French Chateaux: The Art of Living

This illustrated history of the evolution of the French chateau from the Middle Ages through the 18th century examines the spirit of “l’art de vivre,” or the art of living, as expressed in architecture, interiors and gardens. From the enchanted castles of the Loire Valley to the glittering halls of Versailles, the art of living is an artistic, social and cultural feast. 

John Tschirch is an award-winning architectural historian and an Honorary Member of the Garden Club of America for his achievements in the research and preservation of historic buildings and landscapes. His work has been featured in the Magazine Antiques, The New York Times and Martha Stewart Living. Among his publications are Newport: The Artful City (Giles, Ltd. 2020) and the forthcoming America’s Eden: Newport Landscapes Through the Ages (Giles, Ltd, 2021). He is also the author of historical fiction, such as Gods and Girls: Tales of Art, Seduction and Obsession (Amazon, 2019). His work and writings may be viewed at www.johnstories.com

My newly published book Newport: The Artful City is #1 on Amazon in it's category. Thank you to those who have already acquired the book and to those who will enjoy it in the future. See the link below for details.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/new-releases/books/16244611/ref=zg_b_hnr_16244611_1?fbclid=IwAR1Lpa7I_tK7GExKtYm8p1tWtX5oYmpC8bCwQSg9PKtdRwpiOtjtMyLlFAc

Talking About Movies with Jerry DeSchepper - Mondays at 12 pm - January 4, 11, 25 and February 1, 8, 22

A new ongoing film discussion group. Each week participants will choose a movie, which they will view on their own, in time for the group’s next meeting. Do you have a favorite you’d like to share? Old or New? American or International? Comedy or Tragedy? Join us and we will discuss it together. Led by Jerry DeSchepper. Class limit: 15  Please email Hamilton House to register. 

email John Lord if interested

​
​Introduction to Yang Snake Style Tai Chi
Tuesdays at 10:30am

The Yang Snake Style is a dynamic tai chi method that mobilizes the spine while stretching and strengthening the core body muscles. Practicing this ancient martial art increases strength, balance, flexibility, vitality, peace of mind, and martial skill.

Snake style tai chi uses core body strength to initiate movement. Through discussion and practice, students will learn the principles of snake style movement, learning stretching exercises to help create the strength and flexibility needed to create this movement, and be introduced to the tai chi form. For in depth instruction, beginners arrive at 9:30. At 10:30 all levels practice stretching exercises and the tai chi form together. Please wear loose clothing and flat shoes.

Ida Schmulowitz has been practicing Yang Style Tai Chi since 1984. She has been studying Yang Snake Style since 2005 with Bao Tak Fai (Master Robert Boyd of Burlington,Vt. ) and is a certified Snake Style instructor.

Class fee: $5.00 members; $10 non-members per class; payable directly to Ida.

Join Jodie, from BodySoul, for an upbeat workout!

Short Story I -  “Story of Your Life” 

"Story of Your Life" by Ted Chiang could be classified as science-fiction, but don't let that dissuade you. Made into the film Arrival by Denis Villeneuve , the story plays with ideas of language and the ways language shapes our understanding of the world. Here's a pdf of the story: http://www.kameli.net/~raimu/rnd/ted-chiang-story-of-your-life-2000.pdf

John Cole is a professor in the English Department at CCRI where he has taught for almost 30 years. He also did stints as Writing Center Director, Department Chairperson, and Dean of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences during his time at CCRI.

Discussions focus on a variety of non-fiction readings, which are distributed at least a week in advance. Discussions are led by the group member who selects the reading and is responsible for having copies made.

Leadership of the discussion rotates weekly and, while encouraged, leading a session is not essential for participating in the group. Selected readings of a piece of non-fiction prose should be 1) interesting to discuss, 2) thought-provoking, and 3) not too long (typically under 15 pages). Anyone is welcome to join this group on an occasional or regular basis.

The titles of the readings are listed in the weekly E-bulletin, and copies are available to members online (whenever possible) and in a folder by the front desk a week prior to their being discussed.

Readings recently discussed covered a wide range of topics--cabbage strudel, American exceptionalism, burkinis, healthcare, the history of prohibition, coffee, and much more--humorous, serious, and informative.

Email HH if interested.

Join instructor Alicia Elwin for beginner Spanish. She plans to use the book (Amazon or ABE books): SPANISH MADE SIMPLE, Revised and Updated, by Judith Nemethy, (February 10, 2004).ISBN: 9780767915410. If interested in E-Book version, ISBN: 9780307434593.

Please register by emailing Hamilton House.

A Regathering of Poets: Welcoming in the New Year with Jon Berenson - Mini Series - Thursdays at 9 am - December 10, 17, January 7, 14, 21

 In this five session Regathering of Poets, Jon invites us to come together to share with each other by bringing a favorite poem (your own or someone else's), and to read it and share what the poem means to you in your life. Dr. Jon Berenson is a clinical psychologist in solo private practice in Providence, Rhode Island. He has been a senior leader of the Opening the Heart workshop for 37 years at Kripalu Institute for Yoga and Health. He has loved what he calls sacred, or divine poetry for a very long time,sometimes called 'Mindfulness Poetry.’

Meditation Circle with Lee Clasper-Torch - Thursdays at 9:30 am - January 7, 14, 21, 28

Enjoy a time of centering silence, meditation and mindful reflection. The Circle is a simple and welcoming time of listening to the silence, sinking into our hearts, and gently practicing the art of being still. Open to all - experienced or brand new to meditation - we are invited to hold space with one another to help deepen our inner awareness and develop our individual practice. As in past Circles, we will continue to share in a quality time of sitting silence, meditate on various poems and passages and share open, honest and mindful conversation with one another. Led by Lee Clasper-Torch.

Designed for the absolute beginner. Join our new teacher Dieter Gomes to learn German. Email Hamilton House if you are interested: hamiltonhouse276@gmail.com

Join Jodie from Body+Soul for an upbeat workout!

Join our new German teacher Dieter Gomes for German II designed for those who are comfortable with their language skills. If you are interested please email Hamilton House: hamiltonhouse276@gmail.com

Middle Eastern Percussion with Charles Kalajian - Four Week Series - Thursdays at 1 pm - January 7, 14, 21, 28

Participants will be able to demonstrate and improve competence in their percussive ability as it relates to middle eastern drumming rhythms of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Anatolia, Iraq, Balkans, Turkey and Greece. Not only will class members develop strategies to identify and increase their accuracy in the following grooves: Ayoub, Beledi (Baladi), Beguine, Ciftetelli (Çiftetelli Tsifteteli), Curcuna, Halay, Malfouf (Malfuf Malfuuf), 6/8 time, 7/8 time (Laz), and 9/8 time (Karsilama) but also, participating in musical training enhances verbal memory, spatial reasoning and literacy skills. This class will prepare participants to interact with the Middle Eastern online groove mixer to record, evaluate, and improve performance. (an example of the groove mixer: https://taqs.im/rhythms/). Techniques taught and methods used will foster self-reliance, independence, and confidence in participants' Middle Eastern percussion performance ability. Participants will use house hold items while in class and for practicing when not in class. 

Join Lisa from Body-Soul for Chair Yoga. Lisa has requested students bring water to class as well as a yoga block and yoga strap if you have them.

Painting for All Levels - Fridays at 10 am - January 8, 15, 22, 29

Nothing can compare to an in person class, but zoom painting classes are a good alternative! I can see student work and comment on it as the class progresses, and other students can see each other's work, and have a dialogue as the class goes on.  After each class, students email me a photo of their work that I put together in an email and send around to the members of the class. The photos can show more color and texture than holding up the piece on zoom since everyone has different lighting in their rooms.

I present an assignment for students to work on, or if a student has a particular project that they would like to work on, that is also something I can help with.  

$48 per month – Payable directly to Ida Schmulowitz  Register by emailing: hamiltonhouse276@gmail.com

American Short Stories - Weekly Series with John Lord - Fridays at 11 am beginning December 11

Join us every week for discussions of classic American short stories. Using The Oxford Book of American Short Stories,we will read and react to a new story each week. The plan is for this class to run for 10-12 weeks and follow a format similar to Poetry and Readings & Discussions. Open to all; no long term commitment. Come when you can. 

The book is available at Amazon ($13-15 used) or at Abebooks.com ($4.40 w/ free shipping).

Renaissance in Six Italian Cities with Dr. Rocky Ruggiero - Alternate Fridays at 11:00 am  - January - March (Dates provided below)

Part 1: Assisi: The Little Giant - St. Francis and Franciscan Art and Philosophy - January 8 

At the turn of the 13th and 14th Centuries, a man named Francis from Assisi changed the world. Not only did he begin to reform the Catholic Church by living the example of Christ in taking a vow of poverty, but he also changed the way that medieval Christians saw the natural world. Francis claimed that nature was given to us as a gift from God and therefore was not only good but imbued with God himself. Nature should not be shunned and ignored, but celebrated and revered. Not surprisingly, within a half century of his death in 1226, artists like Cimabue, Dante and Giotto appeared, and each reflected the little giant’s philosophy in his respective art. To honor St. Francis, a basilica was built in his honor and the greatest artists of Europe converged on Assisi to decorate the church, much as they would centuries later at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. 

Part 2: Florence: The Art of Magnificence - January 22

Florence, Italy, was the cradle of the Renaissance and the birthplace of the modern world. From Dante to Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo, this central Italian town produced the greatest concentration of artistic genius in history.  The legacy of this creative explosion is still very much present in the city. Whether it is Brunelleschi’s crowning dome above the titanic cathedral, Ghiberti’s stunning golden doors known as The Gates of Paradise, Botticelli’s beautiful painting of the Birth of Venus or Michelangelo’s unrivaled statue of David, beauty and inspiration are found in every corner of this open-air museum that is Florence. This lecture will tell the story of Florence through its art, architecture and history – a story that is simply magnificent!

Part 3: Padua: Giotto and The Scrovegni Chapel - February 5

Giotto’s 14th-century fresco cycle in the Scrovegni Chapel in Padua, Italy, is perhaps the seminal motion picture in Western Art. The artist transformed the iconic, sacred subjects of his contemporary painting world into a very human story- or what I like to call the “visual vernacular”. This lecture will examine a surprisingly modern aspect of Giotto’s work, that is the cinematic quality. To put it simply, the paintings in the chapel read like a motion picture or a film, in which humanity is the star. Giotto’s mise en scène is full of expressive character types, landscapes, colour and visual arrangements. The sequential arrangement and juxtaposition of scenes, instead, produce a visual narrative of which most modern film directors would be envious. In a purely visual medium, Giotto is able to evoke sounds and smells, emotions and expectations, humor and terror.

Part 4: Siena: The City of the Virgin Mary - February 19

In the first half of the 14th century, the city of Siena was Florence’s main political, economic and artistic rival. Artists such as Duccio, Simone Martini and Ambrogio Lorenzetti were members of one of Europe’s most important school of painting. The striking Gothic cathedral of Siena clearly expresses the city’s devotion to the Virgin Mary; while, the civic architecture of the city is embodied in the city’s most important civic structure known as the Palazzo Pubblico. This late 13th-century building still serves as Siena’s town hall and preserves some of the most important murals of the 14th Century such as Simone Martini’s Maestà in the former room of the “Great Council” and the Allegory of Good and Bad Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti in the “Room of the Nine”, which was Siena’s medieval Oval Office.

Part 5: Venice: La Serenissima - March 5

Venice was the longest lasting Republic in history. The city’s privileged position as cultural and economic bridge between the Eastern and Western Christian world contribute to the uniqueness of Venice. The art and architecture in Venice clearly display this combination of Islamic, Byzantine, and Classical influences. Artists such as Bellini, Giorgione, Titian and Tintoretto would make Venetian painting perhaps the only school to rival that of the Central Italian Renaissance. We will not only examine the buildings and paintings of Venice, but also the history of perhaps the most singular city in the world.

Part 6: Rome: The Eternal City - March 19

The ancient Romans referred to their city as the “caput mundi”, or the “capital of the world”. Stretching as far west as the Atlantic Ocean, as far south as the Sahara, north to modern-day Scotland, and east to the Euphrates River, the Roman Empire encompassed nearly half of the known world. With the collapse of the Roman Empire, Christianity became the new “spiritual empire”. Renaissance Popes supplanted the emperors and began to compete with them as patrons, appropriating much of their architectural and artistic style in order to create what Pope Julius II called the “New Ancient Rome”. No complex better embodies this tradition than the Vatican. The greatest artists of the day migrated to Rome to contribute their skills to honor St. Peter. The result is one of the greatest decorative complexes on the planet, which includes works like the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. From the Colosseum to St. Peter’s Square, the monuments of Rome still stand as testimony to the greatness of this eternal city.

“Doing Philosophy” with Ian Stellar - Fridays at 1 pm - January 8, 15 (2pm), 22, 29 and February 5, 12, 19, 26

It has been said by some that thinking is the most important form of doing. In this discussion group, we will think - a lot. The guiding principle of our enterprise will be philia sophia, which from Greek can be taken to mean "the love of wisdom". This curious attitude is fundamental to the nature of philosophical examination.

Philosophy is not like other disciplines. It is not a subject whose issues are sufficiently put to rest with some programmatic catalogue of "yeses" and "nos". Instead, philosophy is an activity. It is elicited and practiced more than it is taught and learned. It is, in its most honest manifestation, a way of living. Aristotle would say that philosophy is a distinct kind of "science", concerning itself with independent things, the study of "being as being". The questions raised during this process are ostensibly simple; complication arises as we attempt to answer them.  The occasional murkiness conjured by this endeavor does not, however, prevent it from being edifying. And so, our goal will be to harness and fine-tune the philosophical disposition that exists within all of us. Our focus will involve two things: The work of past thinkers, and the open articulation of our own interpretations of the questions at hand.  Class limit: 10  Please email Hamilton House to register.

Join Mary Nyman and HH member's for weekly conversation.

French Chateaux: The Art of Living

This illustrated history of the evolution of the French chateau from the Middle Ages through the 18th century examines the spirit of “l’art de vivre,” or the art of living, as expressed in architecture, interiors and gardens. From the enchanted castles of the Loire Valley to the glittering halls of Versailles, the art of living is an artistic, social and cultural feast. 

John Tschirch is an award-winning architectural historian and an Honorary Member of the Garden Club of America for his achievements in the research and preservation of historic buildings and landscapes. His work has been featured in the Magazine Antiques, The New York Times and Martha Stewart Living. Among his publications are Newport: The Artful City (Giles, Ltd. 2020) and the forthcoming America’s Eden: Newport Landscapes Through the Ages (Giles, Ltd, 2021). He is also the author of historical fiction, such as Gods and Girls: Tales of Art, Seduction and Obsession (Amazon, 2019). His work and writings may be viewed at www.johnstories.com

My newly published book Newport: The Artful City is #1 on Amazon in it's category. Thank you to those who have already acquired the book and to those who will enjoy it in the future. See the link below for details.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/new-releases/books/16244611/ref=zg_b_hnr_16244611_1?fbclid=IwAR1Lpa7I_tK7GExKtYm8p1tWtX5oYmpC8bCwQSg9PKtdRwpiOtjtMyLlFAc

Talking About Movies with Jerry DeSchepper - Mondays at 12 pm - January 4, 11, 25 and February 1, 8, 22

A new ongoing film discussion group. Each week participants will choose a movie, which they will view on their own, in time for the group’s next meeting. Do you have a favorite you’d like to share? Old or New? American or International? Comedy or Tragedy? Join us and we will discuss it together. Led by Jerry DeSchepper. Class limit: 15  Please email Hamilton House to register. 

email John Lord if interested

​
​Introduction to Yang Snake Style Tai Chi
Tuesdays at 10:30am

The Yang Snake Style is a dynamic tai chi method that mobilizes the spine while stretching and strengthening the core body muscles. Practicing this ancient martial art increases strength, balance, flexibility, vitality, peace of mind, and martial skill.

Snake style tai chi uses core body strength to initiate movement. Through discussion and practice, students will learn the principles of snake style movement, learning stretching exercises to help create the strength and flexibility needed to create this movement, and be introduced to the tai chi form. For in depth instruction, beginners arrive at 9:30. At 10:30 all levels practice stretching exercises and the tai chi form together. Please wear loose clothing and flat shoes.

Ida Schmulowitz has been practicing Yang Style Tai Chi since 1984. She has been studying Yang Snake Style since 2005 with Bao Tak Fai (Master Robert Boyd of Burlington,Vt. ) and is a certified Snake Style instructor.

Class fee: $5.00 members; $10 non-members per class; payable directly to Ida.

Join Jodie, from BodySoul, for an upbeat workout!

Discussions focus on a variety of non-fiction readings, which are distributed at least a week in advance. Discussions are led by the group member who selects the reading and is responsible for having copies made.

Leadership of the discussion rotates weekly and, while encouraged, leading a session is not essential for participating in the group. Selected readings of a piece of non-fiction prose should be 1) interesting to discuss, 2) thought-provoking, and 3) not too long (typically under 15 pages). Anyone is welcome to join this group on an occasional or regular basis.

The titles of the readings are listed in the weekly E-bulletin, and copies are available to members online (whenever possible) and in a folder by the front desk a week prior to their being discussed.

Readings recently discussed covered a wide range of topics--cabbage strudel, American exceptionalism, burkinis, healthcare, the history of prohibition, coffee, and much more--humorous, serious, and informative.

Email HH if interested.

Join instructor Alicia Elwin for beginner Spanish. She plans to use the book (Amazon or ABE books): SPANISH MADE SIMPLE, Revised and Updated, by Judith Nemethy, (February 10, 2004).ISBN: 9780767915410. If interested in E-Book version, ISBN: 9780307434593.

Please register by emailing Hamilton House.

A Regathering of Poets: Welcoming in the New Year with Jon Berenson - Mini Series - Thursdays at 9 am - December 10, 17, January 7, 14, 21

 In this five session Regathering of Poets, Jon invites us to come together to share with each other by bringing a favorite poem (your own or someone else's), and to read it and share what the poem means to you in your life. Dr. Jon Berenson is a clinical psychologist in solo private practice in Providence, Rhode Island. He has been a senior leader of the Opening the Heart workshop for 37 years at Kripalu Institute for Yoga and Health. He has loved what he calls sacred, or divine poetry for a very long time,sometimes called 'Mindfulness Poetry.’

Meditation Circle with Lee Clasper-Torch - Thursdays at 9:30 am - January 7, 14, 21, 28

Enjoy a time of centering silence, meditation and mindful reflection. The Circle is a simple and welcoming time of listening to the silence, sinking into our hearts, and gently practicing the art of being still. Open to all - experienced or brand new to meditation - we are invited to hold space with one another to help deepen our inner awareness and develop our individual practice. As in past Circles, we will continue to share in a quality time of sitting silence, meditate on various poems and passages and share open, honest and mindful conversation with one another. Led by Lee Clasper-Torch.

John Logan’s play "Peter and Alice,” an In-depth study with Maggie Miles - Mini Series - Thursdays from 10 am - 11:15 am - January 14, 21, 28, February 4

Many of us loved reading the children’s classics, Alice in Wonderland and Peter Pan, but did we ever think about what the lives of the real Alice and the real Peter were like, having their childhoods immortalized in children’s literature? 

What if Alice, at age 80 and Peter, at age 35 were to meet for the first time in a bookstore in London? Their real- life chance encounter is the basis for Logan’ s play as they exchange memories and personal tragedies and sadly, neither is headed toward a "happily ever after" conclusion. Class discussions will be based on assigned sections of the play. If participants are interested, we can have volunteers read aloud occasionally. Class limit: 17  Please register by emailing Hamilton House.

Note:“Peter and Alice” is available on Amazon, new for $8.29 and used for $5.30 

Designed for the absolute beginner. Join our new teacher Dieter Gomes to learn German. Email Hamilton House if you are interested: hamiltonhouse276@gmail.com

Join Jodie from Body+Soul for an upbeat workout!

Join our new German teacher Dieter Gomes for German II designed for those who are comfortable with their language skills. If you are interested please email Hamilton House: hamiltonhouse276@gmail.com

Middle Eastern Percussion with Charles Kalajian - Four Week Series - Thursdays at 1 pm - January 7, 14, 21, 28

Participants will be able to demonstrate and improve competence in their percussive ability as it relates to middle eastern drumming rhythms of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Anatolia, Iraq, Balkans, Turkey and Greece. Not only will class members develop strategies to identify and increase their accuracy in the following grooves: Ayoub, Beledi (Baladi), Beguine, Ciftetelli (Çiftetelli Tsifteteli), Curcuna, Halay, Malfouf (Malfuf Malfuuf), 6/8 time, 7/8 time (Laz), and 9/8 time (Karsilama) but also, participating in musical training enhances verbal memory, spatial reasoning and literacy skills. This class will prepare participants to interact with the Middle Eastern online groove mixer to record, evaluate, and improve performance. (an example of the groove mixer: https://taqs.im/rhythms/). Techniques taught and methods used will foster self-reliance, independence, and confidence in participants' Middle Eastern percussion performance ability. Participants will use house hold items while in class and for practicing when not in class. 

Join Lisa from Body-Soul for Chair Yoga. Lisa has requested students bring water to class as well as a yoga block and yoga strap if you have them.

Painting for All Levels - Fridays at 10 am - January 8, 15, 22, 29

Nothing can compare to an in person class, but zoom painting classes are a good alternative! I can see student work and comment on it as the class progresses, and other students can see each other's work, and have a dialogue as the class goes on.  After each class, students email me a photo of their work that I put together in an email and send around to the members of the class. The photos can show more color and texture than holding up the piece on zoom since everyone has different lighting in their rooms.

I present an assignment for students to work on, or if a student has a particular project that they would like to work on, that is also something I can help with.  

$48 per month – Payable directly to Ida Schmulowitz  Register by emailing: hamiltonhouse276@gmail.com

American Short Stories - Weekly Series with John Lord - Fridays at 11 am beginning December 11

Join us every week for discussions of classic American short stories. Using The Oxford Book of American Short Stories,we will read and react to a new story each week. The plan is for this class to run for 10-12 weeks and follow a format similar to Poetry and Readings & Discussions. Open to all; no long term commitment. Come when you can. 

The book is available at Amazon ($13-15 used) or at Abebooks.com ($4.40 w/ free shipping).

“Doing Philosophy” with Ian Stellar - Fridays at 1 pm - January 8, 15 (2pm), 22, 29 and February 5, 12, 19, 26

It has been said by some that thinking is the most important form of doing. In this discussion group, we will think - a lot. The guiding principle of our enterprise will be philia sophia, which from Greek can be taken to mean "the love of wisdom". This curious attitude is fundamental to the nature of philosophical examination.

Philosophy is not like other disciplines. It is not a subject whose issues are sufficiently put to rest with some programmatic catalogue of "yeses" and "nos". Instead, philosophy is an activity. It is elicited and practiced more than it is taught and learned. It is, in its most honest manifestation, a way of living. Aristotle would say that philosophy is a distinct kind of "science", concerning itself with independent things, the study of "being as being". The questions raised during this process are ostensibly simple; complication arises as we attempt to answer them.  The occasional murkiness conjured by this endeavor does not, however, prevent it from being edifying. And so, our goal will be to harness and fine-tune the philosophical disposition that exists within all of us. Our focus will involve two things: The work of past thinkers, and the open articulation of our own interpretations of the questions at hand.  Class limit: 10  Please email Hamilton House to register.

email John Lord if interested

​
​Introduction to Yang Snake Style Tai Chi
Tuesdays at 10:30am

The Yang Snake Style is a dynamic tai chi method that mobilizes the spine while stretching and strengthening the core body muscles. Practicing this ancient martial art increases strength, balance, flexibility, vitality, peace of mind, and martial skill.

Snake style tai chi uses core body strength to initiate movement. Through discussion and practice, students will learn the principles of snake style movement, learning stretching exercises to help create the strength and flexibility needed to create this movement, and be introduced to the tai chi form. For in depth instruction, beginners arrive at 9:30. At 10:30 all levels practice stretching exercises and the tai chi form together. Please wear loose clothing and flat shoes.

Ida Schmulowitz has been practicing Yang Style Tai Chi since 1984. She has been studying Yang Snake Style since 2005 with Bao Tak Fai (Master Robert Boyd of Burlington,Vt. ) and is a certified Snake Style instructor.

Class fee: $5.00 members; $10 non-members per class; payable directly to Ida.

Join Jodie, from BodySoul, for an upbeat workout!

Short Story I -  “Story of Your Life” 

"Story of Your Life" by Ted Chiang could be classified as science-fiction, but don't let that dissuade you. Made into the film Arrival by Denis Villeneuve , the story plays with ideas of language and the ways language shapes our understanding of the world. Here's a pdf of the story: http://www.kameli.net/~raimu/rnd/ted-chiang-story-of-your-life-2000.pdf

John Cole is a professor in the English Department at CCRI where he has taught for almost 30 years. He also did stints as Writing Center Director, Department Chairperson, and Dean of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences during his time at CCRI.

Discussions focus on a variety of non-fiction readings, which are distributed at least a week in advance. Discussions are led by the group member who selects the reading and is responsible for having copies made.

Leadership of the discussion rotates weekly and, while encouraged, leading a session is not essential for participating in the group. Selected readings of a piece of non-fiction prose should be 1) interesting to discuss, 2) thought-provoking, and 3) not too long (typically under 15 pages). Anyone is welcome to join this group on an occasional or regular basis.

The titles of the readings are listed in the weekly E-bulletin, and copies are available to members online (whenever possible) and in a folder by the front desk a week prior to their being discussed.

Readings recently discussed covered a wide range of topics--cabbage strudel, American exceptionalism, burkinis, healthcare, the history of prohibition, coffee, and much more--humorous, serious, and informative.

Email HH if interested.

Join instructor Alicia Elwin for beginner Spanish. She plans to use the book (Amazon or ABE books): SPANISH MADE SIMPLE, Revised and Updated, by Judith Nemethy, (February 10, 2004).ISBN: 9780767915410. If interested in E-Book version, ISBN: 9780307434593.

Please register by emailing Hamilton House.

A Regathering of Poets: Welcoming in the New Year with Jon Berenson - Mini Series - Thursdays at 9 am - December 10, 17, January 7, 14, 21

 In this five session Regathering of Poets, Jon invites us to come together to share with each other by bringing a favorite poem (your own or someone else's), and to read it and share what the poem means to you in your life. Dr. Jon Berenson is a clinical psychologist in solo private practice in Providence, Rhode Island. He has been a senior leader of the Opening the Heart workshop for 37 years at Kripalu Institute for Yoga and Health. He has loved what he calls sacred, or divine poetry for a very long time,sometimes called 'Mindfulness Poetry.’

Meditation Circle with Lee Clasper-Torch - Thursdays at 9:30 am - January 7, 14, 21, 28

Enjoy a time of centering silence, meditation and mindful reflection. The Circle is a simple and welcoming time of listening to the silence, sinking into our hearts, and gently practicing the art of being still. Open to all - experienced or brand new to meditation - we are invited to hold space with one another to help deepen our inner awareness and develop our individual practice. As in past Circles, we will continue to share in a quality time of sitting silence, meditate on various poems and passages and share open, honest and mindful conversation with one another. Led by Lee Clasper-Torch.

John Logan’s play "Peter and Alice,” an In-depth study with Maggie Miles - Mini Series - Thursdays from 10 am - 11:15 am - January 14, 21, 28, February 4

Many of us loved reading the children’s classics, Alice in Wonderland and Peter Pan, but did we ever think about what the lives of the real Alice and the real Peter were like, having their childhoods immortalized in children’s literature? 

What if Alice, at age 80 and Peter, at age 35 were to meet for the first time in a bookstore in London? Their real- life chance encounter is the basis for Logan’ s play as they exchange memories and personal tragedies and sadly, neither is headed toward a "happily ever after" conclusion. Class discussions will be based on assigned sections of the play. If participants are interested, we can have volunteers read aloud occasionally. Class limit: 17  Please register by emailing Hamilton House.

Note:“Peter and Alice” is available on Amazon, new for $8.29 and used for $5.30 

Designed for the absolute beginner. Join our new teacher Dieter Gomes to learn German. Email Hamilton House if you are interested: hamiltonhouse276@gmail.com

Join Jodie from Body+Soul for an upbeat workout!

Join our new German teacher Dieter Gomes for German II designed for those who are comfortable with their language skills. If you are interested please email Hamilton House: hamiltonhouse276@gmail.com

Middle Eastern Percussion with Charles Kalajian - Four Week Series - Thursdays at 1 pm - January 7, 14, 21, 28

Participants will be able to demonstrate and improve competence in their percussive ability as it relates to middle eastern drumming rhythms of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Anatolia, Iraq, Balkans, Turkey and Greece. Not only will class members develop strategies to identify and increase their accuracy in the following grooves: Ayoub, Beledi (Baladi), Beguine, Ciftetelli (Çiftetelli Tsifteteli), Curcuna, Halay, Malfouf (Malfuf Malfuuf), 6/8 time, 7/8 time (Laz), and 9/8 time (Karsilama) but also, participating in musical training enhances verbal memory, spatial reasoning and literacy skills. This class will prepare participants to interact with the Middle Eastern online groove mixer to record, evaluate, and improve performance. (an example of the groove mixer: https://taqs.im/rhythms/). Techniques taught and methods used will foster self-reliance, independence, and confidence in participants' Middle Eastern percussion performance ability. Participants will use house hold items while in class and for practicing when not in class. 

Join Lisa from Body-Soul for Chair Yoga. Lisa has requested students bring water to class as well as a yoga block and yoga strap if you have them.

Painting for All Levels - Fridays at 10 am - January 8, 15, 22, 29

Nothing can compare to an in person class, but zoom painting classes are a good alternative! I can see student work and comment on it as the class progresses, and other students can see each other's work, and have a dialogue as the class goes on.  After each class, students email me a photo of their work that I put together in an email and send around to the members of the class. The photos can show more color and texture than holding up the piece on zoom since everyone has different lighting in their rooms.

I present an assignment for students to work on, or if a student has a particular project that they would like to work on, that is also something I can help with.  

$48 per month – Payable directly to Ida Schmulowitz  Register by emailing: hamiltonhouse276@gmail.com

American Short Stories - Weekly Series with John Lord - Fridays at 11 am beginning December 11

Join us every week for discussions of classic American short stories. Using The Oxford Book of American Short Stories,we will read and react to a new story each week. The plan is for this class to run for 10-12 weeks and follow a format similar to Poetry and Readings & Discussions. Open to all; no long term commitment. Come when you can. 

The book is available at Amazon ($13-15 used) or at Abebooks.com ($4.40 w/ free shipping).

Renaissance in Six Italian Cities with Dr. Rocky Ruggiero - Alternate Fridays at 11:00 am  - January - March (Dates provided below)

Part 1: Assisi: The Little Giant - St. Francis and Franciscan Art and Philosophy - January 8 

At the turn of the 13th and 14th Centuries, a man named Francis from Assisi changed the world. Not only did he begin to reform the Catholic Church by living the example of Christ in taking a vow of poverty, but he also changed the way that medieval Christians saw the natural world. Francis claimed that nature was given to us as a gift from God and therefore was not only good but imbued with God himself. Nature should not be shunned and ignored, but celebrated and revered. Not surprisingly, within a half century of his death in 1226, artists like Cimabue, Dante and Giotto appeared, and each reflected the little giant’s philosophy in his respective art. To honor St. Francis, a basilica was built in his honor and the greatest artists of Europe converged on Assisi to decorate the church, much as they would centuries later at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. 

Part 2: Florence: The Art of Magnificence - January 22

Florence, Italy, was the cradle of the Renaissance and the birthplace of the modern world. From Dante to Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo, this central Italian town produced the greatest concentration of artistic genius in history.  The legacy of this creative explosion is still very much present in the city. Whether it is Brunelleschi’s crowning dome above the titanic cathedral, Ghiberti’s stunning golden doors known as The Gates of Paradise, Botticelli’s beautiful painting of the Birth of Venus or Michelangelo’s unrivaled statue of David, beauty and inspiration are found in every corner of this open-air museum that is Florence. This lecture will tell the story of Florence through its art, architecture and history – a story that is simply magnificent!

Part 3: Padua: Giotto and The Scrovegni Chapel - February 5

Giotto’s 14th-century fresco cycle in the Scrovegni Chapel in Padua, Italy, is perhaps the seminal motion picture in Western Art. The artist transformed the iconic, sacred subjects of his contemporary painting world into a very human story- or what I like to call the “visual vernacular”. This lecture will examine a surprisingly modern aspect of Giotto’s work, that is the cinematic quality. To put it simply, the paintings in the chapel read like a motion picture or a film, in which humanity is the star. Giotto’s mise en scène is full of expressive character types, landscapes, colour and visual arrangements. The sequential arrangement and juxtaposition of scenes, instead, produce a visual narrative of which most modern film directors would be envious. In a purely visual medium, Giotto is able to evoke sounds and smells, emotions and expectations, humor and terror.

Part 4: Siena: The City of the Virgin Mary - February 19

In the first half of the 14th century, the city of Siena was Florence’s main political, economic and artistic rival. Artists such as Duccio, Simone Martini and Ambrogio Lorenzetti were members of one of Europe’s most important school of painting. The striking Gothic cathedral of Siena clearly expresses the city’s devotion to the Virgin Mary; while, the civic architecture of the city is embodied in the city’s most important civic structure known as the Palazzo Pubblico. This late 13th-century building still serves as Siena’s town hall and preserves some of the most important murals of the 14th Century such as Simone Martini’s Maestà in the former room of the “Great Council” and the Allegory of Good and Bad Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti in the “Room of the Nine”, which was Siena’s medieval Oval Office.

Part 5: Venice: La Serenissima - March 5

Venice was the longest lasting Republic in history. The city’s privileged position as cultural and economic bridge between the Eastern and Western Christian world contribute to the uniqueness of Venice. The art and architecture in Venice clearly display this combination of Islamic, Byzantine, and Classical influences. Artists such as Bellini, Giorgione, Titian and Tintoretto would make Venetian painting perhaps the only school to rival that of the Central Italian Renaissance. We will not only examine the buildings and paintings of Venice, but also the history of perhaps the most singular city in the world.

Part 6: Rome: The Eternal City - March 19

The ancient Romans referred to their city as the “caput mundi”, or the “capital of the world”. Stretching as far west as the Atlantic Ocean, as far south as the Sahara, north to modern-day Scotland, and east to the Euphrates River, the Roman Empire encompassed nearly half of the known world. With the collapse of the Roman Empire, Christianity became the new “spiritual empire”. Renaissance Popes supplanted the emperors and began to compete with them as patrons, appropriating much of their architectural and artistic style in order to create what Pope Julius II called the “New Ancient Rome”. No complex better embodies this tradition than the Vatican. The greatest artists of the day migrated to Rome to contribute their skills to honor St. Peter. The result is one of the greatest decorative complexes on the planet, which includes works like the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. From the Colosseum to St. Peter’s Square, the monuments of Rome still stand as testimony to the greatness of this eternal city.

“Doing Philosophy” with Ian Stellar - Fridays at 1 pm - January 8, 15 (2pm), 22, 29 and February 5, 12, 19, 26

It has been said by some that thinking is the most important form of doing. In this discussion group, we will think - a lot. The guiding principle of our enterprise will be philia sophia, which from Greek can be taken to mean "the love of wisdom". This curious attitude is fundamental to the nature of philosophical examination.

Philosophy is not like other disciplines. It is not a subject whose issues are sufficiently put to rest with some programmatic catalogue of "yeses" and "nos". Instead, philosophy is an activity. It is elicited and practiced more than it is taught and learned. It is, in its most honest manifestation, a way of living. Aristotle would say that philosophy is a distinct kind of "science", concerning itself with independent things, the study of "being as being". The questions raised during this process are ostensibly simple; complication arises as we attempt to answer them.  The occasional murkiness conjured by this endeavor does not, however, prevent it from being edifying. And so, our goal will be to harness and fine-tune the philosophical disposition that exists within all of us. Our focus will involve two things: The work of past thinkers, and the open articulation of our own interpretations of the questions at hand.  Class limit: 10  Please email Hamilton House to register.

Join Mary Nyman and HH member's for weekly conversation.