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October 6 Tuesday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Janice Pliner, Oasis Program ManagerLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreIn 1950s Tehran, two young girls form a deep friendship across social classes, but their bond faces challenges as they navigate Iran's political turmoil during the decades leading up to and through the Iranian Revolution. This 2024 novel was a New York Times bestseller. Please read the book so you can participate in our... read moreIn 1950s Tehran, two young girls form a deep friendship across social classes, but their bond faces challenges as they navigate Iran's political turmoil during the decades leading up to and through the Iranian Revolution. This 2024 novel was a New York Times bestseller. Please read the book so you can participate in our discussion. -
RECORDEDOctober 7 Wednesday1:00 PM → 2:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Maria Thannhauser, Physical Therapist, Suburban HospitalLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreFalls often start before you'd expect; in subtle shifts in how you walk, and in the quiet fear that follows a stumble or near-miss. In this session, a physical therapist breaks down the walking pattern changes that signal rising fall risk, plus fun, practical balance challenges you can safely try at home. You'll also learn how fear of falling can actually... read moreFalls often start before you'd expect; in subtle shifts in how you walk, and in the quiet fear that follows a stumble or near-miss. In this session, a physical therapist breaks down the walking pattern changes that signal rising fall risk, plus fun, practical balance challenges you can safely try at home. You'll also learn how fear of falling can actually increase your risk, how to rebuild confidence after a fall, and how to tell healthy caution from limiting avoidance. This program is generously supported by the Frederick H. Bowis Community Fund. -
RECORDEDOctober 8 Thursday10:30 AM → 12:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: John McCarthy, Montgomery County State's AttorneyLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreSeniors in Montgomery County are under attack. Scammers continue to target older adults, constantly expanding their methods and tools—including AI—to do it. Learn what you need to know to protect yourself. Our presenter, John McCarthy, State's Attorney for Montgomery County, knows the scams threatening you and will tell you how to stay a step... read moreSeniors in Montgomery County are under attack. Scammers continue to target older adults, constantly expanding their methods and tools—including AI—to do it. Learn what you need to know to protect yourself. Our presenter, John McCarthy, State's Attorney for Montgomery County, knows the scams threatening you and will tell you how to stay a step ahead. -
RECORDEDOctober 8 Thursday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Steven Gimbel, Professor of Philosophy, Gettysburg CollegeLocations: Online ClassSoren Kierkegaard sought to bring the human being and its lived experience back to the center of philosophy. The problem, he thought, was that others have done this by stressing the place of logic and reason, but the most important truths are inaccessible to the rational mind. He sought a way to find them, but realized that it involved dread, angst, and... read moreSoren Kierkegaard sought to bring the human being and its lived experience back to the center of philosophy. The problem, he thought, was that others have done this by stressing the place of logic and reason, but the most important truths are inaccessible to the rational mind. He sought a way to find them, but realized that it involved dread, angst, and fear. -
October 8 Thursday1:00 PM → 2:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: OASIS StaffLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreGrab a cup of coffee and join us for a relaxed conversation with the Oasis staff! This is your chance to meet the people behind the programs, ask questions, share feedback, and let us know what classes or experiences you'd love to see more of. We value your voice and want to hear what's on your mind — come for the coffee, stay for the... read moreGrab a cup of coffee and join us for a relaxed conversation with the Oasis staff! This is your chance to meet the people behind the programs, ask questions, share feedback, and let us know what classes or experiences you'd love to see more of. We value your voice and want to hear what's on your mind — come for the coffee, stay for the conversation! -
RECORDEDOctober 13 Tuesday10:30 AM → 12:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Seth Kibel, Musician and ComposerLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreThe 1940s output of Aaron Copland is some of the most "American-sounding" music in the entirety of the classical oeuvre. The works Copland produced during this decade, from Appalachian Spring to Fanfare for the Common Man to Rodeo, have become touchstones for American classical music, earning him the sobriquet of "Dean of American Composers." These... read moreThe 1940s output of Aaron Copland is some of the most "American-sounding" music in the entirety of the classical oeuvre. The works Copland produced during this decade, from Appalachian Spring to Fanfare for the Common Man to Rodeo, have become touchstones for American classical music, earning him the sobriquet of "Dean of American Composers." These compositions will be examined and discussed in this presentation, with recordings, video excerpts, and maybe even a bit of live performance from the presenter himself. -
RECORDEDOctober 13 Tuesday1:00 PM → 2:15 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Sandra Heiler, Treasurer, Montgomery Preservation, Inc.Locations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreMost Americans know about the Boston Tea Party, but few know what happened next, right here in Montgomery County. On June 11, 1774, ten local men gathered at Hungerford’s Tavern on what is now Route 355 in Rockville and signed the “Hungerford Resolves,” calling for a boycott of all British trade in response to the blockade of Boston Harbor and... read moreMost Americans know about the Boston Tea Party, but few know what happened next, right here in Montgomery County. On June 11, 1774, ten local men gathered at Hungerford’s Tavern on what is now Route 355 in Rockville and signed the “Hungerford Resolves,” calling for a boycott of all British trade in response to the blockade of Boston Harbor and Parliament's passage of the so-called "intolerable acts." The coordinated colonial boycotts that followed marked a turning point: for the first time, American colonists were acting not as Virginians or Marylanders, but as Americans. These events led directly to the First Continental Congress, a de facto declaration of war in 1775, and ultimately the Declaration of Independence. -
RECORDEDOctober 14 Wednesday10:30 AM → 11:30 AMSessions: 1Instructor: Dr. Michael Kryzanek, Professor Emeritus, Political Science, Bridgewater State UniversityLocations: Online ClassThe invasion of the Ukraine by Russia has affected United States foreign policy in both the Biden and Trump administrations. This presentation will examine the response of both the administrations and analyze how the policy positions of each has changed over time. The presentation will assess issues related to the war such as the prospects for democracy in... read moreThe invasion of the Ukraine by Russia has affected United States foreign policy in both the Biden and Trump administrations. This presentation will examine the response of both the administrations and analyze how the policy positions of each has changed over time. The presentation will assess issues related to the war such as the prospects for democracy in the Ukraine, the impact of the war on Russia and the Putin government, and the changing role of NATO and Europe. -
October 14 Wednesday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Daryl Davis, MusicianLocations: Oasis at Macys Home Store2026 marks the 100th birthday of the man who created one of the greatest and most popular genres of music ever produced in America; Rock’n’Roll. It was shunned, feared, and banned but went on to be loved and accepted the world over. Come celebrate the legacy of this musical genius with... read more2026 marks the 100th birthday of the man who created one of the greatest and most popular genres of music ever produced in America; Rock’n’Roll. It was shunned, feared, and banned but went on to be loved and accepted the world over. Come celebrate the legacy of this musical genius with us! -
RECORDEDOctober 15 Thursday10:30 AM → 12:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Geoffrey Kabaservice,Vice President for Political Studies, Niskanen CenterLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreAs the 2026 midterm elections approach, both Republicans and Democrats are undergoing internal upheaval. Left-wing activists have upset party regulars in many Democratic primaries, while the rifts between MAGA, America First, and traditional Republican factions continue to widen. What will these tensions within as well as between the parties mean for... read moreAs the 2026 midterm elections approach, both Republicans and Democrats are undergoing internal upheaval. Left-wing activists have upset party regulars in many Democratic primaries, while the rifts between MAGA, America First, and traditional Republican factions continue to widen. What will these tensions within as well as between the parties mean for election outcomes in November as well as 2028? -
RECORDEDOctober 15 Thursday1:30 PM → 3:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Dan Sherman, PhDLocations: Oasis at Macys Home Store(7.31.26 This class has been cancelled at the instructor's request.) John Williams has created some of the most memorable film scores of our time, including Jaws, Star Wars, Schindler’s List, E.T., and Jurassic Park. In this talk, we’ll explore how his music—and that of other great film composers—brings movies to life. At 94 and still active, John... read more(7.31.26 This class has been cancelled at the instructor's request.) John Williams has created some of the most memorable film scores of our time, including Jaws, Star Wars, Schindler’s List, E.T., and Jurassic Park. In this talk, we’ll explore how his music—and that of other great film composers—brings movies to life. At 94 and still active, John Williams remains a remarkable figure in modern music. -
October 20 Tuesday10:30 AM → 12:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Martina Sestakova, Art Educator, Designer and PainterLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreCapture the charm and beauty of birds in this workshop focused on creating small, expressive paintings. Using a variety of reference images and creative inspirations, you'll explore color, texture, and simple techniques to bring your feathered subjects to life. We will work in watercolors and colored pencils. No prior experience required—everyone is... read moreCapture the charm and beauty of birds in this workshop focused on creating small, expressive paintings. Using a variety of reference images and creative inspirations, you'll explore color, texture, and simple techniques to bring your feathered subjects to life. We will work in watercolors and colored pencils. No prior experience required—everyone is welcome, regardless of skill level. All materials will be provided. -
RECORDEDOctober 20 Tuesday10:30 AM → 11:30 AMSessions: 1Instructor: Dr. Brian Belanger, Curator, National Capital Radio & Television MuseumLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreRadio news prior to WWII was minimal. But then CBS hired Edward R. Murrow, who in turn hired journalists such as Eric Sevareid, Charles Collingwood, and Larry LeSueur. The CBS evening news roundup took listeners via shortwave radio from city to city, bringing the war viscerally into American living rooms. Listening to Murrow’s report standing on the roof... read moreRadio news prior to WWII was minimal. But then CBS hired Edward R. Murrow, who in turn hired journalists such as Eric Sevareid, Charles Collingwood, and Larry LeSueur. The CBS evening news roundup took listeners via shortwave radio from city to city, bringing the war viscerally into American living rooms. Listening to Murrow’s report standing on the roof of a building in London as bombs are falling around him is riveting. This talk includes actual audio clips, and demonstrates how effectively Murrow and his colleagues reported the war news. -
RECORDEDOctober 20 Tuesday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Hugo Keesing, University of Maryland, Retired ProfessorLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreHistoric audio and music take you back to a dozen 1960s flash points that include: JFK's election; the race into space; the Cuban missile crisis; the Civil Rights movement, and Vietnam War. You will hear from Motown, British Invasion and Folk Rock artists, and relive the Summer of Love. The program includes two of the 60's "highs," Man on the Moon and... read moreHistoric audio and music take you back to a dozen 1960s flash points that include: JFK's election; the race into space; the Cuban missile crisis; the Civil Rights movement, and Vietnam War. You will hear from Motown, British Invasion and Folk Rock artists, and relive the Summer of Love. The program includes two of the 60's "highs," Man on the Moon and Woodstock. -
October 20 Tuesday3:00 PM → 4:15 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Jonina Duker, Certified Book Discussion LeaderLocations: Online Class“Once upon a time, I was meandering down the road of life with my husband, Jon. It was a regular and beige life, and it worked. It was a warm beige. We felt, and were, blessed and lucky. Normal.” Sometimes life events catapult people out of the “normal”. When the author’s oldest child, and only son, was injured and kidnapped from the... read more“Once upon a time, I was meandering down the road of life with my husband, Jon. It was a regular and beige life, and it worked. It was a warm beige. We felt, and were, blessed and lucky. Normal.” Sometimes life events catapult people out of the “normal”. When the author’s oldest child, and only son, was injured and kidnapped from the Nova Music Festival by Hamas on 7 October 2023, she left her job as an educator to focus on advocating for the Israeli hostages’ release from Gaza. Her voice was compelling enough to be heard by the world: she spoke with journalists; with world leaders President Biden and Pope Francis; at the United Nations; and at the Democratic National Convention. Her writing is also compelling. Please read the book so you can participate in our structured, facilitated Zoom discussion. -
October 21 Wednesday10:30 AM → 12:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Dr. Ann Turner, Individual, Couples, Family and Certified Sex Therapist, GWU Clinical Assistant ProfessorLocations: Oasis at Macys Home Store(7.31.26 At the instructor's request, this class has been cancelled.) Mindfulness has been shown to decrease stress, improve focus and help with emotional regulation. We'll talk about easy ways to incorporate mindfulness practices into your everyday life; from how to drink your coffee to how to drift calmly off to sleep. We'll discuss tips that will make... read more(7.31.26 At the instructor's request, this class has been cancelled.) Mindfulness has been shown to decrease stress, improve focus and help with emotional regulation. We'll talk about easy ways to incorporate mindfulness practices into your everyday life; from how to drink your coffee to how to drift calmly off to sleep. We'll discuss tips that will make everyday life and tasks more enjoyable; simply by tuning into them and using your senses in the moment. This program is generously supported by the Frederick H. Bowis Community Fund. -
RECORDEDOctober 21 Wednesday1:00 PM → 2:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Captain Amy Daum, Commander, 2nd District (Bethesda), MCPDLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreCommander Amy Daum of the Montgomery County Police Department’s 2nd District will provide an overview of current policing priorities in the county, including recent successes, ongoing challenges, and emerging crime patterns. The session will offer practical guidance for older-adult residents on how to protect themselves from crime, recognize and report... read moreCommander Amy Daum of the Montgomery County Police Department’s 2nd District will provide an overview of current policing priorities in the county, including recent successes, ongoing challenges, and emerging crime patterns. The session will offer practical guidance for older-adult residents on how to protect themselves from crime, recognize and report suspicious activity, and understand when to use 911 versus the non-emergency line. Attendees will also learn how to look up crime data in their neighborhoods and explore resources available through MCPD, including the possibility of a home security assessment. A Q&A will follow to address community questions and concerns. This program is generously supported by the Frederick H. Bowis Community Fund. -
October 22 – November 12 Thursday10:30 AM → 12:30 PMSessions: 4Instructor: Nancy GoldbergLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StorePlayers of all levels will build their confidence and strengthen their American Mahjongg skills in this four-week Guided Play series. Through interactive game play, participants will receive coaching, tips, and resources designed to enhance strategy, decision-making, and overall game play while balancing the elements of skill, strategy, and luck. Please... read morePlayers of all levels will build their confidence and strengthen their American Mahjongg skills in this four-week Guided Play series. Through interactive game play, participants will receive coaching, tips, and resources designed to enhance strategy, decision-making, and overall game play while balancing the elements of skill, strategy, and luck. Please bring your 2026 NMJL Card to each class. You are responsible for ordering your own 2026 NMJL card before the class. The large print card is recommended. Order from the National Mah Jongg League store. (Please order ONLY from this source.) -
October 22 Thursday1:00 PM → 2:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Dr. Stephanie Van, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineLocations: Online ClassDr. Stephanie Van, rehabilitation physician and assistant professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine will share her insights on common causes of chronic pain, along with practical approaches to managing... read moreDr. Stephanie Van, rehabilitation physician and assistant professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine will share her insights on common causes of chronic pain, along with practical approaches to managing discomfort. -
October 22 Thursday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Vladimir Fridman, Guitarist and Composer, and Alexander Paperny, BalalaikaLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreYou might think there is not much in common between Bach and Klezmer, or between traditional music and jazz. Yet the TransAtlantic Duo of Alexander Paperny (balalaika) and Vladimir Fridman (guitar and vocals) commands their instruments with virtuosity to seamlessly bring together diverse styles in their exploration of the world’s musical heritage. Don’t... read moreYou might think there is not much in common between Bach and Klezmer, or between traditional music and jazz. Yet the TransAtlantic Duo of Alexander Paperny (balalaika) and Vladimir Fridman (guitar and vocals) commands their instruments with virtuosity to seamlessly bring together diverse styles in their exploration of the world’s musical heritage. Don’t miss your chance to hear this! The program includes pieces in variety of styles: Popular, classical, Latin American,Russian, Yiddish, and Klezmer. Enjoy music and good company at this special Oasis event, underwritten by the Robin Fields Memorial Fund. A light reception will follow the concert.
