Learning As A Lifestyle – The Center Of Everything

Sometimes in life, you jump feet first into a new adventure. The whole “door closes, window opens thing.” Ok, maybe it is more a leap of faith.

That is what has recently happened to me. As of February of this year, I have had the good fortune of working for the Center for Lifelong Learning. I just knew this was the place for me. Can you say “dream job?” I can! Not everyone gets to go to work and enrich their minds, celebrate life’s milestones and travel. Plus, I got to go back to my roots of graphic design and marketing with a little photography thrown in for fun. Every day is different, every day is an adventure.

Speaking of being adventurous, Wanda Campbell, Assistant Director at the Center (and your regular columnist) asked if I would like to give writing a try. “Sure,” I said. “I got this. Well, I hope I got this. I am going to give it a try. I might go down in flames but this could be fun.”

For those of you who know me I am really good at talking. I talk a lot. I usually talk about the things I am most passionate about – my family, my dogs, my job, anything ‘80s and right now planning for the holidays.

Which brings me to the parties and events we have planned here at the Center. Yes, you read that correctly, I get to attend parties and concerts as part of my job description! Just recently we hosted a baby shower, a bridal shower, a sweet sixteen party and a wedding reception. We just wrapped up Fridays after 5, and soon, we will be having a wedding here.

Holiday parties are next on the agenda. We have several already booked, but we have some great dates left on the calendar. Interested in having your party here? Our original hardwood floors and tin ceilings make for a wonderful backdrop for your holiday event. Call me at 256-233-8264; I would love for you to tour the Center.

Speaking of holiday events, mark your calendar now for Christmas Open House – Saturday, November 21st and Sunday, November 22nd. The Greater Limestone Chamber of Commerce and Spirit of Athens has made special arrangements for Santa to be at the Center again this year. But wait that is not all! This year you can also shop while visiting Santa. Retail therapy and the Jolly Ole Elf can both be found all in one place.

How is that possible? This year the Chamber and Spirit of Athens introduces the MERRY MARKET! For those businesses without a brick and mortar, we have a place for you. Merry Market is the perfect option for home-based businesses! We will have table space available at the Center for Lifelong Learning right next to Santa. The deadline for Merry Market is October 23, 2015. Contact the Chamber at 233-2600 for more information and to reserve your space today.

I have one last thing you will need to mark on your calendar for the holiday season. The Committed Holiday Concert – December 6, 2015 at McCandless Hall at 7:00 p.m. This a cappella singing group from Huntsville was NBC’s “The Sing Off” season 2 champions. Reserve seating only for $15. Tickets go on sale Monday, October 12th at the Center.
By: Leisl Stanford
Center for Lifelong Learning – 121 South Marion Street, Athens, AL 35611 – 256-233-8262