Cabin Fever - Escape to the Lake
Photograph Doug Ohman will share history and memories of the heart of Minnesota lake country. See photos of some of Minnesota's most interesting and unique cabins. The pictures will bring back wonderful memories of spending time at your favorite getaway with special people.
Age: 18+
Date: Thursday, February 26
Time: 1 - 2:30 pm
Cost: $25; $23 SV Res
Register online
Climate talk with Dr. Mark Seeley
As a faculty member in the U of M's Department of Soil, Water, and Climate from 1978 to 2018, Dr. Seeley participated in thousands of public speaking engagements, meetings, media interviews, and person-to-person interactions where he shared his considerable knowledge of the critical relationship between climate and agricultural production.
- Age: 18+
- Location: community center
- Registration deadline: one week before class
The Art & Science of Cloud Forms and Cloud Appreciation
An eclectic mix of art and science, using "The Cloud Selector" card and the "Cloud Spotter's Guide", both available from the Cloud Appreciation Society. Mark will also provide guidance on what cloud formations foretell about the weather.
Date: Wednesday, December 3
Time: 1 - 3 pm
Cost: $24; $22 SV Res
Register online
Climate Change in Our Own Backyard
Learn the connections between climate trends, climate change, and impacts that are already consequential in Minnesota.
Date: Thursday, February 5
Time: 1 - 2:30 pm
Cost: $24; $22 SV Res
Register online
Climate Change & Religion
Join Mark as he explores John Wesley's understanding of science and climate in the context of his religious beliefs and the founding of the Methodist Church.
Date: Tuesday, March 3
Time: 1 - 2:30 pm
Cost: $24; $22 SV Res
Register online
History Chats with Linda Hopkins
Instructor Linda Hopkins is an author and speaker on constitutional law. She is a retired attorney, past advisor to the President of the United States, consultant to the governments of Bulgaria and Nepal, and former chair of a government data privacy commission.
- Ages: 18+
- Location: community center
- Registration deadline: one week before class
Nancy Wake: The White Mouse of WWII
She was a journalist, a socialite, and one of the most feared resistance leaders of World War II. Known as "The White Mouse" for her ability to elude the Gestapo, Nancy Wake commanded a 1,000-strong guerrilla army in occupied France, leading sabotage missions and daring raids. Don't miss this riveting talk on the woman who became one of the war's most unstoppable forces.
Date: Thursday, March 12
Time: 1 - 3 pm
Cost: $19; $17 SV Res
Register online
SPARKling Conversations
Join us for our new speaker series, SPARKling Conversations. The series brings big ideas, local voices, and thought-provoking conversations. Join others from our community to learn, share, and connect. Discover something new, leave feeling inspired and connected. It's where curiosity meets community.
- Location: community center
- Registration deadline: two days before class
International Holocaust Remembrance Day
Ken Engel will share the story of his parents who survived the Holocaust. Ken is an active member of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas. He leads training for survivors, children/grandchildren of survivors, community activists, and lay members on how to effectively and comfortably share their stories. He serves as chair of CHAIM and as a council member of Generations of the Shoah International, the world's largest Holocaust survivor family organization. Passionate about remembrance and education, Ken is dedicated to ensuring future generations understand the history and lessons of the Holocaust.
Date: Tuesday, January 27
Time: 1 - 2:30 pm
Cost: $23; $20 SV Res
Register online
From Breaking News to Blooming News: How I Got the Shot (And How You Can, Too!)
Diana Pierce is a photographer, storyteller, and former longtime Minnesota journalist who made the transition from breaking news to blooming news. After more than four decades in broadcast journalism, Diana turned her lens toward capturing the beauty of flowers, gardens, and travel through her Nikon Z-7. Her award-winning Bloom With Me newsletter combines images and stories that inspire readers to see the world through a fresh perspective. In 2025, she received the Golden Laurel Award for best blog. Today, her work appears in regional shows, calendars, and notecards, and she shares both the technical and storytelling aspects of "getting the shot".
Date: Tuesday, February 3
Time: 1 - 2:30 pm
Cost: $23; $20 SV Res
Register online
Dr. Mark Seeley - A Life in Climate, Agriculture, and Community
For more than 40 years, Dr. Mark Seeley served as Extension Climatologist and Meteorologist at the University of Minnesota, becoming a trusted voice on weather, climate, and their impacts on Minnesota life. Known for making complex science accessible, he provided guidance to farmers, communities, and policymakers across the state. In this engaging talk, Dr. Seeley will reflect on his career journey, his passion for climate education, and lessons he's learned along the way.
Date: Thursday, March 26
Time: 1 - 2:30 pm
Cost: $23; $20 SV Res
Register online
Doug Ohman - Photographer and Storyteller
Photographer and storyteller, Doug Ohman, has spent years capturing the people, places, and history of Minnesota through his camera lens and books. His photography highlights rural churches, historic homes, small towns, and the everyday beauty of our state. In this engaging class, Doug will share photos and stories starting as a manager of Camp Snoopy, his travels, weaving together history, culture, and personal insight. Whether you're a history buff, a photography fan, or simply love Minnesota, you'll enjoy this lively journey through the state's heritage and hidden gems.
Date: Thursday, April 30
Time: 1 - 2:30 pm
Cost: $23; $20 SV Res
Register online