Margaret Atwood at Eighty: Beyond the Novels

The Canadian feminist writer and activist Margaret Atwood has written hundreds of poems, essays, children’s literature, and criticism, yet many readers tend to identify her primarily as a novelist. In 2019, her eightieth year, we will examine her selected poems, especially “Circe Mud Poems” and the prose novella Penelopiad, to evaluate how she reconsiders and recasts literary tradition including Homer’s Odyssey. Please bring a copy of The Penelopiad to the first class.

Instructor: Judith de Luce is a retired Professor of Classics. As a feminist literary scholar best known for her work on classical mythology and its reception, she became interested in Margaret Atwood’s use of Greco-Roman myths beyond her novels.

Class text (required): The Penelopiad, Margaret Atwood, Canongate 2005; ISBN 13:978-1-84195-798-2 5

Mondays: April 1–29; 9:00–10:15am

Location: Knolls of Oxford, Auditorium

Come Join in the Celebration at the MUAM!

Forty years ago, on November 5, 1978, the Miami University Art Museum was formally dedicated. Rounding out the 2018-2019 academic year, 40 @ 40: Celebrating 40 Years of MUAM presents 40 works that show the breadth and depth of a collection consisting of more than 17,000 forms of artistic expression created over the past 6,000 years. Jason Shaiman, Curator of Exhibitions, will give the introductory presentation; then docents and staff members will highlight favorite and time-honored pieces.

Coordinator: Elaine Rauckhorst is a retired teacher and has been a docent at the Miami University Art Museum for more than 20 years. Volunteering at the Art Museum enables her to continue teaching and remain an active learner herself.

5 Mondays: April 1–29; 10:45–11:45am

Location: Miami University Art Museum

Genetics and Genetic Modification

The first two talks will discuss the history of genetic engineering and CRISPR-cas9. This new technology allows extremely specific alterations to the genome. The remaining three lectures will explore ethical, religious, and economic issues related to genetic engineering. Like all new technologies, genetic engineering presents both promise and peril.

April 1–History of Genetic Engineering–Luis Actis, Professor and Chair of the Department of Microbiology.

April 8–The Importance of CRISPR-cas9–Andor Kiss, Director of the Center of Bioinformatics.

April 15–Who We Are and How We Got Here–Muriel Blaisdell, Professor Emerita of History and Interdisciplinary Studies.

April 22–Economic Implications of Genetic Engineering–Daniel Herron, Professor of Business Law.

April 29–The Ethical and Religious Aspects of Genetic Modification–Muriel Blaisdell, Professor Emerita of History and Interdisciplinary Studies.

Coordinators: Donald Hanson, a retired dentist interested in genetic engineering, and Muriel Blaisdell, Professor Emerita of History and Interdisciplinary Studies.

5 Mondays: April 1–29; 10:45am–noon

Location: Peabody Hall, Leonard Theatre

NOTE: Are you also attending the Midday Lecture Series? A complimentary round-trip shuttle to the Art Museum will be operating each Monday beginning at noon. Park in the lot on Western Drive (between Boyd Hall and Peabody Hall) and ride the Oxford Seniors shuttle bus.

Midday Lecture Series

Each Monday the Midday Lecture Series presents a speaker who will discuss a topic of interest and importance. Plan to bring a brown bag lunch and enjoy an ILR tradition.

April 1–Behind the Scenes of History–Trinity Johnson is Education Coordinator and Jodi Elowitz is Director of Education at The Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center. NOTE: See page 7 for a Special Event to tour the new Holocaust & Humanity Museum. For more on the Holocaust, see Alan deCourcy’s Voices from the Holocaust course on page 21.

April 8–Stan Lee, Marvel Mania and the Modern World–Bob Batchelor is a Visiting Assistant Professor of Strategic Communication in the Department of Media, Journalism & Film.

April 15–Black Independent Cinema: The L.A. Rebellion Film Movement–D. Andy Rice is an Assistant Professor of Film Studies and Comparative Media Studies in the Department of Media, Journalism & Film.

April 22–The Complete Baseball Game: Beyond the Pitches, Hits, and Throws–Jim Robinson, Attorney-at-Law

April 29–In Our Own Backyard: The Alba Craft Lab Uranium Mill–Linda Musmeci Kimball, Oxford Peace Center Director Emerita, is the founding member of the Oxford Citizens for Peace & Justice, and lifelong professional peace activist.

Coordinator: Betty Rogers, Professor Emerita of Spanish, is a past Chair of the ILR.

5 Mondays: April 1–29; 12:30–1:45pm

Location: M.U. Art Museum, Auditorium

NOTE: A complimentary round-trip shuttle to the Art Museum will be operating each Monday beginning at noon. Park in the lot on Western Drive (between Boyd Hall and Peabody Hall) and ride the Oxford Seniors shuttle bus.

The Way We Live Now: Perspectives on a Divided United States

The English novelist Anthony Trollope wrote The Way We Live Now (1875) because, he said, “dishonesty magnificent in its proportions and climbing into high places, has become . . . so rampant and so splendid that there seems to be reason for fearing that men and women will be taught to feel that dishonesty, if it can become splendid, will cease to be abominable.” In the novel, Trollope depicts a world marked by greed and dishonesty that permeate commercial, political, and intellectual society—in other words, a world startlingly similar to our own. In this course, five speakers from the departments of English, global and intercultural studies, and history, and the Center for Pre-Law Education will discuss how political, demographic, racial, economic, intellectual, and sexual movements and trends have led to (un)intended divisions in the United States. The homework assignment for each person who enrolls in the course will be this question: what will be your role if we are to create a more perfect Union?

April 1–The Politics of Geography and the Geography of Politics–Steven Conn is the W.E. Smith Professor of History, Miami University.

April 8–The Trump Cycle: Mediated Politics in the “Post Truth” Era…–Carolyn Hardin is an Assistant Professor, Media, Journalism & Film and Global and Intercultural Studies, Miami University.

April 15–Old Laws…New Devices: Constitutional Challenges to Privacy–Elizabeth Zimmerman is a Pre-Law Advisor, Sue J. Henry Center for Pre-Law Education, Miami University.

April 22–Who Are We? Immigration and the American Nation–Sheila Croucher is a Distinguished Professor of Global and Intercultural Studies (American Studies), Miami University.

April 29–Conspiracy Culture and the “Post Truth” Public Sphere…–Timothy Melley is a Professor of English and Director of the Humanities Center, Miami University.

Coordinator: William J. Gracie, Jr., Professor Emeritus of English and former Dean of the School of Interdisciplinary Studies/ Western College Program, is Chair of the ILR Curriculum Committee.

5 Mondays: April 1–29; 2:15–3:30pm

Location: Peabody Hall, Leonard Theatre

NOTE: Are you also attending the Midday Lecture Series? A complimentary round-trip shuttle to the Art Museum will be operating each Monday beginning at noon. Park in the lot on Western Drive (between Boyd Hall and Peabody Hall) and ride the Oxford Seniors shuttle bus

Introduction to Zentangle®

Zentangle® is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured repetitive patterns. People all over the world use this drawing method to create beautiful images. Zentangle can increase focus and creativity and provide artistic satisfaction along with an increased sense of personal well-being. The Zentangle method is applicable to a wide range of skills, interests, and ages. In this two-hour class, you will learn the fundamentals of the Zentangle drawing method. You will complete two pieces and leave with supplies to create several more.

Instructor: Katy Abbott is a Certified Zentangle Teacher (CZT) and a Blayney Assistant Professor of Gerontology at Miami University.

1 Monday: April 1; 4:00–6:00pm

Location: Police Services Center, Room 123

Supply Fee: $6.00, payable at class

Beyond the Basics of Zentangle®

For students who have completed the Introduction to Zentangle® course, this class will explore additional patterns and applications of the Zentangle method. Bring names of patterns you wish to learn to class as well as questions about other surfaces that can be tangled on. Also, bring your own supplies (tiles, pens, pencils).

Instructor: Katy Abbott is a Certified Zentangle Teacher (CZT) and a Blayney Assistant Professor of Gerontology at Miami University.

1 Monday: April 8; 4:00–6:00pm

Location: Police Services Center, Room 123

Supply Fee: $6.00, payable at class, if needed.

Spring Neotropical Migrants: A Closer Look (literally!)

Spring neotropical bird migrants are often a challenge to identify— hence the confusing “spring warblers” label. We will use the AREI bird banding stations to get a closer look at these challenging species. The class will emphasize both bird identification and neotropical bird conservation. Rain on Tuesday postpones class until Thursday.

Instructor: Dave Russell, Teaching Associate Professor, Department of Biology, is the Research Director for Avian Research and Education Institute, Inc. (AREI), a nonprofit organization that uses its bird banding station at Hueston Woods State Park for research and as an outdoor classroom.

4 Tuesdays: April 16–May 7; 7:30–9:30 am

NOTE: Late start date

Location: Hueston Woods, AREI Bird Banding Station

Five Great Short Stories of LOVE GONE BAD

Come join this reader-centered, conversational, and participatory class as we discuss, debate, and cry over five twentieth-century American short stories where love somehow goes wrong: Hemingway’s The End of Something; Raymond Carver’s What We Talk About When We Talk About Love; Irwin Shaw’s The Girls in Their Summer Dresses; Amy Bloom’s When the Year Grows Old; and Lorrie Moore’s How to Be an Other Woman. For our first class, read The End of Something (available online).

Instructor: Don Daiker has taught Miami University courses in the short story for four decades but admits to limited experience with love gone bad.

5 Tuesdays: April 2–30; 9:00–10:15am

Location: Boyd Hall, Room 117

Topics of Current Interest

Current topics of discussion will be selected from current events. The class facilitators will present factual point/ counterpoint data to kick off lively, interactive discussions. They will select a topic for the first session; then the class will identify topics it wants to discuss in subsequent sessions. The goal is an increase in understanding of current topics of controversy and debate.

Instructors: Rich Daniels is a retired CEO of McCullough-Hyde Hospital in Oxford. Bill McKnight retired from General Electric, Aircraft Engines, as a Senior Technologist.

5 Tuesdays: April 2–30; 9:00–10:15am

Location: Knolls of Oxford, Auditorium

1919: A Retrospective

A hundred years later, it is hard for us to imagine the impressive list of events that occurred in this single year. In January of 1919, the 18th amendment that ushered in Prohibition was ratified. In June the 19th amendment that gave women the vote was passed by Congress, and the Treaty of Versailles that ended World War I was signed. In October, a World Series that was marred by one of the biggest scandals in sports history took place. Life in Butler County was affected by all of these. Five Miami colleagues will explore the significant year of 1919.

April 2–The Versailles System and the End of World War I–George Vascik, Associate Professor of Humanities. His research interests include 19th and 20th century German politics.

April 9–The 18th Amendment: Prohibition–David Fahey, Professor Emeritus of History and author of The Women’s Temperance Crusade in Oxford, Ohio (2010).

April 16–The 19th Amendment: Woman Suffrage–Kimberly Hamlin, Associate Professor of History and National Endowment for the Humanities Public Scholar, is currently writing a biography of suffragist Helen Hamilton Gardener.

April 23–The Black Sox Scandal–Robert Johnson, Professor Emeritus of English, divided his teaching between Renaissance drama and sports literature.

April 30–Butler County in 1919–Sara Butler (description below)

Instructor: Sara Butler, Professor Emerita of Art, currently serves on the Boards of the Butler County Historical Society and ILR.

5 Tuesdays: April 2–30; 10:45 am–noon

Location: M.U. Art Museum, Auditorium

Intro to Stained Glass

Students will learn a brief history of stained glass and about different types of construction techniques. They will also learn and practice the skills needed for the copper foil method, the same process used by Tiffany Glass. Students will choose their pattern and glass, and then create a suncatcher of their own.

Instructor: Linda Brown is a retired science teacher and coordinator of the stained glass program at Oxford Seniors.

5 Tuesdays: April 2–30; 10:45am–noon

Location: Oxford Seniors, Studio

Supply Fee: $20, payable at first class

Beginning Fly Tying

Learn to tie basic fishing flies such as the Woolly Bugger, the Griffiths Gnat, and the Royal Coachman. Whether or not you are an angler, you will learn to create a thing of beauty. All materials and equipment will be provided. Participants are encouraged to bring magnifying glasses. The class is limited to six individuals or three couples.

Instructor: Richard Munson is the retired Manager of the Conservatory on the Hamilton campus. He is an avid fly tier and has over 25 years of experience.

5 Tuesdays: April 2–30; 1:00–2:15pm

Location: Police Services Center, Room 123

The Complete Financial Management Workshop for Retirement

Learn how to manage your finances in retirement. This course provides a comprehensive approach that helps you set realistic goals and make sound financial decisions. Address real-life concerns with tools that will last a lifetime. Instructor will use full-color graphics to explain financial concepts clearly and concisely. Participants will receive a 164-page workbook packed with exercises, checklists, and self-analysis quizzes. This valuable take-home resource helps students apply what they learn to their personal financial situations.

Instructor: Gary Hollander, CFP, is a practicing financial professional with over 43 years of experience who conducts educational workshops to help people avoid common roadblocks to financial success in retirement. He has been recently awarded “FIVE STAR Best in Client Satisfaction Wealth Manager” by Cincinnati Magazine and was recently awarded by the Cincinnati Better Business Bureau for being an accredited member and A+ rated since 1991. He has been president of Hollander & Associates LLC since 1976.

5 Tuesdays: April 2–30; 1:00–2:15pm

Location: Police Services Center, Room 130

A Culinary Journey through Exciting Cooking Ideas and Talents

We all love to eat, and some of us love to cook. Let’s encourage some creative cooking by experiencing a variety of cooking styles and recipes presented by some of our best local chefs!

April 2–Foolproof French Tart with All Organic and Local Ingredients–Jim Rubenstein writes a weekly food column for The Oxford Press on behalf of MOON Co-op Grocery.

April 9–Simple Southern Staples–Key Gilland, chef at MOON Co-Op, loves talking as much as he loves cooking—a perfect combination for a cooking demonstration.

April 16–What You Do and Don’t Know About the Richness of Peruvian Cuisine: How the Eco-Geography and Diverse Cultural Influences Impact Peruvian Cuisine–Jacqueline Rioja-Velarde has taught ILR cooking classes previously and has been asked to return for another fun session.

April 23–Desserts: Raspberry Floating Island–Marshall Burke led our Kroger cooking classes for several years and is a talented chef.

April 30–Easy Hors D’oeuvres–Karen Schwartz of Silver Spoon Catering has presented many ILR lunches and OCAC events. She is in great demand locally.

Coordinator: Barbara Eshbaugh is a longtime ILR volunteer who loves to eat.

5 Tuesdays: April 2–30; 1:30–3:30 pm

Location: Oxford Seniors, Kitchen

Supply fee: $25, payable with registration

Hollywood: A Selective Biography

The Hollywood “dream factories” existed for a brief time that is now sadly “gone with the wind.” However, during its heyday the industry produced thousands of films that we are still entertained by today. This series will explore several aspects of the “Golden Age” of Hollywood moviemaking, including a brief comparison to the industry as it exists today.

April 2–The Hollywood Studio System–Tina and Richard Brunner are roommates who share a life full of exploration both in and out of movie theatres.

April 9–Hollywood: The Musical–Michele Darone is a stillworking medical secretary who has loved old movies since she was 12.

April 16–A Tour of Hollywood Blvd.: Then and Now–Tina Brunner has a special passion for Hollywood restaurants and the golden age of Hollywood nightlife.

April 23–Hollywood Stars in Uniform–Rick Dubberly is a retired navy officer with a lifelong interest in classic Hollywood.

April 30–Hollywood Scandals–Richard Brunner will resurrect some of the scandalous activities of the stars that the studios tried to cover up.

Coordinator: Richard Brunner, a lifelong film fan with a special interest in the Academy Awards, taught ILR’s “Sundown Cinema” for 20 semesters.

5 Tuesdays: April 2–30; 2:45–4:00pm

Location: Boyd Hall, Room 107

A Wine Tour of Spain

Over the course of five weeks, we will survey the wines of Spain. Rioja, Priorat, Ribera del Duero, Cava, and other regional wines will be sampled while their unique aspects are presented and discussed in an informal atmosphere. One class will be devoted to a structured, step-by-step analysis of wine. Come prepared with three wine glasses and a sense of oeno-adventure.

Instructor: Chris Hensey has offered ILR wine-tasting courses for fifteen years, nearly as long as he operated his Oxford wine shop. He has passed the Introductory Exam for the Court of Master Sommeliers and serves as a judge for the Cincinnati International Wine Festival.

5 Tuesdays: April 2–30; 4:30–5:45pm

Location: LaRosa’s

Supply fee: $50, payable with registration

What’s That Calling in the Night? Frogs and Toads of the Oxford Area*

Ever wonder what is making those primeval sounds you hear on spring evenings? This class will introduce you to the mating calls of a variety of native frogs and toads. We’ll practice by listening to recordings of the 15 species native to Ohio, although we are likely only to hear as many as eight species in the field. The field portion of the class is not strenuous. A flashlight or headlamp and a trained ear are the only requirements. Mosquitoes are unlikely to be a problem.

Instructors: Dick Munson is the retired Manager of The Conservatory on the Miami University Hamilton campus. He has over 40 years of horticultural experience and is an avid naturalist. Brian Keane is a Professor of Biology whose research specialty is the natural history of prairie voles. He is a highly knowledgeable naturalist and an avid birder.

5 Tuesdays: April 2–30; 7:00–8:30pm

Location: Upham Hall, Room 100 Hefner Museum

Against All Odds: Three 20th Century Women Artists

We will look at three artists: Emily Carr (Canada), Georgia O’Keeffe (USA), and Frida Kahlo (Mexico). Exploring their stories and struggles will provide insights into the position of women artists “in a man’s world.” Each instructor will focus on a particular artist, concluding with a panel discussion on the final day. Participants will be encouraged to research these three artists or others of interest and join in discussing implications for the 21st century. With technological assistance by Kathy McMahon-Klosterman, Professor Emerita of Educational Psychology and Disability Studies, speakers include Jason Shaiman, Curator of Exhibits, Miami University Art Museum; and Edna Carter Southard, Emerita Curator of Collections and Exhibitions, Miami University Art Museum, and Professor Emerita of Art.

Coordinator: Cynthia Kelley has served on the ILR Curriculum Committee and enjoys creating new classes.

5 Wednesdays: April 3–May 1; 9:00–10:15am

Location: Police Services Center, Room 123

Reading Robert Browning in 2019

Overshadowed by his wife’s achievements, misunderstood by contemporaries as brilliant as John Ruskin, admired by the American poet Ezra Pound (who called him “Old Hippety-Hop o’ the accents”), dismissed by the American philosopher George Santayana (who called him a “Barbarian”), Robert Browning was startlingly original—even, perhaps, a modernist before Modernism. The course will focus on close readings of some of Browning’s greatest dramatic monologues. Our gallery of speakers will include obsessive clerics, disdainful egoists, frustrated lovers, and Renaissance painters inspired by unusual muses.

Class text: An anthology of Browning’s poems will be available for purchase at the Oxford Copy Shop.

Instructor: William J. Gracie, Jr., Professor Emeritus of English and former Dean of the School of Interdisciplinary Studies/ Western College Program, is Chair of the ILR Curriculum Committee.

5 Wednesdays: April 3–May 1; 9:00–10:15am

Location: Police Services Center, Room 130

Easy Yoga

The practice of yoga helps increase flexibility, mobility, circulation, and mind-body coordination. Positions are done standing, seated, or on the floor. Adaptations are given as needed so participants can be relaxed and can focus on their breathing. All movements can be adapted for different levels of ability. Each class will end with either guided or silent relaxation. Please bring a yoga “sticky” mat to class.

Instructor: Kathy Hunter has taught yoga professionally since 1971 at various locations, including the University of Cincinnati, Miami University, in Colorado, and abroad. She is accredited through Yoga Alliance.

5 Wednesdays: April 3–May 1; 10:45am–noon

Location: Knolls of Oxford, Auditorium

Tune in Again This Spring: The Golden Age of Radio, Volume 2

Further forays into the past. Let’s Pretend we can see Comedy Shows (Wikipedia lists 162 separate shows, many with over 100 scripts aired), including Fibber McGee and Molly (over 300 scripts) and The Great Gildersleeve. Let’s pretend we can see Detectives (Johnny Dollar; Nick Carter; Sherlock Holmes), Classic Dramas (Lux Radio Theatre; Cavalcade of America), and Specials (A Christmas Carol, with Lionel Barrymore; We Hold These Truths, commissioned by FDR and aired eight days after Pearl Harbor). Let’s pretend we can see Thrillers and Chillers (The Whistler; Inner Sanctum; The FBI in Peace and War) and Westerns (Gunsmoke; Hopalong Cassidy; The Six Shooter, with Jimmy Stewart).

Instructor: Mike Griffith, Professor Emeritus of Theatre. Pending scheduling, Geof Fishburn, Professor Emeritus of Theatre, will return to join the fun.

5 Wednesdays: April 3–May 1; 10:45am–noon

Location: Boyd Hall, Room 107

Italian for Travelers

The course is for people planning a trip to Italy or just interested in learning about Italy. We will learn the basics for forming Italian sentences and will focus on useful phrases for ordering a meal, shopping, taking the train, etc. We will also learn about Italian history, geography, politics, art, music, and sports. The format will encourage active participation. No text is required.

Instructor: Peter Pedroni taught Italian language and literature for 37 years and directed the Miami University Summer Language Institute in Italy for 36 years. He has published books and articles on Italian literature and has translated two Italian novels into English.

5 Wednesdays: April 3–May 1; 12:45–2:15pm

Location: Lane Library, Children’s Meeting Room

Mysteries of Stone and Glass: the Gothic North of the Alps

The origins of Gothic architecture in France, England, and Central Europe are related to indigenous political, religious, and cultural conditions. While each geocultural region developed important aspects of the Gothic to suit particular needs and aspirations, each also produced startling tours-de-force with distinct qualities and accomplishments. The course will seek to explain interrelationships as well as differences between these major expressions as it broadens the definition of Gothic architecture.

Instructor: Robert Benson is Professor Emeritus of Architecture History and Theory.

Class text: A handout will be available to purchase at the Oxford Copy Shop.

5 Wednesdays: April 3–May 1; 1:00–2:15pm

Location: Peabody Hall, Leonard Theatre

Chicago: A Tale of 3 Cities (The Best & Worst of Times)

Chicago is divided about equally among whites, African Americans, and Hispanics. The three groups live segregated in different sides of town. This class focuses on Chicago’s different “sides.” For the downtown Loop and the mostly white North Side, this is the best of times. For the African American South Side, this is the worst of times. Exacerbating racial tensions is a mayoral election the day before our first class session.

Instructor: James Rubenstein, Professor Emeritus of Geography, spends a lot of time in Chicago working for the Federal Reserve Bank.

5 Wednesdays: April 3–May 1; 2:45–4:00pm

Location: Boyd Hall, Room 107

Evangelicalism in America

A survey of the development of Evangelical Protestantism in the U.S. (including Fundamentalism, Pentecostalism, and the Religious Right) from the Great Awakening of the 18th century to the present.

Class text: Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory (25th anniversary edition) by Randall Balmer

Instructor: Peter Williams is a Miami University Distinguished Professor Emeritus in Comparative Religion and American Studies.

5 Wednesdays: April 3–May 1; 2:45–4:00pm

Location: Boyd Hall, Room 217

Everything You Want to Know about Hearing and Hearing Aids

This course will provide participants with an overview of the ear, how we hear, and what causes and how to prevent hearing loss. In addition, participants will learn about treatment of hearing loss and why hearing aids may or may not be the best solution.

Instructor: Chip Hahn is an Assistant Clinical Professor and Director of Audiology Education in the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology.

4 Wednesdays: April 3–April 24; 5:00–6:15pm

Location: Boyd Hall, Room 228

Tickling the Ivories: Piano Recital and Lecture Series

Miami University piano students will present a series of four classical piano recitals featuring works by Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Chopin, Liszt, Mendelssohn, Debussy, and Rachmaninoff. Performers will include DJ Cleavinger, Evan Danielson, Hayden Dennison, Cloie Dobias, Adam Guadalupe, Henry Hutchinson, Joseph Ivan, Pui Yee Lee, Athena Li, Heather Merhout, Nathan Rayens, Cindy Wang, Yan Wang, and Vi Vien Wong.

Instructor: Siok Lian Tan is Associate Professor of Music and piano area coordinator at Miami University. She holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Piano from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music.

4 Wednesdays: April 3–24; 5:30–6:30pm

Location: Oxford Community Arts Center, Ballroom

Sundown Cinema: America and/or Bust!

We will watch and discuss movies that depict migrants to America and the problems they face. The films represent various ethnic groups and periods and span a century of moviemaking, from the silent era (The Italian, 1915) to our own decade (Brooklyn, 2015).

April 3–The Italian (1915, Silent)–Dir. Reginald Barker. An immigrant (George Beban) leaves his sweetheart in Italy to find a better life across the sea in America. When he has made enough money to have her join him in the grimy slums of New York, they start a family; but life in the land of promise does not go as they hoped.

April 10–Coming to America (1988)–Dir. John Landis. The Prince and future King of the African kingdom of Zamunda (Eddie Murphy) refuses to marry the betrothed chosen for him and decides to go to the United States with his courtier and childhood friend (Arsenio Hall) to seek an independent woman and a relationship based on love. They choose to go to Queens, New York, whose name suggests that it might be an appropriate place to look for a queen.

April 17–Avalon (1990)–Dir. Barry Levinson. A Polish-Jewish family comes to the USA at the beginning of the twentieth century. There, in Baltimore, the family strives to thrive and create a better future for their children and grandchildren in the so-called Promised Land without abandoning the traditions and values of their own culture.

April 24–Brooklyn (2015)–Dir. John Crowley. Ireland, early 1950s. Eilis (Saoirse Ronan), a young woman working in a grocery shop, has greater ambitions and moves to Brooklyn, New York, leaving behind her mother and sister. After struggling to overcome her homesickness and make a new life, her past catches up with her, and she must choose between two countries and two ways of life.

May 1–A Better Life (2011)–Dir. Chris Weitz. An illegal immigrant from Mexico working as a gardener in East Los Angeles (Demian Bichir) struggles to keep his American-born teenage son away from gangs and to avoid immigration agents while trying to make a living and providing his son opportunities for a better life.

Instructor: Sante Matteo, born and raised in Italy, Professor Emeritus of Italian, taught Italian language, literature, culture, and cinema.

5 Wednesdays: April 3–May 1; 7:00–9:30pm

Location: Peabody Hall, Leonard Theatre

Evolution: What It Is and Why It Matters

The topic of evolution is a wonderful way to understand the nature of science as well as just how many aspects of life are enlightened by our understanding of evolution. We will discuss geologic time and the age of the Earth, Darwin’s theory and his evidence, what has happened in evolutionary studies since Darwin’s time, and implications of evolution in medicine and agriculture. Of course, we hope to consider questions that participants may have. Join us for what we hope to be some lively discussions.

Instructors: Ben Mattox is a retired Biology/Science teacher from Talawanda High School. Karl Mattox is a Professor Emeritus of Botany and former Dean of the College of Arts and Science.

5 Thursdays: April 4–May 2; 9:00–10:15am

Location: Knolls of Oxford, Auditorium

For Your Children/Grandchildren: Investing For Retirement

Save your children and grandchildren thousands of dollars over a lifetime of investing with the information that will be presented in this course. The conventional wisdom about investing (diversification, investment advisors, international stocks, mutual funds, target date funds, investing for dividends, annuities, and much more) are all exposed for the damage they can do to retirement wealth. The course concludes with a recommended portfolio that is safe, simple (set and forget), and certain to outperform all the common cookie cutter portfolios recommended by many investment advisors.

Instructor: Thomas Schaber is a Senior Investment Advisor with Investing for Retirement LLC.

5 Thursdays: April 4–May 2; 9:00–10:15am

Location: Police Services Center, Room 130

Voices from the Holocaust

Trying to understand what came to be called the Holocaust involves carefully hearing the voices of some of those who were involved in those events and left behind documents in the form of letters, essays, poems, stories, and art. This material does not just come from Jewish sources, but also from others who participated in diverse ways. Some of these voices have become famous (Elie Wiesel, Oskar Schindler), but others are not as well known. In this course, we will listen to some of the voices of these lesserknown persons, examining the historical events and personal circumstances that they confronted and reflecting on the relevance their words might have for us today. A small amount of reading in preparation for each class will be provided via e-mail. NOTE: For more on the Holocaust, see page 7 for a Special Event to tour the new Holocaust & Humanity Museum and page 15 for Behind the Scenes of History lecture.

Instructor: Alan deCourcy, Associate Professor of Religious and Pastoral Studies, Mount St. Joseph University, is the former Vice President for Academic Affairs at Mount St. Joseph.

5 Thursdays: April 4–May 2; 10:45am–noon

Location: Knolls of Oxford, Auditorium

Book Making I

Have you ever wanted to make your own book but did not know how? Come and learn how to make books that use folds, books that do or do not use glue, and books that are hand sewn. Bring your sense of fun and adventure.

Instructor: Judy Brewer is a retired teacher from the Eaton City School District. She has been a crafter since an early age. She enjoys learning new crafts and sharing her knowledge with others.

5 Thursdays: April 4–May 2; 12:45–2:15pm

Location: Lane Library, Children’s Meeting Room

Challenges to American Democracy I

Democracy is an almost universally admired concept. However, it is usually not well specified (its popularity depends in part on its meaning different things to different people). For example, political scientists refer to “weak” and “strong” forms of democracy. What kind of little “d” democrat are you? Additionally, the course will look at a few selected challenges (e.g., radical individualism, undemocratic elections, demagoguery, and separation of powers) that potentially put American democracy at risk. A second course looking at other challenges may be offered next term.

Instructor: Clyde Brown, Professor Emeritus of Political Science, taught American politics, including a course on American democracy, at Miami University.

5 Thursdays: April 4–May 2; 1:00–2:15pm

Location: Lane Library, Havighurst Room

Fraternity

Take Liberty, Equality, We have them here and now; But searching for Fraternity, We haven’t yet learned how. Fraternity is what protects democracy from itself.

Instructor: Jack Sommer has taught philosophy at Miami, Western College, and ILR.

5 Thursdays: April 4–May 2; 2:45–4:00pm

Location: Knolls of Oxford, Boardroom

Nature Walks in Miami’s Natural Areas*

The wonders of spring are seen all around us in the Natural Areas. Come walk, see some of these beautiful trails, and be amazed by their beauty, all so close to home. See beautiful woods, streams, birds, and much more. Hikes last about 1-1/2 hours. Dress for the season. The earth trails may be slippery from rain; hiking boots are recommended. Expect to hike up to two miles on hilly terrain. For the first hike, meet in the Dewitt Log Homestead parking lot just east of the Miami horse stables on Route 73. Maps with directions to future hikes will be distributed at the first hike. NOTE: We will hike with a forecast of light rain. Forecasted heavy rain, storms, and high winds will result in a cancellation. Weather cancellations will be announced via email by 1:00 p.m. on each hike day. Those without email should call the ILR office for cancellation information. Make-ups will not be offered for canceled classes.

Instructor: Jim Reid is Field Manager for Miami’s Natural Areas.

5 Thursdays: April 4–May 2; 2:45–4:15pm

Location: Varies, as listed in the course description above

Local Government: City of Oxford

This course is the third in a series of courses that deal with local government. The first introduced the roles needed for city governance and the people who fill those roles. The second dealt with the nuts and bolts. In this course we will discuss principles that guide local government. We will look at the foundations of government, including the documents that assure we have a city that works. This course will also deal with the interface between professional staff, elected officials, and the public. How do we do this in Oxford? What are the main problems facing city and state governments and our citizens? How do we work together to solve them? How do we plan for present and future needs? You will hear from at least five professional staff members of the City of Oxford addressing these issues and answering the questions you want answered.

Instructors: Edna Carter Southard has served on Oxford’s City Council for five years, elected in 2013 and re-elected in November 2017. An art historian and museum professional, she serves on the City’s Recreation Board, Historic and Architectural Preservation Commission, and the Public Arts Commission of Oxford. Douglas R. Elliott, Jr., Oxford’s City Manager since 2007, has vast experience in this professional capacity.

5 Fridays: April 5–May 3; 10:45 am–noon

Location: Lane Library, Havighurst Room

Islam, Muslims, and America

There will be three sessions: Islam 101; Muslims and Culture; and Muslims in America. Come and explore the tenets of Islam, who Muslims are and how they practice their faith, along with addressing the stereotypes of Muslim women and Islam and terrorism.

Instructor: Shabana Shakir-Ahmed is the Tours & Talks Chair at the Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati. She directs Cincinnati Muslim Women which has funded over 100 charities with over $110,000.

3 Fridays: April 5–19; 10:45am–noon

Location: Boyd Hall, Room 217

Play Better Chess

Like to play chess? Want to improve your game? Class meetings will involve playing friendly games with opportunities for constructive feedback. Class instruction will highlight a “top ten” list of checkmate attacks appropriate for novice and intermediate players. Designed for beginners and occasional players, players of all strengths welcomed.

Instructor: Clyde Brown, Professor Emeritus of Political Science, has been a recreational chess player for more than five decades. He is a founding member of the Loosely Organized Chess Club of Oxford (LOCO).

5 Fridays: April 5–May 3; 1:00–2:15pm

Location: Lane Library, Havighurst Room

Wellness and Stress Release in Chinese Culture

Join us to explore how much traditional Chinese culture can do for pain relief and stress release. Presented by the instructors and volunteers of the Confucius Institute of Miami University.

April 5–Chinese Tea–Lan Li is a Chinese instructor.

April 12–Traditional Chinese Instruments and Music–Wenting Yang is a Chinese instructor.

April 19–Chinese Calligraphy and Painting–Zhuofan Xu (description below)

April 26–Chinese Stretching–Chen Zhang is a Chinese martial arts and Tai Chi instructor.

May 3–Chinese Cooking–Lan Li is a Chinese instructor.

Coordinator: Zhuofan Xu serves as a Chinese instructor at the Confucius Institute.

5 Fridays: April 5–May 3; 1:30–2:45pm

Location: Peabody Hall, Room 407

Beginner Pottery: Bowl Making for Oxford Empty Bowls

Participants will learn the basic/ fundamental skills for creating and shaping pottery bowls, including hand-building and wheel-throwing, trimming, glazing, and firing. Participants may take home a piece or two, but the community-serving purpose of this course is to create many handmade beautiful bowls for Oxford’s annual Empty Bowls event. Though designed for beginners, the course is open to potters of all skill levels.

Instructor: Elizabeth Grace Huddleston is a senior at Miami University majoring in urban and regional planning with minors in French and individualized studies (philosophy of art). She has been an Empty Bowls contributing artist for three years.

5 Saturdays: April 13–May 11; 10:00am–noon

NOTE: Late start date

Location: Phillips Hall, Art Center

Supply Fee: $30, payable with registration

The History of the Book

Attendees will have a hands-on approach to the history of the book from ancient times to present. Materials range from 2500 BCE to 2018.

Instructor: William Modrow is Head of the Walter Havighurst Special Collections and University Archives at Miami University.

5 Saturdays: April 6–May 4; 10:00–11:15am

Location: King Library, Room 320

Swedish Death Cleaning at the Speed of Life

This 2-hour interactive workshop combines the philosophy of death cleaning with the practical approach of Dana K. White’s methods and the honest and often humorous tips of decluttering expert Don Aslett. Along with learning your clutter personality, you will gain knowledge about mindset, motivation, and methods, and how to realistically rightsize your life.

Instructor: Frances Yates is an avid declutterer who enjoys sharing tips and techniques with anyone interested in rightsizing their life.

1 Saturday: April 6; 1:00–3:00pm

Location: Kreger Hall, Room 222