BETHEL — Western Mountains Senior College spring programs will give members of the Oxford County community chances to star gaze, hike, destress and visit animals. 

SPRING COURSES

Drawing and painting: Beginners will be welcome.

Creative Writing: This will have ndividual and group writing for new and experienced writers.

Demystifying Poetry: Poets and those with interest in poetry will learn the how’s and why’s of poems.

Great Decisions: This is a discussion group on foreign policy. Topics will include: Russia’s Foreign Policy; China and America: the new geopolitical equation; Global Health: progress and challenges; Turkey: a partner in crisis.

Philosophy 101: Socrates will be on everyone’s level.

American Mah Jongg: Participants will learn as they play.

A trip on the River of Consciousness: This will explore the writings of eminent neurologist Oliver Sacks and view “Awakenings,” starring Robin Williams and Robert De Niro.

Stargazing 101: Indoor and outdoor sessions will introduce the brighter stars, major constellations and easily visible planets.

SINGLE SESSION CLASSES

Rescued Animals: Participants will visit rescue dogs, cats and ponies and learn about rescue organizations.

Medical Grand Rounds: A medical problem is presented and explored through physical findings, lab data and the unfolding clinical course.

FREE COMMUNITY EVENTS

Brown Bag lunches: Upcoming topics are “U.S. In the World/Are We Helping?” and “What Mushrooms Can You Pick?”  Participants should bring their own lunches. 

To Your Health: This is in collaboration with the Bethel Family Health Center and MS44/Continuing Education. This month’s program is “Distressed Over Stress?” It will offer instruction on how to destress, meditation, yoga stretches and the value of music.

Down Home Maine — Step Fall Wildflower Hike: Friends and neighbors share their talents, skills and adventures. This  leisurely one-mile round trip hike along Step Falls.

The classes are often held during the day at Telstar High School. Western Mountains Senior College serves primarily those over age 50, with associate memberships for younger folks. Membership, which includes potluck suppers, outings and a variety of cultural and community service activities, is $25 a year.

Registration for the spring term begins on Thursday, March 15. Register as soon as possible since some classes are limited.

For more information visit the Western Mountains Senior College blog, wmscollege.blogspot.com or call Irene Kuchta at 207-364-3137.