Personal Enrichment - Special Interest

There are no fee exemptions allowed for self-supporting courses. The registration fee must be paid by all class participants. Registration fees vary depending upon cost of the course and minimum enrollment of students. No refunds are permitted for withdrawal from self-supporting courses unless the course is canceled by the College. Self-supporting courses are noted by (SS) beside the class title.

Course Schedule

Ambassador William Dodd, From Cotton Fields to the Halls of Power (8 Hrs)

This class will explore the life and legacy of North Carolina native, Ambassador William Dodd. Dodd grew up on a cotton farm near Clayton, and went on to a distinguished career as a professor of history at the University of Chicago. He then served as President Franklin Roosevelt’s Ambassador to Germany. He witnessed, first hand, the rise of the Nazi Regime, and wrote about it. This class will explore Dodd’s life, from his teaching career to his involvement with the New Deal.

Course Code: CSP 4000 30U
Dates/Days: June, 06, 2013 - June, 27, 2013 (Th)
Course Times: 10:00 a.m. - noon
Location: Cleveland Center
Registration Fee: $35

An Introduction to Bird Watching (2 hrs)

Wild birds are everywhere. This makes bird watching a perfect outdoor recreation that can be done right in your backyard!
This class will introduce you to the tools you need to get started, such as field guides and binoculars, the skill of using binoculars, and identification techniques, such as field markings, songs/calls, and behaviors.
We will observe the common birds around the feeders located at our learning center, during our classroom session, and then go out on one of the more popular trails to get field experience in bird watching.
Please bring your own binoculars and field guides; however, some equipment will be available.

Course Code: CSP 4000 83U
Dates/Days: August, 04, 2013 (Su)
Course Times: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Location: Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center ELC
Registration Fee: $10

Back to the Basics….. of Fishing (4 hrs)

If you are an adult looking to learn how to fish or wanting to get back into fishing or have a child that you would like to introduce to fishing, then this event is for you. Learn proper outdoor ethics, how to tie a fishing knot, put on terminal tackle, cast, bait a hook, reel in a fish, and identify fish species in the ponds of Howell Woods. Participants will be provided a loaner fishing pole with tackle and bait and fishing assistance.

Course Code: CSP 4000 77U
Dates/Days: June, 01, 2013 (Sa)
Course Times: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Location: Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center ELC
Registration Fee: $10

Basic Tree Identification (3 hrs)

Learn the basics of tree identification. This is a beginner level class for outdoor enthusiast interested in learning the trees of Southeastern North Carolina. Classroom activities will be followed by a field tour, dress accordingly.

Course Code: CSP 4000 79U
Dates/Days: June, 13, 2013 (Th)
Course Times: 9:00 a.m. - noon
Location: Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center ELC
Registration Fee: $10

Fun & Simple Cake Decorating (9 Hrs) (SS*)

Want to bring an impressive dessert over for the holidays, or make your child’s day with a birth-day cake worth bragging about? This class you teach you fun new ways to decorate both sheet and tiered cakes using tried and tested Wilton cake-decorating techniques.

Course Code: CSP 4000 33U
Dates/Days: June, 15, 2013 - June, 29, 2013 (Sa)
Course Times: 9:00 a.m. - noon
Location: Cleveland Center
Registration Fee: $50

Get Your Bearings (3 hrs)

Learn to find your way using a compass and map. You’ll learn all the basics of orienteering including reading bearings, topo maps, and more. Use your new skills on a treasure hunt around the learning center.

Course Code: CSP 4000 86U
Dates/Days: August, 13, 2013 (T)
Course Times: 9:00 a.m. - noon
Location: Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center ELC
Registration Fee: $10

Herb Gardening for Pollinators and Cooking with Herbs for You! (2 hrs)

Many culinary herbs are important pollinator plants. Growing herbs can be done on a small scale, even in containers, but have a great benefit for pollinators. This class will provide information on cultivating, harvesting and preserving herbs, as well as identifying the types of pollinator insects likely to visit your herb garden. We will even supply you with a host of recipes and tips so you can experience the delight of cooking with herbs.

Course Code: CSP 4000 80U
Dates/Days: July, 09, 2013 (T)
Course Times: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Location: Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center ELC
Registration Fee: $10

Infant Massage (3 Hrs)

This practical, hands-on class will teach you how to provide soothing, relaxing massage techniques for your baby (6 weeks – 9 mos.) Massaging your baby has many benefits including promoting deeper and longer sleep, as well as relieving congestion, gas and colic. It will also empower you as a parent by deepening the bond, increasing confidence and sensitivity to understand your baby’s cues. These simple techniques can also be used for older siblings experiencing leg fatigue and soreness from playing sports!

Course Code: CSP 4000 24U
Dates/Days: May, 21, 2013 - May, 28, 2013 (T)
Course Times: 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Location: Cleveland Center
Registration Fee: $30

Introduction to Tai Chi (8 Hrs) (SS*)

This graceful and flowing exercise can be used to improve over-all health, and well being. The routine practice of Tai Chi offers many health benefits,including increased flexibility and muscle strength. It can also help improve posture and balance, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. It is gentle enough for all ages and activity levels.
Pre-registration is required.

Course Code: CSP 4000 31U
Dates/Days: May, 27, 2013 - July, 15, 2013 (M)
Course Times: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Location: Cleveland Center
Registration Fee: $30

Longleaf Pine Forest-History and Restoration (3 hrs)

Come learn about one of the most unique and endangered ecosystems in the world- the longleaf pine forest. We will discuss the natural and cultural history of the longleaf pine, its decline, and restoration projects being implements to restore the valuable ecosystem of our state tree.
Following a short classroom introduction, we will visit one of the longleaf restoration sites on Howell Woods’s property to discuss why prescribed burning is necessary to the health of a longleaf pine ecosystem, how they are safety conducted and how to correctly plant a longleaf pine.

Course Code: CSP 4000 76U
Dates/Days: May, 21, 2013 (T)
Course Times: 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Location: Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center ELC
Registration Fee: $10

Moth Night (2 hrs)

Did you know there are more than 10,000 species of moths in North America and some species of moths fly like butterflies during the day? Most species of moths are nocturnal, though and need to be sought at night to be seen. This event will introduce you some of these night creatures and celebrate these amazing insects as part of National Moth week, July 20-28, 2013.
http://nationalmothweek.org/

Course Code: CSP 4000 82U
Dates/Days: July, 20, 2013 (Sa)
Course Times: 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Location: Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center ELC
Registration Fee: $10

Neuse River Canoe Trip (8 hrs)

Welcome back the warmer weather with this guided trip on the Neuse River. The Howell Woods staff will discuss the natural history of the Neuse River as you leisurely paddle this scenic river.
The trip will start on Howell Woods’s property and end at the Richardson Bridge boat ramp. The trip averages about three hours on the water but please plan a little longer for varying water conditions, paddler's proficiency and transportation form the take out area. Canoes, paddles and life preservers will be supplied. Please bring snacks and drinks for the trip. Space is limited to 10 paddlers, so call early to reserve a seat.

Course Code: CSP 4000 87U
Dates/Days: June, 08, 2013 (Sa)
Course Times: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Location: Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center ELC
Registration Fee: $15

Pollinator Conservation (2 hrs)

The numbers of managed and native pollinators have been significantly decreasing for several decades. This class will help to increase an awareness of these pollinators and their importance to the productivity of crops and the survival and reproduction of many native plants and wildlife.
We will review what pollination is, learn about some of the animals that make this happen, their habitat needs and explain how you can enhance, restore or create habitats for pollinators. Also, learn how to contribute, as a citizen scientist, to the world’s largest citizen science project focused on pollinator conservation called The Great Sunflower Project…. http://www.greatsunflower.org/.

You will have the chance to make and take nesting bundles and wooden nesting blocks to provide vital nesting sites for solitary bees at your home.

Course Code: CSP 4000 81U
Dates/Days: July, 16, 2013 (T)
Course Times: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Location: Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center ELC
Registration Fee: $10

Pond and Stream Exploration (3 hrs)

This exciting adventure will take you to Savanna Pond and Mill Creek to discover the critters associated with these different habitats. We will dip, seine and kick around to collect some of these fascinating critters that can tell us about the quality of these waters. Be prepared to get wet in this hands-on class. Bring your own water shoes or waders and towels.

Course Code: CSP 4000 78U
Dates/Days: June, 11, 2013 (T)
Course Times: 9:00 a.m. - noon
Location: Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center ELC
Registration Fee: $10

Purposeful Aging (8 Hrs)

Using a combination of lively informational sessions, group activities, and interactive discussions, a positive review of the senior years and the aging process will be covered. Participants will learn useful tools and information to encourage them as they confront some of the hallmarks of the senior years. Pre-registration is required. Additional dates and times will be offered. Call Nikki Sanders at (919) 464-2421 for more information.

Course Code: CSP 4000 18U
Dates/Days: May, 15, 2013 - June, 05, 2013 (W)
Course Times: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Location: Cleveland Center
Registration Fee: $35

Course Code: CSP 4000 19U
Dates/Days: May, 28, 2013 - June, 18, 2013 (T)
Course Times: 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Location: Benson Conference Center
Registration Fee: $35

Course Code: CSP 4000 20U
Dates/Days: June, 25, 2013 - July, 16, 2013 (T)
Course Times: 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Location: Kenly Center
Registration Fee: $35

Recent North Carolina History 1945-2000 “From Tobacco Fields to Surburbia” (8 Hrs)

This will be a survey of the History of North Carolina from the end of WWII to the present day. The class will explore North Carolina’s move from an agricultural society/economy to the global integrated economy of the Research Triangle Park. We will discuss political trends as North Carolina goes from one party political domination to a major player in national politics.

Course Code: CSP 4000 28U
Dates/Days: August, 01, 2013 - August, 22, 2013 (Th)
Course Times: 10:00 a.m. - noon
Location: Cleveland Center
Registration Fee: $35

Snakes of North Carolina (2 hrs)

Come explore the diverse snake fauna found in North Carolina. Learn to identify the dangerous species and in the process gain an appreciation of the roles these fascinating animals play in our natural world.

Course Code: CSP 4000 84U
Dates/Days: August, 06, 2013 (T)
Course Times: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Location: Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center ELC
Registration Fee: $10

Supermarket Herbalism (2 Hrs)

Did you know that your local supermarket contains natural, herbal remedies? This practical, hands on class will teach you how to use common grocery items such as garlic and onions as medicine. Learn to treat simple health care issues like minor burns, colds, coughs and sore throats with food! Fun and interactive class, students will make and take home a sore throat/cough remedy.

Course Code: CSP 4000 23U
Dates/Days: May, 30, 2013 (Th)
Course Times: 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Cleveland Center
Registration Fee: $20

Telling Your Story (6 Hrs)

Everyone has a story of their life. These stories comprise the legacy and meaning of our lives. These sessions will learn about the importance and necessity of knowing our stories and how to pass along the valuable lessons and tales to succeeding generations. Pre-registration is required.

Course Code: CSP 4000 21U
Dates/Days: June, 12, 2013 - June, 26, 2013 (W)
Course Times: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Location: Cleveland Center
Registration Fee: $30

The Dukes of Durham in the “Gilded Age” (6 Hrs)

This class will explore the rise of the Duke family of Durham, NC and their role in creating the modern tobacco industry. The class will also explore the family’s role in the cultural and social world during the 1880’s through WWI, the period known as the “Gilded Age”.

Course Code: CSP 4000 29U
Dates/Days: August, 15, 2013 - August, 29, 2013 (Th)
Course Times: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Location: Cleveland Center
Registration Fee: $30

Tracking Wildlife at Howell Woods (3 hrs)

Learn how to identify some of the wildlife found at Howell Woods by tracks and other “sign”. We will start in the classroom observing wildlife track molds, pelts, skulls and other animal specimens to launch you into the subtle art of tracking. Polish up your new found sense of awareness and observation skills as we hike trails around the learning center in search of wildlife sign. To remember your exploration at Howell Woods in wildlife tracking, we will provide you the opportunity to make a cast of an animal track to take home.

Course Code: CSP 4000 85U
Dates/Days: August, 10, 2013 (Sa)
Course Times: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Location: Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center ELC
Registration Fee: $10

Yoga Basics (8 Hrs) (SS*)

This introduction to yoga includes basic postures, breathing, and meditation. Emphasis is placed on working with the body safely to pro-mote strength and well-being while still gaining physical progress toward traditional postures. Students must bring their own yoga mat.
Pre-registration is required.

Course Code: CSP 4000 32U
Dates/Days: May, 20, 2013 - July, 08, 2013 (M)
Course Times: 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Cleveland Center
Registration Fee: $80