Insights
Spring 2014
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Vol. 19 Number 3
Choosing OLLI Courses:
A Winning Strategy
by Sylvia A. Johnson
It’s that time again. OLLI members are
eagerly reading the Course List in a new
issue of Insights and trying to decide
what courses to take. “How can I choose
among so many possibilities?” Members use different strategies
when choosing courses. Some will
consider only those offered on certain
days of the week or in certain locations.
Others look only at courses in specific
topic areas such as history or literature.
However they make their choices, many
members come to registration day with
their minds firmly made up: “These are
the courses that I absolutely have to
get into.” Unfortunately, some will be
disappointed.
Class space in all OLLI courses is
limited, and in some courses, the number
of seats fills very rapidly on the first day
of registration. Could we add more seats
in these courses? The number of seats are
determined by the course leaders and the
size of the class location. Some leaders
request small classes because of the
nature of their courses. The location of a
class is determined by many factors, and
moving to a place with more seats is not
always possible.
If the course you want is filled,
please do not just show up. Doing this
may alienate the course leader and your
fellow class members, not to mention
violating fire codes about overcrowding.
Attending courses without being
enrolled is not a winning strategy.
Maybe we just don’t have enough
courses to accommodate our 1200plus membership. Every year, OLLI
offers more than 300 courses, with an
average of 80 to 100 per session. In most
sessions, however, less than half of the
courses are filled. In Winter 2014, 70
courses were offered, but only 32 were
filled at the end of the registration
period; 38 courses still had spaces
available. In Fall 2013, 83 out of 107
courses had open seats.
These figures seem to suggest that
we are not short on the total number
of courses but that too many people
want to take the same few courses. It
would be great if we could offer more
of these high-demand courses, but
it’s not easy to predict exactly which
courses and topics will be popular. The
Executive Director and the Curriculum
Committee are working hard to
collect the data that might make such
Massoud Amin, professor of electrical
engineering at the U of M, speaking at Tuesday
with a Scholar. This lecture series is a popular
course choice for many OLLI members.
predictions possible. (See the President’s
Column for more information about
this.)
So is there a winning strategy for
getting the courses you want? Here’s a
suggestion that has worked for many
OLLI members: Be flexible about your
course choices. In selecting courses for
Spring 2014, try picking two favorites
and two or more alternate courses that
appeal to you. If you can’t get into your
first choices, try the third, fourth, or
fifth.
Branch out a little in your
selections. If you always enroll in
literature courses, take a look at science
or philosophy. Remember OLLI’s
slogan—”No tests and no papers.” You
don’t have to worry about flunking a
course in physics or cosmology, and you
might just learn something astonishing
that will change your view of the world!
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
The President’s Column
Playing on the OLLI Team by Jeanette Sobania
All OLLI members are part of a team.
While completing a course comment
form or registering for a course may not
seem like a team contribution, it is. When
you select a course, you are casting a vote
for the course content, the instructor,
or maybe just a convenient site. In the
past, the results of these “votes” have
sometimes been overlooked because the information was
difficult to access. Today staff and committees are working
behind the scenes to make this information more available.
This is one of the reasons we are encouraging everyone to
use OLLI’s electronic systems if at all possible. It is much easier
to capture and aggregate data electronically. We can mine
both the registration system and the course comment forms
for information about your interests and to better plan course
content and locations.
While it may seem that your course comment forms fall
into a black hole, all are read at least twice. The forms that
come in electronically are e-mailed directly to the course
leaders. Leaders have told us they value this information and
use it both to improve their courses and to glean ideas for
new subject matter. The second reading is done by a small
team from the Curriculum Committee. Each team member
reads about 80 to 100 forms, takes notes, and summarizes the
comments for additional review by the team leader.
Course comment readers pay particular attention to
courses that receive a low score or very negative comments.
(Sometimes the same course receives both extremely negative
and extremely positive comments.) They try to assess whether
the problem is the subject matter, an instructor who is
struggling with organization or presentation, or some other
issue. This information is passed on to the Executive Director
and to the chair of the Curriculum Committee, who may
contact the instructor to try to work out a remedy.
The readers also pay attention to complaints about
location, parking, audio/visual equipment, and fellow students,
which usually pop up in at least a few of the comment forms.
Unfortunately there is little that can be done about such
problems after the course is completed. These issues might be
better handled by letting staff know immediately.
page 2
Like us on Facebook: OLLI Minnesota
For site problems, you can send an e-mail to olliregb@umn.
edu, being specific about the issue and the location. If you
have an over-enthusiastic classmate, it might be best to speak
to the course leader and ask him or her to suggest that this
person hold questions until after class. If you are assertive and
diplomatic, you might gently make this suggestion yourself.
David Bedford, scientist, Horticulture Research Center,
“At the Center-at the U”
Course comment forms sometimes include ideas for
new courses, and readers make special note of these. An even
better way to ensure that your idea is acted upon is to go to
the Courses and Insights page on the OLLI website and click
on the Suggest a Course or Suggest a Course Leader buttons.
Ideas sent in on those forms are placed onto a spreadsheet that
is monitored by a work group of the Curriculum Committee.
Members of the group make special efforts to bring those
course ideas to fruition.
No matter what position you play on the OLLI team, the
important thing is to have fun. Enjoy your Spring courses!
Insights Spring 2014
From the Executive Director
Three Months In by Sandra Stevenson
As I write this column, I have three
months under my belt as the new “ED” of
OLLI. And my goodness, what a great ride
it’s been. One thing stands out above all
others—OLLI members!
Do you know how incredible you are?
Course leaders with an undying passion
for teaching and learning; volunteers
who give so generously of themselves to continue to build this
terrific organization; members who tell me what a difference
OLLI has made in their lives: I am truly touched by your stories
and honored to play some small role in your lives and in the life
of this fabulous institute.
The momentum and energy in OLLI is truly remarkable,
Marghe Tabar (foreground) and Gini and Roger Johnson enjoyed
the festivities at OLLI’s 2013 Winter Party.
and I think you will find that manifest in the spring term
catalog. When I peruse the spring offerings, I am inspired
by the intellectual curiosity of OLLI members. This is just a
sampling of new spring titles: Mysteries of the Middle Ages:
Insights is a publication of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
of the University of Minnesota, providing learning opportunities
under the guidance of its members.
The Rise of Feminism, Science, and Art from the Cults of
Catholic Europe; The World that Shaped the New Testament;
Editor: Sylvia Johnson
Minnesota Geology: What We Should Know and Why We
Managing Editor: Taki Andrianakos
Should Care, and Memory and Story: A Writing Workshop.
Photo Editor: Charles Turpin
Many favorite courses from past sessions are also on the list.
Copy Editors: Bonnie Anderson, Sylvia Johnson,
and Sandra Stevenson
In my first three months in office, I have hurled myself
into the work of OLLI’s committees and have enjoyed attending
OLLI Board and Executive Committee meetings (yes, really).
I have also enjoyed getting to know my colleagues at the
College of Continuing Education and working with Taki and
Michelle. Do I have any complaints? Yes! I am still getting lost
in the McNamara Center.
Contributors: Ed Ferlauto, Sylvia Johnson, Joanne Kendall, Susan
Mundale, Jeanette Sobania, and Sandra Stevenson
Photos: Charles Turpin
Design: S. Johnson Creative
Layout: Visions, Inc.
In closing, a great big “thank you” to OLLI members for
being so wonderful to meet, work with, and get to know.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
250 McNamara Alumni Center
200 Oak Street SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455
612-624-7847
[email protected] (Taki)
[email protected] (Michelle)
www.cce.umn.edu/Osher-Lifelong-Learning-Institute/
page 3
P
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Meet Your Fellow
OLLI Members
The members of OLLI make up a very diverse group. Some have
belonged to the organization since its beginning in 1995, while
others have joined in the past few years. Members have varied
backgrounds, professions, and interests, and each has a unique
story to tell. To tell these stories, Insights is initiating a series of
member profiles. Each issue will spotlight two individuals, one
a longtime member and the other a newcomer. Our first set of
profiles introduces Marjorie Carr and Carmen Berrios.
Marjorie Carr: A Talented
and Creative Photographer
by Ed Ferlauto
You will never know until you try! Marjorie Carr did not enter
the world of serious photography until 10 years ago, after her
husband had passed away. When she moved to Minneapolis
from Grand Rapids, Michigan, in September 2003, her first
activity was to join OLLI (and the bike SIG). The second was
to find a camera club. Since then her photographs have been
on display many times as a contributor to the OLLI Artists
exhibitions, and she has had the honor of presenting a oneperson exhibit at the McNamara Alumni Center in 2013.
Her experience is representative of the spirit that pervades
the OLLI program at the U of M, which offers each participant
an opportunity to explore and learn. Of course, it helps to have
an extraordinary talent such as that exhibited in Marjorie’s
work; then again, you will never know unless you try.
Marjorie has participated in a number of photography club
expeditions that have enabled her to visit remote and exotic
places to exercise her talents. Her travels have taken her to
Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego, Mongolia, China, Iceland, Alaska,
the Arctic, Cuba, Holland, Turkey, Russia, Montana, and as you
might guess, Minnesota. Next stop is Iceland once again.
Each of Marjorie’s sets of prints from these places evokes a
unique quality, and each has a different perspective that tells a
story of its own. She says that “photography is being myself and
making photographs that express what I feel about what
I am seeing. Fine images don’t just happen, they are created
very carefully.”
page 4
Like us on Facebook: OLLI Minnesota
Marjorie has published a booklet of her photographs
entitled “Are These Cities Twins?” Her plans for the future
include more publications showing her work. Good luck,
Marjorie, and we hope to see you in an OLLI class if you are
not off taking photos in some remote part of the world.
Carmen Berrios: Always
Learning, Always Teaching
by Joanne Kendall
She likes books and movies, has a passion for teaching, and
plans regular learning adventures with her five (soon to be
six) grandchildren. This new member joined OLLI shortly after
her retirement in 2012. She attended the 2013 Winter Party
clad in a festive red-orange outfit, and this writer made her
acquaintance there, attracted by her welcoming smile. We
shared a table with Merritt Marquardt, president emeritus
of OLLI, and longtime members Rick and Barb Whiting. As
usually happens at OLLI events, a fascinating conversation
followed.
Though only one year old in OLLI member-years, Carmen
Berrios has already explored Twin Cities ethnic markets, tried
out the brain/balance gym, learned about autonomous regions
Insights Spring 2014
of Spain, and enjoyed Ethnic Dining events. Impressed with the
breadth of OLLI’s learning choices, Carmen is looking forward
to attending more courses when she returns from a March
visit with her parents and a brother who live in Florida. On her
agenda are courses on South Africa, theater, and opera.
Retirement Advice –
What’s Yours?
by Susan Mundale
OLLI member Connie Fournier gave a retirement party for a
friend a while ago. She invited some of the “best retired folks”
she knows—the OLLI Qwesters biking/hiking group. Here
are a few of their suggestions about retirement:
• Don’t spend time worrying about how you will fill up the
time. And be okay with doing whatever you like to do. It
can be seeing movies in the afternoon, reading a book
in the middle of the day, or going places you’ve always
wanted to go.
• For the first year, say “no” to all requests for commitments
and “yes” to the fun things you feel like doing.
This energetic woman, a U.S. citizen of Hispanic descent,
grew up as an “Army brat,” living first in Puerto Rico, then in
Germany. Science and social studies were favorite subjects
in her Puerto Rican grade school run by American nuns and
in the Department of Defense high school she attended in
Germany.
Following marriage and the births of three children,
Carmen moved to New York City and earned a Master’s degree
in bilingual education. She describes that experience as “a big
change for me and my children.” As an elementary teacher,
Carmen taught her students in both Spanish and English until
they became proficient in English and moved into mainstream
learning.
A move to Minnesota in 2002 led to Carmen’s teaching first
in St. Paul and then with Spanish Immersion programs in St.
Louis Park and in NE Minneapolis. A friend from her church,
OLLI member Bridget Doyle, encouraged Carmen to join OLLI.
Bridget must have known that her active friend had those
quintessential OLLI attributes...curiosity, broad interests, and
involvement in active learning.
Carmen Berrios—always learning, always teaching:
OLLI is enriched by your presence!
• Practice the 4-3-2-1 plan:
- 4 exercise sessions a week
- 3 social activities
- 2 educational sessions, whatever this may means
to you—reading, or attending classes or lectures.
Learn something!
- 1 spiritual pursuit—again, whatever this means to you
This is a great way to lead a balanced, productive life!
• Before you retire, get a few things set up ahead of time
so you have some structure to your life. A couple of
volunteer jobs in which you contribute and/or learn
something are good. Keep everything else open to
spontaneous things that are fun and challenging.
• Go outside—and keep moving!
• Life is short, so eat dessert first.
What retirement advice could you add? Email your
suggestions to [email protected].
www.cce.umn.edu/Osher-Lifelong-Learning-Institute/
OLLI Qwesters facing
one of the challanges
on the open road.
page 5
P
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Special Interest
Groups
OLLI Special Interest Groups (SIGs)
meet regularly year round (except
where noted) to provide enriching
opportunities beyond the OLLI
classroom. Members are encouraged
to start new SIGs as a way to meet
others who share a similar interest.
For additional information, contact
the co-chairs for guidelines: Florence
Ostrom, 612-226-5085, fostrom@gmail.
com; Nancy Garland, 612-850-1495,
[email protected].
Contact the group coordinator(s) listed
below to join or for more details on a
specific SIG.
BOOK CLUBS:
Fiction/St. Paul East: 3rd Monday, 1:00
p.m., Subtext Book Store, Blair Arcade,
165 Western Ave., St. Paul. Sharon
Thronson, 612-707-9955, [email protected];
Georgia O’Hara, 651-489-9096,
[email protected].
Nonfiction/St. Paul: 3rd Thursday,
2:30 p.m., St. Paul JCC, 1375 St. Paul Ave.,
St. Paul. Connie Waterous, 651-291-1610,
[email protected].
Dickens Book Club: 3rd Monday,
2:00–4:00 p.m., Ebenezer Park
Apartments, 2700 Park Ave., Minneapolis.
Elizabeth Young, 612-545-5059,
[email protected].
American History Book Club: 1st
Thursday, 1:30 p.m., Black Bear Crossings,
1360 N. Lexington Pkwy., St. Paul.
Chuck Nelson, [email protected]; Jack
Christenson, [email protected].
page 6
NOTE CHANGE:
Nature and Environment Book Club: 4th
Saturday, 10:00-11:30 a.m., 6708 Cornelia
Dr., Edina. Jeannie Hanson, 952-913-1245,
[email protected].
Mortimer Adler Great Books Discussion:
1:30 p.m. on a Friday in Jan., Mar., May,
July, Sep., and Nov. Contact leader for
specific dates. Southdale Library, 7001
York Ave S., Edina. David Mesenbourg,
952-831-0768, [email protected].
Mysteries: 1st Tuesday, 2:30 p.m.,
St. Paul JCC, 1375 St. Paul Ave., St. Paul.
Janice Walsh, 651-483-4425,
[email protected].
Women’s Topics Book Club: Fiction and
nonfiction related to women’s history and
concerns, 2nd Tuesday, 1:30 p.m., St. Paul
JCC, 1375 St. Paul Ave., St. Paul. Linda
Feist, 651-457-5121, linda.feist@comcast.
net; Deborah Tabert, 952-831-1703,
[email protected].
BRIDGE/East Metro: 2nd and 4th
Tuesday, 6:00 p.m., Coffee Grounds, 1579
Hamline Ave. N., Falcon Heights. Kate
Anderson, 651-488-9061,
[email protected].
BRIDGE/West Metro: 1st and 3rd
Monday, 2:30 p.m., Perkins, Hwy. 394 at
Louisiana Ave., St. Louis Park. Dennis
West, 612-377-5985, one2avenue@
hotmail.com; Fran Felix, 612-378-5214,
[email protected].
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY: 1st and 3rd
Mondays, 2:00 p.m., Loretta Gagnon
Room at Black Bear Crossings, 1360 N.
Lexington Pkwy., St. Paul. Phil Dahlen,
612-210-8734, [email protected]
DISCUSSION ROUNDTABLE: Topics from
local to global issues. All positions are
open for discussion. 2nd and 4th Monday,
12:30 p.m., St. Paul JCC, 1375 St. Paul Ave.,
St. Paul. Vince Trotta, 952-688-7216,
[email protected].
Like us on Facebook: OLLI Minnesota
EDUCATIONAL DISCUSSION GROUP/
Bloomington: This is an assembly of
thinkers—an open discussion on various
topics. Last Monday of the month, 1:00
p.m. Does not meet in July, August or
December. Creekside Community Center,
9801 Penn Ave. S., Bloomington. Osman
Elhadary, 952-831-0511,
[email protected].
ELDERWISE INVESTMENT CLUB (must
be OLLI member to belong): 4th Thursday
every other month, 10:00 a.m., Wells
Fargo Bank Community Room, 2600
E. Franklin Ave., Minneapolis. Howard
Guthmann, 651-222-1801,
[email protected].
JAZZ APPRECIATION/The OLLI Cats:
4th Friday, 12:30 p.m. (3rd Friday in May
and Nov., no meeting in July or Dec.)
University Lutheran Church of Hope,
601 13th Ave. SE, Minneapolis. Andrea
Canter, [email protected].
KNITTING/East Metro: 4th Wednesday,
1:30 p.m., Black Bear Crossings, 1360
N. Lexington Pkwy., St. Paul. Jeanette
Sobania, 651-295-0852, sobaniaj@aol.
com; Ginny Mahlum, 651-489-7750,
[email protected].
KNITTING/West Metro: 2nd Wednesday,
1:00 p.m., Shir Tikvah Congregation, 1360
West Minnehaha Pkwy, Minneapolis.
(occasional meeting in yarn shops.)
Marian Eisner, 952-884-3282,
[email protected]; Nancy Garland,
612-850-1495, [email protected].
MEMOIR WRITING: 3rd Thursday,
1:00 p.m., Sept.-May, 12:15 p.m., JuneAug. Franklin Library, 1314 E. Franklin
Ave., Minneapolis. Knowles Dougherty,
612-874-9357,
[email protected]
Insights Spring 2014
NEW YORKER DISCUSSION GROUP:
Thursdays, 2:00 p.m., Washburn Library,
5244 Lyndale Ave. S., Minneapolis.
Florence Ostrom, 612-226-5085,
[email protected].
PADDLING Kayaking/Canoeing:
Apr.-Sep. Planning meeting 10:00 a.m.,
Thurs., Apr. 10, at Gigi’s Café, 822 W. 36th
St., Minneapolis. Nell Bean, 612-432-6457,
[email protected].
TRAVEL EXCHANGE: OLLI members
exchange travel experiences and
recommendations, and find travel
partners by email. Ron Tabar,
651-690-0604, [email protected].
NORSK FJORDS, FOLKLORE, and FOOD:
Norwegian Fiskeboller luncheon and
lecture open to all interested in Norway
and its food, customs, and cultural
history. Thursdays, three times a year.
Mindekirken Norwegian Lutheran
Memorial Church. To be placed on
mailing list contact Odell Bjerkness,
612-866-3699, [email protected]
or Karen Boyum, 952-920-3042,
[email protected].
PLAY READING: 2nd Friday, 11:00 a.m.,
Sep.- June, no meeting July or Aug.
Franklin Library, 1314 E. Franklin Ave.,
Minneapolis. Elizabeth Young,
612-545-5059, [email protected];
James Hart, 612-729-5704,
[email protected].
TWIN CITIES CHAMBER MUSIC:
Members will receive a list of chamber
music groups and contact information
for schedules. Occasional events will be
hosted—members meet at the concert
and go to a nearby restaurant afterwards
or vice versa. Knowles Dougherty, 612874-9357, [email protected].
NEW! NOTABLE GOVERNMENT
LEADERS: A video/discussion group,
1st Monday, 2:30 p.m. Lounge at Loren
on Park, 2625 Park Ave. S., Minneapolis.
Elizabeth Young, 612-545-5059,
[email protected].
OLLI ARTISTS: This group regularly
exhibits works of art that include
paintings of all media and photographs.
A new exhibit at Central Lutheran
Church of Minneapolis is planned for late
spring. We encourage artists at all levels
to participate. Peter Sammond, interim
coordinator, 952-935-6016,
[email protected].
SCIENTIFIC AMERICAN DISCUSSION
GROUP: 4th Friday, 1:00 p.m., Southdale
Library, Helen Young Meeting Room,
7001 York Ave. S., Edina. Jerry and
Lois Edwards, 952-942-7232,
[email protected].
SCRABBLE®: Players at all levels are
welcome to join us. Thursdays, 1:00 p.m.,
Edina Senior Center, 5280 Grandview Sq.,
Edina. Marlyce Helm, 612-926-8178, tt237.
[email protected].
SOCIAL DANCE: Members are emailed
a weekly calendar of local dances and
special events, exchange interests, and
attend dance venues together. Yeun Chou.
651-738-1506, [email protected].
The following groups are FULL and not
accepting new members at this time:
BOOK CLUBS:
Fiction/Nonfiction/Arden Hills Fiction/St. Paul
Mysteries
Nonfiction/Mpls
SPANISH CONVERSATION/East
WHEN MEMORIES SPEAK
If any of these full SIGs represent your
interest, we encourage you to start a new
group. For help or more information,
Florence Ostrom and Nancy Garland’s
contacts are at the top of the previous page. OLLI QWESTERS: Biking/Hiking/
Snowshoeing: Biking, Wednesdays,
May-Sep., Nell Bean, 612-432-6457,
[email protected]. Hiking and
snowshoeing, Wednesdays, Oct.-April,
Judy Remington, 612-377-4491,
[email protected].
NEW! OLLI Singers: 2nd Thursday,
1:00-3:00 p.m., Walker Place, 3701 Bryant
Ave. S., Minneapolis. Jenzi Silverman,
[email protected], 612-280-2665.
Members of the Digital Photography SIG
www.cce.umn.edu/Osher-Lifelong-Learning-Institute/
page 7
P
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Keeping Up
with OLLI News
by Sylvia A. Johnson
OLLI at the University of Minnesota is a large and active
organization. We have more than 1,200 members, a Board
of Directors, an Executive Committee, 9 other standing
committees, and 30 Special Interest Groups. Almost every
week, committees are meeting to plan courses and activities,
set budgets, and work on special projects. The Board of
Directors and the Executive Committee meet in alternate
months to discuss policies, issues, and general plans for the
future.
It’s not easy for OLLI members to keep up with all that is
happening in our organization. Insights, one important news
source, publishes not only the all-important Course List but
also articles about people and events, but it comes out only four
times a year. The Up-to-Dater, which is e-mailed to all members,
provides information about changes in courses, upcoming
events, people in the news, and other timely issues.
A new electronic means of communication, the Memo to
Members, was created in 2013 to keep OLLI members informed
during the transition following the retirement of the Executive
Director. Many members reported that they found the Memos
informative and reassuring during this period of change.
The Board of Directors and the Communications
Committee have decided to continue the publication of the
Memo to Members as a means of keeping the membership
informed about the day-to-day business of our complex
organization. The first issue of the new series of Memos was
published in January 2014. Instead of OLLI in Transition, these
memos focus on OLLI at Work. Using the same “bullet” format,
they present brief reports on topics discussed and decisions
made at Board meetings and committee meetings. The Memo
to Members will be published regularly following the bimonthly
Board meetings.
OLLI members will continue to receive the Up-to-Dater for
bulletins on matters that need immediate attention. The UTD
also includes information about volunteer opportunities and
notices about individual OLLI members who are in the news.
Death notices are also included. If you have such news items
that you would like to see published, please let the OLLI office
know. (The UTD does not accept notices involving sales or
personal announcements.)
page 8
Like us on Facebook: OLLI Minnesota
If you have questions or comments about the Memo to
Members and other OLLI communications, please contact
Sylvia Johnson, chair of the Communications Committee,
at [email protected].
Spring Forum
OLLI’s 2014 Spring Forum will focus on the large Somali
community in the Twin Cities. The forum will be held on
March 19 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Safari Restaurant and
Event Center, 3010 4th Ave. S. (corner of 4th and Lake St.)
Minneapolis. A panel of speakers will be featured, and
refreshments will include a sampling of Somali food. You
will have received an invitation—reservations are required.
OLLI bird-watchers look for spring migrants.
Insights Spring 2014
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Courses by Topic
90/91 Ongoing
14 Health/Personal Enrichment
18 Performing Arts and Media
9000 Ethnic Dining
pg. 10
14005 Memory Improvement
pg. 12
18092 Fine Art Photography
9101 Tuesday with a Scholar
pg. 18
14016 Honoring Choices
pg. 11
18108 Social Media: Practice and Critique pg. 25
9102 Afternoon with the Liberal Arts
pg. 19
14021 The Ageless Spirit
pg. 17
18109 20th Century Music Appreciation
pg. 16
9104 Books You Don’t Have Time to Read pg. 17
14022 Progress Report on Health Care
pg. 12
9105 Books You Don’t Have Time to Read pg. 20
14023 Creating the Life That You Want
pg. 16
18110 Russian Classical Music
20th Century
pg. 22
18111 The Magic Flute
pg. 15
18112 Agnes of God
pg. 14
18113 Mass in the Time of War and
Lenten Cantata
pg. 14
18114 Gypsy
pg. 14
18115 Children of the Blues
pg. 16
18116 VocalEssence
pg. 13
18117 Hamlet
pg. 14
9109 OLLI About Town
pg. 23
10 Art and Architecture
10008 Western Culture Art
15 History
pg. 24
10021 Antiques and Art
pg. 16
10022 The Art of Norway
pg. 19
10044 Artpolitik
pg. 23
10045 MIA Spring Tour
pg. 20
10046 Fruitful and Multiplying
pg. 18
10047 Elegant Origami
pg. 10
10048 Collections and the Art of Museums pg. 10
11 Economics/Business/Finance
11002 Thinking about Capitalism, Part 1
14024 Exploring Spirituality and Healing pg. 20
pg. 17
11011 Income and Wealth Disparity
in the U.S.
pg. 15
11012 Behavioral Economic Issues pg. 21
12 Film
15016 Lakewood Cemetery
pg. 22
15090 The African Trans-Atlantic
Diaspora
pg. 22
15091 African History into the
21st Century
pg. 20
15092 Allied Deception in WWII
pgs. 19, 21
pg. 23
18118 Detroit
pg. 14
pg. 21
18119 Making Documentaries
pg. 12
15094 Oral History Workshop
pg. 12
19 Philosophy/Religion/Spirituality
15095 Mysteries of the Middle Ages
pg. 17
15096 Vikings in the Land of Franks
pg. 25
15097 America in Revolt
pg. 19
15098 Beyond the 2nd Reconstruction
in America
pg. 23
15099 Zecharia Sitchin/Beginning
of Humanity
15093 Civil War beyond Battles
and Generals
19030 René Girard’s Mimetic Theory
pg. 26
19045 A Sociological Lens on Religion
pg. 22
19046 Christianity in Crisis
pg. 18
19047 Plato’s Republic: Books VI-X
pg. 15
19048 The Knowledge Drive
pg. 15
pg. 24
19049 The World that Shaped the
New Testament
pg. 16
pg. 18
19050 Religion and Science
pg. 21
12028 Films from the Middle East
pg. 26
15100 Challenges of Freedom in
American History
12029 North Star—Minnesota on Film
pg. 20
15101 The Presidents: FDR, Part 3
pg. 18
12030 Darker than Night, Part 3
pg. 15
15102 The Rise of the West
pg. 23
12031 Who We Were: 1862-1914
pg. 24
12032 Flicks on Wednesday
pg. 20
12033 Music in Film
pg. 16
16 Literature and Writing
20 Science/Technology/Computers
20046 Weird Mathematics and Physics
pg. 14
20047 Albert Einstein
pg. 24
16031 Special: The Law in Literature
pg. 11
20048 Evolution: Concepts
and Controversies
pg. 22
13 Government/Current Affairs
16047 Proust’s Madeline: Reading
“Combray”
pg. 23
20049 Manhattan Project Revisited
pg. 21
13006 Libraries in the 21st Century
pg. 20
16048 Reading Shakespeare’s Othello
pg. 12
20050 MN Geology
pg. 21
13032 The Happy Warrior
pg. 11
16049 The Women of Troy
pg. 25
13040 American Exceptionalism
pg. 25
16050 Memory and Story:
A Writing Workshop
pg. 12
13041 Affordable Housing in the
Twin Cities
pg. 10
13042 The Juvenile Justice System
pg. 25
13043 Criminal Justice in MN
pg. 23
13044 Peoples of Mexico and the U.S.
pg. 25
17 Nature and Environment
17003 Ecology of Minneapolis Parklands pg. 24
21 Social Studies
21026 Exploring MN College Campuses
pg. 11
21027 Exploring the Enneagram
pg. 18
21028 Understanding the
Re-Formed School
pg. 13
21029 Leadership—If I’d Only Known
pg. 11
17012 Hands-on Botany
pg. 11
17013 Basics of Ecology
pg. 10
17014 Spring Birding
pg. 13
17031 Our Renewable Energy Future
pg. 17
17032 North Shore Natural History
at Naniboujou
pg. 13
22038 People and Culture of South Korea pg. 19
17033 Cooperation in Nature
pg. 10
22039 Two Years in Turkmenistan
22 World Cultures
22036 Voices from around the World
pg. 17
22037 Making Italians
pg. 22
pg. 13
17034 The Upper Mississippi River Valley pg. 24
www.cce.umn.edu/Osher-Lifelong-Learning-Institute/
page 9
P
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Spring 2014 Course Guide
March 24–May 16
Register online starting at 9:00 a.m. on March 11 at www.campusce.net/olliumn/account/signin.aspx
All information in this catalog is subject to change. Please check the OLLI website for course closures and cancellations.
All changes/updates will be sent out via email through the OLLI newsletter (the Up-to-Dater).
COURSES ARE LISTED BY CATEGORY:
Special and Bookend courses may meet outside of the regular
8-week schedule; please pay particular attention to meeting
dates listed. All other courses, listed by day of the week, meet
for the entire 8-week session starting the week of March 24,
unless otherwise noted at the end of the course description.
See How to Register on page 27.
SPECIAL COURSES
DO NOT count toward LIMITED
selections, though they may have size limits. Courses are
listed by day of the week.
13041 Special: Affordable Housing in the Twin Cities
Throughout the Twin Cities, civic-minded housing developers
are providing housing opportunities for low- and moderateincome families and single people. This OLLI course will
examine affordable housing efforts by organizations including
Habitat for Humanity, Project for Pride in Living, and
Common Bond. We will visit affordable housing developments
throughout the metropolitan area. Course participants will be
notified about the meeting site for the first class session.
Seats: 25
Iric Nathanson, OLLI member and community development
project coordinator
5 sessions, Mondays, Mar. 24–Apr. 21, 10:00–11:30 a.m.,
Various sites throughout the Twin Cities
17013 Special: Basics of Ecology
Have you ever wondered why dandelions don’t grow in the
woods or why some natural areas are forests and others
prairie? Have you ever been curious about the many ways in
which plants and animals interact with each other or how even
fungi fit into the bigger picture of life on the planet? Geared
toward the layperson, this course will cover all these questions
and more. Seats: 8
Course Fee: $30 due at registration
Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden Naturalist Staff
3 sessions, Thursdays, Apr. 24–May 8, 1:30–3:00 p.m.,
Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden, Minneapolis
page 10
Like us on Facebook: OLLI Minnesota
10048 Special: Collections and the Art of Museums
In preparation for touring the exhibit at the Museum of Russian
Art, this lecture will examine the great Russian collectors, the
reasons for their collections, and the museums that resulted.
There is a $7.00 entrance fee for the museum. Seats: 100
Carol Veldman Rudie, coordinator of docent education at
The Museum of Russian Art and leader of tours to Russia
2 sessions, Lecture Mon., Apr. 7, 10–11:30 a.m., and Tours Thu.,
Apr. 10, 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Fri., Apr. 11, 10:30 a.m. and
12:30 p.m., or Sat., Apr. 12 10:30 a.m. Lecture: Mayflower Church,
106 E. Diamond Lake Rd., Minneapolis. Tour: The Museum of
Russian Art, 5500 Stevens Ave., Minneapolis
17033 Special: Cooperation in Nature
Nature is not always “red in tooth and claw.” This course
explores some of the many, often surprising, examples of
cooperation among and between plants, insects, birds, fungi,
mammals, even bacteria. No biology background is needed.
Seats: 10
Diana Thottungal, former botany instructor at the City
University of New York, interpretive naturalist at Eloise Butler
Wildflower Garden
3 sessions, Wednesdays, Mar. 26–Apr. 16, 12:30–2:00 p.m.,
Calvary Center Co-op, 7600 Golden Valley Rd., Golden Valley
10047 Special: Elegant Origami
I’ve been an origamist for over 50 years and think it is time to
share. All figures made in this course will involve a single sheet
of square paper, no cuts, no judgment calls needed for placing
the folds, and only normal dexterity. Materials Fee: $3 due at
registration. Seats: 10
Diana Thottungal, origamist, OLLI course leader
4 sessions, Wednesdays, Mar. 26–Apr. 16, 10:15–11:45 a.m.,
Calvary Center Co-op, 7600 Golden Valley Rd., Golden Valley
9000 Special: Ethnic Dining
This group wanders near and far seeking interesting cuisine.
Join them for lunch or dinner and good conversation. Group
members take turns hosting events at local ethnic restaurants,
usually on weekdays. Dining schedules are e-mailed or mailed
to participants one week before the first event. Seats: OPEN
Ron and Marghe Tabar, coordinators and OLLI members
Course Guide Spring 2014 March 24–May 16
21026 Special: Exploring MN College Campuses:
Carleton and St. Olaf
We will travel by bus to Northfield to spend the day exploring
the campuses of Carleton and St. Olaf—the two liberal arts
colleges that call this small community on the Cannon River
their home. Lunch will be at the Ole Store Restaurant in
Northfield. A course fee includes lunch and transportation cost.
Further details will be provided for class participants. Course
Fee: $46.00 due at registration. Seats: 30
Marghe Tabar, retired school media generalist, enthusiastic
OLLI member who likes to explore outside the classroom!
1 session, Tuesday, May 20, 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Bus will pick up/drop off at the U of M golf course driving range,
2147-2181 Larpenteur Ave., Roseville
17012 Special: Hands-on Botany
A basic understanding of botany is an essential tool for
gardeners and for those who love the outdoors. Where better to
learn than at the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden? With nearly
600 plant species in the Golden Valley preserve, this living
outdoor classroom is perfect for hands-on exploration. Join us
for this three-week series and dig into the delights of botany.
Geared toward the layperson, each class will consist of lab
sessions, field study, and classroom discussions. Seats: 10
Course Fee: $30 due at registration
Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden Naturalist Staff
3 sessions, Tuesdays, Apr. 22–May 6, 1:30–3:00 p.m., Eloise Butler
Wildflower Garden, Minneapolis
13032 Special: The Happy Warrior
This special session will look at the life and work of Minnesota’s
famous son, senator, and vice president, Hubert H. Humphrey.
The career and life of HHH will be discussed, and there will be
a showing of the documentary Hubert H. Humphrey: The Art of
the Possible. Coffee and treats will be served! Seats: 50
George Farr, former state DFL chairman, 1961-1968; former
chairman of the 14-state Midwest Democratic Conference,
1966-1968; Virginia Lanegran, M.A. American Studies,
U of M, and staff member in Humphrey’s administration
Section 1, 1 session, Thursday, Apr. 10, 10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.,
St. Paul JCC, 1375 St. Paul Ave., St. Paul
Section 2, 1 session, Thursday, May 1, 10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.,
The Legacy of St. Anthony, 2540 Kenzie Terrace, St. Anthony
14016 Special: Honoring Choices: Beginning a Family
Advance Care Conversation
This two-part series will guide participants in thinking
through their individual values and wishes concerning endof-life care and will discuss ways to initiate conversations
among family members. Participants will become proactive in
completing a health care directive that reflects their beliefs and
wishes. The course is offered in both Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Seats: 25
Cindy Dubansky, Honoring Choices MN Ambassador,
Twin Cities Medical Society, and the president/founder of
Care Management Solutions
Section 1, 2 sessions, Fridays, Apr. 18 and 25, 10:00–11:30 a.m.,
Edina Senior Center, 5280 Grandview Sq., Edina
Section 2, 2 sessions, Mondays, Mar. 31 and Apr. 7, 10:00–11:30
a.m., Sholom Home East, 740 Kay Ave., St. Paul
21029 Special: If I’d Only Known Then
What I Know Now about Leadership
Reflecting on our lives, we realize the wealth of insights
we’ve taken from our professional and personal experiences.
Wouldn’t it have been helpful if some experienced person had
led us to those insights earlier? Many of you are undoubtedly
sharing your experiences, or thinking about sharing, with your
children, grandchildren, and others in your social network and
volunteer organizations. But are we skilled at what to share and
how we do it? Wouldn’t we like to be more effective at sharing
what we’ve learned, particularly about leadership? This course
will draw on the experiences of the group and on research
conducted about effective leadership. Seats: 30
Ronald Bennett is the founding dean of the School of
Engineering at the University of St. Thomas and author of
Leadership for Engineers
2 sessions, Mondays, Apr. 7 and 14, 12:30–2:00 p.m., Sabes JCC,
4330 S. Cedar Lake Rd., St. Louis Park
16031 Special: The Law in Literature
In this class, we will read and compare Harper Lee’s To Kill a
Mockingbird and Albert Camus’ The Stranger. We will examine
the authors’ very different literary styles and techniques,
looking at such characteristics as genre, voice, and point of
view. These famous novels also provide an opportunity to
contrast our familiar common-law trial system portrayed in
Mockingbird with the less familiar civil-law trial procedures we
observe in The Stranger. We will also study the evolution of the
jury to help us understand the differences between the two trial
systems. Seats: 15
Michael E. Murphy, adjunct professor, University of St. Thomas
Law School
3 sessions, Tuesdays, Apr. 8, 22, and 29, 10:00–11:30 a.m.,
Unity Church Unitarian, 732 Holly Avenue., St. Paul
www.cce.umn.edu/Osher-Lifelong-Learning-Institute/
page 11
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
18119 Special: Making Documentaries, Telling Stories
This two-session class, which will be divided into two sections,
will take place at Twin Cities Public Television. Each session
will include an active discussion and a “backstage” look at the
creation of a documentary presented by a TPT producer or
executive producer, who will show clips and lead a discussion
of works currently in production. Participants will provide
feedback and offer ideas during the seminar, and will be the
first to view a “pre-premiere” rough cut of a new documentary.
Following the first session will be a brief optional tour of the
TPT studios, from 11:30 to noon. Seats: 20
Tom Trow, executive producer, Minnesota Productions
& Partnerships, TPT
Daniel Bergin, senior producer, Minnesota Productions
& Partnerships, TPT
Section 1, Fridays, Mar. 28 and Apr. 4, 10:00–11:30 a.m.
Section 2, Fridays, Apr. 11 and 18, 10:00–11:30 a.m.
Twin Cities Public Television, Inc., 172 East 4th St., St. Paul
16050 Special: Memory and Story: A Writing Workshop
Do you have many interesting memories, but aren’t sure what
to do with them? We’ll explore memory, practice writing, and
discuss examples from published works. This is a hands-on
writing workshop. Whether you want to share your childhood
memories with the kids or write a publishable memoir, you’ll
get ample practice with no-stakes writing exercises. You’ll leave
the course with tools that can be used every time you sit down
to spin memory straw into story gold. Seats: 20
Alida Winternheimer is a published author who received two
Pushcart Prize nominations in 2013. She is also a teacher and
writing coach with an MFA in writing from Hamline University.
Find out more at www.alidawinternheimer.com.
4 sessions, Tuesdays, Mar. 25–Apr. 15, 12:30–2:00 p.m.,
Edina Senior Center, 5280 Grandview Sq., Edina
14005 Special: Memory Improvement
This course will cover simple techniques for memorizing the
things you want to remember. By participating in Dr. Lee’s
interactive seminar presentation, you’ll understand how the
synapses in your brain are working. You’ll learn to use your
brain more efficiently by creating mental pictures to memorize
facts, jokes, numbers, things to do, names, and everything you
would like to keep in your mind. This technique wil improve your
memory tremendously, and you’ll be amazed at how much you can
memorize. Participants in earlier classes accomplished stunning
80–90 percent in remembering facts and names. Seats: 10
Dr. Frederick B. Lee is a teacher, speaker, entrepreneur, and
now happily retired
3 sessions, Mondays, Apr. 9–30 (no class on Apr. 23),
9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Richfield Community Center, 7000 Nicollet
Ave. S., Richfield
page 12
Like us on Facebook: OLLI Minnesota
15094 Special: Oral History Workshop
Oral history is often defined as collecting first-person
information about events or ways of life; it is done in an
interview setting with a narrator and an interviewer. But an
oral history interview doesn’t just happen. In this half-day
workshop, we will cover oral history planning steps in the
morning and will review and discuss interviewing techniques
in the afternoon. The course will be helpful for those interested
in doing oral history projects in communities such as churches
or civic organizations, as well as for people recording family
stories. Each participant will receive a short course manual.
Seats: 30
Barb Sommer is a long-time public and oral historian. She is
the co-author of several nationally and internationally known
publications on oral history, including The Oral History Manual,
2nd ed. (2009) and the new Community Oral History Toolkit
(2013).
1 session, Friday, Apr. 4, 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m., Sholom Home East,
740 Kay Ave., St. Paul
14022 Special: Progress Report on Health Care
We are now in the midst of the implementation of the
Affordable Care Act, an historic and controversial reform of the
way we Americans deliver and pay for health care. The rollout
has run into significant problems, especially in Information
Technology. Steve Parente, U of M professor and director of the
Medical Industry Leadership Institute and frequent speaker
on health-care issues, will provide an update on what has
happened and the prospects looking into the future. Seats: 80
Al Trostel, convener, OLLI member
1 session, Friday, May 16, 12:30–2:00 p.m., The Legacy of St.
Anthony, 2540 Kenzie Terrace, St. Anthony
16048 Special: Reading Shakespeare’s Othello
“Of all Shakespeare’s tragedies,” wrote A.C. Bradley, “Othello
is the most painfully exciting and the most terrible. From the
moment when the temptation of the hero begins, the reader’s
heart and mind are held in a vise.” Together we will look
closely at this great play about good and evil, race and gender.
Participants may want to see the Guthrie Theater’s production
of the play before, during, or after the course. Prior to the first
class, please read Act One; the Folger edition is recommended.
Seats: 20
Pat Strandness, former literature teacher, Blake School
3 sessions, Tuesdays, Mar. 25–Apr. 8, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Calhoun
Isles, 3151 Dean Ct., Minneapolis
Course Guide Spring 2014 March 24–May 16
17014 Special: Spring Birding
Join a Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board naturalist
for a bird-watching series along the Mississippi River and
urban lakes and creeks. Park Board Environmental Education
Coordinator and birder Jamie McBride will guide you as you
learn about and attempt to spot the many different species
of birds, warblers and other songbirds in particular, found
in Minneapolis during the spring migration season. The first
session will meet at Mississippi River Gorge park at 36th Street
East and West River Parkway. Free parking is available on site.
Subsequent dates will be chosen weekly based on where birds
are being seen. Course Fee: $25.00 due at registration. Seats: 15
Jamie McBride, Interim Naturalist Program Administrator
4 sessions, Thursdays May 8–29, 7:00–8:30 a.m., Various parks
throughout Minneapolis
22039 Special: Two Years in Turkmenistan
Jane and Jack Bardon served in the U.S. Peace Corps in Central
Asia for 27 months from 2003 to 2005. They have many stories
to tell and photographs to share of life in a desert village in
Turkmenistan, one of the most rigid totalitarian nations in
the world. Past volunteers often say that “the Peace Corps is a
life-changing experience.” The Bardons learned that is true for
retirees as well as those right out of college. Seats: 60
Jane Bardon, retired information technology professional, U of
M, and Jack Bardon, emeritus professor of psychiatry, U of M
1 session, Thursday Mar. 27, 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., The Legacy of
St. Anthony, 2540 Kenzie Terrace, St. Anthony
21028 Special: Understanding the Re-Formed School
The course will focus on the structure of the current K-12
educational system and what it will be when it is Re-Formed.
The achievement gap, governance, role of technology, vs.
brick and mortar, race to the top, and finance will be a major
focus. Current emphasis on teacher pay and evaluation, early
childhood education, non-licensed experts, and other trends
will be also be analyzed. The course is a seminar so all will be
asked to contribute to the discussion. Seats: 30
Brian E. Boettcher, Ed.D. professor emeritus of School
Administration and Policy, former teacher and administrator;
Donald J. Christensen, Ed.D. educator emeritus, adjunct faculty
member, former school administrator, corporate trainer
4 sessions, Fridays, Apr. 2–25, 10:15–11:45 a.m., Lake Harriet
United Methodist Church, 4901 Chowen Ave. S., Minneapolis
17032 Special: “Up North”: North Shore Natural History at
Naniboujou Lodge
Learn about the North Shore’s natural history while exploring
it at and around the Naniboujou Lodge. We’ll see the first
wildflowers and the evening’s Summer Triangle of stars, fresh
spring fungi and volcanic rocks, eagles and bright mosses,
and more. Class will be held at the lodge each morning for
two hours, followed by at least one optional guided walk and
a foray into Grand Marais or Grand Portage each full day. Fee
includes: four nights lodging, four dinners, four breakfasts.
Fee does not include: five lunches (including your lunches
for trip up and back), and transportation. Transportation
requirements: Volunteer drivers are needed for course which
includes transport up north and back, as well as to the optional
trailheads and tours. If you’ll be one of the drivers, contact
the instructor (address below) immediately with both your
email and your home address. (She’ll select your passengers
from those living nearby.) If you’ll be one of the passengers,
also contact the instructor (addresses below), mailing her
a check for $55 made out to the U of M. She’ll let you know
where you’ll be going to get your ride, give OLLI the checks,
and direct their payment to the drivers. This is in addition to
the course fee. Deadline to register: March 13, 2014, 12:00 p.m.
Deadline for passengers’ checks for $55 to reach the instructor:
March 18, 2014. Once registered, you’ll receive more detailed
information. No refunds unless the course is cancelled due to
low enrollment. Seats: Maximum: 24. Minimum: 12.
5 sessions, May 1, 2014 (9:00 a.m.)–May 5, 2014 (early evening)
Naniboujou Lodge. Section 1: $264 per person double occupancy
Section 2: $329 per person single occupancy
Jeannie Hanson, natural history author, OLLI member,
[email protected] (952) 913-1245, 6708 Cornelia Drive,
Edina, MN 55435
18116 Special: VocalEssence: Tchaikovsky for Voices
The final concert in the 45th season of VocalEssence will focus
on Tchaikovsky’s great choral work The Divine Liturgy of St.
John Chrysostom. Since the beginning of VocalEssence, Philip
Brunelle has presented hundreds of choral pieces that have
not been heard before in Minnesota; this work is the latest.
Although Tchaikovsky composed a great deal of choral music,
he is known best for his symphonies. Come to hear Maestro
Brunelle talk about the composer’s history and discover the
beauty of his choral music. Seats: 50
Ann Buran, convener, OLLI member
1 Session: Tuesday, April 22, 2:15–3:45 pm
Plymouth Congregational Church, 1900 Nicollet Ave. S.,
Minneapolis
Performance: Sunday, April 27, 2014, at 3 p.m., Contact Box Office
for tickets. Benson Great Hall, Bethel University, 3900 Bethel
Drive, St. Paul
www.cce.umn.edu/Osher-Lifelong-Learning-Institute/
page 13
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
18113 Special: War and Peace: Franz Joseph Haydn’s Mass
in the Time of War and Patrick Hadley’s Lenten Cantata
(A Cantata of Peace)
The Masterworks Chorale of Augsburg is celebrating its 20th
anniversary in 2014! Its spring concert entitled “War and
Peace” explores messages of war and peace found in music.
The featured work is English composer Patrick Hadley’s Lenten
Cantata. This concert marks the 50th anniversary of Hadley’s
death and will be a U.S. premiere performance. In addition
to the Lenten Cantata, the course will explore the power of
hidden messages about war (and peace!) in Haydn’s Mass. The
concert will be Saturday, April 5, 2014, at 5 p.m., at Central
Lutheran Church in downtown Minneapolis. Admission is free;
a goodwill offering will be taken. Seats: 20
Dr. Peter Hendrickson is director of choral activities and
associate professor of music at Augsburg College. He is the
founder and conductor of the Masterworks Chorale and
Orchestra.
1 session, Friday, Mar. 14, 12:30–2:00 p.m., Augsburg College, 2211
Riverside Ave. S., Music Building, Room M-22, Minneapolis
20046 Special: Weird Mathematics and Physics
in the Real World
No math or physics required. We will explore the geometry
of warped space, the discovery of chaotic mathematical and
physical systems, and the hypnotically beautiful fractal forms
that describe them and learn the answers to these questions:
What did a Greek, a German, a Russian, and a Hungarian do to
help Einstein explain gravity? What do laser pointers and the
Isle Royale wolf population have in common? How are clouds
and broccoli related? Why is it impossible to perfectly forecast
the weather? Seats: 40
Louis Lavoie is a retired physicist with interests in making
science comprehensible and fun.
4 sessions, Tuesdays, Mar. 25–Apr. 15, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Covenant
Village, 5800 St. Croix Ave. N., Golden Valley
BOOKENDS
promote local performances and exhibits with
pre- and post-show discussions. Participants are expected to
see the show (or read the text) before the last class.
These DO NOT count toward LIMITED selections.
18112 Bookend: Agnes of God
Join Director Rob Goudy for an inside perspective on the
Bloomington Theatre’s production of Agnes of God. Hear
about his process from casting to performance and how he
approached this controversial play dealing with faith and the
page 14
Like us on Facebook: OLLI Minnesota
power of love. Performances run February 28 to March 21 at the
Bloomington Theatre. Seats: 70
For tickets call 952-563-8575 or buy online at btacmn.org
Rob Goudy, director of Agnes of God
2 sessions, Tuesdays, Mar. 4 and 18, 10:00–11:30 a.m.,
Bloomington Theater and Art Center, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Rd.,
Bloomington
18118 Bookend: Detroit by Lisa D’Amour
In a first-ring suburb outside a mid-sized American city, Ben
and Mary fire up the grill to welcome the couple who’ve moved
into the long-empty house next door. The fledgling friendship
soon veers out of control, shattering the fragile hold that
newly unemployed Ben and burgeoning alcoholic Mary have
on their way of life—with unexpected comic consequences.
Join Director Joel Sass for an in-depth discussion for the first
bookend, and then chat with some of the cast during the second
bookend. Detroit runs Apr. 11–May 25, 2014, at the Jungle
Theater. Seats: 150
Call the box office at 612-822-7063.
Joel Sass, director, Jungle Theater
2 sessions, Tuesdays, Apr. 15 and May 6, 10:00–11:30 a.m.,
Jungle Theater, 2951 Lyndale Ave. S., Minneapolis
18114 Bookend: Gypsy
Join Zach Curtis and Anita Ruth for an inside perspective on
the process of producing Gypsy. This classic musical follows
stage mom Rose as she leads her daughters into vaudeville.
Performances run April 25 to May 25 at the Bloomington
Theatre. For tickets call 952-563-8575 or buy online at
btacmn.org. Seats: 70
Zach Curtis, director, and Anita Ruth, longtime musical
director at BCT
2 sessions, Tuesdays, May 6 and 20, 12:30–2:00 p.m., Bloomington
Theater and Art Center, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Rd., Bloomington
18117 Bookend: Hamlet: “Who’s There?”
“Who’s there? Stand and unfold yourself.” With the opening
lines of Hamlet, Shakespeare offers us the opportunity to
question how we struggle with our own truths, actions, and
responsibilities. U of M Faculty Associate Barbara Berlovitz
(former co-artistic director of Theatre de la Jeune Lune)
directs this production inspired by the lean athletic approach
to the text that Jeune Lune staged with critical acclaim in
Minneapolis and New York. First you’ll meet director Berlovitz;
next purchase a ticket suiting your schedule; finally interact
with Hamlet’s creative team of designers/dramaturgs after
seeing the performance. Seats: 30
Course Guide Spring 2014 March 24–May 16
Barbra Berlovitz, associate faculty, theatre arts and dance,
U of M, and director of Hamlet, University Theatre.
2 sessions, Tuesdays, April 8 and 22, 10:00–11:00 a.m.,
Rarig Center, Stoll Thrust Theatre
Show Dates: Thurs., Fri., or Sat., April 17–19, 7:30 p.m., Stoll
Thrust, Rarig Center
Rarig Center, U of M, 330 21st Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55455
18111 Bookend: The Magic Flute
Mozart’s masterful comedy is richly reimagined in a boundarybusting production created by director Barrie Kosky and
British theatre group 1927. Connecting the tale’s enduring
meaning with modern metaphor, this extraordinary staging
has thrilled audiences with its stunning interaction between
film animation and live performance. Come to the first class
where we will explore The Magic Flute, and then attend a wrapup reflection conversation about your experience after seeing
the Minnesota Opera production. Seats: 50
Zachary Colby, recitalist, teacher, and doctoral student
in voice, U of M
Thursdays, Apr. 3 and 24, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Walker Place, 3701
Bryant Ave. S., Minneapolis
LIMITED AND OPEN COURSES
You may register for
two (2) Limited Courses per session. Choose as many courses
marked “OPEN” as you wish. Please be aware that all OPEN
classes have size limits.
MONDAY
12030 Darker than Night: Film Noir Styles, Part 3
“Through the slatted blinds, the midnight California street
glistens with rain...” From its start in the 1940s with detective
genre films, the American film noir style became a more
complex and darker vision. By looking at a series of classic
noir movies and excerpts from the 1940s to the 1970s, we’ll
identify key elements of the noir film style (visuals, music,
sound, and fictional world). We’ll see how the noir male and
female protagonists evolve during this period, along with the
city settings and social contexts against which this powerful
and fascinating film style flourished. This three-part course
runs consecutively during fall, winter, and spring sessions.
Spring: Culmination of the classic noir period, and the neo-noir
resurgence, 1950-1975. Seats: 30
Larry Crawford, OLLI member and film buff
Mondays, Mar. 24–May 14, 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Becketwood,
4300 W. River Pkwy., Minneapolis
11011 Income and Wealth Disparity in the U.S.: Economic,
Moral, and Ethical Implications for Future Generations
We will explore the historical patterns of income and wealth
distribution in the U.S., with particular emphasis on the
20th and 21st centuries. What have been the causes of these
patterns? What have been the economic, social, cultural,
and political impacts on people at all levels? What role have
government and special interest groups played? The sessions
will be led by experienced faculty, and there will be time for
class discussion and for participation in the development of
suggested solutions. Reading recent books by authors such as
Hedrick Smith, Robert Reich, Kevin Phillips, Paul Krugman,
and Joseph Stiglitz would be good background for the course,
although not required. Seats: 40
Peter Sammond, MBA, University of Chicago; organization
development consultant, OLLI course leader
Mondays, Mar. 24–May 12, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Plymouth
Congregational Church, 1900 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis
19048 The Knowledge Drive
Focusing on contemporary issues, we will discuss the human
quest for knowledge; how knowledge is a basic human drive
that gives us the power to direct our own evolution; how it
often exacerbates inequality unless given human direction;
and how it leads to more accurate information that conveys
survival value and inevitably supplants our dysfunctional
mythological beliefs. Suggested texts: The Knowledge Drive,
Edward J. Bardon, M.D., $13.95; The Demon-Haunted World,
Carl Sagan,$10.85. Seats: 20
Edward J. Bardon, M.D., emeritus professor of psychiatry,
author, OLLI member
7 sessions, Mondays, Mar. 24-May 5, 10:00-11:30 a.m., The Legacy
of St. Anthony, 2540 Kenzie Terrace, St. Anthony
19047 Plato’s Republic: Books VI-X
We will complete the three-part series that we began in the fall
with a study of the Apology and the Platonic response to the
charges against political philosophy brought by Aristophanes.
The winter session focused upon Books II-V. The spring session
will take us from the description of the philosophic education
in Books VI and VII to a political/psychological discussion of
actual forms of government and finally to the myth about death
and the afterlife. This is still an introductory course, although
some acquaintance with the earlier books of the Republic will
be useful. Seats: 25
Michael Ormond taught political philosophy at California
State Long Beach from 1967 to 1974. After receiving a law
degree from the U of M in 1978, he practiced family law until
his retirement in 2011.
Mondays, Mar. 24–May 12, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Crystal Community
Center, 4800 Douglas Dr. N., Crystal
www.cce.umn.edu/Osher-Lifelong-Learning-Institute/
page 15
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
19049 The World that Shaped the New Testament
The Christian scriptures did not take shape in a hot-house
environment but in a rough-and-tumble world alive with
competing cultures, contesting religions, clashing empires,
and mingling traditions. This course will trace that formative
process. It will begin by noting the forces set in motion by and
the legacy left by Alexander the Great, sustained by the Roman
Augustus Caesar, engaged by selected Israelite sages and
seers, and unwittingly influenced by the Apostle Paul. Finally,
it will trace the centuries-long dynamic, contentious struggle
to produce a uniform canon of texts that was to be called “the
New Testament,” a collection that still lacks uniformity.
Seats: 50
Calvin J. Roetzel, Arnold Lowe Professor of Religious Studies
(Emeritus), Macalester College, Sundet Professor of New
Testament (Emeritus), U of M
Mondays, Mar. 24–May 12, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Biological Sciences
Center, Room 12, U of M, St. Paul Campus, 1445 Gortner Ave.,
St. Paul
12033 Music in Film
This course will explore the history of music in film and
television, from its beginnings over 100 years ago to the present
day. We will discuss the techniques that film composers
have used in their scores, presenting several video clips to
demonstrate these techniques. Seats: 45
Joe Mann, webmaster at Augsburg College, former music
teacher with a master’s degree in music history from the
University of Nebraska
Mondays, Mar. 24–May, 12, 10:30–11:30 a.m., McNamara
Alumni Center, Benson Classroom #235, U of M, 200 Oak St. SE,
Minneapolis
10021 Antiques and Art
Here is a chance to share the objects that you love with a group.
Participants will bring in items from their personal collections
for discussion and/or identification. We will consider the
history of each piece, its use, and other relevant material.
Themes (glass, art prints, jewelry, etc.) will be set at the first
session, depending on the interests of class members. This is an
entertaining and informative class that allows you to look at
and handle a range of interesting material. Seats: 20
Catherine Vesley, art historian, antiques collector and
appraiser, painting restorer
Mondays, Mar. 24–May 12, 12:30–2:00 p.m., Crystal Community
Center, 4800 Douglas Dr. N., Crystal
page 16
Like us on Facebook: OLLI Minnesota
18115 Children of the Blues: Landmark Albums in Jazz (19591963) and in Rock and R&B (1969-1973)
In the late 1950s and early 1960s, jazz giants released some of
their best works to date. Approximately ten years later, so did
some of the great stars of rock and rhythm-and-blues/soul.
These albums are still adored and acclaimed as influential...
and they all come from the blues! We will listen to some of these
recordings and discuss what made them great. Artists include
Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Dave Brubeck, Marvin Gaye, Led
Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones, and Aretha Franklin. Seats: 60
Jenzi Silverman, Ph.D., U of M, music lover and OLLI member
Mondays, Mar. 24–May 12, 12:30–2:00 p.m., Walker Place, 3701
Bryant Ave. S., Minneapolis
14023 Creating the Life That You Want
How many times in the past have you wanted to change your
life but failed? Modern science not only tells us that this is
possible, but also how to do it. The science of neuroplasticity
tells us we have the ability to rewire and create new neural
circuits at any age. Quantum physics tells us that by changing
our thoughts/feelings, we’ll actually change our reality. But
we have to stop living 95 percent of our lives on automatic
pilot; we have to pay attention. This is not a science class. As a
nonscientist, I’m excited about discussing this life-changing
information with other interested nonscientists. I hope you’ll
join us. Handouts provided; reading required for participation
in class discussion. Seats: 25
Karen West, passionate educator and career counselor
Mondays, Mar. 24–May 12, 12:30–2:00 p.m, Becketwood, 4300 W.
River Pkwy., Minneapolis
18109 The Music of Our Time: 20th-Century
Music Appreciation
This course is a musical overview of the 20th century that will
examine significant works and movements through group
discussion and listening. The various class topics will include
early 20th-century music and the Second Viennese School;
12-tone and mathematical compositions; stochastic, aleatoric,
and chance music; minimalism; electronic music; and notable
new music ensembles and performing groups. Reading music is
not required, but some music background is helpful. Seats: 45
Kyle Hutchins is working on a doctorate of musical arts in
saxophone performance at the U of M.
Mondays, Mar. 24–May, 12, 12:30–2:00 p.m., McNamara
Alumni Center, Benson Classroom #235, U of M, 200 Oak St. SE,
Minneapolis
Course Guide Spring 2014 March 24–May 16
17031 Our Renewable Energy Future: Making It Work
In this course, we will review the history and current status
of humanity’s use of energy. We will analyze the potential and
costs of solar, wind, and biofuels, and comment on energy
projections by the major government agencies worldwide.
Course participants will study the “poster countries” for
renewables such as Denmark (wind), Germany (solar), and
Brazil (biofuels). There will be an opportunity to tour a large
MN wind farm. Seats: 30
Rolf Westgard, professional member Geological Society of
America and the American Association of Petroleum Geologists
Mondays, Mar. 24–May 12, 12:30-2:00 p.m., The Legacy of St.
Anthony, 2540 Kenzie Terrace, St. Anthony
11002 Thinking about Capitalism, Part 1
This course is a comprehensive, historical overview of the
concepts and reactions to the economic, social, and political
systems called capitalism in the Western world, from classical
Greece and Rome to the French Revolution. We will watch short
lectures by renowned professor Jerry Muller, followed by class
discussion. Participants are urged to reflect on their personal
views on capitalism and to bring questions to each class
session. Seats: 40
Peter Blewett, retired associate professor of history and French,
University of Alaska, Anchorage
Mondays, Mar. 24–May 12, 12:30–2:00 p.m., Plymouth
Congregational Church, 1900 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis
15095 Thomas Cahill, Mysteries of the Middle Ages:
The Rise of Feminism, Science, and Art from the
Cults of Catholic Europe
After the Dark Ages, Europe’s rebirth of scholarship, art,
literature, philosophy, and science developed a new vision
of Western society. Cahill visits the great cities of Europe,
capturing the experimentation, the pageantry, and the
intellectual curiosity that created the modern world.
Participants will lead class discussions. First day’s assignment
will be emailed. Seats: 20
Bonnie Nelson, retired humanities teacher
Mondays, Mar. 24–May 12, 12:30–2:00 p.m., The Kenwood, 825
Summit, Minneapolis
22036 OPEN: Voices from around the World
Engage in dialogue with Hubert Humphrey scholars, visiting
professionals, and graduate students from around the world.
The speakers will use interactive discussions to present hot
issues that their nations have faced. This course also provides
overviews of the history, government, and culture of diverse
countries. We have speakers from Colombia, Ghana, Republic
of Macedonia, Botswana, S. Sudan, and Bolivia. Seats: 45
Seongdok Kim, Ph.D. candidate, organizational leadership,
policy, and development, U of M
Mondays, Mar. 24–May 12, 2:15–3:45 p.m., McNamara Alumni
Center, Benson Classroom #235, U of M, 200 Oak St. SE,
Minneapolis
TUESDAY
14021 The Ageless Spirit
Writer Connie Goldman interviewed prominent, creative
people over the age of 70 for NPR and asked how they remained
vital. Her interviews with Willie Nelson, Walter Mondale, May
Sarton, and others were published in her book The Ageless
Spirit. What can we learn from these people about having an
“ageless spirit” and enhanced vitality. Seats: 60
Bill Weir, “Freethinking Forum” TV series producer, OLLI
member, and retired Unitarian Universalist minister, created
this OLLI course and led it twice in years past.
Tuesdays, Mar. 25–May 13, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Walker Place,
Chapel, 3701 Bryant Ave. S., Minneapolis
9104 OPEN: Books You Don’t Have Time to Read,
St. Paul, St. Paul JCC
Books covering a wide array of current, thought-provoking
topics are presented by experienced reader/lecturers Lynn
Bolnick, Chuck Grimsrud, Jim Martin, Charlie Mundale, Ed
Schwartzbauer, Lonnie Skrentner, Jay Wetmore, and Ron
Tabor. Books discussed will include Memoir of a Secretary
at War by Robert Gates; Virus of the Mind by Richard Brodie;
Goliath: Life and Loathing in Greater Israel by Max Blumenthal;
The New Digital Age–Reshaping the Future of People, Nations,
and Business by Eric Schmidt and Jared Cohen; Strange Rebels
by Christian Caryl; The Presidents Club by Nancy Gibbs and
Michael Duffy, and The Bully Pulpit by Doris Kearns Goodwin.
Seats: 50
Peter Sammond, management consultant, OLLI member;
Pat Ryan Greene, writer, editor, OLLI member
6 sessions, Tuesdays, Mar. 25–May 13 (no class on Apr. 15 or 22),
12:30–2:00 p.m., St. Paul JCC, 1375 St. Paul Ave., St. Paul
www.cce.umn.edu/Osher-Lifelong-Learning-Institute/
page 17
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
15100 The Changing Challenges of Freedom
in American History
Using the excellent The Story of American Freedom by Eric
Foner, the class will discuss the shifting challenges of
“freedom” in eight periods of American history. We will try to
better understand what has been remembered and recall what
we have forgotten.The above-mentioned book may be obtained
in local libraries or reasonably purchased online. Read the
Introduction and Chapter One for the first class meeting.
Seats: 20
Charles H. Nelson, emeritus professor of sociology, Muskingum
University (Ohio)
Tuesdays, Mar. 25–May, 13, 10:00–11:30 a.m., McNamara
Alumni Center, Benson Classroom #235, U of M, 200 Oak St. SE,
Minneapolis
19046 OPEN: Christianity in Crisis
The modern era has given rise to serious differences in
understanding the Christian message. This course will examine
such issues as the meaning of God, the Bible, Jesus, faith, and
the Christian life as understood by both conservatives and
liberals. We hope to shed light on both sides of the cultural war.
The Heart of Christianity by Marcus Borg is the required text;
read Chapter 1 before the first class. Seats: 20
Earl Johnson, religion scholar, OLLI course leader, OLLI member
Tuesdays, Mar. 25–May 13, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Plymouth
Congregational Church, 1900 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis
10046 “Fruitful and Multiplying”: The Making of a Visual Arts
Exhibition on Overpopulation
This six-week course will take participants through all
the stages of producing an art exhibition focused on
overpopulation. Each week participants will learn about
different aspects of the exhibition development process, from
the origin of the theme that inspired curator John Schuerman
and other exhibiting artists to final installation. Participants
will see the gallery space before, during, and after the
exhibition installation and spend time discussing their own
views on overpopulation and the emotional and intellectual
impact of the artwork. Seats: 50
Rachel Daly Flentje, director of visual arts, Bloomington
Theatre and Art Center
6 sessions, Tuesdays, Mar. 25–Apr. 29, 10:00–11:30 a.m.,
Bloomington Theater and Art Center, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Rd.,
Bloomington
page 18
Like us on Facebook: OLLI Minnesota
21027 Knowing You, Knowing Me: Exploring the Enneagram
Human complexities, human simplicities: The enneagram is an
ancient, but now thoroughly modernized, dynamic system of
understanding the unique ways we present ourselves and relate
to others. As a tool for deepening self-awareness and developing
appreciation for the underlying dynamics of human interaction,
the enneagram is unsurpassed. In this course, we’ll explore the
enneagram model of nine personality types, including selfassessment and indicators for unfolding into our best selves.
The course will be experiential, interactive, intriguing.
Seats: 20
Karen Lohn, psychologist emeritus, author, educator
7 sessions, Tuesdays, Apr. 1–May 13, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Covenant
Village, 5800 St. Croix Ave. N., Golden Valley
15101 OPEN: The Presidents: Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Part 3
You need not have taken FDR Parts 1 and 2 to take this
course. It will cover the last portion of FDR’s life as well as
legacy items concerning his presidency. We will also examine
historical events from the 1930s and 40s and some related
presidential items such as salaries, vetoes, Masonic members,
and presidential eras. Coffee is furnished with the course fee.
Optional treats for a freewill donation if desired at 9:15 a.m. An
optional lunch follows at local restaurants at your expense. J.B.’s
cell phone: 651-246-0710. Take with you in case you get lost.
Course Fee: $10.00 due at registration. Seats: 200
J.B. Andersen–educator, writer, curator
Tuesdays, Mar. 25–May. 13, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Roseville Lutheran
Church, 1215 Roselawn Avenue West, Roseville
9101 OPEN: Tuesday with a Scholar
Join local scholars for lecture and discussion in this ongoing
series. The speakers and topics are listed below. You must
register for the entire course. Seats: 150
Mar. 25: Cinzia Gallia Schlicksup, Where to Go in Italy Off the Beaten Track
Apr. 1: Dale Mulfinger, Explore Cabin Architecture and Design, Historical and Contemporary.
Apr. 8: David E. Jones, Apollo: Why We Went to the
Moon—A Non-Technical Look at Mankind’s Greatest
Technological Achievement.
Apr. 15: Mike Weber, Poverty in the U.S. from a
17th-Century Perspective
Apr. 22: Ryan Allen, The Somali Diaspora:
The Minnesota Experience
Apr. 29: Katherine Scheil, Imagining Shakespeare’s Wife
May 6: Karen Melvin, Great Houses of Summit Avenue
May 13: Jennifer Pierce, Myths and Realities
of Affirmative Action
Course Guide Spring 2014 March 24–May 16
Dorothy Lamberton, convener, OLLI member
Tuesdays, Mar. 25–May 13, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Hennepin County
Library-Southdale, 7001 York Ave. S., Edina
9102 OPEN: Afternoon with the Liberal Arts
Star faculty and researchers from the U of M and beyond share
their expertise and enthusiasm for a wide variety of topics. The
speakers and topics are listed below. You must register for the
entire course. Seats: 45
Mar. 25: Dominic Papatola (movie reviewer), Who Does This Guy Think He Is, Anyway?
Apr. 1: Dale Mulfinger, A Survey of Cabin Construction in
North America
Apr. 8: Dr. Juliette Sterkens, All things Hearing: Hearing Loss, Hearing Aids, and Hearing Loops
Apr. 15: Lyndel King, WAM: A Magnetic Museum for the University and the Community
Apr. 22: Field Trip: Guided Tour of the Bell Museum, meet
at the Bell Museum at 12:30 p.m.
Apr. 29: William Souder, The Life and Legacy of
John James Audubon
May 6: Jan Morlock and Katie Fournier, Explore the Rich Cultural Resources of the University District Neighborhood
May 13: Judy Roberts, Diversity in Children’s Literature
Marie Goblirsch, convener, OLLI member
Tuesdays, Mar. 25–May 13, 12:30–2:00 p.m., McNamara
Alumni Center, Benson Classroom #235, U of M, 200 Oak St. SE,
Minneapolis
15097 America in Revolt
The timeline will date from the Peace Treaty of Paris in 1763
to the British surrender at Yorktown in 1781. Along the way
we will analyze battles and soldiers as well as decisions made
by civilian governmental leaders on both sides of “the pond.”
We will also pay attention to the roles that women, AfricanAmericans, and Native Americans played in the conflict. The
American Revolution was a seminal event. Its astonishing
outcome signaled that indeed, in the words of the English
ballad played at the Yorktown surrender, “The World Turned
Upside Down.” Seats: 30
Joyce Black, historian, OLLI member
Tuesdays, Mar. 25–May 13, 12:30–2:00 p.m., Lenox Community
Center, 6715 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park
15092 Mindplay: Allied Deception in WWII
Uncover the little-known British covert intelligence
contributions that collectively saved many lives, assured Allied
successes, and ultimately helped restore freedom and liberty
to the world. Meet the heroes behind the legends, acknowledge
their extraordinary life-in-death exploits, and understand that
the Allied victory stems in large part from the British codebreaking of the German Enigma machine. Trace the cascading
influences from this hard-fought battle of wits giving British
intelligence-gathering the capability to turn German spies into
British double agents and create convincing, meaningful covert
enemy deception throughout WW II. Seats: 50
Dennis Kane, former U.S. Army military intelligence agent,
public library administrator, and educator, invites you to
accompany him in a rendezvous with this fascinating
history of human guile.
Section 1, Tuesdays, Mar. 25–May 13, 12:30–2:00 p.m., Friendship
Village, 8100 Highwood Dr., Bloomington
10022 The Art of Norway
This course will examine a wide range of Norwegian art,
including the early stylized rock carvings in Alta; Viking
gripping-beast style of carvings found in the Oseberg Viking
ship; architecture of stave churches in 1200; 18th-century
Romantic oil painters like Johan Christian Dahl and Adolph
Tidemand; famous pictorial artist Edvard Munch; Per Krog,
who created a large fresco in the United Nations building;
the sculpture of Gustav Vigeland in Frogner Park; and folk
artist Sigmund Aarseth, known especially for his rosemaling
paintings. Course Fee: $5.00 due at registration. Seats: 40
Odell Bjerkness, emeritus professor of history, Concordia
Moorhead, author
Tuesdays, Mar. 25–May 13, 2:15–3:45 p.m., Edina Senior Center,
5280 Grandview Sq., Edina
22038 OPEN: People and Culture of South Korea: An
Interdisciplinary Approach to the Korean Paradox
This course introduces diverse topics and perspectives
related to Korean history, culture, education, and
development. Korea is remarkable for its rich history and
culture as well as for its “compressed development.” Using an
anthropological approach, the course will engage students
with interdisciplinary topics on South Korea with an aim to
understand the local lives and seek to understand the “the
paradox of Korean education” in which students and parents
are dissatisfied with the highly successful Korean education
system. Seats: 20
Soo Kyoung Lee, Ph.D. candidate in organizational leadership
and policy and development, U of M
Tuesdays, Mar. 25–May 13, 2:15–3:45 p.m., McNamara Alumni
Center, Benson Classroom #235, U of M, 200 Oak St. SE,
Minneapolis
www.cce.umn.edu/Osher-Lifelong-Learning-Institute/
page 19
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
10045 Welcome Springtime with Joyful, Refreshing Works
of Art at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts!
Stroll through the glorious colors of Matisse, explore the
revelations of portraiture, delight in vibrant vistas, discern
cultural reflections in the contemporary era as well as in the
Decorative Arts and the frames of the period—and, of course,
experience the sights and fragrances of Art In Bloom! Seats: 40
Pat Wuest and Connie Nelson, OLLI members, MIA docents
Tuesdays, Mar. 25–May 13, 2:15–3:45 p.m., Minneapolis Institute
of Arts, 2400 3rd Ave. S., Minneapolis
WEDNESDAY
12029 North Star—Minnesota on Film
From Babbitt to the Coens’ social satire, from 1950s rural
lakeshore political thrillers to Rachel River’s psychological
drama, Minnesota has been a continuing presence on the
big screen since the 1930s. Join us for a retrospective look at
the many ways that Minnesota has figured in memorable
and enjoyable films, as we delve into the thematic, character,
narrative, and cultural textures that have expressed the North
Star State on film. Seats: 30
Larry Crawford, OLLI member and film buff
Wednesdays, Mar. 26–May 14, 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Lenox Community Center, 6715 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park
9105 OPEN: Books You Don’t Have Time to Read, Minneapolis:
Ridgdale Library
Books covering a wide array of current, thought-provoking
topics are presented by experienced reader/lecturers Lynn
Bolnick, Chuck Grimsrud, Jim Martin, Charlie Mundale, Ed
Schwartzbauer, Lonnie Skrentner, Jay Wetmore, and Ron
Tabor. Books discussed will include Memoir of a Secretary
at War by Robert Gates; Virus of the Mind by Richard Brodie;
Goliath: Life and Loathing in Greater Israel by Max Blumenthal;
The New Digital Age–Reshaping the Future of People, Nations,
and Business by Eric Schmidt and Jared Cohen; Strange Rebels
by Christian Caryl; The Presidents Club by Nancy Gibbs and
Michael Duffy, and The Bully Pulpit by Doris Kearns Goodwin.
Seats: 50
Peter Sammond, management consultant, OLLI member;
Pat Ryan Greene, writer, editor, OLLI member
Wednesdays, Mar. 26–May 14, 12:30–2:00 p.m., Ridgedale Library,
12601 Ridgedale Dr., Minnetonka
12032 Flicks on Wednesday—Comedies in Review
In recent times Woody Allen has been the dominant director of
comedies, but he has often been criticized for not being funny
anymore. We will examine his Crimes and Misdemeanors and
page 20
Like us on Facebook: OLLI Minnesota
Bullets Over Broadway, as well as films of other directors such
as M*A*S*H, Being John Malkovich, Get Shorty, and The King of
Comedy and try to figure out how to define and understand
comedy. Seats: OPEN
Jack Stuart, emeritus professor of history, California State
University Long Beach
Wednesdays, Mar. 26–May 14, 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m., The Woman’s
Club of Minneapolis, 410 Oak Grove St., Minneapolis
15091 African History from the European Invasions
into the 21st Century
This course will focus on the history of Africa from south of the
Sahara to the Limpopo River from the time of the European
invasions into the 21st century. It will stress broad common
patterns and themes rather than national histories. In so far as
possible, African perspectives will dominate. Seats: 30
Tom O’Toole, emeritus professor of sociology and anthropology,
St. Cloud State University
Wednesdays, Mar. 26–May 14, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Sabathani Senior
Center, 310 E. 38th St., Minneapolis
13006 Libraries in the 21st Century: Check It Out!
Everyone has a picture of a traditional library—books and
quiet. But is that a true picture of libraries in the 21st century?
Join us for behind-the-scenes tours of public, academic, and
special libraries to see how libraries have evolved and adapted
to new demands, new technologies, and new users. You may
be surprised at what 21st-century libraries offer. Participants
are responsible for getting to the libraries. These are walking
tours, and some of the libraries are large. Full schedules will
be e-mailed to registrants. Seats: 20
Ann Walker Smalley, director, Metronet; Chris Olson,
director, MELSA
Wednesdays, Mar. 26–May 14, 10:00–11:30 a.m., various libraries
throughout the Twin Cities
14024 Exploring Spirituality and Healing
The mission of the U of M’s Center for Spirituality and Healing
is to transform health care through innovative educational
offerings, rigorous scientific research, inspiring outreach
programs, and integrative clinical services. Learn from
researchers and educators who are world leaders in the fields of
Tibetan healing, mindfulness and meditation, health coaching,
arts and healing, and nature-based healing. Seats: 50
Faculty and staff from the U of M Center for Spirituality
and Healing
5 sessions, Apr. 2–30, 10:30–11:30 a.m., McNamara Alumni
Center, Benson Classroom #235, U of M, 200 Oak St. SE,
Minneapolis
Course Guide Spring 2014 March 24–May 16
20049 The Manhattan Project Revisited
This course will examine the the Manhattan Project from its
inception to the development of the atomic bomb and its role in
ending WWII. Seats: 40
Richard Fuller, emeritus professor of physics and liberal studies
at Gustavus Adolphus College.
Wednesdays, Mar. 26–May 14, 10:30 a.m–12:00 p.m., 1666
Coffman, 1666 Coffman St., Falcon Heights
11012 OPEN: Behavioral Economic Issues
This course will include current economic issues but with a
strong emphasis on behavioral issues. We will utilize some
of the insights from behavioral economics to understand
how decisions are actually made. Participants will view
current videos from different sources. There is no need for any
particular background in economics—just a curiosity about
how the economy works and how economists believe it works.
This course will update my course on Current Economic Issues
but also stand on its own. Seats: 32
Don Renner, emeritus professor of economics, Minnesota State
University, Mankato
Wednesdays, Mar. 26–May 14, 12:30–2:00 p.m., Lenox Community
Center, 6715 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park
15093 The Civil War beyond Battles and Generals
Learn about the critical causes of the war. Grasp the
significance of Texas to the future of the South. Understand the
complexity of passions in the South—for and against the war.
Learn about resistance to the war and persecution in Texas.
Discover how the Emancipation Proclamation transformed the
purpose of the war from restoring the Union to a crusade to
free the slaves. Understand how the South won Reconstruction
and reversed the gains of the war. Seats: 60
Steve Chicoine is a former corporate executive who has
published two major histories on the Civil War and a novel
set in the era. A graduate of University of Illinois and Stanford
University, he has considerable experience as a motivational
speaker as the executive director of an inner-city nonprofit.
Wednesdays, Mar. 26–May 14, 12:30–2:00 p.m., Friendship
Village, 8100 Highwood Dr., Bloomington
15092 Mindplay: Allied Deception in WWII
Uncover the little-known British covert intelligence
contributions that collectively saved many lives, assured Allied
successes, and ultimately helped restore freedom and liberty
to the world. Meet the heroes behind the legends, acknowledge
their extraordinary life-in-death exploits, and understand that
the Allied victory stems in large part from the British codebreaking of the German Enigma machine. Trace the cascading
influences from this hard-fought battle of wits giving British
intelligence-gathering the capability to turn German spies into
British double agents and create convincing, meaningful covert
enemy deception throughout WW II. Seats: 50
Dennis Kane, former U.S. Army military intelligence agent,
public library administrator, and educator, invites you to
accompany him in a rendezvous with this fascinating
history of human guile.
Section 2, Wednesdays, Mar. 26–May 14, 12:30–2:00 p.m., St. Paul
JCC, 1375 St. Paul Ave., St. Paul
20050 Minnesota Geology: What We Should Know,
and Why We Should Care
This course, convened by U of M Professor Emeritus Paul
Weiblen, will cover the following topics: the history of the
Minnesota Geological Survey; Minnesota’s copper-nickel and
precious-metal resources; groundwater uses and supply; frack
sand and its use; Minnesota’s subsurface geology; the origin
of the Northern Lights and other magnetic phenomena; the
geobiology of Minnesota, (including the fossil record of early
life forms), and the use of 3D computer programing in geology.
Presenters will discuss the political, social, and economic
impact of their research. Seats: 35
Paul Weiblen, professor emeritus of geology, U of M
Wednesdays, Mar. 26–May 14, 12:30–2:00 p.m., McNamara
Alumni Center, Benson Classroom #235, U of M, 200 Oak St. SE,
Minneapolis
19050 Religion and Science: A Dialogue about
Who Is Accommodating Whom?
Discussion has recently intensified around concepts modeling
reality: evolution-creation; geocentric-heliocentric; floodsfossils; extinction-next world; causality-free will; heart-head;
sin-freedom of choice. Learn about the status of the arguments
presented. Seats: 50
Robert Tapp, emeritus professor of religious studies, U of M
and OLLI member; Andreas Rosenberg, emeritus professor of
laboratory medicine and pathology, U of M and OLLI member
Wednesdays, Mar. 26–May 14, 12:30–2:00 p.m., 1666 Coffman,
1666 Coffman St., Falcon Heights
www.cce.umn.edu/Osher-Lifelong-Learning-Institute/
page 21
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
18110 Russian Classical Music in the 20th Century
In this course, we will explore Russian music in the 20th
century, with emphasis on the transition from late romantic to
contemporary music and the composers who facilitated this
transition. Composers discussed will include Igor Stravinsky,
Sergei Prokofiev, and Dmitri Shostakovich, among others. We
will also look into social and political aspects surrounding
these composers and their music. The ability to read music is
not necessary for this class. Seats: 40
Eric Olson is a doctoral student in violin performance and has
been teaching college-level music courses for four years.
Wednesdays, Mar. 26–May 14, 12:30–2:00 p.m., Hubert Humphrey
Center, Room 15, U of M West Bank, 301 19th Ave. S., Minneapolis
19045 A Sociological Lens on Religion
This course will explore connections between religion and
society and examine selected social science findings about faith
communities. Topics include: What is Religion and Why is It
So Complex? How Does the Social Psychology of Commitment
Work? Organized Religion and Its Dilemmas; Secularization
and Its Consequences; Marketing of Religion; Alternative
Forms of Religion in Society. Seats: 30
Keith Roberts, emeritus professor of sociology, Hanover College,
and author of Religion in Sociological Perspective.
7 sessions, Wednesdays, Apr. 2–May 21 (no class Apr. 30), 12:30–
2:00 p.m., Plymouth Congregational Church, 1900 Nicollet Ave. S.,
Minneapolis
20048 Evolution: Concepts and Controversies
Evolution has been called “the backbone of biology.”
Controversies related to evolution (evilution?) are not a thing
of the past but are still very relevant today. The course will
be nontechnical, and no biological background is required.
Participants will read one to two chapters a week of the
compact book, Why Evolution is True by Jerry A. Coyne, which
is widely available. Class time will give ample opportunity for
discussion; additional material will be provided by the
course leader. Seats: 30
Robert McGeachie, M.D., retired neuroradiologist, convener,
OLLI member with an interest in evolution
Wednesdays, Mar. 26–May 14, 2:15–3:45 p.m., Plymouth
Congregational Church, 1900 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis
page 22
Like us on Facebook: OLLI Minnesota
15016 Lakewood Cemetery:
Haven and History in the Heart of the City
This six-session class will explore the history and architecture
of Lakewood Cemetery. We will learn of the cemetery’s ties
to the founding and development of Minneapolis and early
industry in Minnesota, as well as how Lakewood reflects
changing attitudes surrounding death and burial. One session
will be devoted to Lakewood’s architecture, including the
century-old Memorial Chapel. Guided tours will explore
Lakewood’s landscape and monuments. Two tours involve
walking on moderate terrain; one tour will be via an accessible
trolley. Seats: 25
Susan Mundale, writer, former teacher and public relations
consultant, OLLI member
6 sessions, Wednesdays, Apr. 9–May. 14, 2:15–3:45 p.m., Lakewood
Cemetery, 3600 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis
22037 Making Italians
“Italy is made. Now we must make Italians” wrote an Italian
statesman after Italy’s 1861 political unification. The military
and political victory was arduous, but the cultural unification
of Italy, a centuries-long project, proved even more difficult.
From Dante to opera, Garibaldi to Mussolini, we will learn
about the many attempts to “make Italians” through language,
literature, culture, politics, and warfare. No course readings or
knowledge of Italy required. Seats: 45
Elizabeth Venditto is a Ph.D. candidate in history, specializing
in Italian migration history. She has previously led two OLLI
courses about French literature.
Wednesdays, Mar. 26–May, 14, 2:15–3:45 p.m., McNamara
Alumni Center, Benson Classroom #235, U of M, 200 Oak St. SE,
Minneapolis
THURSDAY
15090 The African Trans-Atlantic Diaspora
This course is about the dispersal of African peoples to
the Americas. It will examine the origins, trans-Atlantic
migrations, and resulting communities established by these
peoples. We will focus mainly on the histories of the West
and Central Africans who were enslaved and shipped to
the Americas by way of the Atlantic slave trade to Brazil,
the Caribbean, and North America. The themes of cultural
adaptation, persistence, and creation will especially be
considered. Seats: 30
Tom O’Toole, emeritus professor of sociology and anthropology,
St. Cloud State University
Thursdays, Mar. 27–May 22 (no class on Apr. 3), 10:00–11:30
a.m., Plymouth Congregational Church, 1900 Nicollet Ave. S.,
Minneapolis
Course Guide Spring 2014 March 24–May 16
10044 Artpolitik: A History of Creating Radical Visual Content
This course will examine the relationship between art and
politics, focusing on radical political aesthetics in Western
culture since the end of the 19th century. Drawing from
Surrealism, Socialist Realism, the Situationist International,
capitalist consumer aesthetics, and critical theory, the course
will conclude with a social anarchist approach to aesthetics.
Seats: 40
Neala Schleuning, Ph.D. in American Studies, U of M, with an
emphasis in political philosophy and intellectual history
6 sessions, Thursdays, Mar. 27–May 1, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Realife
Cooperative of West St. Paul, 170 Emerson Ave. E., St. Paul
15098 Beyond the Second Reconstruction in America,
1945-Present
The first Reconstruction ended the legal status of slavery, the
second ended the legal system of segregation. Both left AfricanAmericans suffering under the hardships inflicted by the
system. We will explore this period in America from the legal
ending of segregation to the first African-American President.
Seats: 30
Neil Anderson, M.A. in history, former history/African
American studies teacher
Thursdays, Apr. 10–May 29, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Lenox Community
Center, 6715 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park
13043 Criminal Justice in Minnesota
How does the criminal justice system work in Minnesota?
This course will give an overview of criminal law and procedure
in Minnesota and track the progress of a fictional criminal
defendant as her/his case works its way through the system
from arrest and charging to sentencing. In the process, we’ll
examine the roles of police, prosecutors, defense lawyers,
judges, juries, and probation officers in the system. The course
will include a “field trip” to a Hennepin County court. Seats: 30
Dick Carlson, retired Assistant Hennepin County
Public Defender
Thursdays, Mar. 27–May 15, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Edina Senior
Center, 5280 Grandview Sq., Edina
18092 Fine Art Photography
This course is intended for serious amateurs who wish to raise
their image quality to the level of an art form rather than
simply postcard-like snapshots. We will focus on the WHY of
making photographs rather than the HOW (students should
already be proficient in basic camera operations, exposure
principles, and simple photo editing techniques). Emphasis will
be on defining your vision and subject, planning your frame,
composition and light, with time also devoted to abstract,
black-and-white, and night photography. There will be two
field trips followed by critiquing sessions with full student
participation. Suggested reading: Within the Frame by David
duChemin, available on Amazon. Seats: 15
Mike Rosen, fine art photographer, OLLI member
5 sessions, Thursdays, Apr. 17–May 15, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Sabes
JCC, 4330 S. Cedar Lake Rd., St. Louis Park
9109 OLLI About Town
We will be touring interesting and often historic sites around
the Twin Cities. After each tour, class members will have the
option of lunch at a nearby restaurant. Join us for lunch, and
you will get in on some good conversation. Full schedules will
be e-mailed to registrants. Among the places to be visited
are the Como Park Conservatory, Ames-Florida Stork House,
Rockford, and Warden’s House, Stillwater. Seats: 25
Kathleen Martin, OLLI member and course leader
6 sessions, Thursdays, Mar 27–May 1, 10–11:30 a.m., various
locations throughout Twin Cities
16047 Proust’s Madeleine: Reading “Combray”
Marcel Proust’s Remembrance of Things Past, a summit of world
literature, can be daunting. This course will introduce Proust
through a reading of “Combray,” the first part of Swann’s Way
(the first volume of Remembrance). ”Combray” includes the
episode of the “madeleine” and Proust’s theory of voluntary
and involuntary memories. It also introduces the themes of
love, jealousy, and homosexuality, and the subjects of snobbery
and society, and artistic creation. Students are requested
to buy Swann’s Way in the Lydia Davis translation (Penguin
paperback), and to read to page 48 before the first session.
Seats: 20
Will Goetz, Ph.D. in comparative literature, former literature
professor and lawyer
6 sessions, Thursdays, April 3–May 8, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Sabes JCC,
4330 S. Cedar Lake Rd., St. Louis Park
15102 The Rise of the West—and the Rest, 1500 CE
to the Present
When Columbus sailed, most Europeans were illiterate, lived
less than 40 years, and had almost nothing to say about how
they lived and worshiped. Five hundred years later—after two
horrible world wars—Europeans were world leaders in the arts,
sciences, and individual freedoms. Today, in the age of instant
communications, we are headed toward a Global Community.
In this course, we will read, discuss, and evaluate how this
came about in the hope that we may better our own lives.
Course Fee: $10.00 due at registration. Seats: 30
Mark Welter, Ph.D.
Thursdays, Mar. 27–May 15, 10:00–11:30 a.m., McNamara
Alumni Center, Benson Classroom #235, U of M, 200 Oak St. SE,
Minneapolis
www.cce.umn.edu/Osher-Lifelong-Learning-Institute/
page 23
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
20047 Albert Einstein, Physicist, Philosopher, Humanitarian...
and family man. Einstein fundamentally altered our view of
the universe; in 1999, Time magazine proclaimed him as the
person of the century. This course will review Einstein’s life, his
physics, his passions (internationalism, pacifism, Zionism, and
socialism), his women, and his involvement in the atomic age.
Even today, more than fifty years after his death, he is the most
recognized and revered of all scientists and still considered the
essence of genius. Though best remembered for his special and
general relativity theories, Einstein was also one of the founders
of quantum mechanics, which presented a view of reality that
he could not accept. Seats: 50
Irwin Boris, retired economist and business executive; Richard
Fuller, professor of physics emeritus, Gustavus Adolphus
College
Thursdays, Mar. 27–May 15, 12:30–2:00 p.m., 1666 Coffman, 1666
Coffman St., Falcon Heights
17003 Ecology of Minneapolis Parklands
Join local naturalists and enjoy the spring flora and fauna on
tours of Minnehaha Falls; St. Anthony Falls/Mill Ruins Park;
North Mississippi Park; Mississippi River Gorge; Lyndale
Gardens and Roberts Birds Sanctuary; and Eloise Butler
Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary. Some locations will
have more difficult terrains than others and the option of a less
rigorous walk will be offered. Parking may require payment
or a Minneapolis Parks parking pass. Full schedules will be
e-mailed to registrants. Course Fee: $20.00 due at registration.
Seats: 20
Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board naturalists will be
assigned to each location based on their areas of expertise.
6 sessions, Thursdays, Apr. 10–May 15, 12:30–2:00 p.m., various
parks throughout Minneapolis
12031 Who We Were: 1862–1914
We will examine, through film, the history and issues that
inform us from 1862–1914. Films will include: There Will Be
Blood, Heaven’s Gate, The Emigrants, Northern Lights, Heartland,
Dakota Conflict, Our Town, James J. Hill, and Paths of Glory.
Seats: 20
Bonnie Nelson, retired humanities teacher
Thursdays, Mar. 27–May 15, 12:30–3:00 p.m., The Kenwood,
825 Summit Ave., Minneapolis
page 24
Like us on Facebook: OLLI Minnesota
17034 The Upper Mississippi River Valley
An overview of the Upper Mississippi River Valley: Each week
will feature a different aspect of this wonderful and fascinating
river including geology, ecology, human history, commercial
use, and preservation. Week 8 is a field trip to the National
Eagle Center at Wabasha and the Mississippi National Fish
and Wildlife Refuge with lunch in Red Wing. Lunch and
transportation included in the course fee. Course Fee: $48.00
due at registration. Seats: 32
Arlan Tietel, 3M retiree, and Andrew Seldon, attorney (ret.), are
both experienced corporate educators
Thursdays, Mar. 27–May 15, 12:30–2:00 p.m., McNamara
Alumni Center, Benson Classroom #235, U of M, 200 Oak St. SE,
Minneapolis
15099 Zecharia Sitchin and the Beginning of Humanity
Zecharia Sitchin, internationally acclaimed researcher and
one of a handful of scholars able to read Sumerian cuneiform
tablets, retells the history and prehistory of humankind in
his writings. Sitchin offers a third theory on human history to
rival the Creation and Evolution theories. We will discuss his
research as well as the research of Michael Tellinger and Alan
Alford. Remember, the truth is out there somewhere. Seats: 30
Neil Anderson, M.A. in history/former history teacher
Thursdays, Apr. 10–May 29, 12:30–2:00 p.m., Lenox Community
Center, 6715 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park
10008 Western Culture Art Evolutionary Odyssey
The purpose of this course is to provide participants with a
survey of Western Culture art. This is Section II of the series,
which will address the art of Ancient Greece. As well as the
primary subject matter, additional information will also
be covered during the course such as interpreting selected
masterpieces and current news from the world of art. Seats: 40
Gary P. Hanson, consultant/retired business executive
Thursdays, Mar. 27–May 22 (no class Apr. 3), 12:30–2:00 p.m.,
Edina Senior Center, 5280 Grandview Sq., Edina
Course Guide Spring 2014 March 24–May 16
13042 A View from Inside:
Learning about the Juvenile Justice System
We will learn about the experiences, dynamics, challenges,
and realities of the current juvenile justice system from legal,
cultural, socio-economic, spiritual, medical, educational,
racial/ethnic, and gender perspectives. The course will provide
an overview of juvenile justice practices and services along
with discussions about solutions to the racial disparities we
experience in Minnesota corrections systems. We will hear
from a variety of guest speakers who have experienced the
system personally, have specific expertise on the subject, or
have worked with young people inside the system. Seats: 25
Rev. Dr. Paula Nordhem served as staff chaplain at the
Hennepin County Juvenile Detention Center from 1999 to 2007.
She is now engaged in various aspects of anti-racism work,
primarily with Brotherhood, Inc., St Paul.
Thursdays, Mar. 27–May, 15, 2:15–3:45 p.m., McNamara
Alumni Center, Benson Classroom #235, U of M, 200 Oak St. SE,
Minneapolis
15096 Fire and Sword: Vikings in the Land of Franks
The Vikings raided and ravaged the continent of Europe for
at least two centuries. This course will explore their military
expeditions in the lands of the Franks, modern France, and
Germany during the ninth century. Suggested readings: The
Penguin Historical Atlas of the Vikings by John Haywood ($17.95)
and A History of the Vikings by Gwyn Jones ($14.50). Seats: 50
Steve Bivans is a Ph.D. candidate working on a dissertation
about Viking military history. He has led OLLI classes on Rome,
the Middle Ages, and the Vikings.
7 sessions, Thursdays, Apr. 3–May 29 (no class Apr. 17 and May 1),
6:00–7:30 p.m., University Lutheran Church of Hope, 601 13th Ave.
SE, Minneapolis
FRIDAY
13040 American Exceptionalism
The United States is an unusual nation. It is one of the largest in
geographic size and population, and has unparalleled wealth
and natural resources. It also has greater economic inequality
and religious participation than other industrialized nations,
and imprisons the most people. The U.S. spends the most
on health care while having a shorter average life span, and
accounts for almost half the world’s military expenditures. We
will discuss these and other qualities that make the United
States unique. Seats: 35
Don Ostrom, emeritus professor of political science, Gustavus
Adolphus College, and former Minnesota state legislator
Fridays, Mar. 28–May 16, 10:00–11:30 a.m., Calhoun Isles,
3151 Dean Ct., Minneapolis
13044 How the Peoples/Cultures of Mexico and the U.S.
Complement Each Other
The cultures and histories of Mexico and the United States
are significantly different. These differences can either
cause problems, as has been often the case in the past, or
can lead to synergies. The course will show students how to
tap into the latter option’s potential. Recommended texts:
Alan Riding, Distant Neighbors; Robert A. Pastor and Jorge
Castañeda, Limits to Friendship: The United States and Mexico;
Samuel Huntington, Who Are We?; Robert A. Pastor, The North
American Idea: A Vision of a Continental Future. Seats: 50
Hector E. Garcia, international and intercultural consultant
6 sessions, Fridays, Mar. 28–May 16 (no class Apr. 4 and 18),
12:30–2:00 p.m., Mount Zion Temple, Johnson Hall, 1300 Summit
Ave., St. Paul
18108 Social Media: Practice and Critique
In this course, we will critique current social media practices
based on diverse economic, social, and political issues. This
course will include participant social media practice, and we
will critically reflect on our own social media practices and
concerns. We will learn how to responsibly use various social
media technologies (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+,
etc.) to connect with family members, friends, and others from
all over the world. This course is suitable for individuals with
basic digital literacy skills. Seats: 30
Trent M. Kays is a Ph.D. candidate in writing studies who
specializes in digital rhetoric, critical pedagogy, social media,
and the Internet.
Fridays, Mar. 28–May 16, 12:30–2:00 p.m., Coffey Hall, Room 50,
U of M, 1420 Eckles Ave., St. Paul
16049 The Women of Troy
One of the anomalies of history is that the highly patriarchal
culture of the ancient Greeks created so many strong female
characters in poetry and drama. After a brief review of the role
of women in Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey, this class will read and
discuss several Greek tragedies that deal with highly untypical
women associated with the Troy myth, for example, Euripides’
Trojan Women and Iphigenia in Aulis. Text: The Complete
Euripides: Volume I and II, ed. Burian (Oxford University Press).
Seats: 20
William K. Freiert, emeritus professor of classics, Gustavus
Adolphus College
Fridays, Mar. 28–May 16, 12:30–2:00 The Kenwood,
825 Summit Ave., Minneapolis
www.cce.umn.edu/Osher-Lifelong-Learning-Institute/
page 25
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
19030 OPEN: René Girard’s Mimetic Theory
This course continues an examination of the intellectual and
scientific journey that René Girard elaborates for readers in his
scholarly (sometimes dense) and highly rewarding text, Things
Hidden Since the Foundation of the World. (Stanford University
Press, 1987; $27 new, $16 used on Amazon.com). Girard shows
that the social processes he describes in his Mimetic Theory are
on full display in the Old and New Testament scriptures. The
Mimetic Theory employs human imitation to explain human
desire, behavior, and history. It also describes the related
Victimage (Scapegoat) Mechanism, which produces religions,
cultures, and temporary relief from human violence, usually by
hiding it, by blaming it (on Satan, on God, that guilty person, or
on those “other” people), or by sequestering it into something
we call “the sacred.” Seats: 35
Dale A. Anderson, a retired banker, is a member of OLLI and
of the “Colloquium on Violence and Religion.”
Fridays, Mar. 28–May 16, 2:15–3:45 p.m., Parkshore Senior
Community, 3663 Park Center Blvd., St. Louis Park
12028 War, Peace, and Love: Films from the Middle East
This course provides a snapshot of Middle Eastern peoples and
cultures through cinematographic examples. The films range
from productions of prolific and globally recognized national
film industries, such as that of Turkey and Iran, to politically
critical films from Israel and Palestine. Course participants
will learn about the regional contribution to world cinema, as
well as the artistic representation and social criticism from
the Middle East. Seats: 40
Amir-Pouyan Shiva, Ph.D. candidate in anthropology, U of M
Fridays, Mar. 28–May 16, 3:00–5:30 p.m., Blegen Hall, Room 105,
U of M West Bank, 269 19th Ave. S., Minneapolis
“Well-done course, topic selection, depth
of content, visuals, and personable style.
Knowledgeable instructor… was evident
he put a lot in research with a topic he
felt strongly about.” --OLLI member
page 26
Like us on Facebook: OLLI Minnesota
Attention shutterbugs!
OLLI needs photos of special events, courses,
members engaged in activities, looking at the
camera and having fun! These photos might
be used in Insights or other print publication.
The most successful photos will be taken by a
digital camera with high resolution capacity.
Save your photo as a high resolution JPEG
(or JPG) and send it to: [email protected].
Course Guide Spring 2014 March 24–May 16
How to register
Registration starts March 11 at 9:00 a.m.
Online:
• Go to OLLI registration “Sign-in Page” (www.campusce.net/
olliumn/account/signin.aspx)
• Sign in to existing account (near the bottom of the page).
• Follow the step-by-step directions on how to register.
• If you do not receive a confirmation email within one hour of completing registration, please contact the OLLI office at [email protected].
• If you want to be wait-listed for a course be sure
to click on the “Add to Waiting List” button
By mail:
• Provide the following information on an 8.5 x 11” sheet of paper, and mail it, along with payment (checks only) for any course fees or membership dues.
• Checks should be made out to the University of Minnesota
and sent to the OLLI office at the McNamara Alumni Center, Suite 250, 200 Oak St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455.
• You can mail in your registration as soon as you like.
It will be date-stamped upon arrival and processed in order, beginning at 9:00 a.m. on March 11.
• The office will place you on the waiting list for any courses you have selected that are full.
• Mail-in registration must include the following:
- First and last name -Mailing address
- Daytime phone -Email address
- Course number and title of two LIMITED courses,
and/or as many Open/Special/Bookend courses you would like.
-Course number and title of two alternative LIMITED courses you would take, in order of preference, should your first choices not be available.
• Failure to follow any of these directions could result
in processing delays.
Adding Courses after Registration Day:
• Online registration is available through Mar. 16. Starting
Mar. 17, you must call the OLLI office to add courses at
612-624-7847.
Dropping Courses:
• Please email or call the OLLI office at [email protected]
or 612-624-7847 to drop a course.
How to join OLLI or renew
your membership
OLLI is a membership organization. Your membership
must be current to register for courses.
Online:
•Go to the online registration section of the OLLI website at: http://www.campusce.net/olliumn/category/category.aspx and follow the directions listed on the “Registration” page.
By mail:
•Mail a check for $70 (pro-rated spring term fee), made out
to the University of Minnesota, to: Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, 200 Oak St. SE, Suite 250, Minneapolis, MN 55455.
•Please include your full name (as you wish to be called),
address, daytime phone number, and email address.
•You will receive confirmation via email immediately
or by regular mail within one week.
When am I due to renew?
•You can find this information on the back cover of this
issue of Insights right above your address information.
To request scholarship:
•Please call the OLLI office at 612-624-7847 for information.
Alumni Association/UMRA/
Campus Club Members:
•If you have never been an OLLI member and are an active U of M Alumni Association member, you may join OLLI at
a special introductory rate.
•Follow the registration instructions above to join.
•Visit the Alumni Association website for information on how to take advantage of this offer.
•Call the OLLI office at 612-624-7847 if you are an
UMRA member.
•OLLI members receive a discounted membership at the
Campus Club.
Special Accommodation:
•OLLI is committed to providing equal access to its programs. If you have vision, hearing, or mobility problems that may interfere with your full participation in our courses and/
or activities, please call the OLLI office at 612-624-7847, to request accommodation.
www.cce.umn.edu/Osher-Lifelong-Learning-Institute/
page 27
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
University of Minnesota
McNamara Alumni Center, Suite 250
200 Oak Street SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455
Insights
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Important dates Spring 2014
Spring Registration: Begins Mar. 11 at 9:00 a.m.
Spring Session 2014: Mar. 26–May 17
Summer Registration: Begins May 20 at 9:00 a.m.
Course Leader Luncheon: May 22, Town and Country Club, St. Paul (time TBD)
Summer Session: June 2–27
Annual Meeting: June 5, Roseville Lutheran Church, Roseville (time TBD)
Minnehaha Creek in full spring flow
is a sure sign that winter is over
and a new season has begun.
www.cce.umn.edu/Osher-Lifelong-Learning-Institute