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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.

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.

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.

This course is designed to help students tap into their life experiences and transform them into compelling stories. Guided Autobiography (GAB) is a unique approach to writing memoirs that combines the power of guided reminiscence with writing exercises. Whether you are a seasoned writer, or just starting out, GAB offers a structured, supportive environment to explore your memories, reflect on your life and create meaningful narratives.

Creative writing can spark new ideas, serve as a powerful vehicle for self-reflection, and sharpen our attention to the world. In this class, we'll read short works together in class that invite discussion of the basic "building blocks" of poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction (as well as theatrical scripts and comics/graphic narratives, time allowing), then write new work in response to generative prompts.

We'll discuss a few unique approaches to finding inspiration and breaking through writer's block, too. All levels of experience are welcome. If you're exploring creative writing for the first time or looking to invigorate an existing practice, this class should have something to offer you.

Through life's ups and downs, poetry can be a valuable companion, whether you are reading it or writing it. In this class, students will do both. By studying elements of craft such as metaphor, imagery, and theme, students will read both ancient and contemporary poems, discuss them together, and write new poems. No prior experience is necessary. If you've ever been curious about poetry and wanted to learn more in a welcoming and supportive environment, this class is for you.

By the end of the course, students will be able to write original poems that demonstrate an awareness of key elements of poetic craft, engage in thoughtful discussions about poetry while emphasizing appreciation and respect, and articulate an understanding of poetry's relevance and value in contemporary life.