We'll spend six weeks taking a look at many elements of our special Commonwealth. We'll first focus on Philadelphia, and look in turn at The 1876 Centennial Celebration, The Statuary in Fairmount Park, and The History of Newspapers in Philadelphia. We'll then go statewide with successive presentations on Ghost Towns in Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Turnpike, and Defunct Manufacturers Throughout the Commonwealth.

Instructor: Michael Martorelli has written more than a dozen articles for Financial History magazine and contributed three essays to the Essential Civil War Curriculum (ECWC). He has also written for several websites and given presentations at DelVal University's CLR and several local libraries. He earned an MA in History from American Military University.

Discuss the views and positions expressed on CSPAN, weekend TV news shows and print news media in this interactive class. All viewpoints are encouraged.

Instructor: Dan Shoulberg has been a moderator of current events forums for 20+ years. He is the Program Coordinator for UDPL's Adult Discovery & Learning series.

NO CLASS SEPT 24

Jazz musicians have been fascinated by the music of the Great American Songbook ever since the songs were written, in many cases almost a hundred years ago. In this class we will explore how jazz musicians have used their ideas and creativity to improvise on these popular songs and create unique musical expressions. The class is an update of an earlier class of the same name, with new composers and new songs added.

Instructor: JOHN BANGER has taught jazz classes in the Delaware Valley area for 10 years, teaching classes on “Jazz Vocalists”, “Masters of Jazz”, “Understanding and Listening to Jazz”, “Jazz and The Great American Songbook”, “From Bessie to Bebop, Brazil and Beyond - An Unconventional History of Jazz” and “Jazz Around the World”.

NO CLASS SEPT 24

Discover and learn about recent critical technology developments in biotechnology, microbiology, genetics, AI, quantum computers, climate change and energy. Discussion and feedback are encouraged.

Instructor: James Mattison has a B.A. and M.A. in biology, has worked in research field for 15  years and technical sales for 18, and taught adult ed courses at DelVal''s CLR program. Has done research in immunology, hepatitis, HIV, at Wistar Institute and Ortho diagnostics.

NO CLASS SEPT 24

Study the importance of shape, value and composition, and learn to draw from studio set-ups & photos. For all levels. Required supplies: drawing pencils & 9x12" drawing paper.

Instructor: Jackie Drewes, a former art school recruiter, has studied with various oils, pastels and watercolor artists.

NO CLASS SEPT 24

Taught by a former OB-GYN with extensive firsthand experience, this interactive, case-based course explores the complexities of medical ethics for beginners. Engage in thoughtful discussion topics such as genetics, reproductive health, and medical economics. Real-world scenarios will highlight the nuanced ethical challenges that arise in healthcare.

Instructor: Robert Michaelson, MD FACOG, is a retired ObGyn with 37 years of experience, a former trustee and past president of the medical staff of Abington Hospital, and a current member of the Upper Dublin Township Human Relations Commission.

NO CLASS SEPT 24

John Williams has spent 50+ years producing award-winning movie scores and serving as the music director and laureate conductor of the Boston Pops Orchestra. We will explore the life and music of the man whose artistic partnership with Steven Spielberg has resulted in many of Hollywood's most successful films. Come enjoy the music and hear some interesting backstories about John Williams, an American treasure. Use the Force, if necessary!

Instructor: Jeff Thomas has enjoyed John Williams' music since the first sighting of that big, hungry shark. Jeff has previously presented music-themed courses and lectures, and he is looking forward to exploring the life and music of the great John Williams. Come see why E.T. phoned home!

NO CLASS SEPT 24

Study the importance of shape, value and composition, and learn to draw from studio set-ups & photos. For all levels. Required supplies: drawing pencils & 9x12" drawing paper.

Instructor: Jackie Drewes, a former art school recruiter, has studied with various oils, pastels and watercolor artists.