FOR MORE INFORMATION Phone: 816-235-2870

E-mail: umkc-spark@umkc.edu Visit our website: http://info.umkc.edu/spark/

Winter 2018 Schedule of Courses and Activities

Classes Begin Tuesday, January 16 (After MLK Day)

Senior Peers Actively Renewing Knowledge

Where learning encompasses a lifetime…

SPARK is an affiliate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City

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SPARK stands for Senior Peers Actively Renewing Knowledge. We are a lifelong learning organization for active retirees. SPARK has been offering classes and other activities in the Kansas City area since 1993. We are a non-profit organization with over 200 members and an affiliate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

Our Mission

SPARK’s mission is to provide lifelong learning opportunities, through intellectually stimulating cultural and social experiences which enhance the quality of life for SPARK members.

Who Are We?

We are “Happy Wonderers” – interesting, curious, educated persons with a passion for continued learning, meeting new people, sharing time and experiences and pursuing an active, stimulating life. SPARK is a volunteer organization that relies on the participation of members to promote and achieve its mission. Classes are held four semesters a year, two to three hours a week for three to six weeks. There are no tests or exams. SPARK also offers several social activities throughout the year. Membership dues are $40.00. Annual membership renewal is in January. New members joining after June 30th during any year will pay $20.00 and then will pay full membership the following January.

Membership is REQUIRED to enroll in our classes and activities.

All classes are held at the SPARK Office unless otherwise noted.

SPARK OVERVIEW

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TABLE of CONTENTS

Due to MLK Day, Monday Classes begin one week LATER

on January 22 and continue until February 26

~~ CLASSES ~~

Mondays, January 22 thru February 26 The Second American Revolution or ...

How We Formed our Government and Almost Got it Right .................. 4 Layman Economics and Current Economic Issues ..................................... 5 Creative Arts – Jewelry Making ................................................................... 6 American Indian History and Art .................................................................. 7 Tuesdays, January 16 thru February 20 Kansas City Gems .................................................................................... 8-9 Western Civilization – Post-Colonial Nations in Asia ................................. 10 Wednesdays, January 17 thru February 21 Western Civilization – Post-Colonial Nations in Asia ................................. 10 Films – An Afternoon at the Movies ........................................................... 11 Thursdays, January 18 thru February 22 Nelson-Atkins Museum Art Tours .............................................................. 14 Presidential History – Harry S. Truman (Part 2) * ...................................... 15 *This class begins Thursday, January 25th and ends March 1st

~~ SPECIAL TOURS ~~ Friday, January 19 The Roasterie Coffee Factory.................................................................... 16 Friday, February 9 Spanish Colonial Visitation Church............................................................ 17

~~ CLUBS and GROUPS ~~ Lunch and a Book (meets 1st Monday) ..................................................... 18 Margaret Sturges’ Book Club (meets 3rd Monday) ................................... 18 Thursday Book Club (meets 4th Thursday) ............................................... 19 “Let’s Eat Out” Group (meets Fridays) ....................................................... 19

~~ MISC. INFORMATION ~~ SPARK Overview ......................................................................................... 2 Registration, Membership and Class Fees ................................................ 12 Parking and Parking Tags ......................................................................... 13 Benefits ................................................................................................. 20-21 Donations and Scholarships ...................................................................... 22 Leadership Team ...................................................................................... 23 Calendar of Classes and Events ............................................................... 24 How to Contact Us ..................................................................................... 24

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Instructor: Al Gumbs earned a degree in physics at Brooklyn Polytechnic Institute and held positions in the Charles Pfizer drug company and Western Electric. While with Western Electric, he helped develop the first computer defense system in the United States. He has taught SPARK classes in computers, history, the Middle East and President James Polk. He has had a special affinity for the history of the United States ever since first studying it in elementary school. Comments from a member: This is one of the best in-depth classes on early colonization of our country. If you are an American history buff, this is a class you won’t want to miss.

The Second American Revolution or ... How We Formed Our Government and Almost Got it Right

January 22 – February 26 (6 weeks) Mondays, 10:00 – Noon

(Please note: Monday classes do not start until January 22 due to Martin Luther King Day on January 15)

A longtime member and instructor for SPARK, Al Gumbs returns to share his knowledge and passion for American history. Using primary sources, this course will span the period from early settlement in North America to ratification of the Bill of Rights and wrap up with a discussion about America’s history with the unresolved issue of slavery. Week 1: 1/22 Study of the North American world to which the Europeans

emigrated plus the major colonies and their governmental form.

Week 2: 1/29 Colonial objections to England’s attempt to rule, leading to the first Revolution. We will examine Washington’s effect on history.

Week 3: 2/5 The Articles of Confederation and its success and failure. Week 4: 2/12 The Constitutional Convention of 1787, its highlights and the

final document. Week 5: 2/19 The ratification process and the Bill of Rights. Week 6: 2/26 The Unresolved Issue: Government-sanctioned slavery and

summary as to where we are today. Class Fee: $30

AMERICAN HISTORY

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ECONOMICS

Layman Economics and Current Economic Issues

January 22 – February 26 (6 weeks) Mondays, 10:00 – Noon

Since the Great Recession of 2008, this country has seen significant improvements in our economy. In this class we will first look at current economic conditions and then explore five significant economic issues: 1) How is our economy doing? What can we expect next? The well-

being of any economy, as shown by its GDP, may be measured using four factors: growth, inflation, unemployment, and the balance of trade. Another factor we will explore is wages. We will then contemplate the question: Are we prepared for the next inevitable recession?

2) How do we stimulate growth? Can we do it with tax cuts? We will revisit the old question: Is economic growth driven by supply or demand? We will examine the major factors of economic growth and discuss how we can stimulate each of these factors.

3) Growth generally requires capital. Where do we find that capital? To stimulate growth, individuals, companies and governments all need money or capital to do so. What are the sources of this capital? We will also examine two related questions: What is the role of the Federal Reserve and why are interest rates so low?

4) Is there a bright side to trade deficits? We hear a lot about how we suffer from trade deficits. But, like all economic issues, this coin has a second side. What happens to the dollars we spend on foreign goods?

5) Does the Federal government sponsor Ponzi Schemes? A Ponzi scheme promises investors future payoffs for today’s payments. What is the difference between a Ponzi scheme run by Bernie Madoff and one run by the Federal government? We will take quick looks at Social Security, Medicare, and the Federal debt.

Class Fee: $30 Instructor: Bill Webb is a retired executive of Black & Veatch. Early in his career he realized his business was closely affected by the economy. Later he learned that the economy had an impact on the management of his retirement plan. More recently he learned that an understanding of economics helps him see through the smoke and mirrors our elected officials use to support their legislation. Bill found the events of the Recession of 2008 very interesting and with his readings, he gained a better understanding of what happened and why. Since then he has followed the economic recovery and finds many of the issues we face as individuals and as a nation interesting. Bill led our earlier course, “Layman Economics and the Recession of 2008.” Come help him explore the issues listed above.

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CREATIVE ARTS

Jewelry Making

January 22 – February 26 (6 weeks) Mondays, 1:30 – 3:30

The purpose for this course is to have fun making jewelry! Class members will learn various skills needed to make jewelry that is fashionable, “gift-able,” and unique. Basic jewelry-making tools can be purchased prior to class or class members can share tools brought by the instructor. Class environment is informal and relaxed. Supplies and written instructions will be provided by the instructor. Students are welcome to bring additional supplies in order to design and make jewelry according to their own wishes. The class schedule includes the following:

Class Fee: $30 Class Size: Limited to 8 enrollees Added Fee: $10 extra for supplies Instructor: When Diana Prouty retired as a nurse educator at Saint Luke’s College, she pursued her interest

in art by learning to make jewelry. She has had private shows, been a member at Eclectic’s Gallery, and continues to make and donate her jewelry to organizations for fund raising. Diana has enjoyed teaching jewelry making for SPARK members

and is excited to again share her knowledge with previous and new students.

Week 1: 1/22 Review: jewelry making tools and basic skills. Resources for purchasing jewelry supplies. Jewelry supply vocabulary.

Week 2: 1/29 Beading with purchased beads. Finishing: Attaching clasps, earring wires, etc.

Week 3: 2/5 Making beads: Paper beads / Fabric beads.

Week 4: 2/12 Using “found objects” to make jewelry.

Week 5: 2/19 Creative design project.

Week 6: 2/26 Redesign and revise a piece of jewelry from your own stash.

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AMERICAN INDIAN HISTORY

American Indian History and Art Part 1: How it Speaks to Us & Relates to Our Colonial History

January 22 – February 26 (6 weeks) Mondays, 1:30 – 3:00

Veteran instructor Gil Nichols reprises his series on American Indian History and Art this winter with the first in a series of two six-week courses. During this session we will explore Native American cultures by examining the aesthetic creations with a focus on pre-20th century American Indian material. In looking through the American Indian lens, we will use that information to consider how this shaped events during the American colonial period. In the Spring six-week session, we will examine contemporary issues and current events impacting the American Indian. Throughout these classes we will be looking East from Indian country as opposed to the more common view looking West through the European lens.

This winter we will approach the topic from two different perspectives: First, How American Indian Art Speaks to Us. In the first three weeks we will examine the American Indian tradition of making things and the issues of visual expression. There is no word in any Native American language that can be accurately translated to the word “art”. Native American material culture historically was, and in many cases still is, a reflection of native consciousness to that which is spiritual. The instructor will examine Native American art items using slides and objects from his personal collection to demonstrate how they are an expression of native spiritual tradition. Second, The Clash of the Value Systems in Colonial America. During the second three weeks we will focus on the colonial period of American history. It combines the stories of two very different cultures interfacing in relationships. By exploring examples of both European and Native materials, the course reveals how the clash of underlying value systems between the Indians, the colonies and Imperial Europe shaped the events of our early history.

Class Fee: $30

Beading on skirt made by Seneca Native Carolyn Parker 1849

Instructor: Gil Nichols has been a lifelong student of North American Indian cultures as well as participating in Lakota and Dakota tribe ceremonies for over 35 years. He holds a Master of Education degree from the University of Missouri. He taught high school social studies for 30 years, followed by teaching American Indian Studies at William Jewell College and UMKC for over 14 years. Mr. Nichols has taught for the KU Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and currently serves as a tour guide at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

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Different Topics – Different Presenters – Each Week In the Kansas City Gems we explore the stories and descriptions about a variety of topics that highlight unique aspects of Kansas City. Guest speakers are experts on their own topic, and will share their interest in bringing these stories to life.

PLEASE NOTE: Each class is scheduled for one and one-half hours. Participants may enroll in all six classes for $25 or “drop-in” for only those classes which most interest them for $5.00 each. Please pre-register for all Gem classes that you plan to attend. We need to determine the possible attendance at Gem classes. We will cancel a class due to low enrollment. If a class is cancelled you will be notified and receive a refund or credit.

• $25 for all six classes.

• $5 to pre-register for individual classes or to “drop-in”.

• After a first free visit, non-members may come to any or all Gem classes for $5 each.

Kansas City Gems January 16 – February 20 (6 weeks)

Tuesdays, 1:30 – 3:00

Week 1: 1/16 A Conversation with Crosby Kemper – From Banking to Books Presenter: R. Crosby Kemper III R. Crosby Kemper is the director of Kansas City’s Public Library and a former CEO of UMB Financial Corp. This mild-mannered, soft-spoken man is a driving force in many of Kansas City’s major undertakings — the local school system, tax policies, the street car, the Convention Center Hotel and other hot issues. From his vantage point as a self-described librarian, he will tell us about the library’s challenges dealing with the City’s lack of transparency and fundamental lack of care for social services, plus thoughts about the “fake news” epidemic and the decline of newspapers. All in 90 minutes !!

KANSAS CITY GEMS

Week 2: 1/23

Historic Union Cemetery

Presenter: Kevin Fewell Union Cemetery is the final resting place of many of Westport’s and town of Kansas’ founding citizens, including: Johnston Lykins, the first full-time mayor of the town of Kansas; John Calvin McCoy, the founder of Westport; and Alexander Majors, Westport’s first millionaire and founder of the Pony Express. This PowerPoint presentation will discuss these men as well as others who founded and developed this area.

Kevin Fewell is the President of the board for Union Cemetery Historical Society and has been part of this organization since 1995.

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KANSAS CITY GEMS

Week 3: 1/30 American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) Missouri Presenter: Justice Gatson In this class we will learn about a range of important issues that the ACLU of Missouri is working on, such as voting rights, policing practices, and the shackling of incarcerated women who are in labor.

Justice Gatson is the Community Organizer for the ACLU’s Kansas City office. She graduated from St. Teresa’s Academy and earned her Mass Communications degree from Bennett College in Greensboro, N.C.

Week 4: 2/6 Kansas City: Our Collective Memories

Presenter: Bruce Mathews Throughout our lives we collect things. Things we care about. These collections may start with a first doll, or baseball glove from our childhood. Whether the collection consists of books or friendships, they become our memories – our cherished memories – our link to the past.

Bruce Mathews is a Kansas City native, a professional photographer and author. He will highlight some of the memories formed and cherished by the residents of our great city that are included in his latest book.

Week 5: 2/13 An Introduction to the Silk Road

Presenter: Tracy Bormann Cattarin Thoughts of the Silk Road evoke images of caravans and lengthy journeys to exotic places, Marco Polo and tales of banditry. But is there any truth to these romantic stories? This presentation will focus on the history and scope of the Silk Road. How did it influence various cultures? What goods and ideas were exchanged? And does it continue today? Tracy Bormann Cattarin has been a docent at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art since 2009. Her areas of interest include frames, Chinese art and the art of Ancient Egypt and Native America. She received her degrees from Truman State University and the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth.

Week 6: 2/20 History of the Lewis and Clark Trail

Presenter: Dan Sturdevant Lewis and Clark’s expedition from St. Louis to the Columbia River’s mouth at the Pacific Ocean and back required two and one-half years. Many compare the expedition to the United States’ successful efforts to visit the moon, except that Lewis and Clark and their men (and Sacagawea and her baby) were totally on their own.

Dan Sturdevant will give us an overview of this exciting expedition. He is a Kansas City lawyer in private practice and a dedicated Lewis and Clark student. He has been a member of the Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage National Foundation since 1999 and program chair since 2004.

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Western Civilization: Post-Colonial Nations in Asia January 16 – February 20 (6 weeks)

Tuesdays, 10:00 – Noon

This same class will be presented January 17 – February 21 (6 weeks)

Wednesdays, 10:00 – Noon

WESTERN CIVILIZATION

Pre-Registration for this Class is Required. Registration is limited to 40 in each class.

To ensure your place in the class, please register early. Class registration deadline is January 11th.

Because this class is very popular, you must pre-register. We need an accurate enrollment before classes begin. NO registrations will be accepted on the first day of class. The comfort and safety of our members is paramount and therefore we want to avoid an over-crowded classroom. You will need to register for either Tuesday or Wednesday. If on occasion you need to attend the alternate day, that is permissible but hopefully the exception.

If you wait until the class registration deadline, this class may be FULL.

This semester we will return to the long civil war between the Chinese Nationalists and Communists that was interrupted by the Second World War. Fighting resumed between 1946–1949 and ended with the proclamation of the People’s Republic by Mao Zedong. Next we’ll turn our attention to postwar events in India, Pakistan, Burma, Malaysia, Indonesia, Indochina and the Philippines. In 1945 the British, French, Dutch, Belgians and Portuguese still governed large parts of the world’s population, but within 30 years each of these colonial empires disappeared and Europe’s world supremacy came to an end. Before the first class please read: the next section in Palmer dealing with the Communist Revolution in China in 1949. Class Fee: $30 Instructor: Carol McCavitt has been teaching for SPARK for nine years. Before moving to Kansas City, Carol was a high school teacher on Long Island, where she taught Advanced Placement European History for 20 years. Educated as an undergraduate at SUNY at Stony Brook, Carol completed her Master’s Degree at Queens College in NYC and did her doctoral work at Carnegie-Mellon University in Pittsburg.

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FILMS

An Afternoon at the Movies Theme: Cold War Fever

January 17 – February 21 (6 weeks) Wednesdays, 1:30 – 3:30 (Discussion to follow)

The Cold War was a state of geopolitical tension after World War II between the Allies / NATO nations and the powers of the Eastern Bloc (the Soviet Union and it's satellite states). When both had the Atomic Bomb there was much suspicion, conspiracy and fear. This situation provided a large trove of source material for books and movies. There are dozens of fine films about those years and we will show but a few of the memorable ones: Week 1: 1/17 Manchurian Candidate 1962 A story of brainwashing and recurring dreams. Week 2: 1/24 Fail Safe l964 An accident happens with unthinkable consequences. Week 3: 1/31 The Spy Who Came in from the Cold 1965 A real spy thriller about a spy on one last mission. Week 4: 2/7 The Bedford Incident 1965 An American destroyer Captain is determined to confront a Soviet submarine which is in violation of territorial waters. Week 5: 2/14 The Hunt for Red October 1990 A submarine Captain tries to defect. Week 6: 2/21 The Lives of Others 2006 An East Berlin Stasi agent is conducting secret surveillance of a writer. There may be different films which individuals prefer. There will be other options if desired. Class Fee: $30 These films will be shown at 200 West 49th St. in the theater at Sulgrave Regency. The class will be facilitated by Virginia Lambright who has taught literature, art and religion classes. This film class continues her long string of themed movie seminars enjoyed by SPARK members.

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SPARK CLASS REGISTRATION

MEMBERSHIP and CLASS FEES

Annual Membership .............................. $40 (renewable in January)

$20 (new after June 30)

(4-6 weeks) ... $30

Humanities Classes (3 weeks) ... $25

(2 weeks) ... $20

Tours ....................................................... $10

Parking Tag .............................................. $3 (per tag/per day)

Please make your check payable to SPARK You must be a member to enroll in classes and activities.

All classes are held at the SPARK Office unless otherwise noted.

Please help SPARK by registering and mailing in your completed enrollment form and payment by January 11. You may register at the Chili Luncheon on January 4 (snow date January 11) or you may access an enrollment form on the SPARK website or complete the printed one within this schedule and mail it to:

UMKC SPARK; 4825 Troost, Room 214D; Kansas City, MO 64110

Phone: 816-235-2870 E-mail: umkc-spark@umkc.edu Visit website: http://info.umkc.edu/spark/

Pre-registration is required for all SPARK classes BEFORE the first day of classes.

If you are sending in your registration by mail, please be aware it may take 5 or more days to reach the SPARK office through the UMKC postal system.

During the first week of classes we will no longer be able to register people or sell parking tags before class begins. However, you may complete your registration and purchase parking tags after class.

You may pre-order your parking tags by email or at the Chili Luncheon. (Refer to the facing page for more information on parking and purchasing parking tags.)

Some classes will have a maximum or minimum enrollment.

Classes will be closed when the maximum enrollment is reached.

Classes with low enrollment will be cancelled.

Refunds or credit will be issued for cancelled classes.

Pre-register early to save your place in each class.

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PARKING and PARKING TAGS

INFORMATION about PARKING for SPARK CLASSES

The SPARK Office and classrooms are located at 4825 Troost, Room 214D, on the UMKC Campus. There is a UMKC parking lot directly south of the SPARK Office which requires a Parking Tag or Pay and Display receipt. If you plan to use parking tags, we highly recommend that you purchase them when you register for classes. There are two options for parking on the UMKC campus:

1) You can purchase UMKC Parking Tags. With the tag you may park in any lot on the UMKC campus. Tags are $3.00 each and good for only ONE day. Be sure to mark them with the correct date or you will be ticketed. You may purchase parking tags at the Chili Luncheon on January 4th or from the SPARK Office. They can be ordered on the enrollment form when you register for classes. If ordered by Wednesday, January 10th the first tag will be mailed to you before classes begin. The rest of your tags will be clearly identified and left on the table on the first day of class. Please submit your payment with your class enrollment fees or pay after the first class.

2) Another option is to purchase a Pay and Display receipt from the machine next to the main (south) entrance into the building. This allows you to park for your desired amount of time. Display the receipt on your dashboard. Cost is $1.25 per hour. Change up to $20 is available from the machine.

Please Note: The UMKC parking lots are monitored frequently. You will get a parking violation ticket of $30 if you do not have a correctly marked Parking Tag or Pay and Display receipt visible. If you receive a parking violation for an incorrectly marked Parking Tag, save your Parking Tag and ticket and present them to the SPARK Office.

CLASS ACCESSIBILITY Disabled parking is available in the SPARK parking lot. You will need to display a State Disabled Parking Permit as well as a UMKC Parking Tag. (You do not need a UMKC Disabled Parking Permit.)

Elevator: The SPARK office is on the 2nd floor. You may access the 2nd floor via the elevator located in the northeast corner of the building. Please be aware that it is quite a long walk from the front entrance.

There is also parking near the elevator on the northeast side of the building. You do not need a disabled parking permit, but you will still need a UMKC Parking Tag. You will need to climb about four stairs to enter a door which is near the elevator.

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Nelson-Atkins Museum Art Tours January 18 – February 22 (6 weeks)

Thursdays, 11:15 – 12:30

Week 1: 1/18 Gates of Paradise & East Doors of Original Building The doors from the Baptistry at the cathedral in Florence are cast from the original molds. The door panels exhibit perspective, which had been forgotten during the Dark Ages. We pass through the East doors into the original building, yet do we stop to look? Where did they come from, what stories do they tell? Week 2: 1/25 Equines: Horses Portrayed in Art We won’t see Buttermilk, Silver, Topper, or Champion or Scout or Trigger. (Can you remember what movie/tv star rode these horses?) We will see working horses, military, prize, and mythological horses, etc. Week 3: 2/1 Dreams of the Kings The exhibit will include a life-size, complete suit for burial, as well as other rarely seen jade pieces from the Nelson collection. Other pieces on display for the exhibit are of great beauty and significance. Week 4: 2/8 Eyes of Picasso Picasso had a life-long fascination with African and Oceanic art. The allure of masks and sculptures influenced his exploration of line and abstraction. We will see his work and pieces of African and Oceanic art that he kept with him throughout his life. Week 5: 2/15 American Artists–Revolution to 1900 Docents and tour participants suggested we look at one group in depth. We will see decorative arts and furniture as well. Week 6: 2/22 American Artists–1900 to Present A continuation of the previous tour. Last week we saw the early history. This week we see American artists as they evolved through other styles and movements. Class Fee: $30 Class Facilitator: Jane Harrell, 816-523-2620 Class Location: Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Lunch after the tour in the Rozzelle Court (Optional) Parking at the museum is $10.00, but free to the members of Nelson-Atkins Art Museum. There is free parking in a small lot on the corner of 45th & Rockhill Road. The lot is entered from 45th Street. Museum entry is through the glass doors on the north side of the Bloch Building.

ART TOURS

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Harry S. Truman (Part 2) Formation of the Man Who Became the “Accidental” President

January 25 – March 1 (6 weeks)

Please note, this class begins the second week of Winter classes

Thursdays, 1:30 – 3:30

Born May 8, 1884 in Lamar, Missouri to John Anderson Truman and Martha Ellen Young Truman, both children of pre-Civil War Missouri, Harry S. Truman became the 33

rd President of

the United States, while the U.S. was still engaged in World War II. During the prior Fall semester, we explored the forces that helped form the man Harry S. Truman — from before his birth, through his childhood and early adult years, to the time when he returned home from service in the U.S. Army during World War I. In this Winter semester, we’ll explore Harry Truman’s life following his return from the service including: his marriage to Bess Wallace; his failed business venture in Kansas City with his army buddy, Eddie Jacobson; and his entry into the political world, at least early-on, with the support and assistance of Tom Pendergast’s organization. If time permits, we will explore the circumstances under which Truman became FDR’s running mate on the Democratic ticket for the Presidency/Vice Presidency in 1944. Class Fee: $30

David Jeter is a retired attorney, who was in private practice primarily out of Blue Springs for nearly 35 years before retiring/quitting in 2008. He received his undergraduate degree in history and his law degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia, earning his J.D. in 1973. He considers himself an amateur historian with wide-ranging interests. He is a docent at the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum and has undertaken to continue to learn as much as he can about the life and times of Harry Truman, especially those forces which

influenced him as he served as the 33rd President of the United States from 1945 – 1953. David hopes to share some of his discoveries in this course.

PRESIDENTAL HISTORY

Harry and Bess Truman

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January is the perfect time to visit the Roasterie Coffee Factory where they "travel to the ends of the earth" to find the best beans for their coffees, including espresso, single-origin and fair-trade organic coffees. On this tour you will receive:

• A behind-the-scenes tour of the newly renovated factory, where you will learn how they source, produce, and brew the coffee.

• Tips and tricks for your at-home brewing, an overview of brewing techniques from a knowledgeable tour guide and a tasting of pour-over coffee.

• A souvenir Roasterie pub glass.

• Your choice of a sample of their Nitro, Cold Brew, or Iced Tea.

• The history of the company where the only thing as strong as the taste for good coffee is their passion for giving back to communities locally (e.g. supporting KCUR, KCPT) and globally (contributing to education for the people in Brazil, Costa Rica and Columbia where they get the coffee beans).

Stay after the tour to partake of more coffee, conversation and pastries and browse the coffee merchandise and equipment. No better place to be on a chilly, winter afternoon.

Date: Friday, January 19, 11:00 – 11:45 Place: 1204 West 27th Street, Kansas City, MO Parking: Free at the factory Tour Cost: $10 Tour Size: Limited to 15 participants Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

SPECIAL TOURS

The Roasterie Coffee Factory Friday, January 19

11:00 – 11:45

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SPECIAL TOURS

A Trip Through Spanish Colonial Visitation Church Friday, February 9

11:00 – Noon

Step into Visitation Catholic Church at 5141 Main Street and you will find yourself in an example of Spanish Colonial architecture and design — a style that spread from California and culminated in 1925 as a “Spanish year” across the United States. The original church was built in 1915 after Father (later Monsignor) McDonald was inspired by a visit to a mission church in Santa Barbara, California. J.C. Nichols also picked up the idea for the new Country Club Plaza residential district which began in 1922.

The style is a synthesis of Romanesque, Mediterranean and North African or Moorish architecture. Spain’s colonization of 16th century Mexico added another dimension to Spanish colonial style by incorporating the work of native Incan and Mayan artisans.

As you tour the church you will see many examples of this work. Six bultos or statues may be viewed throughout the church. One was carved and hand painted by an unknown South American artist in the 17th century. The altar is made of beautifully painted oak, rojo allecante marble and granite and rests on Mexican durango stone.

Three paintings, companion pieces from the 18th century Peruvian School

of Cuzco, grace the walls of the Rosary Chapel.

The work of the artists of EverGreene Painting Studios in New York is evident throughout the church — the cartouches on the ceiling of the nave, the words painted around the dome and the stenciling throughout the church.

The St. Joseph Chapel is the design and work of artist Ramon José Lopez. It is an expression of the architecture and craft of the mission churches of New Mexico. He used natural pigment paint and pine wood for his work throughout the church, including the furnishings. He painted the Pieta on a buffalo hide which hangs on the back wall of the chapel.

The church provides trained docents to conduct these tours. Come rejoice and marvel in these beautiful spaces.

Date: Friday, February 9, 11:00 – Noon Place: 5141 Main, Kansas City, MO Parking: Lot right across from the church Tour Cost: $10 Tour Size: No Limit Accessibility: Accessible to all

The Sun Window

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Please note: There is no class fee to SPARK members to attend the Book Clubs or Let’s Eat Out group, but you need to be a member and

register with the SPARK Office for each session.

CLUBS and GROUPS

LUNCH and a BOOK You are invited to join this group and enjoy lively conversation and good food. We meet at 1:00 on the first Monday of each month at the Grand Street Café, 4740 Grand Street, Kansas City, MO.

Our facilitator is Wanda Adkins, 816-738-3433, or aadkinswanda@aol.com

1/8 The Weird Sisters Eleanor Brown 2/5 Big Burn Timothy Egan 3/5 Round House Louise Erdrich

MARGARET STURGES’ BOOK CLUB The Margaret Sturges Book Club meets on the third Monday of each month at 1:00 at Grand Street Café on the Plaza. We have several openings.

The facilitator is Nancy Jonas Wilson, 913-782-1980, or njonaswilson@att.net

1/15 Threading My Prayer Rug Sabeeha Rehman 2/19 My House in Umbria William Trevor 3/19 Democracy Condolezza Rice 4/16 Underground Railroad Coleson Whitehead

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CLUBS and GROUPS

THURSDAY BOOK CLUB

This group meets on the fourth Thursday of each month at 12 noon at

All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church, 4501 Walnut, Kansas City, MO.

Our facilitator is Sue Habiger, 816-942-3431, or shabiger22@gmail.com

1/25 Deaths on Pleasant Street Giles Fowler

2/22 The Paying Guests Sarah Waters

3/22 The Cleaner of Chartres Sally Vickers

4/26 Thunderstruck Eric Larson

This lively group meets for lunch at a different restaurant every Friday. Those attending select various restaurants to try.

Whether you are new to SPARK or a longtime member, this is a fun way to meet others and try out new and interesting restaurants.

“Invite a Friend”

You need to be a SPARK member to attend “Let’s Eat Out” regularly. However, you are welcome to invite a non-member to

join us for a visit.

Join us Friday, January 19th at 11:30 at the Grand Street Café on the Plaza. Watch your email for the list of restaurants we will be visiting throughout the year.

Our facilitator is Paul Gemmill, 267-266-7583 or 816-569-6450 or paulgemmil2011@gmail.com

Please contact him to make a reservation by each Wednesday.

“LET’S EAT OUT”

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Bring a Friend

For regular classes including Gems, you may invite a friend ONE time for FREE.

For special tours, you may invite a friend at the regular tour fee. Please email or call SPARK to check availability for a class or tour

so we know to expect your guest. If there is a limit on class or tour size, current members will

receive priority and guests may not be able to visit.

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Monday, January 15th (Martin Luther King Day) the University will be CLOSED.

Monday SPARK classes will begin on Monday, January 22nd and continue until February 26th.

If the university is closed because of inclement weather, SPARK classes will NOT be held.

Please listen to local media outlets for updates.

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BENEFITS

The Membership Committee invites you to join us during the second week of classes for “Coffee and Conversation.”

Plan to come to the class you are enrolled in about 30 minutes early that day to socialize, visit with the instructor and welcome our new members.

MEETING NEW FRIENDS ...

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BENEFITS

STAYING ACTIVE and INVOLVED ... (Actual Members)

The Marble Lady —

teaching a Gem class.

The Curriculum committee —under the watchful eye of

Jodi’s kitty.

Members at the Indoor “picnic” at Kingswood Senior Living Community, for the kick-off to Summer session.

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DONATIONS and SCHOLARSHIPS

There are several ways

to give to SPARK

Donations to SPARK contribute to the purchase of audio-visual

and classroom equipment, and cover other expenses associated

with maintaining and improving delivery of SPARK programs.

Gifts to the Frances McLaren Scholarship Fund are used to

subsidize class fees for those who would like to participate but

need monetary help.

Gifts to the Instructor Recognition Fund allow us to present a

gift bag to each instructor at the end of a class session.

Donations in memory of someone or to honor a special

person.

In-kind contributions (non-cash donations such as gift cards for

instructors, equipment, supplies, etc.).

Many thanks to those who have contributed to these funds during this

past year! Your continued support is very much appreciated.

FRANCES MC LAREN SCHOLARSHIP FUND

SPARK has assistance available to SPARK members needing some

extra help with class fees. The Frances McLaren Scholarship Fund

was established in memory of Frances by her family and through

donations to the fund. If you would like more information or to request

assistance, please contact:

Jan Parks at 816-523-1723 or parksj3271@gmail.com All requests are confidential.

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LEADERSHIP TEAM

SPARK is a VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATION ...

Our continued success and growth is due to the contributions and leadership of our members. We invite you to join our team. Here are some ways to volunteer:

• Help the Events Committee plan our social activities.

• Join the Membership Committee to welcome new members and improve membership experiences.

• Offer to be a Class, Gem or Tour Coordinator.

• Volunteer to teach a class or give a Gem presentation.

• Assist in copying handouts for instructors.

• Help the Curriculum Committee identify new class topics, instructors, tour ideas, and Gem presenters.

• Offer to help with events, e.g. pre-event set-up, greet and register guests, help serve, clean-up, etc.

• Help organize instructor recognition activities and gift bags.

• Help the Marketing Committee raise awareness of SPARK in the community to recruit new members.

• Share information about SPARK with your friends and invite them to an event or class for a visit.

• Share your ideas or suggestions with a Board member or Committee chair on how we can improve SPARK.

Email or call the SPARK Office to volunteer

and we will contact you.

President: Jay Upright

Pres.-Elect: Gil Nichols

Secretary: Linda Landes

Treasurer: Jay Upright

Wanda Adkins

Baila Goldstein

Joni Green

Jane Harrell **

George Heiser

Bill Hirsch

Judy Kirk

Virginia Lambright

Symie Menitove

Barb Stillman

Linda Wade

~~ Committees ~~

Curriculum: Judy Kirk

Events: Baila Goldstein

Marketing: Jan Parks **

Membership: Linda Wade

~~ Publications ~~

Class Catalog: Patty Fuller

John McNamara

Monthly Events Calendar &

Weekly Update Emails:

Jan Parks

Jodi Upright

** Past President

Board of Directors Committees / Publications

HOW to CONTACT SPARK If you have questions or need help completing the registration form,

please contact the Office Coordinator at the SPARK office.

Phone: 816-235-2870 Email: umkc-spark@umkc.edu UMKC SPARK; 4825 Troost, Room 214D; Kansas City, MO 64110

Visit our Website: http://info.umkc.edu/spark/

Winter 2018 Chili Luncheon: Central United Methodist Church

5144 Oak Street, Kansas City, MO Annual Meeting – Election of Board of Directors

Thursday, January 4, 2018 (RSVP by December 27, 2017) (Snow Date – January 11)

Due to MLK Day, Monday Classes will begin Monday, January 22

and continue until February 26 Classes: Tuesday, January 16 – February 23

Register for classes by January 11

Spring 2018 Spring Fling

Thursday, March 8 (RSVP by March 1) Classes: March 26 – May 4

Register for classes by March 15

Summer 2018 May Event

Thursday, May 17 (RSVP by May 10) Classes: June 4 – 29

Register for classes by May 24

Fall 2018 Fall “Picnic”

Thursday, September 6 (RSVP by August 30) Classes: September 24 – November 2 Register for classes by September 13

CALENDAR of CLASSES and EVENTS for 2018

Board Meetings 2018 The Board usually meets on the third Friday of even-numbered months

at 9:30 at the SPARK Office: February 16, April 20, June 15, August 17, October 19, December 21.

Members are always welcome to attend Board and Committee Meetings.