A rural area like Copiah and Lincoln counties doesn’t alwayshave a lot to keep people interested, but officials atCopiah-Lincoln Community College are finding ways to keep seniorsactive and entertained.

The Institute for Learning in Retirement is a group for retireeswho are still interested in learning and being involved in theircommunity, said ILR Event Coordinator Tricia Russell.

“It’s a great way to meet people and get involved in somethingthat is just fun,” Russell said.

Membership in the ILR is open to anyone 50 and older and retiredor semi-retired, Russell said. Members of the organization get tohelp plan their own events and learning opportunities.

“We have an ongoing book club, and we have fun days, lunch andlectures every month, and guest speakers,” Russell said. “A fun dayis when they play card or board games, or just do something thatkeeps your mind sharp and active.”

There are day trips each semester, which include things such astrips to the theatre in Jackson or to museums and otherattractions, Russell said. In addition, there are also workshops ondifferent subjects pertinent or interesting to the senior set.

“We usually have a floral arranging class, and differentdecorating workshops,” she said. “This semester we’re also going todo one on the first ladies of the United States.”

There will also be a workshop on telephone usage, Russell said,as well as many other things that will be planned in comingweeks.

The membership of the institute is somewhere between 100-125 atthe moment, Russell said, and the organization always has open armsfor potential new members.

“Some of our members come and go with the activities, like somewill come for the luncheons, some only go on the trips,” she said.”You can participate as little or as much as you want.”

And there is a perfect chance for members to scope out thesituation on January 26 when the ILR Membership Social for thespring semester is held. Russell said the calendar of events forthe year will be presented and committees will discuss upcomingevents.

“The chairpersons will take turns introducing what is planned,”she said. “You can join that day if you want or just take a packetfor the spring semester.”

More information for the ILR is available by calling the officeat Co-Lin at 601-643-8700.