In addition to an array of workforce training and educational options, the Paul D. Camp Community College Division of Workforce Development offers a variety of noncredit, special-interest community service courses. Following are classes scheduled for February, March and April:

ARTS

ARTS 8018: Pet Portraits Painting

This unique class meets at the Regional Workforce Development Center in Franklin from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, Feb. 23 through Feb. 27. The cost is $30.

ARTS 8019: Decorating Your Home with Paint

This special class meets at the Workforce Center from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, March 2 through March 13. The cost is $100.

ARTS 8012: Beginner’s Drawing

This course explores basic drawing skills, including work with graphite, pencil and pen. Projects include comic characters, drawing subjects and self-portraits. Classes meet at the Workforce Center in Franklin from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, March 16 through March 20. The cost is $30.

ARTS 8010: Take Better Pictures

This class focuses on how to improve photographs. Both film and digital photographers are welcome. Participants learn about camera mechanics, composition, using color, point of focus, seeing light and depth of field (blurred, soft background vs. detailed, sharp background) to capture detail, textures, colors and to separate subject from background. Hands-on practice and classroom times are enhanced with outdoor camera tips.

Participants should bring a camera, instruction manual and film/digital media. Classes meet at the Hobbs Suffolk Campus from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursdays, March 5-March 26. The cost is $70.

This class also is offered at the college’s Smithfield Center from 7 to 9 p.m. on Wednesdays, April 1 through April 22.

BEGINNER COMPUTER OFFERINGS

ITEC 8037: Word for Beginners

Designed for beginners and senior citizens, this “slow and easy” introduction to Microsoft Word is hands-on. Participants learn the basics of word processing. Pre-requisite: Computers for Absolute Beginners. Classes meet at the Workforce Center from 10 a.m. to 12 noon on Monday and Wednesday, Feb. 23 and Feb. 25. The cost is $25.

ITEC 8036: Excel for Beginners

Designed for beginners and senior citizens, this “slow and easy” introduction to Microsoft Excel is hands-on. Participants learn the basics of using spreadsheets. Pre-requisite: Computers for Absolute Beginners. Classes meet at the Workforce Center from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, on Monday and Wednesday, March 2 and March 4. The cost is $25.

MISCELLANEOUS OFFERINGS

RECR 8007: Kickboxing/Self-Defense

This class features sit-ups, push-ups, leg lifts, squats, lunges and jump rope. Participants execute the striking technique using focus pads and some light sparring. Classes meet on Tuesday at the Workforce Center, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., March 3 through May 5. The cost is $80.

RECR 8000: Dog Obedience

In this class, participants will learn the commands: heel, sit, down, come, stay and off to communicate better with their pets. Needed: dog, six-foot leash, training collar (type to be determined) and proof of rabies shot. Classes meet at the Workforce Center from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Thursdays, April 23 through May 21. The cost is $60.

ONLINE WORKFORCE CLASS

REAL 8000: Real Estate

This 60-hour Internet course prepares participants to sit for the Virginia Real Estate examination for a salesperson. The Commonwealth of Virginia requires successful completion of this approved 60-hour course “The Principles of Real Estate.” The course runs for six weeks. Enrollment is flexible. A participant may start at any time. Participants who complete the course can also take an additional test and review course at no extra charge. This course is recognized by the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation Real Estate board. The cost is $350.

For course registration details or information on other workforce offerings, call Renee Brown at 569-6050, or send her an email at rbrown@pc.vccs.edu. For information on other courses and program options available at PDCCC, call 569-6700, or visit our Web site at www.pdc.edu.