Available for Registration

BHM131 The Pipe Organ: King of Musical Instruments

Walt Rogers, organist for over 30 years at Riverchase United Methodist Church, will utilize his musical skills to show why the organ is the "king" of instruments.
July 13-20, 2026, Riverchase United Methodist Church

GAD131 Trash, Trolls, Treasures

Learn how Danish artist Thomas Dambo transforms recycled wood into giant troll sculptures found around the world. Frances Douglas introduces Dambo's imaginative works-from Maine's "Guardians of the Seeds" to Huntsville's "Mama Zelda's Hair"-showing how discarded materials become inspiring public art.
This course contains no sessions.
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GAD132 Theatre in Real Life

Be seen, be heard, be understood. In this dynamic workshop, participants learn and practice theatrical skills to enhance their communication and confidence in their everyday lives.
This course contains no sessions.
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GAD133 An Engineer, A Major General, A Cala: William Sibert, a Gadsden Native

Did you know that Gadsden, Alabama, has a direct connection to the Panama Canal? We will learn of Gadsden native William Sibert, for whom the U.S. Army training facility Camp Sibert was named, and his building of the canal. He was a member of the Panama Canal Commission and commander of the canal's Atlantic division. He was responsible for several critical components of the canal, including the Gatun Locks and Dam.
Tuesday, June 16, 2026, Church of the Holy Comforter

GAD134 Armchair Travel: The Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is an artificial 51-mile waterway that connects the Pacific Ocean with the Caribbean Sea. It cuts across the narrowest point of the Isthmus of Panama. Let's learn the history and how many times this engineering feat was attempted. It will be an armchair travel experience!
Tuesday, June 23, 2026, Church of the Holy Comforter

GAD135 Glasgow, Scotland

Have you been to Glasgow or Scotland? A native of Glasgow, Paul, will enrich our minds with stories of his hometown and homeland. He is an entertainer who will delight us and keep us laughing, telling tales about Scottish life and legend.
Tuesday, July 7, 2026, Church of the Holy Comforter

GAD136 Chair Yoga

You can practice yoga without getting down and up from the floor! In this class, we'll explore slow, mindful movement and breathwork - all while seated. Chair yoga can improve strength and flexibility and promote nervous system resilience and brain health. No experience necessary.
Tuesday, July 14, 2026, Church of the Holy Comforter

GAD137 Book Talk

Perhaps the deepest well of personal nonfiction, the memoir is a never-ending treat of human experience. From the many offerings of celebrities to the struggles of ordinary people who have had to overcome unbelievable obstacles in their life journeys. We will discuss the depths of the genre.
Tuesday, July 21, 2026, Church of the Holy Comforter

GAD138 That's the Planting Question

Learn the basics of successful gardening as we discuss general agricultural practices and explore what it takes to grow healthy plants. Members are encouraged to bring their questions - this session offers guidance on soil preparation, planting techniques and troubleshooting common garden challenges. Perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.
Tuesday, July 28, 2026, Church of the Holy Comforter

GAD181 A History of Big Band Jazz in Birmingham - 1880 to Present Day

This class will cover the history of big band jazz in the Birmingham area, beginning in the 1880s. The class broadly covers four eras: The Vaudeville musicians, the immigrant bands, the college bands and the member-led bands. The timeline begins with the development of the first opera houses in Birmingham and ends with the current Super Jazz project and the Birmingham Heritage Band
This course contains no sessions.
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GAD182 How Did the Piano Get to Gadsden?

All aboard for John's cruise along the rivers once dominated by the boats that carried cargo and passengers to all points north, south, east and west. We will learn the history of the riverboat, including historical tidbits, as well as the important people and places that have become legendary in the annals of riverboat lore. So how did the piano get to Gadsden? Come find out!
This course contains no sessions.
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GAD183 Eat It or Look at It - That's the Planting Question

Whether you have basketfuls of vegetables and berries on your mind or a perennial border, Eric will provide you with tips to get started. Deciding on the type of garden you want to plant is the first step. Herb, vegetable, flower or a combination - each one requires different effort and activities. From garden to table or from garden to vase, join us as we learn how to achieve the best results for our efforts.
This course contains no sessions.
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GAD184 Comic Books: How They Became a Multi-Million Dollar Hobby

Did you read or collect comic books? What was your favorite? Did you know the first Superman (summer 1939) is now worth $5.3 million? What about the fact that early comic books had strict rules? Discover the surprising history of comics in this fun and eye-opening class!
This course contains no sessions.
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GAD185 The Unspeakable Radio

Before TV and streaming, families gathered around the radio for news, drama, comedy and music. In the Golden Age of Radio, it was the main source of home entertainment. From big floor models to pocket-sized transistors, radio shaped how we listened - and connected. Come explore its unforgettable legacy!
This course contains no sessions.
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GAD186 E Pluribus Unum: Three American Prayers in Poem and Song

The class will examine three of the stories behind the nation's moving patriotic songs. The program relates the history of both lyrics and tunes of the oft-heard pieces: "America the Beautiful," Lift Every Voice and Sing" and "God Bless America".
This course contains no sessions.
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GAD187 The Life and Legacy of Big Sam Dale and Red Eagle

Samuel Dale (1772-1841), also known as the "Daniel Boone of Alabama," was a scout, frontiersman, soldier and public servant who played a crucial role in shaping the state of Alabama from the Mississippi Territory. William Weatherford, also known after his death as Red Eagle, was a Creek chief who led the "Red Sticks" in the Creek War. He settled in Alabama and is buried in Baldwin County.
This course contains no sessions.
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GAD188 Did You Get a Strange Message? How to Spot and Stop Scams

Scam methods are constantly evolving based on new technology, which scammers use to find new ways to target victims. Knowledge remains your best defense. Knowing the scammer's playbook can help you identify fraud attempts. Anyone can fall victim, but there are ways to protect yourself. Join us to learn about the fraud landscape and the red flags of emerging scams.
This course contains no sessions.
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OL181 America250al: How Alabama is Celebrating America's 250th?

Get an inside look at Alabama's role in the upcoming America250 celebration. This session offers updates on statewide initiatives, educational programs, and commemorative events planned for the nation's 250th anniversary. Learn how OLLI members can engage with history and contribute to this milestone moment.
This course contains no sessions.
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OL182 The American Revolution and the Fate of the World

Discover how the American Revolution reshaped global history. Author Richard Bell explores the far-reaching consequences of the Revolution, from its impact on international politics to its influence on democratic movements worldwide
This course contains no sessions.
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OL183 Fourteenth Colony: The Forgotten Story of the Gulf South During American's Revolutionary Era

Historian Mike Bunn explores the overlooked story of West Florida, Britain's forgotten 14th colony - which included parts of Alabama. Discover its bold leaders, political struggles and dramatic battles that shaped Gulf Coast history during America's Revolutionary era.
This course contains no sessions.
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TUS160 Songs of Americana: The Soundtrack of America at 250

As we honor America250, this course explores the music that tells America's story. From folk ballads and spirituals to blues, country and modern-day America, we will listen closely to the artists and lyrics that have shaped the nation's cultural identity across generations. Together, we will examine how music reflects American history, struggle, faith, innovation and hope through the lens of artists whose songs capture the evolving American experience. No musical background is required, just curiosity and a love of storytelling through song. Each session will include guided listening, historical context and group discussion. Join us as we celebrate the United States of America's 250th birthday by exploring the songs that have helped define who we are.
July 7-28, 2026, Bryant Conference Center

TUS161 Lagniappe-Various Topics

Enjoy a wide range of topics - from history and travel to the arts, hobbies and local stories. Each week, a different speaker shares their expertise and passion. ?June 3 - Barbershop Quartet - David Williams ?June 10 - Nature Gardening to Attract Wildlife - Raphael Sneed ?June 17 - Sculpture - Lee Busby ?June 24 - "Earn This!" A Journey Through the WWI Journal of a 12th Regiment Radio Man - David Miles ?July 8 - Life of the Civil War Soldier - Virgil Moon ?July 15 - Behind the Velvet Ribbons: Decorating the White House Experience - Tammy West ?July 22 - Jellyfish: Beautiful, Fascinating, Unappreciated! - Peggy Hamner ?July 29 - Bagpipes and Story Telling - Timothy Salazar
June 3, 2026 to July 29, 2026, Bryant Conference Center

TUS197 Mini Medical School

The University of Alabama's College of Community Sciences and University Medical Center hosts this lecture series, where faculty physicians and allied health professionals present a different medical topic each week, offering insight into timely health issues.
This course contains no sessions.
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TUS198 Lagniappe-Various Topics

Enjoy a wide range of topics-from history and travel to the arts, hobbies and local stories. Each week, a different speaker shares their expertise and passion.
This course contains no sessions.
Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.