Dive into the rich and diverse stories of the Latino communities — Mexican, Basque, Spanish, Chicano — that have shaped the vibrant tapestry of Flagstaff. This interactive course offers a dynamic introduction to the people, traditions, industries, and historic sites that have played a vital role in the city’s development.

From prominent families and community celebrations to hidden histories and cultural legacies, you’ll uncover the often-overlooked contributions that continue to define the beauty, strength, and spirit of Flagstaff. Whether you're new to the area or a lifelong resident, this journey through local heritage will deepen your connection to the city and its multicultural roots.

Instructor Eva Barraza is a faculty member at Coconino Community College in the Social and Behavioral Science Department. She has taught a variety of courses that focused on culture, history, politics, and economics. She received her Doctorate in Political Science from Northern Arizona University. Her academic focus is on the areas of American Government/Politics (institutions), Comparative Politics (Latin America), U.S. Race /Ethnic Relations, and Political Economy. While the study of politics and cultural relations are central in her teaching, she includes historical analyses, sociological inquiries, and economic findings in the curriculum. As a community volunteer she has worked with several organizations including St. Vincent de Paul, Flagstaff Legal Aid Center, and Keep Flagstaff Together.

This course meets on four Thursdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m.: Oct. 9, 16, 23, 30.

Image credit: Cline Library Special Collections and Archives, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona

Take your crochet skills to the next level! This class is perfect for those who are comfortable with the basics of crochet and are ready to learn more advanced techniques. Whether you’re looking to master intricate stitch patterns, create more complex shapes, or explore new yarns and fibers, this class will help you expand your crochet toolbox. This is a great opportunity to have a set time each week to crochet, to talk to other crocheters and get inspiration, and to get help on current projects that you are working on. 

Prerequisites: This class is designed for students who are already familiar with basic crochet stitches (chain, slip stitch, single crochet, double crochet) and are comfortable reading basic patterns. 

Personalized Projects: Each student will choose an individualized project that aligns with their interests and skill level, with guidance and support from the instructor. Whether it’s a cozy sweater, an intricate shawl, or a decorative home accessory, you’ll have the opportunity to work on a project of your choice and bring your vision to life!

Materials: Please note that materials are not included in the class fee. Students are encouraged to bring their own yarn and hooks, but the instructor will provide recommendations based on your selected project.

Class Format:

• Hands-on demonstrations
• Step-by-step guidance through projects
• Personalized feedback and troubleshooting

By the end of this class, you’ll be equipped with the skills to tackle more challenging projects and unleash your creativity in crochet!

Meet Shelly Christiano, our talented crochet instructor! With years of crocheting experience, Shelly has transformed her passion for yarn and creativity into an impressive skill set. She specializes in creating various beautiful and practical items, from children's animal hats and crochet flowers to stylish market bags. 

Her love for crochet began as a hobby but quickly grew into a thriving business during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. She successfully sells her handmade creations at craft shows and through her online store, delighting customers with her unique and high-quality products. See her work at HatsNThingsByShelly.com

Shelly enjoys sharing her knowledge and helping beginners discover the joy of crafting handmade items. She believes that crochet is not only a creative outlet but also a wonderful way to relax and unwind. 

The class meets from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on four Thursdays: Oct. 16, 23, 30, Nov. 6

During this day-long workshop you will learn the fundamentals of creating stained glass art and you will create your own art piece to take home! You will learn how to select your glass, proper glass cutting, grinding, copper foiling, soldering, patina and finishing techniques.

The class fee includes expert instruction, all materials to make your art piece, and tools provided by the instructor as well as a grant from the Flagstaff Community Foundation.

We will have safety glasses available; feel free to bring your own pair. Please no open toe shoes. Please bring your own snacks, lunch, and water.

This class is limited to only 8 participants and fills up quickly. If full, add yourself to the wait list to receive notice of future workshops.

Instructor Jeanne Baker began her journey in stained glass art with a full-semester course at Coconino Community College! She has created hundreds of commissioned pieces, and has shared her passion for this creative art form with dozens of friends and family. When she’s not in her studio, she is managing the business that she has owned since 2001, Foliage Unlimited.

The workshop will be off campus at the artist's studio. Directions will be provided once registration closes.

During this day-long workshop you will learn the fundamentals of creating stained glass art and you will create your own art piece to take home! You will learn how to select your glass, proper glass cutting, grinding, copper foiling, soldering, patina and finishing techniques.

The class fee includes expert instruction, all materials to make your art piece, and tools provided by the instructor as well as a grant from the Flagstaff Community Foundation.

We will have safety glasses available; feel free to bring your own pair. Please no open toe shoes. Please bring your own snacks, lunch, and water.

This class is limited to only 8 participants and fills up quickly. If full, add yourself to the wait list to receive notice of future workshops.

Instructor Jeanne Baker began her journey in stained glass art with a full-semester course at Coconino Community College! She has created hundreds of commissioned pieces, and has shared her passion for this creative art form with dozens of friends and family. When she’s not in her studio, she is managing the business that she has owned since 2001, Foliage Unlimited.

The workshop will be off campus at the artist's studio. Directions will be provided once registration closes.

This crash course is designed specifically for travelers and will help you become a confident and connected traveler, able to fully enjoy every experience in any Spanish-speaking destination. Why take this course?

Communication: Spanish is spoken in numerous countries around the world, so having basic knowledge of Spanish can facilitate communication with native speakers during a trip.

Security: In emergency or crisis situations being able to communicate in Spanish can be crucial to obtaining help, information, or medical assistance.

Cultural experience: Speaking Spanish allows travelers to immerse themselves more fully in the local culture, interact with the local population, and better understand customs, gastronomy, and other aspects of everyday life.

Instructor Manuel Balaguera is a Spanish as a Second Language Certified Educator from Colombia with over 11 years of teaching experience. His teaching philosophy is centered around communication and confidence, and he has a special passion for sharing the richness of Latin American culture. After teaching Spanish at an international school in the Boston area, Manuel and his partner relocated to Flagstaff, where she is from. Both lovers of cultural education and history, they co-founded an oral history museum in his hometown of Minca where they shared local culture with visitors from all over the world.

Class meets from 6 to 8 p.m. for four weeks on the following Mondays and Wednesdays: Oct. 27, 29, Nov. 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19.

Self-Compassion is about creating health and well-being for self. It involves treating yourself the way you would treat a good friend. In this class, we will explore and practice the tools for Self-Compassion: Self-Kindness, Our Common Humanity, Mindfulness, Meeting Difficult Emotions, and Self-Appreciation. The class includes lectures, readings, guided meditations, small group activities, and large group discussions.

Instructor Barbara Shovers, M.A., is a life coach, gerontologist, community college instructor, and co-founder and facilitator of Wisdom Seekers, a group dedicated to conscious living.

Class meets from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on five Wednesdays: 11/5, 11/12, 11/19, 12/3, 12/10 (No class on 11/26).