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April 18 – Rosanne McHenry – Tales of a Rogue Ranger – Earth Month

 

May 16 – Barbara Olson Lawrence – Drawing Water – Mother’s Day

 

Come do battle on the field of chess. All levels of capability may join in the melee, from novice to grandmaster.  Bring your chess board and game pieces, if you have them.
Membership required - no course fee.

Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. The program model involves reading the Great Decisions Briefing Book (short sections), watching the DVD and meeting in a Discussion Group to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today. Each year, a panel of experts chooses the topics. Members will need to purchase GREAT DECISIONS, 2025 EDITION, and read the topic of the week in preparation for discussion at the first meeting. The book will be about $35 and can be ordered at: https://www.fpa.org/great_decisions/ or call 1 (800) 477-5836.

Great Decisions 2025 Topics

1. American Foreign Policy at a Crossroads
   This chapter will explore the contours of the U.S. foreign policy debate as it plays out in a world of multiple and escalating crises and domestic polarization. Author: G. John Ikenberry  
2. U.S. Changing Leadership of the World Economy
   Under President Biden, the U.S. has advanced new ideas about trade, technology, industrial policy, competition with China, and the organization of the world economy. For most of the postwar era, the U.S. has tied its global leadership to cooperative agendas aimed at creating a more open world trading system, but that has apparently come to an end. What are America’s options and opportunities as a leader of the world economy? How will America’s “foreign policy for the middle class” and strategic competition with China impact its leadership role? How can the postwar rules and institutions of the world economy be made safe for economic nationalism and great power competition? 
   Author: Daniel Drezner  
3. U.S.-China Relations
   Washington’s relations with Beijing have reached an ominous low ebb. Both American political parties have identified China as the country’s preeminent geopolitical challenger and, in the eyes of many, a systemic threat. What is driving this deterioration of Sino-American relations, and what are America’s strategic options in the face of Chinese power and ambition? Author: Thomas J. Christensen  
4. International Cooperation on Climate Change
   The 2015 Paris Agreement established a UN-sponsored framework for negotiations on climate change and global warming. In subsequent COP meetings, experts and political leaders have come together seeking common cause for this growing global crisis. What is the future of these efforts, and what have they yielded? What is the U.S. role in fostering cooperation on climate change? In a divided country, what are the possible futures for American policy leadership? Author: Josh Busby   
5. The Future of NATO and European Security
   European security is more uncertain than it has been for decades. Putin’s Russia has launched a war with Ukraine on its doorstep, and America’s uncertain role as leader of NATO and security provider has been called into question with the failure of Congress to pass supplemental military support for Ukraine. What are Europe’s options, and how might developments on both sides of Western Europe – in Ukraine and across the Atlantic – impact its choices? What are America’s stakes in NATO and Europe’s strategic dilemmas?
   Author: Kori Schake   
6. AI and American National Security
   The AI revolution is the leading edge of a larger high-tech revolution which promises to transform the world. Experts argue that international cooperation is needed to expand the opportunities these new technologies hold while protecting societies from their dangers. What are the key policy debates in this area, and what are the opportunities and limits on global AI rules of the road? How will the AI revolution impact American national security? What are its policy options to secure the benefits of AI and guard against its dangers? Author: Julie George  
7. India: Between China, the West, and the Global South
   India is an emerging major power in world affairs, occupying a pivotal position between China, the United States, and the Global South. Its population size, economy, and geopolitical location ensure that it will be an influential voice in debates and political struggles over global order. What are India’s choices and opportunities for regional and global leadership? How will it maneuver between China and the United States, and what is its role as a voice of the Global South? What opportunities exist for Washington to work with India? Author: Leslie Vinjamuri   
8. American Foreign Policy in the Middle East: Taking Stock and Looking Ahead
   The war in Gaza has brought the region to a crossroads. What are the possible outcomes of the war, and how might the United States use its influence to shape a long-term settlement that leaves both Israel and the Palestinians in a better position? How might Arab states in the wider region be brought into a settlement? What are America’s interests in the Middle East and how can it advance them? Author: Daniel Kurtzer

Whether on independent travel, cruise travel or tour travel, there are so many ways to enhance your experiences. Terry McAteer will expose you to 10 websites that will make your next trip such much more interesting and so much more affordable whether traveling foreign or domestic.

In the late 1860’s when the Transcontinental Railroad was being built, Chinese workers stocked a local natural pond near Donner Summit with non-native catfish to supplement their meager diet. Descendants of these fish have survived in this same pond for over 160 years. Terry McAteer will lead you on this relatively flat 1 1/2-mile (roundtrip) hike at 7000 feet elevation to lunch at the pond and feed the catfish. The views are spectacular! Terry will supply some catfish food!

• You should be in good physical condition for this hike.
• Wear good hiking shoes, bring a lunch, hat, sunscreen, and plenty to drink.

Meet at 10:00 am at the dirt parking lot across the street from Donner Ski Ranch on Donner Pass Road. Limited to 35 people.

Make it a full day with Terry! Following this hike is the “Walk Through the Historic Transcontinental Railroad Tunnels at Donner Summit” field trip that begins at 1:00p. If you would also like to participate in this field trip you must register for it separately.

Field Trip Cancellations and Refund Policy

• If we have to cancel a field trip you will receive a full refund.
• If you cancel a field trip:
  • Day Trip: must be canceled at least 2 weeks prior to the field trip to receive a refund (minus a $10 cancellation fee).
  • Overnight field trips require a 45-day cancellation notice for a full refund (minus a $50 cancellation fee). No refunds given after that date.  

Set in a boarding school in early 1920s Seville, Spain, the traditional education of girls is challenged by the arrival of a new professor who embraces global points of view that include the modernist perspective. Education reflects the steeped traditions of the city and the time, challenged by the arrival of European Modernism influencing literature, politics, and gender roles. This series examines intergenerational perspectives and challenges women faced from the female point of view. In Spanish with English subtitles. Historical material will accompany each episode.  

Set in a boarding school in early 1920s Seville, Spain, the traditional education of girls is challenged by the arrival of a new professor who embraces global points of view that include the modernist perspective. Education reflects the steeped traditions of the city and the time, challenged by the arrival of European Modernism influencing literature, politics, and gender roles. This series examines intergenerational perspectives and challenges women faced from the female point of view. In Spanish with English subtitles. Historical material will accompany each episode.  

Come and play Classical Chinese Mahjong as codified by the British Mahjong Association. Some experience playing Mahjong would be beneficial, but not necessary. Bring your Mahjong set, if possible.
Membership required - no course fee.

The State of Nevada has a geology and an ancient and modern history that give it a unique status as one of America’s most interesting States.

Monthly gathering to discuss books ranging from historical fiction to non-fiction and classics. Short presentation by a member of the group focusing on facts about author, historical setting or other interesting aspects of the book sets tone for discussion. Discussion is informal and participation is encouraged. Members will need to obtain their own books. Opening selection is "The Only Woman in the Room" by Marie Benedict. Full reading list will be provided at first meeting.

Monthly gathering to discuss books ranging from historical fiction to non-fiction and classics. Short presentation by a member of the group focusing on facts about author, historical setting or other interesting aspects of the book sets tone for discussion. Discussion is informal and participation is encouraged. Members will need to obtain their own books. Opening selection is "The Only Woman in the Room" by Marie Benedict. Full reading list will be provided at first meeting.

OLLI Goes Back to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival

Wednesday, June 4th- Friday, June 6th

OSF is back! They have a new artistic director and new series of plays which look fantastic. With the “return” of OSF, tickets for the revived Oregon Shakespeare Festival are at a premium— nearly every play is sold out. We will travel by Sierra College bus or private auto to Ashland, Oregon on Wednesday, June 4th.

We arrive in Ashland in the mid-afternoon. Our first play that night is “The Importance of Being Ernest” a farcical comedy by Oscar Wilde. On Thursday morning, we will have a private back stage “Behind the Scenes Tour” of the three performance venues. This is a great way to fully appreciate the OSF theatrical experience. We see a matinee that day of Shakespeare’s classic “Julius Caesar” performed by an all woman cast indoors in the Bowmar Theatre. Finally, our evening performance is either at the outdoor Elizabethan stage, to see the Tony and Grammy award winning “Into the Woods” with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim or in the Bowmar to see August Wilson’s drama “Jitney.” (Both are sold out so we could only get 30 for one play and 30 for the other. Those who reserve for this trip first will have first selection of which play they’d like to see.)

We will stay at the Stratford Inn (breakfast included) which is a three block walk to the theaters. All other meals, except a picnic lunch on the way to Ashland, will be on your own discovering the many fine eateries of Ashland.

Our first “pit” stop along the way to Ashland will be at the Ide Adobe State Historic Park (Ide led the Bear Flag Revolt) along the banks of the Sacramento River. Our picnic lunch (included) on the way to Ashland with be at the lovely Sisson Fish Hatchery in Mt. Shasta City.

In total— three world-class plays, a behind-the-scenes tour, lodging with breakfast, transportation by a Sierra College bus and a picnic lunch. What a fun adventure with your tour guide— Terry McAteer.

Only Double Occupancy—(due to limited number of rooms) $510 pp on bus: $460 pp self drive

32 on bus (16 couples); 16 drive yourself (8 couples)

Refund/Drop Deadline: Wednesday, April 29, 2025 for a full refund (minus a $50 cancellation fee). 
No Refund after Wednesday, April 29, 2025.  

OLLI Goes Back to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival

Wednesday, June 4th- Friday, June 6th

OSF is back! They have a new artistic director and new series of plays which look fantastic. With the “return” of OSF, tickets for the revived Oregon Shakespeare Festival are at a premium— nearly every play is sold out. We will travel by Sierra College bus or private auto to Ashland, Oregon on Wednesday, June 4th.

We arrive in Ashland in the mid-afternoon. Our first play that night is “The Importance of Being Ernest” a farcical comedy by Oscar Wilde. On Thursday morning, we will have a private back stage “Behind the Scenes Tour” of the three performance venues. This is a great way to fully appreciate the OSF theatrical experience. We see a matinee that day of Shakespeare’s classic “Julius Caesar” performed by an all woman cast indoors in the Bowmar Theatre. Finally, our evening performance is either at the outdoor Elizabethan stage, to see the Tony and Grammy award winning “Into the Woods” with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim or in the Bowmar to see August Wilson’s drama “Jitney.” (Both are sold out so we could only get 30 for one play and 30 for the other. Those who reserve for this trip first will have first selection of which play they’d like to see.)

We will stay at the Stratford Inn (breakfast included) which is a three block walk to the theaters. All other meals, except a picnic lunch on the way to Ashland, will be on your own discovering the many fine eateries of Ashland.

Our first “pit” stop along the way to Ashland will be at the Ide Adobe State Historic Park (Ide led the Bear Flag Revolt) along the banks of the Sacramento River. Our picnic lunch (included) on the way to Ashland with be at the lovely Sisson Fish Hatchery in Mt. Shasta City.

In total— three world-class plays, a behind-the-scenes tour, lodging with breakfast, transportation by a Sierra College bus and a picnic lunch. What a fun adventure with your tour guide— Terry McAteer.

Only Double Occupancy—(due to limited number of rooms) $510 pp on bus: $460 pp self drive

32 on bus (16 couples); 16 drive yourself (8 couples)

Refund/Drop Deadline: Wednesday, April 29, 2025 for a full refund (minus a $50 cancellation fee). 
No Refund after Wednesday, April 29, 2025.  

An introduction to Qigong. This is a form of gentle, flowing, meditative movement. It is simple and easy to learn. It integrates movement with mindfulness and cultivates the body’s vital energy. This simple practice brings ease and well-being by reducing your stress and calming your nervous system. Qigong has been known to improve balance and muscle tone. These easy exercises do not require a change of clothes, special place, equipment or skills. All levels are welcome!

The Yucatan Peninsula is home to the world’s finest selection of cenotes— fresh water natural swimming holes. Join Terry McAteer as he explores the magical world of swimming in cenotes throughout the entire Yucatan Peninsula. Besides ancient Mayan sites and the beaches of Cancun, you’ll be heading on your next trip to the cenotes.

This class uses a "how-to_ approach to show the detailed steps used to extend a family tree using DNA results combined with regular genealogy data. One example shows how DNA data provided the means to define a 5th generation Revolutionary War soldier. Another example illustrates the process to find and verify new ancestors back in the 6th and 7th generation. With recent new features in the big DNA companies the value of DNA has increased markedly along with the ease of finding new ancestors.

OMG!!! On this OLLI Adventure to San Francisco with Terry McAteer, we will take in the de Young Museum’s exhibit of 250 newly discovered Paul McCartney photos of the Beatles in 1963, and a private tour of the museum’s American Wing. At the Legion of Honor, we will view the largest showing of Sacramento’s famed artist Wayne Thiebaud and relish a private tour of their extensive collection of Rodin bronzes.

There’s more!! We will dine at the classic Original Joe’s in North Beach before taking in the intimate live cabaret “Dear San Francisco” at the infamous Club Fugazi (home of “Beach Blanket Babylon”). “Dear San Francisco” was the 2024 SF Chronicle’s Award Winner for Best Live Theatre, and Best Venue.

Yes, there’s more!!! We will have a private tour of Historic Fort Point, located beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, built to guard the Bay from Confederate raids during the Civil War, we will lunch at the iconic Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito overlooking SF Bay and enjoy a night at the elegant Proper Hotel in The City with its delightful rooftop bar and lounge.

Double Occupancy - $550 per person
Single Occupancy - $700 per person

Refund/Drop Deadline: Monday, May 5, 2025 for a full refund (minus a $50 cancellation fee). 
No Refund after Monday, May 5, 2025.  

OMG!!! On this OLLI Adventure to San Francisco with Terry McAteer, we will take in the de Young Museum’s exhibit of 250 newly discovered Paul McCartney photos of the Beatles in 1963, and a private tour of the museum’s American Wing. At the Legion of Honor, we will view the largest showing of Sacramento’s famed artist Wayne Thiebaud and relish a private tour of their extensive collection of Rodin bronzes.

There’s more!! We will dine at the classic Original Joe’s in North Beach before taking in the intimate live cabaret “Dear San Francisco” at the infamous Club Fugazi (home of “Beach Blanket Babylon”). “Dear San Francisco” was the 2024 SF Chronicle’s Award Winner for Best Live Theatre, and Best Venue.

Yes, there’s more!!! We will have a private tour of Historic Fort Point, located beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, built to guard the Bay from Confederate raids during the Civil War, we will lunch at the iconic Spinnaker Restaurant in Sausalito overlooking SF Bay and enjoy a night at the elegant Proper Hotel in The City with its delightful rooftop bar and lounge.

Double Occupancy - $550 per person
Single Occupancy - $700 per person

Refund/Drop Deadline: Monday, May 5, 2025 for a full refund (minus a $50 cancellation fee). 
No Refund after Monday, May 5, 2025.  

T’ai Chi, or the Form, is a physical exercise that promotes good health, relaxation and peace of mind. It has the advantages of regular exercise combined with a slowness of pace that western society so conspicuously lacks. The relaxed gentle movements of the T’ai Chi forms keep the body from being tense and awkward. Joseph Guida studied with and was trained by world renowned T’ai Chi Master Da Liu in the 1980’s. In the first class we will learn how to stand erect, balance on one foot and the opening movement. The second class will review the first class and move on to the second movement of the form.

Learn how the Nevada County Superior Court's civil grand juries serve their communities by investigating citizen complaints, reviewing how governments conduct business, and report to the public. You'll also learn how this body of 19 county residents works, how and who it benefits, and how to become a civil grand juror. 

The Grass Valley Museum depicts the rich history from the Gold Rush days to 1930 with displays of furniture, art, objects d’art, clothing, musical instruments and artifacts of the Victorian era. The Museum also features large Old California Style paintings, a Victorian bedroom, Lola Montez’s bathtub, a table used for the signing of the United Nations Charter in San Francisco in 1945 and many instruments and medicine from Dr. Jones the first doctor in Grass Valley. Today you can almost hear the echoes of children reciting their lessons as you stand behind the teacher’s desk in the restored classroom.

These tours are limited to six people. There are ten steps to the second floor where the Museum is located. Tours are estimated to last 90 minutes. The Grass Valley Museum is located at 410 South Church Street, Grass Valley, two blocks from the historic downtown. Participants will provide their own transportation to and from the event. Registered members will meet instructor at location.

Field Trip Cancellations and Refund Policy

• If we have to cancel a field trip you will receive a full refund.
• If you cancel a field trip:
  • Day Trip: must be canceled at least 2 weeks prior to the field trip to receive a refund (minus a $10 cancellation fee).
  • Overnight field trips require a 45-day cancellation notice for a full refund (minus a $50 cancellation fee). No refunds given after that date.  

The Grass Valley Museum depicts the rich history from the Gold Rush days to 1930 with displays of furniture, art, objects d’art, clothing, musical instruments and artifacts of the Victorian era. The Museum also features large Old California Style paintings, a Victorian bedroom, Lola Montez’s bathtub, a table used for the signing of the United Nations Charter in San Francisco in 1945 and many instruments and medicine from Dr. Jones the first doctor in Grass Valley. Today you can almost hear the echoes of children reciting their lessons as you stand behind the teacher’s desk in the restored classroom.

These tours are limited to six people. There are ten steps to the second floor where the Museum is located. Tours are estimated to last 90 minutes. The Grass Valley Museum is located at 410 South Church Street, Grass Valley, two blocks from the historic downtown. Participants will provide their own transportation to and from the event. Registered members will meet instructor at location.

Field Trip Cancellations and Refund Policy

• If we have to cancel a field trip you will receive a full refund.
• If you cancel a field trip:
  • Day Trip: must be canceled at least 2 weeks prior to the field trip to receive a refund (minus a $10 cancellation fee).
  • Overnight field trips require a 45-day cancellation notice for a full refund (minus a $50 cancellation fee). No refunds given after that date.  

Were you in Band in High School? Middle School? Do you wish you still played? Do you consider yourself a music loving amateur performer? If so, this class is for you! Welcome to the Truckee-Tahoe Community Band. If you have the desire to play with others in an ensemble setting, and prior but not necessarily current experience, then join us on Wednesday nights for a musical adventure. We will work together to interpret and perform fun band literature. The class will culminate in a performance. Music builds community – come join us!

The desires and whims of the 1960s to early 21^st century modern citizens were governed (conditioned) by consumerism. We will read and study the short stories and novels of global authors Georges Perec, Haruk Murakami, Michel Tremblay, and Annie Ernaux.

This class covers the immigrants of each of the original 13 colonies and the bet genealogy records to be found for each of those groups. Surprisingly, these records are plentiful, and the majority can be found online. Records types include: property and land records, early military data, data from books, church and civic records, and immigration records. Key sources include different specialized collections, libraries, and genealogy societies.

This class focuses on strategies for finding the original locations of our emigrating ancestors. Examples are provided for the most common European emigrants as they came to America in different time periods. Three different major emigration waves will be discussed: (1) the pre-1820 time period, (2) the period from 1820 to 1900, and (3) the time period after 1900. A variety of online sites will be discussed.

This class offers case studies to illustrate seven different strategies to find challenging ancestors. These strategies are (1) collaborating with other genealogists such as distant cousins; (2) using the major genealogy search engines including Google; (3) searching genealogy books, both online and offline; (4) researching property and other financial records; (5) broadening your search to include different locations and different data categories; (6) making use of DNA data; and (7) finding specialized on-site data.