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Have you wanted to de-clutter your home, and just don't know where to start? Have you started the process, only to feel overwhelmed, and then get stuck? Ellen will share her tried-and-true methods for organizing a home, and developing systems to keep it that way. Come ready to ask her for the best approaches to purge your worst clutter spots! You'll go home with renewed motivation and a page of Timely Tips.

Benvenuti in Italia! “Conversational Italian” is dedicated to your needs and wants in this beautiful language. For this reason, the preliminary assignment for the first class is for you to prepare a realistic list of things you would like to learn given the number of sessions we will have. This is the ideal equation: Beginning of class + End of class = I learned what I wanted to know! If you wish the class to be conducted in Italian or have a hybrid approach (Italian and English) you must all agree to this for obvious reasons. Having a hybrid approach is beneficial and Cinzia will explain her philosophy in this regard. Not sure what level of Italian you are at? No problem! Sign-up and decide after the first class if this will meet your needs. This is an online class. A Zoom or Google Meet invitation will be emailed prior to the start date. All handouts will be emailed directly from the instructor. "I have taken this online Italian conversation course with Cinzia for three years, and it is a great touch-point every week to practice the language and even meet new friends in Vermont who also have an interest in the language. Some of these friendships from the online class have transitioned into real life friendships, as we continue to meet after the class is over to practice Italian together!" "I really enjoy these classes with Cinzia. They provide an opportunity to practice Italian in an informal, friendly and chatty atmosphere. Cinzia sends materials between classes but homework is more or less at the individual's discretion. It helps me keep on my Italian and especially practice my listening and speaking skills with a native speaker. Cinzia is funny, warm, and great at teaching colloquial details."

Creative Mobile Photography invites students to expand their creativity and confidence using the most accessible camera of our time—the smartphone. Designed for photographers of all levels, this course explores how to move beyond snapshots and intentionally create compelling images using the device you already carry every day. Creative Mobile Photography is part of a three-course series. Each class can be taken independently, yet together they build skills and techniques for more expressive mobile photography. Additional courses in the series include Perspective Shift and Working with People. Creating the Scene (Feb 18 OR April 15) This class will challenge students with advanced techniques in mobile photography. Students will need to have a mobile phone with a solid understanding of the Camera app and a willingness to experiment. The course is designed around the default iPhone and Google camera apps. Working with motion and burst shutter Selecting and locking focus and exposure Introducing additional lighting sources Abstractions Requirement for all classes: Bring your charged iPhone, Android, or smartphone. Bring a charging cord, wall plug, and your questions! We have now taken three classes wth Kenrick and think he's fantastic. He plans each class thoughtfully to be a balance of lecture time and hands-on experience, while also frequently checking in with the class to see if anyone has questions. He is knowledgable, approachable, and his love of photography is infectious.

Creative Mobile Photography invites students to expand their creativity and confidence using the most accessible camera of our time—the smartphone. Designed for photographers of all levels, this course explores how to move beyond snapshots and intentionally create compelling images using the device you already carry every day. Creative Mobile Photography is part of a three-course series. Each class can be taken independently, yet together they build skills and techniques for more expressive mobile photography. Additional courses in the series include Working with People and Creating the Scene. Perspective Shift- Getting Creative (Offered on Feb 4 OR Apr 1) This class will get students beginning to think creatively about the camera and subject placement when taking an image. Students will need to have a mobile phone and a basic understanding of the camera app. The course is designed around the default iPhone and Google camera apps. During this 2 hour workshop we will discuss: Working with camera elevation, angle, and distance. Working with basic compositional rules. Experimenting with panoramas Requirement for all classes: Bring your charged iPhone, Android, or smartphone. Bring a charging cord and wall plug.

Creative Mobile Photography invites students to expand their creativity and confidence using the most accessible camera of our time—the smartphone. Designed for photographers of all levels, this course explores how to move beyond snapshots and intentionally create compelling images using the device you already carry every day. Creative Mobile Photography is part of a three-course series. Each class can be taken independently, yet together they build skills and techniques for more expressive mobile photography. Additional courses in the series include Perspective Shift and Creating the Scene. Working with People (Feb 11 OR April 8) This class will teach students how to work with people and their surroundings to create more dynamic images featuring people. Students will need to have a mobile phone with a moderate understanding of the Camera app and its features. The course is designed around the default iPhone and Google camera apps. During this 2 hour workshop we will discuss: Working with the subject placement and the surroundings Working with the horizon line and leading lines Working with the available light Requirement for all classes: Bring your charged iPhone, Android, or smartphone. Bring a charging cord and wall plug.

Digital Photography Studio offers a highly personalized learning experience designed to meet you exactly where you are in your photographic journey. This small, studio-style course is guided by your interests and goals—whether you’re just getting comfortable with your camera or refining a more advanced creative vision. Each student will receive individualized instruction and thoughtful feedback tailored to what they want to explore. Topics may include mastering camera settings, strengthening visual composition, understanding the history of photography, improving print quality, or developing and articulating a personal photographic style. After enrolling, students are encouraged to email the instructor to share the specific aspects of photography they’re most excited to focus on. This helps shape the course content and ensures meaningful, relevant instruction for everyone. Enrollment is limited to just 8 students to allow for in-depth guidance, discussion, and hands-on support in a collaborative studio environment. This class will use the CVU Photography Lab. Each student will have use of a computer loaded with Adobe Photoshop software to use to enhance their photographs.. Ages: 16+

This four-session drawing program is designed for intermediate artists who are ready to strengthen their technical skills and deepen their observational practice. The course focuses on refining observational rendering, value and shading, compositional planning, and perspective, with an emphasis on drawing what you truly see rather than what you think you see. Each week will include targeted demonstrations and short skill-building exercises aimed at improving accuracy, confidence, and efficiency at the easel. These focused studies will be paired with extended drawing sessions featuring thoughtfully arranged still-life objects, allowing students to apply new techniques in a more sustained and intentional way. Participants will receive individual, one-on-one feedback from the instructor, as well as opportunities for group discussion and constructive critique to support artistic growth. By the end of the program, students will have developed stronger observational habits and produced several finished drawings suitable for a growing portfolio. Some prior drawing experience is recommended, and students should be comfortable working independently while engaging in group feedback. All materials are included in the fee. Min Age: 15+

This four-session studio program is designed for intermediate to advanced artists who are ready to move beyond technique and focus on developing a cohesive body of work with individual voice, intention, and character. The course emphasizes portfolio development, encouraging participants to explore how personal style emerges through creative decision-making rather than prescribed outcomes. While all participants will work from the same source material and still-life objects, each artist will be guided to approach the work in their own way—experimenting with compositional planning, material selection, mark-making, and conceptual emphasis. Students will be encouraged to manipulate materials creatively, push beyond comfort zones, and take thoughtful artistic risks in pursuit of more expressive and personal drawings. Throughout the program, the instructor will provide individualized feedback and lead discussions on how professional artists develop and refine their visual voice over time. Group critiques will offer opportunities to reflect, articulate artistic choices, and gain insight from peers. By the end of the course, students will have produced a small but intentional portfolio that reflects both technical skill and emerging personal style. Prior experience with drawing and artmaking is strongly recommended, as this course is designed for artists ready to work independently while engaging in guided critique and creative exploration. All materials are included in the fee. Min Age: 15+ David Paarlberg-Kvam

Learn simple techniques to prepare ethnic food that is rich in flavor. Eritrean/Ethiopian cooking relies on a diverse range of herbs & roots to develop characteristics quintessential to the cuisine. Everyone will participate making a variety of vegetarian dishes including: Spiced mushroom - organic mushroom cooked with berbere spice, onion, garlic, ginger and tomato Curried lentils - split red lentils cooked with onion, garlic, ginger, tomato and curry powder. (Alganesh's signature dish) Greens - spinach cooked with red onion, ginger, garlic, fresh tomato, jalapeno and rosemary. Experience the culture and enjoy a delicious meal that will nourish your soul! This is a participatory cooking class. A small group of 3-4 students will work together at each cooking station to complete the recipes on the night's menu. "Alganesh offers a variety of fare in her Ethiopian/Eritrean cooking class: instruction, encouragement, cultural knowledge and enthusiasm! I left the class full of delicious food AND enthusiasm and capacity to create this satiating cuisine at home!"~ Emmy

AI isn’t all hype, it's a surprisingly helpful assistant and time-saver that you can use right now and often for free. In this beginner-friendly class, we’ll explore 10 practical ways to use AI in your daily life, from detecting scams to "profitable decluttering". We'll talk about the latest versions of tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini and see how to put them to work without a subscription. What You’ll Learn: How to use AI to solve everyday problems and stay organized How to scan and identify objects with your phone’s camera How to research, summarize, and plan smarter (not harder) How to save time, money, and effort using free versions of today’s top AI tools The ethics of AI: What to trust, how to protect your data, and how to spot bias Bring your questions, and optionally your devices to test and follow along in class. "Chris Rodgers is super bright and very engaging. He has a depth of knowledge in this field, and so he was able to answer questions from folks just starting out and didn't miss a beat when the discussion moved into more advanced use of AI. The class was fun and we left with a thought provoking handout." "So much to learn! This class helped broaden the base of ideas for applying AI to everyday life. Chris Rodgers did a great job sparking our imagination and providing examples of fun and practical uses for AI."

Learn to make fresh fettuccine from scratch using a hand crank pasta maker while a deliciously rich and flavorful bolognese sauce simmers to perfection. Enjoy some Italian tunes and learn a few Italian phrases while you cook. The instructor will share tips carried down from her Roman grandmother and mother for a truly authentic Italian meal. Making pasta is a fun activity to do together with friends and family of all ages and this class is all you’ll need to learn how. The classic bolognese sauce includes pork and beef, but a vegetarian version can also be offered upon request. This is a participatory cooking class. A small group of 3-4 students will work together at each cooking station to complete the recipe on the night's menu.

Pilates is a full-body physical conditioning method that emphasizes spinal alignment, a focused mind, breathing and core conditioning to improve daily life activities. Benefits include improved posture, increased flexibility, greater balance and control, reduced joint and back stress and increased abdominal and back strength. This group mat class series is designed for students who are new to Pilates or for experienced students who are interested in revisiting the fundamentals. Throughout the series, we'll explore the foundational principles of Centering, Control, Concentration, Flow, Breath and Precision. Bring a mat (or two for more cushioning), hand towel and water bottle and wear clothes that are comfortable for moving. We will also have some mats available to borrow. Students should be comfortable getting up and down from the floor.

This six-week discussion-based book club explores French history, culture, and place through three acclaimed works of fiction set in pivotal moments of France’s past. Readings span the French Revolution, 19th-century Paris, and World War II–era France, offering insight into how literature reflects political upheaval, architectural grandeur, and everyday life. Through guided discussion and cultural context, participants will examine how setting shapes story and identity, from Revolutionary Paris to the Paris Opera House to occupied coastal France. An optional film screening will complement one of the readings. No prior knowledge of French language or history is required. *Sign-up for each session based on your interest and availability. Books include: 1. The Scarlet Pimpernel (Baroness Orczy) 2. The Phantom of the Opera (Gaston Leroux) 3. All the Light We Cannot See (Anthony Doerr) The Scarlet Pimpernel (3/26 & 4/2) Week 1 – Revolutionary France The Scarlet Pimpernel (first half) Discussion Focus: Historical overview of the French Revolution Class conflict, justice, and political violence How revolution is portrayed for an English-speaking audience Paris as a city under siege Week 2 – Heroes, Myths, and Adaptation The Scarlet Pimpernel (second half) Discussion Focus: The construction of heroism and disguise Moral ambiguity during times of upheaval Optional screening and discussion of the 1982 film adaptation Comparing literary and cinematic portrayals of Revolutionary France The Phantom of the Opera (4/9 & 4/16) Week 1 – Paris and the Belle Époque The Phantom of the Opera (first half) Discussion Focus: Paris in the late 19th century The Palais Garnier as a symbol of culture and power Architecture, spectacle, and social hierarchy The city as both glamorous and shadowed Week 2 – Obsession, Isolation, and Space The Phantom of the Opera (second half) Discussion Focus: Gothic elements and psychological themes The role of hidden spaces and underground Paris Art, obsession, and belonging Myth versus reality in cultural landmarks All the Light We Cannot See 4/30 & 4/7) Week 1 – Occupied France All the Light We Cannot See (first half) Discussion Focus: France during Nazi occupation Civilian life, fear, and survival Saint-Malo and coastal France as setting Parallel narratives and moral choices Week 2 – Memory, Resistance, and Aftermath All the Light We Cannot See (second half) Discussion Focus: Resistance, complicity, and quiet heroism The long shadow of war on individuals and places Memory, loss, and rebuilding How literature preserves history and place Please check your local library to reserve these books as they are well known and available. All ages and interests are welcome!

During this frigid time of year we turn to comfort foods for dinner to help keep our evenings warm and get us through to Spring. Roasts, lasagnas, chickens cooked in a pot or a pie or whole in the oven, all of these satisfy, but none of them as much as the humble soup. And no soup is more humble than the provincial classic, French Onion Soup. Concocted from just a few ingredients it is a glowing example of French culinary ingenuity, elevating the inconsequential onion to regal status. All that’s required are some onions, a pot and a little time (and a little thyme). Join us and learn how to make one of the most revered French classics, as well as the science and process behind making stocks and how fish sauce and vinegar can help to elevate any soup you create. This is a participatory cooking class. A small group of 3-4 students will work together at each cooking station to complete the recipes on the night's menu.

Join Julie Lambre, a California native and graduate of Defense Language Institute, San Jose State and Trinity College (DC) as she helps you learn the French language using situational vocabulary and phrases so that you can confidently converse in French on your next trip. While French is spoken in many countries throughout the world, the main focus will be on the cultural aspects of France. During the 90-min sessions, the focus of the course will be on practical communication, cultural understanding and situational vocabulary. While not necessary, some knowledge of French will be helpful prior to taking this course. Please purchase the following texts (Amazon or your local bookstore) prior to the start of the course. 1. Traveling in France by Celine Van Loan 2. The Do's and Don'ts of Paris- CultureQuest Books After taking this course, you'll be ready to converse like a local on your next trip to France! All ages welcome!

This class will offer full-body strength training for adults with little or no experience with weight lifting. Emphasis will be on safe, effective exercises appropriate for any level of fitness. Participants will be instructed and guided on all exercises with commitment to having each person understand the purpose and intention of the exercise, and know how to make it harder or gentler depending on the needs of the individual. Participants will be able to ask all the questions they want to develop their understanding of the principles of fitness. We will navigate around injuries and chronic conditions that need TLC. Classes will begin with a warm-up and end with a gentle stretch. Please bring a mat, a set of dumbbells (between 5 and 10 pounds depending on personal preference), and an exercise band (a long single band similar to what's in the photo) to class, along with water. Wear clothes that are comfortable for movement and exercise. "Heather was a wonderful instructor- so full of energy and information! This class was great for learning the basics and how to incorporate a strength training and exercise program into your life. She was responsive to questions and focused on the class being for and about the participants and their needs and offering modifications to exercises as needed. I’d love to see more classes taught by her!" "I have worked with personal trainers and physical therapist for years. Heather's knowledge and instruction is spot-on. In addition, Heather is so personable and she makes the program fun and enjoyable. I looked forward to this class every week. I would recommend this class to anyone, any age, who wants to learn good technique and make lasting changes in staying fit."

Come to this workshop to learn how to make your own set of wind chimes (or sun catchers) out of glass. The wind chimes can be hung outside in a protected spot, inside on a houseplant or in a window. Your finished product will be tack fired after class in a glass kiln and available for pick-up at CVU a week later. All materials are included in class fee. No experience required. For students ages 13 and older. Students aged 8-12 are welcome; they should register with an adult who is also registered for the class, and plan to have one dedicated adult for each child attending.