Lifelong Learning Institute   

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Yoga Nidra has been shown to improve sleep quality by calming the nervous system, reducing stress, and promoting deep rest. This restorative practice may help lower anxiety, enhance mental clarity, and support emotional balance. Unlike traditional yoga classes, Yoga Nidra is scheduled before bedtime and uses guided mental imagery while resting comfortably on your back.

Pickleball for all lifelong learner levels. Come and play pick-up games for fun, exercise, and light-hearted competition. Non-Lifelong Learning members must pay a Discover U fee.

For centuries, we’ve known that the health of the brain and the body is connected. But now, science can provide insights into how to make lifestyle choices that may help you keep your brain and body healthy as you age. Join us to learn about research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity, and social engagement. Use hands-on tools to help you incorporate these recommendations into a plan for healthy aging.

Bridge: A card game and a way to build community with others. Score sheets and cards will be provided. Come and learn how to play bridge.

Join us for an adventure to a peaceful getaway created by Dyan’s dad, Bill Fluhrer and located just outside of Charles City near the family farm. This retreat is the result of Bill’s vision and hard work, shared with his wife, Pat. It all began with a simple pond for fishing. From there, they transformed a small house—once used by a hired hand on the farm—into a charming log cabin. Next came a custom-built treehouse for the grandkids. Most impressively, Bill relocated a silo from his heritage farm and converted it into a unique three-story dwelling, complete with a bedroom, reading room, kitchenette, and an observatory on the top floor. Dyan will lead a guided tour, followed by time to relax and take in the peaceful surroundings.

Rain Date = 9/18

Join us for an adventure to a peaceful getaway created by Dyan’s dad, Bill Fluhrer. Located just outside of Charles City near the family farm. This retreat is the result of Bill’s vision and hard work, shared with his wife, Pat. It all began with a simple pond for fishing. From there, they transformed a small house—once used by a hired hand on the farm—into a charming log cabin. Next came a custom-built treehouse for the grandkids. Most impressively, Bill relocated a silo from his heritage farm and converted it into a unique three-story dwelling, complete with a bedroom, reading room, kitchenette, and an observatory on the top floor. Dyan will lead a guided tour, followed by time to relax and take in the peaceful surroundings.

Get creative and make your mark—one rock at a time! In this relaxed, come-and-go class, participants can drop in anytime during to paint and decorate their own unique rocks. Keep your creation as a personal keepsake or place it out in the community to brighten someone else’s day. All supplies are provided—just bring your imagination!

 How did William Shakespeare—once the voice of dockworkers, gold miners, and street vendors—become something reserved for velvet seats and quiet lecture halls, and how did words that once echoed in taverns and riverboats come to be labeled “too difficult” for the very people who once knew them by heart? Is Shakespeare truly complex, or was he made to seem that way, and at what point did performance turn into preservation, passion into permission? Somewhere along the line, Shakespeare didn’t change, but access to him did, and the real question lingers: was Shakespeare elevated, or was he kidnapped? Come with me as we explore, revisit, and witness the moment it all changed, when admiration turned into division, when the stage became a battleground, and when one of the greatest voices ever written was taken.

Join us for light cardio, functional strength, balance exercises, yoga, and relaxation. In this class, you will also learn how to use the machines in the NIACC weight room and perform simple dumbbell exercises to foster muscle maintenance. You will be encouraged to modify things to work for your body. There is no need to bring any equipment to class.

Do you enjoy learning new things and sharing your opinions with others? If so, you might be interested in joining the Topics of Interest class. In this class, participants volunteer to present and discuss topics of their choice, such as current events, history, science, art, culture, and more. You will have the opportunity to learn from your peers and broaden your horizons. Come and join us for an engaging and stimulating experience!

Learn the basics of the hobby of metal detecting. Get outside, explore, and find treasure!

What is really in the Constitution?   It’s a relatively short document and the basis of our life together. We need to talk about it for clarity on this “Constitution Day.” We are in challenging times in regard to voting rights. We have come a long way in terms of inclusion of groups of people, yet determining who can vote today is a very controversial issue. What do we need to know for the elections on November 3? We will respectfully listen to each other. The class will be taught collaboratively. 

The Scopes Monkey Trial of 1925 was an epic clash between William Jennings Bryan and Clarence Darrow over the apparent conflict between religion and science. It began when a high school teacher named John Scopes of Dayton, Tennessee, was recruited to willingly violate the Butler Act, which the state of Tennessee had passed, prohibiting the teaching of human evolution in Tennessee classrooms. The clash proved to be of long-lasting significance because it dealt with key Constitutional issues that were foundational to the American republic. Issues such as academic freedom, free speech, majoritarianism, and the role of religion in American life.

Have you been wanting to learn the game of Pickleball? Here is your chance! This is a beginner's class to help you feel ready to join the Open Pickleball class.

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Join Judy and Dale Mills on a Lifelong Learning field trip for an immersive experience with the heart of most farmsteads of yesteryear, the vernacular barn. An octagon barn, a round stone barn, a 1930s former dairy barn, and the barn-themed Cupola Inn Bed & Breakfast will be featured. How many cattle sheds and adjacent cement feed floors do you know of that are carpeted? The Barn EyeMax and Barnyard Art Gallery will dazzle and shock your senses. Please note the two-time options.

Location: 20664 Claybanks Drive, Nora Springs, IA 50458

THIS CLASS IS FULL. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below.

Join Judy and Dale Mills on a Lifelong Learning field trip for an immersive experience with the heart of most farmsteads of yesteryear, the vernacular barn. An octagon barn, a round stone barn, a 1930s former dairy barn, and the barn-themed Cupola Inn Bed & Breakfast will be featured. How many cattle sheds and adjacent cement feed floors do you know of that are carpeted? The Barn EyeMax and Barnyard Art Gallery will dazzle and shock your senses. Please note the two-time options.

Location: 20664 Claybanks Drive, Nora Springs, IA 50458

THIS CLASS IS FULL. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below.

Join us for part two of a tour of the First Presbyterian Church's beautiful windows. Bob White was selected to design and create fused glass that would be placed in the window apertures of the church sanctuary. During this tour, we will learn about the windows in the front and the back of the church. If you missed part one, no worries, come and learn! There are just too many windows for just one session!

The modern state of Israel was birthed in May of 1948. We will explore what led to this moment in history. We will also explore the idea of Zionism and its history. After discussing the pre-history of the establishment of the state of Israel, we will take note of the wars, peace plans, and other events that have shaped modern Israeli history, also assessing relations between Jews and Arabs prior to 1948 and after. We will discuss some of the labels consistently applied to Israel, such as “apartheid” and “colonial settler state.” We will also look at the October 7, 2023, massacre and kidnapping of Israelis and other civilians by Hamas terrorists and the war between Hamas and Israel that followed, including the history of the Gaza Strip. We will conclude by looking at what has followed October 7, 2023, including the seven-front war Israel has faced, including with the terrorist group Hezbollah and with Iran.

Over the years, we've learned there are many questions about one of the oldest faiths on the planet. Jews make up about .2% of the world's population and there are many misconceptions about how we worship and our daily lives. Michael Libbie has been the spiritual leader of Congregation Adas Israel of Mason City for 36 years and is well-versed on these topics.

All of us have witnessed other drivers’ poor behavior on our public streets and highways. What about your own driving skills? After a 35-year career as an Iowa Driver License Examiner, a one-of-a-kind perspective will be shared with all participants. This course is not a “canned” driver improvement course and is also not a discussion on policy or procedure. It will largely be led by class participation and “chalk talks”. The dreaded parallel parking issue, as well as the easiest ways to not pass a driving test, may be addressed. The course is not legally binding, and there are no dumb questions.

The Calamity Club: A Novel by Kathryn Stockett. Set in Depression-era Oxford, Mississippi, The Calamity Club follows Meg, an abandoned orphan, and Birdie, a determined woman uncovering family secrets. Joined by Charlie, a struggling outsider, the three women form an unlikely bond and create a daring plan to reclaim control of their lives despite society’s harsh expectations. A story of resilience, friendship, and courage. 
 

Steve Martin is an American actor famous for his clever, absurd style of comedy.  His success in stand-up led to a strong film career.  Let's visit some of his best film moments.

From a napalm-loving colonel to a formidable mafia lawyer, this legendary actor has created some of the most memorable characters in film history. Join us as we explore and celebrate the extraordinary career of a true American movie icon.

Everyone has a story or two to share. On the flip side, everyone loves to listen to stories. If you missed this class last semester, you won't want to miss it this time. Something is endearing about sharing and listening to the stories of our lives. We all have ideas of ingredients that have helped shape a life well lived. Come share and listen over coffee, tea, and a few morning treats.

Swinging clubs for exercise is an ancient modality that is an excellent complement to other forms of strength, mobility, and coordination work.  For this introductory class, we will use light clubs and a simplified system, which will serve as a base for more complex work later on.  Benefits of club swinging include gains in strength, mobility, endurance, and improved balance.  This ancient practice was once popular in the United States and has recently been enjoying a revival.

Norway is a country of breathtaking fjords, stunning landscapes, traditional crafts, rich culture, interesting history, and much more.  Come take a journey to the cities, including vibrant Oslo and charming Bergen, heritage Telemark farms, the Arctic Circle, North Cape, and Lapland.  Explore farms on foot, scenic mountain roads by bus, waterfalls by train, and fjords by cruise ship.  It’s a lovely country whether you are lucky enough to be of Norwegian descent or not.

We know his-story; but what about her-story. In the Women’s History study group, members will introduce two to three women each week to learn about their families, their accomplishments, and even their scandals. They are mothers, authors, doctors, entertainers, adventurers, and wives from around the world. Join us as we discover how these women have influenced our lives today.

In this course, Jim intends to expand on a conversation that took place last year concerning this subject. Using several examples, he will talk about the structure, organization, and other details involved in putting manuscripts together. He will concentrate on chronology ( or lack of it), themes, subthemes, narrators, tense, anecdotes, and context. He will also talk about his take on the ethical, practical, and valuable use of AI in personal writing. Anyone who enjoys reading and writing should get something out of this course.

The systematic murder of six million Jews, alongside many others, by Nazi Germany, reveals a history of deep hatred that came to fruition in modern Europe. We will examine the National Socialist ideology, the Nazi German laws codifying state-sponsored terror, and the steps Germany took towards the murder of European Jewry. We will look at the response of other nations to Germany in this regard, and assess the perpetrators, victims, and many onlookers, witnesses, and collaborators to this unparalleled crime in European history.

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Join us for a fun, curiosity-driven conversation where all we need it a few topic starters. Participants will choose a random life topic and see where the discussion leads. From everyday experiences and interesting ideas to surprising facts and “how did we get here?” moments, we’ll follow the conversation wherever the rabbit hole takes us. Come ready to share, laugh, learn, and explore new perspectives with others. No preparation needed—just bring your curiosity!

This class will examine the concept of leadership and its impact on our lives in multiple ways. Examples of leadership will be provided, as well as various styles of leadership discussed. 

Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging. Join us to learn about the impact of Alzheimer's; the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia; stages and risk factors; current research and treatments available for some symptoms; and Alzheimer's Association resources. 

In our first session, we’ll explore the distinctions between values, morals, and ethics, with a focus on understanding what uniquely defines ethics and why. In the second session, students are invited to share real-life ethical challenges they’ve encountered. We’ll examine these experiences together, discussing the ethical dilemmas involved, the principles considered, and the resolutions reached. By the end of the second session, students will identify professional codes of ethics they’re interested in learning more about. In our final session, we’ll review these codes and discuss how rationalization can sometimes lead to violations of ethical standards.

Drawing on over forty books from his private library, most of a biographical nature about our sixteenth President, Jim will try to humanize and add dimension to this towering figure in American history by examining some lesser-known facts about his life, including the impressions of those in direct contact with him. A bibliography will be provided as part of the class, with comments and recommendations. Students of history and those who would like to know more about Lincoln should find this presentation interesting.

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Daphne Fuller unexpectedly reconnects with her former stepfather, Eddie Triplett, decades after a life-changing event separated them. Whistler explores memory, choices, loss, and enduring love as two adults reflect on how brief yet meaningful connections can shape a lifetime. It is a heartfelt story about forgiveness, courage, and the lasting impact of being truly known.

Lifelong Learning book club provides the opportunity to share your thoughts while also listening to gain the perspectives of others. Together, we will enjoy lively and sometimes deep discussions. Feel free to either offer your input or sit back and listen. Join us even if you weren't able to finish the book.

The book can be found at your local library and on Amazon. For a local purchase and a discount, please consider shopping at Three Bells Books, 14 S Commercial Alley, Mason City

World War II and the Holocaust were unparalleled events in world history. How did the churches in Germany and throughout Europe respond to the Nazi persecution and mass murder of European Jewry? We will begin by looking at the varying Christian movements within Nazi Germany and briefly assess both Christian complicity with and resistance to the Nazi regime. We will note how the German churches responded to the persecution of the Jewish people in the Nazi era. We will then briefly look at varying churches throughout Europe in the Nazi era and their responses related to the Holocaust.

Aging is inevitable – and how we age is something we can influence.  In this engaging and uplifting class, discover five powerful secrets that help people thrive physically, emotionally, mentally, and socially as they grow older.  Whether you are planning for your future or looking to improve your quality of life right now, this class will provide encouragement, tools, and inspiration to help you age with confidence, vitality, and joy.

History ignores the fact that between 1854 and 1929, over 300,000 children were forcefully moved from Eastern Seaboard cities to every territory and state in the Union. Was this a huge social experiment that failed? Or the one and only chance thousands of children had to survive a condition created by poor government and short-sighted social programs?

In recognition of our Country's 250th anniversary, this course will take a look at over twenty Presidential homes and/or libraries visited by Jim over the years, his impressions, and related stories.

Are you fascinated by true crime? In this class, participants can volunteer to present and discuss true crimes. If presenting is not your thing, feel free to join in on the riveting discussion as the group dives into the mystery together.

On June 25th, 1950, the military forces of North Korea, with the tacit support of both the Soviet Union and China, invaded South Korea. South Korean and United Nations forces were pushed back to the Pusan Perimeter by September, but a brilliant counterattack at Inchon by Douglas MacArthur relieved those troops and created a push into North Korea by United Nations troops. They almost got to the Yalu River before the Chinese invaded North Korea. As Chinese troops poured across the border, the stage was set for one of the most famous battles of the war. The Battle of the Chosin Reservoir occurred from November 27th to December 13th, 1950. United Nations forces, comprised primarily of American soldiers and marines, fought a major battle in horrible freezing weather against a vastly superior Chinese force. They were encircled but managed to break out and fight their way to the coast. For their bravery and valor, they will forever be known as the “Chosin Few.”

Step into baseball’s past as familiar images and legendary players are brought to life through original oil paintings. Artist Larry Schimka shares stories of colorful characters and enduring myths behind these classic scenes. Blending art, history, and storytelling, he offers an engaging new way to experience the game that has captured the imagination of fans across generations.

How do medical and research scientists explain the power of healing prayer? It’s not about how religious faith and theologians explain it. Jim Collison’s long career as a researcher and writer began as a journalist when he was 17. As a reporter for the Waterloo Courier in 1957, he began researching and writing about “faith healing.” Now, 69 years later, what has he learned are the science-based explanations for the power of “Faith Healing” prayer?

Brainstorming 3.0 is a simple yet fruitful tool for families planning a vacation or groups envisioning their future! In 3.0, everybody has cards to write down their ideas as they shout them to stimulate others. Wild ideas encouraged! Next, all idea cards are laid out and gathered into clusters. Participants pick a cluster to develop further, then work together in small groups. We briefly brainstorm "the family vacation" to learn the skill, then put our brains together to dream possibilities for the Life Long Learning Institute (courses, resource people, places, times, and more...)

Throughout our nation's 250-year history, we have engaged in many wars. We will examine our society's attitudes, support, and non-support for wars in the course of our journey from colonial times to the present.  We will examine our nation’s wars in the context of the eras in which they occurred, with an understanding of how war effects our national character.  After surveying the many motives and justifications for war and their impact on our society, we will end with a class discussion of the impact wars have had on our national unity.

We the Women by Norah O'Donnell and Kate Andersen Brower presents a fresh look at American his­tory through the eyes of women, introducing us to inspiring patriots who demanded that the country live up to the prom­ises made 250 years ago in the Declaration of Independence: “that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

This course follows the course on The Churches and the Holocaust, although it is not necessary to take that course first. We will first briefly assess historical relations between Christians and Jews, including during the Nazi era. We will then look at how some Jews and Christians engaged in dialogue after the Holocaust. We will note the theological shifts among certain churches, particularly taking note of Vatican II in the Roman Catholic Church, and then take note of some of the personalities involved in this work. We will conclude by looking at some of the pioneering women who spent their lives doing this work.