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Financial Planning & Investing can be a challenging, confusing process. Join us as we teach you our simple 3-Phase process that we use to evaluate, invest, and protect our clients' nest-egg. In this in-depth workshop we will bring our focus to the ins and outs of building an efficient investment portfolio. We will also cover a multitude of relevant topics including, but not limited to: adequate insurance coverages, estate-planning must-dos, and evaluating the need for professional help.

This unique course will present experts from five different disciplines of our criminal justice system who will answer questions in a conversational format with Professor Panneton. Representatives from the police, the D.A. and public defender offices, the judiciary and corrections will share how their decades of experience shaped their perspectives on how we handle crime in our communities. Their opinions will also serve to promote provocative class discussion.

One way to discover how much we remember about American history is to examine some of the fascinating bits of trivia regarding the men who have held the nation's highest office. For example: Who said the business of America is business? How many presidents were generals of the army? How many presidents were married for than once? The answers to questions like these invite us to learn more about our American story.

He’s a versatile entertainer and cinematic heavyweight who defies expectation. Often embracing acting roles that lean into his unconventional physicality, he has established a prolific career spanning over five decades as an actor, director, and producer. He embraces the dark humor of the stories he tells and the physicality of his roles, as we’ll see as take a look back at four of his films from the 1980s, some of which he directed as well as starred or co-starred in. In this class we’ll be watching and discussing: “Romancing the Stone” (1984); “Throw Momma from the Train” (1987); “Twins” (1988); and “The War of the Roses” (1989).

Difficult times continue to vex us and often leave us with a feeling of dread. It's about time for some MORE feel-good movies. Movies that make us remember, reflect and smile. These films bring uplifting films from familiar story lines, including Sports, Music, Fantasy and Teen Angst. Please join us for a lively discussion after watching the following 4 films: Remember the Titans (2000) with Denzel Washington and Will Patton; Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971) with Gene Wilder and Jack Albertson; A Hard Day's Night (1964) with The Beatles; Ferris Bueller's Day (1986) with Mathew Broderick and Mia Sara, Each of these movies has an IMDB rating of 7.5-7.8 /10 and 3 or 4 * from Roger Ebert review with a story line that will touch your heart as well as your memories.

Are you one of the more than 33 million Americans who have Irish or Scots-Irish ancestors? This class will cover how to get started, websites for Irish and Scots-Irish genealogy and a Case Study demonstrating how the instructor used six of those websites to find two generations of Irish ancestors (and exactly where they lived in Ireland) after starting with only the names of two immigrants to America. Includes 10-page handout.

Drawing from a variety of time-tested disciplines, this class offers effective, results-producing movements designed specifically for the OLLI student at whatever your level is. These exercises will add strength and elasticity to your muscles and frame while protecting and strengthening your back. You will also work your heart in a very gentle way and achieve freedom in movement and less pain. Best of all, we're doing all this to the music we know and love: '50s, '60s and '70s. It is not too late to rejuvenate your body! Wear comfortable clothing.

The American artist Georgia O'Keeffe's life, literary and visual oeuvres, and contributions to modernism will be studied.

The American artist Georgia O'Keeffe's life, literary and visual oeuvres, and contributions to modernism will be studied.

Experience the joy of orchestral music by playing with the Grass Valley Symphony Orchestra, an ensemble of music-loving amateurs. Our weekly rehearsals focus on musical growth, appreciation, and a warm atmosphere of mutual support. Making music together builds community, and each semester concludes with a public concert. The Grass Valley Symphony Orchestra welcomes instrumentalists of all skill levels. New and prospective members are encouraged to sit in on a rehearsal before joining.

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, 2026 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 2026 Topics

1. America and the World: Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy
   Trump’s return has marked a break from 80 years of U.S. foreign policy leadership, embracing an “America First” approach. This chapter explores the risks of isolation and diminished influence in relation to Trump 2.0 foreign policy.
   By G. John Ikenberry
2. Trump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy
   Trump’s aggressive trade and tariff policies have shaken global economic norms. What’s the rationale behind this radical shift in economic policy, and what are the implications for multilateral trade and geopolitics?
   By Michael Mastanduno
3. U.S.-China Relations
   Relations with China remain tense, with tariffs, military modernization, and pressure on Taiwan. Does Trump have a coherent China policy, and will his tariffs on Rare Earth minerals be effective? What are America’s strategic options?
   By Oriana Mastro
4. Ruptured Alliances and the Risk of Nuclear Proliferation
   U.S. alliance skepticism may drive countries like Japan and South Korea to reconsider nuclear options. What are the implications of the Trump administration’s rethinking of the U.S. alliance system for regional and global security? Will this new uncertainty alter the way allies and rivals in various regions make decisions about security and nuclear weapons?
   By Gideon Rose
5. Ukraine and the Future of European Security
   With reduced U.S. support for NATO and Ukraine, Europe faces strategic uncertainty. The Trump administration has signaled an intention to reduce its security role in Europe. What are America’s stakes in NATO and Europe’s strategic dilemmas, and how might Europe respond?
   By Thomas Wright
6. Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order
   Can multilateralism survive amid shifting global power and rising nationalism? This chapter examines the future of global cooperation across trade, health, and finance.
   By Scott Bessent (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
7. U.S. Engagement of Africa
   Africa’s geopolitical role is growing. What lessons can the U.S. learn from China’s presence there, and how might it strengthen ties, especially with leading nations like Nigeria? What tools of statecraft might the U.S. bring to its engagement with Africa?
   By Jendayi E. Frazer
8. The Future of Human Rights and International Law
   As democracy and human rights retreat globally—and the U.S. pulls back—how can civil society and legal norms remain effective in a divided world? What is the role and force of international law in this era of impunity?
   By Jose Enrique Alvarez

The "Heil Hitler" salute was probably modeled on a unique American tradition begun in 1892 to salute the flag. Racial laws in the US were used as a model for Nazi race laws. American disinfection practices of immigrants crossing the Mexican border were adapted for German concentration camps. These practices invite reflection about our nation's heritage.

Understanding the business of marijuana is the topic of this field trip led by OLLI Instructor Terry McAteer. Nevada County produces a large amount of legal and illegal marijuana and in this adventure we will visit a legal dispensary and legal pot farm along with chatting with people working in this industry for a more complete understanding of this complex business model. A Sierra College bus is provided with pick-up stops in Rocklin and Grass Valley. Lunch is included (you must provide drink). Limited to 47 (32 on bus and 15 drive yourself).

Understanding the business of marijuana is the topic of this field trip led by OLLI Instructor Terry McAteer. Nevada County produces a large amount of legal and illegal marijuana and in this adventure we will visit a legal dispensary and legal pot farm along with chatting with people working in this industry for a more complete understanding of this complex business model. A Sierra College bus is provided with pick-up stops in Rocklin and Grass Valley. Lunch is included (you must provide drink). Limited to 47 (32 on bus and 15 drive yourself).

Join me in watching three movies that celebrate America's love of baseball. We'll start with "The Sandlot," the story of a group of boys who play an endless game of baseball in a vacant lot. Next we'll watch "The Natural," which recounts the experiences of Roy Hobbs, an individual with great "natural" baseball talent. And we'll conclude with the popular "A League of Their Own," the story of the women's baseball league. 

The 2026 mid-terms election matchups will be in full swing and you need to know what to watch for, how to be an informed voter and what tools to use to find campaign reports, polling data, insider news and more. Terry McAteer will have you dialed in to being astutely ready for his fall election classes.

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.

Join us! Learn and play American Mahjong in a friendly, social setting with other Club OLLI members. Members meet and practice on a regular basis. All skill levels are welcome. No supplies needed.

Membership Required - No course fee

Drawing on information from her blogs and book, "Mornings on Fair Oaks Bridge, Watching Wildlife at the Lower American River, " Janice leads this tour to share scenic views, preservation initiatives, and reveal little known facts of geology, history, salmon spawning, and wildlife interactions. Discover how Fair Oaks Bridge, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, became an integral part of growing the agricultural economies and community services of Orangevale, Citrus Heights and Fair Oaks.

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.

Monthly gathering to discuss books ranging from historic fiction to non-fiction and classics. Short presentation focusing on facts about author, historical setting or other aspects of the book sets the tone for informal discussion of book. Members will need to obtain their own books. Opening selection is "The Measure" by Nikki Erlick. Reading list will be provided upon registration.

Monthly gathering to discuss books ranging from historic fiction to non-fiction and classics. Short presentation focusing on facts about author, historical setting or other aspects of the book sets the tone for informal discussion of book. Members will need to obtain their own books. Opening selection is "The Measure" by Nikki Erlick. Reading list will be provided upon registration.

This class is designed for people who have already taken the Beginning Memoir course, though all are welcome, and I will provide handouts for newcomers to acquaint them with the material. Every week students are given prompts, which they may choose to respond to.

Oregon Shakespeare Festival - New Dates

Ashland, Oregon Monday, June 8 – Wednesday, June 10 (3 days; 2 nights)

 

Depart via a Sierra College bus to Ashland, Oregon home of the Tony Award winning Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

We will stay at the Stratford Inn a few blocks from the theaters (breakfast included). En route, we will visit the Ide Adobe State Park and the Sisson Fish Hatchery for a picnic lunch (provided, you provide a drink).

The first evening we will head to the nearby historic town of Jacksonville for a wine tasting at South Stage Cellars and then you can explore the many dining options in that very cute town. Tuesday morning at 9:30 a.m. we will have a behind-the-scenes tour of the festival venues. Following the tour, you can walk around the adorable town of Ashland and have lunch before seeing the Tony Award winner, “Raisin in the Sun” at 1:30 pm. After the play, a rest is a good idea back at the Stratford Inn before heading out for dinner and the 8 pm showing of Shakespeare's comedy-- A Midsummer Night's Dream. Wednesday morning, following breakfast, we will head back to Rocklin. 

In total: two plays, a behind-the-scenes tour, lodging with breakfast, picnic lunch, wine tasting, transportation by a Sierra College bus. You are responsible for two lunches and two dinners. Grab a friend and come along!

Double Occupancy: $475 pp; Single $625

Bus Departure check-in at 8:45am. The bus will depart at 9:00am sharp!

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.

Oregon Shakespeare Festival - New Dates

Ashland, Oregon Monday, June 8 – Wednesday, June 10 (3 days; 2 nights)

Depart via a Sierra College bus to Ashland, Oregon home of the Tony Award winning Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

We will stay at the Stratford Inn a few blocks from the theaters (breakfast included). En route, we will visit the Ide Adobe State Park and the Sisson Fish Hatchery for a picnic lunch (provided, you provide a drink).

The first evening we will head to the nearby historic town of Jacksonville for a wine tasting at South Stage Cellars and then you can explore the many dining options in that very cute town. Tuesday morning at 9:30 a.m. we will have a behind-the-scenes tour of the festival venues. Following the tour, you can walk around the adorable town of Ashland and have lunch before seeing the Tony Award winner, “Raisin in the Sun” at 1:30 pm. After the play, a rest is a good idea back at the Stratford Inn before heading out for dinner and the 8 pm showing of Shakespeare's comedy-- A Midsummer Night's Dream. Wednesday morning, following breakfast, we will head back to Rocklin. 

In total: two plays, a behind-the-scenes tour, lodging with breakfast, picnic lunch, wine tasting, transportation by a Sierra College bus. You are responsible for two lunches and two dinners. Grab a friend and come along!

Double Occupancy: $475 pp; Single $625

Bus Departure check-in at 8:45am. The bus will depart at 9:00am sharp!

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.

While the Civil War and the 20th century civil rights movement are widely known, the period following the war is not. This course will cover the major elements of Reconstruction involving racial injustice, white terrorism, and the government’s response during this post-Civil War era to better understand its successes, failures, and how it impacted the progress of civil rights.

This class explores the role of religion in shaping American politics and national identity from the colonial period to the present. The United States is rare among modern nations in its enduring reliance on religious language to define national purpose, with theological frameworks providing many of the basic assumptions underlying American notions of politics, power, and belonging. Beginning with Puritan covenant theology and ending with contemporary Christian nationalism, we examine how religious actors constructed the dominant narratives of America as a redeemer nation with a special role to play on the world stage. Through close reading of sermons, speeches, theological writings, and political rhetoric, we analyze how these narratives draw on literary forms like the jeremiad, prophecy, and apocalyptic vision. We also examine how those narratives of chosenness were contested over time by marginalized communities offering alternative visions rooted in different theological traditions and experiences of exclusion. Students will learn to identify the rhetorical strategies used to sacralize political power and to recognize how these contests over American identity continue to shape our present.

Humans have been using drugs for a long, long time. Signs of the high life in animals goes way beyond cats and catnip. Many scholars believe that religions have always, in one way or another, involved drugs. The term entheogen was developed in the 20th century to describe the use of psycho active substances to assist individuals in experiencing a chemically induced spiritual high. We'll examine they ways that drugs have been used over the centuries as part of the community's religious practice.

The T'ai Chi forms teach the practioner to keep his or her body balanced and in a central position; erect and well postured. When the body is erect every bone and inner organ is in the proper place. Keeping the spinal cord erect is the first step toward rejuvenating the body. T'ai Chi Ch'uan is beneficial to both mental and physical health. T'ai Chi can rid all parts of the body of spiritual and physical defects; it clears the mind and strengthens the brain, benefits the heart, promotes good digestion and sound kidneys. It also helps to lower blood pressure, soften blood vessels.

Continuing students are introduced to further sequences of the Yang Long form and will learn the intricacies of articulation, timing, breathing and the purposes behind the moves and advanced fluidity.

Tai Chi is a centuries old practice of gentle and graceful movements known as postures which are designed to build better balance, coordination, focus, stress relief, and mind/body connection. Students are encouraged to wear loose comfortable clothing. Our program features the Yang Long form. 

Tai Chi is a centuries old practice of gentle and graceful movements known as postures which are designed to build better balance, coordination, focus, stress relief, and mind/body connection. Students are encouraged to wear loose comfortable clothing. Our program features the Yang Long form. 

Practice and review of the Yang Long Form.

Learn how a Civil Grand Jury - county residents working together to improve government and protect taxpayer dollars - serves their community by reviewing how the city and county governments conduct business, investigating citizen complaints, report to the public, and more.

The ancient world greatly feared slave rebellion, and designed as a deterrent various means of death by torture, one of which was crucifixion. Jesus death on the cross was for centuries an embarrassment for the Christian community. It was only in the sixth century that artists began portraying Jesus on a cross. We'll examine the ways that this art form evolved over the centuries and found expression in made different cultures.

This series will look at three of the most brilliant minds in recent world history: Henry Ford, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Steve Jobs. There is scant disagreement that these men changed not only millions of lives of their time but also the future lives in small ways and large. We’ll take a close look at what shaped them to become brilliant innovators, strategists, and, ultimately, successful salesmen while failing significantly and tragically as husbands, fathers, colleagues, bigots, and, in Ford’s case, an ardent antisemite.

Back by popular demand! Can you tell an oboe's sound from a clarinet's? A French horn's from a trombone's? Put your ears on and join us! 

Back by popular demand! Can you tell an oboe's sound from a clarinet's? A French horn's from a trombone's? Put your ears on and join us! 

The Pops Chorale, led by Artistic/Musical Director Lorin Miller, is an auditioned choral group of about 75 singers that performs with its own orchestra. The Chorale puts on two major concert series each year, in May and in December. Membership in the chorale is by audition, which takes place twice a year and can be arranged via the Chorale website,  www.thepopschorale.com. Prospective members must have the ability to both sing and dance, as each semester several professionally choreographed pieces are performed by the Chorale during each of our shows. Auditions can be arranged on the Pops Website, www.thepopschorale.com 

From Tangier to Madrid, an economically and politically engaged seamstress participates in the prelude to Spain's Civil War. Detailed historical context for this Spanish film series will be studied in the Spanish Literature class Maria Dueñas Examines The Time in Between.

From Tangier to Madrid, an economically and politically engaged seamstress participates in the prelude to Spain's Civil War. Detailed historical context for this Spanish film series will be studied in the Spanish Literature class Maria Dueñas Examines The Time in Between.

The business of horse racing generates billions of dollars and hundreds of thousands of jobs. We'll learn how horses are selected and trained, how racetracks supervise and monitor racing, famous horses, jockeys, trainers and owners, and traditions among some of America's famous tracks and races.

Timelines are a great tool for analysis and breaking through a brick wall. Learn how and why creating a timeline of an ancestor’s life can help you: 1) decide if a record you found is about your ancestor and not someone else with the same name; 2) differentiate between two people with the same name; 3) identify gaps that need more research, and more. Many examples will be shown.

Go exploring Guatemala with Terry McAteer. Beyond the capital, Guatemala City, is a colonial and naturally scenic country which abounds in volcanic activity. Visit the Colonial Capital, Antigua, venture to a Mayan marketplace deep in the jungle and witness the beauty of Lake Atitlan.

The Klondike Gold Rush of 1898 put the Yukon on the map. Terry McAteer takes you back to Dawson City, Whitehouse, the Yukon River, and the wilds of this remote Canadian Territory. We’ll even get face-to-face with a wild Grizzly Bear!

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!

Truckee-Tahoe Community Chorus: The course is designed for college-aged students through seniors for the study of selected styles and periods of music culminating in the performance of selected repertoire. The course curriculum includes discussion of musical elements, composition, vocabulary and history as well as vocal technique.

The White House has changed and evolved as the nation has changed. Each president has made "improvements" to the executive mansion but none as dramatic as those by President Trump. The current president has remodeled the West Wing, added two100 foot flag poles, transformed the Rose Garden, and is adding a 90,000 square food East Wing banquet hall.

Rocklin Historical Society docents will explain the history of sites in Rocklin, including the largest of the granite quarries (now site of Quarry Adventures Park), the Rocklin History Museum, the site of the Transcontinental Railroad roundhouse and the Chinese settlement. Along Front Street, Rocklin's original downtown, visitors will learn the history of the Firehouse replica and Old St. Mary's Chapel. The tour will finish with a box lunch on the patio. We will provide roundtrip transportation on a Sierra College bus from the Rocklin Campus. We will meet at the Dietrich Theater and leave promptly at 9am. Price includes bus transportation and lunch. Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Some standing for short periods of time.

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.

Join us for a tour of the WPWMA facilities and see firsthand how they sort recyclables at their advanced Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), how they compost green waste, and how they safely process hazardous waste. Their knowledgeable staff will guide us through the process (including explaining how the state-of-the-art sorting equipment works) and answer all your questions.
We will provide complimentary roundtrip transportation on a Sierra College bus from the Rocklin Campus. We will meet at the Dietrich Theater and leave promptly at 9:15am. You do not need to pay for parking; a parking permit will be mailed to all Registered participants. Please display permit visible on dash.

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.

Our goal is to normalize conversations about death. We cover how we can plan for our own death and communicate our wishes to our family, friends and caregivers. We'll talk about the role of a death doula as well as the steps to take in advance to prepare for our death. We will discuss dying at home after-death care and new options for environmentally friendly burial or cremation. After the presentation, there is time for Q&A and discussion of death-related topics that come up for you.

A brief introduction to the religious beliefs, practices and values of Eastern Religious Traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. We will explore the history of each of these religions, as well as their philosophy, mythology, rituals, practices, beliefs and values. Special consideration will be given to the impact of these traditions on the modern western world.