1. education
2. alumni and reunions

ALFA
Adult Learning
in the Fitchburg Area
SPRING 2015
LIFELONG LEARNING COURSES • SPECIAL EVENTS
FOOD FOR THOUGHT SPEAKER SERIES
SHIRLEY PICK SPRING SERIES
From the President
When I was approached early in my
presidency about starting a lifelong
learning institute at Fitchburg State,
I knew immediately that the idea
was a winner. ALFA services the
continuing vision for this institution as
a community resource, bringing new people and new energy
to our campus each semester.
ALFA is a winning program for this university and I am
proud of its demonstrated record of success. Access and
affordability are two of this institution’s core values, and the
novel work being done in the ALFA program is grounded
in that philosophy. Hundreds of adults enroll in ALFA
courses each semester, studying an array of topics from
geology to film under the guidance of talented educators,
including tenured members of the university faculty. Many
ALFA students venture off-campus for day trips that create
additional opportunities for experiential learning. And all of
this is accomplished at minimal cost to students.
While there is no doubt that ALFA has provided great benefit
to its students, the program has enriched Fitchburg State
University as a whole. The joy of lifelong learning embodied
in our ALFA students is infectious.
Robert V. Antonucci
What is ALFA?
ALFA (Adult Learning in the
Fitchburg Area) is a lifelong
learning institute that serves adult
learners in Fitchburg and the
surrounding communities.
ALFA is sponsored by the Office of Academic Affairs and the Office
of Graduate and Continuing Education at Fitchburg State University
in collaboration with volunteer members of the community.
ALFA offers non-credit daytime
classes and special events. Members
are encouraged to volunteer and
participate in program leadership
and development as well as social
and recreational activities. A limited
number of scholarships are available.
OUR MISSION:
ALFA provides an opportunity for lifelong learners to meet and
share interests in an informal setting and pursue learning for
enrichment and personal growth.
Have you always wanted to teach?
Have a specialty that you think others would
be interested in? We’re always looking for new
instructors and new subject areas to offer our
ALFA’s. If you are interested in learning more about
becoming an ALFA instructor e-mail us at
alfa@fitchburgstate.edu.
Where are classes held?
Unless otherwise specified in the course
description, ALFA classes are held in the C-Wing
of the McKay Campus School, at Fitchburg State
University, 67 Rindge Road, Fitchburg, MA.
Call the ALFA office at 978-665-3706
www.fitchburgstate.edu/alfa
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SESSION III: JANUARY – MARCH, 2015
STRETCH & TONE
Mondays: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Jan. 26; Feb. 2, 9, 23; March 2
Limited to 15 students.
Fitchburg State University
Recreation Center Dance Studio
Sit down & tone up with light weights. Stand up
& stretch. A low-impact workout, which works
on your strength and flexibility, increases your
energy and fires up the muscles.
Instructor: Judith Lindstedt is a retired dancer,
choreographer, director, TV producer, Actors’
Equity performer, and holds M. Ed. & CAGS degrees
from Fitchburg State.
BEGINNING BIRDING: Winter Resident Birds of Worcester County
From the beginner level on up, we look at our
winter resident birds, both backyard and those
that do not often come to feeders, and those
that come to our area to escape the harsher
more northern climates. How do they survive
apart from being fed? Books or materials
recommended: Eastern U.S. or regional field
guide (can be provided). Binoculars (can also be provided). Warm clothing is strongly
recommended.
Mondays: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Jan. 26; Feb. 2, 9, 23; March 2
Limited to 15 students.
Wachusett Wildlife Sanctuary
113 Goodnow Road, Princeton, MA
Instructor: Richard Knowlton’s association with Massachusetts Audubon began in 1994 as a
volunteer at Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary. Five years later he assumed the position of
Resident Caretaker. For eleven years he taught basic birding classes. Now retired, he continues
to be active at the Sanctuary, and is currently president of the Forbush Bird Club, and Director of
the Friends of the Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge.
TREES IN WINTER
Mondays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
Jan. 26; Feb. 2, 9, 23; March 2
Limited to 16 students.
Wachusett Wildlife Sanctuary
113 Goodnow Road, Princeton, MA
Trees are reduced to their skeletal structure
when leaves have fallen for winter. Their diverse
silhouettes have an architectural richness, and
their varied bark has a three dimensional quality
both of which are more readily observed in
winter. We will learn information about 20 of the
most common local trees. Indoor and outdoor
sessions with short walks. Books or materials
recommended: The Tree Identification Book by
George Symonds.
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Instructor: Joe Choiniere is Mass Audubon’s Central Sanctuaries Property Manager, dividing
time between Worcester’s Broad Meadow Brook Education Center and Wildlife Sanctuary and
Princeton’s Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary. He has worked for Mass Audubon since
1975. Joe is a lifelong naturalist and has a B.S. in Natural History from UMass/Amherst.
GEOLOGY AROUND THE WORLD
Mondays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
Jan. 26; Feb. 2, 9, 23; March 2
Fitchburg State University
Selected regions from around the globe where
the instructor has traveled and studied will
be highlighted. Specifically, the geology, flora
and fauna, and the culture of: Tanzania, Africa,
Iceland, San Salvador, Bahamas, the Chihuahuan
Desert of Mexico, and the Hawaiian Islands will
be presented.
Instructor: Robert Champlin is Professor Emeritus at Fitchburg State University where he
taught Geology for 30 years. For 17 years, he has led or participated in fossil expeditions in
Colorado, Wyoming, and Mexico. In 1997, he received the V.J. Mara Award for excellence in
college teaching.
THE NEW JIM CROW
The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age
of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander is an
important inquiry into the status of racial justice
in the United States. Join us as we discuss the
relationship between race and law from slavery
to Jim Crow to the Civil Rights Movement to the War on Drugs. This book is being read and
discussed campus-wide during the 2014/15 school-year.
Mondays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m.
Jan. 26; Feb. 2, 9, 23; March 2
Fitchburg State University
Instructors: Dr. Shirley Wagner is the former Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs
at Fitchburg State University and is an ALFA Board Member. She has a doctorate in political
science. Cynthia Jones is an experienced teacher who has provided professional development
through the Teaching American History program at Fitchburg State University and the Fitchburg
Historical Society.
IMPROVE YOUR LIFE SAMPLER
This course will cover a variety of concepts
and ideas that have been used for generations
Tuesdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
to help improve your overall well-being and
Jan. 27; Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24
help to bring yourself into better balance and
Fitchburg State University
harmony. Every week we will discuss a different
topic that will explore: Homeopathy, Feng
Shui, Aromatherapy, Chakras, and Auras. The focus of each class will be an introduction to
these topics so that it may pique your interest to continue on further. Books or materials
recommended: Notebook and Pen
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Instructor: Nancy Fillip is a retired high school and middle school science and math instructor. She currently teaches a variety of classes at ALFA, at the Fitchburg Art Museum, and teaches
classes online for an educational company. Nancy also teaches art, piano, flute, and clarinet at
her home studio in Pepperell. She has published four books and is a member of The National
Poetry Society.
WILDE ABOUT OSCAR: Oscar Wilde and His Circle
Tuesdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
Jan. 27; Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24
Leominster Public Library
FREE: Sponsored by Friends of
the Leominster Public Library
You may think the Victorians were staid and
conservative, but prepare to get another
perspective by reading and learning about
the outrageously brilliant playwright/poet/
raconteur Oscar Wilde. Students will read The
Importance of Being Ernest, and De Profundis
and learn about this genius’s life and circle at
the end of Victoria’s reign.
Instructor: Sally Cragin is an author and artist. Her second book with Llewellyn Worldwide,
Astrology on the Cusp: Birthdays on the Edge of Two Signs is forthcoming this winter. She serves
on the Board of New England Poetry Club.
ZUMBA FITNESS®
Wednesdays: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Jan. 28; Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25
Fitchburg State University
Recreation Center Dance Studio
An energetic, fast-paced, cardio fitness workout
that feels like a dance party. Move to the beat
of Latin inspired music with an emphasis on
having fun, burn calories and make some smiles!
Bring an exercise/yoga mat for floor work and
stretching at the end of class (optional).
Instructor: Amy LeBlanc is a group fitness instructor who has been leading classes from Aqua
Aerobics to Zumba Fitness for many years. Coaching and caring for every students fitness goals
and abilities keeps her classes comfortable and challenging.
QUILTING
We will focus on a project that can be completed
within class. Books will be suggested for
purchase and projects will be for either the
beginning or more advance quilter. A $10 fee
(cash) will be collected at the first class for
the quilting book. Equipment needed: Sewing
machine, gray or tan cotton thread, basic sewing kit, (small scissors, rotary cutter, seam
ripper, extra needles, pins, etc.) and fabric for your individual project.
Wednesdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
Jan. 28; Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25
Limited to 12 students.
Brooks Pond Cottage
200 Brooks Pond Rd., Leominster
Instructor: Alice Welch is a retired librarian who started quilting when she retired in 2002. She
has taken many quilting classes and made many different kinds of quilts from lap robes, full bed
quilts, jackets and bags.
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AQUA AEROBICS
Thursdays: 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26
Fitchburg State University
Recreation Center Pool
Cardio and muscle toning with water buoys,
belts or noodles in the water. It is a different kind
of workout with no impact on joints.
Instructor: Amy LeBlanc is a group fitness
instructor who has been leading classes from Aqua
Aerobics to Zumba Fitness for many years. Coaching and caring for every students fitness goals
and abilities keeps her classes comfortable and challenging.
ALFA WALK, SNOWSHOE, AND SKI ABOUT
We will again offer at least class five sessions
to explore local trails. Because winter in New
England is not predictable, we may not be able to
have our outings weekly. We will ask you to sign
up for the Session III course, but we may have
meetings during the Session IV schedule at no
additional cost based on the weather. Dogs are welcome. Participants should be able to walk
several miles over uneven trails with a possible small stream crossing. Books or materials
recommended: Water bottle, layers of clothing, rain gear, and walking sticks.
Thursdays: 12:20 – 1: 50 p.m.
Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26
Sholan Farm, 1125 Pleasant St.
Leominster, MA
Instructors: Sally Hens is a retired teacher and dietician. She is currently a seasonal ranger at
Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. Karen McNall is a retired elementary school teacher
and a volunteer for the Leominster Recreation Department. Karen has a strong interest in the
environment and the benefits of nature’s gifts.
WRITING POETRY
This course is for anyone interested in writing
poems. We will write aubades, nocturnes,
charms, spells, limericks, acrostics, octets,
prose poems and other kinds of poems. Paying
attention to the sounds of English will be
important. This is not a critique class as emphasis
in on writing your poems as we inspire each other and enjoy the challenges of creating
this art. Books or materials recommended: Bring a pen and a lined notebook. If you are
interested, Ordinary Genius by Kim Addonizio and Dorianne Laux is a helpful book. Bring your
favorite limerick to our first meeting.
Thursdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26
Limited to 12 students.
Fitchburg State University
Instructor: Dona Luongo Stein, a former Stegner Fellow in Poetry at Stanford University and
graduate of Fitchburg High School, is the author of Heavenly Bodies, Entering the Labyrinth,
and Alice in Dutschland.
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ART APPRECIATION WORKSHOP: Five Modern Women Artists
We will look at some of the works of Berte
Morisot (1841-1895), Mary Cassatt (1845-1926),
Sonia Delaunay (1885-1979), Georgia O’Keefe
(1887-1986), and Helen Frankenthaler (19282011). For Morisot we’ll sketch the face of an
adult woman and then use crayons, melted or dry, to sketch her face or water colors to paint
in the details. For Cassatt we’ll sketch the face of a child as well as that of a child’s profile
after which we’ll use dry crayons; water colors may also be used. For Delaunay, a cofounder
of the Orphism art movement noted for its use of strong colors and geometric shapes,
crayons or water colors may be used with strict attention to color and shape. In the lesson
on O’Keefe we’ll focus on her “flowers” period, and sketch flowers and then use water
colors. Water colors will also be used for the lesson on Helen Frankenthaler, and we’ll look at
some different techniques to achieve a variety of effects when using this medium. Materials
Required: crayons; candle; water colors and brushes; pencils (sketching or regular pencils),
and water color paper. One does not have to be an artist to take the workshop: it’s about
the fun and the appreciation of an artist or an art style, not having as a prerequisite that you
are an artist.
Thursdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26
Fitchburg State University
Instructor: Ned Daniels Fitchburg State class of ‘65, has been a teacher, principal, author, lecturer
and consultant. His work has taken him from the classroom to locations around the world.
ART APPRECIATION WORKSHOP: Five Contemporary Women Artists
We will look at the works of Suzon Frecon (1941-),
Barbara Kruger (1945-), Julie Mehretu (1970-),
Shirana Shahbazi (1974-), and Emily Sundblad
(1977-). For Frecon, the lesson will focus on the
integration and use of colored paper and water
colors. In the lesson on Kruger we’ll study the strong messages she put into either her choice
of words or her choice of pictures, or both; for this lesson participants MUST bring cut-outs
from magazines and newspapers such as pictures and sayings of leaders in the women’s
movement. We’ll then arrange them in the style of Kruger. For Mehretu, we’ll use fine tip
markers or colored pencils as well as colored paper and cellophane (which the instructor will
provide for a small fee). The lesson on Shahbazi will use colored paper or colored cellophane
and we’ll work in strong geometric shapes. Emily Sundblad’s lesson will use melted crayons
on water color paper to achieve as close as possible the beauty of her work. Materials
Required: articles and phrases cut out from magazines and newspapers related to the
women’s movement and feminism (please do not bring words written in your handwriting,
only words in magazine or newspaper print); scissors; water colors and brushes; pad of
water color paper; crayons and a candle; glue stick; a set of fine tipped magic markers or
colored pencils. If you have colored cellophane, please bring it to the two lessons where it
will be used.
Thursdays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m.
Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26
Fitchburg State University
Instructor: Ned Daniels (see bio above).
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SOCIAL MEDIA, TECHNOLOGY, AND MODERN COMMUNICATION
How have we changed our communication
with each other and with the world? Social
media, computer technologies like email and
video chat, and smart mobile devices have
drastically redefined what it means to be
connected and communicative with the world. How did we get here? What can we learn
from these technologies? How can we use them to better connect with our family, friends,
communities, and with unknown audiences? This class offers a broad introduction to these
topics and a hands-on experience with connecting users to the modern world of 21st century
communication. It provides a hybrid learning environment that reacts to the world and its
changing shape, while also asking students to offer their input about how social media is
affecting them.
Thursdays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m.
Jan. 29; Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26
Fitchburg State University
Instructor: Kyle Moody is an assistant professor who joined Fitchburg State University in the
fall of 2014. A former program director, radio station manager and social media consultant for
several businesses, Dr. Moody’s research interests include how video game fans and consumers
are involved in the production and dissemination of fan and journalistic content. His research
also includes online communities of users and players of video games, new media design, social
media applications, ethnography, cultural studies, and media production.
BEGINNERS BALLET FOR EXERCISE AND MOVEMENT
A conditioning program designed for those
with little or no previous ballet experience.
Fridays: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
BARREWORK consists of standing warmJan. 30; Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27
up stretches holding a barre for balance.
Limited to 12 students.
Fitchburg State University
CENTERWORK introduces the technique
Recreation Center-Dance Studio
and vocabulary of ballet (no jumps) with an
emphasis on posture, placement and movement
potential. Suggested: Proper shoes, socks, or bare feet; tights and top. Books or materials
recommended: Ballet: Beyond the Basics by Sandra Noll Hammon.
Instructor: Judith Lindstedt is a retired dancer, choreographer, director, TV producer, and
Actors’ Equity performer, and holds M.Ed. & CAGS degrees from Fitchburg State.
THE AMERICAN HALL OF INSPIRATION: Five Nominees
Fridays: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Jan. 30; Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27
Fitchburg State University
Sometimes it seems that better remembering
American history and being inspired by American
ideals are mutually exclusive processes. But that
doesn’t have to be the case: American history is
full of largely forgotten, hugely inspiring figures,
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women and men who represent the best of what we’ve been and can be. In this course we’ll
examine the lives, voices, and writings of four such historical figures--William Apess, Ida B. Wells,
Sui Sin Far, Abraham Cahan--and one inspiring contemporary American, Jose Antonio Vargas.
Instructor: Ben Railton, Associate Professor of English and Coordinator of American Studies at
Fitchburg State University, is committed to producing works of public scholarship: in his books,
such as the most recent, The Chinese Exclusion Act: What It Can Teach Us about America (2013);
in his daily American Studies blog; in his contributions to sites such as We’re History and The
Conversation​; and in many other ways.​
COLONIALISM: Its Origins And Lingering Ramifications
Fridays: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Jan. 30; Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27
Fitchburg State University
This course will look at the origins and
ramifications of colonialism. After an initial
session exploring in general---its origins, its
political as well as socio-economic ramifications,
and its enduring legacies—the course will then
explore the colonial experiences of North Africa,
Israel-Palestine, the Middle East, and South Asia.
Instructors: Bill Ayadi is a retired engineer born in Tunisia and educated there and in Europe.
Arabic was his first language and he grew up immersed in its stories and traditions. He is a lifelong student of history, literature and art. Eric Budd has taught at Fitchburg State since 1994.
He is a full professor in the department of Economics, History and Political Science with research
interests in the 3rd World, conflict resolution, democratization, etc. His book on the IsraeliPalestinian conflict was published in 2012. Joyce Hinckley is a retired psychologist and educator.
She is also a life-long student of history, religion, art and culture and making connections across
disciplines is a passion. John Paul is a professor of history at Fitchburg State University and holds
a Master of Arts and doctorate from the University of Wisconsin, and a master of arts from the
Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.
RESEARCH IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR
This course will look at research, current and
past, that provides insight into how humans of
different ages think about and perceive the world.
We may talk about topics ranging from behavioral
development through age-related decline.
Fridays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
Jan. 30; Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27
Fitchburg State University
Instructor: Dr. Brian Kelly is an Assistant Professor of Psychological Science at Fitchburg State.
His research has focused on cognitive development in children and the onset and treatment of
behavioral pathologies in nonhuman primates.
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SESSION IV: MARCH – APRIL, 2015
STRETCH & TONE
Mondays: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
March 16, 23, 30; April 6, 13
Limited to 15 students.
Fitchburg State University
Recreation Center-Dance Studio
See description and instructor bio
in Session III, page 2.
Instructor: Judith Lindstedt
SPRING BIRDING
Early Spring is the perfect time to learn to
recognize and identify birds. While yearround residents such as the Northern Cardinal
are already nesting, migrants including the
Eastern Phoebe are also arriving as each week
passes. This class will offer students with no
previous experience an opportunity to learn
bird identification, appreciation and enjoyment in a relaxed setting. Books or materials
recommended: Eastern U.S. or regional field guide (can be provided). Equipment needed:
Binoculars (can also be provided).
Mondays: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
March 16, 23, 30; April 6, 13
Limited to 15 students.
Wachusett Wildlife Sanctuary
113 Goodnow Road, Princeton
Instructor: Richard Knowlton’s association with Massachusetts Audubon began in 1994 as a
volunteer at Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary. Five years later he assumed the position of
Resident Caretaker. For eleven years he taught basic birding classes. Now retired, he continues
to be active at the Sanctuary, and is currently president of the Forbush Bird Club, and Director of
the Friends of the Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge.
SHRUBS IN SPRING
Mondays: 12:20-1:50 p.m.
March 16, 23, 30; April 6, 13
Limited to 16 students.
Wachusett Wildlife Sanctuary
113 Goodnow Road, Princeton
Buds swell, twigs color up, and a few shrubs
even burst into bloom in early spring long
before leaves appear. All of our twenty five most
common shrubs can be easily identified by their
bark, twigs, and growth form. Indoor class with
short walks. Books or materials recommended:
The Shrub Identification Book by George Symonds.
Instructor: Joe Choiniere is Mass Audubon’s Central Sanctuaries Property Manager, dividing
time between Worcester’s Broad Meadow Brook Education Center and Wildlife Sanctuary and
Princeton’s Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary. He has worked for Mass Audubon since
1975. Joe is a lifelong naturalist and has a B.S. in Natural History from UMass/Amherst.
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HOOTENANNY: Sing-A-Long
This is a participatory singing course with a little
background provided about the songs. The class
will sing melodies and harmonies of familiar
songs. Guitar and/or banjo accompaniment
will be provided by the instructor. Books or
materials recommended: Rise Up Singing: The Group Singing Songbook. This book contains
the lyrics to 1200 songs.
Mondays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
March 16, 23, 30; April 6, 13
Fitchburg State University
Instructor: Paul Luria is a performer and instructor of guitar, ukulele, banjo, mandolin, and
harmonica. He is currently teaching at several locations and performing with four groups.
FLOWER ARRANGING: Five Different Styles
Mondays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
March 16, 23, 30; April 6, 13
Fitchburg State University
Limited to 15 students.
Each week participants will make a flower
arrangement in a different style, such as Biedmeir
and Ikebana. Materials needed: Please bring
something to cut with and the $25 materials fee
(cash) to the first class session.
Instructor: Gail Allo owned and ran a local flower
shop for twenty years before becoming a high school English teacher.
CHORAL GROUP
Mondays: 2:30-4:00 p.m.
March 16, 23, 30; April 6, 13
Fitchburg State University
Conlon Building
This is a four-part harmony mixed choir. If you
love to sing and love to sing in groups, then this
course is for you!
Instructor: Marjorie Ness is a full-time faculty
member in the Humanities Department at
Fitchburg State University. She holds a doctorate
in music. She is affiliated with the American Choral Directors Association, American Guild of
Organists, and the National Association of Schools of Music.
INTRODUCTION TO CONVERSATIONAL FRENCH
Bonjour! French is a beautiful language. In five
weeks you will be able to say more than hello.
This course will offer basic vocabulary and
phrases through repetition so you can carry
on small designed for the non-speaking French
student who would like to learn basic conversational French. Students will have a good
handle on vocabulary and phrases by using them repeatedly in class and interacting with each
Tuesdays: 12:20-1:50 p.m.
March 17, 24, 31; April 7, 14
Fitchburg State University
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other. Come learn a little bit about French speaking countries as well. Books or materials
recommended: notebook and pen, a French dictionary would be helpful, but is not required.
Instructor: Nancy Fillip is a retired high school and middle school science and math instructor.
She currently teaches a variety of classes at ALFA, at the Fitchburg Art Museum, and teaches
classes online for an educational company. Nancy also teaches art, piano, flute, and clarinet at
her home studio in Pepperell. She has published four books and is a member of The National
Poetry Society.
iPAD TIPS AND TRICKS
Tuesdays: 12:20-1:50 p.m.
March 17, 24, 31; April 7, 14
Limited to 10 students.
Fitchburg State University
Make the best use of your iPad! In this course
you will learn how fully utilize your iPad,
download free apps, figure out which apps are
worth purchasing, borrow eBooks from your
local library, how to download audiobooks,
podcasts and music, and much, much more.
Instructor: Barbara Friedman, MLIS, has worked in libraries for more than forty years, receiving
her Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from the University of WisconsinMadison. She served as Reference Librarian at Marquette University, Hofstra University, and the
Fitchburg Public Library. She was assistant director of the Lunenburg Library, Director of the
Westminster Library, and is presently the part-time Director of the Erving Library.
THE GREAT DEPRESSION
This course will examine Americans experiences
in the Great Depression in addition to its
economic causes as well as political, intellectual,
and cultural legacies. Books or materials
recommended: John Steinbeck, The Grapes of
Wrath; Films: The Public Enemy; and Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.
Tuesdays: 12:20-1:50 p.m.
March 17, 24, 31; April 7, 14
Fitchburg State University
Instructor: Katherine Jewell is a full-time assistant professor of history at Fitchburg State
University. She specializes in American Studies. Katherine received her bachelor’s degree from
Vanderbilt University and her Ph.D. from Boston University.
ZUMBA FITNESS®
Wednesdays: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
March 18, 25; April 1, 8, 15
Fitchburg State University
Recreation Center-Dance Studio
See description and instructor bio
in Session III, page 4.
Instructor: Amy LeBlanc
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PASTEL PAINTING
This course is designed for anyone interested
exploring the versatile medium of pastel for
the first time or just wishing to broaden your
knowledge and be creative. In a supportive
environment, create a pastel painting using
your own photos as reference. Some of the
topics to be discussed with be application of pastel, composition, scribble technique and
under painting. The class will include brief demos. Books or materials recommended:
Some type of board to hold your paper in place, any pastels you may have (no oil pastels).
Recommended paper: Uart 400 grit, Canson, Sennelier LaCarte, Multi-Media art board. For
pastels, I recommend: Nupastels, Rembrandt, Mount Vision, Sennelier, Terry Ludwig, Girualt.
Rubbing alcohol, paint brush, newspapers (for clean-up).
Wednesdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
March 18, 25; April 1, 8, 15
Limited to 15 students.
Fitchburg State University
Instructor: Lisa Regopoulos is a Massachusetts artists who captures the beauty of the natural
world with her award winning landscape paintings featuring waterfalls, seascapes, and Her
pastel paintings have won many awards in juried national shows, international exhibitions for
pastels only, and multi-media shows.
QUILTING
Wednesdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
March 18, 25; April 1, 8, 15
Limited to 12 students.
Brooks Pond Cottage
200 Brooks Pond Rd., Leominster
See description and instructor bio
in Session III, page 4.
Instructor: Alice Welch
LOOKING AT ART
Wednesdays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
March 18, 25; April 1, 8, 15
Limited to 12 students.
Fitchburg Art Museum
25 Merriam Pkwy, Fitchburg
Are you baffled when you look at some artworks?
In this course you’ll learn some tools for making
sense of unfamiliar artworks while exploring in
the Fitchburg Art Museum’s galleries. We’ll look
at African, ancient Egyptian, and contemporary
art, plus photographs from FAM’s collection.
A variety of approaches for interpreting art will
be taught, from the elements of formal analysis to creative and critical thinking skills. This
class is highly participatory, so come ready to look, experiment, and respond.
Instructor: Laura Howick, Director of Education at the Fitchburg Art Museum, has worked as an
art museum educator in four Massachusetts art museums for over twenty-five years. Her teaching
credentials include co-teaching in the Project Zero Summer Institute at Harvard Graduate School
12
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of Education for eight years, docent and teacher workshops for various museums and schools,
and teaching the Museum Education and Interpretation course in the Tufts University Museum
Studies program for two semesters.
COOKING WITH ALFA: Brunch
A blend of “breakfast” and “lunch,” the term
“brunch” was introduced in Britain around 1896
by Hunter’s Weekly as an example of student
slang. Two young Brits woke up after having
drank too much, and it was nearly noon before
they ate their next meal. They decided that
since breakfast and lunch foods were being prepared, the meal should be called “brunch.”
The ALFA cooks will put their own spin on this novel entree, serving everything from soups,
breakfast foods, meats, fish, salads, and sweets. A material fee of $20 (cash only) is due at
the first class.
Wednesdays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m.
March 18, 25; April 1, 8, 15
Limited to 17 students.
Fitchburg High School, Room 140
Instructors: Bruce Goyette earned his B.S. and M.Ed. at Fitchburg State. In retirement he pursues
his passions for journalism (Editor of ALFA’s newsletter, ALFA-BITS), reading, music, gardening,
and cooking. Kathy Flynn is a retired elementary school teacher and ALFA Curriculum Committee
member. Gail Allo owned and ran a local flower shop for twenty years before becoming a high
school English teacher. Walter Kondig is a 1965 graduate of Fitchburg State. He worked for 20
years for Foster Grant (R&D) and 20 years in the human service field. He retired in 2008. He has
always loved to cook and bake. Joyce Hinckley is a retired psychologist and educator. She is also
a life-long student of history, religion, art and culture and making connections across disciplines
is a passion.
LIFE ALTERING LESSONS: Breathe
Learn proper breathing. It is like feeding yourself
with love—an abundance of oxygen in the
blood. This class will introduce you to the value
of inner sound as a technique to stimulate the
fluid system, relaxing and eliminating painful
knotted up areas in the body including back pain. The goal is to improve your physical and
emotional health. Chanting will be facilitated. Recommended reading: Molecules of Emotion
by Candice Pert; Toning: The Creative Power of the Voice by Laurel E. Keyes; Life on Land by
Emilie Conrad; Strong and Fearless by Phil Nuernberger, Ph.D.
Wednesdays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m.
March 18, 25; April 1, 8, 15
Fitchburg State University
Instructor: Carol Pedigree is a graduate of Smith College, Northampton, MA. After personal
and extensive experimentation and research with conscious breathing and inner sound, she has
discovered ways to access and heal physical pain and change unhealthy thought patterns.
13
AQUA AEROBICS
Thursdays: 9:30-11:00 a.m.
March 19, 26; April 2, 9, 16
Fitchburg State University
Recreation Center Pool
See description and instructor bio
in Session III, page 5.
Instructor: Amy LeBlanc
POST–WORLD WAR II HOLLYWOOD FILMS:
Devastation, Disillusionment, and Resilience
In this course we will study both the style and
themes of 1940s film noir and the works of great
directors, including Billy Wilder, Fred Zinnemann,
and William Wyler, who made films of various
genres that addressed the moral, social, and
physical costs of World War II for Europe and the U.S. Movies featured in the class will include
Billy Wilder’s A Foreign Affair (1948) and Ace in the Hole (1951), Fred Zinnemann’s The Search
(1948) and Act of Violence (1948), and William Wyler’s The Best Years of Our Lives (1946).
Thursdays: 12:20-1:50 p.m.
March 19, 26; April 2, 9, 16
Fitchburg State University
Instructor: Joe Moser is a full-time English Studies instructor at Fitchburg State University. His
research interests are in Irish and Irish-American film and literature. He has a Ph.D. in English
from the University of Texas.
NATURE’S POETS
Thursdays: 12:20-1:50 p.m.
March 19, 26; April 2, 9, 16
Leominster Public Library
FREE: Sponsored by Friends of
the Leominster Public Library
We will listen to, read, and discuss poets known
for writing about nature. Do they all live in the
country? Does a poet who writes about nature,
such as Emily Dickinson, or a ‘city poet’ like Frank
O’Hara have to live there to write about it? Join
us for a thoughtful and entertaining discussions.
Perhaps we will also take a nature poetry walk!
Books or materials recommended: Bring your
favorite nature poem to our first meeting also
bring a pen and lined notebook paper.
Instructor: Dona Luongo Stein, a former Stegner Fellow in Poetry at Stanford University and
graduate of Fitchburg High School, is the author of Heavenly Bodies, Entering the Labyrinth,
and Alice in Dutschland.
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COOKING WITH ALFA: Brunch
Thursdays: 2:30 – 4:00 p.m.
March 19, 26; April 2, 9, 16
Limited to 17 students.
Fitchburg High School, Room 140
See description and instructor bios
in Session IV, page 13.
Instructors: Bruce Goyette, Kathy Flynn,
Gail Allo, Walter Kondig, and Joyce Hinckley
RUSSIA IN MODERN PERSPECTIVE
This course will give a brief history of Russia
since the fall of the USSR, focusing most
closely on recent current events. Highlights
will include the transition from communism
to democracy, the rise and fall of Boris Yeltsin,
Putin’s ascendance and role in Chechnya, the development of a managed democracy, the
reset in US-Russian relations under President Medvedev, the reelection of President Putin
in 2012, the pro-democracy protests in Moscow, and the invasion of Crimea. Books or
materials recommended: Lenin’s Tomb: The Last Days of the Soviet Empire, by David Remnick;
Resurrection: The Struggle for a New Russia, by David Remnick; Sale of the Century: Russia’s
Wild Ride from Communism to Capitalism, by Chrystia Freeland; Yeltsin: A Life, by Timothy
Colton; Putin’s Russia: Life in a Failing Democracy, by Anna Politkovskaya; The Oligarchs: Wealth
and Power in the New Russia, by David E. Hoffman; Fragile Empire: How Russia Fell In and Out of
Love with Vladimir Putin, by Ben Judah
Thursdays: 2:30-4:00 p.m.
March 19, 26; April 2, 9, 16
Fitchburg State University
Instructor: Cris Martin is the Director of the Outreach Program at the Davis Center for Russian
and Eurasian Studies at Harvard University. Prior to her work at Harvard, Cris administered
academic and volunteer exchange programs for student and scholars from Eurasia at IREX, a
non-governmental organization based in Washing­ton, DC. She has a B.A. degree in History from
Carnegie Mellon University and a M.A. degree in International Education Policy from Harvard.
BEGINNERS JAZZ STRETCH FOR EXERCISE AND MOVEMENT
This class is for the beginner who wants to
learn how to condition and align the body to
improve posture, and to learn over-all body
control. PRE-WARMUP STRETCH ROUTINE:
you will learn to put the body in the right place
to enjoy the feeling of every part of the body
working together. CENTERWORK: introduces
the technique and vocabulary of jazz isolations and across-the-floor jazz walks (no floorwork
or leaps). Materials needed: Proper shoes, no heavy sneakers.
Fridays: 10:00 -11:30 a.m.
March 20, 27; April 3, 10, 17
Limited to 12 students.
Fitchburg State University
Recreation Center-Dance Studio
Instructor: Judith Lindstedt is a retired dancer, choreographer, director, TV producer, and
Actors’ Equity performer, and holds M.Ed. & CAGS degrees from Fitchburg State.
15
FRENCH LITERATURE
Fridays: 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
March 20, 27; April 3, 10, 17
Fitchburg State University
This course will give a survey of French literature,
contextualizing it with the history of French
cultural development. Students will read some
selected texts from French literature.
Instructor: Yasser Derwiche Djazaerly received
a joint Ph.D. in German Studies and Interdisciplinary Studies in the Humanities from Stanford
University in 2004. He grew up in Syria and did his undergraduate studies in economics and
European languages at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
FIGURE DRAWING
Drawing the human form is the most enduring
theme in the fine arts and likewise the most
challenging. In this session, you will approach
your visual reference using charcoal pencils/
sticks, even use of sanguine sticks is encouraged.
Please bring a to the first class a selection of
photographs you have chosen, and with your imagination will compose a complete work
of art doing the methods of outline, contour, shading, blending, and detailing on an 18”x24”
charcoal drawing pad. Some drawing experience is suggested.
Fridays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
March 20, 27; April 3, 10, 17
Limited to 10 students.
Fitchburg State University
Instructor: Alma Bella Solis was the artist, shop designer, and calligrapher during her time at
the New England Quilt Museum. She founded the Art Gallery of Kingwood in Houston, Texas in
2003, a fine arts gallery showcasing the works of thirty-one national artists, and an art school for
children and adults.
MAH JONGG
Mah Jongg fascinating rummy-like game played
with tiles instead of cards, originating in China.
Mah Jongg remains the most popular game in
the Orient. A certain amount of time and effort is
required to master the elementary principles of
the game. This will be repaid many times by the
enjoyment derived from the game. Books or Materials: Students are required to purchase
National Mah Jongg League, Inc. cards. Cards are $9.00. Cards will be provided at the first
class meeting.
Fridays: 12:20 – 1:50 p.m.
March 20, 27; April 3, 10, 17
Limited to 16 students.
Fitchburg State University
Instructor: Jane Canter of Westford, MA has been teaching Mah Jongg for many years. She
started at the Westford Senior Center; went on to the Tyngsboro Senior Center and is currently
teaching at the Chelmsford Senior Center each week. She enjoys playing with her friends in the
area, and also plays online with the National Mah Jongg League. 16
SPECIAL EVENTS
Group Trip 1:
NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM,
FANEUIL HALL MARKETPLACE, AND QUINCY MARKET
The Aquarium has completed a renovation that
has renewed its main building. The iconic Giant
Ocean Tank has undergone a top-to-bottom
21st century transformation. The Aquarium is
at Central Wharf, next to the Boston Marriot
Long Wharf Hotel and near Faneuil Hall/Quincy
Market. We will also be visiting the Aquarium/
IMAX Theater.
Thursday, January 15, 2015
TIME: Depart 7:45 a.m.
from the Mall at Whitney Field,
Leominster (park near Sack
Entertainment Cinemas).
There is walking at the Aquarium
and Quincy Market. Leave Quincy
Market at 3:30 p.m.
COST: $42.00 (Lunch on your own)
NOTE: Seating limited to
50 registrations. No refunds
unless trip is cancelled
HOSTS: Lauretta Conlon
and Joanne Schreiner
Faneuil Hall Marketplace is the nation’s premier
urban marketplace. It combines the glories
of the past with a modern outdoor shopping
experience. Faneuil Hall is located near the
waterfront and today’s Government Center in
Boston, Massachusetts. The market place has
been a meeting hall since 1742. It was the site of
several speeches by Samuel Adams, James Otis,
and others encouraging independence from
Great Britain. Now it is part of Boston National
Historical Park.
Group Trip 2:
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA OPEN REHEARSAL
AND THE CHATEAU RESTAURANT, WALTHAM, MA
Thursday, April 2, 2015
TIME: Depart 8:00 a.m.
from the Mall at Whitney Field,
Leominster (park near Sack
Entertainment Cinemas).
Return around 5:30 p.m.
COST: $77.00 per person
(lunch included)
NOTE: Seating limited to
100 registrations. No refunds
unless trip is cancelled.
Boston Symphony Orchestra Open Rehearsal
conducted by Andris Nelsons. Performances of
works by Beethoven and Shostakovich.
Please choose selection and include with payment:
Chicken Cutlet Parmigiana w/Toasted Ravioli
Broiled Scrod, served with Rice Florentine
and Green Beans
Broiled Marinated Sirloin Tips, Served with
Rice Florentine and Green Beans
Entrée Selection Includes: Individual Garden Salad,
Chateau’s famous Italian Bread & Butter,
Ice Cream Cake Roll with Chocolate Sauce;
and Fresh Ground Coffee or Tea.
17
FOOD FOR THOUGHT and SHIRLEY PICK SPRING SERIES
These events are FREE and open to the public!
THE CHINESE EXCLUSION ACT
AND THE HISTORY OF THE U.S. IMMIGRATION POLICIES
Ben Railton, speaker
Join us for this very timely talk presented by
Ben Railton, Associate Professor of English and
Tuesday, March 31 at 2:30 PM
Coordinator of American Studies at Fitchburg
Ellis White Lecture Hall
State University. As our federal government
Hammond Building
struggles with immigration reform, it is wise
Parking at North Street Lot
for us to look back at our country’s history and
its immigration policies through time. In this
talk, Ben will highlight how better remembering one specific set of American histories,
those related to the Chinese Exclusion Act (1882), can profoundly influence our national
narratives of immigration, diversity, community, and identity.
Ben Railton is committed to producing works of public scholarship: in his books, such as
the most recent, The Chinese Exclusion Act: What It Can Teach Us about America (2013); in his
daily American Studies blog (http://americanstudier.blogspot.com); in his contributions to
sites such as We’re History and The Conversation​; and in many other ways. He also teaches
ALFA classes.
ALFA 2015 GRAND FINALE — A TRIO OF EVENTS
April 28 / Ellis White Lecture Hall in the Hammond Building
SAVE THE DATE: April 28
FREE and open to the public
—bring a friend.
Suggested Parking:
Civic Center and shuttle to
the Hammond Building
OR North Street Lots 1 & 2.
Carpooling is encouraged!
18
The Shirley Pick Spring Series presents:
Meet Eleanor Roosevelt: Advocate for Human Rights
Theater performance by Elena Dodd
11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Luncheon (optional) music by Chet Williamson
12:15 – 1:15 p.m. | Cost $10
Reservations due by April 20
The Food for Thought Program presents:
Janet Morrison, North County Land Trust:
This Land is Our Land
1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Spring 2015 Registration
Please complete one registration
form for each person taking classes.
I would like to register for the following courses:
Session III: January–February
Session IV: March–April
□ Stretch & Tone..............................................35401
□ Beginning Birding........................................35402
□ Trees in Winter............................................35403
□ Geology Around the World........................35404
□ The New Jim Crow......................................35405
□ Improve Your Life Sampler........................35406
□ Wilde About Oscar (FREE).........................35407
□ ZUMBA Fitness®..........................................35408
□ Quilting / Session III.....................................35409
□ Aqua Aerobics.............................................. 35411
□ ALFA Walk, Snowshoe & Ski About...........35412
□ Writing Poetry..............................................35413
□ Art Appreciation: Modern...........................35414
□ Art Appreciation: Contemporary...............35416
□ Social Media, Tech., Modern Comm..........35417
□ Beginner Ballet: Exercise & Movement....35419
□ The American Hall of Inspiration...............35420
□ Colonialism: Origins & Ramifications.........35421
□ Research in Human Behavior.................... 35422
□ Stretch & Tone............................................. 35423
□ Spring Birding.............................................. 35425
□ Shrubs in Winter..........................................35426
□ Hootenanny: Sing-A-Long..........................35434
□ Flower Arranging: 5 Different Styles........35489
□ Choral Group............................................... 35435
□ Introduction to Conversational French....35436
□ iPad Tips and Tricks..................................... 35437
□ The Great Depression.................................35438
□ ZUMBA Fitness®..........................................35439
□ Pastel Painting.............................................35440
□ Quilting / Session IV.....................................35441
□ Looking at Art..............................................35442
□ Cooking with ALFA: Brunch (WED)..........35443
□ Life Altering Lessons: Breathe...................35444
□ Aqua Aerobics / Session IV.........................35445
□ Post WWII Hollywood Films......................35446
□ Nature’s Poets (FREE)................................35447
□ Cooking with ALFA: Brunch (THURS).......35448
□ Russia in Modern Perspective...................35449
□ Beginners Jazz: Exercise & Movement....35450
□ French Literature.........................................35451
□ Figure Drawing............................................35490
□ Mah Jongg................................................... 35453
I would like to register
for the following events:
□
□
GROUP TRIP 1:
NE Aquarium, IMAX Theater, Fanueil Market Place (Jan. 15)............35474
GROUP TRIP 2:
Boston Symphony Orchestra Open Rehearsal-April 2, 2015.............. 35475
FOOD FOR THOUGHT & SHIRLEY PICK SPRING EVENT:
□
□
□
□
The Chinese Exclusion Act
and History of U.S. Immigration Policies Mar. 31, 2015 FREE.............35476
Meet Eleanor Roosevelt (April 28) FREE............................................... 35477
A luncheon / Music by Chet Williamson (April 28) $10.00...................35478
This Land is Our Land (April 28) FREE...................................................35479
Please see
reverse side
for payment
information.
Course payments are not refundable or transferable to other classes
unless a class is cancelled. Classes are free for those who are 90 or above.
If over 90, please send verification of age with registration form.
All registration forms and payment must be MAILED. Deadline is Jan. 20, 2015.
Academic Affairs – ALFA
Fitchburg State University, 160 Pearl Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420
Name: _______________________________________________________________
Phone: ______________________________________________________________
Address: _____________________________________________________________
City: ______________________________ State: ________ Zip Code: ____________
E-mail: _______________________________________________________________
Date of Birth: ________________________
Are you new to ALFA? □ Yes □ No
I am sending payment for:
______ Course(s) @$ 25/course* (Limit 6** per semester)
=$ _____________
______ Group Trip 1 (New England Aquarium) @ $42/pp
= $ _____________
______ Group Trip 2 (Boston Symphony) @ $77/pp
= $ _____________
______ Luncheon with music by Chet Williamson @ $10/pp
= $ _____________
TOTAL =
$__________________
Payment Information:
□ Check (made payable to Fitchburg State) amount enclosed: $________________
Credit Card: □ MasterCard □ Visa □ Discover
Credit Card #:_______________________________________________________
Exp. Date: _______________________ CVC (3 digit code): __________________
Signature: _________________________________________________________
□ Shirley Pick Scholarship Program (call the ALFA Office for details at 978-665-3706)
*Unless indicated as FREE. Additionally, courses are free for members over 90 years of age.
If over 90, please send verification of age with registration.
**Students may initially register for up to 5 classes. After January 20, students may select additional
courses if seats are still available. Check www.fitchburgstate.edu/alfa for course availability.