(**Alert)Chautauqua Institution cancels in-person programming for season, will offer on-line programming in 2020...

For the first time ever... Chautauqua Institution will have no in-person programming on the grounds for the 2020 Summer Season due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.  Chautauqua President Michael Hill announced this morning that the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to hold no "in-person programming on the grounds."  Hill adds that, depending on changes in government and public health regulations... the Institution may operate a limited range of facilities and services, such as dock installation and service, recreation facilities, and food service, targeted for property owners.  He adds that... as an alternative... Chautauqua will convene "on-line" daily through-out the Summer season... and, present a multi-dimensional online experience in lieu of the on-grounds Summer Assembly as a way to serve their patrons, and fulfill its mission to explore the best in human values and enrichment of life.  Officials say they are offering a full refunds for services, gate passes, Athenaeum Hotel reservations, and single event tickets.  The Chautauqua Ticket Office and Athenaeum Hotel will be reaching out to patrons via email to facilitate the refund process, which will include the option of donating all or a portion of the purchase value back to the Institution.