How come Shakespeare is a billion dollar world-wide industry four hundred years after he wrote the plays, while other playwrights of his time and later are utterly unheard
of? Because Shakespeare’s plays still work on the modern stage. Educators regularly spoil them by slogging the through texts. This course aims to undo some of the damage done in classrooms by making a case for their genius. Week by week, we will talk about what we already know, the men (heroic and villainous), the women (good and bad), the plot lines, and then, “what you will”.

Co-operation is an accepted and often preferred way to develop and complete projects This series builds on the success of last year’s Form and revisits the goal of providing members the option to create research topics in small groups rather than working alone. Anyone looking to gain confidence in making presentations will enjoy this group. Artist and educator Richard Sewell shifts the focus away from the competitive model toward a collaborative team process. Participants take time to exchange ideas, create topics, and present a short talk with a partner. Expect to enjoy the atmosphere of a retreat.

It can be helpful and meaningful for each one of us to adjust our deck chair and reflect on the voyage of our life. Annually there are experiences that we are unable to control, like the four distinct weather seasons. Similarly, we live Seasons in our Life. Life’s seasons are more prolonged but have similarities to the seasons of each year. Spring produces learning, Summer represents the highly productive years, in Fall there is reaping and sometimes repositioning and then Winter allows freedom. But Wait – there can be a fifth season – the “Second Spring”. Come join in on the conversation.

The way we move seems automatic, yet how we sit, stand, walk, turn and even breathe affects our health and quality of living. In response to the demands of life, we often develop movement habits that magnify the aches and pains of aging. We start to do less than before. This course uses the Feldenkrais Method of intelligent movement to provide simple exercises and awareness training to help us find more efficient and comfortable ways of moving. Expect to increase freedom of movement, and enjoy life more. Wear loose layered clothing. Info: kbsewell123@gmail.com

We all struggle with our digital technology. (And what does “digital” mean, exactly?) How does our generation, which didn’t grow up with computers and probably didn’t learn about them in school get our head around the rapidly changing digital world? How does this stuff work? What do I need to know to avoid being a complete Luddite? How can I be sure to stay safe online? Join a couple of long-time IT wonks for an inside look at the digital world.

Session one of this series is a tourist’s impression of China introduced by Fredrieka Hunter who visited China in the spring of 2019. The next 3 sessions will be topics selected and presented by course participants. Possible topics could include innovations, ethnic diversity, the environment, Hong Kong, politics or global economic impact (e.g. One Belt, One Road initiative; economic imperialism?). The final session will look at Canada’s recent freeze in relations with China.

Mondays in April 2019

1.  What’s Coming to Grand Bend?

April 8 at 2 p.m. at Huron Shores United Church.

Doug Miller will come to explain the Health Care expansion and the creation of a community hub.  Mayor Bill Weber will speak to upcoming Lambton Shores plans for the improvement of services and infrastructure in our town. Is there a traffic plan, too?

2.  Paint Ontario with Josy Britton

April 15 at 2 p.m. at Lambton Shores Museum

Grand Bend’s preeminent art stars are its magnificent spring art show at the Lambton Shores Museum and its much-honoured local artist, Josy Britton.  Partners is bringing them together for a tour around the exhibit and a presentation by Josy about how she has put this community firmly on the cultural map by bringing her stunning sensibilities to our own lovely surroundings.

3.  Genetics and Medication

April 29, at 2 p.m., at Huron Shores United Church

Dr. James Kennedy of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto, speaks to his research on how the DNA blueprint of each person’s genes is now able to help doctors personalize  prescriptions  to minimize side effects. A good look at what is new and exciting in medical research.

Mondays in May 2019

4.   Petrolia Discovery

May 6,  9:30 a.m. at Pet Valu parking lot.

Our first field trip will follow the amazing story of the Lambton pioneer oil men, who traveled the world to discover most of its major oil fields. We will visit the  Petrolia Discovery Museum, and stop for lunch (optional) at a local eatery. Drivers and advance registration required. $5 donation for the tour …

5.   Lambton Shores Nature Trails

May 13, 10 a.m. at Port Franks Community Center

Join Klauss Keunecke and Marilyn-Keunecke Smith for a history and future of Lambton Shores trails. At 10:30 until noon, we will follow a guided trail walk on the White Trail (4.5 km). At 12:15 we will meet at the Ipperwash Beach Club for lunch.

Participants should wear good hiking footwear and bring water and snacks.  Preregistration is mandatory if you plan on staying for lunch.

Watch the sunset with Molly at Maplewood on June 21. Bring a chair, and some munchies, and see the summer in.

Socrates Café is a friendly gathering for informal discussion  about the latest and most engaging news of the day.  We choose a topic, by vote, and take turns offering our – often very differing – views.  In summer, a BBQ lunch is added for a congenial get together. Expect a good time!

• $5.00 per person at the door – BYO beverage
• Guests and non-members welcome!
• Contact Nancy Winters if you have any questions, 519-238-5419 or nancywinters@hay.net

Tuesday, July 16^th, at Bob and Beverly Kennedy, 12 noon – 2:00 pm
10152 Merrywood Drive, Grand Bend

Tuesday, August 13^th, at Jackie and Jim Southcott, 12 noon – 2:00 pm
10121 Shoreline Drive, Grand Bend