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Learn the historical origins, ethnic considerations, and current rationales for the serious territorial conflicts between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, as well as in other areas of the former Soviet Union over the years. Topics include who has the most convincing claim to Eastern Ukraine and the Crimean peninsula. Dr. Philip Pryde explains why these regions, and others, are considered so strategically important to the Russian Federation and its current leadership.
Format: 70% Lecture, 30% Interactive discussion
Are you tired of wasting time looking for that one document you need on your computer or in the stacks of paperwork on your desk? Do you hear the constant reports of hacking and worry you might be next? If you answered “yes” to one of these questions, this class is for you! Learn the best methods to organize electronic and paper files to tame clutter and save time, as well as the steps you can take now to reduce your risk of a cyberattack.
Format: 70% Lecture, 30% Interactive discussion
Europe is the largest trade power, it is home to the world’s largest single market and second most used currency. At the same time, Europeans are facing many challenges, from globalization, to the impact of new technologies on society and jobs, to security concerns and the rise of populism. The European agenda will be defined in the European Parliament elections in June this year. In this class, students will gain a deeper understanding on the composition and structure of the European Union. The class will analyze the main issues and some of the proposed solutions. We will look at the major European trading partners to discuss changes taking place and the implications in the stability of the European Union.
Format: 40% Lecture, 60% Interactive discussion
This two-week interactive course will examine key aspects of the ongoing legal battle about the “Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals” (DACA) policy adopted in 2012 by the Obama Administration and proposed (so far unsuccessfully) to be rescinded by the Trump Administration. Why has the Supreme Court so far declined to review lower court rulings against the Trump Administration? What will the issues be when the court ultimately does get involved? On what bases have (most) lower courts, including the 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals, ruled that the proposed DACA rescission is illegal?
Format: 80% Lecture, 20% Interactive discussion
How vulnerable are your aging loved ones to financial abuse and exploitation? What particular acts are they most vulnerable to? Who is advising them about their money — is it financial planning or fleecing? What are they being sold and how much are they losing? What does this mean for your inheritance? How can seniors be protected against abuse and what remedies are available to victims? Questions such as these have been on the national radar for decades and California has taken action by enacting laws that protect elders and dependent adults that provide civil remedies for victims and their estates. Financial exploitation of seniors is a growing problem and you’re in a position to fight back. Come learn how.
Format: 80% Lecture, 20% Interactive discussion
Decades before WWI, governments of Europe and Russia engaged in an arms race leading to territorial competition for regional supremacy. Did the First World War competition for power and control develop into a plan for economic world domination among Europe’s great powers? Recently unclassified files and documents add to the complexity of the events leading to the most terrible wars in human history and the motivations of the world leaders at that time. This course will discuss the implications of how history is presented and the importance of details when analyzing the big picture politics of this time period.
Format: 70% Lecture, 30% Interactive discussion
By the end of this discussion you will know more about same-sex marriage in the U.S. and internationally than most people. The talk will focus on early attempts to legalize same-sex marriage, the difference between civil unions, domestic partnerships and marriage, and some of the legal, political and social issues for and against same-sex marriage.
Format: 80% Lecture, 20% Interactive discussion
Over one million Baby Boomers will pass away in the next 10 years…4 out of 5 will be men…how prepared are you? As the old saying goes, “You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf!” The death of a spouse, inevitable as it is, is one of those transitions very few people plan for, yet this kind of planning is inherently an act of love. Based on the book of the same name, this class offers the refreshing approach of how building a practical path to emotional and financial wellness now, while both spouses are living, can significantly reduce the fear and uncertainty of anticipating such a life altering event. The program is equally beneficial for current surviving spouses. Attendees will receive a free copy of Buddy’s book The Coming Widow Boom – What You and Your Loved Ones Can Do to Prepare for the Unthinkable.
Format: 75% Lecture, 15% Interactive discussion, 10% Film viewing
Enjoy listening to Latin American music from Brazil and Argentina as you learn about the sexy samba, smooth bossa nova, and the sultry tango. In this two-class series, you will appreciate Latin music while you discover the history and cultural heritage that these musical genres represent in their respective countries. Familiarize yourself with classic songs and timeless musicians from South America’s Southern Cone.
Format: 40% Lecture, 20% Interactive discussion, 40%, Listening to music
How do you make sense of conflicting news reports and competing views of foreign events? And what does all that mean for us, especially ahead of elections in 2020? We’ll address these challenges together, discussing facts and methods to help you understand current world affairs on your own terms. Guided by an American diplomat with 29 years of experience, we’ll look at current international issues and where they may be headed. Whatever your politics and experience, you’ll have the chance to contribute your own views and learn some others.
Format: 60% Lecture, 40% Interactive discussion