Publications & Sites 
Harper College community programs
Updated: November 19, 2012 2:28PM
Harper College’s Continuing Education Department offers courses for adults 55+ through the Lifelong Learning Institute (LLI). Courses are available to members and non-members. Fees vary by course and are listed with the individual course descriptions. Classes are held on Harper campuses in Palatine and Prospect Heights and at partner sites in Barrington, Wheeling, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Palatine and Schaumburg.
Culture Around the World
Author and journalist Phyllis Kepler unravels some of the mysteries as to why and how cultures shape us. She will take you from a European penthouse into the lonely countryside of Afghanistan and on to a Japanese geisha party as she talks about her experiences. Discover why individualism is important in the United States and how telling it is when individualism produces negative reactions when crossing cultural lines. How we see colors, interpret sounds and raise children are only a few of the millions of cultural differences. Fees: $30, The Garlands in Barrington, from 1 to 3 p.m. Nov. 2, Nov. 16, Nov. 30.
The Stevenson Family
Three generations of the Stevenson family will come to life as historian Jim Bernard discusses one of the most illustrious families in Illinois. You will first learn about Adlai I, the vice president in the second administration of Grover Cleveland. You will then meet Adlai II, the former Governor of Illinois and U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Finally you will focus on Adlai III, former U.S. senator from Illinois and international businessman. Fees: $10, Buffalo Grove Park District in Buffalo Grove, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Nov. 2.
The Music of World War II
Journey back through time with Eric Berman, and he will show you the heartfelt, sentimental, novelty music of the World War II era. Listen to and sing along with the original recordings of songs such as “God Bless America,” “Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree,” “Mairzy Doats” and many others. This is designed to be an interactive experience so a songbook will be provided. You will view photos of the era and hear the stories behind the songs and the artists who made them famous. Finally, the music will prompt discussion about memories of the world at that time in history. Free, Arlington Heights Senior Center in Arlington Heights, from 10 to 11 a.m. Nov. 8.
Candy Bombers of World War II
By 1948, World War II had ended and the Cold War took hold all over the world. War-weary West Berlin was dependent on food and supplies trucked in by U.S. forces. In June, the Russians blockaded the city. Their intention was to starve West Berliners out of their alliance with the former Allied countries and into an alliance with Russia. They were foiled, however, by the efforts of American and British pilots who for 13 months airlifted almost five billion tons of supplies to the city. Along with these necessities were little parachutes of candy, provided secretly by the pilots, which floated down to the German children. Joyce Haworth will tell the story of the Berlin Airlift, one of finest hours in American history, based on the book The Candy Bombers by Andrei Cherney. Fees: $10, The Garlands in Barrington, from 1 to 3 p.m. Nov. 9.
Exploring Frederick The Great: The Glory of Prussia
This year marks the 300th birthday of one of the most important royals in history, Frederick the Great. The Prussian king has commanded the interest of historians and politicians for centuries. His tricentennial anniversary provides the impetus to look back at this extraordinary historical figure and his dynasty of seven kings and three emperors. Join German historian Anette Isaacs as she explores the infamous Kaiser Wilhelm II and other colorful members of the House of Hohenzollern, a family that shaped the history of Germany. Fees: $10, Our Saviours Lutheran Church in Arlington Heights, from 1 to 3 p.m. Nov. 20.
Egyptian History-4000 Years in 90 Minutes
Behold one of the last remaining Wonders of the Ancient World when one delves into this ancient culture. You will learn where, why and how pyramids were built along with the beauty secrets of early Egyptians. Lisa Didier, writer, teacher, historian and world traveler, will discuss the importance of mummies in the Egyptian culture and why it was not always good to be the king of Egypt. Fees: $10, Friendship Village in Schaumburg, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Nov. 27.
Natural Wonders of Indonesia
Prepare to be amazed by an introduction to the Wallace Line, an environmental demarcation between the Indonesian islands of Bali and Lombok. Creatures north of this natural line are Asian, such as tigers, elephants and water buffalo. Australian animals, such as kangaroos, wombats and koalas are found south of the Wallace Line. Learn about the great naturalist Alfred Wallace, his life in the Amazon jungle, and his discoveries in the Indonesian Islands. You will learn that he, too, formulated theories of evolution stated in the Origin of the Species but never got credit for it. The discussion will be illustrated with slides of creatures that exist nowhere else in the world except Wallacea. Fees: $10, Addolorata Villa in Wheeling, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Dec. 4.
A Christmas Cup of Tea
Shopping, wrapping, decorating and baking overwhelm you as you rush to get ready for the holidays. Take time to gather with friends, set out the teapot and cups, and listen to stories of Christmases past and how they were celebrated in other countries. Rediscover Victorian Christmas traditions, the origin of the Christmas tree and Father Christmas, and an explanation of Boxing Day. Patricia O’Brien, a certified tea consultant and lecturer, will create a delightful afternoon as she reads A Cup of Christmas Tea and leads you on a journey through Christmases past. You will enjoy tea, scones, Devonshire Cream and jam. Be sure to bring your own special teacup to the party. Fees: $15, Arlington Heights Senior Center in Arlington Heights, from 2 to 3 p.m. Dec. 5.
Introduction to Brain Gym
Your brain can benefit from exercise, just like your body does. This class is an experiential introduction to Brain Gym, a program of physical activities that enhances your ability to learn and accomplish tasks and goals. Based on more than 80 years of research, this method is used worldwide by people of all ages to improve memory, concentration, vision, cognitive skills and physical coordination. Brain Gym also releases stress and removes learning blocks. Bring a large bottle of drinking water to class. Fees: $15, Palatine Township Senior Center in Palatine, from 9:15 to 11:15 a.m. Dec. 6.
Vive La France: French Classical Music in Pop Culture
French classical music abounds in pop culture. This program illustrates music written by five French composers. Musical selections by Delibes, Saint-Saëns, Ravel, Dukas and Offenbach provide examples of where their melodies can be found where you might least expect them. Fees: $10, Friendship Village in Schaumburg, from 10 to 11 a.m. Dec. 11.
