Current Classes

Learn everything you must know before getting an electric vehicle.

Want to learn about mindfulness but don't know where to start? This program will teach you what it means to be mindful, its purpose and benefits, and how to incorporate it into your daily routine. You will also participate in several mindful relaxation exercises.

This year the Summer Olympic Games will be held in Paris, France. The modern-day Olympics continue to inspire and awe people around the world. But, did you know that in 776 BC and continuing for 600 years, the Olympic Games were held in Greece? What were the ancient Olympics and why did they end in 394 AD? Who regenerated the modern-day Olympics and what traditions are carried on to honor the ancient games?

This class will give Android rookies (and those who just want to learn more) a crash-course in how to use these popular phones. We'll walk through some tips and tricks to customize your phone, optimize your settings, and make the most of apps and widgets. Please allow two hours for this class.

Learn the history of the five main heritage parks of Erie County's Parks System! This class includes information on Chestnut Ridge, Emery, Ellicott Creek, Como Lake and Akron Falls parks.

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

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. (Instructor plans to bring a few dogs to class for demonstrations.)

A class for bourbon and whiskey enthusiasts, those interested in the process of distilling, as well as the history of bourbon and distilling in Buffalo and the United States. Class will include lecture/media portion and discussion/question period.

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! Allow two hours for class. Class size limited to 25.

Qigong, while not well known locally, is quickly becoming popular for its ability to help people deal with stress and anxiety while being gentle and nurturing. The slow rhythmic movements along with guided imagery and visualizations, helps the body,mind and emotions! It's easy to do, and not complicated to learn and can be adapted to be done by everyone! Allow two hours for class. Class size limited to 25.

While three American families lost five or more children in battle, the Sullivan family is the only one to lose them on the same day. Our Fletcher-class destroyer honors the family, but come to learn about the more human side to the story.

Join us to learn about some cool tools that will help make your family history research easier and fun.

Reducing your costs and improving efficiency in your garden.

Know someone experiencing changes in memory, thinking, & behavior? Learn tips & strategies for difficult but important conversations about changes that may be related to dementia.

The SPCA Serving Erie County's Foster Care Program provides care for animals not yet ready for adoption. Volunteers care for animals in their own homes, providing animals that are underweight, underage, sick, or injured giving them the time they need to grow or heal so they may become adoptable. Our foster care program saves thousands of lives each year and there is always a need for foster care volunteers. We discuss the importance of fostering for those not quite old enough for adoption, what the commitment consists of, and how to get started.

While three American families lost five or more children in battle, the Sullivan family is the only one to lose them on the same day. Our Fletcher-class destroyer honors the family, but come to learn about the more human side to the story.

In this inspiring class we will delve into the captivating journey of JFK's life, from his upbringing to his presidency, exploring his unwavering dedication to public service, his visionary leadership, and his enduring impact on the nation and the world. We'll pay homage to his courage, charisma, and commitment to justice, inspiring a new generation to embrace his timeless ideals of hope, unity, and progress. Ephemera from JFK's tenure in the presidency will also be presented.

We'll trace the roots of the founding of Mercy Hospital and how the Sisters of Mercy arrived in Buffalo.

The Guaranty Building, completed in 1895, is recognized as one of the masterpieces of Louis Sullivan, an important 19th-century American architect, acknowledged today as the "Father of the Skyscraper."

Step back in time to when the Park Lane was a converted mansion on Gates Circle, Liberace was gaining popularity courtesy of the DiGuilio-family-owned 31 Club, The Cloister was the place to be seen, and you were spun around, albeit lightly, as you enjoyed a beverage at Chez Ami. Both memories and taste buds will be revived!

Join the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum for the history of the four North Tonawanda Amusement Companies, their products, and the legacy they left behind.

In this inspiring class we will delve into the captivating journey of JFK's life, from his upbringing to his presidency, exploring his unwavering dedication to public service, his visionary leadership, and his enduring impact on the nation and the world. We'll pay homage to his courage, charisma, and commitment to justice, inspiring a new generation to embrace his timeless ideals of hope, unity, and progress. Ephemera from JFK's tenure in the presidency will also be presented.

An explanation of the two major kinds of trusts and the pros & cons of having one.

Just like wine is paired with different foods, you can do the same with beer selections. Join us to learn how!

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.

Join our favorite commish in an exciting culinary adventure as she guides you through the art of crafting delectable summer party appetizers. You'll discover secrets behind creating light & flavorful starters that are perfect for warm-weather gatherings. Angela will share her expertise on selecting fresh seasonal ingredients that will be sure to elevate your appetizer game. Unleash your creativity and impress your guests with appetizers that capture the essence of summer in every bite.

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 trained, equipped, and empowered to help in a bleeding emergency before professional help arrives.

In this compare-and-contrast presentation, see what the sites of some of your favorite Buffalo buildings looked like one hundred years ago! This presentation will show what various locations around the Queen City looked like in 1918, juxtaposed with their 2018 appearance. You'll be surprised by how much the city has changed, and in some ways remains the same!

Join Caren, a Certified Laughter Yoga Teacher for 12 years, to experience the fun, interactive world-wide practice of Laughter Yoga Wellness. 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 needed. Dress comfortably & layered. Most exercises can be done seated if necessary but bring a mat or towel to sit on. Allow two hours for class. Class size limited to 25.

Qigong, while not well known locally, is quickly becoming popular for its ability to help people deal with stress and anxiety while being gentle and nurturing. The slow rhythmic movements along with guided imagery and visualizations, helps the body,mind and emotions! It's easy to do, and not complicated to learn and can be adapted to be done by everyone! Allow two hours for class. Class size limited to 25.

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 to 10.

This year the Summer Olympic Games will be held in Paris, France. The modern-day Olympics continue to inspire and awe people around the world. But, did you know that in 776 BC and continuing for 600 years, the Olympic Games were held in Greece? What were the ancient Olympics and why did they end in 394 AD? Who regenerated the modern-day Olympics and what traditions are carried on to honor the ancient games?

Buffalo's well-known Avenue was the site of some of the city's lesser known stories. These include the start of Statler's hotel legacy, the second crime that took place at the PanAm after the McKinley assassination, and the whereabouts of the illegitimate son that Grover Cleveland allegedly fathered. Memorabilia will also be shared.

Books have been censored throughout history. Different eras have seen various methods of silencing dissent. We'll look at some of these occurrences along with the current situation, particularly in places where librarians and teachers feel under siege. The ALA (American Library Association) documented more book bans in 2022 and 2023 than in any other time period since they began compiling data 20 years ago. Where is this happening? Which books are most likely to be cited? Why now?

Historic and influential women from Buffalo and Western New York in arts and entertainment, including musicians, actresses, authors and artists from the early 1800s to current times.

Explore ways that Alzheimer's and other dementias affect an individual's ability to communicate across different stages, and get tips to better communicate with people living with the disease.

Join us for education about breast, cervical, and colorectal health—including screening services to eligible uninsured and under-insured men & women. Instructors will be giving-out FREE colorectal screening kits to those ages 45–75 that qualify.

Ed Brodbeck will tell us about Pulitzer Prize winning American journalist Ernie Pyle. Pyle was a World War II correspondent who is best known for his stories about ordinary American soldiers during the war. He was among the best-known American war correspondents. His syndicated column was published in 400 daily and 300 weekly newspapers nationwide. Come hear real stories about World War II soldiers as they are re-told by Ed Brodbeck. Please allow 90 minutes for the class and QnA.

"Use it or lose it" is often quoted when it comes to learning a new skill. This is certainly true for CPR skills. If you have taken a hands-only CPR class and/or a stop the bleed class, this session is for you. This class will offer the chance to practice the hands-on skills learned in previous classes, including compressions, AED use, tourniquet application, etc. Note that this is NOT a Hands-Only CPR or Stop the Bleed class. Everyone is encouraged to register for the initial classes first, as this class is for those who have successfully taken the class before. Class size limited 15.

In this class, you'll learn the essential steps to create a captivating family memory book that will be treasured for generations to come. From gathering and organizing historical photographs to documenting personal anecdotes and significant milestones. We'll guide you through the process of curating a narrative that truly reflects your family's legacy.

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! Allow two hours for class. Class size limited to 25.

You have prepared a will, completed an advanced directive, & delegated the power of attorney. Your estate planning is in order. Then, you suffer a significant health event, leaving you incapacitated, or you pass on. Your survivors will often face the task of picking up the pieces without knowing critical information about you. In this presentation, we will discuss what details & documents to gather, how to organize and store this information, and when to review it. Note: Estate, financial planning and legal advice, are not part of this presentation.

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 trained, equipped, and empowered to help in a bleeding emergency before professional help arrives.

Qigong, while not well known locally, is quickly becoming popular for its ability to help people deal with stress and anxiety while being gentle and nurturing. The slow rhythmic movements along with guided imagery and visualizations, helps the body,mind and emotions! It's easy to do, and not complicated to learn and can be adapted to be done by everyone! Allow two hours for class. Class size limited to 25.

Qigong, while not well known locally, is quickly becoming popular for its ability to help people deal with stress and anxiety while being gentle and nurturing. The slow rhythmic movements along with guided imagery and visualizations, helps the body,mind and emotions! It's easy to do, and not complicated to learn and can be adapted to be done by everyone! Allow two hours for class. Class size limited to 25.

This large island at the tip of Italy's "boot" was the pit-stop of the Mediterranean. Neanderthal caves, Greeks, Moors, and Norman conquests formed a long and unique culture to the region. The presenter (Vincenza) shares colorful stories through art and research about her four grandparents and a trip up volcano Mt. Etna—which is now erupting again! Come be famigghia for an hour!

Sitting in front of her make-up mirror, an older woman having trouble accepting her own aging is visited by five spirits: Acceptance, Gratitude, Imagination, Now, & Growth (A.G.I.N.G.).

In the late 1980s, some 60 miles away in Rochester, a serial killer was on the loose. Women disappeared over a two-year period, with authorities looking everywhere to find a suspect. Learn who was responsible—and how it could have been prevented.

Join us for education about breast, cervical, and colorectal health—including screening services to eligible uninsured and under-insured men & women. Instructors will be giving-out FREE colorectal screening kits to those ages 45–75 that qualify.

This presentation will cover a six significant historical events kept out of public knowledge. We will go over incidents & narratives, which will seem fantastical in some situations, but are part of our history, like it or not. We will look at the largest man-made non-nuclear explosion in history, weather control and modification, the most deadly nuclear accident in the US, and much more.

Have you ever wanted to learn how to grocery shop on your phone while watching television? We have the class for you! This class will teach you how to set-up Instacart on your device and also how to use the app. Please allow two hours for this class.

Come learn the secrets other jewelers do NOT want you to know! For most people, buying a piece of jewelry is an act of trust. Educating yourself can be hard; there are significant variations in jewelry designs—metals, size & quality of stones, workmanship, and degree to which sellers will stand behind their product. So, it always comes back to trust! Join us for the facts on jewelry—as well as some creative ideas about old pieces you no longer wear—from one of WNY's best jewelers.

In the last several years, there has been an explosion of murals in Buffalo. They come in all shapes and sizes and are all over the region. Explore Buffalo has several tours by bicycle and on foot that explore some of these. This talk is designed to give you an overview of the locations, artists, and wide variety of murals around town.

Finding your way through the complexities of long-term care can be daunting. From choosing the nursing home or assisted living facility, to managing costs and ensuring quality of care, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. This class is designed to provide individuals and their advocates with the information they'll need to help achieve the best outcome possible.

We'll learn the fundamentals of the Spanish language. This will include basic greetings in Spanish and introducing yourself so you can be prepared for everyday interactions and travel!

Partially interactive, this class will show components of memory creation. We'll demo a few simple memory exercises, and discuss the role of new medications to ward-off dementia. You'll gain a few tricks to improve memory and hurdle those "senior moments."

While three American families lost five or more children in battle, the Sullivan family is the only one to lose them on the same day. Our Fletcher-class destroyer honors the family, but come to learn about the more human side to the story.

Just like wine is paired with different foods, you can do the same with beer selections. Join us to learn how!

In the latest installment of the Orphans and Inmates series, the Colored Musicians' Club, Prohibition and the arrival of the Ku Klux Klan in Buffalo form the backdrop of Maude Travers' latest supernatural adventure back in time.

Books have been censored throughout history. Different eras have seen various methods of silencing dissent. We'll look at some of these occurrences along with the current situation, particularly in places where librarians and teachers feel under siege. The ALA (American Library Association) documented more book bans in 2022 and 2023 than in any other time period since they began compiling data 20 years ago. Where is this happening? Which books are most likely to be cited? Why now?

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 U.S.-Numbered Highway System and also the longest road in America. Join us to learn more fascinating history about our Buffalo roadways.

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 U.S.-Numbered Highway System and also the longest road in America. Join us to learn more fascinating history about our Buffalo roadways.

With the Internet, it's possible to access almost any information, communicate with anyone else in the world, and do much more. If you are new to the Web or are looking to improve your Internet skills, our Internet Basics class has you covered. Please allow two hours for this class.

Come learn the secrets other jewelers do NOT want you to know! For most people, buying a piece of jewelry is an act of trust. Educating yourself can be hard; there are significant variations in jewelry designs—metals, size & quality of stones, workmanship, and degree to which sellers will stand behind their product. So, it always comes back to trust! Join us for the facts on jewelry—as well as some creative ideas about old pieces you no longer wear—from one of WNY's best jewelers.

Once you have an iPad or iPhone, your next step should be learning about the physical features of the device and the accessories that come with it. This includes the different buttons and ports, how to turn the device on and off, how to charge the battery, and the importance of protecting the screen. This class teaches the IPhone & IPad only. Please allow two hours for this class.

Unleash your creativity and embark on a colorful journey! This class provides a fun and accessible introduction to the versatile medium of acrylics. Whether you're looking to unwind, explore a new hobby, or simply enjoy the therapeutic benefits of art, this class is designed for you. No prior painting experience is required—just bring your enthusiasm, and we'll provide the rest.

Explore ways to keep your food safe via proper food handling, preparation and storage, as well as how to keep your kitchen clean and your pantry free from sources of contamination.

Embark on a flavorful journey through the vibrant culinary traditions of Puerto Rico in a cooking class led by a dynamic duo—Assemblymember Rivera and his beloved mom, Esther Rivera! With hands-on guidance and heartwarming anecdotes, you will be transported to the sun-kissed shores of the Caribbean, to learn the soulful essence of Puerto Rican cuisine. Get ready to savor the spices, sizzle with excitement, and create unforgettable recipes in this delicious celebration of food, family, and culture. Buen provecho!

Set in Buffalo during Prohibition, this true story involves a group of Polish East Side gangsters. Korney Kwiatkowski leads the gang that robs and kills its way to the front pages—and a surprise ending.

It's a new day, a new chapter for Buffalo's Colored Musicians Club. Come learn about all the exciting improvements happening to this Buffalo landmark!

Chronicling the endearing and diverse artistic journey of "unknown" yet cherished octogenarian - artist Sylvia Fahey-Kleindist. YNFA! celebrates the essence of art as a lifelong pastime, irrespective of fame or commercial success. This is a documentary film screening followed by a filmmaker Q&A.

A very interesting class, even for those who don't know much about amphibians. We'll explore the diversity of amphibians on Earth today, as well as their Devonian-era origins.

Books have been censored throughout history. Different eras have seen various methods of silencing dissent. We'll look at some of these occurrences along with the current situation, particularly in places where librarians and teachers feel under siege. The ALA (American Library Association) documented more book bans in 2022 and 2023 than in any other time period since they began compiling data 20 years ago. Where is this happening? Which books are most likely to be cited? Why now?

Welcome to the ultimate crash course in unraveling the mysteries of your iPad and iPhone settings! Whether you're a tech novice or an aspiring wizard, join us as we demystify the enchanting world of Apple's settings. In this class you will learn the art of swipes, pinches, and taps to move effortlessly between screens. You will also discover the wonders of Control Center, your gateway to quick access and magical shortcuts.

As a stop on the Erie Canal and now the site of the 100-year-old lock in the Niagara River, there is still much to say about this historic corner in Buffalo. Join us to learn all the facts!

Instructor May Shogan will address misconceptions about refugees and immigrants and explore how they add to the region's diversity, vibrancy, and economy.

Join our favorite commish in an exciting culinary adventure as she guides you through the art of crafting delectable summer party appetizers. You'll discover secrets behind creating light & flavorful starters that are perfect for warm-weather gatherings. Angela will share her expertise on selecting fresh seasonal ingredients that will be sure to elevate your appetizer game. Unleash your creativity and impress your guests with appetizers that capture the essence of summer in every bite.

Meet the Two Charlies: Burchfield & Penney

Buffalo’s very own Burchfield Penney Art Center holds the

largest public collection of works by Charles E. Burchfield

(1893–1967), as well as an archive of more than 10,000

pages of handwritten journals, 25,000 drawings, and

other ephemera. Best known for his romantic, often fantastic depictions of nature, 

watercolorist Charles Ephraim Burchfield (1893–1967) developed a unique style of watercolor painting 

that reflected distinctly American subjects and his profound respect for nature.

Join us to learn more about the man himself and his masterpieces!

NEW this semester, a special UE The Book Club meeting with local author Rosanne Higgins moderating along with our Book-Lover-In-Chief (& our favorite commish) Angela Marinucci. Our discussion will be on the book "Orphans & Inmates" which has a historical Buffalo setting. Join us this one time, or come to join our Book Club, which meets monthly. All are welcome! Book Summary: In the spring of 1835, at the pier of Buffalo's Canal District, the "most dangerous square mile" in developing America, 17-year-old Ciara Sloane steps onto land, alone, save for her younger sisters, orphaned at sea on the voyage from Ireland. Turned away by her only family on this side of the Atlantic, Ciara is admitted to the almshouse, along with her younger sisters, as the nursemaid, charged with bringing order to the chaos that is the children's ward. With the help of the Christian Ladies Charitable Society, led by the formidable Mrs. Farrell, and the compassionate and charming Dr. Michael Nolan, Ciara is able to transform the children's ward from a place of loneliness and despair to one of optimism and hope.

Working as the research analyst, Ryan has to make sure the sources of the data are truthful and accurate. This class will show you how to spot false information, and tips to find accurate information for the topics that pique your interests.

Join our favorite commish in an exciting culinary adventure as she guides you through the art of crafting delectable summer party appetizers. You'll discover secrets behind creating light & flavorful starters that are perfect for warm-weather gatherings. Angela will share her expertise on selecting fresh seasonal ingredients that will be sure to elevate your appetizer game. Unleash your creativity and impress your guests with appetizers that capture the essence of summer in every bite.