LIR Palm Desert

Modern Psychiatry

This course will provide an overview of psychiatric principles. Starting with a brief history of psychiatry, the course will focus on the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders in adults.

Instructor:: Michael Eleff MD
Day/Time:: Monday, 9:30am to 11:30am
First Class:: Monday, January 6
Style:: In person

The Holocaust

This course on the Holocaust will be based on Dr Peter Hayes classes at Northwestern University and his book: Why? Explaining The Holocaust. 1) Why the Jews 2) Why the Germans 3) Escalation, Why Murder/Annihilation 4) Victims 5) Homelands and Survival 6) Onlookers/ What Lessons?

Instructor:: Phil Kibort, MD
Day/Time:: Monday, 9:30am to 11:30am
First Class:: Monday, January 6
Style:: Zoom

The Stock Market, the Economy and Current Events around the World

This course will explain changes in the stock market and the economy.. The Current Events will be International as what happens outside the USA is just as important as what happens inside the USA!

Instructor:: Leonard Goldstein
Day/Time:: Monday, 12:00pm to 2:00pm
First Class:: Monday, January 6
Style:: Zoom

Writing Your Own Life Story

Have you thought about writing some of your life memories and possibly to compile them into a memoir? This class will provide the prompts to unlock those memories. Each class member will be expected to write and share a personal memory to be critiqued weekly in a group. The collaborative, informal structure of this class offers encouragement to recall in written form the memories from your life. Class limited to 15 and no admissions after the first class due to the required confidentiality.

Instructor:: Chris Considine
Day/Time:: Monday, 12:00pm to 2:00pm
First Class:: Monday, January 6
Style:: Zoom

Art Appreciation-- Islamic Art and Architecture

This introductory course will explore the great richness of Arts and Architecture in the Islamic World. We will peer into the diverse palaces and mosques, exquisite gardens, the arts of books and writings, textiles, etc. We will journey through some of the major monuments in the Middle East, West Africa, Spain, India and South-East Asia.

Instructor:: Li Kokesh
Day/Time:: Monday, 2:30pm to 4:30pm
First Class:: Monday, January 6
Style:: Zoom

Republicans vs Democrats

FIRST 4 WEEKS ONLY (JAN 6-27): This class will examine the differences, similarities, goals, policies, attitudes, methods, achievements, history, emotional-appeal, vision, focus, and future of the leaders, politicians and voters in the Democratic and Republican parties in the USA.

Instructor:: Gerald Blatt
Day/Time:: Monday, 2:30pm to 4:30pm
First Class:: Monday, January 6
Style:: Zoom

The Criminal Justice System

2 WEEKS ONLY: February 3 and 10 ONLY. If you are like most people, then your view of the Justice System comes from movies, television, newspapers or various other forms of media. If so, your view may be distorted and you're likely unimpressed. These lectures seek to separate myth from reality. Jeff will deal with many of the most commonly asked questions including: How can a lawyer defend a person he knows is guilty? What is plea bargaining and is it really necessary? Who gets bail and who doesn't? How does a judge decide what sentence to impose? Is there really a law for the rich and another for the poor? What are the causes of wrongful convictions and can we prevent them from happening.

Instructor:: Jeff Gindin
Day/Time:: Monday, 2:30pm to 4:30pm
First Class:: Monday, January 6
Style:: In person

Biotechnology

This course introduces basic concepts of biology to students who are interested in biotechnology. This is an introduction to the scientific principles and techniques of molecular biology and biotechnology, including recombinant DNA technology and gene cloning, recombinant protein production and analysis of biomolecules. Discussion of technical, ethical and safety concerns presented by medical, agricultural, pharmaceutical and forensic applications of biotechnology.

Instructor:: Ralph Sinbaldi
Day/Time:: Tuesday, 9:30am to 11:30am
First Class:: Tuesday, January 7
Style:: In person

Real World Economics

By analyzing news articles, opinion pieces, and data, students will develop a deeper understanding of how economic principles shape our world. The course will cover a wide range of topics like: The housing market; Economics of electric vehicles; What is the Federal Reserve; The cost of living in the CV; Universal Basic Income. Taught in plain English so everyone can join in the discussion.

Instructor:: Donald Kagan
Day/Time:: Tuesday, 9:30am to 11:30am
First Class:: Tuesday, January 7
Style:: Zoom

Evidence vs. Emotion

This dynamic class challenges the way we shape our positions on current political, social, and economic issues. We examine the objective EVIDENCE from reliable sources and observe the effect of EMOTION in reaching decisions. It's Fact vs Fiction, Head vs Heart, Data vs Opinion, Evidence vs Emotion.

Instructor:: Gerald Blatt
Day/Time:: Tuesday, 12:00pm to 2:00pm
First Class:: Tuesday, January 7
Style:: Zoom

Mating not Dating

Join us to explore the "Rules of Mating.” This is a set of guidelines for forming lasting relationships based on (1) continuous self-improvement (2) genuine commitment to partnership and (3) complete availability. Discover how these three principles can lead to serendipitous and successful connections. Through engaging discussions and real-life examples, learn how "true love" often finds us in unexpected ways. This class offers valuable insights for both singles and those in relationships. The course will be taught will be taught by Shirley and her husband, Steven Weinraub.

Instructor:: Shirley Lipner
Day/Time:: Tuesday, 2:30pm to 4:30pm
First Class:: Tuesday, January 7
Style:: Zoom

What Influenced What?

Auto-mobility for the masses, What Influenced What will discuss changing lifestyles and interpersonal relationships between segments of: Economics, Politics, Fashion, Music, Film, Quality of Life, and how they could have influenced automotive styling and design. The class will focus on the futuristic 1950s, the tumultuous 1960s, the gas shortage 1970s and the doldrum 1980s.

Instructor:: Joe Kokesh
Day/Time:: Tuesday, 2:30pm to 4:30pm
First Class:: Tuesday, January 7
Style:: Zoom

Exploring Modern Literature

In this short course, we'll look at texts to see how modernists sought to define their work through radical experimentation. James Joyce, Virginia Woolf, T.S Elliot and Samuel Beckett have reshaped the traditional literary form in ways that best illustrate the modernist way of thinking. Together, we will look at excerpts from these authors to discover what in particular makes these writers distinctly modern in their approach to literature.

Instructor:: Terry Boyle, Ph.D
Day/Time:: Wednesday, 9:30am to 11:30am
First Class:: Wednesday, January 8
Style:: Zoom

Modern Advances in Cardiovascular Care

This course will explore the newest medications and procedures used in the diagnosis and therapy of many forms of heart disease. You will see videos of the latest devices in use at this time and several that are still experimental. We will discuss new medications that have become life-changing and provide a significantly high quality of life. We will show and discuss the use of AI in medicine generally and in cardiology more specifically. You will be amazed by what can now be accomplished to improve well-being and prolong life.

Instructor:: Stephen Weinberg MD
Day/Time:: Wednesday, 9:30am to 11:30am
First Class:: Wednesday, January 8
Style:: Zoom

Conjuring 102 - Magic

Continue your discovery into the secrets of magic, from basic card shuffles to mesmerizing tricks. Learn fundamental sleights, misdirection techniques, and build a repertoire of enchanting illusions. Whether you're a novice or a casual enthusiast, this class will empower you to dazzle friends and family with your newfound wizardry. Get ready to shuffle and amaze!

Instructor:: George Haas
Day/Time:: Wednesday, 12:00pm to 2:00pm
First Class:: Wednesday, January 8
Style:: In person

Mini Medical Degree

Join us for three subspecialty classes (each 2 sessions): A) Endocrinology B) Neurology and C) Gastroenterology. We will have three different specialists discuss the 4-6 most common diseases in their field. We will review anatomy and normal physiology as well as answer your questions about common diseases, such as Diabetes, Thyroid issues, Weight loss medications, Parkinsons, Dementia, MS, Colitis, Crohns, Hepatitis and many other common issues. You're on your way to becoming a first year medical student.

Instructor:: Phil Kibort, MD
Day/Time:: Wednesday, 12:00pm to 2:00pm
First Class:: Wednesday, January 8
Style:: Zoom

Perfect Health: Ayurvedic Lifestyle Program

Based on Deepak Chopra, MD’s global bestseller, PERFECT HEALTH, this beautiful program teaches simple yet profound skills for promoting healing, vitality and longevity. Beginning with Kerry’s FEEL BETTER NOW!, students learn a powerful regimen of health practices, backed by the latest science, orchestrated to balance the body and mind, enhance nutrition, and reduce emotional turbulence. Textbook Included! More details online: www.kerryabram.com

Instructor:: Kerry Abram
Day/Time:: Wednesday, 2:30pm to 5:00pm
First Class:: Wednesday, January 8
Style:: Zoom

The Political and Social Aspects of Artificial Intelligence Technologies

This highly interactive Zoom class is conducted in a seminar format. Those who want to participate in the seminar are asked to have cameras on. Whether cameras are on or off, all participants are encouraged to ask questions. We are on a voyage of discovery where Generative Artificial Intelligence and its capacity for autonomous learning are improving at breakneck speed. Key topics include 1) the future of electric vehicles, 2) advancements in space exploration, 3) military applications, 4) workforce impacts, 5) shifts in education, 6) media transformation, 7) developments in chips and data centers, 8) the power grid, 9) nuclear power innovations, and, not least, 10) the impacts on local, state, and federal governments.

Instructor:: Steve Garfein
Day/Time:: Wednesday, 2:30pm to 4:30pm
First Class:: Wednesday, January 8
Style:: Zoom

Be a Better Photographer

Open to all levels of photographers. Each week, participants will have an opportunity to take and submit photos by email that encourage experimentation with composition, lighting, perspective, etc. Participants can use phones or cameras to take photos. Observers who do not wish to submit photos are also welcome to attend and learn from others.

Instructor:: Marc Rosen
Day/Time:: Thursday, 8:45am to 11:00am
First Class:: Thursday, January 9
Style:: Zoom

Short Story Discussion Group

This participant-focused class explores new worlds, reflects on familiar ones, and seeks insights from award-winning authors. In the spirit of inquiry and discovery, we discuss one or two thought-provoking contemporary short stories each week. Class members lead most discussions, and the facilitator provides direction, tools, and support. We are reading "Best American Short Stories of the Century," edited by John Updike. https://www.amazon.com/Best-American-Short-Stories-Century.

Instructor:: Adair Fell
Day/Time:: Thursday, 9:30am to 11:30am
First Class:: Thursday, January 9
Style:: Zoom

Blood- The River of Life

The ancients believed that blood gave their bodies life and that this gift of life came from the gods. Our understanding of the true nature of blood grew slowly for millennia until it blossomed in the last 100 years. Learn more about blood, an endlessly fascinating, and mysterious substance which transports oxygen, food, immunity, and hormones wherever it's needed, and is always ready to form a clot to seal injuries. We will discuss how blood accomplishes these tasks and learn about some of the many diseases which can affect it, such as anemia, leukemia, and hemophilia. Blood transfusion, blood types and blood donation will be covered. We will also discuss the effects of blood diseases on population health and their effects on society. Best of all we will apply our new understanding about blood to some patient case studies to solve together.

Instructor:: Jacob Frick MD
Day/Time:: Thursday, 12:00pm to 2:00pm
First Class:: Thursday, January 9
Style:: In person

Trump Administration-Pro & Con + Other Current Events

Whether you Love Him or Hate him...let us look at him from both sides of the Aisle...All Political views are welcome and Respected..

Instructor:: Leonard Goldstein
Day/Time:: Thursday, 12:00pm to 2:00pm
First Class:: Thursday, January 9
Style:: In person

Dark Alleys and Dangerous Blondes

Film Noir is a style of American crime films that evolved over the 1930’s & 40’s into movies that were far more interesting and adult than the gangster stories made in Hollywood in the 30’s.. After WWII, film makers in other countries began to make their own versions of crime stories in this style. The Winter 2025 class will feature films with the dangerous theme of adultery. The movies are: The Letter; Double Indemnity; Gilda; Dial M for Murder; Les Diabolique; The Man Who Wasn’t There.

Instructor:: John Curran
Day/Time:: Thursday, 1:30pm to 4:30pm
First Class:: Thursday, January 9
Style:: Zoom

Controversial Issues

We will discuss and debate contemporary issues that are both controversial and familiar. Brief presentations by the facilitator and class discussion will stimulate fact-based, informative exchanges. The facilitator will ensure that all sides and viewpoints are heard and considered.

Instructor:: Marc Rosen
Day/Time:: Thursday, 2:30pm to 4:30pm
First Class:: Thursday, January 9
Style:: Zoom

Writing Creative Fiction

A class to get you writing by opening you to your creativity. It is for all of those who already love to write or would love to write if they could just get started. This class will give you the paths to follow to get over your fear of writing and/or your writer’s block. We will write from a variety of prompts to get us going. This class is dedicated to helping us all to feel comfortable with one another and accepting of all of our efforts. This is a class where we will write fiction, freeing our imaginations and drawing on our life experiences . It will be interesting to see where our writing leads us. Please, join me in this adventure.

Instructor:: Susan Reinke
Day/Time:: Thursday, 2:30pm to 4:30pm
First Class:: Thursday, January 9
Style:: In person

French Conversations

This is a French conversation course for those who would like to brush up on their rusty conversational skills, become more fluent and improve their pronunciation. It is a great opportunity to practice what you have learned in the past. THIS IS NOT A GRAMMAR COURSE OR A BEGINNER LEVEL CLASS.

Instructor:: Liliane Bazerghi-Fymat
Day/Time:: Friday, 9:30am to 11:30am
First Class:: Friday, January 10
Style:: In person

Puppy Love

Our canine companions and you, their “hoomans,” are invited to join a fun and interactive gathering to share your stories, tips and the unconditional love for our most precious family members, our dogs. Each week, we’ll review useful information on keeping our buddies happy and healthy including feeding, exercise, training, dog sitters, maladies and much, much more. Our moderator, a decades-long rescuer, will collate your pups’ photos, past and present, to share during weekly photo montages, present advice from experts, and share resources that every dog will love. Pups of any breed, size and age are welcome to join the class, on your lap or at your feet. What a treat it will be to have them with us as we learn!

Instructor:: Barbara Mudge
Day/Time:: Friday, 9:30am to 11:30am
First Class:: Friday, January 10
Style:: Zoom

Grief at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue

Residents of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue have no immunity to death, dying and bereaving before the White House, in the White House, or after. Presidential families have been challenged by grieving in the public eye. Although by tradition the president is “consoler-in-chief," no one asks presidential candidates: “How will you comfort the grieving after a hurricane or act of terrorism?” White House families offer fascinating models of grief.

Instructor:: Harold Ivan Smith
Day/Time:: Friday, 12:00pm to 2:00pm
First Class:: Friday, January 10
Style:: Zoom

The Supreme Court and Women's Rights

The purpose of this course is to explore the relationship between the Supreme Court of the United States and Women’s rights. The course will cover significant court cases, legal principles, and historical contexts that have shaped the legal landscape for women in America. The Course objectives: Understand the historical context of women’s rights in the United States; Analyze landmark Supreme Court cases related to women’s rights; Explore the impact of Supreme Court decisions on modern women’s rights issues in the past and today. More specifically, the course will comprehensively cover the Supreme Court’s role in shaping women’s rights, from historical cases to contemporary issues providing students with a deep understanding of the intersection between law and gender equality.

Instructor:: Jerry Swirsky
Day/Time:: Friday, 12:00pm to 2:00pm
First Class:: Friday, January 10
Style:: Zoom

Classes designed specifically for those ages 50 and above who want to learn for the pure enjoyment of learning.

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