The Spring term offers a wide range of classes, from music of great composers, taught by the well-regarded Roupen Shakarian, to Anacortes history led by Bret Lunsford. Dr. Michael Newbrough continues his series on politics with Dances of Political Economy while biologist Heather Burke teaches Politics in the Food Industry.
Here’s a full rundown of classes.
Tuesday afternoon
- Six Great Composers: Their Lives and Their Art – Roupen Shakarian, published composer and musical director of the Skagit Symphony, explores the vast output of composers Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart, Haydn and Mendelssohn.
- Paris 1919: The Deal That Shaped Our World – Cecil Clardy examines the political arrangements following WW1 and how the tensions of today can be traced directly to decisions made almost 100 years ago.
- A Panorama of American Poetry – Dr. Perry Higman discusses the poems of our most famous poets: Whitman, Longfellow, Dickinson, Cummings, Williams and Frost, as well as several contemporary poets.
- Health Fads: Fact or Fiction – Patricia Downing, R.N., delves into the do’s and don’ts of food facts and fads, deciphers the information to believe or to ignore, and teaches how to differentiate. The good news is chocolate. Note: three-week class beginning April 16.
Thursday afternoon
- Native Plants, Wildflowers, Mushrooms and Backyard Critters – Brian Scheuch covers everything from weeds to moles in this class devoted to our Pacific Northwest natural history. Brian’s classes fill fast; early enrollment is encouraged.
- Dances of Political Economy – Dr. Michael Newbrough returns with his popular class on the policy-making games and the co-dependence between our politicians and bureaucrats and the interest groups which affect governmental decisions.
- Managing Your Investment Resources – Val Johnson, graduate instructor, financial manager, corporate comptroller and instructor fighter pilot, examines how to formulate a personal retirement plan. Several types of investments will be discussed and students will select their investments using risk analysis and rate of return.
- Anacortes History – Bret Lunsford explores the history of Anacortes from the 1800’s to the present with photos and guest speakers, who will share their knowledge and memories. Note: three-week class beginning on April 18.
Thursday evenings
- Politics in the Food Industry – Heather Burke, biologist and biochemist, investigates how the food industry influences nutrition and health through the relationship between the agriculturist lobbyists and government agencies. Learn about genetic engineering and how to take control over nourishing your body.
- French, Film, Fromage – Susan Redd, returns with a language class featuring the culture, history, and films of France. Enjoy imported fromage during each class as you view Madame Redd’s favorite films. Previous background in the French language is not required.
- Writing Your Memoirs – Teru Lundsten gives the writing tools and memory prompts to help write your life’s story. Find meaning in your life when you share it with others.
Classes are 3:30-5:30 p.m. and 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday at Anacortes Middle School, 2200 M. Ave. Courses are six weeks, unless otherwise noted.
The college offers courses to adults 50 years and older. Cost is $30 for a six-week course and $20 for a three-week course.
The Senior College Web site has a complete course schedule, registration form, and instructor biographies, or pick up a printed schedule and registration form at the Senior Activity Center.
For more information, call (360) 503-1255. The college is seeking instructors in geology and geography.