iPad Basics Study Group -- March, 2013

One of the ways to enhance lifelong learning is by using an iPad to discover and capture new knowledge.

Ten OLLI members recently completed a four-session iPad Basics Study Group where they discovered ways to use their iPads to enhance their individual lifelong learning experiences.

Facilitator Greg Peine helped the group develop skills in using some of the basic applications (apps) such as Notes, Pictures, and Safari to capture and organize information.

According to Greg, a broad concern of the group was how to keep their iPads healthy. To address this concern, several "how to" topics were discussed, including how to clean the touch screen, upgrade iOS, backup to the iCloud or home computer, synchronize with iTunes, and mirror e-mail.

Learning with the iPad was another topic of interst to the group. Several of the free resources were demonstrated, such as Khan Academy and iTunes U.

An iPad Intermediate Study Group will be offered soon, during which participants will continue to look at ways to optimize their lifelong learning experiences with an iPad.

OLLI thanks Greg Peine for facilitating this group and for providing the pictures and text for this post!

182nd Airlift Wing -- March 21, 2013

Nearly 50 OLLI members joined our latest tour of the 182nd Airlift Wing in Bartonville.

During our visit, Colonel William Robertson ('83), the Wing Commander, led a tour to explore the Wing's mission that included the maintenance, flying operations, and air support to the Army, Security Forces, and much more. He also provided an update on the Wing's current worldwide missions.

Lawrence Morris, a retired Chief, was also honored during his visit as an OLLI member. Colonel Robertson presented him with two framed pictures from his days with the 182nd, and surprised him with an appearance by some of his former unit members.

OLLI thanks Col. Robertson and everyone at the 182nd for welcoming OLLI to the base.

Peoria Fire Department -- March 19, 2013

On this trip, we visited the Peoria Fire Department Central House to learn how its services are divided into administration, operations, training, and prevention. In addition, we saw the equipment used by firefighters, learned how shifts are scheduled, saw the living quarters occupied by the firefighters, and got up close and personal with some of the protective gear worn by the firefighters.

Precision Planting -- March 18, 2013

In mid-March, OLLI visited the Tremont, Illinois headquarters of Precision Planting, known for its planter systems that contribute to better seed space, better depth control, and better root systems for farmers.

During our visit, we learned how the company's 130 employees assemble and package manufactured parts into kits around the world, provide dealer and product support, and complete product testing.

Peoria Riverfront Museum -- March 11, 2013

On OLLI's very first visit to the new downtown museum, we enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour and saw much more than current exhibits and the planetarium.

We learned about the features of the building and practices that make it environmentally sustainable, including the site selection, lighting, ceiling fans, and even carpeting.

The response to this first trip was so great, we've scheduled two more this spring. Watch the blog for further pictures and more details of our upcoming visits!

Reach for the Stars with Scott Altman -- March 10, 2013

On Sunday, March 10, hometown hero Scott Altman visited Bradley University to speak to OLLI members about growing up in Central Illinois, his experiences with the Navy, and the wonders of flying and working in space.

Scott graduated from Pekin Community High School in 1977, and his parents, Sharon and Fred Altman, still reside in Pekin. Scott is a graduate of the University of Illinois and the Naval Postgraduate School. He has received numerous honors, including the Navy’s Distinguished Flying Cross and NASA’s highest award, the Distinguished Service Medal.

A veteran of four space flights, Altman has logged over 51 days in space. In August 2012 he became Vice President for the newly formed ASRC Federal Space and Defense.

Steve Straight, a Trustee of the Peoria Historical Society, requested permission from OLLI and Astronaut Scott Altman to videotape Scott's presentation and post it on You Tube. Please click on the embedded video above and enjoy!

A. Lucas and Sons Steel -- March 5, 2013

On our first 2013 Spring trip, we enjoyed an incredible morning at A. Lucas & Sons Steel in downtown Peoria.

During our visit, company president Margaret A. Hanley and her colleagues helped us learn about the company's long history of strong employee relationships that have helped it withstand economic downturns.

We also had the opportunity to see the fabrication process, including a welding station, bending station, burning station, voortman line, and a history station.

Several volunteers took advantage of the opportunity to weld for themselves, too!

OLLI thanks Margaret and her staff for taking time out of their busy days to welcome us to the facility. We also truly appreciate the custom-made Bradley bookends and steel beams emblazoned with our college name!

For more information about A. Lucas & Sons Steel, please visit www.alucasiron.com.