OLLI Spring 2026 Public Programs

Jan. 22

Mike Lingo

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.

Jan. 29

John McFarland

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 nd out!

Feb. 5

Eric Schavey

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.

Feb. 12

Ray Wetzel

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!

Feb. 19

John McFarland

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!

Jan. 26

Jim Kilgore

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".

Mar. 5

Tony Holcomb

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.

Mar. 12

Jarrett Williams

We are celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Revolution! Similarly, in 1825, Americans celebrated the 50th anniversary. The Scam methods are constantly evolving based on new technology, which scammers use to nd 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 ags of emerging scams.

Jan. 20, 27; Feb. 3, 10 • Noon-1:15 pm • Bryant Conference Center

Kandis Snyder, Coordinator

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.

• Jan. 20 Neurology and Sleep Medicine at UMC, Dr. Richard Friend
• Jan. 27 Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Dr. James Reeves
• Feb. 3 Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, Dr. Tamer Elsayed
• Feb. 10 RD Cooking for one, Suzanne Henson

Jan. 21, 28; Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25; March 4, 11 Noon-1:15 p.m. Bryant Conference Center

Sandra Ray, Coordinator

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.

• Jan. 21 — America 250al: How is Alabama Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday?, Natalie Steed, Melanie Poole

• Jan. 28 — Camino Real de Santiago, Jenelle Marsh, and Pam Parker

• Feb. 4 — Operation Chastise 1943, Andrew Houston

• Feb. 11 — American Flag History and Etiquette, Bev Leigh

• Feb. 18 — Pre-Revolutionary Naval Militia, Landon Miller

• Feb. 25 — How to Become an Actor in 35 Years or More, Joey Lay

• Mar. 4 — Miss America Pageant, Carol Wright

• Mar. 11 — Fly Fishing Across America: My Quest To Catch a Fish in All 50 States, David Patterson