Sun Coast Alliance for Lifelong Learning’s
Lifelong Learning Showcase
September 10 Suncoast Technical College
The showcase is designed to provide participants a sampling of the lifelong learning opportunities provided by SCALL’s four founding organizations. Registration closes September 8.
(Sarasota/Manatee) The Sun Coast Alliance for Lifelong Learning (SCALL), a non-profit entity committed to promoting and enhancing the region’s lifelong learning opportunities, presents its inaugural event, the Lifelong Learning Showcase, Thursday, September 10 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., at the Suncoast Technical College, 4748 S Beneva Road, Sarasota. The showcase, which is also a fundraiser for SCALL, was designed to provide participants a sampling of the lifelong learning opportunities provided by SCALL’s four founding organizations. The event includes 32 course sessions of which participants may choose four to attend. Tickets are $75 and include coffee, lunch and four showcase sessions. Tickets are limited to the first 225 registrants due to space limitations. Registration closes September 8. Organizers recommend participants to register early at www.lla-sm.org or by calling the Sarasota Technical College at 941-361-6590.
The 32 course sessions are led by educators and experts from the Adult and Community Enrichment at Suncoast Technical College, Lifelong Learning Academy, Longboat Key Education Center, and Pierian Spring Academy. Course sessions include “Introduction to Mindfulness,” “10 Things Everyone Should Know About Money,” “Who Was Vincent Van Gogh? ” “Amazing Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet,” and “Understanding the Cloud.” (Please see attached schedule with course descriptions and times.)
The Sun Coast Alliance for Lifelong Learning’s founding organizations are the Adult and Community Enrichment at Suncoast Technical College, Lifelong Learning Academy, Longboat Key Education Center, and Pierian Spring Academy. The new organization’s mission is to stimulate greater interest, appreciation and support for personal growth and enrichment prospects available through lifelong learning organizations in Sarasota and Manatee counties.
Sam Samelson, president of Lifelong Learning Academy, explains that the organization was formed after representatives from several lifelong learning groups met to explore collaborative possibilities. “We wanted to see how we could form a common bond and work together to further enrich and expand our area’s lifelong learning community. After a year’s worth of discussions, we made the decision to form SCALL.”
“The Sarasota/Manatee region is a mecca for lifelong learners. This is definitely the place to be if you’re interested in an active retirement,” says Janna Overstreet, the executive director of the Lifelong Learning Academy and a member of the Sarasota County Commission’s Seniors Advisory Council. “Studies show that lifelong learning helps create a positive aging experience, boosting health and longevity and increasing the overall sense of joie de vivre. The hundreds of instructors and lecturers come from the tops of their fields and include CEOs of major companies, professional artists, writers and photographers, experts in science and medical research, and educators from renowned universities and colleges. It’s a true meeting of the minds.”
For more information about this event or about the Sun Coast Alliance for Lifelong Learning, call Bob Carlson at 941-408-3723 or email [email protected].
CLASS SCHEDULE FOR LIFELONG LEARNING SHOWCASE
Hosted by SunCoast Alliance for Lifelong Learning (SCALL)
SESSION 1: 9:30am -10:20am
INTRODUCTION TO MINDFULLNESS–Reclaiming the Present Moment and Your Life
Nancy Saum, Longboat Key Education Center (LBKEC)
Max. #: 20
Mindfulness is often described as the heart of Buddhist meditation, but cultivating mindfulness is not a Buddhist activity. Jon Kabat-Zinn helped to bring the practice of mindfulness meditation into mainstream medicine in 1979 with the course “Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction” (MBSR). Science has demonstrated that MBSR training can improve physical and mental health and well-being. In this series, you will be introduced to mindfulness as taught in the MBSR course, using various forms of sitting and moving mindfulness meditation practices.
Nancy Saum, MS, RN, AHN-BC, is a certified holistic nurse who has been teaching MBSR and Qigong for more than 12 years, and currently teaches both at the Sarasota Mindfulness Institute and The Longboat Key Education Center.
10 THINGS EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MONEY
Joe Walsh, Adult and Community Enrichment (ACE)
Max. #: 20
In this short course Joe Walsh will discuss the Five ways to get rich in America, How becoming a millionaire is optional for EVERY twenty year old, How to use the tax brackets to your advantage, How to recognize a scam when you see it, and six other interesting money issues that you will most likely be quoting to your spouse when you get home! It is fifty minutes of fun with lots of audience participation.
Joseph Walsh, CFP, CFA, CRCP is president of Walsh & Associates, Ltd., and received his B.S. degree in management and his M.B.A. degree in finance from Northern Illinois University. He has served as a part-time faculty member of Kishwaukee College, Elgin Community College, College of DuPage and Aurora University. Joe’s successful experience with small business has spanned four decades, with personal involvement with several businesses, including real estate, gas stations, advertising, accounting, financial services firms, catering services, steak houses and other types of restaurants.
CREATE A FOLD BOOK
Sandy Frick, Adult and Community Enrichment (ACE)
Max. #: 12
We all use and are familiar with books, but have you ever made one? Try your hand at making a simple book from a sheet of paper that is folded multiple times to create the pages. Students will have the help of nature’s glorious leaves to create indirect prints on the pages. A front and back will be added and everyone will have a unique, simple folded book to take home.
Sandy Frick is an artist/teacher that embraces nature. She has had a love of the arts and nature all her life. With an undergraduate degree in Art Ed. and a Masters in Arts/ Ceramics, she has taught the arts to ages pre-school to adults. She has a long list of exhibitions of her work along with numerous awards. In Florida she went through the Master Gardening program and also completed the requirements for AHTA (American Horticulture Therapy Program). Her art/business experience includes being a partner in starting up and running a fine arts gallery. Working with nature to explore the arts is a combined passion!
IPAD/IPHONE STEP 1
Bill Crowe, Adult and Community Enrichment (ACE)
Max. #: 20
Did you just get an iPad or iPhone? The instructor will show you how to make this device more useful and enjoyable. You will learn how to use the touch screen and settings, learn about some of the icons/applications that come with the device, how to add applications, and how to use some of those applications after you get them.
William Crowe has a BS in Mathematics Education from University of California, PA. He also has completed course work at Dartmouth College, George Washington University, and WIN Institute to name a few. He comes to us after 34 years of business experience at IBM and has taught computer related classes at New Horizons, Community College of Vermont, and Saint Michaels College in Vermont. Bill teaches courses such as Intro to computers, Windows, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, internet and email, iPhone and iPad for ACE, and his passion for teaching is obvious in the classroom. His favorite expression is, “No learning takes place unless there is a transfer of knowledge.” From what students say, there is a lot of learning that occurs in his classes.
WHO WAS VINCENT VAN GOGH?
Andre Krauss, Pierian Spring Academy (PSA)
Max. #: 24
Rarely has a painter caught the public’s fancy as Van Gogh has. Novels and movies have popularized his life while his work has been analyzed in scholarly publications. We shall discuss Van Gogh’s ideas as expressed in his art as well as his words and separate facts from legend.
Dr. Andre Krauss, a research fellow at the Institute of Sociology at the Romanian Academy is a published art historian and media psychologist and holds two doctorates: History of Art from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden and Social Psychology from the University of Bucharest, Romania. Dr. Krauss, who has been teaching and conducting research for over 30 years in Sweden, Israel, the US and Central Europe, speaks 6 languages fluently.
Dr. Krauss brings a cross disciplinary approach to media psychology by combining his knowledge of visual literacy and analysis of visual communication with the understanding of its emotional impact on the audience. Dr. Krauss established the centers for media studies at UAV University in Arad and also at the UV Timisoara. In collaboration with Dr. Aaron Sell, from the Center for Evolutionary Psychology at the University of California, Dr. Krauss conducted experimental research with students at major universities in Romania. Presently, Dr. Krauss’ research interests range from the aesthetics of high and pop culture, audience reception research, and to the continued blurring of the distinction between fiction and reality and its impact on the perception of history, in a media dominated by entertainment.
CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS – HERO OR VILLAIN? DOES HE DESERVE A NATIONAL HOLIDAY?
Jay Davis, Pierian Spring Academy (PSA)
Max. #: 24
At the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s 1492 voyage, he was a hero of almost mythic proportions. The Columbian Exhibition in Chicago was named after him to pay honor to America’s growth versus his European origins. Fast forward to the 500th anniversary in 1992, and the picture is much different. The move to change Columbus Day to Native American Day began in Berkley California and continues to gain strength. Columbus was a complex man who changed world history. We will study him in depth and touch on his followers who first set foot on Florida.
Jay Davis took his BA from Dartmouth College and his MBA from New York University. He led this course at Dartmouth’s Continuing Education Institute before relocating to Sarasota. He sailed the New England waters for many years using the same navigational techniques as Columbus. He has traveled to Columbus sights in Spain and the Dominican Republic.
CRITICAL THINKING
Eric Steinberg, Lifelong Learning Academy (LLA)
Max. #: 20
Due to the proliferation of information in contemporary life, we are often faced with the question “Is this bit of information worthy of belief?” The question becomes especially important when we have no direct evidence to substantiate or refute certain claims. In fact, these situations are frequently exploited by advertisers, politicians, and those with interests other than the credibility of their claims. This course seeks to refine our critical thinking skills so that we can avoid common errors in everyday reasoning.
Eric Steinberg received his Ph.D. in philosophy from Columbia University. He was a tenured, full-time member of the faculty at Brooklyn College, where he taught for more than three decades and served as both chair of the philosophy department and associate provost. He has also published articles and reviews in various philosophical journals. His edition of David Hume’s An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding is widely used in college courses throughout the United States.
AMAZING BENEFITS OF A PLANT-BASED DIET
Jill Edwards, Lifelong Learning Academy (LLA)
Max. #: 24
Eating more plants and less meat is becoming more popular than ever thanks to ex-presidents, celebrities, best-selling books, and movies such as Forks Over Knives. While vegetarian and vegan diets are defined by what they exclude, a plant-based diet is defined by what it includes — lots of plant foods! This means eating more veggies, fruits, beans, peas, lentils, whole grains, nuts, and seeds instead of animal products and processed foods. A plant-based diet comes with a slew of dietary benefits, but those are not the only reason a plant-based diet should be adopted. Learn about the 10 amazing benefits of a Plant-based Diet.
Course leader Jill Edwards received her B.A. in education from the University of Michigan and M.S. in exercise science from Oakland University (MI). She is a certified clinical exercise specialist through ACSM (American College for Sports Medicine) and has a certificate in plant-based nutrition from the Center for Nutrition Studies. Jill has attended Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn’s heart disease reversal program at the Cleveland Clinic and has over eight years of experience helping patients recover from cardiac and lung events in cardiopulmonary rehab. She currently works under Dr. T. Colin Campbell (author of The China Study and Whole) as an instructor team manager for the Center for Nutrition Studies. Jill is also a regional representative for FCVPR (Florida Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehab Association) and a public speaker.
CULTURE IN CENTRAL EUROPE
Jan Skalny, Lifelong Learning Academy (LLA)
Max. #: 24
This course will highlight Central European artistic and scientific developments during the culturally and politically complex period from the middle of the 19th century to the middle of the 20th century.
Jan Skalny was born and educated in Central Europe (Ph.D. in chemical engineering/materials science). After an early academic career in Czechoslovakia and research in the U.K., he settled in the U.S., where he spent most of his professional life in the fields of materials research and research management.
Session 2: 10:30am-11:20am
EASY YOGA- Feel Your Best At Any Age!
Susan Goldfarb, Longboat Key Education Center (LBKEC)
Max. #: 20
Come and feel better immediately with gentle but highly effective
stretching, conditioning, breathing and relaxation exercises. Simple
routines incorporate a range of several Hatha yoga styles designed to
provide maximum safety and enjoyment. All ages and fitness levels welcome.
Bring a mat or towel and wear comfortable clothing suitable for exercise.
Susan Goldfarb, Executive Director, Longboat Key Education Center, holds an
Honors BA from York University, Toronto, and a YMCA Instructor’s Certificate
in physical fitness. She has completed Sivananda, Kripalu and Lyengar
teacher training. Susan has taught yoga at The LBK Education Center for over
29 years and was named one of Sarasota’s top ten yoga teachers by Sarasota
Magazine. She was also a health columnist for the Longboat Observer for ten
years.
MOSAIC ART PIECE BY PIECE
Patricia Rockwood, Adult and Community Enrichment (ACE)
Max. # 12
Find out how to create a mosaic from start to finish, and make your own masterpiece using stained glass, glass tile, gems, and other goodies.
Patricia Rockwood has been creating art all her life. She holds a B.A. in Creative Writing and Art from the College of Wooster, where she specialized in drawing. Several years ago, while working for an interior designer, she was offered a huge pile of discontinued tile samples. She bought a book and started teaching herself mosaic. Over time her commissions have included a fireplace niche for a John Cannon Homes model home in Lakewood Ranch, an outdoor mural for Albritton Nursery, and many private commissions, including a life-size mermaid sculpture for a master bath in The Landings. She also makes floor inserts, mirrors, tabletops, cornices, and wall art. Her work may be seen at Ashby Art & Antiques in Sarasota’s Towles Court and the Baobab Tree gallery in Bradenton’s Village of the Arts, as well as on her website www.PatriciaRockwood.com. She aims to create artworks that are both decorative and meaningful.
ZENTANGLE BASICS
Julie Burch, Adult and Community Enrichment (ACE)
Max. #: 14
Zentangle® basics: Zentangle is a relaxing technique for making art using ink and paper. This meditative process involves applying patterns to small paper tiles using and then shading with pencil. The result is a pleasing abstract piece of art. No previous experience with drawing or Zentangle is required. Participants will be led through the drawing and shading. Each Zentangle basic class can stand alone, requires no previous experience, and will present different patterns so you make take one or more classes.
Julie Burch M.Ed. is an artist and educator with over 20 years of experience teaching art. She is a certified Zentangle teacher (czt). She has an Art and Healing certificate from Ringling College of Art and design and leads groups and workshops in Zentangle, fine art, and art for personal growth. She works in pencil, ink, oil, acrylic and mixed media, has exhibited in a variety of galleries and has work in private collections.
DIGITAL CAMERA
Spencer Pullen, Adult and Community Enrichment (ACE)
Max. #: 16
Did you just buy a camera or get one as a gift, and not sure where to start? In this no stress, easy learning atmosphere, the instructor will teach and explain how the camera works. Learn about the basics such as batteries and camera cards, symbols and dials and get ready to make a great use of your new camera.
Spencer Pullen is a professional photographer in the Southwest Florida area. He photographs for magazines, corporate and private clients. His photos have also been seen on Fox News and The Weather Channel. Some of the subjects that he has photographed include food, products, architecture, nature, wildlife and environmental portraits just to name a few. Spencer owns and runs Premiere Graphics, where he offers photography, training and large photo printing services. Check out his website at www.spencerpullen.com.
UNDERSTANDING THE CLOUD
Bill Crowe, Adult and Community Enrichment (ACE)
Max.: # 20
“Cloud” computing is all the rage these days. If you are wondering “What is this all about?” or
“Do I really care?” or “Do I NEED the cloud?”, then this class is for you. In this session you will learn about the advantages and disadvantages to using cloud services. Students will explore their options and will be able to make informed choices.
William Crowe has a BS in Mathematics Education from University of California, PA. He also has completed course work at Dartmouth College, George Washington University, and WIN Institute to name a few. He comes to us after 34 years of business experience at IBM and has taught computer related classes at New Horizons, Community College of Vermont, and Saint Michaels College in Vermont. Bill teaches courses such as Intro to computers, Windows, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, internet and email, iPhone and iPad for ACE, and his passion for teaching is obvious in the classroom. His favorite expression is, “No learning takes place unless there is a transfer of knowledge.” From what students say, there is a lot of learning that occurs in his classes.
THE DEBATE ABOUT VIOLENCE IN ENTERTAINMENT: A Brief Historical Overview
Andre Krauss, Pierian Spring Academy (PSA)
Max. #: 24
Does violent content in entertainment affect audiences negatively? Decades of empirical studies and experiments in social psychology have demonstrated that it does. However the media and entertainment industry advocates that it does not. We shall review examples of violent content in literature, film, theater and visual arts and discuss the debate between the social scientists and the defenders of violence in entertainment media as well as the sense of urgency, its apparent social implications and the more contentious cultural and political ramifications of the debate.
Dr. Andre Krauss, a research fellow at the Institute of Sociology at the Romanian Academy is a published art historian and media psychologist and holds two doctorates: History of Art from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden and Social Psychology from the University of Bucharest, Romania. Dr. Krauss, who has been teaching and conducting research for over 30 years in Sweden, Israel, the US and Central Europe, speaks 6 languages fluently.
Dr. Krauss brings a cross disciplinary approach to media psychology by combining his knowledge of visual literacy and analysis of visual communication with the understanding of its emotional impact on the audience. Dr. Krauss established the centers for media studies at UAV University in Arad and also at the UV Timisoara. In collaboration with Dr. Aaron Sell, from the Center for Evolutionary Psychology at the University of California, Dr. Krauss conducted experimental research with students at major universities in Romania. Presently, Dr. Krauss’ research interests range from the aesthetics of high and pop culture, audience reception research, and to the continued blurring of the distinction between fiction and reality and its impact on the perception of history, in a media dominated by entertainment.
CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS – HERO OR VILLAIN? DOES HE DESERVE A NATIONAL HOLIDAY?
Jay Davis, Pierian Spring Academy (PSA)
Max. #: 24
At the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s 1492 voyage, he was a hero of almost mythic proportions. The Columbian Exhibition in Chicago was named after him to pay honor to America’s growth versus his European origins. Fast forward to the 500th anniversary in 1992, and the picture is much different. The move to change Columbus Day to Native American Day began in Berkley California and continues to gain strength. Columbus was a complex man who changed world history. We will study him in depth and touch on his followers who first set foot on Florida.
Jay Davis took his BA from Dartmouth College and his MBA from New York University. He led this course at Dartmouth’s Continuing Education Institute before relocating to Sarasota. He sailed the New England waters for many years using the same navigational techniques as Columbus. He has traveled to Columbus sights in Spain and the Dominican Republic.
STARS OF BALLET/DANCE
Robert DeWarren, Lifelong Learning Academy (LLA)
Max. #:24
This course will explore the lives and performances of some of our greatest ballet and dance performers of the 20th century. Video performances and discussion of a sample of our greatest performers such as Nureyev/Fonteyn, Baryshnikov/Cynthia Harvey, Julie Kent/Roberto Bolle, Alessandra Ferri/Julio Bocca.
Course leader Robert de Warren is an international ballet director, choreographer, and designer. He has directed a number of companies, including the Iranian National Ballet (under the former Shah), the Northern Ballet Theatre in the United Kingdom, La Scala Theatre Ballet in Milan, and the Sarasota Ballet, where he was the Artistic Director for thirteen years. His memoir, Destiny’s Waltz—In Step With Giants, covers his artistic journey. “Robert de Warren is a wonderful, charismatic voice from the dance world, who delivers our history with great style and panache e!”Julie Kent – Principal Dancer, American Ballet Theatre.
INTERNATIONAL MUSIC
Betty Silberman, Lifelong Learning Academy (LAA)
Max. #: 24
This lively course will explore music from five continents. Using videos covering traditional as well as contemporary styles, we will listen, watch, and draw comparisons. The last two sessions of this six-week course will be devoted to 20th-century jazz and klezmer music.
Course leader Betty Silberman, a native of Montreal and graduate of the Boston Conservatory of Music, has performed in a wide variety of musical styles. As a lead singer and musical theater actress, she has appeared worldwide in multiple venues, including at the Montreal Jazz Festival, the Blue Note Jazz Club in NYC, the Public Theatre in NYC, and the Smithsonian in Washington, DC. She has performed in concerts and cabarets in Israel, Rome, and Berlin, as well as in off-Broadway shows. Betty has been teaching music and languages for over twenty years.
IS BASEBALL A SPORT OR A BUSINESS?
Al Goldis, Lifelong Learning Academy (LLA)
Max. #: 24
Join the “Knot Hole Gang” and learn what it takes to build a championship organization both on and off the field. Do the teams with the most financial and human resources always win the World Series? What are the qualities and ingredients that make up a successful major league player and organization? What are the key numbers and stats that must be analyzed? What is the importance of the “Baseball Trilogy”? You will leave this course with the knowledge of how to evaluate a game through the eyes of an owner, manager, coach, and scout. You will also learn the inside scoop about your favorite players and enjoy testing your knowledge of our national pastime when you take our specially designed “Knot Hole Gang” quiz.
Al Goldis was a professional baseball player, teacher, and coach who worked with the Angels, White Sox, Brewers, Cubs, Reds, and Mets in various capacities, including director of scouting and player development, vice president, and special assistant to the general manager of the Mets. Jack McDowell, Robin Ventura, Frank Thomas, and Alex Fernandez were some of the many players he drafted and signed. Al was inducted into the Professional Baseball Scouts Hall of Fame in 2009. He has authored or co-authored three books, including How to Make Pro Scouts Notice You: An Insider’s Guide to Big League Scouting, and is a speaker with Celebrity Cruise Lines’ on-board enrichment program. He earned a bachelor’s from Philadelphia University and a master’s from Columbia University.
Session 3: 12:30pm-1:20pm
EXPLORING YOUR CREATIVITY WITH CLAY: Intro to making functional pottery
Gloria Singer, Adult and Community Enrichment (ACE)
Max. #: 14
This class will start you on the road to finding your own voice in clay. In the session you will learn about the fundamentals of clay and glazing, how to use the slab roller, the extruder and the best tools of all, your hands. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the fun and magic of making functional pottery!
Gloria Singer earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York and has worked for over 40 years as an artist. As an award winning illustrator and designer, she has worked in a broad range of media. In 2002 Gloria opened her ceramics studio, Gloria Singer Pottery, and has created a large body of ceramic art. She has focused on functional pottery with a strong emphasis on design, color and texture. Her goal is to make each individual piece unique. She has participated in over 25 national ceramics shows with many awards. Highlights include awards at the 2009 NCECA Clay Biannual, The Strictly Functional National and the San Angelo National Ceramic Competition. Her pottery has also been featured in three books and eight magazine articles.
QI QONG
Antonio Carmone, Adult and Community Enrichment (ACE)
Max. #: 20
Qi Qong is the ancient Chinese art of using slow but dynamic cardiovascular exercises to move fluids, nourish blood, open channels, and protect the vital organs from infection and disease. Gentle musculoskeletal stretching exercises are enriched with streams of revitalizing slow breathing to open the joints, tone the muscles, and balance the Yin and Yang energies of the mind and body. Free limb and waist movements use joints rather than muscular strain to unburden stress and ease to relaxation. The instructional environment for this course is non-competitive and emphasizes safe, motivational group-oriented practice. The main intention of all sessions is to enrich the quality of life.
Antonio Carmone served as a teacher and school administrator for the Department of Defense Overseas School System. His assignments in the Philippines, Taiwan, Korea, and London have enabled him to live and travel throughout the Orient and Europe where he was committed to the dedicated learning and practice of Qi Qong, Tai Chi Chuan, Shaolin, and Filipino Arnis. He has a Master’s Degree in English and earned his Doctorate in Literature and has written his dissertation on the Chinese Classical Novel. He earned both a Bachelor of Science Degree in Acupuncture as well as a Licentiate in deep tissue Tui Na Massage while pursuing Chinese medical studies in England.
IPAD/IPHONE STEP 1
Bill Crowe, Adult and Community Enrichment (ACE)
Max. #: 20
Did you just get an iPad or iPhone? The instructor will show you how to make this device more useful and enjoyable. You will learn how to use the touch screen and settings, learn about some of the icons/applications that come with the device, how to add applications, and how to use some of those applications after you get them. William Crowe has a BS in Mathematics Education from University of California, PA. He also has completed course work at Dartmouth College, George Washington University, and WIN Institute to name a few. He comes to us after 34 years of business experience at IBM and has taught computer related classes at New Horizons, Community College of Vermont, and Saint Michaels College in Vermont. Bill teaches courses such as Intro to computers, Windows, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, internet and email, iPhone and iPad for ACE, and his passion for teaching is obvious in the classroom. His favorite expression is, “No learning takes place unless there is a transfer of knowledge.” From what students say, there is a lot of learning that occurs in his classes.
HYMNS OF STONE: Eight Great Gothic Cathedrals of Europe
Kevin Costello, Pierian Spring Academy (PSA)
Max. #: 20
A physical expression of a metaphysical ideal, the Gothic cathedrals of Europe are an expression of Christian beliefs in masonry, sculpture, painting and stained glass. This seminar will address the architectural innovations of Medieval Europe in relation to such structures, and the larger relevance of sacred geometry (Kepler’s “divine geometry”) as contained in the mysticism of their construction. The cathedrals under discussion will be: Canterbury, Salisbury, Notre Dame-Paris, Rouen, Strasbourg, Ulm, Toledo and Milan.
Kevin Costello graduated Chelsea School of Art and University of London’s Goldsmith’s College with degrees in Fine Art and Art History. He was Art and Architecture Correspondent for the Sarasota Herald Tribune and a contributing writer for Arts and Culture Magazine. Kevin is a studio artist and an instructor in landscape painting, figure, and conceptual drawing at the Ringling School of Art and Design. He is a lecturer in contemporary art history at Stetson University and is on the faculty of numerous arts and continuing education institutions in Sarasota. Kevin is one of the Managing Partners of Masterpiece Tours LLC, an international fine arts tour and lecture company.
THE HISTORY OF AFRICAN AMERICAN LIFE IN SARASOTA
Jim Brown, Pierian Spring Academy (PSA)
Max. #: 20
The History of African American Life in Sarasota presentation will touch upon the following topics:
1. Establishment of the first African American Community “Overtown” Rosemary District
2. Migration to Newtown- Homes, Schools, Businesses, and Churches
3. Community Life, Social Activities, Economic Development
4. Integration, Civil Rights Era
5. Present African American Experience and Projections for the future
James Brown is a lifelong resident of Sarasota. He is graduate of Booker High School, class of 1956. He graduated with honors from Florida A&M University in 1961 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. He graduated from the University of South Florida in 1971 with a Master’s Degree in Guidance. He completer additional course work at Nova University, no degree awarded. He taught at Booker High School 1961-1967 and coached football and baseball along with his teaching duties. He taught 21/2 years at then McIntosh Middle School and ½ year in Pine View. He joined the staff of Manatee Jr. College, now State College of Florida, in 1970 as a counselor. He retired from the college in 1998 after serving as the Associate dean of Student Services. During retirement, he has served as a member on several scholarship selection committees and as a member on several scholarship selection committees and as a mentor in Big Brothers Mentoring Program. He also teaches a non-credit course titled “ The History of African American Life in Sarasota”.
THE EVOLUTION OF WORLD RELIGION
James Johnson, Pierian Spring Academy (PSA)
Max. #: 24
How did religion get from being the kind of simple nature worship of primitive people to such complex systems of organization, rituals, and doctrines? In this session, we will explore the fundamental characteristics of primitive / ethnic type religion and how it evolved into the universal type of religion which characterizes that of the great world religions in existence today.
James Johnson has taught a variety of courses in religion at Pierian Spring Academy for the past several years and is also an adjunct instructor of religion at State College of Florida. Although he completed his education for the Roman Catholic priesthood at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome, he eventually found his true vocation in teaching. He has fifteen years of experience in teaching religion at the college level and holds a B.A. in Philosophy and an S.T.B. (Master of Divinity).
CREATIVITY THROUGH LAUGHTER: An Introduction to Improvisation
Jason Cannon and Will Luera, Pierian Spring Academy (PSA)
Max. #: 24
Discover the freedom of spontaneity! This interactive workshop will give you a glimpse into the power of laughter, and provide insight into honing presentation skills, building self-confidence, and learning how to say “yes, and…”Employing theatre games and team-building exercises, you’ll learn how Florida Studio Theatre empowers performers of all ages and ability levels to fully express their CREATIVITY THROUGH LAUGHTER!
Jason Cannon is an Associate Artist at Florida Studio Theatre (FST), where his responsibilities include directing New Play Development, leading the Acting Apprentice Program, teaching in Adult Education, directing and acting in various productions, and participating in community outreach. He joined FST in 2012 after 14 years freelancing in St. Louis as an actor, director, playwright, producer, and educator. Last season he appeared as “Ever Montgomery” in DANCING LESSONS on the FST Mainstage. He is a seven-time Kevin Kline Award nominee (and one time winner for Outstanding Leading Actor), an alum of DirectorsLab Chicago, co-founder of the GreenHouse New Play Festival, co-founder and former Board President of the Professional Theatre Council of St. Louis, and former Producing Artistic Director of Ozark Actors Theatre in Rolla, MO. He holds an MFA in Directing from Lindenwood University, an MA in Drama from Washington University in St. Louis, and a BA in Theatre and English from Greenville College. Proud member of SDC, AEA, and SAG-AFTRA.
Will Luera is the Director of Improvisation at Florida Studio Theatre, Artistic Director Emeritus of ImprovBoston (winner of multiple “Best of Boston” Awards) and former Director of the INNY-nominated ImprovBoston Mainstage cast. He also serves as the Producing Artistic Director of Atomica Arts, Artistic Director of the Pilsen Improv Festival, Artistic Adviser to the Women in Comedy Festival, Artistic Associate of the Chicago Improv Festival and part-time faculty for the theater department at Boston College. In 2012, Will received the life-time title of Artistic Director Emeritus of ImprovBoston after serving 12 years as the Artistic Director. Will is a globally renowned improv and theater actor, director and instructor that performs and teaches regularly all across North America, South America, Europe and Asia.
HOW TO LISTEN TO CLASSICAL MUSIC
Albert H. Cohen, Lifelong Learning Academy (LLA)
Max. #: 24
How does one begin the process of listening and learning about classical music? Our premise is basic: you know more than you realize. An exposure to the classics you already know will be the way to make the subject less forbidding. Our discussion will include such topics as: What is a symphony? How are the movements arranged and what structure will help the first-time listener? What are a concerto and a tone poem? What are two secrets to listening that will help the beginner? We will listen to a variety of works, including Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5, a piano concerto, and a violin concerto, and several tone poems, including The Sorcerer’s Apprentice and Grand Canyon Suite. Finally, the Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 5 will be used each week as a listening touchstone to help with the process of familiarization.
Albert H. Cohen has worked as a classical music critic for more than thirty-five years—twenty of them for two of the largest Gannett newspapers in New Jersey (Asbury Park Press and Home News Tribune). He also covered the New York-New Jersey music scene with reviews and feature stories and wrote a Sunday column. Since relocating to Florida, he has contributed to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, the Orlando Sentinel, and The St. Petersburg Times, as well as Pro-Opera Magazine. A long-time member of the Music Critics Association of North America, he spent thirteen years as its managing director. He has a B.A. in music history from Brooklyn College.
LEGACY WRITING
Eric Sheridan Wyatt, Lifelong Learning Academy (LLA)
Max. #: 24
We all know the desire to have “one more day, one more conversation, one moment more” with that dear, departed one. Will your loved ones someday wish they knew more about you? Legacy writing is writing creatively about your life—not quite biography, not quite memoir, but with elements of both—so that you can pass on to your children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews the influences of the past that have shaped their present and will linger into their future. In addition to discussing core writing principles, this course will focus on ways you can begin to explore your personal story and ways to stimulate the “writer within.” Even if you’ve never written prose for others to read, legacy writing is a great place to start. You already know the subject matter (YOU!) and this course will help you find your words.
Eric Sheridan Wyatt is a writer and educator. He received a B.S. in education from Ball State University and an M.F.A. from Queens University of Charlotte (N.C.). His short fiction has appeared in New Plains Review, Eunoia Review, Epiphany Magazine, Ozone Park Journal, and The First Line, among others. His writing was also featured in the non-fiction anthologies Letters to Me and Can My Marriage Be Saved? In May 2012, Eric was a writer-in-residence at the Brush Creek Foundation in Wyoming. Find out more online at www.WordsMatterESW.com.
Session 4: 1:30pm-2:20pm
UPCYCLED WALL ART
Karen Landry, Adult and Community Enrichment (ACE)
Max. #: 12
In this 50 minute class we will be taking cardboard paper towel rolls and turning them in to wall art for your home. Upon completion ad this class, you will never look at your trash the same again. Come join the fun!
Karen Landry is wild about crafts and always has been. As a child she remembers making big messes while creating her latest art projects. As an adult, and with the creation of the Pinterest app, Karen’s interest for arts and crafts has only grown stronger. She is a graduate from the College of Charleston in South Carolina with a BS in Psychology and is self-employed.
IMPROVE YOUR BALANCE AND STRAIGHTEN YOUR POSTURE WITH SKIAMOTION
Anita Birrer, Adult and Community Enrichment (ACE)
Max. #: 14
Most people don’t think much about practicing their balance and maintaining a good posture. But you should, the same way you walk to strengthen your heart, lungs and overall health, or stretch to keep your body limber. With SKIAmotion you learn how to feel at ease in your body through simple exercises and moving rituals that help you facilitate your breathing, increase concentration and cognitive ability, improve your appearance, feel even better about yourself, rejuvenate and avoid health complications.
Anita Birrer is the creator of SKIA of Tampa Bay. She was born and raised In Lucerne, Switzerland. She is a certified adult educator with extensive experience in emotional awareness workshops and seminars,body oriented therapies, yoga-workshops,meditation techniques, dance and body movement.
UNDERSTANDING THE CLOUD
Bill Crowe, Adult and Community Enrichment (ACE)
Max.: # 20
“Cloud” computing is all the rage these days. If you are wondering “What is this all about?” or
“Do I really care?” or “Do I NEED the cloud?”, then this class is for you. In this session you will learn about the advantages and disadvantages to using cloud services. Students will explore their options and will be able to make informed choices.
William Crowe has a BS in Mathematics Education from University of California, PA. He also has completed course work at Dartmouth College, George Washington University, and WIN Institute to name a few. He comes to us after 34 years of business experience at IBM and has taught computer related classes at New Horizons, Community College of Vermont, and Saint Michaels College in Vermont. Bill teaches courses such as Intro to computers, Windows, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, internet and email, iPhone and iPad for ACE, and his passion for teaching is obvious in the classroom. His favorite expression is, “No learning takes place unless there is a transfer of knowledge.” From what students say, there is a lot of learning that occurs in his classes.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF VIKING ART
Kevin Costello, Pierian Spring Academy (PSA), Adult and Community Enrichment (ACE)
Max. #: 20
They discovered America before Columbus, traded in the Middle East and, quite possibly, sailed down the Northwest coast of Africa. The factual history of Viking art runs counter to the popular conception of these sea-traders as mindless thugs. Viking art is sophisticated and vigorous be it pre-Christian or Christian. This seminar will present their art independent of the myths of the Viking Age.
Kevin Costello graduated Chelsea School of Art and University of London’s Goldsmith’s College with degrees in Fine Art and Art History. He was Art and Architecture Correspondent for the Sarasota Herald Tribune and a contributing writer for Arts and Culture Magazine. Kevin is a studio artist and an instructor in landscape painting, figure, and conceptual drawing at the Ringling School of Art and Design. He is a lecturer in contemporary art history at Stetson University and is on the faculty of numerous arts and continuing education institutions in Sarasota. Kevin is one of the Managing Partners of Masterpiece Tours LLC, an international fine arts tour and lecture company.
CREATIVITY THROUGH LAUGHTER: An Introduction to Improvisation
Jason Cannon and Will Luera, Pierian Spring Academy (PSA)
Max. #: 24
Discover the freedom of spontaneity! This interactive workshop will give you a glimpse into the power of laughter, and provide insight into honing presentation skills, building self-confidence, and learning how to say “yes, and…”Employing theatre games and team-building exercises, you’ll learn how Florida Studio Theatre empowers performers of all ages and ability levels to fully express their CREATIVITY THROUGH LAUGHTER!
Jason Cannon is an Associate Artist at Florida Studio Theatre (FST), where his responsibilities include directing New Play Development, leading the Acting Apprentice Program, teaching in Adult Education, directing and acting in various productions, and participating in community outreach. He joined FST in 2012 after 14 years freelancing in St. Louis as an actor, director, playwright, producer, and educator. Last season he appeared as “Ever Montgomery” in DANCING LESSONS on the FST Mainstage. He is a seven-time Kevin Kline Award nominee (and one time winner for Outstanding Leading Actor), an alum of DirectorsLab Chicago, co-founder of the GreenHouse New Play Festival, co-founder and former Board President of the Professional Theatre Council of St. Louis, and former Producing Artistic Director of Ozark Actors Theatre in Rolla, MO. He holds an MFA in Directing from Lindenwood University, an MA in Drama from Washington University in St. Louis, and a BA in Theatre and English from Greenville College. Proud member of SDC, AEA, and SAG-AFTRA.
Will Luera is the Director of Improvisation at Florida Studio Theatre, Artistic Director Emeritus of ImprovBoston (winner of multiple “Best of Boston” Awards) and former Director of the INNY-nominated ImprovBoston Mainstage cast. He also serves as the Producing Artistic Director of Atomica Arts, Artistic Director of the Pilsen Improv Festival, Artistic Adviser to the Women in Comedy Festival, Artistic Associate of the Chicago Improv Festival and part-time faculty for the theater department at Boston College. In 2012, Will received the life-time title of Artistic Director Emeritus of ImprovBoston after serving 12 years as the Artistic Director. Will is a globally renowned improv and theater actor, director and instructor that performs and teaches regularly all across North America, South America, Europe and Asia.
THE OUTSIDER IN FICTION
Len Blanchard and Ken Anderson, Pierian Spring Academy (PSA)
Max. #: 24
“The Outsider in Fiction” is a general theme to be presented by Dr. Len Blanchard and Ken Anderson that will overview recognized masterpieces by three different artists. In all cases, the narrators of these various works are in some way unhappy with or critical of the society in which they are living. Samples from the works of Nikolai Gogol, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and Joseph Conrad, all from Eastern Europe, will be shared and discussed.
Len Blanchard has served on the faculty of Pierian Spring Academy since 2007. He holds a B.A. degree from Washington and Lee University and a doctorate in English from Emory. After years as a corporate writer in Dallas, he relocated to Florida and began publishing his poetry in 1990. From 1999 to 2014, he taught English at State College of Florida. He is the author of three collections of poetry, three plays, and an epic narrative on the life and killing of Crazy Horse.
At State College of Florida, Ken Anderson studied English under Dr. Len Blanchard who recognized Ken’s intelligence and talent and encouraged his creative writing. Ken published his first collection of poems, Unencumbered: Poems of a Youthful Soul’s Empowerment, in 2014. He is now completing his second collection, to be entitled “The Art of the Samurai.” Ken is a partner with Len in Bull and Lion Books. He developed and maintains the Web site for this publishing venture.
THE LOST GENERATION
Baila Miller, Pierian Spring Academy (PSA)
Max. #: 24
Paris, between 1905 and 1930, became the Magnetic center for the Arts. It was a laboratory for experiments and innovation. It produced extraordinary artists, musicians, sculptors, and writers who created the concept of Modernism. In literature, “The Lost Generation” made up of Gertrude Stein, Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, James Joyce and others revolutionized literature by discussing taboo subjects, exposing every human emotion, and using a “Stream of Conciseness” Style.
Baila Miller completed a Bachelor’s, a Master’s degree, and post graduate work in the area of Instruction and Curriculum Development at The University of Memphis. Through her company, Miller Music and Fine Arts Programs, she has been presenting college level courses that explore the role of literature, paintings, architecture, sculpture, cinema, photography, as well as, orchestral and operatic influences in the development of European, Jewish, and modern American culture. Ms. Miller currently teaches at the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, FL.
INTRODUCTION TO INVESTMENT ANALYSIS
Lauren Rudd, Lifelong Learning Academy (LLA)
Max. #: 24
Do you feel you cannot select stocks successfully? Have you been unsuccessful in the past? Are you forced into mutual funds because you’re convinced “the experts” know more than you? This class will change all that. There is no black magic or hard-to-fathom secret to successful investing. Here you will learn how to evaluate companies and their securities. We will employ an original and common-sense approach to investment analysis using intrinsic value and dividend discount models. There are no prerequisites. No mathematical expertise or investment background is required—just a desire to learn.
Lauren Rudd, with forty years on Wall Street, is president of Rudd International Asset Management. He is a syndicated newspaper columnist and recognized public speaker. He has a bachelor of science in economics and computer science from the University of Maryland and did graduate work at Wharton and USF.
HISTORY OF TV WESTERNS
Jordan Shifrin, Lifelong Learning Academy (LLA)
Max. #: 24
Saddle up with your favorite cowpoke and mosey on down to SCF for a shot of redeye as our favorite cineaste and TV junkie takes you on a tour of the golden days of TV. And when we are talking golden days, we are talking a whole bunch of Westerns. Return to the days of yesterday and the golden tales of the Cisco Kid, Roy Rogers, the Lone Ranger, Wyatt Earp and many more.
Jordan Shifrin, a retired attorney, is a film buff and devotee of American history and culture. Previous LLA courses include The Great American Musical, Hitchcock, Cowboys and Indians, and Cops and Robbers. He has history degrees from the University of Illinois and a J.D. from John Marshall Law School (Chicago).
