The Audrey Grant Better Bridge Beginner program offers a clear, enjoyable introduction to the game of Bridge, using expertly designed materials to make learning easy. The course features color-coded cards that guide players step-by-step through bidding and play, helping beginners understand key concepts with confidence. These coded cards provide visual cues and structured practice, making it easier to grasp the fundamentals of the game. With a friendly, hands-on approach, Audrey Grant’s method builds skills gradually while keeping the experience fun and social. Ideal for those new to Bridge, this program creates a solid foundation for future learning and play. Space is limited.

Life Master Abbie Feuer, an ACBL Accredited Teacher and Certified Director, has introduced over 600 people to bridge through the Audrey Grant Better Bridge series. A retired optician, Abbie enjoys bike riding, spending time with her grandson Leo, and playing bridge alongside her husband Dennis in major tournaments across the country.

Join Dr. Terryl Lawrence for an inspiring exploration of creativity through the lens of visionary artists across time and media. This dynamic series delves into the ideas, dreams, emotions, and intellect that shape the art-making process. Each session compares two artists who approached similar themes, revealing how personal experience and innovation led to unique expressions of art. The final session reflects on the evolving role of the art critic. With visuals, video, and commentary, Dr. Lawrence brings each topic vividly to life.

LECTURES:

1. Dreamers: Remedios Varo & René Magritte
2. Designers: Edward Burne-Jones & William Morris
3. Architects: Zaha Hadid & Frank Gehry
4. Painters: Gustav Klimt & Egon Schiele
5. Memorialists: Maya Lin & Frederick Hart
6. Sculptors: Louise Nevelson & Marisol Escobar
7. Photographers: Irving Penn & Gordon Parks
8. Thinkers: Oh to be a painter - Twin Obsessions

Relations between the United States and Russia date back to the time of the American Revolution and were critical throughout the 19th century from the U.S. Civl War through the building of the Trans-Siberian Railroad. Little of this history is known and without it, it is almost impossible to understand the recent decade's dynamics. This six-week course will explore 245 years of Russian American engagement, concluding with a deeper look at the twists and turns of relations over the past two decades. Each lecture will be enhanceby a  PowerPoint 

LECTURES:

1. The League of Armed Neutrality and the American Revolution; Abraham Lincoln and Czar Alexander II: A Critical Partnership.
2, The Bolsheviks and the American Industrial Revolution.  
3. The World War II Alliance that Defeated Hitler and the Axis Powers and the Eisenhower Effort to Demilitarize the Cold War.
4. Reagan and Gorbachov: The End of Soviet Communism. 
5. The Putin Era and Washington's Shift.  
6. A Look at the Future of the U.S.-Russia Relationship: A New Yalta Deal in the Works?

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

Curious about artificial intelligence and how it fits into your life? This series introduces older adults to the many ways AI is transforming daily living and supporting healthier, more independent aging. Each week explores a key topic: healthcare tools that enhance safety and remote care; financial technologies that assist with budgeting and fraud protection; transportation innovations that make getting around easier; and AI-powered tools that promote mental wellness and social connection. No technical skills required—just a desire to learn how smart technology can support you now and in the future.

LECTURES:

1. AI & Your Health: Explore how AI is revolutionizing healthcare with smart tools that support wellness, safety, and independent living.
2. AI & Your Money: Learn how AI is being used to manage finances, detect fraud, and simplify retirement planning.
3. AI on the Move: Discover how AI makes transportation easier, safer, and more accessible with smart navigation and mobility tools.
4. AI & Connection: See how AI supports mental wellness and social engagement through virtual companions, brain games, and more.

From the ski slopes of Big Sky to the cowboy culture of the show Yellowstone, Montana looms large in the American imagination—but how well do these images reflect reality? This course explores the true story of the Treasure State, examining its rich history, complex cultural identity, and evolving political landscape. We’ll trace Montana’s path from Indigenous homelands and frontier conflicts to mining booms, homesteading, and the modern rise of tourism and media portrayals like Yellowstone. Along the way, we’ll unpack persistent myths and consider how Montana’s past informs its present-day debates around land use, resource extraction, governance, and identity. Through discussion, historical sources, and critical media analysis, participants will gain a deeper understanding of Montana beyond the mythos—and how its real story reflects broader patterns in the American West.

Dr. McLain holds a Ph.D. in History from Montana State University, specializing in the history of illicit drug controls in the United States. She has worked with the U.S. Departments of State and Justice on counter-narcotics and crime prevention initiatives and consults with communities to develop substance use prevention and justice programs.

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.

Gold has captivated the human imagination for millennia, not just as a precious metal, but as a powerful symbol woven into the fabric of civilization. In this fascinating lecture, Dr. Terryl Lawrence takes you on a shimmering journey through history to explore gold’s evolution and enduring significance. From ancient artifacts to modern fashion, from Olympic medals to cutting-edge technology, gold has symbolized wealth, power, and beauty across cultures. We’ll delve into the psychology behind its allure and the many forms it takes, both literal and metaphorical. Discover how gold’s story reflects human ambition, creativity, and desire. Join us to celebrate this glittering icon that continues to dazzle the world.

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

"Secure Your Legacy" is an interactive educational program designed to equip participants with essential knowledge and strategies for effective estate planning. In this comprehensive workshop, participants will delve into the fundamental legal documents necessary for safeguarding their assets, ensuring their family's financial security, and minimizing tax liabilities. Attendees will gain actionable insights to navigate the complexities of estate planning with confidence. Learn how to organize your estate and provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Space is limited enrollment to foster discussion. 

 

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is our most common heart rhythm disorder -- affecting millions of people yearly, including >10% by age 80. AF can cause stroke, heart failure, and even death (with a societal cost exceeding $7 billion annually). Fortunately, the past two decades have brought major advances in identification and treatment, allowing for earlier detection, reduction of risk, and therapies that dramatically improve outcomes. This engaging and informative program is ideal for older adults interested in understanding AF, its warning signs, how to detect it, and how to manage it. Its messages can be lifesaving. Whether for yourself or a loved one, join us to learn how modern medicine is transforming care and improving quality of life for those affected by atrial fibrillation. This program is being presented with limited enrollment to foster discussion.

Dr. James A. Reiffel is Professor Emeritus of Medicine at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and a longtime expert in cardiology, electrophysiology, and cardiac pharmacology with over four decades of clinical, teaching, and research experience. He has authored over 500 medical publications, served in advisory roles for the FDA and medical companies, led major clinical trials, and currently serves on the boards of the Loggerhead Marinelife Center and Sarah P. Duke Gardens.

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

This lecture explores the daily life, duties, and equipment of the Continental soldier during the American Revolutionary War (1775–1783). We'll examine who these soldiers were, why they enlisted, and what hardships they faced on and off the battlefield. Special focus will be given to the gear they carried, their uniform and personal items. By analyzing historical records and surviving artifacts, we’ll gain a vivid understanding of what it meant to be a soldier in General George Washington’s army and how their experiences shaped the outcome of the war.

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.

Discover the pivotal contributions of early American Presidents who laid the groundwork for the United States. This four-week course delves into the leadership, philosophies, and challenges faced by Washington, Adams, Madison, and Monroe (The life of Jefferson was addressed in a privious lecture). Through engaging PowerPoint presentations and open discussions, we’ll examine their presidencies, personal journeys, and impact on shaping the Constitution, foreign and domestic policies, and the evolving American political system. From wartime leadership to the creation of party systems, each session offers a deeper understanding of how these Founding Fathers guided the nation through its formative years.

LECTURES: 

1: George Washington: From military hero to revered First President, shaping the Constitution and defining executive leadership.
2: John Adams & John Quincy Adams: A father-son duo who rose to the presidency, battled fierce political rivals, and left lasting marks on American history.
3: James Madison: Architect of the Constitution and President during the War of 1812, Madison’s influence endures.
4: James Monroe: A unifying statesman whose presidency bridged two party systems and expanded America’s reach.

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