Owatonna Community Education

Current research shows lifestyle and diet have a big effect on how the brain ages. Cognitive function, which covers all aspects of perceiving, thinking, and reasoning can improve. And the very good news is no matter what your age, there are things you can begin to do today to improve how quickly and effectively brain cells communicate with each other. In this live, online class we'll discuss which "superfoods" reduce the damaging effects of toxins and inflammation on the brain and which nutrients are great for memory, attention, processing information, and reducing stress. You'll learn simple strategies to help your brain stay healthy and alert.

Are you interested in becoming a foster parent for children? MN Prairie County Alliance is offering a complimentary informational session regarding child foster care and the child foster care licensing process. Interested applicants who live in Steele, Dodge or Waseca County will learn about what to expect when becoming a foster parent and be guided step-by-step as you get your child foster care license.

Do supermarket shelves full of olive oil leave you feeling overwhelmed? Unsure what to look for on labels—or how to tell flavor and freshness apart? Curious about the quality of what you’re really buying? Discover the world of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) in this flavorful, hands-on, food pairing sampler class! Learn proper storage techniques and explore the three key elements of olive oil flavor. You’ll taste six distinctive oils—from mild to robust—sourced from Greece, Spain, and Italy, accompanied by interviews with EVOO producers. Plus, take home recipes and sample pairings to continue your tasting journey. No two classes feature the same oils, so return students are always welcome! Your instructor’s passion for EVOO began with her first taste of freshly crushed olives on the Island of Crete. She continues to research, taste, and curate unique oils for every class she teaches.

There are over 30 individual muscles on each side of your face, all of which can be strengthened and toned, just like arm or leg muscles. Facial exercises can take years off your appearance by reducing frown and forehead lines, reducing laugh lines, lifting and firming the neckline, making upper and lower cheeks fuller, reduce puffiness and sagging around eyes, improve circulation and nutrient flow into cells and improve lymph circulation. In this live, online class learn simple exercises that will rejuvenate your face. You will need a regular teaspoon for a few of the exercises and a little of your favorite facial moisturizer.

Heart disease is the number one killer of women. Often symptoms are ignored or go unrecognized. You have the power to control, prevent, and in some cases, reverse heart disease. In this live, online workshop, we'll discuss signs, symptoms, and risk factors for heart attack, hormones and your heart, foods that can help prevent and reverse heart disease, helpful nutrients, exercises, and the four numbers you need to know that could save your life.

Breathing in specific ways can have amazing and powerful healing benefits on the mind and body. Breath work is the single most powerful practice to improve energy levels, health, and well-being. In this live, online class you will learn ancient breathing exercises that will neutralize stress by reprogramming your nervous system, increase energy and vitality, increase brain function, improve immune response and decrease depression and anxiety.

Most people are familiar with the Ku Klux Klan in the southern states with its intimidation and lynchings, but why did the Klan come to Minnesota in the 1920s? Was their goal to have a presence in every state? What were their tactics? Who did they speak against? What specifically happened in Steele County? Our presenter has been researching the KKK in Minnesota for over 12 years and has co-authored an article about the Klan in the Minnesota History magazine. Come and learn about this surprising piece of Minnesota's history.

For years, your instructor has been gathering unusual stories from the past. In this course, participants will hear the gruesome, often tragic, and altogether interesting tales of real people! The stories may make you think of the "good old days" in Steele County a bit differently.

Have you ever caught sight of your reflection in a window or mirror to see that your head leads the way? Or noticed that your shoulders and upper back are rounded forward? In this live, online workshop, you'll learn simple techniques to improve posture and stand straighter. We'll complete exercises to help flatten the upper back, un-round your shoulders, and flatten your midsection. Learn how to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and how to regain bone mass. We'll discuss the latest research findings on nutrition, minerals, and trace minerals needed for bone health; foods that help and/or harm your bones and more. Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You will need a resistance band or tube for some of the exercises.

Here's your chance to spend an evening learning facts about the county you love and live in! We'll hear about interesting topics such as: Where in Steele County has gold been found? What Owatonna resident grew up to become the dentist to the last Czar of Russia? Who was Everett Grunz and why should we care? Where in Steele County was the lake that was stocked with salmon? This class will answer these questions and introduce you to many other little known facts about the area in which we live.

Everyone can be stronger - even if you don't get to the gym every week. Learn how to strengthen your arms, back, shoulders, chest, hips, butt, and thighs using resistance bands while watching your favorite TV shows or listening to a podcast. The benefits are endless! Boost your metabolism; maintain and build bone density, make daily tasks easier and help you age with quality and grace. Expect to learn tips and techniques to improve overall health and wellness. Please note you will need a resistance band for this live, online class.