Recorded Classes

From the identification of mumps as an epidemic by Hippocrates in ancient Greece to social distancing and hand washing promoted during the COVID-19 pandemic, public health has been prevalent in society for thousands of years. Even with its presence in modern day society, it's not uncommon for people to ask the question, "What is public health?" Here you will learn about public health and its roots, including where it came from and what it is now. Instructor: Julia Gruspier, Public Health Educator, Erie County Department of Health *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 8, 2021. 

Power of Attorney is an often discussed, important legal document that can be an essential part of planning for later life. Understanding this document, including its specific powers and limitations, is beneficial if you are thinking about appointing someone as your Power of Attorney or if you have an existing document. In addition, recent legislative changes will soon change the format and structure of the Power of Attorney document. *Information is current as of June 9, 2021. Instructor: Sarah Duval, Esq., Supervising Attorney, Center for Elder Law & Justice *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 9, 2021.

With warmer temperatures and sunnier days ahead, many people are heading outdoors and traveling more. Attendees of this session, will hear tips and tricks to keep in mind while packing a cooler for the beach or a summer concert, dining out, traveling, or taking a hike in a local park. Learn how to continue to enjoy some of your favorite indulgences, while maintaining health and weight goals. Instructor: Mindy Yoder, RDN, CDN, manager, nutrition services, Excelsior Orthopaedics *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 7, 2021.

We'll compare vegetarian, vegan, and plant-based ways of eating for health, disease reversal, and prevention. Instructor: Jennifer Kuhrt, population health manager, BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 7, 2021.

Internet-connected mobile devices have created a revolution in how we communicate, shop, and consume information. Fifth-generation (5G) is the next big technological leap. What is 5G, and what does it mean for our always-connected lives? Instructor: Chuck Banas, Erie County, Web Services Technical Liaison *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 3, 2021.

Learn what your first steps in Italian genealogy research should be and how to use popular Italian genealogy websites.

Instructor: Rhonda Hoffman, Genealogy Specialist, Buffalo & Erie County Public Library

*This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 2, 2021.

Click below for the handouts:

Vital Records Chart

Getting Started Handout

We'll talk about the risk factors, testing, and ways to help prevent developing Type 2 diabetes. You'll leave with nutritional tips and exercise ideas.

Instructor: Darcie Hanson, R.N., clinical coach, BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York

*This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 2, 2021.

Click below for the handouts:

Snack Ideas

Building a Balanced Meal

Prediabetes and Diabetes

Choose Your Foods List

Linda Drajem and Christopher Drajem wrote a collaborative memoir spanning almost ten years. It began when Linda was an English teacher in Buffalo and Christopher recently moved to Seattle. He came home for a visit told her and the rest of the family he was gay. In this session, mother and son will share their experiences forging a relationship of mutual support and abiding respect focusing on how writing bridged the inevitable gaps. Sharing letters and emails, the two will discuss the impact of outdated gender roles, stifling religious doctrine, and the importance, above all else, of honesty. Participants will leave with a list of suggestions about how to reinforce connections with those who are most important by building on shared values. Instructors: Linda Drajem, Retired English Teacher and Current Memoirist; Christopher Drajem, writer & educator *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 1, 2021.

From it's founding in 1875 through it's ultimate demise in 1967, the Larkin Company used "Factory to Family" marketing to get products directly into the homes of Larkin consumers. You'll learn about the Larkin Company's unique marketing that made the company the second largest mail order catalog company in America, but also was the catalyst for it's closure. Instructor: Shane E. Stephenson, director of Museum Collections, Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park; owner, Archives in the Buff *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 27, 2021.

Learn the science behind composting and the benefits. We'll cover what materials you can compost and how you can get started today either in your own backyard to by taking advantage of some local places that accepting food scraps for composting. Instructors: Gary Carrel, solid waste recycling specialist; Amy Alduino, recycling coordinator, Erie County Department of Environment and Planning, Division of Environmental Compliance Services *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 27, 2021.