Since 1918, the Foreign Policy Association has served as a catalyst for an open, objective, and non-partisan public discourse on world affairs and American foreign policy. Great Decisions is an annual series that examines eight critical foreign policy issues. The topics for this course are selected by the Foreign Policy Association. Each lecture in this series includes background information, current American policy, and foreign policy options for the United States. An additional ninth lecture on March 12th, entitled "It's A Wrap," updates attendees on developments on each of the topics discussed since the beginning of the course. For more information about Great Decisions, please visit: https://www.fpa.org

"He's a Rockstar. I would probably attend any program he presents."- OLLI Patron

LECTURES:

1. American Foreign Policy at a Crossroads

2. U.S. Changing Leadership of the World Economy

3. U.S.-China Relations

4. India: Between China, the U.S. & the Global South

5. International Cooperation on Climate Change

6. The Future of European Security

7. Artificial Intelligence and U.S. National Security

8. After Gaza: American Foreign Policy in the Middle East

9. It's a Wrap!

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.

TV shows and films often glamourize the legal profession, but real law offers even more stimulation. This series delves into current, highly publicized legal and Constitutional issues in federal and state courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. Topics include post-January 6th judicial decisions, legal challenges involving former President Trump and associates, and conflicts among federal judges. The increasingly polarized views of Supreme Court justices on critical issues like abortion and gun rights are also explored, as well as its most recent split decision assuring Presidential immunity in circumstances never before contemplated under the Constitution or all existing precedents to the contrary.  Expect a dynamic semester, not for the faint-hearted.  Returning participants are welcome

"Professor Labovitz is engaging, extremely erudite, knowledgeable and possesses great presentation skills." 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.

Let Us Sing! Invites one and all! If you love to sing, this is the class for you! Reading music is not required. Enjoy singing in an ensemble while learning vocal and choral techniques through each score and bringing the music to life one note at a time! Each session will include vocal warm-ups, choral singing, and vocal techniques through repertoire. This 9 week series culminates with a performance for your OLLI friends and family!

Though many artists have their biggest successes in their early careers, the greatest artists continue creating and presenting better work as the years go by. From Fred Astaire, whose movies still appear regularly in best-of listings and television, to Bob Dylan and Wille Nelson, who continue to win accolades well into their 80s, to the blues of Ma Rainey and the jive of Louis Jordan, to Oscar Hammerstein II and Stephen Sondheim's award-winning revivals, to Reba McIntire and Bonnie Raitt's stellar performances decades after their initial hits, the music of great artists remains timeless. This course will examine these musical artists' work, lives, and legacies and attempt to sort myth from reality with videos, live performances, and research materials.

"Rod is fantastic! His love of music is exhilarating! The classes are wonderful"- OLLIPaton

LECTURES:

1. The Lady Stands Alone: Ma Rainey, Reba McIntire

2. Keepin’ It Cool: Fred Astaire, Louie Jordan

3. Lyrics On Broadway: Oscar Hammerstein II, Merrily We Roll Along

4. Other Voices: Antonio Carlos Jobim, Jacques Brel

5. The Great American Sound: The Eagles, Bonnie Raitt

6. The New Classical Music: John Williams, Pinchas & Natalia Zukerman

7. Dance With Somebody: Donna Summer, Whitney Houston

8. Into the Sun: Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson

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.

 

 

This course delves into the history and evolution of social media, exploring its economic, political, cultural, and psychological impacts through recent research and theorizing. Participants will gain enhanced media literacy and a deeper understanding of the shift from analog to digital media and its implications for individuals, businesses, and society. They will learn to differentiate between interpersonal, mass, and social media and theorize its effects on politics, education, family, and economics. Upon completion, attendees will be equipped to navigate the dynamic landscape of social media with insight and discernment. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

"There should be more classes like this and a sequel." - OLLI Patron

LECTURES:

1. Introduction to social media and the history of social media.

2. How mass media and social media have been theorized and researched by sociologists.

3. The technological and economic aspects of social media.

4. Social-psychological aspects of social media.

5. Cultural and political issues surrounding social media.

6. Considering the future of news, art, entertainment, and social media.

In the ancient homeland, the Jewish people worked in the land. The Exile transformed them into an urban people. In the modern period, European cities became great centers of Jewish life and creativity. In the aftermath of the Second World War, Israel and the United States became the centers of Jewish gravity.

"Berk is a dynamic brilliant man. His presentations are outstanding." OLLI Patron

LECTURES:

1. The Polish Center: Warsaw, Krakow and Vilna

2. Central Europe: Prague, Budapest, and Berlin

3. Russia and Ukraine: St. Petersburg, Moscow and Odessa

4. Two New Pillars: New York and Tel Aviv

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.

Four unique stories of contemporary women overcoming the obstacles that work, society, and family throw at them.

"Shelly, thank you for presenting such thought-provoking, meaningful and touching films. They really resonate with a Capital R."- OLLI Patron

LECTURES:

1. "Full Time" - France, 2021: Julie, divorced, lives outside Paris with her two children. Receiving no maintenance from her ex, she commutes to the city, working as a chambermaid in a luxury hotel. On the day she gets an interview for a better-paying job, she runs into a national transit strike and must get across a city dead in its tracks. Running time 1h 27m.

2. "Marguerite's Theorem" - France, 2023: Marguerite is a brilliant mathematics student at France's top university, the Ecole Normale Supérieure. On the day of her thesis presentation, a mistake shakes up all the certainty in her planned-out life; she decides to quit everything and start over. Running time 113 min.

3. "Writing with Fire" - India, 2021: Armed with smartphones and tenacity, a fearless group of journalists from India's only women-led news outlet confronts social injustice while fighting for marginalized voices in the world's largest democracy. Running time 93 min.

4. "Toni" - France, 2023: Toni is raising her five children alone. A full-time job. She also sings at bars and had a hit single 20 years ago. Today, as her two eldest prepare to go to college, Toni wonders: what will she do when all of her offspring have left home? Running time 96 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.

Who doesn’t take pictures using a smartphone? Let’s make our pictures as good as possible! We will discuss smartphone photography, image editing, color adjustment, sizing, use, and distribution. Lecture with PowerPoint with image examples, hands-on demonstration. Participants must have a smartphone with a camera. The course will lead participants through capture and image editing choices, with the pros & cons of each in discussion. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. Intro to smartphone possibilities, proper orientation, steady hands, attention to light, and after-image adjustments using your smartphone software. Homework for those interested, three images to share that have been adjusted as demonstrated. Most importantly, experiment and have fun!

2. Flower Photography! What’s more beautiful than flowers? And who doesn’t like flowers? Discuss natural lighting, what to look for, and how to use sunlight to your advantage. Homework:   Three flower pictures. Expect to explain what you did to get the picture.

3.  People in the landscape: Discussion on design and natural lighting with people, interiors or exteriors. Everyone takes pictures of family and friends... let’s make them better! Homework: Three images of people, your choice of location.

4.  Final Show & Tell: Bring a few images you have created during the course to show the techniques learned. Final opportunity for a Q & A.

Are criminals crazy? Do mentally ill people have the right to vote or make a will? How do courts use mental health testimony? This program explores and clarifies the intersection of psychology and law, offering insights from a practicing clinical and forensic psychologist who serves as an expert witness. Through real-world examples, it demystifies complex issues related to mental health and the legal system, providing a comprehensive understanding of how psychological evaluations impact legal decisions. The program sheds light on the crucial role of mental health in determining legal outcomes.PowerPoint exhibits and audience Q&A will enhance this series. This program is being presented as a seminar with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

LECTURES:

1. History of law and psychology: The civil and criminal justice systems. Trial procedure. Roles of criminal justice personnel and the forensic psychology expert witness.

2. Jury psychology. Eyewitness identification. Competency to stand trial. Insanity defense. Lawsuits and compensation cases. Police psychology.

3. Homicide, mass murder, and serial killers. Criminal profiling. Sex crimes. Family violence and child abuse.

4. Stalking and hate crimes. Juvenile crime and gang violence. Crime and punishment. Care and treatment of crime victims. Psychological intervention with criminal offenders.

This series continues the exploration of the Diaspora, focusing on the history and culture of Jews in four European countries or regions. 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 Ukraine, Lithuania, Latvia, and Belarus. Germany was the home of Ashkenazi Judaism and today has a surprisingly growing Jewish community. The Jewish presence in Italy dates to pre-Christian Rome and has continued, despite periods of extreme Papal persecution and expulsions and with the help of Mussolini! From the 16th C diaspora fleeing Iberian expulsion until the Holocaust, the Netherlands was mostly a bastion of tolerance and a center of Jewish life when Amsterdam was known as “Dutch Jerusalem.”

"Excellent presentations, well researched, interesting and clear documentation, loved the graphics"- OLLI Patron

LECTURES:

1. Russia: Beyond the Pale- Medieval, Imperial and Soviet Empires

2. Germany: Prosperity, Integration, Destruction and Rebirth

3. Italy: Surviving Emperors, Popes, and Mussolini

4. The Netherlands: Conversos, Commerce, Occupation and Remembrance

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

On this day in 1912, the unsinkable sunk. This lecture delves into the pivotal role of radio communication in the Titanic disaster. We will explore the challenges encountered by wireless operators Jack Phillips and Harold Bride as they transmitted distress signals and orchestrated rescue efforts, and uncover the lasting effects on maritime regulations and contemporary safety protocols. Feeney will transport you to a bygone era, offering a unique perspective on the human and technological facets that shaped this historic tragedy. A PowerPoint presentation showcasing historical artifacts to enhance your understanding will be included. Space is limited.

"Man knows his history and makes it fun!" - OLLI Patron

The growth of Islam, Islamism, and right-wing parties in Europe has created new political dynamics, resulting in socio-political uncertainty and fluidity across and beyond European borders. This situation has perplexed European, Muslim, and Jewish societies in the E.U. and Israel. The Muslim community frowns upon right-wing parties' attitudes towards Muslim immigration and Islam, while right-wing parties conflate Islam with Islamism and criticize multiculturalism. Jerusalem views the rise of right-wing parties as a counterbalance to Europe’s left-wing anti-Israel bias, but Jewish society fears their association with anti-Jewish extremists. Washington and Brussels are concerned about a pro-Russian shift, and Islamist and right-wing extremist parties intensified antisemitism. Europe has never seen such a mismatch of parties, politics, and extremist movements threatening its unity. In this lecture, Dr. Rabil will examine these seismic socio-political shifts and their implications for E.U. domestic and foreign policies, Israel, and antisemitism.

"Dr. Rabil is a wonderful teacher. His knowledge is astounding and we have been attending his lectures for years."- 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 Dr. Emily Fenichel from Florida Atlantic University and Michiko Kurisu from Kurisu LLC for a wide-ranging conversation about Morikami Gardens in Delray Beach. Kurisu was a part of the team that designed and installed the fabulous Japanese Gardens at Morikami, and Fenichel is an Art History professor. Together, they will discuss the history of Morikami, the challenges in making a Japanese Garden in South Florida, the ethos behind the design, the garden’s place in the broader community, and how such gardens can be healing spaces.

"This presentation was just as excellent as is all of her lectures. I attend all of her local presentations whenever I can. Thank you."- 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.

In March, as we recognize the achievements of remarkable women, OLLI is proud to welcome Jonna Mendez, former CIA Chief of Disguise and author of “In True Face: A Woman's Life in the CIA, Unmasked,” her recent best-selling memoir. In 1970, she joined the CIA’s Office of Technical Service, akin to 'Q' in the Bond films. Specializing in espionage technology, she trained foreign assets to gather high-priority intelligence using subminiature spy cameras and more. Mendez shares stories of technological innovation and secret missions that shaped her remarkable career. Celebrate Women's History Month by joining us for this special event! A book sale and signing will immediately follow the program.

Ancient Greek literature is a treasure trove of allegories, epic poems, and myths that have captivated readers worldwide. This lecture will examine Greek mythology, its origins, purpose, and influence on Greek culture, as well as ancient literature. We will explore some of the most fascinating myths and legends from antiquity, with a focus on women as strong or tragic characters. We will examine the stories of Perseus and Medusa, Medea, and Theseus and Ariadne, among others. In addition to familiarization through instruction and visuals, we will discuss these stories' importance to modern literature and their influence on popular culture. Space is limited.

Dr. Nikolopoulos is one of the most gifted presenters at OLLI! - OLLI Patron

After weeks of preparation, OLLI at FAU's Glee Club, Let Us Sing!, is excited to present its final performance! Join us to see your fellow patrons as they perform an exciting and eclectic program ranging from Broadway show tunes to 50's hits and even some choral classics! Some you may know, and some you may be hearing for the first time. This joy-filled concert is for anyone who delights in the sound of choral music! Free admission for all music lovers!

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.

"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)

From the surface, the ocean looks the same to us humans year round, but beneath the waves, the changing seasons bring forth epic underwater migrations and behaviors all under our noses. Utilizing international award-winning images taken during thousands of hours underwater, Jensen will use anecdotes of adventure paired with population data to tell the story of South Florida's underwater seasons and why it matters above the waves. Space is limited.

"He clearly is very enthusiastic about his work, which definitely helps make him an excellent instructor!"- OLLI Patron

Explore the extraordinary musical journey of Fanny and Felix Mendelssohn, 19th-century German siblings and prolific composers, as we join German historian Anette Isaacs in unraveling their family's rich legacy. Fanny's talents as a pianist and composer faced societal constraints, while Felix's innovative compositions earned him widespread acclaim. Descendants of philosopher Moses Mendelssohn, their family played a pivotal role in both cultural and Jewish heritage, leaving an indelible mark on classical music and intellectual pursuits.

"Her presentation was very entertaining, and her infectious personality made the lecture very enjoyable.- 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.

Throughout music history, music and art have often been 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 in order to replicate artistic styles musically? This course will focus primarily on Romanticism as we discuss the paintings of select Romantic artists and the music of various composers from Schubert to Beethoven to Berlioz.

"He was very energetic and informative. Hope he returns." - 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.

The iconic handshake on the White House lawn on September 13, 1993, between longtime enemies Yitzhak Rabin and Yasser Arafat, orchestrated by President Bill Clinton, was a moment of astounding hope. The Declaration of Principles signed that day marked the first formal recognition between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). The peace process was named after Norway’s capital, where secret negotiations took place, initially unbeknownst to Prime Minister Rabin. The Oslo Accords were intended to last five years, but conflict has continued for over three decades, with real peace remaining elusive. Historian Ralph Nurnberger, former Director of “Builders for Peace,” established in 1993 to support the Oslo process through economic and social programs, will provide behind-the-scenes analysis. He will unravel the intricate web of secret diplomacy, alternating periods of hope and despair, and the conflicting goals and objectives of supporters and opponents of the Oslo Peace Process.

"Dr. Nurnberger's presentations are always highly organized, interesting witty stories that reveal history that comes alive!" 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 Courthouse tour, including a visit to the jury room and court observation, followed by a Q&A session with Judge Cymonie Rowe. The tour culminates with a PBSO K-9 demonstration. The tour wraps up just in time for lunch on Clematis Street! Please arrive early enough to get through security to meet at the jury room by 10:30 am. The Courthouse is located at 205 N. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. The deadline for registration is Monday, March 17th. Space is limited, so register early!

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.

Jimmy Van Heusen wrote the music for the string of Bob Hope-Bing Crosby road pictures and many novelty tunes for singer Frank Sinatra. He also composed tunes of such harmonic substance that hundreds of recordings by jazz instrumentalists resulted. His chord progressions in these were inviting for improvisers, and their melodies were endearing. In this course, we will delve into his best compositions, which were tapped for renditions by the most historically significant jazz musicians. Excerpts of movies using his tunes will be interspersed with analyses of historic recordings by jazz giants. 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.

 

Ever wondered how your favorite films transform into spectacular Broadway shows? Join us for an enchanting journey through musicals that started as movies. From classics like "The Apartment" and "La Cage aux Folles" to modern hits such as "Groundhog Day," "An American in Paris," and "Moulin Rouge," cinema has long inspired breathtaking stage adaptations. Discover how these beloved movies transitioned to the theater, capturing the essence of their stories while creating new successes on stage. Our internationally recognized musical theater historian will delve into the rich backgrounds, the intricate transitions, and the unforgettable music that have turned these films into celebrated Broadway sensations. Don't miss this unique opportunity to explore the captivating world where movies and musicals meet!

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.

Join Harvey Granat in a salute to Broadway's most successful songwriting team, featuring songs and stories from "Oklahoma," "Carousel," "The King and I," "South Pacific," "The Sound of Music," and more. Among the many songs you'll hear are: "Oh What a Beautiful Morning," "Surrey With the Fringe on Top," "If I Loved You," "Some Enchanted Evening," "Hello Young Lovers," "The Sound of Music," "Younger Than Springtime" and many, many more in live performance and special videos. You will hear about Hammerstein's dual roles as a lyricist and book writer and his apprenticeship of Stephen Sondheim. You'll be surprised to learn that Rodgers and Hammerstein also operated as a production company, giving rise to several other hit shows.

"This presenter was superb, personable, talented, and knowledgeable"- 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.

Explore the history and impact of the Spanish Inquisition from the history of the Jews of Spain and Portugal to the wars of reconquering Spain to the exile of the Jews of Spain and Portugal in 1492 to the lives and legacies of the converso community up to today. We shall also examine the Inquisition's role in Spanish colonization of the new world and, finally, the new twist the Inquisition gave to antisemitism that had a direct impact on Nazi ideology.

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 Sassoon family, dubbed the "Rothschilds of the East," amassed vast wealth through finance and the opium trade, with roots tracing back to Baghdad, Iraq. Their influence spread across India, China, England, and beyond. Concentrating in London, they rose to prominence and received noble titles from Queen Victoria. From the 18th century, the Sassoons ranked among the world's wealthiest families, commanding a corporate empire across Asia. Lawrence presents a captivating journey through their legacy, spotlighting Philip and Sybil Sassoon. Sir Philip Sassoon, a celebrated figure in 20th-century Britain, hosted literary luminaries and royalty in his opulent homes. Meanwhile, Sybil, his sister, led a more private life, marrying into English aristocracy and championing the arts. Join us for an illuminating exploration of the Sassoon family saga through stories and a detailed PowerPoint presentation.

"Terryl is most knowledgeable, has an amazing personality and is lovely. Her presentation is wonderful!"- 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.

Two of the most prolific singer-songwriters to emerge from the 1960s folk revival, Gordon Lightfoot and Jimmy Buffett, had long careers in popular music until their passing in 2023. From such early tunes as "Early Morning Rain" and "If You Could Read My Mind" to the chart-topping "Sundown" and "The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald," Lightfoot's down-to-earth lyrics and heartfelt singing brought him worldwide acclaim. From "A Pirate Looks at 40" and "Margaritaville" to the #1 "It's Always Five O'clock Somewhere," Buffett's perceptive stories and joyous concerts earned him the loyalty of hard-partying Parrot heads everywhere. Join Rod MacDonald & the Humdingers for a fun and low-decibel tour through these unique artists' lives, music, and genius, as told in their songs.

"I think Rod MacDonald and the Humdingers do an excellent job"- 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 OLLI as we explore Flamingo Gardens, a premier wildlife and botanical sanctuary established in 1927 near Fort Lauderdale. This historic site boasts over 3,000 species of exotic and native plants and the largest collection of Florida native wildlife. Enjoy a guided tour through the gardens, including a visit to the restored 1933 Wray Home Museum for a glimpse of early South Florida life. The experience concludes with a narrated tram ride through 42 acres of tropical rainforests, ancient oaks, and wetlands. At the end of the tour, you can enjoy lunch at the Flamingo Pond Grill or one of the many local restaurants. Flamingo Gardens is located at 3750 S. Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33330-1614. Wear comfortable shoes, and feel free to bring water. Registration closes on Monday, March 24. Please arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. Space is limited.

In this special Chastain Johnston Middle Eastern Lecture, Dr. Robert Rabil will interview former Mossad official Mr. Avner Avraham via Zoom to discuss special Mossad operations carried out in the Middle East and Africa to secure and protect Jews and Israel. Mr. Avner Avraham worked as an undercover Mossad agent in Middle Eastern countries and partook in many secret and dangerous operations to save Jews and secure Israel from multiple threats. After an illustrious service in Mossad, Mr. Avraham founded SpyLegends.com and established himself as a world-renowned curator, exhibition and film producer, and writer. He also is a radio broadcaster and security commentator on various media channels in Israel and around the world. Dr. Robert Rabil is a professor of political science at Florida Atlantic University. This event is free for FAU faculty, staff, and students.

We all want to know we matter. In this seminar presentation, the participants will be exposed to what legacy means and will understand that how we live our lives becomes our legacy. A variety of concepts around legacy will be introduced so participants can identify and better understand the impact they are having on others. The premise of doing legacy work is to examine one's life, determine what is most important and what we hope to leave behind for our loved ones and understand that the wisdom that comes with living is a gift to share. Participation and discussion will be encouraged. Questions we might ask ourselves about our legacy are: What gives your life meaning? What messages do you want to pass along? What life lessons have you learned? What do you want people to remember about you, and are you living your life so they will? This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

"Wonderful seminar!! The instructor has so much wisdom to offer the students. Fabulous offering by OLLI!!"- OLLI Patron

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Join Lisa Tover and Judy Scara, long-time OLLI Boca staff members, for an exhilarating afternoon of Trivia at OLLI Boca! Test your knowledge and have a blast with friends and your fellow patrons. With an intriguing array of questions spanning various topics from history to pop culture, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Teams will be comprised of no more than 4 participants. Don't worry if you don't have a team; we will pair you with your fellow patrons. There will be prizes for the winning team members! Feel free to bring beverages and snacks of your choosing to make the afternoon that much more fun! Exercise your brain, and join us for an unforgettable afternoon of laughter, camaraderie, and, of course, trivia! Space is limited!

"It was lots of fun. Presenters relaxed, yet efficient, manner was perfect for a trivia afternoon." OLLI Patron