Winter 2025 Course Descriptions

TUESDAYS

 Tues, Jan 7 10:30-11:45am

Dealing with Decluttering, with Judy Langer

As we’ve aged, it’s likely that a number of us have acquired a lot of stuff. In this focus group, we talk about different aspects of how we can declutter. What helps us with each of these challenges? What are the obstacles we face? How do or can we handle those obstacles? Are there any resources you recommend? Tips you want to share with other attendees. Come to our focus group and we’ll talk together. Judy is CL&L Executive Director, a retired qualitative researcher who conducted focus groups for over 40 years and wrote a book about the subject, The Mirrored Window.

 Tues, Jan 14 10:30-11:45am

Memoir of a Journey from Shanghai to the US, with Abby Jiang

Abby’s life is divided into 2 very different chapters: growing up in China and life in the US. Part 1 of her memorable memoir, The Bumpy Road, starts in Shanghai when Abby (then called 文化大革命) was a 12-year-old “princess” from an affluent family. She saw her life suddenly changed forever by a turbulent revolution when the government raided her family’s home. Her father became a “bloodsucker,” and her family struggled to survive. Her memoir paints a picture of her life in Shanghai 1954-87, when China was closed to the rest of the world. Abby was sent to a factory and the countryside to learn from workers and peasants as part of the movement's policies. They all struggled through the confusion of the Chinese Cultural Revolution and the strange years that followed. Abby became a librarian, then chief librarian, at a Shanghai research institute. Part 2 focuses on her experiences in the US. How she handled her huge East vs. West immigration. shocks and why she decided to stay and the new professions she created for herself as her family settled in New Jersey. She discusses how she raised a Princeton graduate child in a totally unfamiliar territory. It’s a fascinating story about dealing with culture shock on two continents. Abby has worked at the library of the Port Authority of NY and NJ, and other libraries.

Tues, Jan 21 10:30-11:45am

We Refuse to Be Enemies in This Difficult Time, with Sabeeha Rehman and

Walter Ruby

Sabeeha, an American Muslim, and Walter, an American Jew, make the case for why it is important for Muslims and Jews to not allow the Israel/Gaza war to divide them at home in the US. They will share their sentiments and perspectives on the war, what each faith community expects of the other, and will outline concrete steps that can be taken to restore relationships that fractured in the aftermath of October 7. They are co-authors of the book We Refuse to Be Enemies. How Muslims and Jews Can Make Peace, One Friendship at a Time, and co-host the podcast We Refuse to Be Enemies.

Tues, Jan 28, Feb 4, 11 10:30-11:45am

Makers of History XXIV: Famous People Worth Revisiting and Reevaluating, with Manfred Weidhorn

(3 sessions)

Session #1: Lord Byron. He shared the spotlight in the early 19th century with

Napoleon Bonaparte was the first modern-type super-celebrities. Byron was a fine poet, letter writer, liberal, constant traveler and, at the end, a heroic freedom fighter. Alas, he was also a moral and psychological trainwreck. Session # 2: Classical music composers. A report on Manny’s 80-years’ love affair with the music, including some samples and plentiful recommendations on how to partake in the delight. Session #3: Rembrandt and Van Gogh. These two Dutch masters – one a middle-class citizen, the other an impecunious complete hippie/outsider– are considered among the greatest artists of all time. In his classes, Manny looks at the broader context of what these famous figures meant in their time and ours, recounting their history and impact with analysis and humor. Professor Emeritus of English, Yeshiva Univ, he has published a dozen books and 100+ essays on historical figures, cultural history, and the relationship between religion and science.

 Tues, Feb 18 10:30-11:45am

A/way: A Filmmaker’s Journey, with Derek Shane Garcia

A/way, a new film, written and directed by Derek Shane Garcia, has been labelled “a blueprint for a great Indie film.” A/way has won several film festival awards, And Derek will discuss the journey from its inception to completion. He will also Present clips from the film as we get a sneak preview before its wide release. Derek got his start as a Tribeca Film Fellow at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2009. He graduated from SUNY Purchase’s Film Conservatory with a BFA in Film in 2013; winner of several awards at various film festivals.

Tues, Feb 25 10:30-11:45am

Let’s Play Telephone: The Phone’s Major Role in Movies, with Richard Klein

“Mr Watson, come here. I want to see you!” That’s how this brand new and exciting instrument started, when Alexander Bell spoke via phone to his assistant in 1876. Now, of course, much of our interpersonal communication is by telephone in its modern forms. So much is conveyed: joy, hope, coaxing, threatening, seducing – among other things. The movies have been rich with scenes or snippets of people doing all these things in drama, suspense and comedy. Richard looks at how movie plots have used phones as pivotal points, from Don Ameche to Hitchcock to Woody Allen and more. He has several entertaining clips to show us – and promises he won’t just be “phoning it in.” Richard is an amateur historian and movie maven.

Tues, Jan 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb 4, 11, 18, 25 1:00-2:15pm

Poetry for Pleasure in the Winter, with Barry Wallenstein (8 sessions)

These lectures with discussion will involve close readings of poems – classic, modern, and contemporary. Our aim is to listen to the sound poems make. What makes a successful language performance? We will discuss these works’ emotional truth, unity of expression, and attention-holding, pleasure-providing use of language. Barry is the author of 12 collections of poetry, most recently It’s About Time, as well as Time on the Move and Tony’s Blues (bilingual French and English).

Here is the poetry book for the semester:  CLICK HERE

 Tues, Jan 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb 4, 11, 18, 25 2:45-4:00pm

What Do You Think? Discussion, with Bill Goldman (8 sessions)

This course is a group discussion of current events, focusing on significant economic, social, and political issues in the news. A few short articles from major newspapers and journals are sent to students in advance to read so we can come to talk about our views on the subjects. We want to hear what you think!

Tues, 2:45-4pm Jan 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb 4, 11, 18, 25

 

WEDNESDAYS

Wed, Jan 8 10:30-11:45am

Inside TV News, John J. Miller in Conversation with Magee Hickey

John Miller is CNN’s Chief Law Enforcement and Intelligence Analyst. He is an award-winning journalist, an experienced law enforcement and intelligence executive, based in the network’s NYC’s bureau. He and Magee will discuss how they investigate and report on recent events, including the assassination of the UnitedHealthcare CEO and the drones over our skies. His previous experience includes serving as Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence & Counterterrorism of the NY Police Department, overseeing its Intelligence Bureau, Counterterrorism Bureau, and the NYPD’s partnership with the FBI’s NYPD Joint Terrorism Task Force; former Deputy Asst Director, National Intelligence for Analysis of programs to improve analysis across the US government’s 16 intelligence agencies, heading the team producing the President’s Daily Intelligence Briefing; FBI Asst Director on public affairs, community outreach, and its national spokesman. Also journalism work as senior correspondent for WNBC-TV in NY, ABC News correspondent and anchor, CBS News reporting for This Morning, Evening News, and 60 Minutes. John conducted a May 1998 interview with Osama bin Laden in Afghanistan. Winner of the DuPont Silver Baton Award, two Peabody Awards, 11 Emmys. Co-author, NY Times Bestseller, The Cell: Inside the 9/11 Plot (Hyperion, 2002). PIX11’s Magee Hickey has been a reporter for every NYC TV station over her long career– and a great friend of CL&L.

Wed, Jan 15 10:30-11:45am

Firsthand Account of Humanitarian Support Work in Ukraine, with Frank

Hickey & Magee Hickey

Frank recently returned from several months working to help Ukrainians in their efforts to deal with the challenges of daily life during the protracted war with Russia. Even during this difficult time, he worked in soup kitchens, led dance classes and helped to entertain young people there. He’ll show us some videos of his experiences. A former Senior Investigator/Police Officer in Robert Morgenthau's District Attorney's Office, he is also a published author of several entertaining crime novels featuring Dancing Max Royster. Sister Magee joins us. She has been a reporter for every NYC TV station over her long career– and a great friend of CL&L.

 Wed, Jan 22 10:30-11:45am

Leonard Bernstein:  Conquering Every Medium He Touched, with Marty Schneit

Leonard Bernstein came to national prominence virtually overnight through a last-minute conducting debut with the New York Philharmonic, when he substituted for Bruno Walter on November 14, 1943. He was only 25years old. Considered to be one of the most important conductors of his time, he was the first American-born conductor to receive international acclaim. Bernstein conquered every medium he touched: conducting, composing contemporary classical music and Broadway musicals, and providing educational concerts for young people. Marty will discuss and show video clips that highlight Bernstein’s career, including Young People’s Concerts, Mahler’s Resurrection, Fancy Free, On the Waterfront, West Side Story, and The Berlin Celebration Concert. Marty is an amateur historian who has lectured at the NY Public Library, the JCC, the 92nd Street Y and a number of other institutions in NY.

Wed, Jan 29 10:30-11:45am 

Katharine Hepburn, One of the World’s Most Celebrated Actresses, with Marty Schneit

A legend of stage and screen, Hepburn received twelve nominations and collected four Oscars for best actress, still the record. In a career spanning seven decades, she became a role model to women worldwide. She is often credited with having put women in pants. And she partnered with Spencer Tracy in nine films, often about the battle of the sexes. Clips from the following films will be shown: A Bill of Divorcement, Morning Glory, The Philadelphia Story, The African Queen, Woman of the Year, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner and On Golden Pond. Marty is an amateur historian who has lectured at the NY Public Library, the JCC, the 92nd Street Y and a number of other institutions in NY.

Wed, Jan 29 10:30-11:45am

“What’s The Worst Thing That Could Happen?” How We Can Evaluate Risk in Our Lives, with Tom Rich

Risk– and its mitigation– has always been at the heart of decision making. It’s the basis of policies by public health officials to manage the risks posed by chronic and communicable diseases. The entire insurance industry is built around quantifying and managing risk. Marketers evaluate risk in decisions on coupons and price reductions. And so on. As individuals, we all consider risk level decisions about our lives. Major decisions (such as, should I move in with my family or a friend?). The risk of treating a serious physical condition with a medication that has possible serious side effects vs. no treatment. During the pandemic many people felt unable to leave their homes and, as covid may be returning, some continue to feel that way or feel that way again. What issues are on your mind these days? Tom will identify the various forms of perceived risk (there are six) and offer some insights on how to think about them so we can make smart decisions. He has been a qualitative researcher for nearly three decades, helping to understand and evaluate the effectiveness of marketing strategies and tactics for his clients and, of course, for himself.

 Wed Feb 5 10:30-11:45am

Writing Creatively, with Bonnie Max (3 sessions)

This course provides us with an opportunity to explore our thoughts and feelings. Bonnie gives us some open-ended prompts that offer room for interpretation. They may be questions, incomplete sentences, quotations, lists or images. We jot down whatever comes to mind for us. Then we share our work by reading aloud and listening to each other. There is no judgment or criticism. Everyone is welcome. No previous writing experience is needed. Currently Bonnie is teaching at the Asian University for Women (AUW). In January, she’s going to Ghana where she teaches writing to adults and children of all ages.

 Wed, Jan 8 1:00-2:15pm

 Photo Journey to Italy, with Kristen Brochmann

Kristen, a retired professional photographer, spent several months recently exploring Italy and Sicily last year along with his wife, Rosy Harari. He will discuss how he is learning to become a different type of photographer while traveling. He will show many pictures from the trip and talk about how he selects what to shoot and the editing process. Choosing the great from the good and the meh is something all photographers struggle with, especially when there are over 15,000 images from which to choose. He will also discuss editing and organizing photos and how to save them to show others whether shot on a phone or a camera. Kristen finished his career at Christie’s, the auction house. His published work includes The New York Times Entertaining Magazine, Newsweek, New York Magazine and the photography for The Yachting Cookbook, published by Crown. He has also taught sailing for over 10 years, and written a course manual on Coastal Navigation and Cruising.

Wed, Jan 15 1:00-2:15pm

What We Collect and Why, with Judy Langer 

Many people collect many different things – some are monetarily valuable, others just personally meaningful. Clocks, animal figurines, bubblegum wrappers, and so on. Some collectors go out of their way to track down these objects of desire. A collection can range from a few items to the hundreds (or many more). Is there something you collect? What do you love about these objects?  What do they mean to you? When did this collection start – in childhood or sometime later?  Who or what do they remind you of? Do you connect with other collectors? Do you think about selling or giving it away at some point? We’d love to hear about your collections and their meaning to you. You can hold up some objects for us to see or, if you'd like, send a few photos of them to us to show when you describe them. Judy is CL&L Executive Director.

 Wed, Jan 22 2:45-4pm

Know Before You Go: Restaurant Noise and What You Can Do About It, with Howard Davis, Barbara Haynes-Davis, Fredrick Orkin 

Loud noise in restaurants is annoying and it keeps some people away who would like to dine out. In this course, our speakers explain that excessive noise not only creates a challenge for meaningful conversations, but it can cause hearing damage. They will offer tools to identify noisy environments and strategies to encourage restaurants to lower their noise levels. You can make your voice heard – without raising it – by signing a petition they created that asks the NYC Council to amend the city’s Noise Control Law.  The amendment will compel restaurants to hire an NYC-approved audio expert to take a decibel reading in each restaurant, and then have the results publicly posted so diners will know the noise level before they go. The course is for anyone passionate about health, community advocacy or simply enjoying a peaceful meal. Howard Davis is a retired medical malpractice attorney; Barbara Haynes-Davis is a former NBC-TV News producer; Dr.  Fredrick Orkin is a retired academic physician whose scholarly work related to patient safety and public health issues.

 Wed, Jan 29 1:00-2:15pm

Eyes on Indochina and Beyond, A Photo Journey, with Marg Brown

Marg and her husband Phil recently traveled through India, Nepal, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Bangkok. Marg will talk about some of their adventures, and their discoveries of the history, geography, and culture of these countries as well how Hinduism, Buddhism and royalty shaped the countries’ politics and temples. She will show some of her great photos and tell us about sites, including sunrises at the Taj Mahal and Angkor Wat, the jungles and tigers of India, the crematoriums along the Ganges, the organized chaos of cities in all these countries, the serenity of Ha Long bay, the majestic Mount

Everest, residences of Gandhi and Ho Chi Minh, the Chu Chi tunnels and the Hanoi prison, the opulence of palaces and temples, tuk tuk travels, and floating and train markets. Marg and Phil enjoy traveling, learning how people live in different countries and find traveling a great way to keep active both physically and intellectually. She is a retired college professor of veterinary technology.

 Wed, Jan 29 1:00-2:15pm

From Carnegie Mellon to Show Biz, With Karen Valen

From Jack Klugman, Henry Mancini, Barbara Feldon to Judith Light and James Cromwell to Ted Danson, Holly Hunter, Billy Porter, and many others – they all have something in common. All of these show biz people graduated from Carnegie Mellon University. Some of the old-timers, who graduated before 1968, are alums of Carnegie Institute of Technology. You will see a terrific cast of characters in video clips, some from the Golden Age of television: Sada Thompson on Family, Nancy Marchand on The Sopranos, Robert Cummings on Love That Bob. Get ready for some great tv theme music: Hill Street Blues, LA Law, Cheers. Karen is a volunteer usher and has a BA and MA. in English from (You guessed it!) Carnegie Mellon University. 

 Wed, Feb 12 1:00-2:15pm

Behind the Scenes at Consumer Reports, with Tobie Stanger

Consumer Reports has been providing unbiased, trustworthy and comprehensive information about consumer products for nearly 90 years. It is still the gold standard for the many consumer product sites that now dispense advice. Tobie, a staff reporter and editor at its nationally renowned magazine for 33 of those years, takes us behind the scenes at their famed testing labs. How do they test products scientifically and without bias favoring any particular company? Why are they different than the many other consumer product outlets out there now? But CR is not just about tangible products. They also are a reliable source for evaluating services like credit cards and banks and on how to utilize important protections, such as internet security. Proudest of her work exposing scams aimed at older people, she’ll talk about some of these stories and update them for us. Today a key question is how can an outlet that accepts no advertising or corporate funding and is nearly completely dependent on subscriptions, survive in this highly competitive media environment? Tobie welcomes any specific questions regarding your individual consumer issues or problems and will try to provide some guidance on solutions or agencies you might appeal to.

Wed, Feb 19 1:00-2:15pm

For Seniors Who Want to Continue Living at Home, There Are Strategies of Support, with Jessica Kallert

A number of alternatives are available to older people who need some help with the challenges of daily life. Independent and assisted living facilities offer care and sociability, along with high prices. But many people want to “age in place” in their current home. Jessica, the Care Manager of Home Instead Senior Care, which serves NYC, talks about factors to consider. How can you determine if your home is a safe place to age? What might make you feel comfortable there? What kind of support can you get when you want to go out – to meet friends, attend performances or just take a walk? What are key important aspects to look for in-home care and its costs? Jessica will answer questions you have, regardless of where you are in the planning process. Her career spans 25 years working in all aspects of geriatric care.

 Wed, Feb 26 1:00-2:15pm

Housing Works: 30+ Years on the Frontlines Fighting HIV/AIDS and Homelessness

Housing Works is a leading supportive housing developer, community healthcare provider, and fierce advocate for communities and individuals impacted by HIV/AIDS and homelessness. Founded in 1990 and based in New York City with a global impact, the agency has over 1,000 employees and is well-known for its entrepreneurial businesses – nine high-end thrift stores, a bookstore cafe, and the first legal cannabis dispensary in New York State. Andrew, the organization’s COO, will speak of the agency’s beginnings, its growth over 30 years, and plans for the future. Housing Works pioneered the concept of social enterprise businesses whose profits fund the mission of a parent not-for-profit organization. Through its advocacy efforts in New York City, Albany, Washington DC, Haiti and Puerto Rico, it fights for funding and legislation to ensure that all people living with HIV/AIDS have access to quality housing, healthcare, HIV prevention information and other life-sustaining services, as well as legal protections from stigma and discrimination. During its 30+ years, the organization has provided a comprehensive array of services to tens of thousands of homeless and low-income New Yorkers living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Providing stable housing, he contends, IS healthcare and is the first step toward living a long and healthy life. This self-sustaining model provides employment opportunities to the community in addition to fundraising.

Wed, Jan 8 2:45-4:00pm

Talking Tech Terms: What Do They Mean? with David Katzmire

The news and conversation these days seem filled with terms that are unfamiliar to many of us. For example, Tik Tok is not about the ticking of a clock. So, what is it really and why is it so controversial? David explains and demonstrates what several of these terms mean: Tik Tok (of course), apps, ChatGPT, OneDrive photo albums, QR codes, and podcasts. What are they, how do they work, how are they controversial, are they worth your consideration and, if you already use them, what do you think about them? Are there other terms you'd like him to discuss? David is our CL&L tech consultant. 

Wed, Jan 15 2:45-4:00pm

What’s Your Favorite Children’s Book? with Eva Treistman

Do you remember some books you read – or that were read to you – when you were little? Something about them really hit home for you, and probably the person who read them to you. Eva, who has written a children’s book herself, will highlight people’s favorite children’s books and take a look at their authors. She’ll explain why staples in our libraries aren’t always the books we grab to read, and why best-selling and favorite can be mutually exclusive. From Beatrix Potter to Dr. Seuss to Shel Silverstein to Eric Carle, we will take a look at some of the biggest selling children’s book authors of all time and dig into what makes a children’s book popular. Which book is your favorite? We’ll tally the votes and announce the “winner” at the end of the session. (Since this is about children’s books, maybe all are winners!) Eva is author of I Cannot Find My Belly Button, coming out April 2025.

 Wed, Jan 22 1-2:15pm

Writing a Children’s Book: Do’s, Don’ts and What It Really Takes, with Eva Treistman
Do you have a story or two inside of you? Ever dream of writing a children’s book? Maybe you’ve written one but the idea of trying to get it published is too daunting. Or maybe you have a friend you hope to help inspire. Eva, author of I Cannot Find My Belly Button, takes us through her personal journey to being “published!” She’ll provide insight into some of the secrets of the publishing industry – how having a good idea is the first step, and believing in yourself is the main ingredient in achieving the dream. Also, she’ll explain some common pitfalls and mistakes, and how to avoid them or not let them affect you. BBA, Parsons School of Design, Design Marketing. 

Wed, Jan 29 2:45-4:00pm

Exploring Quirky Small American Towns, with Karen Gershowitz

Karen, a self-described “travel addict,” returns to CL&L with more stories and photos of offbeat and off-the-beaten-track towns. Some have museums and sights you may have heard of. For example, there’s the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Mass. and the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, an estate in Delaware, with one of the richest collections of Americana, home of Henry Francis du Pont, a prominent antiques collector and horticulturist. Other lesser known interesting towns in her session may be Mendocino, CA; Bisbee, AZ; and Chincoteague, VA (we’ll learn how to pronounce its name). Do you have a favorite town you’d like to introduce us to? Karen is author of the travel memoir Travel Mania: Stories of Wanderlust and Wanderlust: Extraordinary People, Quirky Places and Curious Cuisine

Wed, Feb 5 2:45-4:00pm

Dealing with Anxiety by Using Yoga Nidra, with Erica Mather

The modern world seems to be filled with more and more things to worry about– many of them completely out of our control. Yoga is widely known to offer relief from distress of the body and the mind. A meditative technique called Yoga Nidra helps to train the mind to calm down and relax in tranquil settings, establishing a healthier baseline. As a result, our real challenges can be met with greater clarity. Erica will show us how to use this form of yoga for calming the mind, and she’ll talk about its history, some modern studies, applications, and updates.

Wed, Feb 12 2:45-4:00pm

Understanding Life Insurance: A Good Idea to Consider Buying or Changing It When You're Over 60? with Eva Treistman
This session will take a realistic look at having life insurance in older years. Eva, who has worked in the insurance industry for 20+ years, will discuss how insurance can be used for retirement planning, to offset pension options, and to transfer wealth tax free. She’ll also take a look into long-term care insurance. How can you decide if the policies you have are right for you at this stage of life: based on your overall picture financial picture, on whether you have children and grandchildren? If you do have a need for insurance, how much coverage is appropriate? We can review some typical plans, including the one you have, if you wish. What other questions do you have? Eva, an expert in the insurance industry, says she “loves helping people find peace of mind.” 

 Wed, Feb 19 2:45-4:00pm

The Uniqueness of Florence, with Franca Giuliani

Florence is a popular Italian tourist destination for many Americans. However, if you haven't spent a lot of time there, there may be much about its sights and background you may not know. In this session, Franca transports us to this beautiful city, tells us about its history and how it became the focal point of the Renaissance. She’ll describe and show us images of a number of things Florence was the "first of." Among them are the challenge of building the famous dome of Il Duomo, the Iris Garden, authentic Florentine foods, and historical fashion. Of Italian heritage herself, Franca invites us to explore the city’s uniqueness. “Become acquainted with it as if it was your neighbor,” she says.

Wed, Feb 26 2:45-4:00pm

Feng Shui: A Tool for a More Harmonious and Healthier Life, with Franca Giuliani

The term “Feng shui” has gained popularity in recent years, but many people know very little about it. Franca explains how this ancient system can be a powerful tool in helping people live better lives, especially, when combined with energy clearing. In this class, Franca talks about how the principles of these approaches can be applied to your own life. Interior and exterior structures, flow patterns, fabrics and colors can make a difference in your own living space. She’ll show photo examples. Graduate of the Feng Shui Alliance School (formerly in NJ) and from an accredited program by the Feng Shui Society of the UK. Previously teacher, Student Advisor, the Feng Shui Interior Design Course of the NY Institute of Art & Design (NYIAD). BFA, Fashion Institute of Technology (NY); Certificate of continued Education in Marketing, NYU.

 

THURSDAYS

 

Thurs, Jan 9, 16, 23, 30, Feb 6, 13, 20, 27 10:30-11:45am

The Constitution’s Equal Protection Guarantee and the Supreme Court, with Leora Harpaz (8 sessions)

This semester Leora will focus on the way the Supreme Court has interpreted the equal protection guarantee in the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments. She will explore the varying ways the Court treats discrimination based on race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, wealth, residency, and other characteristics used by the government to impose differences in treatment. Its decisions over the years have had major impacts on American society. From time to time, Leora will talk about current developments at the Supreme Court when other important issues are before the Court. She welcomes your suggestions for other subjects you’d like to hear about.

Thurs, Jan 9, 16, 23, 30, Feb 6, 13, 20, 27 1:00-2:15pm

Politics 2025, with Larry Geneen (8 sessions)

Donald J. Trump returns to the White House, with promises about his 2nd term, starting with Day 1: massive deportations, new tariffs on foreign goods, changes in civil service, and more. His recess appointments as heads of departments go into effect, many of them controversial, perhaps none more so than Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as head of Health and Human Services, an opponent of covid vaccines. Elon Musk is a key player, called a co-president by some, in charge of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Abortion continues as a major issue. Republicans have a slight advantage in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, so support for the Trump agenda is expected but there may be some battles between MAGAites and conservatives on these and cultural issues. What is happening on the Democratic side as the party deals with its loss, deals with Trump and looks ahead to new leadership? Larry discusses these developments as well as on the local level with New York State’s Gov. Kathy Hochul and NYC’s Mayor Eric Adams. As always, he encourages interactive discussions and welcomes student suggestions of topics to cover; write to judy@langerqual.com.

 Thurs, Jan 9, 16, 23 2:45-4:00pm

Culture and the Arts: Comedic Songs from Broadway with Karen Valen (3 sessions)

Do you want to spend some time with Broadway songs that bring a smile or maybe even a laugh? There are many videos available, enough to fill three sessions, performed by the folks who performed them on Broadway or on film. Most of the songs come from shows that are defined as musical comedies, so naturally, we get the comic numbers: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Avenue Q, Something Rotten. And we also have “Master of the House,” from Les Miserables, which is definitely not a musical comedy, used as a comic respite from tragic story telling. The songs are mostly up tempo with clever lyrics. So, join in, tap your foot, sing along, and have a smile, maybe even a guffaw. Producers knew “You Gotta Get a Gimmick” if you want to have success. And what better gimmick than to “Make ‘em Laugh”? And yes, you’ll see and hear both of those numbers.  Karen has been attending theater regularly since 1954 when Mary Martin flew past her in Peter Pan, and she ushers both on and off-Broadway.

 Thurs, Jan 30, Feb 20 2:45-4:00pm

Culture and the Arts: Laugh Loudly and Carry a Big Shtick, with Meish Goldish (2 sessions)

Since the dawn of television, there have been many popular comedy variety shows on the air, including The Milton Berle Show, The Sid Caesar Comedy Hour, The Carol Burnett Show, Second City Television, and Saturday Night Live (now in its 50th year!). Each show featured either a cast of regulars or guest celebrities who performed in humorous skits. Meish is back with more hilarious short episodes to show us in 2 different sessions. Discussion questions will follow: What makes each skit funny? Is it the writing, the acting, or both? If a skit is decades old, would it still be considered politically correct to televise today? Meish is the author of Oyvey! A Yiddish Coloring Book?

 Thurs, Feb 6 2:45-4:00pm

Culture and the Arts: Fictional US Presidents in Movies, with Richard Klein

There have been several movies– good ones at that!– portraying fictional characters living in the White House, and a few trying to get there. Kisses for My President is a surreal (for the time) account of the first woman president. The American President has Michael Douglas trying to charm and court a lobbyist, the delightful Annette Bening. Air Force One deals with the hijacking of the president’s plane. That’s just to mention a few. The session will have lots of clips and peeks into some really entertaining stories – some funny and some quite serious. It’ll be an enjoyable and interesting class with Richard at the helm– orprojector! He’s an amateur historian who has spoken at CL&L several times about Presidents and their families. 

Thurs, Feb 13 2:45-4:00pm

Culture and the Arts: Music Festivals and Why They Matter, with Alan Steinfeld

From the 1960s to the 1990s, Rock & Roll music gathered the best of the best and left a lasting impact on the history of the medium, producing some of best memorable performers for fans. This session is a survey of some of the greatest moments through the ages. With video clips. Alan has been a long-time teacher at CL&L, teaching classes from art history to Rock and Roll. He is the producer/host of the YouTube channel program New Realities; author of the award-winning book, Making Contact: Preparing for the New Realities of Extraterrestrial Existence, available on Amazon.

 Thurs, Feb 27 2:45-4:00pm

Culture and the Arts: From Realism to Abstraction: From Pre-Modern to Postmodern Painting, with Alan Steinfeld

Starting with Renaissance painting, art became more lifelike, more emotional and better able to depict the world. That was until the art revolution of the 19th century when work started to get a little fuzzy – more impressionistic, abstract and less tangible. Is abstraction an evolution or step backwards? How can we understand the great art in the ages of image saturation. And what do such classic works and style have to tell us about the nature of reality? We’ll look at and discuss a variety of artists’ works. Alan has been a long-time teacher at CL&L, teaching classes from art history to Rock and Roll. He is the producer/host of the YouTube channel program New Realities; author of the award-winning book, Making Contact: Preparing for the New Realities of Extraterrestrial Existence, available on Amazon.