PROGRAM SCHEDULE   

​Join professional magician Tony Blake for a fun, interactive workshop and discover the secrets of sleight of hand! This class teaches easy-to-learn magic tricks designed not just to amaze, but to challenge your mind and body in a unique way.

​You'll learn specific techniques that are a fantastic way to improve dexterity, increase your range of motion, and boost circulation in your hands. The discrete, repetitive motions of magic are an engaging way to enhance hand-eye coordination and sharpen your cognitive skills. Get ready to have fun, learn baffling illusions, and give your hands and brain a great workout!

Frank Lloyd Wright, America’s most famous architect, left a lasting mark on design. In 2019, eight of his buildings were named UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This class explores his life, career, and groundbreaking architectural legacy through these masterpieces.

After World War I, Germany gave rise to the artistic movement New Objectivity (Neue Sachlichkeit). Artists associated with this movement served in the German army or were directly affected by the war; their experiences deeply influenced their world views and their art. They became disillusioned and cynical as German politics shifted to the right. Their aim was to present a clear-eyed, direct and honest image of the war and its effects. This class will discuss the artwork of George Grosz, Otto Dix, Max Beckman, and others whose art focused on the horrors of war, social hypocrisy, moral decadence, the plight of the poor, and the rise of rise of Nazism.

After World War I, Germany gave rise to the artistic movement New Objectivity (Neue Sachlichkeit). Artists associated with this movement served in the German army or were directly affected by the war; their experiences deeply influenced their world views and their art. They became disillusioned and cynical as German politics shifted to the right. Their aim was to present a clear-eyed, direct and honest image of the war and its effects. This class will discuss the artwork of George Grosz, Otto Dix, Max Beckman, and others whose art focused on the horrors of war, social hypocrisy, moral decadence, the plight of the poor, and the rise of rise of Nazism.

Explore the social lives of this fabulously, wealthy, landed aristocracy.  From how to enter a dining room correctly to the subtle cues given by a hostess across a dinner table, this world was highly choreographed. At the same time, these weekend parties required enormous numbers of footmen, maids, and kitchen staff in order to serve these guests. Learn about the lives of the domestic staff as we take a peek downstairs.  The years between 1860 and 1914 were the “golden age” of the English country house. 3% of the population owned 80%  of the land. The Dukes of Devonshire, the Rothschilds, and the Churchills amongst others hosted week-end parties for other members of Britain’s elite, although the term “week-end” was considered a vulgar Americanism.

Explore the seven sacred spaces Frank Lloyd Wright created for various faiths. Discover how his innovative designs shaped inspiring places of worship and reflected his belief in harmony between structure and spirit.

Explore the seven sacred spaces Frank Lloyd Wright created for various faiths. Discover how his innovative designs shaped inspiring places of worship and reflected his belief in harmony between structure and spirit.

How do tariffs, trade policies, Trade Wars, disrupted global supply chains, and global tensions affect the prices we pay, the products we buy, and the economy we depend on? In this timely and interactive presentation, PhD and U.S. Licensed Customs Broker Cheryl McCloud, and retired attorney Ron Weaver explain how global trade has evolved—and where it may be headed next. We’ll explore current challenges, emerging trends, and what they mean for businesses, consumers, and communities here at home.

From floods to fires, climate events now cost billions yearly. This course uncovers their impact and examines energy sectors racing to curb warming.

This four-session series focuses on what we, as responsible citizens of the planet, can do to help fight climate change and environmental degradation. After briefly outlining the challenges, possible solutions are discussed. Organizations leading the way in addressing these challenges are highlighted. Practical steps we can take, both as individuals and as members of society, are presented.

1. Renewable Energy and Smart Grids
Today, solar energy production facilities are cheaper to build and maintain than their fossil-fuel counterparts. Artificial intelligence (AI) demands an incredible amount of energy, and unless we follow the footsteps of countries such as China and invest heavily in renewable energy, we risk becoming uncompetitive in the AI arena or paying dearly for power. The costs and benefits of investing in solar, wind, and other renewable energy resources, as well as developing smart grids, will be debated.
(Suggested reading: No Impact Man by Colin Beaven, also a documentary film.)

2. Transportation
We are undoubtedly a car-dependent society. The most popular vehicles in the U.S. today are gas-guzzling trucks and SUVs. Meanwhile, citizens in other developed countries are increasingly turning to electric vehicles and high-speed electric train networks. What needs to happen in the U.S. to reduce the number and size of private combustion engines, create a robust EV infrastructure, improve public transportation, and build an attractive high-speed electric rail network?
(Suggested reading: Limits to Growth: The 30-Year Update by Donella Meadows.)

3. Food: Local, Organic, and Composting
Everybody eats. What we eat, how we eat, and where our food is produced all play a major role in our carbon footprint. Some advocate reducing red meat consumption, particularly beef, which is environmentally inefficient and emits significant amounts of climate-warming methane. Others, such as Michael Pollan, argue that meat production can be environmentally responsible and that organically grown produce alone is not the solution. We explore these perspectives and the environmental benefits of changing our diets.
(Recommended reading: The Omnivore’s Dilemma by Michael Pollan.)

4. Consumption
Plastics are everywhere. Many of us remember when glass and cardboard containers dominated packaging. Recycling has become more common worldwide, but it presents environmental challenges of its own. We are a consumption-based society and, despite the growing popularity of secondhand shops, often discard items rather than repair them. Buying new things can feel good—but can we consume less and still be prosperous and happy? What are the limits to growth, and can consumption ever be environmentally beneficial?
(Recommended reading: The Power of Half by Kevin and Hannah Salwen.)

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.

The Hosmer Morse Museum in Wintergarten (near Orlando) houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, including his famous chapel designed for the Chicago World’s Fair of 1893 and surviving elements from his LI estate, Laurelton Hall. The brand new American Museum of the Arts and Crafts Movement in St Petersburg, founded by Rudy Ciccarello, has a very broad collection of fine and decorative arts, but also exquisite Pictorialist photography by leading American artists, as well as some complete interiors. The Wolfsonian Museum in Miami is noteworthy as well, with its fine collection of decorative arts. Our architectural focus will be the extraordinary campus of Florida Southern College, which comprises the largest grouping of Frank Lloyd Wright buildings, especially designed for this setting, referencing the preexisting orange groves and the colors of Floridian flora. Buildings include a library, two chapels, and even a planetarium.

The Hosmer Morse Museum in Wintergarten (near Orlando) houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, including his famous chapel designed for the Chicago World’s Fair of 1893 and surviving elements from his LI estate, Laurelton Hall. The brand new American Museum of the Arts and Crafts Movement in St Petersburg, founded by Rudy Ciccarello, has a very broad collection of fine and decorative arts, but also exquisite Pictorialist photography by leading American artists, as well as some complete interiors. The Wolfsonian Museum in Miami is noteworthy as well, with its fine collection of decorative arts. Our architectural focus will be the extraordinary campus of Florida Southern College, which comprises the largest grouping of Frank Lloyd Wright buildings, especially designed for this setting, referencing the preexisting orange groves and the colors of Floridian flora. Buildings include a library, two chapels, and even a planetarium.

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.

Somewhere down life's road, you figured that the older you got, the less stress you would have.  Funny how things don't always turn out that way!  What are your stressors now?  Are you handling them as well as you could?  Managing our stress is critical for the healthy life we all want to lead.  This class will encourage you to not just identify the stress factors in your life, but also discover effective ways of dealing with them.

Ancient Egyptians relied on hundreds of gods and goddesses, depicted in human and animal forms. Meet Osiris, Isis, Hathor, Anubis, and others who shaped creation, daily life, religion, and the afterlife in a civilization that still fascinates us.

Discover the remarkable women who shaped Florida’s history—from pioneers on the frontier to journalists who drove social and environmental change. This 90-minute talk celebrates the fearless women who made the Sunshine State truly spectacular.

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.

Led by a certified Zumba instructor, Zumba Gold is a low-impact, easy-to-follow dance fitness class designed for active older adults, beginners, or anyone seeking a fun, gentle workout. Set to lively Latin and international rhythms, it combines simple dance moves with light cardio, stretching, and toning to boost balance, flexibility, and heart health—all at a comfortable pace.

Led by a certified yoga instructor, Gentle Flow Yoga is perfect for those looking to build flexibility and deepen their breath awareness at a comfortable pace. This structured sequence features carefully selected poses that flow smoothly without straining muscles or joints, making it suitable for both beginners and intermediate students. The focus is on connecting movement with breath, promoting balance, relaxation, and overall well-being.

Journey through the history of great comedic teams, examining how partnerships shaped styles of humor and left a lasting mark on stage, screen, and popular culture.

Journey through the history of great comedic teams, examining how partnerships shaped styles of humor and left a lasting mark on stage, screen, and popular culture.

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.

 

Most recent Presidents have had a “little White House,” a place where they could stay from time to time in order to rest and work peacefully.  Camp David, the Eisenhower little White House, is perhaps the best known.  Less well known is President Truman’s little White House, located on the Key West naval base.  Truman visited it often during his seven-year presidency.    This presentation looks at the major decisions Truman planned during his time in Key West, as well as the fascinating history of the Key West naval base since the time the island became U.S. territory in the 1820s.  The Truman Little White House in Key West is now a State of Florida museum.

Most recent Presidents have had a “little White House,” a place where they could stay from time to time in order to rest and work peacefully.  Camp David, the Eisenhower little White House, is perhaps the best known.  Less well known is President Truman’s little White House, located on the Key West naval base.  Truman visited it often during his seven-year presidency.    This presentation looks at the major decisions Truman planned during his time in Key West, as well as the fascinating history of the Key West naval base since the time the island became U.S. territory in the 1820s.  The Truman Little White House in Key West is now a State of Florida museum.

This is a class for ongoing students of pastel painting or for the amateur artists in every medium. Explore a medium where color is pure and strong and missteps are easily corrected. Each student will work in his/her artistic style of choice while at the same time studying new pastel techniques that can capture motion, the sparkle of light, and mood. We will consider: What makes composition work? How important is the color of background paper? A few minutes in each class will be spent talking about pastels in history. This class will experiment with using different surfaces and explore using many methods of pastel painting.

This updated class explores the newest features and uses of Artificial Intelligence and ChatGPT, offering clear explanations, demonstrations, and practical guidance in a senior-friendly format.

Led by a certified Essentrics instructor, this dynamic, full-body stretching and strengthening class is designed to improve joint mobility, increase flexibility, relieve pain, and boost energy and vitality. Set to music, it combines fluid movement with mindful stretching to help restore your body’s natural range of motion—please wear comfortable attire and bring a mat, towel, and stretching band.

Stay informed on the latest developments from the current U.S. Supreme Court term in this engaging session led by Louis Virelli from the Stetson University College of Law. Explore key cases, emerging legal trends, and the most significant decisions on the docket, with expert insight into how they may shape the future of American law.

So many writing projects! Memoirs, essays, plays, poetry, short stories, screenwriting, novels and non-fiction books. Writing can be a lonely process. But with a supportive group, it isn't near as frustrating. This is an opportunity to read your work, listen to the feedback and continue on your way as a happy, fulfilled writer. Plus, there's weekly how-to instruction on getting the creative process in a productive gear. Come to learn and share. It's all about the story.

Celebrate the timeless talent of Dick Van Dyke! Explore his remarkable career, unforgettable characters, and enduring impact on television and film. Enjoy clips, stories, and insights into the charm, humor, and resilience that made him an American icon.

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

Celebrate the timeless talent of Dick Van Dyke! Explore his remarkable career, unforgettable characters, and enduring impact on television and film. Enjoy clips, stories, and insights into the charm, humor, and resilience that made him an American icon.

Racism and fear once drove the incarceration of 125,000 Japanese Americans during World War II. Today’s immigration crisis shows troubling similarities. A third-generation Japanese American examines these parallels and why remembering the past is essential to prevent a repeat.

More than any other factor, modern America was shaped by those who took the phrase “The American Dream” literally and made the most of the opportunities that free enterprise and the lack of government intervention offered. Revered by some and reviled by others, their names are well known: John D. Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie, Cornelius Vanderbilt, J.P. Morgan, Henry Ford and others. Were they Captains of Industry or Robber Barons? The truth lies somewhere in the middle. This class will explore their fascinating lives and careers as each contributed to shaping America as we know it today.

More than any other factor, modern America was shaped by those who took the phrase “The American Dream” literally and made the most of the opportunities that free enterprise and the lack of government intervention offered. Revered by some and reviled by others, their names are well known: John D. Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie, Cornelius Vanderbilt, J.P. Morgan, Henry Ford and others. Were they Captains of Industry or Robber Barons? The truth lies somewhere in the middle. This class will explore their fascinating lives and careers as each contributed to shaping America as we know it today.

Traveling with an aging loved one can be meaningful but also challenging. This presentation equips caregivers and spouses with practical travel strategies to support older adults safely and comfortably. Learn how to plan ahead, navigate airports, anticipate mobility and emotional needs, and reduce stress for everyone involved. Gain confidence in helping your loved one enjoy smoother, safer, and more enjoyable travel experiences.

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.

Introduction to essential information about the Holocaust. Provides theological, social and political background to establish contexts of anti-Semitism, especially in 19th and 20th centuries, with particular attention to National Socialist ideologies. Ghetto and camp life, including resistance, are explored. Emphasis is on texts of the Holocaust, including historical documents, participant testimonies, fiction, creative non-fiction, and poetry, much of which involves theological and moral debate.

In our solar system there are giants. Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune and Uranus are truly massive worlds with moons of every shape and size. The exploration of these worlds which started with the telescope continues today with spacecraft. Each one of these worlds has been visited by spacecraft and we've even sent a spacecraft to Pluto. The exploration of these worlds has opened up the eyes of humanity to new possibilities not only in our solar system but in others. This course will be about the exploration of the giants of our solar system and a minor world called Pluto.

In our solar system there are giants. Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune and Uranus are truly massive worlds with moons of every shape and size. The exploration of these worlds which started with the telescope continues today with spacecraft. Each one of these worlds has been visited by spacecraft and we've even sent a spacecraft to Pluto. The exploration of these worlds has opened up the eyes of humanity to new possibilities not only in our solar system but in others. This course will be about the exploration of the giants of our solar system and a minor world called Pluto.

In Jacksonville, the Ninah Cummer Museum of Art is a hidden gem with a strong collection of modern European and American art, including outstanding works by famous muralist Eugene Savage, who, starting in the mid 30s traveled through Florida’s Everglades to illustrate Seminole life. Ralph Hubbart Norton (Acme Steel) and his wife Elizabeth established another exquisite art collection, with strong holdings in European and American Modern Art, situated in West Palm Beach. At the same time Miami made architectural history, becoming one of the most intriguing centers of Art Deco, including WPA murals. Arguably one of the most outstanding US collections in Modern Art is The Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, housed in a Surrealist-inspired building, containing the magnificent collection of Reynolds and Eleanor Morse, who were friends with Dalí and purchased some of his most important masterpieces. 

In Jacksonville, the Ninah Cummer Museum of Art is a hidden gem with a strong collection of modern European and American art, including outstanding works by famous muralist Eugene Savage, who, starting in the mid 30s traveled through Florida’s Everglades to illustrate Seminole life. Ralph Hubbart Norton (Acme Steel) and his wife Elizabeth established another exquisite art collection, with strong holdings in European and American Modern Art, situated in West Palm Beach. At the same time Miami made architectural history, becoming one of the most intriguing centers of Art Deco, including WPA murals. Arguably one of the most outstanding US collections in Modern Art is The Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, housed in a Surrealist-inspired building, containing the magnificent collection of Reynolds and Eleanor Morse, who were friends with Dalí and purchased some of his most important masterpieces. 

Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubenstein created the cosmetics industry. Strong women who were visionaries, willful and fiercely competitive, they were arch rivals on every level. Discover their personal stories and revolutionary contributions.

Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubenstein created the cosmetics industry. Strong women who were visionaries, willful and fiercely competitive, they were arch rivals on every level. Discover their personal stories and revolutionary contributions.

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

With the Trump administration now more than a year into its term—and facing unprecedented legal challenges—this class will examine how those challenges are progressing in the courts. Susan Hoffman will attempt an unbiased overview of the key cases and their current status. 

The United States has found itself in a war with Iran, and the consequences for alliance structures, global institutions, and relationships among nations with America may be far-reaching. The conflict was not forced upon the United States, and the decisions that have taken America into this expensive and violent policy threaten democracy.

Margaret Thatcher, the “Iron Lady” of British politics, who set her country on a rightward economic course, led it to victory in the Falklands war and helped guide the United States and the Soviet Union through the cold war’s difficult last years, is considered, alongside Churchill, Britain's greatest prime minister. From her passion for free markets to her role as the West's first female political leader, Margaret Thatcher was loved and loathed in equal measure. Join me as we explore the life and times of this fascinating political leader.

Explore the life of Samuel Adams—Jefferson’s “truest revolutionary.” A poor but powerful voice of the people, Adams rose from the streets to shape independence. This discussion class examines his overlooked legacy, ideals, and influence on America’s founding.

You may not have a choice about aging but you do have a choice about how you approach growing older. What better way than fearlessly? Fearless aging is the power to positively impact your future. This class explores the normal, natural processes of aging—physical and lifestyle—and what you can do to markedly improve the quality of your life. Discover what you can expect and lifestyle choices that will help you make the most of what you’ve got as you age. Let’s explore the inevitable forces to change in your life and be fearless!

As we age, our nutritional needs change. This class explores the best (and worst) foods for healthy aging, when vitamins or supplements may help, and why nutrition matters for longevity. Bring your questions for an informative, practical discussion.

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

Artists with a message have long shaped how we see art and the world around us. This lecture explores influential late-20th-century and contemporary artists whose work challenges, provokes, and inspires. Encounter projects by figures such as Andy Warhol, Maya Lin, Faith Ringgold, Nick Cave, Judy Chicago, and Kara Walker, and join a discussion on how their ideas continue to shape a new generation of art and artists.

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.

Get an inside look at the St. Pete–Clearwater Airport in this State of the Airport update. Learn about its history, current operations, air service, facilities, and upcoming plans shaping the airport’s future.

Get an inside look at the St. Pete–Clearwater Airport in this State of the Airport update. Learn about its history, current operations, air service, facilities, and upcoming plans shaping the airport’s future.

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.

Join some of Eckerd College's Licensed Mental Health Counselors and Interns for a series of workshops aimed toward improving your mind-body-soul connection. Themes within each topic will include navigating life transitions, managing caregiver fatigue, grief and isolation through the perspectives of the mind, body and soul. Each session will include education and strategies related to stimulating, strengthening and nourishing these aspects of your overall well-being.

Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor Tampa Bay, Boca Ciega Bay has been a lifeline for Pinellas residents for thousands of years. As the islands surrounding it were settled various bridges were built by some of the region's well known leaders. New islands were created that forever altered the ecosystem of the bay, and today it is the "front lawn" for many high rise condominiums. This lecture will dive into the history of Boca Ciega Bay, the bridges that span it, and the role it played in developing and promoting lower Pinellas.

Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor Tampa Bay, Boca Ciega Bay has been a lifeline for Pinellas residents for thousands of years. As the islands surrounding it were settled various bridges were built by some of the region's well known leaders. New islands were created that forever altered the ecosystem of the bay, and today it is the "front lawn" for many high rise condominiums. This lecture will dive into the history of Boca Ciega Bay, the bridges that span it, and the role it played in developing and promoting lower Pinellas.

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

The business of horse racing generates billions and supports thousands of jobs. Just in time for the Kentucky Derby, this class explores how horses are trained, tracks are run, and the legends and traditions that define the sport.

Discover the joy of acrylic flow painting, even if you doubt your artistic ability. This method focuses on applying mixed acrylic paints in unique patterns on canvas. Watch your creation evolve through manipulation, resulting in an unexpected masterpiece that’s truly yours. Unleash your creativity and embrace the fun and messiness of this delightful painting adventure. All materials are provided for a one-time $20 supply fee.

Join Dr. Susan Robinson for a discussion of an opera. What is the story? Who was the composer? Who were the collaborators and what was their musical and dramatic approach to the source material? Find out this and more in a 90-minute discussion that prepares us for an upcoming Metropolitan Opera: Live in HD presentation at Eckerd College.

What Washington began, John Adams would try to continue – was he up to the task?  The discussion oriented 2 session course, analyzes the still young nation and the ability of its government to grow and adapt.

What Washington began, John Adams would try to continue – was he up to the task?  The discussion oriented 2 session course, analyzes the still young nation and the ability of its government to grow and adapt.

During World War I, a new machine changed the battlefield—the tank. Trench warfare had made offensive operations nearly impossible, but thanks to an American tractor design and Winston Churchill’s support, the British Army introduced tanks. In World War II, Germany built entire military formations around them, known as Panzer or armored divisions. During the Cold War, tanks faced new challenges and opportunities. This course explores the history of the tank—its origins, purpose, and how it has helped shape military victories.

During World War I, a new machine changed the battlefield—the tank. Trench warfare had made offensive operations nearly impossible, but thanks to an American tractor design and Winston Churchill’s support, the British Army introduced tanks. In World War II, Germany built entire military formations around them, known as Panzer or armored divisions. During the Cold War, tanks faced new challenges and opportunities. This course explores the history of the tank—its origins, purpose, and how it has helped shape military victories.

Join Dr. Susan Robinson for a discussion of an opera. What is the story? Who was the composer? Who were the collaborators and what was their musical and dramatic approach to the source material? Find out this and more in a 90-minute discussion that prepares us for an upcoming Metropolitan Opera: Live in HD presentation at Eckerd College.

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.