TLC: Flying High with TLC's Program on Raptors

The Learning Current, a program of the Lake Campus at Fellowship Camp and Conference Center, recently hosted a captivating program on the ancient art of falconry. Joining us via Zoom from Colorado was Anne Price, President of the Raptor Education Foundation, who brought centuries of history, modern practice, and even a live falcon into our homes.

What Falconry Is (and Isn’t)

Anne began by helping us understand what falconry truly is: the art and practice of hunting with trained raptors. She explained that falconry is not simply keeping birds of prey in captivity, but instead a highly skilled partnership between human and bird. With roots stretching back thousands of years, falconry is one of humanity’s oldest forms of hunting and continues today as both a cultural tradition and a conservation-minded practice.

Through a series of engaging slides, Anne introduced us to the specialized equipment falconers use—hoods, gloves, and jesses among them. She walked us through the step-by-step process of training a raptor, a method built slowly on trust and respect for the bird’s natural instincts. Only once a bird feels comfortable does the real training begin.

Anne also emphasized that falconry today is highly regulated. In many countries, aspiring falconers must pass rigorous exams, complete lengthy apprenticeships, and hold permits before ever hunting with a raptor. She reminded us that this careful oversight reflects falconry’s modern emphasis on conservation and responsible wildlife management. Many captive raptors, she noted, actually live longer, healthier lives than their wild counterparts, thanks to protection from predators and natural hazards.

Meeting Yelchin

The highlight of the evening came when Anne introduced us to her falcon, Yelchin. With calm assurance, she demonstrated how a falconer places a hood over a bird’s head to soothe and settle it. For many participants, this glimpse of the human-raptor bond brought the entire presentation to life.

This program was part of The Learning Current’s ongoing mission to bring high-quality educational experiences to our community through the Lake Campus at Fellowship. Whether exploring the natural sciences, history, or culture, The Learning Current creates opportunities to connect, learn, and grow together.

We are deeply grateful to Anne Price and the Raptor Education Foundation for sharing their expertise and passion with us. To learn more about their work, visit raptoreducationfoundation.org.

For upcoming Learning Current programs, visit campfellowship.org.

TLC: Beekeeping 101

The Learning Current hosted Local Beekeeper Chad Farrell on September 2, 2025

Chad Farrell shows some of the protective equipment used in beekeeping.

On Tuesday, September 2, 2025, community members who visited Camp Fellowship for The Learning Current had the unique opportunity to learn firsthand about the fascinating world of bees. A special guest, local beekeeper Chad Farrell presented an engaging lecture on the vital role honeybees play in our ecosystem, the challenges they face, and the joys of beekeeping.

His lecture covered topics such as the life cycle of a hive, beekeeping equipment, and sustainable practices for supporting bee populations. Attendees also heard about the practical side of beekeeping, from hive management to honey harvesting, and even got tips for creating bee-friendly spaces in their own backyards by curbing the use of toxic weedkilling chemicals and planting bee-friendly pollinator plants.

This event was attended by people of all ages, and participants had a chance to ask questions, view beekeeping equipment, observe a live working beehive and even got to sample delicious locally harvested honey.

TLC: A Day Among Greenwood’s Living Art - The Learning Current Visits the Topiaries

On August 25th, participants in The Learning Current stepped into a world where nature and artistry blend seamlessly—Greenwood’s famous Topiaries. Having recently been moved from the charming uptown backdrop to the greenhouse just blocks from uptown, these living sculptures brought smiles, sparked curiosity, and gave our group a new appreciation for creativity rooted in the natural world.

Our tour hosts shared fascinating insights into the design process—how artists plan the wire frames, choose the right plants, and maintain them through the hot Carolina summers. Many of us were surprised to learn just how much teamwork, patience, and precision goes into keeping these sculptures thriving year after year.

TLC: Cokesbury College - Echoes of Enlightenment: A Visit to the Old Cokesbury Masonic Female College

Tucked away in the quiet charm of Greenwood County, South Carolina, stands a three-story brick building that whispers stories of ambition, intellect, and vision. In August, The Learning Current had the privilege of touring this historical treasure—once known as the Cokesbury Masonic Female College, a pioneering institution built in 1854 by the Freemasons to educate young women at a time when such opportunities were rare.

A Beacon of Progressive Education

Constructed with purpose and pride, the college featured four recitation rooms, several music rooms, and a grand hall complete with a stage. Its architecture reflects the Greek Revival style, with stately columns and a bell tower that once rang in the promise of learning. The building served as a college for women until 1874, later transforming into the Cokesbury Conference School and eventually a public school until 1954.

 Preserving the Past

Today, the building is a living museum. Visitors are greeted by a remarkable collection of antique pianos—each with its own story and sound—alongside period furniture, original paintings, and artifacts that evoke the spirit of 19th-century education. These pieces are more than decorative; they are echoes of the visionary ladies and gentlemen who believed in the transformative power of knowledge.

Our group enjoyed a catered lunch provided by the kitchen staff of Camp Fellowship before parting and saying “good bye” to a honored historical treasure of Greenwood County.

TLC - Exploring Abbeville’s Storied Past

The Learning Current continued its summer field trips with a captivating visit to Abbeville, South Carolina—a town steeped in pivotal moments of American history.

The journey began at Secession Hill, where on November 22, 1860, local citizens gathered to adopt South Carolina’s ordinance of secession from the Union. The group then toured the Burt Stark Mansion, built in 1830, where Confederate President Jefferson Davis held the final council of the Civil War on May 2, 1865. It was here he acknowledged the Confederacy’s depleted resources and brought the war to a close. Both sites were brought vividly to life by knowledgeable local historians who shared powerful insights into Abbeville’s role in shaping the nation’s past.

After a relaxing lunch at a charming local restaurant, participants explored the town’s railroad legacy. They visited the Belmont Inn Hotel, built in 1903, and the iconic Opera House, which opened in 1904 and earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970.

One of the day’s most memorable moments came when the group danced on the stage of the historic—and reportedly haunted—Opera House. As they moved beneath the grand proscenium, they listened to tales of famous entertainers who once graced the boards, adding a touch of theatrical magic to an already unforgettable experience.

TLC: Music from the Mills (May 13, 2025)

Exploring the Music of the Cotton Mills: A Musical Lecture by Hunter Holmes

Attendees for the May Learning Current program were invited to step back in time and experience the sounds of an era often remembered for its hard work, resilience, and community spirit. On May 13th, a special musical lecture, Music from the Cotton Mills, brought to life the songs, stories, and rhythms that once echoed through the local mill towns.

The unique program combined a live performance by Hunter Holmes of Laurens, with historical storytelling, offering a window into the daily lives of mill workers and their families. From ballads sung at home to the guitar tunes played at community gatherings, the music of the cotton mills reflected the struggles, hopes, and creativity of people who found expression through song even in the midst of very demanding labor.

The lecture traced the roots of these traditions, connecting them to broader American folk and Appalachian musical heritage. Listeners heard the tunes and lyrics which carried forward the cultural memory and created bonds of solidarity in mill villages across the South, particularly in the Piedmont area of South Carolina.

While performing many of the songs on different instruments, Holmes also shared anecdotes and historical context, allowing those who attended to both hear and understand the significance of this music. Participants came away with a deeper appreciation for how art and culture can flourish even in the most challenging settings.

TLC: Discovering a World-Renowned Treasure - The Greenwood Genetic Center

Tucked right here in little ol’ Greenwood, SC is an institution with a truly global reach—the Greenwood Genetic Center (GGC). Founded over 50 years ago as a nonprofit, GGC has dedicated itself to serving families in the fight against genetic diseases, birth defects, and autism.

From the very beginning, the center has combined compassionate clinical care with unparalleled diagnostic laboratory services, groundbreaking research discoveries, and innovative educational programs. Today, it stands as one of the world’s leaders in genetics—right in our own backyard.

A Deeper Look with Lori Bassett

On May 6, 2025, The Learning Current community enjoyed an informative and engaging lecture by Lori Bassett, who provided a fascinating overview of the Center’s history, mission, and current work. Participants came away with a deeper appreciation for how genetics impacts not only families but also the broader future of medicine and human health.

Touring the Facility with The Learning Current

So much interest was generated from Lori’s lecture that The Learning Current is hosting two free tours of the Greenwood Genetic Center in October. This is a rare chance to step inside the labs, hear directly from experts, and witness the incredible research and care that has put Greenwood on the world map.

An Update from "The Learning Current"

Dear TLC Friends,
We are so excited about the many new programs and opportunities created by The Learning Current. We are thankful for your support and participation at the launch of these new programs!
Please read on to learn more about TLC and upcoming programs and opportunities for gathering in community! We hope you’ll share this information with your friends and neighbors and join the fun, fellowship, and learning!
Sincerely,
Kevin & Katie @ Camp Fellowship 

Dont’ Miss Tomorrow Evening’s Program!

“Climbing Your Family Tree: 
Exploring the Art & Science of Genealogy” with Cindy Ripko

Curious about researching your family genealogy?

Not sure where to start?

Wondering about tips, tricks, and tools you can use to learn more about your family story?

Cindy will share her journey into genealogy and inspire you as you begin to climb your family tree!

More info & RSVP TODAY!

What is TLC Anyway?

TLC is a Lake Campus Program connecting adult learners of all ages with a variety of courses (lectures, conversations, hands-on workshops and field experiences) building on Fellowship Camp and Conference Center’s mission to make connections for better living, stronger communities and personal and spiritual growth and development.
Learn more by visiting our website or emailing:
LakeCampus@campfellowship.org

The Learning (and fun) Begins!

The Learning Current kicked off our inaugural year of programming in February as faculty and students from Lander University’s ESSO Club (Environmental Science Student Organization) hosted Fellowship’s Great Backyard Bird Count! Read more about that event here.

The learning continued in March with a presentation by Lander University professor, Dr. Kerry Hansknecht on “Snakes of the Lakelands.” Around 40 community members gathered for the presentation to learn about some of our neighbors in nature! 

This program was followed by a community lunch bringing even more friends and neighbors together for fellowship and sharing!

On March 27, Toastmaster and community leader Len Young shared a powerful message centered on the importance of forgiveness and hope as a way of emphasizing the important practice of clear communication and strong public speaking.

Annemarie Humm and Anne Flint, TLC Planning Team Members, led and hosted an Egg Painting Workshop on April 1st (and again as an overflow session on April 8th because of its popularity)! We were excited to be joined by friends from the community, our Red Letter Day progam attendees, and students from the Harvest Schoolhouse!

We are so very excited about the success of these programs and look forward to welcoming participants to many more fun learning opportunities with TLC!

Everybody needs a little TLC!

TLC is for EVERYONE!

• We rely on a community volunteer planning team to identify programs, leaders, and resources!

• We work to make these learning opportunities free or low-cost to participants by seeking donations, grants and other support.

• We value your participation and input to make this program a success!

• Please share this newsletter and information about TLC with your friends and neighbors! 

• Visit The Learning Current webpage to sign up for future editions of TLC: News & Reviews

Click below to get involved!

•  Share a Program Idea! 

•  Make a Donation 

•  Register for An Upcoming Event!  

Everybody needs a little "TLC"!

The Learning Current Launches a New Program Opportunity!

One of the most common misconceptions is that Fellowship is primarily for kids! And while it is true that children and youth enjoy summer camps, weekend and day retreats, Fellowship also offers many opportunities for adults!

One of our newest opportunities, “The Learning Current” (TLC), is a dynamic Lake Campus Program designed to connect learners of all ages through a variety of educational experiences. This initiative aligns with our mission “to foster better living, stronger communities, and personal and spiritual growth.” 

Inaugural Program Highlighting “Snakes of the Lakelands”
On March 4, 2025, Fellowship hosted our first TLC Program “Snakes of the Lakelands,” a unique educational program led by Dr. Kerry Hansknecht, Professor of Biology at Lander University. Over 30 participants gained valuable insights into common snake species, identification tips, habitat preferences, behaviors, and the crucial role snakes play in our ecosystem. 

We invite you to join us in these enriching experiences that blend faith, fellowship, and continuous learning. For more information or to share program ideas, please contact us at LakeCampus@campfellowship.org. 

Upcoming Programs:

• TLC - Time to Talk (March 27, 2025, 6:30 PM – 7:45 PM): Enhance your public speaking skills with guidance from Len Young, a seasoned member of Toastmasters International. 

• TLC - Egg Painting Workshop (April 1, 2025, 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM): Engage in a creative session where you’ll learn egg painting techniques and complete a project to take home. 
(*Stay for the Community Lunch Following the Program!)

• TLC - Climbing Your Family Tree (April 10, 2025, 6:30 PM – 7:45 PM): Embark on a genealogical journey with Cindy Ripko, who will share insights and tips on tracing your family history. 

• TLC - Greenwood Genetic Center (May 6, 2025, 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM): Join Lori Bassett, MS, CGC, Director of Communications at the Greenwood Genetic Center, for a conversation exploring the center’s community impact and 50-year history. 
(*Stay for the Community Lunch Following the Program!)