Excel Foundry -- November 9, 2011

On this trip, we learned about Excel, which specializes in the design, manufacture, and supply of replacement parts for equipment used in open pit mining and aggregate production.

During the tour, we saw first-hand how the company engineers site-specific spare parts for cone crushers, hydraulic excavators, electric rope shovels, and more.

Rockford - November 1, 2011

Jim Wilhelm, host of WTVP’s “Illinois Adventure” series, was back by popular demand to accompany us on another trip – this time to two unique sites in Rockford.

Our first stop was a tour of Historic Auto Attractions, a 36,000 square-foot facility that features the world’s largest collection of presidential limousines. After lunch, we toured the 1865 Tinker Swiss Cottage, a rare example of Victorian exotic architecture.

Gilded Age Homes -- October 27, 2011

OLLI teamed with the Fine Arts Society of Peoria for unique tours of the Samuel Nickerson Mansion (Driehaus Museum), the Glessner House, and the Clarke House.

Between tours, we dined at Lawry’s Prime Rib, formerly known as the Leander H. McCormick Mansion, and learned about its storied history.

Bennett Johnson, retired architect and frequent OLLI instructor, accompanied our group to provide insight throughout the day.