Community Calendar

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

This course focuses on recent events in Russia and the post-Soviet space, many of which stem from enduring ethnic tensions. The Russian Federation is home to 180 nationalities, many of which have long been in conflict. We will examine how the Russian state—under the Tsars, Soviets, and President Vladimir Putin—has sought to impose uniformity, often diminishing ethnic groups. Through a historical lens, we will explore the struggles of these groups, from peaceful movements like the Circassian movement to violent resistance like Chechnya. Contemporary Russian culture, including music, cinema, cuisine, and humor, will also be discussed to illuminate current events.

This course begins by unraveling the mysteries of the brain. We will explore how to navigate the complex and fragmented healthcare system and discuss strategies for advocating for personalized care. In addition to simplifying common neurological conditions—such as headaches, dizziness, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and memory loss—we will examine testing and imaging of the nervous system. The course will also focus on illness prevention through healthy lifestyles and provide an intimate discussion of end-of-life issues.

Some topics don’t fit neatly into OLLI science classes—too big, too small, too little, too much, too off-topic—and often end up on the proverbial cutting room floor. In this course, these intriguing bits and ends are gathered up and presented like a charcuterie board of tasty science snacks. This will be a six-week romp through just about anything one might imagine including a little bit of color theory, a morsel of genetic testing science, a dash of airplane physics, some lightning theory, a mouse that turns scorpion venom into a painkiller, current scientific thoughts on origins of life, and a lot of time to explore topics of interest to you. Bring your questions and we will explore some of the exciting nooks and crannies of science together

Join Amy Lyn Edie, a talented portrait artist from Northwest Arkansas, for an immersive six-week drawing course designed for complete beginners. This hands-on class will guide you through the essential techniques of drawing, focusing on three key areas: portrait drawing, perspective drawing, and landscapes. In the first two weeks, you will explore the fundamentals of capturing the human face. The following two weeks will introduce you to the principles of perspective drawing. In the final two weeks, you will connect with nature as you learn to draw landscapes. Whether you are picking up a pencil for the first time or looking to refresh your skills, this course offers a supportive environment to foster creativity and growth. Take a journey into the art of drawing, where you will build a strong foundation and create beautiful works of art. *A detailed list of materials needed will be provided upon registration.

The Southern Italian port city of Naples is home to a rich and complex history stretching back to its foundation by Greek colonists in the 8th century B.C.E. Across the centuries, Naples evolved into a vibrant cultural, political and economic center of the Mediterranean world, first as a part of Magna Gracia, and later, under successive periods of Roman, Byzantine, Norman, Angevin, and Spanish rule, on route to becoming the capital of the independent Bourbon Kingdom of the Two Sicilies in 1816. In 1861, Naples’s incorporation into the newly unified Italian nation-state as a part of the Risorgimento initiated an era of modernization and adaptation that persists to the present day. In this six-week class, we will examine la storia e tradizioni of bella Napoli—a city famously pieno di contradizione (“full of contradictions”). Aimed at students and travelers alike, the course offers a virtual “grand tour” of Naples through a close examination of a dozen Neapolitan monuments/ historic sites reflective of milestones in the city’s historical development from its origins through today, including: Castel dell’ Ovo, Spaccanapoli, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II , Castel Nuovo, the Duomo, Santa Chiara, i musei Capodimonte e Archeologico Nazionale, Palazzo Reale, Teatro San Carlo, and the Galleria Umberto I among others (including “side visits” to the city’s best pizzerias, food stalls, pastry shops and cafes!)

Have you been looking for a group to dance or learn to dance with that is centered on safety, connection, and healing? The NWA Center for Sexual Assault and Cece Marie Choreography are hosting free dance workshops beginning this summer. This is a healing-centered dance experience where survivors reclaim safety, creativity, and connection through movement and shared story. You deserve to feel safe in your body.

This workshop is open to adult survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and / or human trafficking.

Sign up here: https://www.nwasexualassault.org/art-workshops-for-survivors

Not sure if you're eligible? Please talk to a member of our friendly team. Call 479-347-2304, email info@nwasexualassault.org, or visit the NWA Center for Sexual Assault website: nwasexualassault.org

Because you are not alone.