Lifelong Learning Classes/Talks

Register for these programs: by phone (507-664-3700), in person at FiftyNorth, or by clicking on the title of the class

Please pre-register and check-in for all classes no matter your membership levels. It is also important to check-in at the front desk when you arrive for your class.  We use attendance data for grant applications, insurance reimbursement, space planning and determining whether or not to cancel a class.
Scholarships are available to help defray the cost of classes for those who find the cost a financial hardship.
If you are interested in teaching a Lifelong Learning class or if you have an idea for a new class offering, please contact Patty Ciernia at 664-3709

“When My Time Comes” with Diane Rehm – Film and discussion on Medical Aid in Dying

Tuesday, May 5
1:30-3:00pm

Capacity:  25
Cost: Free
Space:  Room 103

Spurred on by the death of her husband, the Peabody-award-winning journalist crosses the country to take an in-depth look at medical aid in dying. She speaks to people on all sides of the issue, uncovering the pros and cons, the facts and the misinformation surrounding this controversial practice that is now legal in nine states and the District of Columbia. The result is both moving and informative – an eye-opening documentary that is sure to provoke strong reactions and thoughtful conversations among viewers of all ages and backgrounds (https://whenmytimecomesmovie.com/).

Join some members of the informal Northfield Medical Aid in Dying to watch this documentary and participate in discussion after the film. We will include current information on the status of Medical Aid in Dying legislation in Minnesota and answer questions about the topic. People of all backgrounds can be found in support of – and in opposition to – this option for end of life planning. We hope this presentation will help you to become better informed and motivated to have a conversation with loved ones and perhaps even with your legislators.
Questions? Email us at eolchoices@gmail.com
Presenters: End of Life Choices Collective (EOLCC)


CPR and FIRST AID

Tuesday, May 12
9:00-12:00pm

Capacity:  10
Cost:  $72 non-member, $65 member, $0 platinum
Space: Room 104
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


STATE OF THE NORTHFIELD HOSPITAL + CLINICS

Thursday, May 14
2:00-3:00pm

Capacity: 60
Cost: Free
Space: Room 103

Join us for a discussion of the State of Northfield Hospital + Clinics and the purchase of the Northfield Allina Clinic.
Learn:

  • why this is important for the future of the hospital & community

  • why this makes financial sense

  • what’s staying the same and what is changing

  • what else is happening NH+C

Most importantly – Be able to ask the questions you or your neighbor has and share what you are hearing in the community.
This is an opportunity to hear and spread factual information and expand understanding among community members about the business of providing quality and accessible healthcare in and around Northfield.
Presenter: Zander Abbott


DOUG SCHOLZ-CARLSON: GREAT RIVER FESTIVAL PRESENTATION

Monday, June 1
10:30am-12:00pm

Capacity: 30
Cost: Free and open the public
Space: Room 103

What can go wrong when magic takes place in the forest outside of Athens in a Shakespeare comedy?

Doug will maybe give us the answer as he again comes to FiftyNorth to present early insight into this year’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.  For over 20 years he has given us insight into the Great River Shakespeare Festival’s productions.  As the Artistic Director of GRSF, he gives us a look at what goes into putting on a production.  In its 23rd season, is a resident company of 9 professional actors from all over the country that come together for a summer of Shakespeare in Winona.  FiftyNorth has sponsored a trip every year, except during the COVID outbreak.

Doug grew up in Northfield, getting his start at the Northfield Arts Guild under Myrna Johnson.  He has acted and directed at most Twin City theaters, and across the country. Midsummer will be directed by Doug Scholz-Carlson, the artistic director of the Great River Shakespeare Festival, where he has directed many productions and played more than 20 roles. Doug was the first intimacy director at the Metropolitan Opera (New York) where he has worked on more than 14 productions. In addition to the Met, he has worked on productions for Minnesota Opera, San Diego Opera, and San Antonio Opera.
Presenter: Doug Scholz-Carlson, Artistic Director of GRSF


A NECESSARY WRITING TASK – AN OBITUARY

Monday & Thursday, October 26 & 29
9:00-11:00am
Capacity: 12 maximum
Space: Room 102
Cost: $40 nonmember, $32 member, $0 Platinum
When a death is reported in the newspaper, accompanied by an obituary for the deceased, how does that obituary happen?  In many cases, stressed family members scramble to meet a deadline set by a funeral home or other site for a service, hoping to capture the essence of the deceased person as well as important information about memorials. Much of the anguish associated with this task can be eliminated by advance planning.  This two-session course will give participants a chance to determine the key elements of an obituary and prepare a draft.  We will meet on a Monday morning from 9-11 to map out the necessary features of an obituary and resume on Thursday at the same time to hear from a local funeral director on some of the pre-service and burial details and to work in pairs on provisional drafts. The goal: preparation of a reasonable draft for someone, perhaps yourself, as well as appreciating the details of this written form.
Instructor: Carol Rutz