Architects shape our daily lives in ways we often don't notice or understand. Learn to look critically at the architecture of the present as well as that of the past -- classical temples, Gothic cathedrals, modern skyscrapers. See how designers manipulate building materials, space, light and volume to influence the way we experience the built environment.

Werner Heisenberg was one of the figures who created quantum mechanics, the strange theory of matter at its smallest levels. We will delve into this theory, explaining wave/particle duality, the measurement problem, and Heisenberg's uncertainty principle. We will examine Heisenberg's own life, including questions around his participation in the Nazi nuclear program during World War II.

Author Daniel Stashower’s new book, American Demon: Eliot Ness and the Hunt for America’s Jack the Ripper, explores a gripping, little-known chapter of the storied career of a legendary crime fighter. Join Stashower and actor Scott Sedar as they bring this American icon to life, from his early exploits in Chicago as leader of "The Untouchables" to the unprecedented manhunt for a killer known as The Butcher of Kingsbury Run.

ALL NEW CONTENT! Skip Westminster Abbey; try a 12th c. Knights Templar church. Skip the decorative arts at the V&A; view a retrospective of English living rooms from the past 500 years or the Fan Museum (yes, those things you flap around to cool off). Skip the British Library; visit Charles Dickens' or Samuel Johnson’s home and library. Skip the Cutty Sark; see a small boat from the daring WWII Dunkirk rescue. Led by European Travel Specialist Barbara Paulson.

Can a joke be morally wrong? Are there certain jokes that some people can tell, but not others? How do we know when a joke has crossed the ethical line? How do we draw that line? What are the factors that go in to determining where the line is?  (See related classes #508, 556, 635)

A regular experience of Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos is an essential ingredient to a life well lived. They are magical! Enchanting! And we are very lucky to have them at all! They almost disappeared forever. Felix Mendelsohn to the rescue! With their rediscovery, Johann Sebastian Bach became Baroque royalty.

Best known as the composer of “Over the Rainbow,” Buffalo-born Harold Arlen wrote over 500 songs for stage and film over fifty years. Arlen’s music is infused with jazz, and his songs became standards for singers such as Judy Garland, Lena Horne, Frank Sinatra, and Ethel Waters. The class will cover Arlen’s life and career and include many performance clips to show his range and gift for both melody and harmony.

Many artworks have been created about the self. In this workshop, join art educator Martina Sestakova in a visual exploration of your senses and what makes you a unique self. We will take a look at the works of artists such as Sonia Delaunay, Paul Klee, and Karel Appel, while we write, share, and work in watercolors. We will study up on abstract art and create a cool self-portrait. No experience needed; all skill levels welcome. All supplies provided.

Sittenfeld’s seventh novel explores the life of a female comedy TV writer – think Saturday Night Live –  who finally seems to be “punching above her weight class” romantically speaking.  The author’s skillful prose is on full display.  Is the novel homage to romantic comedies?  Or satire?  You’ll have to read it to decide.  Please read the book so you can participate in our structured, facilitated, Zoom discussion. (Note: Please join the meeting at 3 pm if you would like some assistance using the features of Zoom.  Otherwise, join us at 3:15 pm for the start of our discussion.) Author: Curtis Sittenfeld, 2023 (For other book discussions, see classes #474, 514, 563.)

This is an introductory course to Spanish language and the culture. The purpose is to facilitate the practical application of the language in everyday oral and written communication at the beginning novice level.  The focus will be on basic communication skills, while becoming familiar with the Spanish-speaking world. Students will learn structures that will enable them to function in Spanish in an everyday context.  Course Goals and Objectives:  Students will be able to communicate both orally and in writing with Spanish-speaking persons about common everyday topics. Students will be able to discuss and relate to a variety of aspects of Latin culture at a beginning level.  We will use the textbook, "Easy Spanish Step-by-Step" by Barbara Bregstein.   Students are expected to purchase this book.

Level of Difficulty: 2 out of 5 The C & O Canal towpath is full of surprises any season.  On this walk we'll look for migratory birds on the canal and in the Potomac and for signs of other wildlife, like owls and raccoons.  We'll venture down trails from the towpath to the river so bring hiking poles for uneven terrain.  There we'll enjoy peaceful views of the river since most deciduous trees will have dropped their leaves.  We'll meet at the restroom in the parking area.  Participants are responsible for their own transportation. Follow signs off the Clara Barton Parkway to the Carderock C&O parking. Park in the Carderock South Parking Lot, opposite the US Naval Surface Warfare Center on Clara Barton Pkwy. We'll meet at the bathroom facilities at the parking lot. The Carderock Picnic Pavilion is also located here. Walkers will leave promptly at 10:00 am, so plan to arrive and park before then. (See additional walks: #541 and #637)

Bridge is a terrific game that helps keep your mind alert and provides enjoyable times with friends. At the same time, it requires concentration and a reasonably good memory.  This course is designed for people who have never played bridge.  The following topics will be covered: counting points in your hand; bids at the one level; responses by partner; and opening leads. Instruction is followed by practice. A computer bridge game is included in the price of the course.  Limit:  18

There is growing sentiment among the American people and scholars of our democratic system that the governmental structure created by the Constitution is in crisis, if not irrevocably broken. In response to endless partisan bickering, the undemocratic nature of the Electoral College, growing restrictions on voting, gerrymandered representative districts that block real competition and lifetime appointments of federal judges, a number of reform initiatives for change have been brought forward. This presentation will discuss the constitutional reforms that are most prominent among scholars, pundits and concerned citizens. Reforms such as direct election of the President and Vice-President, term and age limits on both congressional representatives and federal judges, greater flexibility in voter registration and ballot access, and expansion of the political party system to encourage additional entities to challenge the Democrats and Republicans. Although bringing change to our constitutional system is complicated and difficult to achieve, the flaws in the way we elect our leaders and make policy decisions require a vibrant discussion of pathways to change.

Washington, D.C. is home to hundreds of sacred spaces—each with a unique story and architectural beauty reflecting the faith communities that helped shape our city. Before each class, students will watch two episodes of the new documentary series A Sacred Piece of Home: Washington, D.C. online.  In class, you'll have the unique opportunity to discuss the series with its creators.

Come explore the vibrant and diverse spiritual landscape of Washington, D.C.—and see the city you love through fresh eyes.

 

This class and discussion take a detailed look at the final year of World War I, and the events leading up to the 11 November Armistice. It was a momentous year: For the Germans, who had driven Russia out of the War, it was a matter of administering a knock-out blow to the Western Allies before the weight of American involvement could make itself felt. For the British and French, they knew they had to hold out long enough to use American reinforcements to drive the Germans back and end the War. Thus, both sides knew that 1918 would be the year of decision.The course looks at the competing strategies, assesses some of the assumptions and miscalculations, and traces the tortuous path to the armistice in November 1918 – an imposition of a fleeting vision of peace that engendered as many difficulties as it alleviated. In particular, we will focus on what was accomplished by the armistice, but more importantly within the context of the Twentieth Century, what was NOT settled – and how the latter brought about a second great conflict.