CLL: Weekly Classes

Weekly Classes for CLL Members

Spring 2026

Please visit the new CLL Registration page on Church Center to Register for classes.

Mondays-

French Language
Mondays (Zoom)
9:30–10:30 a.m. (Advanced)
10:45–11:45 a.m. (Intermediate)
12:00–1:00 p.m. (Beginner)
Claudine Wojtowicz
The CLL offers three levels of French language classes: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Come decide which is best for you!
Claudine Wojtowicz, a native speaker born on the French Riviera, taught in the public system in Nice, at North Shore school in Chicago, and at the Alliance Française of Chicago. Claudine has many years' experience teaching French to all ages, often incorporating film and food into her classes.

Stronger Seniors
Mondays 10:30–11:15 a.m.
Tuesdays 9:30–10:15 a.m.
(Zoom)
Anne Pringle Burnell
Mondays-
Stronger Seniors Cardio Strength is a 45-minute chair-based class including aerobics for healthy hearts and increased stamina. We use one lightweight dumbbell (1-5lbs) or soup can for strength training arms, shoulders, and back. The workout has a 4 min. standing section to increase lower body strength, and there is a seated option during this module. Equipment: light weight or soup can.
Tuesdays-
Stronger Seniors Chair Pilates focuses on Pilates principles; breath, core-training, coordination and control. Get strong from the inside out, improve balance, core strength, posture, and function in daily life. Standing and seated options throughout. Equipment used: resistance band or a pair of tights, and a small ball or a bundled pair of socks.

Anne Pringle Burnell is an award-winning teacher and international presenter. She created programs including Peyow™ Aqua Pilates, Stronger Seniors™, and more. Peyow Aqua Pilates Case studies at the Rehab Institute of Chicago were published in 2015. Anne has authored several articles and instructor manuals, as well as being a Continuing education provider. Anne is a professional singer, receiving the Chicago Cabaret Gold Coast Award, and Service Award. She is the past President of Chicago Cabaret Professionals.

Beginner Taps
Mondays (Zoom)
11:30-12:15 p.m.
Susan Fay
Have you always wanted to sail away on the Good Ship Lollipop? If so, this basic tap dance class is for you! We will enjoy the music of the Rat Pack classic hits, while learning basic tap steps and a short dance. Whether you’ve had some tap or are a beginner, this class will help develop balance, strength, cognitive health and fun! Tap shoes are not required.

Susan has a BA in Literature and an MA in Dance Education from Northwestern University. She has taught most genres of dance to all age groups. Susan has choreographed for musical theatre, led her own dance company and studied the styles of Martha Graham, Paul Taylor, George Balanchine and Mr. Bill “Bojangles” Robinson!

Art History-
“Baroque in the Protestant North”
Mondays (Zoom)
1:00–2:00 p.m.

Catherine Zurybida did her graduate work at the University of Chicago studying early medieval art history and has been teaching art history at DePaul University since 1990. She lives on the south side of Chicago and gives tours of the Pullman historic district for fun.

Yoga, Chair Optional
Mondays (Hybrid)
2:30-3:30 pm
Careid Surprenant
Yoga—in its many forms—presents an infinite body of wisdom for us to attain and sustain our best version of health in mind, body, and spirit. Through physical postures (asana), breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation, the practice builds strength, increases mobility, deepens breath, and shifts the nervous system to reduce anxiety, yield clarity of mind, and calmness of spirit.

Yoga, Chair Optional includes standing, seated, supine, and prone postures, along with mindful breath, brief meditations, and a final rest (savasana) that traditionally is taken while supine, on the floor, for maximum relaxation. As an adaptive approach to yoga, modifications are offered to facilitate participation from different levels of fitness or experience. The optional use of a chair provides modifications and stability as needed to achieve a greater range of motion with confidence.

Careid Surprenant (500-E RYT) has been teaching in the Chicago area since 2012. Drawing on her background in the visual arts, she has found that an in-depth knowledge of human anatomy, the mechanics of alignment and sometimes even physics, are essential to create a productive and injury-free yoga experience. She has studied and is inspired to incorporate elements of Ashtanga, Iyengar, Tantric Yoga, and Adaptive Yoga into her classes. You can expect a class that weaves postural asanas with a pranayama, meditation, Yogic Philosophy and a dash of wry humor to create a warm, well rounded experience where all are welcome.

Tuesdays-

Stronger Seniors (See Above)

Stage and Screen
Tuesdays (Hybrid)
10:30-12:00
John Clum

A HISTORY OF TELEVISION COMEDY AND DRAMA
From its beginnings in the 1940s as New York-based live entertainment to the current streaming era, television has been (until recently), the chief mode of entertainment. We’ll look at highlights of its history.

John Clum taught courses in acting, dramatic literature, playwriting, and the history of theatre and film at Duke University, where he was Professor of Theater Studies and English. He has directed almost 100 productions of everything ranging from Shakespeare to many premieres of contemporary plays to opera and musicals. John has written eleven books and 75 essays on modern and contemporary drama, musical theatre, film, television and opera. He is now President of the Edward Albee Society. He has been elected a Lifetime Member of the College of Fellows of American Theatre.

Spanish
Tuesdays (Hybrid)
11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Susan Nusbaum
This conversation class is designed for anyone who would like to learn, or continue learning, basic or intermediate conversational Spanish. It’s open both to newcomers and those who have taken the class previously, with an emphasis on using the spoken word and structure. The class will also include basic grammar skills and reading and writing from our workbook. The focus will be on acquiring Spanish skills and enjoying learning. We have fun activities, and we also have Spanish-speaking guests. We go on excursions to reinforce Spanish skills and have a good time!

Susan Nusbaum is a former teacher and administrator in Chicago Public Schools. She retired from full time work in 2012, the last 25 years at Wells High School. Upon retiring, Susan was a consultant at Wells High School, working on a project to raise four million dollars to build a soccer and baseball field at the school, which was completed in 2018. Since then she has been a Spanish teacher in the CLL Program at Fourth Church for the last five years, and CAPE (adult continuing ed.) program at Northeastern Illinois University. At the present time, she is a student teaching supervisor at National Louis University and she also supervised student teachers at Northeastern Illinois University. Susan received her BS in Spanish at NEIU, an M.A. in bilingual education at Governors State University, an M.A. in School Administration at NEIU, and an Ed.D in School Leadership at Loyola University.

Watercolor and Art Concepts
Tuesdays (Hybrid)
1:00-2:30 pm
Watercolor painting is an artistic practice that invites the artist to explore a wide freedom with the brush and other means of manipulating the pigment and water on the paper. The resulting images may be vivid, translucent, non-representational or representational. They may incorporate accidental drips and puddles so that one’s “mistakes” become a natural and interesting part of the image. Exploration and play are greatly encouraged.

The objective of this class is to introduce beginning students to the medium of Watercolor and to continue to develop and challenge the skills of the more experienced students while creating a positive atmosphere of enjoyment and community. In class we will learn about the properties of the media by exploring various techniques such as washes, wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, masking, creating textures and developing new techniques through individuals’ experimentation.

We will also learn about color and its properties and the visual effects.

All levels of students are welcome to become part of the class. Come and enjoy splashing around with us in this wonderful media! Formal instruction will be presented in person and on Zoom. We will discuss students’ works and address problems that might arise for the students, periodically. A supply list is available via CLL or from the instructor.

Please join us for some mind rejuvenating fun with this wonderful media!

Cheri Reif Naselli is a graduate of the Art Institute of Chicago and brings a variety of teaching experiences to the CLL. She is skilled in various visual art media in addition to watercolors and enjoys the opportunity to guide other artists as they develop their personal styles and skills.
Intermediate Tai Chi
Tuesdays and Thursdays (Hybrid)
2:45-3:30 p.m.
*Participants must have instructor approval
Hau Kum Kneip
This ancient form of meditative movement brings strength and balance benefits to its adherents. This intermediate class is for CLL members only and is not appropriate for beginners.

Hau Kum Kneip studied with Chinese Tai Chi masters in Hong Kong, Taiwan, mainland China, and Hawaii beginning in 1978. She has taught T’ai Chi Chuan at the CLL since 1995, increasing balance, strength, and focus in her students.

Wednesdays-

Yoga for Strong Bones
Wednesdays (Zoom)
9:30–10:30 a.m.
Susan Fay
This class is a mix of seated and standing poses that are specifically chosen to strengthen bones and muscles, improve balance and posture, and provide a gentle stretch. Options will be provided so that the class can be done seated or standing. Please have handy an exercise band or something similar (even the belt on your bathrobe would work!).

Susan has a BA in Literature and an MA in Dance Education from Northwestern University. She has taught most genres of dance to all age groups. Susan has choreographed for musical theatre, led her own dance company and studied the styles of Martha Graham, Paul Taylor, George Balanchine and Mr. Bill “Bojangles” Robinson!

Zing! Total Fitness
Wednesdays (Zoom)
10:30–11:15 a.m.
Pam Peterson
Have fun and get fit to music you know and love in this easy-to-follow aerobic conditioning class. This energetic workout builds cardio and muscular endurance, improves balance and range of motion, burns lots of calories, and lifts your spirits!

Pam Peterson, founder of Zing with Pam Fitness, is a dynamic teacher who believes that exercise should be fun and healing. An ACE-Certified fitness professional and personal trainer for 40 years, Pam has led countless students to greater strength, balance, flexibility, stamina and energy. Pam is also a community song leader, and an award-winning cabaret singer, known for her YouTube hit “Memory” with more than 7 million views.

Current Events
Wednesdays (In-Person)
12:00–1:00 p.m.
Roger Becker
Come together for group discussion of the daily headlines and other issues facing us as seniors, Chicagoans and citizens of the world. Our leader brings topics from multiple news sources and opens the group to in-depth conversations from diverse viewpoints. Participants are encouraged to suggest agenda items. All opinions are welcome for lively discussion.

Roger Becker graduated in architecture from Washington University in St. Louis. Most of his professional career was spent in leading owners, architects, and contractors in developing health care design and construction projects. Roger was in charge of facilities services at St. Louis Children's Hospital, led the design and construction program at the University of Chicago Hospitals, and prior to retirement was Senior Vice President of Program Management at Lillibridge Healthcare Services. He has been the facilitator of this course since 2015.

Fundamentals and Beyond: Drawing for Everyone
Wednesdays (Zoom)
3:00–4:30 p.m.
Pauline Kochanski
The goal of this class is to develop and challenge individual student skills no matter the level of experience. We will focus on a variety of materials and techniques.

Beginning each class with contour drawings and working on personal projects.
This course will focus on a variety of materials and techniques, working with graphite, charcoal, and if students want we can work ink markers and color pencils on standard white papers.
Students of all experience levels are welcome.

Pauline Kochanski is a multi-disciplinary Chicago area exhibiting artist, teacher, and writer. She is a graduate of Columbia College Chicago and DePaul University. Pauline produces artwork using a variety of materials though she graphite, color pencils, and ink are at the top of her list. She brings a broad spectrum of teaching experiences to CLL and is thrilled to be able to support her students in their creative growth. Pauline considers herself a student as well as a teacher and guide.

Thursdays-

The Silver Barre
Thursdays (Zoom)
9:30-10:15 a.m.
Susan Fay
Pull over a dining room chair or grab onto the kitchen counter and join us at The Silver Barre! This class, patterned after a classical ballet class, will begin with warm-up and technique work at the barre, then move on to a short combination. The material emphasizes both upper and lower body strength, as well as correct alignment and balance. Occasional modifications will be given for those wishing to try seated variations. Ballet shoes are not required, but a shoe like the Capezio ‘Juliet’ is recommended. No socks or sneakers, please.

Susan Fey has a BA in Literature and an MA in Dance Education from Northwestern University. She has taught most genres of dance to all age groups. Susan has choreographed for musical theatre, led her own dance company and studied the styles of Martha Graham, Paul Taylor, George Balanchine and Mr. Bill “Bojangles” Robinson!

Memoir and Creative Writing
Thursdays (Hybrid)
10:00–11:30 a.m.
1:00–2:30 p.m.
(Note: This class is offered at 2 separate times and enrollment is limited, please contact the CLL Office to be enrolled in either.)
Linda Downing Miller
Writing short pieces about your life experiences can give you a fresh perspective on your past and the opportunity to share it with others. Find writing inspiration and motivation in this class. Weekly writing prompts and examples will help spark your memories and get your writing going. Each week, you’ll share about a page of new writing with the group. You’ll listen to other participants’ stories and strengthen your creativity in an encouraging environment. Beginning and experienced writers welcome!

Linda Downing Miller leads creative writing classes at CLL, the Newberry Library, and elsewhere. Her stories and essays have appeared in literary journals and other publications, including Chicago Quarterly Review, Water~Stone Review, the Florida Review, and the Chicago Tribune. She earned an MFA in creative writing from Queens University of Charlotte and lives in Oak Park.

Golden Grooves
Thursdays (Zoom)
10:30–11:15 a.m.
David Aaron Harbin
Are you ready to rejuvenate your body, embrace a newfound sense of flexibility, and groove to the rhythm of an improved range of motion? Golden Grooves brings the joy of movement and music to enhance your overall well-being. Use of resistance bands, an occasional circle or line dance, and a "name that tune" called "Brain Gym". Also, occasional soft-shoe and or tap warm-up for fun! Age is just a number; this class is your key to a more active and mobile life! A chair may be used for balance and support.

David Aaron Harbin brings enthusiasm and energy into every class session, along with tips for a healthier lifestyle. His interest in older adult health began with his own family and has expanded across other Chicago-area communities. David is certified in senior fitness through the American Institute of Fitness Educators as well as Stronger Seniors Specialty Training and Silver Sneakers.

Music History
Thursdays (Zoom)
1:00–2:00 p.m.
Johanna Moffitt
American soprano, Johanna Moffitt, relocated from Western New York to Chicago where they have since been making a splash across the Chicago arts scene. As a producer, they have sought to bring accessible performances to non-traditional venues with 501(c)3 company /kor/ productions. As a stage director, Johanna has led several projects. As a teacher, they have worked with all ages both in the studio as a private voice instructor, and as a choir and music director. Johanna enjoys the challenge of creating community among their students, fostering a sense of togetherness and support at studio events and also leading their choirs to connect with music and each other through the joint effort of performance. In their spare time, Johanna very much enjoys performing as a storyteller, and hanging out with their adorable pups, George and Charlie.
Tai Chi
See Above

Fridays-

Nia
Fridays (Zoom)
10:30-11:15 a.m.
Ann Pringle Burnell
Nia is a movement program that draws from dance, martial arts, yoga, and tai chi. It empowers people to utilize their body, mind, and spirit with simple expressive movements. Nia is a fun workout, adaptive for all individual needs and abilities, it can be done barefoot, or with shoes, or in a chair. Dancing connects us to other cultures through folk and world music, while the variety of tempos and sequences improve balance, cognitive skills, and agility.
Nia is like chocolate, you've got to try it, to taste it! Try a class!

Anne Pringle Burnell is an award-winning teacher and international presenter. She created programs including Peyow™ Aqua Pilates, Stronger Seniors™, and more. Peyow Aqua Pilates Case studies at the Rehab Institute of Chicago were published in 2015. Anne has authored several articles and instructor manuals, as well as being a Continuing education provider. Anne is a professional singer, receiving the Chicago Cabaret Gold Coast Award, and Service Award. She is the past President of Chicago Cabaret Professionals.

Please visit the new CLL Registration page on Church Center to Register for classes.

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