Vélez's View

A blog by Phillip L. Vélez, a native New Yorker of Puerto Rican descent.

New Paltz, NY – My Second Hometown

Posted on March 15, 2009 by Phil Velez

Yesterday afternoon I headed to the town of my alma mater, New Paltz, NY. Every time I visit New Paltz I am filled with great memories of my college experience. Born and raised in New York City, I left the Bronx after high school to attend SUNY New Paltz. The college town is just 90 minutes from New York City, but for me it was an entire world away. For the first time I was surrounded by mountains and trees and took in cleaner air and starry nights. The historic quaint village is located in the beautiful Hudson Valley.

New Paltz has trendy shops and great bars and restaurants. The area has some fine wineries and is known for apple picking in the spring and pumpkin picking in the fall. New Paltz is also home to Huguenot Street, “the nation’s oldest street with its original houses.” If you want to get away from the crazy city for a relaxing day upstate, consider visiting New Paltz. I am sure you will find the little village of New Paltz quite appealing.

Ode to New Paltz

Posted on October 26, 2008 by Phil Velez

Ode to the fresh mountain air
The dew that covers the morning grass
The stars so close you can touch
The autumn foliage so picturesque
The snow covered hills, that glisten in the sun
The vast athletic fields, full of memories
Of spring concerts, spirits, and dance
To the old main building
And its ivy covered walls
To the futuristic science hall
To the townies that call it home
To the city kids
Who learn how to fly
To the local bars in walking distance
To the thruway that cuts through town
To the place I called home
Where I learned to live
Grow and learn