Northern Arizona University Elderhostel
Quarterly Summer 2004

     Celebrating our 21st season and very proud to have served over 60,000 hostelers!
Win a Southwest getaway with NAU Elderhostel!

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 Dear Elderhostel Traveler

News


The summer has arrived in Arizona and here in Flagstaff at 7000 feet we are enjoying ourselves tremendously. Lots of sun, comfortable temperatures and the anticipated  monsoon season that blesses us with much needed moisture. The smell of rain is something truly special here in the Southwest.

At the office we are gearing up for a very busy fall season. With over
30 different programs on the schedule we are able to offer something for everyone.
Hope to see you soon!

In this issue we feature:
- Ramson Lomatewama -Hopi artist and NAU Elderhostel speaker
- Our popular " On-the -Move" programs
- News, tips & ideas, and recommended reading.

We love hearing from you! Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have a story you would like to share, or think of a topic you would like us to cover. Just send us an email to:
elderhostel@nau.edu

If you do not wish to receive this Newsletter information in the future you will find information on unsubscribing at the bottom of this page.

Summer Blessings,
The Staff at NAU Elderhostel
 
 Let's Talk About...

Ramson Lomatewama, Hopi artist, poet, and educator has been wowing hostelers for almost a decade with his insightful and thoughtful commentary about what it means to be Hopi. With a spirituality that is almost palpable, Ramson offers his unique perspective on the challenges of living in two worlds – both the “modern” world and that of a traditional Hopi. Ramson's life on the Hopi Reservation is at the heart of his art and poetry, and his way of looking at the world is a reflection of his rich heritage and the timeless culture of the Hopi people. 

Ramson has been carving dolls for sale for about twelve years. He began carving ‘old style’ dolls about ten years ago after seeing Manfred Susunkewa’s work at a show in Phoenix. He is fanatical about using the most traditional materials and techniques. His pigments are all natural. He even spins his own twine to attach the feathers.  Ramson also produces silver jewelry, is a talented glass blower and has published three books of poetry: Silent Winds: Poetry of One Hopi; Ascending the Reed; and Drifting Through Ancestor’s Dreams.
The "After the Rain" poem was published in Drifting Through Ancestor Dreams. It is reprinted here with his permission.

Ramson currently shares his insights and knowledge during our Arizona Landscape program (#1052).

Visit the Heard Museum online to purchase his books.
Listen to Ramson's story telling on local NPR.

 

 Let's get moving...

The so-called "On-the-Move" or "Exploring America" programs have become quite popular lately and we would like to let you know why we think they are such a great deal.
Being located here in the Southwest, a region with so much natural beauty, we feel it is a wonderful way to experience this diverse and fascinating area.  Participants definitely get the most out of their time spent here. We often spend at least two nights in one place allowing for more in-depth explorations.
Fine dining and accommodations are also something to look forward to during these trips. The travel time between destinations is utilized to the fullest with lectures and commentary by our naturalists/professional guides while you soak up the unique and beautiful landscape through the window. Getting to the program is easy as most of these programs originate and finish  in Phoenix, a major hub for airlines.

So what do our participants say about these moving programs?:

"My first trip to AZ will remain a bright spot in my memory and be recommended to anyone I know". - Catherine Phillis
"Loved the scope of the program, scenery, nature contacts and great & enthusiastic leadership."- Lou Hubard
"The program was well organized. The talks on the bus and at stops were very informative. Staying in the parks was especially good since it allowed us to attend ranger programs at night and enjoy the ambiance." - Helen Sternheim
"This tour was an excellent bargain. I believe other tour operators would have charged much more for the same quality." Valerie Schneer
"Excellent blend of activities, information and social interaction among participants." - Dan Rosen
"Something for everyone. Especially liked options for all physical abilities." - Kay Hammell

This fall you can choose between these memorable "On-the -Move" programs. Click program to view itinerary/highlights and photos. (Please note that some of these programs might already be at full capacity)

Premier Parks: Zion, Bryce, and Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon National Park North and South Rims
Arizona Landscapes: Phoenix/Sedona/Flagstaff/Grand Canyon
Northern Arizona's Grandeur
Absolute Southwest: A Canyonland Adventure


Thinking about traveling on your own? Read this advice from Joyce Senkel: Going "Solo" is easier than you think!

 

NAU staff attends annual Elderhostel conference in Santa Fe, NM - what's new in the Elderhostel world?

Two new condor chicks hatch in Arizona

Elderhostel launches Road Scholar


Autumn Glory in the Southwest

Take a look at what we have to offer this fall.


Photo of the summer

By staff member Jennifer Beltz
 

Recommended  reading

After the Rains
by Ramson Lomatewama

  
Sandstone cliffs
reflect the red
of the setting sun.
My hoe is caked
with evidence
of my labor.
    I see clouds
going to the east.
Dark clouds.
    I look to the sky.
There!
rainbow
A rainbow
is arched above me.
    As I walk down
the dusty road
I look up.
    Again!
The rainbow
dressed in beauty
walks with me.
    There is no need
for us to speak.
    Silence
will speak
for us.

Tips and ideas

10% discount for NAU Elderhostel participants on Enterprise Rent-a-Car.
Mention code # 2793554 when making a reservation.

10% discount for NAU Elderhostel participants on Open Road Tours shuttle between Phoenix and Flagstaff.

AARP members receive a discount at local Avis and Hertz car rental.

Websites of interest
Elderhostel reviews

From the mouth of our coordinators:
"Come to Sedona to Learn, Adventure and be Inspired!"

Ed Barattini, NAU Elderhostel Coordinator for 3 years

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Northern Arizona University Elderhostel, P.O. Box 5604, Flagstaff AZ 86011, Ph. 1-800-411-3086
Website:  www.nau.edu/elderhostel
  Email: elderhostel@nau.edu