There is a white board at Curves, DTC that says, “Exercise actually develops a stronger brain. It induces the cells in the brain to reinforce old connections and make new connections. The denser neuron network makes you better able to process and store the information resulting in a smarter brain.” Is that true?

Here is a reply from Dr. Bennie Bub, a neurosurgeon certified on three continents:

There is a giant poster at Curves, DTC that says, “Play inspires you to think differently.” There should be another poster that says, “The Academy inspires you to think better.”

As adults become more contemplative about how they want to spend their time, many realize that they want something different from what they have been doing. Some seek venues beyond the gym or the golf course. Some are tired of organizing and attending charitable events. Some newly retired individuals are struck by the prospect of planning days centered around what they want to do rather than what needs to be done.

The in depth classes at the Academy are a great source of mental challenges, stimulation, and entertainment. They also provide opportunities to make new friends.

(By Don Theobald)
What's retirement for? Having the time to do what you wanted to do while you were working!

My wife and I found the Colorado Academy of Lifelong Learning 3 years ago and we've "been back" every term since!

The Academy for Lifelong Learning has a tagline: An Athletic Club for Your Mind. People across the nation are getting into Brain Calisthenics and a recent article by Pam Belluck appeared in the New York Times. Some highlights from the article are listed below:

Dozens of studies are under way. Organizations like AARP are offering tips on brain health. And the Alzheimer's Association conducts hundreds of Maintain Your Brain workshops, many at corporations like Apple Computer and Lockheed Martin.

Is it possible to do anything about Alzheimer's? A recent article by Gabby Hyman included some fascinating material. Here are some highlights:

The Academy offers classes during the day just for the love of learning. But why should adults take classes? A recent article by Gabby Hyman included some interesting facts. Here are some important sections of the article:

Lifelong Learning in Denver:

People from other states frequently contact the Academy after reviewing our web site. They don’t live in Denver, but they wonder, “Is there a Lifelong Learning Institute (LLI) near me? I am not interested in auditing courses with kids. I'm looking for an opportunity to share ideas with other adults.”

Elderhostel:

Elderhostel does a terrific job of coordinating efforts and knowledge between over 300 independent LLI’s across the country. Elderhostel maintains an excellent map on their web site, yet it is difficult to locate. (http://www.elderhostel.org/Ein/map_usca.asp) It is possible to click on a state and view the list of all the LLI’s for that area.

Academy member Margaret Hinman is the new editor of the Colorado Post-Polio Connections, a newsletter by and for polio survivors. The fall 2006 issue featured Brain Workouts, Lifelong Learning in Colorado, and had related articles including facilitator and Academy Board president Jim Kneser’s personal story. If you or a friend might be interested in subscribing to the newsletter, send an email to post-poliocolo@comcast.net.

Bil Buhler, a master potter, Academy Board member, and enthusiastic class participant, has been accepted in several juried art shows around the United States, including recent ones in Ft. Collins and Golden. You can view his outstanding work, plus that of others at the Denver Potter’s Association Shows, typically held in early December and Mother's Day weekend. For further information, contact Bil, Mr.Pots@comcast.net.

Photos from some of the fall 2006 classes are now posted on the web. To locate them, look in the left side column, click on Photos, click on the fall 2006 album, click on the Classes Fall 2006 album, and then double click on a photo of interest. If you want to go through all the photos in the large version, hover on the right edge of the photo and click on Next.

Academy members always look forward to the next term in order to begin s-t-r-e-t-c-h-i-n-g their minds and re-establishing friendships. Almost 400 individuals participated in the Fall 2006 term.

The short one to four-week classes were scattered throughout the 10 week term.

How did so many people learn about the Academy? Thanks to volunteers like Don, Lynn, and Margo, Registration Packets were mailed out months ago. Be certain to get on the mailing list for next term. Click on Contact Us above.