PROGRAM SCHEDULE   

If you enjoy nature walks and connecting with fellow OLLI members, join us as we explore the beautiful parks in Pinellas County. Schedules of parks will be sent out monthly. All levels of walkers are welcome. Please contact facilitator, Kathleen Passafiume at katbelinni@bellsouth.net for questions and updates.

Whether you are a seasoned pro, new and would like to learn, or somewhere in between, join us for Mahjong. We will meet twice a month to learn and play.

 

Read and Discuss Articles from The New Yorker magazine.

Uncover the inner workings of one of the ocean’s most fascinating mollusks in this immersive squid dissection. Examine their intricate anatomy, from powerful tentacles designed for capturing prey to their unique jet-propulsion system that helps them escape predators. Learn about their remarkable adaptations, including chromatophores for camouflage, a beak for efficient feeding, and defensive tactics like ink release. This hands-on experience will give you a deeper appreciation for how squid survive as both hunters and the hunted in the marine food web.

Forts have been symbols of national power and military influence for millennia, and Florida is home to many of these imposing structures. Remains of monolithic edifices constructed from coquina and brick defend every corner of Florida and the state’s interior is filled with dozens of sites of early American and Seminole war forts. This lecture will explore the wide range of the state’s fortifications from the failed French forts near Jacksonville to the Spanish forts of north Florida to the massive brick structures of the Civil War and everything in between.

Forts have been symbols of national power and military influence for millennia, and Florida is home to many of these imposing structures. Remains of monolithic edifices constructed from coquina and brick defend every corner of Florida and the state’s interior is filled with dozens of sites of early American and Seminole war forts. This lecture will explore the wide range of the state’s fortifications from the failed French forts near Jacksonville to the Spanish forts of north Florida to the massive brick structures of the Civil War and everything in between.

Join OLLI Members for a free, weekly outdoor stroll along one of Pinellas County's award-winning beaches. All levels of walkers are welcome!

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In the 1950s jet age presented a new way for the public to travel. In the 1960s though there was a new contest for bigger, more efficient airliners and high speed flight. In the United States Boeing would build the largest passenger aircraft in the world the 747. Meanwhile France and Britain working cooperatively would build the fastest civilian airliner in the world the Concorde. The competition between these two competing ideas of flight would lead to a new world of travel and opportunity for people to explore their world.

In the 1950s jet age presented a new way for the public to travel. In the 1960s though there was a new contest for bigger, more efficient airliners and high speed flight. In the United States Boeing would build the largest passenger aircraft in the world the 747. Meanwhile France and Britain working cooperatively would build the fastest civilian airliner in the world the Concorde. The competition between these two competing ideas of flight would lead to a new world of travel and opportunity for people to explore their world.

What’s the difference between an ancient trash heap and an ancient burial ground? On this day trip, David Anderson, historian will welcome you to the Sacred Lands, one possible place Spanish conquistadors landed in the 16th century. The privately owned Anderson property, sometimes known as Sacred Lands, features one of the best-preserved American Indian mounds in the state.

Join other OLLI members at a variety of unique North/South Pinellas County restaurants. Participants order from the menu. Each member is responsible for his/her own meal cost and tip. Group size is limited, so register early.

Read and Discuss Articles from The New Yorker magazine.

With a career spanning six decades, Gene Hackman became one of Hollywood’s most versatile and respected actors. From his breakout role in Bonnie and Clyde to Academy Award-winning performances in The French Connection and Unforgiven, Hackman captivated audiences with his depth, intensity, and authenticity. This class explores his remarkable journey, from his early struggles to his rise as a leading man, highlighting his most iconic roles and lasting impact on cinema. Join us as we celebrate the life and career of this legendary performer.

Once a month, members meet at an area museum to explore the arts together. Meeting times, locations and cost will vary by museum.

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From the Carpenter Gothic Tenth Street Church of God, built in 1898, to the industrial-looking buildings on the new downtown pier, St. Petersburg has a rich architectural heritage. In this talk, Margo Hammond looks at the city through the eyes of the architects, with a tour that includes Mediterranean Revival mansions in Snell Isle, Bird-Cage houses in the Pink Streets, Craftsman bungalows in Kenwood, downtown arcades, an Art Deco grocery store and an octagon comfort station built as a warm up for a church commission in Byzantine and Romanesque Revival style. Both church and bathroom are still standing.

From the Carpenter Gothic Tenth Street Church of God, built in 1898, to the industrial-looking buildings on the new downtown pier, St. Petersburg has a rich architectural heritage. In this talk, Margo Hammond looks at the city through the eyes of the architects, with a tour that includes Mediterranean Revival mansions in Snell Isle, Bird-Cage houses in the Pink Streets, Craftsman bungalows in Kenwood, downtown arcades, an Art Deco grocery store and an octagon comfort station built as a warm up for a church commission in Byzantine and Romanesque Revival style. Both church and bathroom are still standing.

Read and Discuss Articles from The New Yorker magazine.

The origins pf communism in the early 20th century. Why the communists won the civil war shortly after World War II. Communism under Mao, the disasters and the cultural revolution. The changes under Deng. The next generation and the rise of Xi.

This course offers an in-depth exploration of diverse cultural and religious perspectives on death, the self (or soul), cosmology, and the dynamic relationship between the living and the dead. Together, we will examine how ancient Mesopotamian, Mediterranean, Abrahamic, and Dharmic traditions have shaped beliefs about the afterlife and the human experience of mortality. In addition to these historical and spiritual viewpoints, we will also consider contemporary scientific investigations into post-mortem phenomena and evolving perceptions of ultimate reality. Through this multidisciplinary lens, we will deepen our understanding of how different cultures grapple with the mystery of death and what may lie beyond.

Explore the legendary songwriting duo behind Chicago, Cabaret, Kiss of the Spider Woman, and New York, New York in this engaging and entertaining class. With a partnership spanning over 40 years, they created some of Broadway’s most iconic and enduring musicals, leaving an unforgettable mark on theater history.

Explore the legendary songwriting duo behind Chicago, Cabaret, Kiss of the Spider Woman, and New York, New York in this engaging and entertaining class. With a partnership spanning over 40 years, they created some of Broadway’s most iconic and enduring musicals, leaving an unforgettable mark on theater history.

There is probably no more iconic national memorial than the four faces carved into the rocky granite face of Mt. Rushmore in South Dakota. Created by Danish American sculptor Gutzon Borglum between 1927 and 1941, the site hosts over two million visitors annually. But many of those who gaze up at the huge stone faces are unaware of its surprising history. In fact, the original idea of the monument was to honor Lewis and Clark, Buffalo Bill, and the Indian Chief Red Cloud, not American Presidents. Nor are most visitors aware that they are viewing an unfinished monument – a project abandoned at the dawn of World War II. Learn these and other interesting facts about this monument to greatness.

There is probably no more iconic national memorial than the four faces carved into the rocky granite face of Mt. Rushmore in South Dakota. Created by Danish American sculptor Gutzon Borglum between 1927 and 1941, the site hosts over two million visitors annually. But many of those who gaze up at the huge stone faces are unaware of its surprising history. In fact, the original idea of the monument was to honor Lewis and Clark, Buffalo Bill, and the Indian Chief Red Cloud, not American Presidents. Nor are most visitors aware that they are viewing an unfinished monument – a project abandoned at the dawn of World War II. Learn these and other interesting facts about this monument to greatness.

Join freeFall's design team for an in-depth discussion on how implementing new technologies can enhance the theatre experience for the artists and patrons. See how Founding Artistic Director Eric Davis uses lighting, video, music and even AI to create a unique theatrical experience in The House of Future Memory. This surprising and innovative performance will bring together the talents and imagination of the performers with the dreams, fears and desires of the audience to create a unique evening of storytelling and theatre that can only happen once. Through improvisation, traditional storytelling, and innovative effects, the audience will be transported to an uncanny place where anything is possible – where dreams become real and the future looms like a memory waiting to take shape.

Join us on the fourth Sunday of the month for a fun and challenging game at the historic Hollander Hotel in downtown St. Petersburg. Hotel and street parking are available. Arrive between 5 and 5:30 p.m. for dinner or be there by 6:00 p.m. when the trivia begins.

Register in advance, as we must reserve tables. OLLI is limited to two teams of eight players. If registration is full, reply to froehlichj@eckerd.edu to add your name to waiting list. If we have enough for another team, we will try to accommodate.

Members, you must be signed into your account to make the 'add to cart' button appear. If you are unable to register, either you are not logged into your account and/or your membership expires before the program date.

Read and Discuss Articles from The New Yorker magazine.

Read and Discuss Articles from The New Yorker magazine.

In December of 1950 two legendary aircraft went to war against each other; the F-86 built by the US and the MIG 15 developed by the USSR. These two early fighter aircraft would redefine air combat. This course is about the early days of jet combat, from the development of jet engines and jet aircraft. We will then move to skies over Korea where US and Soviet aircraft would duel for air superiority. In this course we also look at what happened after Korea and how jet aircraft evolved.

In December of 1950 two legendary aircraft went to war against each other; the F-86 built by the US and the MIG 15 developed by the USSR. These two early fighter aircraft would redefine air combat. This course is about the early days of jet combat, from the development of jet engines and jet aircraft. We will then move to skies over Korea where US and Soviet aircraft would duel for air superiority. In this course we also look at what happened after Korea and how jet aircraft evolved.

Economics plays a central role in shaping every aspect of society. This course examines a series of prominent policy issues with economics at their core. We will explore the origins of these issues, the underlying data and evidence, and the policy tools available to address them. Each lecture will be standalone, delivered by a subject matter expert with a Ph.D. in economics. Potential topics include climate change, healthcare economics, economic inequality, and more, with final selections based on the most relevant and timely issues at the start of the course.

YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Geof Woglom, PhD

Geof Woglom, PhD is professor emeritus of economics at Amherst College, where he taught for over 40 years. He has held visiting positions at Cambridge, Harvard, and the London School of Economics. Woglom was a Fulbright Scholar at the University of the Western Cape in Cape Town and at Nanjing University. Over his career, he has served as an economic consultant for the International Monetary Fund, the Federal Reserve Board, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.

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Paul Newman, the embodiment of charisma, captivated movie audiences with his iconic baby blue eyes, striking features, and powerful screen presence. Known for his multiple Academy Award-nominated performances in films like Cat on a Hot Tin Roof (1958), The Hustler (1961), and Absence of Malice (1981), Newman ultimately won an Oscar for The Color of Money (1986), the sequel to The Hustler. Alongside his acting career, he pursued a parallel path as a race car driver and dedicated significant time to entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavors. This course will trace the timeline of Newman’s remarkable career, from his legendary collaborations with Robert Redford in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) and The Sting (1973) to his final roles in Road to Perdition (2002), Empire Falls (2005), and Cars (2006), where he voiced the retired race car Doc Hudson.

YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Arnold Blumberg, PhD

Dr. Arnold T. Blumberg is a publisher, author, artist, and pop culture historian. He has taught courses in media literacy and cultural studies at University of Maryland, Baltimore College (UMBC), the University of Baltimore, Community College Baltimore College (CCBC), and the Osher Institute at Towson University. With fifteen years of experience in the comic book industry and five years curating a pop culture museum, he now runs his own publishing company, ATB Publishing.

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Historians, beer enthusiasts, and curious minds alike will enjoy this exploration of the history of brewing. We will begin in the distant past with the invention of beer around 4000 BCE. Then we will journey through time to the modern rise of craft brewing. Along the way, we will dive into fascinating topics including medieval brewing, beer in Shakespeare’s era, colonial brewing, Prohibition, indigenous brewing traditions worldwide, and the evolution of beer commercials. This course meets during happy hour, so feel free—nay, encouraged—to raise a glass and toast to history while we learn.

YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Karl Brown, PhD

Dr. Karl Brown teaches courses in modern European history, film and media studies, and the history of drugs and drinking at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. Before his academic career, he installed and operated brewpubs in Japan and Greece. Brown co-founded Second Salem Brewing Company in Whitewater and is an avid homebrewer of beer, cider, wine, and mead.

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This course will explore the history of Manhattan, emphasizing the unique traits that drew into its harbor millions of immigrants and millions more tourists seeking its many resources, rich culture, and complex history. Together, we will explore the history of New York City’s parks, city shopping, entertainment venues, museums, and concerts. We will also discuss the social and arts movements that grew out of the city. Gain an appreciation of what the city has to offer its visitors and an insight into the history behind the tourist attractions.

YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Adam Kocurek

Adam Kocurek is a PhD candidate in History at The CUNY Graduate Center. His research lies at the intersections of LGBTQ+ history, labor history, and the history of higher education. He is an adjunct lecturer at Hunter College where he teaches modern American history. He has held fellowship positions at Queensborough Community College and Medgar Evers College, and has taught at Baruch College. He is a tour guide for Big Onion Walking Tours, leading locals and visitors on innovative and exciting tours through New York’s ethnic neighborhoods and historic districts. Through his research and teaching, he is committed to illuminating the complexities of American history and fostering a deeper understanding of the diverse narratives that shape our society today.

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Energy is essential for both national and economic security, underpinning all aspects of life. Yet discussions of energy security often exclude the public, reducing complex issues to simplistic narratives like "Green is Good" or "Oil is Evil," which provide little actionable insight. In this course, you will engage in a comprehensive examination of energy's role in human development. Topics include the unmatched importance of hydrocarbons (oil and more); advancements in electricity, the past, present, and future of nuclear energy; and the potential of renewables. We will explore how these energy sources impact national security, economic stability, industrial production, transportation, and daily life. Join this course for a balanced, realistic assessment of energy security, a critical issue of our time

YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Beth Hill-Skinner

Beth Hill Skinner has graduate degrees in Theology and International Diplomacy with a specialization in transnational terrorism. She has educated individuals and organizations for the purpose of empowering citizens to improve their community, state, and country. She believes there is a clear difference between providing information and education. She enjoys transforming the opaque or complex into clarity for her students or audiences.

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This course provides a comprehensive overview of key public health topics across the human lifespan, from prenatal health to aging care. We will examine major health challenges, interventions, and policies that impact individuals at each life stage. By focusing on health disparities, preventive care, and the role of public health systems, the course equips us with the knowledge and skills to understand health issues in diverse populations. Through readings and case studies, we will gain insight into the life-course approach to public health, emphasizing the importance of early intervention, continuous care, and aging with dignity.

YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Michelle Boyd, MPH

Michelle Boyd is an epidemiologist and public health researcher dedicated to advancing health equity through data modernization and effective health communication. With a focus on infectious disease data collection, surveillance, and maternal and child health, she brings expertise in analyzing public health data to uncover meaningful patterns and trends. Boyd holds a Master of Public Health in epidemiology from Indiana University Indianapolis and BS in human communication sciences from Northwestern University. Boyd is a board member for Fearless Brown Girls, a nonprofit organization aimed at empowering young girls and increasing financial literacy. Her passion for health equity and public health education drives her commitment to improving healthcare outcomes through data and community engagement.

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Architectural history follows a canon of both traditional and eclectic styles from ancient to contemporary times. But what happens when a mix of whimsy, eccentricity, humor—and sometimes the creator's genius—insert themselves into the mix? Occurring throughout time and in various parts of the world, these unconventional structures exist to serve the cultures they were created for, from ancient religious sites to modern car-culture merriment. This course explores a myriad of structures set against the backdrop of the societies in which they existed, the construction methods used, the patrons for whom these structures were constructed, and the notions of the builders and architects who created them.

YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Eleanor Schrader

Eleanor Schrader is an award-winning educator, lecturer, and author. She lectures and leads tours worldwide on art and architectural history. She has been named a distinguished instructor at UCLA Extension, where she teaches history of architecture, interior design, furniture, and decorative arts. Schrader is a Professor Emerita of art and architectural history at Santa Monica College. She has completed graduate work in fine and decorative arts at Sotheby’s Institute in London and New York. She has served as a design review commissioner for the City of Beverly Hills and currently serves on the board of directors of the John Lautner Foundation

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How did Walt Disney's life and vision shape the creation of an entertainment empire? How did early challenges influence the company’s identity and creative output? And how did Disney grow into a global powerhouse? This course explores these questions and more as we delve into the 100-year history of the Walt Disney Company, tracing its evolution from humble beginnings to a global entertainment giant. Topics include the rise of Disney animation and theme parks, the company’s 1990s revival, and the strategic acquisitions that transformed Disney into a media conglomerate. We will also examine Disney's future and gain insights into what it’s like to work behind the scenes at the company. Throughout the course, we will consider diverse perspectives—from those who revere the Magic Kingdom to those who critique it and everywhere in between. This course offers a comprehensive look at how Walt Disney’s vision became a cultural force shaping today's entertainment industry.

YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Maria Massad

Maria Massad is a seasoned marketing leader and storyteller with a lifelong connection to the magic of Disney. Early in her career, she contributed to PBS’s acclaimed American Experience, a Walt Disney documentary, helping bring Walt’s visionary story to life for audiences nationwide. Massad also served on the leadership team of The Walt Disney Birthplace, where she led digital marketing and strategic partnerships to preserve and celebrate the Disney brothers’ legacy. With a an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Massad has worked across marketing, media, and storytelling, helping organizations craft impactful campaigns and connect with audiences. Her deep knowledge of Disney’s history, combined with her professional expertise, offers unique insights into the company’s evolution and enduring influence.

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Are you interested in stories rich with murder, intrigue, and sharp wit? This course will explore the Norse sagas, which are medieval tales rooted in Old Norse mythology, written in Iceland centuries after the Viking era. These stories range from realistic travel chronicles to epic sword-and-sorcery adventures, and they offer a fascinating glimpse into "Dark Age" swashbuckling. In this course we will also discuss how these stories continue to profoundly influence modern culture.

YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Vic Peterson

Vic Peterson is the author of The Berserkers (Hawkwood, 2022; Recital, 2023), a novel set in a fictional Nordic country. He holds a BA in English from Kenyon College, and MA degrees in humanities from The University of Texas at Dallas and in religious studies from the University of Chicago, where he also completed coursework at the Booth School of Business. After a successful career as a business executive, Vic now focuses on writing and teaching.

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Physical and emotional health challenges are common as we age. In this two-part session, you will learn five simple mind/body practices to help you thrive during the ups and downs of aging. The practices are rooted in mindfulness and include meditation, gratitude, mindful physical activity, mindful eating, and self-compassion. You will learn how to apply strategies throughout the day to maintain your health and stay balanced and resilient.

A supercalifragilisticexpialidocious look at the lives and careers of Robert & Richard Sherman. Born into a musical family, "the boys", as Walt Disney called them, brought us such musical classics as Mary Poppins, Tom Sawyer. Bedknobs & Broomsticks, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and more! Sing along to the great musicals they created, both on Broadway and the Silver Screen, as we learn the magic and the tensions of their lifetime collaboration.

Ambient Intelligence in healthcare refers to the use of intelligent, responsive, and context-aware technologies to create a supportive and unobtrusive environment for patients and healthcare professionals.