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Mini-Course Program

Fall 2008

Sponsored by the Student Center Governing Board

 

  1. BEGINNER SWIMMING FOR CHILDREN (5 – 12 years)
  2. ADVANCED BEGINNER SWIMMING FOR CHILDREN (5 – 12 years)
  3. BEGINNER SWIMMING FOR ADULTS
  4. ADVANCED BEGINNER SWIMMING FOR ADULTS
  5. OPEN WATER SCUBA
  6. BASIC AUTO REPAIR
  7. CLUB SALSA, MERENGUE DANCES
  8. HIP-HOP
  9. (BLS) BASIC LIFE SUPPORT INFORMATION
  10. YOGA
  11. AUTOMOBILE DRIVER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
  12. QUTE BODIES
  13. PRACTICAL SELF-DEFENSE (Ryukyu Kempo/ Kyusho Jitsu)
  14. BASKETBALL CLINIC
  15. BEGINNER SWIMMING FOR CHILDREN (Levels1/2)
  16. BEGINNER SWIMMING FOR ADULTS (Levels 1/2)
  17. THE INTERMEDIATE SWIMMERS (Level 3 Children & Adults)

MINI COURSE PROGRAM Spring 2008

The Student Center Governing Board is pleased to present its semi-annual mini course program to members of the SUNY Downstate community. Faculty, students and staff are invited to enroll in one or more of these non-credit courses. Whether it is to further improve an existing skill or explore a new field of interest, we think you will find the offerings exciting and worthwhile as many others have in the past.

Registration

Monday, January 14, 2008 through Friday, January 25, 2008 at the Student Center Main Desk.

Who’s eligible to enroll in a Mini-Course?

In order to register for a Mini-Course, parent or spouse and/or child must have an active membership at the Student Center.

Mini-Courses are open to:

  • Downstate Students
  • Student Center Members

Please bring your current SUNY Downstate ID card, along with your Student Center membership card when you register. Payments may be made in cash or by check payable to SAF.

Note: Retain the receipt of payment. The receipt is required for admission to the first session of each class.

REGISTER EARLY TO AVOID BEING SHUT OUT OF YOUR CHOICE.

Refund policy

Refunds will be given only if a class does not meet its minimum enrollment requirements. NO OTHER REFUNDS WILL BE PERMITTED. Refunds will be permitted for up to 3 months after the cancellation of a class. No refunds will be issued due to academic conflict. Therefore, please choose your courses carefully. All payments must be made in full at the time of registration.

Courses and Course Descriptions

BEGINNER SWIMMING FOR CHILDREN (5 – 12 years)

The primary objective of this class is to get the child comfortable in the water. Classes are designed to allow the child to have fun in the water while learning aquatic skills. The child will be exposed to basic movements in the water such as kicking, arm strokes and breath control as well as front and back float. Activities are based on the developmental abilities of the child.

The class will not meet on President’s Day 2/18.

Day Monday
Time 7:00-8:00p.m.
No. of Sessions 8
Meeting dates Feb: 4, 11, 25, Mar: 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Instructor Anthony Christopher
Location Pool
Enrollment Min: 6  Max: 20
Fee $50
Start Date February 4

 

Anthony Christopher, OTR/L is an Alumnus of the Occupational Therapy Program, Class of 1983. While a student here he taught swimming at the Student Center. Anthony is a certified Water Safety Instructor (WSI) since 1978 and has taught numerous swimming classes throughout the Metropolitan area.

ADVANCED BEGINNER SWIMMING FOR CHILDREN (5 – 12 years)

The primary objective of this class is to enhance the skills learned in Beginner Swimming. Classes are designed to improve aquatic skills. Additional swimming strokes will be learned.

PREREQUISITE: Passing of Beginner Swimming or permission from instructor is mandatory.

Day Tuesday
Time 7:00-8:00p.m.
No. of Sessions 8
Meeting dates Feb: 5, 12, 19. 26, Mar: 4, 11,18, 25
Instructor Anthony Christopher
Location Pool
Enrollment Min: 6  Max: 20
Fee $50
Start Date February 5

BEGINNER SWIMMING FOR ADULTS

Sessions will be geared towards making individuals comfortable in the water by teaching basic swimming skills. Students will learn how to float on both their front and back and the beginning technique for free style swimming. Students will progress through skills at their own pace.

Day Wednesday
Time 7:00-8:00p.m.
No. of Sessions 8
Meeting dates Feb: 6, 13, 20, 27, Mar: 5, 12, 19, 26
Instructor Anthony Christopher
Location Pool
Enrollment Min: 5  Max: 20
Fee $50
Start Date February 6

ADVANCED BEGINNER SWIMMING FOR ADULTS

The purpose of this course is to increase the watermanship of the individual by adding to the skills learned in the beginner class. Emphasis will be placed on building stamina, basic arm and leg coordination and refining skills. This class will introduce the proper techniques of an aerobic workout.

The class will not meet on Valentine’s Day 2/14.

PREREQUISITE: Passing of Beginner Swimming or permission from instructor is mandatory.

Day Thursday
Time 7:00-8:00p.m.
No. of Sessions 8
Meeting dates Feb: 7, 21, 28, Mar: 6, 13, 20, 27, Apr: 2
Instructor Anthony Christopher
Location Pool
Enrollment Min: 5  Max: 20
Fee $50
Start Date February 7

OPEN WATER SCUBA

Wreck dive, underwater photography, night dive or just blow bubbles. Are you ready for an aqua adventure? Three quarters of Earth’s surface is covered with water. Explore our planet's last frontier and experience liquid freedom.

Classes are taught with the concept of safe scuba training leading to competent, fun diving. Professional Association of Diving Instructors Certification will be issued upon completion of all requirements.

There will be an informational meeting on course objectives Wednesday, March 5, 7:00 pm in the Student Center Conference Room. For all interested persons, attendance is mandatory. There is no obligation to join if you attend this meeting.

Please note that when joining this class there may be additional costs involved. Speak with the instructor.

Day Wednesday
Time 7:00-11:00p.m.
No. of Sessions 6
Meeting dates Mar: 12, 19, 26, Apr: 2, 9, 16
Instructor Di Dieter
Location Pool & Conference Room
Enrollment Min: 5  Max: 12
Fee $55
Start Date March 12

 

Di Dieter has been teaching scuba diving since 1968. He is a certified P.A.D.I. and YMCA instructor. This is his twenty-eighth year teaching here at Downstate.

BASIC AUTO REPAIR

You’ll still have to pay the price for gas, but here's a chance to save money on repairs. This course is "geared" for those with little money or no knowledge of auto repairs. Gain a basic understanding of how a car works and how to make repairs and tune-ups. Learn how to spot trouble and prevent major breakdowns. Students will do actual work on their own cars.

Day Wednesday
Time 8:00-9:30p.m.
No. of Sessions 6
Meeting dates Mar: 5, 12, 19, 26, Apr: 2, 9
Instructor Al Vella
Location Card Room & Garage
Enrollment Min: 8  Max: 12
Fee $40
Start Date March 5

 

Al Vella has owned a repair shop in Brooklyn for over 40 years. He has been teaching at this institution for over 20 years.

CLUB SALSA, MERENGUE DANCES

An introduction to the basic steps, turns and rhythms of the most popular Latin dances of today. Instructors are from the Sandra Cameron Dance Center in Manhattan.

This class will meet in the Squash Court 1 on 2/5 & 2/19.

Day Tuesday
Time 7:00-8:00p.m.
No. of Sessions 4
Meeting dates Feb: 5, 12, 19, 26
Instructor Sherman Hope
Location Main Lounge
Enrollment Min: 15 Max: 30
Fee $30 Per Person
Start Date February 5

HIP-HOP

An introduction to this fusion hip-hop class begins with a warm-up followed by exciting combinations. There will be special focus on rhythm and bringing out the individuality of each student. You will be creating dances to new hip-hop and R&B hits. Please dress in comfortable clothes and sneakers.

This class will meet in the Squash Court 1 on 2/19.

Day Tuesday
Time 8:00-9:00p.m.
No. of Sessions 4
Meeting dates Feb: 5, 12, 19, 26
Instructor Kimani Fowlin
Location Main Lounge
Enrollment Min: 15  Max: 30
Fee $30 (Per Person)
Start Date February 5

 

Kimani Fowlin is a professional dancer and instructor of African Modern and Hip Hop. She dances with Souloworks, a modern dance company that tours extensively throughout the U. S. and abroad. She currently teaches at Rutgers University & Sandra Cameron Dance Center. Kimani received her dance training and B.A. from Sarah Lawrence.

(BLS) BASIC LIFE SUPPORT INFORMATION 

The Department of Emergency Medicine offers the full certification course as well as the recertification course in BLS. The Basic Life Support course is an American Heart Association sponsored training program that prepares health care providers to initiate care of patients with major respiratory and cardiac emergencies. Registration for this course is directly through the Department of Emergency Medicine.

For more information please contact Emergency Medicine directly at (718) 245-4797.

Certification in BLS is mandatory for incoming first-year students as well as entering third year students.

2/5/08 Tuesday 9:30-3:30pm Full Course
2/19/08 Tuesday 9:00-2:00pm Recertification
3/11/08 Tuesday 9:30-3:30pm Full Course

 

These courses are not part of the Mini Course Program. The Student Center provides this information solely as a service to the community-at-large.

YOGA

After a long day of study or work wouldn't it be wonderful to set the day's stresses aside and nurture yourself. Look no further, you can now de-stress, relax and rejuvenate with Yoga at the Student Center. In this class you will:

  • Strengthen tone and stretch all major muscle groups.
  • Elongate and align the spine.
  • Increase blood and oxygen flow to your glands, organs, spine and brain.
  • Be led through guided meditation for deep level relaxation.

This class will not meet on Wednesday, 2/20.

Class 1

Day Wednesday
Time 4:00-5:15p.m.
No. of Sessions 8
Meeting dates Feb: 6, 13, 27, Mar: 5, 12, 19, 26, Apr: 2
Instructor Margherita Rotondi
Location Reading Room
Enrollment Min: 10  Max: 13
Fee $55
Start Date February 6

 

Class 2

Day Wednesday
Time 5:30-6:45p.m.
No. of Sessions 8
Meeting dates Feb: 6, 13, 27, Mar: 5, 12, 19, 26, Apr: 2
Instructor Margherita Rotondi
Location Reading Room
Enrollment Min: 10  Max: 13
Fee $55
Start Date February 6

 

Margherita Rotondi-Eisenberg is an employee of the Department of Pediatrics at Downstate and a certified yoga teacher. She has been teaching Yoga at the Student Center for six years.

AUTOMOBILE DRIVER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

Please Note: Space is limited. Registration will be limited to January 14, 2008 through February 15, 2008 only. Advanced registration is required. Please note: Payment will be by cash only.

Save an average of $300-$600 on your car insurance by receiving a (10% insurance discount, over 3 years, on collision and liability for the principal driver/s)

Reduce up to 4 points off your license.

Refresh your driving techniques, and learn preventative techniques for collision avoidance.

This program is great for drivers of any age. The six-hour course is approved by NYS Department of Motor Vehicles. Bring your NYS Driver’s License and a pen.

This course will be offered in two evening sessions. Attendance at both is required. For further information, call the Student Center Reception desk, (718) 270-2487.

Day Wednesday & Thursday
Time 5:30-8:30p.m.
No. of Sessions 2
Instructor AAA Certified Instructor
Location Student Center, Main Lounge
Enrollment Min: 20 Max: 40
Fee $25 (with SC membership)
$45 (non-members of SC)
Start Date March 26 & March 27

QUTE BODIES

A mix of cardio, strength and endurance cross training featuring a fiery abdominal workout as well as the use of resistance equipment. This is a great class for burning calories while enjoying the benefits of sculpting and toning.

This class will not meet on President’s Day 2/18.

Day Monday & Wednesday
Time 5:15-6:15p.m.
No. of Sessions 10
Meeting dates Feb: 4, 6, 11, 13, 20, 25, 27, Mar: 3, 5, 10
Instructor Quinn Harris
Location ½ Gymnasium
Enrollment Min: 10 Max: 30
Fee $50
Start Date February 4

 

Quinn Harris is certified by the National Academy for Health and Fitness, which is the world’s most professional health and fitness certification/registration organization. He is certified as a personal trainer, cardiovascular trainer and medical exer-therapist. Quinn worked for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines as their Sports Director. He also developed a workout program at the Brownsville Recreation Center.

PRACTICAL SELF-DEFENSE (Ryukyu Kempo/ Kyusho Jitsu)

This course will teach you the ancient art of self-defense as originally taught by the true Okinawan masters before World War 2. You will learn how to quickly and effectively control any self-defense situation using theories that combine eastern and western medicine, joint manipulation, body structure and anatomy, acupuncture points, cavity strikes, and polarity.

Although not a martial arts course, this course will supplement any past, present, or future martial arts and self-defense courses by unlocking the “secrets” hidden in all arts and systems.

Absolutely no experience is necessary. The only requirements are a good attitude and an open mind. All are encouraged to attend. Please wear comfortable clothing. This class will not meet on Valentine’s Day 2/14.

Day Thursday
Time 6:00-7:00p.m.
No. of Sessions 10
Meeting dates Feb: 7, 21, 28, Mar: 6, 13, 20, 27, Apr: 3, 10, 17
Instructor Mike Dattilo
Location Gym Stage
Enrollment Min: 6  Max: 30
Fee $30
Start Date February 7

 

Mike Dattilo is a fourth year MD/PhD student who currently holds a 4th Degree Black Belt (master level) in Ryukyu Kempo/Kyusho Jitsu. Besides Ryukyu Kempo, he has studied various other martial arts and has a total of 18 years of experience in the martial arts. If you have any questions or you would like more information, please email Mike at michael.dattilo@downstate.edu.

BASKETBALL CLINIC

The Basketball Clinic will be designed to teach children and young adults (ages 8-16) the basic fundamentals of the game, including dribbling and shoot the ball. It’s designed to teach defensive strategies. However, most importantly, it will include teaching self-confidence and good sportsmanship.

Day Saturday
Time 10 am-12:00noon
No. of Sessions 8
Meeting dates Feb: 2, 9, 16, 23, Mar: 1, 8, 15, 22
Instructor Christine Jackson
Location Gym
Enrollment Min: 15 Max: 20
Fee $35
Start Date February 2

 

Christine Jackson is a Safety Technician at Downstate. She has extensive background in all aspects of the game of basketball. She has worked with youths in various communities in both Manhattan and Brooklyn. Christine has played in many different basketball leagues and was the recipient of a scholarship to play overseas. She is interested in promoting positive attitudes in youths and feels she can teach them through the game of basketball.

BEGINNER SWIMMING FOR CHILDREN (Levels1/2)

We encourage Downstate employees to enroll their children in this extremely valuable and most popular class. This is the most basic level of swimming. Children are taught the fundamentals of breathing, floating (both front and back), elementary freestyle, and backstroke, as well as basic water treading. All teaching is done in a warm and inviting atmosphere where we include water games and group learning. We also discuss and teach general and personal water safety.

If you require additional information please email the instructor at sebastian_stanescu@yahoo.com

Day Friday
Time 7:00-8:00pm
No. of Sessions 8
Meeting dates Feb: 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Mar: 7, 14, 21
Instructor Sebastian Stanescu
Location Pool
Enrollment Min: 6 Max: 15
Fee $65
Start Date February 1

BEGINNER SWIMMING FOR ADULTS (Levels 1/2)

It is never too late to learn to swim! This course puts more emphasis on overcoming the fear of water; group learning and assisting. Basic freestyle and backstroke is taught then practiced with thorough repetition. At the beginning of every lesson students will also learn and practice basic stretching drills and light fitness.

If you require additional information please email the instructor at: sebastian_stanescu@yahoo.com

Day Saturday
Time 11:00-12:00pm
No. of Sessions 8
Meeting dates Feb: 2, 9, 16, 23, Mar: 1, 8, 15, 22
Instructor Sebastian Stanescu
Location Pool
Enrollment Min: 4 Max: 10
Fee $65
Start Date February 2

THE INTERMEDIATE SWIMMERS (Level 3 Children & Adults)

During this course participants will be taught refinements to their freestyle and backstroke as well as introducing the FULL breast stroke and butterfly (kick) in their daily routine. More emphasis is put on repetition and swimming drills that help the intermediate swimmer on his/her endurance in the water. Both dry-land and in-water fitness exercises will be done prior to every lesson.

If you require additional information please email the instructor at: sebastian_stanescu@yahoo.com

Day Saturday
Time 10:00-11:00am
No. of Sessions 8
Meeting dates Feb: 2, 9, 16, 23, Mar: 1, 8, 15, 22
Instructor Sebastian Stanescu
Location Pool
Enrollment Min: 6 Max: 15
Fee $65
Start Date February 2

 

Sebastian is a recent medical school graduate, with over 8 years of competitive swimming background (both high school and collegiate) and experience. He’s currently employed as a lifeguard for the Student Center, and is American Red Cross certified. If you require additional information please email the instructor at: sebastian_stanescu@yahoo.com.

 

Cover art: Terry Ferrier, Brooklyn Watercolor Society