Spanish study was an area of concentration for Ira Riklis as an undergraduate student. He has not used these language skills since except for travel to Spanish-speaking countries such Spain and Mexico. Most of his foreign travel has been to Asia because of business interests in Japan and Korea.

Lately though with an increasing need to expand his business to South America Ira Riklis has found a need to be able to converse with if not just understand associates in various countries south of the border. Ira Riklis has recently hired a Spanish language coach who works with him daily for one hour to help him bring his language skills up to a usable level. His coach has also suggested that Ira Riklis view Spanish language films with and without subtitles and let the language just flow over him and seep into his brain.

Speaking of the brain, Ira Riklis now in his middle years is finding that language study is a proven way of increasing mental sharpness. Learning a language (relearning in his case) helps to build new connection in the brain. So studying Spanish has an additional benefit for him.

Also Ira Riklis will be able to speak with the landscapers who are working on his vacation properties this summer.