UR Osher Spring 2025 - April

APRIL

Mainstreaming the Margins: A History of LGBTQ+ America

NATIONAL OSHER ONLINE | ZOOM — Over a half-century after the Stonewall Uprising, the vibrant and complex history of LGBTQ+ life, culture, and movements in the US remains a focal point of rich discussion and political relevance. We will immerse ourselves in the intricate history of LGBTQ+ Americans, examining their political organizations, cultural contributions, and the profound ways they have helped shape the nation to gain a renewed appreciation for the ongoing struggle towards justice, inclusion, and freedom in the US.

T • Apr 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6 • 11 AM-12:30 PM • $60/All Members

Leader: Adam Kocurek

Fiber Arts – Knitting

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND — Many people find knitting relaxing and stress reducing. Others love it for the creativity. Join this class and become a knitter. You will learn how to cast on, knit, purl, increase, decrease and cast off. Practice supplies will be provided for the first class, but you will need to get your own materials for your first project. Knitters who want to brush up on their skills or need help with pattern directions are all welcome.

T • Apr 1, 8, 15, 22 • 1-3 PM • $60/Silver

Leader: Kathie Howe

Jinas, Jivas, & the Three Jewels: The Jain Tradition and Its Legacy of Non-violence

NATIONAL OSHER ONLINE | ZOOM — Jainism is an ancient religion from India that teaches that the path to enlightenment is through nonviolence and reducing harm to living things (including plants and animals). This course provides an introduction to Jain traditions and their historical roots in South Asia from the time of Mahavira (fifth century BCE) to the present.

T • Apr 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6 • 3-4:30 PM • $60/All Members

Leader: Eileen Goddard

Self-Care and Boundaries for Thriving

UR A&S LECTURE SERIES | AGING WELL | NEW — Let’s look at evidence based research on mental health, well-being, and positive psychology. We’ll explore the science behind setting healthy boundaries and engaging in self-care as essential tools for maintaining emotional and physical well-being across the lifespan. Participants will learn practical strategies to enhance life satisfaction, manage stress, and thrive in balanced, and fulfilling ways.

T • Apr 1 • 4-5:30 PM • Free to Members

Leader: Janelle Peifer

The Soundtrack of Rock & Pop in the 50s & 60s: The Magic of the Brill Building Era

NATIONAL OSHER ONLINE | ZOOM — The adventure begins in New York City, where the echoes of Tin Pan Alley’s Great American Songbook still resound. Join this journey into the melodies, stories, and vibrant personalities behind the Brill Building era of the late 1950s and 1960s. We will discuss the music of legendary songwriters and unforgettable vocalists, such as Carole King, Neil Sedaka, Burt Bacharach, Neil Diamond, Elvis Presley, the Coasters, Dion and the Belmonts, Dionne Warwick, and many others.

T • Apr 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6 • 5-6:30 PM • $60/All Members

Leader: Michael Agron

Future Proofing Your Healthspan and Longevity

NATIONAL OSHER ONLINE | ZOOM — Longevity comes down to one simple truth: our ability to weather the inevitable challenges life unexpectedly drops in our lap. This course is a condensed version of Fulton’s Whealthspan Masterclass which focuses on the five foundations for extending healthspan and looks at societal changes that impact all of us. We will distill the latest and most relevant age-related science and explain the strategies for optimal outcomes that fit a wide range of cultures and values.

W • Apr 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, May 7 • 1-2:30 PM • $60/All Members

Leader: Scott Fulton

Matthew’s Higher Righteousness

NEW — The Gospel of Matthew has been the most popular gospel in church history, largely because of its emphasis on ethics, or what Matthew calls ‘higher righteousness.’ This course will explore what makes Matthew unique among the gospels and his surprising and challenging perspectives.

W • Apr 2, 9 • 1-3 PM • $40/Silver

Leader: Ryan Ahlgrim

Crossword Puzzle Creation

NATIONAL OSHER ONLINE | ZOOM — Have you ever wondered how crossword puzzles are created? This course will appeal to those who want to construct their own crosswords, those who are simply curious about the process, and those who want to be better solvers. We will explore all steps of the crossword puzzle creation process, including tools, formats, themes, grid block arrangement, challenging clues, and more. Throughout the course, we will construct several crossword puzzles together.

W • Apr 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, May 7 • 3-4:30 PM • $60/All Members

Leader: Steve Weyer

Russia Beyond Russians

NATIONAL OSHER ONLINE | ZOOM — Let’s discuss recent events in Russia and the post-Soviet space, many of which stem from enduring ethnic tensions. The Russian Federation is home to 180 nationalities, many of which have long been in conflict. Let’s examine how the Russian state under the Tsars, Soviets, and President Vladimir Putin has sought to impose uniformity, often diminishing ethnic groups. Through a historical lens, we will explore the struggles of these groups, from peaceful movements to violent resistance.

R • Apr 3, 10, 17, 24, May 1, 8 • 1-2:30 PM • $60/All Members

Leader: Asya Pereltsvaig

Chain Maille - Flower Chain Bracelet or Necklace

NEW PATTERN | HANDS ON — This cute beginner’s weave can be worn with just about everything. It is made up of three ring sterling silver ‘flowers’ which are then connected with more sterling silver jumprings. As with all chain maille classes, your supplies will be provided and all you need to bring is GOOD eyesight, PATIENCE, and a good SENSE OF HUMOR. Lovely to wear yourself or to give as a gift. Depending on your skill level, there may be some ‘homework’ required in between classes. Be sure to also register for the sub-session – either bracelet or necklace.

R • Apr 3, 10 • 1-3 PM • $65/Bracelet; Additional $45 Necklace – All Members

Leader: Celeste Miller

Science Charcuterie

NATIONAL OSHER ONLINE | ZOOM — Some topics don’t fit neatly into Osher science classes, often ending up on the proverbial cutting-room floor. This will be a six-week romp through just about anything one might imagine, including a bit of color theory, a morsel of genetic testing science, a dash of airplane physics, some lightning theory, a mouse that turns scorpion venom into a painkiller, current scientific thoughts on origins of life, plus time to explore topics of interest to you.

R • Apr 3, 10, 17, 24, May 1, 8 • 5-6:30 PM • $60/All Members

Leader: Kjir Hendrickson

Return to the Twilight Zone

NEW — Instructor Tom Cox presents this ‘sequel’ to his 2020 course about Rod Serling’s groundbreaking television series from the early 1960s. The class will view six episodes (different from those screened in Tom’s initial course), interspersed with discussions about the episodes, the actors, the creators, and the historical and cultural impact of the series.

M • Apr 7, 14, 21 • 10 AM-12 PM • $60/Silver

Leader: Thomas Cox

Staying Safe in Your Home

NEW | AGING WELL — A majority of seniors wish to age in place in their homes. This short course will review a variety of strategies and modifications to help seniors stay safe and independent in their homes as long as possible. From very simple, low-cost options to more extensive and expensive options, this course will have a little something for everyone!

M • Apr 7 • 1-2:30 PM • $20/Silver

Leader: Jaime Smiley

Rajput Paintings

NEW — Let’s talk about Rajput painting, painting of the regional Hindu courts during the Mughal era, roughly from the end of the 16th century to the middle of the 19th century. Traditionally, Rajput painting is further divided into Rajasthan and Pahari painting which flourished in two different areas far apart from each other in terms of distance but all under the rule of Rajput chiefs, and bound together by a common culture.

M • Apr 7 • 3-5 PM • $20/Silver

Leader: Shantaram Talegaonkar

Cinema in Transition: Exploring Change through Classic Films

NATIONAL OSHER ONLINE | ZOOM — Spring is a time of new life, as we watch the world around us change from dormant to full of life. We will watch several classic films, all with a theme of change. Films will be watched on your own outside of the classroom, with at least one film assigned per week. We will unpack each film in terms of its style, story, filmmaking technique, and how it fits with the theme of change.

T • Apr 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6, 13 • 1-2:30 PM • $60/All Members

Leader: Jeremy Fackenthal

Denny Tedesco’s Documentary, Immediate Family

NEW — Director Denny Tedesco returns to Osher for a screening of his recent award-winning documentary Immediate Family. This film features an in-depth look at the musicians who played on studio sessions and in concert with Carole King, James Taylor, Jackson Browne, Neil Young, and Linda Ronstadt. In the film, director Tedesco captures the impact that Danny Kortchmar, Leland Sklar, Russ Kunkel, and Waddy Wachtel had on the singers and songwriters they supported in recording sessions.

T • Apr 8 • 3:30-5:30 PM • Free to Members

Leaders: Denny Tedesco, Bill Pike, Joe Vanderford

Revealing the Wonders of Romanesque and Gothic Architecture: An Expedition through Time, 1100-1500

NATIONAL OSHER ONLINE | ZOOM — Embark on a captivating exploration of the architectural wonders of the Romanesque and Gothic periods, with fascinating insights into the evolution of architectural styles, from the sturdy simplicity of Romanesque structures to the soaring heights and intricate details of Gothic cathedrals. Uncover the historical context, technological innovations, and cultural influences that shaped these magnificent edifices.

T • Apr 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6, 13 • 7-8:30 PM • $60/All Members

Leader: Ilya Dines

Classic Musical Recipes: Their Ingredients and How The Are Properly Prepared

NEW — When a composer creates a new chamber or symphonic work, there are only so many tools in the kitchen and only so many ingredients on the shelf from which to choose. The tools include rhythm, melody, harmony, timbre, and texture. Next, a recipe is required. What shape will the piece take? How many movements? How will each movement be structured? Movements from several Classical and Romantic pieces will be analyzed during the class.

W • Apr 9 • 10 AM-12 PM • $20/Silver

Leader: Tim Kloth

Car Crazy: 1950s Onward

NATIONAL OSHER ONLINE | ZOOM — Let’s explore key eras of automotive history, as a way of understanding the profound impact cars have on society and culture. Included will be the role of influential designers, the creation of iconic vehicles like the Mustang and Corvette, and the appeal of concept cars which highlight the innovation of their eras. We’ll touch on how global car cultures, from America’s muscle cars to Japan’s futuristic designs, reflect the identities and values of their societies.

W • Apr 9, 16, 23, 30, May 7, 14 • 1-2:30 PM • $60/All Members

Leader: Pandora Paul Sardon

A Reception and Jazz

Join your Osher colleagues for a fun evening of a reception followed by a wonderful concert by our UR students. This annual spring concert will showcase UR student jazz combos performing rock, blues, swing, and more.

W • Apr 9 • 6-8:30 PM • $10/All Members

Leader: Osher Leadership Council

UR Athletics, the Transfer Portal, and NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness)

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND — It seems like college athletics continues to undergo sweeping changes. We read about college athletes creating a union and mounting various legal challenges to NCAA rules. We see athletes, even our own, transfer schools: but why? For money, or more playing time? Let’s talk about this. What are the implications for UR teams and athletes?

R • Apr 10 • 10-11:30 AM • Free to Members

Leader: Ryan Colton

Neurology in a Nutshell: The Brain Explained

NATIONAL OSHER ONLINE | ZOOM — We begin by unraveling the mysteries of the brain. We will explore how to navigate the complex and fragmented healthcare system and discuss strategies for advocating for personalized care. In addition to simplifying common neurological conditions such as headaches, dizziness, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and memory loss, we will examine testing and imaging of the nervous system. We will also focus on illness prevention through healthy lifestyles and provide an intimate discussion of end-of-life issues.

R • Apr 10, 17, 24, May 1, 8, 15 • 3-4:30 PM • $60/All Members

Leader: Paul Schanfield

Bella Napoli: Italy’s (Other) ‘Eternal City’

NATIONAL OSHER ONLINE | ZOOM — The Southern Italian port city of Naples is home to a rich and complex history stretching back to its foundation in the 8th century BCE. Across the centuries, Naples evolved into a vibrant cultural, political, and economic center. In 1861, the newly unified Italian nation-state initiated an era of modernization that persists to the present day. We will examine la storia e tradizioni of bella Napoli: a city famously pieno di contradizione (‘full of contradictions’).

F • Apr 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16 • 1-2:30 PM • $60/All Members

Leaders: Anthony Antonucci, Hilary Haakenson

UR Campus Walk

Take a walking tour of the UR campus, named the nation’s most beautiful campus in the Princeton Review’s most recent college guide. Learn about the history of the University, enjoy the beautiful landscaping and architecture, and hear some stories along the way. The walk will be about 2.5 miles in length and will require climbing steps and walking on various surfaces. Walking shoes and water are recommended.

M • Apr 14 • 1-3 PM • Free to Members

Leader: Marshall Ervine

Reading Dante Aligheri: An Introduction to The Divine Comedy

NEW — One scholar of Dante has written that The Divine Comedy is ‘a single crystal with 13,000 facets: each line reflecting the essential unity out of which the poem is made.’ We will investigate key themes and ideas of this Italian Renaissance allegory with a view to enriching our knowledge of this dramatic vision. The readings will include the essay by Joseph Luzzi, ‘How to Read Dante in the 21st Century,’ American Scholar, March 22, 2016.

T • Apr 15, 22, 29, May 6 • 3:30-5:30 PM • $60/Silver

Leader: Jack Kangas

The Art of War – The Desert Wars: Desert Shield and Desert Storm

NEW | ZOOM — Join us in the final session in our series on the Army War Artist Program as we analyze and discuss how wartime artists serving on the frontlines of these two desert operations. We’ll see how artists applied their talents to express what they experienced in real-time. This presentation is a collaboration between Ralph Kidder and Alice Waagen, American Art docents, and Steve Anders, retired Army historian, who will provide the historical context for the art.

W • Apr 16 • 10 AM-12 PM • $20/Silver

Leaders: Alice Waagen, Ralph Kidder, Steve Anders

Our Curious Constitution

NEW | ZOOM — In this course we will analyze the structure and wording of the Constitution through some of its more curious features. Using historical and modern-day examples we will see how the various provisions of the Constitution fit together. We will examine fundamental constitutional themes and look at the challenges in interpreting this document. It you are looking for a deeper understanding of this fascinating document, then this is the course for you.

W • Apr 16, 23, 30 • 1-3 PM • $60/Silver

Leader: Michael Kerley

Virtuosos in Classical Music

NATIONAL OSHER ONLINE | ZOOM — Using anecdotes, stories, humor, and audiovisuals, we will explore the legacy and artistry of influential performers whose technical brilliance, richness of tone, and showmanship have shaped music history. We will examine talents like Arthur Rubinstein, Jascha Heifetz, Vladimir Horowitz, Yuja Wang, Itzhak Perlman, Anne-Sophie Mutter, and Lang Lang all of whose impressive ability, charisma, and distinctive sound have captivated audiences over the last 150 years. We will also explore emerging talents such as Alma Deutscher.

W • Apr 16, 23, 30, May 7, 14, 21 • 5-6:30 PM • $60/All Members

Leader: Emanuel Abramovits

Tour of Virginia’s State Capitol

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND | FIELD TRIP — Join this fun, unfettered tour of our state Capitol. We’ll begin at the Library of Virginia for an overview, then go on a walking tour of the grounds en route to the Capitol. Your tour guide of the Capitol will be former Chief of Staff Bill Leighty, who promises to be unencumbered by facts. We will exit via the east entrance, and enjoy a short tour of the Governor’s Mansion to end our day. (We will begin and end this tour at the Library of Virginia.)

R • Apr 17 • 9:30 AM-12 PM • $20/Silver

Leaders: William Leighty, David Irvin

Decoding Wine

NEW | DRIVE TO EVENT | FIELD TRIP — We will taste eight wines and talk about how to read restaurant wine lists, store shelves, and wine labels; what is good tasting room/restaurant etiquette; and what are helpful tips for a couple of major wine regions. Nibbles provided. Class may run over or under the allotted time. Fees are non-refundable unless we are able to fill your slot.

R • Apr 17 • 1-3 PM • $50/All Members

Leader: Warren Haskell

Give Me Liberty: Virginia & the Forging of a Nation

NEW | DRIVE TO EVENT | FIELD TRIP — This is a guided tour of the Virginia Museum of History and Culture’s exhibition: Give Me Liberty. The exhibit will inspire a deep appreciation for the continental and global forces as well as the individual actions by both iconic and ordinary people that brought about a model of democratic government that would change the world.

F • Apr 18 • 1:30-3 PM • $17/All Members

Leader: Cece D’Arville

Photographing Celestial Events

NEW — Have you tried to photograph the many celestial events we’ve heard about lately? With just a few tips, night photography can be easy. Osher instructor and wonderful photographer Bill Draper will share his techniques as well as his photos of the night skies in Virginia and from as far away as Texas, Colorado, and Ireland. Join us in viewing the aurora borealis, comets, planets, shooting stars, blue/new moons, and other beautiful celestial events.

M • Apr 21 • 1-2:30 PM • $20/Silver

Leader: Bill Draper

Baby Elephant Expedition

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND — Join Mark Rich, former Curator of Mammals at the San Diego Zoo, as he shares his adventure to bring to San Diego a baby Ceylonese elephant. The month-long expedition included studying elephants in the wild, as well as at the Penniwela Elephant Orphanage and zoos in Sri Lanka, Singapore, and Indonesia. But the focus is on a little elephant named Devi, which means ‘Little Princess’, and on the complicated and unusual way she finally arrived.

M • Apr 21 • 3-5 PM • $20/Silver

Leader: Mark Rich

My Kid Could Do That! Giving Abstract Art a Chance

NEW — In this class, we will discuss the history of abstract art, artistic skills and techniques, personal interpretation, and other perspectives to learn about various styles and movements in the 20th and 21st centuries. Through lecture and conversation, students will be given information and skills to assist with appreciating abstract art, including paintings and sculpture.

T • Apr 22 • 10-11:30 AM • $20/Silver

Leader: Elizabeth Schlatter

Jackson was Jackson

NEW — It has typically been said that TJ ‘Stonewall’ Jackson ‘was not Jackson’ during the Seven Days battles. The reason offered for this is that he was exhausted. This is inaccurate: Jackson was actually a high functioning autistic. His behavior during these battles has been misunderstood for over a century.

W • Apr 23 • 10-11:30 AM • $20/Silver

Leader: Herbert Loveless

Planning Final Arrangements: Pre-Plan to Make It Right

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND | AGING WELL — Along with financial and estate planning, one of the best gifts we can give our families is planning our final arrangements. Losing a loved one is difficult. Prearranging the funeral eases the stress and guesswork for families and ensures that final wishes are honored. Learn about the important steps to provide this gift for yourself and family through an overview of the information and concerns when planning. There will be an opportunity to ask questions.

W • Apr 23 • 3:30-5 PM • $20/Silver

Leader: Susan Campbell

Getting the Most Out of Ancestry.com

NEW — Would you like to become more efficient and productive using Ancestry. com, the largest genealogy database in the world? Join us to learn about tips and techniques to improve your searches, dos and don’ts about family trees, and the University’s Library edition vs. paid subscription. Additionally, you will learn to navigate the site to find all the features and resources available such as connecting with other researchers, accessing tutorials, and learning to use the card catalog.

R • Apr 24 • 9:30 AM-12:30 PM • $20/Silver

Leader: Donna Shumate

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts: Behind the Scenes Two-Part Tour

NEW | FIELD TRIP | DRIVE TO EVENT — Join us for a two-part, unique tour of VMFA: the first part focused on conservation of artwork in the galleries, and the second looking at the history of VMFA from 1950 to 1985, tracing the museum’s history and its leaders and major donors. There will be an opportunity for those who want to discuss and socialize to meet at VMFA’s BEST Cafe after the tour ends.

R • Apr 24 • 2-4 PM • $20/Silver

Leaders: Terry Morgerson, James Schuyler

Mixed Herb Container Garden Workshop at Maymont

NEW | DRIVE TO EVENT | FIELD TRIP | HANDS ON — Create a beautiful container garden with guidance from Maymont staff in this make-and-take workshop. Learn how to customize and care for your container garden. Guests should bring their own gloves; all other materials will be provided. Refreshments will be served, and participants must be 21 or older and bring photo ID for alcohol. Fees are non-refundable unless we are able to fill your slot.

R • Apr 24 • 6-8 PM • $60/All Members

Leader: Krista Weatherford

My Caribbean Vacation

NEW — For Canadians the Caribbean is an aspirational escape during frigid winters and a cruise destination. Yet, these idyllic isles may be viewed differently. The Caribbean’s history is one of exploration and exploitation: its present is a straddle between dependence and freedom, and its future relies on whether we see it as a developing or developed region.

F • Apr 25, May 2 • 10 AM-12 PM • $40/Silver

Leader: Bud Taylor

Tour of Historic St. John’s Church and Graveyard

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND | DRIVE TO EVENT | FIELD TRIP — In March of 1775, the Second Virginia Convention was held here at what was then called Henrico Parish Church. Patrick Henry, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Peyton Randolph and other prominent Virginians were delegates to the convention. Here, Patrick Henry embodied the spirit of the Revolution on March 23, 1775, with his words, “Give me liberty, or give me death!’ Because of the event costs, fees for this class are non-refundable.

F • Apr 25 • 1:30-3:30 PM • $16/All Members

Leader: Sarah White

There is No Silver Medal in Presidential Politics

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND — In the past, there were some very accomplished individuals who, famous in their day, are now almost entirely forgotten because they ran for President and lost. This course will look at nine of these men, from the early Republic to our own time, to learn what they had to offer as we examine the road not taken.

M • Apr 28, May 5, 12 • 10 AM-12 PM • $60/Silver

Leader: David Fishman

Medicare Education 101

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND — This class provides an overview of the various pieces of Medicare, including Parts A and B, supplements, drug cards, and Medicare Advantage plans. Eligibility, timing, and enrollment in the various parts of Medicare are covered.

M • Apr 28 • 1-2:30 PM • $20/Silver

Leader: Chris Lynch

Aging Well

AGING WELL | ZOOM | NEW — This course will provide a holistic approach to health and will include weekly practical goals to be accomplished as a group. Explore interesting health-related practices from different cultures such as Shinrin yoku from Japan and Sufism. Integrate Nobel-prize winning concepts such as autophagy into your daily life. Explore simple but delicious Turkish recipes for a healthy gut and satisfying meals! Each week, we will write about aging well and share and reflect on these activities.

T,R • Apr 29, May 1, 6, 8 • 10-11:30 AM • $60/Silver

Leader: Nuray Grove

The Philosophy of Science

NEW — Ever wonder what makes a science a science? Ever wonder if science finds truth? The philosophy of science will be explored. This includes the basis of inductive logic: why certain fields that claim to be sciences are not and whether or not science finds truth.

W • Apr 30 • 10-11:30 AM • $20/Silver

Leader: Herbert Loveless