Current Course Offerings

Mondays, April 7 - May 12, 2025 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]

The 20^th century gave birth to an explosion of different visual styles and “isms” in the visual arts. Expressionism, Abstraction, Surrealism, Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art and Post-Modernism featured artists exploring a dizzying variety of artistic and technical advances. From the horrors of World War I and World War II, to the civil and political disturbances of the 1960's, such artists as Henri Matisse, Jackson Pollock, Robert Rauschenberg, Andy Warhol, Frank Lloyd Wright, Henry Moore and Jeff Koons overstepped centuries of traditions to create a new dynamic between artist and society. ... [ more ]

Mondays, April 7 - May 12, 2025 | 10:15 AM - 12:15 PM [IN PERSON]

This course is designed to teach the fundamentals of bag making techniques, promoting individual creativity through the use of various types of fabric and hardware applications. Participants will explore the use of interfacings for structure and professional finishing; sewing techniques for vinyl, cork and leather; supply sourcing; personalizing with style elements. By creating a small crossbody bag*, students will master zipper and closure installation, gusset sewing, styles of pockets and linings and the use of hardware to bring your bag to the next level.

Depending on class progress, a large tote or small wallet may be offered. To be determined in class.

*This bag is rated confident beginner, meaning students should have a basic sewing knowledge.

SEE SUPPLY LIST AND SPECIAL NOTES! ... [ more ]

Mondays, April 7 - May 12, 2025 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]

Ohio provided 319,189 men to the Civil War and among the most notable of these regiments was the 23rd Ohio from whose ranks came future United States Presidents Rutherford B. Hayes and William McKinley. Its volunteer soldiers were made up of Northeast Ohio men, and many of its officers went on to distinguished positions after the Civil War. Follow these volunteers from home to battlefield, and learn of this Regiment of Presidents, notable figures as well as the home front in NE Ohio. ... [ more ]

Mondays, April 7 - May 12, 2025 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]

For about a thousand years, the Holy Roman Empire dominated the center of Europe. This history of that state reviews its rise and fall, while showing how it laid the foundations for the modern states of Switzerland, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein, Austria and the Federal Republic of Germany. ... [ more ]

Mondays, April 7 - May 12, 2025 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]

FULL - Waitlist only

This course features six one-man shows, one per class, as a Historic American in our nation’s history.  They include: New York's Archibald Gracie IV (“I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic”), Theodore Roosevelt ("Speak Softly and Carry a Big Stick”), Lawman Wyatt Earp (“Doc Holliday and I: Gunfight at the OK Corral”), Ernest Hemingway (“My Movable Writer’s Life”) Secret Service Agent Clint Hill (“Protecting the Kennedys”) and Abraham Lincoln (“Lincoln on Leadership”). ... [ more ]

Mondays, April 7 - May 12, 2025 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]

This class will be an introduction to philosophies that have been used for thousands of years by practitioners of traditional medicine from different parts of the world. We will focus on learning the basic principles of Taoism and Buddhism and the branches of those theories that include Fengshui, Five Element Theory and Qi Gong. Then we will learn about Ayurvedic philosophy and discuss some of the similarities and differences between these systems. Finally, we will learn simple ways we can create more balance in our bodies and in our own environment by applying the strategies taught in these systems. ... [ more ]

Mondays, April 7 - May 12, 2025 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]

FULL - Waitlist only

"Lions and tigers and bears ... Oh! My!" That's nothing compared to what you are seeing in your yard. Deer out your window! Coyote on your deck! What happened to the city? Join our group of urban naturalists investigating the ecosystem of our yards. Do you want to see hummingbirds, butterflies and bluebirds? Need solutions to the skunks, raccoons and mice? And how about your shrubs, flowers and garden? We'll learn about pests and predators, and how to enjoy living in your wilderness. ... [ more ]

Mondays, April 7 - May 12, 2025 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]

Let’s explore the motivations and decision-making prowess of Emperors, Kings and Queens. Some were known to be benevolent, some carried the moniker “Great” or other designation, and some were not at all revered. However, all are significant to the nations they conquered and ruled. We will look at Hirohito to Charlemagne, Genghis Khan to Catherine the Great, Marcus Aurelius to Julius Caesar and many more. More than fifty figures will be discussed, some familiar, some new, and all presented with accuracy from credible historical sources. So let’s learn what made them great! ... [ more ]

Mondays, April 7 - May 12, 2025 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]

The events depicted in the first chapter of Genesis are quite similar to events described by the Big Bang Theory. The real question is: was it six days or 13.7 billion years? This class will explore how the answer is actually "yes" to both perspectives. We will only use peer reviewed science taught in universities (I promise no complicated formulas on the chalkboard!) and only adhere to conventional interpretations of the Genesis text (one day is not a metaphor for an epoch). ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 8 - May 13, 2025 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]

This unique series will introduce students to not only the physical practices of yoga, but also a deeper, more philosophical element. Rachel will introduce the “Eight Limbs of Yoga”, the ancient framework and wisdom of how to live your yoga, a guide of sorts to move through life in a more meaningful way. Each class will have both lecture and discussion, followed by a physical portion of class. This will be a beautiful way to experience the mindbody connection through poses, breathwork, meditation and more. If you are interested in learning about yoga, or deepening your knowledge of true yoga and its ancient eastern origin, this class is for you.

Please bring yoga mat, (and optional yoga blocks and strap)

If you don’t prefer to use a yoga mat, adjustments can be suggested. ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 8 - May 13, 2025 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]

This course presents a proven 3-step program that demonstrates how individuals with Type 2 diabetes can take control of their blood sugar levels, reverse painful neuropathy, reduce or eliminate the need for medication, lose weight, boost energy, improve sleep without the need for sleep apnea devices and much more. You will also learn how to become an active partner in your healthcare, working alongside your doctor to achieve lasting health improvements.

With over 20 years of experience presenting this course, we’ve witnessed remarkable transformations in people's lives. We’ve been invited to speak at The Ohio State School of Medicine and featured on Channel 3 News. Both doctors and patients alike are amazed by the results of this program.

Participants who have completed this course now live healthier, more fulfilling lives than the ever imagined. While this is not a miracle cure, it is a roadmap to reversing Type 2 diabetes. The key lies in understanding what to do, why it matters, and most importantly, taking action. You can reverse Type 2 diabetes. ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 8 - May 13, 2025 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]

CANCELED

The Society for Financial Awareness (SOFA) will present a class on each of the following topics:

1)  Investment Basics
2)  Asset Allocations: Modern Portfolio Theory
3)  An Introduction to Annuities: Funding your Future
4)  Tax Planning Strategies
5)  Estate Planning
6)  Solving the Retirement Income Puzzle: Strategies & Vehicles to help you maintain your income during retirement ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 8 - May 20, 2025 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]

REPEAT, but with "new stuff." In this fun class, each week you'll gain a better understanding of what it takes to bring a film from concept to distribution. Along the way, we’ll look at scripting, pitching, directing, producing, financing, casting, cinematography, production, post-production (editing, scoring, sound design, etc.) … and the skilled people who make it all possible. We’ll also view some edited interviews and behind-the-scenes featurettes from, for example, "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," "Who Framed Roger Rabbit," "Field of Dreams," "Interstellar," "Once Upon a Time in the West," "Apollo 13," "Alice," "Skyfall," "E.T."... plus some of YOUR favorites, upon request. Note to participants: Try to watch “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” a 1977 film by Stephen Spielberg, prior to the start of class – available from your public library or streaming service. ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 8 - May 13, 2025 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]

Class has been CANCELED

A mandala is a circular pattern of geometrically divided spaces, often with the addition of symbols. We will start with a simple design, then go on to more complex use of colors and designs, to create your own unique and colorful patterns.

SEE SUPPLY LIST ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 8 - May 20, 2025 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]

This course will examine the history of the U.S. Army, from the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor to the recapture of the Aleutian Islands (June 1942 to August 1943). The U.S. Army (1.8 million), Marine Corps (550,000) and the U.S. Navy (1.4 million) fought valiantly throughout the Pacific from 1941-43. The U.S. Army suffered its greatest defeat in history when more than 76,000 American and Filipino soldiers surrendered on Corregidor. As many as 18,000 soldiers died while on the Bataan Death March in April 1942. When American and Allied troops began their offensive action against the Japanese, it started with the campaign at Guadalcanal. Army troops replaced the 1st Marine Division with soldiers from the Army 25th Infantry and the 23rd “Americal” Division in October 1942. In this complex story, the role of personalities, weapons and technological changes will be covered. In addition, the roles of the U.S. Navy and the Army Air Corps during this critical period of World War II history will be examined. Members of the class will be given time to discuss the role of their family and family members during World War II ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 8 - May 13, 2025 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]

This course provides a broad introduction to the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), covering its history, key concepts and major applications. The course emphasizes practical understanding through case studies and real-world examples, while also addressing the ethical and societal implications of AI technologies. Designed for students from diverse backgrounds, this course requires no prior experience in AI or programming. ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 8 - May 20, 2025 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]

Collage means to paste, stick and connect! This hands-on class will explore several types of collage art-making processes. Participants will create personal and unique collage works by designing compositions using the simple tools of scissors and glue and a variety of upcycled bits and pieces. We will engage in selecting and arranging colors, textures and images, then pasting these in pleasing ways. We will be using old magazines, calendars, greeting cards, photos, stickers and labels – even junk mail!

Please bring to the first class a 9 x 12 drawing pad or sketchbook, scissors and glue stick. ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 8 - May 13, 2025 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [VIA ZOOM]

Whether you are a fan of Hollywood history, WW II or both, this class is for you! This class will present a multi-faceted account of Hollywood’s contribution to the war effort, providing an interesting perspective on the participation of America’s leading figures, both in front of and behind the cameras. Stories about the projects undertaken by the studios, by specific directors, and ways the stars approached WWII service. Stars like Carole Lombard – who lost her life returning from a war bond-selling tour – Bob Hope and Marlene Dietrich, who enthusiastically joined USO performances to entertain the troops and others like James Stewart and Clark Gable, who joined the fight themselves in uniform. Bette Davis and John Garfield, who created a starry haven for soldiers in their founding of the Hollywood Canteen. And filmmakers like Orson Welles, Walt Disney, Alfred Hitchcock and others, who made films aiming to shore up alliances, boost recruitment and let the folks back home know what beloved family members were facing overseas. ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 8 - May 13, 2025 | 02:40 PM - 04:05 PM [IN PERSON]

FULL - Waitlist only

Spring is spectacular in Cleveland Metroparks. Join Naturalist Karen Lakus for an exploration of natural and cultural sites in Rocky River Reservation. Learn about the wildlife and people who have inhabited this place in the past and in the present. Classes are held rain or shine and will be adapted according to the weather. Participants should be able to walk on a variety of surfaces, up and down stairs and for a distance of at least one mile.   ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 8 - May 13, 2025 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]

We will discuss the historic traditions of British Coronations dating back to 1838 when Queen Victoria was crowned and all the monarchs that followed up until last year (2024) with the crowning of King Charles III.

We will cover each week the procession, the ceremony, music, crown jewels and regalia and Buckingham Palace balcony appearances for:

Queen Victoria
King Edward VII
King George V
King George VI
Queen Elizabeth
King Charles III ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 8 - May 20, 2025 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]

This course is the continuation of the first part, which was taught in the Winter session. It picks up where the Winter class left off – at the end of the Middle Ages and the Protestant Reformation in the 1500’s. It will continue on up to the present day. Some of the major topics that will be covered: the Protestant reformers (Luther, Calvin, etc.); the Catholic Counter-Reformation, the Eastern Orthodox from 1500-today, the missionary movement and the world-wide spread of Christianity, the incredible variety within Protestantism in the last 200 years (the Holiness movement, the Oxford movement, struggles over Biblical interpretation, liberal Protestant theology, Pentecostalism, Dispensationalism, Evangelicalism), Catholicism in the last 200 years – the most important popes and 2 important Councils; and much more. ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 8 - May 13, 2025 | 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]

This class provides a low impact exercise opportunity for seniors. Irish Dance offers many health benefits, including but not limited to, improving balance, sharpening the memory and strengthening muscles around the joints to assist with arthritis and overall fitness. All are welcome and no experience is necessary. The class will cover various styles of Irish Dance from “old style” to “Irish Ceili” (social dance) and basic steps of traditional Irish step dance that are used in Ceili Dance.

Sean Nos (Old Style) Irish Dance
Sean Nos is the oldest form of Irish Step dance characterized by a relaxed upper body and steps danced close to the floor. It is very different from modern style Irish Dance. In Sean Nos, arms move freely with the natural rhythm of the dance steps and the steps are typically confined to a small space. The steps interpret the music. There are many similarities to tap dance and clogging.

Ceili Dance (Social Dance)
Ceili dances can be danced with partners or in small groups in an informal setting such as a party or social gathering. Ceili dance uses very basic Irish dance steps allowing all to participate. Everyone can do it! ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 8 - May 13, 2025 | 06:30 PM - 07:50 PM [IN PERSON]

The great composer, Jerome Kern said, "Irving Berlin has no place in American music... he IS American music!".

Come and spend six weeks hearing stories and songs written by the man who wrote "Alexander's Ragtime Band", "Always", and "God Bless America".

An American institution, Irving Berlin (a Russian immigrant), synthesized the sounds he heard in New York City, into the new sound of America starting at the turn of the 20th Century. And, by the way, he lived until the ripe old age of 101! ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 9 - May 21, 2025 | 10:00 AM - 11:20 AM [VIA ZOOM]  No Class on May 14

An in-depth look at six cases, one per week that were argued in court, including the facts presented, the decisions rendered and the relevance of each unique case.

(1)  The case brought against Google on the charge of being a monopoly.
(2)  Sarah Palin's right of appeal on her defamation case against the New York Times.
(3)  McGirt v Oklahoma - The American Indian case about land ownership and who has jurisdiction on a
       reservation regarding Indian criminal cases.
(4)  The Ahmad Arberry criminal trial for murder under current hate crime statutes.
(5)  The MacDonald's case involving hot coffee and resulting customer burns.
(6)  The pending U.S v Skrmetti case brought by three families and their doctors suing to allow continuing
       transgender medical treatment for their minor children. ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 9 - May 21, 2025 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]  No Class on May 14

FULL - Waitlist only

This class will concentrate on those presidents whose administrations contained individuals who violated their trust. These include scandals, investigations, corruption, crooks, bribery, jailbirds and mistresses. ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 9 - May 21, 2025 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [VIA ZOOM]  No Class on May 14

Nicholas and Alexandra have been called saints, innocent victims or even the cause of the Russian revolution. What really happened? Did their love end the empire? Discover their passions, their strengths, their weaknesses and newly released information and clues to the missing jewels.  Do you have one in your closet? ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 9 - May 21, 2025 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM [IN PERSON]  No Class on May 14

FULL - Waitlist only

This class is a foundation class that builds on 2D shapes. It provides proportional measuring and value shading, which results in an accurate drawing of all subject areas. Focus Areas will be: Accuracy, Basic Shading, Tone and Value Control and Using an Artistic Eye.

SEE SUPPLY LIST!

SEE SPECIAL NOTES! ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 9 - May 21, 2025 | 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM [IN PERSON]  No Class on May 14

We will be painting in oil and/or acrylic paints (your choice) with pastels, molding paste, gold leaf, etc.

In our classes, we will discuss basic composition, color theory, color mixing, glazing and other various techniques with a touch of art history. The Instructor will demonstrate and do some in-painting to help students understand the various techniques.

We do all this as we paint our projects, in a non-competitive and relaxed environment, to enhance your creativity. Bring 2 reference pictures to paint. Pick what you are interested in.

In our first class, we will  do a small painting on canvas board to get the feel of acrylic paint. I will bring the canvas boards. Student provides his/her own supplies. We will go over supplies at the first class. ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 16 - May 28, 2025 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]  No Class on May 14

The United States is an amazing place. America's city names give insight into how the country has grown with such a dynamic quality. This course delves into that quality by examining the names of its cities. For example, there are four cities in the United States that have two numbers for a name. They are listed in Book One and how they got their names is explained in Book Two.

Cities are named after people, natural events, Native American peoples, industries and more. American history and geography are both ingrained in the names of its cities.

The instructor’s “Think You Know America” three-book series is the resource for the course. American city names are grouped into all sorts of categories such as trees, precious gems, colors, flowers, automobiles and more. Unusual and odd names are abundant.

The original artwork for the series was created by an award winning artist (the author’s son). The instructor shares the artwork throughout the course. In addition to being informative, the course makes for great trivia reading to share with family and friends. ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 9 - May 21, 2025 | 12:15 PM - 01:35 PM [IN PERSON]  No Class on May 14

Class has been CANCELED

The first American police departments were established in the 1850’s. By 1892, New Yorkers were already calling for police reform and in 1894, the Lexow Committee was formed to investigate police corruption. Theodore Roosevelt was appointed police commissioner in New York in 1895 expressly to reform the NYPD.

Though Progressive-era reformers achieved some success, a string of commissions and committees through the years have called for additional police reform, including the Wickersham Commission, NYPD corruption investigations, the President’s Commission on Law Enforcement, and the President’s Commission on 21st Century Policing.

This course will examine the history of American police reform efforts through policing’s political, reform and community policing eras. We will examine the character of American policing, the need for reform, attempted reforms, the fierce resistance reformers have encountered and the reasons why police reform is still needed in America today. ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 9 - May 21, 2025 | 01:00 PM - 03:00 [In person]  No Class on May 14

This course is designed for absolute beginners who want to explore the world of digital art using the Procreate app. No prior experience with digital art or drawing tablets is necessary. We'll start with the basics, covering essential tools and techniques and gradually progress to more advanced concepts.

What You'll Learn:  [ more ]

• Procreate Basics:
• Navigating the Procreate interface
• Understanding layers and layer masks
• Using the brush engine to create custom brushes ...

Wednesdays, April 9 - May 21, 2025 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]  No Class on May 14

FULL - Waitlist only

Do you seek the many benefits of traditional yoga but have limitations that may prevent you from doing so? Adaptive Yoga applies the same practices of traditional yoga while using chairs, blocks, blankets and straps to meet the practitioner where they are. In a safe and supportive environment, attendees will discover how they can reduce their risk of falling with techniques designed to improve balance and proprioception (the reception of stimuli produced within the organism). Practitioners will gain knowledge and understanding of the full spectrum of yoga while building strength, stability and flexibility. Breath practices will increase energy levels, reduce stress and provide relaxation for improved sleep. This class will allow students to build confidence in movement, feel more joyful and have fun. ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 9 - May 21, 2025 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]  No Class on May 14

In "Freedom's Forge", Arthur Herman takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the untold story of how American industry powered the Allies to victory in World War II. With meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Herman unravels the fascinating tapestry of innovation, grit and determination that saw giants of industry like Henry Kaiser and William Knudsen transform the United States into the "Arsenal of Democracy." As battle raged across continents, these industrial visionaries orchestrated  an unprecedented production miracle, turning everyday factories into war machines and assembling a workforce unlike any the world had ever seen. Dive into this compelling narrative and discover how visionary leadership and sheer American ingenuity fueled one of the most extraordinary periods in history, reshaping not only the war's outcome but the very fabric of modern industrial civilization.

Drawn from the description in the book, "Freedom's Forge." ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 10 - May 15, 2025 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]

Tai Chi and Qi Gong are ancient Chinese exercises using the Mind, the breath and gentle movements to create a meditation in motion which enhances overall physical health. These practices have been scientifically proven to improve cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure, relieve osteoarthritis, increase energy, aid in managing stress and enhance one’s overall sense of well-being. In this class you will learn the Yang 10 Tai Chi form and several Qi Gong forms. ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 10 - May 15, 2025 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]

Some people who died and then were revived claim to have visited heaven! People from vastly different cultures, geographies and even religions report similar core experiences. Are these hallucinations of the brain in the last moments of life? What does science have to say about people's EEG showing no brain activity, yet they report word for word conversations their surgeons had over their "dead" bodies. What are the spiritual implications of these many experiences? ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 10 - May 15, 2025 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]

Each class meeting will feature one or two Ohio residents who will speak of their exploits. Time will be allotted for Q & A, autographs and pictures.

Among the folks that have agreed to appear:

Bruce Drennan: Bruce has been a fixture doing sports talk shows on various Cleveland radio and TV stations for 40+ years. He will share his stories of his journey in the media and talk about past and present sports.

David Spero: He started working on the famous Upbeat show as a child. He was a DJ on WMMS in their formative years. He managed Michael Stanley, Joe Walsh and countless others. He recently wrote his autobiography.

Steve Presser: He owned and operated the iconic toy store “Big Fun” in Cleveland Heights for nearly three decades. He will speak about toys, games, novelty gag gifts and the like.

Other speakers will be added to fill out the six-week term. ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 10 - May 15, 2025 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM [IN PERSON]

We will explore log cabin and related quilts, looking at both design and ways to improve accuracy. We will be starting with the basic log cabin and then looking at ways to enhance the basic layout and the basic block. This is a great scrappy quilt that also shines when the fabrics are coordinated. Students can determine how large their project will be from a one block throw pillow to a much larger quilt. Students may also embrace trying each technique as a learning aid. Equipment for this class includes a basic sewing machine with a 1/4-inch foot, an iron and ironing board or ironing mat (one or two for the class), rotary cutting set (mat, ruler and cutter) and basic sewing supplies (straight pins, needles, cotton thread, seam ripper, scissors, thread snips). Material requirements will vary depending on individual design decisions selected.

After the quilt top is completed, a corresponding amount of batting and fabric for backing will be needed.

This quilt top will develop your skills from beginner to confident beginner or even intermediate. No machine required at the first class. ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 10 - May 15, 2025 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]

FULL - Waitlist only

Teaspoons have been around since the early 13th century and, as we all know, they have many uses including: stirring, measuring, eating of course and even games like spoons. But in this class, I’ll be offering you a little about a lot. You will be getting single serving teaspoons of history, culture, health and beauty, drinks and eats and more. These “teaspoons” will provide surprising tips, fun and informative facts, and flavorful recipes, that will give the most ardent or newbie tea drinkers the bits of information to feel better informed, plus hopefully the confidence to experiment as well as a wide and just-deep-enough look at the world of tea. Tea and cookies, of course, will be served along with your very own teaspoon! ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 10 - May 15, 2025 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]

Michael Walczak has studied Major League Baseball for more than 30 years. Employing tools used by today's managers and general managers, we will discuss issues such as "clutch hitting" as well as team performance. We will compare today's players with the "old timers" and evaluate managers. From bunts to zone ratings, from Bill James to Moneyball, see MLB like you've never seen it before. ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 10 - May 15, 2025 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]

Robert F. Kennedy’s campaign for the presidency was reaching its zenith when he was assassinated in Los Angeles in June 1968. The official account of the event is fraught with contradictions and unanswered questions. How does critical evidence dispute the conclusion that Sirhan Sirhan was the assassin? Forensic, medico-legal, ballistic, eyewitness, and acoustic evidence will be presented – much of which was never introduced at the trial. The decisions and actions of his own defense remain inexplicable. Close examination of the case seriously calls into question Sirhan’s role in this tragic event. ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 10 - May 15, 2025 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]

One of early humans’ first roadblocks was how to cross a river or valley when they encountered them. In the beginning, a simple log or group of stones may suffice; however, as the rivers got bigger and the valleys wider, this simple solution would no longer work. The invention of the bridge was one of mankind’s earliest structures to be built to alleviate this problem. In this course we will learn about the history of bridges and what exactly defines a bridge. We will explore the many types of bridges and what it takes to build and maintain them. We will look at some major failures and the lessons learned that have helped develop some incredible and awe inspiring structures.

Doug Hedrick is a retired professional engineer and has a 40 year career in the construction engineering field. During his career, he has been involved in the oversight of many of the major bridges built in the last 30 years in Northeast Ohio. These include the Ohio Turnpike mainline bridge over the Cuyahoga Valley, both Cleveland innerbelt bridges and most recently the new Valley View Bridge on Interstate 480. ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 10 - May 15, 2025 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [VIA ZOOM]

FULL - Waitlist only

Think Little Red Riding Hood, Rumpelstiltskin and Snow White are “just for kids”? Think again. These stories and rhymes have profoundly influenced our culture for hundreds of years, from opera to Disney cartoons. In this class we will be exploring the historical origins of fairy tales and nursery rhymes. We will look at how they evolved through time and discover just who in the world “Mother Goose” actually was, why Miss Muffet is afraid of spiders and why the weasel goes “pop.” All new material for this class. It is not necessary to have taken the first class. ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 10 - April 24, 2025 | 06:30 PM - 09:10 PM [IN PERSON]

Hitchcock’s films were famous for his cameos, but the first time we heard his voice was on October 2, 1955, when he introduced Alfred Hitchcock Presents. For the first class, we will view three classic TV episodes. For week two we will watch The Trouble with Harry and find out why a dead body is such an inconvenience for some quirky Vermonters. The course concludes with The Man Who Knew Too Much about an American couple who become involved with spies while visiting Morocco. Each film will be introduced with an original video, followed by audience reaction and discussion. ... [ more ]