This class is designed for beginners who want to build practical, confidence-boosting French language skills for travel, everyday interactions, and cultural exploration. Whether you are preparing for a trip to a French-speaking country or simply beginning your journey with the language, join us for this fun class!

Instructor Mathilde Willis is a French native who has lived in the United States for the past 30 years. She holds a Master’s degree in Elementary Education and has taught French as both a private instructor and an elementary school teacher. She currently works as a Senior Executive Assistant in the Provost’s Office at Northern Arizona University (NAU). 

This class meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays for five weeks: 3/17, 3/19 3/24, 3/26 3/31, 4/2 4/7, 4/9 4/14, 4/16, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

This class is available both in-person and live on Zoom.

Water is life. Yet water security is one of the most important challenges facing us. In this course, we explore where our water comes from, how decisions about water management are made, and where we are headed. We’ll discuss groundwater, the Colorado River, and more. We’ll pursue an approach where all communities and people – including you - contribute to shaping our own water future as we explore local to state-level issues and beyond. The course blends short lectures, guest speakers from across the water community, and interactive discussions. By the end of the six weeks, participants will understand where their water comes from, the systems that govern it, and practical entry points to engage in local and regional water conversations.

Co-instructors Michellsey Benally and Chris Kuzdas have combined decades of experience working with communities across the landscapes of the West and beyond. Michellsey serves as the Grand Canyon Trust’s Water Advocacy Manager, working alongside tribal and rural communities to safeguard groundwater in the Grand Canyon and Little Colorado River regions. Prior to that she worked at the Arizona Department of Water Resources managing groundwater regulation across the state.

Chris earned a PhD from Arizona State University. He currently serves as the Arizona Water Program Director for Environmental Defense Fund. He serves on the Governor’s Water Policy Council and spends much of his time collaborating with local communities to shape water policy discussions and decisions that impact them.

This class meets on six Wednesdays: 3/18, 3/25, 4/1, 4/8, 4/15, 4/22, from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m.

Discover strategies for creating and maintaining a beautiful, functional landscape tailored to Flagstaff's unique environment. This course is designed for homeowners, gardening enthusiasts, and anyone passionate about enhancing their outdoor spaces. Topics covered will include:

• Micro-Climates: Learn how to identify and work with Flagstaff's diverse micro-climates, from sunny high-desert zones to shaded forested areas, ensuring your plants thrive in the right conditions.
• Sprinkler Systems: learn about installation and maintenance of different irrigation systems.
• Tree and Shrub Care: Gain knowledge of the best plants for different areas, as well as pruning and maintaining to promote healthy growth.
• Pest Management: Learn strategies for integrated pest management, including prevention and management of pests and diseases, and strategies for living near wildlife.
• Seasonal Maintenance: Learn how to manage the unique challenges of Flagstaff’s climate, including snow, monsoons, and drought conditions, and develop strategies for a firewise landscape.

Whether you're starting from scratch or refreshing an existing yard, by the end of the course, you’ll have the tools and know-how to transform your outdoor space.

Instructor Dan DeVere has been a Certified Golf Course Superintendent since 1994, with a bachelor's degree in Agriculture from the University of Arizona. He’s also a Certified Viticulturist through Yavapai College, and has been a Coconino County Master Gardener since 2014. As a resident of Flagstaff for over 30 years, Dan has managed the maintenance and care of some of the region's premier golf courses, including Continental Country Club, Aspen Valley Golf Club, and most recently, Flagstaff Ranch Golf Club.

In addition to his work in golf course management, Dan has contributed his expertise to Morning Dew Landscaping, A&A Tree Service, and Wagon Wheel Winery. He is also a licensed applicator with the Arizona Department of Pest Management.

Dan’s training and expertise emphasize sustainable landscape design and maintenance, with a focus on blending nonnative areas harmoniously with the local environment. He is committed to minimizing the use of pesticides and synthetic compounds, striving to create landscapes that are both functional and environmentally responsible.

Class meets six Thursdays: 3/26, 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.