Spring Classes

Mon 9:30-11:30 Revae Reynolds
Nourish to Flourish: The Healing Power of Optimal Nutrition: Chronic disease is on the rise in the U.S., but better health often starts with what’s on our plate. This course explores the principles and science-backed benefits of a Whole Food, Plant-Based lifestyle for conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, certain cancers, type II diabetes, high blood pressure, and more. Learn how to read food labels, make smarter choices, and enjoy recipes that prove healthy eating can be both satisfying and delicious.
Class meets: In person

Mon 9:30-11:30 Harry Nugent-Patten
Broadway Musicals: After the Gold is Gone: Broadway after the golden age saw a transition from the classic book musical style to more experimental and diverse shows, influenced by social and cultural changes of the 1960s threw the 1980s. This period, sometimes called "Beyond the Golden Age," featured the rise of rock operas like Hair, diverse and culturally-specific narratives like Fiddler on the Roof, and the continued experimentation with song and structure. Later, the 1980s saw a new era of "mega-musicals" with elaborate productions, such as Cats and The Phantom of the Opera. Join me in learning about the musicals that brought the golden age to an end.
Class meets: In person

Mon 2:00-5:00 David Klingenberger
Cinematic Villains: From Iago to The Joker, the villain often tries to steal the show—and sometimes succeeds. Today, many TV shows and movies actually focus on a villain or an “anti-hero.” What role does the villain play in society and in art? Come explore with us as we examine six different bad people doing bad things. Experience the communal pleasure of watching cinema in the dark and discussing it in the light: All About Eve (1950), The Third Man (1950), Night of the Hunter (1955), The Manchurian Candidate (1962), Inglourious Basterds [sic] (2009), and The Social Network (2010).
Class meets: In person

Mon 2:30-4:30 Michael Bonin
Dead Poets Society: In the movie Dead Poets Society, Mr. Keating teaches the boys that poetry isn’t a dusty textbook subject, but our very lifeblood: “We read and write poetry because we are members of the human race. And the human race is filled with passion. And medicine, law, business, engineering—these are noble pursuits and necessary to sustain life. But poetry, beauty, romance, love, these are what we stay alive for." We’ll read famous poems by Shakespeare, Donne, Milton, Tennyson, Browning, Dickinson, and Frost and discover what makes their words so stirring and unforgettable.
     “My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings! / Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!”
     “Because I could not stop for Death— / He kindly stopped for me—”
     “My mistress’s eyes are nothing like the sun”
     “To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.”
     “I took the one less traveled by, / And that has made all the difference.”
The point of this course is not dry analysis but appreciation, even delight. Carpe diem! I will proved printed copies of the poems, but all the poems we’ll cover in class are also available online at the Poetry Foundation’s website: poetryfoundation.com 
Class meets: In person

Tue 9:30-11:30 Mark Podrazik
Codebreakers: How The British Broke Germany’s Secret Intelligence During World War II: In this class, we will learn the story of how the British broke the code of Germany’s Enigma machine during World War II—and how they hid it from the Germans. We will discuss the story of Bletchley Park, starting at 150 staff in 1939 to over 9,000 at the height of the war. We will learn about the methods and contributions of Alan Turing and his peers to break the code, including some oral histories from those who worked there. The class will also delve into the US-UK codebreaking relationship and how the US broke the Japanese intelligence code. PLEASE NOTE that this class will run for 4 sessions only and conclude on Tuesday, March 17.
Class meets: Zoom

Tue 12:00-2:00 Jim Wobig
Drones 101: Learn drones for recreational, commercial, military usage in an ever changing world.
Class meets: Zoom

Tue 12:00-2:00 Jerry Blatt
What Do You Want Government To Do?: This is class is about more than just politics. We'll cover what you want government to do about the important matters that really affect your life, like healthcare, cost of gas & groceries, safety for you & your family, taxes, housing, freedom & democracy, as well as guns, abortion, climate change, immigration, religion and .... What will the leaders of our government do in the near future about these important issues and what can we do about it? We will review what the experts have to say and share the opinions of everyone in the class.
Class meets: Zoom

Tue 12:00-2:00 Liliane Bazerghi-Fymat
French Conversations: This is a French conversation course for those who would like to brush up on their rusty conversational skills, become more fluent and improve their pronunciation. It is a great opportunity to practice what you have learned in the past. THIS IS NOT A GRAMMAR COURSE OR A BEGINNER LEVEL CLASS.
Class meets: In person

Tue 2:30-4:30 Hal Jacobs
Great Literature: Description forthcoming.
Class offered: Zoom

Tue 2:30-4:30 Steve Bluestein
Comedy: Stand-Up and Writing: Steve Bluestein was on the ground floor of the comedy boom of the 1970’s. In his class COMEDY: STAND-UP & WRITING he will share his experience in that world, starting with the history of comedy in the 70’s; the techniques of stand-up comedy; how to write and edit a joke. This will be Comedy 101 with all aspects of the craft of comedy writing and stand-up to be covered.
Class meets: In person

Tue 2:30-4:30 Jeff Gindin
The Criminal Justice System: If you are like most people, then your view of the Justice System comes from movies, television, newspapers or various other forms of media. If so, your view may be distorted and you're likely unimpressed. These lectures seek to separate myth from reality. Jeff will deal with many of the most commonly asked questions including: How can a lawyer defend a person he knows is guilty? What is plea bargaining and is it really necessary? Who gets bail and who doesn't? How does a judge decide what sentence to impose? Is there really a law for the rich and another for the poor? What are the causes of wrongful convictions and can we prevent them from happening. NOTE: This class meets for the first 2 weeks of the session only.
Class meets: In person

Wed 9:30-11:30 Larry Hurwitz
World War 2 From a Jewish Perspective: Cataclysmic Holocaust to Miracle of Israel: We will discuss how the war defined the Jewish people around the world. The course will begin with historic backgrounds on the rise in Nazi power as well as Prewar antisemitism in other European countries. One focus will be problems in immigration to safer areas. Discussion will relate to how many countries refused to allow Jewish refugees. Subsequent sessions will deal with concentration camps and how they were exposed. Finally the course will deal with DP camps at war’s end.
Class meets: Zoom

Wed 9:30-11:30 Terry Boyle
Poetry: A Workshop: This class is designed for those who are interested in translating their thoughts and feelings into a poem. You don't have to be an expert or a published poet to join the class. Each week, we'll workshop poems written by classmates. The class aims to further our appreciation of the poetic art form.
Class meets: Zoom

Wed 12:00-2:00 Chris Guarino
In Beethoven’s Footsteps: Brahms and the Schumanns—A journey through friendship, inspiration and Romantic genius: After Beethoven, three remarkable figures—Robert Schumann, Clara Schumann, and Johannes Brahms—helped shape the next generation of Romantic music. Robert’s visionary compositions, Clara’s extraordinary career as one of Europe’s greatest pianists, and Brahms’s emerging genius became intertwined in a story of artistic inspiration, friendship, and deep personal connection. Through their chamber works, songs, piano music, symphonies, and concertos, we will explore how Brahms—guided and supported by the Schumanns—carried forward Beethoven’s legacy while forging a voice entirely his own.
Class meets: In person

Wed 12:00-2:00 George Haas
Conjuring 103: Magic: Have you ever wanted to amaze your friends, leave an audience in awe, or unlock the secrets behind some of the world’s most famous magic tricks? In this class, we’ll explore five classic magic tricks that every magician should know—timeless illusions powerful enough to astonish any crowd. Throughout this session, we’ll not only reveal how these tricks work, but also teach you the key techniques behind performing them smoothly and confidently. Get ready to step into the world of magic—where the impossible becomes possible! It isn't necessary to have taken Conjuring 101 or 102 to enjoy this class.
Class meets: In person

Wed 2:30-4:30 Steve Garfein
The Political & Social Aspects of AI: This highly interactive Zoom class is conducted in a seminar format. Those who want to participate in the seminar are asked to have cameras on. Whether cameras are on or off, all participants are encouraged to ask questions. We are on a voyage of discovery where Generative Artificial Intelligence and its capacity for autonomous learning are improving at breakneck speed. Key topics include 1) the future of electric vehicles, 2) advancements in space exploration, 3) military applications, 4) workforce impacts, 5) shifts in education, 6) media transformation, 7) developments in chips and data centers, 8) the power grid, 9) nuclear power innovations, and, not least, 10) the impacts on local, state, and federal governments.
Class meets: Zoom

Wed 2:30-4:30 Julie Timmer
How to Write a Novel/Screenplay: The aim of this course is to provide attendees with the tools and resources to plan and write a novel, and, depending on class interest, how to write a feature screenplay. Specific topics include: brainstorming story ideas; creating compelling characters with believable arcs; plotting vs “pantsing”; point of view; voice; story structure; tension; stakes; making time to write; creating a writing routine; overcoming resistance, self-doubt, and procrastination; research; writers’ conferences; writing blogs, and; writing coaches.
Class meets: In person

Wed 2:30-5:00 Kerry Abram
Perfect Health: Ayurvedic Lifestyle: Based on Deepak Chopra, MD’s global bestseller, PERFECT HEALTH, this beautiful program teaches simple yet profound skills for promoting healing, vitality and longevity. Beginning with Kerry’s FEEL BETTER NOW!, students learn a powerful regimen of health practices, backed by the latest science, orchestrated to balance the body and mind, enhance nutrition, and reduce emotional turbulence. Textbook Included! More details online: www.kerryabram.com
Class meets: Zoom

Thu 9:00-11:00 Marc Rosen
Be a Better Photographer:Open to all levels of photographers. Each week, participants will have an opportunity to take and submit photos by email that encourage experimentation with composition, lighting, perspective, etc. Participants can use phones or cameras to take photos. Observers who do not wish to submit photos are also welcome to attend and learn from others.
Class meets: Zoom

Thu 9:30-11:30 Steve Kendall
When Opposites Attract: Art’s Strangely Wonderful Bedfellows: What does a Titian have in common with a Dali? A Vermeer with a Hopper? A realistic 19th Century drawing with an abstract 20th Century sculpture? The photography of Mei Xu with the paintings of Helen Frankenthaler? In art, as in life, opposites can attract. In this course, you’ll learn about—and discuss—five “coupled” artworks each week. Plus, we’ll compare artworks from early and late in an artist’s career (what a difference!); how two artists focused on the same subject over and over, and how their approaches differed; and how a photographer turned Norman Rockwell’s iconic “Four Freedoms” series into a powerful statement for today.
Class meets: In person

Thu 12:00-2:00 Leonard Goldstein
Trump Administration-Pro & Con: Whether you Love Him or Hate him...let us look at him from both sides of the Aisle...All Political views are Welcome and Respected.
Class meets: In person and Zoom

Thu 12:00-2:00 Leslie Roth
Self-Appreciation 101: Wrapping the Present: Over the next six weeks, we will take time to honor our unique stories. This is an opportunity to look back at our lives not as historians but as artists appreciating a masterpiece. Yes, you are a Masterpiece! In private or group discussions, we will note, by automatic writing, the strengths we've gained from challenges and the growth we've achieved as a result. In this supportive space, every story is valued. We will refer to videos, poems, short stories, and quotes to guide our reflections as we turn the pages of our treasured book. Our goal is to give ourselves the gift of time, appreciation, and acknowledgement. Sharing is always an invitation, not an obligation. Let us begin this rewarding work. Everyone should bring a notebook and pen to each class. For more information, contact Leslie at lesliedeane@usa.net
Class meets: In person

Thu 1:30-4:30 John Curran
Dark Alleys & Dangerous Blondes: Film Noir is a style of American crime films that evolved over the 1930’s & 40’s into movies that were far more interesting and adult than the gangster stories made in Hollywood in the 30’s. After WWII, film makers in other countries began to make their own versions of crime stories in this style. The 2025-2026 Dark Alleys series will feature noir films from outside the United States. We will see films from France, Argentina, Japan and elsewhere. Some of them are among the best noir movies ever made. As Eddie Muller says, “Film Noir knows no boundaries."
Class meets: Zoom

Thu 2:30-4:30 Marc Rosen
Controversial Issues: We will discuss and debate contemporary issues that are both controversial and familiar. Brief presentations by the facilitator and class discussion will stimulate fact-based, informative exchanges. The facilitator will ensure that all sides and viewpoints are heard and considered.
Class meets: Zoom

Fri 9:30-11:30 Larry DeBuhr
Desert Plants: Spring time in the desert can be an amazing wonderland of colorful wildflowers. How are these plants able to survive in a dry, rocky environment, and still be able to burst into flower in the spring? What are some of the important desert plants and their adaptation for survival? What plants did the Cahuilla Indians use for foods and medicines?
Class meets: Zoom

Fri 9:30-11:30 Noah Weiszner
The Tooth, the Whole Tooth and Nothing But . . .: This 6-week course offers an introduction of the oral cavity (mouth) from anatomical, physiological, and pathological perspectives. The course breaks down the oral systems and how they relate to overall well-being. We will discuss most preventive, treatments, and specialties in dentistry, including fillings, crowns and bridges, extractions, gum issues, implants, dentures, etc. Class interaction and questions are encouraged and welcomed, making each session fun, dynamic and engaging.
Class meets: Zoom

Fri 12:00-2:00 Adam Cavnar
The Tao Te Ching: 5,000 Years Old and Still Relevant: In this class, we will explore the teachings of the Tao Te Ching, an ancient Chinese text written in antiquity by Lao Tsu. The text is brief but profound and full of insights into living with balance, harmony, and grace; ideas that have faded in our modern times. We will uncover key concepts such as effortless action, simplicity, and the flow of nature. Whether you’re new to the Tao or revisiting its wisdom, this course invites you to reflect, share, and find inspiration for a more mindful and peaceful journey ahead.
Class meets: In person

Fri 12:00-2:00 Shirley Lipner
Hollywood Babylon, Part 2: Ever wondered what really goes on behind the glitter and glamour of Hollywood? In Hollywood Babylon Part 2, we’ll continue to explore Kenneth Anger’s infamous book that uncovers the wild, and often scandalous, side of early Hollywood. From mysterious deaths to secret romances, Anger’s stories show a side of Tinseltown that’s far from the polished image we see on screen. In this course, we’ll dig into these juicy tales while thinking about how Hollywood’s love for scandal and fame has shaped our view of celebrities and culture. Join me for an exciting journey into the darker side of the silver screen, where truth, myth, and pop culture collide. It is not necessary to have taken Sex, Lies and Celluloid to enjoy Hollywood Babylon Part 2.
Class meets: Zoom