Daytime Speakers

The Art of Judo

Tuesday, July 22, 2025 | 11:00-12:30pm

Michael Milicia, Student of Saito-dojo

This presentation will describe and explore the art and philosophy of Judo. Michael will trace Judo’s history and evolution and will delve into the meaning of the word Judo itself, not just as a sport or martial art, but as a guiding philosophy that holds different significance for different people. He will also touch on how the principles of Judo resonate with and parallel other major philosophical traditions throughout history, and how its practice can benefit followers of different faiths. Finally, Michael will describe the core techniques that define judo as a martial art; this portion will be accompanied by a live demonstration. Michael is presently an undergraduate Philosophy student at Oakland University and intends to apply to the International Budo University in Japan for a one-year study abroad program next year to advance his knowledge of judo.

Working With - Not Against - Your Garden

Thursday, July 24, 2025 | 1:00-2:30pm

Louise Sloan, Advanced Extension Master Gardener

Learn ways to avoid those pesky situations that lead to frustrations in your garden. Louise Sloan, an Advanced Extension Master Gardener, will share information that can make gardening a joy and not a chore. You’ll leave the class with resources that will help you and your garden grow for this season and many more to come. Louise has been an Extension Master Gardener since 2018. She is a Navy veteran, wife, mom, and doesn’t sit still very much. When not in the garden, she quilts and enjoys a good book.

A Virtual Tour of Japan

Tuesday, July 29, 2025 | 2:00-3:30pm

Shunki Lucas, Personal Travel Consultant

This virtual tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Japan. We’ll explore Tokyo’s vibrant blend of tradition and modernity, the breathtaking beauty of Mt. Fuji, the cultural richness of Kyoto, the historic significance of Nara—with its world-renowned oldest wooden structure—and the inspiring history of Hiroshima. Guided by someone born and raised in Japan, you’ll receive insider tips and cultural insights to make your future trip smooth and unforgettable. Whether you’re planning to visit or are simply curious, join us and discover the heart of Japan. Your guide for this virtual tour is Shunki Lucas. He was born and raised in Japan and relocated to Michigan two years ago. With a lifelong passion for travel and cultural exchange, he’s had the privilege of visiting over 70 countries, gaining a broad perspective and deep appreciation for global diversity. After moving to the United States, he discovered a strong interest in Japan among those he met, which inspired him to launch his own travel agency. 

Musical Dances & Dreams with Quintet Cantabile

Wednesday, July 30, 2025 | 1:00-2:30pm

Quintet Cantabile returns to Next with a program of rhythms, beauty and joy. This instrumental ensemble, with flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon and horn, brings together the “core” wind instruments from a symphony orchestra. Each of the instruments has its own “musical voice” which provides opportunities for varied musical expression. This program will include music from varied eras and cultures. Of particular note are the “original” quintet pieces by Shostakovich, Alexandra Molnar-Suhajda, and Eric Ewazen. The concert will also include “toe-tapping” favorites, including the “March of the Siamese Children” from “The King and I” and “Puttin’ On the Ritz” by Irving Berlin. Pure Joy! Kindly sponsored by Rose Senior Living.

Senior Life Advisor Council

Tuesday, August 5, 2025 | 11:00-12:30pm

A distinguished team of trusted advisors will address your questions and offer essential resources and solutions important to the 50+ community. Professional advisors will offer information about: Independent Living/Assisted Living/Memory Care, Financials, Medicare, Funeral Planning, Moving, Care Transition, Organizing, Rehabilitation, PT and OT, Home Health Care, Private Duty, Hospice, Power of Attorney, Law, Estate Planning and Respite. Complimentary snacks and beverages will be provided. Join us!

The Aging Voice and Other Throat Ailment

Thursday, August 7, 2025 | 12:00-1:30pm

Glendon Gardner, MD

Glendon Gardner, MD, a senior staff laryngologist in the department of Otolaryngology with Henry Ford Health, will discuss various conditions that affect the throat and voice box as people age. Dr. Gardner conducts research, lectures nationally and internationally, and publishes regularly on topics related to the larynx and voice. A light lunch will be served. 

Social Entrepreneurship in Action

Thursday, August 14, 2025 | 11:00-12:30pm

Coleman Yoakum, Micah 6 Community 

Coleman Yoakum is a social entrepreneur and Executive Director of Micah 6 Community, a 501©3 non-profit organization serving Pontiac. After college in Arkansas, he and five friends moved to Pontiac with the goal of helping to stabilize and revitalize a hard-hit neighborhood. Their organization manages community gardens, summer youth programs, and they are renovating Webster Elementary School, a historic building that has been empty for 10 years. Once completed, the building will become a community center that will be home to over a dozen non-profit groups that serve the Pontiac community. Join us to hear this inspiring and hopeful story!

Coffee and Conversation with the New Beverly Hills Manager

Tuesday, August 19, 2025 | 11:00-12:30pm

Warren Rothe, Beverly Hills Village Manager

Join Next in welcoming newly appointed Village Manager, Warren Rothe. Warren will share a little bit of his background, provide an overview of what is happening in the Village, discuss upcoming projects, and leave plenty of time for your questions.

Functional Exercise for Every Day Life

Thursday, August 28, 2025 | 1:00-2:30pm

Raj Thangamuthu, Physical Therapist and Owner of Empower Physical Therapy

Focus on functional exercise. This type of exercise is designed to develop those muscles that you use every day to do everyday things like bending down to garden or unloading the dishwasher! Raj will take you through some exercises that can help improve stability and mobility and can be done easily and safely at home.