Fall 2022 Study Groups
November 7, 2022 - December 22, 2022
Please use the link here to fill out a Study Group Evaluation for the study groups that you completed. Please have Evaluation submitted by January 20, 2023.
The schedule of study group meeting times can be found here with additional information included in each listing below.
Please note: Specific dates are listed in group descriptions.
MONDAY:
Banned Books and the Culture Wars
Mondays, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
7 sessions: November 7, 14, 21, 28; December 5, 12, 19
CANCELLED December 5 Session
Barbara JonesFormat: Hybrid
This group will learn about the history of banning books in the United States and how the current “Culture Wars” have affected this issue, which occurs on all parts of the political spectrum. Individuals will be encouraged to read at least one of the American Library Association’s Top 10 Banned Books for 2022 and lead the class discussion on that book. Group members are encouraged to engage in robust debate and opinions about this very important and current topic, which has no “right” or “wrong” answers.
We will look at books censored for explicit sexuality, anti-American views, promoting LBGTQ behavior, racism, and excessively mature content for young adults. Class members will be welcome to suggest titles. Invited guests will provide more information on how this works in the real world.
Reading materials: Study Group Leader will bring in “banned books” for class members to borrow and report on if they volunteer to do so.
Facilitator: Barbara worked for over 40 years in this area of librarianship. For 6 years she was the Director of the Office for Intellectual Freedom at the American Library Association, and the Executive Director of the Freedom to Read Foundation. She has written two books on this topic.
Caper Films
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
7 sessions: November 7, 14, 21, 28; December 5, 12, 19
Frank Chadwick
Format: In-person
Caper films are a sub-genre of crime stories. They feature an elaborate scheme—usually either a criminal enterprise or an effort to cheat a criminal enterprise—involving a colorful group of characters. The stories build around a dramatic situation with many dramatic incidents, but often with much comic relief along the way. The cast is generally large and includes many character actors, or sometimes more serious actors in character roles. Mostly these films are just great fun. Probably the best-known examples are from the Ocean’s Eleven franchise—but we won’t be watching any of those. We will watch and discuss seven caper films from the 1990s to the present.
Films are Snatch [2000], Thick as Thieves [1998], Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels [1998], Midnight Run [1988], Heads in a Duffle Bag [1997], Inside Man [2006], and The Italian Job [2003].
Facilitator: Facilitator: Frank Chadwick has been an avid film watcher most of his life and has facilitated several previous film study groups on specific genres or topics.
TUESDAY:
Readings in Science and Nature
Tuesdays, 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
6 sessions: November 15, 22, 29; December 6, 13, 20
Claudia Reich and Dirk Mol
Format: In-person
This study group continues (and resurrects) the discussions about recent and relevant scientific and nature breakthroughs. Readings are taken from The Best American Science and Nature Writing, a yearly compilation by a panel of experts that selects the best science and nature writing for the general public. The 2021 issue was edited by Ed Yong, a distinguished and prolific British science writer, now residing in Washington, DC. Participants are asked to read two pieces in advance of each session, to be discussed by the group as a whole.
Reading materials: The Best American Science and Nature Writing 2021 (Mariner Books, October12, 2021), ISBN-10: 0358400066; ISBN-13: 978-0358400066 Participants need to buy or borrow a copy in order to make the most of their participation. Facilitators: Claudia holds a PhD in Biological Sciences from the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina. At UIUC, she has been a Postdoctoral Fellow in Biochemistry, and Research Professor and Senior Scientist in Microbiology and the Institute for Genomic Research. Her research has centered on molecular biology and genomics of microorganisms. At OLLI she has facilitated several study groups and taught courses on Microbiology and Molecular Biology topics..Dirk has been a mental health professional for over 20 years, following a career as an Episcopal priest. In both capacities, he has engaged in teaching and small group facilitation. He has a lifelong interest in the natural world, especially the human brain, and what science can teach us about it. He has taught courses and facilitated several OLLI study groups focusing on psychology and culture.
Medieval Movies: Films about the Middle Ages
Tuesdays, 1:30 - 4:30 p.m.
6 sessions: November 15, 22, 29; December 6, 13, 20
Fred Christensen
Format: In-Person
Numerous good movies have been set in the medieval world of knights and castles, monks and priests, kings, and popes. This group will watch six of them and can discuss their accuracy and their ability to catch the mood of an era both like and unlike our own. Films will include El Cid (with Charlton Heston), Becket and The Lion in Winter (both with Peter O’Toole as Henry II), Kingdom of Heaven (with Orlando Bloom), The Last Duel (with Matt Damon and Adam Driver), and a classic film set in medieval times and embodying universal concerns, Bergman’s The Seventh Seal (with Max von Sydow).
Reading materials: The facilitator will suggest background reading for those who want to look deeper into medieval life
Facilitator: Fred has had a lifelong interest in and read extensively in history and enjoys and has a great appreciation of these films.
Looking into Electric Cars
Tuesdays, 1:30 - 3:00 p.m.
6 sessions: November 15, 22, 29; December 6, 13, 20
Robert K O'Daniell
Format: In-Person
With Electric cars there is a lot of misinformation, fuzzy marketing, and incomplete descriptions. Driving and owning an EV can be both remarkably simple and a frustrating puzzle. We will talk about why you want one, how to shop for one and what it needs when you bring it home. Will try to shine a light on the good information, and where to find the tax credits, rebates, and other incentives - and (sadly) admit that there are some people who still need a gas car. The goal is to answer questions and, if time permits, we will enter the subject of federal and state efforts to improve charging infrastructure. The goal of the study group is to learn more about Battery-only EVs, but some questions about hybrids could be answered.
Facilitator: Robert K O’Daniell retired after more than four decades as a photographer for the News-Gazette. During his time at the newspaper, he spent more time driving than taking photos. He has always been a science and math nerd and took three semesters of high school physics and one semester of college physics (summer school) before coming to the University of Illinois as a physics/math major. Photographing Vietnam-era protests on campus was pivotal in a transition to a journalism career. An early adopter of computers, Robert enjoyed the transition to digital photography. And now what is an electric car really, but a computer on wheels with a really big electric drill?
Reading Poetry
Tuesdays, 1:30 - 3:00 p.m.
6 sessions: November 15, 22, 29; December 6, 13, 20
Linda Coleman, Mike Murphy Kendall Rafter, Claudia Reich, Will Ridenour, and Joy Thornton-Walter,
Format: In-Person
Reading Material: We will rely on available free resources such as The Poetry Foundation (www.poetryfoundation.org) and other Internet sites.
Facilitators: The naming of facilitators only reflects the necessity of providing channels of communication, but we stress the notion that participation will require active engagement from everyone in the group.
Managing iPhones and iPads
Tuesdays, 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
6 sessions: November 15, 22, 29; December 6, 13, 20
Bob Davis
Format: In-Person
Facilitator: Bob Davis has facilitated other study groups on Apple-related topics like general computer issues, word processing, spreadsheets, and photography.
WEDNESDAY:
The New Yorker
Wednesdays, 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
6 sessions: November 9, 16, 30; December 7, 14, 21
Kathleen Holden & Marilyn Resch
Format: Zoom meeting
Marilyn Resch is a retired attorney. Since joining OLLI in late 2013, she has participated in a number of study groups on a variety of topics. The New Yorker is one of her favorites.
The Economist
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
6 sessions: November 9, 16, 30; December 7, 14, 21
Claire Barker & Doug Staske
Format: Zoom
The British Economist Magazine supplies an outside viewpoint on the United States and a deep historical understanding of the rest of the world. It tackles economic and financial issues in detail but most often writes about the weekly issues in the news in impressive depth. All areas of the world are covered as are updates in science, justice, international relationships, climate change, race, cybersecurity, family, and culture. We welcome new members wholeheartedly as everyone brings expertise and a viewpoint to the table that enriches the discussion.
Reading Material: All participants are expected to have access to The Economist in print or digitally. Digital access is available through the Champaign Public Library at no cost with a library card.
Facilitators: Claire Barker has co-hosted or hosted the meeting since 2019. For one year, she has participated in the monthly International Economist Readers Group (Britain, Canada, US) and has attended several Economist magazine presentations. She is a retired internist and geriatrician who grew up in a financial family. She’s learned a lot from The Economist magazine and the other members of the group.
Doug Staske is a retired civil engineer who worked in private consulting, municipal, and county engineering fields. The last 10 years serving as County Engineer for Vermilion County Illinois. Since retirement he has enjoyed participating in the Economist Discussion Group for four years, co-hosting for the last two years.
The Philosophy of Friedrich Nietzsche: An Examination of the Views of Nietzsche as Expressed in “Thus Spoke Zarathustra”
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
5 sessions: November 16, 30; December 7, 14, 21 (N.B. November 16 start date.)
Norm Klein and Bob Strauss
Format: Hybrid
Over the five class sessions, we will read and discuss Nietzsche’s “Thus Spoke Zarathustra,” written between 1883-1885, during his middle years. In preparation for this discussion, we will spend at least one class talking about the context in which Nietzsche wrote. This will include some of his philosophical influences such as Hume, Kant, Hegel, and especially Arthur Schopenhauer. We will focus on the broader themes that form the core of Nietzsche’s philosophy including the following: Nihilism; Death of God; Will to Power; Eternal Recurrence; Master morality and slave morality and The Overman. Reading Material: There are many editions of Thus Spoke Zarathustra available for sale. Any is fine except there seems to be at least one that is an abridged version of the book, less than 90 pages. You should make certain to get an unabridged edition. One option would be to buy a copy of The Portable Nietzsche as it includes not only this work but also several others as well. You can find new and used copies on Amazon.
Facilitators: Norman Klein is the retired, emeritus rabbi at Sinai Temple in Champaign, and served as the interim rabbi at temples in Canada and Florida. Before becoming Rabbi Emeritus at Sinai Temple, Champaign, IL, he served there as rabbi from 1995 to 2013.
Prior to his career in Human Resources Management, Bob Strauss completed bachelor’s and master’s degrees in philosophy. His areas of study included the history of philosophy.
America at a Crossroads
Wednesdays, 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
5 sessions: November 16, 30; December 7, 14, 21 (N.B. November 16 start date.)
Norm Klein and Jan Siders
Format: In-person
America is finding herself at a crossroads, a fork in the road, a path that is splitting into two or more directions. Where are the signs pointing? Which road will give us hope for a unified future? What happens if we take the wrong road? This Study Group will discuss and discern our present-day crossroads in light of the current events interview series, America at a Crossroads, sponsored and presented by Community Advocates, Inc. and Jews United for Democracy and Justice.
We will watch one 50-60 minute interview per session, followed by a discussion. Example interviews: • “Defeating Authoritarianism at Home and Abroad” - David Brooks with Larry Mantle • “Life After Babel: Will We Ever Speak the Same Language Again?”- Jonathan Haidt with Rabbi Ed Feinstein • “Precarious Times: Our Constitution at Risk” - Laurence Tribe and Larry Diamond • “How Great Leaders are Made” - David Gergen with Warren Olney. Please know that all opinions of our group members will be accepted with respect so that we are able to grow and discern with understanding.
Facilitators: Rabbi Norman Klein has taught numerous courses at OLLI. He is emeritus rabbi at Sinai Temple, Champaign, where he served for 18 years as the rabbinic leader of the community. He was ordained at HUC-JIR in New York in 1985 and received his honorary doctorate from the same institution 25 years later (2010).
Jan Raglan Siders was born in Piatt County, IL, but raised and educated in the Empire State of New York. She received all her education in the public schools and the State University of New York system through her graduate work. Jan’s entire life and career have been joyfully spent in the world of singing, music education, teaching, and conducting all age levels both in public schools and mainline reformed churches.
THURSDAY:
Big Ears—Listening to Jazz with Friends
Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
6 sessions: November 10, 17; December 1, 8, 15, 22
CANCELLED December 1 Session
John Lansingh Bennett and Sam ReeseFormat: in-person
This group has limited seating and may fill up quickly.
As a recent work explains it, “in jazz circles, players, and listeners with ‘big ears’ hear and engage complexity in the moment, as it unfolds.” For some of us, developing big ears has been a lifelong pursuit; for others, it’s a newfound joy. This study group will bring a small group of interested listeners—no experience required—together for weekly listening sessions. Ideally, this will have the character of friends sitting around, listening to music together and talking about it, where someone knows something about the music and shares that with the others. Recordings will be selected from Jazz: The Smithsonian Anthology and made available via a YouTube shared playlist. Each selected track will be introduced . . . listened to . . . discussed . . . then listened to again, exploring a range of performers—some familiar from the jazz pantheon (such as Louis Armstrong, Coleman Hawkins, Miles Davis, or John Coltrane) and some that may be new to the group (Toshiko Akiyoshi, Weather Report, or Medeski Martin & Wood). Members who feel comfortable doing so may sign up to share a brief (less than 5-minute) introduction of a recording and join Sam and John in leading the discussion, but no one will be required to do this. Reading materials: None, other than the YouTube playlist the facilitators will share. Facilitators: Sam Reese is Associate Professor Emeritus of Music Education, U of I School of Music. A popular OLLI instructor of jazz history and appreciation, Professor Reese has 48 years of experience teaching the joys of music to people from age 3 to 93.
John Lansingh Bennett, a freelance editor working from Coffee Break Studio, is a music aficionado. Often—as in having taught Humanities through the Arts for many semesters or working for a client such as the New York Guitar Festival—his personal and professional interests harmonize.
TED Talks
Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
6 sessions: November 10, 17; December 1, 8, 15, 22
Paula Watson
Format: In-person
TED is a nonprofit organization devoted to spreading ideas, usually in the form of short, powerful talks of 18 minutes or less. TED began in 1984 as a conference where Technology, Entertainment and Design converged, and today covers almost all topics — from science to business to global issues. TED is based on the belief in the power of ideas to change attitudes, lives and, ultimately, the world. You are invited to come to listen and discuss ideas presented by some of the world’s most inspired thinkers. We will watch two to three talks per session and then explore their implications together. Perhaps one of these talks will change your life or, at least, change the way you understand a particular issue.
If you are not familiar with TED, go to TED.com for an introduction. You might also enjoy the TED Radio Hour, broadcast on WILL-AM at 3:00 on Saturday afternoon where TED speakers are interviewed about their ideas. Podcasts are at https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510298/ted-radio-hour.
Facilitator: Paula Watson has led numerous OLLI study groups, including TED Talks and short story discussion groups. She is the Chair of the OLLI Study Group Committee and holds a master’s degree in English literature.
Time Magazine
Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
6 sessions: November 10, 17; December 1, 8, 15, 22
Don Fournier
Format: Hybrid
No special knowledge is required, just an interest in current events. The group selects three or four articles from the current issue of Time Magazine each week for general discussion. A volunteer introduces the article and leads the discussion of their chosen article. We encourage a variety of opinions and viewpoints in our discussions. Time Magazine is the world’s leading news magazine covering a wealth of topics of interest to many.
Reading Material: A subscription to Time Magazine is recommended but not mandatory. Regular access to the magazine is required to have a successful group experience.
Facilitators: Don has been long-time member of the group and has led the group and many discussions of articles over the years.
The Mysterious Bookshop Presents the Best Mystery Stories of the Year 2021
Thursdays, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
6 sessions: November 10, 17; December 1, 8, 15, 22
Ron Baker & Bev Herzog
Format: In-Person
Group members will be expected to read and be ready to discuss three stories, totaling up to 75 pages, each week. Group members will be asked to volunteer to lead discussions of a story or two, including researching the authors of the stories and developing study questions. Leaders will also select a place for lunch for any participants who want to go. Reading materials:The Mysterious Bookshop Presents the Best Mystery Stories of the Year 2021, 2021, Lee Child (editor) and Otto Penzler (series editor). Facilitators: Both facilitators have laymen's knowledge of literature. Bev first joined the study group when she joined OLLI in 2010 and has been co-leading it since 2012. Ron joined the group a few years later and has been co-facilitating with Bev for more than five years.
FRIDAY:
Writing and Performing Poetry
Fridays, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
5 sessions: November 11, 18; December 2, 9, 16
John Palen
Format: hybrid
Based on model poems chosen by the facilitator, participants will discuss what interests and/or moves them in the poem, and how the poet has used the tools of the craft to make the poem work. At home, participants will write their own poems reacting to the model in any way they choose. At the next session, they will share their poem with the study group by reading it aloud. A new model poem will be considered at each session. Immediately after the final session, the group will give a poetry reading for OLLI members, friends, and family. Open to anyone interested. No prerequisites or special knowledge required. Reading materials: Facilitator will provide model poems and any other readings. Facilitator: John Palen has facilitated this study group for several years. His most recent book of poetry, Riding with the Diaspora, won the Sheila-Na-Gig chapbook competition in 2021. It was published last April.
Films about the Struggle for Women’s Rights
Fridays, 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
5 sessions: November 11, 18; December 2, 9, 16
Marganit Weinberger-Rotman
Format: In-person
At a time when women’s rights are once again under attack, and past achievements are curtailed or threatened, it may be instructive to look at movies that recount and dramatize the struggle of women to obtain the vote, equal pay, reproductive freedom, and domestic parity, all involving women’s rebellion against the diktats of patriarchy and religion.
We will watch and discuss the following films: The Divine Order (Switzerland, 2018), Misbehaviour (England, 2020), Suffragettes (England, 2015), Ask for Jane (US 2021), Made in Dagenham (England, 2010), Gett (Israel, 2015), and Offside ((2006, Iran). The films are not documentaries; they are dramas based on historical events.
Facilitator: Marganit Weinberger-Rotman worked for Israeli Television for many years and attends the International Jerusalem Film Festival every year. She has facilitated several OLLI study groups.
Writers’ Café
Fridays, 1:30 - 4:00 p.m.
5 sessions: November 11, 18; December 2, 9, 16
Frank Chadwick
Format: hybrid
Each week we meet to exchange news about writing in the Champaign-Urbana area, share a craft tip or exercise, and then (the main activity) read passages we’ve written and have the group critique them and make suggestions for improvement. We write all genres and forms: children’s stories, young adult, science fiction, historical fiction, memoir, poetry, song, travel – you name it. All levels of experience welcome. We all start somewhere, and the best place is in the company of those who are working toward the same goals. Reading Materials: none Facilitator: Frank Chadwick is a published historian and novelist and his Desert Shield Fact Book reached number one on the New York Times bestseller list. He has facilitated several OLLI study groups and taught four OLLI courses – Writing the Novel; The 1973 Arab-Israeli War; World War II: A Look behind the Curtain and Greece and Persia: The War that Created History twice, and The Art and Craft of Writing as Portrayed in Film.
Summer 2022 Study Groups
July 12, 2022 - September 2, 2022
The schedule of study group meeting times can be found here with additional information included in each listing below.
Please note: Specific dates are listed in group descriptions.
TUESDAY:
Post WW II Maverick Visual Artists
Tuesdays, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
8 sessions: July 12, 19, 26, August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Sharon Williams
Format: Zoom webinar, last session in meeting
Immediately after WWII, the New York School, also called Abstract Expressionists, ruled the established art scene, and were promoted as examples of U.S. freedom in Cold War propaganda. However, there was rebellion brewing. The abstract expressionists’ paintings coming from “inside the genius” of the artists seemed by some to be elitist. Centered on explorations of the spiritual and of emotions, the paintings appeared detached from the lives of ordinary people. Some critics suggested that abstract expressionism had brought modern painting to a dead end. WWII life had accelerated changes. Everyday life was filled with new mass-produced objects, forms of media, and industrial materials. Society promoted a lifestyle of leisure, entertainment, and consumption. Marcel Duchamp, once a part of the Dadaists who had challenged the definition of art in the early twentieth century, was living in New York. Coming back into the light, his art and ideas provided inspiration for young artists. By Zoom Webinar format for seven meetings, Sharon will show PowerPoint presentations, looking in-depth at the life and creations of “mavericks” who responded to these conditions and searched for art that would better fit and represent post-WWII society. Covered will be Robert Rauschenberg and Jasper Johns, of Neo Dada; Andy Warhol of Pop Art; George Maciunas and Joseph Beuys of Fluxus; and Yves Klein of New Realism. By a Zoom Meeting format, the entire eighth meeting will be devoted to discussion by Study Group participants. Reading materials: Sharon will post or send materials, which participants can read if they choose to do so. Facilitator: Sharon Williams is a graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University and a State of Illinois licensed Interior Designer who was co-owner of a furniture and design business for over 35 years. She has an interest in art and art history and hopes to share her knowledge and learn from other OLLI members. She presently serves on the OLLI Board and has participated in numerous study groups and courses. This is the twenty-second art study group she has facilitated.
Disturbing Dreams: Three Book-length Essays
Tuesdays, 1:30 - 3:00 p.m.
8 sessions: July 12, 19, 26, August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Norm Klein & Bob Strauss
Format: hybrid (register to attend either in person or on Zoom)
While Freud considered his most seminal work The Interpretation of Dreams, as his career progressed, he wrote several extensive essays combining psychoanalytic insight with historical, anthropological, and religious analysis. These works include Totem and Taboo, Moses and Monotheism, and Civilization and Its Discontents. Bob Strauss and Norm Klein will lead discussions exploring the philosophical, cultural, and historic import of these works in the context of Freud’s career and the late nineteenth and first half of the twentieth century. Reading Materials: Participants may wish to buy 2 used inexpensive books The Freud Reader, Ed. by Peter Gay, and Moses and Monotheism by Freud. Facilitators: Norman Klein is the retired, emeritus rabbi at Sinai Temple in Champaign, and served as the interim rabbi at temples in Canada and Florida. Before becoming Rabbi Emeritus at Sinai Temple, Champaign, IL, he served there as rabbi from 1995 to 2013. Prior to his career in Human Resources management, Bob Strauss completed bachelor’s and master’s degrees in philosophy. His areas of study included the history of philosophy.
WEDNESDAY:
The New Yorker
Wednesdays, 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
8 sessions: July 13, 20, 27, August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Kathleen Holden & Marilyn Resch
Format: Zoom meeting
Marilyn Resch is a retired attorney. Since joining OLLI in late 2013, she has participated in a number of study groups on a variety of topics. The New Yorker is one of her favorites.
The Economist
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
8 sessions: July 13, 20, 27, August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Claire Barker & Doug Staske
Format: Zoom Meeting
The British Economist Magazine supplies an outside viewpoint on the United States and a deep historical understanding of the rest of the world. It tackles economic and financial issues in detail but most often writes about the weekly issues in the news in impressive depth. All areas of the world are covered as are updates in science, justice, international relationships, climate change, race, cybersecurity, family, and culture. We welcome new members wholeheartedly as everyone brings expertise and a viewpoint to the table that enriches the discussion.
Reading Material: All participants are expected to have access to The Economist in print or digitally. Digital access is available through the Champaign Public Library at no cost with a library card.
Facilitators: Claire Barker has co-hosted or hosted the meeting since 2019. For one year, she has participated in the monthly International Economist Readers Group (Britain, Canada, US) and has attended several Economist magazine presentations. She is a retired internist and geriatrician who grew up in a financial family. She’s learned a lot from The Economist magazine and the other members of the group.
Doug Staske is a retired civil engineer with an interest in hiking who is a long-time member of the group and has been co-hosting since summer 2021.
Apple Computer Users Group
Wednesdays, 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.
8 sessions: July 13, 20, 27, August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Bob Davis
Format: In-Person
Facilitator: Robert Davis has led 6 previous study groups related to Apple computers. He taught computer programming in high school, led enrichment activities for groups of gifted middle school students, and presented workshops for high school teachers in the State of Illinois.
THURSDAY:
Writing and Performing Poetry
Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
8 sessions: July 14, 21, 28, August 4, 11, 18, 25, September 1
Frank Modica and Abigail Gray
Format: in-person
Time Magazine
Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
8 sessions: July 14, 21, 28, August 4, 11, 18, 25, September 1
Anita Hamburg
Format: Hybrid
No prerequisites or special knowledge are required, just an interest in current events. The group selects three or four articles from the current issue of Time Magazine each week for general discussion. A volunteer introduces the article and leads the discussion of their chosen article. We encourage a variety of opinions and viewpoints in our discussions. Time Magazine is the world’s leading news magazine covering a wealth of topics of interest to many.
Reading Material: A subscription to Time Magazine is recommended but not mandatory. Regular access to the magazine is required to have a successful group experience.
Facilitators: Anita has been a long-time member of the Time Group and has both led the group and introduced many articles over the years.
The Best American Mystery Stories of 2022
Thursdays, 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
8 sessions: July 14, 21, 28, August 4, 11, 18, 25, September 1
Ron Baker & Bev Herzog
Format: In-Person
Group members will be expected to read and be ready to discuss two to three stories, totaling approximately 40-60 pages, each week. Group members will be asked to volunteer to lead discussions of a story or two, including researching the authors of the stories and developing study questions. Leaders will also select a place for lunch for any participants who want to go. Reading materials:Best American Mystery Stories of 2022. James Ellroy, editor; Otto Penzler, series editor.ISBN-13: 978-0618124930; ISBN-10: 0618124934 Facilitators: Bev Herzog is a retired geologist who has been an avid reader of mysteries since she was introduced to Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden as a child. She has participated in mystery short stories study groups since joining OLLI in 2010 and has co-facilitated this group during most study group sessions since 2011 to excellent reviews.
Ron Baker is a retired Federal Human Resources Manager and OLLI member since 2013. He almost exclusively reads mystery stories and has been in several OLLI mystery story study groups. He has co-facilitated this group for the last seven years.
FRIDAY:
Writers’ Café
Fridays, 1:30 - 4:00 p.m.
8 sessions: July 15, 22, 29, August 5, 12, 19, 26, September 1
Frank Chadwick
Format: hybrid (register to attend either in person or on Zoom)
Each week we meet to exchange news about writing in the Champaign-Urbana area, share a craft tip or exercise, and then (the main activity) read passages we’ve written and have the group critique them and make suggestions for improvement. We write all genres and forms: children’s stories, young adult, science fiction, historical fiction, memoir, poetry, song, travel – you name it. All levels of experience welcome. We all start somewhere, and the best place is in the company of those who are working toward the same goals. Reading Materials: none Facilitator: Frank Chadwick is a published historian and novelist and his Desert Shield Fact Book reached number one on the New York Times bestseller list. He has facilitated several OLLI study groups and taught four OLLI courses – Writing the Novel; The 1973 Arab-Israeli War; World War II: A Look behind the Curtain and Greece and Persia: The War that Created History twice.
SATURDAY:
Creating your own Memoir
Saturdays, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
8 sessions: July 16, 23, 30, August 6, 13, 20, 27, September 3
Elaine Schlorff & Sharon Benekohal
Format: In-Person
Did you ever want to write down and share memories of your life with family and/or friends but were uncertain how to get started? Long lives produce many treasures but there is one special legacy that is often lost: memories. Study group participants will be working each session to create their memoir using pen/paper, a personal laptop or tablet, or a voice recording app. Sessions will include speakers providing topics to enhance the creation of the personal memoir. Group participants will interact with each other to support the memoir-writing process. Reading materials:To Our Children’s Children: Preserving Family Histories for Generations to Come . Bob Greene and D. G. Fulford. ISBN-13: 978-0385467971; ISBN-10: 0385467974 Facilitators: Elaine Schlorff and Sharon Benekohal have previously led journaling workgroups; assisted family members in creating their memoirs; assisted others to share their stories/memories; ability to help others achieve goals.
Spring 2022 Study Groups
April 4, 2022 - May 27, 2022
The schedule of study group meeting times can be found here with additional information included in each listing below.
MONDAY:
Wall Street Journal
Mondays, 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
8 sessions: April 4, 11, 18, 25; May 2, 9, 16, 23
Sam Bostaph
Format: hybrid (register to attend either in person or on Zoom)
This group will read and discuss articles from the Wall Street Journal. The group members will decide what to discuss each week, with Sam Bostaph moderating the discussion. Key articles on economic or business events or problems in the U.S. or world economies as reported by the Journal will be included. Any governmental reactive measures of intervention or control can be included in those discussions. Cultural issues covered in the Saturday edition are also fair game. The level of expertise in its journalistic coverage is perhaps the highest of all world newspapers. Also, advocacy of any particular economic, business, or political viewpoint is confined to the two editorial pages. The journal is also known for its investigative reporting and has exposed many business scams such as the recent major fraud perpetrated by Elizabeth Holmes. Reading materials: Wall Street Journal daily issues, Monday – Saturday weekly. Electronic versions of the paper are available at the Champaign Public Library and University Library. Facilitator: Sam Bostaph is an economist and teacher and has read the Wall Street Journal daily for almost 50 years and occasionally used it in classes.
Films about People with Special Needs
Mondays, 1:30 - 4:30 p.m.
8 sessions: April 4, 11, 18, 25; May 2, 9, 16, 23
Marganit Weinberger-Rotman
Format: in-person
In this study group, we will watch movies from different countries (dramas, not documentaries) about people with various disabilities and special needs. We will examine how the affected individuals, their families, and the states’ social systems cope with the challenges these people face. Most of these movies contain humor and positive, inspirational messages. The movies are all from the last 15 years. The disabilities range from developmental challenges: the Israeli films “Shoelaces,” “Wedding Doll” and the TV series “On the Spectrum,” the American film “The Peanut Butter Falcon,” and the Italian “As Needed.” Physical challenges are portrayed in the French film “The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” and in the British film “The Theory of Everything.” Mental and emotional challenges feature in the Italian film “Like Crazy,” The German “Vincent Wants to Sea” and the Norwegian “Elling.” The order of the presentation will depend on the availability of the films. Reading Materials: none Facilitator: Marganit Weinberger-Rotman worked for Israeli Television for many years and attends the International Jerusalem Film Festival every year. She has facilitated nine OLLI study groups involving Israeli cinema, French comedies, German, Iranian, Middle Eastern films, films on refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers, and most recently Eastern European films.
TUESDAY:
Egos, Friendships, Rivalries, and Fights in American Architecture: Frank, Phillip, Mies, and Edith
Tuesdays, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
4 sessions: April 5, 12, 19, 26
Dirk Mol
Format: hybrid (register to attend either in person or on Zoom)
Frank Lloyd Wright, Philip Johnson, and Mies van der Rohe are among the best-known architects of the mid-20th Century. Edith Farnsworth was a famous client of Mies. The interactions between them are a fascinating study in their temperaments and in how their actions impacted the profession and the larger culture. Their stories are told in two recent books: Architecture’s Odd Couple: Frank Lloyd Wright and Philip Johnson by Hugh Howard (published 2016) and Broken Glass: Mies Van Der Rohe, Edith Farnsworth and the Fight Over a Modernist Masterpiece by Alex Beam (published 2020). Some of the material from the books will be presented in group sessions but the narratives are so extensive that participants will get a fuller understanding of the issues by reading the books. Unlike many books on architecture, both books read much like novels. The study group will focus on the interpersonal dynamics between the characters as much as on the buildings involved. Reading materials: Participants are encouraged to obtain one or both books. Architecture’s Odd Couple: Frank Lloyd Wright and Philip Johnson by Hugh Howard (published 2016) is most highly recommended. New copies are very expensive but used copies are available on the internet for as low as $5. ISBN-13: 9781620403754 ISBN-10: 1620403757 Broken Glass is available as new hardcover copies ($30) or on Kindle ($6). ISBN-13: 9780399592737 ISBN-10: 0399592733 Facilitator: Dirk Mol is a retired psychotherapist. In an earlier life, he was a priest in the Episcopal church. His fascination with architecture began in his early teens when he visited Eero Saarinen’s War Memorial in Milwaukee and was awestruck. He has since made many pilgrimages to famous architectural masterpieces. He loves to walk around towns and cities looking at buildings.
The 2022 War in Ukraine as it Unfolds
Tuesdays, 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
8 sessions: April 5, 12, 19, 26; May 3, 10, 17, 24
Roy Campbell and Norm Miller
Format: in person
The study group will seek broad participation and input from the entire group as we read and discuss the history, origins, leaders, military, tactics, strategy, commercial, ethnic, and geopolitical interests involved in the events occurring in the 2022 Ukraine conflict. We emphasize that we will be studying an evolving situation and that will require us to consider a wide range of views, understanding, current events, and history. Each week we will start with a presentation or two based on events, articles, videos followed by a discussion. Reading materials: Google Earth, Satellite Photos, Video and News Photos, topical books on the conflict and the Internet Facilitators: Roy H. Campbell is the Abbasi Professor emeritus of computer science at the University of Illinois. He joined the faculty in 1976 and led the Systems Research Group until his retirement in 2019. He was Associate Dean of Information Technology for the Engineering College (2016-2019) and chaired the Senate Executive committee (2013-2015). Norm Miller taught Mechanical Engineering subjects at the University of Illinois for over 30 years. He also founded a technology company and served as its chief technology officer for many years. Both facilitators have an interest in technology, current events, economics, cyberwarfare, technology, military history and are participants in the Economist study group.
The Tolkien Films: The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings
Tuesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
8 sessions: April 5, 12, 19, 26; May 3, 10, 17, 24
Fred Christensen
Format: in-person
J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings has been called the most influential and popular work of fantasy of the twentieth century, and the film adaptation has carried its appeal into the 21st. This group will discuss the book and film versions of the trilogy and its prequel, The Hobbit.” Each film trilogy will be shown in an “improved” version. The Hobbit will be shown in an edited version, reducing nearly 9 hours of film to 4 hours, leaving out all the unnecessary subplots and added characters, and refocusing the story on the original tale. In contrast, the “extended edition” of LOTR will be shown, with more than two hours of new scenes added to the theatrical releases (which were essentially abridged versions), and these scenes add greatly to characterization and plot clarity. After each film showing, discussions can cover everything from personalities and plot to the richly detailed fantasy world of Middle-Earth with its historical and mythological roots, the moral, ethical, and religious themes explored in the tale, and the art of adapting a much-beloved literary work to film. Reading Material: The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, J. R. R. Tolkien. Some essays and articles will be provided by the facilitator.
Facilitator: Fred Christensen has led numerous OLLI study groups on historical subjects. He has a lifelong interest in these works.
Gun Violence in Champaign-Urbana: What Can We Do?
Tuesdays, 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
8 sessions: April 5, 12, 19, 26; May 3, 10, 17, 24
Barbara Jones
Format: hybrid (register to attend either in person or on Zoom)
This group will focus on Champaign-Urbana’s troublesome increase in gun violence. The group will look at current data on gun violence in the US and Champaign-Urbana, based on trusted sources. Speakers will be invited who are community members working on the problem of gun violence: the Mayors of Champaign-Urbana; the Police Chiefs and Sheriff; the schools; victims—and perpetrators-- of gun violence, and organizations fighting gun violence. We will read, watch, listen to the latest ideas, policies, etc., on gun violence. (Barbara will use only reliable, trusted sources such as academic think tanks associated with universities like UIUC; and read sources such as the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal. Various sides of the issue will be presented in order to encourage classroom discussion. In fact, the group’s speakers have a variety of views. The group will discuss ways we can continue working on this issue through civic engagement and volunteering. Reading Material: Studies of gun violence from Northwestern University, University of Chicago, Loyola University, and others. Current articles in such publications as the Guardian; New York Times; Wall Street Journal; National Review.
Facilitator: Barbara M. Jones holds a Ph.D. in U.S. History from the University of Minnesota and an MLS in Library Service from Columbia University in New York. Her real-world experience is with civic engagement initiatives in American Library Association. This includes several courses in civic engagement sponsored by the American Library Association. She was Director of the Office for Intellectual Freedom at ALA. She also participated in the Civic Engagement Initiative at OLLI at Northwestern, which is where she got her inspiration to try this at OLLI at Illinois. She took courses in Chicago Public Schools, Gun Policy, and Veterans’ Affairs.
WEDNESDAY:
The New Yorker
Wednesdays, 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
8 sessions: April 6, 13, 20, 27; May 4, 11, 18, 25
Kathleen Holden & Marilyn Resch
Format: Zoom meeting
Marilyn Resch is a retired attorney. Since joining OLLI in late 2013, she has participated in a number of study groups on a variety of topics. The New Yorker is one of her favorites.
Famous Trials
Wednesdays, 1:30 - 3:00 p.m.
4 sessions (second half): May 4, 11, 18, 25
Trisha Crowley, Coordinator
Format: Zoom meeting
This study group will discuss some of the most important trials throughout history. One facilitator each week will lead a discussion of one of these trials. The discussions will be based on the material at https://famous-trials.com/ Reading materials: No reading is required but reading the information about the trial at the Famous-Trials website before the session will provide some background for the discussion.
Facilitators:
May 4 - Trisha Crowley - Susan B. Anthony May 11- Jon Liebman - Alger Hiss May 18 - Casey Sutherland - Matthew Shepard Murder May 25 - Dave King - TBD
The Economist
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
8 sessions: April 6, 13, 20, 27; May 4, 11, 18, 25
Claire Barker & Doug Staske
Format: Zoom Meeting
The British Economist Magazine supplies an outside viewpoint on the United States and a deep historical understanding of the rest of the world. It tackles economic and financial issues in detail but most often writes about the weekly issues in the news in impressive depth. All areas of the world are covered as are updates in science, justice, international relationships, climate change, race, cybersecurity, family, and culture. We welcome new members wholeheartedly as everyone brings expertise and a viewpoint to the table that enriches the discussion.
Reading Material: All participants are expected to have access to The Economist in print or digitally. Digital access is available through the Champaign Public Library at no cost with a library card.
Facilitators: Claire Barker has co-hosted or hosted the meeting since 2019. For one year, she has participated in the monthly International Economist Readers Group (Britain, Canada, US) and has attended several Economist magazine presentations. She is a retired internist and geriatrician who grew up in a financial family. She’s learned a lot from The Economist magazine and the other members of the group.
Doug Staske is a retired civil engineer with an interest in hiking who is a long-time member of the group and has been co-hosting since summer 2021.
The Philosophy of Ludwig Wittgenstein
Wednesdays, 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
8 sessions: April 6, 13, 20, 27; May 4, 11, 18, 25
Norm Klein & Bob Strauss
Format: hybrid (register to attend either in person or on Zoom)
THURSDAY:
Time Magazine
Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
8 sessions: April 7, 14, 21, 28; May 5, 12, 19, 26
Donald Fournier & Anita Hamburg
Format: Zoom Meeting
No prerequisites or special knowledge are required, just an interest in current events. The group selects three or four articles from the current issue of Time Magazine each week for general discussion. A volunteer introduces the article and leads the discussion of their chosen article. We encourage a variety of opinions and viewpoints in our discussions. Time Magazine is the world’s leading news magazine covering a wealth of topics of interest to many. All are expected to read the chosen articles for effective group participation.
Reading Material: A subscription to Time Magazine is recommended but not mandatory. Regular access to the magazine is required to have a successful group experience.
Facilitators: Both Anita and Don have been long-time members of the Time Group and have both led the group and introduced many articles over the years.
New York Stories from the New Yorker
Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
8 sessions: April 7, 14, 21, 28; May 5, 12, 19, 26
Paula Watson
Format: in-person
We will read and discuss selections from Wonderful Town: New York Stories from The New Yorker, David Remnick, ed. (New York: Random House, 2001) [paperback edition]. This collection was assembled by the New Yorker’s current editor David Remnick on the 75th anniversary of the founding of the magazine. The New Yorker has always been a showcase for what some believe to be the best in fiction. During the fifties, the magazine filled its pages with the output of reliable producers like John Updike, John Cheever, John O’Hara, and others. With changing times and changing fiction editors, new voices appeared, including authors like Philip Roth, Lorrie Moore, Anne Beattie, and Jeffrey Eugenides. All these and more are represented in this anthology. We can decide if they have written what is sometimes pejoratively called a “New Yorker story,” or, rather just a story that came to be published in the magazine. Reading Material: Wonderful Town: New York Stories from The New Yorker, David Remnick, ed. (New York: Random House, 2001) [paperback edition]. ISBN-13: 9780375757525; ISBN-10: 037575752X Facilitator: Paula Watson has led numerous OLLI short story discussion groups. She is the chair of the OLLI Study Group Committee. She holds a master’s degree in English literature.
The Best American Mystery and Suspense Short Stories of 2021
Thursdays, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
8 sessions: April 7, 14, 21, 28; May 5, 12, 19, 26
Ron Baker & Bev Herzog
Format: hybrid (register to attend either in person or on Zoom)
We will be reading and discussing Best American Mystery and Suspense 2021. This book continues the Best American Mystery Stories series published by HarperCollins since 1997 with a new series editor. Those who have read earlier volumes in this series should expect more stories by women and people of color than has been typical of the series. Booklist describes this volume as “a magical collection that serves as a master class in suspense writing.” Group members will be expected to read and be ready to discuss two to three stories each week and are asked to volunteer to lead the discussion of a story of their choice, including researching the authors of the stories and developing study questions. Members of the in-person group are invited to continue the discussion at lunch after the session. Reading materials: Best American Mystery and Suspense 2021. Alafair Burke, ed., Steph Cha, series ed. ISBN-13: 9780358525691; ISBN-10: 0358525691 Facilitators: Bev and Ron have been reading mysteries since childhood and have co-led mystery stories study groups at OLLI for several years to positive reviews.
FRIDAY:
Digital Wonderland 2022
Fridays, 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
4 sessions: April 15, 22, 29; May 6 [This class begins the second week of spring Study Groups]
Matt Gorman & Richard Betts
Format: hybrid (register to attend either in person or on Zoom)
The group will discuss apps (their use and value), home assistants – Google, Alexa, Apple IOT and why you need them. We will also discuss E-commerce and review and inform class members on how to use these digital items. Attendees who own smartphones should bring them. Reading materials: none Facilitators: Matt Gorman has over 40 years of experience in the corporate consumer electronics industry and consumer goods sales and marketing. Richard Betts is a retired architecture professor who has extensive experience working with computers.
Writing and Performing Poetry
Fridays, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
8 sessions: April 8, 15, 22, 29; May 6, 13, 20, 28
John Palen
Format: in-person
Based on model poems chosen by the facilitator, participants will discuss what interests and/or moves them in the poem, and how the poet has used the tools of the craft to make the poem work. At home, participants will write their own poems based in some way on the model. At the next session, they will share their poem with the study group by reading it aloud. A new model poem will be considered at each session. Immediately after the final session, the group will give a poetry reading for OLLI members, friends, and family. Friday:
Reading materials: Model poems will be provided by the facilitator. Facilitator: John Palen has led this study group at OLLI for several years and conducted similar workshops for the Michigan Writers in the Schools project. A published poet, he has a new book of poems published this year. He holds a Ph.D. in American Studies from Michigan State University.
Writers’ Café
Fridays, 1:30 - 4:00 p.m.
8 sessions: April 8, 15, 22, 29; May 6, 13, 20, 28
Frank Chadwick
Format: hybrid (register to attend either in person or on Zoom)
Each week we meet to exchange news about writing in the Champaign-Urbana area, share a craft tip or exercise, and then (the main activity) read passages we’ve written and have the group critique them and make suggestions for improvement. We write all genres and forms: children’s stories, young adult, science fiction, historical fiction, memoir, poetry, song, travel – you name it. All levels of experience welcome. We all start somewhere, and the best place is in the company of those who are working toward the same goals. Reading Materials: none Facilitator: Frank Chadwick is a published historian and novelist and his Desert Shield Fact Book reached number one on the New York Times bestseller list. He has facilitated several OLLI study groups and taught four OLLI courses – Writing the Novel; The 1973 Arab-Israeli War; World War II: A Look behind the Curtain and Greece and Persia: The War that Created History twice.
Spring 2023 Study Groups
April 3, 2023 - May 26, 2023
The schedule of study group meeting times can be found here with additional information included in each listing below.
Please note: Specific dates are listed in group descriptions.
MONDAY:
Readings in Science and Nature
Mondays, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
6 sessions: April 3, 10, 17, 24; May 1, 8
Claudia Reich and Dirk Mol
Format: In-person - Osher Classroom
This study group continues the discussions about recent and relevant scientific and nature breakthroughs. Readings are taken from The Best American Science and Nature Writing, a yearly compilation by a panel of experts that selects the best science and nature writing for the general public. The 2022 issue was edited by Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, a marine biologist, policy advisor and writer. She is a co-founder of the nonprofit think tank Urban Ocean Lab. Dr. Johnson co-edited the bestselling climate anthology All We Can Save, co-created the podcast How to Save a Planet, and co-authored the Blue New Deal. This study group will focus on selections from this volume. Participants are asked to read two pieces in advance of each session, to be discussed by the group as a whole.
Reading Material: The Best American Science and Nature Writing 2022 ISBN-13: 9780358615293 ISBN-10: 0358615291
Facilitators: Claudia holds a PhD in Biological Sciences from the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina. At UIUC, she has been a Postdoctoral Fellow in Biochemistry, and Research Professor and Senior Scientist in Microbiology and the Institute for Genomic Research. Her research has centered on molecular biology and genomics of microorganisms. At OLLI she has facilitated several study groups and taught courses on Microbiology and Molecular Biology topics.
Dirk has been a mental health professional for over 20 years, following a career as an Episcopal priest. In both capacities he has engaged in teaching and small group facilitation. He has a lifelong interest in the natural world, especially the human brain, and what science can teach us about it. He has taught courses and facilitated several OLLI study groups focusing on psychology and culture.
Movies of the Age of Napoleon
Mondays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
6 sessions: April 3, 10, 17, 24; May 1, 8
Fred Christensen
Format: In person - Osher Classroom
The period of the Napoleonic Wars (1800-1815) has inspired filmmakers to produce some colorful and dramatic movies, and this group will watch and discuss six of them. They will include The Duellists with Keith Carradine and Harvey Keitel, Master and Commander with Russell Crowe, War and Peace: The Retreat from Moscow with Sergei Bondarchuk and Ludmila Savelyeva, Damn the Defiant with Alec Guinness and Dirk Bogarde, Hornblower and the Even Chance with Ioan Gruffudd, and Sharpe's Rifles with Sean Bean. These will portray a world of dramatic events and colorful characters, when men were more flamboyantly dressed than women!
Facilitator: Fred has had a lifelong interest in and read extensively in history and enjoys and has a great appreciation of these films.
Editing Wikipedia
CANCELLED
Mondays, 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.8 sessions: April 3, 10, 17, 24; May 1, 8, 15, 22
Charlie Boast & Casey Sutherland
Format: In-person - Illinois Classroom
In this study group, we will present the basic skills needed to become a positive Wikipedia editor/contributor. We will assume that participants have no prior editing experience, but those with some knowledge may also find the sessions useful. Basic computer skills (such as downloading and opening files, copy and paste, etc.) and the ability to use web browsers are pre-requisites.
Reading materials No reading materials are required. We will supply electronic versions of the final agenda, session agendas with online links, cheat sheets, and other documentation as needed. Facilitators: Charlie Boast is a retired soil scientist. He began editing Wikipedia in May 2012, and he first offered an OLLI study group on the topic in April 2016.
Casey Sutherland is a retired librarian. She was one of the participants in that 2016 study group and has been editing on the platform ever since.
TUESDAY:
Women Artists Setting the Stage for the Revolution: Battling Barriers on the Way to the “Feminist Art Movement”
Tuesdays, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
8 sessions: April 4, 11, 18, 25; May 2, 9, 16, 23
Sharon Williams
Format: Zoom / Illinois Classroom
Women in the art world were galvanized by a now-famous 1971 essay by Linda Nochlin, “Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists?” She argued that the real issue was not that there were no great women artists, but rather that they were historically invisible, unknown, and fewer in number than men because of systematic obstruction to education, patronage, and opportunities to exhibit art. Nochlin’s essay led to new research resulting in the rediscovery of many long-forgotten women artists. Research showed that female artists pioneered new forms and materials with which to express their ideas. .
Reading materials For each week’s session, Sharon will supply in advance sample art and optional readings. Facilitators: Sharon Williams is a graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University and a State of Illinois licensed Interior Designer who was co-owner of a furniture and design business for over 35 years. She has an interest in art and art history and hopes to share her knowledge and learn from other OLLI members. With Electric cars, there is a lot of misinformation, fuzzy marketing, and incomplete descriptions.
Driving and owning an EV can be both remarkably simple and a frustrating puzzle. We will talk
about why you want one, how to shop for one and what it needs when you bring it home. The facilitator will try to shed light on the good information, where to find the tax credits, rebates, and other incentives. And (sadly) . . . admit that there are some people who still need a gas car. The goal is to answer questions about EVs. If time permits the study group will enter the subject of Federal and state efforts to improve charging infrastructure. The focus of the study group is battery only EVs, but some questions about hybrids could be answered. This group is suitable for new and returning members, as new information will be discussed.
Facilitator: Robert K O’Daniell has always been a science and math nerd and originally came to
UI as a physics and math major. Photographing Vietnam era protests on campus was pivotal in a
transition to a journalism career. After more than four decades, he is now a retired News-Gazette
photographer. During his time at the newspaper, he spent more time driving than taking photos.
He is drawn to technology and puzzles. He was early adopter of computers and enjoyed the puzzle of mixing computers into digital photography. And now after Covid shopping online he has 2 Electric cars and has spent a lot of time puzzling over how to optimize driving electric.
The New Yorker
Doug Staske is a retired civil engineer who worked in private consulting, municipal, and county engineering fields. The last 10 years serving as County Engineer for Vermilion County Illinois. Since retirement he has enjoyed participating in the Economist Discussion Group for four years, co-hosting for the last two years.
She presently serves on the OLLI Advisory Council and has participated in numerous study groups and courses. This is the twenty-third art study group she has facilitated.
Looking into Electric Cars
Tuesdays, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
6 sessions: April 4, 11, 18, 25; May 2, 9
Robert K O'Daniell
Format: In-person - Orange Classroom
Sartre and Camus
Tuesdays, 1:30 - 3:00 p.m.
8 sessions: April 4, 11, 18, 25; May 2, 9, 16,23
Norm Klein and Bob Strauss
Format: Zoom / Illinois Classroom
Existentialism is a school of thought that questions the possibility of finding meaning and value in life, explores the nature of the self, asks whether we can truly know others, and confronts the problem of living with absurdity if God does not exist. Although existentialism is considered one of the philosophical consequences of the views of such diverse 19th-century thinkers as Friedrich Nietzsche and Soren Kierkegaard, Sartre and Camus were also heavily influenced by the German occupation of France during World War II. Their views address fundamental questions of freedom of choice, accountability for one’s decisions, and the challenge of living in a world in which God is silent. Both Sartre and Camus confront the logical consequences of Nietzsche’s claim that “God is dead,” though their responses differ significantly.
Reading Material: Sartre: Existentialism is a Humanism; No Exit; The Flies;
Camus: The Myth of Sisyphus; Caligula; The Misunderstanding
Sartre’s plays (No Exit and The Flies) can be found in the book No Exit and Three Other Plays by Jean-Paul Sartre. Camus’s plays (The Misunderstanding and “Caligula”) can be found in Caligula and 3 Other Plays by Albert Camus. Used copies of both books are available through Amazon. Existentialism is a Humanism, and The Myth of Sisyphus can be found online.
Facilitators: Norman Klein is the retired, emeritus rabbi at Sinai Temple in Champaign and served as the interim rabbi at temples in Canada and Florida. Before becoming Rabbi Emeritus at Sinai Temple, Champaign, IL, he served there as rabbi from 1995 to 2013.
Prior to his career in Human Resources Management, Bob Strauss completed bachelor’s and master’s degrees in philosophy. His areas of study included the history of philosophy.
Scenes from the Lives of Palestinians
Tuesdays, 1:30 - 4:30 p.m.
8 sessions: April 4, 11, 18, 25; May 2, 9, 16, 23
Marganit Weinberger-Rotman
Format: In-Person - Osher Classroom
The movies to be considered: Pomegranates and Myrrh, Eyes of a Thief, The Present, Huda’s Salon, The Time That Remains, In Between, Let It Be Morning, Out in The Dark, Ave Maria, Salt of the Sea, Miral, and Cinema Sabaya. The final selection and the order of viewing will be determined by availability.
Facilitator: Marganit Weinberger-Rotman worked for Israeli Television for many years and attends the International Jerusalem Film Festival every year. She has facilitated many OLLI study groups involving Israeli cinema, French comedies, German, Iranian, and Middle Eastern films, films on refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers, Eastern European films, films about people with special needs and, most recently, films about the struggle for women’s rights.
Reading Poetry
Tuesdays, 1:30 - 3:00 p.m.
8 sessions: April 4, 11, 18, 25; May 2, 9, 16, 23
Bill Breeding, Linda Coleman, Kendall Rafter, Claudia Reich, Joy Thornton-Walter, and Jean Weigel
Format: In-Person - Blue Classroom
Each week, and on a rotating basis, participants will have the responsibility of selecting a poet to highlight, choose a few of their poems for the group to read and lead discussions.
Reading Materials: We will rely on available free resources such as The Poetry Foundation (www.poetryfoundation.org) and other Internet sites.
Facilitators: The naming of facilitators only reflects the necessity of providing channels of communication, but we stress the notion that participation will require active engagement from everyone in the group.
WEDNESDAY:
Wednesdays, 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
8 sessions: April 5, 12, 19, 26; May 3, 10, 17, 24
Kathleen Holden & Marilyn Resch
Format: Zoom meeting
Marilyn Resch is a retired attorney. Since joining OLLI in late 2013, she has participated in a number of study groups on a variety of topics. The New Yorker is one of her favorites.
The Economist
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
8 sessions: April 5, 12, 19, 26; May 3, 10, 17, 24
Claire Barker & Doug Staske
Format: Zoom / Orange Classroom
The British Economist Magazine supplies an outside viewpoint on the United States and a deep historical understanding of the rest of the world. It tackles economic and financial issues in detail but most often writes about the weekly issues in the news in impressive depth. All areas of the world are covered as are updates in science, justice, international relationships, climate change, race, cybersecurity, family, and culture. We welcome new members wholeheartedly as everyone brings expertise and a viewpoint to the table that enriches the discussion.
Reading Material: All participants are expected to have access to The Economist in print or digitally.
Facilitators: Claire Barker has co-hosted or hosted the meeting since 2019. For one year, she has participated in the monthly International Economist Readers Group (Britain, Canada, US) and has attended several Economist magazine presentations. She is a retired internist and geriatrician who grew up in a financial family. She’s learned a lot from The Economist magazine and the other members of the group.
Beethoven Symphony No. 5
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
4 sessions: April 12, 19, 26; May 3
Kendall Rafter
Format: In-person - Illinois Classroom
Facilitator: Kendall Rafter has an undergraduate and a master’s degree in music and completed the course work towards a DMA in Choral Music at the University of Illinois. For about 10 years, she wrote program notes for the U of I orchestra under conductor Donald Schleicher.
These Are a Few of our Favorite Films
Wednesdays, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
8 sessions: April 5, 12, 19, 26; May 3, 10, 17, 24
Multiple Facilitators
Format: in-person - Osher Classroom
Eight facilitators will present eight films, one per week, covering a broad variety of genres and times, from 1981to 2021. Each facilitator will present a film of their choice, giving a brief introduction, then the film itself, and then lead a discussion of the film with some possible additional background provided. The films are:
Fred Christensen: The Last Duel (2021 – 2 hours 32 minutes)
Dee Breeding: The Last of the Mohicans (1992 – 1 hour 52 minutes)
Dirk Mol: Collateral Beauty (2016 – 1 hour 49 minutes)
Robert O’ O'Daniell: Time Bandits (1981 – 1 hour 50 minutes)
Linda Coleman: Daughters of the Dust (1991 – 1 hour 53 minutes)
Dick Helfrich: The Art of Racing in the Rain (2019 – 1 hour 49 minutes)
Alan Conrad: The Hudsucker Proxy (1994 – 1 hour 51 minutes)
Susan Garnsey: Nobody’s Fool (1994 – 1 hour 50 minutes)
Reading materials: None
Facilitators: The facilitators all participated in the previous favorite films study group and have volunteered to show and discuss their favorite film. Some are veteran study group facilitators, some are new to the role, and all of them are interested in sharing ideas with the OLLI community in this team-led format.
Disruptive Innovation
Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
8 sessions: April 6, 13, 20, 27; May 4, 11, 18, 25
Roy H. Campbell
Format: Zoom / Illinois Classroom
Disruptive innovation introduced in 1995 by Clayton Christensen a Harvard Business School Professor has had success at describing innovation-driven growth and the impact of rapidly changing science and technology. A disruptive technology supersedes an older process, product, or habit. It usually has superior attributes that are immediately obvious, at least to early adopters. New rather than established companies are the usual source of disruptive technologies.
The study group participants are encouraged to bring their own examples of disruptive innovation, science, and technology to class, discuss them and to study further their impact.
Reading material:1) The WIkipedia page https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disruptive_innovation includes a number of examples disruptive innovations.
2) Bower, Joseph L. & Christensen, Clayton M. (1995). "Disruptive Technologies: Catching the Wave" Harvard Business Review, January–February 19952)
3) Zeleny, Milan (2012). "High Technology and Barriers to Innovation: From Globalization to Localization". International Journal of Information Technology & Decision Making. 11 (2): P 441.
4) Wu, Lingfei; Wang, Dashun; Evans, James A. (February 2019). "Large teams develop and small teams disrupt science and technology". Nature. 566 (7744): 378–382
Facilitator: Roy Campbell is an Emeritus Professor of Computer Science at the University of Illinois and has a career of research into novel applications, designs and systems involving computers. He has a background in mathematics and physics and a lifelong interest in innovation and its impact on society.
Modern American Short Stories
Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
7 sessions: April 13, 20, 27; May 4, 11, 18, 25
Paula Watson
Format: Orange Classroom
Short stories are bite-sized examinations of the human condition in all its variety and eccentricity. In this study group we will consider explorations of this territory by a diverse set of writers including, for example, Russell Banks, Sandra Cisneros, Anthony Doerr, and Alice Walker. We will read and discuss two to three stories each week from an anthology of pieces written between 1970 and the early 2000’s.
Reading Material: The Scribner Anthology of Contemporary Short Fiction: 50 North American Short Stories since 1970. Eds. Lex Williford and Michael Martone (New York : Simon & Schuster; 2007). Full disclosure: This book was the basis for a study group in 2014. But a really good story can always be revisited.
Facilitator: Paula Watson has led numerous OLLI short story discussion groups. She is the chair of the OLLI Study Group Committee. She holds a master’s degree in English literature.
Time Magazine
Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
8 sessions: April 6, 13, 20, 27; May 4, 11, 18, 25
Anita Hamburg
Format: Zoom / Blue Classroom
No special knowledge is required, just an interest in current events. The group selects three or four articles from the current issue of Time Magazine each week for general discussion. A volunteer introduces the article and leads the discussion of their chosen article. We encourage a variety of opinions and viewpoints in our discussions. Time Magazine is the world’s leading news magazine covering a wealth of topics of interest to many.
Reading Material: A subscription to Time Magazine is recommended but not mandatory. Regular access to the magazine is required to have a successful group experience.
Facilitator: Anita has been long-time member of the group and has led the group and many discussions of articles over the years.
Deadly Anniversaries: A Mystery Short Stories Study Group
Thursdays, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
8 sessions: April 6, 13, 20, 27; May 4, 11, 18, 25
Ron Baker & Bev Herzog
Format: Illinois Classroom
This session we will be reading Deadly Anniversaries: A Collection of Stories from Crime Fiction's Top Authors, edited by Marcia Miller and Bill Pronzini. This book, published in 2020, celebrates 75 years of the Mystery Writers of America. The book jacket describes the volume as “Each author puts their own unique spin what it means to recognize a certain day or event each year. These nineteen stories travel across a wide range of historical and contemporary settings and remind readers of how broad the mystery writing tradition can be, encompassing detective tales, domestic intrigue, psychological suspense, black humor, and thrilling action.”
Facilitators: Bev and Ron are avid readers of mysteries. Bev has co-led an OLLI mystery short stories study group since 2011 and Ron joined as co-leader four years later.
FRIDAY:
Writing and Performing Poetry
Fridays, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
8 sessions: April 7, 14, 21, 28; May 5, 12, 19, 26
John Palen
Format: Zoom / Illinois Classroom
Based on model poems chosen by the facilitator, participants will discuss what interests and/or moves them in the poem, and how the poet has used the tools of the craft to make the poem work. At home, participants will write their own poems reacting to the model in any way they choose. At the next session, they will share their poem with the study group by reading it aloud. A new model poem will be considered at each session. Immediately after the final session, the group will give a poetry reading for OLLI members, friends, and family. Open to anyone interested. No prerequisites or special knowledge required.
Reading materials: Facilitator will provide model poems and any other readings.
Facilitator: John Palen has facilitated this study group for several years. His most recent book of poetry, Riding with the Diaspora, won the Sheila-Na-Gig chapbook competition in 2021. It was published last April.
Writers’ Café
Fridays, 1:30 - 4:00 p.m.
8 sessions: April 7, 14, 21, 28; May 5, 12, 19, 26
Frank Chadwick
Format: Zoom / Illinois Classroom
Each week we meet to exchange news about writing in the Champaign-Urbana area, share a craft tip or exercise, and then (the main activity) read passages we’ve written and have the group critique them and make suggestions for improvement. We write all genres and forms: children’s stories, young adult, science fiction, historical fiction, memoir, poetry, song, travel – you name it. All levels of experience welcome. We all start somewhere, and the best place is in the company of those who are working toward the same goals.
Reading Materials: none
Facilitator: Frank Chadwick is a published historian and novelist and his Desert Shield Fact Book reached number one on the New York Times bestseller list. He has facilitated several OLLI study groups and taught four OLLI courses – Writing the Novel; The 1973 Arab-Israeli War; World War II: A Look behind the Curtain, Greece and Persia: The War that Created History twice, and The Art and Craft of Writing as Portrayed in Film.
What Makes a Collector Tick: The What's, Why's and How's of our Hobby and Passion
Fridays, 1:30 - 3:00 p.m.
6 sessions: April 7, 14, 21, 28; May 5, 12,
Robin Goettel and Linda Bauer
Format: Osher Classroom
Those of us with collections have many reasons why we became involved in this enjoyable hobby. One might call it a passion, a calling, or even an obsession. Let’s get together to explore how many of us got started and why we chose the objects that so fascinated us. We will explore the what’s, why’s and how’s of collecting, in general, and then we’ll have time to bring in and share some of our most cherished collectibles. You’ll have the opportunity to learn more with optional articles provided by the study group facilitators.
Please join us to share your collection(s) with other OLLI collectors and explore commonalities in why you collect and what it is about this hobby that intrigues you. Other points of conversation will include how you share this passion with others; best places to find treasured objects; and what you can do when you’re ready to de-accession your collection.
Reading Materials: A look at the New Museum's exhibition on collecting, "The Keeper," with over 4,000 objects that examines the various ways we collect and own items.
Facilitators: Robin Goettel has been a collector of hand fans for 40 years and has been involved in the study of fans through her involvement in the organizations: Fan Association of North America and Fan Circle International. She has conducted research on fans used in various cultural dance traditions and published two articles in the FANA Journal, one on West African fans and one on Fans used in dance traditions around the world. She wrote an extensive article for the FANA Forum newsletter on woven hand fans. Her collection includes fans from over 40 countries made from many types of materials, which represent the 18th, 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries. Robin has shared her fans through many presentations including two Zoom presentations for members of her two fan collection societies and also to local audiences including collectors’ groups, museum goers, church groups, teacher conferences, senior living communities, and elementary school students.
Linda Bauer has collected fountain pens and other writing instruments for the past 40 years. When she was in grade school, ballpoint pens (a new invention) skipped and smeared. Instead, she bought Sheaffer $1 cartridge fountain pens from the drugstore, and enjoyed the elegant, smooth writing they produced. When she graduated college with a master’s degree in English, her husband gifted Linda with a business-quality Cross fountain pen. Then Linda bought another fountain pen, and now she had a collection. The collection grew when she found vintage fountain pens at antique stores. The fountain pen dates from the late 1800’s. Her collection now has fountain pens from the U.S., Canada, Asia, Europe, etc. Linda has been a member of the Pen Collectors of American and has traveled around the U.S. to various pens shows, where collectors buy, sell and trade pens.