Do you look in the mirror every morning and say, "Wow! You look great?" We spend our lives and our money making serious efforts to look better. Walt Whitman (who cared little about his public appearance} had the right idea. It's not what's on the "outside;" it's what's on the inside. "The Body Electric" is an opportunity for us to practice discovering the "inside job" that deserves celebration. This program is for people who already look good on the inside. That's what a lifelong learner is: Learning energizes, encourages smiles and helps with all-around good feelings. Using the first two verses of this poem (found on-line or in the library) together, we will discover and uncover what Whitman has to teach us 125 years later.

Leaves of Grass, verses 1 & 2. By Walt Whitman (REQUIRED)

Co-facilitator: Carl Hayes

Join us to watch a video of Tom Skilling and Bill Kurtis as they explore the science and stories behind our most unforgettable blizzards. Learn why these powerful storms strike Chicago. Hear firsthand accounts of those who could have been stranded by snow. Could such blizzards happen again?

For many decades Norman Rockwell's work was widely dismissed as "Kitch" in the fine arts community. The controversy still reigns. Was he a serious artist or just a very good illustrator? After examining his background, history, and works we will come to our own conclusions.