Community Calendar

In honor of Jane Austen’s 250th birthday in 2025, we will explore her life, works, and legacy from a fresh perspective. Both seasoned readers and those new to Austen will appreciate experiencing the story of her authorship through images of original documents and artifacts. Austen began writing fiction in her teenage years, warmly supported by her family, especially her clergyman father. Yet she had to wait until she was in her thirties to see her first book in print. In this course, we will discover what happened in between, as well as how a household of creative women made it possible for her to focus on her writing and achieve publication. We will consider how and why her literary reputation grew after her death, and we will take a tour of the contemporary adaptations and retellings that continue to broaden her readership.

Irish Slow Session is for those who would like to learn Irish tunes and songs. The hour before each Irish Session we’ll learn a few new tunes and tips on how to jam in the Irish Sessions.
Every 2nd and 4th Monday of each month. Check the Folk School calendar for more information.

Over half a century after the Stonewall Uprising, the vibrant and complex history of LGBTQ+ life, culture, and movements in the U.S. remains a focal point of rich discussion and political relevance. In this course, we will immerse ourselves in the intricate history of LGBTQ+ Americans, examining their political organizations, cultural contributions, and the profound ways they have helped shape the nation. This course offers a comprehensive overview of key LGBTQ+ figures, events, and cultural shifts beginning in the early 20th century to the present, highlighting the emergence and evolution of LGBTQ+ identities and activism, and the challenges they have historically faced. We will uncover how a marginalized community has become a powerful force for social change, impacting every facet of American life— from grassroots politics and art to society at large. Together we will gain a deeper understanding of LGBTQ+ history and gain a renewed appreciation for the ongoing struggle towards justice, inclusion, and freedom in the US

You’ve decided to stay in your home – now what? Are you prepared? Have you taken steps to equip yourself and your residence for the long haul? Our expert panelists will share with you some of the most effective strategies and resources available for living safely and independently in your home as you get older. Learn about precautions you can take to ensure that YOU remain in control of your lifestyle choices and decisions.

This month’s seminar includes how to make your home more accessible with easy home modifications, how to find reliable in-home care providers, both medical and non-medical, and more.

Spring is a time of new life, as we watch the world around us change from dormant to full of life. This course is an introduction to film movements and styles. We will watch several classic films all of which have a theme of change. We will begin by discussing film genres, film history, and how films are made. We will also explore what to look for as you watch the films selected for the course. Films are watched on your own outside of the classroom (at least one film will be assigned per week beginning week 2) and are available on Plex with a free account, through Turner Classic Movies, or with a Max subscription. Some titles may also be available through your local public library. During each class session, we will unpack the film in terms of its style, story, filmmaking technique, and how it fits with the theme of change. During this course, we will discover great films that help us see and think about change in our world.

The adventure begins in New York City, where the echoes of Tin Pan Alley’s Great American Songbook still resound. We witness a new generation of talented songwriters, singers, and groups, who filled the airwaves and shaped the soundtrack of our lives. This course is a journey into the melodies, stories, and vibrant personalities behind the Brill Building era of the late 1950s and 1960s. We will discuss the music of legendary songwriters such as Carole King & Gerry Goffin, Neil Sedaka & Howard Greenfield, Barry Mann & Cynthia Weil, Phil Spector, Jerry Leiber & Mike Stoller, Ellie Greenwich & Jeff Barry, Burt Bacharach & Hal David, Neil Diamond, and others. Together we will rediscover the tunes from Elvis Presley, the Coasters, Dion and the Belmonts, the Drifters, Dionne Warwick, the Ronettes, the Shirelles, the Animals, the Monkees, Manfred Mann, Andy Williams, the unforgettable Righteous Brothers, and many others.

Embark on a captivating exploration of the architectural wonders of the Romanesque and Gothic periods. This course offers a fascinating insight into the evolution of architectural styles, from the sturdy simplicity of Romanesque structures to the soaring heights and intricate details of Gothic cathedrals. Uncover the historical context, technological innovations, and cultural influences that shaped these magnificent edifices. Engage in enriching discussions, immersive experiences, and insightful lectures that unveil the craftsmanship and symbolism inherent in these masterpieces of stone and glass. Whether you are an avid history buff, an art aficionado, or simply curious about the past, join us on this exhilarating journey through the architectural marvels of the medieval era

Longevity comes down to one simple truth: our ability to weather the inevitable challenges life unexpectedly drops in our lap. Resilience is our ticket to extended healthspan. Western society is entering a phase of significant transformation that will change how we age. This course is a condensed version of Fulton’s Whealthspan Masterclass which focuses on the five foundations for extending healthspan and looks at societal changes that will impact all of us. We will distill the latest and most relevant age-related science for a general audience and explain the strategies for optimal outcomes that fit a wide range of cultures and values

Embrace the journey of aging with confidence and vitality! Join Vicky Willis, a certified Yoga instructor, and OLLI’s Yoga Guru, in this transformative course designed specifically for those looking to enhance their well-being as they age. Through slow, precise movements rooted in Yoga, participants will systematically stretch and condition their muscles, providing essential support to aging joints. This course focuses on four key areas: strength, flexibility, agility, and balance; fundamental elements for healthy living that can help eliminate morning stiffness and improve overall mobility. Participants are encouraged to bring a blanket, blocks, a yoga strap, and a yoga mat, and to wear comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement. Join us to foster a healthier, more active lifestyle as you embrace the changes that come with age! Activity Level: 1

In a world where age often defines one’s abilities and limitations, this seminar challenges these stereotypes and encourages attendees to embrace the full spectrum of life’s journey.

We will explore the concept that life is often lived in 5 quarters (yes, we said 5 quarters) and unfolds through 18 (or more) different stages. Many of us will have extra time in which we didn’t plan. This “extra time” can sometimes challenge conventional thinking about who we are, what we are capable of, and the opportunities and challenges we may face or embrace.