Click here to download a .pdf of the Spring/Summer 2023 line-up of classes.
Click here to download a copy of the calendar for Spring/Summer 2023.
Click here to download a copy of the parking brochure for the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library.
Spring/Summer 2023
Eau Claire
46. Waldemar Ager and His Norwegian-American Eau Claire
The author and historian will look at the Norwegian-born journalist and novelist and especially how retaining Norwegian culture and identity was highly important to Ager in the half-century that he lived in Eau Claire. Ager’s role as a practical businessman and the head of a changing Norwegian family will also be emphasized. Co-sponsored by L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library.
Presenter: Brian Blakeley
Coordinator: John Stoneberg (715) 832-8315
Wednesday: March 8 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, Riverview Room, Third Floor, 400 Eau Claire Street
To view the recording, click here: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/OCPoBOz_K0ACzDppoRoqJhpnKSODJCBRTxfFtj6ouE8ALkltJAgW4NUJ70taGRca.0I-ZCAJLbrUd1fHm
47. A Taste of Ayurveda
Welcome to a “bite-sized” introduction to the ancient holistic healing and self-care system of Ayurveda. This “living”, nature-based medical system originated in India some 5000 – 7000 years ago. The wisdom inherent in the Ayurvedic approach to well-being remains relevant to our growing healthcare issues and the need for effective preventive care. We will take a “bite” of some Ayurvedic principles to live life with ease rather than dis-ease. Co-sponsored by L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library.
Presenter: Carlene Sterner
Coordinator: Joyce Robbins (715) 931-7611
Thursday: March 9 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, Riverview Room, Third Floor, 400 Eau Claire Street
To view the recording , click here: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/UF1ukbjFaYA7JOjKpbHzlz7BPThsxg-7kLrc0wfy9xm9pTRZTEHqdLZsOhAZJVrF.iox1S5s6mUJ01w4V
48. Tour the New Children’s Museum
Tour the new innovative two-story Eau Claire Children’s Museum. See play areas including Bitty City, Water Works, Body Smarts, a “nature preserve,” and more. Learn about the Museum’s new in-house preschool and child development center, fitness and nutrition area, and interactive spaces especially designed to nourish social and emotional development. Expect to stand during this tour. Limit 40
Presenter: Michael McHorney, CEO of the Children’s Museum
Coordinator: Amy Alpine (917) 446-5983
Marilyn Hempel (715) 839-7880
Monday: March 13 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Children’s Museum of Eau Claire, 126 N. Barstow
Bio: Michael McHorney
Michael serves as CEO of the Children’s Museum of Eau Claire, having been in the position for eight years. Prior to his work with Children’s Museums, he was in several leadership roles with Boys & Girls Clubs over a seven-year span. As an Executive Director, Michael oversaw the opening of the Boys & Girls Club of Fremont County. Michael is currently a member on the board of directors for the Celebrate Children’s Foundation, Association of Children’s Museums, and Eau Claire Confluence Arts Inc. Michael is married to Emilee, a social studies teacher at Memorial High School. Together, they have two children, Henry who is 4 years old and Archie who is 1 year old. He and his family reside in Eau Claire.
49. Weave a Swedish Table Runner
Learn the popular art form of Swedish Weaving to make a unique table runner! You will create a beautiful needlecraft pattern on cream-colored Monk’s cloth, using your choice of acrylic variegated yarn. Your completed table runner will be 16” x 23”. The fabric will be prepared and a needle provided. Bring one skein of acrylic, variegated, worsted-weight yarn. No wool yarn please. This is a two-session class. Attend both sessions. Limit 12.
Presenters: Mary Decker and Donell Bedroske
Coordinator: Kathy Campbell (715) 559-4149
Monday: March 13 12:30-3:00 p.m.
Monday, March 20 12:30-3:00 p.m.
L.E. Phillips Senior Center, 1616 Bellinger Street, Thompson Room
Cost: $22
50. An Ordinary Eau Claire Family
The author and historian will look at American history as seen through his own and his wife’s families. His Ordinary People: A Study of Our Blakeley and Mierow Ancestors in America, 1635-2013 won a Wisconsin State Historical Society 2015 award as the best family history of the year. The emphasis will be on Eau Claire’s Price-Blakeley family and how it reflected the changes occurring in the city during the last 100 years. Co-sponsored by L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library.
Presenter: Brian Blakeley
Coordinator: John Stoneberg (715) 832-8315
Thursday: March 16 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, Riverview Room, Third Floor, 400 Eau Claire Street
To view the recording, click here https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/vQOg9XQqzzLEPSB4LjoapHU3Xl4WdhPcOZeXRXdxhJmbYBZlkLZu3cRIOBoUvpp8.gtAvc2Q7-izdLuV_
51. Homemade Soap-Making Using Plant-Based Oils
Master Gardener Rita Gundry has been making soap since she was a child. Using readily available ingredients and kitchen equipment, she will demonstrate the steps involved in making a small batch of high quality homemade soap. We will have a chance to see the proper endpoint for pouring. Each participant will receive a copy of Rita’s favorite recipe and variations. Finished soap will be on display.
Co-sponsored by L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library. Limit 30
Presenter: Rita Gundry
Coordinator: Amy Alpine (917) 446-5983
Friday: March 17 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, Riverview Room, Third Floor, 400 Eau Claire Street
Bio: Rita Gundry
Growing up in a farm family of 16 children, Rita Gundry learned homemade soap was a necessity. Years ago, not only was it used for bathing and washing one’s hair, it was grated for laundry purposes, as well.
Making soap for a large family was done three or four times a year, in large batches. This took considerable effort and was usually accomplished by the older girls in the family. Rita ranked third in line, with one older sister. For some reason, her mom gave Rita the job of endlessly stirring the soap concoction until it was thick enough to pour. Compared to other jobs one might be assigned in rural living, this was easy, just boring to a teen-ager to sit in a dark and damp basement for hours with a wooden paddle and a tub of liquid soap.
In her 50s, Rita became interested in making her own bath soap, due to its moisturizing capabilities. Immersion blenders replaced lengthy hand stirring and plant oils are substituted for tallow, with the addition of healing essential oils.
Rita creates her soap in small batches for her own use and gift-giving and uses soap molds of various shapes and sizes to lend an interest to the finished product.
52. Understanding Hospice
Choosing to start hospice care can be a difficult decision and many people say they wish they had known about the benefits of hospice care sooner. Jessica Wayne, Registered Nurse with Mayo Hospice, will discuss what hospice care is, the hospice care team, services provided under the Medicaid hospice benefit, and more. This will be an open dialogue with time for questions and answers.
Presenter: Jessica Wayne, Registered Nurse with Mayo Hospice
Coordinator: Barb Hebert (715) 514-9692
Tuesday: March 21 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Peace Lutheran Church, 501 E Fillmore Ave. Enter on Nimitz St. side.
To view the recording, click here: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/J81MSotzm4Y_89qb9KYqs05Ar2C7AMEzw6GTu9XsQ42D1JutOF0HGkZZSpjU_6wY.9i1dn18YnqUqKPNb
53. Failure Is Impossible
Eau Claire Women in Theater (ecWIT) have created another original presentation, and we are privileged to offer you the opportunity to enjoy it! “Failure Is Impossible” imagines a reunion of leading suffragists celebrating the 100th anniversary of passage of the 19th Amendment which granted women the ballot. Since March is Women’s History Month, this is an exciting way to celebrate it. The performance will be followed by a delicious lunch at The Florian Gardens.
Presenters: ecWIT – Eau Claire Women in Theater
Coordinator: Elizabeth Fischer (715) 874-5633
Thursday: March 23 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
The Florian Gardens, 2340 Lorch Avenue
Cost: $35
54. The Canada Warbler in the Coal Mine
Nature’s systems are marvelous and efficient “organisms,” the product of millions of years of fine-tuning. But what happens if you tinker with the parts? Join ornithologist Steve Betchkal as he explains how climate crisis is impacting birds and bird conservation. Co-sponsored by L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library.
Presenter: Steve Betchkal
Coordinator: Kathie Fahrman (715) 839-9251
Tuesday: March 28 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, Riverview Room, Third Floor, 400 Eau Claire Street
To view the recording, click here: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/poKVX97VYA99NoC7UWcSUO1HQlw6bJXa7YbFBtx4LIkfG-Fnv0DS8evvV_-3wQEu.BM7bAOkQkmQV6tvD
55. What’s New in Plants?
Tropical plants for inside and outside your home have new interest. Yes, you can grow tropical plants in Wisconsin outside not only temporarily in summer but some as perennials. Angie will share what’s new for indoor and outdoor living spaces. Create your very own oasis to enjoy this summer. Give your home a new look for the new spring/summer season. Angie will also cover your plant care questions and maintenance, whether they are new or not!
Presenter: Angie Reit, May’s Floral
Coordinator: Elizabeth Fischer (715) 874-5633
Wednesday: March 29 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
May’s Floral, 3424 Jeffers Road
56. Tour First Choice Computer Recycling Center
Is there an alternative to the landfill for old computers, batteries, and appliances? Learn where to responsibly and safely dispose of household items at the end of their lifespan. Join Ralph for a tour of First Choice Recycling. Learn what the company repairs, reuses, and how and where electronic materials are recycled to reintroduce them into the manufacturing stream and protect our environment. Regan and Madeline will join the tour to answer additional recycling questions. Limit 18 per session. Sign up for one session only.
Presenters: Ralph Hutchens, Owner First Choice Recycling Center
Regan Watts, Eau Claire County Recycling/Sustainability Coordinator
Madeline Marchiafava, Recycling & Sustainability Intern
Coordinator: Kathy Campbell (715) 559-4149
Thursday: March 30 A 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Thursday: April 13 B 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
First Choice Recycling, 525 Park Ridge Court Enter at Office Door
Click on this link for the battery taping guide: https://cvlr.org/web/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/First-Choice-Battery-Guide.pdf
57. Storytime with Steve & Micah…& Bea, & Cara, & Lexie, & Birdie, & Fernandina, & Sylvie
In 2022, the Eau Claire creative team of Micah Davis and Steve Betchkal won an Emmy for a story about…trees. It’s the sixth Emmy for Steve and the first for Micah, though they’ve been nominated for five others. How do they do it? The eight of us will show you! Co-sponsored by L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library.
Presenter: Steve Betchkal
Coordinator: Kathie Fahrman (715) 839-9251
Monday: April 3 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, Riverview Room, Third Floor, 400 Eau Claire Street
To view the recording, click here: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/r97jrG15r3FibzlJyaVOMVEcZyEJjPBrEPvqOMOiq20Rwavby-qTfHo9NJKE-UHp.AqbSdokO4TupY4Nd
58. Obelisks and Empire
While not quite up there with the Pyramids, obelisks are a defining image of the greatness of Ancient Egypt. From the Romans on down to modern times, swiping obelisks to grace various Imperial Capitals has been an extravagant tradition. Did you know there are twice as many obelisks in Rome as remain in Egypt? We’ll visit obelisks in many locations and tell stories of what they’ve seen over the long years. Co-sponsored by L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library.
Presenter: Dr. Tim Wolter
Coordinator: Mike Hilger (715) 832-8823
Tuesday: April 4 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, Riverview Room, Third Floor, 400 Eau Claire Street
59. Four National Parks
Ride along on a Vancouver to Calgary adventure. As we travel by train or bus, we will see four Canadian National Parks and the Glacier Parkway Ice fields. Our view will be through the lens of Jim’s camera. Look forward to another special visit with Jim.
Presenter: Jim Backus, Magoo Nature Photography
Coordinator: Jim Urness (715) 832-5670
Thursday: April 6 10:00 – 11:30 a.m
Peace Lutheran Church, 501 E Fillmore Ave. Enter on Nimitz St.side.
To view the recording, click here: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/0lOXG71hhbAOQR54FkjEHCJSsnPovHIwfcDwbwj7hfJ5KoOMM_OhjifMTdWMPEyq.qORiM4YJuXoeUnda
60. Landfill 101
What is the difference between a dump and a landfill? What’s the history of the 7 Mile Creek Landfill? Where does all this garbage come from? Is there anything we can do to limit the growth of the landfill? Regan and Madeline will answer these questions and suggest ways to slow the trend of frequent landfill expansions. We will also learn about the services available to dispose of common household items and Eau Claire County Sustainability initiatives. Co-sponsored by L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library.
Presenters: Regan Watts, Eau Claire County Recycling
and Sustainability Coordinator
Madeline Marchiafava, Recycling & Sustainability Intern
Coordinator: Kathy Campbell (715) 559-4149
Wednesday: April 12 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, Riverview Room, Third Floor, 400 Eau Claire Street
To view the recording, click here: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/gWaOSNKhfA8lHPME0b2JowUNA1CMQDjKAElFfDctl23iZ8Lc4Mvj0EnlLl8Q6Qne.78GLkFUetKjgmP_n
61. The Joy of Nature: Photography with Rick Koziel
Rick’s interest in photography developed as a way to share the beauty and magic of nature with others. Delight in his most memorable photographs from Yellowstone, the Grand Tetons, Alaska, the lower 48, and Africa. Find out why he believes that the “joy of nature photography is so much more than getting a great picture.” Co-sponsored by L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library.
Presenter: Rick Koziel
Coordinator: Amy Alpine (917) 446-5983
Tuesday: April 18 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, Riverview Room, Third Floor, 400 Eau Claire Street
Bio: Rick Koziel:
Aldo Leopold said “There are some who can live without wild things, and some who cannot ”. Rick Koziel learned at a young age that he was one who cannot. His love of the outdoors led him to a career as a naturalist and director of Beaver Creek Reserve for over 35 years where he was able to share his enthusiasm, passion and love for nature and wild things with others. Now retired he finds more time to look through a lens while hiking and paddling the woods and waters of Wisconsin and the rest of the country.
62. Exploring Poetry: Timing, Rhyming and More
You do not need to be familiar with poetry or to have attended previous Exploring Poetry Sessions to attend these sessions. Just be open to how poetry re-frames everyday experiences and objects to enliven our sense of the world around and within us. We have more to explore with meter and rhyme, and we will check out voice in some poets Erna discovered over the past year.
Presenter: Erna Kelly
Coordinator: Elizabeth Fischer (715) 874-5633
Tuesdays: April 18 and 25 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
L.E. Phillips Senior Center, 1616 Bellinger Street, Thompson Room
63. Famous Faces of Scandal and Controversy—Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse Mountain
This multimedia presentation explores the history, heated conversations, and Native American perspectives on the bucket-list destinations that are Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Mountain, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Co-sponsored by L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library.
Presenter: Professor Debra Barker
Coordinator: Mike Hilger (715) 832-8823
Wednesday: April 19 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, Riverview Room, Third Floor, 400 Eau Claire Street
64. Warbirds
“Warbird” is the term applied to any vintage military aircraft now operated by civilian organizations or individuals. The term may also apply to replicas and reproductions. Joe has visited numerous air museums and air shows, camera in hand. His presentation consists of photos of WWI and WWII warbirds on the ground and in the air.
Presenter: : Joe Motto, MD
Coordinator: Jim Urness (715) 832-5670
Thursday: April 20 10:00 – 11:30 a.m
Peace Lutheran Church, 501 E Fillmore Ave. Enter on Nimitz St.side.
65. How Is Wildlands Different from a Traditional School?
Student choice and accountability are at the heartbeat of the school’s identity and what makes Wildlands different. From their first day until graduation day, students at Wildlands are encouraged and empowered to study disciplines and areas of inquiry that they identify as interesting. Wildlands is a project-based learning school with a research and science focus. Wildlands Charter School is one of the few teacher-led schools in the country with a staff that is a functional teachers’ cooperative.
Presenters: Teacher and student from Wildlands School
Coordinator: Barb Hebert (715) 514-9692
Monday: April 24 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Peace Lutheran Church, 501 E Fillmore Ave. Enter on Nimitz St. side.
To view the recording, click here: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/xzm4DdiDDuU0Pg63BR4JzlWlb321LWJiacj75pxdBgGI80msFRN_5F4lCplLpu35.s5DBGyDqaxFPDbf8
66. Getting Back into Life: Living Successfully with Aphasia
Aphasia occurs when portions of the brain that control language are damaged by disease, stroke, tumor, traumatic brain injury, or other causes. Recently, high-profile individuals like Bruce Willis, Gabby Giffords, and John Fetterman have increased the spotlight on aphasia. In this presentation, you’ll hear from community members with aphasia, their care partners, and speech-language pathologists. We’ll discuss what aphasia is, ways to communicate with aphasia, and how the community can support living successfully with aphasia. Co-sponsored by L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library.
Presenter: Dr. Thomas Sather, PhD/CCC-SLP, Associate Professor, Communication Sciences and Disorders, UWEC
Coordinator: Sally Felling (715) 704-0937
Wednesday: April 26 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, Riverview Room, Third Floor, 400 Eau Claire Street
Bio: Tom Sather
Tom Sather, PhD/CCC-SLP, is an Associate Professor in the Communication Sciences and Disorders department at the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, and a speech-language pathologist on staff at Mayo Clinic Health System – Eau Claire. He teaches, does research, and works clinically in the areas of aphasia, stroke, adult neurogenics, medical speech-language pathology, and community aphasia programming. He is a past chair and board member of the Wisconsin Hearing and Speech Board. Tom has been a staff member of the Chippewa Valley Aphasia Network since 1998, and currently serves on their board of directors. He has been a staff member of the Chippewa Valley Aphasia Camp since its inception in 2004. He is president of Aphasia Access, and recently served as chair of the 2022 International Aphasia Rehabilitation Conference (IARC). When not at work, Tom enjoys spending time tying flies and flyfishing for trout in the cold, clean streams of western Wisconsin.
To view the recording, click here: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/zArcVZRhpSL1TYikWu0n-IuhpGXK1gQyJcJnRxyOHnl1h6Bcl4R0iOHgmS25h6P-.RQJW_9CbQFip15z5
67. Create a Fused Glass Dragonfly Garden Stake
Design a unique Fused-Glass Dragonfly Garden Stake. Choose a color for the dragonfly-shaped base and add various embellishments to create colorful, weatherproof garden art. The dragonfly is about 18” across and will be securely mounted on a 3’ round piece of steel. Additionally, if you’d like to make a smaller 1 1/2” x 8” plant stake on an 18″ piece of thick aluminum, the cost is $15. Limit 18 per session Sign up for one session only. Pick-up is on Monday, June 5, 1:30 p.m. at L.E. Phillips Senior Center in the Thompson Room.
Presenter: Jean Romanshek
Coordinator: Kathy Campbell (715) 559-4149
Monday: May 1 A 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
Monday: May 8 B 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
L.E. Phillips Senior Center, 1616 Bellinger Street, Thompson Room
Cost: $30
68. An Introduction to Norwegian Rosemaling
Learn the basics of rosemaling on a small plaque in the Norwegian Rogaland style. Gail will briefly explain rosemaling and a few of its different styles. You will learn the steps of preparing the woodenware for rosemaling as well as the colors used for the paints. All paints, plaques, brushes and other supplies will be supplied. Oil paints and painting mediums are used for this class. Please take this into consideration if you have allergies. Limit 12
Presenter: Gail Olah
Coordinator: Claudeen Oebser (715) 874-6054
Tuesday: May 2 12:00 – 4:00 p.m.
L.E. Phillips Senior Center, 1616 Bellinger Street, Thompson Room
Cost: $12
69. The New RCU Dabble Box Makerspace has been cancelled for Spring/Summer 2023. May return in the fall.
After a presentation about the purpose and benefits of makerspaces in public libraries, you will have a chance to experience the RCU Dabble Box Makerspace at the Eau Claire Library. Learn to design your own 3D print, see how a robot can use facial recognition to remember your name, paint a mini-portrait, and more. Multiple stations and assistance will be available for you to explore what the space has to offer! Co-sponsored by L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library.
Limit 40
Presenter: Anna M. Zook, Reference & Digital Services Librarian,
L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library
Coordinator: Amy Alpine (917) 446-5983
Wednesday: May 17 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
The RCU Dabble Box Makerspace, Lower level of the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, 400 Eau Claire Street
Bio: Anna M. Zook :
Anna M. Zook, MLIS, is the Reference & Digital Services Librarian at the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library. In addition to managing the library’s digital offerings, she co-coordinates the library’s Dabble Box makerspace, serves as the juror coordinator for the online local music platform Sawdust City Sounds, and regularly works on adult literacy offerings. Prior to working at LEPMPL, she was a Reference and Outreach Librarian at Wofford College in Spartanburg, SC, and worked as an actor for eight years. In her spare time, she volunteers with the Family Support Center, plays French Horn in a community band, and dabbles in electric guitar. She is passionate about reference, accessibility, and developing community connections.
70. Shakespeare: The Winter’s Tale and As You Like It
In different ways, every Shakespeare play focuses on the importance of steadfastness in human relationships. Without love, duty, commitment, loyalty to family and friends, and kindness to strangers; the social fabric is torn, sometimes irreparably. These two plays, ten years apart in his writing career, handle the issue very differently, but both seek powerfully to reaffirm the enduring truths he considered most important. Winona’s Great River Shakespeare Festival features both plays this summer. Co-sponsored by L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library.
Presenter: Marty Wood Professor Emeritus, Dept or English, UWEC
Coordinator: Michael O’Halloran (715) 835-2388
Wednesday: May 23 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, Riverview Room, Third Floor, 400 Eau Claire Street
To view the recording, click here: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/ukQHrj89WDO66mP7yS_ntPnJh8BEQZQqRMFlrKABYcKMG6j4EJFZw-yNjT02A85r.nt0SKHXD2XGYDXyp
71. Tour the Chippewa Valley Veterans Tribute
Tour the Honor Mall with us and hear the history and stories of the beautiful monuments and legacy stones on permanent display for Veterans. Some local Veterans will be in attendance to tell their stories. Bring your questions. Wear your walking shoes to take a guided tour of the upcoming river trail timeline. We will show you the development phases of the Chippewa Valley Veterans Tribute. You will receive a souvenir hat and pin for attending.
Presenters: Angela Deutschlander and Kay Olson
Coordinator: Elizabeth Fischer (715) 874-5633
Tuesday: June 6 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
Chippewa Valley Veterans Tribute at River Prairie Park, Altoona