The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
Courses, Special Activities, and Community for People 50 and Better
Summer 2015
A TRULY UNIQUE
EXPERIENCE
“The older you get, the more important it is not to act your age.”
—Ashleigh Brilliant
Membership in the Osher Institute introduces you to a community of
engaged and engaging peers. Osher instructors, courses, stimulating
discussions, events, and easy access to campus add up to a truly
unique experience. Just being around the University stimulates
you mentally and physically, tempts you to explore topics and
issues, and engages you in life enhancing courses and
activities.
Utah Authors Series
Osher members have a unique opportunity to review and discuss writings with contemporary Utah authors in these unique summer classes.
Each book has been carefully selected from an anthology of living Utah authors whose work has been recognized for its literary contribution.
Authors
Steve Trimble has received significant awards for his more than twenty books—including The Sierra
Club's Ansel Adams Award for photography and conservation; The National Cowboy Museum’s
“Wrangler” Award; and a Doctor of Humane Letters from his alma mater, Colorado College, honoring his efforts to increase our understanding of Western landscapes and peoples. Steve has lived in
Salt Lake City since 1987. He teaches writing in the Honors College at the University of Utah and
served as a Wallace Stegner Centennial Fellow at the Tanner Humanities Center.
Judith Freeman is a novelist, essayist, critic and short story writer. Her novel Red Water, was
named one of the 100 best books of 2002 by the Los Angeles Times and praised by The New
Yorker. Freeman is the recipient of the 1997 John Simon Guggenheim Fellowship in fiction and
won the Western Heritage Award in 1992 for her novel Set for Life. Her essays, reviews, and
stories have appeared in numerous magazines and journals, including The Chicago Tribune, The
Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, and The New York Times. She teaches fiction in the
Master of Professional Writing program at the University of Southern California.
Phyllis Barber is the author of eight books (both fiction and creative nonfiction). Her awards include
Press Books, and cited as notable by Best American Essays and Best American Travel Writing.. She
taught in the Vermont College of Fine Arts MFA in Writing Program for nineteen years, was inducted
into the Nevada Writers Hall of Fame in 2006, and was one of the founders of the Writers at Work
Conference, originally presented in Park City.
Bob Goldberg is a Professor of History and Director of the Tanner Humanities Center. He is the
author of eight books with his last two, Barry Goldwater and Enemies Within: The Culture of
Conspiracy in Modern America, published by Yale University Press. He has won twelve teaching
awards. In 2003, he held the Fulbright Distinguished Chair in American Studies at the Swedish
Institute for North American Studies, Uppsala University. He received the Rosenblatt Prize for
Excellence in 2008. Bob has been Director of the Tanner Center since 2006.
Utah Authors Series
Location:
Time:
Tuition:
Note:
Texts:
IJ & Jeanne Wagner Jewish Community Center, 2 North Medical Dr., SLC.
9:30 – 11:30 AM
$25 each
Because of the low price of these one meeting classes, multi-course discount does not apply.
Steve Trimble's manuscript will be provided to registered students electronically in advance of the
class. Obtain books for the other classes from your favorite book source.
Schedule
May 20, 2015 (Osher 771-001): Stephen Trimble, Leave Me Alone Forever (unpublished memoir)
Stephen Trimble, the award-winning writer and photographer known for books about western landscapes and Native peoples, turns to
tragic stories in his own family for this memoir. Psychosis overwhelmed his brother Mike at 14. Mike was institutionalized when Steve
was six. Now, when it’s emotionally safe, long after his brother, mother, and father have died, Steve reconstructs his brother’s story, traces
the threads of community and family that forged their mother, Isabelle, and searches for the empathy he never felt as a self-involved
youth. Isabelle’s story takes us into the waves of Jewish migration to the American West. Mike’s story parallels the history of our treatment of the mentally ill over the last half-century. Part detective story, part journey of self-discovery, Leave Me Alone Forever will resonate
with all readers with a family member or friend touched by madness—a link that embraces nearly everyone. Emphasis will be on discussion.
June 8, 2015 (Osher 772-001): Judith Freeman, The Chinchilla Farm
"[A] touching picaresque journey through the deserts of the west and the landscape of memory."—Washington Post Book World
Verna Flake is fleeing Utah, a failed marriage (her husband has left her for a former beauty queen named Pinky), and the constricted yet
reliable Mormon way of life. Seemingly naive but also gifted with an almost second sight for the emotional heart of things, Verna relates
her adventures on the road, in Los Angeles, and eventually in Mexico, as she confronts her future and muses over her past.
July 13, 2015 (Osher 773-001): Phyllis Barber, To the Mountain: One Mormon Woman’s Search for Spirit
The story of the author's twenty-year hiatus from Mormonism and her visits with shamans in Peru and Ecuador; Tibetan Buddhist monks
in North India and Tibet; a variety of Baptist congregations in Arkansas, Missouri, Utah, and South Carolina; mega-churches; charismatic
Christian congregations, travels with goddess worshipers in the Yucatan, and much more. The book's purpose is to demonstrate how we
can not only tolerate a variety of ideas in the spiritual realm, but can learn from their wisdom.
August 10, 2015 (Osher 774-001): Bob Goldberg, Enemies Within
There is a hunger for conspiracy news in America. Those who suspect conspiracies behind events in the news join generations of Americans, from the colonial period to the present day, who have entertained visions of vast plots. In this enthralling book Robert Goldberg
focuses on five major conspiracy theories of the past half-century taking historical, social, and political environments into account.
Conspiracy theories are not merely the products of a lunatic fringe, the author shows. Rather, paranoid rhetoric and thinking are disturbingly central in America today. With media validation and dissemination of conspiracy ideas, and federal government behavior that
damages public confidence and faith, the ground is fertile for conspiracy thinking.
Life Lessons from Military Leaders
“Follow Me!”
Five Extraordinary Leaders of World War II
Stephen C. Hall, Colonel, USAF (retired) is a former Senior Fellow at L-3 Communications
Systems in Salt Lake City, Utah. A 1967 graduate of the Georgia Institute of Technology, he
received his Master's degree in management from Troy State University in 1976. He is a
graduate of Squadron Officers’ School, Air Command and Staff College, and the Industrial
College of the Armed Forces. He has published twice in Air Force periodicals and has been
quoted by the Secretary of the Air Force. Colonel Hall lectures on World War II history at
Georgia Tech, Morehouse College, BYU, and the University of Utah.
Classes limited to 20. Register today for one—or all!
osher.utah.edu or call 801-585-5442
Life Lessons from Military Leaders
“Follow Me!”
Five Extraordinary Leaders of World War II
During World War II five military leaders – Marshall, MacArthur, Eisenhower, Bradley, and Patton – helped shape the course of history. Do
you know these men? Do you know how each contributed to victory in World War II? Do you know the special leadership skills each
brought to the fight? And, most importantly, do you know the special magic possessed by each that made thousands of troops trust
and obey when each said, “Follow me!”? History will be brought to life through class discussion of books by or about these
exceptional leaders. Take all 5 classes in the series (register for section 050 for a discount) or pick and choose the ones that most peak
your interest (choose from sections 001 thru 005).
Instructor:
Location:
Time:
Tuition:
Note:
Steve Hall
IJ & Jeanne Wagner Jewish Community Center, 2 North Medical Dr., SLC.
9:30 – 11:30 AM
All 5 classes in the series (Osher 763-050): $109, individual classes a la carte: $25
Because of the low price of these one meeting classes, the multi-course discount does not apply to
sections 001 thru 005.
Schedule and Texts
May 20, 2015 (Osher 763- 001): George C. Marshall, Organizer of Victory, 1943-1945 by Forrest C. Pogue, Penguin Books George
General George Catlett Marshall is arguably the greatest US military officer. Regrettably, were his name not associated with the post-World
War II Marshall Plan, few today would know and appreciate his unparalleled exploits. His ability to frame issues and influence decisions was
never better displayed than when he grew the US Army from 190,000 in 1939 to 8,000,000 in 1943. Marshall was not the right man at the right
place at the right time...He was the perfect man, an extraordinary leader worth knowing well.
June 17, 2015 (Osher 763-003): American Caesar, Douglas MacArthur 1880-1964 by William Manchester, Back Bay Books Douglas
General Douglas MacArthur is, perhaps, the most controversial American flag officer of all time. A bundle of contradictions in a nearVictorian military environment, MacArthur survived one divorce and one mistress. He recklessly exposed himself to enemy fire, yet lived with
the nick-name “Dugout Doug.” He was an unabashed patriot, yet demeaned Truman. He executed a masterpiece maneuver at Inchon then
ungraciously relieved of his command. MacArthur personifies extreme leadership—the rewards it can produce and the risks it entails.
July 15, 2015 (Osher 763-004): Crusade in Europe by Dwight D. Eisenhower, Johns Hopkins University Press
General Dwight David Eisenhower led the Allied powers to victory in Western Europe. Similar to Bradley in upbringing, he worked his way
into immortality through hard work and personality, ending as the 34rd President of the United States. As a between-the-wars officer, his slow
progress was atypical. Twenty-five months after achieving the rank of temporary colonel (March, 1941) he wore four stars! He was named
Supreme Commander of Allied forces in Europe despite never having held a combat command. The manner in which Ike dealt with the nearcountless problems as he led the crusade distinguished him for all time.
August 19, 2015 (Osher 763-002): A Soldier’s Story by Omar N. Bradley, The Modern Library
General Omar Nelson Bradley, “The GI General,” is the American story personified. Born into poverty on a Missouri farm, he worked his way
into the annals of American history, eventually commanding the largest field army ever and culminating as the first Chairman of the Joint
Chiefs of Staff. What he did was impressive. How he did it is more so. As flamboyant as were Patton and MacArthur, Bradley was self-effacing
and unprepossessing. He was tough and, on occasion, relieved from command generals who ran afoul of his way of doing business. Bradley
knew how to lead, he knew how to follow, and he surely knew how to win.
September 16, 2015 (Osher 763-005): Patton, A Genius for War by Carlo D’Este, Harper Perennial
With the exception of George C. Scott’s deep voice, the movie got it pretty darn right. George Smith Patton knew from his earliest years exactly
that he wanted to be a commander of troops and to lead them in desperate battle. And he did exactly what he planned. Independently wealthy,
an Olympic athlete, dyslexic, religious, and profane are but a few of the descriptives of the man. The overriding characteristic that separated him
from all peers was his ability to evaluate a situation, understand the risks, and make smart decisions. His one-mindedness, showmanship, and
aggressiveness inspired many, alienated others. One thing was certain: when Patton showed up things happened.
Osher Explores
Last summer's day trip to Spring City was so popular that we've
decided to offer it again and add a couple of new day trips.
Each trip is limited to 27 people. SIGN UP TODAY at osher.utah.edu or call 801-587-5442
Topaz Museum & Eureka Day Trip
Tuesday, May 19, 2015, 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Osher 762-001 (for Osher members)
Fee: $90
Osher 762-002 (for guests)
Fee: $130
The internment of Americans of Japanese ancestry during WWII was one of the
worst violations of civil rights against citizens in the history of the United States.
The government and the US Army, falsely citing “military necessity,” locked up
over 110,000 men, women and children in ten remote camps controlled by the
War Relocation Administration and four male-only camps controlled by the
Justice Department. These Americans were never convicted or even charged with
any crime, yet were incarcerated for up to four years in prison camps surrounded
Internees arrive at Topaz with only what they could carry
by barbed wire and armed guards.
Director Jane Beckwith will welcome us and provide a personalized tour of Topaz Historical Museum and Topaz Art Museum. Following
a catered lunch, we will visit the internment camp site. On the return trip we will serpentine through the historic mining town of Eureka.
Osher members register for section 001. Guests are welcome, register for section 002. Price includes transportation, all entrance fees, lunch,
and light refreshments. The bus is equipped with AC and bathroom. Full payment is required to reserve your seat.
Chinese, Pioneer and Railroad Historic Tour of Evanston, Wyoming
Tuesday, June 23, 2015, 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Osher 765-001 (for Osher members)
Fee: $75
Osher 765-002 (for guests)
Fee: $115
Discover the rich and unique history of Evanston! Osher instructor Denise
Wheeler will share her expertise in Chinese and western history. After enjoying a
welcome reception and refreshments, we will take a walking tour of the Historical
Museum and landmarks, railroad depot, and Chinese Joss House Museum and
Pagoda. China Mary will host us at an authentic Chinese lunch. Before returning to Salt
Lake, we will visit Bear River State Park.
Osher members register for section 001. Guests are welcome, register for section 002. Price includes trans-portation, all entrance fees,
lunch, and light refreshments. The bus is equipped with AC and bathroom. Full payment is required to reserve your seat.
Denice Wheeler has a Bachelor's degree from Brigham Young University and did graduate work at the University
of Utah. She taught at the high school level and also at the College of Eastern Utah, University of Wyoming, and
at Utah State University summer sessions. She has served as Chair of the Wyoming Commission for Women and
on various boards. Ms. Wheeler has written 10 books, including The Mysteries of China Mary and The Lonely
Life of Basque Sheepherders.
Osher Explores
Spring City Arts and History Day Trip
Thursday, September 3, 2015, 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Osher 764-001 (for Osher members)
Fee: $90
Osher 764-002 (for guests)
Fee: $130
Don’t miss Osher EXPLORES tour of Spring City’s artistic and historic treasures. Alison and Chris
Anderson have invited us to visit their exquisitely restored home, guest house, and extensive art collection before enjoying a delicious catered lunch in the barn.
Following lunch we will visit select artists in their working
studios. Or, if you prefer, you can find a shady spot, or tour historic
buildings or private homes. Osher members regis-ter for section
001. Guests are welcome, register for section 002. Price
includes transportation, all entrance fees, lunch, and light
refreshments. The bus is equipped with AC and bathroom.
Full payment is required to reserve your seat.
So Much to Learn and Such Amazing Members to Meet
“It is not true that people stop pursuing dreams because they grow old, they grow old
because they stop pursuing dreams.”
—Gabriel García Márquez
Describing the typical Osher member would be next to impossible because
our members are a diverse group of individuals who come from all walks of life
and have unique life experiences. However, Osher members are an inquisitive
bunch, open to fresh ideas and new possibilities. They love to meet people and
make new friends. They want to learn, share, laugh, and enjoy life. They like
travel, food, fitness, music, science, the arts, history, film, and politics. They are
motivated, enthusiastic, and want to do something everyday that makes them
feel excited, energized, and truly alive.
Join, Renew, and Register Today!
For just $30 per year you can enhance the quality of your life.
We all know Osher is a place for learning and for community, but just like any good feast, there are side dishes. A
membership in Osher offers many benefits.
Interesting people:
• Your fellow members bring a lifetime of experience to conversations.
Renew friendships and make new ones at Osher!
Easy access to campus:
• Classes are held in locations that are easy to get to and have free parking!
• Osher’s Campus Highlights program brings the best of campus right to your class and email box.
Interesting ideas and things to do:
• Visit local businesses, museums, theaters, studios and a host of other things in and around Salt Lake while
enjoying the company of fellow members by selecting from Osher’s free or low-cost special events.
• Bring a friend to a Lunch and Learn lecture. You might just find a buddy to join you for future classes.
Become an Osher member, renew your membership, and register for classes and trips. Memberships are
valid for one full year. For the best chance of getting your preferred selections, register early.
• Online: ww.osher.utah.edu.
• By Phone: (8 AM - 5 PM) at 801-585-5442
• In person (8 AM - 5 PM) or by mail:
Continuing Education Registration Office
Annex wing A
1901 E. South Campus Dr., #1185
Salt Lake City, UT 84112
Register early to ensure that the class you want will
have room for you, and to prevent classes with low
enrollment from canceling.