Most people pay lip service to the idea that Shakespeare is the greatest writer of the English language. Does this theory hold up under scrutiny? In the first hour we will watch the first season of the highly acclaimed Canadian series “Slings and Arrows” which traces a fictional production of Hamlet by a repertory company. This series points out the tensions between presenting “sacred” classical theatre and building a commercially viable enterprise. It also highlights the difficulty in dealing with neurotic actors aging out of the starring roles of their youth. It deals with ghosts, madness and other human foibles. It offers perceptive insight into what makes Shakespeare relevant. In the second hour we will read, discuss, and analyze Hamlet and try to discover what the fuss is all about.

Bring your own copy of Hamlet. Any edition is acceptable

This introductory class on transgender experiences and issues covers basic topics across three classes of an hour each, with plenty of time for discussion and interaction. The course is written and presented by trans folks, and covers gender experiences and how we talk about them these days, how being gay relates to being trans, gender nonconforming and non-binary experiences, they/them pronouns and neopronouns, and how to help trans people, both in one’s life and systemically. No prior knowledge necessary. Each class will build on prior discussion.

This course is a repeat of a previous course this semester.

Co-Organizer: Susan Foody

Step into the world of crime scene investigation and discover the hidden science that helps solve real-life mysteries! In this hands-on workshop, you'll explore how forensic scientists use glowing materials like UV light, glow powders, and chemiluminescence to detect fingerprints, analyze evidence, and uncover clues invisible to the naked eye. Try your hand at dusting and lifting glowing fingerprints, experiment with glow sticks, and uncover secret features with blacklight tools. It's science, it's mystery, and it's just plain fun-no lab coat required!

Outing - Class will be held at SciTech, 336 McKee St., Batavia

Registration Deadline: 3/25/2026

Activity Level:easy going

Co-Facilitator: Ann Hastert

Tataki Zome, the art of pounding flowers, is an ancient Japanese art form that uses the flowers and leaves provided by nature to make beautifully inspired images on various mediums such as cloth or art papers. Using hammers, the natural dyes from the flowers and leaves transfer to the medium. The process is amazingly simple with lovely results. All supplies provided.

This class is a REPEAT of a previous class.

Facilitator: Carl Hays

Medea Banjamin protests often and is arrested often. When protesting an Obama speech, Barack stopped, saying: "The voice of this woman is worth listening to— obviously I do not agree with much of what she said—these are tough issues." She heckled Donald Trump's acceptance speech with a sign saying "Build Bridges Not Walls." In addition to Madea Benjamin, the course content will focus on Enis Kanter Freedom.  He came from Turkey to play in the NBA and is known for his stance on human rights.  He wore his cause on his basketball shoes painted with protest messages.

Co-Facilitator: Priscilla Gruber

In school, what did you learn about the Pilgrims? Was it true? Discerning what is true or not is essential to understanding history. James Leowen wrote Lies My Teacher Told Me to examine how misinformation about history is used as a weapon against us. We will explore how and why this happens and consider the climate around teaching history in the past and today. Our author says simplified history prevents us from learning critical thinking skills and exploring complex human behavior. For example, on Facebook, a picture of our history reflecting a great nation always and only getting better is to deny the rich tapestry or our American experience with all its complexity and humanity. We progress through honest evaluation not by denying reality. As a side note: The U.S. Naval Academy recently banned this book.

REQUIRED BOOK: Lies My Teacher Told Me by James Leowen 

Co-Organizer: Ann Hastert

Have you ever wondered about the uniquely built fascinating Coal House aka Pumpkin House aka Round House at 404 S Edgelawn Drive, Aurora? This is your chance for the long awaited fantasy inside tour thanks to the generosity of Sid Robinson, current owner. The Albert “Sam” and Ruth Van Sickle Ford home was beautifully designed using local and organic materials in 1949 by imaginative architect Bruce Goff. The house is always the focus of much local attention and wonder, and was recently designated as a National Historic Landmark. The tour by Mr Robinson will be about 1 1/2 hrs. LIMITED attendance allowed.

This same tour wil be repeated in the afternoon.

Registration deadline: April 14, 2026 Activity Level: On Your Feet

Co-Organizer: Ann Hastert

Have you ever wondered about the uniquely built fascinating Coal House aka Pumpkin House aka Round House at 404 S Edgelawn Drive, Aurora? This is your chance for the long awaited fantasy inside tour thanks to the generosity of Sid Robinson, current owner. The Albert “Sam” and Ruth Van Sickle Ford home was beautifully designed using local and organic materials in 1949 by imaginative architect Bruce Goff. The house is always the focus of much local attention and wonder, and was recently designated as a National Historic Landmark. The tour by Mr Robinson will be about 1 1/2 hrs. LIMITED attendance allowed.

This tour is a REPEAT of the morning tour.

Registration deadline: April 14, 2026 Activity Level: On Your Feet