Class act!

By Jacquie Mazziotta | | No Comments »

Is it possible to mention Rembrandt art appreciation, basket weaving and mad science in the same conversation? Surprisingly enough, all three of these topics can be found in one place: Hudson Community Education and Recreation (HCER). HCER hosts classes covering just about every area of interest from art and literary appreciation to children’s cheerleading camps and everything in between.

These are only a few of the 200-plus classes offered in fall, winter and spring/summer sessions held throughout the year. And, if a course isn’t listed in the HCER community education guide, a simple request could arrange for additions to the lineup.

“We try to offer a wide range of opportunities and work with other organizations as a partner,” says Grant Aungst, HCER director. “For example, someone may want to take a class that is being offered at the library; and we may want to expand upon that to provide it to the community as well. We’re a community-based organization, and it’s important to support all of the community.”

Regardless of the time of year, HCER offers a plethora of programming for people of all ages, from 18 months to 100 years. In addition to the more commonly-known programs being offered this past winter, for example, is a popular still/life pastel class for adults, which teaches students about art and drawing. Students learned basic drawing techniques, values, linear drawing, perspective and color theory using chalk, pastels and charcoal.

Another notable class targeted to both high school students and adults is Writing From the Heart. This one-day class, which took place in January and was instructed by nationally published author, Stephanie Wass, focused on writing essay stories.

Whether looking for a large-group setting, or for those who may prefer intimate surroundings, instructors may limit class size due to supervision requirements in children’s classes, or if a smaller group setting is desired. Course fees vary.

“We are seeing some surge in programs in the SchoolzOut program where kids get to take daily field trips to various locations,” says Aungst. “We still see a lot of folks traveling in Hudson over spring break, although that tends to be a quieter week for activities but busy in the office because when spring break ends our summer season starts.”

New to HCER’s calendar this upcoming summer is Ohio Chautauqua, a traveling show hosted by the Ohio Humanities Council. Through a grant process, Hudson is one of only four cities in the state of Ohio to host the program, according to Aungst.

July 6 through July 10, community members can look for the big red and white tent on the grounds of Hudson High School where a performance will center around people from the 1930s. Five expert historical character scholars will portray W.C. Fields, Margaret Mitchell, Paul Robeson, Eleanor Roosevelt and Orson Wells. Each of the scholars will portray one of the characters from a modern-day perspective while in costume during a 45-minute presentation. Following each presentation, scholars will host a 15-minute question and answer segment as they continue to role play the character. A second question and answer period will conclude the performance as each scholar shares how they believe their character would respond in today’s day and age.

The evening will begin with music at 6 p.m., followed by the scholars at 7 p.m. Admission is free to Hudson community members. Attendance is expected to reach 500 to 1,000 people nightly. Vendors will also be onsite offering food for purchase. Both children and adults are welcome.

HCER attracts people from all regions. “We’re one of only 12 spots in state that offers Motorcycle Ohio, a certified indoor motorcycle rider program,” Aungst says.

Children from different areas outside of Hudson attend summer camp, and adults come from all over to attend tai chi classes. “This helps us show off the wonderful community we have in Hudson,” he says.

Some of the summer camps and programs offered for children include: bowling; wilderness survival; gymnastics; explore nature and Ohio with talks by accredited teachers; sports; mad science; camp invention; theatre; teen adventure week; navigator day camp for special needs children in the region; rocket camps; safety town; ceramics; young Rembrandt and drawing; I Want to be a Star Camp; chess; photography; horseback riding; car camp (kids learn to work on basic car emergencies like changing tires, how to buy used cars); NASA camp; interior design; golf, tennis, track and field, flag football, cheerleading, soccer, volleyball, basketball, field hockey and softball camps and more.

Founded in the 1970s by a group of citizens who wanted to provide alternative outlets for students and community members, HCER was developed from a desire to offer more than varsity sports. Many of the original founders have since retired, but they still keep in contact with HCER and share feedback.

“We are part of the schools and the thought was always to contain some type of learning for a person’s entire life,” says Aungst. “It’s not just designed for the years you spend in school, but to really have a lifestyle of learning.”

As a self-funded organization, Aungst says, “We try our best not to burden tax payers with costs, and we also try to expand our opportunities for all populations — not just those who are physically active.”

Aungst says he is involved with all programming. “I review all programs offered, where and why they’re being offered and try to help fill gaps with what populations we aren’t serving. My staff is the team, they’re the ones who help coordinate, plan and listen to what customers say out there. That helps guide us where we go and what we do,” he explains.

“I’ve taken some of the outdoor classes — fly fishing, fly tying, a number of cooking programs, redesigning of kitchens at Studio 76,” he adds. “I try to get to as many classes as I can. We try to offer a wide range of activities — from jewelry making to programs for kids during the day like music and movement. It’s priceless to see the looks on the faces of the children.”

According to Aungst, the two age groups that HCER is focused on increasing programming for is students in grades six through eight, as well as seniors. He would like to team up with other groups and agencies that could share the success of getting these groups involved in more activities.

“One of the challenges we have is space,” Aungst says. “We’ve teamed up with Summa, and the city’s Barlow Community Center — space is at a premium. We’re very open to ideas and suggestions to that.

“We look at how this affects the community, the region and all people — if we can shed a little joy and happiness to folks of all ages.”

Volunteer positions are also available for those with various talents. “I’m very open to have folks volunteer, offer their services,” explains Aungst. “Maybe they have a background they could lend their services — marketing, PR, etc. to volunteer to benefit HCER and the community. We’re here to continue education in all opportunities not just in the classroom but outside in life experiences.”

For more information, visit www.hudson.edu/hcer or call 330-653-1210. Registration can also be done in person at the HCER office located at 2440 Hudson-Aurora Road.

Tags: Hudson Community Education and Recreation

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