Recreation   

This course is a one-week introductory “boot camp” for absolute beginners who want to learn the basics of playing American mah-jongg (AMJ). This five-day series of hands-on play and practice activities is limited to two tables of four or five students each. Instruction will cover the game materials and the rules of play. This is not for people who have played before and want to get back into the game. Intermediate or advanced game play strategies are not part of this activity. At the conclusion of this boot camp, students will understand the game materials, objectives and rules of play, and be ready to form a group of beginner players to continue their AMJ play. Each variation of mah jongg (American, Chinese and Japanese Riichi) has a unique play style and set of rules.

NOTE: The required reference text is provided by the instructor. Text fee is $10, payable at the first class, cash only, please. Please commit to the full week of classes. Missing one class can disrupt the learning experience for all participants. Class will meet in Room C on Tuesday, Jan. 6.

This course is a one-week introductory “boot camp” for absolute beginners who want to learn the basics of playing American mah-jongg (AMJ). This five-day series of hands-on play and practice activities is limited to two tables of four or five students each. Instruction will cover the game materials and the rules of play. This is not for people who have played before and want to get back into the game. Intermediate or advanced game play strategies are not part of this activity. At the conclusion of this boot camp, students will understand the game materials, objectives and rules of play, and be ready to form a group of beginner players to continue their AMJ play. Each variation of mah jongg (American, Chinese and Japanese Riichi) has a unique play style and set of rules.

NOTE: The required reference text is provided by the instructor. Text fee is $10, payable at the first class, cash only, please. Please commit to the full week of classes. Missing one class can disrupt the learning experience for all participants. Class will meet in Room C on Tuesday, Jan. 6.

Exploring the nearby winter trails on cross-country skis will provide a forum for 10 students to get together at a snow park close to Ashland. The first class will be held at Campbell Center, where we meet in person and begin to form community while assessing everyone’s understanding and abilities, check all gear, and get logistics for the next classes when we meet on the mountain. We’ll use the buddy system for safety on the snow and practice getting up and down from the ground. Slowing down will be promoted, as well as enjoying the scenery, breathing, releasing ambition and always reducing the effort. It’s a way to feel your whole self in a new way while breathing the fresh, cool mountain air, learning from fellow students and seeing Mount McLoughlin in the distance.

NOTE: This is not an introduction to cross-country skiing. Students must be familiar, although not expert with the activity and know their physical abilities. Students must have their own gear or secure rentals. If snow or weather conditions are unfavorable, we’ll hike the ski trail or reschedule. A seasonal Sno-Park pass ($25), valid from April through November, is required to leave vehicles at snow parks. The first class session on Jan. 14 will be held at the Campbell Center in Room D. Signed liability waiver required to participate.

In this course, you will learn the basics of creating the sewing projects of your choice. The instructor will emphasize the development of basic sewing skills used to create apparel. We will focus on learning how to use the sewing machines, fabric and pattern selection, how to decode information on patterns, basic construction techniques, pressing skills and time-saving technologies and techniques. By the end of the course, you will have the basic skills to embark on your own creations with or without a pattern. Together we will create a sewing skills foundation that can help you in career opportunities or just sewing for yourself, friends and family.

NOTE: Total cost to participate is $200 ($25 per session).Signed liability waiver required to participate.

You have learned basic kumihimo or Japanese braiding; now let’s try it with beads! By adding beads, you can create a new dimension to the art of kumihimo braiding and transform a simple braid into an elegant piece of jewelry. We will use varying combinations of beads, resulting in a unique, distinctive look for each bracelet. We will explore different finishing methods for enhancing your bracelet. By the end of the class each student will have completed a beaded kumihimo bracelet. This is not a beginning kumihimo course. Knowledge of basic eight-cord round kumihimo is needed for this course.

NOTE: Cost for supplies is $15 to $40. A supply list will be provided prior to the first class.

What is kumihimo? The word means “gathered threads” and involves using a multistrand cord or string known as the “koma.” Originally used for practical purposes such as securing armor and clothing, kumihimo now serves many decorative functions, including jewelry making and home decor. Participants will learn the craft by starting out making a friendship bracelet. After that is mastered, they will move on to more advanced design and projects. Both new and returning students are welcome. We will try simple and advanced designs to keep everyone engaged. 

NOTE: This is round, not square, kumihimo. A supply list will be sent to registered students prior to the first class. The cost of supplies may range from $15 to $40, depending on the project. 

Enchanting miniature fairy gardens in teacups, terrariums or other containers are fun to make for yourself or as gifts for others. This course will cover designing and assembling the scene in a container of the student’s choice. Students will also learn to make certain elements from scratch (acorn birdhouses, anyone?). In the three class sessions, students will have the opportunity to make one or more garden scenes. Teacups and materials will be provided. No prior fairy experience is required.

NOTE: The course will not use live plants; instead, dried or artificial plants will be provided. A donation of $5 to cover materials is suggested but not required.

This course is designed for the person who wants to learn the fundamentals of the fastest growing sport in America. It is played by all age groups and physical abilities in recreational or tournament play. Join the fun, led by experienced instructors from the Ashland Oregon Pickleball Club. We will meet for 1½ hours a day for five consecutive afternoons. Beginning players will learn the basics: choosing a paddle, paddle position, serving, return of serve, dinking, drills, scoring and calling “out balls.” You might meet “Nasty Nelson!” An emphasis will be placed on safety, court etiquette and sportsmanship. AOPC will provide the paddles, balls and instruction. Use of the Playtime scheduler will be covered as well as courts available in our area. 

NOTE: If you have a mobility issue, this may not be the course for you. Please wear court shoes, bring a hat/visor and a hydrating drink. Eye protection is recommended. If we have inclement weather the class will be canceled. Signed liability waiver required to participate.

This course is designed for students who have taken the Absolute Beginners Pickleball course or have a rudimentary knowledge of the game. It will be taught by seasoned instructors who are experienced players. Expect to build on the basic game to include advanced strategy in play. We will meet at Lithia Park pickleball courts for 1½ hours a day for five consecutive days. There will be an emphasis on safety and sportsmanship. This skills-building class will focus on different types of serves; lobs; third shot drops or “drop shots” drives; partner communication; stacking; types of scoring; and identifying Bert, Ernie and Nasty Nelson. The last day will be a FUN round-robin in which each player will rotate play with all others. An instructor will be on each court to provide feedback.  

NOTE: Please bring a paddle, court shoes, a hat or visor, snacks and a hydrating drink. Eye protection is recommended. Students must know the basic game, such as rules/usapickleball.org, court position, basic serve, return of serve, NVZ, calling “out” balls, safety and sportsmanship. If we have inclement weather the class will be canceled. Signed liability waiver required to participate. 

This term’s course will introduce six new wine regions not covered in previous “Wines of the World” offerings. Lectures using PowerPoint and multimedia will cover the geography, climate, soils, history, varietals, labeling and regulatory structure of each region. We will taste four quality wines from that region and discuss our perceptions. No special knowledge is required but a passion for wine is recommended.

NOTE: A class fee will be charged to cover the cost of the premium wines we taste. The fee will be based on the cost of the wines but will not exceed $120 per student. Students are required to pay the full fee, even if they expect to miss some classes. Signed liability waiver required to participate.