FARMINGTON – Anyone 50 years of age or older is welcome to attend classes at the University of Maine Farmington’s Senior College, or Gold LEAF (Lifelong Education at Farmington).

“Classes vary in time commitment as well as content,” according to Pam Matthews of the curriculum committee. “We have 19 summer class offerings ranging from active hikes, short classroom lectures, hands-on craft activities, book discussions and day excursions.” The summer term will start July 1 and run through Oct. 20.

There are no educational prerequisites to be a member of Gold LEAF, which emphasizes learning for the fun of it. “Our classes are different from those being offered by UMF to the public,” Matthews said. Those who would like more information about the UMF summer classes may call 778-7237.

According to Matthews, the Gold LEAF classes tend to be short, one-time events, with some classes happening over several sessions. There are no tests and no homework, she said.

The summer kickoff and annual meeting will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 30, at the University of Maine Farmington Student Center, North Dining Hall, 111 South St. Light refreshments will be served. Anyone age 50 or older is welcome to come and see what Gold LEAF is all about, or to join and sign up for classes. Newcomers are encouraged to attend.

After a short business meeting, there will be a presentation about the summer course offerings, an opportunity to meet the presenters and time for membership sign ups and course registrations. Membership is $30 a year. Fees for each class are kept low so all can take advantage of these activities.

Matthews said that people do not have to wait for the kickoff meeting to sign up for classes. Members can start signing up as soon as the course listing is published on the website and in the course booklet, which should happen around June 7, she said.

To learn more about Gold LEAF, call the office at 778-7063 or view the website at goldleaf.wikispaces.com. The e-mail address is [email protected] for questions or to request a summer course booklet.