Learn for Life - Life Options

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Boomers Learning

Estrella Mountain Community College’s Learning for Life Program is also offering senior costs (55+ yrs) on other class as well.  Look for the senior cost section number on classes throughout the schedule.

2 Young 2 Retire

What's next after retirement? Join mature generations to explore possibilities, choices, and opportunities for your second phase life. Thanks to medical advances, people can expect to live longer lives into their 90's and beyond. How will you find the answers to make these bonus years more vibrant and meaningful to you? Participants will design a path to the future by examining key issues such as money, health and wellness, career, community service, leisure and entrepreneurial ship. Design a life plan filled with your passion, purpose and possibilities for your next phase in life. You will be motivated to action immediately - even before completing the course. No classes held the week of spring break – March 16th through March 22nd. 

"Too Young To Retire - 101 Ways to Start the Rest of Your Life" and "Too Young To Retire Journal" by Howard & Marika Stone included in supply fee.

Supply fee $26, payable to instructor

Thursdays (6 sessions)  6:30pm-8:00pm

COMM_ED850-10022    B. Atkins

46405   2/5 – 3/12          Cost $89

Southwest Valley HOA Academy 

Track A

The Basics of Homeowner Associations - HOA Seminar 101

If you are a current member of an HOA governing board who is interested in learning new skills, a resident interested in learning more about how HOAs function, or a prospective board member who would like to learn about the responsibilities of HOA board members, we invite you to participate in our Homeowner Association 101 seminar. This session will include an overview of: CC&R’s and bylaws, property management, duties and obligations of HOA boards, and the rights of homeowners. An attorney and other experts in the field will discuss financial issues, managing budgets, foreclosure proceedings, collections and insurance. Lunch is provided.

Saturday (1 session)      9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Registration begins at 8:30 am

COMM_ED490-10024    L. Schuette

46666   3/7        Cost $29 

Track B

Demystifying HOA Enforcement Options - HOA Seminar 201

Homeowners associations provide some degree of protection against neighborhood degradation and deterioration as a result of their enforcement authority.  Many HOA communities have architectural review procedures to maintain a uniform look to a community.  But with all of their inherent advantages, homeowners associations occasionally face complicated issues, none more common than the challenge of balancing the best interests of the community as a whole with the preferences of individual residents.  The HOA Board has a fundamental responsibility to exercise its authority in order to preserve the nature of the community and protect the value of the property owned by members.  Participants in this seminar will learn about governing documents, Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&R) and typical enforcement tools available to HOA Boards.  Seminar instructors will discuss enforcement strategies and working with homeowners to achieve compliance.  Participants will also learn about architecture design requirements and how design review can work. In addition, a panel of city officials from Avondale, Buckeye and Goodyear will discuss how HOAs can best work with their respective cities to achieve mutual goals of crime prevention and neighborhood preservation. Lunch is provided.

Saturday (1 session)      9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Registration begins at 8:30 am

COMM_ED490-10025    L. Schuette

46667   3/7        Cost $29 

Track A

HOA Property Management: Legal Issues, Landscape Maintenance and Conservation

HOA Seminar 102

If you’ve experienced the HOA 101 seminar and would like to increase your knowledge of HOAs, don’t miss this opportunity to pick up tips on effective property management and recruitment, landscape maintenance and water conservation. An HOA attorney will provide an overview of legal issues and new HOA legislation, as well as discuss the transition process, when new subdivisions go from developer to homeowners, and financial reserve studies. Participants in this seminar will learn about selecting and managing a management company and subcontractors. Experts in the field will discuss landscape maintenance and water conservation. Participants will learn how installation design affects landscaping maintenance costs, and how to reduce water consumption in your home and community.  Lunch is provided.

Saturday (1 session)      9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Registration begins at 8:30 am

COMM_ED490-10026    L. Schuette

46668   3/28      Cost $29 

Track B

Effective Board Management & Communications - HOA Seminar 202

Are you familiar with the Open Meeting Law? Do you wish that your board meetings could be more effective and well attended? If you are looking to increase your knowledge in this area, we invite you to participate in this seminar and learn the rights and responsibilities of homeowners, board members and management companies. Participants will learn how to select a property management company and vendors, and how to hold effective board meetings that are productive and end on time. Seminar instructors will introduce techniques to manage unruly residents and discuss ways to get through the prepared agenda.  Sessions will include tips on preparing effective agendas, using technology, taking minutes and when to consider changing vendors. Participants will also learn ways to keep their neighbors informed by using free websites, producing and circulating newsletters, and implementing phone trees. Come and get great ideas on how to keep your neighbors connected! Feel free to bring your newsletter to share with others. Lunch is provided.

Saturday (1 session)      9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Registration begins at 8:30 am

COMM_ED490-10027    L. Schuette

46669   3/28      Cost $29

Free Computer Orientation

Do you have little to zero computer experience?  Here is your opportunity to learn the very basics! Thursday (1 session)     6:00 – 7:00 pm

COMM_ED400-10001    B. Jones

44504   1/29      Cost: Free 

Thursday (1 session)     6:00 – 7:00 pm

COMM_ED400-10001    B. Jones

44506   3/26      Cost: Free  

The Computer Keyboard

Familiarity with the computer keyboard and the ability to type is essential to using a computer effectively. This class is for all who wish to improve their typing skills and wish to learn about the various extra keys on a computer keyboard. We will utilize an on-line typing skills course allowing participants to begin at whatever level of typing skill they presently have and advance at their own rate. Various keyboard shortcuts and combination keys will be discussed and demonstrated. You will be given free software for a basic typing course which you can install on your home computer. Those who complete this course will leave with reasonable typing skills and a working knowledge of the computer keyboard.

Mondays (3 sessions)   6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

COMM_ED850-10014    B. Jones

46325   2/9 – 3/2           Senior Cost: $44 

Mondays (3 sessions)   6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

COMM-ED850-10014     B. Jones

46326   4/6 – 4/20          Senior Cost: $44

Sign up for the basics and save! Sign up for these 5 essential computer skills classes and get the 6th one for free!   Computers Don’t Byte, Intro to Windows, Intro to MS Word for Windows, Intro to Excel for Windows, Intro to Power Point and Publisher, Exploring the Internet – Free!  Computer Basics Series 5 classes and the 6th is FREE

1st Session COMM_ED850-10018    B. Jones

46327               Senior cost: $220

2nd session COMM_ED850-10018    B. Jones    

46328               Senior cost:  $220

For dates and times of classes see below:

Computers Don’t Byte

For those with almost no knowledge of computers, this course sets a solid foundation for your next steps into computer literacy. Overcome your fears and concerns using computers by learning the basic concepts before moving on. We cover it all: peripheral drives, hard drives, keyboards and the mouse, file building, transferring, copy/paste, cut/paste, and more. Take this hands-on on tour and learn the many things you can do with your computer.

1st Session COMM_ED850-10013    B. Jones

46329   2/3 – 2/5           Senior Cost: $44

2nd Session COMM_ED850-10013    B. Jones

46330   3/31 – 4/2          Senior Cost: $44

Intro to Windows

Learn the basics of the Windows operating system. This class will explore basic concepts, commands, and applications. It is designed for the individual just getting started. We cover Windows XP and Vista versions. It is recommended that you have some basic keyboard and computer experience – ideally “Computers Don’t Byte.”

1st Session COMM_ED850-10004    B. Jones

46377   2/10 – 2/12        Senior Cost: $44

2nd Session COMM-ED850-10004     B. Jones

46378   4/7 – 4/9           Senior Cost: $44

Intro to MS Word for Windows

In this course you will learn the basic features of MS Word incorporating the unique features of Office 2007. We will cover creating documents, editing, formatting, page numbering, footnotes, outlines, creating tables, inserting bullets, spell check, inserting graphics, and much more. Participants should have some basic keyboard and computer experience – ideally “Computers Don’t Byte” and “Windows.”

1st SessionCOMM_ED850-10005 B. Jones

46380   2/17 – 2/20        Senior Cost: $44

2nd Session

COMM-ED850-10005     B. Jones

46381   4/14 – 4/17        Senior Cost: $44

Intro to Excel for WindowsLearn basic spreadsheet techniques such as entering date, editing, enhanced formatting, creating formulas, range editing, functions, printing, building charts and incorporating the unique features of the new Office 2007. Participants should have some basic keyboard and computer experience - ideally “Computers Don’t Byte” and “Windows.”

1st Session COMM_ED850-10006    B. Jones

44554   2/24 – 2/27        Senior Cost: $44

2nd Session COMM_ED850-10006    B. Jones

44550   4/21 – 4/24        Senior Cost: $44

 

Intro to PowerPoint & Publisher

In the first section of this course you will learn the basics of PowerPoint to create professional presentations such as slide shows, overheads, and handouts. In Publisher you will learn how to create professional-looking newsletters, bulletins, business cards, and flyers. New features from Office 2007 will be included.

1st Session COMM_ED850-10008    B. Jones

46382   3/3 – 3/5           Senior Cost: $44

2nd SessionCOMM_ED850-10008    B. Jones

46383   4/28 – 4/30        Senior Cost: $44

Exploring the Internet

Surf the Internet” and learn about the many options available. Learn to be comfortable using Microsoft Explorer and several “search engines” to find information. We will cover bookmarks, search engines, email, bulletin boards, how to access libraries, chatting, how to select your internet service provider (ISP), internet security, viruses, and much more. You will receive a list of hundreds of useful websites.

1st Session COMM_ED850-10021    B. Jones

46385   3/10 – 3/12        Senior Cost: $44

2nd Session COMM_ED850-10021      B. Jones

46386   5/5 – 5/7           Senior Cost: $44

Digital Photography Basics

Choosing a digital camera and learning how to use it can be quite overwhelming. This is a beginning class designed for those new to digital photography and either just purchased a digital camera or are looking to purchase one in the near future. We will cover the basic functions and terms, assessing the camera and what features are best suited for your needs.  Websites will be provided containing reviews, price comparisons - to save money, and a comprehensive booklet filled with helpful information that will be covered in the class. (If you have a camera, bring it along with your owner’s manual).

Wednesday (1 session)             6:00 pm - 9:30 pm

COMM_ED550-10025    J. Schiller

44482   2/4        Cost $29 

Digital Photography & Photo Enhancing

Learn the basic and advanced features of a digital camera in an easy-to-understand, simple language. Also covered is a hands-on approach using tips and tricks and user-friendly photo-enhancing software for great looking pictures. Some time will be allocated in class for one-on-one help for those who need it. Camera must include the ability to be manually set.
Please bring a digital camera and owner's manual. A handy comprehensive booklet will be provided.

Wednesday (3 sessions)            6:00 pm – 10:00 pm

COMM_ED850-10019               J. Schiller

46257   2/11 – 2/25                 Senior Cost:  $44

The In's and Out's of Reverse Mortgages

With the growing senior population, Reverse Mortgages have become a viable option for senior homeowners as part of their retirement plan. Designed for the senior homeowner and/or their responsible loved ones, financial advisors, and attorneys, this class will guide you through the in's and out's of Reverse Mortgages. Join Certified Mortgage Planner Samuel Melvin as he discusses the basic features of the Reverse Mortgage, the differences between Reverse Mortgages and regular mortgages, the most common myths and questions about the Reverse Mortgage, and the most common uses of the Reverse Mortgage. Come and learn how the FHA-insured Reverse Mortgage can enhance your retirement and standard of living.

Wednesdays (1 session)            10:00am – 12:00pm

COMM-ED470-10014     S. Melvin

46420   2/11      Cost $29

46421   3/11      Cost $29 

To Refinance or Not To Refinance: That is the Question

Learn the pros and cons of refinancing your mortgage. Determine the best strategy that makes sense for you. Even if you're credit has worsened or you're upside down, there's still a way out. Learn the newest products and strategies and put your plan into action. Learn the latest trends and statistics, and find out how you can make the best of your financial future.

Thursdays (1 session)    6:30pm -- 8:00pm

COMM_ED470-10019    S. Melvin

46422   2/17      Cost $29

46423   4/21      Cost $29

Home Equity Management 101

Most Americans largest asset is their home. And most Americans nest egg consists of the equity they have built up in their home through appreciation and paying down their mortgage. Most people believe as their home goes up in value they are earning a return on that money, and that their money is safe and liquid. They couldn’t be more wrong. Go ahead, talk to your neighbors and friends and ask how much of their home equity (and net worth) has vanished in the last 18 months. This course will show you: How to keep your largest asset liquid; Protect your home equity from ever being lost; Earn a rate of return on the lazy, idle dollars trapped in your home; Use otherwise payable tax dollars to earn YOU money; Significantly enhance your net worth. After all, could Bill Gates pay cash for his 65 Million dollar home? We all know the answer is yes. Then why does he have a 60 Million dollar Mortgage? Come and learn.

Thursdays (1 session)    7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

COMM_ED470-10021    D. Page

46424   2/26      Cost $29

46425   3/26      Cost $29

46426   4/30      Cost $29

46427   5/28      Cost $29

Spanish Basics

If your goal is to start to speak Spanish, this class is for you. This very beginning course is for students who have very limited skills in speaking Spanish or none at all. Students will begin to learn and speak Spanish. If you have already taken this course try Spanish II. No classes held the week of spring break – March 16th through March 22nd.

Saturday (6 sessions)    10:00 am –11:30 am

COMM_ED850-10001    H. Morales

44604   2/7 – 3/14          Senior Cost $62 

Saturday (6 sessions)    10:00 am –11:30 am

COMM_ED850-10001    H. Morales

46638   3/21 – 4/25        Senior Cost $62

Mystery Shopping Basics

Are you looking for some extra income? Learn what mystery shopping is and how to get started. We will cover how to get assignments and evaluate places such as restaurants, drug stores, gas stations and car rental agencies. This class is based on the experience of the instructor, who has been in the field for over 10 years.

Wednesday (1 session)    1:30 pm – 5:30 pm

COMM_ED550-10065    J. Schiller

46259   2/18      Cost $29 

Convert Vinyl Records & Cassettes to CD

Learn to convert vinyl records and music cassette tapes into digital files that play on your computer or made into CD's, that will play in any CD, ipod, or mp3 player - by using the method of: a turntable, Plus Deck hardware (internal PC cassette deck) and a desktop PC computer. Other methods will also be demonstrated, using new USB technology and stand-alone units not requiring a PC, that records directly to either a CD, flash drive or Secure Digital (SD) media card.  Please bring a vinyl record and/or music cassette tape, blank CD, flash drive and/or Secure Digital media card.

Wednesday (1 session) 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

COMM_ED550-10050    J. Schiller

46260   2/11      Cost $29

 

Convert VHS Tapes to DVD Basics

In this basic class, learn to easily archive and edit your videotape collection onto DVD and also create your own DVD movies from your camcorder, VCR and more. Demonstrations will be provided on how to convert and view your videos on new gadgets. The process includes a PC computer, video capture device and software. Please bring a VHS tape and a blank DVD. If converting other than a VHS tape, please also bring a camcorder (with audio and video cables). For personal use only.

Wednesday(1 session)  1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

COMM-ED550-10000     J. Schiller

46261   2/25      Cost $29

eBay: Buying and Selling 101

Clean out your closets and make money in the process! This course will cover everything from basic bidding & buying on eBay to listing an item for sale. Designed for selling, you will learn what buyers are looking for so you can tailor your listings for greatest impact. Learn how to choose a product category, write search-friendly titles and product descriptions, understand shipping options, handle insurance, gain tips for taking pictures and upload them to your sales listing, and establish personal systems for handling customer complaints. We'll cover payment methods, fees, handling fraudulent emails--and more!

Tuesdays (4 sessions)   6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

COMM_ED550-10013    S. Staal

44426   2/17 – 3/10        Cost $29

44428   3/24 – 4/14        Cost $29 

 

 

 

                                                     



 
 Last Updated: 1/8/09