James Stewart and Henry Fonda were two of the greatest American actors, and unlikely best friends for nearly 50 years. Though divided by politics, religion, and temperament, they shared a deep bond, a love for the same woman, and a remarkable range of talent across stage and screen. This eight-week series follows their parallel paths from small-town beginnings to Hollywood stardom, exploring their iconic performances in comedy, drama, thrillers, and westerns. With behind-the-scenes stories, film clips, and historical context, we’ll celebrate their lasting legacy in American cinema.

LECTURES:

1. The Farmer Takes a Wife (1935): Fonda’s film debut with Janet Gaynor (91 min.)

2. Next Time We Love (1936): Stewart’s first lead role opposite Margaret Sullivan (87 min.)

3.Young Mr. Lincoln (1939): The breakthrough that made Fonda a star (100 min.)

4. Destry Rides Again (1939): Stewart’s first major western with Marlene Dietrich (94 min.)

5. My Darling Clementine (1946): Fonda’s acclaimed return to film after WWII (97 min.)

6.The Mortal Storm (1940): Stewart’s final film before military service (100 min.)

7. On Our Merry Way (1948): Stewart and Fonda’s first co-starring comedy (107 min.)

8. Firecreek (1968): A dramatic showdown between Stewart’s sheriff and Fonda’s outlaw (140 min.)

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Join us for this exciting series exploring the history of American musical theater! From its roots in vaudeville and Tin Pan Alley to the groundbreaking works of Gershwin, Bernstein, and Sondheim, and on to modern legends like Alan Menken and Lin-Manuel Miranda, we’ll trace the evolution of this uniquely American art form. Lectures will spotlight the historical and social backdrop of beloved productions, while diving into the lives, influences, and signature styles of the composers who shaped the genre. A fun, interactive musical experience filled with stories, sounds, and surprises—perfect for music lovers of all kinds!

LECTURES:

1. The Genesis of Broadway: From Vaudeville to Scott Joplin to "Tin Pan Alley," how a generation of impoverished musicians gave birth to a new American Art form.  Music of Joplin, early Gershwin and others.  

2. George Gershwin, Father of Musicals: A retrospective on his life and music, focusing on his legacy as the architect of the "Broadway musical" concept and his unique compositional style.  Music of George and Ira Gershwin 

3. Bernstein and Sondheim, the second generation: How "postwar" musicals reflected the changing American socio-political landscape, with special focus on the relationship between Bernstein and Sondheim and how they pioneered the modern musical theater format. Music of Bernstein and Sondheim.  

4. Hollywood and the Rise of the "Movie Musical": A closer look at some of the most beloved movie musicals, including "Top Hat," "White Christmas" and "Guys and Dolls."  The complex relationship between movie studios, composers, and talent will be explored.  Music of Irving Berlin, Frank Loesser, others.

5. Changing Music for Changing Times: A look at Broadway's "Transition Years", moving away from Sondheim towards simpler "pop" stylistic influences, and how this changed the scope of American Music.  Music of Andrew Lloyd Weber and "Rent", others.  

6. Disney and the Cartoon Movie Musical.  How Disney used the format of Broadway Musicals to completely revitalize its brand in the early 1990's, creating one of the most beloved animation traditions in modern history.  Music of Alan Menken.  

Born in Kentucky, concert pianist Aaron Orin earned a piano scholarship to the University of Kentucky at age 14 and graduated at 19. He has performed at the White House and other prestigious venues, recently completed a Master’s in Piano Performance at FAU, and is pursuing a second Master’s in History while working as a musical director for numerous South Florida shows.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

James Stewart and Henry Fonda were two of the greatest American actors, and unlikely best friends for nearly 50 years. Though divided by politics, religion, and temperament, they shared a deep bond, a love for the same woman, and a remarkable range of talent across stage and screen. This eight-week series follows their parallel paths from small-town beginnings to Hollywood stardom, exploring their iconic performances in comedy, drama, thrillers, and westerns. With behind-the-scenes stories, film clips, and historical context, we’ll celebrate their lasting legacy in American cinema.

LECTURES:

1. The Farmer Takes a Wife (1935): Fonda’s film debut with Janet Gaynor (91 min.)

2. Next Time We Love (1936): Stewart’s first lead role opposite Margaret Sullivan (87 min.)

3.Young Mr. Lincoln (1939): The breakthrough that made Fonda a star (100 min.)

4. Destry Rides Again (1939): Stewart’s first major western with Marlene Dietrich (94 min.)

5. My Darling Clementine (1946): Fonda’s acclaimed return to film after WWII (97 min.)

6.The Mortal Storm (1940): Stewart’s final film before military service (100 min.)

7. On Our Merry Way (1948): Stewart and Fonda’s first co-starring comedy (107 min.)

8. Firecreek (1968): A dramatic showdown between Stewart’s sheriff and Fonda’s outlaw (140 min.)

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

This series continues the exploration of the Diaspora, focusing on the history and culture of Jews in four European communities. All are part of the saga of European Jewish prosperity, achievement, persecution, exile, destruction and return. Many American Jews have Russian roots as it once had the world’s largest Jewish population including imperialistic holdings in the Ukraine, Lithuania, Latvia, Belarus and parts of Poland. Germany was the home of Ashkenazi Judaism and today has a surprisingly growing Jewish community including Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt. The Jewish presence in Italy dates to pre-Christian Rome and has continued, despite periods of extreme Papal persecution and expulsions and Mussolini. From the 16th Century diaspora and the Iberian expulsion until the Holocaust, the Netherlands was mostly a bastion of tolerance and a center of Jewish life during a long period, a time when Amsterdam was known as “Dutch Jerusalem.”

 

LECTURES:
1. Russia: Beyond the Pale- Medieval, Imperial, Soviet & Post-USSR
2. Germany: Prosperity, Integration, Destruction and Rebirth
3. Italy: Surviving Emperors, Popes, and Mussolini 
4. The Netherlands: Conversos, Commerce, Occupation and Remembrance

Building on the previous Introduction to Jewish Philosophy course, this continuation dives into some of the most important and often debated issues shaping contemporary Jewish life. Explore the contrasts between Orthodox and liberal Judaism, the rise and impact of Jewish feminism, diverse Jewish responses to the Holocaust, and the evolving meanings of Zionism today. Through thoughtful discussion and insightful analysis, this course offers a deeper understanding of how these complex topics continue to influence Jewish identity, community, and belief in the modern world. Ideal for anyone eager to engage with the vital questions and challenges facing Judaism today. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. Contemporary Jewish movements

2. Jewish feminism

3. Reactions to the Holocaust

4. Zionism

Hollywood films have been America's most important contribution to the world's culture, and this was never truer than during the 1930s.  This was arguably the most important decade of the twentieth century, and it marked the golden age of American movie-making with films responding to the challenges of the Great Depression and the outbreak of World War II. Movies were the most popular form of entertainment at this time, and they are a primary source for understanding the hopes, fears, and ideals of the movie-going public.  They also were influential in shaping public discourse and governmental policies.

 

LECTURES:

1.  King Kong explores the impact of the economic collapse of 1929 and suggests how Americans should respond politically to the greatest economic disaster in their country's history (104 min.)  

2.  The Grapes of Wrath highlights the social and economic devastation of the Great Depression and is a superb cinematic version of the most important American novel of the1930s (130 min.)

3. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington is Jimmy Stewart's most important film, and it exhibits a skepticism toward Washington politics while championing the voice of the common man (129 min.)  

4. Sergeant York features Gary Cooper and concerns the stance that the United States should take toward the war in Europe (133 min.)                

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

              

Bridge has the suspense of poker, the cerebral challenge of chess, and the excitement of competitive sports, all in a fun, social setting! Join us and learn to play what many call the greatest game in the world. Bridge is more than a card game; it sharpens memory, enhances strategic thinking, and brings people together. No prior experience is needed, this course is perfect for absolute beginners. You'll be playing at your very first lesson with guidance every step of the way. Each session builds your skills and confidence while keeping the game enjoyable and accessible. Whether you're looking for a new hobby or a brain-boosting challenge, bridge offers endless rewards. Come play, learn, and make new friends! Space is limited.

Linda J. Green represented South Africa in the World Bridge Olympics from 1980 to 1993 before dedicating herself full-time to teaching bridge at all levels for over 45 years. Now based in Florida since 1998, she is an ABTA Master Teacher, certified online instructor, ACBL-accredited teacher and club director, actively involved in the American Bridge Teachers Association and the ACBL Community Games.

The world moves fast, and so does the news. Stay ahead with this dynamic discussion group! We’ll dive into the latest headlines, analyze their impact, and explore how different media outlets shape public perception. From breaking news to global issues, no topic is off-limits. Challenge perspectives and engage in thought-provoking conversations. This is your space to think critically and share your voice. Join us for lively discussions that strive to make sense of today’s fast-paced world.Understanding the news means shaping the future!  This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

"The group always interacted, Marlene was an excellent moderator." OLLI Patron

---

To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States, this program explores the global political significance of the American Revolution.  1776 was a turning point in history, not merely for the United States but for the world, and its impact was pervasive.  The revolution's supporters hoped the defeat of Great Britain, the dominant power at this time, would inspire others to challenge political establishments in Europe and elsewhere.  Critics, by contrast, feared the revolution would unleash chaos and undermine the social order.  By questioning long-held assumptions regarding sovereignty, rights, representation, and the meaning of a constitution, the founding fathers ushered in an era of profound political change both in thought and practice.   

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture. 

Join us for a special one-time discussion on the art of David Hockney, one of today’s most celebrated contemporary artists. At 87, Hockney continues to push creative boundaries with studios in both London and Los Angeles. His extraordinary career spans over six decades, reflecting and shaping major art movements of our time. This engaging presentation features a rich PowerPoint slideshow and a captivating short video, offering insight into Hockney’s evolving style and lasting impact. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or new to his work, this program offers a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant world of a living legend.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Step into the world of Charles Dickens, brilliant novelist, sharp social critic, and one of the most influential voices in English literature. This lecture offers an in-depth look at his extraordinary body of work, from Oliver Twist to Great Expectations, with a special focus on David Copperfield, affectionately called his “favorite child.” We’ll explore his unforgettable characters, dramatic flair, and powerful critiques of Victorian society, while also examining how Dickens’s own struggles shaped the emotional depth and social urgency of his fiction. Whether you're new to Dickens or revisiting an old favorite, this session will reveal why his work continues to resonate across generations.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

During the 1840s, America witnessed the promotion of "Manifest Destiny", expansion of the United States, with the addition of Texas, the Desert Southwest, California, and the Pacific Northwest, through war with Mexico, and a treaty with Great Britain. The two American Presidents of this decade, John Tyler and James K. Polk, promoted this expansionism, and it remains their major influence on American history, while also creating the expansion of slavery controversy, which helped to lead to the American Civil War a decade later. We shall examine the lives and Presidencies of both Chief Executives, and their impact on the American future.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Step into the world of Charles Dickens, brilliant novelist, sharp social critic, and one of the most influential voices in English literature. This lecture offers an in-depth look at his extraordinary body of work, from Oliver Twist to Great Expectations, with a special focus on David Copperfield, affectionately called his “favorite child.” We’ll explore his unforgettable characters, dramatic flair, and powerful critiques of Victorian society, while also examining how Dickens’s own struggles shaped the emotional depth and social urgency of his fiction. Whether you're new to Dickens or revisiting an old favorite, this session will reveal why his work continues to resonate across generations.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

The existence of God is perhaps the most important question many of us ask during our lifetimes. We will explore this question through the eyes of religion, philosophy, and science. Using religious studies, we will explore how the classical theism of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam developed. Using philosophy, we will look at attempts by major philosophers to prove the existence of God and the traditional challenges to those proofs. Finally, we will ask whether God's existence fits into modern science. In the end, the speaker, a rabbi, philosopher, and lover of science, will present his own answer.  Space is limited to foster discussion.

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

Stay Strong, Stay Steady with Vivo!

Muscle strength and balance are key to maintaining health and independence as we age. Without regular strength training, older adults may lose muscle tone, which can affect balance and mobility. Vivo makes staying strong, simple and fun with live, online, interactive classes designed specifically for older adults. This is open to OLLI Members only.

Each small group session is led by a certified personal trainer who customizes exercises to your fitness level, focusing on strength, balance, and cognitive health. Classes meet twice a week for 45 minutes—no extra equipment required, just a sturdy chair!

Whether you’re new to exercise or already active, Vivo will help you feel stronger, steadier, and more confident in your everyday life. OLLI at Florida Atlantic is proud to partner with Vivo to offer this energizing program. 

Please note: Vivo classes meet 2x a week for 6 weeks. When you complete your Vivo registration form, you will be able to select from a wide range of options that fit your schedule. Registration for this course will close on June 12, 2026. Upon registration, you will receive an email with steps to schedule your classes and complete your Vivo registration.

 Click Here for More Information about VIVO

"The thing I like best about Vivo is the expert knowledge of the teachers and the way they motivate students in doing the exercises."- Annie Minor

 

 

 

 

 

Stay Strong, Stay Steady with Vivo!

Muscle strength and balance are key to maintaining health and independence as we age. Without regular strength training, older adults may lose muscle tone, which can affect balance and mobility. Vivo makes staying strong, simple and fun with live, online, interactive classes designed specifically for older adults. This is open to OLLI Members only.

Each small group session is led by a certified personal trainer who customizes exercises to your fitness level, focusing on strength, balance, and cognitive health. Classes meet twice a week for 45 minutes—no extra equipment required, just a sturdy chair!

Whether you’re new to exercise or already active, Vivo will help you feel stronger, steadier, and more confident in your everyday life. OLLI at Florida Atlantic is proud to partner with Vivo to offer this energizing program. 

Please note: Vivo classes meet 2x a week for 6 weeks. When you complete your Vivo registration form, you will be able to select from a wide range of options that fit your schedule. Registration for this course will close on June 12, 2026. Upon registration, you will receive an email with steps to schedule your classes and complete your Vivo registration.

 Click Here for More Information about VIVO

"The thing I like best about Vivo is the expert knowledge of the teachers and the way they motivate students in doing the exercises."- Annie Minor

 

 

 

 

 

The brilliant Mark Twain once wrote that if he’d had more time, he would have written a shorter letter. That’s a wonderful insight into how to write a great short story, too. Stories take a certain sort of genius to write, and a certain kind of luck to find. And you’re in luck! Here are some of the most thought-provoking, moving and entertaining short, and they are short, stories of the past 100 years. They may not take long to read, but they are sure to generate memorable discussion, important learning and terrific camaraderie. All stories will be emailed to you as pdfs and/or available on hard copy. Space is limited to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. Liquor Makes You Smarter by Anita Loos, 1927

2. Greatest Man in the World by James Thurber, 1931

3. A Red-Letter Day by Elizabeth Taylor, 1948

4. The Swimmer by John Cheever, 1964

This series explores how secrets, greed, and historical upheaval resonate across generations. Whether it is a stolen inheritance in rural Provence a grand deception in post-WWI Paris, or a history as farce, these films examine how characters must reckon with the choices made, and the lies told, in their youth. Titles are subject to change.

 

LECTURES:

 

1. Jean De Florette, 1986: Tragic irony and the crushing weight of human greed against the beauty of the French landscape tell the story of an idealistic city tax collector who moves to the Provence countryside to build a revolutionary rabbit farm, unaware that his neighbors have plugged the local spring to sabotage his success. 122 min.

 

2. Manon of the Spring,1986: Ten years later, Jean’s daughter, now a wild shepherdess, discovers the source of the water and the truth of the conspiracy, leading her to exact a silent, crushing revenge on the entire village. 113 min.

 

3. See You Up There, 2017: A visually stunning, surrealist look at the trauma of WWI and the resilience of the human spirit through art and friendship. Two veterans, one a disfigured artist, launch a spectacular, fraudulent scheme involving war memorials to expose the society that abandoned them. 117 min.

 

4. Return of the Hero, 2018: In a comedy of imposters, a cowardly officer returns from the Napoleonic Wars to find that the sister of a young woman he was to marry has killed him off in forged letters in his name, turning him into a celebrated—but fake—war hero. 90 min.

 

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Great detective fiction, particularly the murder mystery, has been beloved by readers since its inception in the 1840’s. From the very first mysteries by Edgar Allan Poe, to the most current crop of Scandinavian thrillers, murder mysteries featuring brilliant yet quirky detectives, offer engrossing plots and unforgettable characters. Join Dr. Margery Marcus as she discusses the icons of detective fiction from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle to today’s 21st century greats. Her lecture includes a colorful PowerPoint presentation with video!

Live In-Person Zoom 

My German hometown, Mainz, is celebrated as the birthplace of Gutenberg, the inventor of movable letters and the modern printing press. In 2000 many voted him to be the man of the 2nd millennium, responsible for Enlightenment, Democracy, and Education, he catapulted Europe into the Modern age. Several NY museums hold his famous Bibles, and he is celebrated in a WPA mural, and a stained-glass window, but there are several other connections between his story, Mainz and NY. During this talk we will discuss his invention and career in detail, including the political and financial circumstances and other interesting projects he was involved in, we will explore Mainz, past and present (including Rhein River, wine, markets, and festivals) and we will also look at his many connections with NYC.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Live In-Person Zoom 

My German hometown, Mainz, is celebrated as the birthplace of Gutenberg, the inventor of movable letters and the modern printing press. In 2000 many voted him to be the man of the 2nd millennium, responsible for Enlightenment, Democracy, and Education, he catapulted Europe into the Modern age. Several NY museums hold his famous Bibles, and he is celebrated in a WPA mural, and a stained-glass window, but there are several other connections between his story, Mainz and NY. During this talk we will discuss his invention and career in detail, including the political and financial circumstances and other interesting projects he was involved in, we will explore Mainz, past and present (including Rhein River, wine, markets, and festivals) and we will also look at his many connections with NYC.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

During the 1840s, America witnessed the promotion of "Manifest Destiny", expansion of the United States, with the addition of Texas, the Desert Southwest, California, and the Pacific Northwest, through war with Mexico, and a treaty with Great Britain. The two American Presidents of this decade, John Tyler and James K. Polk, promoted this expansionism, and it remains their major influence on American history, while also creating the expansion of slavery controversy, which helped to lead to the American Civil War a decade later. We shall examine the lives and Presidencies of both Chief Executives, and their impact on the American future.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

This practical seminar is designed to help you plan for the future with confidence and clarity. Attorney Jennifer Gomez will explain how to minimize the costs and delays of probate court, reduce the risk of family conflict, and make the process of transferring wealth easier on your loved ones. You’ll gain a clear understanding of essentials such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and the roles of personal representatives, guardians, and trustees. The session concludes with a question-and-answer segment focused on Florida law.  Space is limited to foster discussion.

In recent years, appointments to the Supreme Court have faced criticism for perceived politicization. The ideal of justices remaining impartial and above political influences contrasts with historical realities. Join Roy Klein as he explores the intricate history of America's Supreme Court appointments, spanning from impeachments to confirmation battles since 1789. Delve into the complexities of these appointments, shedding light on the interplay between politics and the judiciary throughout history. Gain insight into the evolution of Supreme Court appointments and the enduring challenges of maintaining judicial independence in a politically charged environment. Discover whether the notion of the Court being "above the political fray" holds true, as Klein navigates through the surprises and complexities of America's highest judicial appointments. "Superlative teacher who knows his subject and presents it with humor." OLLI Patron.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

In the early eighteenth century, porcelain was Europe’s most coveted material, fragile, luminous, and worth more than gold. German Historian Anette Isaacs tells the dramatic true story of how an imprisoned alchemist, an ambitious ruler, and several artistic innovators at Meissen unlocked the secret of true porcelain and transformed it into a symbol of power and prestige. Through dazzling objects and surprising stories, we will see how Meissen porcelain reshaped European taste, luxury, and the pursuit of perfection.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

Great detective fiction, particularly the murder mystery, has been beloved by readers since its inception in the 1840’s. From the very first mysteries by Edgar Allan Poe, to the most current crop of Scandinavian thrillers, murder mysteries featuring brilliant yet quirky detectives, offer engrossing plots and unforgettable characters. Join Dr. Margery Marcus as she discusses the icons of detective fiction from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle to today’s 21st century greats. Her lecture includes a colorful PowerPoint presentation with video!

Unleash your creativity in our vibrant Paper Collage Mosaic workshop! This hands-on session is designed for pure enjoyment, whether you’re a seasoned artist or picking up scissors for the first time. You’ll learn to transform simple materials into intricate masterpieces by masterfully trimming, ripping, and layering paper to create landscapes, still lifes, or portraits. Feel free to bring your own beverages or snacks to add to the fun! Come ready to play with color, chat with others, and leave with a stunning, unique piece of art. This workshop is being held at the Schmidt Art Gallery, bldg. 51 (PA). Free parking will  available in Parking Garage 2, and a golf cart will be available to bring you to the gallery. Space is limited!

Welcome to our Mah-Jongg class! Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, this is the perfect place to dive into the exciting world of Mah-Jongg. In this fun, relaxed setting, you'll learn the basic rules, including identifying tiles, rules of the game, how to read the card, along with tile combinations to advanced strategies that will elevate your play. With over 25 years of experience, Diane Engel will guide you step-by-step, making sure you feel confident and comfortable at every stage. With plenty of hands-on practice and opportunities to ask questions, you'll be playing like a pro in no time. Join us for a fun and engaging experience—come for the game, stay for the community! Space is limited.

In the early eighteenth century, porcelain was Europe’s most coveted material, fragile, luminous, and worth more than gold. German Historian Anette Isaacs tells the dramatic true story of how an imprisoned alchemist, an ambitious ruler, and several artistic innovators at Meissen unlocked the secret of true porcelain and transformed it into a symbol of power and prestige. Through dazzling objects and surprising stories, we will see how Meissen porcelain reshaped European taste, luxury, and the pursuit of perfection.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.

This is part of our "In Case You Missed it" series. The videos will be shown on the scheduled day, and are also available for purchase for remote viewing all summer long!

When most hear Oskar Schindler’s name, they recall Spielberg’s Schindler’s List. But the real Schindler was far more complex: a German spy, businessman, and Nazi Party member who profited from forced Jewish labor in Krakow. Yet, as Nazi atrocities escalated, he transformed his factory into a refuge, using bribery and determination to save nearly 1,200 Jewish workers from death. Schindler’s extraordinary courage earned him the rare honor of burial at Mount Zion in Jerusalem. Join historian Ralph Nurnberger, Ph.D., as he delves into Schindler’s complicated life, exploring his flaws and failures alongside his remarkable heroism, revealing how one man in extraordinary times made a profound difference.

This is part of our "In Case You Missed it" series. The videos will be shown on the scheduled day, and are also available for purchase for remote viewing all summer long!

When most hear Oskar Schindler’s name, they recall Spielberg’s Schindler’s List. But the real Schindler was far more complex: a German spy, businessman, and Nazi Party member who profited from forced Jewish labor in Krakow. Yet, as Nazi atrocities escalated, he transformed his factory into a refuge, using bribery and determination to save nearly 1,200 Jewish workers from death. Schindler’s extraordinary courage earned him the rare honor of burial at Mount Zion in Jerusalem. Join historian Ralph Nurnberger, Ph.D., as he delves into Schindler’s complicated life, exploring his flaws and failures alongside his remarkable heroism, revealing how one man in extraordinary times made a profound difference.

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.

Get ready to dive into the delicious world of Italy’s regional wines and foods! This course takes you on a mouthwatering journey through Italy's rich history, vibrant culture, and the story behind its iconic wines and cheeses. Learn the art of savoring every bite and sip, from the perfect swirl to that first glorious taste. We’ll explore the unique traditions of each region, including local history, patron saints, and cultural gems. The goal? To make your Italian food and wine experience unforgettable and, most importantly, fun! Expect plenty of tastings, lively lectures, and interactive PowerPoint sessions—this isn’t your typical classroom experience! The deadline for enrollment is Wednesday, Augustst 12th. Space is limited.

"Because I Could Not Stop for Death - He Kindly Stopped for Me." This is the beginning of Emily Dickinson's most famous poem. Although written in the late nineteenth century, it could have been written today. Although we all must eventually encounter death, too many of us avoid thinking about this final journey. This class will look at both practical and spiritual preparations. Why must we die? What should we do to prepare for death so we are not a burden on our families? And what happens to our soul or consciousness after we die? The questions may be uncomfortable, but they are questions we all must face. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.