OLLI SHARES & OLLI DAY

Jan. 26; Feb. 2, 9, 15, 23; March 2

8:30 – 10:00 a.m.

William "Bill" Confer

This course will review recent psychological science that reveals how induced wonder and awe (ranging from an intense, rarified state to “everyday” awe) increases individual fulfillment. Plus, have you read a book and wondered, “If this author were to draw or paint, what would it look like?” Well-known authors (classic, contemporary, songwriters) who also express themselves visually (ranging from doodling to accomplished paintings) will be used to exemplify content.

William “Bill” Confer, Ph.D., ABPP practiced clinical psychology as a psychotherapist for 38 years and is a diplomate of two specialty boards.

Jan. 26; Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23; March 2

1:15 – 2:45 p.m.

Nancy Darnell

The Beatles released their final album in 1970, a year during which each of the band members released a solo album.  The success of the band followed each of them for productive careers. With lecture, video, and music, explore the years after The Fab Four made their last joint performance.

Nancy Darnall began teaching "Soundtracks of Our Lives" over 8 years ago, employing extensive research into backgrounds, influences, legacy, and performances of the selected topic.

Jan. 26; Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23; March 2, 9

2 – 3:30 p.m.

A team of local naturalists will guide this multi-disciplinary course, exploring topics such as botany, ichthyology, ornithology, geology, and ecology. Each instructor will share their unique expertise and personal observations, offering insights into the remarkable natural diversity of our region. This course provides a deep dive into the natural world through the eyes of those who have spent years studying and appreciating the environment around us. 

Gary Wagoner is a local artist and naturalist who has taught numerous OLLI courses on Alabama’s environment and geology.

Jan. 20, 27; Feb. 3, 10

1:30-2:45 p.m.

Dr. Richard Rhone

Moving beyond the legends and myths, we will discover the complex lives of several diverse Wild West individuals. Through the stories of courage, ambition and survival of these trailblazers, we will hopefully gain insight into the social, political and cultural forces that fostered core American values that still help define the national identity.

Dr. Richard Rhone has taught American history classes for OLLI for over a decade after retiring from careers in public education administration as well as child abuse and neglect prevention. His topics generally range from the American Colonial/Revolutionary War through the War Between the States and the Wild West, with an emphasis on the personalities and social aspects of history. His doctorate is from The University of Alabama.

Feb. 17, 24; March 3, 10

1:30-2:45 p.m.

Dr. Richard Rhone

For over 25 years, the American military was involved a violent struggle with the Apache for control of the southwestern frontier. At the end of this costly conflict, the frontier was open and the Apache leaders were imprisoned in Alabama, Florida and Oklahoma. We'll discuss the issues, the battles, the personalities and why this war was so important in American history.

Dr. Richard Rhone has taught American history classes for OLLI for over a decade after retiring from careers in public education administration as well as child abuse and neglect prevention. His topics generally range from the American Colonial/Revolutionary War through the War Between the States and the Wild West, with an emphasis on the personalities and social aspects of history. His doctorate is from The University of Alabama.

Jan. 20, 27; Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24; March 3, 10

2:30–4:00 p.m.

Mike Reinke 

Discover the origins and evolution of American folk and roots music, with special attention to African-American folk traditions and their commercial separation from Anglo-American folk music. This course also explores the folk music of Alabama, the structure and composition of traditional folk, roots, and blues music, and the lasting cultural impact of influential musicians. 

Mike Reinke is a retired Auburn University faculty member who taught in the School of Pharmacy for 22 years and received several teaching awards. He has been teaching in the OLLI at Auburn program since 2016. 

Jan. 20, 27; Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24; March 3, 10

2:30 – 4 p.m.

This course examines English history in the fifteenth century following the Plantagenet dynasty, spotlighting the rise and struggles of the Lancastrian and Yorkist dynasties. Special attention will be given to King Henry V and his pivotal role in the Hundred Years’ War, along with an exploration of Richard III—both the historical figure and the myths surrounding him. The course brings to life a dramatic era of English political intrigue, warfare, and royal power struggles that set the stage for the Tudor dynasty. 

Joseph Kicklighter, PhD, is a retired Professor of Medieval History from Auburn University. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of the South and obtained his PhD from Emory University. Since 2015, he has also been teaching for OLLI. 

Feb. 18, 25; March 4, 11

10:30-11:45 a.m.

Explore 250 years of American music — from classical and folk roots to jazz, Broadway, country and rock. This class examines how composers and communities use music to express freedom, struggle, innovation and national identity.

Dr. Amir Zaheri is an American composer, conductor, performer, and educator whose Persian and Appalachian roots inspire a rich and diverse musical perspective. A Kentucky native with music degrees from Western Kentucky University, Georgia State University, and the University of Alabama, Zaheri has spent more than two decades leading and performing in professional, faith-based, and academic settings.

March 19, 26; April 2, 9, 16, 23

1:15-2:45 p.m.

Follow the dance of maneuver between Union General William T. Sherman and Confederate General Joseph Johnston in their climactic campaign that decided the fate of Atlanta in 1864. The course covers the strategy, tactics, and logistical problems of both sides. With  Atlanta captured,  Sherman could next plan how to "make Georgia howl!"

John Mason is happily retired, spending his time doing all those things work kept him from doing.  When not researching and writing, he likes to spend time reading, traveling, and walking.