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RECORDEDNovember 19 Thursday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Steven Gimbel, Professor of Philosophy, Gettysburg CollegeLocations: Online ClassFriedrich Nietzsche wrote that he philosophized with a hammer, that is, he sought to smash everything that came before him. Trying to place human existence at the heart of philosophy and life meant destroying everything else that we had tried to put in that... read moreFriedrich Nietzsche wrote that he philosophized with a hammer, that is, he sought to smash everything that came before him. Trying to place human existence at the heart of philosophy and life meant destroying everything else that we had tried to put in that place. -
November 19 Thursday1:00 PM → 2:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Marshall Bedine, M.D., Gastroenterology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine,Locations: Online ClassDigestive changes are common as we age, but ongoing symptoms like abdominal discomfort, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea don’t have to be accepted as part of growing older. Marshall Bedine, M.D., assistant professor in the gastroenterology department at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, will focus on irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and... read moreDigestive changes are common as we age, but ongoing symptoms like abdominal discomfort, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea don’t have to be accepted as part of growing older. Marshall Bedine, M.D., assistant professor in the gastroenterology department at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, will focus on irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other common digestive concerns, helping you understand better what’s normal, what’s not, and when to seek care. He will highlight practical, easy-to-understand discussion on how IBS is diagnosed, common triggers, and evidence-based strategies to manage symptoms. -
November 23 Monday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Joan Hart, Art History Instructor, Museum One, Inc.Locations: Online ClassVan Gogh’s "The Starry Night" has become one of the icons of our times. This program will provide an in-depth exploration of this visionary painting. Also included will be a general overview of Van Gogh’s artistic development, particularly focusing on his other interpretations of night scenes. In addition, new revelations about the mysterious ownership... read moreVan Gogh’s "The Starry Night" has become one of the icons of our times. This program will provide an in-depth exploration of this visionary painting. Also included will be a general overview of Van Gogh’s artistic development, particularly focusing on his other interpretations of night scenes. In addition, new revelations about the mysterious ownership or provenance of "The Starry Night" will be shared. -
RECORDEDNovember 24 Tuesday10:30 AM → 12:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Julie Kurzava, Faculty, Loyola UniversityLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreWe'll explore the bold, genre-bending musicals of the 21st century and where the art form is headed next. This first session compares two standouts: Hadestown, Anaïs Mitchell's folk-opera retelling of the Orpheus myth, and Waitress, Sara Bareilles's heartfelt adaptation of the beloved film. Through clips, music, and discussion, led by singer/actor Julie... read moreWe'll explore the bold, genre-bending musicals of the 21st century and where the art form is headed next. This first session compares two standouts: Hadestown, Anaïs Mitchell's folk-opera retelling of the Orpheus myth, and Waitress, Sara Bareilles's heartfelt adaptation of the beloved film. Through clips, music, and discussion, led by singer/actor Julie Kurzava, we'll examine their storytelling, scores, and staging. No experience necessary—just a love of great theater. -
RECORDEDNovember 24 Tuesday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Owen Ullmann, Journalist and AuthorLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreThe Trump Administration's crackdown on illegal immigrants has triggered growing opposition among Americans. There are a number of common-sense compromises that Congress can take to make the system work in a way that most Americans would favor. This lecture examines the impact of Trump's policies on U.S immigration trends and sensible reforms to create a... read moreThe Trump Administration's crackdown on illegal immigrants has triggered growing opposition among Americans. There are a number of common-sense compromises that Congress can take to make the system work in a way that most Americans would favor. This lecture examines the impact of Trump's policies on U.S immigration trends and sensible reforms to create a better system for all. -
RECORDEDDecember 1 Tuesday10:30 AM → 12:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Nora Hamerman, Art HistorianLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreLondon has the sculptures of the Parthenon, Berlin has the portrait of Egyptian Queen Nefertiti, and Paris owns the famous Zodiac Ceiling from an Egyptian Temple of Dendur—all of these priceless treasures the result of imperial looting, often unacknowledged by the museums that now display them. Today’s talk will tell some of the stories of art theft... read moreLondon has the sculptures of the Parthenon, Berlin has the portrait of Egyptian Queen Nefertiti, and Paris owns the famous Zodiac Ceiling from an Egyptian Temple of Dendur—all of these priceless treasures the result of imperial looting, often unacknowledged by the museums that now display them. Today’s talk will tell some of the stories of art theft in bygone eras but also highlight some recent cases where national treasures are now being returned to their rightful owners. (See class #514 for Part 2 of this series.) -
December 1 Tuesday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Daryl Davis, MusicianLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreFrom the 1950s through the 1970s, they lived forever on our TVs, in the movies, and splashed across magazine covers. But what happens when the buzz dies down and the cameras move on? This class takes a fond (and sometimes eyebrow-raising) look back at the famous, the infamous, and the downright forgettable people who became household names — or had... read moreFrom the 1950s through the 1970s, they lived forever on our TVs, in the movies, and splashed across magazine covers. But what happens when the buzz dies down and the cameras move on? This class takes a fond (and sometimes eyebrow-raising) look back at the famous, the infamous, and the downright forgettable people who became household names — or had their fifteen minutes — during this unforgettable era. Musicians, actors, criminals, do-gooders, one-hit wonders, and headline-makers of every stripe: if you've ever wondered "Whatever happened to...?", this is the class for you. We'll trace their stories together, share memories along the way, and enjoy photos and clips that bring it all back. -
December 1 Tuesday10:30 AM → 12:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Michael J. Ackerman, Car Safety InstructorLocations: Oasis at Macys Home Store(This class will start at 10:30 am, not 1:00 pm as originally listed in the catalog.) In this class, you will learn about car safety features that are appearing on new cars and how they will enhance your driving ability and safety. In 2018, the car safety features became driver active. They warn drivers of an impending problem so the driver can take... read more(This class will start at 10:30 am, not 1:00 pm as originally listed in the catalog.) In this class, you will learn about car safety features that are appearing on new cars and how they will enhance your driving ability and safety. In 2018, the car safety features became driver active. They warn drivers of an impending problem so the driver can take action. We will learn how to properly use these new safety features to become better and safer drivers. -
RECORDEDDecember 2 Wednesday1:00 PM → 2:15 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Hugo Keesing, University of Maryland, Retired ProfessorLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreFrom 1928’s “Steamboat Willie” to 2019’s “Into The Unknown” from the Disney production of “Frozen 2,” this program chronologically tracks 90 years of Disney-related music. Included are songs from animated and live-action films, cartoons, and television shows. Some are soundtrack recordings; others are versions that climbed high on the Pop... read moreFrom 1928’s “Steamboat Willie” to 2019’s “Into The Unknown” from the Disney production of “Frozen 2,” this program chronologically tracks 90 years of Disney-related music. Included are songs from animated and live-action films, cartoons, and television shows. Some are soundtrack recordings; others are versions that climbed high on the Pop Chart. -
RECORDEDDecember 3 Thursday10:30 AM → 12:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Nora Hamerman, Art HistorianLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreHitler—a failed artist-- was by far history’s greatest art thief. Documented in the book “The Rape of Europa,” the Nazi armies not only carried out genocide on an unprecedented scale, but stole the art of every country they invaded, in order to enrich the collection of Hermann Goering and to fill what was destined to be the world’s greatest art... read moreHitler—a failed artist-- was by far history’s greatest art thief. Documented in the book “The Rape of Europa,” the Nazi armies not only carried out genocide on an unprecedented scale, but stole the art of every country they invaded, in order to enrich the collection of Hermann Goering and to fill what was destined to be the world’s greatest art museum in Hitler’s home town of Linz, Austria. While a shocking number of the looted objects have yet to be found, we learn in today’s talk about the exhilarating efforts beginning in the 1990s to locate works of art stolen from Jewish collectors in Europe and restore them to the descendants of their rightful owners. (See class #510 for Part 1 of this series.) -
December 8 Tuesday10:30 AM → 4:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Michael J. Ackerman, AARP Volunteer InstructorLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreDrivers who complete this course may receive a multi-year discount on their auto insurance, depending on state regulations. Exciting new content includes information on brain health, railroad and animal crossings, plus expanded information on car technology and updates on the many new laws in Maryland. A number of tips will be offered to help reduce your... read moreDrivers who complete this course may receive a multi-year discount on their auto insurance, depending on state regulations. Exciting new content includes information on brain health, railroad and animal crossings, plus expanded information on car technology and updates on the many new laws in Maryland. A number of tips will be offered to help reduce your chances of having an accident and getting injured. The fee is due at the start of class ($20 for AARP members and $25 for non-members). You can pay by cash or check (made out to AARP). Bring your driver's license, AARP card, cash or check, and a pen. There will be a break for lunch. -
December 8 Tuesday10:30 AM → 11:45 AMSessions: 1Instructor: Barbara Paulson, Oasis MemberLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreGot wine [corks]? Join crafter Barbara Paulson to learn how to create something special out of a wine cork, wire, and a few beads. Your project will be perfect for hanging on a window, from a magnetic hook, or from a Christmas tree (makes a nice little gift, too). Instructions, materials, and tools included (except wine!). This is a hands-on... read moreGot wine [corks]? Join crafter Barbara Paulson to learn how to create something special out of a wine cork, wire, and a few beads. Your project will be perfect for hanging on a window, from a magnetic hook, or from a Christmas tree (makes a nice little gift, too). Instructions, materials, and tools included (except wine!). This is a hands-on class. -
RECORDEDDecember 8 Tuesday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Richard Bell, Professor of History, University of MarylandLocations: Online ClassWhy did it take Americans ninety years after first declaring that all men are born equal to abolish racial slavery? Why did it take a Civil War to answer the fundamental questions about liberty and equality that the Revolution had posed? One obstacle was the fact that the Constitution gave white southerners so much power in national politics that Congress... read moreWhy did it take Americans ninety years after first declaring that all men are born equal to abolish racial slavery? Why did it take a Civil War to answer the fundamental questions about liberty and equality that the Revolution had posed? One obstacle was the fact that the Constitution gave white southerners so much power in national politics that Congress itself never did anything very significant to limit slavery. Only with the changes brought about by the communications revolution in the 1820s and 1830s were antislavery activists able to build any sort of organized national movement and even then they met fierce opposition from southern plantation owners who couldn’t imagine a world without slave labor. -
December 8 Tuesday1:00 PM → 2:30 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Janice Pliner, Oasis Program ManagerLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreA reclusive journalist is suddenly thrown into a wild, suspenseful journey to rescue his kidnapped grandchildren. This is a fun read about serious topics. Please read the book so you can participate in our... read moreA reclusive journalist is suddenly thrown into a wild, suspenseful journey to rescue his kidnapped grandchildren. This is a fun read about serious topics. Please read the book so you can participate in our discussion. -
RECORDEDDecember 9 Wednesday1:00 PM → 2:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Barbara A. Porter, PhD, Middle East ArchaeologistLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreCarved into rose-colored sandstone cliffs in southern Jordan, Petra was the glittering capital of the Nabataean kingdom—an empire that, at... read more -
RECORDEDDecember 10 Thursday10:30 AM → 12:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: John McCarthy, Montgomery County State's AttorneyLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreMore than a decade after her two young children disappeared in Montgomery County, the Catherine Hoggle case has taken a dramatic turn. Recently released from a state psychiatric hospital, Hoggle has been reindicted on two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the disappearance of her children in 2014. She will stand trial again starting in... read moreMore than a decade after her two young children disappeared in Montgomery County, the Catherine Hoggle case has taken a dramatic turn. Recently released from a state psychiatric hospital, Hoggle has been reindicted on two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the disappearance of her children in 2014. She will stand trial again starting in October. We will look at what triggered the new indictment and broader issues raised by the case: the tension between mental health law and criminal justice, and the challenges of prosecuting cold cases in the absence of physical evidence or bodies. -
December 10 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! -
December 15 Tuesday10:30 AM → 12:00 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Martina Sestakova, Art Educator, Designer and PainterLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreDiscover the beauty of Tibetan prayer flags in this inspiring workshop. We’ll explore the tradition of prayer flags as carriers of hopes and positive intentions, then create our own interpretation that reflects our inner life and wishes. Through colors and personal symbolism, you'll design a meaningful artwork that celebrates what matters to you. We will... read moreDiscover the beauty of Tibetan prayer flags in this inspiring workshop. We’ll explore the tradition of prayer flags as carriers of hopes and positive intentions, then create our own interpretation that reflects our inner life and wishes. Through colors and personal symbolism, you'll design a meaningful artwork that celebrates what matters to you. We will work in watercolors, colored pencils, and magazine photos. No prior experience required—everyone is welcome, regardless of skill level. All materials will be provided. -
RECORDEDDecember 15 Tuesday1:00 PM → 2:15 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Hugo Keesing, University of Maryland, Retired ProfessorLocations: Oasis at Macys Home StoreFrom “Nobody” in 1906 to “I Can’t Breathe” in 2020, music has reflected the country’s racial history. Whether the genre has been Pop or Blues, Gospel or Folk, Soul or Hip Hop, Rock ‘n’ Roll or Rap, songs by or about Black people have marked significant changes in the road that today is called “Black Lives Matter.” You will hear from... read moreFrom “Nobody” in 1906 to “I Can’t Breathe” in 2020, music has reflected the country’s racial history. Whether the genre has been Pop or Blues, Gospel or Folk, Soul or Hip Hop, Rock ‘n’ Roll or Rap, songs by or about Black people have marked significant changes in the road that today is called “Black Lives Matter.” You will hear from Billie Holiday and Nat “King” Cole, Little Richard and Sam Cooke, James Brown and Stevie Wonder, LL Cool J, Common and Beyoncé, and songs about prominent figures such Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King, Jr. -
December 15 Tuesday3:00 PM → 4:15 PMSessions: 1Instructor: Jonina Duker, Certified Book Discussion LeaderLocations: Online ClassAnn Patchett does it again; and as we have for her last three novels, we at Oasis are so ready to discuss her latest again. The author incorporates her life experience of having a father and two stepfathers into the plot; families can very complicated. Long-married Daphne and Jonathan encounter her first stepfather at the Metropolitan Museum of Art by... read moreAnn Patchett does it again; and as we have for her last three novels, we at Oasis are so ready to discuss her latest again. The author incorporates her life experience of having a father and two stepfathers into the plot; families can very complicated. Long-married Daphne and Jonathan encounter her first stepfather at the Metropolitan Museum of Art by chance, and their lives change. Even though Daphne had not seen him for almost forty-five years, their “hearts were forever stitched together.” Please read the book so you can participate in our structured, facilitated Zoom discussion.
