OCTOBER - NoVEMBER 2019
HRM classes
1. Everyday Neurology – “It is ALL in YOUR Head!” - Allan Purdy [course full, Registration Closed]
Everyday Neurology – “It is ALL in YOUR Head!” - Allan Purdy
Tuesdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 08 to Nov 12
Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts, Room 15, 6199 Chebucto Road, Halifax
Course Description
This is a general course in neurology beginning with concepts of neurology and diagnosis: history, examination, and imaging and other tests.
Instructor Biography
R. Allan Purdy MD, FRCPC, is Professor of Medicine (Neurology) at Dalhousie University. He was Professor and Head of the Department of Medicine, and Chief of the Medicine Service of the Department of Medicine at Dalhousie and Capital Health from 2005 to June of 2011. He is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada, and was elected a Fellow of the American College of Physicians in 2008. He previously was the Professor and Head of Neurology at Dalhousie from 1994 to 2006. He is a Fellow of the American Headache Society and is the current Past-President of the American Headache Society. He has numerous teaching awards, publications and over 40 years as a clinical neurologist.
Tuesdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 08 to Nov 12
Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts, Room 15, 6199 Chebucto Road, Halifax
Course Description
This is a general course in neurology beginning with concepts of neurology and diagnosis: history, examination, and imaging and other tests.
- It will look at the various parts of the human nervous system regarding normal and abnormal function. There will be some overlap with other areas of medicine.
- After the overview, we will look at the brain, the brainstem, the spinal cord and nerves and muscles and describe diseases/disorders at each level of the nervous system. For example: Stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Tremor, Fits/Faints, Dizziness/Vertigo, Headaches/Migraine, Pain, Visual Symptoms, Weakness and Balance problems. Spinal Cord problems, and trouble with nerve roots, peripheral nerves and muscle diseases. Possibly dementia and memory and how diseases outside the brain can affect the brain.
Instructor Biography
R. Allan Purdy MD, FRCPC, is Professor of Medicine (Neurology) at Dalhousie University. He was Professor and Head of the Department of Medicine, and Chief of the Medicine Service of the Department of Medicine at Dalhousie and Capital Health from 2005 to June of 2011. He is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada, and was elected a Fellow of the American College of Physicians in 2008. He previously was the Professor and Head of Neurology at Dalhousie from 1994 to 2006. He is a Fellow of the American Headache Society and is the current Past-President of the American Headache Society. He has numerous teaching awards, publications and over 40 years as a clinical neurologist.
2. Family Matters in 6 Japanese Films from the 18th Century to 2019 - Daphna Levit
Family Matters in 6 Japanese Films from the 18th Century to 2019 - Daphna Levit
Tuesdays 1:30 PM-3:30 PM (6 wks) Oct 15 to Nov 19
Parkland Clayton Park, Cameron Hall, 114 Fairfax Drive, Halifax
Course Description
Chikamatsu, the revered Japanese dramatist of the early 18th century, portrayed family within the samurai tradition as entirely subservient to the feudal hierarchy. The first movie will be a modern restoration of one of his plays by the director Mizoguchi. The second movie will be a 1958 Kabuki-like production directed by Kinoshita of The Ballad of Narayama: a multiple award-winning movie of a legendary tale about the dignity and sacrifice of older people. Both these movies depict an era long past but with enduring values within contemporary Japan.
The third movie is Tokyo Story a timeless 1953 family drama set in the 1950’s by one of the greatest and most influential directors of film: Ozu. The family concept has evolved but the humanity remains constant. This movie is a few minutes longer than the 2 hours - and hopefully we can be allowed the time.
The last three movies are fairly contemporary and provide some satire, comic insight and perspective on the universal concept of family today: The Funeral, directed by Itami, Our Little Sister and Shoplifters, both directed by Kore-eda.
Should discussion time be insufficient, we can limit the course to five movies and dedicate one session exclusively to review and discussion.
Instructor Biography
After completing her Ph.D. studies in Comparative (Japanese) Literature at Indiana University, Daphna Levit went on to take additional graduate degrees in Finance (MBA) and East Asian Studies (Economics)(MA) from Cornell University. She spent much of two decades in Japan, a third in London, England and New York employed as a financial analyst by some of the giant Wall Street firms that recently topped the headlines. She got out of the industry before the penultimate global economic crisis and went on to teach Finance and Economics to MBA students. In 2002 she moved to Nova Scotia and started writing a weekly column in the South Shore newspaper on global financial matters, writing opera reviews for the national magazine Opera Canada and teaching courses on Japanese history, Japanese Film and Economics in various academic institutions. She joined the SCANS BOD early in 2010, served on it for four years, developing and then coordinating the three SCANS chapters in the South Shore. She co-authored a book on the Middle East and has given several talks on that subject all over Canada. She now lives near Lunenburg.
Tuesdays 1:30 PM-3:30 PM (6 wks) Oct 15 to Nov 19
Parkland Clayton Park, Cameron Hall, 114 Fairfax Drive, Halifax
Course Description
Chikamatsu, the revered Japanese dramatist of the early 18th century, portrayed family within the samurai tradition as entirely subservient to the feudal hierarchy. The first movie will be a modern restoration of one of his plays by the director Mizoguchi. The second movie will be a 1958 Kabuki-like production directed by Kinoshita of The Ballad of Narayama: a multiple award-winning movie of a legendary tale about the dignity and sacrifice of older people. Both these movies depict an era long past but with enduring values within contemporary Japan.
The third movie is Tokyo Story a timeless 1953 family drama set in the 1950’s by one of the greatest and most influential directors of film: Ozu. The family concept has evolved but the humanity remains constant. This movie is a few minutes longer than the 2 hours - and hopefully we can be allowed the time.
The last three movies are fairly contemporary and provide some satire, comic insight and perspective on the universal concept of family today: The Funeral, directed by Itami, Our Little Sister and Shoplifters, both directed by Kore-eda.
Should discussion time be insufficient, we can limit the course to five movies and dedicate one session exclusively to review and discussion.
Instructor Biography
After completing her Ph.D. studies in Comparative (Japanese) Literature at Indiana University, Daphna Levit went on to take additional graduate degrees in Finance (MBA) and East Asian Studies (Economics)(MA) from Cornell University. She spent much of two decades in Japan, a third in London, England and New York employed as a financial analyst by some of the giant Wall Street firms that recently topped the headlines. She got out of the industry before the penultimate global economic crisis and went on to teach Finance and Economics to MBA students. In 2002 she moved to Nova Scotia and started writing a weekly column in the South Shore newspaper on global financial matters, writing opera reviews for the national magazine Opera Canada and teaching courses on Japanese history, Japanese Film and Economics in various academic institutions. She joined the SCANS BOD early in 2010, served on it for four years, developing and then coordinating the three SCANS chapters in the South Shore. She co-authored a book on the Middle East and has given several talks on that subject all over Canada. She now lives near Lunenburg.
3. Creative Writing Fiction - Gwen Davies [COURSE FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED]
Creative Writing Fiction - Gwen Davies
Tuesdays 1:00 PM-3:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 08 to Nov 12
Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts, Room 15, 6199 Chebucto Road, Halifax
Course Description
This is an active course in writing, for those who want to explore your own stories but have never gotten around to it, and those who need help to get back to writing. The class is designed to be a safe place for beginners to get started, and a useful class for those with writing experience. Over the six weeks, we will write, listen to writing and get feedback. We will cover the basics of story writing including character, dialogue, setting and plot, and look at how to make personal stories into fiction. All genres of fiction are welcome, and we’ll share tips and ideas on writing. We can work with memoir to some extent, but the focus of this session is on fiction.
Instructor Biography
Gwen Davies has been teaching creative writing for over 25 years. She started the Community of Writers at the Tatamagouche Centre, a four-stream writing event, and ran it until the Centre had to draw back and refocus 15 years later. She has had several stories published in literary magazines and anthologies, and has won a few prizes. Her book Facing the Other Way came out in 2016. She supported her writing habit with teaching, by working in literacy and community development, and recently retired from 35 years of consulting in clear language and design. She holds degrees from Wilfrid Laurier, and from King’s, Halifax. She grew up travelling around Europe with her Air Force family in a VW camper, and took up parkour at age 62.
Tuesdays 1:00 PM-3:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 08 to Nov 12
Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts, Room 15, 6199 Chebucto Road, Halifax
Course Description
This is an active course in writing, for those who want to explore your own stories but have never gotten around to it, and those who need help to get back to writing. The class is designed to be a safe place for beginners to get started, and a useful class for those with writing experience. Over the six weeks, we will write, listen to writing and get feedback. We will cover the basics of story writing including character, dialogue, setting and plot, and look at how to make personal stories into fiction. All genres of fiction are welcome, and we’ll share tips and ideas on writing. We can work with memoir to some extent, but the focus of this session is on fiction.
Instructor Biography
Gwen Davies has been teaching creative writing for over 25 years. She started the Community of Writers at the Tatamagouche Centre, a four-stream writing event, and ran it until the Centre had to draw back and refocus 15 years later. She has had several stories published in literary magazines and anthologies, and has won a few prizes. Her book Facing the Other Way came out in 2016. She supported her writing habit with teaching, by working in literacy and community development, and recently retired from 35 years of consulting in clear language and design. She holds degrees from Wilfrid Laurier, and from King’s, Halifax. She grew up travelling around Europe with her Air Force family in a VW camper, and took up parkour at age 62.
4. Six Controversies - Norman Pereira [COURSE FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED]
Six Controversies - Norman Pereira
Wednesdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 09 to Nov 13
Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts, Room 15, 6199 Chebucto Road, Halifax
Course Description
This is a discussion class in which one of six current issues is discussed each week. The Instructor introduces the topic for each class and participants pick up the conversation and move it forward. Current topics include the Crisis in the U.S. Democratic Party, The Enigma of Vladimir Putin, What is Islam? Free speech vs hate speech, The Chinese Behemoth, Whither Canada?
Instructor Biography
Norman Pereira is Emeritus Professor of History and of Russian Studies at Dalhousie University. He has numerous book length and essay publications, largely in the areas of history, politics, and current events; and has lectured at academic venues in Canada, the USA, and Europe.
Wednesdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 09 to Nov 13
Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts, Room 15, 6199 Chebucto Road, Halifax
Course Description
This is a discussion class in which one of six current issues is discussed each week. The Instructor introduces the topic for each class and participants pick up the conversation and move it forward. Current topics include the Crisis in the U.S. Democratic Party, The Enigma of Vladimir Putin, What is Islam? Free speech vs hate speech, The Chinese Behemoth, Whither Canada?
Instructor Biography
Norman Pereira is Emeritus Professor of History and of Russian Studies at Dalhousie University. He has numerous book length and essay publications, largely in the areas of history, politics, and current events; and has lectured at academic venues in Canada, the USA, and Europe.
5. Women in History Known and Unknown: Revised and Revitalised - Michael Collins [COURSE FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED]
Women in History Known and Unknown: Revised and Revitalised - Michael Collins
Wednesdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 09 to Nov 13
‡ Sackville Public Library, 636 Sackville Dr, Lower Sackville ‡
Course Description
Dedicated to: Jolene Jarvis (My Family Doctor) Joan Proctor (My Surgeon) Maureen Nolan (My Oncologist) and My Nan who today could have been anything she chose.
Instructor Biography
Dr. Collins studied at the University of East Anglia (Norwich) School of History and since coming to Canada has taught courses on the History of Clothing and Fashion, the British Industrial Revolution, The Soviet Union and 20th Century European History at Mount St. Vincent, Saint Mary's, Acadia and Dalhousie Universities as well as for SCANS.
First career as an Oil Industry ‘gypsy’ around the world. Then BA in Economic and Social History and Soviet Studies. Then PhD from University of East Anglia (England) in Economic and Social studies. Teaching modern history (from 1750) British and European history and Soviet Studies. Clothing and Fashion unit designed to be used as a ‘hook’ to teach Economic and Social History about 15 years hence, but then got a mind of its own and expanded every year. Retired from full time teaching but teaching part time until mid-2011 at Acadia, Mount St Vincent and St Mary’s.
Wednesdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 09 to Nov 13
‡ Sackville Public Library, 636 Sackville Dr, Lower Sackville ‡
Course Description
Dedicated to: Jolene Jarvis (My Family Doctor) Joan Proctor (My Surgeon) Maureen Nolan (My Oncologist) and My Nan who today could have been anything she chose.
- 19th Century Women (More or Less)
- The Vote (In skimpy form
- War and Opportunity
- Arts and Crafts
- Politics and Power
- Science and Technology
Instructor Biography
Dr. Collins studied at the University of East Anglia (Norwich) School of History and since coming to Canada has taught courses on the History of Clothing and Fashion, the British Industrial Revolution, The Soviet Union and 20th Century European History at Mount St. Vincent, Saint Mary's, Acadia and Dalhousie Universities as well as for SCANS.
First career as an Oil Industry ‘gypsy’ around the world. Then BA in Economic and Social History and Soviet Studies. Then PhD from University of East Anglia (England) in Economic and Social studies. Teaching modern history (from 1750) British and European history and Soviet Studies. Clothing and Fashion unit designed to be used as a ‘hook’ to teach Economic and Social History about 15 years hence, but then got a mind of its own and expanded every year. Retired from full time teaching but teaching part time until mid-2011 at Acadia, Mount St Vincent and St Mary’s.
6. Lawyers, Guns and Money: Problems in Contemporary Organized Crime - Angus Smith [COURSE FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED]
Lawyers, Guns and Money: Problems in Contemporary Organized Crime - Angus Smith
Wednesdays 1:00 PM-3:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 09 to Nov 13
Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts, Room 15, 6199 Chebucto Road, Halifax
Course Description
Instructor Biography
Over the course of his 30-year career in intelligence with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Angus Smith specialized in a number of different areas including Latin America, drug trafficking, police corruption, Eastern European Organized Crime and terrorism and national security.
An award-winning author, Angus lives on the South Shore of Nova Scotia where he writes for a variety of publications including The Jewish Review of Books, Rural Delivery and The Police Chief.
Wednesdays 1:00 PM-3:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 09 to Nov 13
Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts, Room 15, 6199 Chebucto Road, Halifax
Course Description
- Taking it to the street: the origins and evolution of organized crime in North America
- Mafias
- Tongs, Triads and taking care of our own
- Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs
- “This is your brain...” – moral panic and the “war” on drugs...
- From the French Connection to the Colombian Cartels
- Cheap drugs – crack, meth and fentanyl
- Learning to follow the money – proceeds of crime and money laundering
- The funding of organized crime
- Dirty money
- The laundry business
- Post 1991 – the end of history and the start of something new
- The strange rise of Eastern European Organized Crime
- Crime in the post-Soviet space
- The strange rise of Eastern European Organized Crime
- Corruption, complicity and black money
- Taking care of business: organized crime corruption
- Cleaning up: how organized crime legitimizes itself
- Live commodities: people, animals and more...
- New Worlds
- Two houses: crime and terrorism
- There’s no there, there: old crime, new technology
Instructor Biography
Over the course of his 30-year career in intelligence with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Angus Smith specialized in a number of different areas including Latin America, drug trafficking, police corruption, Eastern European Organized Crime and terrorism and national security.
An award-winning author, Angus lives on the South Shore of Nova Scotia where he writes for a variety of publications including The Jewish Review of Books, Rural Delivery and The Police Chief.
7. The Idea of a Double or Doppelganger: Dostoyevsky’s The Double; Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray; James’ The Jolly Corner; Conrad’s The Secret Sharer - Victoria Rosenberg
The Idea of a Double or Doppelganger: Dostoyevsky’s The Double; Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray; James’ The Jolly Corner; Conrad’s The Secret Sharer - Victoria Rosenberg
Thursdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 10 to Nov 14
Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts, Room 15, 6199 Chebucto Road, Halifax
Course Description
Narcissus, falling in love with his own reflection which he mistakes for a being separate from himself; the wicked Queen in Snow White, looking in a mirror to ascertain her beauty’s permanence – this human obsession with one’s own reflection, evidenced in myth and fairy tale, took form in the late 19th and early 20th c. as the idea of a double, an imagined twin or doppelganger. This course will study four short novels, in chronological order, each of which centers upon the possibility of a double, each having a different depiction of the consequences of such a possibility achieving reality. We will likely spend the first two sessions of the course on the Dostoyevsky (1846), the next two on the Wilde (1890-91), the following one on the James (1908) and the final session on the Conrad (1910). I will be referring in class to the Dover Publication edition of each of the books (all under $10.00), but participants may wish to download all four online, from the free site, Project Gutenberg.
Instructor Biography
Dr. Rosenberg’s interest is the British novels of the Victorian and Edwardian periods. Her particular area of study is the writing of Henry James, and she has written and lectured on his novels. Her students and friends will agree that her constant reference is to James’ characters.
Thursdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 10 to Nov 14
Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts, Room 15, 6199 Chebucto Road, Halifax
Course Description
Narcissus, falling in love with his own reflection which he mistakes for a being separate from himself; the wicked Queen in Snow White, looking in a mirror to ascertain her beauty’s permanence – this human obsession with one’s own reflection, evidenced in myth and fairy tale, took form in the late 19th and early 20th c. as the idea of a double, an imagined twin or doppelganger. This course will study four short novels, in chronological order, each of which centers upon the possibility of a double, each having a different depiction of the consequences of such a possibility achieving reality. We will likely spend the first two sessions of the course on the Dostoyevsky (1846), the next two on the Wilde (1890-91), the following one on the James (1908) and the final session on the Conrad (1910). I will be referring in class to the Dover Publication edition of each of the books (all under $10.00), but participants may wish to download all four online, from the free site, Project Gutenberg.
Instructor Biography
Dr. Rosenberg’s interest is the British novels of the Victorian and Edwardian periods. Her particular area of study is the writing of Henry James, and she has written and lectured on his novels. Her students and friends will agree that her constant reference is to James’ characters.
8. War and Peace in the History of Russia in the 20th Century - Natalia Koutovenko [COURSE FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED]
War and Peace in the History of Russia in the 20th Century - Natalia Koutovenko
Thursdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 10 to Nov 14
Parkland at the Lakes - Phase 2, Kinross Hall Theatre, 122 Baker Drive, Dartmouth
Course Description
Twentieth century began from the failure in Russian-Japanese War. Then 3 revolutions and WW1 destroyed Russian empire, the USSR came to existence for 75 years. The Great Patriotic War carried away 27 million lives and changed the mentality of the Soviet people. The war in Afghanistan was one of the reasons of collapse of the USSR. We will discuss the role of military conflicts and civil wars.
Instructor Biography
Natalia Koutovenko used to be the Dean of Foreign Students and Assistant Professor at the Institute of Culture in Leningrad, also worked as Assistant Director in Foreign Affairs at the Library of the Academy of Sciences. Acted as a Chair of Foreign Languages Department at the International Banking Institute. In Canada she worked as Assistant Professor at the Department of Russian Studies at Dalhousie University. Now she is working as an interpreter and teacher of Russian Language and Literature in Russian School.
Thursdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 10 to Nov 14
Parkland at the Lakes - Phase 2, Kinross Hall Theatre, 122 Baker Drive, Dartmouth
Course Description
Twentieth century began from the failure in Russian-Japanese War. Then 3 revolutions and WW1 destroyed Russian empire, the USSR came to existence for 75 years. The Great Patriotic War carried away 27 million lives and changed the mentality of the Soviet people. The war in Afghanistan was one of the reasons of collapse of the USSR. We will discuss the role of military conflicts and civil wars.
Instructor Biography
Natalia Koutovenko used to be the Dean of Foreign Students and Assistant Professor at the Institute of Culture in Leningrad, also worked as Assistant Director in Foreign Affairs at the Library of the Academy of Sciences. Acted as a Chair of Foreign Languages Department at the International Banking Institute. In Canada she worked as Assistant Professor at the Department of Russian Studies at Dalhousie University. Now she is working as an interpreter and teacher of Russian Language and Literature in Russian School.
9. The Science of Mindfulness - Patricia McMullen [COURSE FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED]
The Science of Mindfulness - Patricia McMullen
Thursdays 1:00 PM-3:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 10 to Nov 14
Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts, Room 15, 6199 Chebucto Road, Halifax
Course Description
In this seminar about the Science of Mindfulness, you will learn about the practice of mindfulness meditation from an experiential view-point. Investigation of the effects that this secular practice is purported to have from research on cognition, emotions, the brain and our bodies will be central to the course. We will also discuss the psychological conditions that mindfulness has been used to ameliorate and the applied settings in which it has been implemented. Finally, some of the problems with mindfulness as a practice will be presented as well as problems with the scientific research as it stands today. If time permits, we may explore what a theory of mindfulness could look like.
Instructor Biography
Patricia McMullen received her M.Sc. in neuroanatomy at the University of Toronto in 1981 and her Ph.D. in cognitive psychology at the University of Waterloo in 1988. Subsequently, she pursued post-doctoral research at Carnegie Mellon University where she gained expertise in the study of cognitive neuropsychology or the cognition of individuals who have experienced brain damage. In 1991, she was hired as professor in the area of visual cognition in the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at Dalhousie University. She has published a book with MIT press and close to 50 articles on research into visual cognition and cognitive neuropsychology. Her interest in mindfulness has continued throughout most of her adult life, which makes teaching a course on the Science of Mindfulness, a meeting of two long-standing interests.
Thursdays 1:00 PM-3:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 10 to Nov 14
Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts, Room 15, 6199 Chebucto Road, Halifax
Course Description
In this seminar about the Science of Mindfulness, you will learn about the practice of mindfulness meditation from an experiential view-point. Investigation of the effects that this secular practice is purported to have from research on cognition, emotions, the brain and our bodies will be central to the course. We will also discuss the psychological conditions that mindfulness has been used to ameliorate and the applied settings in which it has been implemented. Finally, some of the problems with mindfulness as a practice will be presented as well as problems with the scientific research as it stands today. If time permits, we may explore what a theory of mindfulness could look like.
Instructor Biography
Patricia McMullen received her M.Sc. in neuroanatomy at the University of Toronto in 1981 and her Ph.D. in cognitive psychology at the University of Waterloo in 1988. Subsequently, she pursued post-doctoral research at Carnegie Mellon University where she gained expertise in the study of cognitive neuropsychology or the cognition of individuals who have experienced brain damage. In 1991, she was hired as professor in the area of visual cognition in the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at Dalhousie University. She has published a book with MIT press and close to 50 articles on research into visual cognition and cognitive neuropsychology. Her interest in mindfulness has continued throughout most of her adult life, which makes teaching a course on the Science of Mindfulness, a meeting of two long-standing interests.
10. Filthy Lucre: A Brief (but Affectionate) History of Money - Alex Roberts [COURSE FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED]
Filthy Lucre: A Brief (but Affectionate) History of Money - Alex Roberts
Thursdays 1:00 PM-3:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 10 to Nov 14
‡ Keshen Goodman Public Library, 330 Lacewood Drive, Halifax ‡
Course Description
“Everyone always wants money because everyone else also wants money, which means you can exchange money for whatever you want.” – Noah Harari
Dough, scratch, bread, moolah, quid, greenbacks, yen, rupee, euros, bahts, bitcoin: money in its many forms permeates virtually every aspect of our financial, psychological and emotional lives. Indeed, we focus more of our time in the pursuit of money than any other human activity. It is also the essential back story that explains the origins of most great events: everything from the fall and rise of great empires to potentially catastrophic trade wars. Cultural anthropologist, Jack Weatherford goes as far as to argue, “Money is a plausible candidate for being the single most influential factor” shaping modern human progress, and the “definitive element of social life.”
Employing an accessible, entertaining, thought-provoking approach, this course will look at the world’s second most interesting topic by taking the student on a journey from the first coins through to 21st century digital currencies.
The course will include topics such as: the origin, evolution and characteristics of money, the psychology of spending, money and inflation, how banks create money (out of nothing), money systems in prisoner of war camps, stock market bubbles, digital currencies and the “blockchain”, money in music and literature, the allure of gambling, things money can’t buy, cognitive biases that cost you money, and the future of money.
Instructor Biography
A native of Yorkshire, England, Alex Roberts taught in Halifax for 28 years (Statistics, Economics and Computer Science). After leaving teaching in 2005, he spent several years as an educational presenter and is now a freelance writer, with over 200 articles published. Hobbies include being a railway buff, fishing, music, coin collecting and cricket. The former co-owner of Entertainment Contacts (booking) Agency, he currently owns and moderates The White Rose Cricket Forum. Alex studied economics at St. Mary’s University and Dalhousie University (Graduate Studies).
Thursdays 1:00 PM-3:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 10 to Nov 14
‡ Keshen Goodman Public Library, 330 Lacewood Drive, Halifax ‡
Course Description
“Everyone always wants money because everyone else also wants money, which means you can exchange money for whatever you want.” – Noah Harari
Dough, scratch, bread, moolah, quid, greenbacks, yen, rupee, euros, bahts, bitcoin: money in its many forms permeates virtually every aspect of our financial, psychological and emotional lives. Indeed, we focus more of our time in the pursuit of money than any other human activity. It is also the essential back story that explains the origins of most great events: everything from the fall and rise of great empires to potentially catastrophic trade wars. Cultural anthropologist, Jack Weatherford goes as far as to argue, “Money is a plausible candidate for being the single most influential factor” shaping modern human progress, and the “definitive element of social life.”
Employing an accessible, entertaining, thought-provoking approach, this course will look at the world’s second most interesting topic by taking the student on a journey from the first coins through to 21st century digital currencies.
The course will include topics such as: the origin, evolution and characteristics of money, the psychology of spending, money and inflation, how banks create money (out of nothing), money systems in prisoner of war camps, stock market bubbles, digital currencies and the “blockchain”, money in music and literature, the allure of gambling, things money can’t buy, cognitive biases that cost you money, and the future of money.
Instructor Biography
A native of Yorkshire, England, Alex Roberts taught in Halifax for 28 years (Statistics, Economics and Computer Science). After leaving teaching in 2005, he spent several years as an educational presenter and is now a freelance writer, with over 200 articles published. Hobbies include being a railway buff, fishing, music, coin collecting and cricket. The former co-owner of Entertainment Contacts (booking) Agency, he currently owns and moderates The White Rose Cricket Forum. Alex studied economics at St. Mary’s University and Dalhousie University (Graduate Studies).
11. Jazz Essentials - Ted Blackbourn
Jazz Essentials - Ted Blackbourn
Fridays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 11 to Nov 15
St. Paul's United Church, 173 Old Sambro Road, Halifax
Course Description
What are the essential elements of Jazz? What distinguishes Jazz from other musical genres? How has Jazz changed throughout its history? Can Jazz be defined? What is the relationship between Jazz and the popular song? By examining examples of recorded Jazz from its earliest days to the present, course participants will explore these and other questions in order to gain a greater depth of understanding of this rich and ever-changing art form. Recordings of popular songs as interpreted by Jazz musicians will be used to illustrate the elements of Jazz and the many stylistic changes that have developed over the years.
Instructor Biography
Ted Blackbourn is a graduate of the music programs at Humber College and York University in Toronto. He earned his Bachelor of Education from the University of Toronto and taught high school for the Peel District School Board Mississauga and Brampton) for 29 years. Throughout those years, Ted performed and recorded with a number of bands including his own jazz trio. Since retiring from teaching, Ted has spent much of his time composing and arranging music for large Jazz ensembles and has recorded three Big Band CDs featuring his arrangements. Ted is a member of the Tuesday Night Big Band in Halifax and the Chester Brass Band.
Fridays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 11 to Nov 15
St. Paul's United Church, 173 Old Sambro Road, Halifax
Course Description
What are the essential elements of Jazz? What distinguishes Jazz from other musical genres? How has Jazz changed throughout its history? Can Jazz be defined? What is the relationship between Jazz and the popular song? By examining examples of recorded Jazz from its earliest days to the present, course participants will explore these and other questions in order to gain a greater depth of understanding of this rich and ever-changing art form. Recordings of popular songs as interpreted by Jazz musicians will be used to illustrate the elements of Jazz and the many stylistic changes that have developed over the years.
Instructor Biography
Ted Blackbourn is a graduate of the music programs at Humber College and York University in Toronto. He earned his Bachelor of Education from the University of Toronto and taught high school for the Peel District School Board Mississauga and Brampton) for 29 years. Throughout those years, Ted performed and recorded with a number of bands including his own jazz trio. Since retiring from teaching, Ted has spent much of his time composing and arranging music for large Jazz ensembles and has recorded three Big Band CDs featuring his arrangements. Ted is a member of the Tuesday Night Big Band in Halifax and the Chester Brass Band.
12. Rooms with Views: Adapting E.M. Forster to the Screen - Glenn Walton [COURSE FULL, REGISTRATION CLOSED]
Rooms with Views: Adapting E.M. Forster to the Screen - Glenn Walton
Fridays 9:30 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 11 to Nov 15
Parkland Clayton Park, Cameron Hall, 114 Fairfax Drive, Halifax
Course Description
This class will watch two film adaptations of E.M. Forster's classic 1908 novel A Room with a View, and explore the challenges of adapting works of literature to the screen. [Optional add-on:] Participants are encouraged to read the source novel, but this is not a requirement.
Instructor Biography
Glenn Walton is a literary chap and has been teaching books to students at Saint Mary’s University since the 1980s. He is also a cinematic chap, having written and directed a series of short films, including The Room at the Back (1990, Winner of the Best Short Drama Award at the Atlantic Film Festival), and, most recently, Chamberpiece (2004, Winner of the Best Actor Award). A musical chap as well, Glenn is currently writing the book and song score for Willows, a stage adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s classic The Wind in the Willows.
Fridays 9:30 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 11 to Nov 15
Parkland Clayton Park, Cameron Hall, 114 Fairfax Drive, Halifax
Course Description
This class will watch two film adaptations of E.M. Forster's classic 1908 novel A Room with a View, and explore the challenges of adapting works of literature to the screen. [Optional add-on:] Participants are encouraged to read the source novel, but this is not a requirement.
Instructor Biography
Glenn Walton is a literary chap and has been teaching books to students at Saint Mary’s University since the 1980s. He is also a cinematic chap, having written and directed a series of short films, including The Room at the Back (1990, Winner of the Best Short Drama Award at the Atlantic Film Festival), and, most recently, Chamberpiece (2004, Winner of the Best Actor Award). A musical chap as well, Glenn is currently writing the book and song score for Willows, a stage adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s classic The Wind in the Willows.
Chester classes
13. From Bach to Beatles: Evolution of the Guitar - Vladimir Sitnikov
From Bach to Beatles: Evolution of the Guitar - Vladimir Sitnikov
Wednesday 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 09 to Nov 13
St. Stephen's Hall, 54 Regent Street, Chester
Course Description
From Bach to Beatles is a musical journey that starts in Germany and Italy of Baroque period, moves around Western and Eastern Europe of Classical and Romantic Periods, with longer stop in Spain with Flamenco music. Next stop is Latin America with beats of Salsa, Samba and Tango. Last stop is North America, where students listen and learn great sounds of Jazz, Blues and Contemporary music. Each lesson is a mini concert, with live music played by instructor.
Instructor Biography
Before Vladimir - professional musician for more than 20 years - made Canada his new home, he mastered his guitar and composition in Russia. A prize winner of an international classical guitar competition, he graduated from Rostov State Conservatory and toured across Europe with the Bis Band, as well as a solo player.
In Canada Vladimir continued his musical career. He has released CD's "Classical and Jazz Compositions for Guitar", "Bossanova Live and More" and "Back To The Future". Has been teaching music at Talent Studio, Kingsview Academy and SCANS in Halifax and Ontario Conservatory in Toronto, performing with such bands as Maderaz, Lady Son, Bossanova and many more at venues and festivals all across Canada, including Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto and Maritime Museum and Dalhousie University in Halifax, writing songs and arrangements. He appeared on award winning records such as Reflection's "Stress Less" and Lady Son's "Semillas", TV and radio stations including CBC. Currently, Vladimir is the musical director of The Shining Lights Choir - a community choir for homeless and disabled people as well as the host of weekly classical music program From Bach To Beatles on CIOE 97.5 FM radio station, both in Halifax, NS.
With Maderaz Latin Music Vladimir performed around 100 educational shows per year in schools across Ontario as a part of Prologue To The Performing Arts for ten years, collaborating with such children performers as Lois, Sharon and Bram, Jack Grunsky, Eric Nagler, Balet Creole.
Wednesday 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 09 to Nov 13
St. Stephen's Hall, 54 Regent Street, Chester
Course Description
From Bach to Beatles is a musical journey that starts in Germany and Italy of Baroque period, moves around Western and Eastern Europe of Classical and Romantic Periods, with longer stop in Spain with Flamenco music. Next stop is Latin America with beats of Salsa, Samba and Tango. Last stop is North America, where students listen and learn great sounds of Jazz, Blues and Contemporary music. Each lesson is a mini concert, with live music played by instructor.
Instructor Biography
Before Vladimir - professional musician for more than 20 years - made Canada his new home, he mastered his guitar and composition in Russia. A prize winner of an international classical guitar competition, he graduated from Rostov State Conservatory and toured across Europe with the Bis Band, as well as a solo player.
In Canada Vladimir continued his musical career. He has released CD's "Classical and Jazz Compositions for Guitar", "Bossanova Live and More" and "Back To The Future". Has been teaching music at Talent Studio, Kingsview Academy and SCANS in Halifax and Ontario Conservatory in Toronto, performing with such bands as Maderaz, Lady Son, Bossanova and many more at venues and festivals all across Canada, including Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto and Maritime Museum and Dalhousie University in Halifax, writing songs and arrangements. He appeared on award winning records such as Reflection's "Stress Less" and Lady Son's "Semillas", TV and radio stations including CBC. Currently, Vladimir is the musical director of The Shining Lights Choir - a community choir for homeless and disabled people as well as the host of weekly classical music program From Bach To Beatles on CIOE 97.5 FM radio station, both in Halifax, NS.
With Maderaz Latin Music Vladimir performed around 100 educational shows per year in schools across Ontario as a part of Prologue To The Performing Arts for ten years, collaborating with such children performers as Lois, Sharon and Bram, Jack Grunsky, Eric Nagler, Balet Creole.
14. Women In History – Revised and Revitalised - Michael Collins
Women In History – Revised and Revitalised - Michael Collins
Thursdays 2:00 PM-4:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 10 to Nov 14
St. Stephen's Hall, 54 Regent Street, Chester
Course Description
Henry Ford said “History is bunk” and in many cases it is. Regarding women in history, much is for and about “Ladies” rather than women. This course covering more or less from 1700 looks to expose many important women in history, many of whom are unsung or lost.
Instructor Biography
Dr. Collins studied at the University of East Anglia (Norwich) School of History and since coming to Canada has taught courses on the History of Clothing and Fashion, the British Industrial Revolution, The Soviet Union and 20th Century European History at Mount St. Vincent, Saint Mary's, Acadia and Dalhousie Universities as well as for SCANS.
First career as an Oil Industry ‘gypsy’ around the world. Then BA in Economic and Social History and Soviet Studies. Then PhD from University of East Anglia (England) in Economic and Social studies. Teaching modern history (from 1750) British and European history and Soviet Studies. Clothing and Fashion unit designed to be used as a ‘hook’ to teach Economic and Social History about 15 years hence, but then got a mind of its own and expanded every year. Retired from full time teaching but teaching part time until mid-2011 at Acadia, Mount St Vincent and St Mary’s.
Thursdays 2:00 PM-4:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 10 to Nov 14
St. Stephen's Hall, 54 Regent Street, Chester
Course Description
Henry Ford said “History is bunk” and in many cases it is. Regarding women in history, much is for and about “Ladies” rather than women. This course covering more or less from 1700 looks to expose many important women in history, many of whom are unsung or lost.
- 19th Century women (and a bit more)
- The Vote
- War and Opportunity
- Arts and Crafts
- Politics and Power
- Science and Technology
Instructor Biography
Dr. Collins studied at the University of East Anglia (Norwich) School of History and since coming to Canada has taught courses on the History of Clothing and Fashion, the British Industrial Revolution, The Soviet Union and 20th Century European History at Mount St. Vincent, Saint Mary's, Acadia and Dalhousie Universities as well as for SCANS.
First career as an Oil Industry ‘gypsy’ around the world. Then BA in Economic and Social History and Soviet Studies. Then PhD from University of East Anglia (England) in Economic and Social studies. Teaching modern history (from 1750) British and European history and Soviet Studies. Clothing and Fashion unit designed to be used as a ‘hook’ to teach Economic and Social History about 15 years hence, but then got a mind of its own and expanded every year. Retired from full time teaching but teaching part time until mid-2011 at Acadia, Mount St Vincent and St Mary’s.
Mahone Bay classes
15. Spy School 201 - Hugh Williamson and Ian MacVicar
Spy School 201 - Hugh Williamson and Ian MacVicar
Tuesdays 2:00 PM-4:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 08 to Nov 12
Mahone Bay Centre, 45 School Street, Mahone Bay
Course Description
Spy School 201 expands on Spy School 101, which described intelligence agencies, terminology, practical tradecraft, the history of spying, the legal foundations of such activities, and the real life impact of intelligence on policy making. Spy School 201 examines hidden aspects of intelligence and espionage, including the role of women, well-known spy scandals, the often related use of sex as a ruse to gain information, conspiracy theories, and “black operations, and the increasing role that intelligence plays in politics, and politics plays in intelligence. An ongoing theme of the course is the researching, analysis and validation of information received from multiple sources. There is no requirement to have taken Spy School 101 as a prerequisite.
Instructor Biography
Hugh R Williamson is an adjunct professor with a Marine Affairs Program at Dalhousie University, Halifax Nova Scotia, and is the lead investigator and project manager for the Dalhousie Marine Piracy Project. He is a lawyer with a background in Law of the Sea, ocean resources management, naval intelligence, maritime security and enforcement and integrated maritime management issues. He also had a lengthy career in the Royal Canadian Naval Reserve, where he served as a diving officer, naval intelligence officer, and naval control of shipping officer, commanding NCS Unit three. He was a senior instructor in the Naval Intelligence Section at Fleet School (Quebec) and lectured extensively in the Canadian naval fleet school system on the law of the sea, law of armed conflict, maritime law, and law of naval operations, law of Intelligence, commercial shipping operations and Strategic Naval Geography. He is also a senior research fellow of the Maritime and Environmental Law Institute at the Schulich School of Law, and the International Ocean Institute. He has consulted extensively on fisheries and ocean management in the South Pacific and Caribbean. In addition to Dalhousie University, he was on the faculty of the World Maritime University in Malmo Sweden, the University of the South Pacific, in Fiji where he directed the ocean resources management program, and the University of Papua New Guinea faculty of law.
Lieutenant-Colonel/Doctor Ian MacVicar served for over 35 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, frequently participating in intelligence led operations. Dr. MacVicar is a 2015 Summa Cum Laude graduate of Henley-Putnam University’s Doctorate of Strategic Security (DSS) program, where his dissertation research focused on the interaction of human cognitive limits, institutional biases, speculative fiction, and internal security law in Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. Dr. MacVicar also holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from Acadia University, a Master of Arts in International Affairs (Conflict Analysis) from Carleton University, and a Master of Defence Studies from the Royal Military College of Canada. He is a graduate of the joint (pcsc) and Army (plsc) staff courses. Dr. MacVicar is an incorporated security intelligence consultant who has lectured in the United Kingdom and in Canada on the cognitive aspects of intelligence analysis.
Tuesdays 2:00 PM-4:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 08 to Nov 12
Mahone Bay Centre, 45 School Street, Mahone Bay
Course Description
Spy School 201 expands on Spy School 101, which described intelligence agencies, terminology, practical tradecraft, the history of spying, the legal foundations of such activities, and the real life impact of intelligence on policy making. Spy School 201 examines hidden aspects of intelligence and espionage, including the role of women, well-known spy scandals, the often related use of sex as a ruse to gain information, conspiracy theories, and “black operations, and the increasing role that intelligence plays in politics, and politics plays in intelligence. An ongoing theme of the course is the researching, analysis and validation of information received from multiple sources. There is no requirement to have taken Spy School 101 as a prerequisite.
Instructor Biography
Hugh R Williamson is an adjunct professor with a Marine Affairs Program at Dalhousie University, Halifax Nova Scotia, and is the lead investigator and project manager for the Dalhousie Marine Piracy Project. He is a lawyer with a background in Law of the Sea, ocean resources management, naval intelligence, maritime security and enforcement and integrated maritime management issues. He also had a lengthy career in the Royal Canadian Naval Reserve, where he served as a diving officer, naval intelligence officer, and naval control of shipping officer, commanding NCS Unit three. He was a senior instructor in the Naval Intelligence Section at Fleet School (Quebec) and lectured extensively in the Canadian naval fleet school system on the law of the sea, law of armed conflict, maritime law, and law of naval operations, law of Intelligence, commercial shipping operations and Strategic Naval Geography. He is also a senior research fellow of the Maritime and Environmental Law Institute at the Schulich School of Law, and the International Ocean Institute. He has consulted extensively on fisheries and ocean management in the South Pacific and Caribbean. In addition to Dalhousie University, he was on the faculty of the World Maritime University in Malmo Sweden, the University of the South Pacific, in Fiji where he directed the ocean resources management program, and the University of Papua New Guinea faculty of law.
Lieutenant-Colonel/Doctor Ian MacVicar served for over 35 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, frequently participating in intelligence led operations. Dr. MacVicar is a 2015 Summa Cum Laude graduate of Henley-Putnam University’s Doctorate of Strategic Security (DSS) program, where his dissertation research focused on the interaction of human cognitive limits, institutional biases, speculative fiction, and internal security law in Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. Dr. MacVicar also holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from Acadia University, a Master of Arts in International Affairs (Conflict Analysis) from Carleton University, and a Master of Defence Studies from the Royal Military College of Canada. He is a graduate of the joint (pcsc) and Army (plsc) staff courses. Dr. MacVicar is an incorporated security intelligence consultant who has lectured in the United Kingdom and in Canada on the cognitive aspects of intelligence analysis.
16. The Criminal Justice System in Canada: Issues and Challenges - Kit Waters et al.
The Criminal Justice System in Canada: Issues and Challenges - Kit Waters et al.
Wednesdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 09 to Nov 13
Mahone Bay Centre, 45 School Street, Mahone Bay
Course Description
The criminal justice system plays an important role in promoting public safety through crime prevention initiatives; holding offenders accountable and providing opportunities for reintegration; and supporting victims of crime, their families and witnesses.
The course aims to promote understanding of how the adult criminal justice system works in Nova Scotia – how it responds to victims, offenders and witnesses from the point of first contact with law enforcement personnel, through the courts and correctional processes, through to release into the community. Content will be delivered in six modules: crime prevention, law enforcement, the courts, correctional services and alternatives to the formal justice system. Each module will be presented by experts in the field (front-line workers and administrators) representing the police, judiciary, victim service workers, probation and parole officers and the provincial restorative justice program.
Instructor Biography
Kit Waters was employed by the Nova Scotia Department of Justice for 30 years, retiring as Executive Director of Policy and Information Management. Following retirement from the provincial government, she worked as a consultant in the criminal justice field, conducting policy research and program evaluations. Over the past ten years, she has taught a number of criminology courses at Saint Mary’s University. She is a founding member of the Nova Scotia Criminal Justice Association and currently President of the John Howard Society of Nova Scotia.
Wednesdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 09 to Nov 13
Mahone Bay Centre, 45 School Street, Mahone Bay
Course Description
The criminal justice system plays an important role in promoting public safety through crime prevention initiatives; holding offenders accountable and providing opportunities for reintegration; and supporting victims of crime, their families and witnesses.
The course aims to promote understanding of how the adult criminal justice system works in Nova Scotia – how it responds to victims, offenders and witnesses from the point of first contact with law enforcement personnel, through the courts and correctional processes, through to release into the community. Content will be delivered in six modules: crime prevention, law enforcement, the courts, correctional services and alternatives to the formal justice system. Each module will be presented by experts in the field (front-line workers and administrators) representing the police, judiciary, victim service workers, probation and parole officers and the provincial restorative justice program.
Instructor Biography
Kit Waters was employed by the Nova Scotia Department of Justice for 30 years, retiring as Executive Director of Policy and Information Management. Following retirement from the provincial government, she worked as a consultant in the criminal justice field, conducting policy research and program evaluations. Over the past ten years, she has taught a number of criminology courses at Saint Mary’s University. She is a founding member of the Nova Scotia Criminal Justice Association and currently President of the John Howard Society of Nova Scotia.
17. The Operettas of Gilbert and Sullivan - Walter Kemp
The Operettas of Gilbert and Sullivan - Walter Kemp
Thursdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 03 to Nov 07
Mahone Bay Centre, 45 School Street, Mahone Bay
Course Description
Six Classes, outlining the place of the Gilbert and Sullivan Repertoire in the Evolution of English Light Opera, Gilbert’s Topsy-Turvydom and satiric themes, Sullivan’s musical characteristics and skill at pastiche, the operettas’ relevance in the 21st century and certain contemporary performance problems.
Instructor Biography
Dr. Walter H. Kemp has a D.Phil. from Oxford University, an M.A. from Harvard, and a B.Mus. and M.Mus from The University of Toronto. His musical career encompasses: founder-chair of the Music Department, Waterloo Lutheran University (now Wilfrid Laurier University); retired full professor and Chair of the Department of Music, Dalhousie, and Director of the Dalhousie Chorale; former Director of Music Saint Paul’s Anglican Church and the Kings College Chapel. He is now Inglis Professor, University of King's College; Conductor of the Walter Kemp Singers; Choral Director Emeritus of the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo, and Honorary Vice-President of the Royal Canadian College of Organists. His principal present activity is as Artistic and Administrative Director of Opera Nova Scotia, conducting performances and giving free public lectures on opera. He continues his over 30 years of service as broadcaster on Dalhousie’s campus-community radio station CKDU-FM. He was presented the 2015 Portia White Award in recognition of his cultural service to the Province.
Thursdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 03 to Nov 07
Mahone Bay Centre, 45 School Street, Mahone Bay
Course Description
Six Classes, outlining the place of the Gilbert and Sullivan Repertoire in the Evolution of English Light Opera, Gilbert’s Topsy-Turvydom and satiric themes, Sullivan’s musical characteristics and skill at pastiche, the operettas’ relevance in the 21st century and certain contemporary performance problems.
- Prelude: The Offenbach Influence; Urban Victorian Taste and middle class expectations in Theatre; Sullivan & Burnand; Trial by Jury; The Sorcerer
- Establishing a Style and a Reputation: HMS Pinafore; The Pirates of Penzance: Iolanthe
- “Literary Lapses”: Patience; Princess Ida; Ruddigore
- The Mikado: an internationally recognized masterpiece, its strengths and contemporary pitfalls
- G&S Operetta matures into European Light Opera: The Yeoman of the Guard; The Gondoliers.
- Postlude: Utopia Limited and The Grand Duke; Sullivan without Gilbert; England after G&S.
Instructor Biography
Dr. Walter H. Kemp has a D.Phil. from Oxford University, an M.A. from Harvard, and a B.Mus. and M.Mus from The University of Toronto. His musical career encompasses: founder-chair of the Music Department, Waterloo Lutheran University (now Wilfrid Laurier University); retired full professor and Chair of the Department of Music, Dalhousie, and Director of the Dalhousie Chorale; former Director of Music Saint Paul’s Anglican Church and the Kings College Chapel. He is now Inglis Professor, University of King's College; Conductor of the Walter Kemp Singers; Choral Director Emeritus of the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo, and Honorary Vice-President of the Royal Canadian College of Organists. His principal present activity is as Artistic and Administrative Director of Opera Nova Scotia, conducting performances and giving free public lectures on opera. He continues his over 30 years of service as broadcaster on Dalhousie’s campus-community radio station CKDU-FM. He was presented the 2015 Portia White Award in recognition of his cultural service to the Province.
Liverpool classes
18. THE EVOLUTION OF FOOD - ELISABETH BAILEY
The Evolution of Food - Elisabeth Bailey
Tuesdays 2:00 PM-4:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 08 to Nov 19
no class Nov 5
Trinity Church Hall, 196 Church Street, Liverpool
Course Description
This course looks at the evolution of cuisine throughout human history, beginning with the inception of cooking with fire, moving through the development of agriculture and horticulture, and the expansion of fine cuisine in recent centuries. The last sessions will focus on contemporary food culture, including the advent of processed foods, recent trends in healthy eating, and the future of food. We will answer the question, “How does the food we eat make us who we are—as a species, in our cultures, and as individuals?”
Instructor Biography
Elisabeth Bailey has a B.A. in sociology from Grinnell College and an M.Div from Meadville Lombard Theological School (in conjunction with the University of Chicago Divinity School). She has published three cookbooks with Nimbus Publishing and Storey Publishing. She has previously taught courses on theology, human sexuality, and cooking. She currently works as the Community Health Board Coordinator for the South Shore. Her interests are around local food, sustainable agriculture, and the history of cooking. She lives with her family in Lunenburg.
Tuesdays 2:00 PM-4:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 08 to Nov 19
no class Nov 5
Trinity Church Hall, 196 Church Street, Liverpool
Course Description
This course looks at the evolution of cuisine throughout human history, beginning with the inception of cooking with fire, moving through the development of agriculture and horticulture, and the expansion of fine cuisine in recent centuries. The last sessions will focus on contemporary food culture, including the advent of processed foods, recent trends in healthy eating, and the future of food. We will answer the question, “How does the food we eat make us who we are—as a species, in our cultures, and as individuals?”
Instructor Biography
Elisabeth Bailey has a B.A. in sociology from Grinnell College and an M.Div from Meadville Lombard Theological School (in conjunction with the University of Chicago Divinity School). She has published three cookbooks with Nimbus Publishing and Storey Publishing. She has previously taught courses on theology, human sexuality, and cooking. She currently works as the Community Health Board Coordinator for the South Shore. Her interests are around local food, sustainable agriculture, and the history of cooking. She lives with her family in Lunenburg.
19. Lawyers, Guns and Money: Issues in Contemporary Organized Crime - Angus Smith
Lawyers, Guns and Money: Issues in Contemporary Organized Crime - Angus Smith
Thursdays 2:00 PM-4:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 10 to Nov 14
Trinity Church Hall, 196 Church Street, Liverpool
Course Description
Instructor Biography
Over the course of his 30-year career in intelligence with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Angus Smith specialized in a number of different areas including Latin America, drug trafficking, police corruption, Eastern European Organized Crime and terrorism and national security.
An award-winning author, Angus lives on the South Shore of Nova Scotia where he writes for a variety of publications including The Jewish Review of Books, Rural Delivery and The Police Chief.
Thursdays 2:00 PM-4:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 10 to Nov 14
Trinity Church Hall, 196 Church Street, Liverpool
Course Description
- Taking it to the street: the origins and evolution of organized crime in North America
- Mafias
- Tongs, Triads and taking care of our own
- Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs
- “This is your brain...” – moral panic and the “war” on drugs...
- From the French Connection to the Colombian Cartels
- Cheap drugs – crack, meth and fentanyl
- Learning to follow the money – proceeds of crime and money laundering
- The funding of organized crime
- Dirty money
- The laundry business
- Post 1991 – the end of history and the start of something new
- The strange rise of Eastern European Organized Crime
- Crime in the post-Soviet space
- The strange rise of Eastern European Organized Crime
- Corruption, complicity and black money
- Taking care of business: organized crime corruption
- Cleaning up: how organized crime legitimizes itself
- Live commodities: people, animals and more...
- New Worlds
- Two houses: crime and terrorism
- There’s no there, there: old crime, new technology
Instructor Biography
Over the course of his 30-year career in intelligence with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Angus Smith specialized in a number of different areas including Latin America, drug trafficking, police corruption, Eastern European Organized Crime and terrorism and national security.
An award-winning author, Angus lives on the South Shore of Nova Scotia where he writes for a variety of publications including The Jewish Review of Books, Rural Delivery and The Police Chief.
Truro classes
20. The Science of Food II - Nancy Pitts
The Science of Food II - Nancy Pitts
Tuesdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 08 to Nov 12
Douglas Street Recreation Centre, 40 Douglas Street, Truro
Course Description
This is a second part in the exploration of the science and human experience of food. It will start with a one class review of the major components of foods (water, proteins, carbohydrates, lipids) for the benefit of those who may not have attended “The Science of Food I” (or those who have forgotten!). Topics examined in depth will include micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) in our foods, how we digest and absorb various nutrients, and our sensory interactions with food (including some taste-testing for those who want). A dietician will be invited to a guest lecturer on the new Canada’s Food Guide. Current interest topics including genetically modified foods, ultra-processed foods, as well as food recalls will offer an applied understanding.
Instructor Biography
Nancy Pitts is trained in food chemistry and analytical chemistry and has a personal interest in nutrition. After doing several years of research and extension work with Alberta Agriculture, she then spent almost 30 years teaching and doing research at NSAC (now the Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University).
Tuesdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 08 to Nov 12
Douglas Street Recreation Centre, 40 Douglas Street, Truro
Course Description
This is a second part in the exploration of the science and human experience of food. It will start with a one class review of the major components of foods (water, proteins, carbohydrates, lipids) for the benefit of those who may not have attended “The Science of Food I” (or those who have forgotten!). Topics examined in depth will include micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) in our foods, how we digest and absorb various nutrients, and our sensory interactions with food (including some taste-testing for those who want). A dietician will be invited to a guest lecturer on the new Canada’s Food Guide. Current interest topics including genetically modified foods, ultra-processed foods, as well as food recalls will offer an applied understanding.
Instructor Biography
Nancy Pitts is trained in food chemistry and analytical chemistry and has a personal interest in nutrition. After doing several years of research and extension work with Alberta Agriculture, she then spent almost 30 years teaching and doing research at NSAC (now the Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University).
21. Capitalism: From Prosperity to Inequality - Daphna Levit
Capitalism: From Prosperity to Inequality - Daphna Levit
Wednesdays 1:00 PM-3:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 16 to Nov 20
Douglas Street Recreation Centre, 40 Douglas Street, Truro
Course Description
After Karl Marx, successive economists writing about the benefits of capitalism have long been giving guidance on how to reach material abundance and consumption plenty. Growth is considered essential and prosperity is expected to cure all social ills. Politicians, supported by wealthy corporate donors, perpetuated the promise of capitalist prosperity and continually rewarded these supporters, thus ensuring the continuity of a corporate growth system. The underbelly of prosperity, inequality, has been given less attention until fairly recently. Very few of those economists who pointed out the consequences of unrestrained capitalism on inequality have been American.
This course takes a look at the writings of some outstanding scholars in the late 20th and early 21st centuries in Europe and lately in the USA who bucked the trend and focused on the dramatic rise of the superrich, the expanding gap between the top and the bottom of the wealth ladder and the damaging effect this will continue to have in the free world.
This course will also provide a related glimpse into an economic pursuit that is beginning to grow: feminist economics.
(At the end of the course we will write our own treatise and march on Washington to protest the rise of gilded peacocks).
Instructor Biography
After completing her Ph.D. studies in Comparative (Japanese) Literature at Indiana University, she went on to take additional graduate degrees in Finance (MBA) and East Asian Studies (Economics)(MA) from Cornell University. She spent much of two decades in Japan, a third in London, England and New York employed as a financial analyst by some of the giant Wall Street firms that recently topped the headlines. She got out of the industry before the penultimate global economic crisis and went on to teach Finance and Economics to MBA students. In 2002 she moved to Nova Scotia and started writing a weekly column in the South Shore newspaper on global financial matters, writing opera reviews for the national magazine Opera Canada and teaching courses on Japanese history, Japanese Film and Economics in various academic institutions. She joined the SCANS BOD early in 2010, served on it for four years, developing and then coordinating the three SCANS chapters in the South Shore. She co-authored a book on the Middle East and has given several talks on that subject all over Canada. She now lives near Lunenburg.
Wednesdays 1:00 PM-3:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 16 to Nov 20
Douglas Street Recreation Centre, 40 Douglas Street, Truro
Course Description
After Karl Marx, successive economists writing about the benefits of capitalism have long been giving guidance on how to reach material abundance and consumption plenty. Growth is considered essential and prosperity is expected to cure all social ills. Politicians, supported by wealthy corporate donors, perpetuated the promise of capitalist prosperity and continually rewarded these supporters, thus ensuring the continuity of a corporate growth system. The underbelly of prosperity, inequality, has been given less attention until fairly recently. Very few of those economists who pointed out the consequences of unrestrained capitalism on inequality have been American.
This course takes a look at the writings of some outstanding scholars in the late 20th and early 21st centuries in Europe and lately in the USA who bucked the trend and focused on the dramatic rise of the superrich, the expanding gap between the top and the bottom of the wealth ladder and the damaging effect this will continue to have in the free world.
This course will also provide a related glimpse into an economic pursuit that is beginning to grow: feminist economics.
(At the end of the course we will write our own treatise and march on Washington to protest the rise of gilded peacocks).
Instructor Biography
After completing her Ph.D. studies in Comparative (Japanese) Literature at Indiana University, she went on to take additional graduate degrees in Finance (MBA) and East Asian Studies (Economics)(MA) from Cornell University. She spent much of two decades in Japan, a third in London, England and New York employed as a financial analyst by some of the giant Wall Street firms that recently topped the headlines. She got out of the industry before the penultimate global economic crisis and went on to teach Finance and Economics to MBA students. In 2002 she moved to Nova Scotia and started writing a weekly column in the South Shore newspaper on global financial matters, writing opera reviews for the national magazine Opera Canada and teaching courses on Japanese history, Japanese Film and Economics in various academic institutions. She joined the SCANS BOD early in 2010, served on it for four years, developing and then coordinating the three SCANS chapters in the South Shore. She co-authored a book on the Middle East and has given several talks on that subject all over Canada. She now lives near Lunenburg.
22. The Viking Age: Art, Culture, Mythology and History of the Vikings - Dee Appleby
The Viking Age: Art, Culture, Mythology and History of the Vikings - Dee Appleby
Thursdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 03 to Nov 07
Edinburgh Hall, Parkland Truro, 356 Young Street, Truro
Course Description
From their first recorded invasion on the monastery at Lindisfarne in 793 AD until the coming of Christianity, we’ll look at the expansion of the Viking world, their impact on European history, their exquisite art and mysterious runestones. Norse mythology is examined along with daily life, trade, settlement, language and shipbuilding techniques that allowed them to travel as far as North America to the West and Constantinople to the East.
Instructor Biography
After managing a private art gallery for three years, Dee Appleby published two books on Nova Scotia artists, presented as gifts from the Province of Nova Scotia to delegates at the Vancouver Olympics. Passionate about art history, she is a graduate of the University of Montreal ('79) and has visited many of the major museums in North America and Europe. She has taught art history with SCANS since 2011. She is also a fine art appraiser with accreditation from the International Society of Appraisers.
Thursdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Oct 03 to Nov 07
Edinburgh Hall, Parkland Truro, 356 Young Street, Truro
Course Description
From their first recorded invasion on the monastery at Lindisfarne in 793 AD until the coming of Christianity, we’ll look at the expansion of the Viking world, their impact on European history, their exquisite art and mysterious runestones. Norse mythology is examined along with daily life, trade, settlement, language and shipbuilding techniques that allowed them to travel as far as North America to the West and Constantinople to the East.
Instructor Biography
After managing a private art gallery for three years, Dee Appleby published two books on Nova Scotia artists, presented as gifts from the Province of Nova Scotia to delegates at the Vancouver Olympics. Passionate about art history, she is a graduate of the University of Montreal ('79) and has visited many of the major museums in North America and Europe. She has taught art history with SCANS since 2011. She is also a fine art appraiser with accreditation from the International Society of Appraisers.
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LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We would like to acknowledge that we are in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People. This territory is covered by the Treaties of Peace and Friendship. This series of treaties did not surrender Indigenous land, resources or sovereignty but instead established rules for an ongoing relationship between nations. We recognize the significance of these treaties and the need for continual learning and engagement in the work of the truth, reconciliation and equity. We are all treaty people. We also recognize that African Nova Scotians are a distinct people whose histories, legacies and contributions have enriched that part of Mi’kma’ki known as Nova Scotia for over 400 years.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We would like to acknowledge that we are in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People. This territory is covered by the Treaties of Peace and Friendship. This series of treaties did not surrender Indigenous land, resources or sovereignty but instead established rules for an ongoing relationship between nations. We recognize the significance of these treaties and the need for continual learning and engagement in the work of the truth, reconciliation and equity. We are all treaty people. We also recognize that African Nova Scotians are a distinct people whose histories, legacies and contributions have enriched that part of Mi’kma’ki known as Nova Scotia for over 400 years.