty Broadus Turnbo is a retired art and drama teacher from Oak Grove and is a longtime member of the
South Mississippi Art Association.
Beginner Book Arts | $20
Thursdays, July 14 - August 4 | GP In-Person
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by SusanMary Reynolds
This four-week class is a hands-on book-making class. Students will be introduced
to tools, materials and bindings and will use various surface design techniques to
decorate the covers of their books. Learners will create several styles of books:
folded accordions, hand-sewn booklets, stab-stitch bindings and dos-a-dos double-spine
books. Supply List: Metal ruler, large cutting mat, x-acto knife with plenty of replacement blades, 2
standard bricks encased in duct tape, stainless steel tablespoon, non-serrated metal
table knife, pencils, sketch pad, drawing pen (preferably India ink). Also required: (available at Hobby Lobby, Gulfport): 2-3 sheets of Canson Mi Teintes paper in colors
of students’ choosing AND 1 sheet white or off-white Mi Teintes, acrylic paints to
enhance their Mi Teintes, curved sewing needles, awl and flat-headed 1/2" paint brush.
SusanMary Reynolds is a studio artist, author, genealogist and adventurer. She currently identifies as
an artist focusing on the book arts. Her award-winning artist books have exhibited
from NYC to Portland and her journals and art journals are collected by artists and
art instructors. SusanMary lives in Bay St. Louis.
Music, Culture and Identity of the Philippines | $10
Monday, July 18 | Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Dr. Bernard Ellorin
In this seminar, we will cover a general overview of music, culture and of the Philippines,
and focus on key genres that reflect the history to have a better understanding of
the contribution to music and world history. Within a short two hours, students learn
about music reflective of the indigenous, colonial and post-colonial heritage. Indigenous
percussion and chants and Western-stringed ensemble music are encapsulated in traditional
performance for festive occasions. We will also examine music and politics and their
influence on popular music. Dr. Bernard Ellorin is an adjunct faculty of music at Miramar College and MiraCosta College in San Diego
County, California. He received his PhD in Ethnomusicology from the University of
Hawai‘i at Manoa in 2015. Dr. Ellorin’s academic and community work span over 28 years
of educating the greater San Diego community.
Holiday Time in July | $15
Thursday, July 14 | GP In-Person
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Michelle Magrath-Greene
It's "Holiday Time in July." Let the spirit of the holiday season take over! December
comes early as we pretend it is sweater weather and start with a cookie exchange.
Bring individually wrapped cookies or treats with a recipe included. Not a cook? Oreos
and Chips Ahoy are amazing, right? Be prepared to share a story about your treat—a
special memory of the person who wrote the recipe, a funny story of a batch gone wrong
or any other story worth sharing. Next, we will make ornaments using shrinkable polystyrene
sheets (Shrinky Dinks) to create fun designs to hang from trees or decorate packages.
If you have a special image or design you would like to try to recreate, feel free
to bring it, but there are many images to use for inspiration. Glitter and crystals
will be used to embellish the designs. Throughout the event, anyone who wishes can
share great memories of holidays from the past. All materials are included in class fee. Michelle Magrath-Greene is an avid crafter who is skilled at cross-stitch, crochet, beading, needlepoint,
diamond painting and other crafts. She has frequently volunteered as a science and
arts and craft instructor for youth groups.
Let's Paint a Sunflower! | $25
Wednesday, July 20 | GP In-Person
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Dr. Tammy Gragg
In this seminar, create an acrylic painting of a happy sunflower with a bright blue sky you can proudly display in your home or give as a gift to your loved ones. You will make a 12" X 12" painting on canvas from start to finish in the class. No painting experience is needed and all materials will be provided. Come enjoy a morning of painting with other OLLI members. A late-blooming artist, Dr. Tammy Gragg moved to the Gulf Coast and began painting after retiring from the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps in 2018. She studied drawing, painting and design at the Gulf Coast Community College, has taken several workshops offered by local artists and is currently studying botanical art with the New York Academy of Art.
Wednesday, July 20 | GP In-Person
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Dr. Tammy Gragg
In this seminar, create an acrylic painting of a happy sunflower with a bright blue sky you can proudly display in your home or give as a gift to your loved ones. You will make a 12" X 12" painting on canvas from start to finish in the class. No painting experience is needed and all materials will be provided. Come enjoy a morning of painting with other OLLI members. A late-blooming artist, Dr. Tammy Gragg moved to the Gulf Coast and began painting after retiring from the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps in 2018. She studied drawing, painting and design at the Gulf Coast Community College, has taken several workshops offered by local artists and is currently studying botanical art with the New York Academy of Art.
HEALTH AND FITNESS
Tai Chi for Health on Zoom | $20 Each Term
9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. | Zoom
Term I: Mondays, Wednesdays | June 6 - June 29
Term II: Mondays, Wednesdays | July 11 - August 3
Four-Week Exercise Class led by Susan Nodurft
The class is open to all participants of the 2020/2021 Zoom class or with permission of the instructor. Participants must be familiar with Dr. Lam's Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention (40 Sun forms) and Tai Chi for Beginners (first 6 forms of the 24 Yang style Forms). Emphasis will be placed on advancing the practice and learning new forms. Susan Nodurft is a retired biology teacher. After retirement, she began the study and practice of Qigong/Tai Chi. She is certified by the Tai Chi for Health Institute to teach Dr. Paul Lam’s medically and researched-based program, Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention, as well as Tai Chi for Beginners. She has also received certification from the Institute of Integral Qigong Tai Chi as a Tai Chi Easy practice leader.
Chairobics on Zoom | $20
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. | Zoom
Term I: Mondays, Wednesdays | June 6 - June 29
Term II: Mondays, Wednesdays | July 11 - August 3
Four-Week Exercise Class led by Valerie Webber
Chairobics combines fun and fitness while moving to music. This class is designed to increase muscle strength and range of movement as well as improve cardiovascular health. Small hand weights and elastic bands are used for toning. A chair is used for seated exercises and standing support. No on-the-floor exercises. Valerie Webber is a Southern Miss graduate with a BSBA and MBA. She is a life member of the USM Alumni Association and has worked in the accounting and finance industry and in IT.
Tai Chi Chih | $20 Each Term
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | GP In-Person
Term I: Tuesdays, Thursdays | June 7 - July 5, No Class June 16
Term II: Mondays, Wednesdays | July 12 - August 4
Four-Week Exercise Class led by Susie Pham
In this class, you will learn traditional physical meditative practice to build strength, improve health and flexibility, reduce stress and increase energy flow. This class is for newcomers to learn and for existing Tai Chi followers to enhance their skills. Susie Pham has practiced Tai Chi for years and was trained by Grand Master Shi DeRu, 31st generation descendant of the Shaolin Temple.
H-A-N-D it to ME! | $20
Wednesdays, June 8 - June 29 | GP In-Person
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Florence Keppner
Hydration, Aging, Nutrition, and Dehydration (H-A-N-D) acronym and common issues plaguing America's geriatric population. Learn the value of good nutrition as one ages. This course will help in reducing and prevention of age-related diseases, developing awareness and control in some changes that happen as one ages such as a decrease in sense of taste, decrease in sense of smell, diminished eyesight, poor oral health, dentition and gum problems, hearing loss, altered cognitive level, swallowing issues, inadequate oral intake leading to loss of appetite, lessened social interactions and side effects of medications. The Aging Well Formula is “delayed disease development/progress + good nutritional status = living longer with good quality of life.” Florence Keppner is a registered, licensed dietitian and semi-retired physical therapy consultant for Encompass Home Health and Canon Hospice. She has worked as a dietitian consultant for Mississippi State Department of Health and is the former Dietetic Health and Nutrition Director and an adjunct instructor for MS Gulf Coast Community College. Florence has also worked as a consultant for nursing homes, personal assisted living, long-term acute care hospital and as a teaching dietitian at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
Beginning Yoga
3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. | HB In-Person
Term I: Mondays, Wednesdays | June 13 - June 29 | $15
Term II: Mondays, Wednesdays | July 11 - August 3 | $20
Four-Week Exercise Class led by Serina Carpenter
This class will introduce yoga concepts of meditation, breath control and basic asanas (poses or positions). Our goal is to evaluate and improve participant strength, flexibility and balance. The emphasis is on the functional practice of yoga, not the perfect pose. Whether you are new to yoga or experienced, come join us. "It's your mat and it's your yoga." Serina Carpenter earned a 200-hour yoga teacher training in 2017 and a 300-hour teacher training in 2019. She has taught multiple classes at the Yoga Room and The Family YMCA in Petal.
9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. | Zoom
Term I: Mondays, Wednesdays | June 6 - June 29
Term II: Mondays, Wednesdays | July 11 - August 3
Four-Week Exercise Class led by Susan Nodurft
The class is open to all participants of the 2020/2021 Zoom class or with permission of the instructor. Participants must be familiar with Dr. Lam's Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention (40 Sun forms) and Tai Chi for Beginners (first 6 forms of the 24 Yang style Forms). Emphasis will be placed on advancing the practice and learning new forms. Susan Nodurft is a retired biology teacher. After retirement, she began the study and practice of Qigong/Tai Chi. She is certified by the Tai Chi for Health Institute to teach Dr. Paul Lam’s medically and researched-based program, Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention, as well as Tai Chi for Beginners. She has also received certification from the Institute of Integral Qigong Tai Chi as a Tai Chi Easy practice leader.
Chairobics on Zoom | $20
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. | Zoom
Term I: Mondays, Wednesdays | June 6 - June 29
Term II: Mondays, Wednesdays | July 11 - August 3
Four-Week Exercise Class led by Valerie Webber
Chairobics combines fun and fitness while moving to music. This class is designed to increase muscle strength and range of movement as well as improve cardiovascular health. Small hand weights and elastic bands are used for toning. A chair is used for seated exercises and standing support. No on-the-floor exercises. Valerie Webber is a Southern Miss graduate with a BSBA and MBA. She is a life member of the USM Alumni Association and has worked in the accounting and finance industry and in IT.
Tai Chi Chih | $20 Each Term
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | GP In-Person
Term I: Tuesdays, Thursdays | June 7 - July 5, No Class June 16
Term II: Mondays, Wednesdays | July 12 - August 4
Four-Week Exercise Class led by Susie Pham
In this class, you will learn traditional physical meditative practice to build strength, improve health and flexibility, reduce stress and increase energy flow. This class is for newcomers to learn and for existing Tai Chi followers to enhance their skills. Susie Pham has practiced Tai Chi for years and was trained by Grand Master Shi DeRu, 31st generation descendant of the Shaolin Temple.
H-A-N-D it to ME! | $20
Wednesdays, June 8 - June 29 | GP In-Person
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Florence Keppner
Hydration, Aging, Nutrition, and Dehydration (H-A-N-D) acronym and common issues plaguing America's geriatric population. Learn the value of good nutrition as one ages. This course will help in reducing and prevention of age-related diseases, developing awareness and control in some changes that happen as one ages such as a decrease in sense of taste, decrease in sense of smell, diminished eyesight, poor oral health, dentition and gum problems, hearing loss, altered cognitive level, swallowing issues, inadequate oral intake leading to loss of appetite, lessened social interactions and side effects of medications. The Aging Well Formula is “delayed disease development/progress + good nutritional status = living longer with good quality of life.” Florence Keppner is a registered, licensed dietitian and semi-retired physical therapy consultant for Encompass Home Health and Canon Hospice. She has worked as a dietitian consultant for Mississippi State Department of Health and is the former Dietetic Health and Nutrition Director and an adjunct instructor for MS Gulf Coast Community College. Florence has also worked as a consultant for nursing homes, personal assisted living, long-term acute care hospital and as a teaching dietitian at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
Beginning Yoga
3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. | HB In-Person
Term I: Mondays, Wednesdays | June 13 - June 29 | $15
Term II: Mondays, Wednesdays | July 11 - August 3 | $20
Four-Week Exercise Class led by Serina Carpenter
This class will introduce yoga concepts of meditation, breath control and basic asanas (poses or positions). Our goal is to evaluate and improve participant strength, flexibility and balance. The emphasis is on the functional practice of yoga, not the perfect pose. Whether you are new to yoga or experienced, come join us. "It's your mat and it's your yoga." Serina Carpenter earned a 200-hour yoga teacher training in 2017 and a 300-hour teacher training in 2019. She has taught multiple classes at the Yoga Room and The Family YMCA in Petal.
Dance for Body and Mind | $20
Tuesdays and Thursdays, July 12 - August 4 | HB In-Person and Zoom
9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. | Four-Week Exercise Class led by Lauren Wilson Phillis
This class offers a creative approach to modern dance and is accessible to students of all levels of experience and physical mobility. Participants will learn to understand dance as a language for creative expression and will improve balance, strength and mobility. This class incorporates dance technique, improvisation, choreography and folk dance. We will create, collaborate and have fun learning and moving together. Participants should wear comfortable clothing that allows for freedom of movement. Lauren Wilson Phillis is a dance educator with 14 years' experience teaching in public and private K-12 schools, dance studios and nonprofit community organizations. Lauren has taught students ages 3 to 70+ and loves working with beginners as well as experienced students. She earned a bachelor's degree in dance education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2009.
10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's | $5
Tuesday, July 12 | Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Mini-Seminar led by Kristen White
In this mini-seminar, you will learn about typical age-related memory, thinking or behavior changes. Discover how to recognize common warning signs of Alzheimer's and dementia and tips for approaching someone about memory concerns. We will discuss the importance of early detection and benefits of diagnosis and identify possible tests and assessments for the diagnostic process. More resources are available through the Alzheimer's Association and the instructor will share how to find them. Kristen White is a licensed social worker who received her master's in social work from the University of Alabama. Kristen has experience working with people with Alzheimer's and their caregivers in nursing homes and hospital settings. She has been the program coordinator for the Alzheimer's Association since 2019, educating caregivers and the public about this disease.
The Blue Zones Diet and Lifestyle | $10
Thursday, July 14 | HB In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Helen McNab
In this seminar, we will explore the areas of the world with the greatest longevity, called Blue Zones. We will review and discuss the secrets of the Blue Zone diet and lifestyle habits. Helen McNab is a registered dietitian with experience in Clinical Dietetics, Food Research, Food Safety and Hospital Administration. She recently retired to Hattiesburg from New Orleans.
Navigating Long-Term Care | $5
Tuesday, July 26 | Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Mini-Seminar led by Tamara Vincent
In this class, we will discuss the differences between nursing facilities and assisted-living facilities. You will learn what it means to go to a skilled rehab facility and what financial obligations it will entail. Tamara Vincent is a licensed nursing facility administrator and has worked in long-term care for eight years.
Tuesdays and Thursdays, July 12 - August 4 | HB In-Person and Zoom
9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. | Four-Week Exercise Class led by Lauren Wilson Phillis
This class offers a creative approach to modern dance and is accessible to students of all levels of experience and physical mobility. Participants will learn to understand dance as a language for creative expression and will improve balance, strength and mobility. This class incorporates dance technique, improvisation, choreography and folk dance. We will create, collaborate and have fun learning and moving together. Participants should wear comfortable clothing that allows for freedom of movement. Lauren Wilson Phillis is a dance educator with 14 years' experience teaching in public and private K-12 schools, dance studios and nonprofit community organizations. Lauren has taught students ages 3 to 70+ and loves working with beginners as well as experienced students. She earned a bachelor's degree in dance education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2009.
10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's | $5
Tuesday, July 12 | Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Mini-Seminar led by Kristen White
In this mini-seminar, you will learn about typical age-related memory, thinking or behavior changes. Discover how to recognize common warning signs of Alzheimer's and dementia and tips for approaching someone about memory concerns. We will discuss the importance of early detection and benefits of diagnosis and identify possible tests and assessments for the diagnostic process. More resources are available through the Alzheimer's Association and the instructor will share how to find them. Kristen White is a licensed social worker who received her master's in social work from the University of Alabama. Kristen has experience working with people with Alzheimer's and their caregivers in nursing homes and hospital settings. She has been the program coordinator for the Alzheimer's Association since 2019, educating caregivers and the public about this disease.
The Blue Zones Diet and Lifestyle | $10
Thursday, July 14 | HB In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Helen McNab
In this seminar, we will explore the areas of the world with the greatest longevity, called Blue Zones. We will review and discuss the secrets of the Blue Zone diet and lifestyle habits. Helen McNab is a registered dietitian with experience in Clinical Dietetics, Food Research, Food Safety and Hospital Administration. She recently retired to Hattiesburg from New Orleans.
Navigating Long-Term Care | $5
Tuesday, July 26 | Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Mini-Seminar led by Tamara Vincent
In this class, we will discuss the differences between nursing facilities and assisted-living facilities. You will learn what it means to go to a skilled rehab facility and what financial obligations it will entail. Tamara Vincent is a licensed nursing facility administrator and has worked in long-term care for eight years.
HUMANITIES
Exploring Southern Identity and Culture | $20
Mondays, June 6 - June 27 | Zoom
3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Dr. Thomas Kersen
During this class, we will use the book Where Misfits Fit as a guide and will explore and discuss interesting topics such as:
· Southern Identity—What is southern? Who is southern?
· Popular Culture and the South—How is the south portrayed and used in culture?
· Role of Place in the South—The special relationship of place for southerners.
· Folklore and Paranormal Beliefs in the South
· Interesting Religious Movements in the South—Theosophy, Holy Order of Mans, etc.
· Counterculture and the South—cooperatives, communes and aspects of alternative culture.
Purchase the book Where Misfits Fit at https://www.upress.state.ms.us/Books/W/Where-Misfits-Fit. Dr. Tom Kersen is an associate professor of sociology at Jackson State University. He was awarded the MS Humanities Teacher of the Year for Jackson State University by the Mississippi Humanities Council and served two terms as president of the Alabama-Mississippi Sociological Association. Dr. Kersen's most recent book won the 2021 Mid-South Sociological Association's Distinguished Book Award. He is a retired Army medical service officer.
Mondays, June 6 - June 27 | Zoom
3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Dr. Thomas Kersen
During this class, we will use the book Where Misfits Fit as a guide and will explore and discuss interesting topics such as:
· Southern Identity—What is southern? Who is southern?
· Popular Culture and the South—How is the south portrayed and used in culture?
· Role of Place in the South—The special relationship of place for southerners.
· Folklore and Paranormal Beliefs in the South
· Interesting Religious Movements in the South—Theosophy, Holy Order of Mans, etc.
· Counterculture and the South—cooperatives, communes and aspects of alternative culture.
Purchase the book Where Misfits Fit at https://www.upress.state.ms.us/Books/W/Where-Misfits-Fit. Dr. Tom Kersen is an associate professor of sociology at Jackson State University. He was awarded the MS Humanities Teacher of the Year for Jackson State University by the Mississippi Humanities Council and served two terms as president of the Alabama-Mississippi Sociological Association. Dr. Kersen's most recent book won the 2021 Mid-South Sociological Association's Distinguished Book Award. He is a retired Army medical service officer.
The Italian Renaissance | $20 Each Term
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. | HB In-Person
Term I: Thursdays | June 9 - June 30
Term II: Thursdays | July 14 - August 4
Four-Week Class led by Dr. Marvin Kendrick
Join us for a look into the beginning of the Italian Renaissance, including the recovery of Roman antiquity, arts, painting, sculpture and architecture. This course will also cover Florence, the Medici School and literature. Dr. Marvin Kendrick taught at Yale University in 1964, earned a degree from Harvard Divinity School and returned to Yale to earn a Master of Fine Art in 1980. Retiring to Hattiesburg, he taught art history in the Art and Design Department at USM.
When Evil Lived in Laurel . . . Plus | $10
Tuesday, June 14 | HB In-Person and Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Mike Landrum
Tom Landrum, a Laurel businessman with deep Mississippi roots, kept a lifelong secret. Only when he realized he was dying did he reveal that secret to his family. In the 1960s, Landrum was an informant who risked his life to provide information to the FBI about the local Ku Klux Klan, one of the most violent sects of the White Knights in the South, and privately kept journals about KKK activities. The Landrum family gave veteran journalist Curtis Wilkie exclusive access to these journals to recreate the events and actual conversations witnessed by Tom Landrum. In "When Evil Lived In Laurel," Wilkie provides the details surrounding the fire-bombing of the Vernon Dahmer home and store, of which Dahmer died as a result. At the time of the bombing in 1966, Dahmer was president of the Forrest County NAACP and a leader in the fight for black voting rights. His work drew the attention of the Klan. Mike Landrum, son of Tom and speaker for the Landrum family, will speak about the book and answer questions about the inside story of his family's surprising history in the Civil Rights movement. Copies of "When Evil Lived In Laurel" will be available. Mike Landrum grew up in Laurel and has been a financial services business owner for the last 32 years. He played tight end at The University of Southern Mississippi and with the Atlanta Falcons and is the family spokes-person for Tom Landrum's family, the central character of Curtis Wilkie's best seller, "When Evil Lived in Laurel."
Ahoy! Ship Island Calls to You | $10
Thursday, June 16 | GP In-Person
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Patrick Alford
In this seminar, take a virtual look at Ship Island's historic Fort Massachusetts, its newest lighthouse and its clear blue-green waters. Listen to its story, from deepwater port for early French explorers to its current role as a recreation destination. Did you know this barrier island was the nation's first quarantine station and a war camp for Civil War prisoners? Patrick Alford is a retired educator who studied at The University of Southern Mississippi.
Roman Towns in Great Britain | $10
Thursday, June 16 | GP In-Person
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Jon Caridad
When the Romans arrived in Britain in 43 A.D., they took over a territory that was disorganized, fragmented and divided into sections, with each section occupied by a different race of people. Nothing was centralized; there was no road network and no law and order. The Romans built Britain's first towns, all over the territory and connected the towns with the Roman roads. Within 17 years of the invasion, there were several major towns in place. We will trace the growth and establishment of those Roman towns and their effect on the history of Britain. Jon Caridad is a retired Episcopal priest with extensive experience in education, ancient history and biblical studies.
More Than Dollars: Making Sense of Social Class | $15
Thursday, June 16 and 23 | HB In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Two-Part Seminar led by Dr. Michael Ide
In this two-hour interactive presentation, learners will gain a deeper understanding of some key mechanisms sociologists have identified in social class inequalities, especially financial, social and cultural capital. We will look at current trends in social class mobility and inequalities in the United States and consider the history and current realities of social class as they relate to race and gender. Students will be invited to reflect on their own class trajectories and the resources that have been available to them and their families. Dr. Michael Ide, USM Honors College graduate, 2008, serves as Instructor of Sociology at South Georgia State College. As a first generation college student, Dr. Ide's interview-based research focuses on family relationships and social class, race and gender inequalities during "the college experience." He has published on college men's relationships with fathers and has presented at numerous scholarly meetings, including the "How Class Works" conference.
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. | HB In-Person
Term I: Thursdays | June 9 - June 30
Term II: Thursdays | July 14 - August 4
Four-Week Class led by Dr. Marvin Kendrick
Join us for a look into the beginning of the Italian Renaissance, including the recovery of Roman antiquity, arts, painting, sculpture and architecture. This course will also cover Florence, the Medici School and literature. Dr. Marvin Kendrick taught at Yale University in 1964, earned a degree from Harvard Divinity School and returned to Yale to earn a Master of Fine Art in 1980. Retiring to Hattiesburg, he taught art history in the Art and Design Department at USM.
When Evil Lived in Laurel . . . Plus | $10
Tuesday, June 14 | HB In-Person and Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Mike Landrum
Tom Landrum, a Laurel businessman with deep Mississippi roots, kept a lifelong secret. Only when he realized he was dying did he reveal that secret to his family. In the 1960s, Landrum was an informant who risked his life to provide information to the FBI about the local Ku Klux Klan, one of the most violent sects of the White Knights in the South, and privately kept journals about KKK activities. The Landrum family gave veteran journalist Curtis Wilkie exclusive access to these journals to recreate the events and actual conversations witnessed by Tom Landrum. In "When Evil Lived In Laurel," Wilkie provides the details surrounding the fire-bombing of the Vernon Dahmer home and store, of which Dahmer died as a result. At the time of the bombing in 1966, Dahmer was president of the Forrest County NAACP and a leader in the fight for black voting rights. His work drew the attention of the Klan. Mike Landrum, son of Tom and speaker for the Landrum family, will speak about the book and answer questions about the inside story of his family's surprising history in the Civil Rights movement. Copies of "When Evil Lived In Laurel" will be available. Mike Landrum grew up in Laurel and has been a financial services business owner for the last 32 years. He played tight end at The University of Southern Mississippi and with the Atlanta Falcons and is the family spokes-person for Tom Landrum's family, the central character of Curtis Wilkie's best seller, "When Evil Lived in Laurel."
Ahoy! Ship Island Calls to You | $10
Thursday, June 16 | GP In-Person
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Patrick Alford
In this seminar, take a virtual look at Ship Island's historic Fort Massachusetts, its newest lighthouse and its clear blue-green waters. Listen to its story, from deepwater port for early French explorers to its current role as a recreation destination. Did you know this barrier island was the nation's first quarantine station and a war camp for Civil War prisoners? Patrick Alford is a retired educator who studied at The University of Southern Mississippi.
Roman Towns in Great Britain | $10
Thursday, June 16 | GP In-Person
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Jon Caridad
When the Romans arrived in Britain in 43 A.D., they took over a territory that was disorganized, fragmented and divided into sections, with each section occupied by a different race of people. Nothing was centralized; there was no road network and no law and order. The Romans built Britain's first towns, all over the territory and connected the towns with the Roman roads. Within 17 years of the invasion, there were several major towns in place. We will trace the growth and establishment of those Roman towns and their effect on the history of Britain. Jon Caridad is a retired Episcopal priest with extensive experience in education, ancient history and biblical studies.
More Than Dollars: Making Sense of Social Class | $15
Thursday, June 16 and 23 | HB In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Two-Part Seminar led by Dr. Michael Ide
In this two-hour interactive presentation, learners will gain a deeper understanding of some key mechanisms sociologists have identified in social class inequalities, especially financial, social and cultural capital. We will look at current trends in social class mobility and inequalities in the United States and consider the history and current realities of social class as they relate to race and gender. Students will be invited to reflect on their own class trajectories and the resources that have been available to them and their families. Dr. Michael Ide, USM Honors College graduate, 2008, serves as Instructor of Sociology at South Georgia State College. As a first generation college student, Dr. Ide's interview-based research focuses on family relationships and social class, race and gender inequalities during "the college experience." He has published on college men's relationships with fathers and has presented at numerous scholarly meetings, including the "How Class Works" conference.
Dead Sea Scrolls | $10
Wednesday, June 29 | GP In-Person
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Jon Caridad
Since their discovery in 1947, the Dead Sea Scrolls have aroused excitement in biblical scholarship and archaeology. A group of church scholars tried to discredit the Scrolls and their origins due to jealousy, foreboding and fear that the Scrolls would undermine the foundations of Judaism and Christianity. Come learn who and why. Jon Caridad is a retired Episcopal priest with extensive experience in education, ancient history and biblical studies.
LGBTQ+ Information and Community Resources in MS | $10
Monday, July 11 | Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Eric Saucier-Wood
This seminar will include discussion of the interrelation between biological sex, gender identity, gender expression and sexual or romantic orientation. Resources in Mississippi will be provided and there will be Q and A. Eric Saucier-Wood is a mental health clinician who has experience working with LGBTQ+ clients and has been an advocate for the community for over a decade. Eric has made it his mission to inform the public about the risks, issues and difficulties LBGTQ+ teens face.
Conservative Judaism in the Modern World | $20
Wednesdays, July 13 - August 3 | GP In-Person
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Jon Caridad
The Hasidic Jewish community demonstrates an old and highly traditional approach to a historic faith. By using a novel or two written by Chaim Potok (The Chosen and The Promise), we will examine and interpret conservative Judaism and its place in the modern world. Jon Caridad is a retired Episcopal priest with extensive experience in education, ancient history and biblical studies.
Athena Militant: The Importance of 19th Century Female Military Companies | $10
Thursday, July 21 | Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. | Seminar led by Gary Mitchell
The story of how America came to view women's military capabilities differently from men’s is the subject of the course "Athena Militant: The Importance of 19th Century Female Military Companies." When women were allowed to enlist in the US military in 1917, the decision was universally lauded. Such an undertaking would have met a very different response in 1870, when women were felt to be unsuited for that most sacrosanct of male endeavors, war. Somehow, in the intervening years, public attitudes shifted. Long forgotten by history, informal female military organizations were critical to overcoming the last barrier to universal suffrage. How the legal barrier was overturned is due in large part to the efforts of tens of thousands of women who dared demonstrate that they possessed the discipline, sense of obedience, and patriotism necessary to shoulder the burden of military service. Come learn this important history. Gary Mitchell is a 1975 graduate of West Point and a lifelong student of military history. A self-described research junkie, he enjoys sharing stories he finds in the forgotten corners of American history. He has taught courses for years at the Rochester Institute of Technology's OLLI and is a published author and leading expert on American women's 19th century military endeavors.
Wednesday, June 29 | GP In-Person
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Jon Caridad
Since their discovery in 1947, the Dead Sea Scrolls have aroused excitement in biblical scholarship and archaeology. A group of church scholars tried to discredit the Scrolls and their origins due to jealousy, foreboding and fear that the Scrolls would undermine the foundations of Judaism and Christianity. Come learn who and why. Jon Caridad is a retired Episcopal priest with extensive experience in education, ancient history and biblical studies.
LGBTQ+ Information and Community Resources in MS | $10
Monday, July 11 | Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Eric Saucier-Wood
This seminar will include discussion of the interrelation between biological sex, gender identity, gender expression and sexual or romantic orientation. Resources in Mississippi will be provided and there will be Q and A. Eric Saucier-Wood is a mental health clinician who has experience working with LGBTQ+ clients and has been an advocate for the community for over a decade. Eric has made it his mission to inform the public about the risks, issues and difficulties LBGTQ+ teens face.
Conservative Judaism in the Modern World | $20
Wednesdays, July 13 - August 3 | GP In-Person
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Jon Caridad
The Hasidic Jewish community demonstrates an old and highly traditional approach to a historic faith. By using a novel or two written by Chaim Potok (The Chosen and The Promise), we will examine and interpret conservative Judaism and its place in the modern world. Jon Caridad is a retired Episcopal priest with extensive experience in education, ancient history and biblical studies.
Athena Militant: The Importance of 19th Century Female Military Companies | $10
Thursday, July 21 | Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. | Seminar led by Gary Mitchell
The story of how America came to view women's military capabilities differently from men’s is the subject of the course "Athena Militant: The Importance of 19th Century Female Military Companies." When women were allowed to enlist in the US military in 1917, the decision was universally lauded. Such an undertaking would have met a very different response in 1870, when women were felt to be unsuited for that most sacrosanct of male endeavors, war. Somehow, in the intervening years, public attitudes shifted. Long forgotten by history, informal female military organizations were critical to overcoming the last barrier to universal suffrage. How the legal barrier was overturned is due in large part to the efforts of tens of thousands of women who dared demonstrate that they possessed the discipline, sense of obedience, and patriotism necessary to shoulder the burden of military service. Come learn this important history. Gary Mitchell is a 1975 graduate of West Point and a lifelong student of military history. A self-described research junkie, he enjoys sharing stories he finds in the forgotten corners of American history. He has taught courses for years at the Rochester Institute of Technology's OLLI and is a published author and leading expert on American women's 19th century military endeavors.
LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE
Spanish Conversation | $20 Each Term | HB In-Person
Term I: Wednesdays | June 8 - June 29
Term II: Wednesdays | July 13 - August 3
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Dr. Giulia Saucier
This class is open to anyone wishing to develop skills in understanding and speaking Spanish. To facilitate ease of learning, stories are the vehicle used to present vocabulary, grammar, and conversational skills in context. Stories told in the present tense will be presented, followed by stories told in the past tense as members feel comfortable in moving ahead. ¡Ven con nosotros! (Come join us!) Dr. Giulia Saucier is a retired teacher and educational administrator. Dr. Saucier has taught classes in Spanish and French, including several French classes at OLLI. She has also studied Italian, Russian and modern Greek simply because she likes to study languages. She and her five dogs have recently moved to Hattiesburg and are loving it.
Term I: Wednesdays | June 8 - June 29
Term II: Wednesdays | July 13 - August 3
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Dr. Giulia Saucier
This class is open to anyone wishing to develop skills in understanding and speaking Spanish. To facilitate ease of learning, stories are the vehicle used to present vocabulary, grammar, and conversational skills in context. Stories told in the present tense will be presented, followed by stories told in the past tense as members feel comfortable in moving ahead. ¡Ven con nosotros! (Come join us!) Dr. Giulia Saucier is a retired teacher and educational administrator. Dr. Saucier has taught classes in Spanish and French, including several French classes at OLLI. She has also studied Italian, Russian and modern Greek simply because she likes to study languages. She and her five dogs have recently moved to Hattiesburg and are loving it.
Constructing Your Novel | $15
Mondays, July 25 and August 1 | GP In-Person and Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Two-Part Seminar led by Dr. Philip Levin
In this seminar, learn the three aspects of creating a novel: character, plot and
style. Come to class with your manuscript or idea and we will work on development
through all three aspects. Be prepared to submit homework assignments. At the end
of the course you will have the main character, a substantive plot outline and have
chosen a genre, period and setting. Dr. Philip Levin is a multi-award author of 30 books and over 250 published articles, stories and
poems. He just completed his Masters in Fine Arts in Creative Writing and, for twelve
years, has presided over the Gulf Coast Writers Association, editing their anthologies,
publishing its magazine, The Magnolia Quarterly, and running three writing conferences.
True Crime in the Classroom: The Shocking Story
of Joann Chambers | $5
Tuesday, June 28 | Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Mini-Seminar led by Leah Holmes
Let's delve into the twisted tale of Joann Chambers, an elementary school teacher
who, in 1993, reported receiving death threats and chilling packages. Police arrested
Chambers' colleague, a fellow teacher, but the real story of Joann Chambers was just
beginning. Be prepared--the shocking revelation of this case will stick with you awhile!
Leah Holmes is pursuing a PhD at USM in English literature with a specialty in the Victorian
era. She currently teaches literature at the USM Gulf Park campus. She taught for
numerous junior colleges and is a veteran high school English teacher. Her passion
is the mystery/detective genre of the 1800s.
The Book Thieves: A True Crime Story of Risk and Regret | $5
Tuesday, July 19 | Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Mini-Seminar led by Leah Holmes
In the dawn of an ordinary school day in 2004, four collegians set out to steal six million dollars' worth of the world's rarest books, located in the special collections library at Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky. The heist included masks, a stun gun and a 50-year-old librarian. What could possibly go wrong?! Leah Holmes is pursuing a PhD at USM in English literature with a specialty in the Victorian era. She currently teaches literature at the USM Gulf Park campus. She taught for numerous junior colleges and is a veteran high school English teacher. Her passion is the mystery/detective genre of the 1800s.
Darkness Behind the Curtain: The Frightening and Sinister Events That
Plagued the Filming of The Wizard of Oz | $5
Thursday, August 4 | Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Mini-Seminar led by Leah Holmes
We all know and love the movie "The Wizard of Oz" is practically a right of passage for American youth. What is perhaps less well known are the dark occurrences and multiple atrocities that plagued the set of the film and that cast a sinister cloud over that long yellow brick road. Sorry! You will never watch the movie the same way again! Leah Holmes is pursuing a PhD at USM in English literature with a specialty in the Victorian era. She currently teaches literature at the USM Gulf Park campus. She taught for numerous junior colleges and is a veteran high school English teacher. Her passion is the mystery/detective genre of the 1800s.
Tuesday, July 19 | Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Mini-Seminar led by Leah Holmes
In the dawn of an ordinary school day in 2004, four collegians set out to steal six million dollars' worth of the world's rarest books, located in the special collections library at Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky. The heist included masks, a stun gun and a 50-year-old librarian. What could possibly go wrong?! Leah Holmes is pursuing a PhD at USM in English literature with a specialty in the Victorian era. She currently teaches literature at the USM Gulf Park campus. She taught for numerous junior colleges and is a veteran high school English teacher. Her passion is the mystery/detective genre of the 1800s.
Darkness Behind the Curtain: The Frightening and Sinister Events That
Plagued the Filming of The Wizard of Oz | $5
Thursday, August 4 | Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Mini-Seminar led by Leah Holmes
We all know and love the movie "The Wizard of Oz" is practically a right of passage for American youth. What is perhaps less well known are the dark occurrences and multiple atrocities that plagued the set of the film and that cast a sinister cloud over that long yellow brick road. Sorry! You will never watch the movie the same way again! Leah Holmes is pursuing a PhD at USM in English literature with a specialty in the Victorian era. She currently teaches literature at the USM Gulf Park campus. She taught for numerous junior colleges and is a veteran high school English teacher. Her passion is the mystery/detective genre of the 1800s.
PERSONAL ENRICHMENT
Letterboxing—Treasure Hunting with a Twist | $10
Monday, June 6 | GP In-Person
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Jennifer Buchanan
In this workshop we will learn to begin this fun hobby by making our own simple stamp
and letterbox and by venturing through the campus to find a few hidden letterboxes.
This intergenerational seminar combines hiking, treasure hunting, art and journaling
into a fun and mentally challenging outdoor adventure. Letter-boxing is similar to
geocaching but does not require expensive GPS equipment. Find the letterboxes by using
clues left on a website such as www.letterboxing.org. Make or purchase a stamp to
use to sign visitor logs found in each letterbox. Participants are invited to bring
their grandchildren. For children to participate you must sign a permission form.
Supply List: blank paper sharpened pencils and stamp pad. Jennifer Buchanan earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees in Biological Sciences from USM.
She is retired from the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, where she worked
as a coastal ecologist and was the first Education Coordinator of the Grand Bay National
Estuarine Research Reserve. She has also served as Education Curator at the Crosby
Arboretum and is certified as an interpretive guide.
Supervised Bridge | $20 Each Term | HB In-Person
Term I: Tuesdays | June 7 - June 28
Term II: Tuesdays | July 12 - August 2
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Four-Week Class led by Ellen Davies
This supervised bridge class gives players a chance to play with an instructor available
to advise and answer questions. Participants should have played bridge for about a
year or completed beginning bridge courses. Ellen Davies is a retired teacher and lawyer who has played bridge since she was a teenager. She
has taken many bridge classes at OLLI and has taught many courses as well. There is
always time for instruction and
time for play.
Candid Conversations: A Cadre Navigating
Through Class With Class | $10
Wednesdays, June 8 and 15 | Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. | Two-Part Mini-Seminar led by Dr. Alesha Russey
This seminar highlights perceived societal challenges embedded within the fabric of
America while discussing the eight tenets of a caste system based upon Isabel Wilkerson's
lens. The candid conversations will address themes from the book "Caste" by Isabel
Wilkerson. Through robust dialogue, course participants will be able to better understand
class systems in order to further advance equitable best practices within our global
community. Dr. Alesha Russey is a returning OLLI Instructor from spring 2021 and a graduate of Jackson State University
with over 25 years of diverse experiences.
The Basics of Barbecue | $10
Thursday, June 9 | GP In-Person
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Jim Matthews
In this seminar, you will enjoy a 30-minute lecture using visual aids. The lecture
will cover the basics of outdoor cooking including types of outdoor cookers, utensils,
cooking configurations, the composition of cooking subjects (meat, poultry, seafood,
vegetables) and how cooking requirements vary. Jim Matthews has cooked outdoors for over 60 years, taught semi-professional grilling and smoker
cooking classes and was previously the food editor for the Gulf Coast Fisherman magazine.
He has performed seafood cooking demonstrations for the Mississippi Department of
Marine Resources and has cooked for a variety of public events including the roasting
of whole sides of beef and whole hogs.
Do You Need a Will? There's a Way! | $10
Thursday, June 9 | HB In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Nancy Steen
Do you have questions regarding your will or need to update yours? This seminar will
include a general discussion of Mississippi law about wills, inheritance and the probate
process. There will be time for Q and A. Nancy Steen is a practicing attorney at Adelman & Steen. She has a speech communication degree
from USM and a law degree from Ole Miss and has a general law practice that includes
wills and estates.
Those Plucky Women of World War II | $10
Thursday, June 9 | Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Kayleen Reusser
Do you have a great-great-great aunt who served in the military? During World War
II, 350,000 American women joined the Army, Navy, Coast Guard and Army Air Corps.
Some served on the American home front, while others volunteered to go overseas. Few
people believed they could do it. While people disapproved—even family—the women persevered
and outshone everyone's expectations. Kayleen has compiled an assortment of stories
from interviews with women who served as nurses, cryptologists and even pilots during
the war. The stories are frank, personal and heartfelt. From helping tow targets while
being shot at with live ammunition to nursing wounded men in France, these women responded
wholeheartedly during their country's time of need and helped to win the war. Find
out more about Reusser's books and speaking at KayleenReusser.com. Kayleen Reusser is the author of 10 books on World War II, based on interviews with 260 World War
II veterans. She has presented programs virtually and in-person across the US. In
2017, Reusser and her husband completed a 10-day World War II group tour of Europe,
visiting sites in France, Germany, Belgium and Luxembourg. Kayleen is a wife and mother
of Air Force airmen and lives with her husband in Indiana.
Summer Gardening and Care | $10
Tuesday, June 14 | Off-Site
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Polly Cuevas
Meet at Pine Hills Nursery, 7434 Cuevas Road, Pass Christian
Come learn how to create and care for a successful garden this summer while visiting
Pine Hills Nursery. Polly will teach you how to keep your plants and flowers in bloom
through the summer and will show you which plants thrive in the heat. Polly Cuevas has been manager at Pine Hills Nursery since its beginning in 1986.
Understanding your Homeowners Insurance | $5
Tuesday, June 14 | GP In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Margaret Reynolds
Coastal Mississippi is a very challenging place for homeowners insurance. You must
understand your coverage before you have a claim. In this two-part mini-seminar, learn
how to read your policy like an agent, wind and hail deductibles, storm deductibles
and how are they calculated and terms you need to look for (Actual Cash Value vs replacement
cost). We will also learn about exclusions and other structures, optional coverages,
the difference between admitted and non-admitted carriers and what to do if you have
a claim. Participants are encouraged to bring their policies to class. Margaret Reynolds is a retired independent insurance agent, has owned an independent insurance agency
for eight years and has been licensed since 1999. She has a BS from Auburn University
and an MS from USM.
How to Create Gardens for Butterflies and Other Pollinators | $20
Wednesday, June 15 | Off-Site
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Pat Drackett
Meet at Crosby Arboretum, 370 Ridge Road, Picayune
In this off-site seminar, we will learn about the Pollinator Garden at the Crosby
Arboretum along with methods for creating habitats to support butterflies, hummingbirds
and other pollinators. Increase pollinator activity in your own garden by providing
the specific food sources pollinators require in their larval (caterpillar) stage
and discover other great tips for making your yard a pollinator magnet. Entry fee
is included in class fee. Pat Drackett is the Director of Mississippi State University's Crosby Arboretum in Picayune, an
assistant extension professor of landscape architecture and holds degrees in botany
and landscape architecture. Pat is also an instructor and content contributor for
the MSU Mississippi Smart Landscapes program, which helps homeowners create good-looking,
low maintenance yards that support wildlife, use water wisely and lower energy costs.
Reading and Understanding the Medicare Summary Notice | $10
Monday, June 27 | GP In-Person and Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Gina Aguilar
Bring a copy of your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) to this seminar and you will learn
the terminologies in the notice, identify critical pieces of information and acquire
an understanding of your appeal rights. Gina Aguilar has worked with various Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) for over 20 years
and has been in leadership roles for 16 years. Her work experience covers the areas
of customer service, fraud and abuse and appeals, as a Hearing Officer and Sr. Appeals
Specialist. In her leadership roles, Gina worked closely with the Centers for Medicare
and Medicaid Services (CMS), the Administrative Law Judges of the Office of Hearing
Appeals and law enforcement.
Retirement: Making Your Money Last | $5
Tuesday, June 28 | HB In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Mini-Seminar led by Courtney Payton
In this seminar, learn the considerations and tradeoffs when developing a withdrawal
strategy, whether it be working longer, spending less or delaying social security.
We will discuss ways to plan for expected and unexpected expenses with insurance.
Courtney Payton is a financial advisor with Edward Jones and has been with the firm for the last
two years. She has worked in finance for the last 12 years across the public and private
sectors. Her broad knowledge of financial markets and income and retirement need considerations,
as well as long-term financial goal planning, positions her to share valuable information
for her community.
Effortless Outdoor Entertaining | $5
Friday, July 1 | Off-Site
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Mini-Seminar led by April Sins
Meet at Rouses Supermarket, 1444 East Pass Road, Gulfport
Join us to elevate your outdoor entertaining spread—from dried fruit paired with your
favorite cheese for the perfect picnic to refreshing beverages mixed with 100% juice!
Meet the Rouses Dietitian at the Gulfport Rouses to get some ideas for outdoor entertaining!
April Sins is a registered dietitian nutritionist with a master's in health care management.
She is the retail dietitian for Rouses Markets.
Five Wishes | $10
Tuesday, July 26 | HB In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Nanci Youngblood
Five Wishes is an easy-to-use document (provided to seminar attendees) that manages
personal, emotional and spiritual needs, as well as medical wishes. It helps alleviate
the fear factor related to aging and promotes discussion within families about one's
wishes if and when one is unable to speak for him or herself. Nanci Youngblood believes facing age-related issues openly with others is instrumental in the process
of aging gracefully.
Seasonal Transitions in Hair and Makeup | $10
Tuesday, August 2 | Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Trissy Knight
We go from the heat of summer to the chill of winter and back again, over and over
again. Join an experienced cosmetologist in a discussion of the changes needed in
cosmetic products and of differences in application as the seasons change. Also, learn
how to communicate with your hair stylist about the changes you need in cutting, styling
and coloring your hair during different times of the year. A demonstration of product
application and hair styling will be presented. Trissy Knight is an experienced cosmetologist living in Metairie, LA. She is currently board-certified
in Louisiana and was previously certified in Alabama and has been practicing for six
years, loves wacky hair colors and cosplay.
Polyvagal Theory In Action | $10
Wednesday, August 3 | HB In-Person
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Valerie Loeschen Hale
Join us in this seminar to learn how our three main neurological systems function
and communicate between brain and body to help us. Discover strategies to use if you
find yourself locked in unhealthy patterns. Valerie Loeschen Hale is a licensed clinical social worker who has been in private practice at Patterns
Counseling Center in Laurel since 2002. Valerie received her master's degree in Social
Work from the University of Kansas and completed a fellowship at Menninger in 1995.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Using Email Systems to Organize Your Life | $10
Wednesday, June 22 | Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Dr. Lorraine Magrath
Email systems like Outlook and Gmail come equipped with many productivity tools to help users be more productive but also give us the ability to organize our lives more effectively. We will learn how to use flags, how to connect tasks to emails and how to connect tasks and emails to our calendars. We will also learn how to make "To Do" lists on any device and sync to our calendars in our email systems. The instructor will use a PC for demonstration, but the concepts are usable from any device. Recommended: A basic understanding of email systems like Outlook or Gmail, just the basics of sending and reading an email. If you want to sync what is added on your phone to your desktop/laptop/pc mail systems, bring your smartphone. Dr. Lorraine Magrath is Director and Acting Chair of the Troy University School of Accountancy. She received her undergraduate and Master's degrees from the University of Southern Mississippi and her PhD from the University of Alabama. Dr. Magrath loves coding, crafting and sitting in the sun with her dog.
Hurricanes: Coming (Sooner or Later) for a Visit | $15
Thursdays, June 23 and 30 | GP In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Two-Part Seminar led by James Rigney
Hurricanes are uninvited but guaranteed visitors to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, impacting the ecological, economic and cultural landscapes of our region. In this seminar, we will examine the meteorology of these storms with a focus on coastal Mississippi history-making hurricanes, the how, when, where and how often of hurricanes and hurricane hazards such as storm surges, wind, rain, etc. We will also examine the science of observing and forecasting hurricanes, finding the best forecast information and making sense of it, making wise hurricane decisions by "thinking in bets" and the seasonal outlook for 2022. James Rigney is an oceanographer and meteorologist who served 31 years with the Naval Oceanographic Office, retiring as Chief Scientist. He received his BS and MS in meteorology from Florida State University with an emphasis in air-sea interaction.
Bold and In 3D: Mitrochondria for the Ages! | $10
Tuesday, July 12 | HB In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Dr. Andrea Marshall
This course seeks to take a fresh look at the powerhouse of the cell—the mitochondria. Often one of the most recognized cellular organelles, mitochondria are dynamic in structure and function. We will cover a broad overview of mitochondrial morphology and function in various cells and organs under healthy and diseased states. Topics of discussion are tissue-specific mitochondrial morphology and networking, mitochondria-associated membranes (MAMs) or Mitochondrial Endoplasmic Reticulum Contact sites (MERCs), mitochondrial morphology regulating proteins mitochondria in aging and mitochondria in disease. We will also discuss classic and up-and-coming techniques for studying this fascinating organelle. Dr. Andrea Marshall is an active biomedical researcher interested in the underlying mechanisms driving the aging process. Her current work focuses on the impact of aging on mitochondrial networks. She received her BS from USM in 2008, her PhD in Neurobiology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2013, postdoctoral training at University of California, Davis in 2017 and the University of Iowa in 2021. Dr. Marshall is currently employed at Vanderbilt University.
Wednesday, June 22 | Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Dr. Lorraine Magrath
Email systems like Outlook and Gmail come equipped with many productivity tools to help users be more productive but also give us the ability to organize our lives more effectively. We will learn how to use flags, how to connect tasks to emails and how to connect tasks and emails to our calendars. We will also learn how to make "To Do" lists on any device and sync to our calendars in our email systems. The instructor will use a PC for demonstration, but the concepts are usable from any device. Recommended: A basic understanding of email systems like Outlook or Gmail, just the basics of sending and reading an email. If you want to sync what is added on your phone to your desktop/laptop/pc mail systems, bring your smartphone. Dr. Lorraine Magrath is Director and Acting Chair of the Troy University School of Accountancy. She received her undergraduate and Master's degrees from the University of Southern Mississippi and her PhD from the University of Alabama. Dr. Magrath loves coding, crafting and sitting in the sun with her dog.
Hurricanes: Coming (Sooner or Later) for a Visit | $15
Thursdays, June 23 and 30 | GP In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Two-Part Seminar led by James Rigney
Hurricanes are uninvited but guaranteed visitors to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, impacting the ecological, economic and cultural landscapes of our region. In this seminar, we will examine the meteorology of these storms with a focus on coastal Mississippi history-making hurricanes, the how, when, where and how often of hurricanes and hurricane hazards such as storm surges, wind, rain, etc. We will also examine the science of observing and forecasting hurricanes, finding the best forecast information and making sense of it, making wise hurricane decisions by "thinking in bets" and the seasonal outlook for 2022. James Rigney is an oceanographer and meteorologist who served 31 years with the Naval Oceanographic Office, retiring as Chief Scientist. He received his BS and MS in meteorology from Florida State University with an emphasis in air-sea interaction.
Bold and In 3D: Mitrochondria for the Ages! | $10
Tuesday, July 12 | HB In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Dr. Andrea Marshall
This course seeks to take a fresh look at the powerhouse of the cell—the mitochondria. Often one of the most recognized cellular organelles, mitochondria are dynamic in structure and function. We will cover a broad overview of mitochondrial morphology and function in various cells and organs under healthy and diseased states. Topics of discussion are tissue-specific mitochondrial morphology and networking, mitochondria-associated membranes (MAMs) or Mitochondrial Endoplasmic Reticulum Contact sites (MERCs), mitochondrial morphology regulating proteins mitochondria in aging and mitochondria in disease. We will also discuss classic and up-and-coming techniques for studying this fascinating organelle. Dr. Andrea Marshall is an active biomedical researcher interested in the underlying mechanisms driving the aging process. Her current work focuses on the impact of aging on mitochondrial networks. She received her BS from USM in 2008, her PhD in Neurobiology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2013, postdoctoral training at University of California, Davis in 2017 and the University of Iowa in 2021. Dr. Marshall is currently employed at Vanderbilt University.
Building Blocks of Life | $15
Tuesdays, July 12 and 19 | GP In-Person and Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Two-Part Seminar led by Dr. Christi Magrath
Every living organism can be broken down into four basic "building blocks." This course is designed for a non-biologist, although biologists are welcome to attend, to begin to appreciate the beautiful nature of these molecular components of living things. You will gain understanding of the role of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), protein, lipids/fats and carbohydrates/sugar in the cells in our bodies. Current topics will be included with a discussion of the COVID vaccine and advances in medicine made possible by RNA vaccines. The instructor hopes to share her joyful appreciation of molecular biology and cells with others and NO SCIENCE BACKGROUND IS NECESSARY. Dr. Christi Magrath is a retired biologist who taught at Troy University for 20 years. She has instructed hands-on science classes to all ages. She earned her BS at USM in 1993 (chemistry and biological science) and her PhD at Tulane in 1999.
Army Ants: The Tiny Top Predators of the Tropics | $5
Friday, July 13 | HB In-Person and Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. | Mini-Seminar led by Dr. Kaitlin Baudier
Predatory carpets of ants racing across tropical forest floors have long inspired human curiosity. Although their likeness is often portrayed in popular movies as something to fear, they pose little threat to humans and provide many important ecosystem services. This seminar offers an in-depth discussion of the ecology, behavior and physiology of army ants, one of the tiniest top predators in the tropics. In addition to talking about army ant natural history, we will discuss the exciting impacts people currently studying them are making in the areas of evolution, plate tectonics and even robotics. Dr. Kaitlin Baudier is an assistant professor in the School of Biological, Environmental and Earth Sciences at the University of Southern Mississippi. Dr. Baudier's lab studies the ecology, physiology and behavior of social insects, with a particular interest in questions related to how heterogeneous insect societies organize themselves and how natural selection shapes these strategies across biogeographic space.
The Revolutionary Act of Self-Care | $15
Tuesdays, July 26 and August 2 | Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Two-Part Seminar led by Dr. Stephanie Jett
In this course we will discuss the revolutionary act of self-care and its importance to well-being. Many people tend to put others first,before they take care of their own needs. Self-care is, in turn, seen as selfish, but, conversely, it is a vital component to mental health and is based on the premise that we cannot care for others properly if we are not first taking care of ourselves. Dr. Stephanie Jett is an assistant professor of psychology at Georgia College & State University. She graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with her PhD in Experimental Psychology, and her research focuses on animal behavior/cognition and coping and resilience after trauma in veterans and other populations.
Science Fun for Everyone | $15
Thursdays, July 28 and August 4 | GP In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Two-Part Seminar led by Dr. Christi Magrath
Science is fun, but "hands-on" science is even more fun! This class will have several mini-labs or demonstrations that allow scientific principles to be explored with excitement. Concepts in biology, chemistry and physics will be explored, and we will even harvest DNA from a strawberry and hold the strands in our hands. All the activities will use simple materials that are common in most households. Individual OLLI adult learners are welcome and guests of any age can join to have a great time learning simple scientific concepts. Dr. Christi Magrath is a retired biologist who taught at Troy University for 20 years. She has instructed hands-on science classes to all ages and finds passion in sharing the joy and excitement she finds in science with others. She earned her BS at USM in 1993 (chemistry, biological science) and her PhD at Tulane in 1999.
Tuesdays, July 12 and 19 | GP In-Person and Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Two-Part Seminar led by Dr. Christi Magrath
Every living organism can be broken down into four basic "building blocks." This course is designed for a non-biologist, although biologists are welcome to attend, to begin to appreciate the beautiful nature of these molecular components of living things. You will gain understanding of the role of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), protein, lipids/fats and carbohydrates/sugar in the cells in our bodies. Current topics will be included with a discussion of the COVID vaccine and advances in medicine made possible by RNA vaccines. The instructor hopes to share her joyful appreciation of molecular biology and cells with others and NO SCIENCE BACKGROUND IS NECESSARY. Dr. Christi Magrath is a retired biologist who taught at Troy University for 20 years. She has instructed hands-on science classes to all ages. She earned her BS at USM in 1993 (chemistry and biological science) and her PhD at Tulane in 1999.
Army Ants: The Tiny Top Predators of the Tropics | $5
Friday, July 13 | HB In-Person and Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. | Mini-Seminar led by Dr. Kaitlin Baudier
Predatory carpets of ants racing across tropical forest floors have long inspired human curiosity. Although their likeness is often portrayed in popular movies as something to fear, they pose little threat to humans and provide many important ecosystem services. This seminar offers an in-depth discussion of the ecology, behavior and physiology of army ants, one of the tiniest top predators in the tropics. In addition to talking about army ant natural history, we will discuss the exciting impacts people currently studying them are making in the areas of evolution, plate tectonics and even robotics. Dr. Kaitlin Baudier is an assistant professor in the School of Biological, Environmental and Earth Sciences at the University of Southern Mississippi. Dr. Baudier's lab studies the ecology, physiology and behavior of social insects, with a particular interest in questions related to how heterogeneous insect societies organize themselves and how natural selection shapes these strategies across biogeographic space.
The Revolutionary Act of Self-Care | $15
Tuesdays, July 26 and August 2 | Zoom
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Two-Part Seminar led by Dr. Stephanie Jett
In this course we will discuss the revolutionary act of self-care and its importance to well-being. Many people tend to put others first,before they take care of their own needs. Self-care is, in turn, seen as selfish, but, conversely, it is a vital component to mental health and is based on the premise that we cannot care for others properly if we are not first taking care of ourselves. Dr. Stephanie Jett is an assistant professor of psychology at Georgia College & State University. She graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with her PhD in Experimental Psychology, and her research focuses on animal behavior/cognition and coping and resilience after trauma in veterans and other populations.
Science Fun for Everyone | $15
Thursdays, July 28 and August 4 | GP In-Person and Zoom
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Two-Part Seminar led by Dr. Christi Magrath
Science is fun, but "hands-on" science is even more fun! This class will have several mini-labs or demonstrations that allow scientific principles to be explored with excitement. Concepts in biology, chemistry and physics will be explored, and we will even harvest DNA from a strawberry and hold the strands in our hands. All the activities will use simple materials that are common in most households. Individual OLLI adult learners are welcome and guests of any age can join to have a great time learning simple scientific concepts. Dr. Christi Magrath is a retired biologist who taught at Troy University for 20 years. She has instructed hands-on science classes to all ages and finds passion in sharing the joy and excitement she finds in science with others. She earned her BS at USM in 1993 (chemistry, biological science) and her PhD at Tulane in 1999.
TRAVEL
The USM Quinlan-Hammond Center for Military Veterans Guided Tour | $5
Monday, June 6 | HB Meet-Up
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Michael McGee
Meet at 200 North 35th Avenue, Hattiesburg
Join OLLI members to tour the brand-new Quinlan-Hammond Hall of Honor on the Hattiesburg campus of Southern Miss. Learn the evolution of Veteran Services on the campus of Southern Miss and take this opportunity to explore, from the True Faith and Allegiance Corridor to the Semper Fidelis Courtyard. The Quinlan-Hammond Hall of Honor is located one block from the Peck House. Michael McGee, Southern Miss Veteran Outreach Coordinator, was born and raised in Collins, is married to the former LaTonya Booth and they have four children. Michael enjoys spending time with his wife, family and his church family. He is an Army retiree who served more than 23 years of active duty and has a Bachelor in religion, with a minor in psychology, from William Carey University and a Master of Science from Southern Miss.
Visit the Hattiesburg Zoo | $20
Tuesday, June 14 | HB Meet-Up
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Gabby Howe
Meet at the Hattiesburg Zoo, 107 S. 17th Avenue, Hattiesburg
Meet at the Hattiesburg Zoo, where we will enjoy a train ride, an animal encounter and a behind-the-scenes look at the Zoo. You may tour the zoo afterwards. Gabby Howe studied Ecology and Organismal Biology at the University of Southern Mississippi. After working as an animal care intern at the Hattiesburg Zoo, Gabby discovered her passion for informal wildlife education. She now works as the Education Program Coordinator at the Hattiesburg Zoo where she oversees the field trip program and the docent (volunteer zoo educator) program.
Field Trip to Mississippi Museums | $55
Friday, June 17 | Off-Site
9:45 a.m. | Field Trip
Leave from the Peck House, 3601 Pearl Street, Hattiesburg
Finally! OLLI field trips are back! Come with us to visit either the MS Museum of Art, MS Sports Hall of Fame Museum or the Museums of MS History and MS Civil Rights. You choose. Bus fare and entry fee are included in trip fee; lunch is not. There are places to eat near or in each museum.
Laurel: The Town That Timber Built | $10 (Donations to the Museum encouraged)
Tuesday, June 21 | HB Meet-Up
9:45 a.m. | Seminar led by George Bassi
Meet at the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, 565 N. 5th Avenue, Laurel
Meet OLLI members in Laurel and join Museum Director George Bassi for a brief history of the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, followed by an informative and entertaining walking tour the Laurel Historic District. Laurel truly is the "Town That Timber Built," and Bassi will take you on a two-block tour of the residential historic district to explore the roots of Eastman-Gardiner Lumber Company and to explain how Laurel became the Yellow Pine Capital of the World in the early 20th century. Please do not forget to bring a cash donation for the museum. There is no entry fee, but they encourage donations. George Bassi is a native of Leland, MS, and the Executive Director of the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, a position he has held since 1993. He received his undergraduate degree from Delta State University in 1987 and his Master of Arts from The University of Southern Mississippi in 1993. George has more than 30 years of non-profit management and arts administration experience.
Gulf Blue: USM's Leadership Role in Driving the Innovation Sector of the MS Gulf Coast | $10
Friday, July 22 | GP Meet-Up
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Dr. Shannon Campbell
In this seminar, you will learn how The University of Southern Mississippi is championing the innovation sector of blue economy efforts along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, with the most recent announcement being the Gulf Blue Initiative. This meet-up will provide tours and information from three locations: 1) Gulf Park Campus (Long Beach) education briefing, 2) Marine Research Center (Port of Gulfport) research briefing, and 3) Gulf and Ship Island Building (Downtown Gulfport) partnering with private-sector companies. We will finish at a local restaurant. Dr. Shannon Campbell is Senior Associate Vice President for USM's Coastal Operations, which encompasses teaching and research sites across the MS Gulf Coast. She oversees the University’s vision for its coastal operations, serving as a national leader in addressing issues relevant to people in coastal and maritime settings. Dr. Campbell served eight years as the Director of USM's Trent Lott National Center.
Visit to the Holloway-Polk House | $10
Wednesday, July 27 | HB Meet-Up
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Jeanne Polk
Meet at the Holloway-Polk House, 6162 Hwy 84E, Prentiss
Come visit the home place and heritage of the Holloway and Polk families, learn about its antiquities and how it became a part of the unique history of south Mississippi. The home was built 158 years ago and placed on the National Register of Historical Sites in 1994 and with the Secretary of State as the Holloway-Polk Historical House and Cultural Center in 2010. Jeanne Polk is a retired certified counselor and high school librarian, has taught dependents of military families in Germany, English in Bassfield High School and Jefferson Davis Vo-Tech Center. Jeanne has published brochures on Human Rights and assisted with the Counseling Program in Bhutan School.
Tuesday, June 21 | HB Meet-Up
9:45 a.m. | Seminar led by George Bassi
Meet at the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, 565 N. 5th Avenue, Laurel
Meet OLLI members in Laurel and join Museum Director George Bassi for a brief history of the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, followed by an informative and entertaining walking tour the Laurel Historic District. Laurel truly is the "Town That Timber Built," and Bassi will take you on a two-block tour of the residential historic district to explore the roots of Eastman-Gardiner Lumber Company and to explain how Laurel became the Yellow Pine Capital of the World in the early 20th century. Please do not forget to bring a cash donation for the museum. There is no entry fee, but they encourage donations. George Bassi is a native of Leland, MS, and the Executive Director of the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art, a position he has held since 1993. He received his undergraduate degree from Delta State University in 1987 and his Master of Arts from The University of Southern Mississippi in 1993. George has more than 30 years of non-profit management and arts administration experience.
Gulf Blue: USM's Leadership Role in Driving the Innovation Sector of the MS Gulf Coast | $10
Friday, July 22 | GP Meet-Up
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Dr. Shannon Campbell
In this seminar, you will learn how The University of Southern Mississippi is championing the innovation sector of blue economy efforts along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, with the most recent announcement being the Gulf Blue Initiative. This meet-up will provide tours and information from three locations: 1) Gulf Park Campus (Long Beach) education briefing, 2) Marine Research Center (Port of Gulfport) research briefing, and 3) Gulf and Ship Island Building (Downtown Gulfport) partnering with private-sector companies. We will finish at a local restaurant. Dr. Shannon Campbell is Senior Associate Vice President for USM's Coastal Operations, which encompasses teaching and research sites across the MS Gulf Coast. She oversees the University’s vision for its coastal operations, serving as a national leader in addressing issues relevant to people in coastal and maritime settings. Dr. Campbell served eight years as the Director of USM's Trent Lott National Center.
Visit to the Holloway-Polk House | $10
Wednesday, July 27 | HB Meet-Up
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Seminar led by Jeanne Polk
Meet at the Holloway-Polk House, 6162 Hwy 84E, Prentiss
Come visit the home place and heritage of the Holloway and Polk families, learn about its antiquities and how it became a part of the unique history of south Mississippi. The home was built 158 years ago and placed on the National Register of Historical Sites in 1994 and with the Secretary of State as the Holloway-Polk Historical House and Cultural Center in 2010. Jeanne Polk is a retired certified counselor and high school librarian, has taught dependents of military families in Germany, English in Bassfield High School and Jefferson Davis Vo-Tech Center. Jeanne has published brochures on Human Rights and assisted with the Counseling Program in Bhutan School.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Lunch with a Mission—Starfish Café | Dutch Treat
Friday, June 10 | GP Meet-Up
10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Friday, June 10 | GP Meet-Up
10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Meet at the Starfish Café, 10408 MS-603, Bay St. Louis
Starfish Café is more then a restaurant. It makes a difference by providing education
in restaurant skills and life management. Each handcrafted meal prepared uses only
locally-grown and sourced produce and freshest ingredients. Connect with OLLI members
and enjoy a delicious lunch. Dutch treat.
Summer Solstice Social | No Charge
Tuesday, June 21 | GP In-Person
10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. | Q and A with Kat Bergeron
Come and join OLLI members for coffee and a casual social gathering featuring Kat
Bergeron, columnist and Coast historian—an opportunity to "interview the interviewer"
and enjoy more of Kat's wonderful stories about the culture and legends of the region.
This get-together is a fine way to celebrate the first day of summer! Kat Bergeron is a semi-retired journalist who writes "Mississippi Coast Chronicles" for the Sun
Herald. She has been a feature writer and reporter for the Sun Herald for forty-five
years and taught local folklore in Road Scholar programs.
Lunch With a Story at the Rusty Pelican | Dutch Treat
Friday, June 24 | GP Meet-Up
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Meet at the Rusty Pelican, 6174 Beatline Road, Long Beach
Join OLLI for an early lunch and a story about how the Rusty Pelican's owner, Mrs.
Way Hue, came to the United States from Vietnam in the '70s. She will talk about how
she learned the restaurant business and created a successful restaurant. Dutch treat.
Lunch at Sully's | Dutch Treat
Friday, July 15 | GP Meet-Up
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Friday, July 15 | GP Meet-Up
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Meet at Sully’s, 1316 30th Avenue, Gulfport
Come join OLLI members for lunch and conversation at a "new-to-the-coast" American cuisine restaurant. Dutch treat.
Lunch at McElroy's Harbor House | Dutch Treat
Friday, July 29 | GP Meet-Up
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Come join OLLI members for lunch and conversation at a "new-to-the-coast" American cuisine restaurant. Dutch treat.
Lunch at McElroy's Harbor House | Dutch Treat
Friday, July 29 | GP Meet-Up
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Meet at McElroy's Harbor House, 695 Beach Blvd, Biloxi
Join OLLI members at a casual, maritime-themed restaurant overlooking the water, and
serving seafood and southern fare. Dutch treat.
SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS (SIGs)
SIGs are free with membership!
Please register for SIGs, listed below, you wish to participate in.
Contact your local OLLI office with questions:
228.214.3277 (Gulf Park) or 601.266.6554 (Hattiesburg)
Art (Gulf Park) — 1st Friday at 9:30 a.m.
Knitting (Hattiesburg)—1st and 3rd Fridays at 2:00 p.m.
Life Story Writing and Poetry (Hattiesburg) — 3rd Friday at 10:30 a.m.
Mississippi Books and Authors (Hattiesburg) — 4th Friday at 11 a.m.
OLLI Book Club (Gulf Park) — 3rd Friday at 1 p.m.
OLLI Book Club (Hattiesburg) — 2nd Friday at 10 a.m.
Photography (Hattiesburg) — 1st and 3rd Fridays at 2:30 p.m.
Ukulele (Gulf Park) — Fridays at 12 p.m.
Ukulele (Hattiesburg) — Fridays at 2 p.m.