Summer 2009 Study Groups
Institute for Continued Learning

Also see: Past Study Groups

• PL--Indicates Peer-Led Format: group interaction/participation is expected
• M--Denotes Lecture or Video Format with interaction between participants and coordinator(s)

JULY 13 through AUGUST 13

Monday 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

THE OVAL OFFICE: GREAT PRESIDENTIAL DECISIONS            M
Bob Masterson, Sue Harty Coordinators
As the leader of the most powerful nation in the world, the President is often called upon to make difficult decisions that affect both the national and world scene. We will look at some of the historic decisions that have been made in the White House over the last 220 years. Among the issues we will look at are Washington’s decision to send troops to end the Whiskey Rebellion, Polk’s decision to go to War with Mexico in the interest of Manifest Destiny, Kennedy and Johnson and Civil Rights, and Ronald Reagan and “Star Wars”. We will utilize videos and PowerPoint presentations, as well as discussions on the “right or
wrong” of these decisions.

Monday 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

ANOTHER FINE MESS: The Best Of Laurel & Hardy           M
George Venetis, Coordinator
Laugh your way through the mid-summer heat and humidity with Stan and Ollie's funniest full-length and short films. During the 1930's, the greatest comedy duo in film history was at the peak of popularity and comedic brilliance. Each week we'll watch a short and a feature film from this period, along with some archive material.

EVEN MORE SHERLOCK HOLMES MYSTERIES           M
Jack McKee, Coordinator
Each week we will view and discuss one or two of the Sherlock Holmes mysteries as presented in the PBS series starring Jeremy Brett. To prepare for the first class read The Adventure of the Dying Detective and The Disappearance of Lady Carfax.

 

Tuesday 9:00 a.m. – Noon

SEMI-LONG EPIC FILMS           M
Gordon Palmer and Ray Rukstales, Coordinators
We will show and discuss major Classic Films that are too long for the regular Classic Film Class. Films will average 2+ hours in length, have lasting worth, received awards and are 40+ years old. Discussions might include history of the film, directors, cast members, music, etc. Class members may choose to lead discussions of some films. (Maximum participants 30, minimum 10).

 

Tuesday 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

LEARNING TO BE HAPPIER           M
Kathryn Norcross Black, Coordinator
We have the right and perhaps the moral obligation to pursue happiness. What works? In this study group we will consider some of the research findings and consider how we might actually apply them to our own lives.

THE BUSH YEARS-THE RANTINGS OF AN ANGRY LIBERAL           M
Joe Sheridan, Coordinator
A critical look at the eight years of the Bush administration and the consequences for America in both the short and long term. All views are
welcome.

 

Tuesday 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

CINEMA ACROSS THE GLOBE           PL
Judith Ross and Harry Trumfio, Coordinators
Travel the world this summer with Judith and Harry as your movie tour guides. Through award winning European and Asian films, we will observe lifestyles that are both different yet similar to our own. Each week a subtitled film will be featured, analyzed, and discussed. Book your World Cinema adventure soon. (Maximum participants 24, minimum 6)

Wednesday 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

LIFE AFTER DEATH           M
Bob Long and Margo Temple, Coordinators
Does consciousness survive biological death? We will examine key ideas and theories, and will review experiences of people who have had out-of-mind or near-death experiences, reincarnation memories and “talks with the dead.” We’ll discuss all this and share personal experiences.

ORIENTAL BRUSH PAINTING WORKSHOP           M
Carolyn Simons, Coordinator
This workshop is intended for former Oriental Brush Painting students. Please bring your own supplies and equipment.

 

Wednesday 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.

THE LIGHTER SIDE OF THE MIDDLE AGES           M
Les Miller, Anita Brandes and Kathleen Miller, Coordinators
We’ll focus on the art, architecture, and literature of the Middle Ages, and also on the “spin” that moderns have given to medieval history and myth. Fiction and lecture videos will supplement the course. This program is “stand-alone,” neither repeating nor requiring the spring session.

HOW TO PLAY THE HARMONICA WORKSHOP
Russ Smith, Coordinator
The harmonica is in danger of losing its popularity, so let’s bring it back! I started playing the harmonica when I quit smoking. I have fun entertaining folks at various events. One more reason to play the harmonica: it’s good for the pipes! Bring your own harmonica: a Hohner Special 20 Key diatonic harmonica in the key of C is recommended (about $25 at a music store).
Note: This study group will meet the last 4 Wednesday afternoons
starting July 22.

ICL & BASEBALL-A SUMMER SPECTACULAR           PL
Tom Dooley, Joe Maladra & Carolyn Simons, Coordinators
Whether you are a “rookie or a “veteran” baseball fan, you will feel like a Most Valuable Player in a League of Your Own as you join your fellow fans at the Friendly Confines of ICL to enjoy Fence Busters and Run Downs; Slugfests and Shutouts; Brush Backs and Twin Killings; gopher balls and South paws; Cans of Corn and ducks on the Pond—and a potpourri of special guests, challenging quizzes and contests, historical remembrances and future fantasies—all related to THE NATIONAL PASTIME. Reserve your seat now and get ready to PLAY BALL!!

 

Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

WHEN WOODY WAS WACKY          M
George Venetis and Joel Menig, Coordinators
Before Woody Allen turned to sophisticated humor and drama, he made several films that relied heavily on slapstick, inventive sight gags, and non-stop one-liners. We'll watch these early films, including Bananas, Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Sex, Sleeper, Love and Death, and Annie Hall, No. 4 on AFI's list of "100 Best Comedies.” A hilarious 1971 interview in which Woody delivers some of the funniest non-scripted lines you'll ever hear will also be shown, along with some surprises. (Minimum 10 participants)

 

Thursday 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

BASIC KNITTING WORKSHOP
Jan Mullins and Linda van Bladel, Coordinators
Join us for a fun informal time of knitting. We will cover basic beginning knitting vocabulary and skills. You will see what others are knitting and get individual help. Come and enjoy this time with us. Bring a current project you are working on or a skein of knitting worsted yarn and Size 8 knitting needles (available at Hobby Lobby, Michaels, etc.).

 

Thursday 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

FROM THE GRAPE TO THE GLASS          PL
Joan Riesen, Joel Menig and David Sullivan, Coordinators
Explore the world of wine! Ever have a glass of wine and wonder about it? Ever had a second glass and want to know even more? We will explore the grapes, the tastes, the vineyards and more. This class will include practice in developing a “nose” and a palate. Final class will include a tasting. (Maximum participants 30, minimum 20) $15 Fee paid on the first day of class.

THE DAWN OF THE AMERICAN AGE: Affluence and Anxiety 1946 to 1959    M
Joe Maladra, Peter Marron, George Stiver and Anita Brandes, Coordinators
Although this is a continuation of the Spring study group, prior attendance in that SG is not necessary. During this session we will touch on such issues as the rise of the Civil Rights movement and the enormous popular culture changes of the period.

 

 

Updated May 13, 2009