Wednesday   

This course delves into the complex dynamics of power, privilege, and oppression within various societal structures. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students will critically examine the intersections of identity, social systems, and historical contexts that contribute to the perpetuation of inequality. The power, privilege, and oppression course will delve into various societal structures, aiming to foster a deep understanding of how these forces shape our world. We will explore a diverse range of societal structures, including but not limited to, the education system, criminal justice system, media representation, healthcare, and economic institutions. Expect to look at how race, gender, sexuality, class, and ability intersect in surprising ways.

 Throughout the course, we will develop and foster critical thinking skills and empathy. Key questions we’ll tackle include: How do power dynamics show up around us? What historical events are still affecting us today? And most importantly, how can we make a difference? Join me for a thought-provoking, brave space to promote fairness and justice.

Nature as Writing Mentor explores Nature as a muse and a topic for our writing focus. Participants write in class for ten minutes and are invited to share in class. Writers are encouraged to develop a writing practice throughout our time together. 

This class is for writers of all levels and interests.  If you have taken the class before, you are welcome to join in again and no previous experience is needed. The focus for our time together is to have fun and to get new writing on the page while exploring the many benefits of nature. 

As we move towards winter, yoga II will take a deeper dive into the profound effects of yoga and contemplative practices on mental and physical health. The class will introduce an array of meditative practices you can incorporate into your everyday life. The class will continue with a gentle yoga practice and finish with these simple, easily repeated meditation practices. These techniques improve cognition, decrease anxiety, and generate a centered mind-body state.

Our backyard is far more active than you might realize! In this class we will explore the “night shift” of the wild animals that share our spaces, especially as habitat loss brings them closer to our doors. This course offers an in-depth look at the wildlife navigating our residential landscapes. Having seen a threefold increase in rehabilitation calls over the years, I am dedicated to teaching homeowners how to trade fear for understanding. Join me to learn how we can advocate for our wild nocturnal neighbors and foster an environment where we move toward a model of informed, peaceful coexistence.   

Analysis of Warfare since World War II An exploration of the evolution of warfare from 1945 to Putin’s disastrous invasion of Ukraine. We will examine counter insurgency struggles to full blown conflicts. Selective conflicts include the wars decolonization (1947-1975), the Vietnam War (1964-1975) the Iraq War (2003-2011), Afghanistan War (20001-2021), and Putin’s disastrous War in the Ukraine. The focus is NOT on a detailed history of these wars but to focus on the strategies and goals of the opposing sides and the lessons learned or not learned. How did generals and statemen adapt to various new weapons systems, theories and strategies? Noted military and civilian historians will be utilized to examine strategies- some which have been successful while some strategies reflect critical mistakes that have often been repeated time and again.

The magic of words lies in the ability to influence thoughts and evoke emotions. We will create stories from a simple picture, reading words to create a story. Words and pictures have a great effect on what we create. 

This course will cover how the election process and power of the office of the President has developed over the years. Included will be the role of the President in the original Constitution, the Electoral College, and the evolution of the office through the years. Specific elections will be highlighted to show the issues in electing the President. Also, a number of Presidents will be discussed in detail to show how they have influenced and changed the office.This course will cover how the election process and power of the office of the President has developed over the years. Included will be the role of the President in the original Constitution, the Electoral College, and the evolution of the office through the years. Specific elections will be highlighted to show the issues in electing the President. Also, a number of Presidents will be discussed in detail to show how they have influenced and changed the office.