Prescott Valley List #1-9   

Hoover Dam and Glen Canyon Dam were constructed to control water flow down the Colorado River, produce hydroelectric power and provide recreational opportunities. We will review the history of the dams and look at the current status of the lakes. The drought of recent years has seriously diminished the water levels in the lakes, affecting electric generation and the ability to meet downstream water commitments. We will discuss the outlook for the long-term operation of these two dams.

Travel the world without leaving your seat! Join us for a cinematic adventure featuring recent and vintage foreign films, each one celebrated internationally for its powerful storytelling and unforgettable performances. We’ll watch the film, then dive into a lively discussion where everyone gets to share their thoughts and reactions. Plus, you’ll have a say in picking future movies, so your voice shapes our next screenings. Get ready for great films, great company, and plenty of surprises!

The Wright Brothers, the Spirit of St. Louis, Amelia Earhart, and the supersonic Glamorous Glennis Bell X-1 are all just part of this class that explores the wonders of aviation exhibits of the National Air & Space Museum. Don Baier, a docent at the museum in Washington DC for more than 34 years, takes us on a journey into aviation with some of the greatest pioneers of flight. With inside the cockpit pictures and the real stories of what actually happened.

You cannot hide! Learn about the many different artificial satellites and their sensors orbiting the Earth. We will review the properties of low earth, highly elliptical, transfer and geostationary orbits. We will review each type of satellite and their sensors. Each satellite/sensor is designed to work with a given orbit and suited for different tasks including communications, weather, multi-spectral sensing (environment, imagery, launch detection, etc).

Come brag about your ancestors! Bring an 8-10 minute story about a “black sheep” in your family—maybe that’s you! Share a memory of a relative who was a true hero to you. Perhaps tell a fact-filled tale about a “scallywag” whose impish grin - and lasting influence - made a mark on you. Bring a flash drive with PowerPoint, memorabilia, or photos of the person you select. Join us to present your fond memories of kinfolk and the unforgettable “characters” in our families!

How does the information glut work for and against us? Why do some beliefs, political movements, conspiracy theories, religions, and internet memes spread easily while others disappear? The class will use 'Virus of the Mind', a book that examines the nature of belief, how social influence shapes our thinking, and how ideas spread. We'll draw brief references from psychology and neuroscience BUT the course is designed for ample discussion as consumers of information (or is it consuming us?).

I would like to introduce class participants to the French language while uncovering the many fascinating aspects of French culture, including travel, cuisine, traditions, and cultural curiosities. Through engaging activities and interactive games, participants will practice proper French usage and build confidence in conversational speaking. We will also explore short videos featuring notable figures and cultural icons, including Édith Piaf, the legendary voice of France; chef and culinary pioneer Julia Child; and the Impressionist artists whose remarkable contributions helped shape French art and culture. Required Material: One copy of French Skill Builder, available on Amazon for approximately $5.00.