University at The Oaks: Ancient Civilization Guest Speaker: Cheryl White, PhD, associate history professor at LSUS

Monday, Aug. 7, 4 p.m. Franks Community Centre Cheryl White’s monthly University at The Oaks series focuses on the history of western civilization. Each month White selects diverse topics that offer an interesting survey that engages and intrigues guests.

Cost: $5, nonresidents. Registration is required.

Healthwise

If the Shoe Fits: Walking for Fitness and How to Properly Fit Your Shoes Guest Speaker: Grant Oliver, manager of Sportspectrum

Friday, Aug. 18, 2:30 p.m. Franks Community Centre

Grant Oliver will visit The Oaks of Louisiana to talk about the importance of proper fitting shoes and the benefits of regular exercise. Like the cornerstones of a building, shoes are the necessary foundation to any workout. There are many different shoes depending on your preferred activity: running, walking, aerobic exercise and even golf. Come find out how to get the most out of your exercise routine and why it all starts with the perfect pair of shoes.

Cost: $5, nonresidents. Registration is required.

Well Worth It Series

In a New York Minute: Bird Watching in Central Park Guest Speaker: Terri Jacobson, Refuge

Ranger at Red River National Wildlife Refuge

Friday, Aug. 25, 3 p.m. Franks Community Centre

Birding is a lifelong skill that people of all ages can enjoy anywhere! Naturalist Terri Jacobson, of the Red River National Wildlife Refuge, will share information about birds, their adaptations and habitat, and offer tips on how to identify them by sight and sound. Special emphasis will be on birds in Central Park in conjunction with the “In a New York Minute” active aging week program.

Cost: $5, nonresidents. Registration is required.

Book Review

I Dare Me: How I Rebooted and Recharged My Life by Doing Something New

Every Day Guest Speaker: Mary Ann Van Osdell

Tuesday, Aug. 29, 3:30 p.m. Chapel

This was a life-changing book for Mary Ann Van Osdell. After reading “I Dare Me” where author Lu Ann Cahn did something new every day for a year, Van Osdell tried something new for 40 days for Lent 2017 (and longer) along with her regular Lenten sacrifice. And instead of saying “I NEVER”…she can say “HAVE YOU EVER?” People say: “I can't, I'm too old, I will look stupid.” But you can. And you are enough. Lu Ann Cahn survived a large intestine removal at 33, breast cancer at 35 and kidney cancer at 45. Her daughter thought of the first idea and it helped her get up every day. Van Osdell will share the author’s firsts as well as her own.

Cost: $5, nonresidents. Registration is required.