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Upcoming Events
A Kentucky Paratrooper's Introduction to the U.S. Army
Spaces Remaining: 4
This class will cover many dimensions of military life including basic and advanced training, ranks, combat support roles, and much more. Personal stories including deployment to Afghanistan and ultimately transitioning from soldier to civilian life will be discussed. Multiple hands-on militaria and Army items will be on display.
A Writer's Journey
Spaces Remaining: 16
Dr. Marc Hirsch will share his story about how he came to write a string of detective fiction books, The Alice White Investigator Series, as he was retiring from medical practice. He will share advice on how he got started writing, honed his craft, self-published and marketed his works on Amazon, and operates his own website bookstore.
Alfred Russel Wallace: Spiritism Meets Evolution
Spaces Remaining: 7
This class will focus on the life and work of English naturalist and social critic Alfred Russel Wallace (1823 – 1913). He is the second most important developer (after Darwin) of evolutionary theory and fascinating for his range of interests and accomplishments: as field naturalist and collector, socialist, social critic, natural philosopher – and spiritualist. Are his ideas still relevant to present-day concerns?
Aluminum: Nature's Most Interesting Metal
Spaces Remaining: 12
Aluminum is the most common metal in Earth’s crust but at one time was considered so valuable it was displayed next to the Crown Jewels of England. It is relatively lightweight, with high strength, electrical conductivity and other physical properties that make it the versatile core of many end-use products essential in modern society. Kentucky is a leading producer of aluminum products. Pending confirmation, we hope to include a field trip to a local manufacturer so that we may see the process in person.
American Sign Language
Spaces Remaining: 2
This introduction to American Sign Language will focus on the purposes for which language is used in everyday life situations. The course is taught with a primarily “voice off” approach.
An Insider's Look at Racing for a National Championship
Spaces Remaining: 31
Follow the career of a young independent race car driver as he competes in the Formula Ford class with the Sports Car Club of America. His improbable charge from rookie to one of the nation’s most respected drivers will be documented with video from the SCCA National Championships from 2009-2013.
An Overview of the WKU Clinical Education Complex and LifeWorks
Spaces Remaining: 8
Today, 1 in 36 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), according to the Center for Disease Control. At the Suzanne Vitale Clinical Education Complex (CEC) WKU families are accepted and supported while navigating unique challenges that others may not understand. The CEC enhances socialization and communication while enriching the quality of life for individuals and families impacted by ASD and other developmental delays and disabilities. In this course we will discuss the rationale, development, and programming offered at the CEC and LifeWorks at WKU and tour the facilities.
Antarctica: A Mysterious Land Teeming with Life
Spaces Remaining: 4
Antarctica, surrounded by treacherous stormy seas, is the coldest, driest, windiest, most isolated land on Earth. During its summer season, small islands emerge, and coastlines appear from beneath the receding ice. These precious patches of ground draw vast numbers of creatures from land and sea. This visual presentation will show migrations of whales, sea lions, seals, dolphins, and penguins by the thousands. Though Antarctica cannot belong to any one nation, many have established research bases in this pristine environment; we will visit three of them.
Behind the Scenes at the Baker Arboretum
Event is Full: Accepting Wait List Registrations
Wait List Spaces Remaining: 13
Join Director Martin Stone for four interesting sessions that highlight the ornamental, educational, and scientific functions of the Baker Arboretum. Learn how arborists assess the health of a tree and which trees tend to thrive best in our area. Enjoy touring the formal gardens and experience some of the technical aspects behind managing and maintaining this beautiful 115-acre property.
Biodiversity: Trends and Importance
Spaces Remaining: 6
We will dedicate these three sessions to an overview of the state of biodiversity across the globe and why healthy ecosystems are important for all of us.
Birds in Poetry and Music
Event is Full: Accepting Wait List Registrations
Wait List Spaces Remaining: 5
This is a course in poetry, music, and ornithology: a collection of beautiful poems and music in which birds play a crucial role. What do birds – their song and their flight – mean to poets and musicians? Why are they a source of inspiration? How does knowledge of these specific birds enrich our appreciation of poetry and music?
Bowling Green Police Academy
Spaces Remaining: 2
Have you ever wondered about what goes on behind the scenes at the Bowling Green Police Department? Join us for an introduction to BGPD's unique teamwork, observe a traffic stop demonstration, and tour the department and the jail. You will also learn how to make split-second decisions, process a crime scene, and try your hand at developing fingerprints. This course is a shortened version of the 'Citizens Police Academy' but will cover all the highlights.
British Comedies of the '40s and '50s
Spaces Remaining: 2
Starting in the mid-1940s and continuing into the 1950s, British cinema experienced a “golden era” with the appearance of some of the best and best loved British films. This term we will view several comedies that introduce the various comedic styles and feature performances by some extremely talented actors and actresses.
Conflict and Common Ground in Black-White Relations
Spaces Remaining: 14
This class will deepen our understanding of the many roles race plays in our everyday lives. We will consider why black males are disproportionately killed when conflict occurs and reasons why majorities of both black and white Americans say black people are treated less fairly in dealings with the police and by our criminal justice system. Numerous perceptions, right or wrong, that can lead to bias in social, economic, and educational situations will be discussed as well.
Creative Travel: An Artist Residency in the Champagne Region of France
Spaces Remaining: 10
Through photographs, travel tips, and personal insights, enjoy a journey to France and the Chateau d’Orquevaux, one of the most beautiful estates in the Champagne countryside. The International Artist and Writers Residency offers transformative experiences for artists of all ages. I will share my works on paper and silk created during my residency in May of this year.
Critical Thinking and Discerning Reality
Spaces Remaining: 4
The course introduces critical thinking and its practical application in a variety of areas. Topics include manipulation in advertising and marketing, mainstream news, propaganda and disinformation in fringe “news” and social media. We will explore where public is particularly prone to ignorance and emotional attachment to beliefs not supported by fact: male maturity and toxic masculinity, the use of recreational drugs, cults, violence, and sexuality.
Discovering Bowling Green
Event is Full: Accepting Wait List Registrations
Wait List Spaces Remaining: 18
Discover some of the key components of public interest that have shaped the growth and vitality of Bowling Green, KY since its founding, along with trends, policies and programs that influence the community as it grows today. Subject matter experts and multi-disciplinary panelists will guide you as we navigate a different topic specific to Bowling Green each week.
Do This Now - Save Probate Later
Spaces Remaining: 5
This session will cover the important things that must be done before you pass on in order for your family to avoid the probate process in the settling of your estate.
Early Antarctica Exploration and Discovery 1897 - 1916
Spaces Remaining: 6
How did humans first come to know the southern continent? We will focus on the latter-day Vikings who reached the South Pole first. De Gerlache, Scott, Shackleton, and especially Amundsen how dauntless they were, how determined and resourceful! What can we learn from them to meet the challenges of today?
End of Life Journey: You Do Not Have to Travel It Alone
Spaces Remaining: 10
This class will explain all about selecting the right options for end-of-life care and explore some of the many services available. You will learn about the importance of planning and preparation and know what next steps to take. Special speakers will include doctors, nurses, clergy, legal experts, administrators, and more. Topics range from early palliative care to long-term care to grief and bereavement. Although this is a tough subject to talk about, it is nonetheless important to all of us. Please note: This is a six-session class with five sessions in the classroom and the last session at Hospice of Southern Kentucky.
Exploring Resources for Healthy Aging
Spaces Remaining: 13
Resources will be presented to help seniors and their families access services in the Bowling Green community. Topics will include assistive living options, Hospice/Hosparus information, home care services, exercise, law, finance, and addressing other needs.
Five Star Leadership Philosophies
Spaces Remaining: 8
The four American WWII leaders who received the newly-created rank of Fleet Admiral – Ernest King, William Leahy, Chester Nimitz, and William Halsey – along with Raymond Spruance, widely regarded as next in line if another fifth star had been authorized, handled the challenges of naval warfare in widely divergent ways. Despite their differences, they got the job done with a common core of patriotism, ambition, determination, and skill.
Fresh Approaches to the Bible and Christian Theology
Spaces Remaining: 12
This class will present new interpretations of God, Satan, evil, sin, the atonement, and immortality. We will also examine the Bible as history and myth, various problems with translation, and the future of the church.
Geopolitical Challenges Today and Tomorrow
Spaces Remaining: 8
Session 1: Globalization and Nationalism: Has the Experiment Met Expectations? This session will explore the conflict between globalizing economies and strengthening national political identities. What might the future hold for these two forces? Session 2: Putin, Populism, and Politics: The Unraveling of the Russian State. This session examines the geopolitics of Russia in the wider arena and suggests realignments in the European realm.
Histories and Mysteries of Southcentral Kentucky
Spaces Remaining: 6
In the class, we will look at the stories behind the Bowling Green Daily News' award-winning Histories & Mysteries newspaper series.
Hitchhiker's Guide to Natural Living Series: Home Fermenting, Movement for Living, and Simple Recipes for Better Health
Spaces Remaining: 18
In the first session, we will look deeper into fermented food and drink and how to easily make your own in just 10 minutes a day. Session two will investigate techniques for creating more mobility, balance, and freedom in everyday life. You will be introduced to various movement modalities and discover where you can learn more for a better awareness of your body and a plan for healthier movement. Session three will introduce powerful but simple recipes to support health. Learn tricks and tips to increase nutritional impact and discover hybrid-homemade dishes to keep things simple, delicious, and healthy.
Introduction to Writing Poetry
Spaces Remaining: 13
Kentucky poet Maurice Manning says writing poetry is 'the most illogical thing you can do. You're making something out of nothing.' In this class we are up to the challenge! We will examine tools and techniques that can help us find poetic inspiration and voice. Illogical but not impossible. We will discuss examples that illustrate where poems may be found, deft imagery, effective use of language, and more. We will write our own poems. We will make something!
It's About Time
Event is Full: Accepting Wait List Registrations
Join us as we examine just how mind-bending Time can be anddepending upon who contemplates ithow perceptions of Time vary across cultures, among scholars from ancient to modern times, and the modern physicists who challenge our favorite, most personal perceptions of Time. As a reference guide, The Order of Time by Carlo Rovelli, is recommended (but not required). Come ready to share your perceptions of time and discover some new ones.
Memoir Writing
Event is Full: Accepting Wait List Registrations
Wait List Spaces Remaining: 4
Have you ever wanted to tell your life story but weren’t sure how to start? In this class we will discuss how to gather your memories, choose your audience, structure your story, and write a memoir that is lively and evocative. We will do a lot of writing exercises in class, share our ideas and stories with each other, and talk about examples of memoirs we’ve enjoyed reading. No previous writing experience necessary.
More Secrets of Octagon Hall in Franklin, Kentucky
Event is Full: Accepting Wait List Registrations
Wait List Spaces Remaining: 5
Octagon Hall and Museum is one of the best kept secrets in southcentral Kentucky. We will review the very interesting history of the house, including the family that built and owned it for more than a half century, as well as some interesting facts about the second and third owners. We will also examine the impact that the Civil War had on Simpson and Warren counties. Although not widely known among local residents, Octagon Hall is famous among investigators of the paranormal throughout the country and has been dubbed as one of the most haunted locations in the south. As one investigator said after completing an investigation, “Octagon Hall does not need paranormal investigators, it needs scientists to investigate the property.”
Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii
Event is Full: Accepting Wait List Registrations
Wait List Spaces Remaining: 5
Discover the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum and the volcano that destroyed them. Documentary videos along with personal photographs will take you on this journey. Come along if you dare but beware, Mount Vesuvius is rumbling again!
National Corvette Museum
Spaces Remaining: 6
This one-session course will review the origin story and subsequent 25 years of operation of the National Corvette Museum. You will also learn about the NCM Motorsports Park as well as the infamous sinkhole collapse that occurred in the early hours of February 14, 2014.
Notre Dame: The History, The Fire, and The Reconstruction
Spaces Remaining: 2
Notre Dame is a medieval Catholic cathedral on a small island in the Seine in the city of Paris, France. This course will explore its history, the 2019 fire that destroyed it, and the ongoing reconstruction efforts.
Now You See Them, Now You Don't: What's Up with UFOs?
Event is Full: Accepting Wait List Registrations
The government's recent, public admission regarding the significant evidence around UFOs is the focus for us to explore ways to think about the seemingly inexplicable. Reports by commercial and military pilots, astronauts, police, scientists, credible journalists, and well-documented civilian cases suggest that something beyond our current understanding and technology 'visits' us. This class will help participants inform their own questions and think about just what is going on in our skies.
Octagon Houses and Graham Flour: 19th Century Progressivism
Spaces Remaining: 7
The mid-19th century in the United States saw a wave of progressivism that manifested itself in health fads, extreme fashion, spiritualism, women's rights, and strange new architecture. Beginning with the fad for octagonal-shaped houses, this course will explore some of those trends to demonstrate that here in the 21st century, we might not be as progressive as we think we are.
Pet Peeves of Driving in Bowling Green
Spaces Remaining: 14
Frustrated with drivers in Bowling Green? Various driving scenarios will be diagrammed and discussed as to the proper and legal way to execute them and how NOT to make the same mistakes as others. Unanimous positive reviews of the premier of the class last spring begs for this repeat.
Quilt Trunk Show and Bed Turning
Spaces Remaining: 11
See many beautiful quilts that highlight different block patterns and piecing techniques along with modern designs and art quilts. Learn how vintage quilts are dated and registered and how to care for treasures you may have in your home.
Reading Like a Writer
Spaces Remaining: 6
Using Francine Prose's book of the same name (provided by instructor), we will learn to slow down and pay attention to word choice, after all, words are the raw material out of which all literature is crafted.
Self-Compassion: The Elixir for What Ails You
Spaces Remaining: 2
Using the research and teachings of Dr. Kristin Neff and Dr. Christopher Germer, we will explore the powers of self-compassion. By applying practices from their books, you will experience how self-compassion can enhance your life, sometimes in areas that are surprising.
Shake Rag: Bowling Green's African American Community
Event is Full: Accepting Wait List Registrations
Wait List Spaces Remaining: 4
The Shake Rag district of Bowling Green dates to the 1800s and is on the National Registry of Historic Places. Learn about the homes and businesses from Shake Rag residents.
Sparkling Gems, Miniature Gnomes, Succulents, and a Tiny Cottage
Spaces Remaining: 1
We will craft an indoor, miniature, whimsical garden on top of a planter container using miniature gnomes, fairies, a tiny cottage, and succulents (real & artificial). Included is a box of candy because that is what gnomes (and people) like to eat. Supply Fee: $6 (due to the instructor at the beginning of the class)
Taxes in Retirement
Spaces Remaining: 14
Learn how to reduce your lifetime tax burden and increase spendable income in retirement.
Travel Journals
Spaces Remaining: 5
Each week in this series you will hear from different presenters about their personal travels – near and far – as they share photos, stories, and more. Where will you go after hearing about their adventures? Here is the travel agenda for this term: Session One: Cruising Alaska's Inside Passage (Ken Kuehn) Get on board for a virtual small-ship adventure through the fascinating geology and landscapes of Alaska's southeastern panhandle. Session Two: Bordeaux: A Travelogue for Wine Lovers (Nicky & Susan Hughes) Join Nicky and Susan for a pictorial journey to Bordeaux, France, and the surrounding countryside. The talk will highlight the region's many vineyards and wineries, the area's 200-year allegiance to the English crown and conclude with a visit to Paris. Session Three: Algeria: Northern Africa History and Culture (Molly Wilson) Algeria presents a blend of influences from the Roman Empire, Arab culture, and French colonization. We will visit Algiers, Dzemila, Tiddis, and Constantine which are all part of the rich heritage of this north African nation. Session Four: Orangutans and Buddhist Temples: From Borneo to Borobudur (David Keeling) This presentation explores the highlights of North Borneo and Central Java and their geohistorical development. Session Five: India and Its Neighbors: Population, Palaces, and Politics (David Keeling) David examines geopolitics and selected destinations of the world’s most populous country.
VIP Backstage Pass: Tour of SKyPAC
Spaces Remaining: 3
Peek behind the curtains of the region's leading performing arts center, which is home to Orchestra Kentucky, BG OnStage, and the new Ramsey Theatre Company. We will explore this state-of-the-art facility and learn the meanings behind many of the aesthetic choices within the building. We will stand on the stage where stars such as Willie Nelson, Jerry Seinfeld, Kenny Rogers, and many others have performed and visit the backstage dressing rooms, green room, and the multiple visual art galleries.
Warren County Sherriff's Office Showcase
Spaces Remaining: 13
This interactive course explores the multiple facets of the Warren County Sheriff's Office. Participants will interact with members of the WCSO at both primary facilities (Old Courthouse during the first class and the Justice Center during the second class) in downtown Bowling Green. Topics to be explored include law enforcement (Patrol, K9, CID, Crime Scene), the Dispatch Center, and Court Security/a 'field trip' to the Courthouse.
What Happened to Bowling Green's African Amercan Community of Jonesville?
Event is Full: Accepting Wait List Registrations
Wait List Spaces Remaining: 5
Jonesville was an African American community in Bowling Green with land deeds dating to 1881. It was demolished beginning in 1963 to allow WKU to construct athletic fields and Diddle Arena. Learn what became of Jonesville’s residents and tour the African American Museum.
What is a Quilt Registry? Why Should You Register Your Quilt?
Spaces Remaining: 19
One important purpose of the Kentucky Heritage Quilt Society is to support and expand the collection and preservation of Kentucky quilts and the records of Kentucky quilt makers and their work. Find out how this goal is being accomplished through the efforts of the KHQS program entitled 'Host a Quilt Registry'. Participants have the opportunity to learn a bit about quilt history, view some antique and vintage quilts, and learn how to register their quilt.
What's All This About Ebikes?
Event is Full: Accepting Wait List Registrations
This introduction will cover the various types of ebikes (electric bikes), including their costs, and their pros and cons. The first session at Knicely Center will introduce participants to ebike basics with ample time for Q & A. The second session will take place the following day at Kereiakes Park for an opportunity to experience two ebikes up close.
Will and Ariel Durant: Lifelong Learning Leaders
Spaces Remaining: 4
In 1926, when only 20% of Americans were graduated from high school and only 10% of those from college, Will Durant published The Story of Philosophy. Though himself a PhD graduate of Columbia University, he wrote his book for the millions of ordinary Americans who thirsted to learn for themselves. It became the exemplar for what later came to be called “middlebrow culture.” The book’s success motivated him to collaborate with his wife Ariel on eleven volumes of The Story of Civilization which was published over several decades. Though held at arm’s length by academics, they were jointly honored with the Pulitzer Prize and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Will Rogers: The Cowboy Philosopher
Spaces Remaining: 3
Will Rogers grew up on a ranch in the Oklahoma Territory and became a lasso virtuoso. While performing for the Ziegfeld Follies, he started telling jokes along with his rope tricks which led to much fame and fortune as a radio and silent film performer and as a regular columnist for the New York Times. His eyes a-twinkle, he delivered political ridicule with such warmth and wisdom, he was beloved even by the butts thereof – several US presidents along with millions of ordinary Americans.
Women Who Practiced Architecture in the U.S.
Spaces Remaining: 9
Female American architects were few in number but made significant contributions to the built environment in the 19th and 20th centuries. Despite their lack of acceptance among male colleagues, both white and black women designed more than houses. Some were extraordinarily prolific. Similar to their male counterparts, women relied on ancient cultures and design through the ages for inspiration but also embraced progressive ideas in modern architecture. Natural surroundings and Indigenous cultures spurred further thinking about creating buildings.