Publications & Sites 
Harper College community programs
Updated: December 30, 2012 3:07PM
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. 30.
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.
