LBK Education Center to begin winter semester

For many Americans, education ends when they receive their college degree. Research has shown, however, that it’s important to keep learning no matter what age you are.

The Longboat Key Education Center, which begins its winter season Jan. 5, allows residents to do just that.

The Education Center offers more than 150 classes annually and has as many as 500 students each day. Altogether, the center receives approximately 4,200 individual registrations each year.

In addition to classes, students can also take field trips to places and events throughout the area and attend lectures.

“Nobody can find another place this size that has more to offer,” Executive Director Susan Goldfarb said. “We take pride in allowing people to keep their body, mind and soul healthy.”

A variety of classes are offered during the winter season, including art, yoga, movie, music, literature and current event classes, and field trips to the opera, planetarium and ballet.

The majority of classes meet once a week throughout the season, but some are offered on a one-time basis or for a few select weeks. A few highlights:

Beginning Jan. 21, Harold Bubil will teach “‘More’ Football for Lovers — Super Bowl Foreplay,” a class for those who are clueless about football but hope to learn more about the sport before the Super Bowl. It will teach students to understand their loved ones’ adoration of football and why they yell at the TV so often.

On Feb. 28, animal communicator Wendy Cooper will teach a course called “Curious About your Animal’s Thoughts? A Workshop for People Who Love their Pets.” The class is for pet owners and animal-lovers who want to intuitively know their pets’ needs and wants, which can create a better bond between owners and their animals.

Other courses include ones on basic Mac OS and iPhone skills, wine appreciation, birding and wardrobes.

“There truly is an endless supply of information people can learn in these classes,” Goldfarb said.

“Learning keeps the mind active and the spirit young. I just want everybody to really enjoy all that we have to offer and for them to be happy.”

The winter season is Jan. 5 to Feb. 28, and the spring semester is from March 2 to April 24.

Annual membership is $60 for individuals and $85 for a couple; course costs vary.

More information
For the full list of courses, visit lbkeducationcenter.org or call 383-8811.