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Forever Learning Institute



Our Classes

Tue14 Amateur (Ham) Radio: Tune In, Reach Out, Explore the World!

$55

with Barry Keating, Ph.D.

Calendar Mar 3, 2026 at 10 am, runs for 10 weeks

Discover the fascinating world of Amateur (Ham) Radio—where technology, communication, and friendship meet! Whether you’re completely new to the hobby or ready to upgrade to your General Class license, this engaging course will guide you through the essentials of radio operation, licensing requirements, and on-air etiquette. Experience hands-on demonstrations with real equipment. You’ll learn how to talk with people across town—or across the globe. Join the ranks of over 700,000 licensed Hams in the U.S. and open the door to a lifelong hobby that blends science, adventure, and public service. No technical background required—just curiosity and enthusiasm!

Will run

Tue15 Birding 101

$55

with Michaele Klingerman

Calendar Mar 3, 2026 at 10 am, runs for 6 weeks

If you are curious to learn about birds and don't know where to start, this series is for you! We will begin with basics of bird id while looking at birds as we visit the trails at the various St. Joseph County Parks located throughout St. Joseph County. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear. If you don't have binoculars, no worries! We have optics available. April 14 St. Parick's County Park: Harvest Room April 21 Ferrettie/Baugo Creek County Park: Astor Room April 28 Bendix Woods County Park: Runnels Shelter May 12 Spicer Lake Nature Preserve: Nature Center May 19 South Bend-Elkhart Bird Sanctuary: 59395 Clover Road May 26 Beverley D. Crone Restoration Site

Full Course

Tue16 Quantum Physics and the Elements

$55

with Andrew Sommese, Ph.D.

Calendar Mar 3, 2026 at 10 am, runs for 10 weeks

This course introduces the fundamentals of quantum mechanics—from Planck and his constant to basic applications of Schrödinger’s equation and the resulting structure of atoms. With this foundation, we’ll take a relaxed, engaging tour through the elements, using the periodic table as our roadmap. Along the way, we’ll explore how these elements appear in everyday life, including the 60+ elements found in the phones we carry. Prerequisites include either the Fall 2025 Forever Learning course Mathematics and Quantum Physics or one semester of high school physics, some calculus, and college-level probability.

Will run

Tue17 Basic iPhone Workshop

$55

with Richard Sunshine, Ph.D.

Calendar Mar 3, 2026 at 10:30 am, runs for 10 weeks

This hands-on class will cover basic iPhone elements, including setting up and starting to use your iPhone, the iCloud, calls and contacts, typing and texts, emails, calendar, camera and photos, video chatting with Facetime, browsing the web, and getting and using apps. An iPhone running iOS 26 and the book “iPhone for Seniors in easy steps, 12th Edition” will be required. The book can be purchased on Amazon for under $20. Jane Keller will be co-teaching.

Full Course

Tue18 Flutes!

$55

with AnneMarie Dawson

Calendar Mar 3, 2026 at 10:40 am, runs for 10 weeks

Have you been yearning to have a reason to pick up your flute again? Join us for flute choir and ensembles; previous playing experience is required. We will have time set aside for those who wish for extra help. You will need a flute in playing condition, a music stand, a tuner, and a metronome. $5.00 copying fee. Contact instructor for reliable flute repair technicians.

Will run

Tue20 President Kennedy Assassination: Unwrapping the Crime of the Century

$55

with Jack Gordon, Ed.D.

Calendar Mar 3, 2026 at 11:20 am, runs for 8 weeks

It has been more than 60 years since President Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas. This class will review the official investigations, media coverage, examination of the medical evidence, photos and films, various theories, and an assumption that the truth about this tragedy still matters in 2026.

Will run

Tue21 Chair Pilates

$55

with Vanessa Canal, B.A., M.S., Certified Pilates Instructor

Calendar Mar 3, 2026 at 11:30 am, runs for 10 weeks

Stay strong, stable, and confident in this fun, music-filled class designed for all levels! Using a chair and optional props, you’ll build strength, stability, and balance through safe, effective seated and standing movements. No floor work required. Modifications are tailored to every ability. Through consistent practice, participants often notice improved posture, better coordination, and renewed vitality in daily life.

Full Course

Tue22 Knitting

$55

with Beth Holstein

Calendar Mar 3, 2026 at 11:40 am, runs for 9 weeks

Learn to knit as you make a dishcloth, potholder or blanket (for the more ambitious). Beginning skills: knit, purl, cast on, bind off, tools of knitting. Beginner supplies: size 7 or 8 needle (straight or circular 10-14 in); 1 skein Lily Sugar 'n Cream (Michael's) or Crafter's Secret Cotton (Hobby Lobby). Knitters join us to knit and/or learn a new skill.

Full Course




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