Elderhostel programs open to local residents

| 28 Sep 2011 | 02:49

    Mount Saint Mary College's Elderhostel programs, celebrating the history, culture, and nature of the Hudson Valley, are available to local students this summer. Each of the five five-day programs will include classroom instruction, field trips, and a Hudson River cruise. College faculty will teach many of the classes. Elderhostel is available to students 55 and over. The first program, "The Hudson: Legacy of Our Nation," July 3-8, will explore places where much of the nation's early history occurred. Field trips will include visits to the United States Military Academy at West Point and Huguenot Street in New Paltz. The second program, "The Hudson: Cradle of Culture and Elegance," July 10-15, will cover the culture and beauty of the Hudson Valley. Field trips will include visits to the Mohonk Mountain House and Boscobel to see Shakespeare's "The Tempest." The third program, "The Hudson: Playground and Sanctuary of Our Early Aristocracy," July 17-22, will explore the lives and times of the country's first aristocrats. Field trips will include visits to the palatial mansions of the Vanderbilts and the Roosevelts. The fourth program, "Art in the Hudson Valley," July 31-Aug. 5, will showcase the beauty and art of the region. Field trips will include visits to the Dia Museum and Boscobel to see Shakespeare's "Two Gentlemen of Verona." The last program, "The Hudson: Where Nature, Elegance and History Converge," Aug. 7-12, will explore the region's scenic and culinary delights and include a meal at the Culinary Institute of America and wine tastings along the Shawangunk Wine Trail. The commuter rate for each program is $290; the resident rate is $543 for a double and $593 for a single. For more information and for registration, call the Center for Community and Educational Services at 565-2076.