An Easter TCM Hit: Ben Hur (Aydan Attali)
“Ben-Hur” was the defining Hollywood epic of the 1950s. Through its unforgettable chariot race and sweeping biblical story, we’ll explore how one massive film helped rescue a struggling studio, pulled audiences away from television, and reshaped the movie industry. Through its production, themes, and legacy, Ben-Hur represents both the height of epic filmmaking – and the beginning of a risky “bigger is better” era in Hollywood.
Thanksgiving in Wartime: Home, Absence, and Reunion (Aidan Attali)
Movies like Since You Went Away (1944) and The Best Years of Our Lives (1946) show how holidays took on new meaning during and after World War II. This lecture highlights themes of separation, reunion, and the longing for home, and why these feelings were so powerful for families at the time.
Laughter in the Dark: Finding Humour in Fear (Aidan Attali)
Not all scares are meant to terrify. Films like Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948) and Young Frankenstein (1974) show how laughter can make fear a little easier to handle. We’ll explore why audiences sometimes choose to laugh at their monsters, and what that says about resilience in scary moments.
Wonders of the World…? It’s a Wonder We Survived! (Tamara West)
Get ready to laugh out loud during this humorous and inspiring travel presentation. Join Tamara for a fun-filled journey with her family and Discover the beauty and grandeur of these world-famous wonders like Angkor Wat, the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, the Pyramids of Egypt, and the Great Barrier Reef while she shares amusing anecdotes and unexpected mishaps that travel guides conveniently leave out…
Around the world in nine months (Tamara West)
Embark on an exhilarating journey without leaving your seat! Join Tamara as she shares the vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable adventures on a trip around the world with her family dubbed the “WestSmith Walkabout”. From Australia to China, India to Tasmania, Portugal to France and many places in between. Travel tips, hilarious anecdotes and hidden gems many travelers miss.
Christmas in Thailand (Tamara West)
Discover the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of this little piece of Paradise. As a seasoned traveler, Tamara shares her month-long travels through Thailand through the bustling night markets of Chaing Mai, the serene beaches of Krabi, and the lush jungles along the River Kwai. Hear about her firsthand (and life-changing) experience working at the Elephant Nature Park, promoting ethical tourism practices.
Discovering the Caribbean (Tony Lee)
For North Americans, the Caribbean is the top destination to go on a cruise, especially for those who are going on their first one. With its warm weather and natural beauty, close to two million people cruise through the Caribbean each year. Tony’s presentation highlights the Caribbean region, with a brief look at its history, the people, the culture and their food and how this is explored through a cruise.
The Paradox of Japan – Chaos and Harmony (Tony Lee)
Focusing on the megacity of Tokyo, we’ll take a look at the long history of Japan and try to understand how Japanese culture allows the people to live in harmony, despite being one of the most crowded cities in the world. We’ll also take a look at some of Tokyo’s most popular tourist attractions.
A Trip to the Maritimes (Mariana Arámburu)
Explore the fishing towns of Nova Scotia, witness the awe-inspiring phenomenon of the highest tides in the world in New Brunswick, step into the world of Anne of Green Gables in picturesque Prince Edward Island, and uncover the mysteries of ancient Viking settlements in Newfoundland. Join Mariana in a trip to the Atlantic coast, filled with lighthouses, history, and delicious food.
Micro States (Peter Jennings)
Palau, Nauru, Tuvala…There are dozens of tiny countries around the world with their own reason for existing. No taxes, complicated bureaucracy in a little known language – How is life in a small nation state? How do they survive for hundreds of years without an army? without having taxes? Join this talk by Peter, who spent 13 years of his life in Andorra (where the heck is that…?)
The Loire Valley (Mariana Arámburu)
A trip to the French Countryside. Exploring everything the Loire Valley has to offer on a five -day train trip. Discover the hidden treasures of the chateaux of the region, find where to find the best wine in France, and learn about the charming villages that make the French countryside a fairy tale destination.
A Trip to Yukon (Mariana Arámburu)
Join Mariana on her summer trip from British Columbia to the Yukon, following the gold rush trail. Learn about panning for gold, hear the stories of some gold prospectors and experience hiking, camping, and spotting unique Canadian wildlife.
The Markets of Mexico City (Mariana Arámburu)
Join Mariana in a journey to discover her native town, Mexico City, through its markets – from the most touristy to its rarest. Learn where to eat the best street food and shop for the most original crafts, But also find the hidden markets where to get insect tacos, exotic flowers, bizarre antiques, and black magic items.
Up in the Air: An Introduction to Paragliding (Peter Jennings)
Paragliding, parasailing, sky diving – Realizing man’s timeless dream to fly like a bird. Join Peter as he talks about his passion – How do paragliders work? How high can they fly? How long can they stay up? What is the difference between paragliding, parasailing, hang gliding and parachuting? …And yes, the hazards too (failing to observe them can cause you complications for the rest of your life…)
VIRTUAL ONLY A Journey Through the Eastern Cape (Jennifer Merrick)
Wild and rugged, yet brimming with culture and history, South Africa’s second largest province, the Eastern Cape, captivates. Join us on a journey that will take you on land and marine safaris to visit their wild inhabitants. We will also explore the birthplace of Nelson Mandela to see the land that inspired him as a child as well as the attractions that pay tribute to his unsurpassed legacy.
VIRTUAL ONLY Canada’s National Parks (Jennifer Merrick)
“National Parks exist in order that every citizen of Canada may satisfy a craving for Nature and Nature’s beauty: that we may absorb the poise and restfulness of the forests; that we may steep our souls in the brilliance of the wild flowers and the sublimity of the mountain peaks; that we may develop in ourselves the joy and activity we see in the wild animals; that we may stock our mind with the raw material of intelligent optimism, great thoughts, noble ideals; that we may be made better, happier, and healthier.” (James B. Harkin, 1st Commissioner of Parks Canada)
Canada has 47 national parks across our vast country that began with the establishment of Banff National Park in 1885. Join Jennifer to delve into our parks’ history and take a journey to some of Canada’s most breathtaking wild spaces.
VIRTUAL ONLY Haunted Places (Jennifer Merrick)
From a haunted coal mine in Wales to the historic site of Fort Henry at Kingston, to the ghost who wanders the Elgin Theatre in Toronto, join me as we learn the spine-tingling, otherworldly tales of famous attractions around the world.
VIRTUAL ONLY Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage (Jennifer Merrick)
“To the lover of pure wilderness, Alaska is one of the most wonderful countries in the world,” wrote John Muir, the famous naturalist, in the late 1880s. Come along on a journey through Alaska’s Inside Passage, where you’ll find a lush temperate rain forest, awe-inspiring glaciers and wild inhabitants – Orcas, brown bears, sea lions and puffins.
VIRTUAL ONLY A Journey to Wales (Jennifer Merrick)
In this tiny nation west of England you’ll find over 400 majestic stone castles, eleven million sheep dotting daffodil-covered rolling hills, romantic moors and wind-swept beaches with limestone cliffs. But this lecture also goes beyond Wales’ beautiful landscape and explores the culture and people of this poetic and musical land.
Ecologists and the Political-Economy of Climate Change (Dr. Andrew Foyarchuk)
The globalization of industrial capitalism is responsible for the warming of the planet. The effects are felt around the world, but in some places and among some people more than others. What do politically minded ecologists think we should do next?
Despots or Democracy: How do Animals Make Group Decisions? (Eve Smeltzer)
Like in human society, group-living can also create conflicts between individuals who disagree. How do animals make decisions? Wild dogs sneeze to vote, honeybees have dance competitions… This lecture discusses the various (and bizarre) ways that animal groups reach consensus.
Monkey Business: My Journey from the Suburbs to the Rainforest (Eve Smeltzer)
As a field primatologist, Eve has had the pleasure of studying monkeys and apes in their natural environments. But how did she get here? In this talk, She discusses her non-traditional route to academia and shares some of her most joyous and heart-wrenching experiences from her fieldwork in Cambodia, Puerto Rico, and Uganda.
Many Paws Make Light Work: Insight into Animal Cooperation (Eve Smeltzer)
Charles Darwin initially described the evolution of cooperation as insuperable and potentially fatal to his theory of natural selection. Why would an individual help another at a cost to their own evolutionary fitness? Ants sacrifice themselves for the good of the colony. Vampire bats share their food with the babies of others. These behaviours are counterintuitive in a world that is supposed to favor the survival of the fittest. Here we will explore the many ways that animals work together to improve mutual health, survival, and reproduction.
Counting Sheep: The Variation of Sleep in the Animal Kingdom (Eve Smeltzer)
Did you know that dolphins only sleep with half of their brains at a time? Or that some birds snooze while flying? Most animals spend nearly half of their lives sleeping, yet relatively little is known about how sleep impacts animals’ health and survival. This talk will discuss how sleep differs across the animal kingdom and how choosing a good place to snooze can have an enormous impact on health and survival.
Do Animals Have Empathy? (Eve Smeltzer)
We initially thought that humans were the only animals who could experience true empathy. While most pet owners are very familiar with the emotional complexity of animals, the world of animal cognitive research is finally catching up! This talk will discuss some of the best evidence of empathy in animals: reconciliation, fairness, and grief.
Primate Politics: A Story of Dominance, Coalitions, and Coups (Eve Smeltzer)
Join Eve as she discusses primate politics through an anecdote from her fieldwork in Uganda. An opportunistic coalition of vervet females seized the rare chance to improve their social status, the unique circumstances that prefaced this insurrection and the lasting consequences of monkey social ambition. This incident had all the components of a television drama: infanticide, sex, violent coups, tyrannical leaders, and a fatal attack by a giant python.
The Comfort and Costs of Motherhood: Insight into Animal Love, Life, and Loss (Eve Smeltzer)
This talk will explore the emotional and physical investment of motherhood in the Animal Kingdom. We will discuss animal motherly instinct in general and simultaneously follow the story of one vervet monkey matriline through a series of rare events between mother and offspring. This anecdote from my Ph.D. fieldwork is an excellent demonstration of animal motherly love, sacrifice, and support.
The Paternal Instinct: The Role of Fathers in the Animal Kingdom (Eve Smeltzer)
In many animals, especially mammals, mothers are the sole providers for their offspring, so paternal care gets far less attention. However, fathers play important roles in many species. Here we will give the dads some credit by discussing the many ways that fathers contribute to infant survival and success in the animal kingdom.
Following the Herd: The Ins and Outs of Animal Groups (Eve Smeltzer)
In an individualist society, we often lose sight of the collective benefits of group living. We see animal groups all around us: flocks of birds, schooling fish, and herds of cattle. Why do animals live in groups? How do these groups form? Why do schools of fish seem to move in synchrony? This talk will discuss the many benefits of living and moving animal groups, discussing everything from sardine schools to herding elephants.
Another Kind of Love (Claudette Miller, M.Div)
We are all familiar with eros love, characterized by attraction, desire, and emotional intimacy. But there is another kind of love, called agape love (or spiritual love) – selfless, unconditional love that seeks the good of others without expecting anything in return. It is rooted in compassion, sacrifice, and commitment, and reflects God’s love for humanity.
The Brain and the Bible (Claudette Miller, M.Div)
The brain and the Bible are closely connected, showing that faith engages both the mind and the spirit. While the brain processes thoughts, emotions, and decisions, the Bible guides how those thoughts are shaped and renewed. Scripture emphasizes the importance of the mind in spiritual life, calling believers to actively engage in understanding and reflection. This aligns with neuroscience’s concept of neuroplasticity, as biblical teachings on renewing the mind highlight how focused, godly thinking can lead to inner transformation.
Animal Communication and Humans (Dr. Andrew Foyarchuk)
Do animals have intentions and a language that we can understand? Why is that question important for understanding ourselves? The barriers and breakthroughs are discussed with reference to science and research conducted near animals and their habitats.
Dog Domestication: How Wolves Became Man’s Best Friend (Eve Smeltzer)
How did we turn a wolf into a chihuahua?! Dogs were the first animals to be domesticated by humans, so our close bonds with our furry friends run deep. Here we will discuss the prehistoric roots of dog domestication and the earliest archaeological evidence of man’s best friend. We will also discuss how our relationship began as mostly survival-dependent and then evolved into a much more meaningful relationship.
Humans and Cats – Who Domesticated Whom? (Eve Smeltzer)
Evidence of cat domestication go far back in history, but many consider cats to be mostly feral, despite their close relationships with humans. Cats have been depicted as holy animals, symbols of witchcraft, and everything in between. In this talk we will explore our unique relationship with these semi-feral fur-babies.
Women of Evolutionary Anthropology (Part 1): Beyond the Alpha Male (Eve Smeltzer)
Scientists often pride themselves on their objectivity, but, despite our best efforts, even scientists are influenced by their social environment. The natural sciences are currently and historically dominated by men, which may influence what questions scientists ask and how they ask them. Here, we will discuss how a few dedicated female scientists changed the field of primatology (the study of primates) by providing a new perspective on the social and political lives of primates.
Women of Evolutionary Anthropology (Part 2): Woman the Gatherer (Eve Smeltzer)
Discussions of human evolution often revolve around terms like “man the hunter” and “man the toolmaker”, but women also played a valuable role in our evolutionary history. Here, we will discuss how a group of feminist anthropologist changed the field of evolutionary anthropology through the Woman the Gatherer movement of the 1970s.
What’s Cookin’ in Restaurants’ Kitchen? (Chef Eizabeth Hill)
We all love going to restaurants, but have you ever wondered what it is like behind the scenes? Join chef Elizabeth and explore how professional kitchens function and why systems matters, foundational culinary principals, and how chefs think- problem solving, consistency, and efficiency.
For the Love of Chocolate (Chef Elizabeth Hill)
Chocolate and Valentine’s Day are such a natural match…but why? What makes chocolate such a key component in our Valentine’s traditions? Join chef Elizabeth to explore its aphrodisiac qualities, its health benefits, and why it makes us so happy.
A Taste of Ireland (Chef Elizabeth Hill)
Chocolate and Valentine’s Day are such a natural match…but why? What makes chocolate such a key component in our Valentine’s traditions? Join chef Elizabeth to explore its aphrodisiac qualities, its health benefits, and why it makes us so happy.
Eating to Boost Bone Health (Judy Chodirker)
A healthy diet and regular physical activity can help promote healthy bones! Discover the nutrients that support bone health and how to include them in your diet. Enjoy fun facts about bones and practical tips that can make a difference for your quality of life.
Plant-Based Eating – Without becoming a vegetarian (Judy Chodirker)
You don’t have to be a vegetarian to benefit from adding more plant-based foods to your menu! Discover the benefits of plant-based eating, key nutrients, protein and fibre. Make small, practical changes to your diet and reap the benefits!
Eat Smart for a Healthy Brain (Judy Chodirker)
The brain shrinks and changes with age. But dementia is nor normal aging. You can do more than you think to “protect” your brain! Based on recent research, discover the best way to eat for a healthy brain, to help prevent cognitive decline and dementia. Learn fun facts and practical tips for improving your brain health.
Mindful Eating (Judy Chodirker)
Are you a mindful eater? Discover what mindful eating is and how to take control of your food choices. Find out about hunger, satiety, factors affecting our food choices and how to change habits in this presentation and group activities.
Diabetes 101: Prevention and Management of Diabetes (Judy Chodirker)
Do you have pre-diabetes or diabetes? Take control by understanding diabetes and learning how to balance your plate to better control your sugars and feel your best! There are a lot of myths about sugar and the diabetic diet. Join nutritionist Judy Chordiker to discover the truth and simple steps you can take today to improve your health.
Massachusetts 1692: The Salem Witch Trials (Dr Andrew Lindsay)
For centuries, Humans in almost every society have believed in witches! In early American history, this belief caused a horrific, tragic episode that still scars this country’s memory. The Salem Witch Trials of 1692 have been recorded by novels, stage plays, television and movies. What made Americans so willing to give in to their fears, costing 19 women their lives, with the full approval of the criminal justice system?
1867 – The Birth of Canada (Dr Andrew Lindsay)
By the 1860’s, Britain’s Canadian colonies had reached a crossroads. The British government was struggling with the question how much control it could continue to wield over this huge, untamed and sparsely populated land. From the Maritimes to the Pacific Coast, settlers were slowly growing in number and expectations of local control over their affairs. How much independence could Britain afford to grant Canada? Ruling the largest empire the world had ever seen was a huge responsibility. Could a solution be found which satisfied Britain’s needs for loyalty from its imperial subjects AND accommodate the desire of Canadians for nationhood?
Irish Immigrants in the New World (Dr Andrew Lindsay)
In the late 1840’s both Canada and the United States became the destination of tens of thousands of Irish, victims of a catastrophy- The potato famine – which was one of the most intense and tragic natural disasters in history, reducing the nation to a state of terror and desperation. But Ireland’s loss was our gain, as multitudes risked the Atlantic voyage and faced the unknown to start new lives for themselves.
Chimney Sweeps and Empire: Britain and the Industrial Revolution (Dr. Gordon Bannerman)
The industrial revolution in Britain introduced permanent changes on the British landscape, culture, and economy, problems such as labour-intensive and very hard work, pollution and poverty, but also great wealth, development of towns and cities and higher living standards in the longer term. Join historian Dr. Gordon Bannerman as he delves into the profound changes that occurred in ‘the first industrial nation’
The Great Depression (Dr. Andrew Lindsay)
No economic disaster has besieged North Americans as badly as the Great Depression (1929-1941). It changed society and our expectations of government forever, and gave us a stronger grasp of the realities and pitfalls of a modern, urban, industrial. Recent speculation in the news about a recession approaching, has made relevant questions as to how our economy prospers and declines, and what, if anything, can still be done to prepare if such happens again.
The Iron Lady: Margaret Thatcher (1925-2013) (Dr. Gordon Bannerman)
From grocer’s daughter to Downing Street – This talk examines the life, career, and legacy of Margaret Thatcher, Britain’s first female Prime Minister. The Thatcher governments made many fundamental and controversial changes to the British economy and British society. Even today, after her death, she remains a highly influential, controversial, and divisive figure.
The History of Business – 8 Lectures Series (Dr. Gordon Bannerman)
- Business and the Ancient and Medieval World
- Chartered Companies and the Age of Discovery
- Financial Bubbles, past and present
- Britain and the industrial revolution
- The economic and business development of the United States: Trust Companies and “Robber Barons”
- Canada’s economy before 1945
- The rise of multinationals and the “New Economy”
- Modern Canada: position and prospects
The Treaty of Versailles (Dr. Gordon Bannerman)
The treaty that was signed on June 1919 and brought WWI to an end was supposed to disarm Germany and impose a lasting peace in Europe. Instead, it eventually brought to the eruption of WWII. What went wrong?
Myths and Facts of War: Was Churchill really a great leader? (Dr. Gordon Bannerman)
In 2002, a BBC poll voted Winston Churchill as “The greatest Briton in history”, largely due to his role in World War II. How justified is this judgment of History? This lecture separates myths from facts attempts to portray the real Churchill, who made mistakes and had character flaws, as opposed to the near-mythical figure that has often been projected in books and films.
The Evolution of Memory: 100 Years of Remembrance Day (Dr. Gordon Bannerman)
With the mass casualties of the two World Wars of the twentieth century, the consequences of ‘total war’ affected large sections of the population in the combatant countries. The loss of so many people prompted moves to officially recognize and commemorate The Fallen. Remembrance is now a vital part of our mental landscape and plays a role in teaching the present and future generations of the nature of sacrifice and loss, as well as the horrors of war.
Queen Victoria (Dr. Gordon Bannerman)
After Elizabeth II, Queen Victoria is the longest-reigning monarch in British history. As Queen from 1837 to 1901, her reign was marked by great political, social, and economic change. Victoria was made “Empress of India”, reflective of Britain’s imperial power and prestige. In this talk, Dr. Gordon Bannerman explores Victoria’s personal and political life and legacy.
Frozen Olympic Glory (Dr Andrew Lindsay)
The success of the 1896 Athens Summer Olympics sparked the idea for winter sports, leading to the first Winter Olympics in Chamonix, France, in 1924, an event that showcased skating, skiing, and hockey, launching athletes into global fame
James Naismith and the Birth of Basketball (Dr Andrew Lindsay)
In the late 19th Century, football and baseball had laid down roots at the school and professional level. But what could be done for those seeking physical challenge and stimulation when the winter descended in cold places? The need for another physical contest to keep young people in shape was apparent. In 1898 a young Canadian teacher, James Naismith, invented a sport that would captivate hundreds of millions around the world. Basketball had arrived.
Jackie Robinson: A Pioneer Walking a Lonely Path (Dr. Andrew Lindsay)
Old attitudes die hard and the road was not an easy one making sports a truly diverse and welcoming place for colored players. It was baseball player Jackie Robinson who opened the door for African Americans to pursue their dreams and make their presence felt on the playing fields, overcoming many obstacles in a slowly integrating world. More than fifty years after his death, the world of sport still looks to Jackie Robinson at the mountain top of civil rights’ progress in America.
Frank Robinson: Baseball’s First Black Manager (Dr. Andrew Lindsay)
When Frank Robinson became a teenage baseball phenom in the 1950’s, the game’s racial barrier had been challenged by another Robinson named Jackie. But progress was slow, and overcoming narrow attitudes would take place over many years for other black athletes, both as players and managers. Frank Robinson traversed both roads, leaving behind a legacy that would benefit countless others seeking a fair opportunity in the game.
Jews in Modern Sports (Dr. Andrew Lindsay)
The history of Jewish immigrants to Canada and the United States adapting, assimilating and making it in a new land can be traced over 150 years of work and struggle. Yet one area of modern society offered unique challenges for the Jewish community, the world of sports and physical fitness. The relationship of the Jewish faith and exercise was complicated, reaching back over many centuries, a process involving much self-reflection and obstacles that needed to be confronted.
From the Editor’s Desk (Julie Carl)
There’s a reason there are so many movies and TV shows about newsrooms: They are fascinating. Seasoned journalist Julie Carl will take you behind the scenes for the nitty gritty of how newsrooms perform the “daily miracle” of getting the news to readers.
A Woman in the News (Julie Carl)
When journalist Julie Carl entered a newsroom 35 years ago, few women were in positions of authority. She fought in the trenches for women’s voices to be heard in perhaps the most important vehicle that shapes society: presentation of the news. Julie has seen a revolution in women’s roles in journalism as she served as city editor at the London Free Press, deputy editor of the Winnipeg Free Press and senior editor at the Toronto Star.
A Royal Wedding (Julie Carl)
Journalist Julie Carl covered the Royal Wedding of the Century for the Winnipeg Free Press. Hear about witnessing the magic and the grandeur first-hand – and the mammoth effort it takes to file stories from an international event.
Trump and Canada (Julie Carl)
Newspapers play a vital role in democracy. Timothy Snyder – author of On Tyranny: Twenty lessons from the Twentieth Century — set Rule 2 in the fight for democracy: Subscribe to a newspaper. Seasoned journalist Julie Carl talks about how Canadians can gird in the fight to keep Trumpism out.
King Lear (John Huston)
What happens when your ruler goes mad? Shakespeare’s greatest tragedy looks at family dynamics and dynasties, father-child relationships, naked ambition and madness in monarchy. Banned during the reign of George III; rewritten during the Restoration; given a shocking twist ending by Shakespeare – Discover the stories in and about the Bard’s pre-history play.
Lucy Maud Montgomery – A Trailblazing Canadian Novelist (Dr. Andrew Lindsay)
Well after Confederation, Canadians were still mostly indulging in the culture of Britain, their mother country. Yet the early 20th Century would see Canadians create a culture of their own in various areas, including literature. Lucy Maud Montgomery was one author who attained international fame at a time when few Canadian women could even get published. Her eight novels around “Anne of Green Gables” depict a fiercely independent girl determined not to allow being an orphan prevent her from carving out her own identity or choosing her own path in life.
Three Outstanding Mexican Women (Mariana Arámburu)
Explore the art of Frida Kahlo, Remedios Varo, and Leonora Carrington and learn how life in Mexico in the mid 20th century inspired these artists to create feminist art with a whimsical touch of surrealism.
The Origins of Art: Mankind’s Journey to Symbolic Thought (Eve Smeltzer)
Many of the qualities that we consider to be uniquely human—artistry, language, mathematics—stem from our ability to think in the abstract and express these ideas through symbolism (images, words, numbers). But how did our species develope this ability? The discussion evolves around human evolution of symbolic thought through the earliest evidence of art from humans and Neanderthals. We will also discuss some evidence of animal artistry in pigs (the famous Pigcasso), chimpanzees, elephants, birds, and animal copyright lawsuits.
Contemporary Feminism in Politics and the Environment (Dr. Andrew Fuyarchuk)
After having described the four waves of feminism and their significance for politics and the environment, we will use a feminist lens to interpret the popular images of women in advertisements, music and film. Then, we will study how women have overcome obstacles to achieve positive results in medicine and politics.
Plato’s Theory of Love (Dr. Andrew Fuyarchuk)
Love and friendship are as complicated a topic in ancient Greece as they are today. Using Plato’s Symposium and Aristotle’s Ethics, we will discuss how desire is corrupted and corrected, kinds of friendship and love in both contemporary and philosophical contexts.
Animal Communication and Humans (Dr. Andrew Fuyarchuk)
Do animals have intentions and a language that we can understand? Why is that question important for understanding ourselves? The barriers and breakthroughs are discussed with reference to science and research conducted near animals and their habitats..
Is the Academy Obsolete? (Dr. Andrew Fuyarchuk)
Are institutionalized departments of learning a means to maintain the status quo or a fulcrum for critical thinking and socially relevant initiatives? This question is debated in light of Socrates’ criticism of Plato’s philosophy.
Ecologists and the Political-Economy of Climate Change (Dr. Andrew Fuyarchuk)
The globalization of industrial capitalism is responsible for the warming of the planet. The effects are felt around the world, but in some places and among some people more than others. What do politically minded ecologists think we should do next?
Spinoza: Discovering Einstein’s God (Dr. Christopher DiCarlo)
The prize student in his congregation’s Talmud Torah that was excommunicated for “abominable heresies – who was Baruch Spinoza? A ‘radical atheist’ or a spiritual man who developed a new understanding of God? Spinoza was One of the early thinkers of the Enlightenment who laid the foundations for a democratic political thought and a deep critique of the pretensions of Scripture and sectarian religion.
Ethics: How Should We Behave? – 8 Lectures Series (Dr. Christopher DiCarlo)
What is the difference between right and wrong? Or good and evil? What is ‘the good life’? What is well-being? What is autonomy? These notions are central in ethical theory, law, bioethics, and in the popular imagination. This course explores these concepts in greater depth, and then consider how our views about them shape our views about ethics.
- Introduction to Ethical Theories and Principles.
- Introduction to Ethical Theories and Principles.
- Ethics and the Law, The Five Step Procedure for Case Study Analysis.
- Ethical Issues and Case Studies: The New Reproductive Technologies.
- Ethical Issues and Case Studies: Abortion and Euthanasia.
- Ethical Issues and Case Studies: Racism and Capital Punishment.
- Ethical Issues and Case Studies: Genetics and Genomics.
- Ethical Issues and Case Studies: Autonomy – Political and Metaphysical.
Critical Thinking in a ‘Post-Truth’ World (Dr. Christopher DiCarlo)
With advances in technology involving the increasingly rapid transfer of information throughout the world, it has become more difficult to determine what is legitimate news from what is fake. The skill set of Critical Thinking provides one with the abilities to analyze information, understand the importance of bias and context, consider what counts as evidence, and be able to identify fallacies or errors in reasoning.
Aesthetics: The Philosophy of Art (Dr. Christopher DiCarlo)
What is beauty and why is art important to us? The earliest art work dates back to 30,000 years ago, long before there the great civilizations of Mesopotamia and ancient Israel were created. Explore many fascinating examples of art, from the great masters to the abstract expressionism of Jackson Pollock to the impressionism of Van Gogh. Is comedy art? Is dance art? Can our entire life be sign as a form of art?
The Fair Machine (Dr. Christopher DiCarlo)
Fairness – A concept around which politics (we all hope) revolves. But what does it really mean to be fair? Is it possible to build a “Fairness Machine” which reduces bias, vested interest, and personal agendas in an effort to create a more fair society?
Good vs. Evil (Dr. Christopher DiCarlo)
What is “Ethics”? How did the concept of “Good vs. Evil” evolve throughout history? How does Utilitarian philosophy measure “goodness” and how applicable is it in everyday life? Is ethical thought and behavior limited to humans only?
Redemption on the Silver Screen (Dr. Christopher DiCarlo)
Nowhere more creatively is the theme of redemption played out than in the movies. We shall look at this theme In Gran Torino, Good Will Hunting, the Pianist, the Shawshank Redemption and others and consider whether something akin to a redeeming spirit dwells within each of us.
The Abridged History of Love (Dr. Christopher DiCarlo)
How was the concept of ‘love’ defined, used, and celebrated throughout recorded time (and potentially, pre-recorded time). During the festive season of St. Valentine’s – when “love is in the air” – let’s consider the nature of this most perplexing, yet wondrous of human emotions.
Bearing Witness: Postwar Musical Depictions of the Shoah (Lucas Hung)
Theodor Adorno once said that “to write poetry after Auschwitz is barbaric”– is this also true for music? Lucas’ presentation explores the musical responses of Jewish composers Arnold Schoenberg (A Survivor from Warsaw) and Steve Reich (Different Trains) to the Holocaust, converting their grief into harrowing and poignant pieces of music.
Robert Schumann: Papillons, Op. 2 (Joseph Sharon)
Schumann’s early piano music represents a unique aspect of romanticism – intricate relationships between music and prose. His “Papillons” op. 2 is a musical rendition of the writings of his favourite author, Jean Paul.
The Musical Sermon of J.S.Bach (Joseph Sharon)
The 200 cantatas of J.S.Bach which have come down to us are musical “essays” –Commentaries on religious readings. In this talk we will encounter two of them – a meditation on earthly and heavenly life, and wedding as a metaphor for the relationship between the soul and God. Two works of a devout Lutheran who signed his works “SOLI DEO GLORIA” – Glory be to God alone.
Bach and the Organ (Joseph Sharon)
During his lifetime, Bach was more appreciated as an organist than as a composer, practicing an art that was already on the decline. But from a modern perspective, his organ works, which represent a significant portion of his output, include some of his most inventive creations. In this lecture we will encounter three main German organ genres, all culminating in the works of a single individual.
Musical Gems from Medieval Spain (Joseph Sharon)
Delve into the spirit of medieval Spain expressed in two sources of lyrics and music: The religious devotion of the pilgrims to the shrine of Montserrat in the “Red Book of Montserrat”, and a cycle of songs of a young girl longing for her beloved to return.
In Principio: Medieval Sacred Music (Joseph Sharon)
In the beginning there was the Word, and then the tune, and then the art. The story of western music began in the worship of God – a transition from merely praise to artistic expression. Join Joseph in a musical journey from the Roman catacombs through the Carolingian monastery of St. Gall, Winchester cathedral and Notre-Dame in Paris.
The Birth of the Symphony (Joseph Sharon)
Starting as a form of entertainment for the middle class in the mid 1700’s, the early symphonies reflect the evolution of the classical style and taste – from an opera overture to an independent orchestral work and a brand new world of sound.
Hector Berlioz: Symphonie Fantastique (Joseph Sharon)
Opium addiction, passion, murder, execution and torments of hell are the ingredients of this drama without words. Symphonie Fantastique is a work of an over-ambitious young composer from the dawn of romanticism – the first musical expedition into psychedelia.
Brahms: Quintet for Clarinet and Strings (Joseph Sharon)
In 1891, the autumn of his life, Johannes Brahms produces his quintet for clarinet and strings op. 115 – An autumnal piece of introspection, yearning and melancholy. Join us to listen to some of the haunting moments of his greatest work of chamber music.
Improvisation (Joseph Sharon)
Improvisation? In classical music? Isn’t that a skill for jazz and Indian musicians? Not only! From the very beginning of western music up to the 21st century, inventing music “on the spot” was not only a common and welcome practice, but in many cases an essential skill for the musician. Join me in a journey through the cathedrals of the Gothic era, the ballrooms of the European royalty, the Lutheran churches and the Parisian salons of the 19th century where musical improvisation was always à la mode.
Opera Choruses (Joseph Sharon)
No opera is complete without at least one good chorus. In this presentation we’ll enjoy some of the best known opera choruses by Verdi, Wagner, Weber and Puccini and get to know their context.
Operatic Love Arias and duets – The romantic, the tragic and the weird (Joseph Sharon)
From the seductive Don Juan, to the grave duet of Radames and Aida, to Serse’s love aria to a tree (!!!) – Explore the many shades of love – the lifeblood of the opera.
The Strauss Family from Vienna (Joseph Sharon)
Vienna 1848 – The Austro-Hungarian Empire is in political turmoil. But the music, the Viennese lifeblood, has never been more cheerful. We’ll meet the Strauss Family which dominates the light music scene, and get to know also some its juicy stories and scandals.
The Many Faces of Itzhak Perlman (Joseph Sharon)
Itzhak Perlman is one of the most versatile artists of our time. A virtuoso violinist who feels at home equally in classical music, folk and music for movies. This talk is an opportunity to take a peek behind the scenes of the concert hall and the musician’s practice studio.
Robert Schumann – Scenes from Childhood (Joseph Sharon)
For Robert Schumann “childhood” was paradise lost, the only truly happy time of his life. Throughout his adult life recollections of that blissful period emerge in his work. In our meeting we will get to know three piano works of a composer that never grew up.
Life and Music of Frederic Chopin (Joseph Sharon)
Frederic Chopin is known as “the Piano Poet” – Nobody made the piano sing and express emotions like him. In this presentation we will hear some of his short pieces, try to understand the essence of the music of the romantic era, and also get to know the man behind the music.
Curious Instruments (Joseph Sharon)
Names like Pan-flute, Baryton or Jew’s harp might not be common in the concert hall, but they are not merely musical curiosities – they have interesting history, as well as unique repertoire, written by well known composers (and some less known…)
The Pilgrimage of Franz Liszt (Joseph Sharon)
In a sharp contrast to his famous fireworks for the piano, Franz Liszt’s “Années de pèlerinage” is a poetic work, a window to a soul of a young artist whose fascination with literature, nature, art and history inspired the creation of this piano cycle.
G.F.Handel: Messiah, an Oratorio (Joseph Sharon)
Although by far the best known work by Handel, Messiah is his most untypical oratorio – rather than a drama with characters and plot it is a narration of the birth, passion, resurrection and second coming of Christ – a work with theological, philosophical and even political agenda.
The Songs of Franz Schubert (Joseph Sharon)
The art song (“Lied”), the perfect marriage of poetry and music, is the flower of romanticism. Join Joseph as he takes you to a journey through nature, love and tragedy in the early 19th century.
The Recorder (Joseph Sharon)
Apart from “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” and similar tunes, the recorder has a rich repertoire that spans from the middle ages to modern times. Composers such as Vivaldi, Telemann and Bach wrote music for this uncommon instrument.
The Golden Age: Music in Elizabethan England (Joseph Sharon)
Walter Raleigh, Shakespeare, Francis Drake, Christopher Marlowe: Truly the golden age of England. And music did not lag behind. Domestic music making was THE fashion under the reign on the virgin queen.
Benjamin Britten – A War requiem (Joseph Sharon)
Lt. Wilfred Owen was a soldier and a poet who lived the horrors of WWI. His apocalyptic poems are set to music in this beautiful outcry against the inhumanity of war.
Claude Debussy – an Impression (Joseph Sharon)
“Impressionism” – An artistic movement that flourished in France at the end of the 19th century. Discover the art of Monet, Pissarro, Verlaine and Debussy – a fascinating world between reality and dream
Women Composers (Joseph Sharon)
It’s a men’s world – certainly when it comes to creating music. Yet, through history we encounter talented females who dared challenge this belief and create music. In this presentation we will meet not just “wife of…” or “sister of…” but great artists in their own right.
1000 Years of Church Music (Joseph Sharon)
A central part of the story of western music is the evolution of sacred music – The transition from the pure service of God to a vehicle for artistic expression. Join Joseph as he explores different styles of sacred music from the middle ages up to Mozart.
The Architecture of Music – The Sonata Form (Joseph Sharon)
What is “form” in music? How does a composer organize musical material? Using works of W.A.Mozart, we will examine the most prevalent form of music in the age of enlightenment, sharpen our mind and understand our role as active listeners.
Jazz Heroines (Lucas Hung)
From star vocalists to talented pianists, women have played an integral role in the history of jazz. This presentation traces the lives and legacies of female jazz musicians Billie Holliday, Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald and Nina Simon who overcame prejudice and racism to become renowned masters of their crafts.
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We Shall Overcome: Music in the Civil Rights Movement (Lucas Hung)
Music has played a fundamental role in the success of the American Civil Rights Movement. With spirituals, gospel, and folk music, organizers galvanized the public through song like “We Shall Overcome” and Mississippi Goddam” and drove them to action.
The Fierce Genius of Irish Music and Song (Michael O’Brien)
From fierce Irish humor to heart-melting Irish beauty to good old rousing Irish fun – Join Irish-Canadian playwright Michael O’Brien as he walks you through the central role Irish music and song have played in his own life and career. From Brendan Behan, The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem, to The Chieftains and The Dubliners, to Shane McGowan and The Pogues right up to Enya and Sinead O’Connor. Iconic melodies, laughs, good times, and a few tears.
The Trial of Louis Rail (John Huston)
In 1967 the City of Regina commissioned a play about the trial of Métis leader Louis Riel from Irish playwright John Coulter. Métis actor John Huston, who has performed nearly a dozen roles in the show over 40 years, talks about the history of the Riel trial, the Northwest Resistance and how it affected Canada for nearly a century after, the writing of Coulter’s play and how we see one of Canada’s most controversial characters 125 years later.
Our National Sport (Dr. Andrew Lindsay)
No sport is closer to who Canadians are and what they are about than hockey. A sport that took shape not long after Confederation, hockey quickly took its place at the very core of our identity and has remained there ever since. How and why is this rugged and demanding game so appealing to us?
Toronto – The Beginning (Dr. Andrew Lindsay)
Toronto, Canada’s largest city, emerged from sleepy beginnings as a settlement, village, town and metropolis over the past 200 years. Much of its growth occurred during the late 19th Century when so much of the world underwent the Industrial Revolution. How did our city take its place as an international urban center with such a high standard of living?
The Founding Fathers: John A. Macdonald and Wilfrid Laurier (Dr. Andrew Lindsay)
After almost three centuries of European settlement, Canadians ventured tentatively into the status of their own nationhood in 1867. Today, more than 150 years later, our status as one of the most livable and stable nations speaks to the contributions of our two greatest early prime ministers, Conservative John A. Mcdonald and Liberal Wilfrid Laurier. Who were these two historical giants of the Great White North and what did they contribute to our nation’s heritage?
Canada in World War 1 (Dr. Andrew Lindsay)
In 1914, Canada went to war, but it did so still seen by much of the world as an appendage of it’s mother country, Britain. Even 47 years after Confederation, Canadians chafed at the perception of being a junior partner following the lead of London, a small player on a big stage. Burning with a desire to announce its place among nations, Canada would blaze a path on the battlefield, emerging from the crucible of war as a real country with its own identity in four short years.
Tim Horton – Hockey Star and Businessman (Dr. Andrew Lindsay)
Hockey and donuts, two cherished Canadian cultural symbols, intersected in 1974 when the life and career of hockey legend Tim Horton abruptly ended. Join Andrew as he delves into the story of this man from a small Canadian town and discover how did his off-the-ice business venture grow into a national phenomenon?
VIRTUAL ONLY The Calgary Stampede (Ryan Uytdewilligen)
The Calgary Stampede is known as the Biggest Outdoor Show on Earth. What began as a cowboy outing in 1912, has grown into a massive competition that draws thousands every year to see the best in bull-riding, chuck wagon races, and a celebration of agriculture. Join Ryan as he discusses the history and the controversies that make up this annual event.
Quebec vs. Canada – The Meech Lake Controversy (Dr. Andrew Lindsay)
For sixty years, one of Canada’s greatest challenges has been accommodating the interests of Quebec without weakening the power of the government and national unity – a potentially divisive issue between its two founding linguistic peoples. In 1987, in a meeting at Meech Lake, the Canadian government attempted update our constitution in such a way as to satisfy Quebec’s unique demands. What transpired over the next three years seriously alienated Canadians from their government and English Canadians from French Canadians. Some felt that the survival of the nation was at stake. What happened?
Blue Zones (Dr. Edward Gonzala)
Discover the world’s Blue Zones, regions where people live significantly longer and healthier lives. Join Dr. Edward Gonzala as he explores the common traits and healthy habits shared by these communities, such as a plant-based diet, strong social connections, a sense of purpose, and effective stress management. Learn how you can incorporate these longevity secrets into your own life to improve your health and well-being.
The Future of Food (Dr. Babak Ataei-Mehr)
Space-grown veggies, lab-grown steaks (no cow needed), seaweed delights and protein-rich insects (!) – Join Biologist Dr. Babak Ataei-Mehr as he describes the food technologies of the future – Cost effective, environment friendly and guilt free nourishment for the growing human population.
The Black Donnellys (Thomas Levesque)
Join manager and curator of the Lucan Area Heritage and Donnelly Museum Thomas Levesque walks you through the fascinating but grim history of the infamous Black Donnelly Family of Lucan, ON. Emigrating from Ireland to Canada in the mid-19th century, they entered a region of crime and violence. A murder committed by the patriarch puts a black mark on the Donnelly name, and sparks off a community conflict that would result in a mass murder.
The Wilberforce Settlement (Thomas Levesque)
In 1829 a group of Black families fleeing racial prejudice in the United States formed a settlement known as Wilberforce where Lucan-Biddulph stands today. Join Manager and Curator of the Lucan Area Heritage and Donnelly Museum Thomas Levesque as he takes you through the rise and fall of the early Black settlement, and the lasting impact on our community.