Friday Forum

The Friday Forum is a program for individuals who seek collaborative learning experiences and informed discussions. Each group member is a vital contributor to the Forum and is encouraged to lead a session every few semesters. The objective is to have group members increase their knowledge of significant issues facing us in the 21st century. 

Sept. 5 The Federal Government and Education Reform 

Even though education is a power reserved for states, the federal government’s influence over the K-12 curriculum has greatly increased over the last few decades. Betta Vice discusses the major federal reforms that have significantly impacted teaching and learning across the country. 

Sept. 19 The Constitutional Convention of 1787 

In the summer of 1787, 55 delegates from twelve states convened in Philadelphia “for the sole and express purpose of revising the Articles of Confederation.” Charles Henry addresses the issues and related debates, recognizing the contributions of individual Founders. The final product of these deliberations was the U.S. Constitution, which was signed by 39 delegates on September 17, 1787, and referred to the states for ratification.

Oct. 3 Cybersecurity: A Review of Best Practices for Online Safety

Do you feel vulnerable to scams when using online systems? Our demographic places us at high risk of falling victim to cybercrime, making vigilance a priority to protect our information and identities. Friday Forum committee member Bruce Myers reviews practical tips for safe internet usage, encouraging audience participation for ideas, comments and sharing of experiences. 

Oct. 17 Solving Bermuda Triangle Mysteries 

Traveling east from Florida by plane or boat, one encounters the Bermuda Triangle. Herb Strickler, an OLLI member, explores the history and mysterious events over the years in this vast ocean area. Disappearing planes and ships involve tales, mysteries, theories, and shocking explanations. The talk offers a chance to separate fact from fiction.

Oct. 31 Food Safety: A Farm-to-Table Approach 

Americans consume nearly one billion meals every day, so perhaps it is no wonder that we experience about 48 million cases of foodborne illness annually. These illnesses result in an estimated 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths each year. Don Anderson discusses the constantly evolving roles of farmers, industry, consumers and government at all levels in ensuring a safe food supply.  

Nov. 14 Sudden Coronary Death: What We Need to Know 

Joseph Helak, M.D. discusses why sudden cardiac death is an important feature of clinical coronary artery disease. Fifty percent of sudden deaths in men and 64% in women occur in people without prior coronary heart disease. In those free of overt coronary heart disease, the risk of sudden death varies with risk factors. We discuss how to help prevent sudden cardiac death by knowing and correcting these risk factors.