Current Classes

Let’s talk about ways to ensure your identity is protected, how to avoid identity theft and why it is important to review your credit report on a regular basis. Have you reviewed your credit report recently?

When the US Mail took weeks, even months to reach California from the east, the Pony Express filled that period in record time. Travel with the Pony Express and its riders and experience the dangers of the isolated Western United States.

When the US Mail took weeks, even months to reach California from the east, the Pony Express filled that period in record time. Travel with the Pony Express and its riders and experience the dangers of the isolated Western United States.

In this class we will talk about the different types of watercolors available, the different types of paper that can be used, and the different brushes. You will do a hands-on watercolor painting using your newfound skill. Cindy will try to help you figure out what minimal supplies you will need for your new hobby. Most newbies say, “But I can’t draw stick people”, no worries, Cindy will not ask you to draw stick people. (*Attendance Limits by Site. Please call to register early. First come, first served.)

Learn management techniques to age in place and what physical therapy/exercise can help you achieve this.

Let’s talk about ways to ensure your identity is protected, how to avoid identity theft and why it is important to review your credit report on a regular basis. Have you reviewed your credit report recently?

The vaccines for seniors class will discuss basic principles of immunity, types of vaccines and how they work, specific vaccines recommended for seniors, timing and spacing for vaccines, potential side effects, and common vaccine myths.

The restoration efforts at our gardens (Gardens at Murder Creek) focus on restoring the Great Lakes ecosystem on just under 10 acres. The property, a former horse pasture, was purchased in 2008 and restoration efforts in 2010. Our mission included the removal of invasive exotics, increased biodiversity of Great Lakes native plants, and stabilizing the banks of our seasonally flooded creek bed. So far, our efforts have transformed the landscape, and we have begun cataloging the results of our efforts in terms of insects, birds, and mammals. More work is needed but restoration takes time. Our primary goal has always been to demonstrate what restoring native plants would mean to the community

Learn the basics of nature journaling with an Erie County Park Ranger. Learn how to Improve your observation skills and capture your adventures in writing, drawings, and paintings.

If you live in Western New York, you already know the importance of being prepared for winter weather emergencies. As spring and summer temperatures continue to rise, are you prepared for warm weather hazards? Do you know how to take shelter from a tornado? How far away can lightning strike and why can’t you continue to play golf when the dark clouds are far away? Can you tell the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke? What’s the best way to treat annoying insect bites? Is that vine poison ivy? Just how long can I leave those cooked burgers on the picnic table? This class will cover a broad range of spring and summer hazards. We will learn important spring/summer weather terms, outdoor safety, food safety, medications that make people more vulnerable to heat, how to recognize and assist someone experiencing heat illnesses, summer holiday safety, and other topics to help you stay healthy and enjoy Western New York summers.

The Reach Out to 911 program educates the public on when and how to call 9-1-1. Instructors present proper emergency response protocols, enhancing community preparedness and reducing anxiety associated with emergency calls. It also guides people on when to call 911 versus using other services like 211 (for basic needs), 988 (for people experiencing thoughts of suicide or a mental health crisis) or 1-800-222-1222 (for the Upstate New York Poison Center), helping to prevent misuse of 9-1-1 in nonemergency situations.

Thomas F. Schobert, author of “Hush the Cannon’s Roar - The Life and Times of Bennet Riley: Defender of Buffalo”, will discuss the career and personal life of Major General Bennet C. Riley, who served in the U.S. Army for 40 years from the War of 1812 through the Mexican War and culminated with his serving as the last military governor of California during the famous “California Gold Rush”. In the early 1840s, Riley was a commanding officer of the Buffalo Barracks, an army post located on what is now the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site. The experience of Riley during his time here and his interactions with notable Buffalonians convinced him to return here after his military service was finished.

Why bother to re-pot a plant? How to do this easily without damaging the plant or your self-esteem. (You don’t really believe in “brown thumbs, do you?)

The local news story of the 20th Century in Cheektowaga; the worst school fire in New York State history. Back for another University Express series following last fall’s presentations tha

The local news story of the 20th Century in Cheektowaga; the worst school fire in New York State history. Back for another University Express series following last fall’s presentations tha

We’ve been energizing the entire city by restoring our historic architecture, expanding our cultural attractions, revitalizing our neighborhoods and diversifying our culinary scene. And when it comes to sports - Buffalo’s got a serious game! There’s never been a better time to see Buffalo, so join us to learn more!

This workshop will explore the many resources to help you save money on your energy bill and increase the comfort and safety of your home. Come join us and get a free DIY energy savings kit!

This program, under the guidance of the US Navy, taught women Naval jobs stateside so men could be relieved of desk duty and enter the combat zones. This presentation will give an overview of the WAVES program and take you through the lives of two women who kept detailed scrapbooks.

The LGBTQ+ community has a rich and vibrant history that is largely unknown. In efforts to share and preserve this history (or history, as we call it), the Pride Center is proud to introduce one of its newest trainings! Learn about queer history and what you can do to preserve it! (*This class is VIRTUAL only.)

Most superstitions are examples of basic patterns of thinking, which postulate mystical interconnections and causations in nature. In this talk such patterns of thinking are explored, shown to be based on six distinct principles, and explained with reference to a number of different superstitions collected by Dr. Stevens – and provided by the audience (bring along your favorites!). Such principles are universal, found in all cultures and periods of history and prehistory, which suggests that they represent fundamental ways in which the brain works.

This class tells the true story based on my grandfather’s years as a bootlegger for Gangster Dutch Schultz. Harriet can’t wait to share it all with you!

This workshop will explore the many resources to help you save money on your energy bill and increase the comfort and safety of your home. Come join us and get a free DIY energy savings kit!

In April 2022, the World War II destroyer, USS The Sullivans, sank at the pier. Learn how this occurred, and what’s been done since and what will happen as we move into the future.

In April 2022, the World War II destroyer, USS The Sullivans, sank at the pier. Learn how this occurred, and what’s been done since and what will happen as we move into the future.

This talk will discuss the prospects for peace, if any, in the ongoing conflict from February 2022 until today.

This talk will discuss the prospects for peace, if any, in the ongoing conflict from February 2022 until today.

This class tells the true story based on my grandfather’s years as a bootlegger for Gangster Dutch Schultz. Harriet can’t wait to share it all with you!

The Erie County Parks system will turn 100 this year. From the oldest “Heritage Parks” to the more recent additions to the parks system, the county’s greenspaces are enjoyed by 1000s of county residents. Join County Historian Douglas Kohler for a virtual tour of our county parks system.

Ever wanted to make someone’s day with a card that’s WAY more special than anything you’d find in a store? This fun, creative workshop is your ticket to becoming a greeting card superstar! We’ll dive into the magical world of cardmaking, where your creativity knows no bounds and every card tells a story. You’ll learn cool techniques, discover insider tricks, and unleash your inner artist - no previous crafting experience required! During this class we will be making two greeting cards - a Birthday Card and a Get Well Card. (Supply kits will be provided. Class size is limited.

Improving balance is necessary to keep you moving, independent, and doing what you love. Learn tips and tricks to help prevent falls and obtain the key to independence and longevity!

Explore the fundamentals of using iPads and iPhones, including navigation, downloading apps, and understanding core features like the home screen and settings.

We will explain what trusts are, the kinds of trusts available and the reasons why you might or might not want one.

"Conspiracy Theory" is a common phrase in the news these days; what does it mean? This talk discusses some of the standard elements in public narratives about hidden evil forces that are working among us to subvert our way of life. Anthropology reveals that such beliefs are timeless and universal and intensify in times of general social anxiety. Most interesting: many conspiracy theories throughout history have several terrible elements in common, which are suggestive of their likely origins in the evolution of human sociality.

Native plants, trees and bushes are critical to ecological resilience and biodiversity. Native plants have an additional value as they have been used medicinally by indigenous populations for centuries. This presentation will discuss medicinal natives and their many uses while also touching upon some important herbs that can be grown in container gardens or sunny borders. Many of these medicinal plants are important food sources for pollinators and critical to the environment. The information provided in this presentation is for educational purposes only and not intended to provide information to treat or diagnose any medical problem.

The Erie County Parks system will turn 100 this year. From the oldest “Heritage Parks” to the more recent additions to the parks system, the county’s greenspaces are enjoyed by 1000s of county residents. Join County Historian Douglas Kohler for a virtual tour of our county parks system.

In this class we will talk about the different types of watercolors available, the different types of paper that can be used, and the different brushes. You will do a hands-on watercolor painting using your newfound skill. Cindy will try to help you figure out what minimal supplies you will need for your new hobby. Most newbies say, “But I can’t draw stick people”, no worries, Cindy will not ask you to draw stick people. (*Attendance Limits by Site. Please call to register early. First come, first served.)

We will introduce you to the magic, fun, & healing power of recreational music-making with handheld drums. No prior experience needed -just bring your enthusiasm! (Please allow 2 hours for this class. Class size is limited.)

Native plants, trees and bushes are critical to ecological resilience and biodiversity. Native plants have an additional value as they have been used medicinally by indigenous populations for centuries. This presentation will discuss medicinal natives and their many uses while also touching upon some important herbs that can be grown in container gardens or sunny borders. Many of these medicinal plants are important food sources for pollinators and critical to the environment. The information provided in this presentation is for educational purposes only and not intended to provide information to treat or diagnose any medical problem.

Our area has come a long way from the unexplored wilderness it was at the end of the Revolution in 1783! Western New York is home to two major east-west transcontinental highways - Interstate 90, the longest route in the Interstate Highway System, and U.S. Route 20, the longest road in the older US Numbered Highway System - and the longest road in America. Join us to learn more fascinating history about our Buffalo roadways.

This class will teach you the skills needed to perform hands only CPR on adults and infants. This is not a certificate course, but you will leave knowing that you can save a life. Class size limited.

If your ancestors were early Western New York settlers, they may have purchased land from the Holland Land Company. This class will discuss published Holland Land Company indexes, online Holland Land Company records, and how to use online maps to find your ancestors’ Holland Land Company property.

When the US Mail took weeks, even months to reach California from the east, the Pony Express filled that period in record time. Travel with the Pony Express and its riders and experience the dangers of the isolated Western United States.

Learn the best practices for protecting your personal information online, from creating secure passwords to avoiding scams and staying safe on social media.

When the US Mail took weeks, even months to reach California from the east, the Pony Express filled that period in record time. Travel with the Pony Express and its riders and experience the dangers of the isolated Western United States.

Estate administration- what to expect. A common theme among people I have helped over the years is disbelief over what estate administration is and the red tape involved. We will discuss what the current landscape in Erie County is, and things to consider in advance to reduce red tape and frustration for yourself or loved ones.

The Erie County Parks system will turn 100 this year. From the oldest “Heritage Parks” to the more recent additions to the parks system, the county’s greenspaces are enjoyed by 1000s of county residents. Join County Historian Douglas Kohler for a virtual tour of our county parks system.

Come and hear about the lore and legends of death during the Age of Queen Victoria. What were the spooky traditions that became commonplace here in the United States. Why did families have photographs taken of their departed loved ones? What part did a dead relative’s hair play in the Mourning practices? What traditions carry onto modern times? Finally, why did this time period give rise to a worldwide religion that started just outside of Rochester, NY? Let’s explore these dark mysteries together as well as examine unusual mourning pieces from my private collection.

He was a strong advocate of manifest destiny. He expanded the United States from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. A controversial chief executive and one of the most aggressive and independent presidents to ever occupy the White House. Who is James K. Polk? You will be able to answer that question when this presentation is completed.

He was a strong advocate of manifest destiny. He expanded the United States from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. A controversial chief executive and one of the most aggressive and independent presidents to ever occupy the White House. Who is James K. Polk? You will be able to answer that question when this presentation is completed.

This talk revives the exciting history of the entertainment community in Buffalo. Are you a movie buff? We will talk about the variety of theatres that would have shown everyone, from Charlie Chaplin to Cary Grant to the original Star Wars. Is music more your speed? We will help you imagine where you would have sat to listen to the likes of Sinatra, Elvis, the Stones, and the Goo Goo Dolls. From vaudeville to live stage productions, Buffalo has been home to wondrous theatres and other venues which are no longer physically with us but, through this talk, can once again be part of our collective memory.

Understand how to care for and maintain your devices, including cleaning, updating software, and troubleshooting common issues to keep everything running smoothly.

AI is advancing at an unprecedented pace, with groundbreaking developments redefining our world every day. These innovations are not just transforming technology—they’re reshaping our perceptions of AI, for both its promise and its peril. In this discussion, we’ll dive into the profound impact of these changes and what they mean for the future. If you attended one of my sessions last year, prepare for an entirely new landscape of urgent and thought-provoking issues.

He was a strong advocate of manifest destiny. He expanded the United States from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. A controversial chief executive and one of the most aggressive and independent presidents to ever occupy the White House. Who is James K. Polk? You will be able to answer that question when this presentation is completed.

Mind, body, and spirit are engaged as participants combine laughter exercises with yoga breath, gentle stretching, childlike playfulness and positivity. All done to experience stress relief, joy, well-being, and connection. No yoga experience is needed. Dress comfortably & layered. Most exercises can be done seated. (Please allow two hours for this class. Class size limited).

Learn about one of the activities becoming increasingly popular with seniors. I will talk about rules, scoring, and things to focus on when you are starting to learn the game. Improving your pickleball game – I will go over different strategies in pickleball, the scale for rating a player’s skill level, and some drills for improving your game.

Would you like to be a better storyteller? Well, this class is for you. Learn to create enriching connections with expressive narratives. Improve your storytelling skills with a variety of communicative techniques that enhance a variety of social encounters. We will cover aspects of theme, plot, delivery, and structure that help you find and tell your story

Learn about research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement. Incorporate these recommendations into building a plan for healthy aging.

"Conspiracy Theory" is a common phrase in the news these days; what does it mean? This talk discusses some of the standard elements in public narratives about hidden evil forces that are working among us to subvert our way of life. Anthropology reveals that such beliefs are timeless and universal and intensify in times of general social anxiety. Most interesting: many conspiracy theories throughout history have several terrible elements in common, which are suggestive of their likely origins in the evolution of human sociality.

Wondering what you can and cannot recycle? This class is for you! We’ll talk about all of the things you can put in your recycling bin and what to do with the things you cannot.

This program, under the guidance of the US Navy, taught women Naval jobs stateside so men could be relieved of desk duty and enter the combat zones. This presentation will give an overview of the WAVES program and take you through the lives of two women who kept detailed scrapbooks.

This talk will discuss the prospects for peace, if any, in the ongoing conflict from February 2022 until today.

This talk will discuss the prospects for peace, if any, in the ongoing conflict from February 2022 until today.

This class will discuss common issues seniors may face regarding medications. We will discuss medication adherence, tips for minimizing side effects, best practices for taking common medications, drug interactions, including over-the- counter medications, and nonpharmacological recommendations for common disease states.

This class will discuss common issues seniors may face regarding medications. We will discuss medication adherence, tips for minimizing side effects, best practices for taking common medications, drug interactions, including over-the- counter medications, and nonpharmacological recommendations for common disease states.

Did you grow up with the advice of someone saying things like ‘flies by the seat of his pants’ or ‘penny wise and pound foolish?’ We visualized such charming expressions even if we were a little mystified about ‘looking a gift horse in the mouth’ or counting hatched chickens. Find your favorites of the proverbial ‘ISMs’ while using words and pictures put together by the artist-presenter. With historic origins, ‘humble pie’ or ‘bees knees’ make more sense. In 2025 ‘stitch in time saves nine’ or ‘too soon old, too late smart’ still have meaning and imagination.

Composting is a form of recycling, a natural way of returning needed nutrients to the soil. Let’s talk about how to turn your spoils into soil and make it community wide.

Your plant looks unhealthy. What to do! Is it a disease, a creepy crawler, too much or too little water, food, light. Let’s find out.

Your plant looks unhealthy. What to do! Is it a disease, a creepy crawler, too much or too little water, food, light. Let’s find out.

The Civil War produced an appalling loss of life. The three Union surgeons presented here helped stem this tragedy. The advances they made saved many lives and echo down to our modern medical practices.

Learn about research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement. Incorporate these recommendations into building a plan for healthy aging.

AI is advancing at an unprecedented pace, with groundbreaking developments redefining our world every day. These innovations are not just transforming technology—they’re reshaping our perceptions of AI, for both its promise and its peril. In this discussion, we’ll dive into the profound impact of these changes and what they mean for the future. If you attended one of my sessions last year, prepare for an entirely new landscape of urgent and thought-provoking issues.

AI is advancing at an unprecedented pace, with groundbreaking developments redefining our world every day. These innovations are not just transforming technology—they’re reshaping our perceptions of AI, for both its promise and its peril. In this discussion, we’ll dive into the profound impact of these changes and what they mean for the future. If you attended one of my sessions last year, prepare for an entirely new landscape of urgent and thought-provoking issues.

This class will discuss common issues seniors may face regarding medications. We will discuss medication adherence, tips for minimizing side effects, best practices for taking common medications, drug interactions, including over-the- counter medications, and nonpharmacological recommendations for common disease states.

Calling all seasoned sleuths and puzzle enthusiasts! Are you ready to challenge your mind, sharpen your wit, and have a blast with friends? Join our Puzzle Palooza Contest, designed specifically for older adults who are young at heart and sharp in mind. Three senior centers will be holding initial competitions (5 teams of 4) completing the same puzzle in up to one hour. Each contest will have its own puzzle “arbiter.” (We had to look that one up too – it’s a puzzle contest referee!) The team that completes the puzzle the fastest will advance to the final competition and face each other for “Championship Puzzler Day!” Our Goal: To have an absolute blast while keeping your mind sharp and active. Whether you’re a seasoned puzzle pro or just looking for a fun way to stay engaged, this event is for you

Feeding birds is a hobby enjoyed by many people. This hobby provides enjoyment for humans and a vital food source for our avian friends. Did you know that bird feeders and feeding stations can be a source of illness for birds? Are you wondering if you should continue feeding the birds during the recent outbreak of H5 bird flu? Are you at risk of contracting H5 bird flu when filling the feeders? How can we feed the birds and keep the rat population at bay? This class will answer these questions and show you what to feed the birds to avoid seed waste, how to keep your bird feeders clean to prevent illness in birds (and yourself), answer questions about H5 bird flu spread in bird and humans, and how to avoid letting your bird feeder become a rat buffet.

Learn about congregate and home-delivered meals, nutrition counseling, employment and volunteer opportunities, senior centers, transportation, in-home support as well as support to family, friends, and neighbors who may be providing assistance to older adults and much more.

Discover how to borrow and enjoy ebooks and audiobooks using the Libby app for free with your library card.

When the US Mail took weeks, even months to reach California from the east, the Pony Express filled that period in record time. Travel with the Pony Express and its riders and experience the dangers of the isolated Western United States.

Master the basics of Google Search and other Google tools, including Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Docs, to enhance productivity and simplify tasks.

Most superstitions are examples of basic patterns of thinking, which postulate mystical interconnections and causations in nature. In this talk such patterns of thinking are explored, shown to be based on six distinct principles, and explained with reference to a number of different superstitions collected by Dr. Stevens – and provided by the audience (bring along your favorites!). Such principles are universal, found in all cultures and periods of history and prehistory, which suggests that they represent fundamental ways in which the brain works.

Most superstitions are examples of basic patterns of thinking, which postulate mystical interconnections and causations in nature. In this talk such patterns of thinking are explored, shown to be based on six distinct principles, and explained with reference to a number of different superstitions collected by Dr. Stevens – and provided by the audience (bring along your favorites!). Such principles are universal, found in all cultures and periods of history and prehistory, which suggests that they represent fundamental ways in which the brain works.

Unlike any generation before us, today’s health care shields us from the familiarity with the dying process our forefathers knew. Still, the death rate remains 100%. Chronic illness is the most common challenge today, placing new emotional demands at the end of life. Empowering patients and families to manage their own dying process is key to respecting their dignity and personhood. This seminar will describe death’s patterns and expectations. It won’t, however, remove our yearning for visiting hours in heaven.

Learn about research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement. Incorporate these recommendations into building a plan for healthy aging.

Master the basics of Google Search and other Google tools, including Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Docs, to enhance productivity and simplify tasks.

Uncover the past and explore the ancient history of Western New York with Penn Dixie Fossil Park & Nature Reserve, ranked the #1 fossil park in the US in a 2011 independent study. Learn what animals lived in this region 380 million years ago, how the Earth has changed since, and what those fossils look like today.

Ever wanted to make someone’s day with a card that’s WAY more special than anything you’d find in a store? This fun, creative workshop is your ticket to becoming a greeting card superstar! We’ll dive into the magical world of cardmaking, where your creativity knows no bounds and every card tells a story. You’ll learn cool techniques, discover insider tricks, and unleash your inner artist - no previous crafting experience required! During this class we will be making two greeting cards - a Birthday Card and a Get Well Card. (Supply kits will be provided. Class size is limited.

A lot of new board games have come out since we were kids. I’ll talk about tips to help you find new games that might be right for your family and friends. Some of these games you can play for free

Our area has come a long way from the unexplored wilderness it was at the end of the Revolution in 1783! Western New York is home to two major east-west transcontinental highways - Interstate 90, the longest route in the Interstate Highway System, and U.S. Route 20, the longest road in the older US Numbered Highway System - and the longest road in America. Join us to learn more fascinating history about our Buffalo roadways.

A dog’s friendship is like no other. But did you ever wonder why they do some of the things they do? Join us for this class to better understand your furry friend. (The instructor plans to bring a few dogs to class for demonstrations.)

Protecting and Preserving Assets - This course is taught by an Elder Law attorney and focuses on strategies to preserve and protect assets in the event that there is a need for Medicaid, skilled nursing home care or care in your home. We will discuss how to protect your assets and ensure that you are provided with good care for the rest of your life- even if you are unable to get through the 5 year “look back” period. This is “must have” information if you are concerned about a need for long term care!

Discussion on Knee Osteoarthritis, Balance, Vestibular/ Concussion, what it is and what you can do about it.

In life, you are more likely to use “Stop the Bleed” skills than CPR skills. Stop the Bleed is a grassroots national awareness campaign that trains and encourages bystanders to become equipped, and empowered to help in a bleeding emergency before professional help arrives.

Learn about the characters, plot and vocabulary of this charming book series which was a catalyst for millions of children worldwide to experience the joy of reading. Put your name in the “Sorting Hat” to win a “magic wand”.

This workshop will explore the many resources to help you save money on your energy bill and increase the comfort and safety of your home. Come join us and get a free DIY energy savings kit!

Do you or someone you cook for have a food allergy or intolerance? This class showcases recipes that use alternatives to food allergens and are still delicious and easy to prepare. Will include vegetarian-friendly recipes as well. Some of these allergen-free recipes may even become your favorites, even if you don’t require a special diet!

When Mark Twain lived and worked in Buffalo from 1869 to 1871, he hung out mostly in the downtown and waterfront area, the Delaware district, and the Niagara Falls region. This illustrated presentation describes places and people that Twain knew well during his time in Western New York. Several entertaining anecdotes will be shared from my new book, The Illustrated Mark Twain and the Buffalo Express

Join us for a hands-on hour of relaxing creativity with paper folding and cutting! Follow step-by-step instructions to create unique designs. Basic materials will be provided, but feel free to bring paper and any additional art supplies you’d like to use, such as markers, colored pencils, collage materials, glue sticks, and small scissors. Class size is limited. Hand dexterity is recommended.