HYBRID
In-person and Virtual classes
1. The Law of War and Current Conflicts (Yes, Virginia, There Really Are Rules in War) - CANCELLED
The Law of War and Current Conflicts (Yes, Virginia, There Really Are Rules in War) - Blaise Cathcart - CANCELLED
Wednesdays 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (6 wks) Jan 31 to Mar 06
HYBRID PRESENTATION
In-Person: Church Hall - Hope United Church, 3055 Connaught Avenue, Halifax
Virtual: Zoom webinar
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course provides an introductory overview of the law of war (LoW), also known as the Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC) and International Humanitarian Law (IHL) . It will address issues related to the two main areas of public international law, namely, the law governing the legality of recourse to the use of force (jus ad bellum), and the law of armed conflict (jus in bello). The course will first briefly examine the principles of international law that regulate the use of force by states. It will then focus most of its time on the LOAC which is broadly viewed as the body of international law which regulates behaviour in an armed conflict. Emphasis will be placed on specific contemporary, often controversial, challenges, such as: the differences between international armed conflict (IAC) and non-international armed conflict (NIAC), direct participation in hostilities by non-state actors (largely organized armed terrorist groups), detention of individuals during “forever wars”, targeting, emerging technologies such as cyber, space and artificial intelligence, the interaction of LOAC and international human rights law (IHRL) and accountability for war crimes. The course will be run as an interactive class with case studies (examples - current Ukraine/Russia and Israel/Hamas conflicts and operations by the Canadian Armed Forces).
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
Major-General (Retired) Blaise Cathcart, OMM, CD, KC, Former Judge Advocate General of the Canadian Armed Forces
Major-General (ret’d) Blaise Cathcart served as the Judge Advocate General (JAG) of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from 2010-2017. He joined the CAF as a legal officer with the Office of the Judge Advocate General in 1990 and retired in 2017. Serving over 7 seven years as the JAG, he directly advised the Government of Canada, the Governor-General of Canada, the Minister of National Defence, the Chief of the Defence Staff and the Deputy Minister of National Defence on matters of military law. He was also the superintendent of the administration of the Canadian military justice system which is comparable to the role of the Attorney-General in the civilian criminal justice system. He has participated in many CAF missions as a legal advisor, including as legal advisor to Commander Canadian Contingent United Nations Protection Force (UNPROFOR) and the United Nation Peace Forces (UNPF) in the former Yugoslavia in 1994 and 1995, and as the Senior Legal Advisor to the Commander Canadian Task Force Bosnia-Herzegovina (SFOR) from February to September 2000. He was the legal advisor to Joint Task Force 2, the Canadian Armed Forces Counter-Terrorism/Special Operations unit from 1997-2000. Blaise is currently a Senior Fellow at the Lieber Institute for Law and Land Warfare, United States Military Academy, West Point, New York and an Adjunct Professor at the University of Ottawa Law School (Common Law).
Wednesdays 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (6 wks) Jan 31 to Mar 06
HYBRID PRESENTATION
In-Person: Church Hall - Hope United Church, 3055 Connaught Avenue, Halifax
Virtual: Zoom webinar
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course provides an introductory overview of the law of war (LoW), also known as the Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC) and International Humanitarian Law (IHL) . It will address issues related to the two main areas of public international law, namely, the law governing the legality of recourse to the use of force (jus ad bellum), and the law of armed conflict (jus in bello). The course will first briefly examine the principles of international law that regulate the use of force by states. It will then focus most of its time on the LOAC which is broadly viewed as the body of international law which regulates behaviour in an armed conflict. Emphasis will be placed on specific contemporary, often controversial, challenges, such as: the differences between international armed conflict (IAC) and non-international armed conflict (NIAC), direct participation in hostilities by non-state actors (largely organized armed terrorist groups), detention of individuals during “forever wars”, targeting, emerging technologies such as cyber, space and artificial intelligence, the interaction of LOAC and international human rights law (IHRL) and accountability for war crimes. The course will be run as an interactive class with case studies (examples - current Ukraine/Russia and Israel/Hamas conflicts and operations by the Canadian Armed Forces).
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
Major-General (Retired) Blaise Cathcart, OMM, CD, KC, Former Judge Advocate General of the Canadian Armed Forces
Major-General (ret’d) Blaise Cathcart served as the Judge Advocate General (JAG) of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from 2010-2017. He joined the CAF as a legal officer with the Office of the Judge Advocate General in 1990 and retired in 2017. Serving over 7 seven years as the JAG, he directly advised the Government of Canada, the Governor-General of Canada, the Minister of National Defence, the Chief of the Defence Staff and the Deputy Minister of National Defence on matters of military law. He was also the superintendent of the administration of the Canadian military justice system which is comparable to the role of the Attorney-General in the civilian criminal justice system. He has participated in many CAF missions as a legal advisor, including as legal advisor to Commander Canadian Contingent United Nations Protection Force (UNPROFOR) and the United Nation Peace Forces (UNPF) in the former Yugoslavia in 1994 and 1995, and as the Senior Legal Advisor to the Commander Canadian Task Force Bosnia-Herzegovina (SFOR) from February to September 2000. He was the legal advisor to Joint Task Force 2, the Canadian Armed Forces Counter-Terrorism/Special Operations unit from 1997-2000. Blaise is currently a Senior Fellow at the Lieber Institute for Law and Land Warfare, United States Military Academy, West Point, New York and an Adjunct Professor at the University of Ottawa Law School (Common Law).
2. "I Don't Want to Talk About It!" - A Light Look at Some Heavy Transitions in Aging - Louisa Horne
"I Don't Want to Talk About It!" - A Light Look at Some Heavy Transitions in Aging - Louisa Horne
Wednesdays 1:30 PM - 3:45 PM (5 wks) Jan 31 to Mar 06 (no class Feb 28)
HYBRID PRESENTATION
In-Person: Church Hall - Hope United Church, 3055 Connaught Avenue, Halifax
Virtual: Zoom webinar
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Transitions happen. Downsizing, exploring alternative housing options, moving, advance planning, end-of-life care and your final wishes. Nobody wants to talk about any of them – but in this course, we will talk, laugh, think and share about them all – in a way that is not so daunting. Sessions will address “lightening up” and the generational differences and emotions that surround letting go of our treasured stuff – and five steps for making it happen; “on the move” – the options for different living alternatives and five important aspects of them; typical health aspects of aging; the four critical documents that everyone should have; care options, such as doulas and what do they do; and a discussion of those final wishes from sustainable and environmentally positive options (e.g., natural burial) to some of the newest approaches (e.g., alkaline hydrolysis).
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
Louisa Horne is a former teacher, management consultant and entrepreneur with a passion for innovation and for helping others navigate change with grace. She has owned several businesses and was director of the largest small business advisory practice in Canada. She recently founded a Community Interest Company, called Epilog, with a group of other retired women, devoted to supporting seniors experiencing transitions. She also earned certifications as a Senior Move Manager, Celebrant, End-of-Life Doula and Natural Burial Specialist – and she is an experienced and dynamic facilitator. She is a Past District Governor of Rotary and an active volunteer on numerous boards – and is a lifelong learner, currently completing doctoral studies related to trends in volunteering. She is proud that Epilog Natural Burial Services has recently been licensed by the province of NS as a funeral provider – the first Community Interest Company in this sector (meaning that 60% of profits return to the community) and the first in Canada dedicated to natural burials.
Wednesdays 1:30 PM - 3:45 PM (5 wks) Jan 31 to Mar 06 (no class Feb 28)
HYBRID PRESENTATION
In-Person: Church Hall - Hope United Church, 3055 Connaught Avenue, Halifax
Virtual: Zoom webinar
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Transitions happen. Downsizing, exploring alternative housing options, moving, advance planning, end-of-life care and your final wishes. Nobody wants to talk about any of them – but in this course, we will talk, laugh, think and share about them all – in a way that is not so daunting. Sessions will address “lightening up” and the generational differences and emotions that surround letting go of our treasured stuff – and five steps for making it happen; “on the move” – the options for different living alternatives and five important aspects of them; typical health aspects of aging; the four critical documents that everyone should have; care options, such as doulas and what do they do; and a discussion of those final wishes from sustainable and environmentally positive options (e.g., natural burial) to some of the newest approaches (e.g., alkaline hydrolysis).
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
Louisa Horne is a former teacher, management consultant and entrepreneur with a passion for innovation and for helping others navigate change with grace. She has owned several businesses and was director of the largest small business advisory practice in Canada. She recently founded a Community Interest Company, called Epilog, with a group of other retired women, devoted to supporting seniors experiencing transitions. She also earned certifications as a Senior Move Manager, Celebrant, End-of-Life Doula and Natural Burial Specialist – and she is an experienced and dynamic facilitator. She is a Past District Governor of Rotary and an active volunteer on numerous boards – and is a lifelong learner, currently completing doctoral studies related to trends in volunteering. She is proud that Epilog Natural Burial Services has recently been licensed by the province of NS as a funeral provider – the first Community Interest Company in this sector (meaning that 60% of profits return to the community) and the first in Canada dedicated to natural burials.
3. The History of People of African Descent in Canada - Isaac Saney
The History of People of African Descent in Canada - Isaac Saney
Thursdays 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (6 wks) Feb 01 to Mar 07
HYBRID PRESENTATION
In-Person: Church Hall - Hope United Church, 3055 Connaught Avenue, Halifax
Virtual: Zoom webinar
COURSE DESCRIPTION
African peoples have been present in Canada for more than 400 years; however, the rich histories of African Canadians have often been ignored. This course examines the diverse Black Canadian communities in the different regions of Canada. Topics will include patterns of immigration and settlement, slavery, family, continental African and diasporic connections, Anglophone and Francophone identities, arts and culture, education, employment, justice and the law, the media, diasporic debates, Black struggles and resistance, and African Canadian achievements. A central tenet is that the history of African Canadians is an integral component of the country’s history: both cannot be understood and should-not be viewed in isolation or separation from one another. A recurring theme is the active and conscious agency of Black Canadians in the struggle to assert their democratic rights and achieve self-determination. Some questions we shall explore are: What does it mean to be Black in Canada? What does it mean to view Canada through a Black or African Canadian perspective?
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
Isaac Saney is a Black Studies and Cuba specialist at Dalhousie University and coordinator of the Black and African Diaspora Studies (BAFD) program, the first major in Black and African Diaspora Studies in Canada. He holds a PhD in history from the School of Oriental and African Studies - University of London. His teaching, research and scholarship encompass Cuba, Africa, the Caribbean, Black Canadian history, the global Black liberation struggle, and reparations. A major area of his research is Cuba's relationship with Africa. His recent book, Cuba. Africa and Apartheid's End- Africa's Children Return! (Lexington Books, 2023) has been described as "a definitive account of Cuba’s role in the liberation of southern Africa" and "a significant contribution to the understanding of events in southern Africa during the 1980s and 1990s." Isaac was also the Director of Dalhousie University's Transition Year Program, the ground-breaking program founded in 1970 to redress the educational barriers and injustices that confront the Mi’kmaq Nation, other Indigenous peoples in Canada, and the African Nova Scotian community. Isaac is a long-time community activist and participant in the anti-war movement and the anti-racist struggle and passionately believes in the collective power of the people to transform the world in ways that bring forth equity, justice, and human dignity. His roots lie in the African Nova Scotia community and the Caribbean.
Thursdays 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (6 wks) Feb 01 to Mar 07
HYBRID PRESENTATION
In-Person: Church Hall - Hope United Church, 3055 Connaught Avenue, Halifax
Virtual: Zoom webinar
COURSE DESCRIPTION
African peoples have been present in Canada for more than 400 years; however, the rich histories of African Canadians have often been ignored. This course examines the diverse Black Canadian communities in the different regions of Canada. Topics will include patterns of immigration and settlement, slavery, family, continental African and diasporic connections, Anglophone and Francophone identities, arts and culture, education, employment, justice and the law, the media, diasporic debates, Black struggles and resistance, and African Canadian achievements. A central tenet is that the history of African Canadians is an integral component of the country’s history: both cannot be understood and should-not be viewed in isolation or separation from one another. A recurring theme is the active and conscious agency of Black Canadians in the struggle to assert their democratic rights and achieve self-determination. Some questions we shall explore are: What does it mean to be Black in Canada? What does it mean to view Canada through a Black or African Canadian perspective?
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
Isaac Saney is a Black Studies and Cuba specialist at Dalhousie University and coordinator of the Black and African Diaspora Studies (BAFD) program, the first major in Black and African Diaspora Studies in Canada. He holds a PhD in history from the School of Oriental and African Studies - University of London. His teaching, research and scholarship encompass Cuba, Africa, the Caribbean, Black Canadian history, the global Black liberation struggle, and reparations. A major area of his research is Cuba's relationship with Africa. His recent book, Cuba. Africa and Apartheid's End- Africa's Children Return! (Lexington Books, 2023) has been described as "a definitive account of Cuba’s role in the liberation of southern Africa" and "a significant contribution to the understanding of events in southern Africa during the 1980s and 1990s." Isaac was also the Director of Dalhousie University's Transition Year Program, the ground-breaking program founded in 1970 to redress the educational barriers and injustices that confront the Mi’kmaq Nation, other Indigenous peoples in Canada, and the African Nova Scotian community. Isaac is a long-time community activist and participant in the anti-war movement and the anti-racist struggle and passionately believes in the collective power of the people to transform the world in ways that bring forth equity, justice, and human dignity. His roots lie in the African Nova Scotia community and the Caribbean.
ONLINE
Virtual class
4. LOOKING BENEATH THE HOOD: NEW WAYS TO UNDERSTAND OUR PERSONAL ENERGY PATTERNS (PEP) - HEATHER MARRIOTT
Looking Beneath the Hood: New Ways to Understand Our Personal Energy Patterns (PEP) - Heather Marriott
Fridays 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM (6 wks) Feb 02 to Mar 08
Virtual: Zoom webinar
COURSE DESCRIPTION
The Indian system of chakras and the Chinese system of meridians are thousands of years old but contain important insights for daily management of our personal energy levels. In this course you will learn the physical, emotional and energetic connections that define our energy system, and our personalities. Every experience we have in our lives affects us mentally, emotionally and physically, because these are all linked. The course includes a ChakraMetrics quiz that provides a baseline for understanding your energy profile.
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
I have an undergraduate degree in Philosophy and European Literature (BA) as well as a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA). I am retired from a 33- year career in market research and consulting. Currently, my focus is on teaching energy management and wellness. I am a registered yoga instructor and have taken further courses in chakra therapy, and QiGong, ,a meridian- based discipline of energy, movement and breathing. I teach yoga and QiGong classes, and offer workshops and weekend retreats on energy management. I also teach English to newcomers through the Halifax Library system. The opportunity to teach fulfills my drive to share ‘aha’ moments and insights.
Fridays 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM (6 wks) Feb 02 to Mar 08
Virtual: Zoom webinar
COURSE DESCRIPTION
The Indian system of chakras and the Chinese system of meridians are thousands of years old but contain important insights for daily management of our personal energy levels. In this course you will learn the physical, emotional and energetic connections that define our energy system, and our personalities. Every experience we have in our lives affects us mentally, emotionally and physically, because these are all linked. The course includes a ChakraMetrics quiz that provides a baseline for understanding your energy profile.
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
I have an undergraduate degree in Philosophy and European Literature (BA) as well as a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA). I am retired from a 33- year career in market research and consulting. Currently, my focus is on teaching energy management and wellness. I am a registered yoga instructor and have taken further courses in chakra therapy, and QiGong, ,a meridian- based discipline of energy, movement and breathing. I teach yoga and QiGong classes, and offer workshops and weekend retreats on energy management. I also teach English to newcomers through the Halifax Library system. The opportunity to teach fulfills my drive to share ‘aha’ moments and insights.
HALIFAX REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY
In-person classes
5. Volcanos - Milton Graves
Volcanos - Milton Graves
Tuesdays 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (6 wks) Jan 30 to Mar 05
Parkland at the Lakes - Phase 2, Kinross Hall Theatre, 122 Baker Drive, Dartmouth
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Volcanos are the most obvious constructive geological features. They happen in human time with spectacular effect. Volcanos are not evenly distributed geographically and differ greatly in their character. The observation of volcanic activity has guided our concepts of the nature of what lies beneath the earth’s surface. Join me in an overview of the world’s volcanos. Discover their variety. Consider the stuff that comes out of them: liquid lava, solids of various sizes, and gas. This volcanic material is crucial to the history of the earth, providing valuable resources for life on earth as it endangers those who venture near their fascinating eruptions.
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
Milton Graves retired from Dalhousie University in 2015 after 15 years of teaching Earth Sciences. He has an MSc from Dalhousie University and worked as a geologist before teaching. He taught a second-year course entitled “Dinosaurs” at Dalhousie for 10 years. He really likes volcanos and tries to work them into his vacations.
Tuesdays 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (6 wks) Jan 30 to Mar 05
Parkland at the Lakes - Phase 2, Kinross Hall Theatre, 122 Baker Drive, Dartmouth
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Volcanos are the most obvious constructive geological features. They happen in human time with spectacular effect. Volcanos are not evenly distributed geographically and differ greatly in their character. The observation of volcanic activity has guided our concepts of the nature of what lies beneath the earth’s surface. Join me in an overview of the world’s volcanos. Discover their variety. Consider the stuff that comes out of them: liquid lava, solids of various sizes, and gas. This volcanic material is crucial to the history of the earth, providing valuable resources for life on earth as it endangers those who venture near their fascinating eruptions.
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
Milton Graves retired from Dalhousie University in 2015 after 15 years of teaching Earth Sciences. He has an MSc from Dalhousie University and worked as a geologist before teaching. He taught a second-year course entitled “Dinosaurs” at Dalhousie for 10 years. He really likes volcanos and tries to work them into his vacations.
6. Everyday Neurology - "It is ALL in YOUR Head!" - Allan Purdy
Everyday Neurology - "It is ALL in YOUR Head!" - Allan Purdy
Tuesdays 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (6 wks) Jan 30 to Mar 05
Church Hall - Hope United Church, 3055 Connaught Avenue, 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 is meant to be instructive and fun!
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 many decades working as a clinical neurologist. He was a 2021 recipient of a Special Recognition Award, from the International Headache Society for his work in headache education in the Society and worldwide. He recently was honored with the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award by the American Headache Society.
Tuesdays 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (6 wks) Jan 30 to Mar 05
Church Hall - Hope United Church, 3055 Connaught Avenue, 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 is meant to be instructive and fun!
- 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.
- This will be five weeks of exploring the brain as we know it in the 21st century. To include anatomy and brain functions. To talk about common neurological entities and have an interactive sessions and talk about cases in general.
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 many decades working as a clinical neurologist. He was a 2021 recipient of a Special Recognition Award, from the International Headache Society for his work in headache education in the Society and worldwide. He recently was honored with the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award by the American Headache Society.
7. Drones - Detectives, Deliverers, Deceivers, Spies, and Murderers - Ian MacVicar
Drones - Detectives, Deliverers, Deceivers, Spies, and Murderers - Ian MacVicar
Tuesdays 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM (6 wks) Jan 30 to Mar 05
Cameron Hall, Parkland Clayton Park, 114 Fairfax Drive, Halifax
COURSE DESCRIPTION
The Ukraine conflict (2022 - present) illustrates the widescale employment of remotely piloted Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAV) and Uncrewed Aerial Combat Vehicles (UACV) a.k.a. “drones” in war. UAVs have numerous civilian applications as well, in border surveillance, construction site inspection, package delivery, real estate photography, and Search and Rescue. Fighting drones, i.e., UACV, launch loitering munitions and anti-tank missiles which can destroy tanks, vehicles, and personnel. These low risk to operator, high consequence to enemy targets Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) played a crucial role in Ukraine halting Russia’s advance in Fall 2022; and UAS will influence how future wars are fought. Ukraine’s tactical successes led to an avalanche in UAV, UACV, and UAS sales worldwide, and to a rapid expansion of UAS research & development – and sales. The course describes the history of UAV, UACV, and UAS, from First World War origins, operational testing in the Second World War, continuing development throughout the Cold War era, and extensive operational employment during the so-called “Global War on Terror.” The course examines the evolving fusion of the capabilities of drones and crewed aircraft anticipating real-time cooperation between crewed fighter/strike aircraft and drones, and between numerous individual drones in “swarms.” Evolving issues such as Undersurface Vessels, land-based combat drones, drone countermeasures, the ethics of lethal decisions made by algorithm, and military doctrinal shifts are examined considering current UAS and forecast technological developments. The course provides insight into the global impact of civilian drones in the work world and on global economies. The course examines the current and anticipated future roles played by military drones in intelligence gathering, warfighting, kinetic and non-kinetic countermeasures, and on the ethics of war fighting over the next decade.
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
LCol (Retd) Dr. MacVicar served for over 40 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, serving in numerous intelligence-related posts. He spent five years as an On-Site Arms Control Verification inspector on multi-national inspection teams as a Team Leader, Photographer, Inspector, and as a Russian interpreter, participating in 50+ inspections in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and the nations of the former Warsaw Pact in eastern Europe. He is the Director/Principal Analyst of Ian MacVicar Universal Security Intelligence Cognitive Solutions (I-MUSICS) Consulting, Inc., which hosts 17 networked consultants from military, intelligence, police, business, legal, and healthcare backgrounds. He is a Senior Writer with Calian Group, Ltd., where he has been employed as the lead writer in the revision of the Canadian Army’s principal tactical manual, the Combat Team Commander’s Handbook, and in disaster response exercise design. He is currently employed by Calian on behalf of the Canadian Defence Academy in developing new NATO doctrine to meet the requirements of the 2022 NATO Strategic Concept and amplifying Human Security Approach and Guiding Principles.
Dr. MacVicar has presented his research on cognitive traps (i.e. distortions in thinking) in security planning at conferences in the United Kingdom and Canada. His SCANS SpySchool 101 and 201 lectures delivered with colleague Hugh Williamson, specialize in the history of intelligence, espionage, and associated legal oversight regimes. His SpySchool 301 course examines the psychological aspects of intelligence analysis. He has published articles on leadership, human security, and the Responsibility to Protect doctrine. His most recent article, “What About the Camp Followers” is published in the Spring 2020 edition of JD-Journal for Deradicalization. Ian has also presented on how to develop psychological resilience in leaders to government and business audiences. He is a 2017 graduate of the Veteran Trainers to Eradicate Child Soldiers program, and his current research includes developing intelligence protocols for addressing the phenomenon of child soldiers. He is a graduate of the Canadian Armed Forces Joint Staff College and of the Canadian Army Staff Course.
Dr. MacVicar is a Director with numerous Boards, including (formerly) the Halifax Military Heritage Preservation Society; the Army Cadet League of Canada - Nova Scotia Branch, Canadian Military Intelligence Association Halifax Chapter, and the Canadian Intelligence Network-Réseau canadien de renseiegnement. Dr. MacVicar is a Royal United Services Institute Nova Scotia Director and Research Fellow, specializing in intelligence and security policy issues, and in veteran’s issues.
Ian is also a Certified Yoga Teacher, specializing in Trauma Informed Yoga Therapy Certified teaching, and Trauma Informed Mindfulness. He is a Member of the Advisory Council of the Canadian Accessibility Network and a Certified Supplier with the Inclusive Workplace Suppliers Council of Canada.
Tuesdays 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM (6 wks) Jan 30 to Mar 05
Cameron Hall, Parkland Clayton Park, 114 Fairfax Drive, Halifax
COURSE DESCRIPTION
The Ukraine conflict (2022 - present) illustrates the widescale employment of remotely piloted Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAV) and Uncrewed Aerial Combat Vehicles (UACV) a.k.a. “drones” in war. UAVs have numerous civilian applications as well, in border surveillance, construction site inspection, package delivery, real estate photography, and Search and Rescue. Fighting drones, i.e., UACV, launch loitering munitions and anti-tank missiles which can destroy tanks, vehicles, and personnel. These low risk to operator, high consequence to enemy targets Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) played a crucial role in Ukraine halting Russia’s advance in Fall 2022; and UAS will influence how future wars are fought. Ukraine’s tactical successes led to an avalanche in UAV, UACV, and UAS sales worldwide, and to a rapid expansion of UAS research & development – and sales. The course describes the history of UAV, UACV, and UAS, from First World War origins, operational testing in the Second World War, continuing development throughout the Cold War era, and extensive operational employment during the so-called “Global War on Terror.” The course examines the evolving fusion of the capabilities of drones and crewed aircraft anticipating real-time cooperation between crewed fighter/strike aircraft and drones, and between numerous individual drones in “swarms.” Evolving issues such as Undersurface Vessels, land-based combat drones, drone countermeasures, the ethics of lethal decisions made by algorithm, and military doctrinal shifts are examined considering current UAS and forecast technological developments. The course provides insight into the global impact of civilian drones in the work world and on global economies. The course examines the current and anticipated future roles played by military drones in intelligence gathering, warfighting, kinetic and non-kinetic countermeasures, and on the ethics of war fighting over the next decade.
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
LCol (Retd) Dr. MacVicar served for over 40 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, serving in numerous intelligence-related posts. He spent five years as an On-Site Arms Control Verification inspector on multi-national inspection teams as a Team Leader, Photographer, Inspector, and as a Russian interpreter, participating in 50+ inspections in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and the nations of the former Warsaw Pact in eastern Europe. He is the Director/Principal Analyst of Ian MacVicar Universal Security Intelligence Cognitive Solutions (I-MUSICS) Consulting, Inc., which hosts 17 networked consultants from military, intelligence, police, business, legal, and healthcare backgrounds. He is a Senior Writer with Calian Group, Ltd., where he has been employed as the lead writer in the revision of the Canadian Army’s principal tactical manual, the Combat Team Commander’s Handbook, and in disaster response exercise design. He is currently employed by Calian on behalf of the Canadian Defence Academy in developing new NATO doctrine to meet the requirements of the 2022 NATO Strategic Concept and amplifying Human Security Approach and Guiding Principles.
Dr. MacVicar has presented his research on cognitive traps (i.e. distortions in thinking) in security planning at conferences in the United Kingdom and Canada. His SCANS SpySchool 101 and 201 lectures delivered with colleague Hugh Williamson, specialize in the history of intelligence, espionage, and associated legal oversight regimes. His SpySchool 301 course examines the psychological aspects of intelligence analysis. He has published articles on leadership, human security, and the Responsibility to Protect doctrine. His most recent article, “What About the Camp Followers” is published in the Spring 2020 edition of JD-Journal for Deradicalization. Ian has also presented on how to develop psychological resilience in leaders to government and business audiences. He is a 2017 graduate of the Veteran Trainers to Eradicate Child Soldiers program, and his current research includes developing intelligence protocols for addressing the phenomenon of child soldiers. He is a graduate of the Canadian Armed Forces Joint Staff College and of the Canadian Army Staff Course.
Dr. MacVicar is a Director with numerous Boards, including (formerly) the Halifax Military Heritage Preservation Society; the Army Cadet League of Canada - Nova Scotia Branch, Canadian Military Intelligence Association Halifax Chapter, and the Canadian Intelligence Network-Réseau canadien de renseiegnement. Dr. MacVicar is a Royal United Services Institute Nova Scotia Director and Research Fellow, specializing in intelligence and security policy issues, and in veteran’s issues.
Ian is also a Certified Yoga Teacher, specializing in Trauma Informed Yoga Therapy Certified teaching, and Trauma Informed Mindfulness. He is a Member of the Advisory Council of the Canadian Accessibility Network and a Certified Supplier with the Inclusive Workplace Suppliers Council of Canada.
8. Design History: Design is All Around Us, Shapes Us and How We Interact With the World - Jayne Wark
Design History: Design is All Around Us, Shapes Us and How We Interact With the World - Jayne Wark
Tuesdays 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM (6 wks) Jan 30 to Mar 05
Church Hall - Hope United Church, 3055 Connaught Avenue, Halifax
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Design is all around us. It’s in the clothes we wear, the buildings we live in, the food we eat, the streets we walk on, the ads that bombard us, the phones in our pockets and just about everything made by human hands. It shapes who we are and how we interact with the world. This course will examine design in its historical and social context from 1900 to the present, including architecture, industrial design, graphic and communication design, fashion, and advertising, to name just a few topics. The overarching theme is that design must be understood from the perspective of both how it’s produced and how it’s consumed and used.
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
Jayne Wark holds a PhD in Art History from the University of Toronto and a BFA from NSCAD University. She has published numerous articles and exhibition catalogue essays on performance, video, and conceptual art and is the author of Radical Gestures: Feminist Performance Art in North America (McGill-Queen’s University Press, 2006). She taught art history at NSCAD for 33 years, specializing in courses on 20th-century art, feminist art, time-based art and design history.
Tuesdays 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM (6 wks) Jan 30 to Mar 05
Church Hall - Hope United Church, 3055 Connaught Avenue, Halifax
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Design is all around us. It’s in the clothes we wear, the buildings we live in, the food we eat, the streets we walk on, the ads that bombard us, the phones in our pockets and just about everything made by human hands. It shapes who we are and how we interact with the world. This course will examine design in its historical and social context from 1900 to the present, including architecture, industrial design, graphic and communication design, fashion, and advertising, to name just a few topics. The overarching theme is that design must be understood from the perspective of both how it’s produced and how it’s consumed and used.
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
Jayne Wark holds a PhD in Art History from the University of Toronto and a BFA from NSCAD University. She has published numerous articles and exhibition catalogue essays on performance, video, and conceptual art and is the author of Radical Gestures: Feminist Performance Art in North America (McGill-Queen’s University Press, 2006). She taught art history at NSCAD for 33 years, specializing in courses on 20th-century art, feminist art, time-based art and design history.
9. Creative Writing With a Focus on Life Stories - Gwen Davies
Creative Writing With a Focus on Life Stories - Gwen Davies
Thursdays 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM (6 wks) Feb 01 to Mar 07
Hoyt Room - Hope United Church, 3055 Connaught Avenue, Halifax
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This is an active course in writing, designed to be a safe place for beginners and a useful class for those with writing experience. We will write, learn to listen, and learn how to give and take useful feedback. We will of course work with the basics – how setting shapes a story, how to decide what to include, how to make what you write sound like a story. We’ll look at creating with interesting characters, even when the character is you, and how to write dialogue that works. It’s a class where we work together toward whatever goals we set out for ourselves individually, and for the group.
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
Gwen Davies has been teaching creative writing for about 25 years. She started the Community of Writers at the Tatamagouche Centre, a four-stream writing event, and ran it for 15 years. She has had several stories published in literary magazines 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 other types of community endeavours, and recently retired from 35 years of consulting in clear language and design. She holds degrees from Wilfrid Laurier and King’s. She grew up travelling around Europe with her Air Force family in a VW camper, and took up parkour at age 62.
Thursdays 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM (6 wks) Feb 01 to Mar 07
Hoyt Room - Hope United Church, 3055 Connaught Avenue, Halifax
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This is an active course in writing, designed to be a safe place for beginners and a useful class for those with writing experience. We will write, learn to listen, and learn how to give and take useful feedback. We will of course work with the basics – how setting shapes a story, how to decide what to include, how to make what you write sound like a story. We’ll look at creating with interesting characters, even when the character is you, and how to write dialogue that works. It’s a class where we work together toward whatever goals we set out for ourselves individually, and for the group.
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
Gwen Davies has been teaching creative writing for about 25 years. She started the Community of Writers at the Tatamagouche Centre, a four-stream writing event, and ran it for 15 years. She has had several stories published in literary magazines 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 other types of community endeavours, and recently retired from 35 years of consulting in clear language and design. She holds degrees from Wilfrid Laurier and King’s. She grew up travelling around Europe with her Air Force family in a VW camper, and took up parkour at age 62.
10. Is Life Really a Cabaret? Intertextuality, Metafiction and The Show-Within-The-Show From Shakespeare to Stoppard - Glenn Walton
Is Life Really a Cabaret? Intertextuality, Metafiction and The Show-Within-The-Show From Shakespeare to Stoppard - Glenn Walton
Fridays 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM (6 wks) Feb 02 to Mar 08
Cameron Hall, Parkland Clayton Park, 114 Fairfax Drive, Halifax
COURSE DESCRIPTION
How writers beg borrow and steal from other writers and artists to create their works. Among our case studies are film adaptations of two of magpie-brained Tom Stoppard’s most celebrated works: Rosencranz and Guildenstern are Dead (a gloss on Hamlet) and Shakespeare in Love (a gloss on Romeo and Juliet), with a pit stop on Kander and Ebb’s Broadway (Cabaret, Chicago), a bit of Brecht, and some ekphrastic poetry thrown in for fun.
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
Glenn Walton is an award-winning filmmaker, journalist, musician and teacher. His first film, The Room at the Back, won the Best Short Film Award at the Atlantic Film Festival in 1990, and his latest, Chamberpiece, won the Best Actor Award at the same festival. In 2002-04 Glenn wrote a popular column for The Daily News; in 2015 he wrote and produced the CD song soundtrack to his play If I Were a Blackbird. Glenn is presently composing and recording a stage-musical updating of his favourite children’s book, The Wind in the Willows, is still teaching English Literature at Saint Mary’s University, and in spring can usually be found leading small groups of people through the hills of Tuscany.
Fridays 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM (6 wks) Feb 02 to Mar 08
Cameron Hall, Parkland Clayton Park, 114 Fairfax Drive, Halifax
COURSE DESCRIPTION
How writers beg borrow and steal from other writers and artists to create their works. Among our case studies are film adaptations of two of magpie-brained Tom Stoppard’s most celebrated works: Rosencranz and Guildenstern are Dead (a gloss on Hamlet) and Shakespeare in Love (a gloss on Romeo and Juliet), with a pit stop on Kander and Ebb’s Broadway (Cabaret, Chicago), a bit of Brecht, and some ekphrastic poetry thrown in for fun.
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
Glenn Walton is an award-winning filmmaker, journalist, musician and teacher. His first film, The Room at the Back, won the Best Short Film Award at the Atlantic Film Festival in 1990, and his latest, Chamberpiece, won the Best Actor Award at the same festival. In 2002-04 Glenn wrote a popular column for The Daily News; in 2015 he wrote and produced the CD song soundtrack to his play If I Were a Blackbird. Glenn is presently composing and recording a stage-musical updating of his favourite children’s book, The Wind in the Willows, is still teaching English Literature at Saint Mary’s University, and in spring can usually be found leading small groups of people through the hills of Tuscany.
11. Gaelic II - Gaelic Rising - Gàidhlig ag èirgh - Wayne MacIntyre
Gaelic II - Gaelic Rising - Gàidhlig ag èirgh - Wayne MacIntyre
Fridays 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (6 wks) Feb 02 to Mar 08
Parlour Room - Hope United Church, 3055 Connaught Avenue, Halifax
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course continues from Gaelic 1 (Scottish Gaelic). It starts with a look back at what we covered there. Building on that, it then proceeds into the next level where the course will continue to employ various teaching strategies that help learners: Total Physical Response (movement-based learning), Visuals, authentic Audio, Songs, pronunciation, and writing. Learners will again hear repetitions of words in context to help facilitate absorption of the language. As in Gaelic 1, this course will offer opportunity for language learning while still incorporating elements of history and culture of the Gaels. To complement this we will concentrate on expressions of greetings, departures, and verbs, both regular and irregular (darn, it seems every language has irregular verbs). By the end of the six sessions, you should be able to make simple yet meaningful sentences in Gaelic!
And- we’ll see what Mathan Sam is up to in book 2!
Please join me in this class for language learning and some good chuckles (Gaels love to laugh) while at the same time making many doctors delighted to see people working to take care of their neurological well-being. I will continue to foster a stress-reduced atmosphere as we move through the course, to wit: still no exams, no tests!
NOTE
If you are interested in attending Gaelic 2 -Gaelic Rising - Gàidhlig ag èirigh, but have not covered the information in Gaelic one, please contact the instructor. You will receive information that was covered in Gaelic one. You are encouraged to look at it (6 weeks worth) to familiarize yourself with what was covered. The goal is to help ease you into the second level. A review of Gaelic 1 will also take place at the start of this course.
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
I am a retired teacher/administrator from the Halifax Regional School Board (now HRCE). Though I was not aware of it at the time, I laid the groundwork for my profession back in 1972 when I began traveling around the world. This guided me to what would become my teaching career path. In the classroom I taught modern languages and social studies. After twenty-four years in the classroom, I became a vice-principal. One of my duties was to assist teachers with the delivery of curriculum. During my time as a vice-principal, I successfully accomplished the steps and interviews needed to advance into the principal’s pool.
The principal purpose of language is to communicate with others. Being able to communicate with others helps broaden my understanding of the world while helping me get my needs met. Communicating with others also allows me to expand my circle of friends and acquaintances filling one of my needs: sharing with others. Because of this, I see every language as valuable.
Upon retiring, I began learning my family’s history, of which Scottish Gaelic forms a large part. Had history unfolded differently, Gaelic would have been my mother tongue. I turned my attention to learning this language with the understanding that language is perhaps the very core of culture. Along the way, I took classes in person (before COVID) in Halifax, spent week-ends a few times a year immersed in Gaelic at the Gaelic College in Cape Breton, took the Gaelic College’s one month immersion course, enrolled on two occassions in the total immersion program (2 weeks for each session) at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig (the Gaelic Institute on the Isle of Skye), and continue to study and use Gaelic online in multiple language groups from Scotland to Vancouver, Canada. Learning Gaelic assists me in reconnecting with a culture that was in many ways lost to me. More than that, it allows me to make new friends and acquaintances in that culture. And this can happen for anyone who wants to learn about the Gaelic language and culture: one does not have to be a Gael. So, to all who are interested in this language and culture, I say “Failte oirbh,” Welcome to you all.”
Fridays 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (6 wks) Feb 02 to Mar 08
Parlour Room - Hope United Church, 3055 Connaught Avenue, Halifax
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course continues from Gaelic 1 (Scottish Gaelic). It starts with a look back at what we covered there. Building on that, it then proceeds into the next level where the course will continue to employ various teaching strategies that help learners: Total Physical Response (movement-based learning), Visuals, authentic Audio, Songs, pronunciation, and writing. Learners will again hear repetitions of words in context to help facilitate absorption of the language. As in Gaelic 1, this course will offer opportunity for language learning while still incorporating elements of history and culture of the Gaels. To complement this we will concentrate on expressions of greetings, departures, and verbs, both regular and irregular (darn, it seems every language has irregular verbs). By the end of the six sessions, you should be able to make simple yet meaningful sentences in Gaelic!
And- we’ll see what Mathan Sam is up to in book 2!
Please join me in this class for language learning and some good chuckles (Gaels love to laugh) while at the same time making many doctors delighted to see people working to take care of their neurological well-being. I will continue to foster a stress-reduced atmosphere as we move through the course, to wit: still no exams, no tests!
NOTE
If you are interested in attending Gaelic 2 -Gaelic Rising - Gàidhlig ag èirigh, but have not covered the information in Gaelic one, please contact the instructor. You will receive information that was covered in Gaelic one. You are encouraged to look at it (6 weeks worth) to familiarize yourself with what was covered. The goal is to help ease you into the second level. A review of Gaelic 1 will also take place at the start of this course.
INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHY
I am a retired teacher/administrator from the Halifax Regional School Board (now HRCE). Though I was not aware of it at the time, I laid the groundwork for my profession back in 1972 when I began traveling around the world. This guided me to what would become my teaching career path. In the classroom I taught modern languages and social studies. After twenty-four years in the classroom, I became a vice-principal. One of my duties was to assist teachers with the delivery of curriculum. During my time as a vice-principal, I successfully accomplished the steps and interviews needed to advance into the principal’s pool.
The principal purpose of language is to communicate with others. Being able to communicate with others helps broaden my understanding of the world while helping me get my needs met. Communicating with others also allows me to expand my circle of friends and acquaintances filling one of my needs: sharing with others. Because of this, I see every language as valuable.
Upon retiring, I began learning my family’s history, of which Scottish Gaelic forms a large part. Had history unfolded differently, Gaelic would have been my mother tongue. I turned my attention to learning this language with the understanding that language is perhaps the very core of culture. Along the way, I took classes in person (before COVID) in Halifax, spent week-ends a few times a year immersed in Gaelic at the Gaelic College in Cape Breton, took the Gaelic College’s one month immersion course, enrolled on two occassions in the total immersion program (2 weeks for each session) at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig (the Gaelic Institute on the Isle of Skye), and continue to study and use Gaelic online in multiple language groups from Scotland to Vancouver, Canada. Learning Gaelic assists me in reconnecting with a culture that was in many ways lost to me. More than that, it allows me to make new friends and acquaintances in that culture. And this can happen for anyone who wants to learn about the Gaelic language and culture: one does not have to be a Gael. So, to all who are interested in this language and culture, I say “Failte oirbh,” Welcome to you all.”
MAHONE BAY
In-person classes
12. Archaeology and Its Contributions to The Early History of Eastern Canada - John Stone
Archaeology and Its Contributions to The Early History of Eastern Canada - John Stone
Wednesdays 1:30 PM-3:30 PM (6 wks) Jan 31 to Mar 06
Mahone Bay Centre, 45 School Street, Mahone Bay
Course Description
This is a survey course: imagine a flat rock skipping over calm water. An introduction will help us to explore resources and methods that allow archaeologists and historians to enrich the narrative of Canada’s past, both Indigenous and European. We will also look at the role of perspective in creating that narrative. We will then consider current theories for the arrival and spread of humans in North America. What an amazing saga! Then, leaping thousands of years, we look at the first known Europeans to visit what is now Canada, the Norse. The L’Anse aux Meadows discovery will be joined by the misadventure of the Vinland Map. For the European Age of Exploration we will examine 16th century maps and the archaeology which confirmed the Cartier/Roberval site in Cap Rouge, Quebec. We will finish with the competition between the French and English. Alert: you will be taking the place of my former Grade 7 students! Be prepared for a boisterous, hands-on, engaging time of fun and collaboration! I need and will rejoice in your participation!
Instructor Biography
Born and raised in Nova Scotia, John Stone was an educator in the province for fifty-three years. He earned degrees from King’s (BA, Classics), Dalhousie (MA, Classics), University of Alberta (BEd. Teaching the Social Sciences) and the University of British Columbia (MEd. Historiography and Archaeology in the teaching of History) and was a Fellow at The Atlantic Institute of Education (Promotion of MEd focus). He taught at the secondary (primarily junior high), undergraduate and graduate levels (SMU, MSVU: Social Studies Methods) and served as teacher, vice-principal, principal, and provincial (Nova Scotia) curriculum consultant. His teaching assignments were always in the social sciences, his core focus being the role of archaeology and historiography in the teaching of history. His teaching methods embraced the learner-centered classroom and he felt his major responsibility to his students was to have fun, expose them to the richness and excitement of the human experience and to facilitate their passage, with confidence, into their next chapters.
Wednesdays 1:30 PM-3:30 PM (6 wks) Jan 31 to Mar 06
Mahone Bay Centre, 45 School Street, Mahone Bay
Course Description
This is a survey course: imagine a flat rock skipping over calm water. An introduction will help us to explore resources and methods that allow archaeologists and historians to enrich the narrative of Canada’s past, both Indigenous and European. We will also look at the role of perspective in creating that narrative. We will then consider current theories for the arrival and spread of humans in North America. What an amazing saga! Then, leaping thousands of years, we look at the first known Europeans to visit what is now Canada, the Norse. The L’Anse aux Meadows discovery will be joined by the misadventure of the Vinland Map. For the European Age of Exploration we will examine 16th century maps and the archaeology which confirmed the Cartier/Roberval site in Cap Rouge, Quebec. We will finish with the competition between the French and English. Alert: you will be taking the place of my former Grade 7 students! Be prepared for a boisterous, hands-on, engaging time of fun and collaboration! I need and will rejoice in your participation!
Instructor Biography
Born and raised in Nova Scotia, John Stone was an educator in the province for fifty-three years. He earned degrees from King’s (BA, Classics), Dalhousie (MA, Classics), University of Alberta (BEd. Teaching the Social Sciences) and the University of British Columbia (MEd. Historiography and Archaeology in the teaching of History) and was a Fellow at The Atlantic Institute of Education (Promotion of MEd focus). He taught at the secondary (primarily junior high), undergraduate and graduate levels (SMU, MSVU: Social Studies Methods) and served as teacher, vice-principal, principal, and provincial (Nova Scotia) curriculum consultant. His teaching assignments were always in the social sciences, his core focus being the role of archaeology and historiography in the teaching of history. His teaching methods embraced the learner-centered classroom and he felt his major responsibility to his students was to have fun, expose them to the richness and excitement of the human experience and to facilitate their passage, with confidence, into their next chapters.
13. Women in Jazz - Ted Blackbourn
Women in Jazz - Ted Blackbourn
Thursdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Jan 18 to Feb 22
Mahone Bay Centre, 45 School Street, Mahone Bay
Course Description
Reading existing jazz histories could easily give the impression that if women were involved at all in the development of jazz, it was in a secondary or insignificant role. The truth is that women have played a major role in the creation and development of jazz from its earliest days through to today. Certain male jazz artists have always been held up as the most important figures in jazz history – Buddy Bolden, King Oliver, Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie… - but from the beginning, women have mad vital contributions to the development of jazz as performers, composers, arrangers, and bandleaders. This course will highlight the contributions of women jazz musicians while examining some of the challenges faced by women in the workforce, and in the world of jazz, from the early 20th century through to today. Throughout the course, audio and video examples will showcase the talents of many of the amazing women in jazz history.
Instructor Biography
Ted Blackbourn is a graduate of the music programs at Humber College and York University where he studied performance, composition, and arranging. After completing his Bachelor of Education Degree at the University of Toronto, Ted taught high school for 29 years before retiring in 2012. Since then, he has concentrated on writing for jazz ensembles with a focus on big band composition and arranging and has released 4 big band albums of his own material. Ted is a member of The Tuesday Night Big Band, Chester Brass and Ocean Blue Jazz Quartet.
Thursdays 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Jan 18 to Feb 22
Mahone Bay Centre, 45 School Street, Mahone Bay
Course Description
Reading existing jazz histories could easily give the impression that if women were involved at all in the development of jazz, it was in a secondary or insignificant role. The truth is that women have played a major role in the creation and development of jazz from its earliest days through to today. Certain male jazz artists have always been held up as the most important figures in jazz history – Buddy Bolden, King Oliver, Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie… - but from the beginning, women have mad vital contributions to the development of jazz as performers, composers, arrangers, and bandleaders. This course will highlight the contributions of women jazz musicians while examining some of the challenges faced by women in the workforce, and in the world of jazz, from the early 20th century through to today. Throughout the course, audio and video examples will showcase the talents of many of the amazing women in jazz history.
Instructor Biography
Ted Blackbourn is a graduate of the music programs at Humber College and York University where he studied performance, composition, and arranging. After completing his Bachelor of Education Degree at the University of Toronto, Ted taught high school for 29 years before retiring in 2012. Since then, he has concentrated on writing for jazz ensembles with a focus on big band composition and arranging and has released 4 big band albums of his own material. Ted is a member of The Tuesday Night Big Band, Chester Brass and Ocean Blue Jazz Quartet.
LIVERPOOL
In-person classes
14. Story, Biography, Treatise, Gossip Sheet: Vasari and His ‘Lives of the Artists’ - Virginia Stephen
Story, Biography, Treatise, Gossip Sheet: Vasari and His ‘Lives of the Artists’ - Virginia Stephen
Wednesdays 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (6 wks) Jan 31 to Mar 06
Trinity Church Hall, 196 Church Street, Liverpool
Course Description
Painter, draughtsman, architect – Giorgio Vasari (1511 – 1574) was among the elite of the Italian artists and a truly ‘Renaissance Man’. With no less instructors and friends as Michelangelo and Andrea del Sarto he rose among the ranks in the arts in Florence. And then his patron Duke Alessandro was assassinated, leaving Vasari at loose ends and providing the time to travel and draw, visit other artists, and consider his future. This trip spawned the idea for what was to be the thing he is most remembered for – his writing about artists – making him, considered by many, the father of art history. While he continued to paint and undertake architectural projects, his biographies became popular for their content and perspective. Not always complimentary about his fellow artists, the release of new chapters was anticipated as both serious writing and sometimes gossip sheet. He wrote primarily for artists with the purpose of establishing and maintaining artistic standards. In all, his Lives of the Artists ( Lives of the Most Eminent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects ) chronicles the lives and work of some 180 artists
Instructor Biography
An art historian and educator by training (and passion) Virginia Stephen brings to her practice over 40 years of experience as an arts educator, museum educator, art museum director and senior arts administrator. She was Acting Director and instructor for the Arts and Cultural Management Program at MacEwan University. She was Deputy Director (Head of Programs and curator of Education) of the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia and Executive Director of the Edmonton Art Gallery and later, Executive Director of Arts and Humanities at University of Alberta Extension. As an educator, artist, writer and curator her focus has been to facilitate individual and group interaction with art to enrich ways of knowing, ways of interacting with the world and other people, and ways to achieve innovation with students, adults, and corporate groups. She has worked and presented across Canada and been guest speaker at education, museum, healthcare, and leadership conferences and symposia in the United States and Europe. She has written exhibition catalogues and books for museum audiences of all ages and contributed to arts education and museum periodicals, anthologies and peer reviewed journals in Canada and the United States.
Ms. Stephen holds an MA in Visual and Performing Arts Education and undergraduate degrees in both art history and arts education. In her own practice, she is a painter and fibre artist.
Wednesdays 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (6 wks) Jan 31 to Mar 06
Trinity Church Hall, 196 Church Street, Liverpool
Course Description
Painter, draughtsman, architect – Giorgio Vasari (1511 – 1574) was among the elite of the Italian artists and a truly ‘Renaissance Man’. With no less instructors and friends as Michelangelo and Andrea del Sarto he rose among the ranks in the arts in Florence. And then his patron Duke Alessandro was assassinated, leaving Vasari at loose ends and providing the time to travel and draw, visit other artists, and consider his future. This trip spawned the idea for what was to be the thing he is most remembered for – his writing about artists – making him, considered by many, the father of art history. While he continued to paint and undertake architectural projects, his biographies became popular for their content and perspective. Not always complimentary about his fellow artists, the release of new chapters was anticipated as both serious writing and sometimes gossip sheet. He wrote primarily for artists with the purpose of establishing and maintaining artistic standards. In all, his Lives of the Artists ( Lives of the Most Eminent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects ) chronicles the lives and work of some 180 artists
Instructor Biography
An art historian and educator by training (and passion) Virginia Stephen brings to her practice over 40 years of experience as an arts educator, museum educator, art museum director and senior arts administrator. She was Acting Director and instructor for the Arts and Cultural Management Program at MacEwan University. She was Deputy Director (Head of Programs and curator of Education) of the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia and Executive Director of the Edmonton Art Gallery and later, Executive Director of Arts and Humanities at University of Alberta Extension. As an educator, artist, writer and curator her focus has been to facilitate individual and group interaction with art to enrich ways of knowing, ways of interacting with the world and other people, and ways to achieve innovation with students, adults, and corporate groups. She has worked and presented across Canada and been guest speaker at education, museum, healthcare, and leadership conferences and symposia in the United States and Europe. She has written exhibition catalogues and books for museum audiences of all ages and contributed to arts education and museum periodicals, anthologies and peer reviewed journals in Canada and the United States.
Ms. Stephen holds an MA in Visual and Performing Arts Education and undergraduate degrees in both art history and arts education. In her own practice, she is a painter and fibre artist.
15. Pain Explained - Celeste Johnston
Pain Explained - Celeste Johnston
Thursdays 1:00 PM -3:00 PM (6 wks) Feb 01 to Mar 07
Trinity Church Hall, 196 Church Street, Liverpool
Course Description
Everyone has pain at some point in their lives. In rare instances in which people do not have pain sensation, life is shortened because of its survival value. Yet, once we’ve learned to stay away from hot or sharp objects, pain is not viewed so positively. What is pain? Who defines it? How do we sense it? What kinds of pain are there? How can we know how much pain anyone is having? Most importantly, what can we do to diminish pain? This course aims to answer these questions to the extent that there is knowledge about it. It is not intended to provide treatment or remedies for pain participants may be experiencing. The neurophysiology of pain will first be overviewed, followed by definitions and descriptions of various types of pain. Measurement of pain will be presented and discussed. Approaches to the management of pain including physical, psychological, and pharmacological modalities will be discusses, some with class participation. Finally, the politics of pain, including accessibility and advocacy will be presented and discussed.
Instructor Biography
Celeste Johnston is Emeritus Professor in the Ingram School of Nursing at McGill University, Montreal and Scientist at the IWK Health Centre, Halifax. She has associate appointments at the Montreal Children’s Hospital and Ste. Justine’s Hospital, Montreal. She is past-President of the Canadian Pain Society, past-Secretary of the Special Interest Group for Pain in Children of International Association for the Study of Pain and was elected Councillor to that association in 2008-2014. She is the recipient of several awards for her research on pain in infants including, among others, the American Pain Society Jeffrey Lawson Award for Advocacy for Pain Relief in Children (2015), the Canadian Pain Society Mentoring Award (2015), the Distinguished Career Award of the Canadian Pain Society (2007), the Canadian Nurses Association Centennial Award,(2000), and the Order of Nurses of Quebec Research Award (2004). Most recently (2021) she was named an Officer of the Order of Canada for her research on pain and mentoring trainees. Her research, funded mostly by Canadian Institutes of Health Research, is focused on measurement and non-pharmacological management of pain in preterm neonates, animal models of neonatal pain, and changing health care professionals’ practices related to pain management for infants. Mentoring has been one of her greatest pleasures in her career. She has trained over 100 graduate students as direct supervisor (37 as primary supervisor), many of whom have been recipients of prestigious awards. She has been a core faculty in the CIHR Strategic Training Grant on Pain in Child Health (PICH) with over 300 trainees over its tenure. While President of CPS, she founded the Canadian Pain Coalition in which she mentored people living with pain, who now run the association on their own.
Thursdays 1:00 PM -3:00 PM (6 wks) Feb 01 to Mar 07
Trinity Church Hall, 196 Church Street, Liverpool
Course Description
Everyone has pain at some point in their lives. In rare instances in which people do not have pain sensation, life is shortened because of its survival value. Yet, once we’ve learned to stay away from hot or sharp objects, pain is not viewed so positively. What is pain? Who defines it? How do we sense it? What kinds of pain are there? How can we know how much pain anyone is having? Most importantly, what can we do to diminish pain? This course aims to answer these questions to the extent that there is knowledge about it. It is not intended to provide treatment or remedies for pain participants may be experiencing. The neurophysiology of pain will first be overviewed, followed by definitions and descriptions of various types of pain. Measurement of pain will be presented and discussed. Approaches to the management of pain including physical, psychological, and pharmacological modalities will be discusses, some with class participation. Finally, the politics of pain, including accessibility and advocacy will be presented and discussed.
Instructor Biography
Celeste Johnston is Emeritus Professor in the Ingram School of Nursing at McGill University, Montreal and Scientist at the IWK Health Centre, Halifax. She has associate appointments at the Montreal Children’s Hospital and Ste. Justine’s Hospital, Montreal. She is past-President of the Canadian Pain Society, past-Secretary of the Special Interest Group for Pain in Children of International Association for the Study of Pain and was elected Councillor to that association in 2008-2014. She is the recipient of several awards for her research on pain in infants including, among others, the American Pain Society Jeffrey Lawson Award for Advocacy for Pain Relief in Children (2015), the Canadian Pain Society Mentoring Award (2015), the Distinguished Career Award of the Canadian Pain Society (2007), the Canadian Nurses Association Centennial Award,(2000), and the Order of Nurses of Quebec Research Award (2004). Most recently (2021) she was named an Officer of the Order of Canada for her research on pain and mentoring trainees. Her research, funded mostly by Canadian Institutes of Health Research, is focused on measurement and non-pharmacological management of pain in preterm neonates, animal models of neonatal pain, and changing health care professionals’ practices related to pain management for infants. Mentoring has been one of her greatest pleasures in her career. She has trained over 100 graduate students as direct supervisor (37 as primary supervisor), many of whom have been recipients of prestigious awards. She has been a core faculty in the CIHR Strategic Training Grant on Pain in Child Health (PICH) with over 300 trainees over its tenure. While President of CPS, she founded the Canadian Pain Coalition in which she mentored people living with pain, who now run the association on their own.
TRURO
In-person classes
16. Music - the Good, the Bad, the Loved, and the Unsure - Rhonda MacLellan
Music - the Good, the Bad, the Loved, and the Unsure - Rhonda MacLellan
Wednesdays 10:15 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Jan 24 to Feb 28
J. Harris Read Room, Colchester East Hants Library, 754 Prince Street, Truro
Course Description
This six-week course is intended to be a time to learn about and to enjoy music in a fun-filled environment. This is a course that will encourage the attendee to develop an appreciation and love for music. Included will be the history of adult participants and music; the use of music to support learning; where we encounter music (movies, performances, concerts), cultural music and favourite artists, and even seniors can learn music.
Instructor Biography
Rhonda MacLellan loves music and loves teaching music. With family roots in the Celtic music of Cape Breton (paternal heritage) and from what is present day Ukraine (maternal connections), Rhonda comes naturally to being one of the active music teachers in the local area. She has taught at the elementary level, loves teaching adults, and she remains very active in teaching viola, piano, and Celtic fiddle), orchestra, and recitals. She has played and sung in numerous bands, choirs, ensembles, and orchestras. Selected examples include: opening act (solo fiddle and vocals) on the Vanoc Stage at the 2010 Olympics in BC; International choir “Spiritsong” that toured Europe, two Messiah choirs, taught fiddle at College of the Rockies in BC, and presently is the keyboardist for the Caledonian Orchestra of NS.
Wednesdays 10:15 AM-12:00 PM (6 wks) Jan 24 to Feb 28
J. Harris Read Room, Colchester East Hants Library, 754 Prince Street, Truro
Course Description
This six-week course is intended to be a time to learn about and to enjoy music in a fun-filled environment. This is a course that will encourage the attendee to develop an appreciation and love for music. Included will be the history of adult participants and music; the use of music to support learning; where we encounter music (movies, performances, concerts), cultural music and favourite artists, and even seniors can learn music.
- January 24: Introduction. What is music? How has it been described. A bit of history.
- January 31: CELTIC MUSIC, and some about other cultural music.
- February 7: What have we done with music (musical movies, musical performances and concerts). Has that changed over the years; has it expanded?
- February 14: Learning with song (musical games, background music during activities). How does music influence decisions and lives.
- February 21: The benefit of private lessons: as a source of joy; as therapy. What do private lessons involve? Examples of personal experiences – the good, the bad, the loved, the unsure as children and later as adults. Discussion of different instruments in this context.
- February 28: A medley of other topics that were not yet been discussed. How did this course expand the quest of music – the good, the bad, the loved, the unsure?
Instructor Biography
Rhonda MacLellan loves music and loves teaching music. With family roots in the Celtic music of Cape Breton (paternal heritage) and from what is present day Ukraine (maternal connections), Rhonda comes naturally to being one of the active music teachers in the local area. She has taught at the elementary level, loves teaching adults, and she remains very active in teaching viola, piano, and Celtic fiddle), orchestra, and recitals. She has played and sung in numerous bands, choirs, ensembles, and orchestras. Selected examples include: opening act (solo fiddle and vocals) on the Vanoc Stage at the 2010 Olympics in BC; International choir “Spiritsong” that toured Europe, two Messiah choirs, taught fiddle at College of the Rockies in BC, and presently is the keyboardist for the Caledonian Orchestra of NS.
17. Becoming a Bird Watcher - Ross Hall
Becoming a Bird Watcher - Ross Hall
Wednesdays 1:30 PM-3:30 PM (6 wks) Jan 31 to Mar 06
Douglas Street Recreation Centre, Room A, 40 Douglas Street, Truro
Course Description
Week 1 Types of Birds: introduction, power point to illustrate bird families
Week 2 Birding Equipment: best book bird guides, best binoculars, online resources, organizations
Week 3 Birding by sight: field marks, building experience
Week 4 Birding by ear: identifying bird songs
Week 5 Backroad travels looking for birds: canadian and world birding trips
Week 6 Miscellaneous: bird diseases, adaptions for flight, how birds navigate, other
Instructor Biography
Ross Hall was a regional wildlife biologist for 32 years with the Department of Natural Resources. After retirement has served as a volunteer regional coordinator for one of the 27 regions covered in the 2006 to 2010 Maritime Breeding Bird Atlas. His birding experience is both local as well as international (Africa). He also writes a quarterly seasonal report for waterfowl for Nova Scotia Birds, a publication of the NS Bird Society.
Wednesdays 1:30 PM-3:30 PM (6 wks) Jan 31 to Mar 06
Douglas Street Recreation Centre, Room A, 40 Douglas Street, Truro
Course Description
Week 1 Types of Birds: introduction, power point to illustrate bird families
Week 2 Birding Equipment: best book bird guides, best binoculars, online resources, organizations
Week 3 Birding by sight: field marks, building experience
Week 4 Birding by ear: identifying bird songs
Week 5 Backroad travels looking for birds: canadian and world birding trips
Week 6 Miscellaneous: bird diseases, adaptions for flight, how birds navigate, other
Instructor Biography
Ross Hall was a regional wildlife biologist for 32 years with the Department of Natural Resources. After retirement has served as a volunteer regional coordinator for one of the 27 regions covered in the 2006 to 2010 Maritime Breeding Bird Atlas. His birding experience is both local as well as international (Africa). He also writes a quarterly seasonal report for waterfowl for Nova Scotia Birds, a publication of the NS Bird Society.
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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.