This seminar focuses on Peter Brown’s biography of Augustine, a work that not only illuminates Augustine's life but also offers profound insights into the dilemmas of living in any era. Our discussions will cover a broad range of topics, reflecting the challenges Augustine faced in his time. Participation requires engagement with the readings, not selective focus on personal preferences. We will explore controversies within the context of Augustine's historical and cultural environment, which differs significantly from the 21st century. Each session will be guided by reflections on our readings.

In this course we will discuss and analyze the development of the English language, particularly in the United States, including grammar, usage, slang and idioms.

This course explores Mishawaka's rich and interesting history from 1832 to the present day. Our lessons will include the city's origins, major businesses and industries, Mishawaka's participation in our nation's wars, historic landmarks past and present, significant historic events, the city's schools, sports history, ethnic heritage, and famous Mishawakans. One class meeting will be a field trip to the Mishawaka Historical Museum, where there is a $5 admission charge. $5 copy fee to instructor.

Join international operatic tenor and retired ND Professor Mark Beudert (live) and the legendary Leonard Bernstein (on video) as we make the workings of classical music understandable. You will be AMAZED at how much you learn!

What future awaits humanity, and how shall we shape the desired tomorrow? How does technology influence our choices? Are we aware of AI’s benefits and pitfalls? Do we understand the fundamental difference between Techno Feudalism vs. Techno Emancipation? Insights from Marshall McLuhan and others on how technology is the medium of the message as we experience emerging technology and Human Life.

Or maybe you are rethinking religion in an age of crisis and wonder if AI is contributing to the crisis? If AI is sparking a contemplation on faith, spirituality, or profound questions within you, rest assured, you’re not alone! A multitude of individuals, like us, find that technological advancements—be it AI, space exploration, or bioengineering—nudge us to reevaluate long-standing philosophical and religious concepts. The relationship between AI and religion is complex and evolving. It will likely remain a significant reflection area as AI continues to advance.

There is one required book -- The Gypsies by Jan Yoors from Waveland Press. I will show you how to access the book in the first class. Students will also be assigned online readings and video links, including from the History Channel. A key website for accurate information about Romanies and Travellers is www.gypsyloresociety.org where I will recommend specific links as well as links to other reliable websites such as www.ASAnet.org . Other resources such as the documentary -- American Gypsy: A Stranger in Everybody's Land -- will also be discussed and explained as well as my lectures and study guides.

The course will explore an almost forgotten time period of North American history, 1754-1763, The French & Indian War. This event had a lasting effect on this continent, made England a world power, and helped bring about the American Revolution. You have the opportunity to observe and discuss many pieces of equipment, uniforms, maps, furs, and other items. The war itself and methods of fighting in it will also be talked about. The instructor has been a teacher and a French reenacting soldier. He has participated in events in Quebec, Canada and 8 different states. He will bring some new and interesting ideas to the class through his experiences.