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, Road Scholar: Elderhostel Institute Network (EIN). It is independently administered by area residents who develop the courses, select the teachers, establish the fees, and promote the curriculum.
Click on this purple button to register online:
Spring 2026 Courses
FULL/CLOSED classes:
Advanced Directives and POLST Form Education
Everyone Loves Quiche
Pontoon Ride
Tour of the Goldfarb Center
Advanced Directives and POLST Form Education (7/7) FULL/closed
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, March 16
Time: 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 7
Cost: $5
Alignment Chair Yoga for Easy Living (0/20)
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
Instructors: Kathy Ganyard, a graduate of Macomb High School and University of Illinois, is a certified and licensed yoga therapist, massage therapist, and wellness counselor.
Date: Monday, April 27
Time: 1 - 2 p.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 20
Cost: $5
Allied Civilian Women and Food Insecurity in the Philippines During World War II (0/15)
This course examines the experiences of female Allied civilians who were interned in the Philippines during World War II. For this session, I will analyze diaries and memoirs of Allied women and girls, who were interned at the Santo Tomás Internment Camp in Manila, where food shortages were common during Japanese occupation. This course illustrates survival strategies used by female Allied civilians and the crucial roles they played. Food insecurity in times of war and its impact on women have been major issues throughout the global history of women.
Instructor: Dr. Febe Pamonag is a WIU professor of history. Her book, A Social History of Leprosy in U.S.-Occupied Philippines, is forthcoming from the University of Illinois Press.
Date: Wednesday, April 1
Time: 2 – 3 p.m.
Place: The Lincoln Room is on the first floor of the WIU Union.
Parking: A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the lots on either side of the union. If you park in a metered spot, you need to pay.
Maximum Enrollment: 15
Cost: $5
Armchair Traveler (0/35)
Thursday, April 2 - Steve Hopper takes you through the heart of Switzerland. Enjoy snow covered peaks and panoramic views of some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Highlights include Junfraujoch-Top of Europe, the Matterhorn, the Olympic Museum and a visit to Lucerne.
Thursday, April 9 - Barrie McVey will present her recent trip to Moab, UT. She and three friends explored and hiked Arches & Canyonlands National Parks, Deadhorse Point State Park and some Bureau of Land Management sites. This was her second trip to this amazing area.
Thursday, April 16 - Rick and Monica Iverson and Gina and Mark Anderson will share highlights of their nearly three-week adventure in Canada and Alaska. It began at the Calgary Stampede, the world’s largest outdoor rodeo. Next was beautiful Banff. The couples then boarded the Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day journey to Vancouver, where they embarked on a Viking cruise through Alaska’s inside passage.
Thursday, April 23 - Pastor Don Long takes you on a 500-mile hike on the Camino de Santiago (the Way of Saint James). Pilgrims have been hiking the Camino for more than 1,000 years on a journey that begins in Saint Jean Pied de Port in southern France, over the Pyrenees Mountains, and westward across northern Spain through Pamplona, Leon, Sarria, and more, on the way to Santiago de Compostela and the Arch Cathedral Basilica. Experience the landscapes, food, culture, people, and spiritual vitality of Pastor Don’s 32-day expedition.
Coordinator: Steve Hopper has enjoyed coordinating the LIFE Armchair Traveler series for several years. He has traveled to all seven continents.
Dates: Thursdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23
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
The Art of Chai (0/16)
In this course you will learn how to make the perfect chai from scratch. From roasting and grinding the spices, to figuring out the best chai to milk ratio, you will leave with the knowledge necessary to create or adapt your very own chai recipe. This ancient, medicinal tea is a great tradition to share with friends and family, and now Sullivan Taylor Uptown would like to share it with you.
Instructor:Eli Carter has been a barista and tea aficionado for nearly five years. Through the years, they have been developing and perfecting their chai recipe.
Dates: Wednesday, February 25
Time: 3 -4 p.m.
Place: Sullivan Taylor Uptown, 119 S. Randolph St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 16
Cost: $10
Beginning Pickleball (0/16)
See what the fun is all about with this introductory class on pickleball taught by Cindy Cavett, YMCA Senior Center Director. No pickleball experience is needed for this class. Come learn the basic rules and strategies and participate in some drills and skill training. Participants will play doubles each session. All equipment to play will be provided by the YMCA. Wear athletic shoes and comfortable lightweight clothes.
Instructor: Cindy Cavett had free time when her kids left for college so she started playing pickleball and then brought the game to the Y. She is still obsessed with playing.
Dates: Tuesday, May 12 and Thursday, May 14
Time: 9 – 10 a.m.
Place: YMCA gym, 400 E. Calhoun St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 16
Cost: $5
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, May 14 or rain date Friday, May 15
Time: 1 – 3 p.m.
Place: Wigwam Hollow Bird Sanctuary, 1900 Wigwam Hollow Rd.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 30
Cost: $5
Black, White, and Irish Soul: Three Paths to Musical Freedom (0/40)
Sit back, relax, and enjoy three joyful, soulful, and music-filled films about very different journeys toward finding both happiness and heartbreak in soul music. Background, opinions, and memories will be shared for each film—as always, class participation, along with popcorn consumption, is wholeheartedly encouraged!
Monday, April 13 - The Commitments (1991 / Director Alan Parker). Set in Dublin, Ireland, this musical comedy-drama tells the story of Jimmy Rabbitte, a young music fanatic who assembles a group of working-class youths to form a soul band named The Commitments.
Monday, April 20 - Hairspray (1988 / Director John Waters). Set in 1962 Baltimore, Maryland, this musical comedy revolves around self-proclaimed “pleasantly plump” teenager Tracy Turnblad as she pursues stardom as a dancer on a local TV show and rallies against racial segregation.
Monday, April 27 - The Five Heartbeats (1991 / Director Robert Townsend). This musical drama traces the rise and fall of a Motown-inspired soul group through the eyes of one of its members, Donald “Duck” Matthews. The film is loosely based on one of Motown’s greatest groups, The Temptations.
Instructor: Bill Maakestad is a retired teacher, amateur musician, and lifelong fan of rhythm & blues and soul music.
Dates: Mondays, April 13, 20, and 27
Time: 6 – 8:15 p.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 40
Cost: $20
Colorectal Cancer Screening Options (0/30)
This lecture will provide information on the options for colorectal cancer screening, from fecal occult blood tests to colonoscopies. We will discuss why it is so important, current guidelines, details about the procedure, and possible findings. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how colorectal cancer screening is a vital part of preventative health.
Instructor: Amber Rector is a physician assistant in the Gastroenterology Department at McDonough District Hospital.
Date: Thursday, March 26
Time: 1 – 2 p.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 30
Cost: $5
Culture and Experience in Early McDonough County (0/20)
McDonough County was established 200 years ago. This class will deal with the earliest years, before the Civil War — the coming of settlers, the presence of Indians, the creation of log homes and early farms, the establishment of communities, the struggle with harsh living conditions, conflict between residents with different backgrounds, the Underground Railroad, early educational institutions, the role and restrictions for women, and aspects that promoted meaningful community. Relevant historical materials include maps, drawings, photographs, personal accounts, and historical writings. (Xeroxed copies of selected materials will be given to the attendees.)
Although Abraham Lincoln’s visits will be mentioned, the general focus will be on everyday experience rather than noted individuals. And this will be a fascinating introduction to the array of historical materials available to the public at the premier research center in western Illinois: Archives and Special Collections, at WIU’s Malpass Library.
Instructor: John Hallwas is a retired distinguished WIU professor. He is WIU’s most well- published author on McDonough County and Illinois.
Date: Friday, June 5
Time: 1 – 3 p.m.
Place: Archives 6th Floor, WIU Malpass Library, 851 N. Western Ave.
Parking: Across from the library
Maximum Enrollment: 20
Cost: $5
Director’s Chat: Jazz Studio Orchestra Concert
Before you hear wonderful music, you will attend a pre-concert discussion with Dr. Hardeman and/or the concert director. Student performers will also speak about the upcoming performance.
Instructor: Dr. Anita Hardeman is the director of the WIU School of Music.
Date: Wednesday, April 22
Time: Meet the director in the lobby at 6:45 p.m., followed by the concert at 7:30 p.m.
Place: COFAC Recital Hall, 1020 Simpkins Circle
Parking: Around the site
Maximum Enrollment: Unlimited
Cost: $5
Director’s Chat: Orchestra Concerto/Aria/Compositions Competition Concert
Before you hear wonderful music, you will attend a pre-concert discussion with Dr. Hardeman and/or the concert director. Student performers will also speak about the upcoming performance.
Instructor: Dr. Hardeman is the director of the WIU School of Music.
Date: Thursday, March 5
Time: Meet the director in the lobby at 6:45 p.m., followed by the concert at 7:30 p.m.
Place: COFAC Recital Hall, 1020 Simpkins Circle
Parking: Around the site
Maximum Enrollment: Unlimited
Cost: $5
Director’s Chat: She Loves Me
Director Edward Lindem will host a chat and small tour of the backstage of the play, She Loves Me, prior to the performance. In a 1930s European perfumery, feuding coworkers Amalia and Georg who can’t stand each other, are unaware that they are secretly romantic pen pals. As their anonymous letters deepen into love, misunderstandings and comedic twists unfold, leading into a heartfelt revelation that the person they’ve been searching for has been right in front of them all along.
Instructor: Edward Lindem is a 3rd year MFA graduate student at WIU.
Date: Saturday, February 28
Time: Meet the director in the lobby at 1:15 p.m., followed by the concert at 2 p.m.
Place: Hainline Theater Lobby, 1101 W University Dr.
Parking: Around the site
Maximum Enrollment: No limit
Cost: $22
Eco-Friendly Household and Hygiene Products (0/25)
Do you want to purchase environmentally responsible and effective household/personal hygiene products, but you don’t know which ones actually meet these two criteria? Then this class is for you. The first session will be an introduction to these products. For the second session, participants will be invited to bring a list of products they have used, with their personal ratings, using the above criteria.
Instructors: Kathy Fischer, RN, PhD, is a professor emeritus from the Health Sciences Department at WIU, where she taught for 30 years. Mary Gillingham, RN, BSN, is a graduate of the University of Dubuque and practiced nursing in Wisconsin.
Dates: Thursdays, March 5 and 12
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
Embroidering on a Portrait Photo (0/10)
In this class you will learn to embroider on a photo of a loved one. You will get the photo to the teacher beforehand (by email or by bringing to her studio) and she will print the photo and bring to class with individual instructions. Each student’s design will be different, depending on their photo. You can bring embroidery threads you like or she will have some available, along with needles, for you to use. Bring small scissors and a small roll of scotch tape.
Instructor: Ximena Barreto, a photographer for 30 years, is a recipient of the 2025 Catalyst Grant and the 2025 Creative Accelerator Grant from the Illinois Arts Council.
Dates: Thursdays, April 30 and May 7
Time: 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Place: The Lincoln Room is on the first floor of the WIU Union.
Parking: A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the lots on either side of the union. If you park in a metered spot, you need to pay.
Maximum Enrollment: 10
Cost: $15
Everyone Eats Quiche (12/12) FULL/Closed
A quiche is an easy and classy way to eat your eggs. We will learn the basics of pie crust (this is not a pie crust class, just the basics) and how to fill your crust with delicious flavors that will satisfy your taste buds and impress your friends and family. Everyone will taste flavor combinations and take home a quiche to bake.
Instructor: Alyson Sturgis - good at life! Loves good food, people, and creating change.
Date: Wednesday, March 4
Time: 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Place: Sullivan Taylor Uptown, 119 S. Randolph St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 12
Cost: $10
Gerrymandering in U.S. Politics (0/30)
This class will examine gerrymandering in contemporary U.S. politics. It will survey the historical evolution of political redistricting and consider its contemporary manifestations. We will discuss how gerrymandering affects democracy, as well as possible reforms.
Instructor: Dr. Keith Boeckelman is a WIU professor of political science and the associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.
Date: Tuesday, March 31
Time: 4:30 – 6 p.m.
Place: The Lincoln Room is on the first floor of the WIU Union.
Parking: A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the lots on either side of the union. If you park in a metered spot, you need to pay.
Maximum Enrollment: 30
Cost: $5
History of Ukraine: From Lenin to Putin (0/25)
This presentation surveys the history of Ukraine from the Lenin era to the present time. We will explore the history of Ukraine’s national identity and nationhood and focus on Stalin’s devastating policies, the impact of World War II, Ukraine’s place within the Soviet Union, Ukrainian independence and the 2014 Maidan Revolution, and the current conflict with Putin’s Russia.
Instructor: Dr. Ute Chamberlin is a WIU History associate professor and teaches classes on German, Modern European, and World History.
Date: Wednesday, February 25
Time: 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Place: The Lincoln Room is on the first floor of the WIU Union.
Parking: A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the lots on either side of the union. If you park in a metered spot, you need to pay.
Maximum Enrollment: 25
Cost: $5
Homelessness in Our Community (0/25)
This course will discuss homelessness in our community, resources available, and what you can do to help. If you want to donate a canned good, feel free to bring one to class.
Instructors: Sally Vigezzi is the social services coordinator at the Macomb Police Department, and finds resources for those in need. Amber Clark is the executive director of the Samaritan Well, Inc., a shelter for those without homes in Western Illinois.
Date: Tuesday, April 7
Time: 9 – 11 a.m.
Place: The Lincoln Room is on the first floor of the WIU Union.
Parking: A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the lots on either side of the union. If you park in a metered spot, you need to pay.
Maximum Enrollment: 25
Cost: $5 plus an optional canned good
A Homemade Mediterranean Meal (0/14)
Savor an evening of Mediterranean cuisine prepared by the Roberts, who will bring tastes from Athens to Anatolia, from Marseilles to Marrakesh, to your dining table right here in Macomb. The dinner will include an appetizer, entree, side dishes, a dessert, and non- alcoholic drinks. If you want alcohol, bring your own drink.
Instructors: Tim and Emily Roberts lived in Turkey for six years and Mediterranean food is some of their favorite food, to not only indulge in, but to prepare.
Date: Saturday, February 28
Time: 6 – 8 p.m.
Place: Bailey House, 100 S. Campbell St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 14
Cost: $35
How Macomb and WIU Shaped C. T. Vivian (0/25)
Before he became a civil rights leader with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, C. T. Vivian lived in Macomb and attended Western Illinois State Teachers College. How did those experiences shape him? This class, based on WIU students’ research in the WIU archives and assisted by the C. T. Vivian Foundation, will suggest how Vivian’s commitment to creating social justice was shaped by where he grew up and attended college.
Instructor: Dr. Tim Roberts is a WIU history professor and the chair of the History Department.
Date: Wednesday, February 25
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Place: The Lincoln Room is on the 1st floor of the WIU Union.
Parking: A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the lots on either side of the union. If you park in a metered spot, you need to pay.
Maximum Enrollment: 25
Cost: $5
Legacy Planning for Your Animals (0/30)
Discuss and learn how to provide and ensure your animals will be cared for after your passing. Topics include leaving money for their care, stipulations for their care, designating care providers, designated care oversight, and disposition of remaining animal care funds. We will discuss important insights when making these arrangements and discuss various legal mechanisms to ensure your animal is not forgotten.
Instructors: Ryan M. Krisher focuses his practice on estate planning, agriculture law, corporate law, estate administration, real estate, and civil litigation. Stephanie Hilton focuses her practice on estate planning, probate, mediation, and real estate.
Date: Tuesday, April 14
Time: 9 – 10 a.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 30
Cost: $5
Let’s Play Oh Hell (0/16)
Have fun learning and playing the trick-taking card game Oh Hell. In Oh Hell, players attempt to take exact numbers of tricks with hands of various sizes and randomly determined trump suits. This is a fun card game for players of all experience levels. In order to maximize the amount of time available for gameplay, please review the rules and related information at oh-db.com/oh-hell prior to the first class. You can email questions in advance to Sean at endoQen@gmail.com 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: Monday, March 9 and Wednesday, March 11
Time: 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Place: The Sandburg Lounge is in the basement of the WIU Union.
Parking: A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the lots on either side of the union. If you park in a metered spot, you need to pay.
Maximum Enrollment: 16
Cost: $10
Macomb Water Treatment: Past, Present, and Future (0/50)
This class will cover the history of the water treatment system in Macomb. We will discuss the different water sources and types of treatment. Instructor: Alice Ohrtmann, the Director of Public Works for the City of Macomb, has almost forty years of experience in water and wastewater treatment design and construction.
Date: Thursday, April 30
Time: 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Place: City Hall Community Hall, 232 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 50
Cost: $5
Making Maple Syrup in Vermont – Vermont, Illinois, That Is! (0/15)
Jack and Barrie have been producing 100% maple syrup for over 30 years at their farm, Oakland Acres. Learn how they tap the trees, collect the sap, and cook it down to become syrup. Not only will you get to taste their delicious syrup, but if the syrup is ready, bottles may be for sale. You can also place an order for some if you want. Participants will be outdoors the entire time with moderate to difficult walking over steep and rough terrain.
Instructors: Jack Wohlstadter and Barrie McVey
Date: Friday, February 27 with a rain date Friday, March 6
Time: 10 a.m. – noon
Place: Oakland Acres Farm, 20526 Ferndale Lane, Vermont, IL
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 15
Cost: $5
Managing Assets Through Retirement (0/20)
This course will describe how best to manage accumulated assets throughout retirement, including how IRAs, Roth IRAs, and other investments can best be utilized using strategic withdrawals to make sure your money lasts as long as you do.
Instructor: Julie-Anne Pickett has been a licensed financial advisor since 2006 at IPI Wealth Management in Macomb.
Date: Monday, May 18
Time: 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 20
Cost: $5
My Heirs Don’t Want My Stuff, Part 2: Donations (0/50)
In the first session of My Heirs Don’t Want My Stuff, we discussed ways that people could dispose of goods they no longer want or need. In this session we will cover ways to donate belongings. There will be an emphasis on local places that will accept various donations for a good cause.
Instructors: Paula Wise is a retired psychology professor and an active member of the LIFE curriculum committee. Sally Vigezzi, the Social Services Coordinator for the Macomb Police Department, helps provide resources to those in need. Elisa Rasmussen is a professional organizer and decluttering coach. She supports people in creating comfortable, functional spaces that fit their lives.
Date: Saturday, April 18
Time: 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Place: City Hall Community Hall, 232 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 50
Cost: $5
Nature Journaling 101 (0/30)
How can nature journaling be a tool used by naturalists to explore and learn about the natural world? Find out when you register for a Nature Journaling 101 class with Prairie Land Conservancy’s (PLC) Program Coordinator Jaime Webb. The class will take place at Wigwam Hollow Bird Sanctuary. Please wear closed-toed shoes, long pants, and bring a water bottle with you. Trails are all grass with some slight inclines. Bring your own notebooks & writing/drawing supplies; PLC will also have some materials on hand. As you stroll, you will have opportunities to stop along the way and journal.
Instructor: Jaime Webb, MA in Environmental Education, is a place-based, experiential environmental educator with five years of experience.
Date: Thursday, March 12 with a rain date Friday, March 13
Time: 1 – 3 p.m.
Place: 1900 Wigwam Hollow Rd.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 30
Cost: $5
The Open Meetings Act: Government Action, Citizen Duty, and Media Role (0/25)
This class will be a basic discussion of the Illinois Open Meetings Act and Freedom of Information Act (POIA), 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 WIU’s School of LEJA from 1987 – 2012, and is now retired. Darcie Shinberger is well-versed in FOIA and a writer for the Community News Brief after retiring from WIU.
Date: Thursday, February 19
Time: 2 – 3 p.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 25
Cost: $5
An Overview of Estate Planning and Administration (0/25)
This class will meet two times. In the first class there will be an overview of wills, powers of attorney, and trusts for estate planning. The second class will provide an overview of the executor’s role in estate administration and probate as well as the trustee’s role in trust administration.
Instructors: John McMillan obtained his law degree from Stetson University in 1975 while Jeff DeJoode obtained his law degree from University of Iowa in 1989. Both are attorneys with McMillan, Hennenfent and DeJoode in Macomb.
Dates: Wednesday, March 25 and Friday, March 27
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
Pasta LIFE Class (0/10)
This class is a wonderful opportunity to learn all about pasta. The focus is specifically on paparadelle, and other egg based pasta doughs. The chef, who has worked with pasta for about 20 years, will talk about the history of pasta, how to make it and how to cook it to insure the best flavor. You will get to make your own which you can take home. You will also eat delicious pasta that the chef has pre-made.
Instructor: Raised in the Midwest, Patrick Heles lived in Denver and worked in award winning Michelin and James Beard Italian and French restaurants for years.
Dates: Tuesday, March 17 or 24 (pick a date)
Time: 1 – 4 p.m.
Place: Maple Avenue Christian Church, 1300 Maple Ave.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 10
Cost: $20
Pontoon Ride at Spring Lake (12/12) FULL/closed
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: Thursday, April 23 or rain date Friday, April 24
Time: 11 a.m. – noon
Place: Spring Lake Park, 620 Spring Lake Park Rd.
Parking: At the bottom of the hill by the bait shop
Maximum Enrollment: 12
Cost: $5
Pruning of Deciduous Shade Trees: Why, How, When and What With (0/20)
The instructor will discuss the why, how and when for pruning of your deciduous shade trees, including the proper use of pruning tools and safety. At the end of the session, he will also provide tips on how to hire a private tree service for tree trimming and removals. Note: this is the same presentation given last summer at the gardeners’ day event.
Instructor: Tim Howe has been an ISA Certified Arborist for twenty five years and served for sixteen years as Macomb’s first city forester.
Date: Tuesday, March 10
Time: 10 – 11 a.m.
Place: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, 2500 E. Jackson St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 20
Cost: $5
Public Art and Community Development (0/25)
Learn about the artist’s different mural projects from the idea to the completion of the project. Bill Howard will also talk about the history, development and different dogs in the Rocky on Parade project.
Instructor: Bill Howard is a professor emeritus WIU. He was a professor of art and taught printmaking, drawing and public art/community development.
Date: Thursday, February 19
Time: 10 – 11 a.m.
Place: The Sandburg Lounge is in the basement of the WIU Union.
Parking: A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the lots on either side of the union. If you park in a metered spot, you need to pay.
Maximum Enrollment: 25
Cost: $5
Quilt Block Painting (0/12)
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. We will paint a basic design in your color choices on a 12 or 15 inch square board for interior or exterior use. The teacher will provide all of the materials. You are welcome to bring your own permanent paints or brushes.
Instructor: As a former home economics teacher, Debbie Sullivan loves timeless pieces of home décor and has taught over 300 people how to create quilt blocks.
Date: Wednesday, March 11
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Place: Colchester Library, 203 Macomb St., Colchester
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 12
Cost: $20
Spring Lawn Care (0/25)
As your lawn responds to nature’s spring wake-up call, step in to prepare it for a year of healthy growth. Chris Enroth will talk about a few simple chores to make the lawn grow and look better. Topics in this presentation will include spring lawn improvements, weed management and a few tips on natural lawn care.
Instructor: Chris Enroth is currently a horticulture educator with University of Illinois Extension serving Henderson, Knox, McDonough, and Warren Counties.
Date: Thursday, April 9
Time: 11 a.m. – noon
Place: The Lincoln Room is on the first floor of the WIU Union.
Parking: A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the lots on either side of the union. If you park in a metered spot, you need to pay.
Maximum Enrollment: 25
Cost: $5
Teach at the Arthouse Folk School (0/18)
The Arthouse Folk School is a skill-sharing hub for arts & crafts, writing & language, culture, food, nature, and more. In this class, you will learn everything you need to know to teach a future class at the folk school, including a brief introduction to the folk school model, tips for a successful class, and information about teacher perks and payment. Light refreshments will be provided.
Instructor: Amanda Dean is a multidisciplinary artist, founder of the Macomb Creative Collab, and creative director of the Macomb Arthouse Project.
Date: Monday, February 9
Time: 6 – 8 p.m.
Place: Macomb Creative Collab, 133 S. Randolph St., Suite 210
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 18
Cost: $5
Tour the Goldfarb Center for Performing Arts (25/25) FULL/Closed
Anne Lefter will lead a tour and discussion of the center’s performance venues, rehearsal spaces, and classrooms. She will discuss the history of the center and talk about the plans for its future. “Substantial completion” of the Goldfarb Center is scheduled for March 9, 2026, so your experience allows you to see the beautiful, new facility early on. There will be a lot of walking so be prepared.
Instructor: Anne Lefter is the inaugural director of the Goldfarb Center for Performing Arts at Western Illinois University.
Date: Tuesday, April 21
Time: 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Place: Lobby of the Goldfarb Center for Performing Arts (between Corbin Hall and Browne Hall)
Parking: Park in the upper lot across the street from the Goldfarb Center.
Maximum Enrollment: 25
Cost: $5
Understanding Philanthropy: How to Be an Informed and Joyful Donor (0/25)
This class will explore the history of philanthropy in the US, discuss how charitable organizations identify and cultivate donors, and also how donors can make informed decisions with their personal philanthropy. This class is well suited for those new to philanthropy as well as seasoned donors.
Instructor: Mick Cumbie is retired from WIU and brings 17 years of fundraising experience to the class.
Date: Thursday, April 16
Time: 10 – 11 a.m.
Place: The Lincoln Room is on the first floor of the WIU Union.
Parking: A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the lots on either side of the union. If you park in a metered spot, you need to pay.
Maximum Enrollment: 25
Cost: $5
Walk on the Wild Side (0/30)
Visit my home and then my business, Boehm’s Garden Center, and explore our non- traditional, ecologically focused landscapes. Our goal has been to establish a landscape that focuses on habitat while being aesthetically pleasing and inviting.
Instructor: Carey Boehm-Corrie, born and raised in Rushville, graduated with a BS in Ornamental Horticulture from the University of Illinois.
Date: Friday, May 22 at 4 – 6 p.m. and rain date Saturday, May 23 at 10 a.m. – noon
Time:See above
Place: 21356 Turtle Lake Rd., Rushville and then 708 Macomb Road, Rushville
Parking: This will be a walking tour at two locations, starting at my home and traveling to my business in town. The sites are approximately ten minutes apart.
Maximum Enrollment: 30
Cost: $5
“We for Us,” a Photo Essay About Macomb’s People (0/30)
The photographer will explain how the photographic essay project was born, how she obtained a grant to develop it, how she selected the twelve subjects, what she anticipated happening, and how the overall project went. Come learn about it and the twelve local people chosen for the project. Visit we-for-us.com.
Instructors: Ximena Barreto is a Peruvian graphic designer and photographer living in Macomb. She thinks documentary portrait photography speaks for itself.
Date:Tuesday, May 5
Time:10 – 11 a.m.
Place: Western Illinois Museum, 201 S. Lafayette St.
Parking: At the site
Maximum Enrollment: 30
Cost: $5
Wellness-Centered De-Escalation Skills Training (0/15)
Have you ever been curious about how police officers are trained to interact with community members? Wellness-Centered De-Escalation training enables community members to “take a peek” at the curriculum, scenarios, and skills officers need to understand people and optimize interactions that can sometimes be challenging. Wellness- Centered De-Escalation focuses on five topic areas. Each topic area overlaps with, but is separate from the others. It is not necessary to attend all, but you are certainly welcome to.
Choose the one/s you want to attend:
- What is De-escalation? Introduction to De-Escalation Skills Training (includes a simulation experience)
- Human Reactions to Police Encounters
- Managing My Responses to an Encounter
- Identifying and Managing Challenges for Others
- Peer Interactions, Self-Care, and Caring for Others (includes a simulation experience)
Instructors: Dr. Kim McClure is a distinguished WIU professor in psychology and project director of the COPS De-Escalation Training through Active Learning (DeTal) Assessment and Research Center. Derek Watts is the Police Chief/Director of the WIU Office of Public Safety. Other co-facilitators will also share their expertise in de-escalation.
Dates: Sessions are held on Mondays.
- February 9 (What is De-Escalation?)
- February 23 (Human Reactions)
- March 23 (Managing My Responses)
- April 20 (Identifying/Managing for Others)
- May 11 (Peer Interactions)
Time: 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Place: The Lincoln Room is on the first floor of the WIU Union.
Parking: A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the lots on either side of the union. If you park in a metered spot, you need to pay.
Maximum Enrollment: 15
Cost: $5 per class or $20 for all
We Need to Talk Book Club (0/25)
Tuesday, March 3 -The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams Set during the height of the women’s suffrage movement and with the Great War looming, The Dictionary of Lost Words reveals a lost narrative, hidden between the lines of a history written by men. Inspired by actual events, author Pip Williams has delved into the archives of the Oxford English Dictionary to tell this highly original story. The Dictionary of Lost Words is a delightful, lyrical, and deeply thought-provoking celebration of words and the power of language to shape the world.
Tuesday, May 5 - Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury Nearly seventy years after its original publication, Ray Bradbury’s internationally acclaimed novel Fahrenheit 451 stands as a classic of world literature set in a bleak, dystopian future. Today its message has grown more relevant than ever before. Guy Montag is a fireman. His job is to destroy the most illegal of commodities, the printed book, along with the houses in which they are hidden. Montag never questions the destruction and ruin his actions produce, returning each day to his bland life and wife, Mildred, who spends all day with her television “family.” But when he meets an eccentric young neighbor, Clarisse, who introduces him to a past where people didn’t live in fear and to a present where one sees the world through the ideas in books instead of the mindless chatter of television, Montag begins to question everything he has ever known.
Instructor: Connie LaRue is a retired English teacher who loves books. She encourages and supports book clubs and book discussions.
Date: Tuesdays, March 3, May 5
Time: 1 – 2 p.m.
Place: On Zoom
Parking: Not applicable
Maximum Enrollment: 25
Cost: $5
What Does it Mean to Be an Organic Gardener? (0/30)
Growing your own vegetables offers more than just fresh produce—it’s a chance to cultivate a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. Chris Enroth will guide participants through the essentials of planning a productive garden, including irrigation strategies, composting systems, vegetable selection, and integrated pest management. As we dig into garden design, we’ll also explore the growing interest in organic gardening practices, especially the use of organic pesticides. Are they truly safer than synthetic options? With home landscapes often receiving more pesticides per acre than commercial farms, this session will help you make informed decisions about pest control while keeping your garden green.
Instructor:Chris Enroth is a horticulture educator with University of Illinois Extension serving Henderson, Knox, McDonough, and Warren Counties.
Date: Thursday, April 2
Time: 10 – 11 a.m.
Place: The Lincoln Room is on the 1st floor of the WIU Union.
Parking:A no-ticket request will be made for this class so you can park in the lots on either side of the union. If you park in a metered spot, you need to pay.
Maximum Enrollment: 30
Cost: $5
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
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
Spoon River College Community Outreach Center
Spring Lake Park
Sullivan Taylor Coffee House
Western 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
Dan Meyer
Darcie Shinberger
David Leath
Dawn Piper
Debbie Sullivan
Derek Watts
Edgar Rodriguez
Elizabeth Smith
Gayle T. Carper
Ginny Boynton
Gloria Barr
Jaime Webb
Jennifer Bollinger
Jennifer Henson
Jennifer Plate
Jim Unruh
John Carlson
John Cooper
John Hallwas
Jonathan Chu
Julia Burns
Julie-Anne Pickett
Kathleen O’Donnell-Brown
Kelley K. Quinn
Larry T. Balsamo
Laurie Black
Lynn Henderson
Lysa Fox
Mike Inman
Mike Williams
Natalie Shelly
Paula Wise
Ryan Hansen
Sandy Shearer
Scott Coker
Sean O'Donnell-Brown
Shannon L. Price
Sterling Kernek
Steve Hopper
Suzan Nash
Ted Renner
Timothy Collins
Tim Roberts
Todd Gilliland
Wendy Gilliland
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