December   

This course provides an introduction to the principles and practices of songwriting within the American folk tradition. Participants will examine the historical, cultural, and musical characteristics that define folk music.

Chip Albright is an independent singer-songwriter based in Des Moines. He writes a weekly column for the Iowa Writers’ Collaborative called ‘Chip Happens’, covering music in Iowa. He also hosts ‘Iowa Homegrown’ on KFMG 98.9 FM. He has a BS in Rhetoric from Kansas State University.

Church tradition holds that after Jesus’s ascension to heaven, his Apostles, working initially out of Jerusalem, quickly moved to establish Christian churches throughout the Roman empire and beyond. However, with but a few exceptions, the New Testament is virtually silent on the actions and fates of these 12 men. In this 3-part lecture series, we will discuss what we can know historically about these important figures in early Christianity. Topics for discussion will be: What does the New Testament say about the 12 Apostles? Was Peter the first bishop of Rome? Who were the 70 Apostles mentioned in the Gospel of Luke? Were there women Apostles? What are the Apocryphal Gospels? Were the Apostles martyred? How did Christian missionary work effect the pagan world? Who was James, the brother of the Lord? Was St. Paul an Apostle? While no reading is required for this course, a passing knowledge of the New Testament would be helpful.

This class is offered in collaboration with Osher at William and Mary University.

As our country celebrates 250 years since its founding, we look to the relationship between the United States of America and, as former President Obama called France, “our oldest ally.” The aide and influence of the French constitute an important part in the history of the United States, and vice-versa. Since our very beginnings as a democracy, the United States has maintained a strong, if sometimes volatile, relationship with France. French thinkers impacted the writing of the Declaration of Independence, and French military aide helped the Americans win the War of Independence. The United States entered WWI on the side of the Triple Entente, sending over one million American soldiers to fight on the western front in France, leading to the Allied victory in 1918.

However, the two countries have differed on many occasions, from the outset of the French Revolution in 1789, which led to the passage of The Alien and Sedition Acts, to more recently leading up to the Iraq War, when American lawmakers changed the cafeteria menus in the House of Representatives from “French Fries” to “Freedom Fries” (2003) in response to France’s condemnation of the proposed Iraqi invasion. We will look at our common Franco-American history, influences, cultural misunderstandings, and other aspects of this great cross-cultural rapport, such as Americans living in Paris during the 19th and 20th centuries, the gift of the Statue of Liberty, and artistic and culinary traditions.

As our country celebrates 250 years since its founding, we look to the relationship between the United States of America and, as former President Obama called France, “our oldest ally.” The aide and influence of the French constitute an important part in the history of the United States, and vice-versa. Since our very beginnings as a democracy, the United States has maintained a strong, if sometimes volatile, relationship with France. French thinkers impacted the writing of the Declaration of Independence, and French military aide helped the Americans win the War of Independence. The United States entered WWI on the side of the Triple Entente, sending over one million American soldiers to fight on the western front in France, leading to the Allied victory in 1918.

However, the two countries have differed on many occasions, from the outset of the French Revolution in 1789, which led to the passage of The Alien and Sedition Acts, to more recently leading up to the Iraq War, when American lawmakers changed the cafeteria menus in the House of Representatives from “French Fries” to “Freedom Fries” (2003) in response to France’s condemnation of the proposed Iraqi invasion. We will look at our common Franco-American history, influences, cultural misunderstandings, and other aspects of this great cross-cultural rapport, such as Americans living in Paris during the 19th and 20th centuries, the gift of the Statue of Liberty, and artistic and culinary traditions.

(Optional Zoom presentation with Carl Johnson at 12–1 p.m., Wednesday, December 2)

Directed by John Madden, this warm ensemble comedy-drama follows a group of British retirees who relocate to India seeking adventure and a more affordable life. Lured by advertisements for the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, they arrive in Jaipur to find the hotel far less luxurious than expected, though its enthusiastic young manager Sonny (Dev Patel) remains optimistic. Featuring a distinguished cast including Judi Dench, Bill Nighy, Maggie Smith, and Tom Wilkinson, the film explores aging, cultural encounter, and the possibility of new beginnings later in life.

(Optional Zoom presentation with Carl Johnson at 12–1 p.m., Wednesday, December 2)

Directed by John Madden, this warm ensemble comedy-drama follows a group of British retirees who relocate to India seeking adventure and a more affordable life. Lured by advertisements for the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, they arrive in Jaipur to find the hotel far less luxurious than expected, though its enthusiastic young manager Sonny (Dev Patel) remains optimistic. Featuring a distinguished cast including Judi Dench, Bill Nighy, Maggie Smith, and Tom Wilkinson, the film explores aging, cultural encounter, and the possibility of new beginnings later in life.

Join fellow OLLI at Drake members for fun, conversation, and friendly competition at Felix & Oscar’s. Whether you’re an experienced Bunco player or trying the game for the first time, this easy-to-learn dice game offers a relaxed and social way to connect with friends old and new. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch while meeting new friends.

Join fellow OLLI at Drake members for fun, conversation, and friendly competition at Felix & Oscar’s. Whether you’re an experienced Bunco player or trying the game for the first time, this easy-to-learn dice game offers a relaxed and social way to connect with friends old and new. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch while meeting new friends.

In this course we would provide an overview of what the Camino is, where it is located, highlights of the trail, and thoughts or observations about our 39-day adventure. We will also provide insight to our training plan, and other preparations for the trip, including gear, and other pre-planning. When we set off on the trail in 2023 we knew it would be an adventure; however we did not comprehend how much the trail would become part of it influencing us until this day.

In this course we would provide an overview of what the Camino is, where it is located, highlights of the trail, and thoughts or observations about our 39-day adventure. We will also provide insight to our training plan, and other preparations for the trip, including gear, and other pre-planning. When we set off on the trail in 2023 we knew it would be an adventure; however we did not comprehend how much the trail would become part of it influencing us until this day.

One of the most interesting (and to be honest – fun) parts of my career was to be involved in investigations of disease outbreaks. People often think that outbreaks are investigated to find who was at fault for people getting sick, but in reality, we did investigations to see what went wrong and to stop that from happening again. In this program, I’ll share my stories about some of the most interesting outbreaks, how we did the investigations, and what happened in the end.

One of the most interesting (and to be honest – fun) parts of my career was to be involved in investigations of disease outbreaks. People often think that outbreaks are investigated to find who was at fault for people getting sick, but in reality, we did investigations to see what went wrong and to stop that from happening again. In this program, I’ll share my stories about some of the most interesting outbreaks, how we did the investigations, and what happened in the end.

As with much of Children’s Literature, L. Frank Baum’s 1900 classic, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, is much more than a tale to entertain children. In this course, we’ll explore various interpretations that can be applied to the work. From political allegory to Jungian archetypes and Campbell’s Journey of the Hero, we’ll see that the Yellow Brick Road has much to teach both the young, and the young at heart.

As with much of Children’s Literature, L. Frank Baum’s 1900 classic, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, is much more than a tale to entertain children. In this course, we’ll explore various interpretations that can be applied to the work. From political allegory to Jungian archetypes and Campbell’s Journey of the Hero, we’ll see that the Yellow Brick Road has much to teach both the young, and the young at heart.

Join OLLI at Drake members for an in-depth look into the extraordinary life of a successful freelance musician, who has worked with several prominent musicians, composers, and contractors that recognized Karl Vincent’s unique acting skills and musicianship. Karl is known for his talent as a soloist or either in or leading the bass section on feature movies, TV shows, live concerts, and acting or cameo appearances on TV, in commercials, and movies. 

Karl Vincent was raised in the East Bay of San Francisco. His passion for music started at an early age, studying guitar at the age of 10, moving on to violin and, finally, to bass at age 13. From then on, a wide variety of music genres became areas of performance for him. After high school, Karl chose to move to Los Angeles and study. Many famous bass players became teachers, including his mentor, the legendary Red Callender. UCLA took notice and he was enrolled on a full scholarship, studying Ethnomusicology. While there, he met soon-to-be film composer Christopher Young, which led to a long and successful collaboration.

Experience the future of DSM with a guided tour of our new terminal. Learn how the project is transforming the passenger experience, explore key features of the facility, and get a firsthand look at construction progress before the terminal opens in 2027. Closed-toe shoes are required for all participants.

Experience the future of DSM with a guided tour of our new terminal. Learn how the project is transforming the passenger experience, explore key features of the facility, and get a firsthand look at construction progress before the terminal opens in 2027. Closed-toe shoes are required for all participants.

**Participants purchase their own drinks and food.

Neighborhood Bars are part of the fabric of every community. Whether it’s a single establishment located on a small town Main Street, or a number of bars in different parts of a larger city, they are gathering places for local residents that provide vitality and energy to their community. Join us as we learn about their history and the customers they serve.

Join OLLI at Drake members in volunteering at the Food Bank of Iowa. The task will be sorting food with consideration for freshness, safety, quality, and client preference into quantities appropriate for shipping. This activity could involve sorting produce, or other products, depending on the donations received for processing that day.

Most observers expect the mid-term elections to bring gains for the Democratic Party, largely as a backlash against the policies of the Trump Administration. Yet surveys also indicate low public approval ratings for the Democratic Party overall. These contrary realities raise the question: What does the Democratic Party stand for beyond opposition to Donald Trump? Which of the contending visions for a Democratic governing agenda can successfully serve to build broad-based support for the Democratic Party? This class will explore these questions using public opinion data.

Most observers expect the mid-term elections to bring gains for the Democratic Party, largely as a backlash against the policies of the Trump Administration. Yet surveys also indicate low public approval ratings for the Democratic Party overall. These contrary realities raise the question: What does the Democratic Party stand for beyond opposition to Donald Trump? Which of the contending visions for a Democratic governing agenda can successfully serve to build broad-based support for the Democratic Party? This class will explore these questions using public opinion data.

Cantus returns to the CMA stage with their unmistakable warmth and blend to celebrate the holiday season! Renowned for their rich harmonies and expressive storytelling, this acclaimed eight-member low voice ensemble brings beloved carols and seasonal favorites to life. From moments of quiet reverence to uplifting bursts of festive cheer, Cantus creates an atmosphere that is both intimate and exhilarating. Join us for an evening of music that captures the spirit of the holidays!

Participants purchase own food and drink

Join in the fun of OLLI Bingo. What you say? Bingo? Yep, this is correct! This event is going to be filled with all sorts of styles of BINGO without any stress!

Participants purchase own food and drink

Join in the fun of OLLI Bingo. What you say? Bingo? Yep, this is correct! This event is going to be filled with all sorts of styles of BINGO without any stress!

Join us again for the second annual OLLI Holiday Celebration at Varsity Cinema to watch The Lemon Drop Kid, enjoy some hot chocolate and popcorn, and admire everyone’s holiday sweaters!! Remember to wear your ugliest (or most beautiful) sweater! Prizes will be awarded for the best Ugly Sweater.

About the movie: Bob Hope stars in this charming holiday comedy as a fast-talking racetrack tipster who must raise a large sum of money to repay a gangster. His unlikely solution is to create a charity campaign centered on a fictional elderly benefactor—setting off a series of hilarious misunderstandings, clever schemes, and unexpected acts of generosity. Featuring Marilyn Maxwell, The Lemon Drop Kid combines witty humor, memorable music, and heartfelt holiday spirit. A perennial seasonal favorite, the film offers a delightful blend of comedy, romance, and holiday cheer..

Join us again for the second annual OLLI Holiday Celebration at Varsity Cinema to watch The Lemon Drop Kid, enjoy some hot chocolate and popcorn, and admire everyone’s holiday sweaters!! Remember to wear your ugliest (or most beautiful) sweater! Prizes will be awarded for the best Ugly Sweater.

About the movie: Bob Hope stars in this charming holiday comedy as a fast-talking racetrack tipster who must raise a large sum of money to repay a gangster. His unlikely solution is to create a charity campaign centered on a fictional elderly benefactor—setting off a series of hilarious misunderstandings, clever schemes, and unexpected acts of generosity. Featuring Marilyn Maxwell, The Lemon Drop Kid combines witty humor, memorable music, and heartfelt holiday spirit. A perennial seasonal favorite, the film offers a delightful blend of comedy, romance, and holiday cheer..