POTSDAM – Those who enjoy lifelong learning and want to explore new interests in retirement might consider SOAR (Stimulating Opportunities After Retirement).

SOAR is a local member-run operation sponsored by SUNY Potsdam with wide variety of classes for retirees.

The fall program runs from Sept.9 to Nov. 15; spring semester is from March to May.

Nearly 60 courses are offered each semester. SOAR members can take as few or as many courses as they desire. Courses range from one to 10 sessions.

Courses offered this fall include: Beginning Tai Chi (health), Cannabis and the Aging Population (current), How Does It Work? (science), Japanese Tea Ceremony (culture), Evergreens in the North Country (nature), Paris and Berlin in the 1920s (history), and Drawing for Everyone (arts/crafts).

Presenters are all volunteers and include current faculty members at the colleges, retired faculty, and people with special subject matter knowledge.

Membership fee is $75 for the year. In addition to taking an unlimited number of courses, membership also includes a parking permit on the SUNY Potsdam campus, Maxcy Fitness Center membership, and use of the SUNY Potsdam library facilities.

Classes are held at SUNY Potsdam and other locations in Potsdam, SUNY Canton, St. Lawrence University, St. Lawrence County Historical Association in Canton, and a few other locations.

Individuals interested in learning more about SOAR may contact Membership Chair Lyn Swafford at 315-262-2807 or email the SOAR office at soar@potsdam.edu. In addition, groups that would like a member of SOAR to speak at their organizations’ meetings should contact the SOAR office.

SOAR was founded in 2001 and has about 400 members. It is affiliated with the Road Scholar program. To learn more about SOAR in general, visit www.soarnorthcountry.org.