Current Class Offerings

Mondays, April 1 - May 13, 2024 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]

This class has been canceled.
The 19th and 20th centuries were a time of change. The Industrial Revolution offered new jobs that attracted people to the cities which grew large in response. Many grew prosperous, which brought forth "The Gilded Age." Others didn't and lived in ramshackle tenements. The American and French Revolutions tore at the fabric of the European monarchies and introduced the world’s first democracy in America. Visual art also underwent the change of quickening progress, from the literalness of the Renaissance to more abstract styles. Impressionism, Abstraction and Expressionism challenged the establishment of the French Academy. Modernism became the new art of the 20th Century.

Mondays, April 1 - May 13, 2024 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]
An introduction to the origin and development of the East Asian Buddhist spiritual tradition. Beginning with the life of Buddha in India, Buddhism's cultural and social adaptations to China and Japan will be explored.  Contemporary, popular, political and spiritual Buddhism will also be discussed ... [ more ]

Mondays, April 1 - May 13, 2024 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [VIA ZOOM]
This is not your usual history of fashion – this class will examine the cruelties of fashion. From insidious murder weapons to blaze-igniting crinolines, clothing has been the cause of death, disease and madness throughout history, by accident and design. Clothing is designed to protect, shield and comfort us, yet lurking among our seemingly innocuous garments we’ll find hats laced with mercury, dresses loaded with arsenic and literally ‘drop-dead gorgeous’ gowns. This class will take you on a fascinating journey through the lethal history of women’s, men’s and children’s dress, in myth and reality. So please join us for a sobering, scary tale of dangerous clothing - and by the way, would you like a lovely arsenic green dress with matching hair ornaments? Or, how about a pair of shiny benzene black boots? Or perhaps even an elegant top hat treated with mercury? Deadly, lethal, pestilent! ... [ more ]

Mondays, April 1 - May 13, 2024 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]

FULL - Waitlist only
In the early 20th Century, Adolf Hitler led the National Socialist German Workers' Party to transform Germany into the so-called Third Reich, which then tried to dominate Europe and even the world. We will look at the roots of Nazism, follow its rise to power and its role in World War II and after ... [ more ]

Mondays, April 1 - May 13, 2024 | 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 on 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 1 - May 13, 2024 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]
In his seminal research book, Loneliness: Human Nature and the Need for Social Connection, Dr. John Cacioppo writes, “… loneliness itself is not a disease; feeling lonely from time to time is like feeling hungry or thirsty from time to time. It is part of being human. The trick is to heed these signals in ways that bring long-term satisfaction.”

In this era of COVID19, where few of us have not been touched by loneliness, this class will cover the implications of loneliness for individual and societal health and well-being, the impact of social media, the role of faith and spirituality, evolutionary and neurological reasons for loneliness, and how to find and restore real, meaningful human connection for overall happiness.

We will rediscover our own unique resilience and learn many of the simple changes we can make now to change our lives and improve our well-being ... [ more ]

Mondays, April 1 - May 13, 2024 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]
Embark on an exciting journey into the world of drones with this introductory course. This presentation is designed for beginners eager to explore the limitless possibilities of drone technology. Covering fundamental concepts such as drone components, flight mechanics, regulations and safety practices, participants will gain a solid understanding of drone operations. As a bonus, a hands-on training session will provide practical skills in piloting, navigation, and troubleshooting. Whether you’re an enthusiast, hobbyist or aspiring professional, this course offers a gateway to unlocking the full potential of drones in various fields. Join us and soar into the future of unmanned aerial systems! ... [ more ]

Mondays, April 1 - May 6, 2024 | 02:15 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]
Learn about the WEBB Telescope, where it is located, how it differs from the Hubble Telescope and the unique way it gathers data. We will also explore the new information the WEBB is gathering on our solar system’s planets, exoplanets around distant stars, galaxies and more galaxies and the expanding Universe ... [ more ]

Mondays, April 1 - May 13, 2024 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]
Cleveland Metroparks Historian, Judy MacKeigan, offers an entertaining and informative look at the history of Cleveland Metroparks.  We will spend the first three weeks discovering how Cleveland’s beloved Emerald Necklace came to be and how we have changed and grown over the past 106 years.  Then we will take a closer look at the fascinating history of some of the newest land to become part of the Metroparks; the Cuyahoga River Flats and the northern portion of the original Ohio and Erie Canal, including the story of the Infamous Cleveland Bridge War ... [ more ]

Mondays, April 1 - May 13, 2024 | 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM [IN PERSON]
“The kingdom of God is within you,” (Luke 17:21) declares Jesus. An enigmatic statement to both Jesus' contemporaries and to us today. Perhaps referring to God's In-dwelling Spirit or Shekhinah. We will explore historical and Biblical instances of God's Presence within humanity and the implications for each of us as we search for life's meaning ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 2 - April 16, 2024 | 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM [IN PERSON]
Landscape

FULL - Waitlist only
Students will be learning the difference between sketching and drawing. Shapes and form. Brushes and watercolor paper. How to paint sky, clouds, birds, evergreen trees, mountains, lakes, grasses, shrubs, rocks. Perspective and shadows. Some art terms and art gimmicks will be taught. ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 23 - May 7, 2024 | 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM [IN PERSON]
Seascape

FULL - Waitlist only
Students will learn how to sketch and draw. Information on brushes and watercolor paper.

How to paint wet-on-wet sky, sand dunes, sea grasses, sea gulls, lake, sand, snow fence.

Some art terms and art gimmicks will be taught. ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 2 - May 7, 2024 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]
This session we will continue to examine generals from the Civil War, both Union and Confederate generals. We will then look at generals from the Spanish-American War and World War I. We will also look at generals who were significant between the two world wars ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 2 - May 7, 2024 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]
Religious history is often preserved by the winners of ideological debates. Most of what we understand about the development of Christianity is promoted by a male hierarchy that suppresses the participation of women from the historical structure of the Church. Come and explore the stories of remarkable women who, in the face of overwhelming misogyny, exhibited assertiveness and resilience and got results. From Mary, the Mother of Jesus, to Hildegard of Bingen, Mother Theresa and others, these women made significant contributions and shaped history. Classes will feature the backstories of these radical women who lived in a particular time and place and be open to discussion ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 2 - May 7, 2024 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]
Research has proven the benefits of meditation and its impact on our everyday lives, improving mental health, reducing stress, strengthening relationships and even transforming our spiritual lives. Learn about the effectiveness of meditation, its spiritual and philosophical roots and how meditation and mindfulness can support the transformation of your inner and outer life. Weekly lectures are followed by meditation that can become the foundation of a regular practice, including how to develop a habit of meditation that you can stick with ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 2 - May 7, 2024 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]
Remember how much fun you used to have coloring as a child? Come de-stress while still exercising your brain and gaining meditative energy using the color spectrum. Color pencils, markers and even crayons provide a great way for creative hands-on expression (and you don’t have to stay in the lines!) We will use both pre-printed coloring pages and create our own coloring sheet(s) to share with each other! A variety of options and techniques will be demonstrated and explored. No art background needed.

Bring a 9”x 12” sketch or drawing pad and any coloring tools you already have to the first class ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 2 - May 7, 2024 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]
Although the two words are often used interchangeably, there are distinct differences between spirituality and religion. Spirituality is what brings meaning and purpose to our lives. It is about connections and relationships with others and with God (Higher Power or Mystery). Religion, on the other hand, refers to a faith tradition: Methodist, Catholic, Lutheran, etc. As we grow older, we are presented with unique opportunities to become more spiritually engaged. It is not age per se that seems to inspire spiritual growth but the challenges, diminishments and losses that aging brings with it that motivate spiritual development. This course explores the barriers and catalysts to spiritual growth as we age. We will examine the meaning of loss, the power of appreciation, the role of spiritual masters, practices that nurture our spirituality and how to sustain our spiritual vitality ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 2 - May 7, 2024 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]
Our true motivations are sometimes a mystery to ourselves. People may think they know us, because they judge our behavior. This course will use a proven typology to assist in a more accurate self-understanding.

Join the author of the original textbook on the Enneagram (= nine points) in a journey of self-discovery. You will meet your true self and be better able to share life's gifts with those who matter most. ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 2 - May 7, 2024 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]
The first six classes are:

1.  Diana, The People's Princess - A Tribute Presentation
2.  British Royal Weddings - Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and Her Family
3.  A Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II  
4.  Prince William and Kate Middleton - The Future of the Monarchy
5.  The Coronation of King Charles III
6.  The Royal Wardrobe ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 2 - May 7, 2024 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]
John F. Kennedy’s brief presidency represented a time of abiding hope and inspiration, despite the Cold War and its looming specter of a thermonuclear exchange. His repeated references in so many speeches to “our children” and “future generations” was illustrative of his exceptional visionary approach to both domestic and national policies. The words, actions and executive style of JFK provide a window into why he continues to be regarded as one of the most admired presidents of the modern era. While not mythologizing the sentiment of Camelot, we nevertheless should not fail to recall a time when the spoken words and outward demeanor of a United States president portrayed so powerfully to the worldwide community the best that America had to offer. Through a presentation of speeches, press conferences, public and family films, this course will focus on the intellect and humor of the 35th president. Placed in historical context, it will illustrate why JFK and his presidency came to hold such an exalted position throughout the world during his lifetime and beyond ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 2 - May 7, 2024 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]
This course is the first of a two-part series on the Vietnam War. The second part will be in the fall 2024 session.

The two courses will focus on the American involvement in Vietnam from its earliest days in the 1940s until the entire country came under Communist rule in 1975. And there will be a brief look at post-1975 Vietnam. We will look at what caused the war, the various individuals and groups involved, the gradually increasing American involvement, the “all out” years when half a million Americans were there, the peace agreement and the final fall of the South. This is the war that most of us grew up during and perhaps dominated our early adult years. Some students may have fought in it, some may have protested against it. For all of us, it was a major part of our lives in our younger years. So looking at it in depth should be an interesting adventure! In the first course this spring, we will go as far as 1967…. and then finish the story in the fall. ... [ more ]

Tuesdays, April 2 - May 7, 2024 | 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]

FULL - Waitlist only
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 2 - May 7, 2024 | 06:30 PM - 07:50 PM [VIA ZOOM]
Music in film can be seen beginning with the “talkies” and becoming a legitimate film genre where we have characters singing and dancing which is woven into the narrative of the film. Many of the musicals were derived from original stage plays and then were produced for film. If you enjoy the dancing and singing of Astaire and Rogers or Kelly and Garland, we will trace the origin of Hollywood Musicals from the 30s to the 60s featuring many of the great Musicals ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 3 - May 8, 2024 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM [IN PERSON]

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. ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 3 - May 8, 2024 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]

FULL - Waitlist only
Who would not want to sit down with Jane Austen and join her for a cup of tea? Tea figures prominently in Jane Austen’s life and work. In Regency era England, the popularity and social importance of tea drinking is exemplified by her characters no less than fifty-eight times in her six major novels. At the center of almost every social situation in her novels one finds tea. In Emma, does Miss Bates drink coffee? Of course not: “No coffee, I thank you, for me - never take coffee. A little tea if you please.” Or, In Pride and Prejudice, what is one of the supreme honors Mr. Collins can envision Lady Catherine bestowing on Elizabeth Bennet and her friends? Why, drinking tea with her, naturally. In this class you’ll find that her characters are always on their way to tea or from it and the tea things are either being brought in or cleared away! So, if you have an insatiable love of tea or are simply a Janeite, this class is for you. And of course… tea and “biscuits” will be served ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 3 - May 8, 2024 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [VIA ZOOM]
Was there a real King Arthur, a Camelot, an Excalibur? Is Arthur just sleeping, waiting for a time to return? Uncover the Arthur legend, weigh the proven facts and latest research and findings (you might be amazed) and vote for yourself of the truth in the Arthur legend. Arthur's story has motivated many rulers, kings and queens over the centuries to do good and evil (even Hitler). Discover the power of the story through the ages ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 3 - May 8, 2024 | 10:00 AM - 11:20 AM [VIA ZOOM]
Our spring course will continue to review Jared Cohen’s Accidental Presidents by finishing the remaining two VPs who unexpectedly became presidents -- Lyndon Johnson and Gerald Ford. We will also add the reading of Bag Man by Rachel Maddow to complete our look at the presidency under the trying times of the untimely end to an elected official and his replacement. As always, each session stands independently for your convenience ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 3 - May 8, 2024 | 12:30 PM - 01:50 PM [IN PERSON]
Learn information that can help with controlling high blood glucose. The six sessions include:

1.  Pre-Diabetes/Diabetes - what is it and introduction to management;
2.  Healthy diet patterns for pre-diabetes/diabetes;
3.  Glycemic index and how it affects blood sugars;
4.  Physical Activity - get back in your lane;
5.  Sleep - it is more important than you think;
6.  Stress Management - take control - it does affect blood glucose ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 3 - May 8, 2024 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]

This class has been canceled.
A movie icon is a person of special interest, representing something of importance within the film industry and pop culture. This course examines the lives and films of six actors who became and remain iconic movie stars in post-war Hollywood. Each class will focus on an individual star. They are: Marlon Brando, Marilyn Monroe, Paul Newman, Elizabeth Taylor, Doris Day and James Dean ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 3 - May 1, 2024 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]
Ohio provided 319,189 men to the Civil War and among the most notable of these regiments was the 23^rd 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 ]

Wednesdays, April 3 - May 8, 2024 | 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM [IN PERSON]
Prerequisite: Continuation of Cheri's portrait class. Student must understand shading and values.
In this course, you’ll learn how to color realistic faces with colored pencil.

- Student will select from 3 techniques in applying colored pencils;

- In this course, students learn how to draw a portrait of images I supply. Please no relatives;

- Also you will learn how to color dark and bronze skins as well as stubble and beard;

- Then students learn how to draw accessories such as necklaces, shirts and hats;

- By the end of this course, students will be able to recognize and analyze colors from an image of partly completed models and also mix colors;

- Additionally, you learn how to paint the parts and tissue of beard, hair, fabric and skin ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 3 - May 8, 2024 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]

FULL - Waitlist only
From 1796 to 1929 Cleveland grew from an uninhabited, malarial river mouth to become the sixth largest city and the third largest metropolitan area in the United States. This course will trace the growth of Cleveland from its inception as a frontier village through its growth as a commercial and mercantile center to its prominence as a world-class center of manufacturing, finance and culture. We will examine how the threads of transportation, immigration, industry and politics combined to build modern Cleveland.

Week 1: Cleveland in 1929;
Week 2: Transportation: Lake and River;
Week 3: Transportation: Canal and Railroads;
Week 4: Immigration: Before 1880;
Week 5: Immigration: 1880 - 1929;
Week 6: Industry and Politics ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 3 - May 8, 2024 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]

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 3 - May 8, 2024 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]
Learn the basics of estate planning and elder law in this unique, hands-on course. Discover how to efficiently pass on your assets to your children or heirs through probate avoidance and asset protection strategies. The instructor uses real-life examples to explain basic wills, trusts, asset protection strategies, charitable gifting, powers of attorney, advanced directives and other estate planning tools ... [ more ]

Wednesdays, April 3 - April 17, 2024 | 06:30 PM - 07:50 PM [VIA ZOOM]

This class has been canceled.

Don’t lose your memories to deteriorating films, computer crashes, natural disasters, downsizing or disorganization. Learn helpful tips for this overwhelming task.Topics covered: safe storage, scanning, cloud storage pros/cons, uploading/downloading photos, videos/audio recordings, important documents, metadata and creating digital scrapbooks ...

Wednesdays, April 24 - May 8, 2024 | 06:30 PM - 07:50 PM [VIA ZOOM]

This class has been canceled.

Don’t lose your memories to deteriorating films, computer crashes, natural disasters, downsizing or disorganization. Learn helpful tips for this overwhelming task.Topics covered: safe storage, scanning, cloud storage pros/cons, uploading/downloading photos, videos/audio recordings, important documents, metadata and creating digital scrapbooks ...

Thursdays, April 4 - May 9, 2024 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM [IN PERSON]
Let’s make several different flower blocks utilizing the stitch and flip method.

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 – cotton fabric in Pre-cuts (5 or 10-inch squares), fat quarters and/or yardage in colors of your choice.

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

We will work with flower color fabrics from 5 inch or 10-inch squares, 2 ½ inch strips or yardage and a background fabric. Various setting options will be discussed. In the first class, we will discuss fabric requirements and supplies. No sewing machine required at first class. Most of the sewing will be completed in class. The only prerequisite is some sewing experience and the desire to learn to make a quilt ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 4 - May 9, 2024 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]
We will continue our journey into the Wayback Machine. We will look at toys and games of our youth, old commercials, Puritas Springs Park, defunct technology and the like. On April 11, I plan to bring in Mr. Terry McDonnell to speak to the class. He is a Cleveland area native that has been living in California for the last 40+ years. He is an award-winning producer and screenwriter. He has written for Jeopardy, Win Ben Stein’s Money, The Love Boat, The Six Million Dollar Man and many other shows. Taking my first Wayback class is not required to enroll in this class ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 4 - May 9, 2024 | 10:15 AM - 11:35 AM [IN PERSON]
It is difficult to imagine another religious group that has endured so much consistent hatred across periods of history as the Jews. From Antiquity, through the Middle Ages, Renaissance, into the 20th Century's "Final Solution," and continuing into the 21st century. What are the political, cultural and religious factors contributing to Jew and Non-Jew alike as a result of these attitudes and policies? ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 4 - May 9, 2024 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]
From Aeolian wind harps to Ziploc bags, we will review many varied inventions and innovations - sometimes their development history or how they work or how they're made, etc. Topic areas include aircraft, home products, autonomous vehicles, building systems, civil engineering, architecture...and much more. Note: This class consists primarily of presentation and discussion of YouTube content ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 4 - May 9, 2024 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [IN PERSON]

FULL - Waitlist only
Glass fusing combines both scientific knowledge with an exciting art form. This class will teach how to create fused glass designs using compatible glass pieces in a kiln. Fused glass jewelry will be made using a small kiln in a microwave oven. Students will learn the history of glass and types of modern glass. You will make several projects and work with fusing materials and techniques. Glass used in projects will be precut. The class will stress safety when handling glass. It is recommended that students wear safety glasses and soft Kevlar gloves when working with glass. These are available locally, e.g. at Walmart or Home Depot and can be ordered online. For further information or questions, you can contact Bill at rockyriver.william.bailey@gmail.com.

$25 cost for supplies.

Fee provides for all supplies, ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 4 - May 9, 2024 | 12:45 PM - 02:05 PM [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 4 - May 9, 2024 | 02:45 PM - 04:00 PM [IN PERSON]

FULL - Waitlist only
Join Naturalist Karen Lakus for an exploration of natural and cultural sites in Rocky River, Mill Stream Run and Huntington Reservations. We will meet at a different location each week. Be prepared to hike, rain or shine ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 4 - May 9, 2024 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [VIA ZOOM]
The online world of genealogy is always changing with new information and at costs that continue to rise. The class will focus on telling the story of your family utilizing many of the FREE or low-cost genealogy resources. The course has new resources for those searching for your ancestors and how to learn many ways to understand what to look for when you find those sources ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 4 - May 9, 2024 | 02:40 PM - 04:00 PM [VIA ZOOM]
The book is a wonderous invention. It is portable, relatively inexpensive and it can entertain us, instruct us and bring the thoughts of those long gone into the present. Gutenberg’s printing press changed the world. But the book did not magically spring into being with the printing press. There is a fascinating history starting well before the invention of paper or alphabets that paved the way. The book didn’t stop with Gutenberg either. Today we have the emergence of digital text, e-readers and more. Join us as we explore this revolutionary invention ... [ more ]

Thursdays, April 11 - April 25, 2024 | 06:30 PM - 09:10 PM [IN PERSON]
Three Hitchcock Films From the Forties:

The producer-director partnership between David O. Selznick and Alfred Hitchcock was never a happy one. By the mid-40s, the Master was on his way to declaring his independence from the pompous producer. We begin with Spellbound (1945), which came about as a result of Selznick’s experiences on his psychologist’s couch. They began working together on Notorious in 1946 but Hitchcock maneuvered himself beyond Selznick’s control and completed the masterpiece without interference. By 1948’s Rope, Hitchcock asserted his autonomy from Selznick and added the title of producer to his impressive resume. Each film will be introduced with a short video; after the screening, we will share our reactions ... [ more ]