Registration Deadline Date: July 8

Co-organizer: Beth Johnson

Experience the intersection of architecture and nature at the Edith Farnsworth House! Situated on the banks of the Fox River, Mies van der Rohe’s Edith Farnsworth House is a renowned example of modern architecture and design. Built in 1945 as a weekend retreat for Dr. Edith Farnsworth, the House and grounds offer guests an opportunity to experience history, architecture, and art in a serene setting.

Transportation to the site is on your own. Outing will take place rain or shine. Participants will walk a half mile woodland path along the Fox River (golf cart shuttle available. Please wear comfortable shoes and dress for weather. Activity Level - On Your Feet

Co-facilitator: Karen Christensen

Now holding a sacred place in American consciousness, the Viet Nam Memorial was harshly criticized when its design was first proposed by a very young Maya Lin. Reviled as "a scar of shame," the memorial was seen by its critics as too conventional. How could those prominent writers, including Tom Wolfe and Pat Buchanan, have so deeply misunderstood the purpose and power of the design of this great and profound work of art? Participants will share personal experience of the Wall, evaluate its current place in our cultural heritage, examine the history of its making and of its designer and examine the underlying principles of how public art, and the Memorial itself, "speaks" to us.

Facilitator: Carl Hays

Did lauded Kennedy wealth, glamour and power hide a veneer of Kennedy men physically and psychologically abusing women of all ages and leave a trail of ruin? From sexual assault to suicide, the Kennedy's history of violence and exploitation laid bare violence, sexism and rampant depravity. Some of the victems were Jacqueline Onassis, Marilyn Monroe and Mary Jo Kopechne.

Optional book: Ask Not: The Kennedys and the Women They Destroyed by Maureen Callahan 

Co-Facilitator: Ann Butcher

This is a multigenerational experience! Participants may bring up to three guests (1st grade through 49 years) to a multigenerational experience! Course members will share the history of LEGO, interactive group building, and individual builds. LEGO, a cultural phenomenon with a name in Danish that means: "play well" has become the toy that transcends age. Let's get the generations together with LEGO!