Frosty greetingsThe view beyond the frosty windowpane reminds us that winter, although relatively mild so far, still may throw a few slick tricks our way. But we've weathered far worse than a little snow this past year, and know that brighter days are always on the horizon.
The atmosphere in ILR is one of frenzied excitement as we anticipate what lies ahead this spring. Our second virtual semester will be even bigger and better than our first. If you sat out last semester or you're still on the fence about this one, let us gently nudge you. Hundreds of instructors, speakers, and students took the virtual plunge last semester. They were fully supported even after we took off their training wheels and watched them soar. We'll do the same for you, too. Instructors are being trained now. Look for student training sessions to take place in March.
Our catalog will once again be online only. You'll receive a postcard in the mail announcing the opening of registration. Keep a watchful eye on your email for updates on all the great happenings coming your way this semester. Don't forget, regular classes will begin on March 29, but we'll also have a pre-term offering coming your way on March 25.
Not yet on our mailing list? Sign up now by going to the ILR website and clicking on Request a Catalog. While you'll receive the postcard this semester, you'll be queued and ready for our future catalogs once the pandemic takes its leave.
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Why virtual? Why Webex?
Until we can all safely meet in the classroom again, virtual is our best and only option. When we began training virtually last spring, Miami carried only the Webex virtual conferencing license. (Although Miami has since purchased a Zoom license, we've trained too many instructors and students to switch horses midstream.) If you've used Zoom in the past, Webex will look, feel, and operate nearly identically. What are the advantages of virtual learning? Virtual classes will enable you to:
- Take a front-row seat in every one of your classes.
- Control your own speaker volume and never miss another word.
- See your ILR friends and instructors you've been missing.
- Boost your brain matter, Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm, for five weeks! Take one class or as many of the 57 as your schedule permits—the choice is yours.
- Easily grab a second (or third) cup of coffee or even lunch between classes.
- Attend classes "across town" you'd ordinarily miss due to the commute.
- Leave the worries of the weather and finding the best parking spot behind.
- Attend school in your pajama pants if you'd like.
In addition to our virtual classes, we'll offer two hybrid and one in-person (outdoor) classes.
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Feeling board?
Looking for a great way to get more involved in ILR? The Nominations Committee is accepting nominations and self-nominations for the ILR Board of Directors. Ours is a working board, responsible for overseeing the program, making decisions, and contributing via hands-on work to guide ILR's success. If you are interested in serving or want more information, please reply to this email. The deadline for nominations is February 28.
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A list of listsAs we dive into 2021, “Best of …” lists are popular, so we wanted to feature a variety of reading options. Did any of your favorite books from 2020 make the lists? Check it out.
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Come fly awayDuring these times it may be difficult to travel, but with virtual tours, there's no place or time one cannot visit. The "ERFO" has a whole section dedicated to virtual tours that are divided into several subjects. Now it's easy to travel the world! Let's go!
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The 2021 Drs. Gene & Carol Willeke Frontiers in Environmental Science Distinguished LectureThis year’s Willeke Lecturer will be Dr. Jonathan Overpeck, the Dean of the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability who will be speaking on:
Climate Change: The Challenge and the Opportunity, Thursday, February 11, 6:00 pm. Dr. Overpeck will also be giving a second talk: Climate Change, Hydroclimate and the Aridification of North America, Friday, February 12, Noon. Both lectures will be via Zoom. More info and join links.
Join Virtual OMA (Opening Minds through Art!
Older adults are invited to meet weekly with Miami University students to discuss art and music, and to create original drawings, stories, and poetry. Older adults (living with and without dementia) will meet with the same three students every week for 45 minutes throughout the entire semester (2/8/21 to 5/7/21). No art background or preparation necessary. The students will come prepared for every session. Must be able to do Zoom. If you cannot commit to weekly attendance, please sign up as an alternate.
The program was well-received last semester, as one elder participant wrote, “I am so grateful for the opportunity to interact with students and engage in enjoyable activities. The ability to meet through Zoom has been an excellent tether during the pandemic.”
There are 5 available time slots. Space is limited so sign up soon! Participation is FREE. More info.
Love. Honor. Learn.
Southwestern Ohio Symphonic Band presents
While the band is on hiatus, here are some pieces to listen to in preparation for next season!
More Spicy Olive Virtual Wine Tasting
Journey to Italy for virtual wine tasting on February 6, 5:30 pm. Italian born Rudy C. Basile, an Italian wine importer, will lead the tasting with stories and wines from four wine regions of Italy. Call or visit the shop: 513.847.4397, or Nicholas: 513.378.7244 to get the wines and join in the fun. More info. Email: WineDirector@TheSpicyOlive.com.
More Extraordinary Times
Each week, The Extraordinary Times catches up with friends in the historical and cultural scene. This week, it’s our pleasure to catch up with broadcaster and bluegrass music performer Joe Mullins.
Save the Date
The 2020 Think Regional Summit on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion was moved last year to this April 23, 2021. More info.
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