Throughout Aurora’s history, certain fires have left an indelible mark on the community—blazes so massive and devastating that they became stories passed down through generations. Burned Into Memory explores the city’s most infamous infernos, from the destruction of the Stolp Woolen Mill to the Cottonmill Fire, the tragic Woolworth Fire, and many more. Through historical accounts, photographs, and firsthand recollections, this presentation delves into the impact these fires had on Aurora’s landscape, its people, and the lessons learned from each disaster. Presented by Tracy Duran, Board Vice President of the Aurora Regional Fire Museum.

Location: Aurora Regional Fire Museum, second floor.

Activity Level - On your feet

Co-organizer: Carolyn Hopkins

Participants will tour the exhibit "Eye to Eye" which will feature the work of over 30 different artists. Once a rare luxury, good portraits are now part of our everyday existence. What are the stories the artists tell when they capture one's likeness? A second exhibit, "Pokagon Potawatomi Black Ash Baskets: Our Storytellers" explores the artistry, tradition, and importance of basketmaking among the Pokagon band of the Potawatomi people. Activity Level - On your feet

Session 1 (Please register for just one session)

Co-organizer: Carolyn Hopkins

Participants will tour the exhibit "Eye to Eye" which will feature the work of over 30 different artists. Once a rare luxury, good portraits are now part of our everyday existence. What are the stories the artists tell when they capture one's likeness? A second exhibit, "Pokagon Potawatomi Black Ash Baskets: Our Storytellers" explores the artistry, tradition, and importance of basketmaking among the Pokagon band of the Potawatomi people. Activity Level - On your feet

Session 2 - (Please register for just one session)

Bob Mankivsky at Kane County Coins is back to lead another LLI class! This time we will learn about the interesting history of US Currency from the early days to current. There will be samples of currency to examine and discuss. Don't miss this fascinating class on US Currency!

Music and politics intersect in unexpected ways. Participants will spend the first half of the class reviewing the life and music of Johnny Cash, a music legend. We will then move into examining the politics of Cash regarding the Vietnam War and the letter Cash wrote in 1974 to President Gerald Ford supporting Ford's decision to grant a pardon to President Nixon and amnesty to Vietnam draft dodgers. The class will conclude with a discussion about Ford's decision to issue a pardon for President Nixon and an amnesty for draft dodgers. We will also discuss the concept of amnesty and pardons in today's political scene.

Co-facilitator: Ann Hastert

Guest presenters Eric Krupa of the St. Charles History Museum and Zachary Bishop from the Schingoethe Center of Aurora University will lead us back in time as we journey into the hidden corridors of American history and the vital role Northern Illinois played in the fight for freedom. Participants in this class will learn about secret safe houses, coded messages, and the actual stories of courageous people who boldly fought to challenge the institution of slavery. This course offers a powerful perspective on resistance, resilience and the enduring struggle for justice.

No class on Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 27