Summer 2025 Course dESCRIPTIONS

Truth Decay 2025

Coordinator

Course Description

Fundamentally, this course asks whether we humans pursue truth rationally. Our founding fathers thought we did and gave us the freedom to do so. Experience suggests we might not, with serious implications for how we traditionally think about democracy. The decline of traditional news media in the face of talk radio, cable news, and, above all, social media can be seen as a crisis or an opportunity depending on your faith in human rationality. This four-week mini-course examines the assumptions and realities about “fair and balanced" news, “objective” news, and propaganda. Everyone in the class is an expert because we each experience these media every day.

America's National Parks: A Video Journey

Coordinator

Course Description

Our great National Parks are America's best idea to the world! Join Prof. Alan as he explores the birth of the national park system from its inception to today's challenges in 2025. Along the way we will meet such legendary figures such as John Muir, Teddy Roosevelt, Ken Burns and others who all played a role in promoting these special places in our country. We will also explore our new maritime parks as a valued addition to the national park system. Watch the Coordinator Intro Video to get a feel for the coordinator and learn more about this course.

Drawing as a Sacred Activity

Coordinator

Course Description

You will expand your visual thinking skills! And, you will develop greater hand-eye coordination! Plus, you will experience seeing old things in new ways and you will connect your inner and outer world in a meaningful way. The big skill you will develop in Heather's Drawing Class is learning to observe yourself and the world around you - without naming, labeling, or judging what you see. Drawing is a Spiritual Practice of Being Present and paying Attention! Watch the Coordinator Intro Video to get a feel for the coordinator and learn more about this course.

Exploring Creativity

Coordinator

Course Description

This class is an ongoing workshop where individuals work on their personal art goals in a sharing environment. Participants can exchange knowledge and offer “gentle” feedback to each other if they want to. Bring the supplies you will need for your own project. We are fortunate to use this space. Come and make a commitment to yourself to do art at least two hours per week. Join a group of people who enjoy working on their art together in a peaceful and supportive environment.

Why Free Speech is not a Free Pass

Coordinator

Course Description

Contrary to the belief of some that “It is a free country; I can say whatever I want,” the First Amendment has limits, but when? If someone provokes a mob to storm the United States Capitol, is the speech protected? Do you have a right to be heard? Should you be forced to listen? Can you be compelled to speak? Does social media have to follow the same rules? Do your opinions fall in line with Supreme Court rulings? Course members will discuss these boundaries and various theories of free speech. Download the Syllabus.

Alicia's Book Club

Coordinator

Course Description

Join us at the Alicia Book Club at Alicia Ashman Library at High Point and Old Sauk Rd. We will meet a total of three times – on the second Tuesday of the month. Participants will receive the book list upon registration. Join us for good reading and good discussion.

Short Stories and Essays

Coordinator

Course Description

For those who love reading and discussion, this is the perfect entertainment. One hour each is devoted to a short story and an essay. There is always a lively, opinionated, and friendly atmosphere with a welcome for all participants. Come join us as we delve into the ever-fascinating world of short stories and essays created by some of the best writers who have put pen to paper. Texts to be used: The Art of the Story: An International Anthology of Contemporary Short Stories, by Daniel Halpern; Best American Essays 2023, edited by Vivian Gornick.

History of the Hollywood Musical

Coordinator

Course Description

This summer, we will offer a selection of film musicals featuring the lives of composers, both classical and pop. Download the Schedule.

Understanding And Practicing Lovingkindness (Metta)

Coordinator

Course Description

Metta, or lovingkindness, is the heartfelt wish for the well-being of oneself and others. The practice of Metta meditation is the systematic cultivation of our capacity for lovingkindness. Cultivating goodwill is an important partner to mindfulness meditation within the broad sweep of Buddhist-inspired practice. This class views loving kindness through the lens of the ancient text called the Metta Sutta. In addition to that foundation, guidance in how to do loving-kindness practice will be given. Each class will feature a loving-kindness-inspired meditation, a brief presentation of concepts around the topic, and opportunities for discussion. Previous mindfulness practice-while helpful-is not required. Watch the Coordinator Intro Video here to get a feel for the coordinator and learn more about this course.

Military History of the American Civil War 1860 - 1865

Coordinator

Course Description

During this course there will be weekly discussions of military strategies and tactics of American Civil War battles from First Manassas, July 1861, to Appomattox Court House, April 1865. Battlefield maps will be used to discuss Union and Southern strategies and tactics, complete with actual troop movements and formations at the beginning and end of major battles during the war.

Gentle Chair Yoga for stress reduction

Coordinator

Course Description

Gentle Chair Yoga is accessible to people at all stages of life, offering the many benefits of yoga to promote mental, physical, and emotional health. This 45-minute class requires an armless, sturdy chair to provide support during seated and standing poses and movements. Over time, this practice can improve strength, flexibility, and balance; enhance proprioception; and promote a sense of relaxation and wellbeing. No previous experience with yoga is necessary to attend this class. Even people with limited mobility can participate. Members are welcome to drop in to try it out anytime throughout the summer – simply send Stephanie an email at least a day in advance of the class to receive the Zoom link.

Pinney Lane Book Discussion Group

Coordinator

Course Description

This book discussion group meets three times total on the first Wednesday of the month to discuss a novel. The book selections are determined in the spring of each year and assigned to a specific month. Group members volunteer to lead the discussion one month out of the year, and also select a month to bring treats to share with the group one month out of the year. Download the Summer 2025 Reading List.

Writing Workshop - WED

Coordinator

Course Description

“The scariest moment is always just before you start.” Stephen King, On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft . Maybe you haven’t written the first word. Possibly you’re polishing that manuscript. Our writers’ group will provide you with the feedback, structure and support you need to push forward or get started. All writers are welcome, regardless of your experience or the type of writing you wish to pursue. 

Andy Millman’s writing has appeared in several outlets, including Whistling Shade, Points in Case, Midwest Review, The Big Jewel, Zest Literary Journal, Black Heart Magazine, Flash Fiction Magazine, The Helix, and Pif Magazine.