Thursday Courses   

This course is a one-week introductory “boot camp” for absolute beginners who want to learn the basics of playing American mah-jongg (AMJ). This five-day series of hands-on play and practice activities is limited to two tables of four or five students each. Instruction will cover the game materials and the rules of play. This is not for people who have played before and want to get back into the game. Intermediate or advanced game play strategies are not part of this activity. At the conclusion of this boot camp, students will understand the game materials, objectives and rules of play, and be ready to form a group of beginner players to continue their AMJ play. Each variation of mah jongg (American, Chinese and Japanese Riichi) has a unique play style and set of rules.

NOTE: The required reference text is provided by the instructor. Text fee is $10, payable at the first class, cash only, please. Please commit to the full week of classes. Missing one class can disrupt the learning experience for all participants. Class will meet in Room C on Tuesday, Jan. 6.

This course is a one-week introductory “boot camp” for absolute beginners who want to learn the basics of playing American mah-jongg (AMJ). This five-day series of hands-on play and practice activities is limited to two tables of four or five students each. Instruction will cover the game materials and the rules of play. This is not for people who have played before and want to get back into the game. Intermediate or advanced game play strategies are not part of this activity. At the conclusion of this boot camp, students will understand the game materials, objectives and rules of play, and be ready to form a group of beginner players to continue their AMJ play. Each variation of mah jongg (American, Chinese and Japanese Riichi) has a unique play style and set of rules.

NOTE: The required reference text is provided by the instructor. Text fee is $10, payable at the first class, cash only, please. Please commit to the full week of classes. Missing one class can disrupt the learning experience for all participants. Class will meet in Room C on Tuesday, Jan. 6.

Why obsess over kale and collagen while ignoring the foundations that make it all work? Every superfood and supplement depends on one catalyst — oxygen, optimally delivered through healthy breathing. This course reveals how proper breathing transforms your complete metabolic cycle, from fuel intake to waste elimination. Discover why healthy breathing 24/7 catalyzes cardiovascular, digestive, brain and metabolic health — while mouth breathing sabotages it, even if you eat well and exercise daily. Exercise with healthy breathing to amplify benefits and limit stress risks. You invest your time and money in proper food and ample exercise. Why not “invest-igate” in your breath and master the overlooked keys to metabolic health?

NOTE: This is a practical course exploring the different dimensions of your breath and respiratory functions. It is not a substitute for medical care of your conditions. You are responsible for your own participation.

Why obsess over kale and collagen while ignoring the foundations that make it all work? Every superfood and supplement depends on one catalyst — oxygen, optimally delivered through healthy breathing. This course reveals how proper breathing transforms your complete metabolic cycle, from fuel intake to waste elimination. Discover why healthy breathing 24/7 catalyzes cardiovascular, digestive, brain and metabolic health — while mouth breathing sabotages it, even if you eat well and exercise daily. Exercise with healthy breathing to amplify benefits and limit stress risks. You invest your time and money in proper food and ample exercise. Why not “invest-igate” in your breath and master the overlooked keys to metabolic health?

NOTE: This is a practical course exploring the different dimensions of your breath and respiratory functions. It is not a substitute for medical care of your conditions. You are responsible for your own participation.

Cells are the fundamental building blocks of all living things. But today’s cells are NOT the cells your grandparents knew, nor even those you learned about back in school. Recent research has revealed amazing things about how cells arose, how their various internal parts (organelles) function, and how their genes (DNA regions) are controlled by types of RNAs unknown until recently. Might some single cells live for 100,000 years or longer? Even the ubiquitous AI has entered the scene: Can a computer-contrived “virtual cell” be used for drug design in silico, replacing time-consuming, laborious work with real living cells in petri dishes or within animal tissues? The course will comprise a potpourri of lectures on various topics in the recent biology of cells with directed discussion.

NOTE: No previous coursework in science is presumed or required.

This class is composed of structured interactions in larger and smaller groups, from dyads to the whole class. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about one another, share about their own lives and build skills and agreements that allow for deeper conversations and connections. The class will be a bit of encounter group blended with theater and team-building games, with a dash of improv. Expect to touch and be touched, both physically and emotionally. Feed your playful side and counteract feelings of isolation or loneliness. Come willing to take some risks, stretch yourself and make some new friends!

NOTE: Although this class shares some elements with growth-oriented therapy groups, it is not therapy. Participants should be able to manage their own experience and emotions in the class without needing help from others. A private continuation of this group will be available upon the conclusion of the class. Signed liability waiver required to participate.

We’re often told, “We can’t afford that program” or “The deficit will bankrupt our grandchildren.” But is this true? Unlike households, the U.S. government issues its own money through the Federal Reserve — it doesn’t need to “find” dollars before it spends them. That’s what makes the dollar a fiat currency: It isn’t backed by gold or any commodity, but instead by law and trust. This class cuts through myths about budgeting, deficits and debt to show how government spending really works. We’ll separate fear from fact and explore how money creation shapes policy, inflation and our everyday lives. 

NOTE: There is no class on Monday, Jan. 19.

In Louise Penny’s mystery novel “The Grey Wolf,” published in 2024, Chief Inspector Armand Gamache, Jean-Guy Beauvoir and Isabelle Lacoste must uncover what at first seems a domestic terrorist attack before realizing that it is an international conspiracy led by someone they called the Grey Wolf. In the follow-up novel, Gamache et al. realize that it is the Black Wolf — with powerful allies in law enforcement, industry, organized crime, even government — that they must find and bring to justice. Using lecture, discussion and PowerPoint slides, let’s explore both books and how the author uses standard mystery-writing elements to move the plots forward. Participants should read both books before the class starts.

NOTE: This course is part of an online share with OLLI at the University of Nevada, Reno.

The four play sequence known as the Henriad is considered by many to be the crown jewel of Shakespeare’s history cycle. In the Middle Ages having no royal male heir led to awkward moments but having too many heirs meant disaster: The five sons of Edward III brought England 100 years of usurpations, murders and civil war, ending only in 1485 with the new Tudor dynasty. The familial and national tragedies portrayed in the plays based on this era continue to rivet audiences—from Richard II’s fecklessness through Henry V’s fleeting moments of martial glory to Richard III’s melodramatic villainy. This course will examine the play “Henry IV, Part One” (in the OSF ’26 season) in the context of the BBC series “The Hollow Crown.”

NOTE: Students should have access to a copy of the play and “The Hollow Crown” video series. As an option to private viewing, the four plays in the video series will be shown at Campbell Center on successive Fridays from 1 to 4 p.m., Feb. 6-27.

“I Am the Word” is a channeled book by spiritual author Paul Selig. The source of the material is a nonphysical collective called “The Guides,” ostensibly spiritual masters who are preparing our world for a major shift in consciousness. Some of the topics to be addressed and discussed include: cultivation of “Christ consciousness” (this is not religious, but a vibrational experience); our current time of cosmic change; releasing self-defeating patterns such as shame and fear; overcoming judgment of self and others; various aspects of love; addictions; and freedom from conditioning and cultural mandates. The material is not religious nor is it rigid dogma. The power of the message is inherent in the text, and the message is one of hope and transformation.

NOTE: The required book is readily available online.

This is a beginning course in 3D printing. Students will learn about the history of 3D printing, its uses and how it works. The many types of 3D printers and the wide range of materials that can be used for printing will be discussed. As part of the actual printing process, students will use 3D modeling software to access existing files of 3D models for printing 3D objects. Students will print objects and learn to decorate and modify them. Additional topics covered will include an introduction to high-tech 3D printing in space travel and other applications. No previous knowledge of 3D printing is needed to participate. Basic computer skills are required.

NOTE: Total cost to participate is $100 ($25 per session). Signed liability waiver required to participate.

This course is designed for students who know little to nothing about bitcoin and cryptocurrencies, although those who have some subject knowledge and want a deeper understanding are also welcome. By the end of the course, students can expect to have enough knowledge to procure, manage and sell their own bitcoin (if they desire), as well as to understand the basics of managing those assets. Students can also expect to gain a greater understanding of the role bitcoin plays in the world’s political and monetary arenas, as well as the history of money and world economies. Each class will include instruction followed by group discussions and Q&A.

NOTE: This course is not recommended for “experts” in the cryptocurrency field.

In this course, you will learn the basics of creating the sewing projects of your choice. The instructor will emphasize the development of basic sewing skills used to create apparel. We will focus on learning how to use the sewing machines, fabric and pattern selection, how to decode information on patterns, basic construction techniques, pressing skills and time-saving technologies and techniques. By the end of the course, you will have the basic skills to embark on your own creations with or without a pattern. Together we will create a sewing skills foundation that can help you in career opportunities or just sewing for yourself, friends and family.

NOTE: Total cost to participate is $200 ($25 per session).Signed liability waiver required to participate.

Transform nature into sparkling silver! Discover the magic of turning leaves, flowers and found treasures into stunning, fine silver jewelry. In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to capture botanical textures and natural forms using art clay silver — a versatile fine silver clay. Create your own one-of-a-kind pendant inspired by the beauty of the world around you. No prior experience is needed — just your curiosity and a love of nature. Let your creativity take root and blossom into timeless silver pieces you’ll be proud to wear or give as a gift.

NOTE: Total cost to participate is $120 ($30 per session). Signed liability waiver required to participate.

Using research-backed strategies, the AARP Smart Driver course has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of accidents, boost knowledge of the current rules of the road, improve defensive driving techniques, and help you with safe vehicle operation in today’s demanding driving environment. This course will focus on the vital relationship between the driver, vehicle and road, and look at how factors such as aging, medication and alcohol can affect driving. You’ll also learn about the latest vehicle safety features and technological advancements. Importantly, you will learn how to identify when it’s no longer safe to drive and how to find alternative travel options. This course may qualify you for a multiyear discount on your auto insurance.

NOTE: Required materials fee of $20 to $25 (discount for AARP members) includes a comprehensive 120-page Participant Guide to bolster learning and reinforce key concepts. Both days are required for course completion and insurance discount.

Thanks to modern technology and the web, we can now explore unique resources from the comfort of our own homes. Whether it’s the history of baseball cards, Sondheim musicals or how holograms are made, there is an explanation and demonstration available somewhere online. Learn how to navigate free resources that may be new to you and understand how to search strategically to satisfy your curiosity. Each of the three sessions will focus on a different theme: Americana, artistic endeavors and mind expanders. No previous knowledge is needed — just a good internet connection. Digital handouts will include links to all the websites demonstrated.

NOTE: This course is part of an online share with OLLI at the University of Nevada, Reno.

This course is designed for the person who wants to learn the fundamentals of the fastest growing sport in America. It is played by all age groups and physical abilities in recreational or tournament play. Join the fun, led by experienced instructors from the Ashland Oregon Pickleball Club. We will meet for 1½ hours a day for five consecutive afternoons. Beginning players will learn the basics: choosing a paddle, paddle position, serving, return of serve, dinking, drills, scoring and calling “out balls.” You might meet “Nasty Nelson!” An emphasis will be placed on safety, court etiquette and sportsmanship. AOPC will provide the paddles, balls and instruction. Use of the Playtime scheduler will be covered as well as courts available in our area. 

NOTE: If you have a mobility issue, this may not be the course for you. Please wear court shoes, bring a hat/visor and a hydrating drink. Eye protection is recommended. If we have inclement weather the class will be canceled. Signed liability waiver required to participate.

This course is designed for students who have taken the Absolute Beginners Pickleball course or have a rudimentary knowledge of the game. It will be taught by seasoned instructors who are experienced players. Expect to build on the basic game to include advanced strategy in play. We will meet at Lithia Park pickleball courts for 1½ hours a day for five consecutive days. There will be an emphasis on safety and sportsmanship. This skills-building class will focus on different types of serves; lobs; third shot drops or “drop shots” drives; partner communication; stacking; types of scoring; and identifying Bert, Ernie and Nasty Nelson. The last day will be a FUN round-robin in which each player will rotate play with all others. An instructor will be on each court to provide feedback.  

NOTE: Please bring a paddle, court shoes, a hat or visor, snacks and a hydrating drink. Eye protection is recommended. Students must know the basic game, such as rules/usapickleball.org, court position, basic serve, return of serve, NVZ, calling “out” balls, safety and sportsmanship. If we have inclement weather the class will be canceled. Signed liability waiver required to participate. 

Interested in cultivating a mind full of wonder? In this class you will learn and use seven rich, beloved practices adapted from Zen Buddhism for being alive in the moments of your ordinary day and drawing on mundane moments to cultivate wonder-mind. Students will explore the topic of wonder by engaging with self-designed experiences based on a framework of practices that will be offered in the course. Through sharing experiences, dialogue and applying the practices in your everyday life, you will end the course fully prepared to build upon your class experiences — you may find yourself living in wonder! No prior knowledge or experience is needed for this course. All are welcome! 

This 10-week series will introduce students to 10 very different films, ones that are on various spiritual or transformational topics, including: pilgrimage, forgiveness, the internet and technology, healing from childhood loss, a relationship with an octopus (!) and more. Each class begins with a short, guided meditation, teaching on an aspect of film studies, and an introduction to the film of the week. These vary in length from 84 to 118 minutes. We will discuss the movie at the beginning of the next week, paying attention to psychological and spiritual themes, motifs, archetypes, plot and character portrayal, and useful life lessons. There will be weekly study questions with (optional) homework. Movies will be announced the week before class starts. All are welcome!

NOTE: There will be subtitles with the foreign films (German, French, Spanish) and there will be no subtitles on the English-language films.

“The Lord of the Rings” ranks as one of the most popular works of fiction of the 20th century, both in terms of sales and in reader surveys. Why? In this course we will read and discuss Tolkien’s masterpiece within the context of his career and its predecessor stories: “The Silmarillion” (small selections only), which Tolkien began in his early 20s during World War I, and “The Hobbit,” a tale he wrote for his children that gradually became linked with his earlier work in “The Silmarillion” and led to “The Lord of the Rings.” We will consider the nature of fantasy as literature and what Tolkien’s work has to say about fate versus free will, hope versus despair, war, courage, sacrifice, compassion, mercy, power and the nature of evil.

NOTE: Any edition of “The Hobbit” or “The Lord of the Rings” will be fine. Participants should be prepared for a substantial amount of reading and may want to read ahead.