OLLI Spring 2026_pageturn - Flipbook - Page 30
Gene Ramsay
getting a few
pointers during
an OLLI trip to
the Caterpillar
Demonstration
Center.
● 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. _____________________________
All Created Equal: America’s Unfinished Promise
The Declaration of Independence proudly
proclaims that “all men are created equal”, and
universally endowed with a right to “life, liberty,
and the pursuit of happiness”. But Thomas
Jefferson’s lofty words quoted here set a standard
higher than the nation itself could then meet.
Since 1776, leaders and everyday Americans have
fought to expand rights and find a place at the
table of equality for all, especially Blacks, women,
workers, immigrants and Native Americans. We’ll
chart that 250-year journey toward equality,
celebrate its milestones and lament where it’s
fallen short. In both 1776 and now, America’s
history is always a work in progress—a bold
promise still being written.
$30 – Class instructor is John Brady, semi-retired
attorney and frequent OLLI instructor.
Get Your Kicks on Route 66
2026 is the 100th anniversary of this iconic
highway! Join us for an engaging look at the
people, places, and stories that make Route 66
legendary. Discover why “friends don’t let friends
drive the Interstate,” and explore the road’s
journey from its inception in 1926, through its
decline in 1985, to its modern-day revival. Travel
the full 2,448 miles of the Mother Road across
eight states as we revisit classic attractions,
historic sites, and memorable characters—
including notable women who shaped Route
66 history. We’ll also highlight plans from the
Federal Route 66 Centennial Commission and
the eight state commissions for the upcoming
centennial celebrations.
$30 – Class instructor is Paul Buck, longtime
OLLI member and Route 66 enthusiast.
30
CLASSES
Influence Is Power: The Women Who Shaped
the History of Rome
Julius Caesar, Augustus, and
Your Choice
Nero, the famed leaders of
IN PERSON
Rome, are well known. But what
OR ONLINE
about the women who, through
their influence, wielded great power over these
men and, in turn, shaped the history of Rome?
Some, like Cleopatra, lived lives full of intrigue,
while others worked quietly behind the
scenes to guide the men in power. Drawing
on historical writings, archaeological evidence,
and modern scholarship, this class will
introduce you to the remarkable women who
helped shape the course of Roman history.
$30 – Class instructor is Janene Mattingly,
retired Latin teacher, Avid Italy traveler, and
frequent OLLI instructor.
The Parables– More Than Just a Story
The Oxford Dictionary defines a parable as “ a
simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual
lesson, as told by Jesus in the Gospels”
In this class, we will look at some of the parables
told by Jesus and put them into context when
they were first spoken, and explore what lessons
we learn from them today. We’ll use guidelines
laid out by Josh Scott in his book, Parables:
Putting Jesus’s Stories in Their Place, to come
with an open mind, be willing to see the parable
in a new light, to be comfortable in being made
uncomfortable and to be challenged by the
story and to think what if Jesus is telling us the
parable to announce that heaven is here on earth.
Participants are invited to come and wrestle with
the parables and join the dialog that has been told
throughout the ages.
$30 – Class instructor is Reverend Ed Wegele,
Senior Minister at First Federated Church in Peoria.
Pilots Need Heroes Too! The Aircraft Mechanic
Ever wondered what it takes to become an aircraft
mechanic—or even an aircraft inspector? We’ll
discuss what’s required to become a certified
Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic, and
gain an understanding of what a Fixed Base
Operation (FBO) is. We’ll also explore how the
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) supports
and regulates mechanics in the aviation industry.
All aircraft require annual inspections and accurate
logbook documentation—discover why these are
essential for safety and compliance. We’ll also
learn about the differences between fabric, sheet
