Renaissance Academy Charlotte County Fall 2011 Lectures & Short Courses

Fall 2011

Charlotte County

Adult Lectures &

Short Courses

At

Herald Court Centre

117 Herald Court, Suite 211 Punta Gorda, FL 33950

941-505-0130 www.fgcu.edu/hcc

http://www.fgcu.edu/hcc

2 8-30-2011 Revision

The Renaissance Academy

Of Florida Gulf Coast University

117 Herald Court, Suite 211

Punta Gorda, FL 33950

Register Online: https://RegisterRA.fgcu.edu

Website: www.fgcu.edu/hcc

Email: [email protected]

Phone (941) 505-0130

HOW TO REGISTER FOR CLASSES!

ONLINE – Use a credit card to safely and securely register online at www.fgcu.edu/hcc or

https://RegisterRA.fgcu.edu

BY PHONE – Use a credit card to register by calling: (941) 505-0130

BY MAIL – See address below:

Florida Gulf Coast University

Herald Court Centre


Punta Gorda, FL. 33950

Come visit us and register for class in person!

The Renaissance Academy is the University’s and region’s premier lifelong learning

program for adults, seniors and retirees. It is based on the premise that learning should never

cease, that keeping the mind intellectually, creatively and culturally active fundamentally

enriches and invigorates lives. There are no exams or grades, just learning for the joy of

learning with friends and neighbors.

John J. Guerra

Interim Executive Director, Continuing Education

and The Renaissance Academy

Nancy Staub

Program Assistant

John Van Hook, Jr.

Program Coordinator

Richard A. Ramos

Student Advising Assistant

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.fgcu.edu/hcc

https://registerra.fgcu.edu/


DIRECTIONS:

CONFIRMATION POLICY: Except for Special Programs (course numbers which begin with “SP”) and

limited enrollment courses (as specified herein), please consider yourself confirmed for all courses for

which you register. You will receive confirmation for all “SP” and limited enrollment courses. Early

enrollment is strongly recommended for such courses as they tend to fill quickly. All Renaissance

Academy courses are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

CANCELLATION POLICY: If a class is canceled, you will be notified by phone and issued a full refund

within 30 business days. If you wish to withdraw from a class, please notify the Renaissance Academy at

941-505-0130 no later than 5:00 pm three (3) business days prior to the first session of the class in order

to receive a refund. Individuals who cancel after the start of the class will not receive a refund. Unless

otherwise stated, a fourteen (14) business day notice is required for refunds on all special programs (SP).

DISABILITY ACCOMMODATIONS: Most Renaissance Academy locations are handicapped-accessible.

Please call the Academy’s office before the start of your first class if you require additional information

on handicapped-accessible parking or wheel chair-accessible restrooms and classrooms.

PARKING at Herald Court Centre is FREE and located in the adjacent easily accessible, lighted parking garage.

The views, analyses, findings and opinions expressed by Renaissance Academy instructors are theirs alone and do not necessarily

reflect those of the Renaissance Academy or Florida Gulf Coast University.

In all of its operations, including admissions, employment, and access to its programs and services, Florida Gulf Coast University

does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, creed, national origin, disability, marital status, disabled

veteran status or age.

From the South:

1. Take I-75 N toward Tampa 2. Take the US-17 S exit, Exit 164 toward

Punta Gorda, FL 0.4 mi. 3. Turn left onto US-17 S/Duncan Rd. Continue to

follow US-17S. 2.3 mi. 4. Turn left onto Taylor Road/ CR-765A. 0.0 mi. 5. Turn left onto Herald Ct. 6. 117 Herald Ct. is on the right. or 1. Take US-41 N toward Tampa 2. Turn left at Herald Ct 3. Destination will be on the left

From the North:

1. I-75S to toward Naples 2. Take exit 164 (Punta Gorda/Arcadia) .23 mi. 3. Turn left on Duncan Rd. (US-17 S) .79 mi. 4. Continue on US-17 S 1.32 mi. 5. Turn Left on Taylor Rd. (CR-765A) 249 ft. 6. Turn Left on Herald Ct 367 ft. 7. Arrive at 117 Herald Ct., Punta Gorda, on the right. or 1. Take US-41 S toward Naples 2. Turn left at W Olympia Ave 3. Take the 2nd left onto Taylor St 4. Take the 1st right onto Herald Ct


Success Camp for Writers

Course # Dates Day of Week Time Hours of Instruction Fee

HC0202 September 15, 22, 29;

October 6, 2011

Thursday 1 – 2:30 p.m. 6 $60

Trying to finish your book, poetry or memoirs? Why not get help from an expert in a cooperative,

nurturing environment? James Abraham, literary critic, book editor and publisher, will lead a four-week

writing group toward completion of the participants' works. All group members will have an opportunity

to read from their work and enjoy suggestions from other writers in a collegial and fun setting designed to

facilitate constructive and meaningful feedback.

September 15, 2011 – Character Development and Story Focus

September 22, 2011 – Plot Development, Pacing, and Rhythm

September 29, 2011 – Environment, Dialogue, and Meaning

October 6, 2011 – Point of View, Perspective, and Proportion

Instructor: Mr. James Abraham – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

Be a Better Digital Photographer


HC0190 October 3, 10, 17, 24,

31; November 7, 2011

Monday 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 12 $120

Home computers and digital cameras revolutionized how professional and amateur photographers

capture, process and share images. Participants will learn to use these tools to become better digital

photographers; how digital cameras work; the proper way to use them; how to choose a digital camera for

purchase; the variances of natural and artificial lighting; and the elements of good composition.

Course Requirements: Neither a digital nor film camera is necessary to participate in this course.

However, participants are encouraged to bring either style of camera, if they own one.

Instructor: Mr. Chuck Crafton – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

East Coast Swing


HC0191 October 4, 11, 18, 25;

November 1, 8, 2011

Tuesday 1:30-2:30 p.m. 6 $60

Swing is a group of dances generally developed concurrently with the evolution of jazz music, although

certain forms of Swing predate the jazz movement. While a partner is unnecessary for class instruction,

couples typically dance East Coast Swing. Depending upon the tempo of the music, couples can dance at

either a moderate or a fast pace. The instructor will teach a variety of patterns so students can ―do‖ the

Swing at a variety of tempos. The Swing is fun to dance either in a ballroom setting or at a nightclub, as

it does not use a lot of room on the dance floor. Swing is fun to dance and is very popular again.

Course Requirements: Students should wear comfortable shoes. No sneakers or flip-flops, please.

Instructor: Ms. Ann Lamberti – instructor biographies begin on page 12.


Medicare Made Simple

Course # Date Day of Week Time Hours of Instruction Fee

HC0198 October 4, 2011 Tuesday 10 - 11:30 a.m. 1.5 $15

For the layperson, sorting out the Parts and Plans available through Medicare to create a personalized plan

is a daunting task. First-time enrollees approaching 65 and existing beneficiaries seeking to change plans

during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (October 15, 2011 through December 7, 2011) will

benefit by attending this lecture. Learn the 10 most important Medicare concepts, the differences

between the Parts and Plans, and factors to consider in making the best choices for your situation.

Instructor: Mr. Ralph Temple – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar


HC0188 October 5, 12, 14, 2011 Wednesday &

Friday

9 – 11 a.m. 6 $60

Originally titled The Tragedy of Julius Caesar, Shakespeare’s work is now known simply as Julius

Caesar. Based on true events in Roman history and one of several plays drawing on ancient Rome

written by Shakespeare, the play portrays the 44 BC conspiracy to assassinate Caesar. However, Caesar

is not the play’s central character. Rather, the principle assassin and the leader of the conspiracy, Marcus

Brutus, is the play’s protagonist. Dr. Robert Willis, will lead a discussion of Brutus’ role and the play’s

central psychological drama and the conflict between the demands of honor, patriotism, and friendship.

Course Materials: Participants should visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julius_Caesar_(play) to access,

read, and print, for use in class, the Wikipedia entry, Julius Caesar (play). To read the full text, visit

http://shakespeare.mit.edu/julius_caesar/index.html for an ―act by act‖ version of Shakespeare’s play.

Instructor: Robert J. Willis, Ph.D. – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

Ballroom Dance: Cuban Cha-Cha-Cha


HC0204 October 6, 13, 20, 27;

November 3, 10, 2011

Thursday 2 – 3:30 p.m. 9 $90

Course Description: Come and join us in dancing the Cuban Cha-Cha-Cha. You will learn the

beginning steps in the ballroom version of this energetic dance, known for its steady beat, a dance that is

both fun to do, and sensual. No experience is necessary and singles are allowed. Just bring a smile and a

comfortable pair of dancing shoes. See you on the dance floor.

Instructor: John La Coste. Ph.D. – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

FOUR STEPS TO LIVING LIFE WITH PURPOSE AND DIGNITY


HC0194 October 6, 13, 20, 27, 2011 Thursday 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. 8 $45

Learning the basics of palliative and end of life care before the need arises will allow the patient and

loved ones to focus on maximizing quality of life during a difficult period. In this four-session

symposium, experts from Tidewell and the community will provide you and your family members with

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julius_Caesar_(play)

http://shakespeare.mit.edu/julius_caesar/index.html


the information needed to make informed decisions should the need arise. Each session will include a

question and answer period at the end of the presentation and lunch for all participants.

October 6, 2011

o Topic 1 Facing Death: 30 minutes; Topic 2 Medical Concerns: 30 minutes

October 13, 2011

o Topic 1 Legal & Practical Concerns: 30 minutes; Topic 2 Understanding Medical

Directives: 30 minutes

October 20, 2011 – Exploring Hospice: 60 minutes

October 27, 2011

o Topic 1 Final Arrangements: 30 minutes; Topic 2 Grief and Loss: 30 minutes

Instructor: Varies with session and topic.

The 5 Excellencies: Our Body/Mind Connection Course # Date Day of Week Time Hours of Instruction Fee

HC0213 October 12, 19, 26;

November 2, 9, 16, 2011

Wednesday 10 – 11:30 a.m. 9 $90

Know yourself in an entirely new way as you explore and recreate your interior landscape through writing

calligraphy, poetry, drawing/painting, tai chi and the healing arts. The Man of the 5 Excellencies, Cheng

Man-Ch’ing, wrote ―It is the joy of continuous growth, of helping to develop in ourselves and others the

talents and abilities with which we were born‖. Each class will begin with a short Tai Chi session with

Sharon Fultz. Please wear comfortable clothes.

October 12 – ―Writing with Pizzaz‖: Be inspired to understand easy to remember principles for

writing quickly, and concisely with Gordon Bower, a freelance photo journalist.

October 19 –"Seeing as an Artist Sees" and learning to express yourself in a language different

from the written language //is//will be the topic addressed by Charles Peck, a local artist and

mural painter.

October 26 – ―The Art of Beautiful Handwriting‖: Explore the ancient craft of calligraphy. Using

hands-on exercises, experience the transformation of line, shape and space into an art form, with

retired educator, Elinor Thompson.

November 2 – ―Simple Rhythms‖: Singing, songwriting, guitar playing attorney Michael

Haymans will entertain and educate using a combination of poetry, words, and music

November 9 – ―In Perfect Balance‖: Sandy Pond, a local artist, potter, and licensed massage

therapist will guide us through a session to deepen the awareness of our Energetic self using

Polarity Therapy.

November 16 – ―Meditation in Motion‖: We will tie it all together with the movement of Tai

Chi. The understanding of tai chi as meditation in motion. The chi gong which is standing

meditation. The Wu chi which is the stillness before the movement begins. Sharon Fultz, Tai

Chi practitioner and instructor since 1995 leads us to reweaving the tapestry of our interior

landscape

Course Materials: You will need a 16x20 inch sketch pad, an ebony pencil, a kneaded eraser, a loose-

leaf journal, and a felt tip pen with a calligraphic point. John's Pennywise Books at Burnt Store Plaza will

offer participants a 10% discount. Simply mention this course.

Facilitator: Ms. Sharon Fultz instructor biographies begin on page 12.


Florida During the “Age of Discovery”


HC0201 October 13, 2011 Thursday 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. 2 $20

Beginning in April 1513 and continuing until the 1550s, a succession of conquistadores explored,

claimed, and settled La Florida for the Spanish Empire. The most famous of those conquistadores were

Juan Ponce de Leon, Pamphilo de Narvaez, and Hernando de Soto. Those conquistadores led expeditions

that hacked their way through the dense woods and swampy marshlands of La Florida. Leading Spanish

armies wearing steel armor, equipped with powerful firearms, and supported by fierce war dogs, they

subjugated the ferocious natives then inhabiting today’s Florida. Listen and engage in the discussion as

instructor Winifred Roberts recounts the lives, commissions, and journey of each of these brave explorers.

Instructor: Ms. Winifred Roberts – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

Massage Therapy: It Feels Good and is Good for You


HC0185 October 18, 2011 Tuesday 10 – 11:30 a.m. 1.5 $15

In 460 B.C.E., Hippocrates the Greek physician and the ―father of Western medicine,‖ wrote of

therapeutic massage, "The physician must be experienced in many things, but assuredly in rubbing."

Today, as a part of mainstream medicine, the health benefits of massage therapy have been proven by

scientific research and clinical practice. Beginning with a discussion of human anatomy and physiology

relevant to massage therapy, the seminar will progress to a live demonstration of massage therapy

techniques. Together, the two elements of the seminar promote an increased understanding of the

mechanical, physiological, and reflex effects of massage therapy and the role it can play in wellness.

Instructor: Ms. Betty Bruer – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

It’s Your Turf


HC0205 October 25, 2011 Tuesday 10 – 11:30 a.m. 1.5 $15

Turf is a word used to identify an area of grass maintained for recreational or decorative purposes. This

class discusses the different turf grasses that grow in Southwest Florida, and how to properly care for and

manage them. In addition, the class covers insect and disease problems associated with turf grasses.

Instructor: Mr. Ralph Mitchell – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

The JFK Assassination: Who, Why, and How?


HC0192 October 26, 2011 Wednesday 10-11:30 a.m. 1.5 $15

This course explores the events surrounding the November 22, 1963 assassination of President John F.

Kennedy, in their historical context seeking to answer ―Who, Why, and How.‖ With instructor Jack

Rabito leading the discussion, participants will examine the question of, who wanted JFK dead. To aid in

the discussion, Mr. Rabito will recreate that day in Dallas, TX, with the help of a research copy of the

Abraham Zapruder film. Memorabilia from the assassination will be on display.

Instructor: Mr. Jack Rabito – instructor biographies begin on page 12.


Ants! Ants! Ants!


HC0206 November 1, 2011 Tuesday 10 – 11:30 a.m. 1.5 $15

This class focuses on the ants found in and around our homes and how to treat ants with baits and

pesticides. An estimated 22,000 species of ants have colonized almost every landmass on Earth, with the

exceptions of Antarctica and a few remote or inhospitable islands. Ants may form 15–25% of the

terrestrial animal biomass. Their success in so many environments has been attributed to their social

organization and their ability to modify habitats, tap resources, and defend themselves.

Instructor: Fred Santana, Ph.D. – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

Homer’s Odyssey


HC0189 November 2, 9, & 16, 2011 Wednesday 9 – 11 a.m. 6 $60

―We drove the sharp end of the beam into the monster's eye, and bearing upon it with all

my weight I kept turning it round and round as though I were boring a hole in a ship's

plank with an auger…Even thus did we bore the red hot beam into his eye…‖ Odysseus

recounts his and his men’s blinding of and escape from the Cyclops Polyphemus in

Homer’s Classical Greek poem, Odyssey.

Cursed by Poseidon, for blinding his son the Cyclops Polyphemus, Odysseus must endure contrary winds

sent by Aeolus, the master of the winds; overcome the enchanting song of the Sirens; imprisonment as her

lover by the witch-goddess Circe; and other temptations and mistakes in judgment during his journey

home following the Greek victory in the Trojan War. Join Dr. Robert Willis in discussing the decade

long homeward bound voyage of Odysseus described in Homer’s archetypal poem.

Course Materials: Participants should access and read the ―Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia entry, the

Odyssey, at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odyssey and consider printing the entry Odyssey for use in class.

A full text translation, by Samuel Butler, is available at http://classics.mit.edu/Homer/odyssey.html.

Instructor: Robert J Willis, Ph.D. – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

Hola Español (Spanish 1)


HC0200 November 2, 9, 16, 23, 30;

December 7, 2011

Wednesday 1 – 2:30 p.m. 9 $90

Do you want to do something good for your brain and have fun at the same time? Why not take Hola

Español, an interactive Spanish class that is fun, free of stress, homework, grammar, verb conjugation and

all the boring aspects of learning a language. Hola Español is for those who want to learn Spanish for

their personal pleasure. The focus is on games, activities, conversation, and exercising communication

channels in the brain. Bring a friend and begin to hablar Español.

Materials Fee: A $15 materials fee is payable to the instructor during the first session. The fee purchases

a binder of lessons, games and practice pages, and a DVD.

Instructor: Ms. Ellen Chene – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odyssey

http://classics.mit.edu/Homer/odyssey.html


America’s Secret War in Southeast Asia


HC0196 November 7, 14, 21, 2011 Monday 10 – 11:30 a.m. 4.5 $45

Although the United States denied its existence for decades, MACSOG, Military Assistance Command,

Studies and Observation Group, conducted covert operations throughout Southeast Asia. Commissioned

in January 1964 MACSOG conducted a variety of clandestine missions using Army Green Berets, Navy

SEALS, and Air Force, Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance, and Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)

personnel until disbanded in May 1972. Sergeant Major Jordan, who served in MACSOG, pulls back the

curtain to reveal some of the controversial work carried out by this highly secretive military command.

Instructor: Sergeant Major Martin Jordan, USA (Ret.) – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

History of Jazz in America


HC0203 November 14, 21, 28;

December 5, 12, 2011

Monday 1 – 2:30 p.m. 7.5 $75

Originating at the beginning of the 20th century in African American communities in the Southern United

States, jazz spans diverse sub-genres from Ragtime to 2000s-era fusion. Jazz critic Joachim Berendt

defines jazz as a "form of art music which originated in the United States through the confrontation of

blacks with European music," characterized by, "a spontaneity and vitality of musical production in which

improvisation plays a role." Dr. Robert Peterson traces the History of Jazz in America from its nineteenth

century origins into the 21st century.

November 14 – ―Jass‖ the early years—Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Dixieland, Louis

Armstrong, Bix Biederbeke

November 21 – Jazz in the 1920/30’s—swing era Benny Goodman, Harry James, Tommy and

Jimmy Dorsey, Glenn Miller

November 28 – The big band era—Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Stan Kenton, Artie Shaw; also

the singers of that era—Billie Holliday, Joe Williams, Ella Fitzgerald, Lena Horne, Frank Sinatra

December 5 – Bebop—Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie John Coltrane, Coleman

Hawkins

December 12 – New Eras—Dave Brubeck, Brazilian music

Instructor: Robert Peterson, Ph.D. – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

History of Cuba’s Guantanamo Bay (GITMO)


HC0212 November 8, 2011 Thursday 10 – 11:30 a.m. 1.5 $15

Mr. McMillan examines the history of Guantanamo Bay, from its discovery in 1494 by Christopher

Columbus through its early use as a Naval Base by the United States to the current issues involving its use

as a prison for terrorists bent on destroying the United States. The presentation also covers issues such as

water boarding and Miranda Rights for terrorists. In addition, McMillan outlines his visit to Guantanamo

while Counsel to Senator Kenneth Keating and the resulting evolution of the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Instructor: Mr. Robert McMillan – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

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Palms for SW Florida



Southwest Florida’s signature plant species, palms are among the best known and most extensively

cultivated plant families. The lecture discusses how to grow and care for the ubiquitous palms of

Southwest Florida.

Instructor: Ms. Donna Worthely – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

DNA and Family History


HC0208 November 8, 15, 2011 Tuesday 2 – 4 p.m. 4 $40

Learn how DNA is changing the face of family history research - genealogy. In this course, you will learn

how DNA tests are conducted, what types of tests are done for ancestry, and which companies offer

reputable testing options. You will learn about DNA family associations, maternal and paternal extended

ancestry, and the importance of the Human Genome Project to health and ancestry.

Instructor: Ellsworth John La Coste, Ph.D. – please see instructor biographies on page 12.

The JFK Assassination: Beyond Zapruder and the Warren Commission


HC0193 November 9, 2011 Wednesday 10 – 11:30 a.m. 1.5 $15

The question of what really happened in Dealey Plaza resonates in the American psyche as surely as the

echoes of gunfire reverberated through the concrete canyons of Dallas, Texas on November 22, 1963.

Mr. Jack Rabito explores the ―hidden facts‖ about the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on that

fateful morning nearly 48 years ago. Going beyond that ―day of infamy‖ and the Warren Commission

report on the assassination, Mr. Rabito examines the ―hidden story‖ within the news story. Rabito ―will

offer startling information…for the first time, indicating disguise and deception in the assassination‖ of

President Kennedy, in a thought provoking, historical presentation.

Instructor: Mr. Jack Rabito – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

“Forgotten War” – Korean War Memories of Ron Freedman


HC0197 November 10, 2011 Thursday 10 – 11:30 a.m. 1.5 $15

Korean War veteran Ron Freedman offers participants a firsthand account of what some call the

―Forgotten War.‖ Initially labeled a ―police action,‖ by U.S. President Harry S. Truman, Freedman

recounts his experiences on the frontlines of what became an East/West ―proxy war.‖ In addition, he

describes the countryside and the South Korean people he encountered behind the frontlines of this

struggle between Communist North Korea and Democratic South Korea supported.

Instructor: Mr. Ronald Freedman – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

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Surf the Internet: Tips & Tricks


HC0211 November 10, 2011 Thursday 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 2 $20

This lecture-style presentation is for students who already possess a basic knowledge of Internet surfing,

but who want to improve their skills and enrich their online experience. Learn how to make the most of

your time on the Internet. The web can be a powerful tool if you know how to use it. In addition to visits

to some of the most useful and interesting sites on the Internet topics covered in class will include:

Internet security

Search engines

Browser options

Free email opportunities

Instructor: Mr. John J. Guerra – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

The Strange Dream-life of Robert Louis Stevenson Course # Date Day of Week Time Hours of Instruction Fee


Dr. Jekyll and his demonic alter ego Mr. Hyde were both born in the dreams of author Robert Louis

Stevenson. Stevenson was a vivid dreamer, who took advantage of his dreams in his writings, the

primary topic of Dr. Sharon Whitehill’s lecture. After examining Stevenson’s dream-life, she explores

the dream phenomenon, a topic few understand but fascinating to most of us.

Instructor: Sharon Whitehill, Ph.D. – instructor biographies begin on page 12.

The Art and Science of Persuasion and Influence


HCP052 November 17, 2011 Thursday 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. 3 $30

In this course, students will learn about new psychological techniques of persuasion and influence that go

beyond the classic Carnegie approach of ―How to Win Friends and Influence People.‖ Find out how to

negotiate successfully, win arguments, and protect yourself from manipulation.

1. Basic Principles of Persuasion and Influence: The course begins with the history and basic

psychological principles of persuasion and influence and how they are used every day by

advertisers, salespeople, politicians, and others.

2. Conversational Techniques & Language: Learn the covert conversational hypnotic techniques

of Dr. Milton Ericson and how precise language skills can enhance your influence over others.

3. Become a Master of Persuasion: This lecture will discuss specific nonverbal techniques to

enable you to become a master persuader in presentation and relationships.

Instructor: Alex Crandall, M.D. instructor biographies begin on page 12.

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Instructor Biographies

Mr. James Abraham is a graduate of Oberlin University and an award-winning former

journalist. He has worked as an editorial writer, city editor, reporter and columnist for several

newspapers, most recently the Charlotte Sun, Sarasota Herald-Tribune and Florida Weekly.

Ms. Betty Bruer earned an Education BA from Florida Gulf Coast University and later earned a

license from the State of Florida as a massage therapist. Since earning her massage therapy

license, Betty has provided more than 20,000 hours of therapeutic massage and completed over

300 hours of continuing education in massage therapy

Ms. Ellen Chene is a bilingual trainer with a MA in Adult Education and Training and a BA in

Psychology. She has lived in Spain, Venezuela, and Mexico and has taught Spanish at continuing

education centers and for private corporations.

Mr. Chuck Crafton is a longtime photographer and instructor with over sixty years of

experience with various cameras and darkroom experience. He switched completely from film

to digital photography eight years ago.

Alex Crandall, M.D. is a retired psychiatrist with 35 years of experience in therapy, research

and teaching.

Ms. Sharon Fultz is a Tai Chi practitioner and has been an instructor since 1995.

Mr. John Guerra is a graduate of Columbia University, former Wall Street merchant banker,

and the FGCU Director of Continuing Education

Mr. Ron Freedman was a 2nd Lt. serving with the 48th Field Artillery attached to the 7th

Infantry Division during the waning days of the Korean War. In July 1953 Freedman was

assigned as a regimental forward artillery observer, supporting U.S. troops during the Battle of

Pork Chop Hill, the war’s last battle. Wounded during the fighting, he was awarded the Purple

Heart and the Silver Star for gallantry in action against the enemy.

Sergeant Major Martin Jordan, USA (Ret.) retired after serving 22 years in the United States

Army. During his career, he served two tours in Vietnam, three tours in Latin America, with

MACSOG and with the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th Special Forces Groups in both operational and staff

assignments.

John La Coste, Ph.D. is an accomplished genealogist and ballroom dancer. A USA Dance

ballroom dance instructor, he has taught ballroom dance for more than 21 years. With more than

30 years of experience as a genealogist, Dr. La Coste has published seven books. In addition, he

is a USA Dance ballroom dance instructor with 21 years of dance instruction experience.

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Ms. Ann Lamberti has been teaching ballroom dance for 30 years. From Palm Beach to

Hollywood FL, she instructed for Arthur Murray and Fred Astaire Studios.

Mr. Robert McMillan was named by President George Bush to the Board of the Panama Canal

Commission. Robert also served as an Assistant to Richard M. Nixon, and Counsel to U.S.

Senator Kenneth B. Keating where he was directly involved in the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Mr. Ralph Mitchell is the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Science,

Charlotte County Extension Director and Horticulture Agent.

Robert Peterson, Ph.D. grew up in Kansas City and enjoyed many of the jazz greats who got

their start in Kansas City. He played jazz professionally for a few years.

Mr. Jack Rabito is a forty- year broadcast news veteran and JFK historian, researcher, movie

consultant, and author. He interviewed many involved in the events surrounding the

assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

Ms. Winifred Roberts enjoys studying and researching American and Native American history.

Her enthusiasm grew as she researched her own ancestry. Her focus is on the Calusa Indians and

early Spanish history in Florida.

Fred Santana, Ph.D. is an Entomologist with the University of Florida Institute of Food and

Agricultural Science, Sarasota County Extension Service.

Mr. Ralph Temple is a Chartered Life Underwriter with over forty years of experience in the

area of member health and life insurance programs. He currently provides advisory services

especially for retirees and baby boomers.

Sharon Whitehill, Ph.D. earned her doctoral degree in Victorian literature, before spending

more than 30 years as a professor of English. The author of four books, Dr. Whitehill says she

finds teaching adults more satisfying ―than I could have dreamed.‖

Robert J Willis, Ph.D. earned his English MA from the University of Scranton, PA and his

Ph.D. in English from West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV. Then, Dr. Willis joined

the faculty of the University of Maryland as an adjunct professor, teaching in Korea and

Okinawa for two years. After serving as Professor of English, Emeritus at East Stroudsburg

University in Pennsylvania, joined the faculty at Nova University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, where he

taught classical literature and business writing.

Ms. Donna Worthely is a Master Gardener with the University of Florida Institute of Food and

Agricultural Science, Charlotte County Extension Service.

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CONTINUING EDUCATION


Punta Gorda, FL 33950

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Renaissance Academy Charlotte County Fall 2011 Lectures & Short Courses

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Transcript of Renaissance Academy Charlotte County Fall 2011 Lectures & Short Courses