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- 107 days at sea: The journey that changed everything
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Leader/Host: Jill Chalsty
Event Fee: $10.00
Day of Week: F Date: 9/18/2026
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Online ZOOM
At 63, Jill Chalsty boarded a ship alone, grieving her husband’s death and battling cancer. What began as a voyage around the world became far more than a trip. In this lecture, Jill shares the story behind her memoir, Packets of Hope, inviting participants to travel alongside her through the ports she visited, the people she met, and the reflections that transformed personal adversity into strength and global impact. Jill demonstrates how one person’s courage can create ripples of impact that span continents. Participants are encouraged to read her memoir, available free at https://www.packetsofhope.com/ before the presentation. This event will be held online. Students can access from home or join others in a classroom at CUMC to watch in a classroom setting.
This event will be online.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- A (long) walk in the woods: Hiking an Upstate trail
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Leader/Host: Gerald Thurmond, GR Davis
Event Fee: $25.00
Day of Week: F Date: 10/23/2026
Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: Off Campus
In this special one time event, we will spend the day hiking through the lovely colors of fall in Caesar's Head State Park and the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area. Our likely destination is an approximately five to ten-mile round trip hike from the park's parking lot on highway 276 to the suspension bridge over the top of the dramatic Raven Cliff Falls. Those joining us should be physically fit, be provisioned with good hiking shoes, water, lunch, clothing appropriate for the weather, and have a love of hiking, yet students should be flexible regarding length, speed, and destination of the hike. Students must provide their own transportation to the hike. There is a small admission fee for the state park. The exact length of the event is unknown, but please plan on at least 7 hours in additon to your commute time. Please allow enough time for the commute and arrive promptly by or before 9:00 am. The make-up date for weather-related issues will be October 30th; if you cannot attend this date, a refund will not be provided.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Back-to-School open house
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Event Fee: $0.00
Day of Week: W Date: 9/2/2026
Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: Central United Methodist Church (opens in new tab) Education Building Fellowship Hall
Curious about Lifelong Learning and want to know more? Are you ready for class to start and to see your friends? Stop by our Open House anytime between 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Meet some of your instructors, check out our clubs and maybe buy a Lifelong Learning T-shirt, tumbler or hat. We will have a Tech Team member on hand to help you register if there is another class or event you might like to take. You can pick up your name badge, find your classrooms and check out where to park before classes start the week of September 14. We will have lemonade, homemade cookies and other baked treats to share. And here's an idea: Afterwards head downtown for lunch and celebrate that classes are soon to begin! Lifelong Learning is always about fun. This event is free, and we'd love a headcount. Please register so we can make sure there are enough goodies to go around.
This is a free, drop-in event.
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- Basic dog and cat first aid skills
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When your pet is injured or suddenly becomes ill, knowing what to do can make a critical difference. This event provides practical first aid skills for dog and cat owners, including how to check vital signs, safe handling, restraint, transport of an injured pet, and assembly and use a pet first aid kit. Learn bleeding control, bandaging, and first aid for common pet emergencies. Ideal for pet owners who want to be better prepared before veterinary care is available. Leave Rover and Fluffy at home so you can learn without distraction (pets are not allowed)! Supplies are provided as a gift from Dr. Pilley and The Chaser Initiative.
This is a two-hour event.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Local Trip/Tour: Behind the Amazon experience: A warehouse walking tour
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Trip/Tour Fee: $10.00
Day of Week: W Date: 9/23/2026
Time: 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Location: Off Campus
Have you ever wondered what happens after you click “Buy Now” on Amazon? Join us for a walking tour of an Amazon fulfillment center and get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how innovative technology and dedicated teams work together to deliver millions of customer orders every day. Explore the journey of a package from arrival to shipment, discover cutting-edge robotics in action, and see firsthand how Amazon brings convenience and speed to life. Students must be able to walk and stand for long periods of time. Students are responsible for their own transportation to Amazon, located at 8000 Tuckaseegee Rd., Charlotte. Note: Two weeks prior to the event, we will email you a link to complete a required form (if you don't have access to technology, please come in the office to complete the form).
This is a 60 to 90-minute tour held in Charlotte. Allow plenty of travel time.
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If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Bluebirds over the Carolinas
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Using a PowerPoint presentation and hands-on demonstrations, students will learn about the history and biology of bluebirds and other native cavity nesting birds and how to attract them to their homes. We will discuss specifications of a proper bluebird nest box, how to mount nestboxes, where to locate the box and monitoring guidelines. Handouts will be provided to guide students on where to purchase nest boxes, mounting poles and baffles (protective barriers).
This event will last 60-90 minutes.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Brunch at Blue Moon Bodega and Halloween trivia
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Leader/Host: Patricia Webster
Event Fee: $5.00
Day of Week: F Date: 10/23/2026
Time: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: Off Campus
Have brunch with fellow Lifelong Learners on Blue Moon Bodega's patio. We'll enjoy quiche, a seasonal side, bacon, and a variety of baked goods followed by a game of Halloween trivia. Space is limited so sign up quickly! A $20 food fee will be added to your registration to cover the cost of brunch. Students are responsible for their own transportation.
This event will be approximately 1.5 hours in length.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Cat's Paw Winery--Boutique tasting
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Leader/Host: Barbara Barnes
Event Fee: $8.00
Day of Week: F Date: 10/30/2026
Time: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: Off Campus
Wine lovers beware and be there! Join us for a unique experience to a new winery in Blacksburg, SC. Enjoy tasting 5 wines, lunch if you choose, and a fun adventure unlike any we've done before. Students are responsible for their own transportation and the cost of lunch. A $22 fee will be added to your cart to cover the cost of the tasting.
The tasting and lunch will last approximately two hours. Please allow plenty of travel time.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Conversational poetry that deals with life
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Poetry that tackles subject matter ranging from stepparenting, kids saying the darndest things, death and dying, to the joys of the library. Poem titles include: "Yeah, You're Right, I'm Not Your Real Father," "This is Gonna Hurt Me A Whole Lot More'n Hurts You," "I Wanna Be the Kinda Father My Mother Was," "I Was What I Was Looking For," "Bird Watching While Black," and much more. Come join us on this adventure of never ending stories that reflect and celebrate life--our human experiences.
This is a 75-minute event.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Decoupage
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Decoupage is the art of decorating objects with paper glued and sealed onto a surface. In this class, we’ll be using paper napkins attached with specialized glue onto sea shells. Each person will be provided with the necessary supplies to decorate three sea shells. It’s the perfect way to elevate a summer treasure for a holiday gift. A $5 fee will be added to your cart to cover the cost of materials.
This is a two-hour workshop.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Dinner and a movie The Philadelphia Story
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Rotten Tomatoes tomatometer gives this film 100%! The Philadelphia Story is a classic romantic comedy that focuses on Tracy Lord (Katharine Hepburn), a Philadelphia socialite who has split from her husband, C.K. Dexter Haven (Cary Grant), due both to his drinking and to her overly demanding nature. As Tracy prepares to wed the wealthy George Kittredge (John Howard), she crosses paths with both Dexter and prying reporter Macaulay Connor (James Stewart). Unclear about her feelings for all three men, Tracy must decide whom she truly loves. Join Ray Merlock as he discusses the film before and after with insights and tidbits to make your movie watching even more enjoyable. We will serve pizza and beverages after the movie in the outdoor covered Pavilion located next door to the Olin Building on Wofford's campus so the fun can continue after this great movie.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Help make democracy work! Be a poll manager!
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Election day is Tuesday, November 3rd. You can play an important part in making our democratic system work by serving as a poll worker. You'll need some training (less than two hours) either online or in person. During this one-hour event, we'll give you some background information and demystify the process. If you decide to give it a try, you'll be helping make democracy work and you may get paid—approximately $135 (subject to change). Karen Mitchell, League of Women Voters board member, will assist with this event.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Know thyself: Using your birth chart as a tool for self-discovery
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Curious about astrology but never convinced? This isn't about predictions — it's self-reflection. Think of your birth chart as a mirror for exploring your personality and patterns, like Myers-Briggs or the Enneagram. No belief required, just an open mind. We'll cover the basics of astrology, then try a guided, hands-on exercise reading your own chart with instructor support. You will need to know your birth date, time, and location from your birth certificate or reliable source.
This is a 90-minute event.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Living a balanced life
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Balance is an essential component of daily life. In this special event, you will learn about what parts of the body are responsible for maintaining balance, how important it is for safety, and what steps you can take today to improve your balance. This special event will include both a lecture and a lab, so come ready to move!
This is a one-hour event.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Paint and pour: Candle making workshop
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Leader/Host: Emily Turner
Event Fee: $10.00
Day of Week: F Date: 10/2/2026
Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: Off Campus
Students will paint a beautiful fall design onto a glass candle jar with step-by-step instruction provided throughout the event. Once your jar is complete, you’ll choose your favorite wax color and fall candle fragrance and learn how to pour your own soy wax candle into your hand-painted container. Wax embellishments will also be available to decorate the top of your candle. Candles need "setup" time before being transported and will be available for pickup at the Painted Palmetto later that day. Head to lunch with your Lifelong Learning friends downtown while you wait for your candle to set. A $28 fee will be added to your registration fee to cover the cost of materials.
This two-hour workshop will be held at the Painted Palmetto, 200 Ezell St., Spartanburg.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Picnic by the Shoals - Goodall Center and Upper Shoals Preserve
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Learn about Wofford's Goodall Environmental Studies Center and explore the foraging garden, Glendale Shoals, and the surrounding area. Our guide will be Donnie Eggleton, the property manager. After about an hour of walking and learning about the property, we will stay for a picnic by the shoals. There will be some walking over uneven terrain, and a majority of the event will be outdoors. Please bring a bag lunch and a beverage. Food will not be provided. Students are responsible for their own transportation.
The exploration and picnic total approximately two hours in duration.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Restorative vibrations: Sound bath experience
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Step into a restorative sound bath designed to calm the mind and renew the spirit. With crystal singing bowls and tuning forks, the instructor will guide participants through a soothing journey of vibration and resonance that melts away stress, restores balance, and invites deep relaxation. No experience is needed—simply bring a yoga mat, pillow, or blanket, settle in, and let the waves of sound wash over you. Leave feeling refreshed, centered and connected.
This is a 75-minute event.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Skip the store—Make your own greeting cards
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In this workshop, we’ll explore a variety of card making techniques, including traditional 5x7 greeting cards, three-dimensional designs, and fun pop-out cards. The instructor will provide everything you need—designer paper, card stock, ribbon, scissors, tape, glue, and more—so you can focus on creating incredible cards for friends, family, or someone special. Come enjoy a relaxed, creative time and leave with beautiful handmade cards you’ll be proud to share. A $19 materials fee that covers all the supplies needed for this event will be added to your registration.
This is a 2.5-hour workshop.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Take amazing photos with your cell phone
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In this fun and hands-on event, you'll learn easy tips and tricks that can instantly improve your photos and videos with your cell phones. Discover how to frame great shots, use lighting to your advantage, zoom effectively, and capture moments you'll be proud to share. You don't need expensive equipment or photography experience. Bring your cell phone, your curiosity, and your desire to take better pictures. You'll be amazed at what you can create! Please bring along your cell phone, a notebook and a pen/pencil.
This is a two-hour event.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Local Trip/Tour: Tour a Spartanburg drinking water treatment plant
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Trip/Tour Fee: $10.00
Day of Week: F Date: 9/25/2026
Time: 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Off Campus
Students will have the opportunity to gain a behind-the-scenes look at the drinking water treatment process at Spartanburg Water's R.B. Simms Drinking Water Treatment Plant. Students will learn about the history of the plant celebrating its centennial in 2026, and the process that helps ensure clean, safe and reliable drinking water services reach the Spartanburg community. Watershed team members will also be on hand to share how Spartanburg Water protects our natural resources. Tour Leaders: Merced Ramirez—Water Programs Specialist, Joey Wolfe—Lead Drinking Water Treatment Operator, Meagan Roy—Watershed Management Coordinator, and Jon Morgan—Chief Lake Warden. The plant is not disability-accessible. Tour participants should be able to walk at least a mile unassisted, navigate stairs, and will need to wear closed-toe shoes. Students are responsible for their own transportation to the plant.
The tour will last approximately two hours.
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If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Local Trip/Tour: Tour of Spartanburg's largest wastewater treatment plant
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Trip/Tour Fee: $10.00
Day of Week: F Date: 10/2/2026
Time: 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Off Campus
Tour the largest of Spartanburg Water's nine wastewater treatment plants, the A. Manning Lynch Wastewater Treatment Plant on this fantastic special event. Attendees will get an in-depth look at how the wastewater treatment process works, and how protecting public health and the environment go hand-in-hand with the treatment process for our Spartanburg community's ongoing growth and success. Tour participants should be able to walk at least a mile unassisted and will need to wear closed-toe shoes. Tour Leaders will be Alex Grubbs, Compliance Manager and John Harris, Wastewater Treatment Manager. Students are responsible for their own transportation to the plant.
The tour will last approximately two hours.
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If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Travel with Lifelong Learning!
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Interested in travel but don't know where to go or what sites to see? Anxious about traveling alone? Lifelong Learning at Wofford has partnered with our global travel partner Premier World Discovery who only works with groups like ours. Come learn about trips scheduled for the later part of 2026, The French Riveria, and throughout 2027 to the West Virginia Rails & Williamsburg, Highlights of Italy's Amalfi Coast & Rome, Alpine Swiss Villages and Rails and Hawaii Three-Island Adventure! Laura Driggers will tickle your travel bug and answer all the questions and concerns you may have about group travel. These trips are once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Friends, siblings and adult children can join you on these trips (they don't have to be members of Lifelong Learning at Wofford to travel). Register for this free event and start planning your grand adventure.
If you do not see the "Add to Cart" button, there are a few possible reasons. 1) Registration may not be open yet. It opens August 11 at 9 a.m. for annual members and August 13 at 9 a.m. for friends. 2) You are not logged in (Click Sign-In) as an annual member or have an annual membership in your cart. Hint: Go ahead and join as a member now so you can begin registering on August 11 for classes and events, otherwise you will be able to register on August 13th.
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- Wine and cheese social The Terrace at the Marriott
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Event Fee: $15.00
Day of Week: W Date: 9/30/2026
Time: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Location: Off Campus
Join us for happy hour at the Marriott. Enjoy time to mingle, have light appetizers, and hear a brief introduction about the hotel and the updates they are making as well as upcoming events for the community. Your ticket price will include up to two beers or glasses of wine along with some munchies. Afterward, continue the evening by connecting with new and familiar faces in their delicious restaurants, The Terrace or Sparks Bistro. With Lifelong Learning, it's always happy hour!
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