Classes For Senior Citizens

Adults 50 and older can engage their mind and body at a diverse selection of classes offered this fall through the Retired Adult Program (RAP) at McHenry County College. In October, lectures include America’s economic disasters, Burmese culture and Verdi’s operas being used in today’s society. Plus, a chair yoga class for energy and relaxation enhancement is also offered.

RAP is a membership-based, non-credit program dedicated to adults ages 50 and older who are active, curious and serious about continually learning.  The cost for a one-year membership is $25 renewable every July 1, and you must be a member to register for classes.

To register for any class or to become a RAP member (Course ID: NRA C01 001), contact the MCC Registration Office at (815) 455-8588.  For more information, contact Dori Sullens at (815) 455-8559.

The following classes will begin soon:

America’s Economic Disasters: From the Panic of 1837 to the Recession of 2008

Americans have suffered and recovered from economic disasters throughout our history. This class will help you understand the significance of these events and how they occurred. Class takes place from 2-5 p.m. on Wednesday, October 9, in Room E217 at MCC. Cost is $22 for members. Use course ID: NRA S67 010 when registering.

Burma: Land of Buddhas, Generals and Hope:

Join us for a journey to Myanmar (Burma) to explore the mystical temples of Bagan, trace Burma’s complex history of kings, colonialism, and generals, probe Burma’s intense faith in Theravada Buddhism and finally, speculate on Burma’s future as a “democracy.”  A PowerPoint on Burma is also included. Class takes place from 2-4 p.m. on Monday, October 21 in Room E204 at MCC. Cost is $15 for members. Use course ID: NRA S12 010 when registering.

Chair Yoga – RAP: Join MCC for a four-week session on breathing, stretching, balance and flexibility. This class is designed for students that may have difficulty participating in a mat/floor based class. Participants will use chairs not only for seated postures, but also as a prop for standing postures and balance. Students from previous classes have reported increased energy, mobility, restful sleep, and a decrease in arthritis stiffness, pain and anxiety. Class is taught by a certified yoga teacher and registered nurse. Come dressed in comfortable, lightweight clothing. Class takes place from 9-10 a.m. on four consecutive Thursdays, October 10 through 31 in Room A102 at MCC.  Cost is $25 for members. Use course ID: NRA S57 010 to register.

Verdi: In celebration of the 200th anniversary of Verdi’s birth, this unique two-hour lecture will focus on how Verdi’s operas can be found in today’s pop culture. For example, Verdi’s most popular opera, La Traviata, runs the gamut of emotions from gaiety to intense sadness. Scenes from “Pretty Woman,” plus other movies, telecasts and advertising comprise the first half of this class. The second half of the class will highlight melodies from several other Verdi operas that have been incorporated into venues in our everyday lives. Class meets from 1:30-3:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 10 in Room D154 at MCC.  To register, use course ID:  NRA S52 010. Cost of the class is $29 for members. 

To register for any of these classes, call (815) 455-8588 or for questions, call Dori Sullens at (815) 455-8559.