The Fine Print:

1) Release Waiver

Photographs and videotape may be taken of participants during meetings, courses and special events. Please be aware the photos/videotape are for LLI use and may be published in various LLI promotional materials. If you  do not want to be photographed, you must give us written notice by sending an email to LLI@waubonsee.edu 

2) Refund Policy

The Membership fee ($25) and Course fees ($10) are nonrefundable. If a course is cancelled by LLI, only payments made by credit card will be reimbursed. Outing and trip fees (priced individually) are refundable if cancellation occurs by the stated registration deadline.

3) Holiday Luncheon Refund Policy

Because we have a contractual agreement with our vendor regarding minimum attendance, any individual cancellation request is non-refundable.

In the event that the Holiday Luncheon is cancelled by LLI, all registrations will be refunded regardless of the method of payment.

 4) Membership

Membership is required to attend classes at LLI.  Membership is also required to register for the Holiday Luncheon and to bring guests. Guests are NOT required to have membership.

5) To Withdraw from a Class or for General Information

Please call: 630-466-2593 and a volunteer will return your call.

Now is the time to sign up for your annual membership, valid from September 1, 2026 - August 31, 2027. 

Proceeding to register indicates that you have read the above information.

Due Now: The annual membership fee of $25.00 covers 9/1/26 - 8/31/27.

Membership is open to adults ages 50 and older who are actively engaged in the pursuit of knowledge. Your membership provides the opportunity to register for courses, trips, and social events.

The membership fee ($25) and individual course fees ($10) are nonrefundable except in the case of a course cancellation by LLI. (Payments by check cannot be refunded) Outing and trip fees (priced individually) are refundable if cancellation occurs by the stated registration deadline.

Luncheon fees are nonrefundable except in the event that LLI cancels the luncheon, in which case, all registrations will be refunded.

Is poetry, which has some reputation for being incomprehensible or even deliberately obscure, worth the trouble? If you have never read a poem that has deeply moved you or, as Emily Dickinson described it, "make you feel as if the top of your head is coming off," you may not really have experienced poetry. Poetry challenges us because it uses language differently than prose and strives to recreate experiences and emotions. Learn some tactics for decoding poetry and, hopefully walk away with at least one that literally sends chills up your spine. We will read a variety of poems from a variety of eras and traditions. Although this is a continuing class, no prior class is required.

Co-facilitator:  Carl Hays

NASA's renewed lunar missions reignite debate about humanity's next giant leap. Supporters argue that living on Mars could expand scientific discovery and ensure our long term survival. Critics warn of extreme risks, high costs and ethical concerns. As we return to the moon, the question grows sharper: should Mars become humanity's next home or remain a distant dream?

Co-facilitator:  Carolyn Hopkins

The US POINTER study led by the Alzheimer's Association showed that a structured healthy lifestyle program combining exercise, healthy diet, cognitive engagement and health monitoring can protect cognitive function. This presentation will explain how brain health is important now and across our lifetimes, help us recognize actions that can help protect our brain health, and assist us in making plans to build brain-healthy habits.

Speaker:  Hadi Finerty (Alzheimer's Association IL Chapter)

Co-facilitator:  Ann Hastert

This is a private tour of the Sam & Ruth Ford house at 404 S Edgelawn Drive. This amazing home, often called the Coal or Round house, was built in 1949. The tour will include a personal fascinating narrative from the current owner, Sid Robinson, on his 40 years living there including stories about the original owners, the architect Bruce Goff and the builder Don Tosi. The home is both old & modern. It is a work of art that once inside feels livable and cozy. This is an amazing chance to visit this unique home. 9:30AM - 11:30AM Activity Level: Easy Going

Co-facilitator:  Ann Hastert

This is a private tour of the Sam & Ruth Ford house at 404 S Edgelawn Drive. This amazing home, often called the Coal or Round house, was built in 1949. The tour will include a personal fascinating narrative from the current owner, Sid Robinson, on his 40 years living there including stories about the original owners, the architect Bruce Goff and the builder Don Tosi. The home is both old & modern. It is a work of art that once inside feels livable and cozy. This is an amazing chance to visit this unique home. 1:00PM - 3:00PM Activity Level: Easy Going

Janet Peterson Smith has spent the last 42 years of her career traveling on the "reservation roads" learning from the artists who created the treasures she sells. Recognized nationwide as an expert in Native American Arts, she has judged in the famed Santa Fe Indian Market and sat on the original advisory board that established the Schingoethe Center for NA American studies in Aurora. Please join us for an amazing fact filled presentation on Native American jewelry and arts!

Speaker:  Janet Peterson-Smith