OLLI Spring 2026_pageturn - Flipbook - Page 17
Declaring Independence:
The Tumultuous Spring of 1776
Mondays, March 23 – April 20
1:30 – 3:45 p.m.
Peoria Next Innovation Center
Declaring independence from Great Britain in 1776
was not a foregone conclusion. Many colonists
hoped to reconcile with the mother country, while
others pressed for independence. The Second
Continental Congress met in Philadelphia to
decide how to proceed. We will investigate the
political debates, public agitation, and behindthe-scenes maneuvering that pushed Congress
toward declaring independence, highlighting key
figures, regional tensions, and the rapidly shifting
mood across the colonies—especially during the
nine weeks from May 1 to July 4, 1776. We will
use the book Declaration: The Nine Tumultuous
Weeks When America Became Independent
by William Hogeland, available from online
booksellers.
$45 – Facilitated by Tim Bailey, frequent OLLI
facilitator & instructor and OLLI history buff
Debbie Lewellyn.
Seats available: 20
Exploring China Together
Tuesdays, March 31 – May 5
10:00 – 11:45 a.m.
Peoria Next Innovation Center
Explore the rich tapestry of China’s history,
language, and culture while gaining insight into
its evolving role on the world stage. Together, we’ll
journey from ancient dynasties and the wisdom
of Confucian thought to the rhythms of everyday
life expressed through language and tradition.
Along the way, we’ll examine China’s evolving
global influence. We will utilize The Story of China
with Michael Wood, a 6-part BBC series available
on YouTube for a small fee, or PBS Passport for
free (if you are a member of WTVP). We will also
read selected articles and references available
on the Internet. Whether you’re drawn to
historical landmarks, unique cultures, or eager to
understand China’s evolving role in international
affairs, this group will offer a welcoming space to
learn, reflect, and share perspectives.
$45 – Facilitated by Alan and Dawn Dickey.
Seats available: 20
Big smiles,
big skies—Jim
and Sue Ann
Billimack at
the OLLI trip
to Giant Goose
Ranch
Trailblazers Light
Thursdays, April 2 – 23
10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Various locations
This hiking group is perfect for those who are
newer to hiking or looking to get back into it.
Each hike will cover 2 to 2.5 miles with gentle
terrain and minimal elevation gain, making it
more accessible than our Advanced Trailblazers
group. Whether you're returning to hiking
after a break or just starting out, this is a great
opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a relaxed
group environment. All hikes will take place in
the tri-county area, and we'll meet directly at the
trailhead.
$45 – Facilitated by Dave Woodruff, Susan
Woodruff, and Denise Hocker.
Seats available: 20
How to Make Your Brain Your Best Friend
Thursdays, April 2 – 23
1:00 – 3:15 p.m.
Peoria Next Innovation Center
Discover how to unlock the full potential of
your mind with How to Make Your Brain Your
Best Friend by neuroscientist Rachel Barr. This
engaging guide blends science and practical
strategies to help you understand how your
brain adapts, protects, and recovers. Together,
we’ll have fun exploring methods for resilience,
emotional balance, and everyday mental wellness.
Join us as we learn to build a healthier, happier
relationship with our most remarkable organ, the
brain, and apply these insights to enrich our lives
both individually and collectively.
$45 – Facilitated by Steve and Jayne Richards,
frequent OLLI instructors and facilitators.
Seats available: 22
STUDY GROUPS
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