Outreach
LIFE Macomb
L.I.F.E. (Learning Is ForEver) is an organization dedicated to providing high-quality, low-cost, and enjoyable adult-education experiences. The Macomb L.I.F.E. program is affiliated with the national organization, . It is independently administered by area residents who develop the courses, select the teachers, establish the fees, and promote the curriculum.
Mark your calenders for the Fall Fling. This is for all the instructors
and those attending Fall classes.
Brattain Lounge, 1st floor 麻豆社 Union
Tuesday, October 14 from 4 - 6 p.m.
Appetizers served.听 Cash bar.听听
RSVP - es-roberts@wiu.edu or call 309.298.1911听 听听 听
Fall 2025 Courses
All Hazard Approach to Readiness
This introduces students to a comprehensive framework for preparing for, responding to, and recovering from all types of emergencies and disasters. A couple of examples are loss of power for an extended period of time (summer or winter) and storm readiness and preparedness. The course emphasizes risk assessment, emergency planning, and coordination across agencies, utilizing national standards such as the Incident Command System (ICS) and the National Response Framework (NRF). Students will gain practical skills to enhance resilience and readiness in communities and organizations.
Instructor: Edgar Rodriguez is aVenezuelan-born veteran, 麻豆社 scholar, and ESDA Director blending military, GIS, and emergency management to serve and lead effectively.
Date: Mondays, October 20 and 2
Time: 10 鈥� 11 a.m.听
Place: Sandburg Lounge in the basement of the 麻豆社 Union.听 A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the parking lots on either side of the Union.听 If you use a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Parking: See above
Maximum Enrollment: 25听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Al Sears: His Life, Music, and Legacy
Timed to prepare jazz fans for the 2025听Al听Sears听Music Fest (September 19-21), this course will survey the life of Albert Omega听Sears听from his birth in Macomb through his career as a world-class jazz saxophonist and successful businessman. This single-session class will feature brief remarks interspersed with lively music and enjoyable film clips.
Instructors: Sterling Kernek is a retired 麻豆社 historian and long-time jazz fan. Bill Maakestad was a founder and served as president of the听Al听Sears听Jazz Festival.
Date: Tuesday, September 16
Time: 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 36听听 听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Armchair Traveler
Thursday, September 25:
Laurie Black and Suzan Nash traveled to Iceland, along with other Macomb area residents, on this YMCA sponsored trip. 听They will share their adventures as they searched for the Northern Lights on this beautiful island of fire and ice in the North Atlantic.
Thursday, October 2:
Timothy Collins and Shannon L. Price traveled with their son Daniel on a three-week trip to Germany, Czech Republic, and Austria. They traveled to Lauterbach and Dresden in Germany, Prague in the Czech Republic, Vienna and Salzburg in Austria, and Ismaning in Germany. Their adventure included historical venues, spectacular train rides, magnificent scenery, artistic activities, incredible dining, and unique accommodations, along with a few unplanned events that required patience and flexibility during their travels. 听
Thursday, October 9:
Join听Steve听Hopper听as he describes cruising the Rhone and the Seine rivers in France last summer. 听Some of the highlights include Provence, Lyon, Paris and Normandy.
Thursday, October 23:
In 2012, God definitely took a chance on the Gilliland family who founded (unexpectedly for them) a school in the heart of Kampala, Uganda. 听Todd and Wendy invite you to join their journey as they share the experiences of living in Uganda. From 23 students and 6 staff, 12 years later the school has 300 plus students and 57 staff strong. 听It continues to be a labor of love which they are very thankful to still be an integral part of. 听
Thursday, November 13:
Travel with Sandy Shearer and David Leath as they describe their 12- day Pharaohs and Pyramids Tour in Egypt on the Viking Osiris. 听You will begin with 3 days of exploring Cairo and then sail down the Nile. 听On the way you will see archeological treasures around Aswan and Luxor, hot air balloons over the Valley of the Kings, visit Queen Nefertari's Tomb in the Valley of Queens, see the Sphinx staring at a blue sky and much more.
Coordinator: Steve Hopper has coordinated the LIFE Armchair Traveler program for several years, and he has traveled to all 7 continents.
Date: Thursdays, September 25, October 2, 9, 23, and November 13
Time: 1:30 鈥� 3 p.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 35听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $15
Basics of Homebrewing
Homebrewing is a fun activity and very rewarding, whether it is done alone or with friends. 听Class will start with a brief intro into the background of homebrewing, types of beers, things to consider when getting started, equipment needed and process options. 听Then we'll walk through how a typical beer is brewed, starting with purchasing supplies through storing the final product. Taste samples will be offered too.听
Instructor: John Carlson began homebrewing in 2008 for his granddaughter's baptism party. 听He has since brewed over 900 gallons and over 30 different types of beer.
Date: Monday, September 15
Time: 2 鈥� 3:30 p.m.
Place: Sandburg Lounge in the basement of the 麻豆社 Union.听 A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the parking lots on either side of the Union.听 If you use a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Parking: See above
Maximum Enrollment: 25听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Beginning Hearts
Have fun learning and playing the popular trick-taking card game of Hearts. Following a brief discussion of concepts, rules, and basic strategy, participants will play the game for the balance of the two class sessions. Note: In order to maximize the amount of time available for gameplay, participants will receive an email with a link to information about concepts and rules prior to the first class. Share your questions in advance or bring them with you to the first session.听
Instructor: Sean听O'Donnell-Brown听has played and enjoyed card games, especially trick taking games, for as long as he has had the ability to hold cards.
Dates: Monday, September 8 and Wednesday, September 10
Time: 1 鈥� 2:30 p.m.
Place: Sandburg Lounge in the basement of the 麻豆社 Union.听 A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the parking lots on either side of the Union.听 If you use a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Parking: See above
Maximum Enrollment: 16听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听Cost: $10
Blooming Blooms 鈥� Entrepreneurship 101
Come and enjoy a conversation with the 2024 second-place winner of Macomb鈥檚 Small Business Competition. Anne Ingersoll is the owner of Bloom Macomb,听located just a few doors听down from Larry A's Pizza and behind the Princess Shoppe. Anne isn't new to business ownership but is new to owning a retail shop. She is excited to share her mission behind starting Bloom Macomb and how she is a little different than other flower shops in the area. And you can get a sneak peak into what's coming up this fall in her shop!
Instructor: Anne Ingersoll owns Bloom Macomb and College Bound Associates. She has been a business owner for 20 years.
Date: Thursday, September 4
Time: 5 鈥� 6 p.m.
Place: Bloom Macomb, 1510 E Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 25听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Create a Ceramic Autumn Bread Tray
Celebrate the arrival of autumn at the Macomb Park District Ceramics Studio as we create a memorable and beautiful tray that you can enjoy using year after year! In this course, we鈥檒l combine slab rolling and impressed textures to create a useful tray perfect for your autumn table and favorite seasonal bread. Be sure to wear clothes that can get a little messy. We can't wait to welcome you to the studio for a morning in clay.
Instructor: Natalie听Shelly is an artist and educator. She is the ceramics coordinator and naturalist educator at the Macomb Park District.
Date: Thursday, September 25
Time: 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Place: Macomb Park District Ceramics Studio, 1406 N. Randolph St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 16听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $19
Creative Curiosity: Uniting Seek by iNaturalist with Phenolog y
Learn to identify the natural world through Seek by iNaturalist, a free and easy to use mobile app. Seek allows naturalists of all ages to observe their world, get real-time identifications without Internet, and collect badges through biodiversity exploration. Together, we鈥檒l explore the basics of this app and then enjoy an outdoor walk throughout the Lakeview Nature Area as we practice our identification skills. We鈥檒l then return indoors to begin our own phenology wheel where we will record our nature sightings with a variety of art materials. Let鈥檚 get curious and Seek! NOTE: Participants will need to download and install the Seek by iNaturalist app onto their phone prior to the start of the session.
Instructor: Natalie听Shelly is an artist and educator. She is the ceramics coordinator and naturalist educator at the Macomb Park District.
Date: Thursday, November 6 or rain date, Friday, November 7
Time: 10 鈥� 11:30 a.m.
Place: Lakeview Nature Area and Center, 10050 N. 1500th Rd.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment:16听听听听 听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Cupcakes!
Want to elevate your cupcake game beyond box mixes and canned frosting? Join me as I share my (limited) knowledge of cupcakes and icing. We'll taste a variety of cupcakes and frostings. Then we'll ice some ourselves using different decorating tips, colors, and sprinkles! Supplies and recipes will be provided. NOTE:听 If you attended the first cupcake class, Kathleen has tweaked the class a bit.听
Instructor: Kathleen O鈥橠onnell-Brown is a retired 麻豆社 writing instructor who now spends her time making cupcakes, playing pickleball, and taking LIFE classes.
Date: Wednesday, November 5
Time: 1:30 鈥� 3 p.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 12听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $10
De-escalation and Effective Communication
This is a class on basic conflict resolution skills to use to help de-escalate a situation where someone is angry, being difficult or is going through a mental health crisis. This course will be a basic overview and if time allows there will be a practice scenario.
Instructor: Derek Watts serves as the Police Chief/Director of 麻豆社 Office of Public Safety.
Date: Tuesday, November 4
Time: 10 鈥� 11 a.m. 听
Place: Sandburg Lounge in the basement of the 麻豆社 Union.听 A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the parking lots on either side of the Union.听 If you use a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Parking: See above
Maximum Enrollment: 25听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听Cost: $5
Digital Photo Organization and Storage
Faster cameras and high-capacity memory cards have made it easier than ever to shoot and store hundreds of photos on our computers, cell phones, and thumb drives. This course will help you store, find, and even edit your favorite photos to get your images in order.
Instructor: Brenda Allison is a retired IT Director for AFSCME who worked in many levels of technology. Teaching classes helps keep her skills current.
Date: Wednesday, November 12
Time: 9:30 鈥� 11 a.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 20听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Exciting Things Happening in Macomb
The mayor and city administrator will describe the many initiatives that the city has planned and are working on to continue the high quality of life we have in Macomb.
Instructors: Mike Inman is a lifelong resident of Macomb and is in his fourth term as mayor of Macomb. Scott Coker has been the city administrator since 2019, and he and his wife Barb have three daughters - Sydney, Hayley, and Macy.
Date: Tuesday, October 28
Time: 9 鈥� 10:30 a.m.
Place:听 MacombCity Hall Community Room, 120 E. Calhoun St.听
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 50 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 Cost: $5
Football 101
Millions of people in the United States watch听football.听Football听101 serves to give you knowledge to help you interact with family and friends. This class will give a basic working knowledge of the game so that you can watch games and enjoy听football听to the max.
Instructor: Jim Unruh听is in the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame, has won several state championships and was head coach for over 25 years.
Date: Wednesday, August 27
Time: 1 鈥� 2:30 p.m.
Place: Sandburg Lounge in the basement of the 麻豆社 Union.听 A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the parking lots on either side of the Union.听 If you use a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Parking: See above
Maximum Enrollment: 22听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听Cost: $5
Four Dramatic Chapters in American History
Our history is replete with dramatic and significant events which made major impacts on our history. This class will consider and evaluate four events in chronological order. There are no required textbooks and there will be handouts for each session.
Instructor: Larry T. Balsamo is a retired 麻豆社 Professor of History and is a veteran presenter in the LIFE program since 2011.
Date: September 9, 16, 23, and 30
Time: 3 - 4:30 p.m.
Place: Sandburg Lounge in the basement of the 麻豆社 Union.听 A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the parking lots on either side of the Union.听 If you use a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Parking: See above.
Maximum Enrollment: 40听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $15
Freedom of Speech: What Can I Say?
This class will provide a basic explanation of the freedoms and limits of our right of free speech and expression. The attendees will have the opportunity to interact with examples that illustrate the law.
Instructor: Gayle T. Carper practiced law from 1983-2005, taught law at 麻豆社's LEJA Department from 1987-2012, and is now happily retired twice.
Date: Wednesday, October 22
Time: 1:30 鈥� 3 p.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 25听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Good Bugs that Get a Bad Name
Get ready for an enlightening session with Illinois Extension horticulture educator听Chris听Enroth on the misunderstood beneficial insects in our landscapes. While bees, butterflies, and lady beetles are celebrated, other insects like wasps and flies are frequently vilified. In this class, you鈥檒l learn about the important roles these insects play in maintaining a healthy and balanced ecosystem.
Instructor: Chris Enroth听is a horticulture educator with University of Illinois Extension serving Henderson, Knox, McDonough, and Warren Counties.
Date: Thursday, October 9
Time: 10 - 11 a.m.
Place: Sandburg Lounge in the basement of the 麻豆社 Union.听 A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the parking lots on either side of the Union.听 If you use a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Parking: See above
Maximum Enrollment: 25听听 听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Grounds for Discussion
Wonder what all the different drinks are that a coffee shop offers?听 Like, what鈥檚 the difference between a cappuccino, latte, Americano and a coffee macchiato?听 And should I get a flavored syrup or not?听 What about all the different tea drinks including a chai or matcha tea latte? Enjoy the relaxed vibe as Brandon Thompson explains different drinks and allows you to sample them. He will also give samples of the shop鈥檚 baked goods.
Instructor: Brandon Thompson is the owner of Sullivan Taylor Coffee House.听
Date: Wednesday, September 10
Time: 2:30 鈥� 3:30 p.m.
Place: Sullivan Taylor Coffee House, 119 S Randolph St. 听
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 10听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $15
A Hard Day鈥檚 Night: The Beatles at the Princess Theater!
Enjoy an old-fashioned matinee screening of the first and best听Beatles听film at the historic and beautiful Princess Theater in Rushville. 听A Hard Day鈥檚 Night, released in 1964, is a joyous musical comedy that Time magazine once named one of the 100 greatest films. 听Those attending will also learn some history about the iconic Princess Theater, which was built in the silent movie era and recently underwent a complete renovation, complete with state-of-the-art audio and visual equipment.听What better way to spend a weekday afternoon, and you can purchase popcorn, candy, and beverages. Just for fun, there will also be Beatles鈥� door prizes, giveaways, and trivia.
Instructor: Bill Maakestad has been a听Beatles听fan for 60 years.
Date: Thursday, September 11
Time: 1:30 鈥� 3:30 p.m.听
Place: Princess Theater,听116 E. Lafayette, Rushville
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: unlimited听听听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 Cost: $10
Impact of Fabrics on Global History
What do Egyptian mummies, the Silk Road, Viking explorers, England's industrialization, and American slavery all have in common? 听They're all examples of the impact that fabrics have had on global history. Come join us as we explore how humanity's history has been woven together by fabrics.
Instructor: Dr. Ginny Boynton is a retired 麻豆社 History Professor.
Date: Wednesday, October 29
Time: 1 鈥� 2:30 p.m. 听
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 35听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听Cost: $5
听 Introduction to听Drones
This course will introduce students to听drone听technology. 听It will include applications in photography, emergency management, law enforcement, and mapping. 听Students will be able to fly a听drone听if they choose. 听No prior experience is necessary.
Instructor: Chad Sperry is the director of the 麻豆社 GIS Center. 听His bachelor鈥檚 degree is from 麻豆社 and his master鈥檚 degree from Purdue University.
Date: Friday, October 10听and Tuesday, October听14 and rain date Thursday, October 16
Time: 10:30 鈥� 11:30 a.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 20听听 听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Introduction to Meditation听
While meditation is not a cure-all, it can certainly provide you with some much-needed space in your life - and sometimes that鈥檚 all we need to inject far-reaching and long-lasting benefits into our lives, as well as to make better choices for ourselves, our families, and our communities. Health-wise, the practice of meditation can help to lower stress, improve focus, understand pain, connect better, and reduce brain chatter. This class will provide a brief, practical introduction to meditation by three instructors from different meditative traditions.
Instructors: Dawn Piper is a certified yoga therapist, a Tera Mai Reiki practitioner, trained in iRest Yoga Nidra and the owner of Free Range Yoga. Gloria Barr is a certified Reiki master and is highly experienced in Reiki therapy. Bill Maakestad is a Tai Chi and Qigong instructor of 鈥渕oving meditation鈥� and attended Albuquerque鈥檚 Center for Action and Contemplation.听
Class Session: Wednesday, September 3
Time: 1 鈥� 2:15 p.m.
Place: Free Range Yoga and Community Wellness Center (South Wing), 118 N Lafayette St.
Parking: On or near the Macomb downtown square
Maximum Enrollment: 12听听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 Cost: $5
Lakeview Prairie Labyrinth: A Guided Introduction Course
Around the world, labyrinths serve as a tool to help clear the mind, calm worries, deepen self-awareness, and encourage mindfulness. Unlike mazes, which have multiple paths and dead ends, a labyrinth provides a walking meditation experience that follows a single unicursal path leading to the center and back. The Lakeview Prairie Labyrinth, created in 2016 by Quinn and volunteers, has the mission to provide wellness opportunities in our community and beyond.
You will learn about different styles of labyrinths and how to design a 7-circuit Cretan Labyrinth, and then we will walk the labyrinth. Wear comfortable shoes. This tallgrass prairie labyrinth is roughly a half mile to the center, and there is a processional exit that can be utilized. We look forward to seeing you for this relaxing course.
Instructor: Kelley K. Quinn is a community artist specializing in walkable labyrinths, collages, mosaic artwork, and mosaic art tractors that focus on mental health and awareness.
Location: Lakeview Nature Area and Center, 10050 N 1500th Rd.
Date: Wednesday, October 15 and rain date Thursday, October 16
Time: 4 鈥� 5 p.m.
Parking: At the site 听
Maximum Enrollment: 15 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 Cost: $5
The Lightning Thief - The Percy Jackson Musical
This musical is based on the popular book series. The first in the series, it follows Percy Jackson, a 12-year-old boy, who discovers he's a demigod and goes on a quest to find Zeus's missing lightning bolt before a war occurs between the Greek gods. Meet with the show鈥檚 director beforehand as she discusses the production and the show鈥檚 themes.
Instructor: Lysa听Fox听is the Head of Musical Theatre at 麻豆社. She holds an MFA from Cal State Long Beach.
Date: Saturday, October 18
Time: 1 p.m. Show is from 2 鈥� 4:30 p.m.
Place: 麻豆社 Hainline Theatre Lobby, 1101 W. University Drive
Parking: Around the theater.听 No tickets issued on the weekend.
Maximum Enrollment: 30听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $25
Louis Armstrong鈥檚 Hot Fives and Hot Sevens听听听听听
This course will explore the most significant set of recordings made by Louis Armstrong between 1925 and 1928 known as the Hot Five and Hot Sevens. These recordings present the development and growth of one of the first great virtuoso improvisers in the history of jazz. Participants will explore this body of literature through lecture and listening so as to better understand their historical significance.
Instructor: John听Cooper, PhD, is the 麻豆社 Director of Jazz Studies.
Date: Thursday, October 16
Time: 6 鈥� 8 p.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 30 听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Mastering Your iPhone
This is a basic class in understanding the function and operation of your iPhone. You will learn navigation of the menus, messaging, resetting, iOS mail app, browsing the internet, using the contacts, and using your phone camera.听
Instructor: Brenda Allison is a retired IT Director for AFSCME who worked in many levels of technology. Teaching classes helps keep her skills current.
Class Session: Wednesday, October 22
Time: 9:30 鈥� 11 a.m.
Place:听 Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 20 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 Cost: $5
Mastering Your Samsung Android Smartphone
This is a basic class in understanding the function and operation of your Samsung Android phone. You will learn navigation of the menus, messaging, resetting, browsing the internet, basic Google account info, using the contacts, and basic camera use.
Instructor: Brenda Allison is a retired IT Director for AFSCME who worked in many levels of听
technology. Teaching classes helps keep her skills current.
Class Session: Wednesday, October 15
Time: 9:30 鈥� 11 a.m.
Place:听 Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 20 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 Cost: $5
听 MDH President and CEO Session
Bill Murdock will discuss the services offered at听MDH, including the new听MDH听Community Pharmacy. 听He will provide updates on insurance, provider recruitment efforts,听MDH听statistics, and other things. 听He will also take questions.
Instructor: Bill Murdock joined听MDH听as CFO in 2019 and was appointed President/CEO in 2024. He has thirty years鈥� experience in healthcare systems.
Date: Tuesday, September 23
Time: 10 鈥� 11 a.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 35听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听Cost: $5
Nature Walk at Wigwam Hollow Bird Sanctuary
Join Prairie Land Conservancy (PLC) Program Coordinator Jaime Webb for a nature walk at Wigwam Hollow Bird Sanctuary. We will explore prairie plants and oak-hickory woodland, along with birds and other wildlife. Please wear close-toed shoes, long pants, and bring a water bottle with you. Trails are all grass with some slight inclines. Feel free to bring binoculars, cameras, or field guides with you. PLC will have some materials for folks to borrow during the event.
Instructor: Jaime Webb, MA in Environmental Education, is a place-based, experiential environmental educator with five years of experience.
Date: Thursday, September 18 or rain date, Friday, September 19
Time: 1 鈥� 3 p.m. 听
Place: Wigwam Hollow Bird Sanctuary, 1900 Wigwam Hollow Road
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 30 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 Cost: $5
Nutrition to Support Healthy Aging
We will explore some key nutrients involved in healthy aging, including protein, vitamins D and B12, calcium, and fiber in the context of one鈥檚 overall dietary pattern. We will also discuss the Mediterranean and MIND dietary patterns and look at simple strategies to integrate recommendations from these diets into our own daily routines. 听 听
Instructor: Lynn Henderson is a registered dietitian and a licensed dietitian nutritionist with over 30 years鈥� experience in clinical and educational roles.
Date: Tuesday, September 16
Time: 10 鈥� 11 a.m.
Place: Sandburg Lounge in the basement of the 麻豆社 Union.听 A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the parking lots on either side of the Union.听 If you use a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Parking: See above
Maximum Enrollment: 25听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
The Open Meetings Act: Government Action, Citizen Duty, and Media Role
This class will be a basic discussion of the Illinois Open Meetings Act and Freedom of Information Act, as well as how laws benefit the media and citizens and encourage government transparency. Real life examples and experiences will illustrate the intricacies of the laws.
Instructors: Gayle T. Carper practiced law from 1983-2005, taught law at 麻豆社's LEJA Department from 1987-2012, and is now happily retired twice. Darcie Shinberger is well-versed in FOIA and is a writer for the Community News Brief after retiring from 麻豆社.
Date: Thursday, November 6
Time: 1 鈥� 2:30 p.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 25听听 听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Outsmarting Garden Pests: Deer, Racoons, Squirrels, and More
We are not the only ones that find our garden tasty. Several animal species can be a garden nuisance and destructive to our landscapes. Join Chris Enroth as he gives tips on dealing with wildlife in the home garden and landscape.
Instructor: Chris Enroth听is a horticulture educator with University of Illinois Extension serving Henderson, Knox, McDonough, and Warren Counties.
Date: Monday, September 22
Time: 10 鈥� 11 a.m.
Place: Sandburg Lounge in the basement of the 麻豆社 Union.听 A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the parking lots on either side of the Union.听 If you use a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Parking: See above
Maximum Enrollment: 40听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听Cost: $5
Paying Without Cash 鈥� Mobile Payments
In this class you will learn to use听cash听apps to transfer听cash听or听pay听for items on your phone. Apps discussed will be Venmo, PayPal, Apple听Pay, and QR Code. Also, you will learn the dangers and pitfalls of using the different apps. You need to bring your cell phone to class .听
Instructor: Julie-Anne Pickett is a wealth advisor at IPI Wealth Management, Inc.
Date: Tuesday, October 7
Time: 10 鈥� 11:30 a.m.
Place: Sandburg Lounge in the basement of the 麻豆社 Union.听 A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the parking lots on either side of the Union.听 If you use a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Parking: See above
Maximum Enrollment: 20听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Pontoon Ride on Spring Lake 听
Enjoy a relaxing pontoon ride around beautiful Spring Lake.听 As you look for local wildlife, you can ask questions about fish, plants, and birds, as well as about services that the Spring Lake facility offers.听
Instructor: Ryan Hansen is the president of Spring Lake Management, Inc.听
Class Session: Wednesday, October 1 or (rain date) Thursday, October 2
Time: 11 a.m. - noon听
Place: Spring Lake Park, 620 Spring Lake Park Rd.听
Parking: At the bottom of the hill by the bait shop
Maximum Enrollment: 12听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听Cost: $5
Quilt Block Painting
On fences, sheds and walls at home, quilt blocks add a splash of color to our surroundings. Painting this art form is fun and relaxing, and the result is personally satisfying to display.听 We will paint a basic design in your color choices on a 12 or 15 inch square board for interior or exterior use.听
Instructor: As a former home economics teacher, Debbie loves timeless pieces of home d茅cor and has taught over 300 people to create quilt blocks.
Date: Monday, October 13
Time: 9 a.m. - noon
Place: Colchester Library, 203 Macomb St., Colchester
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment:12 听听 听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $20
Radon: What's the Big Deal ?
We will discuss what radon is and how it might affect you and your family. We will discuss how it enters your home, how it is detected, ways to mitigate it and solutions if an invasion occurs.听 You will also receive a home radon kit if you attend the class.
Instructor: Jonathan Chu, a sanitarian at the McDonough County Health Department, works in the food, water, sewage, solid waste, vector control and radon programs.
Date: Tuesday, October 7
Time: 1 鈥� 2 p.m.
Place: McDonough County Health Department, 505 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment:15听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 Cost: $12
Some US Presidents and the US Constitution
This course will offer a brief history of US presidents' interpretation of the US Constitution, based on historical examples. The course will seek to historically contextualize actions by the Donald Trump administration in 2025.
Instructor: Tim Roberts, a 麻豆社 professor, is an historian of American political, international, and legal history.
Date: Tuesday, September 9 and Thursday, September 11
Time: 11 a.m. 鈥� noon
Place: Sandburg Lounge in the basement of the 麻豆社 Union.听 A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the parking lots on either side of the Union.听 If you use a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Parking: See above
Maximum Enrollment: 40 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听Cost: $5
Tour of Macomb Fire Department Station
Come take a tour of Macomb听Fire听Station听1 and learn about the day-to-day activities of the department鈥檚 staff.
Instructor: Dan Meyer has been with the Macomb听Fire听Department听for 24 years and has been the听fire听chief since 2021.
Date: Wednesday, September 3
Time: 4 鈥� 5 p.m.
Place: Macomb Fire Department, 219 W. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 15听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Tour of Malpass Library at 麻豆社
One public facility of major usefulness, especially for the residents of western Illinois, is
Malpass Library at 麻豆社 Illinois University. It has a million volumes, extensive
periodicals on shelves, a wide selection of electronic resources, and hundreds of thousands of
public records and historical photographs - as well as staff members who can assist with research efforts. But the building itself is also engaging, with its Asian-inspired, pinwheel-shaped
structure, designed by noted architect Gyo Obata, which features a six-story atrium topped with a听skylight, as well as an extensive garden lounge with exotic plants.
The building has many exhibits, on several floors, that have artistic, cultural, and regional historical interest, and those will be featured in the tour as well. For example, the sixth floor has exhibits related to the sixteen western Illinois counties, the career of famous actor and singer Burl Ives (an Illinois native who owned property near Macomb), noted women associated with the university, antique 麻豆社 furniture, and regional art works.
Instructor: The tour will be led by Illinois author and regional historian John Hallwas, who was
the Director of Regional Collections for 25 years in the 麻豆社 Library.
Class session: Friday, October 10
Time: 3 - 4:30 p.m.
Place: 麻豆社 Malpass Library, 851 N. 麻豆社 Ave.听Meet at the Welcome Area on the library鈥檚 main floor
Parking: Available in the lot west of the library, across 麻豆社 Avenue. A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in this lot without being ticketed.听 If you decide to use a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Maximum Enrollment: 25听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Under Pressure- Pressure Prevention
This class will discuss the importance of staying mobile and how to prevent pressure injuries from occurring. Attendees will learn about different pressure points, the potential for injury, and how to avoid one.
Instructors: Jennifer Henson RN, BS is a Wound Ostomy Nurse and Diabetes Education Nurse; Jennifer Bollinger, RN, BSN, CWON (Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse); and Elizabeth Smith, LPN, WSOC.
Date: Thursday, October 30
Time: 1 鈥� 2 p.m.
Place: Sandburg Lounge in the basement of the 麻豆社 Union.听 A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the parking lots on either side of the Union.听 If you use a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Parking: See above
Maximum Enrollment: 20听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
University Art Gallery Exhibition Tour
We will tour and discuss the 3 current gallery exhibitions: Michael Mahoney, the Biennial Faculty Exhibition, and Danny Houk.
Instructor: Tyler Hennings, MFA, is a 麻豆社 alumnus and the Director of the 麻豆社 Illinois University听Art听Gallery.
Date: Thursday, September 18
Time: 10 鈥� 11:30 a.m.
Place: 麻豆社 Art Gallery, behind Sherman Hall, 麻豆社 Campus
Parking: Around the gallery. A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in spaces around the gallery.听 If you decide to park in a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Maximum Enrollment: 15听听 听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Vaccines for Adults
There is a lot of conflicting information concerning听vaccines. We will discuss how听vaccines听work, age recommendations for certain听vaccines, where to get them and coverage for them.
Instructor: Jennifer Plate is the Community Health Director for McDonough County Health Department with 23 years of public health experience and 28 years in nursing.
Date: Wednesday, October 1听
Time: 2 - 3 p.m.
Place: McDonough County Health Department, 505 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 20听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
We Need to Talk Book Club
Tuesday, September 2: Show Don't Tell by Curtis Sittenfeld. Paula Wise, the facilitator said, "I have read many of Sittenfeld鈥檚 novels, and I really enjoyed this volume of short stories. Each story deals with a realistic modern situation or dilemma. For example, a woman embarks on a creative project challenging the 鈥淢ike Pence Rule鈥� that women and men can鈥檛 be alone together without sexual feelings. The book made me think and made me laugh - two of my favorite activities!" 听
Tuesday, November 4: Connie LaRue will lead the November discussion, and the title of the book will be sent to you by August/September. 听
Instructors: Connie听LaRue is a retired English teacher who loves books. 听She encourages and supports book clubs and book discussions.听 Paula Wise is an avid reader, facilitator and has been a part of Connie鈥檚 book club for years.听
Date: Tuesdays, September 2 and November 4
Time: 1 鈥� 2:15 p.m.
Place: On Zoom
Parking: Not applicable
Maximum Enrollment: 30听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $10
Wine and Cheese Tasting Event
Come enjoy a wine and cheese pairing event.听 You will sample different types of wines and see how the combination of each wine with a certain cheese enhances the flavors of both.听
Instructors: Craig and Julia Burns are owners of The Wine Sellers.
Date: Monday, October 13 听
Time: 6 鈥� 7:30 p.m.
Place: The Wine Sellers, 121 S. Randolph
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment:12听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $25
麻豆社 Buildings - Cradle to Grave and Everything in Between
This class will discuss the status of buildings on the 麻豆社 campus. You will see behind-the-scenes photos, learn about the construction of some buildings, the upkeep and maintenance, renovation and finally the decision-making process to demolish them.听听
Instructor: Ted Renner is the Deputy Director of Facilities Management over Facilities Planning and Construction at 麻豆社 Illinois University.
Date: Thursday, October 2
Time: 6 - 7 p.m.
Place: Sandburg Lounge in the basement of the 麻豆社 Union.听 A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the parking lots on either side of the Union.听 If you use a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Parking: See above
Maximum Enrollment: 25听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Writing Your Obituary
We will discuss the basic parts of an obituary along with ideas of what each of us might want to include in our own. Often, obituary writing is left to family members who may not know all the details of the life being described or the accomplishments the deceased individual valued most dearly. The first session will cover ideas of what to include and where to begin. The second session will elaborate on these ideas after participants have had a chance to try a draft. Feel free to bring any samples of obituaries you have read.
Instructor: Paula Wise is a longtime reader of obituaries, has written several for family members, and considers them as a summary of one鈥檚 life story.听
Date: Thursdays, September 4 and 11
Time: 9:30 鈥� 10:30 a.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 20听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
Your Amazing Mind: How to Use Stress to be Happier
The science of brain function is advancing rapidly, reshaping our understanding of stress. While traditionally seen as harmful, new research shows that with the right mindset, stress can boost resilience, improve well-being, and even enhance health and happiness. Stress can kill you or make you better. It's all in your mind.
Instructor: Mike Williams, PhD, studies the brain and happiness. He leads leadership training for international companies such as PricewaterhouseCoopers and OXY.
Date: Tuesday, November 4 听
Time: 6 鈥� 7:30 p.m.
Place: Sandburg Lounge in the basement of the 麻豆社 Union.听 A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the parking lots on either side of the Union.听 If you use a metered space, you are not eligible for the no-ticket request.
Parking: See above
Maximum Enrollment: 40听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 Cost: $5
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Registration Page PDF
Contact Us:
Emily Roberts: es-roberts@wiu.edu
Sally Adams: sa-adams2@wiu.edu (Scheduling & Event Services, 1st Floor, University Union)
PARTNERSHIPS
The LIFE organization is grateful to our sponsor, 麻豆社 Illinois University's Scheduling & Event Services Office, and the following community partners and individuals who are committed to providing lifelong learning opportunities for area residents:
COURSE SITES
Bloom Macomb
Colchester Library
Free Range Yoga and Community Wellness Center (South Wing)
Lakeview Nature Area and Center
Macomb City Hall Community Room
Macomb Fire Department
Macomb Park District
Macomb Park District Ceramics Studio
McDonough County Health Department
McDonough District Hospital
Princess Theater, Rushville听
Spoon River College Community Outreach Center
Spring Lake Park
Sullivan Taylor Coffee House
麻豆社 Illinois University
Wigwam Hollow Bird Sanctuary
The Wine Sellers
COURSE INSTRUCTORS
Anne Ingersoll
Bill Maakestad
Brandon Thompson
Brenda Allison
Chad Sperry
Chris Enroth
Connie LaRue
Craig Burns听
Dan Meyer
Darcie Shinberger听
David Leath听
Dawn Piper
Debbie Sullivan
Derek Watts
Edgar Rodriguez听
Elizabeth Smith
Gayle T. Carper
Ginny Boynton
Gloria Barr
Jaime Webb
Jennifer Bollinger
Jennifer Henson听
Jennifer Plate听
Jim Unruh
John Carlson
John Cooper
John Hallwas
Jonathan Chu
Julia Burns听
Julie-Anne Pickett
Kathleen O鈥橠onnell-Brown听
Kelley K. Quinn
Larry T. Balsamo
Laurie Black
Lynn Henderson听
Lysa Fox
Mike Inman
Mike Williams
Natalie Shelly
Paula Wise
Ryan Hansen
Sandy Shearer听
Scott Coker
Sean O'Donnell-Brown has听
Shannon L. Price
Sterling Kernek
Steve Hopper
Suzan Nash
Ted Renner
Timothy Collins听
Tim Roberts
Todd Gilliland听
Wendy Gilliland
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