"Get over the idea that only children should spend their time in study. Be a student so long as you still have something to learn, and this will mean all your life." - Henry L. Doherty, American businessman
Learning is a lifetime occupation.
As Doherty and other notable thinkers have observed, learning continues long after our formal education ends.
That is the spirit energizing Learning in Retirement, an organization committed to continuing education through trips, workshops, classes and clubs.
Learning in Retirement will host a summer membership meeting beginning at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 27, at the St. Martins Knights of Columbus, 537 Route T. The cost for lunch is $10 for members and $15 for non-members; reservations must be received by July 21 and may be made by calling 681-6152.
Created in the early 1990s through Elderhostel, Learning in Retirement now is affiliated with Lincoln University, which provides office and some meeting space.
The not-for-profit organization now has 267 members ranging in age from 47 to 98, according to Marilyn Graham, office manager.
Among the activities are:
• Clubs for hiking, bridge, writing, book discussion and other topics.
• Classes, including four-week courses for fall focusing on state government, drawing, local history and films of the 1940s.
• Travel, including upcoming trips to Arrow Rock's Lyceum Theatre; Omaha, Neb.; and St. Louis museums.
Annual membership dues are $40 a person, although new members now may pay $25 to join for the remainder of the year. Membership includes a twice-yearly newsletter and free participation in clubs and workshop. Additional fees apply to courses and trips. More information is available on Lincoln University's website, www.lincolnu.edu, by clicking on Continuing Education, then Learning in Retirement.
Education is the focal point of Learning in Retirement, but the program offers much more - an opportunity to engage with people who share similar interests and to enjoy camaraderie while experiencing new places and new ideas.