In Person Classes   

With recent rhetoric about a "51st state", what do you know about Canada, the amazing country to the north of us? This course will cover the history of British Columbia, placing it within the larger framework of Pacific Northwest history. Students will examine and compare U.S. and Canadian political structures and policies. It will also highlight cultural differences, including First Nations histories and perspectives. Learn about regional heroes, must-see natural wonders, historical landmarks, and unique culinary delights. There will be ample opportunities to share collective expertise and to engage in individual scholarship about all things Canadian.

In this workshop, we will discuss the basic "building blocks" of poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, as well as how these genres can combine and overlap to create new hybrid-genre works. Students will be invited to pursue a common question or topic across their writing in multiple genres if they like, or explore each one with a unique idea in mind. Stretch your creative muscles in this workshop where fun, introspection, and experimentation are encouraged. Students will need writing supplies of their choice.

Qigong is an ancient practice, originating over 5,000 years ago that combines movement, meditation, and nature. It has been a source for modern Tai Chi and gave yoga many of its meditative practices. This is a class perfect for the beginner to the seasoned practitioner. We will align with the natural world and modern triggers, using the YOQI method to learn time-tested breathing techniques, flows, and moving meditation practices. We will explore how to keep regulated in a world of constant change and technology and incoporate them into a weekly practice. This in-person movement class can be done standing, seated in a chair or on a cushion. Qigong is a gentle practice that requires no specialized training or equipment other than attuning to your own body and potential.

Required Form: All fitness/movement class students are required to complete the “Activity Release, Limitation of Liability and Assumption of Risk” form before participating the class. Please click Activity and Release, Limitation of Liability and Assumption of Risk to download the form and bring the completed form to the instructor on the first day of the class.

Discover the living cultures of the coastal and plateau tribal groups in the Pacific Northwest and all that they have to offer to this region. In this class we will learn about ancient tribal traditions as well as current ones. Through stories, tribal voices, and experiential activities we will examine how tribal perspectives can differ from our modern culture.

This course will begin with understanding basic camera functions and how to adjust camera settings. Students will learn the 3 principles of lens aperture, shutter speed, and ISO settings to create quality images. Further instruction will include composition, lighting techniques, and camera handling to improve image quality. Lessons will become more advanced and build on the basics presented in previous sessions. Some of the more advanced topics will include Astro-photography (moon and stars), Macro-photography (extreme close-ups), dramatic lighting techniques, and other fun and interesting ways to create striking images. There will also be discussions about how to choose editing software, how to catalog and store images for easy retrieval and an overview of digital imaging technology and image file types.

Each class will have a suggested shooting idea for students to practice, sharing their results for review and critique with an online Flicker account. A camera with adjustable settings is recommended for the course. No books required. Presentation notes will be provided.

Discover the transformative power of Generative AI in this engaging course. Designed for both beginners and tech enthusiasts, this course provides an accessible introduction to the principles and practical applications of Generative AI. Students will explore how GenAI technologies such as ChatGPT, can enhance everyday tasks, from automating routine activities fostering creativity and improving decision-making processes.

By the end of this course, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and skills to integrate Generative AI into your daily routine, making life more efficient, creative, and enjoyable. Join us and embark on a journey to harness the full potential of GenAI in your everyday life! No prior technical knowledge or programming skills are required to participate. Basic computer and internet skills are helpful.

Qigong is a longevity practice dating back over 5,000 years that combines gentle movement, meditation and breathing. It has been practiced by emperors and peasants, yogis and gurus, and today can be found in longevity practices all over the world. This class is perfect for stress-reduction, improving balance, and connecting with the natural world and mature body. The class uses the YOQI method to introduce time-tested longevity practices.

This class is perfect for all levels and is designed to let you go at your own pace. We will explore the physical, mental and seasonal elements of aging and incorporate them into a weekly practice. This in-person movement class can be done standing, seated in a chair or on a cushion. Qigong is a gentle practice that requires no specialized training or equipment other than attuning to your own body and potential.

Required Form: All fitness/movement class students are required to complete the “Activity Release, Limitation of Liability and Assumption of Risk” form before participating the class. Please click Activity and Release, Limitation of Liability and Assumption of Risk to download the form and bring the completed form to the instructor on the first day of the class.