Complimentary Lifelong Learning “Bonus Programs”
Each term includes a variety of one-time lectures (Bonus Programs) that are free and open to OLLI at UA members and the general public.
Do I need to register to attend?
- Registration is not required for in-person Bonus Programs at any location.
For questions or more information, call the OLLI Office at 205-348-6482
Spring 2024
Greater Birmingham Complimentary Course – Open to All – Bring a Friend!
BHM 121 Special Guest: Father Holloway, University of Alabama Football Team Chaplain
Feb. 6
10:30 – 11:45 a.m.
Riverchase United Methodist Church
Gadsden Complimentary Classes – Open to All – Bring a Friend!
Thursdays Sept. 14, 21, 28; Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26; Nov. 2
1:30 – 2:45 p.m.
Church of the Holy Comforter
GAD 121 Pruning Trees and Fruits
Jan. 18
Eric Schavey
What month is best to prune? What should be pruned – or not pruned – in spring? Join us for tips to improve the health of your trees and fruits. Eric will answer your questions and provide you with guidelines to success.
GAD 122 Prattville and Early Alabama Industry
Jan. 25
Tyler Malugani
Alabama has experienced an interesting relationship with industry throughout its history. The idea of industry in Alabama changed many times prior to the Civil War. Daniel Pratt created the first company town in Alabama, known as Prattville, creating the foundation for Alabama industrialization.
GAD 123 Lost Chapters of American History: Goat Glands?
Feb. 1
Richard Rhone
The biggest medical quackery advertised as a quick-fix cure has always been in the area of life extension and lost manhood. Dr. John Brinkley, the famed goat gland doctor, was prominent in the U.S. and was almost a governor. He claimed that implanted goat glands could revive vitality in men. Why – and how?
GAD 124 California and the National Parks
Feb. 8
Sheila Mountain and Cathy Bohannan
An armchair travel adventure that brings us from Pier 39 to Rodeo Drive. See General Sherman, the world’s largest tree, the giant Sequoias, the foot and handprints at the Chinese Theater, and of course, the sea lions at Monterey. No need to pack!
GAD 125 Destroying Enemies by Making Them Friends
Feb. 15
Jim Kilgore
Thousands of Nazi fascists came to Alabama counties, including Calhoun, Etowah and Blount, as World War II prisoners of war. Many left with admiration and respect for their former enemies. This presentation recounts some of that.
GAD 126 Norway
Feb. 22
Frances Douglas
Stunning fjords. Cozy, compact cities. Magical northern lights. In this class, learn how two-thirds of Norway is mountainous, and off its muchindented coastline lie, carved by deep glacial fjords, some 50,000 islands. Although Norway is modern in most ways, it has kept its storytelling and folklore traditions. Colorful costumes, folk singing, and feasts are part of the country’s festive occasions.
GAD 127 Hard Topics Explored
Feb. 29
Ed Rogers
Benefits. More money than you thought. Have you heard of Brown’s Service? There are misconceptions and a lack of knowledge of financial and other benefits available when making final arrangements. Join us for an explanation of everything that is available.
GAD 128 Gadsden Chapter Annual Meeting
March 7
Shirley du Pont and OLLI Gadsden Chapter Leadership
Insights, updates, and OLLI’s future – a mustattend to shape our vibrant learning community in Gadsden and surrounding areas.