Heartland Community College -- November 9, 2012

Today we took a sustainability tour of Heartland Community College in Normal.

Our visit began in a classroom for a presentation on the Green Institute, where institute associate director Adrienne Tucker and fellow Tim Glaza discussed sustainability, LEED certification, and green space at the college.

We then explored the campus on foot and viewed the Workforce Development Center, the renewable energy lab, Pegracke Center’s turbine, and the solar shed.

OLLI thanks Adrienne for arranging the tour and welcoming us to campus!

For more information about Heartland Community College, please visit www.heartland.edu

Peoria Civic Center -- November 7, 2012

OLLI members had a great afternoon exploring the Peoria Civic Center.

During this tour, we visited each part of the facility, including the Great Hall, Ballroom, Lexus Club, Arena, Theater, and Exhibit Hall. Staff explained the types of events held in each area, and discussed how each event comes together, from booking and marketing to the actual operation of a show.

OLLI extends a hearty thank you to Kate, Megan, Eric, and Will, the staffers who shared their expertise and answered our questions!

For more information about the facility, please visit www.peoriaciviccenter.com

Thanks, Hiram Toraason!

On our second tour of his glass studio this fall, OLLI presented Hiram Toraason with an OLLI pin. The pin, given to a limited number of volunteers each year, was presented to Hiram for his continued support of our lifelong learning program.

Thanks and congratulations, Hiram!

Farmdale Hike -- November 5, 2012

During this tour of the Farmdale Reservoir in East Peoria, we learned how the reservoir is an integral part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Farm Creek Flood Control Project.

Todd Ernenputsch, a Corps park ranger, led our group and explained how the reservoir is designed to capture excess water in a 200+ acre lake. He also showed us how the property is used for biking, hiking, and horseback riding. All of our brave participants climbed approximately 100 stairs to the top of the dam.

OLLI thanks Todd for providing another wonderful morning of learning and adventure in Central Illinois.