PROGRAM SCHEDULE   

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.

Celebrate five decades of The Rocky Horror Picture Show with a look back at the film’s outrageous origins, unforgettable characters, and the midnight movie tradition it inspired.

Celebrate five decades of The Rocky Horror Picture Show with a look back at the film’s outrageous origins, unforgettable characters, and the midnight movie tradition it inspired.

This program traces the evolution of encryption by the Egyptians, Persians, Greeks, British and Scotch royalty; unique use by Native Americans; Revolutionary and Civil War Leaders and Spies; how it brought America into WWI; the role it played prior to and during WWII; Navajo Code Talking, and including today's encipherment techniques used by the CIA and other Foreign Intelligence Services and their spies worldwide.

Celebrate the irreverent genius of Mel Brooks, whose fearless humor and unforgettable films—from The Producers to Young Frankenstein—redefined American comedy. This class explores his career as a writer, director, performer, and cultural icon, as well as the sharp wit and heart that make his work timeless.

Read and Discuss Articles from The New Yorker magazine unless otherwise noted below.

Have you ever been in a healthcare situation where you wished you had someone to stand beside you and advocate for you or for a loved one? Learn how to communicate on behalf of yourself, or as a wingman for someone else, to successfully navigate our complex healthcare system. Join us as we go behind the scenes to explore techniques, strategies, and tools to use in both outpatient and hospital settings. Learn tips from a Board Certified Patient Advocate and leave with helpful handouts to prepare for your next health care encounter. Come prepared to listen, question, participate, and learn in a supportive group environment.

From the NCAA Final Four and the Super Bowl to the Division III baseball championships and pro beach volleyball, few communities compare to Tampa Bay Area when it comes to hosting sporting events. Learn what it takes to successfully host a major sports activity and find out about the economic impact of sports marketing.

Following the Vietnam War, the United States launched efforts to counter radar-guided weapons. In the 1970s, a groundbreaking project began—one that would ultimately produce aircraft with radar signatures as small as an insect's. This innovation led to a new generation of stealth aircraft capable of evading detection, reshaping modern air combat. Today, the U.S. is no longer alone; nations around the world are developing their own stealth technologies. The advent of stealth has proven to be a remarkable achievement with lasting global impact.

Following the Vietnam War, the United States launched efforts to counter radar-guided weapons. In the 1970s, a groundbreaking project began—one that would ultimately produce aircraft with radar signatures as small as an insect's. This innovation led to a new generation of stealth aircraft capable of evading detection, reshaping modern air combat. Today, the U.S. is no longer alone; nations around the world are developing their own stealth technologies. The advent of stealth has proven to be a remarkable achievement with lasting global impact.

In this workshop you will imagine and construct a secret garden through the art of collage. After a slide show of images from two recent exhibits that combine nature and art —  “Reimagining Nature: Dalí’s Floral Fantasies” at the Dalí Museum and "Threads of Nature," an exhibit of fiber artists inspired by the Florida Botanical Garden at The Gallery at Creative Pinellas -- you will be invited to create your own botanical vision on paper, using garden-related magazine clippings and glue that will be provided. No prior experience with collage is necessary. Just bring your sense of fun and wild imagination.

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.

Rather than focus on the development of the war in France and Belgium, this course will examine life on the home front in Britain from 1914-1918. This course will explore the role of women in the factories and the fields, the conscription of men to the front, the food shortages as well as the part played by conscientious objectors.

Unlike traditional AI tools that need human direction, Agentic AI in Healthcare involves the use of autonomous AI agents capable of independent action and decision-making to support or even perform healthcare tasks.

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.

Ever heard of Frogs? How about Sharkansas Women’s Prison? This fun look at Florida’s relationship to some of the (often intentionally) worst science fiction movies showcases Florida’s B-movie glory, starting with Creature From the Black Lagoon and moving through not-quite-classic sci-fi “masterpieces” like Devil Fish and 2-Headed Shark.

These lectures, based on a newly published book of that title by Distinguished University Professor Emeritus, Robert Weisberg, will address why just about everything that we experience on Earth is owing to the movement of the ocean's waters, the ocean's circulation. They will begin with fundamental aspects of climate and ecology before delving into specific applications of interest to all who live along Florida's west coast.

Read and Discuss Articles from The New Yorker magazine unless otherwise noted below.

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.

Florida is home to countless historic hotels, many of which are still welcoming guests today. This updated class takes you on a journey through some of the state’s oldest and most storied inns—rich in charm, character, and history. And since it’s Halloween, don’t be surprised if a haunted tale or two makes an appearance along the way..

Florida is home to countless historic hotels, many of which are still welcoming guests today. This updated class takes you on a journey through some of the state’s oldest and most storied inns—rich in charm, character, and history. And since it’s Halloween, don’t be surprised if a haunted tale or two makes an appearance along the way..

If you have Acrylic Flow Art painting experience and are able to mix paints and complete flow paintings independently, this special interest group is for you. Practice your techniques, obtain guidance from facilitators,  and enjoy some fellowship with other OLLI acrylic flow painters. No formal instruction provided.

Learn more here:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1JGqxaALbaoqQlW8cgnbgcqwoKGf_edlD?usp=sharing

Come with your own canvas and paint materials or just bring any size canvas and for a small materials fee and use the paints and additives provided by the facilitator. (The fee will be paid directly in cash at the time of the SIG and will vary from artist to artist based on the amount of colors, quality of paints selected and the overall size of your canvas. See below for more information.)

During the session, painting tools and materials (pallet knives, tweezers, torches, spinners, chains, gloves, paper towels, mixing cups, etc) will be available for use. In addition, a ‘sealing’ station with Minwax Polycrylic Sealer will be available to seal fully dried paintings from your previous OLLI Flow Art classes. Due to the size of Room CE-309, each date of this SIG will be limited to twelve (12) registrants.

Materials Fee: If you are electing to purchase mixed acrylic paint and additives for your canvas instead of bringing your own, the cost will be based upon the size of your canvas in square inches and technique(s) you plan to apply. (Approximately $1 - $1.50 per ounce)

For example:  A 16” x 20” canvas (320 square inches of surface canvas) with ½” depth edges (18 square inches of edge canvas) will have a total surface to be painted of 336 square inches.  The 336 square inches will require approximately 13 ounces of paint (335/25) resulting in a paint cost of between $13 and $20.50.

Take a nostalgic stroll through Halloween on the small screen, with memorable clips from classic television specials, sitcoms, and dramas that capture the spirit of the season.

Take a nostalgic stroll through Halloween on the small screen, with memorable clips from classic television specials, sitcoms, and dramas that capture the spirit of the season.

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.

The All-Access E-Class Pass to learning with OLLI offers unlimited access to e-classes (online) hosted on OLLI's video conferencing platform (Zoom) during a designated term.*

To receive proper member discounting, the Class Pass session dates must not exceed your membership renewal date.

I registered for the pass, do I need to also register for each class I want to attend?

• No! Just register for the pass and we will do the rest. Each week, OLLI will send Zoom information for each eligible class and you decide if you want to join or wait for the next opportunity.

Visit our frequently asked questions page linked here for more details and refund information. *Unless otherwise noted.

Sharks, satire, and sheer madness! Dive into the cinematic gems of 1975—Jaws, Rocky Horror, Cuckoo’s Nest, and more—as they hit the big 5-0. Explore why these bold, bizarre, and brilliant movies still pack a punch 50 years later.

Sharks, satire, and sheer madness! Dive into the cinematic gems of 1975—Jaws, Rocky Horror, Cuckoo’s Nest, and more—as they hit the big 5-0. Explore why these bold, bizarre, and brilliant movies still pack a punch 50 years later.

You may not have to worry about snow in the Florida Wintertime, but the season does come with more than just sunshine! In this session, Jennifer Hubbard, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Ruskin, will discuss winter cold fronts and the potential severe weather that they can bring to the state, how El Nino and La Nina patterns impact the state in wintertime, and with it being Florida's dry season, how that impacts fire weather and potential drought conditions. 
 

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.

 

You may not have to worry about snow in the Florida Wintertime, but the season does come with more than just sunshine! In this session, Jennifer Hubbard, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Ruskin, will discuss winter cold fronts and the potential severe weather that they can bring to the state, how El Nino and La Nina patterns impact the state in wintertime, and with it being Florida's dry season, how that impacts fire weather and potential drought conditions. 
 

Uncover your artistic ability and find sources of new inspiration. Even if you have no experience as an artist you can discover the joy of creating and capturing beauty on paper. Pastels are quick, inexpensive and a forgiving medium that requires only a box of colors, a pad of paper and a table and chair. As a newcomer you will be taught all the basic techniques. Subjects will range from simple seascapes to more detailed landscapes, still life, and florals. In time you will find your own unique style. At the end of each class we all look upon the positives in each creation.

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.

Learn how to detect, deter, and defend against identity theft from a Pinellas County Consumer Protection Investigator.

This workshop for experienced poets who have been honing their craft and for those ready to re-ignite their writing practice in a workshop environment. It’s not a “how-to” class, but a supportive, peer-led group focused on sharing work and offering constructive, thoughtful feedback. Open to members only.

Enjoy a behind the scenes look at Raymond James Stadium. Your tour will take you to a Stadium club luxury suite, Hall of Fame Club, the famous pirate ship, the team locker room, the University of South Florida Home Team locker room, the field and more!!

*Please note the tour route is subject to change based on stadium operations

Take a meditative journey to connect to yourself on a deeper level, stimulate your brain and learn how to tame the mind through a variety of meditative, stress relief and breathing techniques. Explore the benefits of meditation and create a practice that fits your lifestyle. We will delve into specific practices to neutralize the negative effects of stress, learn how to be more mindful and amplify gratitude, self-love and acceptance. Includes experiential, lecture and discussion.

This new program profiles some of the most clever and unique men and women whose genius and goodness enabled them to spy on and resist Nazi evil and to rescue persecuted people. These extraordinary and virtually unknown men and women are from Germany, England, Italy and Hungary and their fascinating actions will astonish you!

Discover what goes into creating mixed media artworks that combine digital media with textiles. From found materials to looped videos to naturally dyed fibers and digitally printed textiles. Artist Rachel de Cuba will demonstrate how she produces artworks that explore memory, storytelling, craft and democracy in the southern United States and the Caribbean.

This program is part of a lecture series generously sponsored by Westminster Communities Foundation.

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.

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.

Beginning in 1989, the United States initiated the National Film Registry to preserve “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant films” that showcase the range and diversity of American film heritage under the direction of the Library of Congress. As of 2025, 900 films of all types including documentaries, newsreels, feature films, and even home movies have been selected for preservation. Of the tens of thousands of films made since 1891, about 500 chosen for National Film Registry distinction have been feature films, for an average of only 3 per year out of the hundreds produced annually. Significantly, 18 films made in 1939 have been thus honored. Cinephiles generally acknowledge that 1939 was indeed “Hollywood’s Greatest Year”, but why was that so? This session will examine Hollywood’s output for that incredible year, including a review of many of the best films with over 40 clips from such 1939 classics as Gone With the Wind, The Wizard of Oz, Beau Geste, and many more, and will discuss the key factors that resulted in such an extraordinary burst of creativity.

Beginning in 1989, the United States initiated the National Film Registry to preserve “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant films” that showcase the range and diversity of American film heritage under the direction of the Library of Congress. As of 2025, 900 films of all types including documentaries, newsreels, feature films, and even home movies have been selected for preservation. Of the tens of thousands of films made since 1891, about 500 chosen for National Film Registry distinction have been feature films, for an average of only 3 per year out of the hundreds produced annually. Significantly, 18 films made in 1939 have been thus honored. Cinephiles generally acknowledge that 1939 was indeed “Hollywood’s Greatest Year”, but why was that so? This session will examine Hollywood’s output for that incredible year, including a review of many of the best films with over 40 clips from such 1939 classics as Gone With the Wind, The Wizard of Oz, Beau Geste, and many more, and will discuss the key factors that resulted in such an extraordinary burst of creativity.

Step into the colorful, dreamlike world of two of Barcelona’s most visionary artists—architect Antoni Gaudí and painter-sculptor Joan Miró. In this engaging three-session mini-course we’ll explore how these two modernist giants shaped the identity of Barcelona through art, imagination, and innovation. Whether you're planning a future trip or just want to explore from the comfort of the classroom, this series will transport you through the winding streets, soaring cathedrals, and starry skies of one of Spain's most captivating cities. No prior knowledge of art history is required—just curiosity and a sense of wonder.

Ever wonder why there can be different awards for Record of the Year and Song of the Year at the Grammys? Do you know what a music aggregator is? A mechanical license? A public performance royalty? Social media monetization? Have you heard of TuneCore, Sound Exchange, ASCAP ?  Want to impress your grandkids with your knowledge of digital distribution? This course will define a copyright, explain the importance of copyright ownership, and describe the different income streams derived from recorded music and music performed live.

Read and Discuss Articles from The New Yorker magazine unless otherwise noted below.

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!

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

Don't see the 'Add to Cart' button? Members must be logged into their account and membership should be current in order for the add to cart button to appear.

King Henry VIII was given the title ‘the Defender of the Faith’ by Pope Leo X as a reward for writing a pamphlet entitled ‘Declaration of the Seven Sacraments Against Martin Luther’. Twelve years later, along comes Ann Boleyn; five years after that Henry is excommunicated from the Catholic Church. What happened?! This class will review these wrenching times for the people of England, for their king, for Cardinal Wolsey, for Ann Boleyn, and last but not least for Thomas Cromwell.

King Henry VIII was given the title ‘the Defender of the Faith’ by Pope Leo X as a reward for writing a pamphlet entitled ‘Declaration of the Seven Sacraments Against Martin Luther’. Twelve years later, along comes Ann Boleyn; five years after that Henry is excommunicated from the Catholic Church. What happened?! This class will review these wrenching times for the people of England, for their king, for Cardinal Wolsey, for Ann Boleyn, and last but not least for Thomas Cromwell.

Learn about Florida’s State Parks, how they came into existence, and what makes them unique as compared to other state parks. We’ll also delve into other types of State-owned land and the conservation programs in place to protect those lands.

How does the U.S. compare in meeting the challenges that exist in 2025? We will examine some 24 topics including: GDP, Wages, Taxes, Trade balance, Tariffs, Environment, Energy, Education, Healthcare, Climate Change, Immigration, Safety, Prosperity, Happiness, “Best” Nations, et al.. We will use the "Top 10" format which provides a quick "snap-shot" of the U.S. rank relative to other nations. Our sources are international surveys by highly credible and impartial world-wide organizations. This is the 4th Bi-Annual Edition for the program and includes three discussion breaks. A complete pdf copy will be supplied in advance.

Behind the headlines and scandals that rocked Tampa Bay are stories that changed the way our communities operate. In this fascinating class, we’ll explore the region’s most infamous crimes and controversies — from political bribery and public corruption to civil rights battles and discrimination cases. Along the way, we’ll uncover how these moments led to major reforms in Florida law: stronger ethics rules, open government policies, anti-discrimination protections, and even the rise of “strong mayor” systems. Learn how bad behavior helped shape better policies — and why these stories still matter today.

Come discover women who profoundly influenced Florida and the world. Meet those who developed Miami and Sarasota, the St Pete grad who became a spy in the French Resistance, women in fashion, education, aviation and those who built worldwide businesses.

Come discover women who profoundly influenced Florida and the world. Meet those who developed Miami and Sarasota, the St Pete grad who became a spy in the French Resistance, women in fashion, education, aviation and those who built worldwide businesses.

What happened to Ireland after the Easter Uprising in 1916? We will look at how Ireland finally achieved independence from England; the Irish Civil War; creation of the Irish State; Ireland after WW II; the rise and fall of the Celtic Tiger, and post-Catholic Ireland.

A history of Britain's struggle for its survival from May 1940 (the fall of France) to June 1941 (the start of the war in Russia) as seen through the eyes of Winston Churchill. The course will focus on the role played by the British air force to head off a German invasion, the Blitz on London, the use of air raid shelters, radar, as well as German intelligence failures. Learn about the do and don't when around Churchill, rationing, black out procedures and sheltering in the London underground.

Practice French in a fun and friendly environment, while stimulating your mind and engaging in interactive activities. All levels are welcome. While strolling through the alphabet we'll explore French culture, histoire, and géographie. This semester we'll explore the letters V, W, X, Y, Z, traversing Paris from Versailles to Vincennes, then take un voyage to several Plus Beaux Villages de France (eg. Vézelay, Villeneuve-lès-Avignon) and several vignobles in la Vallée de La Loire. Along the way we'll enjoy French food--une blanquette de veau, un coq au vin, une vichyssoise with un verre de Vouvray. Quelle belle vie!

Read and Discuss Articles from The New Yorker magazine unless otherwise noted below.

In 2021 the Ken Smith Workshop won the AIA Merit Award of Excellence for the terrific design of the new St Pete Pier, the latest of a long list of awards for outstanding, cutting edge landscape design, much of it in NYC. One of Ken Smith’s earliest projects was the design of MoMA’s rooftop garden, as well as the restoration of the Lever House landscaping. Following the terrorist attacks on the WTC, Ken Smith designed one of the most sensitive memorials in the city, called Eleven Tears, for American Express and also submitted a proposal for the rebuilding of the tower, as part of the THINK group. The Ken Smith Workshop is involved in redesigning the East River Waterfront, but also many of the city’s urban plazas – starting south, in St Pete, we will take a journey through NYC to visit all of his various projects, including a little detour to California.

In 2021 the Ken Smith Workshop won the AIA Merit Award of Excellence for the terrific design of the new St Pete Pier, the latest of a long list of awards for outstanding, cutting edge landscape design, much of it in NYC. One of Ken Smith’s earliest projects was the design of MoMA’s rooftop garden, as well as the restoration of the Lever House landscaping. Following the terrorist attacks on the WTC, Ken Smith designed one of the most sensitive memorials in the city, called Eleven Tears, for American Express and also submitted a proposal for the rebuilding of the tower, as part of the THINK group. The Ken Smith Workshop is involved in redesigning the East River Waterfront, but also many of the city’s urban plazas – starting south, in St Pete, we will take a journey through NYC to visit all of his various projects, including a little detour to California.

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 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.

John Muir's adventures in California's Sierra country have become the stuff of environmentalist legend. But his first grand nature sojourn--and later a major publication--brought the founder of the Sierra Club right here to Florida. While he did not find exactly the "flowery Canaan" he was hoping for, he did find the cornerstone of the environmental ethics that would inspire his writing and his activism for years to come. Join Eckerd College professor Amanda Hagood as she walks through Muir's Florida sojourn - and shares a few Florida trail stories of her own.

How did the Moon originate? Why does it go through phases? What effects does it have on Earth and life on our planet? Why do eclipses occur? This class presents a special look at the Moon and its importance to our planet’s rhythms and our human lore.

Explore the impact of last year's storms on the historic Jungle Prada site in St. Petersburg. This class features powerful before-and-after images and discussion of the site's damage, recovery efforts, and enduring significance one year later.

Explore the impact of last year's storms on the historic Jungle Prada site in St. Petersburg. This class features powerful before-and-after images and discussion of the site's damage, recovery efforts, and enduring significance one year later.

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.

 

Play with paints, recycled materials, found objects, photos, fabric and more. We will expand and explore with a sense of freedom and fun using a variety of tools and different techniques.

No previous art skills required. Supplies will be provided.

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.

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.

Fresh from his September trip to the 2025 World Fair in Osaka, Japan, Joey Vars shares a travelogue-style recap of his experiences. See the highlights of a modern Expo, from cutting-edge exhibits to cultural discoveries, through his first-hand perspective.

Fresh from his September trip to the 2025 World Fair in Osaka, Japan, Joey Vars shares a travelogue-style recap of his experiences. See the highlights of a modern Expo, from cutting-edge exhibits to cultural discoveries, through his first-hand perspective.

Meet the six remarkable women who married King Henry VIII and, willingly or not, became Queens of England. This two-session class explores their lives, fates, and lasting impact on history.

Read and Discuss Articles from The New Yorker magazine unless otherwise noted below.

Meet the six remarkable women who married King Henry VIII and, willingly or not, became Queens of England. This two-session class explores their lives, fates, and lasting impact on history.

From Bordeaux to Burgundy, explore the art of French wine tasting. Discover regional varieties, aromas, and flavors while learning how to pair wines with food. A sensory journey through France’s finest vineyards awaits.

Led by a certified group fitness instructor, Silver Sneakers Boom Move offers a fun, high-energy cardio workout that builds endurance through simple dance steps that progress into more dynamic sequences. It’s a great way to break a sweat while boosting your body, mind, and spirit!

We don’t usually think about the “robber barons” of 19th century America when we look at the Impressionist paintings of Claude Monet. Yet the family of one of these industrialists played a major role in introducing Americans to the paintings of Monet. We will hear how the first Impressionist painting entered an American art collection in the 1870s and why Domino Sugar played a major role in this story. Bill Averyt is a guide at the Shelburne Museum near Burlington, Vermont, in the summer months. The museum owns Monet's painting "Bridge at Amsterdam," the first Impressionist painting to enter an American collection.

Before the huge, steam-driven machines that would cut through Suez and Panama, magnificent canals and aqueducts graced the ancient civilizations and the early modern ones. In this class, we follow the progression from primitive channels dug out to water a few snatch crops to canals that changed the world long before the age of steam, internal combustion engines or electric power. We’ll visit China, Egypt, The Pontine Marshes, the south of France, the English coal country and – finally – the early American frontier, where one four-foot ditch changed the world.

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.

To diagnose and treat a patient, healthcare professionals must synthesize information from various sources: they listen to the patient, read health files, examine medical images, and interpret laboratory results. The significance of M-LLMs lies in their ability to process and interpret multiple types of input data simultaneously, including text, images, audio, and video.

If you have Acrylic Flow Art painting experience and are able to mix paints and complete flow paintings independently, this special interest group is for you. Practice your techniques, obtain guidance from facilitators,  and enjoy some fellowship with other OLLI acrylic flow painters. No formal instruction provided.

Learn more here:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1JGqxaALbaoqQlW8cgnbgcqwoKGf_edlD?usp=sharing

Come with your own canvas and paint materials or just bring any size canvas and for a small materials fee and use the paints and additives provided by the facilitator. (The fee will be paid directly in cash at the time of the SIG and will vary from artist to artist based on the amount of colors, quality of paints selected and the overall size of your canvas. See below for more information.)

During the session, painting tools and materials (pallet knives, tweezers, torches, spinners, chains, gloves, paper towels, mixing cups, etc) will be available for use. In addition, a ‘sealing’ station with Minwax Polycrylic Sealer will be available to seal fully dried paintings from your previous OLLI Flow Art classes. Due to the size of Room CE-309, each date of this SIG will be limited to twelve (12) registrants.

Materials Fee: If you are electing to purchase mixed acrylic paint and additives for your canvas instead of bringing your own, the cost will be based upon the size of your canvas in square inches and technique(s) you plan to apply. (Approximately $1 - $1.50 per ounce)

For example:  A 16” x 20” canvas (320 square inches of surface canvas) with ½” depth edges (18 square inches of edge canvas) will have a total surface to be painted of 336 square inches.  The 336 square inches will require approximately 13 ounces of paint (335/25) resulting in a paint cost of between $13 and $20.50.

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of two Broadway legends—Chicago and A Chorus Line. This class explores their groundbreaking stories, unforgettable music, and lasting impact on musical theatre history and culture. Step into the spotlight!

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of two Broadway legends—Chicago and A Chorus Line. This class explores their groundbreaking stories, unforgettable music, and lasting impact on musical theatre history and culture. Step into the spotlight!

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.

During World War 2 the United States and Japan would fight not only in the air, on the seas, but under the seas. The USA and Japan would embark on an ambitious campaign of submarine warfare. Japan with its submarines that could carry aircraft would engage U.S. Naval forces. The United States Navy would embark on a campaign to destroy the not only Japanese warships but also its commercial fleet. Both sides could claim major victories using submarines, but the United States using tactics of the German submarine force would drive the Japanese Navy to destruction.

During World War 2 the United States and Japan would fight not only in the air, on the seas, but under the seas. The USA and Japan would embark on an ambitious campaign of submarine warfare. Japan with its submarines that could carry aircraft would engage U.S. Naval forces. The United States Navy would embark on a campaign to destroy the not only Japanese warships but also its commercial fleet. Both sides could claim major victories using submarines, but the United States using tactics of the German submarine force would drive the Japanese Navy to destruction.

In this workshop you will imagine and construct a secret garden through the art of collage. After a slide show of images from two recent exhibits that combine nature and art —  “Reimagining Nature: Dalí’s Floral Fantasies” at the Dalí Museum and "Threads of Nature," an exhibit of fiber artists inspired by the Florida Botanical Garden at The Gallery at Creative Pinellas -- you will be invited to create your own botanical vision on paper, using garden-related magazine clippings and glue that will be provided. No prior experience with collage is necessary. Just bring your sense of fun and wild imagination.

Despite the fact that Turkey has had a female prime minister, female CEOs leading major banks and corporations, and women voting since 1930, Turkey ranks low in terms of female workforce participation rates and ranked 133 of 156 countries in the World Economic Forum’s 2021 Global Gender Gap Index.   What’s the story?  What role does Islam play?  From the Sultan’s harems to the more recent headscarf controversies, we will focus on the power and plight of women in Turkey and other former Ottoman lands.

This class will explore the Legislative updates in the area of Estate and Incapacity Planning, and how they may impact you. In addition to Legislative updates, a variety of other important components and variables to be considered when embarking on an estate planning venture will be discussed, with opportunities for audience participation.

Dive into the dynamic currents of global economics and finance with Hal Hultman, a seasoned professor blending engineering prowess with financial insight. Gain invaluable insights and theories on the trajectory of our economic future. This isn't just a class—it's a journey through the pulse of our world's financial heartbeat.

Austen was born into a loving and supportive family from the lower ranks of landed gentry and educated primarily by her father and brothers. As a young girl, encouraged to pursue her creative instincts, she wrote plays to be produced by her family to entertain themselves and friends. Later, she turned to writing novels of headstrong heroines of varying social and economic strata caught in romantic entanglements. These novels, now the mainstay of English literature, live on in movies, television programs and spinoffs – all keeping her alive, vibrant, and in the forefront of the literary world.

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.

Austen was born into a loving and supportive family from the lower ranks of landed gentry and educated primarily by her father and brothers. As a young girl, encouraged to pursue her creative instincts, she wrote plays to be produced by her family to entertain themselves and friends. Later, she turned to writing novels of headstrong heroines of varying social and economic strata caught in romantic entanglements. These novels, now the mainstay of English literature, live on in movies, television programs and spinoffs – all keeping her alive, vibrant, and in the forefront of the literary world.

Dive into the mother of all parliaments. Learn how Parliament evolved from a King’s council during the Anglo-Saxon period to the modern body that we know today. Do you know why the seats face each other instead of facing forward?  Did you know that a secret passage, dating from 1660, was uncovered just this year? Learn why a famous suffragette hid in a cupboard on the night of the 1911 Census, and why the House of Commons provides its members with free snuff.

Read and Discuss Articles from The New Yorker magazine unless otherwise noted below.

Vermont is home to a major collection of Impressionist works now exhibited at the Shelburne Museum. The Vanderbilt family played a key role in bringing these works to this little state. In this talk we describe the creation of the 4,000-acre Vanderbilt-Webb estate on the shores of Lake Champlain and also the Impressionist art collections of several members of the Vanderbilt family. Bill Averyt is a guide at the Shelburne Museum near Burlington, Vermont, in the summer months. The museum possesses Monet's painting "Bridge at Amsterdam," the first Impressionist painting to enter an American collection.

Celebrate 100 years of Dick Van Dyke’s boundless charm, wit, and talent in this joyful tribute to one of America’s most beloved entertainers. From vaudeville-style slapstick and unforgettable TV roles to big-screen musicals and his enduring presence in pop culture, we’ll explore the career and charisma that have kept audiences smiling for a full century.

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.

Explore a century of The Phantom of the Opera—from its literary origins to film, stage, and pop culture. Unmask how this haunting tale has captivated audiences for 100 years.

Explore a century of The Phantom of the Opera—from its literary origins to film, stage, and pop culture. Unmask how this haunting tale has captivated audiences for 100 years.

Experiential hands-on movement and acting exercises from The Human Instrument class to warm up the body, voice, and imagination.

This program is generously sponsored by Westminster Communities Foundation.

The submarine is one of the most deadly weapons ever developed and to destroy one it takes some very unique skills and technology. This course is a study in how do you hunt submarines. From the early days of World War One with the development of the depth charge to the incredible battle of the Atlantic between allied forces and the submarines of Germany. We will also examine submarine hunting in the Cold War and now in the post Cold War era. We will look at the technology the equipment and the tactics used to find and kill a Submarine.

The submarine is one of the most deadly weapons ever developed and to destroy one it takes some very unique skills and technology. This course is a study in how do you hunt submarines. From the early days of World War One with the development of the depth charge to the incredible battle of the Atlantic between allied forces and the submarines of Germany. We will also examine submarine hunting in the Cold War and now in the post Cold War era. We will look at the technology the equipment and the tactics used to find and kill a Submarine.

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 1936 Olympic Games offered the Nazi regime a global stage to conceal its true intentions under the guise of international unity and sportsmanship. In this class, we’ll explore why the United States chose to participate, and how the presence of American athletes—along with competitors from 47 other nations—unintentionally lent legitimacy to Hitler’s propaganda machine.

Take a festive journey through the enchanting Christmas markets of Germany and Austria. This class explores the rich traditions, seasonal delights, and culinary treats that make holiday celebrations in these iconic regions so magical.

Uncover the rich history and cultural significance behind cherished customs such as the Advent calendar, Christkindlmarkt, and St. Nicholas Day. Delve into the heartwarming tales of the Christkind and the festive decoration of the Tannenbaum, while also exploring the delectable delights of traditional holiday treats like Lebkuchen and Stollen. Join German Historian Anette Isaacs and journey through time and tradition, exploring how Germany's unique customs have shaped the magic of Christmas celebrations worldwide..

From vintage specials to modern favorites, explore how Christmas has been celebrated on the small screen. This class looks at iconic TV episodes, beloved animated classics, and holiday specials that have shaped the season for generations.

From vintage specials to modern favorites, explore how Christmas has been celebrated on the small screen. This class looks at iconic TV episodes, beloved animated classics, and holiday specials that have shaped the season for generations.

In the post war years of the 1940’s and ’50’s because of the devastation in Europe, the center of western art world shifted from Paris to New York where American artists like Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning carried forward the energy of the avant-garde. Their art, Abstract Expressionism, is a non-objective style emphasizing visual elements rather than subject. Artists looked inward and strove to express their emotional state in visual terms. They used bold colors with strong contrasts and emphasized spontaneity. Creating these paintings often involved energetic physical movement, a method referred to as action painting. The resulting paintings were large in scale and expressed movement, color, and vitality. This class will focus on the major Abstract Expressionists and their works.

In the post war years of the 1940’s and ’50’s because of the devastation in Europe, the center of western art world shifted from Paris to New York where American artists like Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning carried forward the energy of the avant-garde. Their art, Abstract Expressionism, is a non-objective style emphasizing visual elements rather than subject. Artists looked inward and strove to express their emotional state in visual terms. They used bold colors with strong contrasts and emphasized spontaneity. Creating these paintings often involved energetic physical movement, a method referred to as action painting. The resulting paintings were large in scale and expressed movement, color, and vitality. This class will focus on the major Abstract Expressionists and their works.

US 19: A Florida journey. Starting in Monticello's historic charm, it winds through diverse landscapes to Pinellas County's bustling beaches. Cathy Salustri guides you through Florida's cultural tapestry, from antebellum homes to coastal ranches.

Discover how Artificial Intelligence and ChatGPT are shaping the world. This senior-friendly class offers clear explanations, demonstrations, and hands-on guidance.

This course highlights transformative milestones in medicine from the 18th century to today, beginning with Jenner’s smallpox vaccine. We will explore key medical and public health advances, the innovators behind them, and the profound effects these breakthroughs have had on longevity and quality of life. The course offers a compelling look at how science and clinical care have worked together to reshape health outcomes over the past two centuries.

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YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Gordon Josephson, MD, MPH

Gordon Josephson, MD, MPH, is a retired emergency physician and former Chief Operating Officer of Baystate Medical Practices in Springfield, Massachusetts. He holds a Master of Public Health from Harvard University and a medical degree from the State University of New York. Dr. Josephson remains active in the lifelong learning community and currently serves as president of the OLLI Board of Directors.

Virtue theory asks not just how to do good, but how to be good. This course explores timeless questions of character through the lens of thinkers like Aristotle, Jesus, the Buddha, and Confucius. We will reflect on key virtues—such as honesty, courage, compassion, and respect —and consider practical ways to cultivate them in daily life. The full series may be taught as two separate courses.

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YOUR INSTRUCTOR: David Smith, PhD

David Smith, PhD, is a scholar of religion and philosophy who was raised in a fundamentalist tradition and later became a progressive skeptic. He holds graduate degrees in philosophy of religion and religious studies from Temple University. A former professor at Central Washington University, he now teaches independent seminars and has published widely. His work empowers others to think critically about life’s big questions.

When we think of the Holocaust, we recall the horrors perpetrated by evildoers. Even in humanity’s darkest hours, courageous individuals risked everything to save lives. This course sheds light on these little-known rescuers— ordinary people who defied laws, resisted hate, and acted with moral clarity and compassion. Their uplifting stories are powerful reminders of resilience, morality, and hope.

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YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Howard Kerner, BA, MA

Howard Kerner, BA, MA (SUNY Albany), is a retired English professor who spent 47 years teaching and publishing over 100 scholarly articles, primarily on the Holocaust. In retirement, he researches and shares the powerful stories of little-known Holocaust rescuers. Through his talks at lifelong learning programs, he highlights acts of extraordinary bravery and altruism—offering timely reminders of human goodness.

Discover how film music enhances storytelling, sets mood and place, defines character, and blends styles— jazz, classical, pop—into powerful cinematic impressions. We will discuss how composers shape emotion across genres like drama, romance, comedy, sci-fi, and westerns. From The Jazz Singer to James Bond, we will trace the evolution of film scores, spotlighting legendary composers such as Bernard Herrmann, Ennio Morricone, and John Williams. Celebrate the artistry of film music and its lasting emotional impact.

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YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Mike Agron

Born in LA’s entertainment scene, Mike is a former high-tech exec and entrepreneur who now creates and delivers dynamic, storydriven seminars on music and entertainment. With a storyteller’s eye and a DJ’s ear, he’s led 15 acclaimed seminar series, each spotlighting a different facet of music and entertainment, for the Sacramento Renaissance Society and national lifelong learning groups including OLLI, Osher Online, Encore Learning, and more.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) shapes our daily lives in subtle yet powerful ways. In this non-technical course, we will explore six case studies that reveal how AI systems work, the ethics behind machine decision-making, and the impact of these technologies on our world. We will gain a deeper understanding of AI’s current influence— and the possibilities ahead.

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YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Eliot Bethke

Eliot Bethke is a PhD candidate in computational bioengineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He previously worked in research and development at several Midwest start-ups, focusing on product design and manufacturing. After running a summer internship program, he shifted his focus to education and now shares his expertise in hardware and software development with future engineers.

Immigration has always been a complex and emotional issue in US history. This course explores how the immigration system has evolved and how it works today. We will examine key questions about identity, belonging, and national responsibility while engaging in thoughtful, constructive conversations about the future of immigration policy in the United States.

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YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Michele Waslin, PhD

Michele Waslin, PhD, is Assistant Director of the Immigration History Research Center at the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities. She develops research initiatives, educational resources, and public programs focused on global migration, race, and ethnicity. Waslin brings extensive experience in immigration policy and public scholarship, helping connect academic research with broader conversations on migration in the United States and beyond.

This course reframes the American Revolution as a global event shaped by imperial rivalries and geopolitical forces. Each session focuses on a different group—Germans, French, Spaniards, South Asians, and others—revealing how their experiences intersected with the collapse of British rule in North America. By viewing the Revolution through a global lens, participants will uncover new perspectives on its causes, course, and consequences.

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YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Rick Bell,PhD

Richard Bell, PhD, is Professor of History at the University of Maryland and author of Stolen, a finalist for the George Washington and Harriet Tubman Prizes. A National Endowment for the Humanities Public Scholar and Carnegie Fellow, he has held fellowships at Yale and Cambridge. His latest book, The American Revolution and the Fate of the World, was published in 2025.

Explore the noir novel through Dashiell Hammett’s The Maltese Falcon, Raymond Chandler’s The Big Sleep, and Sara Paretsky’s Indemnity Only. From hardboiled detectives navigating gritty cityscapes to Paretsky’s feminist reimagining of the genre, this course traces the evolution of noir fiction. Film clips from classic adaptations will highlight the genre’s impact on both literature and cinema

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YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Peter Kaye, PhD

Peter Kaye, PhD, is a retired faculty member from Northwestern University, where he combined administrative and teaching roles. He earned his doctorate in English literature and humanities from Stanford University, and his research led to the publication of Dostoevsky and English Modernism by Cambridge University Press. Over nearly 40 years in higher education, he taught a wide range of literature and interdisciplinary courses, with a focus on 19th- and 20th-century fiction. Now teaching online, he remains committed to lively, engaging instruction.

Explore the evolution of American conservation from the 19th century to today. This course goes beyond national parks to examine how urban reformers, scientists, women activists, and Native communities shaped the movement. Through diverse stories and landscapes, we will gain a deeper understanding of how Americans have fought to preserve—and define—the natural world.

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YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Fraser Livingston, PhD

Fraser Livingston is an environmental historian with a PhD in American history from Mississippi State University. His research focuses on the history of science, technology, and agriculture. He received the 2023 Gilbert C. Fite Award for Best Dissertation on Agricultural History and currently works on a book about conservationist George Bird Grinnell. He also serves as book review editor for Environmental History.

From pulp origins to mainstream dominance, science fiction has evolved into a powerful storytelling form that explores new worlds, ideas, and ways of thinking. This course traces the genre’s growth over two centuries, distinguishing it from fantasy and myth, and highlighting key authors who shaped its direction. We will discover how science fiction reflects cultural change and reimagines the future.

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YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Gary Wolfe

Gary Wolfe is emeritus professor of humanities at Roosevelt University and a critic for Locus magazine. He is the author of Evaporating Genres and editor of American Science Fiction volumes for the Library of America. Wolfe has received multiple awards, including a Hugo and a Ditmar for The Coode Street Podcast, which he co-hosts with Jonathan Strahan.

Inspired by the 2024 FX mini-series Shōgun, this course explores Japan’s transition from civil war to peace between the 15th and 18th centuries. We will examine the rise of key unifiers, the roles of diverse social groups (like merchants, peasants, women, and outcasts), and the era’s political, cultural, and artistic shifts. For fans of the series or those new to Japanese history, this course offers a rich, accessible introduction.

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YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Megan McClory

Megan McClory is a doctoral candidate in history at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her research explores sword restrictions in early modern Japan and their role in shaping peace and power. A Global Research Fellow at Kokugakuin University, she has spent years living and studying in Japan and holds a BA from Brandeis University.