The seventh child of a Methodist minister, Mr. Prettyman’s education started early. His father traveled often and regularly took the young boy along. Prettyman recalls, “I have often said that he put me in his pocket and took me wherever he went, and that is pretty much the truth.” Trips around the region and to Methodist conferences whetted the young Prettyman’s appetite for education. He notes that the “new and different experiences” he was exposed to as a young boy were the basis of his education.

After graduating from high school in Cecil County, Prettyman attended the University of Delaware and earned both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree. Soon after graduation his lengthy and prestigious career as an educator began. During his 21 years as a teacher at Rising Sun High School, he taught English, mathematics, psychology, and even Spanish. Later in his career, he served as the Director of Public Relations for the Harford County Public School System for 13 years.

Prettyman’s retirement brought new opportunities. He became a member of the faculty at Cecil Community College, where he taught for five years before being made a Professor Emeritus. Never one to slow down, Prettyman immediately took up fundraising for the College.

An accomplished journalist, Prettyman has contributed to the Maryland News Courier, the Cecil Democrat, the Harford Democrat, The Cecil Whig, the Havre de Grace Record, and the Oxford Press during his career, which spans over 50 years. When one of his fellow fundraisers convinced him to compile some of his over 2,000 columns for publication in a book, a new fundraiser was born. “My son and I spent untold hours going through the pile of clippings and eventually 105 columns were put together in a book called Red Top Boots,” Prettyman remembers.

The proceeds from Red Top Boots went toward an endowment fund in Mr. Prettyman’s name. He notes, “I never received one cent from that publication. It was strictly my gift to the institution.” The fund now provides a considerable contribution to the tuition costs of former Cecil County High School students who want to further their education.

In December of 2000, Mr. Prettyman decided it was time to leave his single family home in favor of an environment where he could receive the assistance he needed. He moved to Morningside House, an assisted living community. The move allowed him to be closer to his son and to give up his growing list of home maintenance chores. Mr. Prettyman now has the security of knowing that any care he may need will be provided by a highly qualified staff.

Recently, Secretary Jean W. Roesser, Chairperson of the Interagency Committee on Aging Services in Maryland and a member of Governor Erlich’s staff, presented Morningside House of Laurel, one of Morningside House’s seven properties throughout Maryland and Virginia, with a special proclamation for outstanding care and service to seniors and their families. Morningside House is also one of the few assisted living communities in Maryland to receive a deficiency-free State survey.

Morningside House provides a lot more than just quality care, and Mr. Prettyman is taking advantage of the many amenities. He has become a central member of the active resident population at Morningside House. Shortly after moving, he worked with the community’s Activity Director to develop a current events program. He now compiles a calendar of historic events every month that is very popular among his fellow residents. The calendar details noteworthy events, and Mr. Prettyman completes hours of research while putting it together.

The success of his calendar led to the creation of Mr. Prettyman’s history class, which is remarkably well-attended. The class’ most recent topics have been little known presidents, such as John Tyler and Zachary Taylor. Thrilled with the success of these sessions, Mr. Prettyman says, “Frankly, I am amazed at the interest shown in my talks. It’s both flattering and humbling that all these people are showing up to hear a ninety-three-year-old man with a husky voice talk for an hour.” He adds, “The expressions on their faces during that hour are priceless to me.”

When he is not teaching, Mr. Prettyman can generally be found writing. His columns still appear every week in the The Cecil Whig and the Havre de Grace Record. This self-described “sports addict” also spends a lot of his time watching baseball and football games.

“I still see myself as being a school teacher and a minister in that I care for people who need my attention,” Prettyman says. He smiles as he adds, “I’m also a performer when I try my best to entertain during my history classes.” Modesty quickly takes over, and he concludes, “I am just old George Prettyman, and I don’t care to be anything else.”

After 93 years, he has perfected the act and has certainly created what most would term an ideal retirement-by George!

The Renaissance Institute of the College of Notre Dame of Maryland – The 15 year old Renaissance Institute is the College’s Lifelong Learning program, where men and women 50 and older participate in educational, social, and personal growth activities. The program members represent the community’s diversity in gender, race, age, and religious beliefs. The youngest students are in their 50′s and the oldest learners are in their 90′s. In addition to classes, the Institute provides opportunities for travel, luncheons, and potluck dinners with new friends, as well as special activities during the winter and summer breaks.

Renaissance has fall and spring semesters, both thirteen weeks in length. Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays on the campus of the College. Classes are six, seven, or thirteen weeks in duration. Membership fees are $310 per year and include as many classes as a member wishes to take. Another benefit of the program at CND is that members can also audit one CND college course per year. There are 325 members of the Institute and each brings unique and interesting skills and experiences, which help the Institute continue to grow.

The curriculum always includes classes in writing, history, philosophy, and religion, as well as courses in the arts and fitness. The fall 2005 schedule includes the following offerings: Writer’s Workshop; The History of Science – Babylonians Through Newton; Happiness and Discontent; Baltimore Neighborhoods; Behind the Footlights; and Learn to Read Hebrew. Director Vera Abrams Newton, President Jim Hendry, and the curriculum committee assure that classes respond to members’ desires and growing interests.

Members of Renaissance, professors from the College of Notre Dame of Maryland, and experts from the community are instructors for the courses offered. Renaissance also has partnerships with the Baltimore Museum of Industry and The Peabody Institute of JHU, which provides staff to teach about their respective areas of expertise.

If you are interested in joining the Renaissance Institute, please call Vera Abrams Newton at 410-532-5351. To see a complete list of course offerings go to www.ndm.edu/institutes/renaissance/index.cfm.

Learning in Retirement of Towson University –The Auburn Society offers opportunities for continued learning and activities for social and cultural enrichment – all within a congenial atmosphere. There are fall and spring classes, four to eight weeks in length, and a summer program. A sample of the fall 2005 program includes: Intelligence and National Security; War of 1812; Beethoven: His Symphonies and Their Interpreters; Modern Polish Poetry. Day trips and social events are also available. Classes meet in easily accessible, modern classrooms on the Towson University campus. There are 2 sessions: September 12- October 7; October 17 – November 11. Speakers are available for presentations about the Society. Find out more by calling the Auburn office, 410-704-3437, or visit their website at www.new.towson.edu/outreach/auburn/.

A part of The Johns Hopkins University, the Evergreen Society’s mission is to enhance the leisure time of semi-retired and retired individuals by providing stimulating learning experiences and the opportunity for new friendships. Classes are offered in North Baltimore, Columbia, and Montgomery County. The fall schedule includes Ethics; Top Hats and Striped Pants II; Great Expectations: Victoria and the Victorians; “Reading” Greek and Roman Art; and Fiction Writing. View the schedule and membership information at www.evergreen.jhu.edu/pdfs/ScheduleBaltColumbia.pdf, or call 410-309-9531.

Peabody Institute Elderhostel- Elderhostel celebrates over 30 years of educational excellence. By joining other members you can see the world! Part of that world is celebrated at the Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University. Offerings for fall include Dancing for the Camera, Great Comedy Classics, Backstage at the Peabody Opera, and the Peabody Experience. For more information, call 410-659-8100, ext. 3085, or check out the website at www.peabody.jhu.edu/index.php?pageID=540.

Renaissance Institute at College of Notre Dame of Maryland – Members of this institute design and lead the non-credit courses offered at CND. Fall offerings include Orchids on the Windowsill, Poe’s Tales of Mystery and Imagination, Art & Archeology of Egypt, Ballet/Jazz, Advanced Oil Painting, Italian for Travelers, and Haiku. Courses to keep you physically fit include water aerobics and T’aiChi. Contact 410-532-5351, or log on to www.ndm.edu/institutes/renaissance/index.cfm.

Many of the local Senior Centers offer classes provided through the Baltimore City Community College, the Baltimore City Commission on Aging and Retirement Education, community hospital outreach programs, and the senior centers themselves.

A sampling of what’s available:

Myerberg Senior Center in Pikesville offers fitness through aerobics, body toning, yoga classes as well as a walking group. Literary arts include conversational Hebrew and Spanish, poetry, and creative writing. Watercolor, oil painting, decoupage, sculpture, and drawing classes are among the cultural programs available. Practical learning such as computer skills round out the fall offerings. For additional information, contact the center at 410-358-6856 or surf the web at www.myerbergseniorcenter.org/classes.html.

The Senior Institute at the Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC)- Classes are offered at several senior centers in Baltimore County as well as at the 3 CCBC campuses. Classes cover Bible studies, history, contemporary issues, and computer literacy, as well as arts programs. Call 410-869-0296 for more information, or visit “Classes for Seniors” on the College’s Website at www.ccbcmd.edu/ceed.

McFaul Senior Center in Bel Air offers summer fine art classes in painting (all levels of experience), ceramics, or tole painting. A book discussion group meets monthly, while current event discussions are held weekly. In addition, there are fitness, yoga, and TaiChi classes for those interested in improving their fitness. For the nimble-fingered, classes in woodworking and various needlework crafts are offered. Contact the Center at 410-638-4040, or surf the web at: www.co.ha.md.us/services/aging/Events.cfm.

Washington College in Chestertown – Academy of Lifelong Learning is marked by the characteristics of “intellectual curiosity, camaraderie of scholars and learners, and the wisdom of age and experience.” Fall class offerings include Peace Building, The Magic of Opera, Everyday Life in Middle Ages, and More Stars than There are in Heaven -MGM Golden Age-just to name a few. Check the website for details: www.wc-all.washcoll.edu/, or call the office: 410-778-7221.

Chesapeake College Institute for Adult Learning (A.I.L.)- This Institute was established in 2001 and offers a wide variety of learning opportunities on the campus of Chesapeake College. As of this writing, the schedule of fall classes was not available. Contact 410-822-5400 for more information, or take a look at the College’s website, www.chesapeake.edu/continuing_ed/ial/.

Diane E. Schaefer, MA, is president of Schaefer + Associates, LLC, a Baltimore-based Geriatric Consulting and Care Management firm; a member of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers; and a Certified Senior Advisor.

Many universities, colleges, community colleges, and senior centers offer classes and programs focused on older adults pursuing learning in a creative and supportive environment. Whether you want to learn a foreign language, study history as it unfolds before you, or tap into your creative juices – opportunities abound!

Washington College in Chestertown – Academy of Lifelong Learning is marked by the characteristics of “intellectual curiosity, camaraderie of scholars and learners, and the wisdom of age and experience.” Spring class offerings include Sustainable Community Development, International Competitors from a political, economic and historical perspective, and Near Death Experiences – to name a few. Check the website for details: http://wc-all.washcoll.edu or call the office 410-778-7221.

Chesapeake College Institute for Adult Learning (A.I.L.)–This Institute was established in 2001 and offers a wide variety of learning opportunities on the campus of Chesapeake College. In the April-May semester you can learn more about the relationship between A. Lincoln and G. McClellan, Residential Architecture, Islam, or our own Constitution. Improve your fitness through TaiChi, study the differences between Wines of the World, or learn German to ease your next vacation. Contact 410-822-5400 for more information or take a look at the College’s website, www.chesapeake.edu

A part of The Johns Hopkins University, the Evergreen Society’s mission is to enhance the leisure time of semi-retired and retired individuals by providing stimulating learning experiences and the opportunity for new friendships. Classes are offered in North Baltimore, Columbia and Montgomery County. The Spring schedule includes Hubble’s New Universe, American Movers and Shakers, International Relations, and Shakespeare. View the schedule and membership information at http://evergreen.jhu.edu/pdfs/schedulebaltcolumbia.pdf or call 410-309-9531.

Many of the local Senior Centers offer classes provided through the Baltimore City Community College, the Baltimore City Commission on Aging and Retirement Education, community hospital outreach programs, and the senior centers themselves.

A sampling of what’s available:

- Myerberg Senior Center in Pikesville offers fitness through aerobics, body toning, and yoga classes, as well as a walking group. Literary arts include conversational Hebrew and Spanish, poetry, and creative writing. Watercolor, oil painting, decoupage, sculpture, and drawing classes are among the cultural programs available. Practical learning classes, such as computer skills, round out the Spring offerings. For additional information contact the center at 410-358-6856, or surf the web at http://www.myerbergseniorcenter.org/classes.html

- At McFaul Senior Center in Bel Air participate in fine arts classes in painting (all levels of experience), ceramics, or tole painting. A book discussion group meets monthly, while current event discussions are held weekly. In addition there are dance, fitness, yoga, and TaiChi classes for those interested in improving their fitness. For the nimble-fingered, classes in woodworking and various needlework crafts are offered.Contact the Center at 410-638-4040, or surf the web at: http://www.co.ha.md.us/services/aging/Events.cfm

Learning in Retirement of Towson University –The Auburn Society offers opportunities for continued learning and activities for social and cultural enrichment – all within a congenial atmosphere. There are fall and spring classes, four to eight weeks in length, and a summer program. A sample of the spring 2005 program includes: Supreme Court and Civil Liberties, European Union, Hitchcock and Hermann music, Mary Cassatt, Intro to Watercolor, Little Gems in the Film Industry, and An Atmosphere of Mystery. Day trips and social events are also available. Classes meet in easily accessible, modern classrooms on the Towson University campus. There are 2 sessions: March 7- April 1 and April 11 – May 6. Speakers are available for presentations about the Society. Find out more by calling the Auburn office, 410-704-3437, or visit their web sit at http://wwwnew.towson.edu/outreach/auburn/.

The Senior Institute at the Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC)–Classes are offered at several senior centers in Baltimore County as well as at the 3 CCBC campuses. Topics cover literature, history, wellness, and computer literacy, as well as arts programs. Call 410-869-0296 for more information, or visit the College’s Website at http://www.ccbcmd.edu/noncredit/fall/senior.html.

Peabody Institute Elderhostel–Elderhostel celebrates 30 years of educational excellence. By joining other members, you can see the world! Part of that world is celebrated at the Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University. Offerings for Spring include Classics with the Baltimore Symphony; music of Andrew Lloyd Webber, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Cole Porter, and Brahms; and Hollywood. For more information, call 410-659-8100, ext. 3085 or check out the website at http://www.peabody.jhu.edu/index.php?pageID=540 .

Renaissance Institute at College of Notre Dame of Maryland –Members of this institute design and lead the non-credit courses offered at CND. Spring offerings include Planning for Prime Time, Game of Politics, oil painting, Jazz, a survey of Persons of Letters, Art and Architecture of Egypt, and Morocco. Courses to keep you physically fit include water aerobics and TaiChi. Contact them at 410-532-5351 or on the web at http://www.ndm.edu/institutes/renaissance/index.cfm.

Diane E. Schaefer, MA, Certified Senior Advisor,is president of Schaefer + Associates, LLC, a Baltimore-based Geriatric Consulting and Care Management firm.