The LLCC Academy of Lifelong Learning invites the public to the upcoming four-part presentation series on climate change, “The Action You Take, The Difference You Make.” Events will be held Wednesdays, Jan. 19, Feb. 16, March 16 and April 20 from 5:30-7 p.m. via Zoom.

The series begins Jan. 19 with State Climatologist Dr. Trent Ford presenting “Climate Change and Its Effect on Central Illinois: An Overview.” Dr. Ford conducts research on climate systems and extreme climate events, like drought and heat waves; monitors current conditions; and studies climate change. He says, “Overall, Illinois’ climate has gotten warmer and wetter since the start of the 20^th century, according to high quality climate monitoring data from NOAA Centers for Environmental Information.” Ryan Cadagin, 7^th Circuit Court judge, will host this webinar event.

Other presentations in the series will focus on the impact of climate change on central Illinois as it relates to soil, energy production, and hydropower and resources.

Feb. 16: “The Earth” – Soil management experts will discuss the impact of climate change on farming. Panelists include Samantha Reif, LLCC professor of geology; Ashley Curran, grant manager, Association of Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts; and Lauren Lirkins, director of environmental policy, Illinois Farm Bureau. The moderator is Karen Ackerman Witter, former Illinois State Museum director, author and writer for the Illinois Times.

March 16: “Wind and Air” – In this presentation, participants will take a closer look at fossil fuel use. Panelists include Kevin C. O’Brien, Ph.D., director of the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center (ISTC) at UIUC and principal investigator overseeing the CWLP carbon capture and storage project, and Michelle Knox, founder and owner of WindSolarUSA and certified site assessor for solar photovoltaics and solar thermal projects. Program moderator is John Stremsterfer, president and CEO, Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln and Next10.org.

April 20: “The Water” – This program looks closely at the lakes, rivers, streams, aquifers and wetlands that move, store and filter Illinois water. Panelists include Wes Cattoor, P.E., CFM, section chief, engineering studies at Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Dr. Jim Angel, climatologist at Illinois State Water Survey, former Illinois state climatologist (1997-2018).

To pre-register for these events and for more information, visit the Newsletters & Special Events section at llcc.edu/academy-lifelong-learning.

The LLCC Academy of Lifelong Learning (ALL) invites the public to two upcoming events: the fall kickoff and chilli supper.

The fall kickoff will be held Friday, Sept. 17, 1-3 p.m. in LLCC’s student union, located in the lower level of Menard Hall on the LLCC campus, 5250 Shepherd Road. With the theme “Where in the United States is ALL?” attendees will “travel” throughout the U.S. as they navigate exhibits. The event includes snacks and beverages, games and a commemorative tree planting celebrating the culmination of ALL’s Big Read project. Guests are welcome to attend, ask questions and join ALL. Guest registration for this free event is available by calling 217-786-2432. (Current ALL members should register online or call 217-786-2292.)

The annual ALL chilli supper will be held Sunday, Oct. 3 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Temple B’rith Sholom Social Hall, 1004 S. 4th St. Cost is $8 per person and free for youth ages 8 and under. The event will feature chilli made by Les Eastep, well-known Springfield chilli chef and cook-off judge. Also on the menu are hot dogs, chilli dogs, beverages and desserts, with carryout available.

The LLCC Academy of Lifelong Learning is a membership group of adults 50 and greater devoted to the lifelong pursuit of learning. With 10 to 12 opportunities available each month, the Academy provides enjoyable experiences in learning with a variety of opportunities to develop new friendships.

More information is available at www.llcc.edu/academy-lifelong-learning.