Economy, Education and erudition: Inter-Village Continuing Education

Inter-Village Continuing Education has several words to the economy-rise; pare down and cheer up. That’s the title of one class offered for fall, 2010 by the four-village (Ardsley, Dobbs Ferry, Hastings, and Irvington) educational organization. The course is just one among a handful of classes tailored to the times. Taught by Kathy Schwartz, “Pare Down, Cheer Up” offers guidance to individuals seeking a simplified lifestyle, a goal certain to appeal to everyone from newly laid off professionals, to seniors on a fixed income, and to individuals aspiring to a frugal, streamlined existence.

Joining that class are the similarly themed – “Trash or Treasures,” “Thriving Through Unemployment, “and “Long Term Care,” courses, all designed to arm individuals with smart strategies for financially challenging times. “Trash” helps people understand antiques, assess their prized possessions and, when appropriate, earn cash for consumer goods. “Thriving through Unemployment,” on the other hand, provides critical support and information to the suddenly jobless that need to get through a tough period. “Long Term Care: Consequences / Solutions” functions as a critical primer for anyone facing the hard-work involved in helping a loved one when and/or if their health changes. An additional (split into four-sessions) class addresses adults with ADHD. Learn how to work through time management, disorganization, procrastination, impulsivity, addictive habits and poor follow-through.

If all that mental exercise doesn’t work up a sweat, a series of fitness classes are certain to do the trick. More than twice as many Zumba® sessions are available this autumn, bringing the calorie-burning aerobic dance craze to a wider group of Westchester fitness buffs. Those who are not yet Zumba-ready can opt for water aerobics, yoga, meditation, or a variety of other classes, including a ‘baby boot camp’ for new moms.

Parents of older children will enjoy the many test-prep options, and the new driver education course.

Cooking classes are back this fall, with an emphasis on vegetarian food. And for those whose appetites run to intellectual fare, several new courses are sure to delight the curious “Great Trials in American History,” explores important legal milestones from the Salem Witch Trials through Nuremberg.  Homer’s Iliad, World War II-theme films, Current Events, and a variety of skill-building and knowledge-enhancing classes round out the fall slate.

For those who like to travel, Inter-Village has a relationship with Westchester-based travel exerts, The Upper Class, to host a series of fascinating, and often educational, day trips.

Sessions meet in public school classrooms, libraries, and community and senior centers throughout the four villages. To learn more about Inter-Village Continuing Education, visit the website at www.intervillage.org, call for an appointment at the headquarters, 300 Farm Road, Ardsley, NY 10502 location, or phone for a brochure. Registration for the fall session is already underway, with classes beginning September 13, 2010.

Inter-Village Continuing Education is a non-profit, self-sustaining program, operating under the auspices of the Ardsley, Dobbs Ferry, Hastings, and Irvington School Districts. Its mission is to provide residents of the participating districts with opportunities for the development and improvement of useful skills, cultural and intellectual stimulation, and recreation, all at a reasonable cost.  Residents of other communities are always welcome.

For further information contact Inter-Village Continuing Education, Director Julie Fraitag-Weinstein. Phone: 914-693-6300   ext 2224 or Email:  intervillage@ardsleyschools.org.

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