Today we’d like to introduce you to Ann Beisch.
Hi Ann, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Seven years ago, I walked into the PLATO Society offices in Westwood, near UCLA and signed up for what has been the most inspiring and enjoyable pursuit. PLATO is a lifelong learning group of people who love to talk, discuss, explore and share their areas of interest. As a retired lawyer and recent widow, I was looking for a community of individuals who welcome new ideas and lively, intelligent discussions. That’s PLATO, and that’s the right fit for me. This June 2023, I will become President of PLATO, and I have a dynamic group of PLATO people who are on my team, ready to continue this exciting journey. I write about my experience here to reach out to others who are looking for that sense of community and belonging that they are missing. Some of the missing is due to the isolation of the Covid pandemic and some is just the aloneness of life in a big and impersonal city. Sometimes you just need to know that there are so many others who are feeling this aloneness. It is that sense of community and respect for the individual that an organization such as my PLATO can give.
When I am not doing PLATO, I write. Most of my published work is on California’s Mediterranean climate, native plants, and landscapes. My gardens reflect my writing. It is my muse, inspiring me to create more drought-tolerant native landscapes, mirroring the beauty of the Mediterranean matorral. My articles have appeared in several journals and gardening magazines including the Mediterranean Garden Journal out of Athens, Greece. My most recent piece was on a walk-through of the fabulous landscape gardens of our new SoFi stadium with the landscape architect Mia Lehrer.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Retirement, age, loss, and life changes seemed so daunting to me. The discovery of new skills, new friends, and new experiences turned that daunting into a joyful and inspiring voyage. Statistics show that seniors involved with their community and friends are happier with themselves than any other age group. People who are lucky enough to retire and to really enjoy this time on a day-to-day basis see life in such a good way.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As a lawyer and now as a retired lawyer, my profession is part of who I am. The ability to communicate comes easily. Seeing both sides of a problem, whether it be a criminal case in the United States District Court, a disagreement between children or grandchildren or in my PLATO role as First Vice President, open communication helps. Problems do not always get resolved, but the ability to at least encourage people to listen to the other side, especially now in our divisive political and social environment, is an accomplishment.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
My membership in PLATO has brought me into a community of people whose enthusiasm and smarts inspire. As a result, I find myself motivated to work, study and befriend my fellow members. Becoming PLATO president for next year, starting July 1, 2023, required building a team. Calling and asking for volunteers, help and direction was more fun than I ever thought it would be. For the most part, members just said YES.
Pricing:
- PLATO Membership: $540. annually
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theplatosociety.org/
- Facebook: @THEPLATOSOCIETY
