Spring 2021 Adult Learning - IN THE Fitchburg Area - Fitchburg State University
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Spring 2021
Adult Learning
IN THE
Fitchburg Area
All
Courses
ONline
Spring 2021
fitchburgstate.edu/ALFA
Adult Learning IN THE Fitchburg Area
What is ?
ALFA (Adult Learning in the Fitchburg Area) is a
lifelong learning institute that serves adult learners
in Fitchburg and the surrounding communities.
ALFA is sponsored by the School of Graduate,
Online, and Continuing Education at Fitchburg State
University in collaboration with volunteer members
of the community.
We offer non-credit daytime classes, trips, special
events, and a free speaker series. ALFA students
are encouraged to volunteer and participate in
program leadership and development, as well as
social and recreational activities. A limited number
of scholarships are available.
Our Mission
ALFA provides an opportunity for lifelong learners to
meet and share interests in an informal setting and
pursue learning for enrichment and personal growth.
Have you always wanted to teach?
Have a specialty that you think others would
be interested in? We’re always looking for new
instructors and new subject areas to offer our ALFA’s.
Contact us at alfa@fitchburgstate.edu for details
about becoming an ALFA instructor.
Have a question?
Call the ALFA Office at 978-665-3706, email us at
alfa@fitchburgstate.edu.
2COURSE OFFERINGS Spring 2021
Contents | About Us
Contents
About ALFA...............................................................2
Instructor Bios......................................................... 4
Session 3—At-A-Glance.......................................... 8
Session 3—Courses................................................. 8
Session 4—At-A-Glance......................................... 13
Session 4—Courses................................................14
Special Events.........................................................19
Registration Information...................................... 20
Registration Form.................................................. 21
3Adult Learning IN THE Fitchburg Area
Instructors
Arllen Acevedo is a retired certified art and Aldo Bianco emigrated from Trieste, Italy in
English teacher and has over 16 years of April of 1953 at the age of 65. He received his
teaching experience. She earned her B.A. BA from Queens College in Geology and his
from the Pontifical Catholic University of Master’s Degree from Brooklyn College, with
Puerto Rico and her M.F.A. in Education from a concentration in geochemistry. Aldo taught
Boston University. She is also a certified high school and then became principal of the
hypnotist and belongs to the National Guild of Yeshiva Academy in Worcester, for 28 years.
Hypnotists of MA and has been a member After retiring, he accepted a position in the
since 2011. She uses her knowledge as a hypnotist to teach people Math and Science department at Wachusett Community College,
how to make more meaningful meditations by using the “guided where he is still teaching as an Adjunct Professor.
meditation” method. Her purpose in life is to teach people how to Course: Italian Café, Pg. 10; Things You Should Know About
empower themselves to lead more successful, healthier, and Science, Pg. 11.
happier lives. She has been a volunteer, teaching guided medita-
tion since 2011, at the Senior Center in Leominster, MA. She also
teaches metaphysical classes at area colleges. Jean Borgatti has been consulting curator of
Courses: Learning About Your Chakras: Your Energetic System, African and Oceanic art at the Fitchburg Art
Pg. 17; Guided Meditation II, Pg.. 16 Museum since 2010 when she was asked to
help organize and document a growing collec-
tion of African and Oceanic art and charged
Sawkat Anwer came to the United States for with the responsibility of developing a long-
higher studies with the intention of returning term exhibition of the collection. She has
to Pakistan. Before he could finish studies, faculty status at Clark University where she
war broke out resulting in the creation of taught between 1984 and 2004 in the Visual and Performing Arts
Bangladesh. He lost three brothers in the war Department and at Boston University where she is a research
and their property was heavily damaged. He fellow at the African Studies Center. She received her B.A. in Art
decided to delay his return. One thing led to History (Modern Art) from Wellesley College in 1966 and her M.A.
another and he is still here. and PhD in Art History (Non-Western Art) from UCLA in 1971 and
Course: Things You Should Know About Science, Pg. 11. 1976 respectively. She has carried out extensive research in Nigeria
in 1971-1974 (doctoral research), 1979 (post-doctoral research)
and 2002-2004 as well as 2014-2016 as a Fulbright Scholar. Her
Ursula Anwer was born in Germany. She is a currently organized exhibits at FAM are Moving Objects: Art from
Neurologist and Sleep specialist. She has been Africa and Oceania in the Fitchburg Art Museum and Cloth is
practicing in Worcester, MA for more than 25 Money: Textiles from the Sahel.
years. She graduated from the Technical Course: Masquerade Traditions of West and Central Africa, Pg. 16.
University in Munich, Germany as an MD, also
has an MS in Biochemistry from Kansas State
University. Joe Choiniere has worked in the conservation
Course: Things You Should Know About field for over 40 years and taught numerous
Science, Pg. 11. courses in all aspects of nature study. Joe is a
lifelong naturalist and has a B.S. in Natural
History from UMass/Amherst.
Bill Ayadi is a retired engineer born in Tunisia. Course: Winter Botany—Trees, Pg. 9; Winter
He was educated in both Tunisia and Europe. Botany—Shrubs, Pg. 14.
Arabic was his first language and he grew up
immersed in its stories and traditions. He is a
life-long student of history, literature, and art.
Courses: Things You Should Know About
Science, Pg. 11; Art and Culture of Islam,
Pg.15; Armchair Travel, Pg. 14.
4COURSE OFFERINGS Spring 2021
Instructors
Jeff Cote The Occidental Taoist, has been Anne Gilman is the author of the best-selling
called one of the hidden treasures of New book Doing Work You Love, (Cheryl Gilman)
England. Jeff has been professionally studying McGraw-Hill/Contemporary Books, Barnes &
Qigong, Medical Qigong, Tai Chi, Baguazhang, Noble Books; Amazon/Create Space. Anne led
Tao Yin, Taoist Meditation and Zhongyi career seminars across the country before she
Medicine for nearly thirty years. He is a started offering creative writing workshops in
Professional diplomate in Chinese Medicine New England. She also has over 20 years’
from the Tai institute of Oriental Medicine, is experience writing and editing books, local
a professional member of the Wutang Chuan Gung Association, news, publicity stories, marketing & communications materials,
and a Registered Instructor in the disciplines of Tuina and Shiatsu proposals, and newsletters. Anne is also a visual artist and enjoys
with the American Organization for the Bodywork Therapies of offering abstract drawing/painting courses. Her artwork has been
Asia (AOBTA). He has also held a position as the national Director exhibited at the Danforth Museum, Concord Art Assoc., Gardner
of Education for the AOBTA. Mr. Cote has been teaching these arts Art League and the Lunenburg Library.
for over twenty years at Massage and Bodywork schools, Senior Courses: Creative Writing & Memoir Workshop, Pg. 9 & Pg. 15;
Centers, Community Centers, schools of Asian Healing Arts, and in Abstract Drawing and Painting, Pg. 8.
various Martial Arts facilities both across the country and interna-
tionally. He has been a guest lecturer at Northeastern University
for the Holistic Nursing program, and the Tuina head instructor and Joyce Ayadi Hinckley is a retired psychologist
clinic supervisor for the New England School of Acupuncture. Jeff and educator. She is also a life-long student of
has professionally practiced Zhongyi Medicine (Classical Chinese history, religion, art, and culture. She is truly
Medicine) in the disciplines of Tuina, Medical Qigong, and passionate about making connections across
Herbalism for over twenty-five years. Most recently his public disciplines.
access television show—Tai Chi: The Way to Radiant Health, has Courses: Art and Culture of Islam, Pg. 15;
earned him the moniker of “The Bob Ross of Tai Chi”. Things You Should Know About Science, Pg. 11;
Courses: Qigong I, Pg. 12; Qigong II, Pg.18; Tai Chi, Pg. 12 & Pg. 18. Armchair Travel, Pg. 14.
Sally Cragin is an award-winning journalist Gail Hoar was raised on an island in the middle
and playwright whose works have been of Lake Washington. She spent her summers,
performed in Provincetown, New York City until she was in her early 20’s, swimming,
(the Producers Club) and North Central hiking and boating in lakes, Puget Sound, the
Massachusetts. She is an author at Llewellyn Straits of Georgia and exploring the shores of
Worldwide, and her books, “The Astrological the San Juan, Canadian Gulf, and Vancouver
Elements” and “Astrology on the Cusp” have Islands. She still considers the Pacific Northwest
been translated and sold overseas. She writes and the Puget Sound area home.
the “New and Full Moon” forecasts for the Moon Sign Almanacs Courses: Armchair Travel, Pg. 14.
for Llewellyn.
Course: Ancient Lore in Modern Times, Pg. 16.
Catherine Hunter was a museum curator,
educator, and consultant for over twenty
Martha Crawford is a retired consultant years with a specialty in textiles. She has
focused on customer development in the US studied basketmaking, published feature arti-
and Europe. She has a background in political cles for the National Basketry Organization
science and philosophy, and a long term quarterly, and worked as a Research Associate
appreciation of art, culture, and making for the Native American Basketry Project at
connections. the Robert S. Peabody Institute of Archaeology
in Andover, Massachusetts.
Course: ALFA Salon: Continuing the
Conversation, Pg. 9. Courses: Native American Basketry: Rooted, Revived and
Reinvented, Pg. 9.
5Adult Learning IN THE Fitchburg Area
Instructors
Ann-marie LaBollita is an artist and teacher Terry McConnell spent 40 years in public
who believes in the transformational power education in secondary schools. He was a
of art and yoga. She has a BFA in painting and social studies and video production teacher, as
an MFA in studio teaching. Ann-Marie is also a well as a school librarian and special education
Certified Yoga Instructor and a Let Your Yoga liaison officer. After retiring from the public
Dance instructor. She happily spends her time schools, he was trained in the Breath-Body-
teaching, in her studio and on her yoga mat. Mind program of Richard P. Brown MD and
Courses: Printmaking with Gelatin Plates, Patricia Gerbarg MD. He now teaches
Pg. 9; Reduce Pain and Improve Posture with Yoga, Pg. 11 & Pg. 16. breathing techniques.
Course: Breath-Body-Mind, Life-Altering Experience, Pg. 16.
Sau-Mei Leung is a Hong Kong born American
artist. She enjoys teaching and sharing her Joe Moser has a Ph.D. from the University of
love of nature and art. Mei is graduate from Texas at Austin and was a professor of English
the Natural Science Illustration Certificate and film studies at Fitchburg State from 2008
from RISD CE and is currently studying to 2018. He is delighted to be teaching his
Graphic Design at RISD CE. She also has a eighth ALFA course.
Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of
Course: The Cinema of Bong Joon-ho, Pg. 17.
Connecticut.
Course: Creativity Workshop, Pg. 11;
Alison O’Hare began birding in 1998. She is a
Paul Luria has been performing and graduate of Mass Audubon’s Birder’s
teaching as a musician on guitar, banjo, Certificate Program, has taught programs on
mandolin, ukulele, and harmonica for fifty Introduction to Birdwatching, Sparrow
years. He is a retired public school teacher Identification, and Bird Banding, and has led
and administrator. many bird walks. She enjoys working with
Courses: Ukulele for You, Pg. 17; The History participants at all levels of experience, espe-
of Folk Music, Pg. 15. cially new birders or those looking to develop
their birding skills. Alison currently leads birding programs at Mass
Audubon’s Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary. During the
Paula Cookson Luria is a retired ESL & Covid-19 Stay-at-Home Order, when Alison wasn’t looking for
Bilingual teacher of Kindergarten through birds, she taught herself how to do cryptic crosswords and she is
graduate-level students. She loves to travel excited to share this new skill with the ALFA community.
and frequently uses her Spanish skills while Courses: Cryptic Crosswords for Beginners, Pg. 8;
exploring the world. Spring Birding, Pg. 14
Courses: How to Survive Any Conversation
in Spanish, Pg. 14; Kick Your Spanish
Conversation to the Next Level, Pg. 15; Ben Railton is a Professor of English Studies
Declutter Your Life, Pg. 18. and Coordinator of American Studies at
Fitchburg State University. He is the author of
six books, most recently Of Thee I Sing: The
Carol P. McConnell is a graduate of Smith Contested History of American Patriotism
College, Northampton, MA. She has been (2020). He writes the daily AmericanStudies
studying and practicing breathwork for 15 blog, contributes the monthly Considering
years and has extensive experience and History column to the Saturday Evening Post,
knowledge of the autonomic nervous system, and is a Boston Chapter leader for the Scholars Strategy Network.
its intimate connection to our breath, and the
Course: American History through Five Songs, Pg. 12.
impacts on both physical and emotional
health. Carol holds a certification in Coherent
Breathing and has completed training with Richard Brown, MD and
Patricia Gerbarg, MD.
Course: Breath-Body-Mind, Life-Altering Experience, Pg. 16.
6COURSE OFFERINGS Spring 2021
Instructors
Veda Ross is a lifelong learner with interests Carolyn Todd’s academic training includes a
in History, Historical Fiction, Art, and B.F.A. and M.A. in the Fine Arts and Art
Literature. Before retiring, Veda had careers Education. As an experienced art instructor
in both Education and Business which and artist, she has taught middle, high school,
provided opportunity to work on three college, and adult students. Her academic
continents. Veda has a Masters Degree in discipline has focused on painting (all media),
Education and an MBA. drawing, design, color theory, creativity, and
Course: Armchair Travel, Pg. 14. art history. She was fortunate to be selected
as the Artist in Residence for the National Park Service, Amistad
National Recreation Area in west Texas.
John Ryan has been active in the field of cell Courses: Drawing—Everyone Can Draw!, Pg. 17; Colored Pencil
culture and biotechnology for over 45 years. New and Next Steps, Pg. 10.
He has always enjoyed sharing his expertise
and experiences by teaching cell culture and
biotechnology programs to both scientists Jim Wilkinson is a retired historian and
trying to improve their research skills, as well educator. He received his B.A., Master’s, and
as to children and adults interested in Doctorate degrees from Harvard University,
exploring new and exciting topics. He can where he taught French and German history
easily adapt my teaching style to the level and interests of his and literature for many years. He is the author
students; all he requires is their natural curiosity and willingness to of The Intellectual Resistance in Europe,
explore new areas and ideas. which deals with anti-Fascist writers during
World War II, and received Harvard’s Phi Beta
Course: How Cell Culture and the Polio Vaccine Started the Biotech
Revolution, Pg. 11. Kappa Teaching Prize in 2003.
Courses: Masterpieces of 19th-Century Russian Fiction, Pg. 10;
Armchair Travel, Pg. 14.
Jim Simko went to secondary school at the
International School in Geneva, Switzerland
for four years which gave rise to a lifelong
interest in world affairs and in college, he
minored in International Affairs. Since then,
Jim has spent time traveling for business and
pleasure to about 70 countries on all seven
continents. He dedicates a great deal of time
throughout the year on keeping up with international develop-
ments. Jim has led the Great Decisions annual discussion group at
the Groton Public Library for the last five years.
Course: Great Decisions—Foreign Policy Discussion, Pg. 12.
Shanmugapriya Thangapandian teaches at
Hopkinton High School as a part-time French
Instructor after teaching at Pollard Middle
School in Needham, as well as at multiple
colleges in Massachusetts and Wisconsin. She
earned her Master of Philosophy and her
Master’s in French Language and Literature
from Madurai Kamaraj University in India.
Previously, she received a Bachelor degree in African Francophone
Literature from Sorbonne University in Paris and a Bachelor’s
degree in English Language and Literature from St. Mary’s College
in India.
Courses: French Through Fable, Pg. 12; French Through Cinema,
Pg. 18.
7Adult Learning IN THE Fitchburg Area
At-a-glance | SESSION 3 / January – MarchSession
2021 3 / At-a-Glance
Please Note: ALL ALFA courses will be ONLINE for the Spring Semester
Times Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
9:30 – 10 am
10 – 10:30 am Na ve
Reduce Qigong I
Cryp c American Crea ve Pain and
Crosswords Basketry: Wri ng &
10:30 – 11 am ALFA Salon: Improve
for Rooted, Memoir Things You
Con nuing the Posture American
Beginners Abstract Revived and Workshop Should
11 – 11:30 am (SPECIAL Conversa on with Yoga History
Drawing & Reinvented Know
SCHEDULE - (SPECIAL SCHEDULE through
Pain ng 2 Hours) - Every other week About
11:30 am – Five Songs
across both sessions) Science
12 pm
Great
Decisions—Foreign
Policy Discussion
12:20 – 1:50 pm Winter Botany-Trees Italian Cafe' Crea vity Workshop (SPECIAL SCHEDULE -
8 class sessions)
Tai Chi
How Cell Culture and
Masterpieces of
the Polio Vaccine
19th-Century
Started the Biotech
Russian Fic on
Revolu on
Printmaking with
2:30 – 4:00 pm
Gela n Plates Colored Pencil
New and Next
Steps (SPECIAL French Through Fable
SCHEDULE -
2 Hours)
`
`Cryptic Crosswords for Beginners `
`Abstract Drawing & Painting
Mondays: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. Mondays: 10:30 a.m.– 12:00 p.m.
Jan. 25; Feb. 1, 8, 22; Mar. 1 Jan. 25; Feb. 1, 8, 22; Mar. 1
Limited to 15 students Limited to 10 students
ONLINE ONLINE
Instructor: Alison O’Hare Instructor: Anne Gilman
Do you enjoy word games, crossword puzzles, or a clever turn Have fun and explore your creative talent! This class is for both
of phrase? If so, then this course is for you. Using PowerPoint those who say, “I can’t draw a straight line” (use a ruler); and for
presentations and group discussions, we’ll look at the differences those who want to loosen up their paintings. Let go of self-criticism
between standard and cryptic crosswords, learn how to read and and doubt, trust your intuition, and watch the magic begin!
analyze cryptic clues, become familiar with different types of word REQUIRED MATERIALS: A materials list is available by contacting
play, and work together on sample puzzles to meet the challenge the ALFA office. The instructor will mail out the materials list to all
of this exciting puzzle genre. students before class begins.
REQUIRED MATERIALS: Several number 2 pencils, a couple of
good erasers, scratch pad to act as your worksheet, pen and small
notebook or paper for taking notes, and a folder.
8
6COURSE OFFERINGS Spring 2021
SESSION 3 / January – March 2021
`
`Winter Botany-Trees `
`Creative Writing & Memoir Workshop
Mondays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m. Tuesdays: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Jan. 25; Feb. 1, 8, 22; Mar. 1 Jan. 26; Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23
Limited to 18 students SPECIAL SCHEDULE: 2 hours
ONLINE Limited to 10 students
Instructor: Joe Choiniere ONLINE
All of our 75 common native trees are easily recognized in winter. Instructor: Anne Gilman
Tree bark, twigs and buds are all helpful in identifying trees-we Every life holds many stories. Whether your life is wildly uncon-
don’t need leaves! Winter is the perfect time to learn about trees ventional or relatively normal, there is bound to be something
and get a head start on the spring, when many trees will begin fascinating about it. That is why the contemporary memoir—
blooming. We will use slides and specimens to look at individual everyday people telling their stories—has become such a popular
tree species and their ecology and also a few local forest commu- phenomenon. A memoir covers an aspect of a life, a theme, or an
nities and their most common components. adventure. Whether it’s a short piece about, say a bicycle ride with
RECOMMENDED MATERIALS: Bark-A Field Guide to Trees of the a friend, a book about your entire childhood, a marriage, grow-
Northeast by Michael Wojtech. This is a serious guide with well de- ing older, spiritual beliefs, etc., you will jumpstart your creativity
tailed keys to bark and great descriptions of the biology and ecology using short prompts for those stories that you want to focus on.
of trees and bark. Tree Identification Book by George WD Symonds. You will discover a supportive group to help unleash and uncover
your imaginative genies whether for memoir, fiction, poetry,
non-fiction and /or essays. As a professional writer/author, I know
the challenges of overcoming blocks and voices that say, “What
`
`Printmaking with Gelatin Plates do you mean you want to write (or paint, or sing, etc.), Who do
Mondays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. you think you are?!” Here’s an opportunity for people who have
Jan. 25; Feb. 1, 8, 22; Mar. 1 always wanted to write, to have a supportive, safe space in which
Limited to 12 students to create. You must feel safe in order to create.
ONLINE
REQUIRED MATERIALS: Notebook and pen/pencil, and/or laptop.
Instructor: Ann-marie LaBollita
Play is the name of this game! Making monoprints with gelatin plates
is inexpensive, versatile and so much FUN! Participants will explore
various printing techniques as they learn to layer colors, patterns,
`
`ALFA Salon: Continuing the Conversation
and textures to create bright and beautiful prints. We will use either FREE | Participant-Led Discussion Group
a GelliArts plate or Gel Press plate, acrylic paint, a brayer, and miscel- Wednesdays: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
laneous tools and found items to create interesting marks. Jan. 27; Feb. 10, 24; Mar. 24; Apr. 7, 21; May. 5
SPECIAL SCHEDULE: Every other week, spanning Sessions 3 & 4
REQUIRED MATERIALS: GelliArts or Gel Press plate, acrylic paint, a Limited to 30 students
printmaking brayer, misc. tools for mark making, scrap papers, and ONLINE
a smock. RECOMMENDED MATERIALS: a few bottles of profes- Facilitator: Martha Crawford
sional grade liquid acrylics, cheap craft acrylics, a couple of tubes
of student acrylic paint- paper towels, or rags. ALFA Salon is an informal gathering to be held every-other-week
throughout the Spring 2021 ALFA sessions. Each session will begin
with a brief introductory presentation followed by an engaging
discussion and question period led by a host lecturer. Salon is a
`
`Native American Basketry: Rooted, Revived, collaborative effort, so each session will conclude with brief discus-
and Reinvented sion of possible future topics and presenters participants would
Tuesdays: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. like us to explore.
Jan. 26; Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23 This Spring Salon will host both Fitchburg State professors and
Limited to 20 students community guest lecturers covering topics including:
ONLINE
`` Exploration of the style and themes of Oscar winning film
Instructor: Catherine Hunter
director Bong Joon-ho’s work.
This multimedia multifaceted introduction to Native American
basketry will include regional styles across the continent, —Continued next page
cultural traditions, changes in basketry due to contact with Euro-
Americans, and the artwork of contemporary artists. If you own a
Native American basket, please bring it to the first meeting.
9Adult Learning IN THE Fitchburg Area
SESSION 3 / January – March 2021
`` Unknown Influencers: How they influence our life every `
`Masterpieces of 19th-Century Russian
day by looking at a mapmaker, phony Russian Prince,
Sigmund Freud’s nephew and a conspiracy theorist.
Fiction
Wednesdays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m.
`` Analysis of Fitchburg State’s Spring theater program, Ugly
Jan. 27; Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24
Lies the Bones.
Limited to 16 students
`` Fitchburg’s history of Anti-Slavery Pageants: a tool for ONLINE
educating future teachers and public schools. Instructor: James Wilkinson
`` Leap into Spring with an exploration of the botanical This course will focus on five works of fiction from the “Golden
gardens of one of New England’s premier sites; The Age” of Russian literature, situated against their historical back-
Gardens at Elm Bank. ground. Themes of the course include the writer as witness to
The following presenters will join us: Dr. Joe Moser, Dr. Joyce history, the Russian quest for cultural identity, and Russian liter-
Ayadi Hinckley, Kelly Morgan, Darren Barry, and Massachusetts ature as a force for social reform. Sessions will begin with a brief
Horticultural Socient Trustee Gretel Anspach. introductory lecture, followed by active group discussion. No
background in Russian literature or history is required. All texts are
If you are interested in any of the topics being covered, sign up.
available in English translation and in paperback.
You might be surprised by what you will learn about a topic you
have not thought of. REQUIRED MATERIALS: Alexander Pushkin, The Captain’s
Daughter (1836); Mikhail Lermontov, A Hero of Our Time (1841);
Ivan Turgenev, A Sportsman’s Sketches (1852); Leo Lev Tolstoy,
`
`Italian Café The Death of Ivan Ilyich (1886); Anton Chekhov, The Lady with
the Dog (1899). RECOMMENDED MATERIALS: A list of suggested
FREE: Sponsored by the Center for Italian Culture
supplemental readings will be sent to participants before the
Wednesdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
course begins.
Jan. 27; Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24
Limited to 10 students
Location: ONLINE
Instructor: Aldo Bianco `
`Colored Pencil New and Next Steps
Wednesdays: 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
This is a participatory group discussion class that will incorporate
Jan. 27; Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24
general everyday conversations, including discussions on Italian
SPECIAL SCHEDULE: 2 Hours
culture, Italian literature, and current topics in the Italian news.
Limited to 10 students
Participants should have at least a modest fluency in conversational
ONLINE
Italian and basic reading comprehension. Our goal is to improve
Instructor: Carolyn Todd
one’s fluency in the Italian language, both verbal and reading as
well as safeguarding the Italian tradition in our community. Visual critical thinking and observation can lead to important trials
and successes in color drawing. The class will explore creating
RECOMMENDED MATERIALS: Italian Dictionary.
and experiencing a variety of textures, surfaces, color identities,
and techniques using a personal choice of wax, oil, and water-
color pencils. Drawing and training through any media can be a
challenge, but investigation of provided techniques can build
the encyclopedia of experiences important for development and
progress.
REQUIRED MATERIALS: A list of supplies will be provided by the
instructor and available by contacting the ALFA office.
Are you 90 or over?
Classes are free for those who are 90 or above.
If over 90, please email the ALFA office so that
we can get you registered free of charge!
alfa@fitchburgstate.edu
10COURSE OFFERINGS Spring 2021
SESSION 3 / January – March 2021
`
`Reduce Pain and Improve Posture with Yoga `
`Creativity Workshop
Thursdays: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. Thursdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
Jan. 28; Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 Jan. 28; Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25
Limited to 15 students Limited to 16 students
ONLINE ONLINE
Instructor: Ann-marie Labollita Instructor: Sau-Mei Leung
A gentle class geared toward relieving pain by bringing alignment This course will help students to tap into their own creative
to the body. Through a series of repeated poses we will reduce intuition through a series of hands-on exercises that focus on
back pain and work to bring the hips into greater alignment. experimentation, exploration, attention, speed, reaction, making,
This program can help participants with chronic pain issues and and play. Each week students are encouraged to share their work
is a great all around home practice. Additional stretches will for group discussion. The hands-on exercises also place great
help reduce stiffness and tension in the upper body and improve emphasis on different approaches to stimulate ideas and expand
posture. individual creative practice. Whether you are an artist or non-art-
REQUIRED MATERIALS: yoga mat, small towel, strap and two yoga ist, if you want to find out how exciting and productive a freer,
blocks. RECOMMENDED MATERIALS: blanket for relaxation and to more intuitive approach to the creative process can be, don’t miss
stay warm while lying down. this fun class.
REQUIRED MATERIALS: A notebook (any size), pencil, white paper
(e.g. 8.5x11 copy paper), ruler, markers (any colors), scissor, glue,
`
`Things You Should Know About Science and old magazines
Thursdays: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Jan. 28; Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25
Limited to 30 students `
`How Cell Culture and the Polio Vaccine
ONLINE Started the Biotech Revolution
Facilitator: Bill Ayadi Thursdays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m.
This course will explore science issues we grapple with daily. These Jan. 28; Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25
include a brief history of drug discovery, why and how we sleep, Limited to 16 students
the ways memory works, everyday statistical awareness, the ONLINE
promise and danger of artificial intelligence. Everything presented Instructor: John Ryan
in ways that are easy to understand and apply to everyday life. This The development of techniques to grow human and animal cells
course will have a different presenter each week including: in vessels outside of the body (called cell culture) has now led to a
`` Aldo Bianco—Everyday statistical awareness revolution in biotechnology that is impacting our lives in a big way.
`` Sawkat Anwer—What do we need to know about drugs? In just over a hundred years, cell culture technology has moved
from an interesting but minor research tool to a major source of
`` Ursula Anwer—I sleep, you sleep, we sleep cell culture manufactured vaccines, drugs, clinical diagnostics and
`` Joyce Hinckley—How memory works stem cell-based therapies. It has also greatly helped researchers
`` Bill Ayadi—The promise and danger of artificial intelligence study cancer, human genetics, aging and viral diseases. Virtually all
of us have used products produced by cultured animal or human
cells. This course will explore how we grow and use cultured cells
to make these life changing products. A background in science is
not needed for this program, just your natural curiosity and desire
to learn about an exciting technology that is already impacting
your life.
11Adult Learning IN THE Fitchburg Area
SESSION 3 / January – March 2021
`
`French Through Fable `
`Great Decisions—Foreign Policy Discussion
Thursdays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. Fridays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
Jan. 28; Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26, Mar. 5, 12, 19
Limited to 20 students SPECIAL SCHEDULE: 8 Weeks (running through the break
ONLINE between sessions and ending BEFORE Session 4)
Instructor: Shanmugapriya Thangapandian Limited to 15 students
Salut to the French Language Learners! FRENCH THROUGH FABLES ONLINE
is the best way to develop all four skills: listening, speaking, read- Instructor: Jim Simko
ing and writing for beginners of French Language. Some of our This course is a national program prepared each year by the
fondest memories in childhood were the story time. It was relax- Foreign Policy Association and has been offered each year since
ing, enjoyable and certainly contributed to our present day love its inception in 1918. Each year, a “Briefing Book” is created on the
for literature. Reading and listening to short stories can be a fun eight most critical global issues facing the US. This book serves as
way to learn any new language. In this course, French short stories a foundation for participants to learn about and then discuss these
introduce you to new vocabulary, new verb tenses and familiar- topics in each session. Additional resources and links to follow up
ize you with the context. The importance of communication will materials are provided to further study on each topic.
be stressed through a wide variety of activities (group/pair work, REQUIRED MATERIALS: The GREAT DECISIONS 2021 Briefing Book,
video & audio recordings, computer assignments, etc.). which can be purchased for $32 directly from the Foreign Policy
Association Website Bookstore—https://www.fpa.org/
`
`Qigong I
Fridays: 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. ` Chi
`Tai
Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 Fridays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
Limited to 24 students Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26
ONLINE Limited to 24 students
Instructor: Jeff Cote ONLINE
In this course, students will learn the fundamental principles of Instructor: Jeff Cote
Qigong, including the difference between nei gong and wei gong In this course, students will learn the fundamental principles of
(internal and external practices), a basic view of the energetic Wuxing Long Pai Taijiquan (Formless Dragon Tai Chi), and begin
structure of the body according to Chinese Medical principles, the working on the Formless Dragon Long Mirror form and its basic
basic postural and movement concepts of wei gong, and the three structure. This class will focus on basic postural alignments, correct
regulations, exploring how they comprise the building blocks of all movement principles, breathing technique and coordination of
Qigong practice. Students will also be led through a survey of basic form, movement, breath, and flow. During the course, each form
Qigong sets, including the Six Healing Sounds and the Meridian movement will also be examined for how it directs movement,
Flow Qigong series. energy and synchronous activity. By the end of this course, each
student will have developed a strong relationship with the ever
expanding set of movements in the form and its individual move-
`
`American History through Five Songs ments sufficiently that they can take this practice on their own and
Fridays: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. develop a high level of understanding and skill with Tai Chi. This
Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 class would be designed to be an ongoing class where students
Limited to 30 students could continue and learn more movement sequences beginning
ONLINE with the Basic Form set, followed by the Short Mirror Form, The
Instructor: Ben Railton Long Mirror Form and culminating in the Formless Dragon Long
Cultural texts like songs offer a unique and vital window into under- Form. Each form builds upon the previous in a modular fashion.
standing our history. In this course, we’ll use five songs, from the RECOMMENDED MATERIALS: Loose, Comfortable Clothing.
“Star-Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America” to “Brother, Can
You Spare a Dime?,” “Mississippi Goddam,” and the Chicks “March
March” to analyze two centuries of American history.
12COURSE OFFERINGS Spring 2021
Session 4 / At-a-Glance At-a-glance / session 4
Please Note: ALL ALFA courses will be ONLINE for the Spring Semester
Times Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
9:30 – 10 am
Kick Your
How to
Spanish
Spring Survive Any Declu er
10 – 10:30 am Conversa on Qigong II
Birding Conversa on Reduce Pain Your Life
to the Next
in Spanish Crea ve Guided and
Level Wri ng &
10:30 – 11 am Medita on Improve Learning
Memoir ALFA Salon:
Workshop II Posture About Your
Con nuing with Yoga
11– 11:30 am (SPECIAL Chakras:
SCHEDULE - the
Your
2 Hours) Conversa on
11:30 am – Energe c
con nued....
12 pm System
Drawing -Everyone Can
Armchair Travel Draw! (SPECIAL SCHEDULE -
Ancient Lore in 2 Hours 12:00 - 2:00 pm)
12:20 – 1:50 pm Art and Culture of Islam Tai Chi
Modern Times
The Cinema of
Winter Botany-Shrubs
Bong Joon-ho
Masquerade Tradi ons of
Ukulele for You
West and Central Africa
The History
2:30 – 4:00 pm
of Folk Music
Breath-Body-Mind,
French Through Cinema
Life-Altering Experience
13
13Adult Learning IN THE Fitchburg Area
Session 4 / March – April 2021
`
`Spring Birding `
`Armchair Travel
Mondays: 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. Mondays: 12:20 - 1:50 p.m.
Mar. 22, 29; Apr. 5, 12, 26 Mar. 22, 29; Apr. 5, 12, 26
Limited to 15 students Limited to 30 students
ONLINE ONLINE
Instructor: Alison O’Hare (in affiliation with the Mass Audubon’s Facilitator: Bill Ayadi
Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary) The armchair tradition continues with some new twists. Join us to
In this class, we will concentrate on bird identification by sight share the joy and adventure of travel and experience the insight it
and song, discuss how to get the most out of a field guide, and brings through connecting us to people, places, and cultures. James
prepare for the arrival of Spring migrants. Suggestions will be given Wilkinson brings us to Japan in winter which shows its beauty in a
for outdoor activities, we’ll have a weekly question and answer different light. Come discover a bamboo forest, explore temples in
session, and students will have an opportunity to report their the snow and celebrate the New Year on this photo tour of Kyoto
sightings to the group. and Nagano as tourists seldom see them. Bill Ayadi will take us
REQUIRED MATERIALS: Binoculars, field guide to birds of North to Xian, China, explore the city and the countryside, including the
America or of Eastern US. Terracotta Army, all while being hosted by Chinese colleagues
working together to build a Niobium processing plant. Next, join
Joyce Ayadi Hinckley and Veda Ross to find out what happens
when two friends celebrate their 50th friendiversary with a care-
`
`How to Survive Any Conversation in Spanish fully curated trip to Jordan. Accompany them to cooking classes,
Mondays: 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. the splendor of Petra, desert camping and more. Laugh and learn
Mar. 22, 29; Apr. 5, 12, 26 as they encounter the true treasures of Jordan, the people. Finally
Limited to 20 students area native, Gail Hoar initiates the very first two-class tour: the
ONLINE Pacific Northwest, USA and Canada. She shares what she loves,
Instructor: Paula Cookson Luria including the treasures of the Seattle area, the natural beauty of
If you want to be able to have a basic conversation in Spanish, give Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands, Olympic Peninsula, Coastal
this course a try! Every language has certain words and phrases British Columbia and the Canadian Gulf Islands, and the related
that are used over and over again. You will learn Greetings, history of its indigenous peoples and early settlers, and more. Gail
Small Talk, Being Polite, Dealing with Problems, Question Words, will include enough information so that it’s possible to use her
Common Answers, Exclamations, and Goodbyes. This knowledge information to design a trip of your own.
will get you started on your path to fluency in Spanish.
REQUIRED MATERIALS: Please bring a pack of 100 index cards,
some highlighters, a pen and Easy Spanish Step-By-Step by Barbara `
`Winter Botany—Shrubs
Bregstein. Mondays: 12:20 - 1:50 p.m.
Mar. 22, 29; Apr. 5, 12, 26
Limited to 18 students
ONLINE
Instructor: Joe Choiniere
Shrubs are often easier to recognize in winter, when their twig
and bud colors, and distinctive silhouettes, provide great clues
to identification. There are over 100 species of native shrubs in
many familiar plant families such as rose, viburnum, dogwood,
and honeysuckle. We will look at and identify shrubs using slides
and live specimens, and study and discuss several shrub habitats
and communities including wetlands, and look at shrub impor-
tance to wildlife.
RECOMMENDED MATERIALS: Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide by
Gordon Morrison illustrates some of our most common shrubs
in flower. The Shrub ID Book by George Symonds is a black and
white illustrated guide that compares twigs, buds, flowers, bark
and leaves and is usable year-round.
14COURSE OFFERINGS Spring 2021
Session 4 / March – April 2021
`
`The History of Folk Music `
`Creative Writing & Memoir Workshop
Mondays: 2:30 - 4:00 p.m. Tuesdays: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Mar. 22, 29; Apr. 5, 12, 26 Mar. 23, 30; Apr. 6, 13, 20
Limited to 25 students SPECIAL SCHEDULE: 2 hours
ONLINE Limited to 10 students
Instructor: Paul Luria ONLINE
Many songs, jazz, pop and folk, are different from their “origi- Instructor: Anne Gilman
nal” versions because they evolve as time goes by. This is the folk Every life holds many stories. Whether your life is wildly uncon-
process and as it’s been said, “It’s all folk music.” This course will ventional or relatively normal, there is bound to be something
cover American folk music from approximately 1900 to the pres- fascinating about it. That is why the contemporary memoir—
ent. The course will focus on various geographical regions and everyday people telling their stories – has become such a popular
aspects and functions of folk music such as: protest, religious, phenomenon. A memoir covers an aspect of a life, a theme, or an
retelling of history and the transmitting of current events. We will adventure. Whether it’s a short piece about, say a bicycle ride with
listen to and discuss recordings, and watch videos. The course will a friend, a book about your entire childhood, a marriage, grow-
follow a historical linear format with offshoots to pertinent topics. ing older, spiritual beliefs, etc., you will jumpstart your creativity
As Woody Guthrie said, “If you ain’t got no books on history, you using short prompts for those stories that you want to focus on.
can just haul off and sing it.” You will discover a supportive group to help unleash and uncover
your imaginative genies whether for memoir, fiction, poetry,
non-fiction and /or essays. As a professional writer/author, I know
`
`Kick Your Spanish Conversation the challenges of overcoming blocks and voices that say, “What
do you mean you want to write (or paint, or sing, etc.), Who do
to the Next Level you think you are?!” Here’s an opportunity for people who have
Tuesdays: 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. always wanted to write, to have a supportive, safe space in which
Mar. 23, 30; Apr. 6, 13, 20 to create. You must feel safe in order to create.
Limited to 20 students
Location: ONLINE REQUIRED MATERIALS: Notebook and pen/pencil.
Instructor: Paula Cookson Luria
This course will briefly review and refresh your Spanish with greet-
ings, small talk, being polite, question words, common answers,
` and Culture of Islam
`Art
dealing with problems, exclamations, the present tense, common Tuesdays: 12:20 - 1:50 p.m.
vocabulary, pronunciation, and goodbyes. You will then move on to Mar. 23, 30; Apr. 6, 13, 20
develop your language skills to describe your interests, surround- Limited to 25 students
ings and families. You will learn Spanish that will help you with ONLINE
travel including navigating around cities, shopping, restaurants Instructors: Joyce Ayadi Hinckley & Bill Ayadi
and transportation. Your vocabulary will expand, depending on the Discover the arts of Islam from architecture and literature to
needs of the group. You will learn to conjugate verbs in the future garden design, painting, ceramics, and most importantly, callig-
and past tenses. All of this will be in a light-hearted and support- raphy. Trace common threads from Spain to China to understand
ive environment where you will experience the joy of learning to the diversity and complexity involved. Learn how Islam has created
speak Spanish. common cultural concepts that influence its art. Primarily lecture
REQUIRED MATERIALS: three ring binder, paper, and 101 with opportunities for creative activities and sharing.
Conversations in Simple Spanish by Olly Richards. RECOMMENDED REQUIRED MATERIALS: Ability to view visual content using an
MATERIALS: fully charged cell phone with the Google Translate electronic device.
app.
15Adult Learning IN THE Fitchburg Area
Session 4 / March – April 2021
`
`Guided Meditation II `
`Breath-Body-Mind, Life-Altering Experience
Wednesdays: 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays: 2:30 - 4:00 p.m.
Mar. 24, 31; Apr. 7, 14, 21 Mar. 24, 31; Apr. 7, 14, 21
Limited to 11 students Limited to 20 students
ONLINE ONLINE
Instructor: Arllen Acevedo Instructors: Carol McConnell & Terry McConnell
Students will learn about the “Law of Gratitude and Blessings”, the Learn simple techniques to reduce stress and anxiety, enhance
importance of not giving up your power, transforming fear, tapping concentration and balance your emotions. Breath-Body-Mind
into your own inner voice, and living your purpose. practices will reacquaint your nervous system with a balance
REQUIRED MATERIALS: Pen/pencil, notebook for students. acuity unrealized before this class. Allow yourself a more focused
life, generating energy, enhancing coping skills, and good health.
You will learn awareness of how your breath can agitate or comfort
you. Learn how to properly breathe, keeping the body and mind
`
`Ancient Lore in Modern Times operating optimally. You will learn how trauma and emotional
Wednesdays: 12:20 - 1:50 p.m. stress are maintained when breathing is not done properly. The
Mar. 24, 31; Apr. 7, 14, 21 way you breathe is connected to the way you feel, whether it is
Limited to 15 students chronic pain, panic attacks, asthma, sinus issues, depression, heart
ONLINE disease, high blood pressure, mood swings, headaches, COPD,
Instructor: Sally Cragin PTSD, etc. You will learn how improper breathing can cause a
Folk practices are pan-cultural, and in this entertaining and infor- “fight or flight” response to stressful situations. Also, you will learn
mative workshop, you’ll learn about a global variety of customs, how to stay calm when under stress through proper breath. Take
with a special focus on Astrology, Tarot Cards and palmistry. Are Breath-Body-Mind to improve your health and your life.
you curious about your sun sign or those lines on your palm? Have REQUIRED MATERIALS: The Healing Power of the Breath by
you ever wanted to learn about what the cards have in store? Yes Richard Brown MD and Patricia Gerbarg MD, please note that it is
it is the 21st century, but ancient lore is all around us. important to have the CD which comes with the book.
`
`Masquerade Traditions of West `
`Reduce Pain and Improve Posture with Yoga
and Central Africa Thursdays: 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Wednesdays: 2:30 - 4:00 p.m. Mar. 25; Apr. 1, 8, 15, 22
Mar. 24, 31; Apr. 7, 14, 21 Limited to 15 students
Limited to 25 students ONLINE
ONLINE Instructor: Ann-marie Labollita
Instructor: Jean Borgatti A gentle class geared toward relieving pain by bringing alignment
This course focuses on masquerade traditions of West and Central to the body. Through a series of repeated poses we will reduce
Africa, drawing on examples from the Fitchburg Art Museum’s back pain and work to bring the hips into greater alignment.
Collections, including those on display in FAM’s current exhibi- This program can help participants with chronic pain issues and
tion Moving Objects: Art from Africa and Oceania. In brief, we will is a great all around home practice. Additional stretches will
look at the Masquerade as a phenomenon in its many forms and help reduce stiffness and tension in the upper body and improve
purposes, highlighting traditions represented in the exhibition. posture.
Lectures will cover such topics as the myriad materials and multi- REQUIRED MATERIALS: yoga mat, small towel, strap and 2 yoga
media nature of masquerade, masquerade and education, gender blocks. RECOMMENDED MATERIALS: blanket for relaxation and to
and social roles such as “Beauty and Beast,” and masquerades stay warm while lying down.
today in sub-Saharan Africa and the Diaspora (New Orleans and
the Caribbean). Students will be encouraged to visit FAM on their
own (a complementary pass will be sent) to see the exhibitions on
view.
16COURSE OFFERINGS Spring 2021
Session 4 / March – April 2021
`
`Learning About Your Chakras: Your `
`The Cinema of Bong Joon-ho
Energetic System Thursdays: 12:20 - 1:50 p.m.
Thursdays: 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Mar. 25; Apr. 1, 8, 15, 22
Mar. 25; Apr. 1, 8, 15, 22 Limited to 25 students
Limited to 10 students ONLINE
ONLINE Instructor: Joe Moser
Instructor: Arllen Acevedo South Korea’s Bong Joon-ho, director of the Oscar-winning film
In this class you will learn about your seven main chakras: their Parasite, is one of the great auteurs, or artists, of world cinema
names, where they are located, their specific colors and what today. Throughout his seven feature films, Bong has a compelling
part of the body they affect. You will also learn how to clear and visual style and consistent themes, including social inequality,
strengthen them so that you can stay healthier. family unity, and the ills of capitalism. In this course, we will closely
study four of Bong’s films to gain a greater appreciation of his
REQUIRED MATERIALS: notebooks and pens/pencils. artistry. Along the way, we will discuss the director’s influences,
particularly Alfred Hitchcock, and Bong’s clever use of familiar
film genres like the murder mystery, slapstick comedy, and family
`
`Drawing—Everyone Can Draw! melodrama.
Thursdays: 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. REQUIRED MATERIALS: Access to four assigned films (online or
Mar. 25; Apr. 1, 8, 15, 22 on DVD): Memories of Murder (2003); The Host (2006); Mother
SPECIAL SCHEDULE: 2 Hours (2009); Parasite (2019) NOTE: the original Korean-language
Limited to 10 students versions of these films (with English subtitles) are highly recom-
ONLINE mend. Please avoid English-dubbed versions of the films, if at all
Instructor: Carolyn Todd possible.
There is no wrong or right way to draw—it is an individual,
personal experience that everyone can enjoy! There are methods,
styles, techniques, and skills that can help the student of drawing `
`Ukulele for You
to develop and build a personal drawing approach and skill level. Thursdays: 2:30 - 4:00 p.m.
This class will build new and/or refine existing skills by exploring Mar. 25; Apr. 1, 8, 15, 22
different drawing techniques. Emphasis will be placed on critical Limited to 10 students
thinking and building a drawing experience. Class will work in ONLINE
graphite, charcoal, ink, and other materials. Depending on the Instructor: Paul Luria
experience levels and interests of class members, we will explore This is a beginning course for people who want to play the ukulele.
different levels of difficulty. We will cover chords, various strums and simple note reading for
REQUIRED MATERIALS: Due to the Zoom experience, students will simple melodies. Students will be able to play a song in the first
provide still life components at home as discussed in the class. A class.
list of supplies will be provided by the instructor and available by REQUIRED MATERIALS: A ukulele: soprano, concert or tenor. Not a
contacting the ALFA office. baritone—they are tuned differently. It is strongly recommended
that you buy one from a local store where the instrument will be
correctly strung and tuned.
17Adult Learning IN THE Fitchburg Area
Session 4 / March – April 2021
`
`French Through Cinema `
`Declutter Your Life
Thursdays: 2:30 - 4:00 p.m. Fridays: 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
Mar. 25; Apr. 1, 8, 15, 22 Mar. 26; Apr. 9, 16, 23, 30
Limited to 20 students Limited to 20 students
ONLINE Location: ONLINE
Instructor: Shanmugapriya Thangapandian Instructor: Paula Cookson Luria
Language that we learn in beginner textbooks is a formalized Take an introspective journey and choose freedom from clutter.
version of the real thing. Since conversational registers alter Learn why we have problems with clutter. Think about why it is so
depending on the situation, watching films is a great and easy way hard to let go of things. Explore how clutter affects our wellbeing.
to understand when to use different terms in a phrase. Watching Develop and carry out the decluttering of one area of your home.
a film all the way through in a foreign language is a really amazing REQUIRED MATERIALS: Please bring one of those old 1/2 filled
achievement at any level. Even if you haven’t understood every- notebooks that you have hanging around and a pen.
thing, it’s still a huge language success.
If you have learned French in school, college or any beginners
course for at least 7-10 hours then FRENCH THROUGH CINEMA is ` Chi
`Tai
the best way to improve your comprehension, build up your confi- Fridays: 12:20 - 1:50 p.m.
dence and soon you’ll understand and speak French like a pro! Mar. 26; Apr. 9, 16, 23, 30
The importance of communication will be stressed through a wide Limited to 24 students
variety of activities (group/pair work, video & audio recordings, Location: ONLINE
computer assignments etc. ) Not only can French cinema help you Instructor: Jeff Cote
to improve your phrases and conversation, but it can also intro-
duce you to another world of intrigue and drama. Get attuned to In this course, students will learn the fundamental principles of
more French! Wuxing Long Pai Taijiquan (Formless Dragon Tai Chi), and begin
working on the Formless Dragon Long Mirror form and its basic
structure. This class will focus on basic postural alignments, correct
movement principles, breathing technique and coordination of
`
`Qigong II form, movement, breath, and flow. During the course, each form
Fridays: 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. movement will also be examined for how it directs movement,
Mar. 26; Apr. 9, 16, 23, 30 energy and synchronous activity. By the end of this course, each
Limited to 24 students student will have developed a strong relationship with the ever
ONLINE expanding set of movements in the form and its individual move-
Instructor: Jeff Cote ments sufficiently that they can take this practice on their own and
Building upon the lessons learned in Qigong I, this course will take develop a high level of understanding and skill with Tai Chi. This
students deeper into the practice of Qigong and how each regula- class would be designed to be an ongoing class where students
tion can be modified to affect change in the purpose of any Qigong could continue and learn more movement sequences beginning
exercise. Students will also deepen their knowledge of the Qi with the Basic Form set, followed by the Short Mirror Form, The
system according to traditional Chinese Medical principles. These Long Mirror Form and culminating in the Formless Dragon Long
concepts will be explored through further practice and training of Form. Each form builds upon the previous in a modular fashion.
the basic sets learned in Qigong I, and other Qigong practices such RECOMMENDED MATERIALS: Loose, comfortable clothing
as Taoist Elixir Qigong (Tao Dan Pai) and White Crane Qigong will
be introduced. This class is a combination of theoretical and prac-
tical. As such some time in each class will be spent in discussion
of principles followed by demonstration of movement techniques.
Students should ensure they have enough room to swing their
arms in any direction.
18COURSE OFFERINGS Spring 2021
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
`
`Abolitionism, Emancipation and Civil War Memory in Food
F
Thouogr
Central Massachusetts in the Mid-Nineteenth
and Early Twentieth Centuries
Presenter: Darren Barry
ht
Tuesday, March 30, 2021 | 2:30 PM
Online
This event is FREE and open to the public!
Online Through Zoom—*Must Pre-Register*
As a hotbed of antislavery activity in the mid-eighteenth century, Central Massachusetts played a vital role in the crusade
to emancipate four million slaves from bondage and the ensuing Civil War that finally brought their objective to frui-
tion. In this provocative presentation, Darren Barry examines the individuals and families that made up the abolitionist
communities of Fitchburg and Worcester , Massachusetts. He will also discuss the complex ways in which the people
of these localities chose to remember the Civil War’s fundamental issues of slavery and racial equality in the decades
following the conflict.
Darren Barry is a United States history teacher at Montachusett Regional High School in Fitchburg,
Massachusetts. He holds a master’s degree in history from Worcester State University and a
master’s in education from Chadron State College. His research interests include Civil War memory,
the history of teaching slavery in American education, and African-American cultural history during
the progressive era. Barry has published essays in the Historical Journal of Massachusetts and the
Encyclopedia of African-American Culture, and has a forthcoming publication with the National
Council for the Social Studies. He is currently working on a manuscript that explores the struggle
of African-Americans to reclaim their history, public image, and identity in the late nineteenth and
early twentieth centuries.
Group Trips
There are NO trips for the Spring 2021 season.
We look forward to being able to
offer trips again in the future.
EASY online registration
Know INSTANTLY if you got into a course!
REGISTRATION OPENS DEC. 16, 2020 AT:
marketplace.fitchburgstate.edu/ALFA
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