Register for these programs: by phone (507-664-3700), in person at FiftyNorth, or by clicking on the title of the class
Lifelong Learning Classes/Talks
Aesthetic Impressions of Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Turkey
Thursday, June 26
1:00-2:00pm
Since 2017 I’ve traveled to Thailand 8 times, spending between 4-8 weeks per visit, mostly in Bangkok visiting family but with side trips to a variety of other areas of the country. Most memorable were Kanchanaburi on the River Kwai where I stayed on a riverboat hotel, and Surin where silk for the royal family is woven using huge bamboo looms. Two years ago, I met a friend in Vietnam and we traveled around together there and in Cambodia for about 10 days, exploring small towns, the countryside, and visiting the temples of Angkor Wat. This past winter I met up with two friends in Turkey where we explored the endless wonders of Istanbul, Cappadocia with its natural stone structures known as fairy chimneys which to this day are used as cave dwelling (and cave hotels!) As an artist I’ve been smitten by the visual and sensual aspects of these places: the food which in all these locations is abundant, beautifully prepared, and often surprisingly luxurious; the creative and shopping culture including traditional craft markets, food markets, fashion, and innovation; the differences in how work is done on the streets and how the towns are set up to function even with overwhelming populations. Bangkok is home to 8 million people, Istanbul to 18 million people. I’d like to share some of my favorite moments – not necessarily the typical tourist attractions although some of those are spectacular – but the things that most impress me day by day about the people and the places, and the way art and culture are integrated in daily living through food, relationship, and environment. Please join me a casual conversation, with some photos and relics, and a selection of interesting desserts popular in Thailand and Turkey.
Presenter: Cheryl Ramette
Capacity: Minimum 5 Maximum 15
Cost: $35 Nonmbr, $20 Mbr
Space: Room 103
Registration deadline: June 25
DINOSAUR FOSSILS FOUND IN RICE COUNTY
Tuesday, July 8
10:00-12:00pm
*Pre-registration requested.
Larry Richie will present a program on the ocean fossils and dinosaur fossils he has found on a sixty-acre parcel of land which is located near their farm along the Straight River. These fossils are some of the best evidence ever found that shows that dinosaurs did live on the land that is now called Minnesota.
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The first hour will be an open house style meeting where everyone is invited to come and view the fossils close up, and get answers to any questions you might have.
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At 11 a.m. Larry Richie will explain where the fossils were found, how they were preserved, and why the fossils are found at this location. Some of the fossils will be passed around for an up-close look.
When finding fossils, it is important to understand the context, the fossils are found in. The fossil record of this piece of land can be traced, back to over 450 million years ago. There are geologic markers that greatly altered this land such as a meteorite shower that killed some of the animals. The formation of a large deposit of marl that hastened the formation of fossils is one reason these fossils were found at this site. The role the glaciers played is also very important.
This program would be a great opportunity for grandparents to bring your young grandchildren and learn together about something that happened a long time ago in your own backyard.
Presenter: Larry Richie
Capacity: 30
Cost: $10 nonmbr, $8 mbr, $0 platinum (children age 17 and under FREE!)
Space: Room 103
Guiding Families Through Life’s Transitions: Laura Baker Services
Tuesday, July 15
10:30-11:30am
Laura Baker Services Association’s Family Navigation Service is designed to support families navigating the complexities of caring for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). With over 125 years of experience, the organization provides guidance tailored to each family’s unique needs, helping them access essential resources, plan for major life transitions, and connect with supportive communities.
For older individuals who may be caregivers or family members of someone with IDD, the service offers assistance in understanding housing options, legal considerations such as guardianship and trusts, and accessing state and federal disability programs. Whether preparing for aging-related services or seeking peer support, Family Navigation Services
ensures that families receive expert guidance every step of the way.
At LBSA, our goal is to support families and individuals in building a strong foundation, ensuring that individuals with IDD can thrive in a supportive and connected community.
Presenter: Samantha Engelby, Laura Baker
Capacity: 30
Cost: Free
Space: Room 103
Beads & Glass: A Journey to the Heart of Czech Craft
Tuesday, July 22
1:00-2:30pm
This presentation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the bead and glassmaking traditions of Jablonec nad Nisou, a historic center of Czech artisan production. Through original photos and video captured during a recent visit to local workshops and factories, attendees will learn about traditional techniques including lampworking, hand pressing, and early machine production.
The talk also includes a hands-on component: guests can explore sample beads in various stages of production, examine a button mold, and view examples of finished jewelry made with Czech glass. Ideal for crafters, artists, and anyone curious about the history and process behind handmade beads.
Instructor: Andrea Turini
Capacity: 8 minimum, 30 maximum
Space: Room 103
Cost: $27 nonmember, $12 member
CPR and First Aid
Tuesday, September 9
9:00-12:00pm
Students will receive expert training in First Aid and Basic Life Support CPR (adult) including Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). This 3-hour class includes instruction, demonstrations and hands-on activities and culminates in the students earning an American Heart Card. It is appropriate training for Certified Nurse Assistants, healthcare workers, childcare workers, teachers, instructors, and volunteers. Many health care facilities require this training of their employees.
Instructor: Jon Bolster
Capacity: 10
Cost: $72 non-member, $65 member
Space: room 105
CPR and First Aid
Tuesday, November 4
9:00-12:00pm
Students will receive expert training in First Aid and Basic Life Support CPR (adult) including Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). This 3-hour class includes instruction, demonstrations and hands-on activities and culminates in the students earning an American Heart Card. It is appropriate training for Certified Nurse Assistants, healthcare workers, childcare workers, teachers, instructors, and volunteers. Many health care facilities require this training of their employees.
Instructor: Jon Bolster
Capacity: 10
Cost: $72 non-member, $65 member
Space: room 104