Fall 2026 Courses

Enrollment updated at 2 pm on 8/18

Addictions -  (3/20)

The instructor will talk about the history of the addiction diagnosis and treatment. He will discuss the scientific thinking about addictions, current treatments, local resources and how successful treatment is. You will learn about the extent of the problem locally, nationally, and internationally, as well as what addictions are prevalent in our community.

Instructor: Dr. Rick Iverson was a family medicine physician and then the WIU Beu Health Center physician. He is also certified by the American Society of Addiction Medicine.

Date: Thursdays, October 15 and 22

Times: noon - 1 p.m.

Place: Lincoln Room, 1st floor WIU Union.

Parking: You can park on either side of the union for free, but if you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Maximum Enrollment: 20

Cost: $10

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Advanced Directives and POLST Form Education -  (8/15)

This course will help people understand the difference between living wills, Power of Attorney in health care, and the POLST (Physician Order of Life Sustaining Treatment).

Instructor: Brittney Taylor, APRN, FNP-C, practices family medicine at Macomb Family Clinic. She resides in Rushville with her husband and has two adult daughters.

Date: Monday, September 14

Time: 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.

Parking: At the site

Maximum Enrollment: 15

Cost: $10

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Aging Gracefully - (6/20)

Orthopedic Care for Aging Seniors Our bodies change as we go through life, and this shift also affects our bones and joints. Orthopedic conditions are more prevalent as we age and can seriously impair our mobility and general quality of life. But don't worry! With the correct information and care, seniors can elegantly embrace aging while maintaining their best orthopedic health.

Instructor: Dr. Corey Welchlin, DO, who was raised on a Minnesota dairy farm, has been treating patients of all ages since 1990.

Date: Friday, September 18

Time: 1 - 2 p.m.

Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.

Parking: At the site

Maximum Enrollment: 20

Cost: $10

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Alignment Chair Yoga for Easy Living - (6/20)

This introduction of core yoga principles and information about how the muscles, bones, nervous system, and connective tissue work together will help explain the way we move through life. We will discuss how what we do every day with our bodies builds deep inner strength, balance within and without, ease, and connection. The teacher, who has taught chair yoga for years, will guide the class through simple movements, both seated and standing, with chair support. This class is appropriate for all abilities.

Instructor: Kathy Ganyard, a graduate of Macomb High School and University of Illinois, was a certified and licensed yoga therapist, massage therapist, and wellness counselor.

Date: Wednesday, September 16

Time: 1 - 2 p.m.

Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.

Parking: At the site

Maximum Enrollment: 20

Cost: $10

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American Graffiti at the Princess Theater - (14/unlimited)

This is a matinee screening of the 1973 coming-of-age comedy-drama American Graffiti at the historic Princess Theater in downtown Rushville. Built in the silent movie era and recently renovated, including state-of-the-art audio and visual equipment, the theater is the perfect venue for watching this music-filled classic. Directed by George Lucas and produced by Francis Ford Coppola, it is the story of teenagers who seek adventure before high school graduation. Set in 1962, the cast includes Ron Howard, Richard Dreyfuss, Cindy Williams, Harrison Ford, Paul LeMat, Suzanne Sommers, Charles Martin Smith, Mackenzie Phillips, and Wolfman Jack.

Completed on a modest budget of $770,000, American Graffiti became one of the most profitable films of all time. In 1995, it was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being "culturally, historically or aesthetically significant." The theater sells popcorn, candy, and beverages at ridiculously low prices. For fun, there will also be door prizes, giveaways, and trivia. Invite a friend to sign up too.

Instructor: Bill Maakestad is a life-long film and music buff who remembers every one of the 41 songs in the amazing American Graffiti soundtrack.

Date: Thursday, September 10

Time: 2 - 4:15 p.m. (Doors open at 1:30 p.m.)

Place: The Princess Theater, 33 North Main St., Rushville

Parking: On the street

Maximum Enrollment: Unlimited

Cost: $15

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Armchair Traveler - (8/35)

Thursday, September 17: Portland and Columbia River Cruise - Steve and Janet Hopper spent a few days touring Portland, Oregon and the Willamette Valley before enjoying a river cruise along the Columbia and Snake Rivers. You will be amazed by the ever-changing landscapes along the way.

Thursday, September 24: Our Beautiful National Parks - Jim and Nancy Unruh will present their recently completed several years' journey to visit and explore all 46 national parks of the continental United States.

Thursday, October 1: Springtime in Holland  - Join Cindy Cavett as she shares a beautiful Springtime River Cruise of Holland and Belgium, which was sponsored by the YMCA of McDonough County in April, 2026. Highlights will include the Keukenhof Gardens (featuring more than 7 million tulips and other flowers), Amsterdam, and the picturesque city of Bruges, Belgium.

Coordinator: Steve Hopper has coordinated the LIFE Armchair Traveler program for several years and has traveled to all seven continents.

Dates: Thursdays, September 17, 24, and October 1

Time: 1:30 - 3 p.m.

Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.

Parking: At the site

Maximum Enrollment: 35

Cost: $15

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Beekeeping: Hive Inspections - (1/25)

Brad Wagoner will discuss how a bee colony works and what happens during a bee inspection. You will see some of a beekeeper's equipment including a smoker, a bee suit, and the frames inside the bee box. The instructor will talk about various problems and pests a bee colony encounters such as mice, skunks, varroa, beetles, mites, and various diseases.

Instructor: Since 2020 Brad and Jen Wagoner have owned and managed The Woods Apiary in Macomb.

Date: Tuesday, September 15

Time: 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Place: Lincoln Room, 1st floor WIU Union.

Parking: You can park on either side of the union for free, but if you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Maximum Enrollment: 25

Cost: $10

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Big Trouble in the Windy City: Problematic Monuments in Chicago's Public Art Landscape - (3/30)

Public art matters. Monuments in public spaces signal what the dominant or mainstream community believes is worth remembering. In Chicago, as in some other cities, the public art landscape has a surprising history of promoting anti-worker, racist, or even fascist ideals as opposed to their counterpoints. This presentation examines the history of some of Chicago's monuments pertaining to these three categories: the Haymarket Police Monument, Confederate Mound in Oak Woods Cemetery, and Balbo Monument/Balbo Drive. Recently, however, in Chicago, new, improved monuments are in the works. As co-director of the Chicago Race Riot of 1919 Commemoration Project, this presentation concludes with a discussion of current events.

Instructor: Dr. Peter Cole is a WIU professor of history and Distinguished University Professor and a Research Fellow at the International Institute of Social History (Netherlands).

Date: Thursday, October 15

Time: 1:30 - 3 p.m.

Place: Lincoln Room, 1st floor WIU Union.

Parking: You can park on either side of the union for free, but if you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Maximum Enrollment: 30

Cost: $10

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Bird Walk at Wigwam Hollow Bird Sanctuary - (0/30)

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 also 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 10 or rain date Friday, September 11 (Jaime will lead the walk even if it's sprinkling!)

Time: 8 - 10 a.m.

Place: Wigwam Hollow Bird Sanctuary, 1900 Wigwam Hollow Rd.

Parking: At the site

Maximum Enrollment: 30

Cost: $10

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Car Talk: Let's Talk About Cars - (6/20)

This class will explore practical car related questions and smart buying decisions, covering everything from new and used vehicles to salvage and auction purchases. We'll discuss reading your car manual and whether you need to follow recommended maintenance schedules, repair notifications, and cost estimates from your dealer. Fuel choices - regular, high-octane, ethanol free or fuel additives, will be discussed. Research sources such as Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, Carfax, and local listings will be discussed for when you are trading in a vehicle. You will learn some tips for buying a new or used car. Bring all of the questions you have about owning and buying a car as the instructor loves "car talking."

Instructor: For years Dale Sobotka has had his hands under a car's hood. He has bought, repaired, and remodeled numerous cars, as well as helped others wisely buy a car.

Date: Monday, November 2

Time: 5 - 6:30 p.m.

Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.

Parking: At the site

Maximum Enrollment: 20

Cost: $10

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Composting Do's and Don'ts - (1/30)

Join us to learn how to turn your kitchen scraps and yard waste into black gold. You'll learn about the benefits of composting, how to choose and maintain the right compost bin, and some of the best practices for backyard and indoor composting.

Instructor: Chris Enroth is currently a horticulture educator with University of Illinois Extension serving Henderson, Knox, McDonough, and Warren Counties.

Date: Thursday, October 1

Time: 10 - 11 a.m.

Place: Lincoln Room, 1st floor WIU Union.

Parking: You can park on either side of the union for free, but if you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Maximum Enrollment: 30

Cost: $10

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Cupcakes - (6/12)

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 and then have fun decorating a dozen each. Supplies and recipes are provided.

Instructor: A former writing instructor at WIU, Kathleen O'Donnell-Brown now spends her time baking cupcakes, playing pickleball, and taking LIFE classes.

Date: Thursday, November 5

Time: 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.

Parking: At the site Maximum Enrollment: 12

Cost: $15

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Director's Chat: Twelfth Night - (2/unlimited)

The director will discuss the Twelfth Night production in advance of the performance. This will be the inaugural performance in the Clow Theatre at the Goldfarb Center for Performing Arts.

Instructor: Bill Kincaid is a WIU Professor Emerita of Theater and the author of Performing Shakespeare Unrehearsed: A Practical Guide to Acting and Producing Spontaneous Shakespeare.

Date: Friday, October 9

Time: 6:45 p.m. with the show at 7:30

Place: Meet in the Epperson Gallery of WIU's Goldfarb Center for Performing Arts, 571 N. Western Ave.

Parking: An email will be sent telling you information close to the date of the show.

Maximum Enrollment: Unlimited

Cost: $10 plus you need to purchase a ticket in advance through the Goldfarb box office at 309.298.2900.

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Fall Gardening: Preparing for the Spring Season - (3/25)

The growing season may be over for many home gardeners, but there is much you can do to prepare for next year. The instructor will deliver timely tips on how to get your lawns, landscaping, and vegetable beds ready for spring.

Instructor: Chris Enroth is currently a horticulture educator with University of Illinois Extension serving Henderson, Knox, McDonough, and Warren Counties.

Date: Monday, September 14

Time: 10 - 11 a.m.

Place: Lincoln Room, 1st floor WIU Union.

Parking: You can park on either side of the union for free, but if you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Maximum Enrollment: 25

Cost: $10

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Guided Tour of the WIU Museum of Geology - (1/20)

With fossil and mineral displays showcasing the geology of Illinois, the museum is a great place to bring children of all ages, as well as out-of-town visitors. This class will be a guided tour of the hall displays and the History of Life room. By the end of the tour, you will have learned enough to conduct your own informal tours!

Instructor: Dr. Leslie Melim has taught geology at WIU since 1996, and she coordinated the move of the Geology Museum to Waggoner Hall.

Date: Wednesday, October 7

Time: 4 - 5:30 p.m.

Place: Waggoner Hall, Room 286. Corner of W. University Dr. and N. Western Ave.

Parking: In the Q-lot next to the baseball field or in the Q-lot between Waggoner and Western Hall. If you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Maximum Enrollment: 20

Cost: $10

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How They Got Their Names - (4/20)

Have you ever driven through McDonough County and wondered how towns like Macomb, Bushnell or Good Hope got their names? These names are more than just names on a map; they are small pieces of history. They tell us who settled here, where they came from, what they valued, and what kind of future they imagined for their communities. Join us on an oral McDonough County history tour, discovering how our towns got their names.

Instructor: Jerry Tyson has heard a few stories about our region in his 70 plus years as a barber. Come hear some of them.

Date: Monday, October 5

Time: 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Place: Lincoln Room, 1st floor WIU Union.

Parking: You can park on either side of the union for free, but if you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Maximum Enrollment: 20

Cost: $10

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Improving Balance with Tai Chi - (6/12)

Tai Chi is a form of "meditation in motion" that combines slow, graceful movements with controlled breathing to promote overall well-being, with clinically proven benefits for improving balance and reducing the risk of falls. While the practice of Tai Chi has also been shown to produce other health benefits, including reducing stress, increasing energy, and improving flexibility, this class will focus on its positive effects on balance. Harvard Medical School Guide to Tai Chi will be the primary resource for the class. No prior knowledge or experience with Tai Chi is needed for this beginner class. Wear comfortable clothing; sock feet recommended but not required. No mat or towel needed.

Instructor: Bill Maakestad is a long time instructor of Tai Chi at Free Range Yoga and is a professional level member of the American Tai Chi & Qigong Association.

Date: Monday, September 14

Time: 3 - 4 p.m.

Place: Free Range Yoga & Community Wellness Center, 118 N. Lafayette St.

Parking: On or near the square

Maximum Enrollment: 12

Cost: $10

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Introduction to Drones - (1/20)

This course will introduce students to drone technology. It will include applications in photography, emergency management, law enforcement, and mapping. Students will be able to fly a drone if they choose. No prior experience is necessary.

Instructor: Chad Sperry is the director of the WIU GIS Center. His bachelor's degree is from WIU and his master's degree from Purdue University.

Dates: Friday, October 16 and Wednesday, October 21 or rain date Thursday, October 22

Time: 10 - 11 a.m.

Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.

Parking: At the site

Maximum Enrollment: 20

Cost: $10

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Kitchen Hacks that Actually Matter and Preparing Some Delicious Food - (7/10)

This class is a no fluff, no fake hacks, but just the sharing of real cooking skills. Learn how to fix mistakes and season properly. In groups, you will also prepare an appetizer, help with the main dish, and assist in creating a wonderful dessert (ending with something sweet is a must because we have our priorities!) Lisa, who owned Magnolia's on the Square for 27 years, will also share some of the restaurant's secret recipes.

Instructor: Lisa Ward said, "If life had a menu, mine would read like a coast-to-coast tasting tour with a serious sweet tooth at the end."

Date: Monday, September 28

Time: 5 - 6:30 p.m.

Place: Wesley Village Community Center, 1200 E. Grant St.

Parking: At the site

Maximum Enrollment: 10

Cost: $20

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Knock Out Parkinson's - (0/20)

This course will review the basics of Parkinson's disease including motor and non-motor symptoms. We will discuss techniques and treatments for living well with Parkinson's disease, including a discussion about the Rock Steady Boxing Program to reverse, reduce, and even delay symptoms of Parkinson's.

Instructor: Angelica Hoenig, PT, DPT, is a physical therapist with 11 years of experience and is a certified instructor for the Rock Steady Boxing Program.

Date: Tuesday, October 6

Time: 11 a.m. - noon

Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.

Parking: At the site

Maximum Enrollment: 20

Cost: $10

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Lawn and Landscape Weed Management - (1/30)

Nothing is certain but death, taxes, and for gardeners, weeds. Weed control is a necessary part of managing a yard and garden that can be back-breaking and wrist-aching. Your gardening practices can affect your weed populations, and some weed controls work better than others. The instructor will discuss various methods of weed control. Whether you prefer organic methods or conventional chemicals, you will learn something.

Instructor: Chris Enroth is currently a horticulture educator with University of Illinois Extension serving Henderson, Knox, McDonough, and Warren Counties.

Date: Monday, September 14

Time: 1 - 2 p.m.

Place: Lincoln Room, 1st floor WIU Union.

Parking: You can park on either side of the union for free, but if you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Maximum Enrollment: 30

Cost: $10

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Let's Play Dirty Clubs - (4/16)

Have fun learning and playing Dirty Clubs, the trick-taking card game for players of all experience levels. In Dirty Clubs, the turn of a random card determines whether players either participate in a hand voluntarily (bidding to name trump and choosing whether to continue) or play a mandatory hand with "dirty" clubs as trump. Prior to the first class, please review rules and related information at oh-db. com/dirty-clubs. You can email questions to Sean at endoQen@gmail.com in advance or bring them to class.

Instructor: Sean O'Donnell-Brown has played trick-taking card games for as long as he has had the ability to hold cards.

Dates: Tuesday, November 3 and Thursday, November 5

Time: 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Place: Lincoln Room, 1st floor WIU Union.

Parking: You can park on either side of the union for free, but if you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Maximum Enrollment: 16

Cost: $15

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The Middle East During the Ottoman Empire, and The United States and the Middle East Post-World War II - (7/25)

In the first class Dr. Roberts will consider major developments in the Middle East during the 500-year reign of the Ottoman Empire, from the conquest of Constantinople through the eve of World War I. It will focus on the expansion and nature of Ottoman rule and some of the Ottomans' encounters with Europeans and Americans. In the second class Dr. Filipink will examine the evolution of American relations with the nations of the Middle East after WWII. From the emergence of an independent Israel, the decline of British and French imperialism, and through (and beyond) the Cold War, the Middle East has been a centerpiece of American foreign policy. We will examine how and why that happened and its implications for the future.

Instructors: Dr. Tim Roberts is a WIU history professor. Before coming to Macomb he taught history in Ankara, Turkey, where he and his family lived for six years. Dr. Richard Filipink is a WIU history professor specializing in the Cold War, US politics, and foreign policy.

Dates: Monday, September 21 and Tuesday, September 22

Time: 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Place: Lincoln Room, 1st floor WIU Union.

Parking: You can park on either side of the union for free, but if you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Maximum Enrollment: 25

Cost: $10

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The Nature Conservancy's Emiquon Preserve: Restoring and Sustaining a Functional Floodplain for Nature and People  - (3/25)

Dynamic relationships between large rivers that flood and the adjacent lands they flood onto (floodplains) support a variety of ecological processes (such as flooding, drying, and the movements of nutrients and organisms) and habitats (such as plant communities growing under, on, and adjacent to the water) which often contribute to a phenomenal variety and abundance of native plants and animals. At The Conservancy's Emiquon Preserve, along the Illinois River near Havana, we work with partners to restore and sustain a more naturally functioning floodplain. This benefits nature and people. Such benefits include improved water quality; reduced flood damages; habitat for wildlife; and opportunities for education, recreation, and compatible economic development.

Participants will see a presentation on the history of the site, planning and implementation of restoration, results to date, and current issues. After the presentation, the group will travel to two spots, generally not accessible to the public, to see more of Emiquon.

Instructor: Doug Blodgett, BS and MS in Biology from WIU, has a life-long relationship with the Illinois River, having grown up nearby and worked with the Illinois Natural History Survey and The Nature Conservancy.

Date: Tuesday, September 15 and rain date Wednesday, October 7

Time: 9 - 11:30 a.m. More information will be provided closer to the date of the event.

Place: 11554 N. Prairie Rd, Lewistown

Parking: At the top of the hill by the main building.

Maximum Enrollment: 25

Cost: $10

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Pontoon Ride at Spring Lake - (3/10)

Enjoy a relaxing pontoon ride around beautiful Spring Lake. As you look for local wildlife, you can ask questions about fish, plants, and birds, as well as about the services that the Spring Lake facility offers.

Instructor: Ryan Hansen is the president of Spring Lake Management, Inc.

Date: Wednesday, September 23 or rain date Thursday, September 24

Time: 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Place: Spring Lake Park, 620 Spring Lake Park Rd.

Parking: At the bottom of the hill by the bait shop

Maximum Enrollment: 10

Cost: $10

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Preventing Bank Fraud - (5/25)

Fraud is growing more sophisticated, and scammers target people of every age, background, and income level. We will offer you practical tools to recognize scams, prevent fraud, and confidently navigate your digital financial life. By the end of this session, you'll be able to spot warning signs, know when a link is legitimate, and protect your accounts with simple habits.

Instructors: As VP of Operations, Kara Johnson leads fraud awareness efforts, helping staff and customers recognize risks and protect accounts through proactive education and controls. Susan Baldwin, Senior VP of Retail and Marketing, focuses on customer experience while promoting fraud awareness and safe banking practices. Both are employed at MidAmerica National Bank.

Date: Wednesday, September 23

Time: 9:30 - 11 a.m.

Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.

Parking: At the site

Maximum Enrollment: 25

Cost: $10

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Real Estate Market Trends - (1/50)

Join us as we explore the current local real estate market and the trends shaping our community. We'll discuss the short-term rental market, including Airbnb opportunities, long-term rental investments, retirement living options, and what these areas look like in today's local market. This will be an interactive session with plenty of opportunities to ask questions, share insights, and engage in meaningful conversation. We look forward to an informative discussion covering a wide range of real estate topics relevant to homeowners, investors, retirees, and anyone interested in the local housing market. Bring your questions and join the conversation! We look forward to seeing you there.

Instructors: Todd and Wendy Gilliland are owners/brokers of TNT Realty Group in Macomb. Their team is Terri Gilliland, Kathy Yingling, Kyle Rusher, Noah Rusher and Bret Link.

Date: Monday, October 5

Time: 11 - 12:30 p.m.

Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.

Parking: At the site

Maximum Enrollment: 50

Cost: $10

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Running a Community Newspaper 101 - (4/25)

Lynne Campbell, owner and publisher of the local newspaper, The Community News Brief, and MidWeek, along with writer and editor Darcie Shinberger, will share the history of how the CNB came to be, the work that goes into running a local newspaper, and the importance of an independent press.

Instructors: Lynne Campbell and Darcie Shinberger

Date: Thursday, October 8

Time: 2:30 - 4 p.m.

Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.

Maximum Enrollment: 25

Cost: $10

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Scones: Yummies That Make Your Heart Crumble - (11/12)

In this cooking class you will have the opportunity to make two different types of scones - a sweet, fruity one and a savory cheddar, green chili one.

Instructor: Alyson Sturgis - good at life - loves good food, people, and creating change.

Date: Monday, November 9

Time: 1:30 - 3 p.m.

Place: Sullivan Taylor Uptown, 119 S. Randolph St.

Parking: At the site

Maximum Enrollment: 12

Cost: $15

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Seventy Years a Barber  - (2/10)

This program will explore the rich history of barbering, including the origin of the barber pole, the era of barber-surgeons, and the many changes that have shaped the profession over the past seventy years. Guests will also enjoy a guided tour of the shop's unique collection of artwork, featuring pieces from local artists and artifacts from around the world.

Instructor: Jerry Tyson, a barber for over 70 years, started when he was just 19. Back then haircuts cost $1.

Date: Monday, September 21

Time: 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Place: Barbershop, 110 W. Carroll St.

Parking: On the street

Maximum Enrollment: 10

Cost: $10

Solar, Wind and Electricity - (5/40)

Scott Coker will present on our electrical energy sources (Solar, Wind, Nuclear, Gas) and how these sources reach us. We will also discuss the national energy markets and what the future looks like, with a focus on McDonough County.

Instructor: Scott Coker is the Macomb City Administrator and is a licensed professional engineer.

Date: Wednesday, November 4

Time: 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Place: Macomb City Hall Community Room, 232 E. Jackson St.

Parking: At the site

Maximum Enrollment: 40

Cost: $10

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Tour of Malpass Library at WIU - (1/25)

One public facility of major usefulness, especially for the residents of western Illinois, is Malpass Library at Western 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 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 WIU furniture, and regional art works.

Instructor: The tour will be led by Illinois author and regional historian John Hallwas, who, for 25 years, was the Director of Regional Collections in the WIU Library.

Date: Friday, October 9

Time: 2 - 4 p.m.

Place: WIU Malpass Library, 851 N. Western Ave. Meet at the Welcome Area on the library's main floor.

Parking: Available in the lot west of the library, across Western Avenue. If you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Maximum Enrollment: 25

Cost: $10

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Towards an Understanding of Our Civil War - (6/26)

The American Civil War is often considered, accurately, as one of the most important series of events which helps to define our National experience. In this class we will investigate what caused the war and why the North won and the South lost. We will consider such issues as the relationship between government and citizen on both sides, what military life was like, what the war accomplished and at what cost, and we will closely study at least one major military campaign.

Instructor: Larry Balsamo is a retired WIU Professor of History. His main area of interest was and is the era of the Civil War. He has taught more than a dozen LIFE classes on history.

Date: Tuesdays, September 15, 22, 29, October 6, and 13

Time: 2 - 3:30 p.m.

Place: Board Room, 1st floor WIU Union.

Parking: You can park on either side of the union for free, but if you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Maximum Enrollment: 26

Cost: $20

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We Need to Talk Book Club

Tuesday, September 1 - Judge Stone by Viola Davis and James Patterson

This 2026 legal thriller is an incredible courtroom drama with some of the most unforgettable characters. Judge Mary Stone is the most respected citizen in Union Springs, Alabama (population 3,314). She holds two responsibilities - running her family farm and presiding over her courtroom. It's there she draws the most controversial case in the history of the South. Criminally, it's open-and-shut. Ethically, there is no middle ground. Essentially, it's a choice between life and death. No judge can satisfy everyone. It would be dangerous to try. But Judge Stone is willing to fight to bring justice to the people and place she loves.

Tuesday, November 3 - A Redbird Christmas by Fannie Flagg In this heartwarming novella, the author makes you laugh with her varied cast of characters. It starts so simply with an elderly man facing a devastating diagnosis, a small town in south Alabama and a redbird named Jack who everyone in town loves. But soon, Flagg weaves together a story of grief, friendship, loneliness, second chances and child abuse. Read as the community envelopes the child with love and compassion.

Instructor: Connie LaRue is a retired English teacher who loves books. She encourages and supports book clubs and book discussions.

Dates: Tuesdays, September 1 and November 3

Time: 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Place: On Zoom

Parking: Not applicable

Maximum Enrollment: 25

Cost: $10

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Why are We Fascinated by Dystopias?

From Fahrenheit 451 to Star Wars to The Hunger Games, there has been a long tradition of dystopian storytelling in our society. What do readers get out of these stories and why are they drawn to worlds filled with violence, oppressive class systems, rebellions, space travel, advanced technology, and more?

Instructor: Jaime Dylan Webb has been an educator for five years and a life-long reader since he first learned his letters.

Date: Monday, October 26

Time: 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.

Parking: At the site

Maximum Enrollment: 30

Cost: $10

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WIU Gallery Exhibition Tour and Discussion

This is a casual tour of the university art gallery. The instructor will discuss three current exhibitions: Mayuko Ono Gray, Vincent Hron, and Joseph Jesse Ovalle.

Instructor: Tyler Hennings, Director, Western Illinois University Art Gallery

Date: Friday, September 18

Time: 10 - 11 a.m.

Place: WIU Art Gallery, behind Sherman Hall, 1 University Circle

Parking: Around the gallery for free. If you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Maximum Enrollment: 20

Cost: $10

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The WIU Rebuild

This course explores how the comprehensive rebuild of WIU's largest division, Academic Affairs, was begun and implemented. The class will review the various aspects of the Division, the factors that led to the decision for a "Rebuild," and the process of the implementation of the first two phases of the Rebuild itself. In a larger sense the class will engage the following topics: the notion of the public good in higher education policy; the realities of a "state in name only" higher education budget; the significance of a university mission; and managing expectations and identity.

Instructor: Dr. Mark Mossman is a Professor of English. He currently serves as the WIU Provost and Academic Vice President.

Dates: Thursday, September 17 from 10 - 11 a.m. and Wednesday, September 30 from 1 - 2 p.m.

Time: See above

Place: Lincoln Room, 1st floor WIU Union.

Parking: You can park on either side of the union for free, but if you park in a metered spot, you need to feed the meter.

Maximum Enrollment: 30

Cost: $10

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The World of TCGs: Trading Card Games and Modern Hobbies

Did you know that the average age for a trading card game player is a 30 year old adult? I bet you didn't know that these games are played by young kids but also adults into their 60's and 70's. Not surprisingly, the U.S. plays and trades cards the most with Japan a close second. You can play online, but the real fun is in person. Come learn about the games played in Macomb, about the community and a bit about several different games.

Instructor: For about ten years, Lars Gossel has been collecting and playing board games and trading card games like Pokemon, Magic: The Gathering, and One Piece.

Date: Wednesday, October 14

Time: 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Place: Spellbound Stories, 5 East Side Square

Parking: On the square

Maximum Enrollment: 14

Cost: $10

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WWII Comes to Macomb: A Living History Event

WWII was a critical moment in world history and in the story of the United States of America. Travel back in time to the 1940s to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a pivotal moment in our collective story. There will be over 100 reenactors at this 3 day community event, but this is a special class for our LIFE program. You will have a chance to see their camps, uniforms, weapons, and to hear untold stories of everyday people who were soldiers during the war.

Instructor: Adam Bednar was a WIU History/Secondary Education double major. He has been a WWII reenactor for 20 years, five of which have been spent starting and growing public and private reenactment events.

Date: Friday, October 9

Time: 10 - 11:30 a.m. and rain delay time, 2 - 3:30 p.m.

Place: Veterans Park, 1800 E. University Drive

Parking: At the site

Maximum Enrollment: 20

Cost: $10

Course Proposal Application Form

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, Western 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

Barber

Community News Brief

Free Range Yoga and Community Wellness Center

Macomb City Hall

McDonough District Hospital

MidAmerica National Bank

The Nature Conservancy Emiquon Preserve, Lewistown

Prairie Land Conservancy

Princess Theatr, Rushville

Spellbound Stories

Spoon River College Community Outreach Center

Spring Lake Park

Sullivan Taylor Uptown

TNT Realty Group

University of Illinois Extension

Veterans Park

Wesley Village Community Center

Western Illinois University

Wigwam Hollow Bird Sanctuary

The Woods Apiary

COURSE INSTRUCTORS

Adam Bednar

Alyson Sturgis

Angelica Hoenig

Bill Kinkaid

Bill Maakestad

Brad Wagoner

Brittney Taylor

Chad Sperry

Chris Enroth

Cindy Cavett

Connie LaRue

Corey Welchlin

Dale Sobotka

Darcie Shinberger

Doug Blodgett

Jaime Webb

Janet Hopper

Jerry Tyson

Jim Unruh

John Hallwas

John McMillan

Kara Johnson

Kathleen O'Donnell-Brown

Kathy Ganyard

Larry Balsamo

Lars Gossel

Leslie Melim

Lisa Ward

Lynne Campbell

Mark Mossman

Nancy Unruh

Peter Cole

Richard Filipink

Rick Iverson

Ryan Hansen

Scott Coker

Sean O'Donnell-Brown

Steve Hopper

Susan Baldwin

Tim Roberts

Todd Gilliland

Tyler Hennings

Wendy Gilliland