Between 1934 and 1947, actors Wm. Powell and Myrna Loy made a total of 6 movies in which they starred as “Nick & Nora Charles,” a madcap, gin-swilling husband-and-wife team who solved murder mysteries. Originally based on crime writer Dashiell Hammett’s 1934 novel “The Thin Man,” the movie-going public found them so ideally paired that a huge chunk of them actually believed they were married to one another in their off-screen life. As a matter of fact, off-screen, they were just the best of friends. All in all, Myrna and Bill starred in a total of 14 films together. In this 8-week course, we will watch the first and the last pictures they made together, sandwiching all 6 “Thin Man” films in order, from “The Thin Man” (1934) to “Song of the Thin Man” (1947). All films will be shown in their entirety, to be followed by questions and Dr. Stone’s well-known “behind the silver screen tales from Hollywood and Vine.”

“Really enjoyed Kurt's vast cinematic knowledge and his openness in discussions.” – OLLI Patron

LECTURES:

1. The Thin Man (1934) Newly married Nick and Nora drink their way through a case involving the disappearance of an inventor. Costarring Maureen O’Sullivan and Cesar Romero.

2. After the Thin Man (1936) Back home in San Francisco for New Year’s, Nick and Nora (along with Asta and “Mrs.” Asta) reluctantly hunt for the murderer of Nora’s cousin’s husband. Co-starring James Stewart in his earliest films.

3. Another Thin Man (1939): Returned to New York with Asta and son Nickie, Jr., the couple seeks to find out who killed Nora’s late father’s business partner. With C. Aubrey Smith.

4. Shadow of the Thin Man (1941) While at a local race track hoping for a pleasant afternoon, a jockey is killed. Nick and Nora are enlisted to look for the murderer by their friend, police Lt. Abrams (Same Levene).

5. The Thin Man Goes Home (1945) While on a visit to Nick’s home town, the local criminals assume he’s there on a case. When a corpse shows up on Nick’s father’s doorstep, Nick Nora’s vacation turns into yet another case.

6. The Song of the Thin Man (1947): Nick and Nora are on a gambling ship where a murder occurs. 2 leading suspects come to them for help. The couple turns them over to the police and then looks for the real murderer.

7. The Senator Was Indiscreet (1948): The 14th and last Powell/Loy film. A bumbling, long-winded, crooked Southern senator, considered by some as a dark horse for the Presidency, panics his party when his tell-all diary is stolen.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

Is there any dance form more joyous than tap? It's the only kind of dance that is aural as well as visual, the only one in which the artist is dancer and musician. Tap dance is an indigenous art form developed from the dance traditions of enslaved African Americans and European immigrants, particularly those from Ireland. Dance historian Sally Sommer has said, "If you want to know about the history of America, maybe you should study the history of tap." This series will showcase close to 100 dancers from past to present. In spotlighting a range of artists who have made major contributions to this ever-evolving form, both the history of tap and the history of America come into sharper focus.

LECTURES:

1.    1800s through the early 1930s

2.    1930s through the early 1940s (timeline approximate)

3.    1940s (timeline approximate)

4.    1950s through tap’s waning popularity (timeline approximate)

5.    Resurgence, 1970s and Beyond

6.    Contemporary Tap Dancers

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

We are at a pivotal moment in cognitive brain health. In this four-part lecture series, we'll delve into the groundbreaking advancements in this field. Beginning with an introductory lecture on neuroscience basics and historical context, we'll progress to the latest in diagnosis and treatments, including groundbreaking disease-modifying medications for Alzheimer’s Disease. This series provides a thorough exploration of cognitive brain health, exploring recent discoveries reshaping our understanding of cognitive decline and leading to innovative interventions. Together, we'll address whether we're witnessing the beginning of the end of Alzheimer’s Disease. Join us as we navigate this transformative journey towards improved brain health and a brighter future. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

1. Foundations of Cognitive Brain Health: An Introduction to the History, the Science, and the Varying Schools of Thought

2. Neuro Assessment and Diagnostic Innovation: Precision Tools for Understanding Cognitive Health and Unraveling Neurological Conditions with Precision

3. Therapeutic Frontiers: Advancements in Cognitive Brain Health Treatments

4. Lifestyle Interventions: Optimizing Cognitive Resilience and Well-being and Uncovering the Power of Cognitive Reserve

Explore the Florida coast's history and Floridians' relationships with the sea over the past 2,000 years or so (when the modern shoreline came into being). This program is organized around four of Florida's coasts to consider the current problems confronting coastal communities in light of history. While all of Florida's coasts face similar problems, each lecture will use one coastal space to explore the impact of an issue in detail. Each discussion, enhanced through images and video, will begin with a description of the modern problem and then move back in time to contextualize it. Attendees will gain a strong understanding of the problems with Florida's coasts while gaining an appreciation of how these coasts have changed over time. Space is limited.

"He was lively and engaged, very well done!" - OLLI Patron

LECTURES:

1. The First Coast: Development and the Northern Atlantic Coast

2. The Emerald Coast: Saving History Along the Northern Gulf

3. The Sun Coast: The Problem of Pollution on the Southern Gulf

4. The Gold Coast: Sea Level Rise and South Florida

"One World: A Global Anthology of Short Stories" transcends geographic boundaries, featuring stories from renowned authors from around the world. Their experiences and perspectives are shared in themes of identity, displacement, love, and human nature, addressing issues of race, language, economy, gender, and ethnicity. Join us weekly as we read and discuss a few stories, exploring diverse cultures and perspectives. Together, we'll reflect on these beautiful and sometimes chaotic renditions of the human experience, fostering a deeper understanding of our interconnected world. Welcome to our book club journey! Participants will receive a pdf copy of the book prior to the start of the first week’s session. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

“I really enjoyed this class. The selected short stories were all excellent, and the instructor does a great job leading the discussion"- OLLI Patron

LECTURES:

Week 1: "Leng Lui is for Pretty Lady" (Elaine Chiew); "Ishwari’s Children" (Shabnam Nadiya); "The Volunteer" (Lucinda Nelson Dhavan)

Week 2: "Porcelain" (Henrietta Rose-Innes), "Cow-Hearted" (Wadzanai Mhute), "Rich People’s School" (Lauri Kubuitsile)

Week 3: "Kettle on the Boat" (Vanessa Gebbie), "A Boy and His Kite" (Konstantinos Tzikas), "Retrenched" (Ken N Kamoche)

Week 4: "The Albino" (Adetokunbo Gbenga Abiola)," Kelemo’s Woman" (Molara Wood); and "Honor of a Woman" (Dipita Kwa)

Technology was not created to intimidate you, but to empower you! As technology advances, it's important for you to be knowledgeable, familiar with and aware of all the advantages it can provide to you. In this series we will explore the ways technology can help with our finances and make our lives easier with aps. We will also learn how to protect ourselves online and explore a variety of ways AI is already changing the way we live and work. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. Digital Finance Management: Saving You Time and Stress

2. Stay Ahead of the Scams: How To Stay Safe Online

3.There’s An App For That!: Most Helpful Apps For Older Adults

4. All About AI: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer the future; It's Already Here!

The Book of Genesis deals with multiple family and national struggles, touching on the most fundamental questions of human beings. While these stories are sacred to different religious traditions, we will approach them without affirming any of them, so each participant can find relevance in the text, regardless of his/her beliefs. During this series, we will study some of the main stories of the "Book of Genesis," like the creation of the world and the universal flood. We will try to understand what messages the text is aiming to convey. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. The Creation of the World: What can we learn from the Biblical text? What do other Biblical texts say about the Creation?

2. The Universal Flood: Was it necessary? Why did it happen, according to the text? What does it teach about human nature?

3. One Adam and Two Eves: The fascinating story of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, and the idea of two different Eves that we can find in ancient non/Biblical texts.

4). Cain and Abel: Brotherhood, jealousy, conflict, and some surprising elements of this captivating story.

The terms "Populist" and "Progressive" are used a lot in today's political parlance to describe some politicians, but what do these terms truly mean historically? Dr. Borucki will address the decades from the 1870s through the 1920s when those terms originated to describe very significant movements in American politics. The Populists captured a large following as a third-party movement in the 1880s and 1890s across the Midwest and South, and the growth of "Jim Crow" segregation in the South was largely a reaction to their challenge to one-party control of that section. With Populism came the emergence of several colorful characters in Southern politics. Some other interesting figures rose to prominence in the Progressive Era, a time around the turn of the century in which there was an optimistic attitude for reform in both the North and South. That optimism would be largely shattered by the international disaster that was World War I.

"Excellent and informative lecture! The instructor’s passion for the subject matter was evident. I thoroughly enjoyed this presentation!" - OLLI Patron

LECTURES:

1. Populism's Origins:  What were the post-Civil War economic conditions that paved the way for the rise of Populism in the South and Midwest, particularly in the 1870s and 1880s?

2. From Farmers' Alliances to Political Party:  Populism morphed into a full-fledged third-party movement in 1888, but it fizzled after the presidential election of 1896.  Why was the movement so short-lived?

3. Continuities between Populism and Progressivism in the South:  as the 19th century passed and the 20th century began, several southern firebrands stood for reform and gained popular appeal among poor whites. Progressivism had a pronounced southern rural strand.

4. Progressivism in the North:  Meanwhile, in quickly growing northern industrial and commercial centers, several political leaders emerged to call for reform at the local and state level, and as presidents, Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson represented the apex of Progressivism at the federal level.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

Come join us for a celebration of the beautiful music that Jimmy Van Heusen composed for Broadway and Hollywood. You will delight in renderings of such gems as "Here's That Rainy Day" and "Polkadots and Moonbeams" by the eminent Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan and Nat Cole. You will hear lush versions of Van Heusen tunes by such jazz giants as Miles Davis, Stan Getz, George Shearing, and Oscar Peterson. You can attend sessions ala carte if you are not available for the entire four-lecture series.

Space is limited.

LECTURES:

1. "Here's That Rainy Day;" renditions by Bill Evans, June Christy, Oscar Peterson, Paul Desmond

2. "Polka Dots and Moonbeams;" renditions by Lee Konitz, Bill Evans, Wes Montgomery, Sarah Vaughan

3. "But Beautiful;" renditions by Johnny Hartman, Ben Webster, Bill Evans

4. "Darn That Dream;" renditions by Miles Davis, Tony Bennett, Stan Getz, George Shearing

Join Dr. Edward Shapiro's series focusing on films that tackle the economic, social, and diplomatic challenges faced by America in the 1920s. These cinematic classics serve as invaluable historical documents, offering insights into the prevailing thoughts and concerns of the American people during this era. Through discussions and screenings, we will explore how these films reflect the zeitgeist of the time and shed light on the complex issues shaping American society. This is a journey through the cinematic landscape of the 1920s, where these films serve as poignant reflections of the challenges and aspirations of the nation during a transformative period in its history.

"Third series in a row I've attended. I am a big fan"- OLLI Patron

LECTURES:

1. "Birth of a Nation": Racism

2. "All Quiet on the Western Front": The Revulsion of War

3. "The Jazz Singer": Immigration and Acculturation

4. "Modern Times": Industrialization

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

OLLI is thrilled to welcome Judge Cymonie S. Rowe back for an in-depth exploration of the 45 words of the First Amendment. This series will introduce participants to the Amendment's text and the landmark Supreme Court cases that have shaped freedom of expression in the U.S. Each session will examine the history, content, and judicial rulings that frame government restrictions on speech. Each week, special guest speakers will be featured in person or via Zoom to enhance the experience as we delve into pivotal cases. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

"Fantastic class! Very informative about the judicial process, local and national. I learned a lot about the decision-making process for judges and gained a new respect for their difficult job."- OLLI Patron

 

Populations forced from their homelands have occurred since the beginning of recorded time. Today, people are scattered throughout the world for a variety of reasons; economic, political, racial, and ethnic oppression among them. In these four films, you’ll meet people seeking a better life for themselves and their families, where crossing borders and hoping to be accepted can be a redeeming or unimaginable experience.

"Been taking Shelley’s class for many years. A great class and have learned a lot about film” - OLLI Patron

LECTURES:

1. "Worlds Apart" - Greece, 2015: In this film from modern Greece, while socioeconomic turmoil ravages Southern Europe, three distinct stories unfold, each representing a different generation of Greeks becoming involved with a foreigner. Through circumstances and destinies, they link together in the end. Running time 113 min.

2. "Citizens of the World" - Italy, 2019: Three retired best friends conspire to leave Rome to find a better standard of living in a country where their meager pensions will stretch much further. As they formulate an escape plan and the pages fly off the calendar towards the departure date, each man must reassess what they are leaving behind. Running time 92 min.

3. "Io Capitano" - Italy, 2023: In this epic, cinematically magnificent odyssey from West Africa to Italy, the story is told through the mind’s eye and experiences of two Senegalese teenagers living in Dakar who yearn for a brighter future in Europe, where between their dreams and reality lies a treacherous journey. Running time 121 min.

4. "Tazzeka" - Morocco, 2017: Growing up in the Moroccan village of Tazzeka, Elias learned the secrets of delicious traditional Moroccan cuisine from his grandmother, who raised him. As he grew, he also became infatuated with French cuisine. As a young man, impressing a top Paris chef and meeting a young woman named Salma inspired him to leave home. Running time 95 min.

Weekly titles subject to change.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

 

In this interactive seminar, we will explore and discuss the pivotal events, ideas, and debates that shaped the creation of the U.S. Constitution. Through analysis of key historical documents, including the Articles of Confederation and the Federalist Papers, students will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the Founding Fathers. The course will examine the compromises, conflicts, and philosophies that influenced the drafting process, providing a comprehensive view of the road to the Constitution. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. The Early Government of the United States under the Articles of Confederation:  What they were and why they failed.

2. The Competing Proposals to Write a New Constitution.

3. The Debates that Resulted in the Federalist Papers and Opposition.

4. The development of the Constitution and the men and women who were Involved.

Explore the enduring popularity of George Gershwin's music throughout the twentieth century, particularly its profound influence on jazz musicians. This course showcases exceptional examples of jazz inspired by Gershwin's compositions, offering participants the chance to revel in the remarkable melodies crafted by America's preeminent tunesmith. Delve into the dynamic swing and creative interpretations of jazz masters while experiencing historic recordings, videos, and firsthand anecdotes from Gridley's performances alongside show business legends like Steve Lawrence, Edie Gorme, Sammy Davis Jr., and more. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Gershwin's music and its impact on the jazz landscape. 

"We would take any and all classes he gives. He is a treasure!" OLLI Patron

Lectures:

1. "I Got Rhythm": Ethel Merman video and Duke Ellington, Don Byas, Sonny Rollins audio.

2. "Porgy and Bess": Opera footage, Miles Davis, Duke Ellington, Bill Evans audio classics

3. "Lady Be Good": Ella Fitzgerald video, Django Reinhardt, Lester Young audio

4. "Someone to Watch Over Me": Ella Fitzgerald video, Johnny Hodges, Ben Webster audio

 

Tai Chi, short for T'ai Chuan or Tai ji quan, is an internal Chinese martial art practiced for both its defense training and its health benefits. The term Taiji refers to a philosophy of the forces of yin and yang, which are related to the moves. If you're looking for a way to reduce stress, consider Tai Chi, as it combines both spirituality and healthy movement meditation. All poses are slow and steady movements with unstoppable Qi - the internal energy. This class will both strengthen your body and calm your mind. Space is limited.

"I would love to take this course again. So glad you offered a program that involved movement."- OLLI Patron

We do not choose to fall in love. "Love chooses its own Mark." This is demonstrated by Cupid's arrow. Shakespeare treated falling in love as part bliss, part affliction. In two of these films, a beautiful Jewish girl of amazing spiritual strength falls in love with a Nazi official or agent. What occurs is utterly selfless devotion. In two of the films, the encroachment of Nazi rule is so gradual that we understand how hope is necessary even when things are hopeless.

LECTURES:

1. "Lacombe, Lucien" - France: An ignorant but fearless peasant boy is recruited by the Milice to find and execute partisans. A Jewish tailor in hiding with his mother and daughter is forced to make a stylish suit for him. He sees the daughter...

2. "Black Book" - Netherlands: A Jewish girl joins the underground and learns it too harbors anti-Semitic feelings. She is assigned to kill a Gestapo chief. Instead, she falls in love with him.

3. "Mr. Klein" - France: A Christian man with the name Klein is mistaken for being Jewish and tries to explain. A realistic depiction of a nightmare situation.

4. “The Garden of the Finzi-Continis”: - Italy: One of the most beautiful films ever made about an Italian aristocratic family that just happens to be Jewish and practice it without ceasing to be Italian, blond, and blue-eyed.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

Since before the United States was officially formed, the Jewish community has significantly contributed to its development and governing principles. Many of the Founding Fathers were well-versed in Jewish history and law. This program will examine how early American governments and presidents established connections with individual Jews and the Jewish community. It will highlight how George Washington set the standard for U.S. presidents' relations with Jews through his actions and words, including his "To Bigotry No Sanction" letter to the Touro Synagogue. The program will also explore the uneven relationships between Washington's successors and Jews, challenges with various laws, early Jewish immigration, and debates over slavery within the Jewish community.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1992, Israel-China relations have steadily prospered. Beijing's support of the PLO faded, and China became a significant investor in Israeli startups and infrastructure. This growing relationship led to the 2017 "Innovative Comprehensive Partnership," making China one of Israel's largest trading partners. However, this relationship has come under stress due to China's criticism of Israel and reluctance to condemn Hamas, which it claims defends the two-state solution. Following Hamas' attack on Israel, China asserted that Israel's actions in Gaza went "beyond self-defense" and demanded an end to "group punishment" on Palestinians, still refusing to condemn Hamas. Israeli officials believe China's stance stems from the U.S.-China rivalry and Beijing's aim to undermine Washington's power. China's involvement in the Middle East could impact Israel's position by empowering Iran and its proxies. In this lecture, Dr. Rabil will examine Israel-China relations, considering the Ukraine War and the U.S.-China (and Russia) rivalry, and explore the implications of China's stance on Israel's national security.

"Incomparable! Always a delightful learning experience."- OLLI Patron

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

Born in 1963, Whitney Houston grew up with music in her family. Dionne Warwick was her aunt, and Aretha Franklin, a close family friend. In the 1980s, Whitney’s star rapidly rose to great fame. Songs like  “I Will Always Love You,“ “The Greatest Love of All,” and  “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” became classics. Her debut album was the best-selling female debut album of all time, while her second album was number one for 25 weeks. Her marriage in 1992 to  “bad boy” Bobby Brown, with whom she had her only child, Bobbi Kristina, was tumultuous from the start. During this time, Whitney’s drug use became not only apparent, but it also started to destroy her voice and career. After a failed comeback attempt, she died face down in a bathtub in 2012 from a cocaine overdose at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles. She was only 48 years old. Versteeg will tell Whitney’s story, supported by numerous pictures and videos, explaining how her songs impacted the music industry, how her groundbreaking career influenced artists who came after her, and how her ultimate downfall was played out in the public eye.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

The powerful new artificial intelligence algorithms can provide entertainment, information, and even healthcare advice but also invite cyber attacks and accelerate confirmation bias. They can create images on demand and compose poetry. But they can hallucinate, citing briefs for cases that were never tried. DeepMind can predict protein structure, and Med-PaLM can pass the U.S. medical licensure exam. Deep fakes will play a major role during this election cycle. Reality itself is in danger when a candidate appears to speak words she would never say. We will review some of the most useful and interesting applications and identify the browsing risks to avoid. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

"Excellent presentation. Really "good stuff"!"- OLLI Patron

The Church Father Tertullian taught, "What has Athens to do with Jerusalem?" What does philosophy have to do with religion? But Judaism has never agreed. From Philo to Judah HaLevi, from Maimonides to Spinoza, and from Martin Buber to Jacques Derrida, there is a long philosophical tradition in Judaism. This eight-week course will present an overview of the major Jewish philosophical thinkers, from Biblical times to modernity. Among the topics we will cover are Ibn Gabirol's Neoplatonism, Maimonides' Aristotelianism, Spinoza's pantheism, Rosenzweig's existentialism, and Derrida's deconstruction. This class does not require any background in philosophy. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

"He is informative, entertaining and inclusive. We enjoyed his class immensely." - OLLI Patron

LECTURES: 1. Plato: from Philo to Judah HaLevi

2. Aristotle: from Saadia to Maimonides

3. The Enlightenment: from Spinoza to Mendelssohn

4. Contemporary Philosophy: from Buber to Derrida

Despite family tragedies, Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Brontë became literary legends. Raised in 19th century Haworth, Yorkshire, they emerged from this village as groundbreaking writers. The Brontës will be introduced through portraits, photographs, and illustrations of significant locations and artifacts from their histories. We’ll explore their friendships, loves, and rivalries, gaining insights into the larger-than-life characters, intricate plots, and evocative settings they created. This interactive experience will uncover their famous works and place them in historical context.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

In this interactive seminar, we will explore and discuss the pivotal events, ideas, and debates that shaped the creation of the U.S. Constitution. Through analysis of key historical documents, including the Articles of Confederation and the Federalist Papers, students will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the Founding Fathers. The course will examine the compromises, conflicts, and philosophies that influenced the drafting process, providing a comprehensive view of the road to the Constitution. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. The Early Government of the United States under the Articles of Confederation:  What they were and why they failed.

2. The Competing Proposals to Write a New Constitution.

3. The Debates that Resulted in the Federalist Papers and Opposition.

4. The development of the Constitution and the men and women who were Involved.

Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1992, Israel-China relations have steadily prospered. Beijing's support of the PLO faded, and China became a significant investor in Israeli startups and infrastructure. This growing relationship led to the 2017 "Innovative Comprehensive Partnership," making China one of Israel's largest trading partners. However, this relationship has come under stress due to China's criticism of Israel and reluctance to condemn Hamas, which it claims defends the two-state solution. Following Hamas' attack on Israel, China asserted that Israel's actions in Gaza went "beyond self-defense" and demanded an end to "group punishment" on Palestinians, still refusing to condemn Hamas. Israeli officials believe China's stance stems from the U.S.-China rivalry and Beijing's aim to undermine Washington's power. China's involvement in the Middle East could impact Israel's position by empowering Iran and its proxies. In this lecture, Dr. Rabil will examine Israel-China relations, considering the Ukraine War and the U.S.-China (and Russia) rivalry, and explore the implications of China's stance on Israel's national security.

"Incomparable! Always a delightful learning experience."- OLLI Patron

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

Tai Chi, short for T'ai Chuan or Tai ji quan, is an internal Chinese martial art practiced for both its defense training and its health benefits. The term Taiji refers to a philosophy of the forces of yin and yang, which are related to the moves. If you're looking for a way to reduce stress, consider Tai Chi, as it combines both spirituality and healthy movement meditation. All poses are slow and steady movements with unstoppable Qi - the internal energy. This class will both strengthen your body and calm your mind. Space is limited.

"I would love to take this course again. So glad you offered a program that involved movement."- OLLI Patron

In this lecture recital, attendees will learn about the Risorgimento Movement and the subsequent unification and nationalization of Italy in the late 19th century. Both Verdi and Puccini played roles in this movement, and we will examine how they used their music to communicate messages and to unify the people in their common cause. Operatic arias will be interspersed throughout the presentation, as sung by the presenter and through videos. Space is limited.

In the third and final part of his series, Dr. Offenkrantz will discuss Mozart's sublime domestic comedy "Le Nozze di Figaro" ("The Marriage of Figaro") based on the novel by Beaumarchais (which was banned because of its less than flattering portrayal of the aristocracy); Strauss's one-act shocker, "Salome," which caused a riot at its premiere due to its overt sexuality and perceived depravity set against a religious backdrop; and finally..."Il Barbiere di Siviglia" ("The Barber of Seville"), Rossini's delightful take on the same Beaumarchais source material as Mozart, minus the class warfare. Figaro's entrance aria, "Largo al Factotum," is one of the most recognizable pieces in all of opera, thanks to Bugs Bunny. Mozart: "Le Nozze di Figaro" (Broadcast April 26) Strauss: "Salome" (Broadcast May 17) Rossini: "Il Barbiere di Siviglia" (Broadcast May 31)

"I am an opera fan and this class was entertaining and added a lot to my knowledge of the subject. I want to take more classes with this great instructor."- OLLI Patron

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

Join us for an engaging exploration of Emotional Intelligence (EI) in this informative and entertaining lecture. EI, defined as "the capacity for managing emotions well in ourselves and our relationships," is increasingly recognized as vital for personal and professional success. Unlike other competencies, EI tends to improve with age, a reassuring fact! Through lectures, surveys, captivating film clips, and discussions, we'll delve into the four pillars of EI: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management. Confidential surveys will help us assess our EI levels and identify key behaviors for each pillar. Discover strategies and tools to enhance your EI, leading to greater effectiveness and more fulfilling relationships. Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the power of emotional intelligence! This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

Explore Florida in a whole new way: through the lens of popular culture, with this deep dive into TV, movies, and fiction set in the Sunshine State. From "Dexter" to "Key Largo" and "The Yearling," rediscover—or encounter for the first time—important works, and learn surprising facts, like which product sales soared thanks to "Miami Vice," or the original casting choices for "Bad Boys." You'll enjoy revisiting iconic shows and books, like "I Dream of Jeannie," as well as modern masterpieces like "Moonlight." Based on lecturer Caren Schnur Neile's latest book: "Featuring Florida."

“She is one of the best teachers I have ever had; I would take any course she offered.” OLLI Patron

To mobilize is to set in motion, to marshal, to deploy, to rally. Art history activates the work of artists while engaging with culture, nature, politics, and power. Through four lectures with slides, we will consider some of the most relevant topics for art history, the humanities, and democracy today. The Humanities encompass human belief, knowledge, expression, and experience. The visual arts provide deeply historical, cross-cultural, spiritual, and political artifacts of human struggle and thriving. They provide beauty but also pain, joy, and sorrow. Art is not simply a document, a reflection of its time. Artists intervene, and art does things in the world. It is the job of art history to keep it alive. This course seeks to do just that. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. Collective Memory and the Work of Memorials: Public spaces are sites of contention, but also shared places of memory and healing. The "co" in commemoration means we must decide together.

2. Looking With So We Don't Look Away: How can a shared collection of images allow us to confront trauma with courage, or violence with empathy?

3. Curatorial Complexity and Works of Art in Conversation: Art history in museums is often unnoticed. But good curators put famous works in tension, and introduce us to new narratives and contexts.

4. Mobilizing Art History for the Future of Democracy: An informed citizenry in the 21st century needs visual discernment and cultural literacy to thrive.

Throughout music history, music and art have been often intertwined in ways that have created some of the greatest masterpieces in Western Music. How have composers used art as inspiration? And how did such composers transform musical language to replicate artistic styles musically? This course will focus primarily on surrealism as we not only discuss the paintings of surrealist artists such as Salvador Dali but also the musical language of surrealist composers including Erik Satie and George Antheil.

“By far this presentation was one of the best I ever attended at Olli Boca.” – OLLI Patron

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

Take an insider’s look at the greatest Interior Designers, their styles, and their legacies. We will look at such greats as Dorothy Draper, Elsie de Wolfe, Sister Parish, Billy Baldwin, and Mark Hampton. With a PowerPoint of visuals, we will see how they influenced their times and how their times influenced them. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

"The instructor was very good and very knowledgeable. I really enjoyed her class!!"- OLLI Patron

Join us as we visit four more museums of the world!  Most visitors to some of the world’s greatest and largest museums experience only a whirlwind tour of an hour or two. But if time permits, an on-your-own tour can be a marvelous journey, especially if you plan for what you’d most like to see.  This series surveys some of the highlights of each of these incredible museums. Jonson will be joining via Zoom in with commentary and Q&A.

"I attend many programs at FAU. This was by far the finest program I have attended. I hope you will be able to bring another program by Ms Jonson. Fabulous. Thank you."- OLLI Patron

LECTURES:

1. The British Museum, London: The British Museum holds an astonishing eight million works in its collection. This class will concentrate on museum highlights from Ancient Egypt, including the Rosetta Stone, the Ancient Near East, and Ancient Greece, as well as the controversial and beautiful Elgin Marbles and early British history.

2. Berlin's Museum Island: Berlin, Germany, is a city of wonders, but one of its true treasures is Museum Island.  Five museums situated on this island in the Spree River in the heart of Berlin cover more than 6,000 years of history. 

3. The Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam: Following a decade of renovations, the Rijksmuseum reopened with great festivities in April 2013.  Its priceless collections include works by all the Dutch and Flemish masters of the 17th century, called the Dutch Golden Age. 

4. Musée d'Orsay, Paris: From its beginnings as a Beaux-Arts railway station inaugurated in 1900, the Musee d’Orsay has grown into a wonderful museum featuring paintings, sculptures, photography, furniture, decorative and industrial art from the 1850s to 1914.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

Join us as we visit four more museums of the world!  Most visitors to some of the world’s greatest and largest museums experience only a whirlwind tour of an hour or two. But if time permits, an on-your-own tour can be a marvelous journey, especially if you plan for what you’d most like to see.  This series surveys some of the highlights of each of these incredible museums. Jonson will be joining via Zoom in with commentary and Q&A.

"I attend many programs at FAU. This was by far the finest program I have attended. I hope you will be able to bring another program by Ms Jonson. Fabulous. Thank you."- OLLI Patron

LECTURES:

1. The British Museum, London: The British Museum holds an astonishing eight million works in its collection. This class will concentrate on museum highlights from Ancient Egypt, including the Rosetta Stone, the Ancient Near East, and Ancient Greece, as well as the controversial and beautiful Elgin Marbles and early British history.

2. Berlin's Museum Island: Berlin, Germany, is a city of wonders, but one of its true treasures is Museum Island.  Five museums situated on this island in the Spree River in the heart of Berlin cover more than 6,000 years of history. 

3. The Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam: Following a decade of renovations, the Rijksmuseum reopened with great festivities in April 2013.  Its priceless collections include works by all the Dutch and Flemish masters of the 17th century, called the Dutch Golden Age. 

4. Musée d'Orsay, Paris: From its beginnings as a Beaux-Arts railway station inaugurated in 1900, the Musee d’Orsay has grown into a wonderful museum featuring paintings, sculptures, photography, furniture, decorative and industrial art from the 1850s to 1914.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

Florida has always been associated with its amazing beaches and shimmering blue coastlines. However, hidden just beneath the waves lie shark-like reefs that have caused shipwrecks since the discovery of Florida in 1513. By the 19th century, the practice of "wrecking," or shipwreck salvage, became a regular career for many. Remembered as little more than pirates, these "wreckers" made their livelihood saving wrecked passengers and cargoes from stranded or sunken ships. Hear the stories of these rugged individuals who risked sailing into storms to search for treasures claimed by the sea. See artifacts, tools, and items from the golden age of wrecking as Feeney, in historical costume, leads this informative and entertaining lecture. A PowerPoint presentation with a demonstration/explanation of original artifacts will enhance this program. Space is limited.

"Fascinating and easy to follow!" - OLLI Patron

Henry Ford and Thomas Edison, two titans of American ingenuity, were friends and Ft. Myers neighbors. "Camping with Henry and Tom," a delightful and engaging play by Mark St. Germain, centers on an actual 1921 camping trip taken by Edison, Ford, and President Warren G. Harding. Inspired by actual events, Palm Beach Dramaworks' production explores politics and friendship. PBD's Gary Cadwallader leads an interactive classroom discussion about the characters, their relationship, and the play's relevance to today's political climate. Participants receive a copy of the play before class and a comprehensive, informative PBD Dramaguide written specifically for this class. Participants leave with a deeper understanding of the play and its examination of civilization and the intersection between business and government. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

"Instructor was excellent. Did a good job of encouraging participation." - OLLI Patron

Every person wants to be happy, but how? And if I am not completely happy, why me? Centuries before the advent of modern psychology, in ancient China, the Huai Xuan school flourished, with thousands of masters and students who, for generations, researched the workings of the heart, emotions, and the root of happiness. Huai Xuan developed the doctrine of happiness and supplemented it with a practical system to attain it. By cultivating human relationships and learning the "Simple Things," every person can attain this goal. Knowing happiness is appropriate for all ages, and the best time to start learning is now! In this lecture, Dr. Yaron Seidman will introduce the Huai Xuan theory of cultivating the self in order to help others cultivate and will teach two practical exercises: preserving stillness and observing movement. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

Henry Ford and Thomas Edison, two titans of American ingenuity, were friends and Ft. Myers neighbors. "Camping with Henry and Tom," a delightful and engaging play by Mark St. Germain, centers on an actual 1921 camping trip taken by Edison, Ford, and President Warren G. Harding. Inspired by actual events, Palm Beach Dramaworks' production explores politics and friendship. PBD's Gary Cadwallader leads an interactive classroom discussion about the characters, their relationship, and the play's relevance to today's political climate. Participants receive a copy of the play before class and a comprehensive, informative PBD Dramaguide written specifically for this class. Participants leave with a deeper understanding of the play and its examination of civilization and the intersection between business and government. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

"Instructor was excellent. Did a good job of encouraging participation." - OLLI Patron

Though a sound bath may seem like a  “new age” concept, the practice of healing bodies through sound is technically thousands of years old and has deep roots in cultures across the world. A sound bath is a meditative experience where those in attendance are  "bathed" in sound waves. In this beginner-friendly sound bath meditation, you will experience pure relaxation. Sit back, close your eyes, and allow the peaceful sound vibrations of quartz crystal meditation bowls to take you on a calming journey into inner peace and serenity. This restorative and healing practice will leave you feeling well-rested and rejuvenated. A sound bath meditation is like getting a massage for your brain! However, attendees also commonly experience beneficial results in reducing physical aches and pains. Space is limited.

Being sensible can be excessively boring. At least Jack thinks so. While assuming the role of dutiful guardian in the country, he lets loose in town under a false identity. Meanwhile, his friend Algy takes on a similar facade. Unfortunately, living a double life has its drawbacks, especially when it comes to love. Hoping to impress two eligible ladies, the gentlemen find themselves caught in a web of lies they must carefully navigate. Max Webster (Donmar’s Macbeth; Life of Pi) directs a joyful and flamboyant reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy. Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke (Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom; Doctor Who) is joined by Ncuti Gatwa (Doctor Who; Sex Education) and Hugh Skinner (W1A; Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again) in this hilarious story of identity, impersonation and romance. Running time 170 minutes.

Between 1934 and 1947, actors William Powell and Myrna Loy made six movies in which they starred as “Nick & Nora Charles,” a madcap, gin-swilling husband-and-wife team who solved murder mysteries. Originally based on crime writer Dashiell Hammett’s 1934 novel “The Thin Man,” the movie-going public found them so ideally paired that a huge chunk of them actually believed they were married to one another in their off-screen life. As a matter of fact, off-screen, they were just the best of friends. All in all, Myrna and Bill starred in a total of 14 films together. In this seond part of the series, we will watch the last three films in the "Thin Man" series and the last picture they made together. All films will be shown in their entirety, followed by questions and Dr. Stone’s well-known “behind-the-silver-screen tales from Hollywood and Vine.”

LECTURES:

1. “Shadow of the Thin Man” (1941): While at a local race track, hoping for a pleasant afternoon, a jockey is killed. Nick and Nora are enlisted to look for the murderer by their friend, police Lt. Abrams (Sam Levene).

2. “The Thin Man Goes Home” (1945) While on a visit to Nick’s hometown, the local criminals assume he’s there on a case. When a corpse shows up on Nick’s father’s doorstep, Nick and Nora’s vacation turns into yet another case.

3. “The Song of the Thin Man “(1947): Nick and Nora are on a gambling ship when a murder occurs. Two leading suspects come to them for help. The couple turns them over to the police and then looks for the real murderer.

4. “The Senator Was Indiscreet” (1948): The 14th and last Powell/Loy film. A bumbling, long-winded, crooked Southern senator, considered by some as a dark horse for the Presidency, panics his party when his tell-all diary is stolen.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

In the third and final part of his series, Dr. Offenkrantz will discuss Mozart's sublime domestic comedy "Le Nozze di Figaro" ("The Marriage of Figaro") based on the novel by Beaumarchais (which was banned because of its less than flattering portrayal of the aristocracy); Strauss's one-act shocker, "Salome," which caused a riot at its premiere due to its overt sexuality and perceived depravity set against a religious backdrop; and finally..."Il Barbiere di Siviglia" ("The Barber of Seville"), Rossini's delightful take on the same Beaumarchais source material as Mozart, minus the class warfare. Figaro's entrance aria, "Largo al Factotum," is one of the most recognizable pieces in all of opera, thanks to Bugs Bunny. Mozart: "Le Nozze di Figaro" (Broadcast April 26) Strauss: "Salome" (Broadcast May 17) Rossini: "Il Barbiere di Siviglia" (Broadcast May 31)

"I am an opera fan and this class was entertaining and added a lot to my knowledge of the subject. I want to take more classes with this great instructor."- OLLI Patron

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

Are you ready to take charge of your financial future? Join us for an empowering financial lecture, "Investing for Retirement Success." This course addresses the unique investment and cash flow concerns faced during retirement. You'll learn about major investment asset classes and how to use them to develop a personalized portfolio that meets your goals. Discover techniques for diversification, risk management, and asset allocation to ensure your capital works efficiently. Note: This course does not provide personalized financial advice but offers valuable knowledge and strategies for informed decisions. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826), the third President of the United States (1801-1809), had the most fascinating and accomplished life of any President, making great contributions in many areas of human knowledge, along with his public career before his Presidency, as well as his great service in the Presidency, and in his retirement years. We will examine the complexities of his life, and assess his long range contributions to the nation. Questions and comments are welcome at the end of the lecture, and there will be a PowerPoint.

"I have attended at least 10 of Feinman’s lectures in the past. He is excellent. Very well prepared” - OLLI Patron

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. You will have approximately two weeks to view the video.

James Earl (Jimmy) Carter Jr, the 39th President of the United States (1977-1981), was the longest-lived President in American history, reaching the century mark on October 1, 2024. Carter represented the "New South" when he was elected Georgia Governor in 1970. He was a "dark horse" who stunned the Democratic Party and the nation by becoming the party nominee in 1976 and winning the Presidency over President Gerald Ford. Carter's one term in office saw some major domestic and foreign policy accomplishments but also some major crises that undermined his reelection efforts and led to his defeat by Ronald Reagan in 1980. However, his post-presidency, spanning more than four decades, improved his historical image, with a growing respect for the basic decency and principles of the man. 

“I always enjoy Professor Feinman's presentations. He does a significant amount of preparation and delivers the information very well!” – OLLI Patron