FGCU Academy Winter 2026 (January - April)

TRAVEL THE WORLD WITH FGCU ACADEMY IN 2026

Through unique and interesting itineraries, FGCU Academy travel guests have the opportunity to experience life outside the classroom, visit historic sites with local guides, experience another culture – its customs, cuisine, language and history – and delight in conversation and laughter with fellow explorers who share a love of travel and a sense of adventure. These high-end concierge-style excursions are sure to impress and delight you.

Travel brochures and a recording of our travel presentation are available online at fgcu.edu/academy/travel

NORWEGIAN SPLENDOR

Departure: September 5, 2026

As the Midnight Sun turns night into day, Scandinavia shines. It’s the perfect time to visit, with the majestic countryside at its loveliest and the cities at their liveliest. From the cosmopolitan capitals of Copenhagen and Oslo to Norway’s magnificent fjord country, our small group encounters Scandinavia at its best, both on and off the beaten path.

COLORFUL CANYONS - AMERICA’S GREATEST NATIONAL PARKS

Departure: September 24, 2026

This holiday is the perfect blend of the beauty of the Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque and the amazing National Parks in the Southwest. Explore six parks on this journey, a float trip on the Colorado River, and take a scenic cruise on Lake Powell. Highlights include Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park, Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest National Park, and Dead Horse State Park.

ENCHANTING IRELAND

Departure: September 27, 2026

It’s a beautiful, magical land, where the gentle green landscape dazzles and the people delight; where warmth and hospitality are national traits and poets are national heroes. From Dublin to Galway, Killarney to Kilkenny, this full yet wellpaced tour showcases Ireland’s many charms – both old and new.

JOURNEY THROUGH BRITAIN

Departure: September 28, 2026

On this wide-ranging tour, we travel from city to country and back again: from Edinburgh to England’s legendary Lake District, from spectacular Snowdonia to the rural Cotswolds and Roman Bath, ending in cosmopolitan London. As history and legend come to life on our journey, we also enjoy the region’s timeless hospitality.

SICILY IN DEPTH

Departure: October 1, 2026

Crossroads of the Mediterranean…the “toe” in Italy’s boot…“God’s Kitchen”… Sicily is all this and much more, as we see on our stellar small group journey around this Italian island. It’s lively cities and ancient ruins, temples of man and of nature, hospitable people and delectable cuisine…a feast for all the senses.

CROATIA: PEARLS OF DALMATIA

Departure: October 12, 2026

Independent, democratic Croatia welcomes visitors eager to absorb its remarkable history and culture and its beautiful and unspoiled Dalmatian coastline. As we travel from historic Zagreb and beautiful Lake Bled to the Habsburg resort of Opatija, the island of Hvar, and beloved Dubrovnik, we see why this cherished region lays such a claim on the hearts of all who visit.

Attend one of our Free Travel Open Houses!

Option #1: January 14 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday

Option #2: February 16 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday

Option #3: February 25 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday

FGCU ACADEMY YACHT & RIVER CRUISE EXCURSIONS IN 2026

FGCU Academy has partnered with Mayflower Cruises & Tours, a division of the Scenic Group, to offer voyages that sail some of the most iconic rivers and waterways of the world. Our itineraries include the most memorable attractions, touring opportunities, and highlights of each destination. We believe that planning travel is more than just a simple journey to exceptional destinations, it is about creating life-enriching experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.

Travel brochures and a recording of our travel presentation are available online at fgcu.edu/academy/travel

SPLENDORS OF EUROPE RIVER CRUISE: NETHERLANDS, GERMANY, SLOVAKIA, HUNGARY, & AUSTRIA

Departure: May 1, 2026

Sail from Amsterdam to Budapest on this epic 15-day river cruise all the while exploring iconic ports in the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. Take in the vibrant capital of Amsterdam and sail through the Dutch countryside. In Germany, experience the charm of medieval towns and the beauty of the Rhine River. Sail on the legendary blue Danube River and cross into the picturesque country of Austria. Pass through the inspiring landscape of the Wachau Valley and visit the capital of Vienna. Guided tours in Bratislava and Budapest offer unique insight into the region’s past, present and future.

GREEK ISLANDS & TURKISH COASTLINE YACHT CRUISE

Departure: August 28, 2026

Your Greek and Turkish cruise commences and concludes in Athens, a city harmonizing in ancient history and contemporary lifestyle. Along the way, discover the mythological allure of Delos and Mykonos. See the Cave of the Apocalypse in Patmos and ancient ruins in Kos. Enjoy stunning beaches and vibrant markets in colorful Santorini and wander the quaint cobblestone streets of Paros.

PORTUGAL AND THE DOURO RIVER CRUISE

Departure: September 16, 2026

A symbol of Portugal’s birth and growth as a nation, the Douro has long been the country’s lifeline. Navigate a path through Portugal’s enchanting countryside while cruising along the dramatic Douro River. Terraced vineyards rise from the river banks, historic landmarks pepper the distant horizons and charming towns lay hidden in the rural hillsides. From Spain’s walled city of Salamanca to the charming baroque village of Lamego.

HOW TO REGISTER FOR PROGRAMS LOCATIONS

We only accept credit cards or checks. No cash.

ONLINE:

fgcu.edu/academy

Use your credit card on our safe and secure site, 24/7.

BY PHONE:

(239) 434-4737

Use your credit card.

MAIL:

Use our registration form at the end of this program guide or go to our website, print it out and mail to us.

BECOME A FRIEND OF FGCU ACADEMY WITH A $100 DONATION.

GOOD ABOUT SUPPORTING LIFELONG LEARNING!

A “Friend of FGCU Academy” is part of a vital group of supporters who continue to believe in the success and vibrancy of our organization; assist with our ability to help attract distinguished guest speakers and help cover our operating expenses. If you would like to learn more about supporting our work, please contact John Guerra at jguerra@ fgcu.edu. Thank you for your generosity. Donate online at fgcu.edu/academy/givenow

OUR STAFF

Katherine (Kitty) C. Green Vice President, Advancement

John J. Guerra Todd Phillips Director, FGCU Academy Program Coordinator

Noha Ahmed Administrative Specialist

Look for the two letter codes below before each course number.

Our locations are open to everyone. You do not need to be a resident to enjoy programs there.

(AG) – Aston Gardens at Pelican Marsh

4800 Aston Gardens Way, Naples

(BV) – Bentley Village 850 Retreat Drive, Naples

(BB) – Bonita Bay Community Assoc.

3451 Bonita Bay Blvd, #100, Bonita Springs

(CL) – The Carlisle Naples 6945 Carlisle Court, Naples

(CC) – Cypress Cove

10200 Cypress Cove Drive, Fort Myers

(CO) – The Collaboratory 2031 Jackson Street, Fort Myers

(FG) – FGCU Campus

The Water School, Building AB9, Room 106, Ft Myers

(GR) – Grey Oaks Country Club

2400 Grey Oaks North Drive, Naples

(HB) – Hideaway Beach

250 South Beach Drive, Marco Island

(GL) – Moorings Park Grande Lake 7410 Little Lane, Naples

(GO) – Moorings Park Grey Oaks 2355 Estuary Drive, Naples

(MP) – Moorings Park Original Campus; Center for Healthy Living 132 Moorings Park Dr, Naples

(ME) – Moran Wealth Management Education Center

5801 Pelican Bay Blvd, Suite 110, Naples

(BG) – Naples Botanical Garden 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples

(NC) – Naples Center 704 Goodlette-Frank Rd N., Suite 330, Naples

(OL) – Online via Zoom

(PB) – Pelican Bay Community Center 8960 Hammock Oak Dr, Naples

(SB) - Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St, Fort Myers

(SL) – Siena Lakes 2521 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples

(TE) – TwinEagles Club 11725 TwinEagles Blvd., Naples

(TR) – The Terraces 26455 S Tamiami Trl., Bonita Springs

(WC) – Wyndemere Country Club

700 Wyndemere Way., Naples

In all of its operations, including admissions, employment, and access to its programs and services, Florida Gulf Coast University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, gender identity/expression, religion, sex (including sexual harassment/assault), sexual orientation, disability, marital status, veteran status, genetic predisposition or age. Individuals who require reasonable accommodations due to a disability can contact the Office of Adaptive Services at 239-590-7956, by e-mail at adaptive@fgcu.edu, or via the Florida Relay at 711.

fgcu.edu/academy or (239) 434-4737

Support Lifelong Learning. Inspire

Generations.

FGCU Academy invites you to become part of something enduring, essential and transformative: The Luminaries Society, a distinguished circle of philanthropists who believe the pursuit of knowledge should never end. With your donation of $5,000 or more, you join an elite group that sustains FGCU Academy’s mission of intellectual engagement and lifelong enrichment.

By becoming an annual member you help:

• Sustain high-quality programming that engages minds, enhances cultural exploration and cultivates community connections

• Expand affordable access for all, including underserved learners and communities

• Support a community where lifelong curiosity is celebrated

Each year, FGCU Academy delivers more than 1,000 programs to nearly 12,000 adult learners across Southwest Florida. Yet, with no dedicated state funding and program fees covering only a fraction of our costs, FGCU Academy operates at a deficit. We rely on philanthropy and your gift will have twice the impact this year! To help inaugurate The Luminaries Society, the FGCU Foundation has pledged to match every gift of $5,000 or more up to $100,000.

Every gift is tax-deductible* (our tax id number is 65-0403969) and makes an immediate difference. It ensures the vitality of our educational mission today and tomorrow.

fgcu.edu/academy/luminaries-society

We will honor your generosity in the following ways:

• Recognition in the FGCU Academy program guide (3 times annually), the FGCU Academy website and the FGCU Foundation Annual Report

• Annual FGCU Academy membership*

• Twelve complimentary classes annually*

• Annual social gathering with the academy director

• Early access to registration and catalogs

• Concierge registration service

• Subscription to FGCU360 digital newsletter

*Fair-market value is $409 and is deducted from your donation.

With sincere gratitude,

John J. Guerra

CANCELLATION POLICY:

Membership fees are non-refundable. If a program is canceled, you will be notified and issued a full refund within 10 business days. If you wish to withdraw from a program, please notify the Academy at 239-434-4737 no later than 5 pm, 3 business days prior to the first session of the program in order to receive a refund. Individuals who cancel after the start of a program will not receive a refund. Unless otherwise stated, a 10–business day notice is required for refunds on all special programs (SP).

Florida Gulf Coast University is a regional comprehensive university committed to providing high quality, affordable educational opportunities to people of all ages.

JOIN OUR DAY TRIPS & SPECIAL EVENTS (PAGES 27 - 30)

Miami Millionaire’s Row™ Boat

Cruise & Bayside Marketplace

January 22 and March 10

Myakka Elephant Ranch Spa

Enrichment Experience & Lunch

January 29 and February 18

Vizcaya Museum Tour with Lunch

February 12

Tour of Immokalee

February 24

Miami’s Little Havana Culinary, Artistic and Cultural Tour

January 27, February 26 and March 19

Miami’s Wynwood Artistic, Culinary and Cultural Tour

February 5

Inside Broadway: The Wick Costume Museum, Lunch & Cabaret

February 17

JOIN OUR DAY TRIPS & SPECIAL EVENTS (PAGES 27 - 30)

Italian Wine & Food Pairing Social Event

February 25

Chardonnay Uncorked: A World Tour in Your Glass

March 4

Tour of Ave Maria

March 10

Flagler Mansion & Gilded Age Tea

Lunch

March 26

Ringling Museum Treasures: Art, Circus Magic, and Bayfront Beauty

March 3

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens & St. Armands Circle Lunch and Shopping

March 5

Dalí Museum & Dalí Alive 360 Dome

March 24

The first fee listed for each program is the Member price; the second is the Non-Member price. Advance registration is required for all programs. Membership is highly recommended but not required. The views, analyses, findings and opinions expressed by FGCU Academy speakers are theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect those of the Academy or FGCU.

If a lecture lists multiple options, the same lecture is being offered at different locations on different dates and times for your convenience.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

BENEFITS INCLUDE:

} Save approximately 20% on most programs.

} Bring a first-time Academy student with you to a program and receive a $10 credit toward future programs.

} Enjoy year-round online programming from anywhere in the world.

} Gain access to special member-only events and free access to other events when available.

} A free subscription to the FGCU360 digital magazine and e-newsletter.

ARCHAEOLOGY & ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS

Secrets of the Seafloor: Mediterranean

Underwater Archaeology $27 / $32

February 24 at 2:30pm – 3:30pm, Tuesday

GO8160 – Moorings Park Grey Oaks (So. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Viviana Ardesia

From bronze cargoes to marble statues, the seafloor preserves a living archive of Mediterranean history. This lecture surveys landmark finds, including the Antikythera ship, the sunken city of Baiae, and the royal quarter of ancient Alexandria. Participants see how archaeologists use sonar, photogrammetry, 3D modeling, and remotely operated vehicles to reveal hulls, amphoras, anchors, and harbor works. We explain how storms, trade, and war deposit wrecks, how saltwater changes materials, and how scientists date timbers and cargo. This presentation highlights new discoveries, underwater parks, and museum projects that open these sites to the public, along with laws that protect them from looting. You gain a clear view of how underwater archaeology reshapes our understanding of commerce, technology, and daily life around the Mediterranean.

The Bronze Age Collapse: Lessons for a Fragile World $27 / $32

March 24 at 2:30pm – 3:30pm, Tuesday

GO8162 – Moorings Park Grey Oaks (So. Naples)

Speaker: John Penuel

A connected world unravels. Around 1177 BCE, palaces from Mycenae to Hattusa burn, Ugarit falls, and Egypt fights the Sea Peoples. Trade routes for copper and tin stall, drought and earthquakes strike, and elites lose control. This lecture traces how climate stress, refugee movements, warfare, and brittle institutions combine into a cascading systems collapse. We examine letters from kings pleading for grain, the Medinet Habu reliefs of Ramesses III, and new science from pollen cores and tree rings. Most of all, it asks what this ancient crisis can teach a globalized world about resilience, redundancy, and recovery.

Greek

Dreams, Roman Bricks: How Rome Built

Its Image $27 / $32

March 25 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Wednesday NC8482 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8483 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Gabriella Miyamoto

From stern Republican portraits to soaring concrete domes, Rome turns art into power. This lecture traces how Roman artists adopted Greek models while forging a distinct voice. See “veristic” ancestor portraits that honor duty and age. Follow the rise of the arch in aqueducts and bridges, and the colorful wall painting styles that transformed houses in Pompeii. In the Imperial era, explore state messaging carved in marble and cast in bronze, from triumphal arches to the Ara Pacis. We look inside the Colosseum and the Pantheon to see how concrete, vaults, and vast interiors reshape urban life and belief. By the end, you can spot Roman propaganda, decode portraits, and explain how engineering and art work together to build an empire.

The Black Pearl of the Mediterranean: Pantelleria’s Ancient Village and Necropolis

$27 / $32

April 2 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

BV8163 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Viviana Ardesia

Volcanic Pantelleria sits between Sicily and Tunisia, a crossroads of ancient sea lanes. This lecture visits the fortified Bronze Age village at Mursia and its nearby necropolis of stone domed tombs, known locally as sesi. We study house plans, pottery, and cooking hearths to reconstruct daily life, then examine burial customs, grave goods, and beliefs about the afterlife. This lecture explains how obsidian, wind, and scarce water shaped settlement, why the island’s position mattered for trade with Malta and North Africa, and what recent archaeology reveals about craft, defense,

and ritual. Vivid images show walls, hut floors, and tomb passages, while maps place Pantelleria within wider Mediterranean networks. Participants gain a clear view of how a small island influenced histories.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Artificial Intelligence: Promise, Peril, and Possibility $27 / $32

Option #1: January 8 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

BV8164 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Option #2: February 13 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday GL8165 – Moorings Park Grande Lake (So. Naples)

Speaker: Nicholas Penniman IV

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly reshaping every facet of human life, from medicine and education to journalism, warfare, and the arts. This lecture explains in clear, accessible terms how AI works and why it is more than just a technological trend. Using real-world examples, we explore its extraordinary potential to accelerate scientific discovery, streamline decisionmaking, and improve daily life. Yet with this promise comes profound risk: misinformation, surveillance, bias, and job displacement. Can regulation keep pace with innovation? Will society control AI, or will it begin to control us? This timely and thought-provoking session invites reflection on a future we are only beginning to imagine.

The Rise of AI: From Concept to ChatGPT $42 / $48

Option #1: January 9 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Friday CC8166 – Cypress Cove (Ft. Myers)

Option #2: January 20 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday CO8167 – The Collaboratory (Ft. Myers)

Option #3: January 21at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday BG8168 – Naples Botanical Garden (SE Naples)

Option #4: January 28 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Wednesday ME8169 – Moran Education Center (No. Naples)

Option #5: February 9 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Monday HB8170 – Hideaway Beach Club (Marco Island)

Option #6: February 11 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday PB8171 – Pelican Bay Community Center (No. Naples)

Option #7: March 5 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday NC8172 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8173 – Online via Zoom

Option #8: April 1 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday FG8174 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Option #9: April 14 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday NC8175 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8176 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

Join us for an engaging exploration of artificial intelligence from its early theoretical roots to its remarkable presence in our daily lives. We trace the history of AI, demystify how it works, and examine key milestones that led to today’s advanced systems. The session culminates in a live demonstration of ChatGPT, an AI language model developed by OpenAI, showcasing its ability to write, reason, create, and assist with a variety of tasks. Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or excited about AI, this lecture offers a clear, accessible look at one of the most transformative technologies of our time. No technical background required!

Inside ChatGPT Plus: Features, Tips and Live Demonstrations $42 / $48

Option #1: February 4 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Wednesday NC8627 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8628 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: March 11 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Wednesday NC8629 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8630 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

This class introduces participants to the full suite of tools included in the ChatGPT Plus plan and shows how each one enhances everyday tasks. Participants learn how Plus provides access to advanced models, higher limits with GPT-5.1, multimodal input, and continued access to GPT-4o. The session explains how Plus delivers faster responses, priority access during peak times, and expanded message and upload limits. Demonstrations show how to use voice conversations, image generation, and enhanced file uploads for PDFs, spreadsheets and documents. Attendees see how Deep Research, Projects and Tasks support multi-step reasoning and long-running work. The class also highlights how users create custom GPTs for specialized needs. Learn how the expanded memory and context window improve accuracy and continuity, and how Plus offers introductory access to Sora video generation.

Inside the Mind of a Machine: How AI Algorithms Work $27 / $32

February 11 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday NC8177 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8178 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. Edward Maxwell

Artificial Intelligence is not about science fiction robots, it is about real algorithms quietly powering much of modern life. This lecture breaks down what AI

algorithms truly are: complex sets of instructions that help machines make decisions, spot patterns, and even “learn” from data. Explore how companies like Netflix recommend your next show, how Google Maps suggests faster routes, and how AI is transforming fields from medicine to personal technology. We will explain concepts like machine learning and predictive analytics in plain, accessible language, aiming to remove the mystery and show just how deeply these systems are woven into our everyday lives. You will leave with a clearer understanding of how AI works and where it is headed.

Artificial Intelligence: Friend or Foe? $27 / $32

February 16 at 2pm – 3:30pm, Monday

AG8179 – Aston Gardens at Pelican Marsh (NE Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Edward Maxwell

Artificial Intelligence has come a long way since Alan Turing’s wartime code-breaking machine. Today, AI is transforming how we work, communicate, and make decisions, earning its place among the greatest technological revolutions. But with great power comes real concern. This lecture explores the evolution of AI, from its early roots to today’s powerful platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot. Learn how these tools can assist with everyday tasks and enhance productivity, while also examining the darker side of AI, from misinformation and bias to ethical dilemmas. With insights from Dr. Maxwell, who has been in AI research since the 1970s, this lecture offers a balanced look at the technology shaping our future.

Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot $42 / $48

April 3 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday

NC8301 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8302 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

From drafting emails and presentations to summarizing articles and creating images, today’s AI assistants are ready to help. This lecture demonstrates the features and capabilities of Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot side by side. See how each tool answers questions, rewrites text, builds slides, analyzes tables, and finds information quickly. Learn where Gemini appears in Google Search, Docs, and Gmail, and how Copilot works in Windows, Edge, Word, Excel, and Outlook. This lecture teaches clear prompting, effective followups, and responsible use of files and the web. It also reviews privacy controls, reliability limits, and when human judgment matters. Compare strengths, costs, and best-fit scenarios for everyday tasks at home, in class, or at work.

ART & ART HISTORY

Beauty, Reason, and Form: The Legacy of Greek Art and Architecture

$27 / $32

January 5 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday

BV8180 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Gabriella Miyamoto

Ancient Greek art marked a profound shift in the history of visual culture, celebrating the living human body, the power of reason, and the pursuit of ideal beauty. Spanning from the Archaic to the Hellenistic periods, Greek sculpture and architecture evolved from stiff, stylized forms to dynamic, lifelike expressions of movement and emotion. Unlike earlier cultures focused on the afterlife, the Greeks turned their creative energy toward this world elevating both body and mind. This lecture examines the development of Greek art over five major periods and explores how mathematical harmony, proportion, and philosophy shaped temples, statues, and civic monuments that remain influential to this day.

Breaking the Mold: European Avant-Garde Movements Before World War II $27 / $32

January 21 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday

MP8181 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples)

Speaker: Gabriella Miyamoto

In the decades leading up to World War II, European artists shattered tradition and redefined the possibilities of painting. From the emotional force of Expressionism to the fractured perspectives of Cubism, from the dreamscapes of Surrealism to the geometric purity of De Stijl, each avant-garde movement broke with the past and offered radical new ways of seeing the world. This lecture traces the evolution of modern art across seven transformative movements – Post Impressionism, Expressionism, Cubism, Futurism, Dada, De Stijl, and Surrealism – and explores how artists challenged aesthetic norms, responded to political turmoil, and laid the groundwork for the eventual rise of New York as the postwar art capital.

The American Revolution on Canvas: Five Painters Who Shaped the Imagery of America’s

Founding $27 / $32

Option #1: January 26 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Monday

SB8182 – Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center (Ft. Myers)

Option #2: February 4 at 2:30pm – 4pm, Wednesday

BB8183 – Bonita Bay Community Center (Bonita Springs)

Option #3: February 26 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday

PB8184 – Pelican Bay Community Center (No. Naples)

Speaker: James Pagliaro

The story of America’s founding was shaped not only by words and battles, but also by works of art that captured its key moments. Benjamin West, John Singleton Copley, Charles Willson Peale, John Trumbull, and Gilbert Stuart created the images that gave lasting form to the Revolutionary era; portraits of the Founders, stirring depictions of battles, and dramatic scenes of nation-building. Their works became icons, shaping how generations of Americans have imagined the Revolution, and providing a visual legacy long after its eyewitnesses had passed. This lecture explores the lives, styles, and enduring influence of these five artists, whose canvases transformed history into national memory. On the eve of the United States’ 250th anniversary, their masterpieces invite us to reconsider the power of art in shaping identity, patriotism, and our understanding of America’s beginnings.

John Singer Sargent: Paris and the Making of a Master $27 / $32

January 28 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Wednesday

NC8185 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8186 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: James Pagliaro

When 18-year-old John Singer Sargent arrived in Paris in 1874, he was determined to make his mark. Under the mentorship of the celebrated French painter Carolus-Duran and through rigorous study at the École des Beaux-Arts, Sargent developed the expressive, painterly technique that would become his hallmark. Immersed in Paris’s vibrant art world, he absorbed influences from past masters and modern innovators, creating portraits and genre scenes that were bold, ambitious, and unconventional. His meteoric rise within the French exhibition system brought critical acclaim, prestigious awards, and the foundation of an international artistic career that would endure throughout his lifetime. This lecture explores the formative Paris years that transformed Sargent into the Gilded Age’s most sought-after portraitist, tracing the influences, training, and masterpieces that launched him into lasting fame.

The Art and Architecture of Sicily: From Ancient Greece to the Splendor of the Baroque $27 / $32

January 30 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday

BG8187 – Naples Botanical Garden (SE Naples)

Speaker: James Pagliaro

Sicily’s history is one of conquest, encounter, and transformation. Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Muslims, Normans, Germans, French,

and Spaniards all settled on the island, leaving behind their cultural and artistic legacies. Some have dismissed Sicilian art as derivative, yet its hybrid nature reveals remarkable inventiveness and resilience. From the grandeur of Greek temples and Roman mosaics to the splendor of Norman cathedrals and the exuberance of Baroque palaces, Sicily forged a singular identity that blended influences into something uniquely its own. This lecture traces the island’s artistic journey from its role as a Greek outpost to the heights of the High Baroque, showing how Sicilians continually reinterpreted outside traditions to create a rich, enduring and utterly unique cultural heritage.

Symbols in Stone: Art and Architecture of Ancient Egypt $27 / $32

Option #1: February 2 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday FG8188 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Option #2: February 16 at 1:30pm – 3pm Monday NC8189 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8190 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Gabriella Miyamoto

For over three millennia, Egyptian artists and architects created enduring monuments rooted in religious belief, royal power, and cultural continuity. Anchored by the life-giving Nile, Egyptian society revolved around a rigid hierarchy and the divine authority of the pharaoh. Art and architecture served sacred and ceremonial functions, most famously in the colossal pyramids, temples, and tombs built for the elite. Rather than innovation, Egyptian art prized stability and symbolic meaning. This lecture explores the aesthetic principles, materials, and purposes behind the iconic forms of ancient Egypt, from monumental structures to painted reliefs, and considers how this visual language shaped one of the world’s most influential civilizations.

The Art of Venice: Light, Color, and Imagination on the Lagoon $27 / $32

February 9 at 10:30am – 12pm, Monday NC8191 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8192 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: James Pagliaro

Venice, “La Serenissima,” has long enchanted travelers with its glistening canals, ethereal light, and unrivaled architectural and artistic legacy. Unlike Florence or Rome, this maritime republic thrived as a bridge between Europe and Byzantium, its wealth built on trade and its stability safeguarded by a unique republican government led by the Doge.

The city’s distinctive setting, its glorious and unique architecture, its luminescent lagoon, shifting tides, and shimmering reflections of light profoundly shaped its art. Venetian painting is celebrated for its sensuous color, atmospheric light, and poetic imagination. This lecture offers a virtual journey through Venice’s magnificent and unique architecture, and its artistic splendor, exploring masterpieces by Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese, Tiepolo, and Canaletto. Their works not only defined the Venetian style but spread its reputation across the world. Discover how the environment, history, and grandeur of Venice combined to create one of the most brilliant artistic traditions in Europe.

Paris 1874 and the Birth of Impressionism: The Bold Exhibition that Changed Art Forever $27 / $32

Option #1: February 12 at 4pm – 5:30pm, Thursday GR8193 – Grey Oaks Country Club (So. Naples)

Option #2: February 20 at 5pm – 6:30pm, Friday WC8608 – Wyndemere Country Club (So. Naples)

Option #3: February 23 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Monday SB8195 – Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: James Pagliaro

In the spring of 1874, thirty artists including Monet, Renoir, Degas, Pissarro, Morisot, Sisley, and Cézanne took a daring step that would alter the course of art history. Renting a photographer’s studio at 35 Boulevard des Capucines, they mounted their own exhibition of nearly 200 works, independent of the traditional and powerful Paris Salon. What began as an act of defiance against rigid academic standards became a declaration of artistic freedom. Mocked by critics, one satirical review coined the term “Impressionists.” The show nevertheless introduced a revolutionary way of seeing and painting modern life. This lecture revisits that groundbreaking exhibition on its 152nd anniversary, exploring its context, controversies, and masterpieces. We will examine the works that shocked the public, inspired a movement, and forever changed how we understand light, color, and the very purpose of painting.

The Bayeux Tapestry $27 / $32

February 12 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday NC8450 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8451 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Ken Nesbitt

The Bayeux Tapestry is a remarkable example of medieval art and a unique historical artifact. The Tapestry tells the story of the main events leading up to and including the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. From the reign of English King Edward the Confessor

to the Norman victory at the battle of Hastings, the tapestry itself (actually an embroidery) blends Norman styles and Anglo-Saxon art into a sequential narrative and a clever piece of propaganda about William the Conqueror’s great victory. In this presentation we review this important time in medieval history, investigate the history through the key scenes in the tapestry, and address some of the mysteries in the tapestry’s images that remain unsolved. Participants leave with a sharper eye for medieval art and a richer sense of how power shapes the stories we inherit.

Chartres Cathedral: Gothic Masterpiece of Light and Stone $27 / $32

February 19 at 2pm – 3:30pm, Thursday SL8194 – Siena Lakes (No. Naples)

Speaker: James Pagliaro

Rising above the French countryside, Chartres Cathedral stands as one of the greatest achievements of Gothic art and architecture. Built in the early 13th century, it is celebrated for the harmony of its design and the richness of its decoration, making it a touchstone of medieval Christianity. Chartres preserves an unparalleled ensemble of stained-glass windows, monumental sculpture, and painted detail, much of it intact despite the passage of centuries. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cathedral became the model for Gothic architecture across Europe, famed for its “architecture of light” and its seamless blend of structure and symbolism. This lecture explores the history, design, and influence of Chartres, followed by a virtual tour of its soaring vaults, sculpted portals, and radiant stained glass. Discover why this cathedral is one of the most visited and admired monuments of medieval Europe.

The Louvre Museum in Paris: The Royal Treasure House of France $27 / $32

March 9 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday NC8196 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8197 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: James Pagliaro

Once the royal palace of France, the Louvre is today the most visited museum in the world, renowned for its incomparable collection of masterpieces. Since opening to the public in 1789, it has become a global icon of art and culture, housing works that have shaped history and imagination across centuries. Its vast holdings range from Renaissance giants such as Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Michelangelo to Baroque masters like Caravaggio, Rubens, and Vermeer. Visitors also encounter treasures by Titian,

Botticelli, Rembrandt, and countless others. This lecture offers a virtual tour through the Louvre’s galleries, tracing its evolution from medieval fortress to royal palace to modern museum. Explore the palace’s architecture, its legendary artworks, and the enduring legacy that makes the Louvre not only a symbol of Paris but also a cornerstone of world art.

Florence to Flanders: Two Visions of Renaissance Art $27 / $32

March 11 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Wednesday

NC8198 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8199 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Gabriella Miyamoto

From Florence to Flanders, the Renaissance reshapes how Europe sees itself. This lecture contrasts Italy’s pursuit of mathematical space and sculpted human form with the North’s luminous surface detail in oil. Explore Masaccio’s perspective, Donatello’s classicism, and the visionary synthesis of Leonardo and Michelangelo. Then we meet Jan van Eyck and Rogier van der Weyden, whose jewellike realism captures fabric, glass, and light with breathtaking fidelity. We consider patrons from the Medici to merchant guilds, the rise of Rome and Venice, and how trade, devotion, and innovative ideas drive different visual goals. By the end, you recognize perspective and chiaroscuro, spot oil techniques like glazing, and understand why two regions built two paths to naturalism.

Édouard Manet and the Birth of Modern Art

$27 / $32

March 13 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Friday

NC8200 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8634 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: James Pagliaro

Édouard Manet (1832–1883) was one of the most daring and influential painters of the 19th century. Standing at the crossroads of academic tradition and avant-garde experimentation, he helped usher in the transition from Realism to Impressionism and laid the foundations of Modernism. Inspired by Spanish masters like Velázquez and Goya, Manet redefined painting with flattened forms, loose brushwork, and a focus on light and color rather than polished detail. His scenes of contemporary French life, often provocative and unconventional, challenged viewers and critics alike, forcing them to reconsider what art could be. This lecture explores his artistic beginnings, the influences that shaped him, and the works that established him as the “first modern painter,” whose vision continues to resonate in the story of Western art.

The Surrealist Imagination: A Century of Dreams and Wonder $27 / $32

March 23 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Monday SB8201 – Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: James Pagliaro

One hundred years ago, André Breton’s “Manifesto of Surrealism” launched a movement that redefined art and imagination. Surrealism rejected the limits of objective reality, instead unlocking and probing the world of dreams, the unconscious, and the irrational. Its artists sought to create freely from the unconscious, revealing a “higher beauty” through bold experimentation and startling imagery. This lecture celebrates the centennial of Surrealism by tracing its origins in 1920s Paris and exploring the dreamscapes, symbols, and techniques that shaped the movement. From Salvador Dalí’s melting clocks and René Magritte’s mysterious illusions to Giorgio de Chirico’s enigmatic spaces, Paul Klee’s whimsical visions, and Man Ray’s daring photography, we will journey through the fantastical worlds of Surrealism. Together, their works invite us to look beyond the reality of representational art and unleash the subconscious and create the power of wonder.

Palazzo Pitti in Florence: Medici Grandeur and Renaissance Splendor $27 / $32

March 26 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday BV8202 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: James Pagliaro

The Palazzo Pitti in Florence is a monument to Medici ambition and power and Renaissance brilliance. Originally begun by the wealthy banker Luca Pitti in the 15th century, the palace was transformed when Eleonora of Toledo, wife of Duke Cosimo I de’ Medici, purchased it in 1549. From this residence across the Arno, the Medici reshaped Florence’s cultural and political identity, adorning the palace with lavish interiors and commissioning the Boboli Gardens, which became a model for European landscape design. Today, the Palazzo houses a world-class museum, and treasures by masters such as Raphael, Titian, Rubens, and Caravaggio. This lecture takes you on a virtual tour of its opulent rooms and galleries, exploring how the palace evolved from a symbol of private wealth and privilege, to the “Ducal Palace,” and ultimately, into one of Florence’s greatest repositories of art and history.

From Passion to Perception: Art Movements of the 19th Century $27 / $32

April 1 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday

BG8203 – Naples Botanical Garden (SE Naples)

Speaker: Gabriella Miyamoto

Far from dreamy idealism, Romanticism portrayed sweeping scenes of human tragedy, suffering, and the power of nature. From around 1780 to 1840, Romantic artists emphasized raw emotion, moral struggle, and mankind’s vulnerability. Realism emerged in response, rejecting grandiose subjects in favor of ordinary life. Artists from 1840 to 1870 turned their gaze to laborers, street scenes, and daily routines, capturing life as it was, not as it should be. Impressionism followed with an entirely new vision as artists in late 19th-century Paris painted fleeting impressions of modern life, light, and atmosphere. Though often grouped together, these movements represent dramatically different ways of seeing the world. This lecture explores the radical shifts in artistic vision that reflected the dramatic political, industrial, and social transformations of the 19th century.

Siena’s Golden Age and the Dawn of the Renaissance $27 / $32

April 1 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday

MP8204 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples)

Speaker: James Pagliaro

In the early 14th century, Siena stood at the crossroads of faith, commerce, and art. Pilgrims, merchants, and ideas flowed through this bustling Italian city, leaving behind wealth and the inspiration to create some of the greatest artistic masterpieces of the Middle Ages. Out of this vibrant atmosphere four painters emerged whose innovations transformed European art. Duccio brought storytelling and emotion to sacred scenes. Pietro Lorenzetti created monumentality and gave painted figures sculptural presence. His brother Ambrogio imagined complex, believable spaces infused with civic ideals. Simone Martini dazzled with radiant color and elegant form, reshaping the very language of painting. Together, they laid the foundations for the Italian Renaissance, and changed the course of Western art. This lecture explores their lives, their masterworks, and the extraordinary cultural moment that made Siena a beacon of medieval creativity.

Art Theft: Heists, Hustles, and the Hunt for Stolen Masterpieces $27 / $32

April 9 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday

NC8205 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8206 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. Marwan Wehbe

This lecture explores the high-stakes world of art theft,

a global black-market industry worth an estimated $6 billion annually. From daring museum heists to opportunistic thefts from private collections, art crime combines imagination, risk, and deception. Participants will learn how professional thieves select their targets, execute their plans, and attempt to profit, often with surprising sophistication. The lecture highlights some of the most famous art heists in history, the challenges of recovering stolen works, and what museums and law enforcement are doing to prevent future losses.

Art of The Calusa $27 / $32

April 27 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Monday SB8207 – Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Nicholas Penniman IV

Long before European contact, the Calusa people thrived as the dominant coastal culture of Southwest Florida. This richly illustrated lecture explores their remarkable artistic legacy, an aesthetic shaped by environment, belief, and power. From carved masks and ceremonial objects to tools and adornments made of shell, bone, and wood, Calusa art was both functional and deeply symbolic. We examine how their works served decorative and sacred purposes, culminating in one of Florida’s most iconic archaeological treasures: the enigmatic Marco Cat. Discover a civilization whose visual language reveals a sophisticated worldview and a powerful connection to land and sea.

ASTRONOMY & SPACE

Mysteries in the Sky: The Story of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena $27 / $32

February 12 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday NC8610 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8611 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Edward Grace

Sightings of strange aerial objects have fascinated the public for decades. From the famous 1947 Roswell, New Mexico incident to modern military encounters, Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) continue to spark questions about what might be visiting our skies. This lecture traces the most compelling historical events, examines how UAP reports have evolved, and explores their impact on science, government policy, and popular culture. We look at how portrayals of “grey aliens” and “flying saucers” became embedded in our collective imagination, and what recent whistleblower claims have added to the debate. Our speaker, a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his role in the Apollo 13 rescue mission, offers a unique perspective at the intersection of aerospace history,

technology, and the enduring mystery of whether we are alone in the universe.

Are We Alone? Weighing the Odds of Life

Beyond

Earth

$27 / $32

March 5 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday

CC8555 – Cypress Cove (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Dr. Charles Kupchella

There are more than five-hundred sextillion stars in the observable universe “…more than all the grains of sand on all the beaches of the world,” according to Carl Sagan. NASA says there are perhaps ten-billion planets in “goldilocks zones” in the Milky Way alone –and from 400 billion to as many as a trillion galaxies in the observable universe! Given this – and since it did happen here – it is improbable that life didn’t arise elsewhere. Although the existence of intelligent life elsewhere is arguably much less probable, the fact that we haven’t heard from anyone, doesn’t mean they aren’t out there – we/they may be unreachable for lots of very good reasons.

Voyage to Mars: The 21st Century Missions

$27 / $32

March 19 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

NC8612 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8613 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Edward Grace

In 2020, three ambitious missions set out from Earth to explore Mars, each with unique goals and groundbreaking technology. The United Arab Emirates’ Hope Probe is studying Martian weather patterns from orbit. China’s Tianwen-1 mission delivered an orbiter, lander, and rover to the Red Planet’s surface. NASA’s Perseverance rover, accompanied by the remarkable Ingenuity helicopter drone, has conducted extensive exploration. Ingenuity alone completed an astonishing 72 flights in the thin Martian atmosphere. This lecture explores the objectives, challenges, and discoveries of each mission, along with the latest updates on their progress. Our distinguished speaker, awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his role in the Apollo 13 rescue mission, offers rare insights into space exploration today and the path toward future human missions to Mars.

Apollo 11 and Artemis: To the Moon and Back

Again $27 / $32

March 30 at 3:30pm – 5pm, Monday

TE8208 – TwinEagles Club (NE Naples)

Speaker: Steven Valdespino

As NASA’s Artemis program prepares to return humans to the Moon, there is no better time to revisit the extraordinary journey that made it all possible, Apollo 11. This presentation explores the aweinspiring story of America’s first successful mission to land astronauts on the lunar surface and bring them safely home. Discover how vision, determination, and engineering brilliance turned a bold dream into reality. From Kennedy’s challenge to the tense moments of touchdown and return, this presentation captures the courage, complexity, and triumph of the greatest scientific and technological feat in American history. Apollo 11 was more than a mission; it was a moment that united the world.

BASEBALL & BEER

If You Build It, They Will Come: The Evolution of the American Baseball Park $27 / $32

February 9 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Monday FG8209 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Dr. Melissa Butler

Join us as we explore the development of the baseball park from 19th century Elysian Fields in Hoboken to the 21st century Red Sox facility here in Ft. Myers. We’ll look at domes, doughnuts, and the Green Monster as we trace trends in stadium design and financing. As Washington Post sportswriter Tom Boswell pointed out, young baseball fans collect baseball cards while we, older ones, collect baseball parks, so this class will include some time for you to review and discuss your collection.

Beer Untapped: History, Styles, and the Science of Flavor $27 / $32

Option #1: March 10 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Tuesday NC8210 – Naples Center (Naples)

Option #2: March 23 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Monday FG8211 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Diane Bothfeld

From ancient Sumer and medieval monasteries to modern craft breweries, this presentation traces the 10,000-year story of beer and the science that shapes it. Explore the core ingredients: water, malted barley, hops, and yeast. Learn how mashing, boiling, fermentation, and conditioning create ales and lagers, and why temperature and timing matter. See how innovations such as refrigeration, pasteurization, pure yeast cultures, glass bottles, and cans changed industry and daily life. We compare classic styles from pilsner and porter to IPA and wheat beer while unpacking the chemistry behind color, aroma,

carbonation, and foam. A guided tasting of selected styles highlights how ingredients and process drive flavor, balance, and body. This lecture closes with a look at what comes next, from new hop varieties to alcohol free brewing and sustainability

BIOGRAPHIES

Heiresses and Aristocrats: Fortune, Titles, and Unexpected Marriages $27 / $32

January 5 at 10:30am – 12pm, Monday

CL8387 – Carlisle of Naples (No. Naples)

Speaker: Nancy Maxwell

During the Gilded Age, wealthy American heiresses sought more than money could buy: entry into the highest ranks of society. Many crossed the Atlantic in search of titled European husbands whose fortunes had faded but whose names carried centuries of prestige. In return for desperately needed wealth, dukes and lords offered titles, castles, and an air of nobility. Families such as the Astors, Vanderbilts, and others fueled this dazzling exchange of riches for rank. Some marriages blossomed into enduring partnerships, while others collapsed under scandal, disappointment, or cultural divide. This class explores the glittering social stage of New York and London, the motivations behind these celebrated unions, and the personal stories that reveal whether fortune and fame truly made for happiness.

The Windsors, A Century of Royal Legacy $27 / $32

January 19 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday

NC8212 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8213 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Julie Satterfield-Price

Step inside a century of coronations, crises, and reinvention. This lecture traces the House of Windsor from the abdication crisis and World War II to the media age of Diana, Charles, William, and Harry. You examine how the monarchy balances tradition with public accountability, service with politics, and privacy with relentless coverage. We consider wartime leadership, the end of empire, the growth of the Commonwealth, and the family’s responses to tragedy and public pressure. This lecture highlights ceremony, philanthropy, and careful communication, and explains how these shape Britain’s culture and its place in the world. You leave with clear tools to understand what keeps the Crown relevant, what risks it faces, and how the next generation may redefine it.

Six Queens: Love, Power, and Survival in Henry VIII’s Court $27 / $32

Option #1: January 28 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday BB8214 – Bonita Bay Community Center (Bonita Springs)

Option #2: March 11 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday PB8215 – Pelican Bay Community Center (No. Naples)

Speaker: Nancy Maxwell

Henry VIII’s six marriages are among the most famous episodes in English history, remembered for their passion, politics, and peril. While securing a male heir was the king’s goal, each union also served the shifting religious and diplomatic ambitions of others. This lecture explores the fascinating lives of Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleves, Catherine Howard, and Catherine Parr; women who were far more than footnotes to a king’s story. Were they helpless pawns, scheming manipulators, or both? Through their triumphs and tragedies, we gain insight into the turbulent world of the Tudor court and the women who dared to navigate it.

General “Black Jack” Pershing:

Architect of American Victory $27 / $32

Option #1: January 30 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday BV8417 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Option #2: March 27 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Friday NC8418 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8419 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Thomas Eastwood

John J. “Black Jack” Pershing stands among the most esteemed figures in U.S. military history. A West Point graduate of 1886, his career spanned over forty years and bridged America’s transformation into a global power. This lecture traces his early service leading Black troops during the Indian Wars and at San Juan Hill, his rapid promotion by President Roosevelt, and his campaigns in the Philippines and Mexico against insurgents and Pancho Villa. As commander of the American Expeditionary Forces in World War I, Pershing shaped modern warfare and elevated the United States to a world military leader. Pershing’s leadership, discipline, and vision left an enduring mark on the nation’s armed forces.

Charles Lindbergh: Triumph, Tragedy, and a Divided Legacy $27 / $32

February 13 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday NC8452 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8453 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Gary Stuhltrager

From a sleepless night over the Atlantic to a storm

of public scrutiny, Charles Lindbergh remains one of the most debated Americans of the twentieth century. This lecture follows his 1927 solo flight, the global celebrity that followed, and the unbearable glare after the kidnapping of his son. We examine his leadership in aviation, his role in early commercial air travel, and his later advocacy for science and conservation. We also confront his America First speeches, charges of antisemitism, and the secrecy of his private life that surfaced long after his death. Using images and contemporary accounts, this lecture places Lindbergh in his full context and asks what heroism, privacy, and responsibility mean in a media age. Participants gain a clear view of his achievements and failures, and tools to evaluate complicated public figures whose lives shape our own.

Death in Paris: The Unfinished Story of

Princess Diana $27 / $32

February 24 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Tuesday

CL8216 – Carlisle of Naples (No. Naples)

Speaker: Jeffrey Steinberg

Experience a rare, firsthand look into the investigation of Princess Diana’s tragic death in a Paris car crash on August 31, 1997. Drawing on his direct involvement, the presenter examines the stillunresolved questions surrounding that night including the role of the paparazzi, the political tensions between Diana and the British Royal Family, and the shortcomings of the French and British investigations. Nearly three decades later, the public remains in the dark about key details. This lecture revisits the case with new insight and invites thoughtful reflection on one of the most scrutinized tragedies of our time.

Mary, Queen of Scots: Love, Power, and a Fatal Crown

$27 / $32

February 26 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday

CC8217 – Cypress Cove (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Nancy Maxwell

For love, power, intrigue, and scandal, few stories compare to that of Mary Stuart! Queen of Scotland at 6 days old, Queen of France at 16, Mary could expect to hold the world in her hands, and had events gone as planned, Scotland would today be a part of France! She fully expected to become Queen of England as well. Instead, as she struggled with the religious clashes of the Reformation and the rivalry of Queen Elizabeth I, Mary’s life unraveled into a tragic drama of political ambition, intrigue, love, deception, and murder. This lecture examines the evidence to answer the question: Did Mary create her own fate, or was she a victim of stronger forces?

Alexander the Great: From Aristotle to Issus

$27 / $32

February 27 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Friday GL8218 – Moorings Park Grande Lake (So. Naples)

Speaker: Steven Valdespino

Few figures in history inspire awe like Alexander the Great. By the age of 23, he had subdued Balkan kingdoms, destroyed Thebes, cowed the Greeks, conquered much of Asia Minor and stunned the world with his victory over the Persian Empire at the Battle of Issus. This lecture traces Alexander’s extraordinary rise—from his intellectual formation under Aristotle, his military training by his father, Philip II, to his fearless leadership in one of history’s most audacious military campaigns. With unmatched strategic insight, personal charisma, and tactical brilliance, Alexander transformed warfare and set a standard that endures to this day. Witness the making of a legend whose ambition would change the world.

Barron Gift Collier: The Man Who Built Collier County $27 / $32

March 9 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday MP8219 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples)

Speaker: Jacob Winge

From a Memphis boy in genteel poverty to the builder of modern Collier County, Barron Gift Collier rises with audacity and vision. This lecture traces his path from teen railroad agent to advertising magnate and Florida power broker. It examines his role in financing the Tamiami Trail across the Everglades, the creation of Collier County, and the development of Everglades City. The lecture also reviews how he brings early telephone service, newspapers, rail access, and bus lines to Southwest Florida, and considers his philanthropy and enduring legacy. Attendees learn how ambition, risk, and opportunity reshape a frontier into a community.

General Douglas MacArthur $27 / $32

March 9 at 10:30am – 12pm, Monday CL8220 – Carlisle of Naples (No. Naples)

Speaker: Gary Stuhltrager

Douglas MacArthur has been called America’s greatest General. Like his father, he was a career military man, and his service spanned 50 years from 1900 until the Korean War. He won the Medal of Honor in WW I, served in Washington between the Wars and in the Far East during WW II and thereafter. He was credited with saving Japan for democracy and Korea from Communist control. To his supporters he was a great tactician, courageous, patriotic and a man

whose liberal understanding remade Japan into a staunch ally of the United States. To his critics he was a warmonger, “Dugout Doug”, an aristocratic prima donna and a power-hungry danger to civilian control of the military.

The General Who Hated War: Eisenhower’s Forgotten Legacy $27 / $32

March 16 at 2pm – 3:30pm, Monday

AG8221 – Aston Gardens at Pelican Marsh (NE Naples)

Speaker: Jeffrey Steinberg

Revisit the often-overlooked presidency of Dwight D. Eisenhower and his strategic efforts to contain the Cold War without escalating military conflict. Taking office amid the Korean War, the rise of McCarthyism, and nuclear brinkmanship, Eisenhower drew upon his World War II experience to steer a more measured course. His behind-the-scenes diplomacy, resistance to military overreach, and early foundations for arms control helped shape a long-term strategy of containment, coexistence, and eventual detente. This lecture revisits Eisenhower’s understated but profound role in laying the groundwork for the Cold War’s peaceful conclusion.

Warren Buffett: The Oracle of Omaha $27 / $32

March 18 at 3:30pm – 5pm, Wednesday

TR8222 – The Terraces (Bonita Springs)

Speaker: Gary Stuhltrager

Often called the Oracle of Omaha, Warren Buffett is widely regarded as one of the most successful investors of all time. He transformed a struggling textile company into Berkshire Hathaway, now one of the top five companies on the Fortune 500 list. Yet Buffett’s influence extends far beyond Wall Street. His straightforward wisdom, humorous storytelling, and commitment to integrity have earned him admiration as both a business leader and a cultural figure. This lecture explores the making of Buffett’s remarkable career, his timeless investment strategies, and his surprising role as a moral voice in American life.

The Mitford Sisters: Politics, Privilege, and Scandal $27 / $32

April 6 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday

ME8223 – Moran Education Center (No. Naples)

Speaker: Nancy Maxwell

Few families in 20th-century Britain were as dazzling or ultimately as divided as the Mitfords. Born into a world of aristocratic tradition and privilege, the six Mitford sisters were destined for lives of security and leisure, even as Europe careened toward war. Then they broke rank, becoming, individually,

fervent communists, fascists, or Nazis. Except for one, who became a duchess, and another, who became a world-famous author! This lecture traces the intertwined lives of the colorful Mitford family, who, through tragedy, loyalty, and unapologetic individuality, left an indelible mark on history and on one another.

Catherine the Great: Enlightenment, Power, and Empire $27 / $32

April 23 at 10:30am – 12pm, Thursday SL8224 – Siena Lakes (No. Naples)

Speaker: Nancy Maxwell

From a German princess to Empress of Russia! Bright and ambitious, Catherine rose to power through wit and wile, not to mention intrigue and the convenient elimination of her husband. Embracing the ideas of the Enlightenment, Catherine drew up grand plans for Russia. Inspired by her correspondence with the likes of Diderot and Voltaire and encouraged by her confidante Potemkin, she set about the expansion, modernization, and education of the country. Although her reign also saw the violently dangerous Pugachev rebellion, Catherine’s accomplishments and devotion to Russia have earned her a place among history’s great rulers.

BRIDGE LESSONS

Learn to Play Contract Bridge: A Beginners Course $100 / $120

February 3, 10, 17, 24, March 3, 10, 17, 24 at 10am – 12pm NC8225 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Chuck Valery

Learn the world’s most popular and intellectually rewarding card game. This class is ideal for those with no prior experience who want to build a solid foundation in Contract Bridge. Each session begins with a clear, engaging lecture on rules and strategies, followed by guided practice using hands that reinforce the topic of the day. Over the weeks, participants gain knowledge of bidding, play, scoring, and partnership communication. You will receive a comprehensive workbook and fifty handouts to support learning. By the end, students will feel confident sitting at the bridge table and ready to enjoy this lifelong pastime. A $35 materials fee is due to the instructor on the first day.

Sharpen Your Game: Bridge for Advanced Beginners and Intermediates $100 / $120

February 19, 26, March 5, 12, 19, 26 at 10am – 12pm NC8226 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Chuck Valery

Take your bridge game to the next level with this in-depth course designed for students who have completed “Contract Bridge for Beginners” or have several years of playing experience. Each session features clear instruction on advanced bidding conventions and strategic rules, followed by guided hands-on play to reinforce the concepts. You will explore twelve powerful conventions and ten bidding guidelines that will improve contract selection, partnership communication, and scoring results. The class offers a balanced mix of instruction and interactive practice, supported by a comprehensive workbook and guide. A $35 materials fee is due to the instructor on the first day.

Three Necessary Bridge Conventions That Transform Your Results

$42 / $48

February 24 at 10am – 12pm, Tuesday NC8227 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Jerry Beaubien

This class blends clear instruction with guided play as you master three essential conventions. Learn Modern Losing Trick Count to judge trick-taking power quickly and reach more accurate games and partials. Use Combined Bergen to show major-suit support, describe hand strength precisely, and keep opponents from entering the auction. Then add Controls after a 2 Club opener to count aces and kings, identify which ones are held, and decide with confidence whether slam is in reach. You practice each method on real hands with expert guidance and immediate feedback. Leave with simple take-home summaries you can use at the table right away.

Slam Savvy: Find and Make More Grand and Small Slams $42 / $48

March 3 at 10am – 12pm, Tuesday NC8228 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Jerry Beaubien

Bid boldly and accurately on slams. This class focuses on the systems and sequences that uncover extra tricks and keep you out of bad slams. You learn Italian Cue Bids to exchange first and second round control, Kickback to conserve bidding space, and Roman Key Card 1430 with the Queen Ask to verify trump quality. We also cover Exclusion Blackwood to ignore a known void and count only useful key cards. Emphasis is on choosing the best strain, judging fit, and confirming controls before committing. Each topic includes clear examples, partnership agreements, and guided practice through play of the hand on

curated deals. You leave with concise take-home summaries you can use at the table. Bring a partner or come solo. This lecture is ideal for intermediate and advancing players who want to bid more slams with confidence.

CHINA & TAIWAN

The United States, China and the Challenges of an Emerging New World Order $27 / $32

Option #1: January 19 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday BV8423 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Option #2: March 13 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Friday GL8424 – Moorings Park Grande Lake (So. Naples)

Option #3: March 20 at 5pm – 6:30pm, Friday WC8618 – Wyndemere Country Club (So. Naples)

Speaker: Richard Price

As China’s economic power expands, Washington’s long bet on a US centric world order is unraveling, challenged by a more inclusive, global order creating new tools and norms that respond more effectively to the needs of emerging economic powers. We will begin with the post WW2 world order under American leadership. We will then highlight the rise of China through its historical narrative and explore how Chinese investments have enabled 3rd world countries to participate as major growth engines. We will also discuss how new, dynamic models of governance, trade, regulation and other challenges are evolving. Participants will leave with a clear framework, able to weigh risks, and understand how this transition from western-centric to global-centric evolution is reshaping global power.

Taiwan: Flashpoint That Could Reshape the World $27 / $32

Option #1 – February 9 at 3:30pm – 4:30pm, Monday TE8446 – TwinEagles Club (NE Naples)

Option #2 – February 17 at 2:30pm – 3:30pm, Tuesday GO8447 – Moorings Park Grey Oaks (So. Naples)

Option #3 – March 24 at 1:30pm – 2:30pm, Tuesday ME8448 – Moran Education Center (No. Naples)

Speaker: Paul Atkinson

Taiwan may be the most dangerous flashpoint in the world today. Xi Jinping’s calls for unification are growing louder, backed by aggressive military maneuvers that test America’s resolve. For decades, U.S. policy toward Taiwan has been guided by “strategic ambiguity,” a careful balance designed to deter China without triggering open conflict. This lecture explores the high-stakes history of U.S.-Taiwan

relations, the shifting power dynamics with Beijing, and the enduring importance of the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act. With tensions at their highest in decades, we will examine possible paths forward, the risks of miscalculation, and the choices that could determine whether the region faces peace, coercion, or war.

China’s New Path: Xi Jinping and the Quest for Global Power $27 / $32

February 25 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday

NC8462 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8463 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Jeffrey Steinberg

Explore the transformative leadership of Xi Jinping and his bold vision for China’s future. Departing sharply from the pragmatic, low-profile approach of Deng Xiaoping, Xi has centralized authority, reasserted Communist Party control, and launched an ambitious national campaign to elevate China as the dominant global economic and political power by mid-century. This lecture examines Xi’s goals, methods, and the potential risks involved from domestic repression to geopolitical confrontation. It also considers what his rise means for the existing international order and the future of U.S. influence in the 21st century.

Modern China Unveiled: Power, Policy, and Global Ambition $27 / $32

March 16 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday

NC8474 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8475 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Jeffrey Steinberg

Explore China’s transformation from a fractured nation emerging out of civil war and foreign domination to a global economic and political powerhouse. Led by a 40-year national security affairs analyst, the lecture examines the evolution of China’s governing system, the influence of traditional Chinese thought on modern Communist rule, and the contradictions within its authoritarian yet market-driven model. Topics include the Belt and Road Initiative, China’s approach to global investment, and its growing challenge to U.S. influence. This lecture offers critical insights into where China has been and where it may be headed in the 21st century.

CIVICS & ELECTIONS

Florida’s August Primaries: What Collier County Voters Need to Know $27 / $32

Option #1: April 7 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday

NC8229 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8230 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: April 15 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday MP8231 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples)

Option #3: April 20 at 2pm – 3:30pm, Monday AG8232 – Aston Gardens at Pelican Marsh (NE Naples)

Speaker: Sandy Parker

Primary elections often determine who will ultimately lead our communities long before November arrives. This timely lecture prepares you for Florida’s August 18 Primary Elections by reviewing the offices and candidates appearing on the Collier County ballot. Explore key federal, state, and local races and learn about proposed referenda that may shape the county’s future. We will also clarify how primary elections work in Florida, including party affiliations, closed primaries, and voter registration deadlines. Whether you are a seasoned voter or new to the area, this session provides the insight you need to approach the ballot box with confidence and understanding.

COMPUTER & TECHNOLOGY

Mastering Email on Your iPhone and iPad: iOS 26 Email Essentials $37 / $44

Option #1: January 6 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday NC8234 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8235 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: February 9 at 10:30am – 12pm, Monday CL8236 – Carlisle of Naples (No. Naples)

Option #3: February 19 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday GL8237 – Moorings Park Grande Lake (So. Naples)

Speaker: John Guerra

Email is one of the most essential tools on your iPhone or iPad, yet many users are unaware of the full capabilities of Apple’s Mail app. This presentation walks you through everything you need to know to use it efficiently and with confidence. Learn how to add and manage accounts from Gmail, Yahoo, Microsoft Exchange, and more. Discover how to organize emails into folders, eliminate junk mail, attach and markup documents, insert photos or videos, scan paperwork, and manage contacts. Whether for personal use or staying in touch with family and friends, this lecture helps you master every corner of the Mail app in iOS 26.

Mastering iOS 26: Tips, Tricks, and Hidden Features for iPhone and iPad Users $37 / $45

Option #1: January 7 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday FG8238 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Option #2: January 9 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday PB8239 – Pelican Bay Community Center (No. Naples)

Option #3: January 12 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Monday HB8240 – Hideaway Beach Club (Marco Island)

Option #4: January 22 at 4pm - 5:30pm, Thursday GR8241 – Grey Oaks Country Club (So. Naples)

Option #5: January 26 at 3:30pm – 5pm, Monday TE8242 – TwinEagles Club (NE Naples)

Option #6: March 4 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday CO8243 – The Collaboratory (Ft. Myers)

Option #7: April 13 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday NC8244 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8245 – Online via Zoom

Option #8: April 15 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday SL8246 – Siena Lakes (No. Naples)

Speaker: John Guerra

Explore what is new in iOS 26 for iPhone and iPad. This class shows practical tips, hidden gestures, and settings that make daily tasks faster. Learn smarter Lock Screen options, Control Center shortcuts, interactive widgets, and Focus that filters alerts. Master Messages upgrades, Mail time savers, Safari profiles and Tab Groups, and powerful search. See Photos editing, Live Text, Visual Look Up, and sharing tools. Use Siri and voice dictation effectively, create automation with Shortcuts, and manage storage and battery health. Review privacy and safety, including passkeys, two factor authentication, location permissions, Health sharing, and Find My. We also cover iCloud backup and device setup so everything stays in sync. All skill levels benefit. Please install iOS 26 before attending: Settings > General > Software Update.

Taking Great Photos with Your iPhone and iPad: Camera Tips Made Simple $37 / $44

January 13 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday NC8247 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8248 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

Discover how to take clearer, more vibrant photos with your iPhone or iPad using Apple’s redesigned Camera app in iOS 26. This lecture is perfect for seniors and retirees who want to feel more comfortable capturing life’s moments. Learn how to use key tools such as focus and exposure control, Portrait Mode, Live Photos, and improved Zoom features. We also cover built-in tips like filters, timers, and low-light photography. No technical background is required, just bring your curiosity and your device.

iPhone and iPad Fundamentals for All Users

$37 / $44

Option #1: January 15 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday SL8249 – Siena Lakes (No. Naples)

Option #2: January 22 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday BV8250 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Option #3: January 26 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday MP8251 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples)

Speaker: John Guerra

Build confidence with core skills for everyday use. This class demonstrates setup, updates, and essential settings so your iPhone or iPad runs smoothly. Learn Apple ID and iCloud basics, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, passcodes, Face ID or Touch ID, and privacy controls. Practice gestures, the keyboard, Control Center, and Notifications. Explore the App Store, Safari, Mail, Messages, and FaceTime, plus Camera and Photos for quick shots, simple edits, and sharing with AirDrop. Manage storage, battery health, and backups to iCloud or a computer. Try helpful accessibility tools such as larger text, Zoom, and VoiceOver. We also cover finding a lost device, avoiding scams, and a simple checklist for daily care. This lecture focuses on clear demonstrations and practical tips that help all users, from beginners to experienced owners who want a solid refresh.

Travel and Navigate Smarter: Apple Maps and Uber for Everyday Use $37 / $44

Option #1: January 15 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday GL8252 – Moorings Park Grande Lake (So. Naples)

Option #2: February 18 at 10:30am – 12pm, Wednesday NC8253 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8254 – Online via Zoom

Option #3: March 10 at 2:30pm – 3:30pm, Tuesday GO8255 – Moorings Park Grey Oaks (So. Naples)

Speaker: John Guerra

Whether you are planning a trip or simply getting across town, your iPhone or iPad can be your smartest travel companion. This lecture teaches you how to use Apple Maps for turn-by-turn voice navigation whether driving, walking, cycling, or using public transit. Learn how to explore cities in 3D, access curated destination guides, use electric vehicle routing, and enjoy aerial views with Flyover. You will also learn how to navigate the Uber app to schedule rides, choose vehicle types, track drivers, make payments, and leave tips. Gain the confidence to travel safely and efficiently using your Apple device.

Safari Essentials for iOS 26: Browse Faster, Safer, Smarter $37 / $44

Option #1: January 27 at 10:30am – 12pm, Tuesday NC8256 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8257 – Online via Zoom

Option #3: March 19 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday GL8258 – Moorings Park Grande Lake (So. Naples)

Speaker: John Guerra

Browse faster, safer, and smarter. This class demonstrates Safari for iOS 26 on iPhone and iPad. Learn start page customization, favorites, and powerful search. Use Tab Groups, Shared Tab Groups, and profiles to separate work and personal browsing. Manage bookmarks, Reading List, iCloud Tabs, and Handoff across devices. See Reader view, translations, Find on Page, and website settings like permissions, content blockers, and downloads. Explore privacy tools: Private Browsing with Face ID lock, tracking prevention, link tracking protection, and privacy reports. Try extensions, password and passkey AutoFill, and Apple Pay on the web. Add web apps to the Home Screen and manage notifications. This lecture also covers settings that speed browsing, reduce data use, and protect you on public Wi-Fi.

Organizing, Editing, and Sharing Photos on iPhone and iPad with iOS 26 $37 / $45

Option #1: January 27 at 2:30pm 3:30pm, Tuesday GO8259 – Moorings Park Grey Oaks (So. Naples)

Option #2: January 30 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday NC8260 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8261 – Online via Zoom

Option #3: April 20 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Monday HB8262 – Hideaway Beach Club (Marco Island)

Speaker: John Guerra

Explore the powerful new features of Apple’s redesigned Photos app in iOS 26 and learn how to manage your digital photo library with ease. This lecture guides you through organizing photos by themes such as People, Trips, and Recent Days, and demonstrates how to use Pinned Collections for quick access. You will also discover how to enhance your images using built-in editing tools, create dynamic Memories videos, and search photos by subject or person. Learn how iCloud seamlessly syncs your library across devices, and how to confidently share albums, photos, and videos with friends and family. Whether you are sorting, editing, or sharing, this presentation helps you get the most from your photos.

Messages App Essentials: Stay Connected with Texts, Photos, Video, and Audio $37 / $44

Option #1: January 28 at 10:30am – 12pm, Wednesday NC8263 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8264 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: February 23 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday

MP8265 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples)

Speaker: John Guerra

Stay close to the people who matter. This lecture demonstrates how to use Messages on iPhone and iPad to send texts, photos, videos, voice notes, and stickers with ease. Learn to edit or unsend recent iMessages, add reactions, and use animated effects that bring chats to life. This class shows pinning conversations, naming group chats, using mentions and inline replies, and finding anything fast with search filters. Explore audio messages, Check In for safety, location sharing, and quick photo and link previews. Review key settings: mute or hide alerts, filter unknown senders, block spam, and manage storage. iMessage is end-to-end encrypted, and iCloud keeps conversations in sync across devices.

Getting Started with Your Samsung Android Phone: Essential Skills for Everyday Use $37 / $44

Option #1: February 4 at 10:30am – 12pm, Wednesday NC8266 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8267 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: March 18 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday

BG8268 – Naples Botanical Garden (SE Naples)

Option #3: April 20 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday

NC8269 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8270 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

This lecture is designed specifically for beginners and casual users of Samsung Android phones running Android 14 or later. If your smartphone feels overwhelming or underused, this is the perfect place to start. Learn how to interact confidently with your device, type or dictate messages, take and share photos, download and organize apps, and navigate key features with ease. No prior knowledge is required. Say goodbye to confusion and to constantly asking your grandchildren for help as you build the skills to get the most out of your phone every day.

Beyond Time: Apple Watch Essentials for Everyday with watchOS 26 $37 / $45

Option #1: February 5 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

NC8271 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8272 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: March 19 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

BV8273 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Option #3: April 6 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday

MP8274 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples)

Speaker: John Guerra

More than just a timepiece, the Apple Watch is a powerful companion device with features that can simplify your life. This lecture explores the latest tools and hidden capabilities in watchOS 26, including making phone calls, checking email and messages, using maps, listening to music, viewing photos, and managing your calendar. You will also learn how to track your health, monitor activity, set reminders, use Apple Pay, detect falls, and more. Discover how this small device can have a substantial impact on your day-to-day life.

Master Apple Notes: Organize, Capture, Search, and Secure $37 / $44

Option #1: February 6 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday

NC8275 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8276 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: April 16 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday

GL8277 – Moorings Park Grande Lake (So. Naples)

Speaker: John Guerra

Capture ideas, lists, and documents in one trusted place. This class demonstrates Apple Notes on iPhone and iPad from quick captures to full projects. Learn to create folders, pin favorites, format text, build checklists, and insert photos, sketches and scanned documents that become searchable PDFs. Use tags and Smart Folders to keep topics organized. Search typed text, handwriting, and text inside images. Link related notes, attach web links, and save from Mail or Safari. Secure sensitive notes with Face ID, Touch ID, or a password. Record and transcribe audio, then highlight and share key parts. Collaborate in real time, manage versions, and restore deleted items. iCloud keeps notes in sync across devices, and sensible settings protect privacy and storage.

Mastering Today’s Streaming Services: $37 / $44

February 18 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Wednesday NC8631 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8632 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

Streaming choices can feel endless, and this class helps participants sort through them with clarity and ease. The session explains the major platforms, what each one offers, and how to compare content libraries, subscription tiers, and bundled options.

Attendees learn how to install, organize, and manage streaming apps on smart TVs, phones, tablets, and computers. This lecture discusses how to create user profiles, control data usage, adjust picture quality, and keep costs under control by tracking renewals and cancellations. Demonstrations show how to use universal search tools, casting features, and built-in smart TV menus to access content. Participants leave with the knowledge they need to choose the right services, streamline their viewing experience, and enjoy their favorite programs on any device.

macOS 26 Tahoe: Discover Apple’s Most Advanced Operating System Yet $37 / $44

Option #1: February 19 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday BV8278 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Option #2: February 27 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday NC8279 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8280 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

macOS 26 Tahoe is Apple’s most powerful and transformative desktop operating system to date. This lecture explores the new features and enhancements that take the Mac experience to an entirely new level. Learn how system-wide AI tools intelligently assist with writing, summarizing, and editing. Discover major improvements in multitasking, app window management, Spotlight search, privacy controls, and real-time dictation. macOS 26 also introduces tighter integration across devices with iPadOS and iOS, making continuity features more seamless than ever. Explore the redesigned Control Center, powerful new accessibility tools, and how Safari, Mail, and Messages have been rebuilt for speed, customization, and efficiency. This presentation shows how MacOS 26 streamlines tasks, enhances performance, and redefines what your Mac can do.

Word Made Simple: Tips, Tricks, and Secrets for Everyday Documents $55 / $65

February 20 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday NC8281 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8282 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

Create clean, professional documents with confidence. This class walks through Microsoft Word step by step. Learn how to open, save, edit, and print with settings that prevent mistakes. Format text with fonts, sizes, spacing, and styles that keep pages readable. Use tabs, margins, and indents for neat alignment. Build page layout with headers, footers, and page numbers. Insert and position photos, shapes, and simple tables,

then wrap text so everything stays in place. Check spelling and grammar, use Find and Replace, and keep versions organized. Explore Quick Parts, templates, and themes to speed up routine work. See how to turn a file into a PDF and how to share and review with comments and Track Changes. This lecture highlights time saving shortcuts and a simple checklist you can follow on every document. You leave ready to turn a blank page into a polished result.

Excel Essentials: Tips, Tricks, and Secrets for Everyday Tasks $55 / $65

March 2 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday

NC8283 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8284 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

Turn numbers into insight and save hours in Excel. This class teaches the core skills that make spreadsheets fast, accurate, and clear. Learn workbook setup, smart saving, and print-ready layouts. Format cells with number types, alignment, and styles that improve readability. Build reliable formulas with AutoSum, relative and absolute references, percentages, and dates. Use Quick Analysis, Flash Fill, and Autofill to transform data instantly. Clean up lists with Find and Replace, Remove Duplicates, and Text to Columns. Sort and filter like a pro, create tables that grow with your data, and add charts that tell a story. Freeze panes, split windows, and keyboard shortcuts boost speed. This lecture also reviews simple error checks and a checklist for avoiding mistakes. You leave confident and ready to use Excel.

Pages Word Processor Made Easy: Create Beautiful Documents on Apple Devices

$37 / $44

March 6 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday

NC8285 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8286 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

Design polished documents with Apple Pages on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. This class demonstrates templates, styles, and page layout so your reports, letters, posters, and resumes look professional. Learn text formatting, columns, headers and footers, image placement, shapes, charts, and tables. Insert photos, audio, and video, then review with comments, highlights, and track changes. Practice real time collaboration, share links, and export to PDF or Microsoft Word. See how iCloud keeps files in sync across devices and how to organize documents. This lecture reviews helpful settings, typography tips, and smart use of placeholders to build reusable templates.

Understanding iPhone and iPad Settings:

iCloud, Privacy, Apple Pay, and More $37 / $45

Option #1: March 11 at 10:30am – 12pm, Wednesday NC8287 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8288 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: March 23 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Monday HB8289 – Hideaway Beach Club (Marco Island)

Speaker: John Guerra

The Settings app is the command center of your iPhone and iPad and one of the most overlooked. This presentation walks you through how to take full control of your device by configuring the most essential features. Learn how to manage iCloud storage, adjust notifications, set up Focus modes, control display settings, use Emergency SOS, safeguard your privacy, and activate Apple Pay. Whether you are new to Apple devices or want to unlock powerful options you did not know existed, this lecture helps you customize your device to match your needs.

Apple News, Music, TV, Podcasts $37 / $44

Option #1: March 23 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday MP8290 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples)

Option #2: April 2 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday NC8291 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8292 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

This lecture demonstrates how Apple News, Music, TV, and Podcasts work together to create a personal media hub on your iPhone and iPad. Learn to tailor News with channels and topics, save stories for offline reading, and manage alerts. Music coverage includes building a library, creating playlists, viewing lyrics, using Listen Now, and understanding Apple Music vs free options. In TV, see how to find shows and movies, set Up Next, rent or buy, manage downloads, and use subtitles. Podcasts explore following shows, transcripts, playback speed, sleep timer, and autodownload. This class also reviews privacy, Family Sharing, storage, and cellular data controls, plus Siri voice commands and CarPlay for hands-free listening. You leave with a clear setup checklist and a practical daily media routine.

Cloud Computing Made Simple: Syncing and Storing Across All Your Devices $37 / $44

March 25 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday NC8293 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8294 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

This introduction to cloud computing explains what “the cloud” is, how it works, and why it matters. Learn about the most popular cloud providers, Apple, Google, Microsoft, and others, and how their services help you safely store files, photos, and documents online. Explore how to set up a cloud account, sync data across multiple devices, access files remotely, and improve security and backup practices. Whether you use Windows, Android, iPhone/iPad, or Mac, this lecture helps you take advantage of free and easy-touse cloud solutions that simplify your digital life.

Master the Files App: Organize, Find and Share iPhone and iPad Files $37 / $44

March 27 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday

NC8295 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8296 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

Turn chaos into order. Learn how the Files app unifies iCloud Drive, On My iPhone or iPad, and services like Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox. This class demonstrates browsing folders, using Recents, powerful search, tags, Favorites, and reliable naming conventions. See how to move, copy, rename, duplicate, zip and unzip, share with permissions, and recover deleted files. Practice scanning paper to searchable PDFs, marking up documents, and using Quick Look previews. On iPad, try drag and drop and external drives with USB-C. Connect to a network server, manage the Downloads folder, and store items for offline use. This lecture also reviews storage settings, backup basics, and a simple 3-2-1 strategy so important files stay safe.

iPadOS 26: The Update That May Replace Your

Laptop $37 / $44

March 30 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday

NC8297 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8298 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

Apple’s iPadOS 26 is more than just an update; it is a bold reimagining of what the iPad can do. This lecture introduces you to the most powerful features ever brought to the iPad, transforming it into a true laptop alternative. Explore the enhanced multitasking tools, customizable home screen widgets, floating app windows, and advanced file management that make productivity seamless. Learn how the new AIpowered writing tools, desktop-class Safari, external monitor support, and improved keyboard shortcuts elevate your workflow. Discover how Stage Manager, enhanced drag-and-drop, and system-wide app

enhancements bring speed, flexibility, and power to everyday tasks. Whether you use your iPad for email and browsing or for serious creative and professional work, this lecture shows why iPadOS 26 may change the way you compute forever.

From Typing to Talking: Siri and Dictation Essentials $37 / $44

March 31 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday NC8299 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8300 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

Stop pecking at the screen. Speak and get more done. This class shows how to set up Siri and use voice dictation on iPhone and iPad to call, text, search, and navigate without typing. Learn key settings, how to trigger Siri, and how to dictate with punctuation, new lines, and formatting. Practice quick commands for Reminders, Calendar, Maps, and Photos. See how to edit by voice, correct mistakes, and spell names. Explore useful Shortcuts for routines like “Text my family I am on my way.” Discover hands-free options in the car and at home, plus accessibility tools that reduce strain. This lecture also reviews privacy controls so your data stays protected. You leave with a printable cheat sheet and the confidence to talk to your devices with ease.

Outsmart Scammers and Stay Safe Online: Security for Windows, Mac, Android, and iPhone

$37 / $44

April 6 at 2pm – 3:30pm, Monday

AG8303 – Aston Gardens at Pelican Marsh (NE Naples)

Speaker: John Guerra

Protect your devices and identity with simple, proven steps. This class explains today’s threats such as viruses, spyware, malware, keyloggers, ransomware, phishing, and account takeovers, and shows how to prevent them on Windows, macOS, Android, and iPhone/iPad. Learn strong password and passkey habits, two-factor authentication, password managers, software updates, and safe browsing and email practices. See how to spot scam calls, fake techsupport popups, and dangerous links. Configure Wi-Fi safely at home, use public networks wisely, and decide when a VPN helps. Understand backups, device encryption, privacy settings, and how to shop and bank online securely. This lecture also covers credit freezes, breach alerts, and exactly what to do if something goes wrong.

Introduction to Facebook & Instagram: Connecting with Friends and Family $37 / $44

April 7 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday

NC8304 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8305 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

Curious about what your friends, family, or grandkids are doing on Facebook and Instagram? This presentation introduces new and beginning users to two of the world’s most popular social media platforms. Learn how to create an account, sign in, and navigate key features such as posting, sharing, liking, and managing friends or followers. Explore Facebook’s Wall, Marketplace, and privacy settings, and understand the important “fine print” agreements that affect your security online. Bring your smartphone or tablet to follow along as the instructor uses an iPad Pro for live demonstrations. By the end, you will be ready to connect, share, and engage with confidence.

Google Essentials: Gmail, Chrome, and Calendar for Productivity $37 / $44

Option #1: April 8 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday NC8306 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8307 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: April 16 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

BV8308 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: John Guerra

Streamline your day with Google’s core tools. This lecture demonstrates Gmail, Chrome, and Google Calendar side by side so you see how they work together. Learn Gmail labels, filters, search operators, schedule send, templates, snooze, and Meet integration. In Chrome, this class covers profiles, password manager, tab groups, reading list, autofill, and useful extensions that save time. Google Calendar focuses on views, sharing, event invites, time zones, scheduling assistant, appointment schedules, Tasks, and default reminders. See how to turn an email into an event, add video links automatically, and manage alerts on phone and computer. We also review privacy, security, and sensible settings so your data stays safe.

Organize Your Life with iPhone and iPad Calendar, Contacts, Reminders in iOS 26 $37 / $44

April 16 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

NC8309 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8310 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

Stay on top of appointments, to-dos, and people

across all your devices. This class shows how Calendar, Contacts, and Reminders in iOS 26 work together so you stay organized. Learn calendar views, default alerts, time zones, travel time, repeating events, shared calendars, and inviting others. Use natural language and Siri to add events and reminders by voice. In Reminders, build lists and sections, set due dates, locations, priorities, and flags, and share a list with family. Discover smart lists, tags, and suggestions that show what is due today. In Contacts, create complete cards with photos, notes, relationships, birthdays, and emergency details, and link duplicates. We also cover iCloud sync, backup basics, and how to keep data safe and private.

CRIME & FRAUD

Crime in America: Why Do People Commit Crime? $27 / $32

February 2 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday NC8614 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8615 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. Larry Siegel

Crime remains one of the most complex problems in American society, and experts continue to debate why individuals engage in harmful and violent acts. This lecture examines several major explanations and asks whether they conflict or complement one another. Some criminologists argue that crime stems from personal traits such as impulsivity, low self-control, cognitive deficits, and certain personality disorders. Others emphasize social conditions, noting that crime rates rise in communities marked by poverty, instability, and limited opportunity. A third perspective highlights the influence of family dynamics, peer associations, and school environments. This class explores each viewpoint, assesses the evidence behind them, and investigates whether crime is best understood through individual factors, social forces, relationships, or a combination of all three.

Fraud in the Age of AI: The Evolution of White-Collar Crime $27 / $32

March 5 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday NC8616 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8617 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. Larry Siegel

White-collar crime once lived mostly in boardrooms and accounting ledgers. Today, many of these schemes have moved online, blending with an entirely new realm of digital offenses. This lecture examines the mechanics of traditional white-collar

crimes including fraud, embezzlement, insider trading, and price fixing and the motivations of those who commit them from positions of power or trust. We then explore the rise of cybercrime, including identity theft, phishing, ransomware, and cyberextortion, and how artificial intelligence is creating new opportunities for deception. The session highlights how these two worlds increasingly overlap as schemes migrate to digital platforms, creating unprecedented challenges for law enforcement, businesses, and individuals.

DAY TRIPS & SPECIAL EVENTS

Please note for all day trips and special events, departure information will be emailed three days prior to the trip. Itineraries are subject to change. No refunds within ten business days of departure.

Miami Millionaire’s Row™ Boat Cruise and Bayside Marketplace $135 / $155

Option #1: January 22, Thursday

Ft. Myers at 8am–6:30pm / Naples at 8:30am–6pm SP8311 – Miami

Option #2: March 10, Tuesday

Ft. Myers at 8am–6:30pm / Naples at 8:30am–6pm SP8312 – Miami

Tour Leader: Val Bostrom

Enjoy a fully-narrated 90-minute cruise and spectacular views of Biscayne Bay, the Miami Skyline, Port of Miami, Island, Miami Beach and Millionaire’s Row™ – the Homes of the Rich and Famous™. Soft drinks, cocktails and light snacks are available for purchase. A modern yacht offers the utmost comfort and style. Each vessel features an air-conditioned lower salon enclosed in picture windows, as well as an upper deck where you can take in the fresh ocean breeze and an awning that will protect you from direct sunlight and light seasonal showers. After the cruise, enjoy time for some lunch and shopping at the Bayside Marketplace, a popular Miami destination.

Miami’s Little Havana Culinary, Artistic and Cultural Tour $155 / $175

Option #1: January 27, Tuesday

Ft. Myers at 7:30am–6:30pm / Naples at 8am–6pm

SP8313 – Miami

Option #2: February 26, Thursday

Ft. Myers at 7:30am–6:30pm / Naples at 8am–6pm

SP8314 – Miami

Option #3: March 19, Thursday

Ft. Myers at 7:30am–6:30pm / Naples at 8am–6pm

SP8315 – Miami

Tour Leader: Val Bostrom

Join us as we explore the rich history and culinary delights of a vibrant neighborhood. Little Havana was recently listed as an official “national treasure” of the U.S. by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The neighborhood is well-known for its many historical, political, culinary, and artistic contributions to our Miami culture. Nestled in the heart of the city’s downtown area and only a short drive from Miami’s famed South Beach, the neighborhood is full of interesting cultural landmarks which we will visit including a cigar factory, Domino Park, Cuban Memorial Blvd., the Tower Theater, artist workshops and the Damas De Blanco Mural. Enjoy delicious cuisine including empanadas, Cuban sandwiches, guayaba, croquetas, churros and more at a diverse range of establishments; from 5-star gourmet to hole in-the wall ethnic eateries.

Myakka Elephant Ranch Spa Enrichment Experience & Lunch at Local Winery

$199 / $219

Option #1: January 29, Thursday

Naples at 7:30am–6:30pm / Ft. Myers at 8am–6pm SP8316 – Myakka City

Option #2: February 18, Wednesday

Naples at 7:30am–6:30pm / Ft. Myers at 8am–6pm SP8317 – Myakka City

Option #3: TBD, Tuesday

Naples at 7:30am–6:30pm / Ft. Myers at 8am–6pm SP8318 – Myakka City

Tour Leader: Val Bostrom

Roll up your sleeves for an unforgettable morning at Myakka Elephant Ranch. This class features a two-hour Elephant Spa Enrichment experience in a small group of up to 24. Work alongside professional caregivers to spray, scrub, and bathe these remarkable animals. After bath time, an educational encounter explains elephant behavior, health, and daily care, with time for questions and photos. The experience concludes with a relaxing lunch at a nearby winery where the group reflects on the day and shares stories.

Miami’s Wynwood Artistic, Culinary and Cultural Tour $155 / $175

February 5, Thursday

Ft. Myers at 9am–6:30pm / Naples at 9:30am–6pm SP8319 – Miami

Tour Leader: Val Bostrom

Join us as we experience the cultural, artistic and culinary delights of Miami’s Wynwood district.

Enjoy mouthwatering dishes from some of the top restaurants in the neighborhood. Leave the tour with a much greater appreciation and understanding of artists such as RETNA, Ron English, Aiko, NUNCA and many more. Eat your way through the neighborhood while stopping at our favorite restaurants in one of the largest open-air art museums in the world.

Vizcaya Museum Tour with Lunch $155 / $175

February 12, Thursday

Ft. Myers at 9am–6:30pm / Naples at 9:30am–6pm SP8320 – Miami

Tour Leader: Val Bostrom

Vizcaya was created as James Deering’s subtropical winter home in the 1910s and today it is a National Historic Landmark and accredited museum. Vizcaya is beautiful and serene. It is also a place of intellectual stimulation, compelling us to consider the relationships between native and foreign, old and new and natural and designed. Vizcaya has been described as “the finest private house ever built in America,” “a jewel among Miami’s skyscrapers and subdivisions” and “some Noah’s Ark of decorative arts” with its exteriors offering the “manic tranquility of the great European folly gardens.”

Inside Broadway: The Wick Costume Museum, Lunch, and Cabaret Performance

$155 / $175

February 17, Tuesday

Ft. Myers at 9am–6:30pm / Naples at 9:30am–6pm SP8321 – Boca Raton

Tour Leader: Val Bostrom

Step behind the curtain at The Wick Broadway Costume Museum and experience the artistry that brings musicals to life. This trip features a backstage tour and a digital tour of costumes from legendary shows, presented in an immersive, interactive setting. Knowledgeable theatre professionals share stories, design secrets, and backstage insights into the work of iconic designers such as Sir Cecil Beaton, Irene Sharaff, Theoni Aldredge, and William Ivey Long. You will see how fabric, color, and silhouette help create unforgettable characters and moments in American musical theatre.Following the museum visit, enjoy a relaxing lunch and a live cabaret performance in the grand tradition of classic Broadway.

Tour of Immokalee $125 / $145

February 24, Tuesday

Ft. Myers at 8:30am–5:30pm / Naples at 9am–5pm SP8322 – Immokalee

Tour Leader: Carlene Thissen

An all-day tour of Immokalee, including the history of the community; samples at Lali’s Mexican Bakery; Roberts Ranch Immokalee Pioneer Museum; RCMA’s beautiful historical mural; driving tour that passes by Habitat for Humanity communities and Immokalee Fair Housing Alliance; Lake Trafford Memorial Gardens where the graves are beautifully decorated in a way that seems to keep the dead alive; lunch on your own at Lozano’s restaurant; a stop at the Farmer’s Market to purchase fresh produce; a brief visit to the Guadalupe Social Services soup kitchen and then Mission Peniel Cultivate Immokalee community garden; and a quick drive through neighboring Ave Maria on the way home! Restrooms are available at locations visited.

Italian Wine & Food Pairing Social Event $85 / $95

February 25 at 5pm – 7:30pm, Wednesday SP8323 – Bonita Springs

Event Host: John Guerra

Ready for a night out that’s a cut above the rest? Step into the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Mare Terra Restaurant in Bonita Springs for an unforgettable evening of Italian flavors, laughter, and new connections. Elevate your social calendar as you delight in a curated tasting menu of authentic Italian appetizers, each bursting with flavor and thoughtfully paired with hand-selected wines chosen by an expert sommelier. With every bite and sip, you’ll discover how the perfect pairing transforms simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces. This exclusive event is the perfect setting to mingle, laugh, and simply enjoy the good life, eat, drink, and be merry while making new friends and savoring new flavors.

Ringling Museum Treasures: Art, Circus Magic, and Bayfront Beauty $155 / $175

March 3, Tuesday

Naples at 8:30am–5:30pm / Ft. Myers at 9am–5pm SP8324 – Sarasota

Tour Leader: Val Bostrom

Experience the richness of the Ringling in a beautifully curated day trip. A knowledgeable docent leads an engaging tour of the Art Museum, highlighting European masterpieces, striking American works, and special collection highlights. Visit the Circus

Museum to explore the fascinating world of the Ringling Brothers, from historic wagons and costumes to remarkable artifacts that bring the golden age of the circus to life. Stroll through the Bayfront Gardens, where elegant landscaping, sculpture, and Sarasota Bay views create a peaceful retreat. Admire the exterior of the magnificent Ca d’Zan Mansion, John and Mable Ringling’s Venetian-inspired waterfront estate. Participants who wish may purchase separate tickets on site for self-guided entry to the mansion’s first floor. This program offers art, history, and Florida beauty in one memorable day.

Chardonnay Uncorked: A World Tour in Your

Glass $45 / $55

March 4 at 4pm – 6pm, Wednesday

SP8603 – Naples Center (Naples)

Event Host: Jerry Greenfield

Sip your way through a curated flight of chardonnays, from brisk, mineral wines to rich, barrel-aged classics. This class guides you through side-by-side tastings of unoaked and oaked styles, Old World and New World expressions, and single-vineyard versus blended wines. Explore how soil, climate, and winemaking choices shape flavor, texture, and aroma. Learn an easy tasting method, how to read labels with confidence, and smart food pairings for everything from seafood to roasted chicken. A wine educator leads the discussion, with light bites to complement the pours and a take-home tasting sheet to record favorites. Whether you love buttery richness or bright citrus snap, you gain new insight, new bottles to enjoy, and the stories behind them.

Selby

Gardens Splendor with Lunch and Leisure at St. Armands $155 / $175

March 4, Wednesday

Naples at 8:30am–5:30pm / Ft. Myers at 9am–5pm SP8325 – Sarasota

Tour Leader: Val Bostrom

Immerse yourself in color, fragrance, and waterfront beauty on this enriching day trip. A knowledgeable docent leads a guided tour through Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, highlighting rare orchids, tranquil bamboo groves, tropical conservatories, and sweeping views of Sarasota Bay. The tour involves approximately one mile of walking along garden paths and paved walkways at a relaxed pace. Participants then enjoy free time to explore the gardens further, take photos, or simply sit and enjoy the scenery. After the garden visit, the group travels to nearby St. Armands Circle for a leisurely afternoon. Enjoy lunch

at a café of your choice, browse unique boutiques, and explore galleries and specialty shops that give this charming district its distinct character.

Tour of Ave Maria $125 / $145

March 10, Tuesday

Ft. Myers at 8:30am–5:30pm / Naples at 9am–5pm

SP8326 – Ave Maria

Tour Leader: Carlene Thissen

From its origins as part of Immokalee’s sprawling agricultural land where tomatoes, bell peppers, watermelon, and cucumbers were grown, Ave Maria’s approximately 5,000 acres is the result of a dream of Catholic entrepreneur Tom Monaghan, founder of Domino’s Pizza, in cooperation with Barron Collier Companies. Entering from Oilwell Road, this bus tour will drive through select communities by such companies as Del Webb, CC Homes, The National, and Avalon Park. We will then drive slowly around the Midtown Plaza, view the waterpark, and then the Town Center to point out restaurants and shops where you will have time on your own for lunch and shopping. A respectfully quiet walk through the church will allow visitors to appreciate the interior gothic style and contemporary features. Another not-to-be missed feature of the tour will be the Mother Theresa museum in Ave Maria’s University.

The Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg $155 / $175

March 24, Tuesday

SP8633 – St. Petersburg

Depart/Return: Naples (8am/6:30pm) / Ft. Myers (8:30am/6pm)

Tour Leader: Val Bostrom

Our private, docent-led tour will take us through the highlights of the permanent collection as well as a brand-new exhibition, Dalí Alive 360°, an immersive experience celebrating the life and creative genius of one of the most influential and inventive artists of the modern era. This multisensory art experience envelops visitors in 360 degrees of light and sound within a monumental new Museum space: The Dalí Dome. The dynamic animations of Dalí’s works featured in Dalí Alive 360° illuminate the challenges and triumphs of his artistic career and provide visitors the sensation of stepping into Dalí’s life. The experience immerses the visitor in Dalí’s surreal landscapes, iconic melting clocks and mind-bending illusions with touchpoints from the artist’s time in Spain, Paris and America. Each of these eras in the artist’s life prompted a response from Dalí, leading to his constant reinvention. Lunch is on your own.

Flagler Mansion & Gilded Age Tea Lunch

$155 / $175

March 26, Thursday

Ft. Myers at 8:30am–5:30pm / Naples at 9am–5pm

SP8327 – Palm Beach

Tour Leader: Val Bostrom

This tour offers participants the opportunity to visit the mansion of Henry Flagler, the man almost singlehandedly responsible for developing the East Coast of Florida. Whitehall, the 60,000 square foot home that he built in Palm Beach as a wedding present for his wife, was described in 1902 by the New York Herald as “more wonderful than any palace in Europe, grander and more magnificent than any other private dwelling in the world.” Afterthe tour enjoy an afternoon tea with many delicious and savory treats to enjoy.

MODERATED DISCUSSION GROUPS

Current Events Conversations: Insight, Ideas, and Dialogue (2-part monthly series) $46 / $56

Option #1: January 8, 29 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursdays

NC8330 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8331 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: February 12, 26 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursdays

NC8332 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8333 – Online via Zoom

Option #3: March 12, 26 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursdays

NC8334 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8335 – Online via Zoom

Option #4: April 9, 30 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursdays

NC8336 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8337 – Online via Zoom

Moderator: John Guerra

This interactive two-part monthly series offers an open and respectful space for exploring the major news stories shaping our community, country, and world. Participants discuss timely topics drawn from headlines, informed by a range of articles and videos provided in advance. The group encourages thoughtful conversation across the political spectrum, where conservatives, liberals, and independents can share ideas and listen with respect and curiosity. Whether the focus is international conflict, U.S. policy, local affairs, or cultural trends, the aim is to foster understanding, unity, and practical solutions. Bring your insights, your questions, and your willingness to engage with others in meaningful discussion. All viewpoints are welcome.

Great Decisions 2026: America’s Leading Foreign Policy Discussion Series $100 / $125

Feb 3, 10, 17, 24, March 3, 10, 17, 24 at 10am – 12pm NC8018 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8019– Online via Zoom

Moderator: John Guerra

Attend in-person or via Zoom. The fee includes the Great Decisions Briefing Book, a vital resource that provides background readings on each topic. Great Decisions is the United States’ largest and most respected discussion program on global affairs. Each session combines independent reading, a short video presentation, and guided discussion on the most pressing international challenges facing America today. Topics are selected annually by the Foreign Policy Association. Briefing Books may be picked up at the Academy’s offices or mailed for an additional postage fee. Join fellow engaged citizens for thoughtful, respectful dialogue on the key issues shaping our world.

America and the World: Trump 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.

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?

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?

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?

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?

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.

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 Africa?

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?

ECOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

Flora, Fauna, and Fragility: Florida’s Natural Treasures and the Battle to Preserve It $27 / $32

February 18 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday BG8338 – Naples Botanical Garden (SE Naples) Speaker: Steven Valdespino

South Florida is home to one of the most unique and breathtaking ecosystems in the world. This visually stunning presentation explores the extraordinary landscapes and wildlife of the Everglades and Big Cypress Swamp. From ghost orchids and mangroves to panthers and roseate spoonbills, discover the remarkable biodiversity that thrives in this fragile environment. Accompanied by a rich musical score and authentic wildlife sounds, the lecture also examines the growing threats—climate change, development, and invasive species—that endanger this irreplaceable natural heritage. A celebration of beauty and a call for preservation, this program inspires awe and awareness.

The Western Everglades: A Battleground of Cultures and Conservation $27 / $32

Option #1: February 9 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday ME8441 – Moran Education Center (No. Naples)

Option #2: March 4 at 10am – 11:30am Wednesday MP8442 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples)

Speaker: Nicholas Penniman IV

The Western Everglades are more than just a natural wonder; they are a battleground of cultures, claims, and conservation. This lecture journeys through the region’s complex history from the early Indigenous peoples who thrived in this watery wilderness to the arrival of Spanish colonizers and the violent upheavals of the Seminole Wars. Discover how commercial interests fueled fierce battles over logging, drainage, resource extraction and development, and how these tensions eventually gave rise to modern conservation efforts. We explore the competing visions of this unique landscape: sacred homeland, economic resource, and national treasure. Through it all, the Everglades remain a symbol of resilience and a cautionary tale of exploitation, including Alligator Alcatraz.

From Uplands to Estuary: Safeguarding

Southwest Florida Water $27 / $32

February 26 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday BV8339 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. James Douglass

Water knits Southwest Florida into one living system of uplands, wetlands, estuaries, and the Gulf. This lecture explains how water flow connects habitats and communities, and why those links increase vulnerability to nutrient pollution, harmful algal blooms, red tide, saltwater intrusion, and storm impacts. An FGCU Water School professor shares examples from the Caloosahatchee and Estero Bay, outlines what Everglades restoration is achieving, and shows what still needs work. This class presents practical, science-based solutions: smarter growth, stormwater capture, septic to sewer conversions, living shorelines, and oyster and seagrass recovery, plus everyday choices that improve water quality.

ESPIONAGE & SPYCRAFT

Chinese Intelligence: Secrets, Spies, and Cyber Wars $27 / $32

Option #1: January 13 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday BG8403 – Naples Botanical Garden (SE Naples)

Option #2: March 19 at 4pm – 5:30pm, Thursday GR8404 – Grey Oaks Country Club (So. Naples)

Speaker: Thomas Eastwood

China operates one of the most extensive and capable intelligence networks in the world, targeting military secrets, economic data, and advanced technologies. This lecture explores the structure and mission of organizations such as the Ministry of State Security and the People’s Liberation Army.

It examines how Chinese intelligence excels in human recruitment, industrial espionage, and cyber operations, as well as how students, academics, and business professionals are often drawn into its orbit. Topics range from traditional spy craft to modern cyber warfare and even the controversies surrounding platforms like TikTok. The discussion provides insight into China’s global intelligence strategy and its farreaching impact on security and commerce.

Spies in the Shadows: The Untold Story of U.S. Intelligence $27 / $32

Option #1: January 14 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday MP8412 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples)

Option #2: February 23 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Monday BV8413 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Jeffrey Steinberg

Explore the little-known but rich history of American intelligence operations long before the creation of the CIA. From George Washington’s covert spy rings to Lincoln’s Civil War counterintelligence efforts and FDR’s secret networks in World War II, the United States has long relied on informal yet effective intelligence gathering. These early operations, often independent of formal government institutions, played a vital role in shaping military and diplomatic strategy. This presentation reveals how presidents from Washington to Eisenhower used espionage to outmaneuver enemies and safeguard the nation in both war and peace.

Trial of the Century: The Rosenbergs, McCarthyism, and American Justice $27 / $32

Option #1: January 19 at 2pm – 3:30pm, Monday AG8425 – Aston Gardens at Pelican Marsh (NE Naples)

Option #2: February 5 at 3:30pm – 5pm, Thursday SL8426 – Siena Lakes (No. Naples)

Speaker: Neil Adelman

Secrets, fear, and the electric chair. The Rosenberg case ignites Cold War anxieties, shapes McCarthyism, and divides the world. This class traces the FBI investigation, the 1951 trial, and the 1953 executions, then tests the evidence against what later records reveal. This lecture explains the legal standards for conspiracy and espionage, shows how capital punishment applied, and clarifies what historians now believe about Julius’s spying and Ethel’s involvement. Participants examine primary sources and weigh the enduring questions: Were they guilty, and should they have been executed?

Russian Spies Among Us:

The VENONA Secrets $27 / $32

February 3 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday CO8434 – The Collaboratory (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Thomas Eastwood

During World War II and the Cold War, Soviet operatives infiltrated the highest levels of the U.S. government including the White House, State Department, and even the Manhattan Project. In response, the U.S. Army launched VENONA, a topsecret counterintelligence project that intercepted and decoded Soviet communications. Much of the cryptanalysis was carried out by women working at Arlington Hall, Virginia, whose painstaking work exposed spies such as the Rosenbergs, Alger Hiss, and members of the Cambridge Five. This lecture examines VENONA’s discoveries, the role of the FBI and NSA, and the far-reaching impact of Soviet espionage on American politics, security, and the Red Scare. It is a gripping story of betrayal, secrecy, and the hidden war fought with codes and ciphers.

Five Eyes: Inside the World’s Most Powerful Intelligence & Eavesdropping Alliance $27 / $32

February 6 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Friday NC8439 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8440 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Thomas Eastwood

Born from wartime codebreaking, the U.S. and U.K. partnership expanded to include Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, forming Five Eyes. This lecture traces how the alliance collects and shares communications intelligence across radio, satellites, undersea cables, and the cloud. It explains key agencies such as NSA and GCHQ, joint programs like ECHELON, and how shared data aids counterterrorism, cyber defense, and greatpower competition. The lecture also addresses oversight, legality, and the privacy debates sparked by encryption, metadata, and high-profile leaks. Attendees learn how Five Eyes integrates signals intelligence with other sources, how partners divide tasks, and why this alliance is widely considered the most effective intelligence network in history.

Espionage from Within: The Trio Who Sold Out America

$27 / $32

February 10 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday BG8605 – Naples Botanical Garden (SE Naples)

Speaker: Tom Eastwood

They were trusted insiders, an NSA communications

specialist, a CIA officer, and an FBI agent who turned against their country in secret. This lecture investigates the actions of John Walker, Aldrich Ames, and Robert Hanssen, three of the most damaging spies in U.S. history. It examines their motives, methods, and the catastrophic consequences of their betrayals, which compromised national security and led to the deaths of American operatives. Through detailed analysis of their espionage careers and eventual capture, this presentation provides a sobering look at the vulnerabilities within U.S. intelligence and the high cost of treason.

Alger Hiss on Trial: Spies, Perjury, and the Rise of Nixon $27 / $32

March 27 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Friday

GL8488 – Moorings Park Grande Lake (So. Naples)

Speaker: Neil Adelman

Secrets, loyalty tests, and a courtroom duel that changes careers. This lecture revisits the clash between Alger Hiss, the State Department insider, and Whittaker Chambers, the former Communist who accuses him of espionage. We review the HUAC hearings, the “Pumpkin Papers,” and the perjury charges against Hiss. The program explains how the case fuels early Cold War fears. Participants meet a young Richard Nixon as he presses the investigation and rises to national attention.

Bloodlines of Betrayal:

The Nicholson Spy Case $27 / $32

April 14 at 10:30am – 12pm, Tuesday NC8494 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8495 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Thomas Eastwood

Few espionage cases are as disturbing as that of Jim and Nat Nicholson, a father-son duo bound not just by blood, but by betrayal. Jim Nicholson, a senior CIA officer, was convicted of spying for Russia. While serving a lengthy prison sentence, he enlisted his son Nat to continue the treason. This lecture explores their actions, motivations, and how law enforcement ultimately unraveled the plot. The case is compared to the infamous Walker spy ring of the 1980s, another father-son betrayal with devastating consequences. The discussion offers insight into the psychology of espionage, the vulnerabilities within intelligence agencies, and the chilling legacy of spies within families.

Inside the Kremlin’s Shadow: Russian Espionage Revealed $27 / $32

April 20 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Monday NC8499 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8500 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Thomas Eastwood

For over a century, Russian and Soviet intelligence agencies have operated with ruthless precision and global reach. This lecture explores the inner workings of key organizations including the GRU, KGB, SVR, and FSB, and the elite Spetsnaz units. It examines legendary operations, atomic spies, Cold War espionage, and high-profile defections. Key episodes include the Cambridge Five, Russian sleeper agents, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and targeted assassinations. The lecture also compares Russian methods to their Western counterparts and evaluates the effectiveness of their intelligence strategy both in historical and modern contexts.

ECONOMICS, FINANCE & INVESTING

Who Controls the Money? Politics, the Fed, and Your Wallet $27 / $32

Option #1: January 12 at 3:30pm – 5pm, Monday TE8340 – TwinEagles Club (NE Naples)

Option #2: February 17 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Tuesday NC8341 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8342 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. Shelton Weeks

Most rarely think about the Federal Reserve until rising prices, interest rate hikes, or market turmoil make headlines. What happens when political leaders try to steer the Fed’s decisions? Dr. Weeks, FGCU Lucas Professor of Real Estate, explores real-world examples of political pressure on central banks and what history teaches us about the risks. Politicized monetary policy can undermine economic stability, weaken the dollar’s role as the world’s reserve currency, and erode global confidence in U.S. financial leadership. This lecture connects the headlines to your pocketbook, showing why central bank independence is not just an economic principle but a safeguard for your financial future.

Estate Planning in 2026: Protecting Family, Reducing Taxes $27 / $32

January 22 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday NC8343 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Aaron Skloff, CFA

Plan with confidence as 2026 rules reshape estate and retirement decisions. This lecture explains how the federal estate tax limits have changed, what portability means for couples, and how the marital exclusion works. You learn how to keep more for heirs with smart gifting, beneficiary designations, and step up in basis rules. We review trusts, including revocable living trusts, and simple ways to avoid probate. This class also clarifies how the SECURE Act changed stretch IRA payouts, plus strategies for 401(k)s, 403(b)s, IRAs, 529 plans, and annuities. We address tax mitigation, Roth conversions, and tax wise charitable giving. To protect you and your family, we examine powers of attorney, health directives, and long-term care options. You will leave with a plain language checklist to use with your advisor.

Planning for Long Term Care: Insurance

Strategies to Protect Your Independence $27 / $32

February 5 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday NC8344 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Aaron Skloff, CFA

Planning for long-term care before a crisis preserves choice and independence. This lecture explains how long-term care (LTC) insurance works in Florida, including the Florida Partnership that helps protect assets while qualifying for Medicaid. You learn what Medicare covers, what it does not, and how to compare policy types such as traditional and hybrid life policies with LTC benefits. This class reviews benefit amounts, elimination periods, inflation protection, shared care for couples, and home care benefits. We discuss when to apply, how underwriting affects premiums, and possible tax advantages. You also learn common mistakes to avoid, including buying too late, skipping inflation protection, and assuming Medicare pays for custodial care. You will leave with a checklist to evaluate policies and to align coverage with your family, finances, and estate plan.

From Cash to Crypto: Understanding the New

Era of Money

$27 / $32

Option #1: January 15 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

ME8345 – Moran Education Center (No. Naples)

Option #2: February 16 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday NC8346 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8347 – Online via Zoom

Option #3: March 12 at 4pm – 5:30pm, Thursday GR8348 – Grey Oaks Country Club (So. Naples)

Option #4: March 31 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Tuesday

PB8349 – Pelican Bay Community Center (No. Naples)

Speaker: Thomas Consiglio

Cash is fading, and a new kind of money is taking its place. But what exactly is digital currency, and why is it becoming so important? This lecture unpacks the mystery behind cryptocurrencies, blockchain, and the next generation of payment systems. We start by exploring what truly makes money “money” and how it is created today. Then we look ahead to the rise of blockchain-based currencies, central bank digital money, and the fast-moving world of crypto assets, from Bitcoin to NFTs and beyond. No technical background is needed, just a curiosity about how technology is rewriting the rules of finance and how these changes may affect you.

Claiming Smart: Get More from Social Security

$27 / $32

February 19 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday NC8350 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Aaron Skloff, CFA

Claiming age, work history, and marital status all shape your Social Security check. This lecture explains how benefits are calculated, how delayed retirement credits grow payments, and how the earnings test affects early filers. You learn options for singles, couples, surviving spouses, and former spouses, including coordination strategies. We review the Government Pension Offset and the Windfall Elimination Provision for those with public pensions. This class clarifies how benefits are taxed, how provisional income works, and simple ways to reduce taxes over time. You also learn how income affects Medicare Part B and Part D premium surcharges (IRMAA), plus how to avoid or appeal to them after a qualifying life event. You will leave with a step-by-step checklist and questions to bring to Social Security.

Florida Residency and Retirement: Reduce Taxes, Invest Wisely & Retire Happy $40 / $48

Option #1: February 23 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Monday

FG8351 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Option #2: March 4 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday FG8352 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Dustin Rinaldi, CFP

Same household spouses and partners may attend for free. Florida can be your tax home and your retirement dream. This class explains how to legally claim Florida residency, secure homestead benefits, and align your estate plan with wills, living trusts, and essential documents. You learn practical ways to reduce lifetime taxes, including Roth conversion strategies, qualified charitable distributions, and smart withdrawals. To navigate volatile markets,

you examine diversification, rebalancing, and risk management. We also explore building reliable income with pensions, Social Security, and disciplined withdrawal strategies that support long-term goals. This class is strictly educational with no products or self-promotion.

Poverty and Privilege: Why Inequality Grows and Why It Matters $27 / $32

April 15 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday

BG8496 – Naples Botanical Garden (SE Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Charles Kupchella

The richest 1% of the world’s population have more wealth than all others combined. Three Americans have more wealth than the entire bottom half of the US population. In what ways is income inequality also inequitable? What are some of the causes and consequences of inequity? Is the playing field really level? What is the global trend? National trend? What about potential future consequences? Can anything or should anything be done?

FOREIGN FILM & DOCUMENTARY DISCUSSION SERIES

International Film and Documentary Discussion Series (4 Films) $45 / $55 Donation

January 11, February 8, March 8, April 12 at 2pm, Sundays NC8353 – Naples Center (Naples)

Moderator: John Guerra

Pre-registration is recommended. Participants may register for the series (NC8353) or for any of the individual films below. Join film lovers as we watch and discuss award winning, thought provoking, heart pounding and life changing cinema that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Number 24 $12 / $15 Donation

January 11 at 2pm, Sunday NC8354 – Naples Center (Naples)

Drama, Not rated, 111 minutes

On the brink of the Second World War, a young Norwegian man’s drive to resist the Nazis sets a new course for his future and the future of his country.

The Children’s Train $12 / $15 Donation

February 8 at 2pm, Sunday NC8355 – Naples Center (Naples)

Drama, Rated-PG, 116 minutes

The film follows a boy’s bittersweet journey between two families and two Italys, as he discovers opportunity, love, and the lasting scars of separation.

Beyond Utopia $12 / $15 Donation

March 8 at 2pm, Sunday NC8356 – Naples Center (Naples)

Documentary, PG-13, 115 minutes

Beyond Utopia follows various families as they attempt to flee North Korea, an oppressive land they grew up believing was a paradise.

Boy Who Harnessed the Wind $12 / $15 Donation

April 12 at 2pm, Sunday NC8357 – Naples Center (Naples)

Drama, Rated-PG, 113 minutes

A thirteen-year-old boy in Malawi must find a way to save his family and village from famine.

FOREIGN LANGUAGES

French for First Timers: A 5-Week Beginner Course $120 / $140

January 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16, at 10am – 11:30am NC8361 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Nancy Maxwell

This course introduces complete beginners to the French language through a simple, structured, and conversational approach. Designed for travelers, lifelong learners, and anyone curious about French, the course focuses on everyday vocabulary, basic grammar, pronunciation, and real-world usage. In addition to language fundamentals, participants also explore aspects of French culture and history to enhance understanding and prepare for travel. No prior experience is required.

Required textbook (to be purchased before class):

French Made Easy Level 1: An Easy Step-By-Step Approach to Learn French for Beginners.

French Level 2: A 5-Week Course $120 / $140

February 23, March 2, 16, 23, 30 at 10am – 11:30am NC8362 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Nancy Maxwell

Ready to go beyond bonjour? This class strengthens the basics and moves into confident, real-world communication. Over five weeks you build fluency step by step. You practice speaking and listening through role-play scenarios for cafés, hotels, transportation, shopping, and simple social visits. We review present tense and add polite past and future expressions, question forms, numbers, money, time, and useful connectors. Each week includes useful phrases, cultural tips on etiquette and signs, and light homework to reinforce memory.

Required textbook (to be purchased before class):

French Made Easy Level 1: An Easy Step-By-Step Approach to Learn French for Beginners.

5-Week Spanish Crash Course for Beginners

$120 / $140

February 3, 10, 17, 24, March 3 at 10:30am – 12:30pm

NC8363 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Courtney Lanute

This course focuses on common, useful topics like greetings, polite words/phrases, travel vocabulary, days of the week, months of the year, numbers, frequently used words and questions, and more. It is appropriate for travelers, students or anyone else who is interested in learning the language. Emphasis is on pronunciation, conversational skills, and vocabulary.

Required textbook (to be purchased before class): Spanish Made Easy Level 1: An Easy Step-By-Step Approach to Learn Spanish for Beginners

Eat, Drink, and Speak Italian: A Culinary Language Series

$120 / $140

February 5, 12, 19, 26, March 5 at 1:30pm – 3:30pm NC8364 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Viviana Ardesia

Taste your way into Italy while building practical language skills. This five-class series introduces essential phrases for menus, markets, and mealtimes, along with pronunciation that makes ordering easy. This class explores regional foods and wines from Sicily to Tuscany, explains dining customs, and teaches polite requests, numbers, and useful verbs. Activities include role-plays for restaurants and cafés, reading wine labels, writing a short recipe in Italian, and giving a toast. Each session features highfrequency vocabulary for pasta, gelato, espresso, bread, cheeses, and classic dishes, plus simple cultural notes you can use on your next trip. No prior Italian is required; curiosity and appetite are welcome.

GAMES

Inside the Wheel: Learn to Play Casino

Roulette $30 / $35

February 26 at 1:30pm – 3:30pm, Thursday NC8588 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Chuck Valery

Step up to the table and learn the ins and outs of one of the most iconic casino games. With two authentic roulette wheels, tables, and chips, this class offers a hands-on introduction to the rules, bets, and strategies of roulette. Explore the wide variety

of betting combinations, understand the odds, and examine common tactics players use in an attempt to tilt the odds in their favor. While roulette remains a game of chance, understanding its structure and strategy can add to the excitement and enjoyment. This program is strictly instructional. No gambling or betting will take place.

GARDENING

Fascinating Facts from the World of Orchids

$27 / $32

March 10 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday NC8328 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8329 – Online via Zoom Option

Speaker: Gayle Dorio

Orchids have captivated people for centuries with their beauty, diversity, and surprising adaptations. This lecture explores the fascinating world of the orchidaceae family, not how to grow them, but the remarkable facts that make them so unique. Discover why orchids are among the most diverse plants on Earth, the unusual ways they attract pollinators, and the record-breaking species that defy expectations. Learn about orchids that look like animals or insects, their role in cultures around the world, and even their surprising uses beyond decoration. Whether you are a dedicated collector, a longtime orchid enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys picking up a blooming plant at the store, you will leave with a new appreciation for these extraordinary flowers and the stories they hold.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Balance University: Improve Balance, Posture and Flexibility (3-part series) $50 / $60

Option #1: January 9, 16, 23 at 9am – 10am, Fridays NC8365 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8366 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: February 6, 13, 20 at 9am – 10am, Fridays NC8367 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8368 – Online via Zoom

Option #3: March 6, 13, 20 at 9am – 10am, Fridays NC8369 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8370 – Online via Zoom

Option #4: April 3, 10, 17 at 9am – 10am, Fridays NC8371 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8372 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Christopher Williams

This three-part interactive class is designed to help you improve balance, posture, and flexibility

through safe, low-impact movement. Beginning with foundational exercises, each session builds gradually toward more advanced routines, helping you gain strength and confidence over time. Along the way, your instructor explains the science behind balance and why it is essential for fall prevention, mobility, and overall wellness. Whether you are new to fitness or looking to enhance your daily stability, this class offers practical tools and techniques you can incorporate into your everyday routine. Suitable for all fitness levels.

Mastering Memory: Recall What Matters Most

$27 / $32

Option #1: January 21 at 10am – 12pm, Thursday

FG8373 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Option #2: March 9 at 10am – 12pm, Monday

NC8374 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8375 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. Lawrence Crouch

From forgotten names to misplaced keys, occasional memory lapses happen to everyone. This presentation explores how memory works and offers proven strategies to help you remember more, more easily. Learn practical techniques for recalling names, retaining lists, and keeping track of important tasks. Discover how to store and retrieve information more effectively, and how to sharpen your focus so memory serves you better in daily life. Whether you want to improve recall for social, professional, or personal reasons, these tools will help you keep your brain active and your memory strong.

Keeping Your Mind Sharp: Insights into Memory and Cognition

$27 / $32

February 18 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday MP8376 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Cathy Rosenbaum

Memory is the essence of who we are, connecting our past to our present and shaping how we move forward. Yet even the sharpest minds can experience forgetfulness. This class explores both reversible and irreversible causes of memory loss and offers valuable guidance for maintaining cognitive health. Dr. Rosenbaum reviews medication classes that can impair memory and discusses the pros and cons of prescription and over-the-counter treatments, as well as dietary supplements. She also examines evidencebased lifestyle and integrative approaches that can enhance brain function and help preserve memory. Participants gain practical tools to better understand and support their mental clarity and recall.

Balance, Strength, and Staying Independent

$27 / $32

Option #1: February 19 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday

NC8377 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8378 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: March 2 at 2pm – 3:30pm, Monday

AG8379 – Aston Gardens at Pelican Marsh (NE Naples)

Option #3: March 11 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Wednesday

FG8380 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Option #4: March 26 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday CL8381 – Carlisle of Naples (No. Naples)

Option #5: April 6 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday NC8382 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8383 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Christopher Williams

This class explores the fascinating science behind how the human body maintains balance and prevents falls. It introduces the three essential systems that keep us upright, and explains how they work together with muscle strength to keep us stable and mobile. Falls are not an inevitable part of aging. By understanding how these systems function, and how they can weaken or compensate over time, we gain valuable tools to remain confident, strong, and independent throughout life. Whether you have experienced imbalance or want to stay ahead of it, this lecture provides knowledge that can profoundly change how you move through the world.

Stop the Lies: Outsmarting Anxiety and Depression $27 / $32

February 26 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday NC8384 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8385 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Victoria Elkins, LCSW, LCADC

Are your thoughts playing tricks on you? Psychiatrist Dr. David Burns argues that anxiety and depression run on classic cons: distorted thoughts that feel true. This lecture examines common traps, including all or nothing thinking, mind reading, fortune telling, overgeneralization, and minimization. You will learn practical tools to challenge these habits: thought records, evidence for and against, the double standard technique, reframing, and graded action steps that rebuild confidence. Through brief demonstrations and guided practice, this class shows how to turn fear into accurate thinking and how to lift mood by changing the story you tell yourself. You will leave being able to spot lies quickly, test them against facts, and replace them with balanced thoughts that support calm, motivation, and hope.

Thriving Through Change: Building Emotional Balance and Inner Strength $27 / $32

April 13 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday

BV8386 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Ana Lulsdorf

Learn practical tools to strengthen emotional resilience and self-care. This class invites seniors to practice stress management, mindful breathing, reframing, and healthy boundaries while building supportive connections. Through brief exercises, reflection, and storytelling, participants explore ways to steady moods, improve sleep, and reduce worry. We highlight coping with change, health shifts, and family dynamics, and we practice communication that preserves energy and respect. Each session includes a simple action plan, resource ideas, and peer insight. You leave with a personal self-care routine, weekly prompts, and strategies to meet challenges with calm and confidence. The tone is welcoming, the pace is gentle, and the aim is growth.

HISTORY, LAW & GOVERNMENT

The Pentagon Papers: Ellsberg, the Press, and the First Amendment $27 / $32

Option #1: January 7 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday

MP8388 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples)

Option #2: February 23 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday NC8389 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8390 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Neil Adelman

Secrets, leaks, and a courtroom cliffhanger. This lecture retraces how a 7,000-page Pentagon study of the Vietnam War reaches the New York Times and the Washington Post, how the Nixon administration races to stop publication, and how the Supreme Court rules. We then follow Daniel Ellsberg from whistleblower to defendant as prosecutors charge theft and espionage. Was Ellsberg a hero or a traitor?

The Immigration Myth: Why “Just Come Legally” May Be Impossible $27 / $32

Option #1: January 9 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Friday GL8391 – Moorings Park Grande Lake (So. Naples)

Option #2: January 21 at 3:30pm – 5pm, Wednesday TR8392 – The Terraces (Bonita Springs)

Option #3: February 18 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday NC8393 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8394 – Online via Zoom

Option #4: March 10 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday BG8395 – Naples Botanical Garden (SE Naples)

Speaker: Casey Wolff

“Why can’t they just come legally?” For most would be immigrants, the answer is simple: they cannot. Decades of political choices have closed legal doors while leaving economic, labor, and humanitarian needs unmet. Since the Korean War, U.S. immigration law has prioritized enforcement over solutions, creating a system that frustrates employers, families, and the undocumented alike. This lecture digs into the myths versus realities of legal immigration, revealing why there are too few work visas for booming industries, why family reunification is often a decadeslong wait, and why millions already here have no path to legal status. Prepare for a candid discussion that challenges assumptions and sparks dialogue.

The Imperial Presidency: Power Beyond the Constitution $27 / $32

Option #1: January 12 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday BB8396 – Bonita Bay Community Center (Bonita Springs)

Option #2: February 24 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday BG8397 – Naples Botanical Garden (SE Naples)

Option #3: March 18 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday FG8398 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Jeffrey Steinberg

Explore the gradual but profound shift in American governance from a constitutionally balanced presidency to what many now call the “Imperial Presidency.” Designed by the Founding Fathers with clear limits and checks, the executive branch has steadily accumulated authority, often bypassing Congress and reshaping national policy through unilateral action. This lecture traces the historical evolution of presidential power, examines key moments of expansion, and discusses the constitutional implications. Participants will consider how the balance of power might be restored and what is at stake for American democracy if it is not.

From Isolation to Influence: America’s Global Role Reexamined $27 / $32

Option #1: January 12 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday BV8399 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Option #2: February 23 at 3:30pm – 5pm, Monday TE8400 – TwinEagles Club (NE Naples)

Option #3: March 18 at 3pm – 4:30pm, Wednesday NC8401 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8402 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Jeffrey Steinberg

Examine the enduring debate over America’s role in the world, tracing its arc from early 20th century

isolationism to postwar global leadership and today’s renewed uncertainty. The lecture focuses on the pivotal transformation during the lead-up to World War II, when national sentiment shifted away from noninvolvement and toward intervention. The postwar emergence of the United States as a reluctant superpower defined what became known as the American Century. Now, as familiar arguments resurface and long-standing allies express concern, this lecture offers historical context to help understand today’s foreign policy crossroads.

The Russian-American Paradox: Allies, Adversaries, and Ambiguity $27 / $32

Option #1: January 14 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Wednesday FG8414 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Option #2: March 18 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Wednesday

NC8415 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8416 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Jeffrey Steinberg

Examine the complex and often contradictory relationship between the United States and Russia; nations that have alternated between partnership and confrontation for over two centuries. From diplomatic support during the American Revolution to uneasy cooperation in World War II and decades of Cold War rivalry, the U.S.–Russia dynamic defies simple categorization. This lecture examines key moments of alignment and discord, revealing the enduring tensions and shared interests that continue to shape global affairs. Understanding this paradox is essential to grasping the challenges of today’s shifting geopolitical landscape.

Libertarianism 101: Freedom and Responsibility in Florida and America $27 / $32

January 15 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Thursday

CO8422 – The Collaboratory (Fort Myers)

Speaker: Larry Gillis

Explore how Libertarian ideas shape policy in Florida and across the nation. This lecture examines the national and Florida Libertarian Party platforms, explaining key positions in plain language: taxes and spending, education choice, gun rights, criminal justice reform, health care, property rights, environmental policy, and civil liberties. Learn how Libertarians balance maximum personal freedom with personal responsibility and limited government. Case examples show how these positions play out in courts, legislatures, and daily life. Instructor Larry Gillis, Director-at-Large of the Libertarian Party of Florida, brings 30 years as a prosecutor and defender

in New Hampshire. Both skeptics and supporters are welcome and should bring their probing questions and be prepared for a lively discussion.

Ports, Islands, and Empires: Ancient Trade Routes Across the Ancient Mediterranean

$27 / $32

January 22 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday

CL8427 – Carlisle of Naples (No. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Viviana Ardesia

From obsidian-rich Pantelleria to the harbors of Crete and Cyprus, early seafarers forged networks that transformed the Mediterranean into a shared cultural space long before classical empires arose. This lecture traces the emergence of maritime trade during the Bronze and Iron Ages, when ships carried metals, pottery, amber, and ideas between the Aegean, Sicily, Sardinia, and the Levant. Through vivid maps and archaeological evidence—obsidian tools, Minoan ceramics, Nuragic bronzes, and Phoenician amphoras—we explore how commerce shaped early technologies, social hierarchies, and belief systems. Participants will follow the first merchants who navigated by stars, connecting distant islands and coasts, and laying the foundations for the interconnected Mediterranean world to come.

Could America Face Another Civil War Today?

$27 / $32

January 28 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday

NC8429 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8430 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. Charles Kupchella

Historians say that the seeds of World War II were sown by outcomes of World War I. This presentation examines our Civil War’s less-than-settled outcomes. We will also examine why it was that America failed to resolve pre-Civil-War issues, peaceably, and, how our first Civil War set up some of today’s most divisive issues. America’s “democratic” republic was and still is designed to protect citizens from rapid change and from the tyranny of big groups and large states. We will consider the question: could this design have led and still lead to the tranny of minorities and the tyranny of small states, yet-again yielding explosively pent-up demands for change? Could we have another Civil War?

From Sea to Shining Sea: Retracing the Lewis and Clark Expedition

$27 / $32

Option #1: January 30 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday

BB8432 – Bonita Bay Community Center (Bonita Springs)

Option #2: April 21 at 1:30pm – 3pm Tuesday

CL8433 – Carlisle of Naples (No. Naples)

Speaker: Nicholas Penniman IV

This visually rich lecture retraces their remarkable path from St. Charles, Missouri to the Pacific Ocean, following their quest to chart an unknown continent. Along the way, we examine the expedition’s encounters with Indigenous nations, the political and diplomatic tightrope they walked, and the extraordinary challenges posed by terrain, weather, and survival. More than a tale of exploration, this is a story of resilience, scientific discovery, and Jefferson’s bold vision for a young nation. Experience the triumphs and trials of a mission that helped define the American West.

Rewind to 1957: A Defining Year of the Fifties

$27 / $32

Option #1: February 4 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday

MP8435 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples)

Option #2: April 9 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday

CL8436 – Carlisle of Naples (No. Naples)

Speaker: Steven Valdespino

Journey month by month through one of the most pivotal years of the 1950s – 1957. This retrospective explores how a single year captured the spirit, contradictions, and transformations of a decade. From the tensions of the Cold War and the stirrings of the Civil Rights Movement to breakthroughs in science, iconic automobiles, and a golden age of television and film, 1957 emerges as a surprisingly dynamic moment in American history. Music legends, political shifts, pop culture milestones, and technological advances come together in this vibrant, image-rich presentation. Discover how this underappreciated year helped shape the world to come.

Behind the Scenes at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave: Voices of the First Ladies

$27 / $32

February 4 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Wednesday

NC8623 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8624 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Jeffrey Margolis

This lecture explores the influential yet unofficial role of America’s First Ladies through the lens of their personal writings. Despite having no formal authority or salary, these women have shaped national conversations, advanced social causes, and offered rare insight into the inner workings of the presidency. Many lacked formal education, yet their memoirs and letters reveal depth, intelligence, and resilience. This lecture highlights the voices of First Ladies who used

their position to influence history, offering a unique perspective on power, partnership, and life inside the White House.

Shaping a Nation: Five Great American Presidents $27 / $32

February 9 at 2:30pm – 4pm, Monday BB8449 – Bonita Bay Community Center (Bonita Springs)

Speaker: Steven Valdespino

Explore the lives, leadership, and lasting legacies of five of America’s most influential presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, and Franklin D. Roosevelt. This lecture offers a vivid look at the defining moments of their presidencies, from the founding of the republic and the preservation of the Union to progressive reform and wartime resilience. Through powerful stories, revealing details, and memorable anecdotes, participants gain insight into how these leaders shaped the nation’s identity and ideals during its most critical periods. A stirring portrait of character, vision, and courage at the highest level of American power.

Bootleggers, Flappers, and Jazz: America in the 1920s $27 / $32

February 13 at 3:30pm – 5pm, Friday SL8454 – Siena Lakes (No. Naples)

Speaker: Steven Valdespino

Step into one of the most thrilling and transformative decades in American history—the 1920s. This highenergy audio-visual presentation brings the era to life with music, sound effects, and vivid storytelling. From jazz clubs and speakeasies to Model T Fords and the Harlem Renaissance, the decade bursts with innovation and style. Yet beneath the glitz and glamour, the country wrestled with deep cultural tension: modernism versus nostalgia, progress versus pushback. Explore the impact of Prohibition, the rise of radio and film, the golden age of sports, and the voices of a new literary generation. It was a time when America danced forward while still looking back over its shoulder.

Liberalism,

Conservatism, Socialism:

Three Traditions That Built the Modern World

(3-part series) $72 / $87

February 16, March 23, May 4 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Mondays BV8455 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Melissa Butler

Register for the series above (BV8455) or any of the individual lectures below. Liberalism, conservatism,

and socialism are three “isms” that have been at the heart of American political rhetoric for a long time, but what do they actually mean? Whom do liberals liberate and from what? What do conservatives conserve? Is socialism a modern form of serfdom? This series will examine the origins, evolution, and variations of each of these political philosophies focusing on how they balance the values of liberty, equality, and order. The series invites participants to discover how their own values and policy preferences match up with the visions of these great traditions.

Liberalism $27 / $32

February 16 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday

BV8456 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Melissa Butler

Starting with John Locke’s Enlightenment vision of natural rights and its influence on Jefferson and the Declaration of Independence to John Stuart Mill’s defense of individuality in the 19th century, and John Rawls’s search for fairness in the 20th century, we trace the evolution of liberal thought and see how it still sparks passionate debates about economic inequality, citizens’ rights and the role of government. See how liberal principles play out in practice from the defense of limited government to the promotion of social welfare liberalism in the New Deal, the Great Society and beyond.

Conservatism $27 / $32

March 23 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday

BV8457 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Melissa Butler

Starting with Edmund Burke’s reaction to the French Revolution, we look at key thinkers, principles, and policy positions that have characterized conservatism, including its views on tradition, authority, individual responsibility, and social order. We examine two different strands of conservatism, its defense of traditional values on one hand and its defense of liberty on the other. We discuss conservatism in the American context with special attention to William Buckley, Barry Goldwater, and Ronald Reagan.

Socialism $27 / $32

May 4 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday

BV8458 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Melissa Butler

Starting with its utopian beginnings to the revolutionary theories of Karl Marx, we see

how socialist ideas emerged as a response to industrialization. We discover that not all socialists are communists and look at other varieties such as utopian socialism, social democracy, and “sewer socialism.” We examine the views of their adherents from Marx and Saint-Simon to Robert Owen, Eugene Debs, and Bernie Sanders

Forging a Nation: Italy’s Tumultuous Birth $27 / $32

February 19 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday

CO8459 – The Collaboratory (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Nancy Maxwell

Modern Italy may appear seamless today, but its creation certainly wasn’t. Until the late 19th century, the peninsula was a fragmented patchwork of city-states, foreign-controlled territories, and rival kingdoms. Unifying these diverse regions required bold vision and deep conviction, often in conflict. This lecture explores the roles of three pivotal figures: Camillo Cavour, the shrewd diplomat; Giuseppe Mazzini, the idealistic revolutionary; and Giuseppe Garibaldi, the fiery nationalist. Their uneasy alliance and clashing agendas helped bring about one of Europe’s most dramatic nation-building efforts. Learn how ambition, strategy, and passion – and a bit of outside help – overcame centuries of division to form the Italy we know today.

Allies, Adversaries, and America’s Security in a Second Trump Term $27 / $32

February 23 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday NC8460 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8461 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Jeffrey Steinberg

Across Europe, the Indo-Pacific, and the Americas, U.S. strategy is being reset. This lecture maps shifts in alliances, force posture, and deterrence, as well as border security, cyber threats, and hemispheric stability. We examine economic security tools such as tariffs, export controls, energy policy, and industrial production, and how they affect inflation, jobs, and supply chains. The lecture outlines near-term scenarios for NATO, Ukraine, Taiwan, and the Middle East; medium-term challenges in technology competition and migration; and long-term consequences for the rulesbased order. We assess whether these disruptions harden into a durable doctrine or fade with politics, and what signals to watch in budgets, staffing, and strategy documents. Participants leave with a clear framework to analyze risks, opportunities, and the global response to U.S. change.

The Mysterious Death of Alexander the Great $27 / $32

February 25 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Wednesday NC8465 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8466 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Penuel

At age 32, Alexander falls ill in Babylon after a banquet. For nearly two weeks he grows feverish and weak yet suffers no clear wound. Ancient sources disagree, and rumor points to poison. Modern scholars test other causes: typhoid, malaria, GuillainBarré syndrome, or complications from previous illnesses wounds and alcohol. This lecture reviews the evidence from the Babylonian Astronomical Royal Diary, Arrian, Plutarch, and Diodorus, and considers the medical clues. We then follow the political afterlife of his corpse. Ptolemy seizes the golden hearse, installs the body in Egypt, and his tomb becomes a place of worship. The trail fades in late antiquity, and the tomb’s location remains disputed, but also the body of Alexander himself. This lecture invites you to weigh the case and judge what most likely ended the life of Alexander.

The

Year Was 1968: War, Protest, and a Nation in Turmoil $27 / $32

March 11 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday

ME8472 – Moran Education Center (No. Naples)

Speaker: Steven Valdespino

Few years have left as deep a mark on American history as 1968. This audio-visual presentation captures the political upheaval, cultural transformation, and global tensions that defined the era. Explore the seismic impact of the Tet Offensive, the USS Pueblo crisis, and the bloody siege at Khe Sanh. Revisit the shocking assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy. Experience the chaos of the Democratic National Convention, the power of protest, and the meaning behind iconic moments like the Black Power salute at the Olympics. From groundbreaking films and music to the awe of Apollo 8 orbiting the moon, this lecture examines a pivotal year that reshaped a nation and defined a generation.

Outlaws and Rogues of Florida: Pirates, Mobsters, and Modern Villains $27 / $32

March 19 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

SL8478 – Siena Lakes (No. Naples)

Speaker: Jacob Winge

Sunshine and surf often mask a darker Florida. This lecture profiles pirates like Black Caesar and the Gasparilla legend; rumrunners and the Ashley Gang;

Al Capone in Miami; the Ma Barker shootout; Key West wreckers; the Miami Cocaine Cowboys and Griselda Blanco; Ponzi schemers; and killers such as Aileen Wuornos. The lecture places these figures in their times, separating myth from fact while showing how swamps, seaports, railroads, and booms shaped crime. Attendees learn how lawbreakers exploited Florida’s geography, how lawmen responded, and why legends endure. Expect vivid stories, period images, and a brisk tour across four centuries.

The Italian Odyssey: Mapping Ulysses Across Sicily, Campania, Lazio $27 / $32

March 19 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday

CC8161 – Cypress Cove (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Dr. Viviana Ardesia

From the Cyclops coast to Circe’s cape, Ulysses’ voyage comes alive in Italy. This lecture maps epic episodes to real places: Sicily’s Etna and the Riviera dei Ciclopi, the Aeolian Islands of Aeolus, the Strait of Messina’s whirlpools, Campania’s Cumae and Lake Avernus, and the Siren islets off Positano. In Lazio we visit Mount Circeo, the caves at San Felice Circeo, and the dramatic Odyssey sculptures from Tiberius’ grotto at Sperlonga. The lecture compares poetry with archaeology: Greek colonies at Pithekoussai and Cumae, coastal sanctuaries, shipwreck cargo, and Roman art that kept the story alive. Participants see how myth guides settlers, trade, and identity, and how landscapes, inscriptions, and artifacts anchor the legend of Ulysses in Sicily, Campania, and Lazio.

Sweet Profits, Bitter Costs: Sugar and

Florida $27 / $32

March 24 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday

Power in

BG8479 – Naples Botanical Garden (SE Naples)

Speaker: Nicholas Penniman IV

From early experiments to today’s megafarms, Florida sugar reveals how policy, profit, and place intertwine. This lecture explains how two dominant companies benefit from federal price supports, and how those incentives shape land use, labor, and lobbying. We examine runoff from the Everglades Agricultural Area, Lake Okeechobee discharges, and restoration efforts, then connect the dots to human health, from added sugars in the diet to public costs. Case studies and maps show who gains, who pays, and why reforms stall. The lecture closes with practical choices for consumers and voters, along with promising policy ideas and restoration projects in progress. Expect clear explanations, lively visuals, and a balanced, evidencebased conversation.

The Chicago Eight: Protest, Power, and a Trial that Shook America $27 / $32

Option #1: March 24 at 2:30pm – 4pm, Tuesday

BB8480 – Bonita Bay Community Center (Bonita Springs)

Option #2: April 14 at 2:30pm – 3:30pm, Tuesday

GO8481 – Moorings Park Grey Oaks (So. Naples)

Speaker: Neil Adelman

Courtroom theater meets political upheaval in the 1969 conspiracy trial of the Chicago Eight. This lecture traces the protests at the 1968 Democratic National Convention, the arrests, and a courtroom that becomes a national stage. Meet Judge Julius Hoffman, defendants Abbie Hoffman, Tom Hayden, Bobby Seale, and their lawyers William Kunstler and Leonard Weinglass. Archival footage and trial excerpts bring the drama to life. Participants evaluate what the trial reveals about America then and now.

Lords of the Plains: Rise of the Comanche Empire $27 / $32

Option #1: March 27 at 10:30am – 12pm, Friday

NC8485 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8486 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: April 2 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday

CC8487 – Cypress Cove (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Thomas Eastwood

For nearly two centuries, Comanche horsemen dominate the Southern Plains, controlling trade routes, shaping diplomacy, and resisting encroachment across more than 250,000 square miles. This lecture traces their transformation after the adoption of the horse, their mastery of mounted warfare, and their decisive role against rival tribes, settlers, the Texas Rangers, and the U.S. Army. We examine leaders such as Quanah Parker, shifting alliances, and the forces that weakened Comancheria, including disease, resource pressures, and relentless military campaigns. The lecture highlights raids, warfare, captives, and survival strategies, and it connects Comanche service as World War II Code Talkers to a longer tradition of tactical ingenuity. Participants gain a clear view of how Comanche power rises, how it endures, and why it finally recedes.

Paris on Fire: Napoleon III, the Siege, and the Commune $27 / $32

April 7 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday

BG8489 – Naples Botanical Garden (SE Naples)

Speaker: Nancy Maxwell

Despite the glitter and glamor of Napoleon III’s empire

and his marvelous modernization of Paris, by 1870 the emperor himself was painfully ill, and France was teetering on the verge of another revolution. A disastrous war with Prussia toppled the regime, but Paris continued to resist the overpowering Prussian army as it lay siege to the city. When the government was forced to capitulate, the city rose up to form its own defiant government. It was a doomed idea. The violent era of the Paris Commune was short lived, but its effects reverberate to this day, in surprising ways, not the least of which was art! This lecture looks at the events and social forces that pushed the “City of Light” to the brink of total destruction.

From Footpaths to Frontiers:

The Story of Human Migration $27 / $32

April 9 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

BV8490 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Marwan Wehbe

Why do people move? This lecture explores the motives and routes that shape societies, from Ice Age wanderers and the Bering land bridge. Population redistribution continuously reshaped society at various times in history. We compare voluntary and forced movement, evolution, immigration and invasion, and how climate shifts, war, markets, ideology and faith redirect people. The lecture uses maps, images, and short case studies to show how genes, languages, foods, and ideas travel and mix. We examine how communities respond to newcomers, what borders really do, and why migration often sparks both innovation and fear. This lecture provides a clear framework to read today’s headlines and to place your own family story within a global past.

Famous Ancestors: Real People Who Shaped

Civilization $27 / $32

April 10 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Friday

GL8491 – Moorings Park Grande Lake (So. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Marwan Wehbe

This lecture explores the lives and legacies of notable ancestors who have left a lasting imprint on human civilization. Unlike mythological figures, these were real individuals, leaders, visionaries, and sometimes tyrants whose actions shaped the course of history. From the forebears of ancient Egypt, Phoenicia, Greece, and Rome to influential figures of more recent times, this presentation examines how their achievements and failures continue to influence the world we live in. Through vivid examples, participants will reflect on how ancestry is not only personal, but also deeply historical.

Cults and Fanaticism:

The Dark Side of Devotion $27 / $32

April 10 at 10:30am – 12pm, Friday

NC8492 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8493 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. Marwan Wehbe

Examine the disturbing psychology and societal impact of cults and fanaticism; phenomena marked by extreme devotion to a leader, cause, or belief system. Through a mix of historical and modern examples, this fascinating session explores how manipulation, coercion, and psychological control can lead followers toward mass suicides, violence, and blind obedience. From ancient sects to contemporary movements, this presentation investigates how the human mind can be shaped by powerful narratives, fear, and isolation. It offers a sobering look at how fanaticism can flourish and the warning signs we must recognize.

Alexander’s Conquest of Persia: Strategy, Battles, and Legacy $27 / $32

April 16 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Tuesday

CC8497 – Cypress Cove (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: John Penuel

Speed, shock, and planning turn a small Macedonian army into a world power. We follow Alexander across Asia Minor, Syria, and Mesopotamia, from the Granicus to Issus and Gaugamela, and into the sieges of Tyre and Gaza. This lecture explains the Sarissa phalanx, Companion cavalry, and the combined arms tactics that break Darius III. We consider logistics, intelligence, and bold terrain choices, as well as calculated theater such as the Gordian Knot and claims of divine parentage. After the Persian heartland falls, Alexander pushes to the Hydaspes in India, meets King Porus, and halts at the Hyphasis when veterans refuse to go farther. The return through the Gedrosian desert shows the lengths to which Alexander was willing to go to test the limits. The lecture closes with his return march to Babylon and plans for consolidation of his empire, asking what his campaigns teach about leadership, ambition, and limits.

Napoleon: How to Become an Emperor in 10 Years $27 / $32

April 23 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

BV8501 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Ken Nesbitt

The year 1794 in France marks the beginning of the incredible story of how a young, unknown Corsican

artillery officer rises from obscurity to become one of history’s most famous men. From Napoleon’s promotion to Brigadier General after his success at the siege of Toulon, to his assuming command of the Army of Italy in 1797, then through campaigns in Egypt followed by victories against the Austrian Empire, Napoleon Bonaparte becomes the new hero of the French Republic. In this presentation, we trace Napoleon’s amazingly rapid and dangerous ten-year journey from an obscure captain of artillery to being crowned Emperor of France in 1804.

From Frontier to Paradise:

The Making of Collier County $27 / $32

April 24 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Friday GL8502 – Moorings Park Grande Lake (So. Naples)

Speaker: Jacob Winge

From Calusa shell islands to a modern coastal community, Collier County evolves through resilience and vision. The lecture follows Native foundations, Spanish contact, and Seminole presence, then turns to pioneer settlements, logging and fishing camps, and the push to open the Everglades. This lecture highlights Barron Gift Collier’s influence, the Tamiami Trail, rail links, and the rise of Naples and Marco Island. Agriculture, tourism, hurricanes, and real estate shape growth, while conservation milestones like Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve redefine the balance between nature and development. Participants gain a clear timeline, vivid stories, and a sense of how people and policy transform one of Florida’s once most remote regions into a place many choose to live, work, and play.

Inside the Secret Skunk Works:

From U-2 to Stealth $27 / $32

April 27 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday BV8503 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Brian Kettler

Skunk Works turns impossible ideas into flying machines on a deadline. From the P-80 to the U-2, SR-71, and F-117, this lecture traces how small teams design, build, and test aircraft at record speed, often in total secrecy. We explore the origin story under Clarence “Kelly” Johnson, his 14 Rules for simple management, and how Ben Rich advanced stealth and new materials. Learn how Area 51 test flights, titanium supply puzzles, and radical shaping for low radar visibility changed aviation and geopolitics. This lecture examines how small, empowered teams, rapid prototyping, and clear goals still guide innovation today. We conclude with current projects in hypersonics, uncrewed systems, and digital design.

Florida and the Civil War:

From Secession to Surrender $27 / $32

April 30 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday BV8504 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Jacob Winge

“The smallest tadpole in the filthy pool of secession” is how Florida was described in the northern press in February of 1861. Yet, from secession to Reconstruction, Florida plays a consequential role in a war fought largely beyond its borders. This lecture traces Pensacola’s Fort Pickens standoff, Union-held Key West, and repeated occupations of Jacksonville. We examine Olustee and Natural Bridge, coastal raids, and the Union blockade that strangles commerce. Attendees learn how salt works, turpentine forests, and the “Cow Cavalry” supplying beef to Confederate armies sustain the cause as more than 15,000 Floridians serve. This lecture also explores enslaved people seeking freedom, local Unionists, and the role of Black troops. We connect wartime disruption and Reconstruction politics to the state’s postwar economy, from railroads and cattle to segregation and debt. Expect maps, vivid images, and a frank look at how the “smallest tadpole” leaves a long wake in Florida history.

HOLLYWOOD & FILM

Latin Lovers, Banditos, and Spitfires: An Intriguing Glimpse at Latino Hollywood $27 / $32

Option #1: February 20 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday

NC8358 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8359 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: March 5 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

BV8360 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Myra Mendible

This talk takes audiences on a lively journey through a century of cinematic history, exploring the rich tapestry of Latino representations on the silver screen from the dashing “Latin Lover” and menacing “banditos” of early films to the “Latin bombshells” and “spitfires” of Hollywood’s golden age. We will encounter a complex and colorful cast of characters and stories, noting some of the ways that these early film types and tropes are later recycled and reimagined, and how they continue to inform contemporary media and cultural landscapes. With clips, context, and cultural critique, this talk highlights the evolving dynamics of Latino stardom and Hollywood image-making.

IRISH STUDIES

Wandering Scribes and Scholars:

How Irish Monks Changed Europe

$27 / $32

February 5 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday CC8505 – Cypress Cove (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Alf Monaghan

Across Atlantic sea routes, early Irish monks meet Egyptian ideals of withdrawal and prayer. Inspired by the Desert Fathers, they seek God in wild places, choose exile for love of Christ, and carry books across land and sea. Their “wanderings” seed centers of learning from Skellig Michael to Iona, from Bobbio to St. Gallen. This lecture follows the travels, the manuscripts, and the schools that preserve classical texts and shape medieval Europe. We look at hermit islands, beehive cells, and monastic writing rooms where art and faith meet. We consider why nature, silence, and sacrifice speak so strongly in Ireland and how that spirit moves across Europe. By the end, you see how their courage, scholarship, and seafaring turn a small island into a lighthouse of learning.

Ireland Before Christianity:

A Connected Sacred Island

$27 / $32

March 9 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday CO8506 – The Collaboratory (Fort Myers)

Speaker: Alf Monaghan

Forget the myth of a lonely island. In the Neolithic and Bronze Ages, the Atlantic is Ireland’s highway, linking its shores to Iberia, the Mediterranean, and North Africa. Mariners move goods, skills, and stories; stone monuments, metalwork, and ritual echo across this sea road. Early farmers and traders from the Near East bring a nature centered spirituality that takes root in Ireland and shapes daily life. This lecture traces new archaeological finds, seafaring routes, and cultural ties that reveal a shared Atlantic heritage. We consider how language, art, and sacred landscapes grow from these connections. The result is a portrait of Ireland that is central, not remote. With this backdrop, Eastern Christianity meets a society already attuned to pilgrimage, monastic retreat, and the desert ideal, which helps explain the later influence of Egyptian practice on the early Irish Church.

Gift of the Nile: Egypt and the Making of Monastic Ireland $27 / $32

April 8 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Wednesday FG8507 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Alf Monaghan

Travel from the Nile to the North Atlantic as early Irish Christianity comes into focus through a Mediterranean lens. This lecture traces links between Irish monasticism and the Desert Fathers, explores ties to the Coptic Church, and considers how trade, travel, and ideas shape faith on the island’s edge. Recent finds such as the Faddan More Psalter, with Egyptian papyrus tucked inside a bog-preserved book of psalms, spark fresh questions and challenge familiar stories. Rich images and clear explanations invite you to test accepted theories, weigh new evidence, and decide for yourself. By the end, the map of Christian Ireland feels wider, older, and more connected than most histories admit.

JEWISH STUDIES

Passports of Life: Wallenberg’s Rescue in Budapest $27 / $32

February 12 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

BV8508 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Judit Price

A survivor of Budapest’s terror presents a vivid portrait of Raoul Wallenberg, the Swedish diplomat honored as a Righteous Gentile. Drawing on personal experience, the speaker describes how Wallenberg’s protective passports, safe houses, and fearless confrontations at train yards and along the Danube save lives, including the speaker and her mother. This lecture explains how he frustrates plans to destroy the Budapest Central Ghetto and rescues Jews from death marches and firing squads. Participants learn how one person’s moral clarity outwits a brutal system and what his legacy means for courage today. Archival images and maps accompany the account, and time is reserved for questions.

From Medieval Roots to Red Rule: A Jewish Budapest Story $27 / $32

March 18 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday

MP8509 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples)

Speaker: Judit Price

Centuries of resilience set the stage for a vivid account of Jewish life in Budapest under Communist rule. This lecture begins with a concise history of Hungarian Jewry from the 11th century to today, covering education, culture, commerce, the Holocaust, and the 1956 uprising. The focus then turns to a personal story of childhood and family life under an authoritarian regime: daily surveillance, shortages, quiet acts of faith, and the search for stability and opportunity. Listeners learn how optimism grows within limits, how families nurture identity, and

how a community adapts to pressure without losing itself. Archival photos and maps accompany the talk, and time is reserved for questions.

Jewish Avengers: Resistance and Reckoning in World War II $27 / $32

April 6 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Monday NC8510 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8511 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Thomas Eastwood

From ghettos and forests to courtrooms and covert missions, Jewish men and women resist Nazi terror and seek justice. This lecture examines sabotage networks, ghetto uprisings, escapes, camp revolts, and partisan warfare that challenge the myth of passive victims. It explores groups that track and target war criminals during and after the war, Israeli operations against notorious perpetrators, and the fierce debate over the Dachau liberation reprisals. The lecture reviews war crimes tribunals, asks whether the Allies do enough to help Europe’s Jews, and revisits the tragedy of the MV St. Louis. By blending survivor actions with postwar accountability, this session highlights courage, moral complexity, and the lasting quest for restitution.

LANGUAGE & LITERATURE

The Happy Hour Short Story and Poetry Society (4-part series) $95 / $115 (series) / $27 / $32 (single)

Option #1: SP8512 (Series of 4)

Jan 28, Feb 25, March 25, April 22 at 4pm – 5:30pm

Option #2: SP8513 (Single Session)

January 28 at 4pm – 5:30pm, Wed

Option #3: SP8514 (Single Session)

February 25 at 4pm – 5:30pm, Wed

Option #4: SP8515 (Single Session) March 25 at 4pm – 5:30pm, Wed

Option #5: SP8516 (Single Session) April 22 at 4pm – 5:30pm, Wed

Speaker: David Stewart

Raise a glass to great writing. Our class meets monthly in a private space at a Naples restaurant to explore short, timeless works by Hemingway, Dostoevsky, Chekhov, Kipling, Maupassant, Alice Munro, Patricia Highsmith, and others, along with classic poems that entertain and inform. Advance preparation for each session can be accomplished in 40-50 minutes. Three weeks before each session, participants receive the meeting date, venue, and a PDF packet with the reading, a brief author biography,

and starter questions to spark lively conversation. The instructor also presents a mystery selection at each meeting for spontaneous discussion. Class size is limited to encourage interaction. Register for the series or any individual sessions above.

Origins of the English Language: From Beowulf to Beyoncé $27 / $32

January 29 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

BV8517 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Edward Maxwell

How did a tribal tongue from the British Isles become the world’s dominant language? This presentation explores the dramatic and often unexpected history of English, from its Anglo-Saxon beginnings to its rise as a global powerhouse. Examine the profound influence of Norse invaders, Norman conquerors, and Renaissance thinkers. Learn how the printing press, Shakespeare, dictionaries, and colonial expansion shaped grammar, spelling, and vocabulary. Along the way, uncover the quirky reasons behind silent letters, irregular verbs, and strange spellings. Whether you are a language lover or simply curious about the words you use every day, this lecture offers a fascinating journey through centuries of linguistic change.

Tell It Well: Crafting and Delivering Your Story

$27 / $32

February 23 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday

NC8518 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8519 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. John Harrigan

Everyone has stories worth telling about turning points, travels, challenges, and joys. This lecture helps you shape those moments into memorable narratives that connect and inspire. We’ll translate classic storytelling tools such as theme, character, structure, and stakes into simple, repeatable steps you can use in conversations, presentations, family histories, and community events. Through short demos, guided prompts, and low-pressure practice, you’ll learn how to find your “through line,” craft a compelling beginning–middle–end, use sensory detail without rambling, and deliver with presence, pace, and confidence as you share the stories of your life.

LIFE ENRICHMENT

Core Values in Action: Love, Fear, Purpose, and Death $32 / $38

February 2 at 1:30pm – 3:30pm, Monday

BV8520 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Lester Strong

Find a reliable guide for everyday and life-changing choices. This lecture helps identify the core values that shape joyful, meaningful living. You name your top values, test them against real dilemmas in relationships, family, and work, and learn how they serve others and the environment. We examine four universal pillars of life: Love, Fear, Purpose, and Death. Through brief reflections, guided conversation, and a simple decision checklist, you practice turning values into action. This lecture equips you with an invaluable and effective process for making important decisions, no matter how large or small. In a time when opinions are routinely presented as facts and your right is someone else’s wrong, it’s critical to have a reliable compass that guides you to make crucial decisions aligned with your core values.

Friends and Community in Retirement: Build Your Social Life $27 / $32

February 5 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday BV8521 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Mary O’Brien

Work once gave you easy community. Retirement invites you to design it. This presentation helps you rebuild relationships and grow new ones with intention. Identify your social strengths and gaps, then create a simple 30-day connection plan. Learn how to restart dormant ties, turn acquaintances into friends, and meet people through volunteering, clubs, faith groups, fitness and arts programs, travel circles, and lifelong learning. This lecture discusses digital tools that make meeting easier, including library calendars, community centers, Meetup, Nextdoor, and alumni networks. Practice conversation openers, graceful follow-ups, and ways to set healthy boundaries. Explore how to thrive as an introvert or extrovert.

Listening, Language and Trust: The Keys to Better Relationships $27 / $32

February 9 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday BV8522 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. John Harrigan

Healthy relationships don’t just happen, they are built, one conversation at a time. This practical, uplifting program explores why strong social ties boost well-being and how everyday communication either strengthens or strains them. Through short frameworks, live demos, and low-pressure practice, you’ll learn how to listen so others feel heard, express needs without blame, navigate conflict without escalation, and nurture trust through small, consistent

“micro-connections.” We’ll translate evidence-based concepts into doable habits you can use at home, with friends, and in community life. Leave with a concise framework of phrases, prompts, and rituals to create, maintain, and grow the relationships that matter most.

Should

I Stay or Should I Move? Understanding Senior Housing Options in SWFL $27 / $32

Option #1: February 24 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Tuesday

NC8523 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8524 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: March 23 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday

NC8525 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8526 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Bruce Rosenblatt

Join this interactive discussion about senior housing related topics. When is the right time to consider a senior living community? What are the different types and costs of the senior living options in SWFL? What are the future trends in our area? What are the pros/ cons of hiring home health care instead of moving? What are ways to pay for senior housing including VA Benefits, Medicare and Medicaid? What is the role of a senior housing advisor? What questions should people ask when touring?

Navigating Change Together: Tools, Stories, and Support $27 / $32

March 4 at 10:30am – 12pm, Wednesday

NC8527 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8528 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Ana Lulsdorf

Change is a constant in life; how we respond shapes well-being. This presentation invites seniors to explore the emotional and mental sides of retirement shifts, health changes, and evolving family roles. Through guided conversations, storytelling, and brief exercises, participants practice practical tools: reframing, stress management, mindfulness, boundary setting, and clear communication. We also try problem-solving steps, gratitude habits, and resource mapping to strengthen support networks. Each session highlights real-world scenarios, encourages peer insight, and builds confidence to face uncertainty with calm and purpose. You leave with weekly reflection prompts and a toolkit for staying resilient, connected, and hopeful. The tone is warm, respectful, and lively. Join us to discover fresh ways to cope with change, find meaning, and navigate the next chapter with optimism and grace.

Calm and Resilient: Stress Management

After 50 $27 / $32

March 13 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday NC8529 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8530 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Mary O’Brien

Life after 50 brings new stressors: caregiving, changing health, finances, technology, and shifting roles. In this lecture, you identify your top triggers and match them to practical, science-based tools that fit your day. Learn simple breathing and muscle relaxation, thought reframing, time and boundary setting, and sleep habits that restore energy. Practice two-minute reset routines for tense moments, a five-step plan for difficult conversations, and ways to reduce news and screen overload. This lecture reviews how nutrition, movement, and social connection lower stress hormones, and how to build a personal calm plan you can keep.

Complicated Conversations: How to Understand Each Other When We Don’t Agree

$27 / $32

March 16 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday NC8531 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8532 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. John Harrigan

In an era of strong opinions and quick reactions, how do we talk to people we care about, at home, at work, and in our community when we don’t see eyeto-eye? This highly interactive course offers practical tools for navigating fraught topics such as politics, gender roles, and cultural differences. Through brief frameworks, live demos, and low-pressure practice, you’ll learn to replace reactivity with curiosity, surface shared values, set boundaries without stonewalling, and move from argument to understanding.

Stronger Together: Supporting Caregivers and Their Loved Ones $27 / $32

March 23 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday NC8533 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8534 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. David Hage

Rosalyn Carter aptly observed that there are only four kinds of people in the world: 1. Those who have been caregivers, 2. those who are currently caregivers, 3. those who will be caregivers, and 4. those who will need caregivers. This lecture will address the many challenges that caregivers face and share proven approaches to promote greater caregiver wellbeing.

Participants will examine the roles of family and friends who serve as caregivers and other formal paid caregivers that can help people needing care assistance. Supportive educational information and strategies will also be shared that can meaningfully improve caregiver quality of life.

Letting Go: The Practice of Forgiveness $27 / $32

March 25 at 10:30am – 12pm, Wednesday

NC8535 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8536 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Ana Lulsdorf

Forgiveness can lighten the mind and steady the heart. This presentation guides seniors through a clear, compassionate practice of forgiving others and oneself. Participants learn what forgiveness is and is not, why it lowers stress and improves health, and how it can repair relationships while protecting personal boundaries. Through guided reflection, simple breathing, perspective taking, and brief writing, you practice practical steps: naming the hurt, setting limits, and choosing a next action. We also study apology and repair, self-forgiveness after mistakes, and ways to release lingering anger without excusing harm. Each session provides a short plan, sample scripts, and weekly prompts. You leave with tools to reduce resentment, find closure, and approach the future with greater calm, clarity, and hope.

Fearless Aging: Choices That Build Health, Purpose, and a Stronger, Happier Future

$27 / $32

March 30 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday

NC8537 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8538 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Mary O’Brien

Aging is certain; fearlessness is a choice. This presentation explores what changes normally with age and what remains under your control. Learn the basics of strength, balance, flexibility, and aerobic movement; sleep that repairs; brain health habits; vision and hearing checks; medication safety; and doctor visits that work for you. This lecture discusses food patterns that support energy, bone health, and blood sugar. Explore purpose, curiosity, and social connection as buffers against worry and decline. Practice a three-minute steadiness routine, a simple breathing reset, and a weekly plan to reduce risks at home. You leave with resources for fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. Come ready to trade fear for skill and to design the next decade with confidence.

MAH JONGG

Mah Jongg for Beginners (3-part series) $80 / $95

Option #1: January 19, 23 at 10am – 12:15pm NC8539 – Naples Center (Naples)

Option #2: February 9, 11, 13, at 10am – 11:30am NC8540 – Naples Center (Naples)

Option #3: April 20, 22, 24, at 10am – 11:30am NC8541 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Gayle Dorio

Discover the timeless appeal of Mah Jongg, the fascinating game of tiles, strategy, and skill that has captivated players for generations. In this beginner series, you learn the fundamentals, understanding the tiles, reading the card, and recognizing winning hands while gaining confidence in playing. Each class combines step-by-step instruction so you quickly move from learning the rules to enjoying friendly games. Along the way, you explore tips for strategy, speed, and good table etiquette. Whether you are brand new to the game or have only watched others play, this is your opportunity to master the basics, meet new friends, and join in one of today’s most popular social games. No prior experience needed. Please bring the new 2025 card (available from the National Mah Jongg League, 212-246-3052) (APRIL REQUIRES THE NEW 2026 CARD) and your own Mah Jongg set.

Advanced Mah Jongg Strategies (3-part series)

$80 / $95

Option #1: January 26, 28, 30 at 10am – 11:30am NC8542 – Naples Center (Naples)

Option #2: February 16, 18, 20, at 10am – 11:30am NC8543 – Naples Center (Naples)

Option #3: April 27, 29, May 1, at 10am – 11:30am NC8544 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Gayle Dorio

This program presumes you have been playing regularly for at least one year and have mastered the mechanics of play or have taken the beginner class above. Take your Mah Jongg skills to the next level with a deep dive into advanced strategies that sharpen your play and boost your winning potential. This three-part series focuses on faster decisionmaking, effective defensive play, and the art of reading your opponents. Learn when to call and when to wait, and discover why keen observation and attentive listening can be more powerful than simply studying your own tiles. Through expert tips, you develop the confidence to adapt your strategy mid-game, protect your hand, and anticipate others’

moves. Please bring the new 2025 card (available from the National Mah Jongg League, 212-246-3052) (APRIL REQUIRES THE NEW 2026 CARD) and your own Mah Jongg set.

MEDICINE & SCIENCE

From Laboratory To Bedside: How Biopharmaceutical Companies Discover and Develop New Drugs $27 / $32

Option #1: February 9 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday MP8545 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples)

Option #2: March 18 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday NC8546 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8547 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. William Matthews

Every life-changing medicine begins as a scientific idea. But the journey from concept to the pharmacy shelf is long, complex, and costly. This lecture takes you inside the world of biopharmaceutical research and development, revealing how innovative drugs are identified, tested, manufactured, and ultimately delivered to physicians and patients. Learn about the intricate interplay of science, medicine, and business and why only a fraction of potential drugs ever reach the market. Through an interactive format, participants will explore the decisions company leaders must make, the regulatory hurdles to clear, and the data that drives success. By the end, you will have a clearer understanding of the risks, rewards, and realworld impact of bringing a new therapy to life.

Behind the Headlines: How Medical and University Research Really Works $27 / $32

February 27 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday

NC8548 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8549 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. Cijy Sunny

Every day, we’re bombarded with headlines about breakthrough drugs, miracle cures, or shocking new studies, but what’s really happening behind the scenes? This lecture pulls back the curtain on the world of academic and medical research to reveal how studies are designed, funded, conducted, and published. You learn why some findings are groundbreaking while others quietly disappear, how politics and money influence what gets studied, and why results often change over time. Whether you’re curious about clinical trials, peer review, or the ethics of human research, this eye-opening talk will help you see science with new clarity and give you the tools to ask smarter questions about what you read and hear.

Truth,

Lies, and Medical Research: Spotting Good Science, Red Flags, Real Findings, and Media Myths $27 / $32

March 2 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday BV8550 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Cijy Sunny

Each week brings new “breakthroughs,” but how can we tell sound science from hype? This talk draws on academic research experience to show how studies are designed, interpreted, and shared with the public. We explore why results may conflict, how bias and uncertainty are managed, and how headlines can distort real findings. Instead of a checklist, you’ll gain tools and questions to think critically about evidence and context. Through clear examples and plain language, you’ll see how knowledge is built, what makes findings credible, and why informed curiosity matters more than quick judgments.

Darwin, Evolution, and the Nazi Myth of a Master Race $27 / $32

March 6 at 10:30pm – 12pm, Friday NC8551 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8552 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. Robert Humphries

Why do species change and diversify? Natural selection offers a powerful answer. This lecture explains Darwin’s core ideas of variation, heredity, and differential survival, and reviews evidence from the fossil record, comparative anatomy, biogeography, genetics, and real time examples such as antibiotic resistance and Darwin’s finches. We then examine how Social Darwinism and early 20th century eugenics, including American sterilization laws and race science, twisted biological insights into ideology that helped shape Nazi visions of a so-called “master race.”

Molecules that Heal: How Molecular Medicine is Transforming Healthcare $27 / $32

March 9 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday BV8553 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. William Matthews

Medical science is entering a new era where treatments are designed for the individual, not the average patient. The unique sequence of DNA in your cells influences your risk for disease, how you respond to medications, and even why some therapies fail. By examining genetic, biochemical, and lifestyle data, doctors can now create personalized diagnoses and treatments maximizing effectiveness

and minimizing side effects. This lecture explores the molecules at the heart of this revolution, from DNA and RNA to proteins and biomarkers. We examine how molecular medicine is being used to treat cancer, heart disease, rare disorders, and more. You will learn about emerging technologies, current breakthroughs, and the future promise of this rapidly evolving field.

CSI DNA Profiling: Catching Criminals and Curing Disease

$27 / $32

March 16 at 2:30pm – 4pm, Monday

BB8554 – Bonita Bay Community Center (Bonita Springs)

Speaker: Dr. Robert Humphries

From crime scenes to cutting-edge medicine, DNA has become the ultimate detective. This presentation, designed for the non-scientist, explores how modern DNA technologies are transforming justice, healthcare, and our understanding of life itself. Learn how investigators use DNA profiling to identify criminals and exonerate the innocent, how scientists read entire genomes to uncover disease risks, and how breakthroughs in gene editing hold the promise of curing inherited disorders. Along the way, the lecture discusses the ethical questions raised by our ability to alter life’s fundamental code. This is a fascinating look at how science fiction has become everyday reality in the 21st century.

THE MIDDLE EAST

Israel and Palestine: Roots of a Never-Ending Conflict

$27 / $32

Option #1: January 13 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday NC8405 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8406 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: February 25 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Wednesday ME8406 – Moran Education Center (No. Naples)

Speaker: Jeffrey Steinberg

Examine the deep and complex roots of the Israel/ Palestine conflict, a struggle shaped by ancient claims, modern geopolitics, and decades of war and diplomacy. This lecture traces the conflict from the post-World War II partition of Palestine to its entanglement in Cold War rivalries and the near breakthrough of the Oslo Accords. Particular focus is given to the 1995 assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, a turning point that derailed hopes for a two-state solution. This presentation examines key historical milestones and considers the prospects, however uncertain, for peace in the years ahead.

Power Shifts in the Middle East:

U.S., Iran, Israel, and Beyond $27 / $32

Option #1: January 13 at 2:30pm – 3:30pm, Tuesday GO8410 – Moorings Park Grey Oaks (So. Naples)

Option #2: March 17 at 10am – 11:30am, Tuesday CO8411 – The Collaboratory (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Jeffrey Steinberg

Examine the fast-changing landscape of the Middle East, a region shaped by deep historical divisions and modern geopolitical shifts. From the Abraham Accords and growing ties between Arab nations and Israel, to the looming threat of a nuclear-armed Iran, the region is undergoing a strategic realignment. Meanwhile, China and Russia have asserted themselves as key players, challenging U.S. influence in ways not seen in decades. Led by a seasoned national security affairs analyst, this class provides expert insight into the evolving power dynamics and what they could mean for the region and the world.

Unraveling Iran: Empire, Revolution and Regional Power $27 / $32

March 17 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Tuesday NC8476 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8477 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Jeffrey Steinberg

Modern Iran emerged out of the Persian Empire, the decades of rule by the Shah, the brief anti-colonial period under Prime Minister Mosadegh, the Islamic Revolution and the rise of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Join a 40-year national security affairs analyst as he examines the current situation in Iran and the changing regional environment, Iran’s increasing engagement with Russia and China, and the evolving U.S. policy toward the Islamic Republic.

MUSIC, DANCE & OPERA

Orchestral Power: A Guided Tour of the Symphony $27 / $32

January 5 at 2pm – 3:30pm, Monday AG8556 – Aston Gardens at Pelican Marsh (NE Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Christopher Endrinal

From Baroque overtures by Handel and Vivaldi to John Williams, the symphonic sound shapes our world. This lecture traces how opera overtures and church sonatas evolve into the Classical symphony codified by Haydn and Mozart, then magnified by Beethoven. We follow Romantic visions from Berlioz and Brahms to Tchaikovsky, Bruckner, and Mahler, and see how national styles emerge with Dvorak and

Sibelius. The twentieth century brings bold reinvention with Stravinsky, Shostakovich, and the textures of Penderecki. Contemporary voices such as Ellen Taaffe Zwilich and Jennifer Higdon renew the form, while film composers like John Williams carry the symphonic tradition into popular culture. Along the way, we connect landmark movements to the ideas and events that inspire them, listen for signature orchestral colors, and learn how the symphony keeps evolving.

History of American Musical Theatre: Late 19th – 21st Century

$27 / $32

Option #1: January 15 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday

CC8557 – Cypress Cove (Ft. Myers)

Option #2: January 30 at 10am – 11:30am, Friday

PB8558 – Pelican Bay Community Center (No. Naples)

Option #3: February 20 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Friday

NC8559 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8560 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. Helen Tintes-Schuermann

This lecture offers an overview of the history of the American Musical Theatre, with its roots in European operetta and Early American Vaudeville. Historical periods from the late 19th century (French and Viennese operetta, American Vaudeville and early American Operetta), followed by the early the 20th century (the 1920s and 30s, including “Showboat”, the first truly American musical) and Broadway’s “Golden Age” (“Kiss me Kate”, “Oklahoma”, “My Fair Lady”, etc.) will be covered. Works of the last half of the 20th century (including major works such as “West Side Story” and “A Little Night Music”) will be presented, along with musical examples. Composers include Victor Herbert, Jerome Kern, George Gershwin, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Cole Porter, Lerner and Loewe, Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim, among others.

Roots, Riffs, and Revolutions:

A History of Rock & Roll $27 / $32

Option #1: January 22 at 3:30pm – 5pm, Thursday

SL8561 – Siena Lakes (No. Naples)

Option #2: March 20 at 2pm – 3:30pm, Friday

NC8562 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8563 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. Christopher Endrinal

From juke joints to stadiums, rock keeps reinventing itself. This lecture traces the music’s deep roots in 19th century work songs and Delta blues, then follows its jump into jazz, gospel, and country to create the backbeat that launched Elvis. We listen for the British Invasion’s spark, Motown’s polish, psychedelic experiments, punk’s bite, and arena rock’s spectacle.

The story continues through MTV, metal, hip hop crossover, and the rise of alternative and grunge, from Nirvana to Pearl Jam, and into the 2000s indie and garage revivals. Along the way, we connect the songs to the social forces that shaped them, from civil rights to youth culture and technology. This lecture offers clips, context, and lively stories to help you hear how rock evolves while staying rebellious at heart.

Beats, Blues, and Beyond:

How America Shaped Popular Music $27 / $32

Option #1: January 16 at 5pm – 6:30pm, Friday WC8609 – Wyndemere Country Club (So. Naples)

Option #2: February 23 at 2pm – 3:30pm, Monday NC8564 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8565 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. Christopher Endrinal

This lecture traces American popular music from the Mississippi Delta to the digital age. We hear how the spirituals and work songs of enslaved people shaped the blues, and how blues and gospel fueled jazz, country, and early rock and roll. The story follows Motown and soul, the British Invasion, and the rise of pop. We examine hip hop’s birth from DJ culture and sampling, disco’s dance floors, grunge’s raw energy, and EDM’s festival boom. Along the way, technology changes the sound and the business: radio, LPs, MTV, synthesizers, Auto-Tune, Napster, and streaming. Key artists from Elvis and Aretha to Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar show how music reflects American life. This lecture connects the beats to the stories, and the hits to their roots.

Inside Paul Taylor: A Dancer’s Journey $27 / $32

Option #1: March 11 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday NC8566 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8567 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: April 6 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday BV8568 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Frances Huber

Step into the studio with Paul Taylor through the eyes of a critically acclaimed principal dancer. This presentation shares what it feels like to build a dance from the first sketch to the final curtain, rehearsing hour after hour as wit, discipline, and humanity shape the work. This lecture discusses Taylor’s creative habits, how he coached dancers to reveal character, and why pieces like Esplanade, Aureole, and Company B still move audiences worldwide. Hear stories from tours on six continents, learn how music, gesture, and timing become choreography, and see how performing his repertoire changes an artist and a

person. Whether you love dance or are new to it, you will leave with a deeper understanding of an American master and the living art that bears his name.

Inside A Hard Day’s Night: Music, Mania, and Movie Magic $32 / $38

March 13 at 10am – 12pm, Friday NC8569 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8570 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Scott McLaren

Relive the whirlwind year that carried the Beatles from Liverpool stages to a United Artists soundstage. This lecture traces 1963 Beatlemania in Britain, the 1964 American breakthrough, and the creative sprint that produced their first and best feature film. Through curated interview clips and video, this lecture introduces the Producer Walter Shenson, Director Richard Lester, studio executives, and members of the Beatles’ inner circle who shaped the project’s look, pace, and humor. We examine how Richard Lester’s brisk style, Alun Owen’s screenplay, and the band’s wit created a new kind of music movie. The program also samples the all–Lennon-McCartney soundtrack, including “A Hard Day’s Night,” “And I Love Her,” and “Can’t Buy Me Love,” and explains why these songs still sparkle. Sixty-one years on, the film remains fresh, funny, and a defining portrait of the world’s most famous band.

Tristan and Isolde: Wagner’s Revolutionary Music and Tragic Love $27 / $32

March 16 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday BV8571 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Neil Adelman

Rich melody and tragic romance meet in Wagner’s Tristan and Isolde, the work that reshaped opera and classical music. Timed to the Metropolitan Opera’s Live in HD showing on Saturday, March 21, this lecture offers a clear, engaging guide to what you will hear and see. Neil Adelman discusses the story, the music’s groundbreaking harmonies and leitmotifs, Wagner’s life and ideas, and the opera’s performance history. Video excerpts highlight the Prelude, the Love Duet, and the Liebestod, with listening tips that deepen understanding and enjoyment. Whether you are a seasoned operagoer or brand new, this lecture welcomes you and prepares you to get the most from the Met broadcast or from any future performance.

The Women Behind Rubber Soul: Stories, Songs, and Signals $32 / $38

March 20 at 10am – 12pm, Friday NC8572 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8573 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Scott McLaren

Sixty years on, Rubber Soul still sounds new. This lecture examines how the Beatles shift from teen romance to frank adult themes, shaped by their relationships with their wives, girlfriends and other women, and by a changing 1965. Through songs, interviews, and pictures, we trace mixed messages about love and power: “Drive My Car” flips gender expectations; “Norwegian Wood” hints at infidelity; “Girl” questions idealization; “You Won’t See Me” and “I’m Looking Through You” confront independence and jealousy; “Run for Your Life” warns in possessive tones. We also consider the album’s fresh sounds, from folk rock jangle to sitar color, and how “In My Life,” “Nowhere Man,” and “The Word” broaden the band’s voice. This lecture places Rubber Soul in its time and shows why its melodies and lyrics still invite thought and delight.

Judy, Joni, and Joan: The Music of a Generation $27 / $32

March 24 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Tuesday NC8606 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8607 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Carlene Thissen

This musical lecture explores the music of Judy Collins, Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez in the historical context of events that influenced their music and the impact their music had on culture and politics. These three vastly different women, who occasionally came together to sing, had varying goals for their music and different degrees of personal social involvement in the issues of the times. We review, compare, and discuss their music and lives, as well as their activities today. During the program, Carlene will sing some of their best-known songs and invite you to sing along!

Eugene Onegin: Love, Loss, and Tchaikovsky’s Sparkling Score $27 / $32

April 20 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday BV8574 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Neil Adelman

Think beyond the famous polonaise and waltz. Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin overflows with lyrical gems, from Tatiana’s Letter Scene to Lensky’s heartbreaking aria, all set to Alexander Pushkin’s timeless story of love offered too late. This lecture prepares you for the Metropolitan Opera’s Live in HD

performance on Saturday, May 2, or enriches your experience even if you never set foot in the theater. Neil Adelman discusses the music’s architecture, the characters and their motives, Tchaikovsky’s creative journey, and the opera’s performance history. Video excerpts illuminate key scenes and listening cues so you hear what conductors, singers, and audiences prize. Whether you are an experienced opera lover or completely new, this lecture offers a welcoming guide to one of the great operas.

PHOTOGRAPHY

From Snapshot to Masterpiece: The Art of Photography (3-hours) $50 / $60

January 29 at 9:30am – 12:30pm, Thursday NC8575 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8576 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Frank Berna

Great photographs are created, not just taken. While photography is a personal and creative art, certain principles can help transform everyday snapshots into striking images. This lecture explores the essential elements of light, exposure, and composition that work across all styles and subjects. Learn how to apply timetested guidelines to enhance the mood, clarity, and impact of your photographs, whether you are using a smartphone, a mirrorless camera, or a DSLR. Through clear examples and practical tips, you will discover how small adjustments can elevate your photography from ordinary to exceptional. All skill levels are welcome.

Mastering Photoshop Elements: Essential Tools and Techniques (3-part series) $100 / $120

Option #1: February 9,11,13 at 1pm – 4pm, M/W/F NC8577 – Naples Center (Naples)

Option #2: March 23,25,27 at 1pm – 4pm, M/W/F NC8578 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Frank Berna

Unlock the creative potential of your photographs with Adobe Photoshop Elements. In this interactive, hands-on course, you will learn a range of essential tools and techniques to enhance and transform your images. Working with your own laptop and the latest version of Photoshop Elements, you will practice RAW conversion, straightening horizons, adjusting colors, and perfecting portraits by minimizing wrinkles and blemishes. Explore the power of layers, remove or add objects, change specific colors, and convert images to black and white or sepia. You will also learn how to combine elements from different photos and add text for captions or artistic effects. Designed for

those with basic computer skills, this lecture will help you bring your creative vision to life.

iPhone

Photography Essentials: From Snapshots to Stunning Shots $35 / $42

Option #1: February 26 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

NC8579 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8580 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: April 7 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

NC8581 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8582 – Online via Zoom

Option #3: April 22 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Wednesday

FG8583 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Frank Berna

Transform your everyday snapshots into photographs you are proud to share. This lecture shows you how to take control of the iPhone Camera and make creative choices with composition, light, and timing. Learn when to use Wide, Ultra Wide, and Telephoto lenses; how to set focus and exposure; and how to work with Night, Portrait, Live Photo, Burst, and Panorama. Discover steady shooting tips, quick actions, and simple accessories that make a big difference. This lecture then moves to editing in Photos: crop and straighten, adjust color and exposure, apply filters with care, and use versioning to undo changes. Finish with smart organization: albums, favorites, people and places, search, shared albums, and iCloud Photos for backup. You leave with a clear checklist and practice ideas so your next photo looks intentional, not accidental.

Understanding Your Mirrorless and Digital SLR (3-part series) $100 / $120

March 2,4,6 at 1pm – 4pm, M/W/F NC8584 – Naples Center (Naples)

Speaker: Frank Berna

Digital cameras offer more creative possibilities than ever before but navigating their many settings can feel overwhelming. This course guides you step-by-step through the essential controls and features of mirrorless and digital SLR cameras, making them work for your artistic vision. Learn how to master exposure, white balance, file formats, and focus modes to produce consistently better images. Discover techniques for more effective flash photography and how to select the right shooting options for different subjects and lighting conditions. Whether you are capturing landscapes, portraits, or action shots, you will gain the knowledge and confidence to move beyond “auto” mode and fully explore your camera’s creative potential.

RELIGION & FAITH

The Challenge of Separating Church and State $27 / $32

Option #1: February 9 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday NC8443 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8444 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: March 16 at 3:30pm – 5pm, Monday TE8445 – TwinEagles Club (NE Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Charles Kupchella

Although Jefferson said the constitution was meant to place a “wall of separation between church and state,” church and state have clearly become intertwined in America. The motto, “In God We Trust” is on our coins. “Under God” is in our pledge. Pandering politicians work to put prayer back in schools and courts are kept busy dealing with such things as the legality of religious icons on public property. Christian Nationalism is seen by many as a holy way forward by some and as a clear and present danger by others. The stifling effect of dogma on freedom can be seen in the world’s theocracies in which church and state are one and the same. The number of countries with blasphemy laws has actually been increasing.

Who Wrote the Bible and Why? Untangling a Sacred Story

$27 / $32

February 10 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Tuesday

NC8619 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8620 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Kent Commons

Time magazine once claimed that the Bible has shaped culture more than any other book. Yet the story of how this collection of ancient writings became the Bible on our shelves is far from simple. This lecture traces the long journey from oral tradition to written scrolls, from scattered texts to an approved canon. We examine who wrote these books, when they were composed, and what purposes they served in their original worlds. The lecture considers early Jewish and Christian communities, lost and rejected books, the impact of councils and emperors, and the work of scribes who copied texts by hand. We also look at discoveries such as the Dead Sea Scrolls and the effect of major translations like the Vulgate and King James Bible. Participants gain a clearer view of how the modern Bible came to be.

Constantine and the Cross: How Christianity Entered

Imperial Power

$27 / $32

Option #1: February 19 at 2:30pm – 4pm, Thursday

BB8585 – Bonita Bay Community Center (Bonita Springs)

Option #2: April 7 at 3:30pm – 5pm, Tuesday

SL8586 – Siena Lakes (No. Naples)

Speaker: John Penuel

A crucified teacher inspires a movement that reshapes Roman power. This lecture traces Christianity from its earliest days to an influential force under Constantine. After his father dies in 306 CE, Constantine claims the throne, marches on Rome, and in 312 CE at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge fights under the sign of the ChiRho. We examine the Edict of Milan, the differences between the beliefs of early Christians, and the Council of Nicaea’s debate over Jesus’ nature. Participants see how laws change, and architecture is repurposed, and how traditional practices hold out against the rise of Christianity. The lecture also asks what Constantine believed, and how later emperors came under the sway of the church. By the end, you consider how politics, belief, and timing turn a marginal faith into a force that shapes Europe for centuries.

She Started It! How Women Initiated the World’s Religions $27 / $32

March 12 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday BV8587 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Lori Joan Swick

Across sacred texts, women often stand at the beginning of change. This lecture examines how female figures initiate pivotal spiritual moments, from Eve’s bold choice in Genesis, interpreted by theologian Phyllis Trible in “Eve and Adam: Genesis 2-3 Reread,” to sparks within Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. We look at queens, prophets, disciples, and mystics whose ideas, courage, and action set traditions in motion, yet whose roles receive too little credit. Participants consider what first mover leadership looks like in scripture and how it shapes communities today. This class invites lively discussion, brief readings, and fresh perspectives that honor women’s spiritual thought and expression.

The Real Cost of Discipleship: Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s Fight Against Hitler $27 / $32

March 26 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday NC8621 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8622 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Kent Commons

Few Christian thinkers of the twentieth century stir as much debate as Dietrich Bonhoeffer. A brilliant young German pastor and theologian, he speaks out against Nazism, helps Jews escape, and becomes entangled with Admiral Canaris and the Valkyrie plot to kill Adolf

Hitler. In April 1945, he is executed at Flossenbürg, likely among the last civilians murdered by the regime. This lecture traces Bonhoeffer’s journey from promising academic to committed resister, highlighting key writings such as The Cost of Discipleship and Letters and Papers from Prison. We examine what role he actually plays in the conspiracy, whether he is “guilty,” and how he wrestles with faith, ethics, and political responsibility. The lecture concludes by asking why Bonhoeffer’s life and thoughts still challenge believers and nonbelievers today.

TRAVEL OPEN HOUSES

FGCU Academy 2026 Travel Open Houses Free

Option #1: January 14 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday NC8589 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8590 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: February 16 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday FG8591 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Option #3: February 25 at 10am – 11:30am, Wednesday NC8592 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8593 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: John Guerra

Pre-registration is required for this free event. Join FGCU Academy in-person or online as we unveil our 2026 lineup of extraordinary travel programs. From the colorful canyons of America’s national parks to the green hills of Ireland, the historic heart of Britain, and the coastal gems of Croatia and Sicily, each journey is thoughtfully curated to blend luxury, discovery, comfort, and culture. This year’s offerings also include three exceptional cruises: along Portugal’s Douro River, through Europe’s grand waterways, and aboard a luxury yacht exploring the Greek Isles and Turkish coast. Travel season begins in May 2026, and this presentation highlights all nine programs. Learn how these guided experiences foster learning beyond the classroom through local culture, cuisine, language, and shared stories with fellow travelers. A video recording of this presentation is available online at fgcu.edu/academy/travel if you are unable to attend.

WORLD VOYAGE: SIGHTS, SOUNDS & CULTURES

From Dante to David: Language, Art, and Life Beyond Florence’s Tourist Trail $27 / $32

January 23 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Friday

GL8594 – Moorings Park Grande Lake (So. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Leisha Cali

See Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, through a different lens as Dr. Cali shares vivid photos, engaging stories, and practical tips gained after a month of studying Italian and art while living in the historic neighborhood of Santa Croce. You will not only explore Michelangelo’s David, Brunelleschi’s dome, and Botticelli’s masterpieces but also discover the quiet and least visited places and spaces to understand just how deeply embedded art and history are in the one-time capital of the Kingdom of Italy. Learn how and why the Florentine dialect forms the basis of Standard Italian and which historical figures and types of artwork remain prominent in the minds and lives of the locals. This lecture draws on the influences of Dante and the Medici and links them to today’s Florence, visited by over ten million travelers a year. If you are an art, history, and language lover, this lecture will equip you with tips on who to read, what to see, and where to go to escape the throngs of tourists in this small yet mighty city.

Mummies, Monuments, and Mysteries: A Journey Through Ancient Egypt $27 / $32

February 2 at 2pm – 3:15pm, Monday AG8595 – Aston Gardens at Pelican Marsh (NE Naples)

Speaker: Jim Sernovitz

Step back in time to explore the wonders of ancient Egypt, one of the world’s earliest and most enduring civilizations. This presentation follows the path of the Nile, uncovering the secrets of majestic temples, sacred tombs, and towering pyramids. Journey from the monumental Temple of Abu Simbel near the Sudanese border to the historic city of Alexandria on the Mediterranean coast. Along the way, discover how the ancient Egyptians lived, worshipped, and preserved their dead in elaborate rituals that continue to fascinate us today. This is a vivid look at a civilization that was already ancient when Moses walked the earth.

Northern India: From the Ganges to the Taj Mahal $27 / $32

February 11 at 10am – 11:15am, Wednesday NC8596 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8597 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Jim Sernovitz

Northern India offers an immersive journey through one of the world’s most vibrant and complex cultures. Visit the famed “Golden Triangle” of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, where Mughal palaces, bustling markets, and the majestic Taj Mahal reveal India’s layered history. Witness the sacred rituals along the Ganges in

Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities on Earth, where pilgrims gather and cremation fires glow through the night. Travel to the Pushkar Camel Fair, where traders from across India gather in a scene that echoes centuries past. From ancient temples to colorful bazaars, this travelogue explores a region where tradition and energy never cease to amaze.

Florida Revealed: Orchids, Everglades, and the Road Less Traveled $27 / $32

February 25 at 10am – 11:15am, Wednesday

NC8598 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8599 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Jim Sernovitz

Florida is far more than beaches and theme parks. This presentation offers a fresh perspective on the Sunshine State, from the glitz of Miami Beach to the wild expanse of the Everglades and the sugar-white sands of the Gulf Coast. We continue north and west to the lesser-known Panhandle, then turn inland to explore the heart of agricultural Florida—an area often overlooked by tourists and residents alike. Visit orchid greenhouses, citrus groves, and vast sugar plantations as we uncover the diverse landscapes and hidden treasures that make Florida one of the most fascinating states in the country.

From Seoul to Singapore: Exploring Asia’s Pacific Rim and Beyond $27 / $32

March 30 at 1:30pm – 2:45pm, Monday

BV8600 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Jim Sernovitz

Embark on a sweeping journey across the Pacific Rim of Asia, where ancient cultures and cutting-edge cities exist side by side. This travelogue explores an extraordinary range of countries including Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea, Malaysia, Japan, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand. Travel by ship, rickshaw, and tuktuk through bustling markets, serene temples, and dramatic landscapes. From the neon lights of Tokyo and the street food of Bangkok to the temples of Angkor and the coastal beauty of New Zealand, this is a panoramic look at some of the most dynamic and diverse regions on Earth.

On the Equator: The Wonders of Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands $27 / $32

April 1 at 10am – 11:15am, Wednesday

BB8601 – Bonita Bay Community Center (Bonita Springs)

Speaker: Jim Sernovitz

Travel to the heart of South America and beyond as we journey from the Andean capital of Quito to the legendary Galápagos Islands. Perched high in the mountains, Quito offers colonial charm and stunning views and lies just minutes from the equator itself. From there, we cruise the remote volcanic archipelago that forever changed our understanding of life on Earth. Home to giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and other species found nowhere else, the Galápagos Islands remain a living laboratory of evolution and biodiversity. This travelogue explores the landscapes, wildlife, and cultural richness of Ecuador and one of the world’s most extraordinary natural treasures.

High Peaks to Jungle Temples: Wonders of Tibet and Cambodia $27 / $32

April 28 at 2:30pm – 3:30pm, Tuesday

GO8602 – Moorings Park Grey Oaks (So. Naples)

Speaker: Jim Sernovitz

From the soaring Himalayan peaks to dense tropical jungles, this travelogue follows a remarkable journey through two of Asia’s most captivating ancient cultures. We begin in Tibet, exploring the Potala Palace, once home to the Dalai Lama, and uncover the spiritual and cultural legacy of this fabled highaltitude land. Then we descend into the lush lowlands of Cambodia, where the magnificent ruins of Angkor Wat reveal the grandeur of the Khmer Empire, which once dominated Southeast Asia. Along the way, we trace the history, religion, and mythology that shaped these remote and awe-inspiring civilizations.

WORLD WARS I & II

Inspiration and Infamy: Influential Speeches of World War II $27 / $32

Option #1: January 13 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Tuesday NC8407 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8408 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: February 12 at 10am – 11:30am, Thursday

CO8604 – The Collaboratory (Ft. Myers)

Option #3: April 14 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Tuesday

ME8409 – Moran Education Center (No. Naples)

Speaker: Thomas Eastwood

World War II was fought not only with armies and weapons but also with words that stirred courage, justified causes, and shaped history. This lecture examines the speeches, quotes, and letters that defined the era; some inspiring heroism, others fueling hatred. We explore Winston Churchill’s unmatched oratory skills, Franklin D. Roosevelt’s fireside resolve,

Dwight D. Eisenhower’s leadership, and George Patton’s battlefield rhetoric. The discussion also includes figures such as “Wild Bill” Donovan, Douglas MacArthur, Joe Kennedy, Cordell Hull, Emperor Hirohito, Adolf Hitler, Hermann Göring, and the voices heard at the Nuremberg trials. By understanding the historical moments behind these words, we reveal how language became a weapon of war.

Enigma, ULTRA, MAGIC: Decoding Victory in World War II

$27 / $32

January 15 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Thursday NC8420 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8421 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Thomas Eastwood

The battle for encrypted secrets was as pivotal as any fought on land, sea, or air. This lecture explores the hidden world of World War II codebreaking, where brilliant minds at places like Bletchley Park and Arlington Hall unraveled enemy communications and shaped the outcome of the war. From cracking Germany’s Enigma machine to intercepting Japanese transmissions through MAGIC, the story of signals intelligence is filled with innovation, secrecy, and high-stakes drama. Drawing on recently declassified materials, this riveting session reveals how breakthroughs like ULTRA remained some of the most closely guarded secrets of the 20th century.

The Road to Stalingrad: Prelude to Cataclysm $27 / $32

January 26 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Monday BV8428 – Bentley Village (No. Naples)

Speaker: Steven Valdespino

The Battle of Stalingrad was the largest and bloodiest clash in human history and a decisive turning point in World War II. This lecture sets the stage for that titanic struggle. Trace the rise of Nazi Germany, Stalin’s brutal purges, the shocking Nazi-Soviet NonAggression Pact, and the opening of the Eastern Front with Operation Barbarossa. Explore how Hitler’s Wehrmacht advanced across the vast Soviet landscape in its first attempt to seize the industrial stronghold of Stalingrad on the Volga. Filled with extraordinary wartime photographs and set to an immersive soundtrack, this presentation delivers both historical insight and emotional impact.

World War II America: The Greatest Generation at War and at Home $27 / $32

January 28 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Wednesday FG8431 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Steven Valdespino

Step back into the world of 1940–1945 and experience life in America during World War II. This richly illustrated audio-visual presentation offers a heartfelt tribute to the men and women on the Home Front; those who kept the country running, lifted spirits, and made sacrifices of their own. From ration books and victory gardens to swing music, dance halls, and Hollywood’s wartime productions, this lecture brings to life the culture, patriotism, and resilience of the Greatest Generation. Vintage photographs, film clips, war news, and memorabilia reveal how Americans faced uncertainty and loss with unity, determination, and hope.

Operation Paperclip: America’s Secret Race for Nazi Science $27 / $32

February 6 at 10:30am – 12pm, Friday NC8437 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8438 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Thomas Eastwood

As World War II neared its end, the United States launched a covert mission to secure Germany’s most brilliant scientific minds before the Soviets could. Known as Operation Paperclip, this effort, led by the OSS, brought hundreds of German scientists, engineers, and technicians to America, including rocket pioneer Wernher von Braun. This lecture explores the hidden world of postwar intelligence competition, from secret U.S. interrogation centers and Peenemünde’s missile program to declassified CIA research initiatives such as MKULTRA and Star Gate. Related British and Soviet recruitment operations are also discussed. The lecture offers a revealing look at how science, ethics, and espionage collided in the dawn of the Cold War.

Luciano’s War: The Mafia’s Secret World War II Mission $27 / $32

Option #1: March 9 at 10:30am – 12pm, Monday NC8467 – Naples Center (Naples) OL8468 – Online via Zoom

Option #2: April 15 at 10:30am – 12pm, Wednesday FG8469 – FGCU Campus, Bldg. AB9 (Ft. Myers)

Speaker: Thomas Eastwood

In a little-known chapter of World War II, the U.S. Navy turned to an unlikely ally, the Mafia. Facing threats of espionage, sabotage, and crippling labor unrest along the East Coast docks, military intelligence struck a covert deal with notorious crime bosses including Charles “Lucky” Luciano, Meyer Lansky, and Albert Anastasia. This lecture

reveals how and why the alliance was formed, what it accomplished, and how the partnership shaped postwar organized crime. Discover the secret mission known as Operation Underworld and the shadowy collaboration that helped protect America’s war effort.

Operation Downfall: The Invasion That Never Happened $27 / $32

March 9 at 1pm – 2:30pm, Monday

NC8470 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8471 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Thomas Eastwood

Before Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the United States had prepared a massive two-phase invasion of Japan called Operation Downfall. Scheduled to begin in October 1945, it would have been the largest amphibious assault in history, with staggering projected casualties on both sides. This lecture examines the operation’s planning, Japan’s desperate defenses, and the Allied deception strategies. Key questions are explored: Was Japan already on the brink of surrender? Were the atomic bombs necessary? What lessons did Okinawa and Iwo Jima provide? Perspectives from U.S. and Japanese leaders are analyzed, along with the role of chemical weapons and revisionist interpretations. This is a detailed look at one of history’s most pivotal “what-if” moments.

War Comes to the Boardwalk: Atlantic City in World War II $27 / $32

March 12 at 1:30pm – 3pm, Thursday

NC8625 – Naples Center (Naples)

OL8626 – Online via Zoom

Speaker: Jeffrey Margolis

This lecture explores how World War II transformed Atlantic City and the Jersey Shore into critical components of the American war effort. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. government repurposed Atlantic City’s grand hotels into military training facilities and convalescent centers for wounded soldiers. Meanwhile, German U-boats lurked just offshore, attacking merchant ships and revealing the vulnerability of the East Coast. This lecture offers a vivid account of life on the home front, where resort towns became military hubs and coastal waters turned into active war zones.

Silent Heroes: Native American Code Talkers and Their Wartime Legacy $27 / $32

March 13 at 3:30pm – 5pm, Friday

SL8473 – Siena Lakes (No. Naples)

Speaker: Dr. Edward Maxwell

Explore the extraordinary and often overlooked contributions of Native American Code Talkers during World War I and World War II. Drawing on their unique and complex tribal languages such as Navajo, Choctaw, and Comanche these soldiers devised communication systems that proved impossible for enemy forces to crack. Their linguistic brilliance safeguarded military operations, protected lives, and played a decisive role in Allied success across both the European and Pacific theaters. This presentation explains why these codes were never broken and highlights the legacy of the Native Americans whose quiet heroism helped change the course of history.

Wannsee Conference: The Final Solution $27 / $32

April 20 at 10am – 11:30am, Monday MP8498 – Moorings Park Original Campus (Naples) Speaker: Thomas Eastwood

In January 1942, fifteen Nazi officials met near Berlin to discuss the murder of millions of Jews. Chaired by the Butcher of Prague, Reinhard Heydrich, it was a ghastly but matter-of-fact meeting to ensure efficient implementation of the “final solution to the Jewish question.” The logistics officer was Adolph Eichmann. Topics include: meeting participants and their fates; Heydrich; Eichmann; Himmler; agenda; setting; HBO film ‘Conspiracy’; T-4 Program; Nuremberg Trials; Operation Tannenberg; SS and Gestapo.

SPEAKERS

Neil Adelman, J.D., is a retired attorney who practiced law in Chicago for 41 years. He has lectured and coordinated courses on legal and related historical subjects and on opera.

Viviana Ardesia, Ph.D., is an archaeologist specializing in the Early Bronze Age Mediterranean and a university Italian instructor. She combines field research with engaging public talks and dynamic language courses that connect history, culture, and lived experience.

Paul Atkinson, a former Wall Street Journal executive, is a frequent contributor to The Hill on topics in 20th century history.

Gerald Beaubien is a retired multinational corporate executive. Having lived around the world, his passions now include golf and bridge. A Silver Life Master, he can often be found teaching bridge on cruises.

Frank Berna has nearly 30 years of experience in various aspects of professional photography.

Diane Bothfeld, M.S. and Certified Cicerone® is a beer lover with experience in agriculture, home brewing, and microbiology. She leads beer tasting, pairing, and beer themed dinner events.

Val Bostrom previously worked for Delta Airlines and as a travel agent. She will be our trusted and capable guide for most of our day trips.

Melissa Butler, Ph.D., is a retired Professor of Political Science from Wabash College with specializations in political philosophy and foreign policy.

Leisha Cali, Ph.D., is Director of the IELP at FGCU, teaches English to international students preparing for college. She loves art, history, and mythology, travels regularly to Europe, and speaks Greek, Italian, and Spanish.

Kent Commons, M.A., is a graduate from Whittier College and Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary and has worked with several ministries.

Thomas Consiglio, M.S., has been an educator for the past 16 years with the NYC Department of Education with degrees and experience in Education, Information Technology as well as Communications and Business.

Lawrence Crouch, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical counselor with 25 years of service as a mental health therapist and 15 years’ experience as a professor of counseling. He is a published author and a human resources consultant.

Gayle Dorio is a registered interior designer and a highly decorated orchid society member. She is an avid mah-jongg teacher and player.

James Douglass, Ph.D., is an ecologist interested in describing, protecting, and teaching about the biodiversity and beneficial ecosystem functions of coastal marine habitats.

Thomas Eastwood had careers with the ATF and DOD where he conducted and led counterintelligence and criminal investigations.

Victoria Elkins is a private practice LCSW specializing in Dr. Burn’s work. A graduate of NYU’s School of Social Work Victoria takes great pride in helping her clients live a life worth celebrating.

Christopher Endrinal, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Music in the Bower School of Music and the Arts at FGCU.

Larry Gillis, J.D., a Harvard graduate, is Director-at-Large of the Libertarian Party of Florida and has 30 years’ experience as a prosecutor and defender in New Hampshire.

Edward Grace graduated from M.I.T. and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for work on the Apollo 13 Mission.

Jerry Greenfield has been teaching wine seminars since 2003 and is a member of the Society of Wine Educators. Jerry served for three years as Wine Director of the Southwest Florida Wine and Food Festival.

John Guerra is a Columbia University graduate, former merchant banker and is the Director of FGCU Academy.

David Hage, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical social worker and gerontologist currently serving as Master of Social Work (MSW) Program Director and Affiliate Faculty at the Shady Rest Institute on Positive Aging at FGCU.

John Harrigan, Ph.D., teaches in the communication departments at FGCU and the State University New York at Erie. He has taught at Project Zero at Harvard University and SIM in Singapore.

Francie Huber, a Kansas City native, earned her B.F.A. from The Juilliard School and was a principal dancer with the Paul Taylor Dance Company, Twyla Tharp Dance, and other renowned companies.

Robert Humphries, M.D., Ph.D., teaches molecular biology at Florida Gulf Coast University.

Brian Kettler is a retired manufacturing leader with 30 years of experience in Operational Excellence, focused on leading highperformance teams, driving strategic initiatives, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Charles Kupchella, Ph.D., served as president of The University of North Dakota and is the author of several books.

Courtney Lanute is an adjunct professor at FGCU in Spanish, French, and English to non-native speakers.

Ana Lulsdorf is a Clinical Counselor specializing in emotional wellbeing, relationships, and personal growth, with a compassionate approach to guiding individuals and groups through mindfulness, resilience, and life transitions.

William Matthews, Ph.D., is a retired executive with 33 years’ experience in biopharmaceutical drug discovery and development. He held senior positions with GlaxoSmithKline, Novartis, Centocor and Janssen.

Jeffrey Margolis is a lifelong educator, published author and lecturer.

Edward Maxwell, Ph.D., has tweeted, blogged, and Facebooked since 2013. He spent decades studying languages and writing systems. He has been involved in AI research since the 1970s.

Nancy Maxwell grew up abroad and after studying at Cornell University, lived and taught for many years in Europe, where she developed a lifelong passion for history and the individual stories behind events.

Scott McLaren has been a passionate Beatles fan since he was nine years old. His interest in their music and personalities led him to deep exploration of the Beatles’ story via books, seminars and classes.

Myra Mendible, Ph.D., is professor emeritus and co-founder of FGCU’s English program. During her thirty-year tenure, she designed and taught courses in comparative literature, film, and cultural studies.

Gabriella Miyamoto, J.D., currently serves as an Adjunct Instructor at Ringling College of Art & Design in Sarasota, where she has taught courses in Art History and Medieval Warfare for the past six years.

Alf Monaghan’s time in the Middle East triggered an interest in the origins of religion and the influence of early Near Eastern religion on Ireland.

Ken Nesbitt is a retired military officer and command and control specialist. During his 25 years living in Europe, he advanced his passion for history as a battlefield tour guide and history presenter.

Mary O’Brien is a retired educational administrator from Minnesota. In her presentations, she utilizes both research and shared life experiences to create meaningful and connected learning environments.

James Pagliaro, J.D., is a lawyer, author and historian. As a Philadelphia Museum of Art docent, he specializes in historical interpretations.

Sandy Parker, author of the popular Sparker’s Soapbox blog, is passionate about informed voting and civic engagement. She has lectured about Florida government since 2011.

Nicholas Penniman IV is a former publisher of the St Louis Post Dispatch, Sr. V.P. of Newspaper Operations for Pulitzer Publishing, published author and environmentalist.

John Penuel is an adjunct faculty member in the department of Political Science & Public Administration.

Judit Price enjoys spending her time as a volunteer to various nonprofit organizations including the Naples Jewish Federation, Naples Holocaust Museum, Hadassah and others. Judit is also a Holocaust survivor.

Richard Price has written, published and presented on a broad range of topics including political, historical and technical subjects. His decades long interest in China and the developing world, including travels to China and Asia.

Dustin Rinaldi is a Certified Financial Planner™ professional and formerly recognized by the Department of Treasury as an Enrolled Agent tax advisor. He is a former adjunct professor for Florida Gulf Coast University.

Cathy Rosenbaum, Pharm. D., is a holistic clinical pharmacist and certified fitness nutrition coach.

Bruce B. Rosenblatt is the owner of Senior Housing Solutions and is considered the foremost expert on senior housing in SWFL. He has over 30 years of experience in the senior housing industry.

Helen Tintes - Schuermann, D.M., is a singer-actor and voice specialist who performs in the U.S. and Europe regularly in opera, concert and theater.

Julie Satterfield-Price is a History professor at FGCU, has taught at three other universities, been a managing editor of a lifestyle magazine, and a published author of two novels. Her greatest accomplishment has been raising three daughters!

Jim Sernovitz is a prize-winning and published photographer. He has taken photos on six continents and in over 100 countries as well as all 50 states and most of Canada.

Larry Siegel, Ph.D., has been a professor of Criminal Justice for more than 40 years. He is the author of 15 books on justice related topics including criminology, juvenile delinquency and criminal procedure.

Aaron Skloff, M.B.A., AIF, CFA, is a Chartered Financial Analyst, Accredited Investment Fiduciary, and a Financial Advisor and CEO.

Jeffrey Steinberg, M.A., has been involved in private sector research, analysis, and education on national security affairs for 40 years.

David Stewart is a graduate of Corpus Christi College, Oxford, the Graduate School of Business at Stanford and a lifelong student of literature and opera. He served for 10 years as a Director of the Canadian Opera Company.

Lester Strong is the author of The Great Life Handbook. Building a Healthy Relationship with Love, Fear, Purpose and Death. He has studied Eastern philosophy and meditation for over forty years.

Gary Stuhltrager is a retired state legislator, lawyer and author.

Cijy Sunny, Ph.D., is a Quantitative and Mixed Methods Research Methodologist, Statistician, & Psychometrician who is passionate about collaborating with and empowering adults and seniors to explore, question, and embrace lifelong learning.

Lori Joan Swick, Ph.D., is a professor of religion and philosophy. Her works include the bestselling novel, “The Sculptor and the Saint,” the historical novel “Comfort and Mirth.” and “Dreaming ~ The Sacred Art.”

Carlene Thissen is a singer, songwriter and author who spends much of her time working with the people of Immokalee.

Steve Valdespino, M.A., has 25 years of teaching experience at the University of Central Florida, Lely High School and Edison State College.

Charles Valery is a retired aerospace engineer. He played bridge for many years and recently formed the Delasol Bridge Club. He is also an avid Roulette player.

Shelton Weeks, Ph.D., was a member of the inaugural faculty of FGCU where he currently serves as the Lucas Professor of Real Estate and Director of the Lucas Institute for Real Estate Development & Finance.

Marwan A. Wehbe, M.D., is a retired Professor of Orthopedic Surgery from Philadelphia’s Jefferson Medical College. His expertise is the result of nearly 50 years of teaching, research and publishing.

Chris Williams is the founder of Emeritus Health. He works as a Certified Personal Trainer in Naples.

Jacob Winge is fourth generation Floridian born in Naples. Jacob is a historian, reenactor and is a former member of the Board of Directors of the Collier County Museum

Casey Wolff, J.D., is an Immigration and Naturalization attorney working in Naples, FL.

PROGRAM REGISTRATION FORM

Please complete SEPARATE registration forms for EACH PERSON taking a program. Mail this form to:

FGCU Academy, 704 Goodlette-Frank Rd. North, Suite 330, Naples FL 34102

Name:

Florida Street Address:

City / State / Zip:

Telephone: Email:

Florida residency (Choose one): q Full time q January - May q October - May

I want to join as an Annual Member / $85 (Valid one year from date of purchase) $

PROGRAM FEES: Please note that Program fees are different for members and non-members. Enter the CORRECT FEE AMOUNT for each program based upon your membership status.

Program #

Program #

Program #

Program #

Program #

Program #

TOTAL: Membership dues (if any) plus program fees: $

q I want to make a donation and support lifelong learning in the SWFL community. $ If paying by check, please send a SEPARATE check for your donation.

I WOULD LIKE MORE INFORMATION ON THE ITEMS CHECKED, PLEASE CONTACT ME:

q I am interested in receiving information about the Academy’s travel programs (Brochures available online)

q I would like to volunteer

q I am interested in being a speaker

PAYMENT

q Check (Payable to FGCU Academy)

q Credit card:

q MasterCard

q Visa

q American Express

q Discover

Name on card:

Card number:

Expiration date: CVV:

Signature:

PROGRAM REGISTRATION FORM

Please complete SEPARATE registration forms for EACH PERSON taking a program. Mail this form to:

FGCU Academy, 704 Goodlette-Frank Rd. North, Suite 330, Naples FL 34102

Name:

Florida Street Address:

City / State / Zip:

Telephone: Email:

Florida residency (Choose one): q Full time q January - May q October - May

I want to join as an Annual Member / $85 (Valid one year from date of purchase) $

PROGRAM FEES: Please note that Program fees are different for members and non-members. Enter the CORRECT FEE AMOUNT for each program based upon your membership status.

Program #

Program #

Program #

Program #

Program # Program #

TOTAL: Membership dues (if any) plus program fees: $

q I want to make a donation and support lifelong learning in the SWFL community. $ If paying by check, please send a SEPARATE check for your donation.

I WOULD LIKE MORE INFORMATION ON THE ITEMS CHECKED, PLEASE CONTACT ME:

q I am interested in receiving information about the Academy’s travel programs (Brochures available online)

q I would like to volunteer

q I am interested in being a speaker

PAYMENT

q Check (Payable to FGCU Academy)

q Credit card:

q MasterCard

q Visa

q American Express

q Discover

Name on card:

Card number:

Expiration date: CVV: Signature:

704 Goodlette-Frank Rd. N, Suite 330, Naples, 34102