Delray Beach Public Library


Community • Learning • Interaction

Lifelong Learning Community Institute
Spring 2011 semester



$ 15 per semester membership fee
3 - 4 session courses = $35
5 - 6 session courses = $45


Number of Memberships
Lifelong Learning Community Institute Membership
Valid January 1, 2011 - August 31, 2011
$15 per person (A membership is required before course enrollment)

Please Note: if paying for more than one membership, please
include additional member's names in "Instruction to Merchant" field when paying.



COURSE DESCRIPTIONS


"HEALTH CARE SYSTEMS: THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE UGLY"

Course Instructor: Dr. Leonard Meiselman
MONDAYS
Dates: Jan. 31, Feb. 7, Feb. 14, Feb. 28
Time: 10:30am - 12 noon Fee: 4 sessions = $35 Course Number: SPAM3 This course presented by a retired physician and healthcare executive, will explore the issue of health care reform by analyzing successful systems around the world and comparing them to our current United States health care system. Components of a viable system will be discussed in addition to a review of ways to reduce costs and improve medical care. The moral implications and political obstacles to reform will be examined as well as what would be an optimum system for the United States. (Suggested reading: T. R. Reid "The Healing of America" available in paperback.)



PASSION AND VISION IN THE ARTS

Instructor: Dr. Terryl Lawrence
MONDAYS
Dates: Jan. 31, Feb. 7, Feb. 14
Time: Time: 2 - 3:30pm Fee: 3 sessions = $35 Course Number: SM3
The early 20th century was the perfect incubator for the unique salons that nurtured great minds and engendered the important interchange among groups of working artists and their collectors. Knowing that they stood at the threshold of a new idiom, a new art, and a new age, these individuals were determined to leave something of themselves behind. In this course participants will view slides and archival tapes and discuss the unique qualities that sustained these lively and brilliant personalities and inspired their unique accomplishments.
Jan. 31 - "Isabella Stewart Gardner" Bostonian Isabella Stewart Gardner decided that Americans needed to see more beautiful works of art and made that her life's mission
Feb. 7 - "The Cone Sisters of Baltimore" Dr. Claribel and Etta Cone, two sisters from Baltimore, avidly collected works by Manet, Cezanne, Gauguin, Picasso, and Matisse and amassed a collection that awed the world.
Feb. 14 - "Isamu Noguchi" This Japanese/American Sculptor Isamu Noguchi loved to experiment. He took sculpture outside of the galleries and museums and gave it a central place in our lives.



THE NEW YORKER SHORT STORY: HOW IT WORKS AND HOW TO WORK IT

Course Instructor: Judith Klau
MONDAYS
Dates: March 14, 21, 28
Time: 2 - 3:30 pm Fee: 3 sessions = $35 Course Number: SPM3
The New Yorker magazine is probably the country's most popular venue for contemporary short fiction. With the help of stories from recent issues, as well as other classic examples, the genre of the short story itself will be discussed. An exploration of the clues to the kinds of stories that the magazine uses will unfold. Starting with a story brief enough to read together in the first class, participants will be provided with photocopies of other stories to use in brief 'homework' assignments. The goal is to make the audience better readers and help get ideas for short stories of their own.



"CIVILITY AND POLICY"

Course Instructor: Tara Laxer
TUESDAYS
Dates: Feb. 1, Feb. 8, Feb. 15
Time: 6-7:30 pm Fee: 3 sessions = $35 Course Number: STPM3
In this interactive course, participants will learn from a political insider about civics, debate and about the level of discourse in the political process. You will learn how the state legislature works and how to track legislation on a state and national level. This course will examine the media and bias, the current state and national policies and in an entertaining way, participants will learn how to be their own activist on state and federal issues regardless of political party.



"GENESIS: A NON-RELIGIOUS APPROACH TO FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS AND LIFE"

Course Instructor: Rabbi Randall J. Konigsburg
TUESDAYS
Dates: March 1, 8, 15, 22
Time: 6-7:30 pm Fee: 3 sessions = $35 Course Number: SPTPM3
The Book of Genesis is filled with stories we have known since childhood, but what do these stories say about living in the 21st century? This is not a religious exploration of the Bible. It is a look at the stories of the Bible to see what they have to say about accepting responsibility, favoritism, relationships and reconciliation. Anyone with a family, any kind of family, can find meaning and message in these timeless stories. All faiths (and no faith) are welcome.



"CONTROVERSIAL ISSUES"

WEDNESDAYS
Dates: January 26 - February 2, 9, 16
Time: 6-7:30 pm Fee: 4 sessions = $35 Course Number: SWPM3
January 26 - "Genesis or Genetics?"
Course Instructor: Mark Philip Poncy The struggle between religious and scientific tenets began to take on new meaning as man emerged from the dark ages into the Renaissance. Over the ensuing centuries, the body of scientific knowledge increased, often at the expense of religious doctrine that had served to explain what had been characterized as the unknowable. Now that we are able to peer into deep space toward the origins of the universe, are these endeavors on course for a final collision? Or are we at the dawning of a new age of enlightenment when these diametrically opposed views come together to create a new understanding?
February 2 - "Rising China: Friend or Foe?"
Course Instructor: Jerry Cooke
China is poised to challenge the United States as the sole superpower in the world. That nation's unprecedented economic growth, its growing military strength, and growing global influence, requires the United States to determine whether China is a nation to be embraced as a potential friend or as a nation which should be challenged and contained. In an attempt to help make this determination, this lecture will examine the positions expressed publicly and privately by the leaders of China and the United States regarding issues of mutual interest including, among others: trade, military modernization, nuclear nonproliferation (Iran/North Korea), human rights, and political reform, and will focus on the actions taken by China regarding these matters. From this review of both words and deeds, we should be better able to decide whether China is our friend or our adversary.
February 9 - "China: A Rising Military Threat"
Course Instructor: Jerry Cooke
The incredible growth of China's economy over the past three decades has been accompanied by a rise of military modernization, military capability, and increased Chinese nationalism. China has also demonstrated a willingness to flex its military muscle, contrary to its political leadership claiming that China is interested only in a "peaceful rise." China has become a threat to its neighbors in the area claiming Chinese rights to disputed territories in the South China Sea and the East China Sea. These neighbors, as well as South Korea, Indonesia, and Singapore are turning to the United States and we have become increasingly more engaged in this area. The Chinese actions pose a significant challenge to the United States. Our discussion will focus on whether the United States should confront China. Is protecting our friends and allies and the markets they represent in our national interest? Is the United States able to meet this challenge while simultaneously fighting two wars, policing the shipping lanes of the Persian Gulf, and combating terrorism throughout the world, while facing pressures to reduce the defense budget and decrease the national debt?
February 16 - "Political Correctness: Funny Side Up"
Course Instructor: Dr. Joyce Saltman
Humor is a form of communication and we often use it to cope with stressful situations. Humor helps people maintain a healthy perspective on life. Through the use of jokes and cartoons dealing with diversity of every kind - gender, ethnicity, color, mental status and disability, this session will demonstrate the difference between destructive and equalizing humor, and help all participants have a good laugh at themselves! This lecture will explore the physiological benefits of laughter and will combine scientific data with comedy in an effort to provide a mirth-provoking educational experience for all!




"REIMAGINING NATURE: THE EVERGLADES AS A PEOPLED LANDSCAPE"

Course Instructor: Rebecca Garvoille
WEDNESDAYS
Dates: March 2, 9, 16
Time: 2- 3:30 pm Fee: 3 sessions = $35 Course Number: SPW3
Most people think of the Everglades as a vast wetland ecosystem where plants and animals live. Yet, the Everglades is also a "peopled" landscape with a rich cultural history. This course will explore the human dimensions of the Everglades, including the fascinating lives of the people who call this ecosystem home and how people have transformed this wetland through drainage. Course sessions will discuss 1) Native American use of the Everglades, 2) the historic Gladesmen culture, and 3) the extensive drainage of the Everglades for farms and people, which began in the early 1900s and have prompted present-day Everglades's restoration efforts.



"THE MIND/BODY CONNECTION - FOR YOUR HEALTH AND WELL-BEING"

Course Instructors: Lera Chacon & Liz Sterling
WEDNESDAYS
Dates: March 2, 9, 16, 23
Time: 6- 7:30 pm Fee: 4 sessions = $35 Course Number: STHPM3
Can you grow younger and live longer? Does your mind and body work together? Do your thoughts affect your feelings? Wanting to feel better mentally, emotionally and physically is the ONLY prerequisite for this course! In this four week dynamic and interactive program, you will experience breakthroughs in minding the body and mending the mind. Expect to feel recharged, enlivened and inspired by the information and the exercises that will help you experience better health and well-being.



"PERSONALIZING GREEK GODS: A CLOSER LOOK AT GREEK MYTHOLOGY"

Course Instructor: Doris Oberstein
THURSDAYS
Dates: February 3, 10, 17
Time: 2- 3:30 pm Fee: 3 sessions = $35 Course Number: STH3
Greek mythology is fascinating and fun. Its heroic temples and statues are testament to the faith early mankind had in their gods. Throughout history, artists continued to paint them and books were written about their adventures. Together, participants will examine the myths and show how personal and psychological traits are similar to the twelve gods and goddesses. A combination of lecture, group discussion and written material will round out an understanding of these gods and their influence on our lives.



"A MUSICAL POTPOURRI IN THREE MOVEMENTS"

THURSDAYS
Dates: March 10, 17, 24
Time: 2 - 3:30 pm Fee: 3 sessions = $35 Course Number: SPTH
The Lifelong Learning Community Institute begins a series of musical "edutainment" courses featuring experts in the field of music. These courses will be presented each semester in a variety of styles and formats.
March 10 - "Big Bands Take Center Stage in the Movies"
Course Instructor: David Novek
Through the use of film clips, soundtracks and anecdotes, the audience will meet the celebrated Big Band leaders who ruled the music universe during the 1930s and 40s like Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Harry James, Xavier Cugat, and Duke Ellington who moved into movies in a big way during the 40s. They and their bands took center stage in a number of films that helped us escape reality as the country moved out of the Depression and into World War II.
March 17 - "The History of American "Pop" Music"
Course Instructor: Harry Shapiro
The History of American "Pop" Music from the early beginnings of popular music through its vibrant growth throughout the 20th Century will be explored. Film clips, anecdotes, and soundtracks will keep the audience jumping into the aisles.
March 24 - "In Love with Liszt"
Course Instructor: Professor Roberta Rust
A lecture celebrating the bicentennial of Franz Liszt's birth (1811 - 2011). Franz Liszt, the grand 19th-century "lion" of the piano, made a monumental contribution to the development of the instrument and joined forces with other forward-looking composers in the evolution of Western music's language and effect. His powerful presence on the stage and musical scene at that time provided a role model for subsequent generations of performers. The life of Liszt was colorful and full. This lecture will provide both a biographical and musical survey of his contribution to culture and musical art and will include CD excerpts of his compositions.






Support the Delray Beach Public Library Lifelong Learning Center
The Lifelong Learning Center welcomes tax-deductible contributions to support its quality programming.


For information about programs call: 561-266-9490 or 561-266-0194 or email Bonnie Stelzer, the Director of Community Relations: bonnie.stelzer@delraylibrary.org