Online Class

Rosemary Clooney has been referred to as “one of the best friends a song ever had.” Clooney's career spanned six decades during which she became one of America’s most beloved entertainers on vinyl, in films, on radio, and on television. When she received a Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award in 2002 few realized that this marked her achievements not only in music, but in life. Clooney was nothing if not a true survivor, not only of the ever-changing music industry but in spite of a mental breakdown after the assassination of Robert Kennedy.

Jane Ellen has been presenting lifelong learning classes for over 25 years. She graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of New Mexico, and later received Professional Certification from the Music Teachers National Association. As a lecturer she specializes in all aspects of music and entertainment history, with the occasional foray into other areas of her eclectic interests. Ellen’s presentations benefit not only from her gifts as a storyteller, but from a lifetime of work as an independent scholar, performer, published composer, and recording artist.

Online Class

The Farmington Falls/Farmington dispute back in 1794. The railroad competition in the 1850’s. Paul will talk about how Farmington became the leader among the towns in Franklin County, mentioning those two events.

Paul Mills is a native Mainer, local barrister, and historical raconteur.

Online Class 

This is a three-session lecture on the Cuban Revolution that began in July of 1953. This wasn't the first revolution in Cuba. The presenter will discuss how and why it succeeded, as well as the Cuban and U.S. personalities involved.

January 23 & 30 and February 6, 2023

Diane Parker is retired from teaching. Her last 20 years were teaching Spanish. When writing an assignment for a class towards a BA in Spanish, she became intrigued with Cuba. After doing her research she is still intrigued by that country.

In-Person Class with Online Option

Remember Hidden Figures, the very popular film about female math whizzes who helped get us into space?  This class follows a similar theme: that of more-or-less forgotten women who played critical roles in discovery across a number of scientific fields. Through the use of videos and biographical research, we will collectively bring a list of women into clear view and thereby honor their works and discoveries. 

To accomplish this goal, we will employ a study group format, used by many senior colleges around the country, asking participants to search for a bit more information on just one female scientist of their choice (list of choices to be provided).

In the following week, participants will share their research, using videos, biographical information, and story telling.  The class will bring these hidden figures to life and give them long-deserved recognition for some amazing work.

This class will have 3 sessions:

January 26

February 2 & 9

Eileen Kreutz has been very active in Gold LEAF for many years. She is currently a member of the Board. She is doing this class as requested in a prior course.

Dennis O'Neil has been a member of Gold LEAF since moving here 15 years ago. He likes the organization for its ambience, camaraderie, and colorful personalities. 

Eileen and Dennis will co-host this class.