Thursday   

Learn about ecotourism starting with nature tourism concepts in Africa leading to how it is being practiced in Nebraska and the region. Nature-based tourism as a form of conservation can serve as a bridge between landowners, conservationists, and the general public. Explore several ecotourism operators, challenges for the industry and how you can get out there and see the Great Plains.

Learn about ecotourism starting with nature tourism concepts in Africa leading to how it is being practiced in Nebraska and the region. Nature-based tourism as a form of conservation can serve as a bridge between landowners, conservationists, and the general public. Explore several ecotourism operators, challenges for the industry and how you can get out there and see the Great Plains.

Use your newfound kayaking skills to explore one of the many state recreation lakes around Lincoln. We will spend the afternoon paddling at Pawnee Lake and Middle Creek, which feeds this reservoir. This paddle up the creek provides a great opportunity to see birds and other wildlife. This class is targeted toward paddlers who have participated in one of the previous kayaking classes. All kayaking equipment is provided. Must provide own entry fee into State Recreation Area.

Have you ever wondered if there was an approach to agriculture that was better for the farmer, the planet and society? Regenerative Agriculture is a way of farming with nature that increases soil and environmental health. It is gaining momentum and adoption across the United States and the world. We will learn what Regenerative Agriculture is, how it is different and similar to conventional, sustainable, and organic agriculture, and why it is gaining momentum. Explore this approach to farming which results in a triple win for society, the planet, as well as the farmers and the communities they live in. Learn how the agriculture system, global food system, policy and emerging technology all interact to provide both opportunities and barriers to the adoption of regenerative agriculture by farmers, along with ideas of ways you can help grow its adoption.

Have you ever wondered if there was an approach to agriculture that was better for the farmer, the planet and society? Regenerative Agriculture is a way of farming with nature that increases soil and environmental health. It is gaining momentum and adoption across the United States and the world. We will learn what Regenerative Agriculture is, how it is different and similar to conventional, sustainable, and organic agriculture, and why it is gaining momentum. Explore this approach to farming which results in a triple win for society, the planet, as well as the farmers and the communities they live in. Learn how the agriculture system, global food system, policy and emerging technology all interact to provide both opportunities and barriers to the adoption of regenerative agriculture by farmers, along with ideas of ways you can help grow its adoption.

This is the second course in a series called “Learn to Play.” Although it may seem intimidating at first, the basic game of cribbage is very easy to learn and play. If you have a cribbage board, or pen and paper, and a deck of cards, you’re ready. We will walk you through the setup, the forming of hands, scoring points, finishing a round and playing with strategy. You will feel comfortable in no time.

The University of Nebraska started as one infamous building on 11 acres of land north of downtown Lincoln. Join Kay Logan-Peters, retired UNL librarian and author of “University of Nebraska,” for a walking tour of the early buildings at the city campus. We will discuss the physical growth of the campus during the University’s first century and learn about some of the faculty and administrators who were instrumental in shaping the prairie university.

The University of Nebraska Farm started as a demonstration and test farm on the outskirts of Lincoln shortly after the founding of the university. Join Kay Logan-Peters, retired UNL librarian and author of “University of Nebraska,” for a walking tour of the early buildings on the East Campus, formerly known as the Farm. We will discuss the physical growth of the campus during the University farm’s early years and learn about some of the faculty and others who were instrumental in shaping the University’s agricultural campus.

Learn the basics of pickleball. You will be playing the game in 20 minutes. This course is for beginners. A limited supply of paddles and balls are available to borrow. One mentor per court (per four OLLI participants) will be provided. Purchase pickleball paddles at local sporting goods stores starting around $50. On-line purchase is not recommended! Questions? Contact the instructor, Bill Roehrs at 402-432-6790 or email him at wroehrs@me.com.

Stories are personal wealth, collected over a lifetime. The instructors use prompts to invite class participants to share stories, both oral and written. Examples of prompts include favorite meals, family traditions, mentors and more. If you attended this course during the fall term, you will continue your journey of sharing and listening. If you are new to this course, let the adventure begin. All are welcome as we practice the key storytelling elements of telling and listening. You are encouraged to write or otherwise record your stories for your family.

Are you looking for new ideas to kick off your spring and summer entertaining? An Easter brunch and a Hawaiian Luau will be fun ways to welcome warmer weather and time with friends and family. Try new recipes in UNL’s teaching kitchen. Learn a few culinary techniques you may not have known before and enjoy sampling your dishes at the end of each session. Bring containers to take home your delicious creations to devour yourself or share with friends and family.

From the comfort of your own home, join in meditation, breath-work, balance, and mindful movements to reconnect your mind, body, and spirit. Class is for all levels, but poses will include a variety of positions requiring students to get on/off the floor. Instructor will provide modifications as needed. No homework, but you will learn some yoga tidbits to use in your future practice both on and off your mat. No equipment needed, but a yoga mat is encouraged. Consult with your physician prior to participating.

The ukulele is an easy instrument to learn. Have fun singing, strumming, and learning with fellow OLLI members. Learning a new instrument keeps the brain sharp, and fingering the ukulele helps arthritic hands. You don’t have to know how to read music to take this class. Any standard "C tuning" ukulele may be used. It is helpful if members bring their own ukulele and music stand; and, members may check out a beginner ukulele from any public library in advance.

Nia Moving to Heal is a gentle movement practice designed for adults wanting joyful, gentle ways to exercise. It blends teaching from the dance arts, healing arts and martial arts to create a holistic approach to movement. Moving to Heal is appropriate for all fitness levels, leaving you energized, refreshed and with a smile on your face. Moving to Heal: Gentle Movement for Every BODY.

Watch a series of videos and discuss the archeology and history surrounding prehistoric Europe and the origins of the Celts. Videos include “The Celts – How the Barbarians Tamed Europe, “ by International Masters Publishing, as well as the PBS films “Secrets of Stonehenge” and “After Stonehenge,” taught by academics who summarize life in the Bronze Age. Also included is the PBS film, “In Search of Ancient Ireland” to learn about the beginnings of Celtic and Bronze Age of the Emerald Isle. Each video will begin with a brief lecture by the course instructor.

Climate concerns and depletion or degradation of natural resources are prompting citizens to better understand the implications of their consumption habits and the amount of waste that must be managed from their own household. A paradigm shift is occurring in which decisions will be made within the framework of a circular economy instead of the linear economy. Understand why “reduce, reuse, recycle” are important, but also why they are associated more with the existing linear economy rather than the future circular economy. Every person can have an impact. Understanding the options for managing waste in Lincoln creates the foundation for having the maximum impact. Learn how UNL is integrating sustainability into their waste management and other university operations to foster progress towards institutional sustainability goals.