Finding her calling early in life, Clara Barton was a strong-willed, intelligent individual who knew what she wanted and found ways to accomplish her goals. Clara was the first person to start a public school in Hightstown, NJ, growing it from 6 to almost 600 students. But when the school needed a principal and hired a man, Clara quit and never went back to teaching! Clara answered Abraham Lincoln’s call, signing on to support the Union efforts during the Civil…

Their cultures thriving over decades of political changes, Poland, the Ukraine, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Romania maintain their rich culinary histories. Learn what meals are similar in these counties and which are different. Find out what outside cultures influenced their local cuisine. New Jersey is home to many fine Eastern European eating establishments and a list will be provided for attendees.

Gabby Douglas is a decorated American gymnast and sports icon. She has won three gold medals at the Olympics as well as two gold and one silver at the World Championships. At the age of 16, she was selected to be a member of the U.S. Olympic Women’s Gymnastics team to compete in the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, England. There she became the first African-American woman, as well as the first woman of color of any nationality, to win…

Georgian Court Alumnus, author, and alternative health educator Mary Ann Cavallaro, brings decades of experience living vegan and vegetarian life styles.  She recently published What My Dog Told Me About Eating Healthy (4 out of 5 stars on Amazon).  The implications of eating/not eating organic and non-organic meat, fish, eggs, and milk on our physical and spiritual health may be surprising.  Tips on how to change your diet by avoiding animal products and what you could eat instead will be…

Explore two iconic careers in one evening, American comics Jack Benny and Bob Hope. Both were acknowledged masters of comedic timing yet their styles were polar opposites. Benny excelled in delivering his material with ease – he could do more with one gesture than most in an entire monologue. From his earliest days, Hope’s quick wit, self-deprecating humor, and his trademark brash, fast talk, made him America’s most celebrated and decorated comedian. Opposite styles, one common result: two VERY funny…

For centuries the British have had a love affair with tea. All classes, from the aristocracy to the working class, enjoy a nice hot cup of tea. They also enjoy the excitement and fanfare of their monarchs’ royal weddings. Learn about English tea traditions and etiquette along with royal wedding customs and ceremonies.  

For many, Claude Debussy (1812-1918) was the first “modern” composer. His style was labeled as impressionism. While we can see the work of fine art impressionists like Monet and Renoir, Debussy excelled in sound and crafted beautiful music that inspired listeners and musicians alike. Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun and The Sea are just two of the masterpieces we’ll feature.