LearningQUEST has presentations open to the general public. All are welcome to attend these programs, so please join us.

P3-Talking and Playing the Blues – Free Public Microwave Dave
Instructor: Microwave Dave (Dave Gallaher)
Dates: 1 Thursday, Oct. 27
Time: 1:30 – 3:00
Location: Trinity United Methodist Church, Wesley Hall

Dave Gallaher, aka Microwave Dave, has been an important part of the Huntsville music scene— whether playing with his band, The Nukes, or hosting his weekly “Talkin’ the Blues” programs on WLRH and WJAB. But Dave’s life and stature extend far beyond Huntsville, as chronicled in his new book, I’m a Road Runner, with a foreword by none other than Stephen King. Dave will be bringing his book and his story and will play live at this special program at Trinity Methodist Church.

P4-Inviting Birds—The Magic of Water
Instructor: Herb Lewis
Dates: 1 Wednesday, Nov. 2
Time: 1:30 – 3
Location: AUD

Herb Lewis is now partnering with the Land Trust ofNorth Alabama to provide his expertise in the creation of an educational birding trail. This will offer a bird viewing blind and rock/water features on the Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve. Herb will discuss the value and effectiveness of water being added to a natural wildlife area. Water is a basic need for all wildlife, especially birds. Most birds eat insects and are not attracted to feeders. However, many bird species can be attracted to backyards by offering water. This presentation illustrates several natural design techniques for adding water into the landscape and will include personal photos taken in the presenter’s backyard.

P5-Keep Watching the Skies: A Very Subjective History of Science Fiction Films in Hollywood, 1968 to the Present
Instructor: David Lilly
Dates: 1 Thursday, Nov. 17
Time: 10:30 – 12
Location: AUD

This program will explore the history of Hollywood science fiction films as a genre meant to entertain adult audiences. These films were significantly influenced by the fears, interests, and concerns of their time, and the presenter will explore the historical background that made these films what they were. The program will include a number of film clips of some of the best (and worst!) of these movies. It should be an entertaining and informative presentation for anyone who grew up watching these films and who continues to love them to this day, or for anyone who is open to becoming a fan.

P6-Read to Me, Alabama!
Welcome, John Archibald!
Instructor: John Archibald
Dates: 1 Tuesday, Dec. 6
Time: 12 – 1
Location: AUD

John Archibald, Pulitzer-winning journalist with Alabama Media Group (AL.com), updates us on reporting highlights of the year, including the series of his columns about the small Alabama town accused of “policing for profit.”