Pullman / Devil in the White City -- August 18

Forty-two OLLI members spent a beautiful day in Chicago touring several historic sites in the city.

The day included a visit to the Pullman State Historic Site, where we were escorted through the surviving portions of an industrial complex developed in the 1880s by George Pullman. The tycoon, whose company built luxury railroad passenger cars, designed the country's first planned industrial community to house workers employed by his factory. Pullman believed that superior living quarters in a setting far from urban problems would attract good employees and enhance productivity.

We also discovered the mystique of the Hyde Park neighborhood, home of sites associated with the Columbian Exposition of 1893 and described in Erik Larson's bestseller The Devil in the White City.

Canoeing at Emiquon -- June 29, 2011

The rainy spring led to high water levels on the Sangamon River, so we made a last-minute change to our canoeing itinerary and headed to Emiquon Preserve in Lewistown instead!

Scott Hewitt, expert canoeist and interpreter, accompanied our group and provided a canoeing lesson followed by several hours on the water.

OLLI thanks Scott for his wonderful presentations and assistance on this trip.

Illinois Shakespeare Festival -- June 23, 2011

OLLI's summer tradition of a patio picnic and performance at the Illinois Shakespeare Festival continued with a visit to Ewing Manor to see the opening night performance of The Complete Works of Shakespeare (Abridged).

We extend a heartfelt thanks to Dr. Susan Hillabold, frequent OLLI instructor, who accompanied our group to provide further insight about the play.

Manito -- June 16, 2011

Nancy Proehl, retired member of the Continuing Education staff, was our guide as we spent the day learning about the attractions and small businesses in Manito, Illinois.

Our visit included a tour of the Jake Wolf Fish Hatchery, stops at Dianna's Chocolates, the Old Manito SChool and Jail, and Corr's Bakery. Between tours, we dined at Hawk's Grove Family Inn and enjoyed a wine lesson and tasting at Willett's Winery.

OLLI thanks Nancy Proehl for her time and effort in arranging this wonderful day of learning.