Peoria   

This interactive session reviews the components of executive function (EF), including attention span, working memory, planning and mental flexibility, physical inhibition, and emotional regulation (self-control). The discussion will cover how and when EF skills develop, and how to keep these essential brain functions active throughout our lives. Tips for maintaining memory and problem-solving abilities will also be demonstrated.

Doug Bradley played basketball with the Miracles, shared a joint with Grace Slick, and held Dionne Warwick’s hand as he told her that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had been assassinated. He watched his doo-wop–singing brother and World War II veteran father clash over the birth of rock and roll, brought the music of Stax and Motown to a small college in the hills of West Virginia, and soaked in the sounds of CCR, Janis Joplin, and Jimi Hendrix as an Army journalist in the “air-conditioned jungle” of Vietnam. In his latest book, "The Tracks of My Years: A Music-Based Memoir," the acclaimed co-author of Rolling Stone’s 2015 music book of the year tells the story of a life lived through—and shaped by—music. The Tracks of My Years is for anyone who grew up in post–World War II America, and for their children and grandchildren trying to see beyond the haze of myths surrounding the Baby Boomer generation.

Jimmy Buffett has been called a modern-day Mark Twain and a self-proclaimed “cultural infidel.” His legions of dedicated fans—aka Parrotheads—were devastated by his death on September 1, 2023. His final message to fans and family was to “keep the party going,” and his Coral Reefer Band, joined by other well-known musician friends, is doing exactly that. This presentation will explore Buffett’s life and 50-plus-year career, highlight key milestones, examine the reasons behind his enduring popularity, and have some fun along the way—listening and even dancing to the music. Buffett often said he was selling escapism and likened himself to a court jester, but we would argue that his appeal is much broader and more profound. Come prepared to share your thoughts, experiences, and questions. If you have content you’d like to see included in the presentation, send links to: kschne20@asu.edu. Parrothead attire is encouraged, but not required!

This lecture offers an in-depth exploration of Charles Dickens’ beloved novella A Christmas Carol, with a particular focus on the symbolic roles of the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come, and how they contribute to Ebenezer Scrooge’s personal transformation. The lecture also examines the theatrical interpretation of the story, highlighting the TheatreWorks stage production through discussion of set and costume design, thematic emphasis, and the creative elements that bring the magic of Dickens' world to life. This session is ideal for those interested in literature, theatre, and the ways classic texts are adapted for the stage. Class includes a ticket to the 2:00 p.m. showing of A Christmas Carol on Sunday, December 7.