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August 11 Tuesday10:30 AM → 12:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: OASIS StaffLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreKick off the new season with A Taste of Oasis, a lively preview event featuring Oasis staff and select instructors. Enjoy a series of short, engaging sessions that offer a sampling of the exciting courses and programs coming this fall. Whether you’re planning your fall schedule or simply exploring something new, this is the perfect opportunity to... read moreKick off the new season with A Taste of Oasis, a lively preview event featuring Oasis staff and select instructors. Enjoy a series of short, engaging sessions that offer a sampling of the exciting courses and programs coming this fall. Whether you’re planning your fall schedule or simply exploring something new, this is the perfect opportunity to discover what’s ahead, connect with others, and get inspired. What to Expect:- Previews of fall programs
- Meet Oasis instructors and staff
- Light refreshments served
- Social time to connect with fellow learners
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July 28 Tuesday10:30 AM → 12:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Jill Rivers, Founder, Enjoy the Photo MomentsLocations: Oasis at Macys Home Store(Repeat of March 2026 class.) This hands-on workshop will guide you through essential iPhone settings to help protect your privacy, safeguard your personal information, and reduce the risk of scams. You’ll learn how to set up and share your Medical ID, avoid scam calls and spam texts, protect your data on public Wi-Fi, manage your Apple ID securely, and... read more(Repeat of March 2026 class.) This hands-on workshop will guide you through essential iPhone settings to help protect your privacy, safeguard your personal information, and reduce the risk of scams. You’ll learn how to set up and share your Medical ID, avoid scam calls and spam texts, protect your data on public Wi-Fi, manage your Apple ID securely, and understand Apple’s Digital Legacy options. Bring your fully charged iPhone. Handouts will be provided, and you’ll leave with your device set up for greater protection and peace of mind. -
RECORDEDJuly 29 Wednesday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Judy Scott Feldman, Ph.D., Art Historian/National Mall CoalitionLocations: Hybrid - At Oasis and OnlineShould modern democracies build monuments modeled on ancient triumphal arches? This class looks at the historical origins of triumphal arches in Rome and beyond, how they’ve been reused across centuries, and what they symbolize. We’ll consider recent proposals for new monumental forms in the capital—including arches and grand ceremonial spaces—and... read moreShould modern democracies build monuments modeled on ancient triumphal arches? This class looks at the historical origins of triumphal arches in Rome and beyond, how they’ve been reused across centuries, and what they symbolize. We’ll consider recent proposals for new monumental forms in the capital—including arches and grand ceremonial spaces—and discuss how old architectural languages are adapted to express modern messages. -
August 4 Tuesday10:30 AM → 12:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Julie Kurzava, Faculty, Loyola UniversityLocations: Hybrid - At Oasis and OnlineBeginning in the 1920’s, popular music was largely created by the creators of the American Songbook and their enduring cultural legacy in song. Elvis changed everything. By the late 50’s, these earlier songwriters were out of business. The generational shift brought on by the Baby Boomers fostered radical changes in pop music, including the emergence of... read moreBeginning in the 1920’s, popular music was largely created by the creators of the American Songbook and their enduring cultural legacy in song. Elvis changed everything. By the late 50’s, these earlier songwriters were out of business. The generational shift brought on by the Baby Boomers fostered radical changes in pop music, including the emergence of rock and roll, R&B and the folk music revival. Julie Kurzava examines how this post war social upheaval is reflected in popular music in the mid 50's and early 60’s. -
RECORDEDAugust 11 Tuesday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Owen Ullmann, Journalist and AuthorLocations: Hybrid - At Oasis and Online(Note: At the instructor's request, the date of the class has been changed from July 7 to August 11.) From Great Britain to Germany and Japan to Vietnam, enemy nations that have fought wars with the United States have subsequently become close friends, allies or economic partners, as if past hostilities didn't matter as they embarked on a later courtship.... read more(Note: At the instructor's request, the date of the class has been changed from July 7 to August 11.) From Great Britain to Germany and Japan to Vietnam, enemy nations that have fought wars with the United States have subsequently become close friends, allies or economic partners, as if past hostilities didn't matter as they embarked on a later courtship. Some countries are still estranged and continue to share deep hatred for one another long after a major conflict---think India and Paklistan. This lecture explains why the U.S. prefers a forgive-and-forget foreign policy. -
August 11 Tuesday3:30 PM → 4:45 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Jonina Duker, Certified Book Discussion LeaderLocations: Online ClassSybil Van Antwerp, our protagonist, is in her seventies, a retired lawyer, divorced, and lives in Maryland. The novel consists of her letters and her emails. We come to understand so much about her: her moods, her sense of humor, her temperament, her values – and even her regrets. Please read the book so you can participate in our structured, facilitated... read moreSybil Van Antwerp, our protagonist, is in her seventies, a retired lawyer, divorced, and lives in Maryland. The novel consists of her letters and her emails. We come to understand so much about her: her moods, her sense of humor, her temperament, her values – and even her regrets. Please read the book so you can participate in our structured, facilitated Zoom discussion. -
RECORDEDAugust 12 Wednesday10:30 AM → 12:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Seth Kibel, Musician and ComposerLocations: Hybrid - At Oasis and OnlineJohn Coltrane, who would be celebrating his 100th birthday on September 23, was more than a saxophonist and composer. He was arguably the greatest influence on jazz worldwide in the second half of the 20th century. While springing from bebop, Coltrane broke new ground in modal jazz, free jazz, and the avant-garde. We’ll examine the all-too-brief life,... read moreJohn Coltrane, who would be celebrating his 100th birthday on September 23, was more than a saxophonist and composer. He was arguably the greatest influence on jazz worldwide in the second half of the 20th century. While springing from bebop, Coltrane broke new ground in modal jazz, free jazz, and the avant-garde. We’ll examine the all-too-brief life, career, and oeuvre of this giant of jazz. Recordings, video, and live performances from the instructor will prepare you for this important centenary. -
August 13 Thursday10:30 AM → 12:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: John McCarthy, Montgomery County State's AttorneyLocations: Hybrid - At Oasis and OnlineCurious about how search warrants really work? This session breaks down everything from how warrants are issued to what law enforcement can—and cannot—do when executing them. Learn about the legal standards, your rights, and real-world examples that illustrate the process. Whether you’re interested in law, civil liberties, or just want to understand... read moreCurious about how search warrants really work? This session breaks down everything from how warrants are issued to what law enforcement can—and cannot—do when executing them. Learn about the legal standards, your rights, and real-world examples that illustrate the process. Whether you’re interested in law, civil liberties, or just want to understand your rights, this talk provides a clear, accessible look behind the scenes of search warrants and criminal investigations. -
RECORDEDAugust 13 Thursday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Steven Gimbel, Professor of Philosophy, Gettysburg CollegeLocations: Online ClassImmanuel Kant changed everything from how we conceived of space and time to God, art, and morality. While few people were able to read his works fully, his ideas altered the direction of all philosophy that would... read moreImmanuel Kant changed everything from how we conceived of space and time to God, art, and morality. While few people were able to read his works fully, his ideas altered the direction of all philosophy that would follow. -
August 27 Thursday1:00 PM → 2:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Vidhu Vadini, M.B.B.S., Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineLocations: Online ClassLearn how prevention and early action can make a difference in diabetes risk and long-term health. This webinar will explain the key differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, current research on risk factors, and practical strategies that may help reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes. Vidhu Vadini, M.B.B.S., from the endocrinology, diabetes, and... read moreLearn how prevention and early action can make a difference in diabetes risk and long-term health. This webinar will explain the key differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, current research on risk factors, and practical strategies that may help reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes. Vidhu Vadini, M.B.B.S., from the endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism division at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine will discuss topics to include healthy lifestyle habits, screening, family risk, prevention, and early detection. -
September 9 Wednesday1:30 PM → 3:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Reverb with special guest Daryl DavisLocations: F. Scott Fitzgerald TheaterReverb is an award-winning a cappella vocal group. Join us for an afternoon of soul, Gospel, pop classics and original songs. Sing along and dance if you like! Since its birth in 1991, Reverb has performed along the East Coast and toured East and Southern Africa, the Persian Gulf and the Caribbean. Daryl Davis is an international recording artist,... read moreReverb is an award-winning a cappella vocal group. Join us for an afternoon of soul, Gospel, pop classics and original songs. Sing along and dance if you like!
Since its birth in 1991, Reverb has performed along the East Coast and toured East and Southern Africa, the Persian Gulf and the Caribbean.
Daryl Davis is an international recording artist, published author, actor and leader of THE DARYL DAVIS BAND.
Doors open at 1:00 pm. This event is sponsored by AARP Maryland with additional support from The Village at Rockville. -
September 10 Thursday1:00 PM → 2:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: OASIS StaffLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreNew to Oasis? Come join us for coffee, conversation, and a warm welcome! This casual meet-and-greet is the perfect chance to get to know fellow members, ask questions, and learn more about what Oasis has to offer. Whether you joined last week or last month, we'd love to see you there. Grab a cup, pull up a chair, and let's get... read moreNew to Oasis? Come join us for coffee, conversation, and a warm welcome! This casual meet-and-greet is the perfect chance to get to know fellow members, ask questions, and learn more about what Oasis has to offer. Whether you joined last week or last month, we'd love to see you there. Grab a cup, pull up a chair, and let's get acquainted! -
September 14 Monday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Joan Hart, Art History Instructor, Museum One, Inc.Locations: Online ClassEdward Hopper’s "Nighthawks" is widely recognized and has become a part of American culture. Both a subject of honor and parody, Hopper’s urban diner is one of the country’s most famous works of art. This program will provide an in-depth exploration of Hopper’s 1942 painting as well as an overview of his artistic development and career. In addition,... read moreEdward Hopper’s "Nighthawks" is widely recognized and has become a part of American culture. Both a subject of honor and parody, Hopper’s urban diner is one of the country’s most famous works of art. This program will provide an in-depth exploration of Hopper’s 1942 painting as well as an overview of his artistic development and career. In addition, "Nighthawks" connection to American cinema will be discussed, especially its impact on the film noir genre. -
RECORDEDSeptember 15 Tuesday10:30 AM → 12:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Seth Kibel, Musician and ComposerLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreLillian Hardin (second of three “Mrs. Louis Armstrongs”) and Mary Lou Williams were gifted pianists and composers who were underappreciated during their times, as well as today. There’s no Satchmo without Lil – she made him into the jazz hero we know. Mary Lou Williams was a pioneer in swing, be-bop, and much of modern jazz. We’ll listen to music... read moreLillian Hardin (second of three “Mrs. Louis Armstrongs”) and Mary Lou Williams were gifted pianists and composers who were underappreciated during their times, as well as today. There’s no Satchmo without Lil – she made him into the jazz hero we know. Mary Lou Williams was a pioneer in swing, be-bop, and much of modern jazz. We’ll listen to music written and performed by them, as well as discuss how their careers became secondary to that of men in their lives. -
RECORDEDSeptember 15 Tuesday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Richard Bell, Professor of History, University of MarylandLocations: Online ClassWhat did democracy mean to Americans after the Revolution? Who could vote, how did they vote, and how did expanding participation in American electoral politics transform this new nation? We’ll begin with a survey of popular politics in 19th century America, focused on the tumultuous decades that witnessed the rise of Andrew Jackson, America’s first... read moreWhat did democracy mean to Americans after the Revolution? Who could vote, how did they vote, and how did expanding participation in American electoral politics transform this new nation? We’ll begin with a survey of popular politics in 19th century America, focused on the tumultuous decades that witnessed the rise of Andrew Jackson, America’s first populist president. Then we’ll examine various aspects of Jackson’s political agenda, including his role in Indian Removal. Finally, we’ll tackle the Market Revolution, a paradigm shift in the American economy that witnessed the rise of wage labor and the growth of organized manufacturing. -
RECORDEDSeptember 15 Tuesday1:00 PM → 2:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Sandesh Rao, M.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, School of MedicineLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreA single fall can change everything. Orthopedic surgeons witness this firsthand, and they also know that most falls are NOT inevitable. This session explains the musculoskeletal forces behind fall risk: how bone density, muscle mass, gait, and joint function shift with age, and how those changes interact with everyday hazards. Whether you've had a close... read moreA single fall can change everything. Orthopedic surgeons witness this firsthand, and they also know that most falls are NOT inevitable. This session explains the musculoskeletal forces behind fall risk: how bone density, muscle mass, gait, and joint function shift with age, and how those changes interact with everyday hazards. Whether you've had a close call or simply want to stay proactive, this talk will give you the knowledge to take meaningful action. This program is generously supported by the Frederick H. Bowis Community Fund. -
September 15 Tuesday3:00 PM → 4:15 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Jonina Duker, Certified Book Discussion LeaderLocations: Online ClassOxford, Mississippi, in 1933 during the Great Depression, is not such a great place for many girls and women: in particular, eleven-year-old Margot “Meg” Louise LeFleur suffering in the Lafayette County Orphan Asylum since was nine; and unmarried twenty-four-year-old Birdie Calhoun, “churchy and chinless” who comes to town to ask her well-married... read moreOxford, Mississippi, in 1933 during the Great Depression, is not such a great place for many girls and women: in particular, eleven-year-old Margot “Meg” Louise LeFleur suffering in the Lafayette County Orphan Asylum since was nine; and unmarried twenty-four-year-old Birdie Calhoun, “churchy and chinless” who comes to town to ask her well-married sister for financial assistance for their mother and grandmother. The novel, the author’s second book (her first was The Help, 2009, set in her hometown of Jackson, Mississippi) weaves the storylines together in a satisfying way. Please read the book so you can participate in our structured, facilitated Zoom discussion. -
RECORDEDSeptember 16 Wednesday1:00 PM → 2:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Paul Farhi, Former Reporter, The Washington PostLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreWhat happened to the "Washington Post"? On February 4, the region’s newspaper of record laid off nearly half its news staff. The story of the Post’s demise is one of incompetent leadership. But it’s also part of a much broader... read moreWhat happened to the "Washington Post"? On February 4, the region’s newspaper of record laid off nearly half its news staff. The story of the Post’s demise is one of incompetent leadership. But it’s also part of a much broader trend. -
RECORDEDSeptember 16 – December 16 Wednesday3:45 PM → 4:00 PMSessions: 4Instructor: Leslie Edsall Pont, Executive Director, OasisLocations: Online ClassTake a mindful pause and join us once a month for a 15-minute guided meditation designed to help you reduce stress, restore balance, and support your overall well-being. Each virtual session offers simple mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, and guided relaxation to help you recharge, improve focus, and cultivate greater resilience—whether you're... read moreTake a mindful pause and join us once a month for a 15-minute guided meditation designed to help you reduce stress, restore balance, and support your overall well-being. Each virtual session offers simple mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, and guided relaxation to help you recharge, improve focus, and cultivate greater resilience—whether you're new to meditation or have an established practice. Sessions are led by Leslie Pont, Oasis Executive Director, who is also a Health and Wellness Coach, Certified Yoga Instructor, and practitioner trained in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). Drawing on years of experience helping individuals build healthier, more balanced lives, Leslie creates an inclusive and welcoming space where participants can learn practical tools for managing stress and enhancing emotional and physical wellness. Take 15 minutes each month to slow down, breathe, and invest in your well-being. -
RECORDEDSeptember 17 Thursday10:30 AM → 12:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: John McCarthy, Montgomery County State's AttorneyLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreGregory Tu was convicted of murdering his wife, Lisa, in Potomac, Maryland during the summer of 1988. Hear the story from the prosecutor in the case, John McCarthy. Despite the absence of a body, Tu was convicted in a landmark ruling on the basis of DNA evidence and hundreds of pieces of circumstantial... read moreGregory Tu was convicted of murdering his wife, Lisa, in Potomac, Maryland during the summer of 1988. Hear the story from the prosecutor in the case, John McCarthy. Despite the absence of a body, Tu was convicted in a landmark ruling on the basis of DNA evidence and hundreds of pieces of circumstantial evidence.
