OLLI Fall 2026_pageturn - Flipbook - Page 26
CLASSES
Each class consists of four 1-hour sessions and will
meet each Wednesday in October. With our a la
carte option, you may choose how many classes to
take - 1, 2, 3, or all 4. Most classes meet at Bradley
University’s Michel Student Center. For eight of
our classes (shaded in gray), you can choose to
attend in person or remotely via Zoom. (If you
would like to register to take the class via Zoom,
go to the OLLI Online section when registering.)
WEDNESDAYS
October 7, 14, 21, and 28, 2026
Coffee 8:30 – 9:00 a.m.
● 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. _____________________________
50 Years in Peoria Broadcasting
Your Choice
IN PERSON
Join Chuck Collins, retired
OR ONLINE
meteorologist and well-known radio
and television personality who spent
nearly all of his 50-year broadcasting career in
Peoria. He’ll share stories and experiences from
a remarkable broadcasting career spanning the
1970s through the 2020s. We'll explore how radio
and television have evolved over five decades,
from local programming and weather forecasting
to changing technology and audience habits.
Along the way, we'll reminisce about memorable
moments, and share memories of days gone by in
Peoria radio and TV.
$30 – Class instructor Chuck Collins is a retired
meteorologist and past OLLI class instructor.
Discover the World of Native Plants
Native plants are all around us—in our
neighborhoods, gardens, and even on our plates,
from squash and blueberries to raspberries. These
plants have evolved over thousands of years
and are naturally adapted to local soil, climate,
and wildlife. As a result, they play a vital role in
supporting pollinators and other species that are
essential to healthy ecosystems. This class will
explore the many types of native plants, from trees
and shrubs to grasses and wildflowers. Learn how
to create a native plant garden, select plants for
seasonal interest, and find local sources. Discover
the benefits of native landscaping, including
water conservation, erosion control, wildlife
26
CLASSES
habitat, and low maintenance. Fall is an ideal time
to plant native trees, shrubs, grasses, vines, and
perennials.
$30 – Class instructor is Patricia Melaik, Peoria
County Master Gardener and frequent OLLI class
instructor.
Exercise as Medicine: Movements to Maintain
Mobility and Prolong Lifespan
Mobility is a key factor in maintaining
independence, health, and quality of life as we
age. Any illness, injury, or medical event can
become more challenging when accompanied
by a baseline low level of mobility. In this class,
participants will learn the essential movement
patterns needed for everyday activities such as
moving in bed, standing, walking, and getting up
from the floor. We will explore practical exercises
that strengthen these movements and discuss
strategies for building a sustainable routine that
supports long-term function, independence, and
healthy aging.
$30 – Class instructor is Taylor Leontios, physical
therapist at Lion Concierge Physical Therapy
Services.
Exploring the Universe with the James Webb
Space Telescope
Discover the story behind the largest and most
powerful telescope ever launched into space.
Explore why it was built, how its remarkable
technology works, and what it is uncovering
about our strange and mysterious universe.
Along the way, you’ll marvel at some of the most
breathtaking images of the cosmos ever captured,
offering a stunning glimpse into the wonders of
deep space.
$30 – Class instructor is Nick Rae, senior
planetarium educator at the Peoria Riverfront
Museum.
Leonardo da Vinci: Man, Myth, or Miracle?
Fewer than 20 paintings by this
Your Choice
Renaissance artist survive, and half
IN PERSON
of those are incomplete, but 7,200
OR ONLINE
pages of an estimated 13,000-page
notebook pages did survive. Disorganized, in
mirror writing, and filled with breathtaking
sketches, they reveal intense curiosity and deep
