Music and politics intersect in unexpected ways. Participants will spend the first half of the class reviewing the life and music of Johnny Cash, a music legend. We will then move into examining the politics of Cash regarding the Vietnam War and the letter Cash wrote in 1974 to President Gerald Ford supporting Ford's decision to grant a pardon to President Nixon and amnesty to Vietnam draft dodgers. The class will conclude with a discussion about Ford's decision to issue a pardon for President Nixon and an amnesty for draft dodgers. We will also discuss the concept of amnesty and pardons in today's political scene.

Co-facilitator: Ann Hastert

Guest presenters Eric Krupa of the St. Charles History Museum and Zachary Bishop from the Schingoethe Center of Aurora University will lead us back in time as we journey into the hidden corridors of American history and the vital role Northern Illinois played in the fight for freedom. Participants in this class will learn about secret safe houses, coded messages, and the actual stories of courageous people who boldly fought to challenge the institution of slavery. This course offers a powerful perspective on resistance, resilience and the enduring struggle for justice.

No class on Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 27

Fox Valley residents have long been enthusiastic patrons of the arts. In this one-day course, local arts events organizer and marketing specialist Marissa Amoni will share her knowledge and enthusiasm with us. She will highlight historical and contemporary resources through stories, interviews with artists, and photos. Participants will learn about art leagues, studios, theatrical productions, public art commissions, film festivals, and music programs. Participants will hear about the many outdoor fairs held each summer. Course participants will enhance their awareness of the multiple opportunities available to us because we live in a region that celebrates the arts.

Facilitator: Carl Hays

Join us for an amazing fun time with Rick Steves of PBS and travel book fame as he tells us about his long Asian trek at age 23 from Turkey to Nepal. His candid and workaholic nature reveal his theories from the relevance of travel to his leadership in travel related activities.

Book: On the Hippie Trail: Istanbul to Kathmandu and the Making of a Travel Writer by Rick Steves - NOT REQUIRED

Co-facilitator: Susan Foody

Big idea: Hovercrafts reduce friction between surfaces by floating on a thin cushion of air. This hands on activity will let participants build a mini hovercraft using simple materials to explore air pressure, friction reduction, and lift, while thinking like real-world engineers.

Location: SciTech in Batavia