Adult Learning in the Fitchburg Area
Transcription
Adult Learning in the Fitchburg Area
ALFA Adult Learning in the Fitchburg Area SPRING 2015 LIFELONG LEARNING COURSES • SPECIAL EVENTS FOOD FOR THOUGHT SPEAKER SERIES SHIRLEY PICK SPRING SERIES From the President When I was approached early in my presidency about starting a lifelong learning institute at Fitchburg State, I knew immediately that the idea was a winner. ALFA services the continuing vision for this institution as a community resource, bringing new people and new energy to our campus each semester. ALFA is a winning program for this university and I am proud of its demonstrated record of success. Access and affordability are two of this institution’s core values, and the novel work being done in the ALFA program is grounded in that philosophy. Hundreds of adults enroll in ALFA courses each semester, studying an array of topics from geology to film under the guidance of talented educators, including tenured members of the university faculty. Many ALFA students venture off-campus for day trips that create additional opportunities for experiential learning. And all of this is accomplished at minimal cost to students. While there is no doubt that ALFA has provided great benefit to its students, the program has enriched Fitchburg State University as a whole. The joy of lifelong learning embodied in our ALFA students is infectious. Robert V. Antonucci What is ALFA? ALFA (Adult Learning in the Fitchburg Area) is a lifelong learning institute that serves adult learners in Fitchburg and the surrounding communities. ALFA is sponsored by the Office of Academic Affairs and the Office of Graduate and Continuing Education at Fitchburg State University in collaboration with volunteer members of the community. ALFA offers non-credit daytime classes and special events. Members are encouraged to volunteer and participate in program leadership and development as well as social and recreational activities. A limited number of scholarships are available. OUR MISSION: ALFA provides an opportunity for lifelong learners to meet and share interests in an informal setting and pursue learning for enrichment and personal growth. Have you always wanted to teach? Have a specialty that you think others would be interested in? We’re always looking for new instructors and new subject areas to offer our ALFA’s. If you are interested in learning more about becoming an ALFA instructor e-mail us at [email protected]. Where are classes held? Unless otherwise specified in the course description, ALFA classes are held in the C-Wing of the McKay Campus School, at Fitchburg State University, 67 Rindge Road, Fitchburg, MA. Call the ALFA office at 978-665-3706 www.fitchburgstate.edu/alfa 1 SESSION III: JANUARY – MARCH, 2015 STRETCH & TONE Mondays: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. Jan. 26; Feb. 2, 9, 23; March 2 Limited to 15 students. Fitchburg State University Recreation Center Dance Studio Sit down & tone up with light weights. Stand up & stretch. A low-impact workout, which works on your strength and flexibility, increases your energy and fires up the muscles. Instructor: Judith Lindstedt is a retired dancer, choreographer, director, TV producer, Actors’ Equity performer, and holds M. Ed. & CAGS degrees from Fitchburg State. BEGINNING BIRDING: Winter Resident Birds of Worcester County From the beginner level on up, we look at our winter resident birds, both backyard and those that do not often come to feeders, and those that come to our area to escape the harsher more northern climates. How do they survive apart from being fed? Books or materials recommended: Eastern U.S. or regional field guide (can be provided). Binoculars (can also be provided). Warm clothing is strongly recommended. Mondays: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Jan. 26; Feb. 2, 9, 23; March 2 Limited to 15 students. Wachusett Wildlife Sanctuary 113 Goodnow Road, Princeton, MA Instructor: Richard Knowlton’s association with Massachusetts Audubon began in 1994 as a volunteer at Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary. Five years later he assumed the position of Resident Caretaker. For eleven years he taught basic birding classes. Now retired, he continues to be active at the Sanctuary, and is currently president of the Forbush Bird Club, and Director of the Friends of the Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge. TREES IN WINTER Mondays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. Jan. 26; Feb. 2, 9, 23; March 2 Limited to 16 students. Wachusett Wildlife Sanctuary 113 Goodnow Road, Princeton, MA Trees are reduced to their skeletal structure when leaves have fallen for winter. Their diverse silhouettes have an architectural richness, and their varied bark has a three dimensional quality both of which are more readily observed in winter. We will learn information about 20 of the most common local trees. Indoor and outdoor sessions with short walks. Books or materials recommended: The Tree Identification Book by George Symonds. (continued next page) 2 Instructor: Joe Choiniere is Mass Audubon’s Central Sanctuaries Property Manager, dividing time between Worcester’s Broad Meadow Brook Education Center and Wildlife Sanctuary and Princeton’s Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary. He has worked for Mass Audubon since 1975. Joe is a lifelong naturalist and has a B.S. in Natural History from UMass/Amherst. GEOLOGY AROUND THE WORLD Mondays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. Jan. 26; Feb. 2, 9, 23; March 2 Fitchburg State University Selected regions from around the globe where the instructor has traveled and studied will be highlighted. Specifically, the geology, flora and fauna, and the culture of: Tanzania, Africa, Iceland, San Salvador, Bahamas, the Chihuahuan Desert of Mexico, and the Hawaiian Islands will be presented. Instructor: Robert Champlin is Professor Emeritus at Fitchburg State University where he taught Geology for 30 years. For 17 years, he has led or participated in fossil expeditions in Colorado, Wyoming, and Mexico. In 1997, he received the V.J. Mara Award for excellence in college teaching. THE NEW JIM CROW The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander is an important inquiry into the status of racial justice in the United States. Join us as we discuss the relationship between race and law from slavery to Jim Crow to the Civil Rights Movement to the War on Drugs. This book is being read and discussed campus-wide during the 2014/15 school-year. Mondays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. Jan. 26; Feb. 2, 9, 23; March 2 Fitchburg State University Instructors: Dr. Shirley Wagner is the former Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs at Fitchburg State University and is an ALFA Board Member. She has a doctorate in political science. Cynthia Jones is an experienced teacher who has provided professional development through the Teaching American History program at Fitchburg State University and the Fitchburg Historical Society. IMPROVE YOUR LIFE SAMPLER This course will cover a variety of concepts and ideas that have been used for generations Tuesdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. to help improve your overall well-being and Jan. 27; Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24 help to bring yourself into better balance and Fitchburg State University harmony. Every week we will discuss a different topic that will explore: Homeopathy, Feng Shui, Aromatherapy, Chakras, and Auras. The focus of each class will be an introduction to these topics so that it may pique your interest to continue on further. Books or materials recommended: Notebook and Pen (continued next page) 3 Instructor: Nancy Fillip is a retired high school and middle school science and math instructor. She currently teaches a variety of classes at ALFA, at the Fitchburg Art Museum, and teaches classes online for an educational company. Nancy also teaches art, piano, flute, and clarinet at her home studio in Pepperell. She has published four books and is a member of The National Poetry Society. WILDE ABOUT OSCAR: Oscar Wilde and His Circle Tuesdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. Jan. 27; Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24 Leominster Public Library FREE: Sponsored by Friends of the Leominster Public Library You may think the Victorians were staid and conservative, but prepare to get another perspective by reading and learning about the outrageously brilliant playwright/poet/ raconteur Oscar Wilde. Students will read The Importance of Being Ernest, and De Profundis and learn about this genius’s life and circle at the end of Victoria’s reign. Instructor: Sally Cragin is an author and artist. Her second book with Llewellyn Worldwide, Astrology on the Cusp: Birthdays on the Edge of Two Signs is forthcoming this winter. She serves on the Board of New England Poetry Club. ZUMBA FITNESS® Wednesdays: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. Jan. 28; Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 Fitchburg State University Recreation Center Dance Studio An energetic, fast-paced, cardio fitness workout that feels like a dance party. Move to the beat of Latin inspired music with an emphasis on having fun, burn calories and make some smiles! Bring an exercise/yoga mat for floor work and stretching at the end of class (optional). Instructor: Amy LeBlanc is a group fitness instructor who has been leading classes from Aqua Aerobics to Zumba Fitness for many years. Coaching and caring for every students fitness goals and abilities keeps her classes comfortable and challenging. QUILTING We will focus on a project that can be completed within class. Books will be suggested for purchase and projects will be for either the beginning or more advance quilter. A $10 fee (cash) will be collected at the first class for the quilting book. Equipment needed: Sewing machine, gray or tan cotton thread, basic sewing kit, (small scissors, rotary cutter, seam ripper, extra needles, pins, etc.) and fabric for your individual project. Wednesdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. Jan. 28; Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 Limited to 12 students. Brooks Pond Cottage 200 Brooks Pond Rd., Leominster Instructor: Alice Welch is a retired librarian who started quilting when she retired in 2002. She has taken many quilting classes and made many different kinds of quilts from lap robes, full bed quilts, jackets and bags. 4 AQUA AEROBICS Thursdays: 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 Fitchburg State University Recreation Center Pool Cardio and muscle toning with water buoys, belts or noodles in the water. It is a different kind of workout with no impact on joints. Instructor: Amy LeBlanc is a group fitness instructor who has been leading classes from Aqua Aerobics to Zumba Fitness for many years. Coaching and caring for every students fitness goals and abilities keeps her classes comfortable and challenging. ALFA WALK, SNOWSHOE, AND SKI ABOUT We will again offer at least class five sessions to explore local trails. Because winter in New England is not predictable, we may not be able to have our outings weekly. We will ask you to sign up for the Session III course, but we may have meetings during the Session IV schedule at no additional cost based on the weather. Dogs are welcome. Participants should be able to walk several miles over uneven trails with a possible small stream crossing. Books or materials recommended: Water bottle, layers of clothing, rain gear, and walking sticks. Thursdays: 12:20 – 1: 50 p.m. Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 Sholan Farm, 1125 Pleasant St. Leominster, MA Instructors: Sally Hens is a retired teacher and dietician. She is currently a seasonal ranger at Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. Karen McNall is a retired elementary school teacher and a volunteer for the Leominster Recreation Department. Karen has a strong interest in the environment and the benefits of nature’s gifts. WRITING POETRY This course is for anyone interested in writing poems. We will write aubades, nocturnes, charms, spells, limericks, acrostics, octets, prose poems and other kinds of poems. Paying attention to the sounds of English will be important. This is not a critique class as emphasis in on writing your poems as we inspire each other and enjoy the challenges of creating this art. Books or materials recommended: Bring a pen and a lined notebook. If you are interested, Ordinary Genius by Kim Addonizio and Dorianne Laux is a helpful book. Bring your favorite limerick to our first meeting. Thursdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 Limited to 12 students. Fitchburg State University Instructor: Dona Luongo Stein, a former Stegner Fellow in Poetry at Stanford University and graduate of Fitchburg High School, is the author of Heavenly Bodies, Entering the Labyrinth, and Alice in Dutschland. 5 ART APPRECIATION WORKSHOP: Five Modern Women Artists We will look at some of the works of Berte Morisot (1841-1895), Mary Cassatt (1845-1926), Sonia Delaunay (1885-1979), Georgia O’Keefe (1887-1986), and Helen Frankenthaler (19282011). For Morisot we’ll sketch the face of an adult woman and then use crayons, melted or dry, to sketch her face or water colors to paint in the details. For Cassatt we’ll sketch the face of a child as well as that of a child’s profile after which we’ll use dry crayons; water colors may also be used. For Delaunay, a cofounder of the Orphism art movement noted for its use of strong colors and geometric shapes, crayons or water colors may be used with strict attention to color and shape. In the lesson on O’Keefe we’ll focus on her “flowers” period, and sketch flowers and then use water colors. Water colors will also be used for the lesson on Helen Frankenthaler, and we’ll look at some different techniques to achieve a variety of effects when using this medium. Materials Required: crayons; candle; water colors and brushes; pencils (sketching or regular pencils), and water color paper. One does not have to be an artist to take the workshop: it’s about the fun and the appreciation of an artist or an art style, not having as a prerequisite that you are an artist. Thursdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 Fitchburg State University Instructor: Ned Daniels Fitchburg State class of ‘65, has been a teacher, principal, author, lecturer and consultant. His work has taken him from the classroom to locations around the world. ART APPRECIATION WORKSHOP: Five Contemporary Women Artists We will look at the works of Suzon Frecon (1941-), Barbara Kruger (1945-), Julie Mehretu (1970-), Shirana Shahbazi (1974-), and Emily Sundblad (1977-). For Frecon, the lesson will focus on the integration and use of colored paper and water colors. In the lesson on Kruger we’ll study the strong messages she put into either her choice of words or her choice of pictures, or both; for this lesson participants MUST bring cut-outs from magazines and newspapers such as pictures and sayings of leaders in the women’s movement. We’ll then arrange them in the style of Kruger. For Mehretu, we’ll use fine tip markers or colored pencils as well as colored paper and cellophane (which the instructor will provide for a small fee). The lesson on Shahbazi will use colored paper or colored cellophane and we’ll work in strong geometric shapes. Emily Sundblad’s lesson will use melted crayons on water color paper to achieve as close as possible the beauty of her work. Materials Required: articles and phrases cut out from magazines and newspapers related to the women’s movement and feminism (please do not bring words written in your handwriting, only words in magazine or newspaper print); scissors; water colors and brushes; pad of water color paper; crayons and a candle; glue stick; a set of fine tipped magic markers or colored pencils. If you have colored cellophane, please bring it to the two lessons where it will be used. Thursdays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 Fitchburg State University Instructor: Ned Daniels (see bio above). 6 SOCIAL MEDIA, TECHNOLOGY, AND MODERN COMMUNICATION How have we changed our communication with each other and with the world? Social media, computer technologies like email and video chat, and smart mobile devices have drastically redefined what it means to be connected and communicative with the world. How did we get here? What can we learn from these technologies? How can we use them to better connect with our family, friends, communities, and with unknown audiences? This class offers a broad introduction to these topics and a hands-on experience with connecting users to the modern world of 21st century communication. It provides a hybrid learning environment that reacts to the world and its changing shape, while also asking students to offer their input about how social media is affecting them. Thursdays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 Fitchburg State University Instructor: Kyle Moody is an assistant professor who joined Fitchburg State University in the fall of 2014. A former program director, radio station manager and social media consultant for several businesses, Dr. Moody’s research interests include how video game fans and consumers are involved in the production and dissemination of fan and journalistic content. His research also includes online communities of users and players of video games, new media design, social media applications, ethnography, cultural studies, and media production. BEGINNERS BALLET FOR EXERCISE AND MOVEMENT A conditioning program designed for those with little or no previous ballet experience. Fridays: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. BARREWORK consists of standing warmJan. 30; Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27 up stretches holding a barre for balance. Limited to 12 students. Fitchburg State University CENTERWORK introduces the technique Recreation Center-Dance Studio and vocabulary of ballet (no jumps) with an emphasis on posture, placement and movement potential. Suggested: Proper shoes, socks, or bare feet; tights and top. Books or materials recommended: Ballet: Beyond the Basics by Sandra Noll Hammon. Instructor: Judith Lindstedt is a retired dancer, choreographer, director, TV producer, and Actors’ Equity performer, and holds M.Ed. & CAGS degrees from Fitchburg State. THE AMERICAN HALL OF INSPIRATION: Five Nominees Fridays: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Jan. 30; Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27 Fitchburg State University Sometimes it seems that better remembering American history and being inspired by American ideals are mutually exclusive processes. But that doesn’t have to be the case: American history is full of largely forgotten, hugely inspiring figures, (continued next page) 7 women and men who represent the best of what we’ve been and can be. In this course we’ll examine the lives, voices, and writings of four such historical figures--William Apess, Ida B. Wells, Sui Sin Far, Abraham Cahan--and one inspiring contemporary American, Jose Antonio Vargas. Instructor: Ben Railton, Associate Professor of English and Coordinator of American Studies at Fitchburg State University, is committed to producing works of public scholarship: in his books, such as the most recent, The Chinese Exclusion Act: What It Can Teach Us about America (2013); in his daily American Studies blog; in his contributions to sites such as We’re History and The Conversation; and in many other ways. COLONIALISM: Its Origins And Lingering Ramifications Fridays: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Jan. 30; Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27 Fitchburg State University This course will look at the origins and ramifications of colonialism. After an initial session exploring in general---its origins, its political as well as socio-economic ramifications, and its enduring legacies—the course will then explore the colonial experiences of North Africa, Israel-Palestine, the Middle East, and South Asia. Instructors: Bill Ayadi is a retired engineer born in Tunisia and educated there and in Europe. Arabic was his first language and he grew up immersed in its stories and traditions. He is a lifelong student of history, literature and art. Eric Budd has taught at Fitchburg State since 1994. He is a full professor in the department of Economics, History and Political Science with research interests in the 3rd World, conflict resolution, democratization, etc. His book on the IsraeliPalestinian conflict was published in 2012. Joyce Hinckley is a retired psychologist and educator. She is also a life-long student of history, religion, art and culture and making connections across disciplines is a passion. John Paul is a professor of history at Fitchburg State University and holds a Master of Arts and doctorate from the University of Wisconsin, and a master of arts from the Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. RESEARCH IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR This course will look at research, current and past, that provides insight into how humans of different ages think about and perceive the world. We may talk about topics ranging from behavioral development through age-related decline. Fridays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. Jan. 30; Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27 Fitchburg State University Instructor: Dr. Brian Kelly is an Assistant Professor of Psychological Science at Fitchburg State. His research has focused on cognitive development in children and the onset and treatment of behavioral pathologies in nonhuman primates. 8 SESSION IV: MARCH – APRIL, 2015 STRETCH & TONE Mondays: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. March 16, 23, 30; April 6, 13 Limited to 15 students. Fitchburg State University Recreation Center-Dance Studio See description and instructor bio in Session III, page 2. Instructor: Judith Lindstedt SPRING BIRDING Early Spring is the perfect time to learn to recognize and identify birds. While yearround residents such as the Northern Cardinal are already nesting, migrants including the Eastern Phoebe are also arriving as each week passes. This class will offer students with no previous experience an opportunity to learn bird identification, appreciation and enjoyment in a relaxed setting. Books or materials recommended: Eastern U.S. or regional field guide (can be provided). Equipment needed: Binoculars (can also be provided). Mondays: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. March 16, 23, 30; April 6, 13 Limited to 15 students. Wachusett Wildlife Sanctuary 113 Goodnow Road, Princeton Instructor: Richard Knowlton’s association with Massachusetts Audubon began in 1994 as a volunteer at Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary. Five years later he assumed the position of Resident Caretaker. For eleven years he taught basic birding classes. Now retired, he continues to be active at the Sanctuary, and is currently president of the Forbush Bird Club, and Director of the Friends of the Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge. SHRUBS IN SPRING Mondays: 12:20-1:50 p.m. March 16, 23, 30; April 6, 13 Limited to 16 students. Wachusett Wildlife Sanctuary 113 Goodnow Road, Princeton Buds swell, twigs color up, and a few shrubs even burst into bloom in early spring long before leaves appear. All of our twenty five most common shrubs can be easily identified by their bark, twigs, and growth form. Indoor class with short walks. Books or materials recommended: The Shrub Identification Book by George Symonds. Instructor: Joe Choiniere is Mass Audubon’s Central Sanctuaries Property Manager, dividing time between Worcester’s Broad Meadow Brook Education Center and Wildlife Sanctuary and Princeton’s Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary. He has worked for Mass Audubon since 1975. Joe is a lifelong naturalist and has a B.S. in Natural History from UMass/Amherst. 9 HOOTENANNY: Sing-A-Long This is a participatory singing course with a little background provided about the songs. The class will sing melodies and harmonies of familiar songs. Guitar and/or banjo accompaniment will be provided by the instructor. Books or materials recommended: Rise Up Singing: The Group Singing Songbook. This book contains the lyrics to 1200 songs. Mondays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. March 16, 23, 30; April 6, 13 Fitchburg State University Instructor: Paul Luria is a performer and instructor of guitar, ukulele, banjo, mandolin, and harmonica. He is currently teaching at several locations and performing with four groups. FLOWER ARRANGING: Five Different Styles Mondays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. March 16, 23, 30; April 6, 13 Fitchburg State University Limited to 15 students. Each week participants will make a flower arrangement in a different style, such as Biedmeir and Ikebana. Materials needed: Please bring something to cut with and the $25 materials fee (cash) to the first class session. Instructor: Gail Allo owned and ran a local flower shop for twenty years before becoming a high school English teacher. CHORAL GROUP Mondays: 2:30-4:00 p.m. March 16, 23, 30; April 6, 13 Fitchburg State University Conlon Building This is a four-part harmony mixed choir. If you love to sing and love to sing in groups, then this course is for you! Instructor: Marjorie Ness is a full-time faculty member in the Humanities Department at Fitchburg State University. She holds a doctorate in music. She is affiliated with the American Choral Directors Association, American Guild of Organists, and the National Association of Schools of Music. INTRODUCTION TO CONVERSATIONAL FRENCH Bonjour! French is a beautiful language. In five weeks you will be able to say more than hello. This course will offer basic vocabulary and phrases through repetition so you can carry on small designed for the non-speaking French student who would like to learn basic conversational French. Students will have a good handle on vocabulary and phrases by using them repeatedly in class and interacting with each Tuesdays: 12:20-1:50 p.m. March 17, 24, 31; April 7, 14 Fitchburg State University (continued next page) 10 other. Come learn a little bit about French speaking countries as well. Books or materials recommended: notebook and pen, a French dictionary would be helpful, but is not required. Instructor: Nancy Fillip is a retired high school and middle school science and math instructor. She currently teaches a variety of classes at ALFA, at the Fitchburg Art Museum, and teaches classes online for an educational company. Nancy also teaches art, piano, flute, and clarinet at her home studio in Pepperell. She has published four books and is a member of The National Poetry Society. iPAD TIPS AND TRICKS Tuesdays: 12:20-1:50 p.m. March 17, 24, 31; April 7, 14 Limited to 10 students. Fitchburg State University Make the best use of your iPad! In this course you will learn how fully utilize your iPad, download free apps, figure out which apps are worth purchasing, borrow eBooks from your local library, how to download audiobooks, podcasts and music, and much, much more. Instructor: Barbara Friedman, MLIS, has worked in libraries for more than forty years, receiving her Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from the University of WisconsinMadison. She served as Reference Librarian at Marquette University, Hofstra University, and the Fitchburg Public Library. She was assistant director of the Lunenburg Library, Director of the Westminster Library, and is presently the part-time Director of the Erving Library. THE GREAT DEPRESSION This course will examine Americans experiences in the Great Depression in addition to its economic causes as well as political, intellectual, and cultural legacies. Books or materials recommended: John Steinbeck, The Grapes of Wrath; Films: The Public Enemy; and Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. Tuesdays: 12:20-1:50 p.m. March 17, 24, 31; April 7, 14 Fitchburg State University Instructor: Katherine Jewell is a full-time assistant professor of history at Fitchburg State University. She specializes in American Studies. Katherine received her bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University and her Ph.D. from Boston University. ZUMBA FITNESS® Wednesdays: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. March 18, 25; April 1, 8, 15 Fitchburg State University Recreation Center-Dance Studio See description and instructor bio in Session III, page 4. Instructor: Amy LeBlanc 11 PASTEL PAINTING This course is designed for anyone interested exploring the versatile medium of pastel for the first time or just wishing to broaden your knowledge and be creative. In a supportive environment, create a pastel painting using your own photos as reference. Some of the topics to be discussed with be application of pastel, composition, scribble technique and under painting. The class will include brief demos. Books or materials recommended: Some type of board to hold your paper in place, any pastels you may have (no oil pastels). Recommended paper: Uart 400 grit, Canson, Sennelier LaCarte, Multi-Media art board. For pastels, I recommend: Nupastels, Rembrandt, Mount Vision, Sennelier, Terry Ludwig, Girualt. Rubbing alcohol, paint brush, newspapers (for clean-up). Wednesdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. March 18, 25; April 1, 8, 15 Limited to 15 students. Fitchburg State University Instructor: Lisa Regopoulos is a Massachusetts artists who captures the beauty of the natural world with her award winning landscape paintings featuring waterfalls, seascapes, and Her pastel paintings have won many awards in juried national shows, international exhibitions for pastels only, and multi-media shows. QUILTING Wednesdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. March 18, 25; April 1, 8, 15 Limited to 12 students. Brooks Pond Cottage 200 Brooks Pond Rd., Leominster See description and instructor bio in Session III, page 4. Instructor: Alice Welch LOOKING AT ART Wednesdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. March 18, 25; April 1, 8, 15 Limited to 12 students. Fitchburg Art Museum 25 Merriam Pkwy, Fitchburg Are you baffled when you look at some artworks? In this course you’ll learn some tools for making sense of unfamiliar artworks while exploring in the Fitchburg Art Museum’s galleries. We’ll look at African, ancient Egyptian, and contemporary art, plus photographs from FAM’s collection. A variety of approaches for interpreting art will be taught, from the elements of formal analysis to creative and critical thinking skills. This class is highly participatory, so come ready to look, experiment, and respond. Instructor: Laura Howick, Director of Education at the Fitchburg Art Museum, has worked as an art museum educator in four Massachusetts art museums for over twenty-five years. Her teaching credentials include co-teaching in the Project Zero Summer Institute at Harvard Graduate School 12 (continued next page) of Education for eight years, docent and teacher workshops for various museums and schools, and teaching the Museum Education and Interpretation course in the Tufts University Museum Studies program for two semesters. COOKING WITH ALFA: Brunch A blend of “breakfast” and “lunch,” the term “brunch” was introduced in Britain around 1896 by Hunter’s Weekly as an example of student slang. Two young Brits woke up after having drank too much, and it was nearly noon before they ate their next meal. They decided that since breakfast and lunch foods were being prepared, the meal should be called “brunch.” The ALFA cooks will put their own spin on this novel entree, serving everything from soups, breakfast foods, meats, fish, salads, and sweets. A material fee of $20 (cash only) is due at the first class. Wednesdays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. March 18, 25; April 1, 8, 15 Limited to 17 students. Fitchburg High School, Room 140 Instructors: Bruce Goyette earned his B.S. and M.Ed. at Fitchburg State. In retirement he pursues his passions for journalism (Editor of ALFA’s newsletter, ALFA-BITS), reading, music, gardening, and cooking. Kathy Flynn is a retired elementary school teacher and ALFA Curriculum Committee member. Gail Allo owned and ran a local flower shop for twenty years before becoming a high school English teacher. Walter Kondig is a 1965 graduate of Fitchburg State. He worked for 20 years for Foster Grant (R&D) and 20 years in the human service field. He retired in 2008. He has always loved to cook and bake. Joyce Hinckley is a retired psychologist and educator. She is also a life-long student of history, religion, art and culture and making connections across disciplines is a passion. LIFE ALTERING LESSONS: Breathe Learn proper breathing. It is like feeding yourself with love—an abundance of oxygen in the blood. This class will introduce you to the value of inner sound as a technique to stimulate the fluid system, relaxing and eliminating painful knotted up areas in the body including back pain. The goal is to improve your physical and emotional health. Chanting will be facilitated. Recommended reading: Molecules of Emotion by Candice Pert; Toning: The Creative Power of the Voice by Laurel E. Keyes; Life on Land by Emilie Conrad; Strong and Fearless by Phil Nuernberger, Ph.D. Wednesdays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. March 18, 25; April 1, 8, 15 Fitchburg State University Instructor: Carol Pedigree is a graduate of Smith College, Northampton, MA. After personal and extensive experimentation and research with conscious breathing and inner sound, she has discovered ways to access and heal physical pain and change unhealthy thought patterns. 13 AQUA AEROBICS Thursdays: 9:30-11:00 a.m. March 19, 26; April 2, 9, 16 Fitchburg State University Recreation Center Pool See description and instructor bio in Session III, page 5. Instructor: Amy LeBlanc POST–WORLD WAR II HOLLYWOOD FILMS: Devastation, Disillusionment, and Resilience In this course we will study both the style and themes of 1940s film noir and the works of great directors, including Billy Wilder, Fred Zinnemann, and William Wyler, who made films of various genres that addressed the moral, social, and physical costs of World War II for Europe and the U.S. Movies featured in the class will include Billy Wilder’s A Foreign Affair (1948) and Ace in the Hole (1951), Fred Zinnemann’s The Search (1948) and Act of Violence (1948), and William Wyler’s The Best Years of Our Lives (1946). Thursdays: 12:20-1:50 p.m. March 19, 26; April 2, 9, 16 Fitchburg State University Instructor: Joe Moser is a full-time English Studies instructor at Fitchburg State University. His research interests are in Irish and Irish-American film and literature. He has a Ph.D. in English from the University of Texas. NATURE’S POETS Thursdays: 12:20-1:50 p.m. March 19, 26; April 2, 9, 16 Leominster Public Library FREE: Sponsored by Friends of the Leominster Public Library We will listen to, read, and discuss poets known for writing about nature. Do they all live in the country? Does a poet who writes about nature, such as Emily Dickinson, or a ‘city poet’ like Frank O’Hara have to live there to write about it? Join us for a thoughtful and entertaining discussions. Perhaps we will also take a nature poetry walk! Books or materials recommended: Bring your favorite nature poem to our first meeting also bring a pen and lined notebook paper. Instructor: Dona Luongo Stein, a former Stegner Fellow in Poetry at Stanford University and graduate of Fitchburg High School, is the author of Heavenly Bodies, Entering the Labyrinth, and Alice in Dutschland. 14 COOKING WITH ALFA: Brunch Thursdays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. March 19, 26; April 2, 9, 16 Limited to 17 students. Fitchburg High School, Room 140 See description and instructor bios in Session IV, page 13. Instructors: Bruce Goyette, Kathy Flynn, Gail Allo, Walter Kondig, and Joyce Hinckley RUSSIA IN MODERN PERSPECTIVE This course will give a brief history of Russia since the fall of the USSR, focusing most closely on recent current events. Highlights will include the transition from communism to democracy, the rise and fall of Boris Yeltsin, Putin’s ascendance and role in Chechnya, the development of a managed democracy, the reset in US-Russian relations under President Medvedev, the reelection of President Putin in 2012, the pro-democracy protests in Moscow, and the invasion of Crimea. Books or materials recommended: Lenin’s Tomb: The Last Days of the Soviet Empire, by David Remnick; Resurrection: The Struggle for a New Russia, by David Remnick; Sale of the Century: Russia’s Wild Ride from Communism to Capitalism, by Chrystia Freeland; Yeltsin: A Life, by Timothy Colton; Putin’s Russia: Life in a Failing Democracy, by Anna Politkovskaya; The Oligarchs: Wealth and Power in the New Russia, by David E. Hoffman; Fragile Empire: How Russia Fell In and Out of Love with Vladimir Putin, by Ben Judah Thursdays: 2:30-4:00 p.m. March 19, 26; April 2, 9, 16 Fitchburg State University Instructor: Cris Martin is the Director of the Outreach Program at the Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies at Harvard University. Prior to her work at Harvard, Cris administered academic and volunteer exchange programs for student and scholars from Eurasia at IREX, a non-governmental organization based in Washington, DC. She has a B.A. degree in History from Carnegie Mellon University and a M.A. degree in International Education Policy from Harvard. BEGINNERS JAZZ STRETCH FOR EXERCISE AND MOVEMENT This class is for the beginner who wants to learn how to condition and align the body to improve posture, and to learn over-all body control. PRE-WARMUP STRETCH ROUTINE: you will learn to put the body in the right place to enjoy the feeling of every part of the body working together. CENTERWORK: introduces the technique and vocabulary of jazz isolations and across-the-floor jazz walks (no floorwork or leaps). Materials needed: Proper shoes, no heavy sneakers. Fridays: 10:00 -11:30 a.m. March 20, 27; April 3, 10, 17 Limited to 12 students. Fitchburg State University Recreation Center-Dance Studio Instructor: Judith Lindstedt is a retired dancer, choreographer, director, TV producer, and Actors’ Equity performer, and holds M.Ed. & CAGS degrees from Fitchburg State. 15 FRENCH LITERATURE Fridays: 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. March 20, 27; April 3, 10, 17 Fitchburg State University This course will give a survey of French literature, contextualizing it with the history of French cultural development. Students will read some selected texts from French literature. Instructor: Yasser Derwiche Djazaerly received a joint Ph.D. in German Studies and Interdisciplinary Studies in the Humanities from Stanford University in 2004. He grew up in Syria and did his undergraduate studies in economics and European languages at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. FIGURE DRAWING Drawing the human form is the most enduring theme in the fine arts and likewise the most challenging. In this session, you will approach your visual reference using charcoal pencils/ sticks, even use of sanguine sticks is encouraged. Please bring a to the first class a selection of photographs you have chosen, and with your imagination will compose a complete work of art doing the methods of outline, contour, shading, blending, and detailing on an 18”x24” charcoal drawing pad. Some drawing experience is suggested. Fridays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. March 20, 27; April 3, 10, 17 Limited to 10 students. Fitchburg State University Instructor: Alma Bella Solis was the artist, shop designer, and calligrapher during her time at the New England Quilt Museum. She founded the Art Gallery of Kingwood in Houston, Texas in 2003, a fine arts gallery showcasing the works of thirty-one national artists, and an art school for children and adults. MAH JONGG Mah Jongg fascinating rummy-like game played with tiles instead of cards, originating in China. Mah Jongg remains the most popular game in the Orient. A certain amount of time and effort is required to master the elementary principles of the game. This will be repaid many times by the enjoyment derived from the game. Books or Materials: Students are required to purchase National Mah Jongg League, Inc. cards. Cards are $9.00. Cards will be provided at the first class meeting. Fridays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. March 20, 27; April 3, 10, 17 Limited to 16 students. Fitchburg State University Instructor: Jane Canter of Westford, MA has been teaching Mah Jongg for many years. She started at the Westford Senior Center; went on to the Tyngsboro Senior Center and is currently teaching at the Chelmsford Senior Center each week. She enjoys playing with her friends in the area, and also plays online with the National Mah Jongg League. 16 SPECIAL EVENTS Group Trip 1: NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM, FANEUIL HALL MARKETPLACE, AND QUINCY MARKET The Aquarium has completed a renovation that has renewed its main building. The iconic Giant Ocean Tank has undergone a top-to-bottom 21st century transformation. The Aquarium is at Central Wharf, next to the Boston Marriot Long Wharf Hotel and near Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market. We will also be visiting the Aquarium/ IMAX Theater. Thursday, January 15, 2015 TIME: Depart 7:45 a.m. from the Mall at Whitney Field, Leominster (park near Sack Entertainment Cinemas). There is walking at the Aquarium and Quincy Market. Leave Quincy Market at 3:30 p.m. COST: $42.00 (Lunch on your own) NOTE: Seating limited to 50 registrations. No refunds unless trip is cancelled HOSTS: Lauretta Conlon and Joanne Schreiner Faneuil Hall Marketplace is the nation’s premier urban marketplace. It combines the glories of the past with a modern outdoor shopping experience. Faneuil Hall is located near the waterfront and today’s Government Center in Boston, Massachusetts. The market place has been a meeting hall since 1742. It was the site of several speeches by Samuel Adams, James Otis, and others encouraging independence from Great Britain. Now it is part of Boston National Historical Park. Group Trip 2: BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA OPEN REHEARSAL AND THE CHATEAU RESTAURANT, WALTHAM, MA Thursday, April 2, 2015 TIME: Depart 8:00 a.m. from the Mall at Whitney Field, Leominster (park near Sack Entertainment Cinemas). Return around 5:30 p.m. COST: $77.00 per person (lunch included) NOTE: Seating limited to 100 registrations. No refunds unless trip is cancelled. Boston Symphony Orchestra Open Rehearsal conducted by Andris Nelsons. Performances of works by Beethoven and Shostakovich. Please choose selection and include with payment: Chicken Cutlet Parmigiana w/Toasted Ravioli Broiled Scrod, served with Rice Florentine and Green Beans Broiled Marinated Sirloin Tips, Served with Rice Florentine and Green Beans Entrée Selection Includes: Individual Garden Salad, Chateau’s famous Italian Bread & Butter, Ice Cream Cake Roll with Chocolate Sauce; and Fresh Ground Coffee or Tea. 17 FOOD FOR THOUGHT and SHIRLEY PICK SPRING SERIES These events are FREE and open to the public! THE CHINESE EXCLUSION ACT AND THE HISTORY OF THE U.S. IMMIGRATION POLICIES Ben Railton, speaker Join us for this very timely talk presented by Ben Railton, Associate Professor of English and Tuesday, March 31 at 2:30 PM Coordinator of American Studies at Fitchburg Ellis White Lecture Hall State University. As our federal government Hammond Building struggles with immigration reform, it is wise Parking at North Street Lot for us to look back at our country’s history and its immigration policies through time. In this talk, Ben will highlight how better remembering one specific set of American histories, those related to the Chinese Exclusion Act (1882), can profoundly influence our national narratives of immigration, diversity, community, and identity. Ben Railton is committed to producing works of public scholarship: in his books, such as the most recent, The Chinese Exclusion Act: What It Can Teach Us about America (2013); in his daily American Studies blog (http://americanstudier.blogspot.com); in his contributions to sites such as We’re History and The Conversation; and in many other ways. He also teaches ALFA classes. ALFA 2015 GRAND FINALE — A TRIO OF EVENTS April 28 / Ellis White Lecture Hall in the Hammond Building SAVE THE DATE: April 28 FREE and open to the public —bring a friend. Suggested Parking: Civic Center and shuttle to the Hammond Building OR North Street Lots 1 & 2. Carpooling is encouraged! 18 The Shirley Pick Spring Series presents: Meet Eleanor Roosevelt: Advocate for Human Rights Theater performance by Elena Dodd 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Luncheon (optional) music by Chet Williamson 12:15 – 1:15 p.m. | Cost $10 Reservations due by April 20 The Food for Thought Program presents: Janet Morrison, North County Land Trust: This Land is Our Land 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Spring 2015 Registration Please complete one registration form for each person taking classes. I would like to register for the following courses: Session III: January–February Session IV: March–April □ Stretch & Tone..............................................35401 □ Beginning Birding........................................35402 □ Trees in Winter............................................35403 □ Geology Around the World........................35404 □ The New Jim Crow......................................35405 □ Improve Your Life Sampler........................35406 □ Wilde About Oscar (FREE).........................35407 □ ZUMBA Fitness®..........................................35408 □ Quilting / Session III.....................................35409 □ Aqua Aerobics.............................................. 35411 □ ALFA Walk, Snowshoe & Ski About...........35412 □ Writing Poetry..............................................35413 □ Art Appreciation: Modern...........................35414 □ Art Appreciation: Contemporary...............35416 □ Social Media, Tech., Modern Comm..........35417 □ Beginner Ballet: Exercise & Movement....35419 □ The American Hall of Inspiration...............35420 □ Colonialism: Origins & Ramifications.........35421 □ Research in Human Behavior.................... 35422 □ Stretch & Tone............................................. 35423 □ Spring Birding.............................................. 35425 □ Shrubs in Winter..........................................35426 □ Hootenanny: Sing-A-Long..........................35434 □ Flower Arranging: 5 Different Styles........35489 □ Choral Group............................................... 35435 □ Introduction to Conversational French....35436 □ iPad Tips and Tricks..................................... 35437 □ The Great Depression.................................35438 □ ZUMBA Fitness®..........................................35439 □ Pastel Painting.............................................35440 □ Quilting / Session IV.....................................35441 □ Looking at Art..............................................35442 □ Cooking with ALFA: Brunch (WED)..........35443 □ Life Altering Lessons: Breathe...................35444 □ Aqua Aerobics / Session IV.........................35445 □ Post WWII Hollywood Films......................35446 □ Nature’s Poets (FREE)................................35447 □ Cooking with ALFA: Brunch (THURS).......35448 □ Russia in Modern Perspective...................35449 □ Beginners Jazz: Exercise & Movement....35450 □ French Literature.........................................35451 □ Figure Drawing............................................35490 □ Mah Jongg................................................... 35453 I would like to register for the following events: □ □ GROUP TRIP 1: NE Aquarium, IMAX Theater, Fanueil Market Place (Jan. 15)............35474 GROUP TRIP 2: Boston Symphony Orchestra Open Rehearsal-April 2, 2015.............. 35475 FOOD FOR THOUGHT & SHIRLEY PICK SPRING EVENT: □ □ □ □ The Chinese Exclusion Act and History of U.S. Immigration Policies Mar. 31, 2015 FREE.............35476 Meet Eleanor Roosevelt (April 28) FREE............................................... 35477 A luncheon / Music by Chet Williamson (April 28) $10.00...................35478 This Land is Our Land (April 28) FREE...................................................35479 Please see reverse side for payment information. Course payments are not refundable or transferable to other classes unless a class is cancelled. Classes are free for those who are 90 or above. If over 90, please send verification of age with registration form. All registration forms and payment must be MAILED. Deadline is Jan. 20, 2015. Academic Affairs – ALFA Fitchburg State University, 160 Pearl Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420 Name: _______________________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________________________ City: ______________________________ State: ________ Zip Code: ____________ E-mail: _______________________________________________________________ Date of Birth: ________________________ Are you new to ALFA? □ Yes □ No I am sending payment for: ______ Course(s) @$ 25/course* (Limit 6** per semester) =$ _____________ ______ Group Trip 1 (New England Aquarium) @ $42/pp = $ _____________ ______ Group Trip 2 (Boston Symphony) @ $77/pp = $ _____________ ______ Luncheon with music by Chet Williamson @ $10/pp = $ _____________ TOTAL = $__________________ Payment Information: □ Check (made payable to Fitchburg State) amount enclosed: $________________ Credit Card: □ MasterCard □ Visa □ Discover Credit Card #:_______________________________________________________ Exp. Date: _______________________ CVC (3 digit code): __________________ Signature: _________________________________________________________ □ Shirley Pick Scholarship Program (call the ALFA Office for details at 978-665-3706) *Unless indicated as FREE. Additionally, courses are free for members over 90 years of age. If over 90, please send verification of age with registration. **Students may initially register for up to 5 classes. After January 20, students may select additional courses if seats are still available. Check www.fitchburgstate.edu/alfa for course availability.