PROGRAM SCHEDULE   

As we commemorate America 250, we honor 30 historic events that shaped our nation’s identity—from the Revolution’s bold beginnings to the civil rights movements that redefined freedom. Each milestone tells a story of courage, innovation, and unity that continues to inspire us today. Reflecting on our past helps us understand the struggles and triumphs that built the foundation of democracy. By looking back, we gain insight into who we are and how we can face the challenges ahead with purpose and pride. America 250 isn’t just a celebration of history—it’s a call to carry its lessons into the future, together.

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

Don't see the 'add to cart' button? Members must be logged into their account in order to register for these programs.

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.

 

So you think you know our Revolutionary War history? First forensic dental ID? Paul Revere. Birth of the CIA? Two separate threads combine for the answer. Did Britain have 13 colonies—or was it 15, or even 33? Was Bunker Hill actually fought on Bunker Hill? And where do women and the colony of Florida fit into all of this? Join us to uncover the lesser-known, deeply intriguing, and fascinating narratives that shaped the birth of a nation.

So you think you know our Revolutionary War history? First forensic dental ID? Paul Revere. Birth of the CIA? Two separate threads combine for the answer. Did Britain have 13 colonies—or was it 15, or even 33? Was Bunker Hill actually fought on Bunker Hill? And where do women and the colony of Florida fit into all of this? Join us to uncover the lesser-known, deeply intriguing, and fascinating narratives that shaped the birth of a nation.

As we celebrate the 250^th anniversary of the American Revolution we recall the names of The Founding Fathers:  Washington; Adams; Jefferson, and Franklin; all well-known individuals in our history who are held in the highest regard for their contributions to the founding of the nation.  But they didn’t do it alone!   The struggle for independence included many women whose contributions were critical in shaping America’s destiny.  Unsung for two centuries, recent scholarship has shed a much greater light on the contributions of the founding mothers, at last giving them the accord they richly deserve.  Our session will examine the lives of women from all social strata who dedicated themselves to the cause of American Independence.

As we celebrate the 250^th anniversary of the American Revolution we recall the names of The Founding Fathers:  Washington; Adams; Jefferson, and Franklin; all well-known individuals in our history who are held in the highest regard for their contributions to the founding of the nation.  But they didn’t do it alone!   The struggle for independence included many women whose contributions were critical in shaping America’s destiny.  Unsung for two centuries, recent scholarship has shed a much greater light on the contributions of the founding mothers, at last giving them the accord they richly deserve.  Our session will examine the lives of women from all social strata who dedicated themselves to the cause of American Independence.

The 250th anniversary of the American Revolution has sparked renewed interest in the causes of the war and the actions the patriots took during the early years of the conflict. Inaccurate historical accounts abound, perpetuating and expanding on stories while obscuring the truth. Robert Jacob will clarify it all, debunk some popular myths, and set the record straight.

From Coney Island to King's Island, Kennywood to Dollywood, Six Flags to Hersheypark, we'll look at the places that fulfilled our childhood thrills and lifelong memories. Colorful and nostalgic, this historic ride through the years is fun for everyone!

From Coney Island to King's Island, Kennywood to Dollywood, Six Flags to Hersheypark, we'll look at the places that fulfilled our childhood thrills and lifelong memories. Colorful and nostalgic, this historic ride through the years is fun for everyone!

An exploration of neon as both craft and cultural icon, tracing its origins, design, and role in shaping the visual identity of American cities and highways.

Current U.S. policies toward Latin America and the Caribbean have renewed debate about America's historical role in the region. This presentation focuses on contemporary policies toward Venezuela, Mexico, Colombia, Cuba, and other nations, while considering how earlier periods of U.S. engagement, including Dollar Diplomacy, military interventions, and the Good Neighbor era, provide historical context. Participants will explore differing perspectives on the implications for U.S. interests and regional relations.

Stephenie Slahor, PhD will highlight 26 inventions, one for each letter of the alphabet, and the stories and people behind them.

Led by a certified Zumba instructor, this introductory class is a low-impact, easy-to-follow dance fitness class designed for active older adults, beginners, or anyone seeking a fun, gentle workout. No dance experience required!

This talk examines revolutions in warfighting and trade chokepoints, alongside the geopolitical consequences of the American, French, English, Chinese, and Russian revolutions. Additionally, it explores the four Industrial Revolutions—tracing the arc from steam mechanization to modern AI connectivity—as well as major civil rights milestones and global faith revolutions.

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.

St. Petersburg in Florida has slowly but surely grown to be an art destination and has carved out a niche for itself that is quite unique in its state. Arriving in the city, you will notice an abundance of wonderful street art murals, an ongoing project which started in 2015. The Dali Museum houses an excellent collection of the Spanish Surrealist artist’s works in a beautiful building which references his paintings. There is also lots of glass art to be found, as for instance at the Chihuly Collection. The James Museum focuses on Western Art and then there is a brand new museum showcasing the American Arts and Crafts Movement. Besides the arts, there are also the beautifully designed parks and gardens, dating back to the city’s early history, all designed to make St. Pete stand out – we’ll take a close look at all it has to offer and the stories behind it!

St. Petersburg in Florida has slowly but surely grown to be an art destination and has carved out a niche for itself that is quite unique in its state. Arriving in the city, you will notice an abundance of wonderful street art murals, an ongoing project which started in 2015. The Dali Museum houses an excellent collection of the Spanish Surrealist artist’s works in a beautiful building which references his paintings. There is also lots of glass art to be found, as for instance at the Chihuly Collection. The James Museum focuses on Western Art and then there is a brand new museum showcasing the American Arts and Crafts Movement. Besides the arts, there are also the beautifully designed parks and gardens, dating back to the city’s early history, all designed to make St. Pete stand out – we’ll take a close look at all it has to offer and the stories behind it!

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.

Discover how to leverage smartwatches and advanced wearables to take charge of your health. You’ll learn to turn real-time data into personalized, proactive wellness insights while navigating critical privacy, security, and ethical challenges. 

We’re used to reading the body language of others—but what about our own? Just as we have the five senses that help us perceive the world, we have a vast internal network within that communicates to us through physical signals and sensations. In this hands-on, engaging workshop, you will explore how your body communicates with you and experiment with tools to develop a ""working vocabulary"" and ""fluency"" in your body's cues. Through guided activities and reflection, you’ll assess your current level of internal awareness, develop new tools for tuning in, and discover how embodied intelligence can enhance your personal and professional decision-making, problem-solving, creativity, and leadership of self and others.

An engaging and accessible introduction to classical music for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Learn how composers use melody, rhythm, harmony, and emotion to tell stories through music while exploring some of the most beloved works in the classical repertoire.

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.

 

J. Edgar Hoover was born in Washington D.C. in 1895 and never left. A lawyer by training he joined the Justice Department during World War I and by age 29 was running the Bureau of Investigation, the forerunner of the F.B.I. He served as its director until his 1972 death, amassing a personal power base that led many to claim he was the most powerful man in America. Though lauded for building the FBI into a world-class crime-fighting agency, after his death there were multiple revelations of his controversial and illegal actions that led to intimidation and coercion of some of the United States’ most noteworthy public figures, indiscretions that led to a change in the law limiting the Director of the agency to a maximum ten year term.

J. Edgar Hoover was born in Washington D.C. in 1895 and never left. A lawyer by training he joined the Justice Department during World War I and by age 29 was running the Bureau of Investigation, the forerunner of the F.B.I. He served as its director until his 1972 death, amassing a personal power base that led many to claim he was the most powerful man in America. Though lauded for building the FBI into a world-class crime-fighting agency, after his death there were multiple revelations of his controversial and illegal actions that led to intimidation and coercion of some of the United States’ most noteworthy public figures, indiscretions that led to a change in the law limiting the Director of the agency to a maximum ten year term.

Each week brings a fresh topic, lively debate, and the chance to explore new perspectives together.

If the Second Commandment forbids images, why are Christian churches full of art?  In this historical survey of Christian art, John Stewart will answer this question and show how the development of the Christian faith was reflected in the images it created, including the enormous influence of Greek and Roman art. As a docent and teacher at the Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, Stewart will also examine how Dalí’s religious fits into the history of Christian art.

If the Second Commandment forbids images, why are Christian churches full of art?  In this historical survey of Christian art, John Stewart will answer this question and show how the development of the Christian faith was reflected in the images it created, including the enormous influence of Greek and Roman art. As a docent and teacher at the Salvador Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, Stewart will also examine how Dalí’s religious fits into the history of Christian art.

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

Don't see the 'add to cart' button? Members must be logged into their account in order to register for these programs.

A look at the wildly varied films of director and writer Billy Wilder. In his fabled career he took on all film genres, from the gritty film noir of Double Indemnity to the rollicking 20's fun of Some Like It Hot, the poignant drama of The Lost Weekend to the frolics of Irma La Douce, or such gems as the comical The Seven Year Itch, the wartime of Stalag 17 and the sheer dramatic perfection of Sunset Boulevard. 

A look at the wildly varied films of director and writer Billy Wilder. In his fabled career he took on all film genres, from the gritty film noir of Double Indemnity to the rollicking 20's fun of Some Like It Hot, the poignant drama of The Lost Weekend to the frolics of Irma La Douce, or such gems as the comical The Seven Year Itch, the wartime of Stalag 17 and the sheer dramatic perfection of Sunset Boulevard. 

Each week brings a fresh topic, lively debate, and the chance to explore new perspectives together.

Come revisit the Renaissance; the rebirth of classical learning, humanism, and art that spread across Middle Ages Europe. Revolutionary styles of art, a new look at the crossroads of religion and science, and the daring explorers all joined to bring in a modern way of life. Meet the great ones like Leonardo da Vinci, Michaelangelo, and Isabella d’Este. How did this influential period of history come to be? The answers await you. 

What can dogs and elephants teach us about animal intelligence? Through examples from contemporary research, including studies conducted at Eckerd College and ZooTampa, Lauren Highfill explores cognition, cooperation, learning, and problem-solving in two highly social species. This presentation examines how scientists study animal minds and what these discoveries reveal about the evolution of intelligence.

This program explores the projects that shaped our region during the height of the Great Depression, like St. Pete City Hall and the Clearwater Post Office.

The pioneers of America’s movie business learned early on that success meant giving people what they wanted most: a good laugh. While the silent era produced many memorable solo comedians, producer Hal Roach changed the game in 1926 by pairing two of his comedy stalwarts in the same film. Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy became the blueprint for the iconic comedy teams that followed, from Abbott and Costello to the Three Stooges and the Marx Brothers. Driven by the hilarious juxtaposition of mismatched personalities and physical types, these duos brought film comedy to new heights. Our sessions will explore the lives, careers, and lasting legacies of these legendary merrymakers.

The pioneers of America’s movie business learned early on that success meant giving people what they wanted most: a good laugh. While the silent era produced many memorable solo comedians, producer Hal Roach changed the game in 1926 by pairing two of his comedy stalwarts in the same film. Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy became the blueprint for the iconic comedy teams that followed, from Abbott and Costello to the Three Stooges and the Marx Brothers. Driven by the hilarious juxtaposition of mismatched personalities and physical types, these duos brought film comedy to new heights. Our sessions will explore the lives, careers, and lasting legacies of these legendary merrymakers.

Don’t let the tourists have all the fun! Think of this class as your personal friend who's always finding new adventures. Whether you are a lifelong resident or new to the area, you'll discover new ways to love the communities surrounding Tampa Bay. What we'll explore:
Hidden Gems: Classic area restaurants and local favorites.Living History: Fun ways to experience our heritage, including walking and cigar factory tours. Day Trips: Perfect mini-getaways to explore just beyond your backyard. Join us and start checking items off your ultimate local bucket list!
 

Don’t let the tourists have all the fun! Think of this class as your personal friend who's always finding new adventures. Whether you are a lifelong resident or new to the area, you'll discover new ways to love the communities surrounding Tampa Bay. What we'll explore:
Hidden Gems: Classic area restaurants and local favorites.Living History: Fun ways to experience our heritage, including walking and cigar factory tours. Day Trips: Perfect mini-getaways to explore just beyond your backyard. Join us and start checking items off your ultimate local bucket list!
 

The Tuskegee Airmen were the first African American military pilots in U.S. history and became one of the most respected fighter groups of World War II. Despite facing segregation and discrimination, they proved their skill and courage in combat, challenging racial stereotypes within the military and across the nation.

Their success helped lead to the integration of the U.S. Armed Forces, influencing President Harry S. Truman to issue Executive Order 9981 in 1948, ending segregation in the military. The Tuskegee Airmen also inspired the broader Civil Rights Movement and became lasting symbols of equality, service, and perseverance in American society.

Each week brings a fresh topic, lively debate, and the chance to explore new perspectives together.

Discover Outsider Art: Explore “Art Brut,” a world of raw, authentic expression by passionate, self-taught creators. From Swiss master Adolf Wölfli to Southern visionaries like Minnie Evans and Mose Tolliver, see how these artists redefined conventional art.

Discover Outsider Art: Explore “Art Brut,” a world of raw, authentic expression by passionate, self-taught creators. From Swiss master Adolf Wölfli to Southern visionaries like Minnie Evans and Mose Tolliver, see how these artists redefined conventional art.

Journey through the fascinating history of classical music from the Renaissance to the modern era while exploring the people, places, artistic movements, and cultural changes that shaped its development. Through engaging stories, guided listening, and historical context, this course examines how composers responded to the worlds around them—from the grandeur of royal courts and cathedrals to the revolutions, philosophies, and artistic movements that transformed Western culture over centuries. Participants will gain a deeper appreciation for major composers and musical styles while discovering how music connects to history, art, religion, and society. Designed for both newcomers and longtime music lovers, this course offers an accessible and enriching exploration of the enduring - and adapting - power of classical music.
 

World War II produced a number of remarkable generals, including two standouts: General George S. Patton of the U.S. Army and Field Marshal Erwin Rommel of the German Army. Their World War I experiences shaped their innovative approaches to warfare and redefined how modern armies operated. Patton and Rommel famously faced one another in North Africa and later in France. Both were masterful commanders, skilled leaders, and bold innovators. This course explores the lives, strategies, and legacies of these two extraordinary World War II generals.

World War II produced a number of remarkable generals, including two standouts: General George S. Patton of the U.S. Army and Field Marshal Erwin Rommel of the German Army. Their World War I experiences shaped their innovative approaches to warfare and redefined how modern armies operated. Patton and Rommel famously faced one another in North Africa and later in France. Both were masterful commanders, skilled leaders, and bold innovators. This course explores the lives, strategies, and legacies of these two extraordinary World War II generals.

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.

Integrating responsive robotics into healthcare presents immense opportunities and unique challenges. Advancements in AI and machine learning now enable the development of sophisticated care robots that interact with patients meaningfully. This course explores how these technologies provide emotional support, monitor health conditions, and assist with rehabilitation in both hospital and home settings.

Think you know everything about Pirates? The facts are that the historical record on pirates is vague, contradictory, and rarely accurate. Digging deep into the true history of the Golden Age of Piracy and those who lived this life, Robert Jacob has unearthed a treasure of information that allows you to see, feel, and experience the true life and motivation of pirates in their Golden Age, from the rise of the Buccaneers on Tortuga, to the death of The Great Pirate Roberts. Pirate myths and traditions will also be discussed. 

Each week brings a fresh topic, lively debate, and the chance to explore new perspectives together.

At the forefront of women’s Expressionist art was German artist Gabriele Münter, who for a time shared her 'Blue House' in Murnau, near Munich, with Russian painter Wassily Kandinsky. Her work was inspired by her partnership with Kandinsky, as well as the vivid palettes of Gauguin and the Fauves. Munter's vibrant canvases also drew heavily from local folk art, including traditional tole and reverse-glass painting.

At the forefront of women’s Expressionist art was German artist Gabriele Münter, who for a time shared her 'Blue House' in Murnau, near Munich, with Russian painter Wassily Kandinsky. Her work was inspired by her partnership with Kandinsky, as well as the vivid palettes of Gauguin and the Fauves. Munter's vibrant canvases also drew heavily from local folk art, including traditional tole and reverse-glass painting.

Come for the history, stay for the mystery! In this engaging, multi-layered talk, playwright Margo Hammond returns to share the secrets behind her second play, Fowl Play: Murder at Sunken Gardens. Part historical deep-dive and part masterclass in stagecraft, this lecture offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at transforming real local history into a compelling, comedic stage mystery. Whether you’re a theater lover or a Florida history buff, you'll walk away with practical insights into the play development process, and a deeper appreciation for St. Petersburg’s ecological history.

Come for the history, stay for the mystery! In this engaging, multi-layered talk, playwright Margo Hammond returns to share the secrets behind her second play, Fowl Play: Murder at Sunken Gardens. Part historical deep-dive and part masterclass in stagecraft, this lecture offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at transforming real local history into a compelling, comedic stage mystery. Whether you’re a theater lover or a Florida history buff, you'll walk away with practical insights into the play development process, and a deeper appreciation for St. Petersburg’s ecological history.

Meet the cryptids of Florida in this 90-minute talk of legends, including clips from films about and firsthand accounts of our Florida-only mythic creatures.

This talk analyzes the second Trump administration’s domestic and foreign policy. We examine executive power concentration, Project 2025, border security, and economic nationalism via tariffs, inflation tactics, and jobs reshoring. It further explores national security, tech/energy independence, and how transactional isolationism reshapes global alliances and the liberal world order.

Vincent van Gogh’s The Starry Night is arguably MoMA’s most beloved treasure, a painting many seek out for its inspiration and magic. In this course, we will take a closer look at this masterpiece, decoding its symbolism and exploring the earlier artists who influenced van Gogh's composition.

Beyond The Starry Night, we will tour MoMA’s collection to discover how other modern masters captured the night sky, including:

Henri Rousseau’s The Sleeping Gypsy

Paul Gauguin’s The Moon and the Earth

Robert Delaunay’s Simultaneous Contrasts, Sun and Moon

Marc Chagall’s I and the Village

Georgia O’Keeffe’s Evening Star

Modern artists looked at the moon and stars in incredibly diverse ways—as a heavenly sphere, a romantic enchanter, a light source, or a geometric shape. The comparisons are bound to spark fascinating discussions!

Vincent van Gogh’s The Starry Night is arguably MoMA’s most beloved treasure, a painting many seek out for its inspiration and magic. In this course, we will take a closer look at this masterpiece, decoding its symbolism and exploring the earlier artists who influenced van Gogh's composition.

Beyond The Starry Night, we will tour MoMA’s collection to discover how other modern masters captured the night sky, including:

Henri Rousseau’s The Sleeping Gypsy

Paul Gauguin’s The Moon and the Earth

Robert Delaunay’s Simultaneous Contrasts, Sun and Moon

Marc Chagall’s I and the Village

Georgia O’Keeffe’s Evening Star

Modern artists looked at the moon and stars in incredibly diverse ways—as a heavenly sphere, a romantic enchanter, a light source, or a geometric shape. The comparisons are bound to spark fascinating discussions!

This talk explores the 813 Effect and what truly makes Tampa distinct. From history and neighborhoods to culture, economy, and attitude, this talk explains why Tampa developed differently from other Florida cities—and why it still matters.

This talk explores the 813 Effect and what truly makes Tampa distinct. From history and neighborhoods to culture, economy, and attitude, this talk explains why Tampa developed differently from other Florida cities—and why it still matters.