Registration Opens July 20 at 8:30am
*
Registration Opens July 20 at 8:30am *
Gabriola Island
Probate Bypass, Estate Planning and Mindful Investing
This course provides a practical introduction to estate planning, with a particular focus on strategies for avoiding probate. It will also touch on key investment considerations that relate to effective financial and estate planning. Designed specifically for Elder College students, the course explores the essential principles of estate planning, a basic introduction to the probate process, and some strategies to help minimize the costs, delays, and challenges often associated with probate.
Instructor: Nathan Paisley is co-owner of Nathina Financial Services and holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in business, with a particular focus on financial and estate planning. With over five years of experience working alongside his father and business partner, Len Paisley, Nathan brings a balance of academic knowledge and practical insight to his teaching. Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Nathan combines an understanding of local needs with broader financial planning strategies. His teaching style incorporates real-life examples, practical exercises, and useful tools to help students gain a clear understanding of probate bypass strategies and wealth preservation techniques.
Supplies: It is encouraged to bring a pen and paper.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesday, December 15, 2026; 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Gabriola Branch | 575 North Road - #5, Gabriola Island, BC, V0R 1X3
Senior Brain: Staying Sharp At Any Age
Concerned about memory or cognitive decline? This engaging and practical workshop explores how to support brain health and maintain cognitive vitality as you age. Drawing on insights from Applied Educational Neuroscience, participants will learn what the brain needs to thrive, what to avoid, and how to harness the power of neuroplasticity. Discover practical strategies to enhance memory, focus, and overall brain wellness. With an emphasis on optimism and empowerment, this session offers tools to help you age with a sharp and resilient mind.
Instructor: Gary Anaka is a Brain-based Learning Facilitator with over 34 years of teaching experience in the public school system. He has been presenting motivational keynotes and workshops in the new field of Applied Educational Neuroscience since 1997 to tens of thousands of educators, parents, students, professionals and the general public across Canada. His sessions offer genuine practical help for everyone and he believes in wellness through education to support healthy living for people of all ages. He is well-known for his high energy, fun and totally engaging sessions.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Thursday, September 3, 2026; 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Gabriola Branch | 575 North Road - #5, Gabriola Island, BC, V0R 1X3
Duncan
AI Unlocked: Everyday Tips and Tricks for Non-Techies
Demystify AI and LLMs! This 3-hour course empowers you to confidently use these tools to enhance your productivity and creativity in everyday life. Learn practical tips and tricks to unlock the power of AI – even with no technical background. Through hands-on practice with tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude, you'll make AI your personal ally.
Instructor: Eric Byres (PEng, ISA Fellow) is an internationally recognized expert on cybersecurity for critical infrastructures - the systems that are essential to our safety and way of life, like power, water and transportation. He has advised government intelligence agencies and major energy companies around the world, testified before the US Congress and is the recipient of numerous international awards, including the IEEE Outstanding Industry Applications Article Prize and the ISA Donald P. Eckman Education Award. Eric was made a fellow of the International Society of Automation (ISA) in 2009 and given their highest honour, the ISA Excellence in Leadership, in 2013.
Price: $30.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesday, October 27, 2026; 1:00 - 4:00 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Cowichan Branch: 2687 James St, Duncan, BC V9L 2X5
Mindful Stitch
The speed of life in the 21st century can be overwhelming, but taking a calmer, more measured approach to the creative process can help you to find new joy in the experience of making...” from Slow Stitch - Mindful and Contemplative Textile Art by Claire Wellesley-Smith. Using a thoughtful process, we will learn and practice simple stitching as a way to engage our bodies and minds in a contemplative, creative practice. This session is open to new participants and those who have done the Introductory session - some new stitches, readings and embodiment techniques will be explored.
Instructor: Nora Ready, she/her, is a fiber artist living in Saanich, traditional territory of the Lekwungen and W SÁNEC people. Her creative practice focuses on slow stitch, botanical printing and dyeing, mindful practice, and collaborative art. She is an active member of both the Fibre Art Network (FAN), a cooperative network of Western Canadian fibre artists, and the Vancouver Island Surface Design Association. In 2024, her work was exhibited in Palimpsest, a juried exhibition in Metchosin, B.C., and she will have textile work in the Current Threads and Small Works contemporary textile art exhibits in Duncan, B.C. this June and July. She has a passion for community engagement, facilitation and sharing creative time and inspiration with others.
Supply Fee: All materials are provided for a $10 fee, payable to the instructor. Participants are also welcome to bring their own supplies if they prefer (e.g., scissors, sewing needles, or favourite threads).
Price: $25.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Saturday, September 5, 2026; 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Cowichan Branch: 2687 James St, Duncan, BC V9L 2X5
Probate Bypass & Estate Planning Strategies
This course provides a practical introduction to estate planning, with a particular focus on strategies for avoiding probate. It will also touch on key investment considerations that relate to effective financial and estate planning. Designed specifically for Elder College students, the course explores the essential principles of estate planning, a basic introduction to the probate process, and some strategies to help minimize the costs, delays, and challenges often associated with probate.
Instructor: Nathan Paisley is co-owner of Nathina Financial Services and holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in business, with a particular focus on financial and estate planning. With over five years of experience working alongside his father and business partner, Len Paisley, Nathan brings a balance of academic knowledge and practical insight to his teaching. Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Nathan combines an understanding of local needs with broader financial planning strategies. His teaching style incorporates real-life examples, practical exercises, and useful tools to help students gain a clear understanding of probate bypass strategies and wealth preservation techniques.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Friday, October 30, 2026; 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Cowichan Branch: 2687 James St, Duncan, BC V9L 2X5
Reframing JUSTICE: Healing, Restoration, Earthcare and Transformation
The dominant justice systems of the Western world have traditionally focused on crime, punishment and the enforcement of laws. But what if justice could do more? Could it also contribute to healing, restoration, reconciliation, environmental stewardship and the creation of a more flourishing society?
This six-session course explores alternative and emerging approaches to justice that seek not only to address harm, but also to cultivate stronger communities, healthier relationships and a more sustainable world. Drawing on Indigenous wisdom, restorative practices and contemporary social movements, participants will examine how justice can support personal transformation, collective healing and ecological well-being.
Pan-Indigenous Justice: Exploring humanity's earliest and most enduring traditions of communal healing, accountability and peacemaking.
Salish-Stóō Justice: Examining regional First Nations approaches to justice, environmental stewardship and social harmony.
Restorative Justice: Exploring Indigenous-inspired practices of restoration, mediation and relationship-building that complement conventional legal systems.
Transitional Justice: Investigating national and international efforts to acknowledge historical oppression and promote reconciliation.
Environmental Justice: Considering emerging approaches that recognize the rights and well-being of ecosystems, species and future generations.
Transformative Justice: Exploring justice frameworks that seek to foster human flourishing, ethical character and a more compassionate global community.
Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of how justice can move beyond punishment toward healing, reconciliation and a more sustainable future.
Instructor: Harold Rosen is a community interfaith educator with Master's degrees in philosophy, education & religion; has taught over 200 community courses during the last 25 years; and is the author of "Founders of Faith" and "Eye to the Ages".
DUNCAN
Price: $50.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Thursdays, November 12, 2026 until December 17, 2026; 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Cowichan Branch | 2687 James Street, Duncan, BC, V9L 2X5
LADYSMITH
Price: $50.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Fridays, October 2, 2026 until November 6, 2026; 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Location: Cedar Woods Studio | 13545 Cedar Road, Cowichan Valley H, BC, V9G 1H5
Nanaimo / Lantzville
A Beginner's Guide to BC Coastal Weather
It is impossible to live on the West Coast of BC and not be impacted by our weather. This beginner's course will take a macro look at how the Sun, our atmosphere and the rotation of the earth creates weather. We will then look regionally and discover the the air masses that impact the BC coast and the type of weather they bring. Then we will look at BCs unique coastal weather, including the influence of the California current and our coastal mountain ranges. Finally we will spend some time understanding how to read a synoptic weather chart.
Instructor: Chris Badger is a Master Mariner who has spent 15 years on ocean going ships with the Merchant Navy and the UK Ministry of Defence. Since emigrating to Canada in the 1980s he has spent over two decades in marine and port operations including stints as the Harbour Master in the ports of Nanaimo and Vancouver. He has also been a marine consultant and has taught meteorology (amongst other things) at the Western Maritime Institute. Like most professional mariners Chris has more than a passing interest in the weather.
Price: $33.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Fridays, November 6, 2026 until November 20, 2026; 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Nanaimo North Branch | 6250 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC, V9T 5M4
AI Unlocked: Everyday Tips and Tricks for Non-Techies
Demystify AI and LLMs! This 3-hour course empowers you to confidently use these tools to enhance your productivity and creativity in everyday life. Learn practical tips and tricks to unlock the power of AI – even with no technical background. Through hands-on practice with tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude, you'll make AI your personal ally.
Instructor: Eric Byres (PEng, ISA Fellow) is an internationally recognized expert on cybersecurity for critical infrastructures - the systems that are essential to our safety and way of life, like power, water and transportation. He has advised government intelligence agencies and major energy companies around the world, testified before the US Congress and is the recipient of numerous international awards, including the IEEE Outstanding Industry Applications Article Prize and the ISA Donald P. Eckman Education Award. Eric was made a fellow of the International Society of Automation (ISA) in 2009 and given their highest honour, the ISA Excellence in Leadership, in 2013.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Thursday, December 10, 2026; 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Nanaimo North Branch | 6250 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC, V9T 5M4
Alexandro Malaspina: 18th-C. Navigator-Philosopher
The name Malaspina has echoed around Vancouver Island for decades. Who was this man? What did he accomplish? Did he deserve to have a university-college named after him? We'll explore his life, works and times.
Instructor: John Black directed the Alexandro Malaspina Research Centre at VIU from 1999 to 2019. He absorbed a wide range of historical sources, developed connections with international scholars, many of whom came to Nanaimo to give public lectures, and translated a number of Malaspina's writings. He was awarded the Malaspina Medal by the Centro di Studi Malaspiniani in Mulazzo, Tuscany, the navigator's birthplace.
Note: A biography of Malaspina will be distributed at no cost. Approx. 25 pages per week required reading.
Price: $44.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesdays, October 27, 2026 until November 17, 2026; 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location: Nanaimo Museum | 100 Museum Way, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5J8
Board Volunteering: Understanding the Financial Side
Considering volunteering on a board but unsure about the financial side of organizational governance? This course is designed for board members and volunteers who are not directly involved in financial management but want to better understand their responsibilities and risks. Participants will learn what information to expect from treasurers or accounting staff, how to recognize and assess financial risks, and how to ask informed questions with greater confidence.
Instructor: Charles Shier is a retired Chartered Accountant who worked with Price Waterhouse and Grant Thornton in Victoria. He specialized in building financial models, budgets and feasibility studies.
Price: $30.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesday, September 1, 2026; 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Location: St. Philip by-the-Sea | 7113 Lantzville Road, Lantzville, BC, V0R 2H0
Bridge 1: Introduction
This course serves as an introductory guide to the Standard American 5-Card Major system, focusing on basic bidding and play techniques. It caters to individuals who are new to bridge as well as those who have previously played but seek a refresher on the current conventions and strategies employed in this system. This course emphasizes active participation and includes homework assignments to reinforce the learning process. Whether you are a beginner or someone looking to brush up on your skills, this course provides a comprehensive foundation for understanding and utilizing the Standard American 5-Card Major system in bridge.
Instructor: Brian Atkinson, architect, has played bridge throughout the world: under a hanging car headlamp while bombs dropped overhead in Iraq; in the rain forests of Costa Rica; and beside the Mekong River in Laos, amongst other places.
Supplies: A $5 workbook fee is payable to the instructor at the first class.
Price: $83.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesdays, September 9, 2026 until October 21, 2026; 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: St. Philip by-the-Sea | 7113 Lantzville Road, Lantzville, BC, V0R 2H0
Bridge 1: Play and Learn
This course is designed for individuals who have completed Bridge 1 or have some recent experience and seek additional practice before showcasing their bridge skills. Each class will offer a new nugget of knowledge and feature predetermined hands for bidding and playing. Following each hand, there will be a comprehensive review and discussion of the bidding and play. The instructor will provide feedback based on the Standard American bidding system of the American Contract Bridge League. Join us to further refine your bridge abilities and gain confidence in your game.
Instructor: Brian Atkinson, architect, has played bridge throughout the world: under a hanging car headlamp while bombs dropped overhead in Iraq; in the rain forests of Costa Rica; and beside the Mekong River in Laos, amongst other places.
Supplies: A $5 workbook fee is payable to the instructor at the first class.
Prerequisites: Bridge 1: Introduction or equivalent recent experience.
Price: $54.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesdays, November 18, 2026 until December 9, 2026; 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: St. Philip by-the-Sea | 7113 Lantzville Road, Lantzville, BC, V0R 2H0
Circles of Understanding
Our societies have become increasingly polarised, such division causing distance and even distress. This circle, based on peace-making processes, will build community through the sharing and exploration of issues that lie close to your heart that you would wish others to appreciate and understand. Please come prepared for openness and sharing.
Instructor: Jeanette Schmid is a retired social work practitioner, educator and researcher with substantive experience across a variety of fields and international settings. She is biased towards social justice and social transformation, and is keen on exploring diverse knowledge(s).
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Monday, November 2, 2026; 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: St. Philip by-the-Sea | 7113 Lantzville Road, Lantzville, BC, V0R 2H0
Climate Change: What Are Our Options
Global warming is accelerating changes in Earth’s ecosystems, and many of these impacts are already unavoidable. This course invites participants to consider whether these changes represent only a crisis—or also an opportunity. Through out-of-the-box thinking, diverse perspectives, and emerging technologies, we will explore practical ways societies can adapt to and mitigate the effects of a rapidly changing world.
Instructor: Mark Biagi is a marine biologist with over 45 years of experience in his field. he has worked in china; north, central and south America including the Caribbean; and in Europe. for 15 years, mark has worked closely with first nations across British Columbia, addressing their concerns stemming from the development of large industrial projects. he has also worked closely with first nations youth to find adaptation and mitigation strategies to address changes brought on by climate change.
Video Links: http://youtu.be/15cxqnnfjswhttp://youtu.be/zpctcvc5hyq will be required viewing (at home) during the course.
Price: $44.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesdays, September 15, 2026 until October 6, 2026; 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Location: St. Philip by-the-Sea | 7113 Lantzville Road, Lantzville, BC, V0R 2H0
Coal Mining on Vancouver Island
For over one hundred years, Scottish, English, Italian, Croatian and Chinese miners dug the coal that lies beneath the surface of Vancouver Island from Ladysmith to Port Hardy. Generations of miners worked without the protection of a union; they died in floods, explosions and cave-ins. Their families survived on the strength of the community. One Scottish miner became the wealthiest man in British Columbia and the most hated.
Instructor: Lynne Bowen is a writer and lecturer. Three of her seven books, Boss Whistle, Three Dollar Dreams and Robert Dunsmuir, Laird of the Mines tell the story of coal mining on Vancouver Island.
Price: $66.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesdays, October 6, 2026 until November 10, 2026; 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Nanaimo Museum | 100 Museum Way, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5J8
Current Debates in Mental Health
Despite it being assumed that there are precise diagnoses and interventions in mental health, there are intense debates about what constitutes mental health or ill health and appropriate responses. Relying on a social work perspective, this workshop will explore your understanding of mental health, pick up current debates (e.g. issues around a bio-medical approach, diagnosis, use of alternatives, autonomy and family involvement) and explore why these may be relevant in our daily personal and professional interactions. Openness to recognising that there are debates is needed.
Instructor: Jeanette Schmid is a retired social work practitioner, educator and researcher with substantive experience across a variety of fields and international settings. She is biased towards social justice and social transformation, and is keen on exploring diverse knowledge(s).
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesday, September 1, 2026; 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location: St. Philip by-the-Sea | 7113 Lantzville Road, Lantzville, BC, V0R 2H0
***This course has been generously sponsored by an anonymous donor, with our sincere thanks.
Developing Your Advance Care Plan: Making Your Wishes Known
This course will help participants understand the importance of advance care planning and how to choose someone to speak on their behalf if they are unable to make decisions for themselves. Participants will learn how to communicate and document their values, wishes, and preferences for future health and end-of-life care, helping loved ones and caregivers make informed decisions with confidence and respect.
Providing practical tools and guidance to support the development of an advanced care plan for participants and their families. Topics include resuscitation preferences, fears and concerns surrounding end-of-life care, and communicating personal wishes and values.
Instructor: Judy Cook has been a dedicated healthcare advocate within the local healthcare system for 25 years and understands the challenges that can arise when end-of-life wishes have not been discussed or documented in advance. While it can feel “too early” to make these plans, experience has shown that having them in place early provides clarity, comfort, and peace of mind for individuals and their loved ones.
Having worked in Palliative Care for 12 years, Judy has seen firsthand the benefits of advance care planning and how much easier it becomes to honour a person’s wishes when decisions have been thoughtfully communicated ahead of time. Judy has helped many individuals and families through this process and has seen the deep sense of relief that comes from having a clear plan in place.
Price: $33.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Fridays, September 18, 2026 until October 2, 2026; 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: VIRL Nanaimo North Large Meeting Room (Vancouver Island Regional Library - Nanaimo North Branch) | 6250 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC, V9T 5M4
Discover Your Roots: Genealogy and Family History
Have you ever wondered about your family’s roots or the stories that shaped earlier generations? In this engaging two-session course, members of the Nanaimo Family History Society will introduce participants to basic genealogy research methods, helpful research resources, and DNA tools used in family history exploration. Participants will also explore meaningful ways to record, preserve, and share family stories and memories for future generations.
Instructors:
Bronwyn Frazer P.L.C.S. is a professional accredited genealogist, teacher and guest lecturer who specializes in best research practices. With over 25 years’ experience she still loves the challenge of chasing after elusive family members and busting brick walls for clients. In this presentation Bronwyn shares key strategies to keep your research on track – and more importantly, up to the Genealogical Proof Standard.
Mali Bain, a former high school teacher, is a family historian, facilitator, and certified Guided Autobiography instructor. She is author of Our Homes on Indigenous Lands: Stories of My Ancestors Across Turtle Island. Since founding NextGen Story: Custom Publishing, she has helped dozens of families complete life story and family history books.
Terry Hartley, a retired lawyer has been researching her family history for several decades, and for the past ten years, she has been specializing in DNA-based research to solve family mysteries. She has supported researchers in refining their skills and building confidence in working with DNA results by facilitating the Advanced DNA group for the BC Genealogical Society, and Research Like a Pro with DNA sessions for the Nanaimo Family History Society.
Tony Green is a retired Exploration geologist and long-time family historian enthusiast. He is editor of the Nanaimo Family History Society Journal and recently published a book about his father’s experiences as an RAAF photographer in New Guinea in WW2.
Price: $22.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesdays, November 10, 2026 until November 17, 2026; 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: St. Philip by-the-Sea | 7113 Lantzville Road, Lantzville, BC, V0R 2H0
Draft to Done: Edit and Publish with Confidence
You have many pieces of writing, maybe some photos - but what do you do after you've got your first rough draft? This course delves into the process of "finishing up" writing to share (privately or publicly). We cover types of editing (substantive, stylistic, copy-editing); ways to structure content; publishing vs self-publishing, and print formats to consider. Focus is on memoir, legacy, and family history writing; content applicable to many. Leave inspired and clear on next steps to completion.
Instructor: Mali Bain, BA (UBC), BEd (SFU), MA (UBC), a former high school teacher, has also worked in university, philanthropic, and non-profit settings. She is a certified guided autobiography facilitator and founder of NextGen Story: Custom Publishing.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Fridays, September 18, 2026 until September 25, 2026; 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Nanaimo North Branch | 6250 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC, V9T 5M4
Drought: Causes and Consequences
Droughts occur when there is an extended period of dry weather due to a lack of rain or snow. This reduction in the availability of water compared to normal climate conditions creates a water imbalance that can adversely affect vegetation, ecosystem function, agriculture and water supply for human use.
On the eastern part of Vancouver Island, we experience a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. However, the climate is changing, and longer periods of hot and dry weather during the summers are becoming the new normal. The winter of 2025-26 was a low snow winter and dryer than usual spring in 2026 has triggered drought conditions earlier than usual. Together with the prediction that Vancouver Island will face a hotter than normal summer, due to human caused climate change and a strong El Niño weather pattern, the scene is set for a long and intense drought in 2026.
This lecture will examine the hydrological cycle and water data for 2026 on Vancouver Island to explain how drought develops, and review how water managers can deal with the imbalance in water supply. In the future, both humans and other organisms in the ecosystem need to adapt to longer droughts and become more resilient to dry conditions.
Instructor: Alan Gilchrist is Professor Emeritus of Geography at Vancouver Island University and teaches field courses on the landforms and geology of eastern Vancouver Island for Elder College. His research focuses on understanding water supply on Vancouver Island, and how human-caused climate change is affecting it.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Friday, October 30, 2026; 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: St Andrews Hall (St Andrew's United Church) | 315 Fitzwilliam Street, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 3A6
Eat Well, Live Long
Eating well becomes increasingly important as we age. The food and beverages we chose to eat, along with our habits around eating, play key roles in the quality of these years and our longevity. Join us for discussions on age-related diseases such as osteoporosis, type-2 diabetes and cardiac disease. We will also delve into the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, how to prevent cognitive decline and more. Don't miss the opportunity to learn how to eat well, and live a healthy life in your golden years.
Instructor: Patricia Good worked as a registered dietitian for 33 years, working mostly with children and families. Recently retired from a long and rewarding career with Island Health, Patricia is keen to share her nutritional knowledge.
Price: $33.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Fridays, November 27, 2026 until December 11, 2026; 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Nanaimo North Branch | 6250 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC, V9T 5M4
Ethical Thinking: How to Think Well About 'The Good'
A survey and exploration of some classic theories of ethics, as well as some more recent ones. We'll also explore 'meta-ethical' issues such as the source of ethical rules, or whether there are any such things as ethical facts at all. This might not change what you think counts as 'ethical', but it will help you articulate your own understanding and locate causes of ethical disagreements with others more reliably.
Instructor: Dr. Kirk McDermid is a philosopher with expertise in critical thinking, epistemology (the study of the nature of knowledge), and philosophy of science. He moved to the Island in 2024, having taught at Montclair State University in northern New Jersey and the University of Western Ontario for 20 years, and is currently teaching at Camosun College in Victoria.
Price: $42.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesdays, November 18, 2026 until December 16, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: St. Philip By-The-Sea 7113 Lantzville Rd, Lantzville, BC V0R 2H0
Fun With Card Magic
Revelations of how various card magic illusions are performed. Learn how to perform three amazing card illusions that are guaranteed to make you the hit of the party. Lots of laughs. View the performance of one of the greatest card tricks that will amaze you. Also learn how card magicians use your natural reactions to mislead you.
Instructor: Steven Coull is an amateur card magic illusionist who regularly performs his card magic at social get-togethers.
Price: $30.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesday, September 2, 2026; 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Location: St. Philip By-The-Sea 7113 Lantzville Rd, Lantzville, BC V0R 2H0
***This course has been generously sponsored by Marilyn Bilsbarrow, with our sincere thanks.
How Not to Get Phished
Worried about online scams? "How Not to Get Phished" gives you the straightforward skills you need to recognize and avoid dangerous phishing attempts in just 3 hours. We'll show you real-life examples of fake emails, texts, and those suspicious website links. Learn how to be your own first line of defence and keep your personal information safe.
Instructor: Eric Byres (PEng, ISA Fellow) is an internationally recognized expert on cybersecurity for critical infrastructures - the systems that are essential to our safety and way of life, like power, water and transportation. He has advised government intelligence agencies and major energy companies around the world, testified before the US Congress and is the recipient of numerous international awards, including the IEEE Outstanding Industry Applications Article Prize and the ISA Donald P. Eckman Education Award. Eric was made a fellow of the International Society of Automation (ISA) in 2009 and given their highest honour, the ISA Excellence in Leadership, in 2013.
Price: $30.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Friday, December 11, 2026; 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Nanaimo North Branch | 6250 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC, V9T 5M4
Intermediate French Conversation
This course is designed for participants with intermediate French. In a very relaxed environment, the participants are encouraged to exchange ideas on different themes presented by the instructor or the students. The communicative approach of the course will help the participants to improve the ability to communicate in French in a very non threatening environment.
Instructor: Adda Besseghieur teaches all levels of French classes. He just retired from Vancouver Island University in Nanaimo. He is presently teaching online courses with the University of Saskatchewan. He is much appreciated for his flexibility, his energy, his humor and his extensive knowledge of both French grammar, vocabulary, literature and culture. His students enjoy the positive and non-threatening learning environment he so aptly creates.
Price: $33.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Thursdays, September 17, 2026 until October 8, 2026; 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: St. Philip By-The-Sea 7113 Lantzville Rd, Lantzville, BC V0R 2H0
Lifestyle Self-Management: Tools for Reducing Stress
Stress is a natural human response experienced by everyone. However, chronic stress can negatively affect both the mind and body. In this presentation, attendees will explore practical and accessible strategies for managing stress through lifestyle-based self-management approaches, supporting more balanced and healthy living.
Instructor: Kamal Parmar is a Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with many additional professional certificates in nutrition, natural and alternative health care, chronic pain management and Ayurvedic medicine.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesday, October 27, 2026; 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Nanaimo North Branch | 6250 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC, V9T 5M4
Nanaimo Downtown Heritage Walk
Step back in time on a downtown walking tour with retired City of Nanaimo Heritage Planner, Chris Sholberg. The two hour tour will focus on Nanaimo's built heritage and history as told through its numerous downtown historical buildings, ranging from the Bastion constructed by the Hudsons Bay Company in the early 1850s to later art deco and modernist buildings constructed in the 1930s and 40s.
Instructor: Chris Sholberg is a graduate of the University of Manitoba's City Planning Program, he was the City of Nanaimo's Heritage Planner from 1999 to 2025, during which time he administered the City's Heritage Conservation Program as the City sought to fulfill the its various heritage policy objectives with respect to both conserving built heritage and promoting cultural heritage. He is a retired member of the Canadian Institute of Planners and the Planning Institute of B.C. Born in Winnipeg, and growing up in Northern California, Chris is happy to call Nanaimo his home.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Friday, October 16, 2026; 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Off-Campus | 6250 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC, V9T 5M4
Non-Profits, Volunteering, and the Law
Whether you're a board member or front-line volunteer, understanding your legal responsibilities and the legal risks associated with volunteering for a non-profit is essential. Explore liability for negligence, directors’ fiduciary duties, risk management strategies such as insurance and waivers, privacy rules, volunteer/management relationships and more. Be engaged and informed!
Instructor: Sharon Speevak holds a Law degree from McGill University. She practiced civil litigation and ran a legal services business for a combined total of 38 years. She has taught legal education courses and educational workshops for the Alzheimer's Society of BC.
Price: $44.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Fridays, September 18, 2026 until October 9, 2026; 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Harbourfront Branch | 90 Commercial Street, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5G4
Paint & Relax: Mindful Watercolor for Beginners
This single-session workshop offers a gentle introduction to watercolor for beginners and all levels. Participants will create an atmospheric landscape inspired by Vancouver Island, focusing on softness, color blending, mood, and the feeling of place. Rather than focusing on technical precision, this workshop introduces watercolor as a relaxing and expressive medium. Through simple washes, soft edges, and layered colors, participants will explore how watercolor can create a peaceful landscape atmosphere.
Instructor: Mihri Yücel is a Turkish artist and educator with a background in Traditional Turkish Arts. She has taught both children and adults for many years in a variety of media, including watercolor, acrylics, textile painting, pottery painting, and especially Ebru—the traditional art of water marbling. Originally from Türkiye, Mihri studied near the historic Bayezid II Complex in Edirne, a site known for its connection to Ottoman healing arts. Her closeness to this history shaped her approach to art as a calming, mindful, and inclusive practice.
Since relocating to Nanaimo with her family, Mihri has continued sharing her passion through community workshops and small-group art classes in her home studio. Her teaching emphasises not only technique, but also the meditative and cultural richness of creative expression. Mihri believes that Ebru is more than just a decorative art—it’s a healing process. She designs her classes to welcome participants of all backgrounds, regardless of experience, and encourages personal connection through color, movement, and tradition."
Supply Fee: All professional materials will be provided by the instructor for a fee of $20 to be paid to the instructor at the first class.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Monday, November 2, 2026, 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Location: St. Philip By-The-Sea 7113 Lantzville Rd, Lantzville, BC V0R 2H0
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Monday, December 14, 2026, 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Location: St. Philip By-The-Sea 7113 Lantzville Rd, Lantzville, BC V0R 2H0
Patterns Over Water: Inspired by Vancouver Island
This 3-week course combines water marbling, also known as Ebru, with acrylic painting. Participants will work on pre-made marbled papers created on the surface of water and use them as expressive backgrounds for acrylic paintings inspired by Vancouver Island. Participants may create simple nature-based images such as birds, animals, trees, ocean scenes, coastal landscapes, or abstract island-inspired compositions. Each marbled background will be different, allowing every participant to create a unique final artwork.
This course is suitable for beginners and all levels. The focus will be on creativity, personal expression, and enjoying the process rather than technical precision. I am proposing this as a 3-week course because there was previous interest in a longer format, and this structure will allow participants to explore the process more fully.
Instructor: Mihri Yücel is a Turkish artist and educator with a background in Traditional Turkish Arts. She has taught both children and adults for many years in a variety of media, including watercolor, acrylics, textile painting, pottery painting, and especially Ebru—the traditional art of water marbling. Originally from Türkiye, Mihri studied near the historic Bayezid II Complex in Edirne, a site known for its connection to Ottoman healing arts. Her closeness to this history shaped her approach to art as a calming, mindful, and inclusive practice.
Since relocating to Nanaimo with her family, Mihri has continued sharing her passion through community workshops and small-group art classes in her home studio. Her teaching emphasises not only technique, but also the meditative and cultural richness of creative expression. Mihri believes that Ebru is more than just a decorative art—it’s a healing process. She designs her classes to welcome participants of all backgrounds, regardless of experience, and encourages personal connection through color, movement, and tradition."
Supply Fee: $60 per participant, payable to the instructor at the first class. Professional-quality materials and supplies will be provided.
Price: $33.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Mondays, November 9, 2026 until November 23, 2026; 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Location: St. Philip By-The-Sea 7113 Lantzville Rd, Lantzville, BC V0R 2H0
Philosophers’ Café: Exploring Life’s Big Questions - September
Join this bi-weekly forum for open, thoughtful, and facilitated discussions on a range of stimulating topics. Share your perspectives, questions, and personal insights as we explore timeless and timely issues in our shared quest for wisdom and understanding.
Philosophy isn’t confined to scholars—it’s a discipline open to anyone eager to expand their mind and engage in meaningful dialogue.
Topics include:
Session One: The Death of Expertise and the Decline of Trust
Session Two: Cultural Appropriation: Shared or Stolen?
Session Three: Drawing the Moral Line: Where does "us" end and "them" begin?
Session Four: "Getting Off On A Technicality": A failure or success of our justice system?
Instructor: Sharon Speevak is a retired lawyer with an undergraduate degree in History. She developed and facilitates a Philosopher's Cafe for a local community group and is eager to share this forum with students of Elder College.
Price: $44.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Every 2 weeks, Wednesdays, September 23, 2026 until November 4, 2026; 2:30 PM - 4:30
Location: St. Philip By-The-Sea 7113 Lantzville Rd, Lantzville, BC V0R 2H0
Philosophers’ Café: Exploring Life’s Big Questions - November #1
Join this bi-weekly forum for open, thoughtful, and facilitated discussions on a range of stimulating topics. Share your perspectives, questions, and personal insights as we explore timeless and timely issues in our shared quest for wisdom and understanding.
Philosophy isn’t confined to scholars—it’s a discipline open to anyone eager to expand their mind and engage in meaningful dialogue.
Topics include:
Session One: The Death of Expertise and the Decline of Trust
Session Two: Cultural Appropriation: Shared or Stolen?
Session Three: Drawing the Moral Line: Where does "us" end and "them" begin?
Session Four: "Getting Off On A Technicality": A failure or success of our justice system?
Instructor: Sharon Speevak is a retired lawyer with an undergraduate degree in History. She developed and facilitates a Philosopher's Cafe for a local community group and is eager to share this forum with students of Elder College.
Price: $44.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Every 2 weeks, Tuesdays, November 3, 2026 until December 15, 2026; 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Location: St. Philip By-The-Sea 7113 Lantzville Rd, Lantzville, BC V0R 2H0
Philosophers’ Café: Exploring Life’s Big Questions - November #2
Join this bi-weekly forum for open, thoughtful, and facilitated discussions on a range of stimulating topics. Share your perspectives, questions, and personal insights as we explore timeless and timely issues in our shared quest for wisdom and understanding.
Philosophy isn’t confined to scholars—it’s a discipline open to anyone eager to expand their mind and engage in meaningful dialogue.
Topics include:
Session One: Cancel Culture – Accountability or censorship?
Session Two: Medical Assistance in Dying: A Dignified Exit or A Failure in Health Care?
Session Three: What are the limits of justifiable civil disobedience?
Session Four: The topic is removed Harm Reduction & Decriminalization of Drugs: A Failed Health Care Experiment?
Instructor: Sharon Speevak is a retired lawyer with an undergraduate degree in History. She developed and facilitates a Philosopher's Cafe for a local community group and is eager to share this forum with students of Elder College.
Price: $44.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Every 2 weeks, Tuesdays, November 10, 2026 until December 22, 2026; 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Location: St. Philip By-The-Sea 7113 Lantzville Rd, Lantzville, BC V0R 2H0
Probate Bypass & Estate Planning Strategies
This course provides a practical introduction to estate planning, with a particular focus on strategies for avoiding probate. It will also touch on key investment considerations that relate to effective financial and estate planning. Designed specifically for Elder College students, the course explores the essential principles of estate planning, a basic introduction to the probate process, and some strategies to help minimize the costs, delays, and challenges often associated with probate.
Instructor: Nathan Paisley is co-owner of Nathina Financial Services and holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in business, with a particular focus on financial and estate planning. With over five years of experience working alongside his father and business partner, Len Paisley, Nathan brings a balance of academic knowledge and practical insight to his teaching. Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Nathan combines an understanding of local needs with broader financial planning strategies. His teaching style incorporates real-life examples, practical exercises, and useful tools to help students gain a clear understanding of probate bypass strategies and wealth preservation techniques.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesday, October 28, 2026; 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Location: St. Philip by-the-Sea | 7113 Lantzville Road, Lantzville, BC, V0R 2H0
Road Safety for Seniors
This course is designed to enhance your driving skills and knowledge, providing you with a wealth of material. Stay informed and up to date with the latest information, including an exploration of the Enhanced Road Assessment, guidance on preparing for re-examination, and an examination of how aging can potentially impact driving abilities. This course will cover all aspects of driving, empowering you to remain safe and confident on the road. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to equip yourself with essential tools for a secure and enjoyable driving experience.
Instructor: Tim Schewe's background includes 25 years of policing with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, consisting of 5 on general duty, 20 on traffic and 10 (concurrent with traffic service) as a collision analyst responsible for conducting technical investigations of collisions. I retired from policing in 2006 but continue to be active in road safety.
Price: $44.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Mondays, September 28, 2026 until October 26, 2026; 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM (No class on Monday October 12)
Location: St. Philip By-The-Sea 7113 Lantzville Rd, Lantzville, BC V0R 2H0
Scents of Change: Supporting Healthy Aging Through Life’s Losses
As we grow older, life brings inevitable changes—some gentle, others deeply felt. The loss of a loved one, a pet, a home, mobility, or even a driver’s licence can stir unexpected waves of grief. This experiential workshop offers a compassionate space to explore how these everyday losses shape our emotional landscape.
Through guided reflection and the calming power of natural scents, participants will learn how aroma can help quiet the mind and soothe the heart. Engaging the body’s natural “rest and digest” state, you’ll discover simple ways to restore balance, build resilience, and find moments of peace amid life’s ongoing transitions.
Instructor: Margo Fletcher is a registered Aroma-Therapist who has been providing aromatherapy support both through her private practice and also as a volunteer for Nanaimo Community Hospice for over 20 years. Her knowledge of the sense of smell and how it is designed to keep us safe in the world, combined with her deep understanding of the affects of grief and loss as a Hospice volunteer, led her to create a bereavement support program that is still in use today.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesday, December 15, 2026; 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: St. Philip by-the-Sea | 7113 Lantzville Road, Lantzville, BC, V0R 2H0
Senior Brain: Staying Sharp At Any Age
Concerned about memory or cognitive decline? This engaging and practical workshop explores how to support brain health and maintain cognitive vitality as you age. Drawing on insights from Applied Educational Neuroscience, participants will learn what the brain needs to thrive, what to avoid, and how to harness the power of neuroplasticity. Discover practical strategies to enhance memory, focus, and overall brain wellness. With an emphasis on optimism and empowerment, this session offers tools to help you age with a sharp and resilient mind.
Instructor: Gary Anaka is a Brain-based Learning Facilitator with over 34 years of teaching experience in the public school system. He has been presenting motivational keynotes and workshops in the new field of Applied Educational Neuroscience since 1997 to tens of thousands of educators, parents, students, professionals and the general public across Canada. His sessions offer genuine practical help for everyone and he believes in wellness through education to support healthy living for people of all ages. He is well-known for his high energy, fun and totally engaging sessions.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesday, September 2, 2026, 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: St. Philip By-The-Sea 7113 Lantzville Rd, Lantzville, BC V0R 2H0
Simple Strategies To Be Secure Online
Every day, we hear about sophisticated new cyberattacks infiltrating major corporations and governments. How does the ordinary citizen protect their phones, computers, and online accounts from this continuous assault? We will start this course by exploring cybercriminals' motivations and methods. Then, using that knowledge, we will uncover three simple strategies for significantly improving personal cybersecurity.
Instructor: Eric Byres (PEng, ISA Fellow) is an internationally recognized expert on cybersecurity for critical infrastructures - the systems that are essential to our safety and way of life, like power, water and transportation. He has advised government intelligence agencies and major energy companies around the world, testified before the US Congress and is the recipient of numerous international awards, including the IEEE Outstanding Industry Applications Article Prize and the ISA Donald P. Eckman Education Award. Eric was made a fellow of the International Society of Automation (ISA) in 2009 and given their highest honour, the ISA Excellence in Leadership, in 2013.
Price: $30.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Monday, December 7, 2026; 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: St. Philip By-The-Sea 7113 Lantzville Rd, Lantzville, BC V0R 2H0
Sports and Morality
Sporting contests are a modern day venue for many moral arguments: what counts as cheating, the value of competition and violence, the value of sporting excellence to character development. How does sport relate to our moral lives at all, when it's not "real"? This session will look at a contemporary view that sports are a unique kind of 'moral technology' that helps us convert competition into cooperation.
Instructor: Dr. Kirk McDermid is a philosopher with expertise in critical thinking, epistemology (the study of the nature of knowledge), and philosophy of science. He moved to the Island in 2024, having taught at Montclair State University in northern New Jersey and the University of Western Ontario for 20 years, and is currently teaching at Camosun College in Victoria.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesday, October 28, 2026; 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Location: St. Philip by-the-Sea | 7113 Lantzville Road, Lantzville, BC, V0R 2H0
Stoicism and Uncertain Times
Drawing on the enduring philosophy of Stoicism—most notably reflected in works such as Meditations—this session explores a practical approach to navigating uncertainty. Stoicism seeks wisdom through understanding the natural order and aligning one’s actions and attitudes accordingly. Its central idea is simple: live in accordance with nature to cultivate a stable and meaningful life. This is unique. No other philosophy is based directly in science. No gods are required or needed.
This philosophy proved especially influential in ancient Rome, a period marked by political instability, war, and recurring public health crises. Stoicism functioned as a form of practical self-guidance, helping individuals develop resilience and perspective. Much as physical exercise strengthens the body, Stoic practice was seen as a way to strengthen the mind.
The renewed interest in Stoicism today may reflect similar conditions of uncertainty, as individuals seek grounded and enduring approaches to managing complexity and change.
Instructor: Russell McNeil’s interest in Stoicism as a way of thinking and living stems from its strong connection to nature—rooted in physics. With a background in physics, this “natural” philosophy resonated deeply, finding Stoicism to be both logical and practical, with implications that are particularly meaningful in times of uncertainty.
Recommended Reading: The "Meditations" are available free online. Those I draw on are published but are not required and taken from: Meditations of Marcus Aurelius: Selections Annotated and Explained
Price: $66.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Thursdays, September 17, 2026 until October 22, 2026; 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Harbourfront Branch | 90 Commercial Street, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5G4
The History of First Nations Land in British Columbia
We will look at the way newcomers have treated First Nations people over their land from early contact to the present. We will learn how they claimed, occupied and removed First Nations people from the land and how the First Nations responded. How land was lost and, in some cases, regained and recognize that history lives with us today. Understanding our shared past enables us to understand how we got to where we are - and, perhaps, where we might go next.
Instructor: Robin Fisher has taught British Columbia history in several universities and is the author of a number of books on the subject. His most recent book was the winner of the 2023 Lieutenant Governors medal for the best book in British Columbia history. He has taught for Elder College for several years and is its President.
Price: $66.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesdays, September 15, 2026 until October 27, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM (NO class October 6)
Location: St. Philip by-the-Sea | 7113 Lantzville Road, Lantzville, BC, V0R 2H0
The History Of The Lyric Love Poem From Its Origins In Ancient Greece To Today
We shall read and appreciate together the rich tradition of the lyric love poem in western literature that originates with Sappho and Anakreon in classical Greek.
We shall see how it is transformed by classical poets in Latin; in late mediaeval Europe, and in the Renaissance languages of Italy, Spain, and Elizabethan England. In the last two classes we shall examine Victorian and modern contemporary poets and song writers.
John will translate where necessary from Greek, Latin, and romance languages; and will share a newly composed poem at each meeting. Everyone is encouraged to bring their own favourite poets to share with the class.
Instructor: John Edwards is the Poet Laureate of Ladysmith and the author of many translations of Greek and Latin poets and of books of his own poetry and art. He farms hay and quince in Yellow Point. John reveres Shakespeare as the greatest poet in English.
Price: $88.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Thursdays, October 15, 2026 until December 3, 2026; 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Nanaimo North Branch | 6250 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC, V9T 5M4
The Independent Traveller
Do you want to travel solo or with someone else with the freedom of choice as an independent traveller? You will learn to pick a safe country that is suitable to your interest, timeline and budget. Once your country has been chosen, prepare for a entry requirements. You will learn how to plan a route, book accommodations, flights and transportation. What to pack including essential items to accommodate a carry on bag less than 10KG. Manage to travel with only under-seat luggage. Personal safety is a priority; learn the tips to be safe. There will be bumps in the road; how to handle them. Through out the process, develop a personal travel itinerary. You may be so excited about your itinerary, that you decide to execute it sometime.
Instructor: Jude White's first plane ride was when she was 23 years old, going to New York City from Toronto. She was terrified. Ten years later she arranged a motorhome trip from Amsterdam with her family. It was a 6 week trip visiting 9 countries in Europe. She became hooked on travelling. Throughout her 30's and 40's she earned trips through the companies she worked for. They were primarily all inclusive trips to the USA and Caribbean. There was much fun to be had; however, they lacked adventure. Her first solo trip was to Thailand in 2010. She joined an adventure tour and when it ended in 10 days she travelled solo onwards. It was exhilarating! Her son moved to S. Korea after university to teach English. That part of world became her travel grounds. She has rafted the Mekong river, fished in Nicaragua, ridden an elephant and a camel, paraglided (2025) in Chile, visited Easter island and made friends over the world. She has been to 45 different countries, (not enough). Not all of my trips were solo; however almost all of them were as an Independent Traver. Please join her!
Price: $44.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Thursdays, November 5, 2026 until November 26, 2026; 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Harbourfront Branch | 90 Commercial Street, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5G4
Transforming Long-term Care for Well-being
This course explores efforts to improve the quality of life for older adults in long-term care. Drawing on examples from Vancouver Island, Canada, and abroad, participants will examine innovations in facility design, caregiving, and community integration. Topics include facilities that look and operate like a real home, multi-skilled caregiving teams that feel like a real family, and homes that are embedded in real neighbourhoods.
Participants will gain insights into best practices that prioritize humanity over bureaucracy such as resident-centred design, flexible daily routines, home-cooked meals, free access to the outdoors and community spaces, empowered caregivers who provide companionship, and intergenerational living.
This course will demonstrate how long-term care is being transformed for the well-being of all care partners, including residents and their families, staff, volunteers, the organization, and the community.
Instructor: Rudy P. Friesen FRAIC Hon FAIA LEED® AP Partner Emeritus ft3 Architecture Landscape Interior Design
Rudy P. Friesen is a retired architect with a passion for transforming long-term care, which is both professional and personal. His mother was in long-term care for 10 years, which inspired him to do better. Shortly after, his firm designed one of the first long-term care facilities in Canada based on the small-house model. Rudy continues to research best practices and leading-edge facilities around the world.
Recommended Reading:http://www.agingbetterincommunity.com/; Dementia Beyond Drugs: Changing the Culture of Care, Second Edition, by G. Allen Power, M.D.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesday, October 28, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: St. Philip By-The-Sea 7113 Lantzville Rd, Lantzville, BC V0R 2H0
***This course has been sponsored by Cindy and Dave Witty— with our sincere thanks.
Understanding Fear And Its Effects On Humanity
This is an introductory course, from a fearology perspective, on the nature and role of fear, individually and collectively. In the last three decades, especially since 9/11, fear has, for various reasons, become a growing topic of major concern in several academic disciplines, operations of democracy and governance and in its uses in business, advertising and popular culture. Explore your personal relationship to fear, the importance of multiple perspectives, critique the normal socialization and the culture of fear.
Instructor: Michael Fisher, PhD, is a retired educator who has focused on the impact of psychological, cultural, political, and philosophical issues on education, and how it often fails to emancipate us from the oppressions that hurt us. He is also an author of over 200 articles, has published 15 books, and is a popular teacher on YouTube. Michael has taught adult education for over 45 years, spent several years as a school teacher, and has been involved in youth and family rehabilitation work. Michael's research has focused on the phenomenon of fear and fearlessness since late 1989, and he refers to himself as a ‘fearologist’.
Price: $50.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Thursdays, September 17, 2026 until October 22, 2026; 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Vancouver Island Regional Library - Nanaimo North Branch | 6250 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC, V9T 5M4
Values, Culture and Legacy in Families
This 2-part workshop will explore why understanding family values and culture are helpful in unpacking (your) family legacy. In the first workshop, we will explore what family values and culture might be, how such values and culture may have been expressed in your family and transmitted through family scripts, and how appreciating these aspects of family life can enhance intra/interfamilial communication. In the second workshop, we will consider family legacy (what gets passed on intergenerationally as well as what you might want to leave as a legacy). Family is understood broadly, not just as the nuclear or biological family.
Instructor: Jeanette Schmid is a retired social work practitioner, educator and researcher with substantive experience across a variety of fields and international settings. She is biased towards social justice and social transformation, and is keen on exploring diverse knowledge(s).
Price: $22.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Mondays, September 14, 2026 until September 21, 2026; 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location: St. Philip by-the-Sea | 7113 Lantzville Road, Lantzville, BC, V0R 2H0
Women’s Heart Health: What You Need to Know
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women—and awareness remains low. This informative session, aligned with the work of the Canadian Women's Heart Health Alliance, will explore the unique risk factors, symptoms, and prevention strategies specific to women.
Participants will gain practical knowledge to recognize warning signs, reduce risk, and take proactive steps toward heart health. This course is designed to inform, empower, and support women—and those who care about them—in making informed health decisions.
Instructor: Heidi Stokes is a member of the Canadian Women's Heart Health Alliance and a woman with lived experience. She has worked in the medical community for over 30 years and will share a PowerPoint presentation highlighting information about women's heart health.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesday, October 20, 2026; 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location: St. Philip by-the-Sea | 7113 Lantzville Road, Lantzville, BC, V0R 2H0
***This course has been generously sponsored by an anonymous donor, with our sincere thanks.
Writing Family Stories
From the first spark of an idea to a polished final piece, participants will be guided in creating a meaningful family story to be shared and enjoyed by future generations. Through practical exercises and supportive instruction, you will learn how to capture memories and shape them into a compelling narrative.
Suitable for all experience levels, this course offers a welcoming space to explore your voice and preserve personal or family history. Time permitting, the course will conclude with an optional reading for invited guests.
Instructor: Heather Haake, a retired English teacher and wannabe writer, loves family stories, both strictly factual and creatively embellished. She has taught Writing Family Stories for Selkirk College's Community Education and Learning in Retirement programmes and at Nelson's Taghum Community Hall.
Price: $66.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Mondays, September 14, 2026 until October 26, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM (No class on Monday October 12)
Location: St. Philip By-The-Sea 7113 Lantzville Rd, Lantzville, BC V0R 2H0
Parksville / Qualicum Beach
AI Unlocked: Everyday Tips and Tricks for Non-Techies
Demystify AI and LLMs! This 3-hour course empowers you to confidently use these tools to enhance your productivity and creativity in everyday life. Learn practical tips and tricks to unlock the power of AI – even with no technical background. Through hands-on practice with tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude, you'll make AI your personal ally.
Instructor: Eric Byres (PEng, ISA Fellow) is an internationally recognized expert on cybersecurity for critical infrastructures - the systems that are essential to our safety and way of life, like power, water and transportation. He has advised government intelligence agencies and major energy companies around the world, testified before the US Congress and is the recipient of numerous international awards, including the IEEE Outstanding Industry Applications Article Prize and the ISA Donald P. Eckman Education Award. Eric was made a fellow of the International Society of Automation (ISA) in 2009 and given their highest honour, the ISA Excellence in Leadership, in 2013.
Price: $30.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesday, October 28, 2026, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Parksville Community Centre - 223 Mills St, Parksville, BC V9P 1V9
All About Bald Eagles
The activities of our resident Bald Eagles follow the rhythm of nature from the fall return of the salmon to the early spring herring spawn followed by the late spring midshipman spawn and finally the summer migration of eagles to northern feeding grounds. Concurrently, the nesting season starts with nest building and renovations in October, courtship in February, egg laying in March, and fledging in June and July. You are invited to enjoy a glimpse of these activities and learn about eagles through wonderful photography by Mike Yip, one of our top nature photographers.
Instructor: Mike Yip retired from teaching in 2001. In 2003 the chance encounter with some strange ducks inspired him to take up birding and bird photography. Since then he has self-published 7 books and delivered numerous PowerPoint presentations on birds from one end of the island to the other.
Recommended Text: A Year of Eagles by Mike Yip — available for purchase directly from the author (contact details available).
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesday, September 2, 2026, 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Parksville Community Centre - 223 Mills St, Parksville, BC V9P 1V9
Anatomy and Mechanisms of Injury in the Low Back and Lower Extremity - Part 1
"Oh, my aching back!" "I hurt my knee!" "My feet hurt!" When chatting with friends, we've all heard these phrases (and probably more than once!) When seeing our physician, he/she may give you some brief explanation, but some terminology may be quite unclear or confusing.
This course will look at various common orthopaedic-type pathologies. These can occur during various activity pursuits such as jogging, soccer, tennis, hiking, and pickleball to name a few, or through an accident at home or in the garden. To clarify the situations for you, we will look closely via power point at the anatomy of the injured region and detail the specific structures involved. The various mechanisms of injury for each area and some of the prevention and treatment regimens available today will be discussed.
Instructor: After attending York University for his undergraduate degree, Dr David Paris (Dave) received his Masters Degree in Athletic Therapy from Indiana State University (1975) and his PhD in Human Anatomy from the University of Oregon in 1980. (Go Ducks!) He became a USA Certified Athletic Trainer in 1975 and a Certified Athletic Therapist in Canada in 1986. In 2012 he was the 'Canadian Distinguished Athletic Therapy Educator' and in 2015 was inducted into the Canadian Athletic Therapists Association Hall of Fame.
Dave was the Head Athletic Trainer and Lecturer at Oberlin College in Ohio for two years prior to returning to his post-graduate studies in Oregon. From 1983 through 2017 Dave was Associate Professor/Director of Athletic Therapy in the Department of Exercise Science at Concordia University in Montreal. He was also the owner of a Sports Medicine Clinic there for over twenty years.
Some professional assignments included being a member of Team Canada working with soccer and track and field at the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games, and for Team USA at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, working at judo and team handball. Over the years as an Athletic Therapist, he was involved in many other National and International competitions. Dave's love of soccer found him as a team Athletic Therapist for the Canadian Mens Senior National Soccer Team from 1972 thorough 1997. He was also the Head Athletic Therapist for the Montreal Supra Professional Soccer Team from 1987 through 1989 (when the league folded.)
Price: $30.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesday, September 22, 2026; 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Parksville Community Centre - 223 Mills St, Parksville, BC V9P 1V9
Anatomy and Mechanism of Upper Spine and Upper Extremity Injuries - Part 2
This course is a follow-up to my initial lecture on lower spine and lower extremity injuries; hence PART 2.
“My neck’s stiff!” “Oh, my aching shoulder!” “ I have a swollen elbow!” “My fingers go numb!” When chatting with friends, we’ve all heard similar phrases (and probably more than once!) When seeing our physician, he/she may give you a brief explanation, but some terminology may be quite unclear or confusing!
This course will look at various common orthopaedic type pathologies of the neck and upper extremity. These can occur during various activity pursuits such as in racquet sports, skiing, swimming, or even during household projects or gardening! To clarify the situations for you, we will look closely via PowerPoint at the anatomy of the injured region and detail the specific structures involved. The various mechanisms of injury to each area and some of the treatment regimens available today will be discussed.
Instructor: After attending York University for his undergraduate degree, Dr David Paris (Dave) received his Masters Degree in Athletic Therapy from Indiana State University (1975) and his PhD in Human Anatomy from the University of Oregon in 1980. (Go Ducks!) He became a USA Certified Athletic Trainer in 1975 and a Certified Athletic Therapist in Canada in 1986. In 2012 he was the 'Canadian Distinguished Athletic Therapy Educator' and in 2015 was inducted into the Canadian Athletic Therapists Association Hall of Fame.
Dave was the Head Athletic Trainer and Lecturer at Oberlin College in Ohio for two years prior to returning to his post-graduate studies in Oregon. From 1983 through 2017 Dave was Associate Professor/Director of Athletic Therapy in the Department of Exercise Science at Concordia University in Montreal. He was also the owner of a Sports Medicine Clinic there for over twenty years.
Some professional assignments included being a member of Team Canada working with soccer and track and field at the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games, and for Team USA at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, working at judo and team handball. Over the years as an Athletic Therapist, he was involved in many other National and International competitions. Dave's love of soccer found him as a team Athletic Therapist for the Canadian Mens Senior National Soccer Team from 1972 thorough 1997. He was also the Head Athletic Therapist for the Montreal Supra Professional Soccer Team from 1987 through 1989 (when the league folded.)
Price: $30.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesday, October 28, 2026; 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Parksville Community Centre - 223 Mills St, Parksville, BC V9P 1V9
Ancient Assyria: The First World Empire
Schools often highlight major ancient empires such as Rome, China, Egypt, Persia, and Macedonia. Yet one of the earliest and most influential empires was established by the Assyrians of northern Mesopotamia in the first millennium BCE.
This course examines the rise, expansion, and fall of the Assyrian Empire. It explores how the Assyrians addressed the challenges of governing a vast and diverse territory, including issues of control, communication, and trade across multiple polities, cultures, religions, and languages—from Egypt to Central Asia.
The Assyrians’ success lay in their ability to adapt to this diversity, enabling them to maintain imperial rule for nearly 200 years. Their innovations in governance influenced many subsequent empires, with legacies that continue to be evident today.
Instructor: Mitchell Allen, PhD (UCLA), is a research associate in archaeology at UC Berkeley. He has taught archaeology for over 20 years, and has done fieldwork in Israel, Afghanistan, and California.
Price: $33.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesdays, October 6, 2026 until October 20, 2026; 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location: Parksville Community Centre - 223 Mills St, Parksville, BC V9P 1V9
Are You Prepared For Emergencies and Disasters?
In this course, you will learn what types of emergencies we are subject to, how bad they can be, how we can reduce the risk, and what we can do about them. You will also learn what governments' role is, and their limitations in response, and why it is important to take personal responsibility for your and your family's well-being. You will also learn how to organize your neighbourhood. The course will conclude with a few tabletop exercises to give you confidence that you will be able to respond appropriately rather than simply react.
Instructor: Ross Peterson is a retired emergency manager with 11 years experience with municipalities. He has been instructing emergency preparedness for over 30 years, and has taught for Elder College for 15 years.
Price: $55.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesdays, November 10, 2026 until December 8, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Parksville Community Centre - 223 Mills St, Parksville, BC V9P 1V9
Colours Of Your World
Learn about the history, science and psychology of colours and which artists painted best with them. Begin with "dark" and follow up the next five classes with the colours the class have democratically agreed upon. Find out how to mix paint colours and why "colour deceives continually" (Josef Alber). Following the first hour of instruction you will launch into your own acrylic paintings.
Instructor: Terri Bowen, BEd, MA, Master Graphologist, is a retired principal of a Learning through the Arts School in Calgary and has taught for VIU ElderCollege for over 10 years. Terri has won several Grand Aggregate Arts Awards from our local Lighthouse Country as well as is the winner of the first ever ArtWarz in Parksville. She works in many mediums and formats and welcomes commissions.
Supplies: Students will need to provide their own art supplies, a comprehensive list will be provided prior to the course start.
Price: $66.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesdays, November 10, 2026 until December 15, 2026; 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Parksville Community Centre - 223 Mills St, Parksville, BC V9P 1V9
Everyone Has a Story to Tell: A Guided Reminiscence Workshop
This hands-on, interactive workshop uses sensory memory techniques to help participants recall the significant people and events that have shaped their lives. Drawing on her book, In My Mother’s Kitchen: An Introduction to the Healing Power of Reminiscence, Ms. Edgar demonstrates how this approach can be used to record one’s own life story or that of a loved one. She also introduces strategies for working through difficult memories. Participants will leave with at least one completed story and practical steps to begin documenting their personal or family history.
Instructor: Robin A. Edgar is a nationally recognized author and workshop facilitator. Leading reminiscence workshops for nearly 30 years, drawing on the sensory memory techniques featured in her book In My Mother’s Kitchen: An Introduction to the Healing Power of Reminiscence. In addition to teaching life writing at the John C. Campbell Folk School and Wildacres Retreat, she has facilitated Love and Forgiveness Conversations for the Fetzer Institute.
Ms. Edgar’s other publications include Personal Legacies: Surviving the Great Depression, which accompanied a museum exhibit; Fantastic Recycled Plastic, highlighting her husband’s artwork; the children’s picture books The Day Morris Quit and The Day Morris Went to School; and In My Father’s Footsteps, a sequel to In My Mother’s Kitchen. Her TED talk, Reminiscence: The Healing Pathway to Forgiveness, and PBS documentary, Personal Legacies: Surviving the Great Depression, are also available online.
Supplies: Bring any family photos or artifacts to help tell your story.
Price: $30.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesday, September 2, 2026; 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: The Gardens at Qualicum Beach - Community Room | 650 Berwick Road North, Qualicum Beach, BC, V9K 2T8
Exploring Collage Art — Cut, Paste, Create
Step into the vibrant world of collage, where history meets creativity. This engaging class invites participants to explore the evolution of collage from its early 20th-century roots to its bold presence in contemporary art. Students will experiment with a variety of styles, materials, and techniques while creating their own unique collage artwork in a supportive and creative environment.
Instructor: Debra Kuzbik is a teacher and former Director of Education in Saskatchewan. Since retiring to Vancouver Island, she has exhibited her photography, paintings, and collage artwork locally.
Required Supplies:
A variety of papers, which may include napkins, gift wrap, tissue paper, magazines, paper bags, etc.
Scissors, a ruler, and a glue stick
A small box or plastic container to transport material
Additional materials will be provided.
Price: $55.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Mondays, November 9, 2026 until December 7, 2026; 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Location: McMillan Arts Centre - The Studio | 133 McMillan Street, Parksville, BC, V9P 2H5
Grief, Healing & the Human Experience: An Interactive Workshop
This compassionate workshop explores a holistic approach to navigating loss by recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Participants will learn practical strategies for coping with grief, including self-care practices, mindfulness, emotional expression, stress reduction techniques, and ways to foster resilience and healing. Whether your loss is recent or long ago, this supportive and educational session will provide tools, insights, and encouragement to help you honour your grief while finding a path forward with greater understanding, balance, and hope.
Grief touches every life, yet many people feel unprepared for the emotional, physical, and spiritual impacts of loss. This engaging and interactive workshop, led by an End-of-Life Doula and Certified Grief Coach, offers compassionate guidance, practical coping strategies, and meaningful conversations about grief, bereavement, and healing.
Participants will explore topics such as anticipatory grief, cultural perspectives on mourning, nervous system regulation, memory and legacy practices, and healthy approaches to processing difficult emotions. Through reflective exercises, hands-on activities, grounding techniques, and group discussion, attendees will develop a deeper understanding of grief while feeling supported in a safe and welcoming environment.
Whether grieving the loss of a loved one, supporting others through loss, or seeking personal growth, participants will leave with valuable insights, practical resources, and tools to navigate grief with greater compassion, resilience, and connection.
Instructor: Edith is a compassionate End-of-Life Doula and Certified Grief Coach dedicated to supporting individuals and families through some of life’s most profound transitions. Through her practice, Serenity End of Life Doula Services, she provides guidance in advance care planning, legacy work, vigil support, grief and bereavement care, and death education within the Parksville and Oceanside community.
Her approach is rooted in empathy, meaningful conversation, and helping people navigate end-of-life experiences with dignity, understanding, and connection. Inspired by personal experiences supporting loved ones through terminal illness and grief, Edith brings both professional training and lived experience to her work.
In addition to her End-of-Life Doula certification, Edith has obtained Grief Coach certification, allowing her to offer compassionate, grief-informed education and support to individuals coping with anticipatory grief, bereavement, caregiving stress, and emotional loss. Her workshops combine practical tools, reflective exercises, community discussion, and holistic approaches that help participants feel seen, supported, and empowered in their grief journey.
Edith is passionate about creating safe spaces where conversations about death, dying, and grief can be approached openly, gently, and without fear. Her goal is to help individuals and communities develop greater comfort, preparedness, resilience, and compassion around one of the most universal human experiences — loss.
Price: $33.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Thursdays, November 12, 2026 until November 26, 2026; 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM from
Location: Berwick Parksville - Meeting Room | 180 Jensen Avenue East, Parksville, BC, V9P 0G9
How Do I Know It’s True
We are bombarded with false claims about many issues including climate change, vaccinations, and genetically modified organisms to name a few. Unfortunately, it is becoming increasingly difficult to separate fact from fiction. We will examine a wide range of topics using good evidence to expose false claims. Participants will have an opportunity to examine topics of specific interest to them. Our sessions promise to be both lively and entertaining.
Instructor: Doug Fraser, BSc, BEd, is a science educator and author passionate about promoting awareness and better understanding of science and its role in society.
Price: $66.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesdays, September 9, 2026 until October 21, 2026; 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM (No class on Wednesday September 30)
Location: Parksville Community Centre - 223 Mills St, Parksville, BC V9P 1V9
How Thought Patterns Influence Daily Experience
Participants will gain practical insight into how perception, attention, habitual thinking, and emotional patterns influence daily experience. Through engaging discussion, reflective exercises, and real-life examples, this course encourages greater self-awareness, a clearer understanding of behavioural patterns, and practical tools for conscious observation. Participants will explore how subtle mental habits shape reactions, relationships, and decision-making, while developing a more intentional and thoughtful approach to everyday life and personal experience.
Instructor: Claude Beaulac is a craftsman, artist, group facilitator, and lifelong student of thought, perception, and human experience. Through years of practical observation, coaching, reflective inquiry, and independent study, he has developed a strong interest in how attention, habitual thinking, and emotional patterns influence daily life. His approach combines practical examples, open discussion, and accessible ideas to encourage greater self-awareness, conscious observation, and a deeper understanding of how mental patterns shape human experience.
Price: $33.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Thursdays, November 19, 2026 until December 3, 2026; 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: The Gardens at Qualicum Beach - Community Room | 650 Berwick Road North, Qualicum Beach, BC, V9K 2T8
Ideas of Truth
According to some people, we now live in a "post-truth" world. That's either supposed to be very bad (we need to return to a truth-grounded world, ASAP!) or not (ahhh, freedom.) But in order to pine the loss, or celebrate the freedom, or work to regain it we need to know what "it" is - and that is surprisingly tricky to answer. In these sessions we'll look at philosophers' ideas about the nature of truth and whether they can help us deal with the current skeptical zeitgeist.
Instructor: Dr. Kirk McDermid is a philosopher with expertise in critical thinking, epistemology (the study of the nature of knowledge), and philosophy of science. He moved to the Island in 2024, having taught at Montclair State University in northern New Jersey and the University of Western Ontario for 20 years, and is currently teaching at Camosun College in Victoria.
Price: $42.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesdays, November 18, 2026 until December 16, 2026; 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: Parksville Community Centre - 223 Mills St, Parksville, BC V9P 1V9
Introduction to Patterns of Thought
This course explores how perception, attention, habitual thinking, and emotional reinforcement influence daily experience and behavior. Through practical examples, reflective discussion, and accessible observation exercises, participants will examine how mental patterns shape interpretation, reactions, and decision-making. The presentation encourages greater self-awareness and practical understanding of the relationship between thought, perception, and lived experience in everyday life.
Instructor: Claude Beaulac is an independent researcher, craftsman, artist, and speaker with a long-standing interest in perception, thought patterns, and human experience. His work combines practical observation, reflective inquiry, and real-world application to help people better understand the relationship between attention, habitual thinking, emotional conditioning, and daily life. Through accessible discussion and practical examples, he encourages greater self-awareness, conscious observation, and thoughtful exploration of how mental patterns influence behavior and experience.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Thursday, September 3, 2026; 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: The Gardens at Qualicum Beach - Community Room | 650 Berwick Road North, Qualicum Beach, BC, V9K 2T8
Introduction To The Night Skies
You will learn about the moon, planets, constellations, galaxies, and much more. You will be awed by the magnitude of our universe. This non-scientific introduction to astronomy will reveal some of the treasures of the night sky, and tell you how to observe them from your own backyard. You'll take a voyage of exploration from ancient times to the present, and you will share in some of the great discoveries, and ongoing mysteries, of the universe.
Instructor: Dr. David Prud’homme is a former president of the Edmonton Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. He is a lifelong learner with a keen interest in space exploration and the natural sciences. He loves to share the beauty of the night sky, and to show people how to fully enjoy this magnificent universe in which we live.
Price: $66.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesdays, September 16, 2026 until October 28, 2026; 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM (No class on Wednesday September 30)
Location: Berwick Qualicum Beach - Theatre | 120 First Avenue West, Qualicum Beach, BC, V9K 0B4
Probate Bypass & Estate Planning Strategies
This course provides a practical introduction to estate planning, with a particular focus on strategies for avoiding probate. It will also touch on key investment considerations that relate to effective financial and estate planning. Designed specifically for Elder College students, the course explores the essential principles of estate planning, a basic introduction to the probate process, and some strategies to help minimize the costs, delays, and challenges often associated with probate.
Instructor: Nathan Paisley is co-owner of Nathina Financial Services and holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in business, with a particular focus on financial and estate planning. With over five years of experience working alongside his father and business partner, Len Paisley, Nathan brings a balance of academic knowledge and practical insight to his teaching. Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Nathan combines an understanding of local needs with broader financial planning strategies. His teaching style incorporates real-life examples, practical exercises, and useful tools to help students gain a clear understanding of probate bypass strategies and wealth preservation techniques.
Supplies: It is encouraged to bring a pen and paper.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesday, December 16, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Parksville Community Centre - 223 Mills St, Parksville, BC V9P 1V9
RCMP Frauds and Scams
Fraudsters are using increasingly clever tactics to deceive people through phone calls, emails, texts, and social media. This practical session explores today’s most common scams and offers simple, effective steps to protect your personal information. Learn how to spot warning signs, stay safe online, and respond confidently if you suspect fraud.
Instructor: Michael Garland has volunteered with policing agencies for more than three decades. A former RCMP Auxiliary Constable, he continues to actively support the Oceanside RCMP Detachment through community safety and education initiatives.
Price: $25.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesday, October 27, 2026, 2:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Location: Parksville Community Centre | 223 Mills Street, Parksville, BC, V9P 2H2
Really Listening: Unlocking The Joy Music
Hearing music is something we all do, but catching the details, feeling the layers, and connecting more deeply with the music requires active listening. This fun and interactive course will show you how to get more out of every listening experience.
Through guided activities and lively discussions, you’ll discover practical strategies to become a more engaged and perceptive listener. Musical examples will span numerous genres, with a special focus on classical and jazz—styles that can sometimes feel intimidating but become much more rewarding once you know how to approach them.
By the end of the course, you’ll have new tools to enrich your enjoyment of music, deepen your appreciation, and open yourself to fresh and memorable listening experiences.
Instructor: Ed Wasiak, DMA, is a widely recognized leader in Canadian music education, with a distinguished career as an educator, musician, author, and arts advocate. A former President of the Canadian Music Educators Association, he authored Teaching Instrumental Music in Canadian Schools (Oxford University Press, 2013), the first book of its kind in Canada and still used extensively in universities. He has presented his research and lectures nationally and internationally, including serving as Visiting Professor in Canadian Studies at Hokai Gakuen University in Sapporo, Japan.
Now retired from the University of Lethbridge, Ed continues to contribute as a guest lecturer, MIEC instructor, and trumpet player with professional and community ensembles on Vancouver Island. He is also active in environmental advocacy as a board member of the Qualicum Beach Streamkeepers Society.
Price: $55.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesdays, 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM from September 16, 2026 until October 21, 2026 (No class on Wednesday September 30)
Location: Berwick Parksville Theatre | 180 Jensen Avenue East, Parksville, BC, V9P 0G9
Senior Brain: Staying Sharp At Any Age
Concerned about memory or cognitive decline? This engaging and practical workshop explores how to support brain health and maintain cognitive vitality as you age. Drawing on insights from Applied Educational Neuroscience, participants will learn what the brain needs to thrive, what to avoid, and how to harness the power of neuroplasticity. Discover practical strategies to enhance memory, focus, and overall brain wellness. With an emphasis on optimism and empowerment, this session offers tools to help you age with a sharp and resilient mind.
Instructor: Gary Anaka is a Brain-based Learning Facilitator with over 34 years of teaching experience in the public school system. He has been presenting motivational keynotes and workshops in the new field of Applied Educational Neuroscience since 1997 to tens of thousands of educators, parents, students, professionals and the general public across Canada. His sessions offer genuine practical help for everyone and he believes in wellness through education to support healthy living for people of all ages. He is well-known for his high energy, fun and totally engaging sessions.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesday, September 1, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Parksville Community Centre | 223 Mills Street, Parksville, BC, V9P 2H2
The Value of Philosophy
In today's world, there doesn't seem to be much room for "impractical" pursuits like philosophy - yet, people still seem drawn to it regardless. Is it actually valuable, in any way that counts? In this session, we'll look at some defenses of the value of philosophy to see if they help us make some sense of the deserved place of philosophy in ourshared intellectual tradition.
Instructor: Dr. Kirk McDermid is a philosopher with expertise in critical thinking, epistemology (the study of the nature of knowledge), and philosophy of science. He moved to the Island in 2024, having taught at Montclair State University in northern New Jersey and the University of Western Ontario for 20 years, and is currently teaching at Camosun College in Victoria.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesday, October 27, 2026, 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: Parksville Community Centre | 223 Mills Street, Parksville, BC, V9P 2H2
Understanding America - Part 3 (WWI To Present)
America is a nation that has been developing and evolving for over 400 years. The nature of its society today is a product of that development. This course will examine critical events in American history and the underlying values, beliefs, and central ideas that have shaped them in order to better understand contemporary American society. The final installment of this course will deal with period from 1914 to the present day.
Instructor: Brett Bowen attended the University of Calgary for both his undergraduate and graduate degrees. Upon graduation he began work with the Calgary Board of Education as (primarily) a teacher of social studies, humanities, and history.
Price: $66.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesdays, November 10, 2026 until December 15, 2026; 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Berwick Qualicum Beach - Theatre | 120 First Avenue West, Qualicum Beach, BC, V9K 0B4
Vancouver Island Birds: A Photographic Exploration
Birds are a common sight, but have you ever wondered how many species visit Vancouver Island, where they come from, and why they choose this destination? In this course, we will explore these fascinating questions and more through the stunning photography of Mike Yip. Join us as we uncover the migration patterns, habitats, and behaviors of the island's avian residents and visiting vagrants, offering a deeper understanding of the birds that have been seen on Vancouver Island.
Instructor: Mike Yip retired from teaching in 2001. In 2003 the chance encounter with some strange ducks inspired him to take up birding and bird photography. Since then he has self-published 7 books and delivered numerous PowerPoint presentations on birds from one end of the island to the other.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesday, November 3, 2026, 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Parksville Community Centre - 223 Mills St, Parksville, BC V9P 1V9
Who Knew Writing Could Be Fun?
This dynamic course invites you to engage in short, timed writing exercises (5–10 minutes each), followed by small group sharing and discussion. Prompts will surprise and inspire, encouraging spontaneous, stream-of-consciousness writing—free from concern for spelling, punctuation, or grammar. No editing, just creative flow. Writing short pieces has made me see the world in a different way, ideas are everywhere and perspective can change through sharing.Through this practice, you'll discover new perspectives, find ideas in unexpected places, and experience the joy of shared creativity. No experience necessary—just a willingness to write and have fun.
Instructor: Sandra Petrie came to Canada in 1962 having trained as a teacher in Scotland and worked in both public and private schools in Canada and in Scotland. Since retirement she has taught this course at Elder College for many years.
Supplies: Please bring a pen and paper.
Price: $66.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Thursdays, September 17, 2026 until October 29, 2026; 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM (No class on Thursday October 1)
Location: The Gardens at Qualicum Beach - Community Room | 650 Berwick Road North, Qualicum Beach, BC, V9K 2T8
World of William Wordsworth: Story and Music
This course explores three of William Wordsworth’s most celebrated poems: The World Is Too Much With Us, Michael, and I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud. Using a multimedia approach, participants will experience the poetry alongside photographs of England’s Lake District and original musical compositions by the instructor. We will examine how Wordsworth’s deep connection to nature shaped his “spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings”. Attention will also be given to the important influence of Dorothy Wordsworth, whose journals and observations inspired many of his works. Together, the poems, music, and imagery invite participants to reflect on the beauty of the natural world and the enduring relevance of Wordsworth’s vision of “plain living and high thinking”.
Instructor: Dave Klinger developed this program following inspiration drawn from the poetry of William Wordsworth and a visit to England’s Lake District. Through this multimedia presentation, Dave shares his lifelong appreciation for poetry, combining spoken verse, imagery, and music to bring Wordsworth’s work to life. His previous experience and academic background provide a strong foundation for presenting this engaging and accessible exploration of poetry, nature, and the Romantic tradition.
Recommended Text:The World Is Too Much With Us, Michael, and I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud by William Woodsworth
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Monday, October 26, 2026; 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location: McMillan Arts Centre - Recital Room | 133 McMillan Street, Parksville, BC, V9P 2H5
Online - Zoom
Biofilia: A Grand Tour of Life
This 16-hour course offers a guided exploration of life across eight sessions. The first two classes introduce the fundamental building blocks of life, including the molecules that animate cells, such as proteins and RNA.
The remaining sessions examine major forms of life—bacteria, cells, plants, fungi, animals, and viruses—highlighting their diversity and interconnections. Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on the relationships that link all living systems and the broader “family of life” on Earth. By exploring these connections, participants will develop a deeper appreciation of the natural world and a greater awareness of humanity’s place within it.
Instructor: Thierry Vain is a retired soil biologist and genetic engineer, he spent his entire research career with the Department of Agriculture in Canada. He was the head of a research group of 40 professionals in Biotechnology, the Vice President and President of national and international associations of soil biologists, and an Associate Editor of several scientific Journals in Europe and in the USA. Thierry lives on Vancouver Island on the West Coast of Canada, a corner of paradise.
Website: www.innisfreefarm.ca
Suggested Prerequisite: The Elder College Course: Life as We Know It - is a Preview of Biofilia.
Price: $88.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Fridays, September 18, 2026 until November 6, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Online
Conspiracy Thinking
Conspiracies – or at least, claims of conspiracies – seem everywhere. While many conspiracies are generally accepted (9/11, the Gulf of Tonkin incident, regrettably frequent sexual abuse coverups) many alleged conspiracies are “theories” in the worst sense of that term: just wild accusations and speculations of immense and intricate plans of evil. Is there any distinction between these? How can we navigate a world filled with conspiratorial ideas? I’ll be your guide to understanding what philosophers are currently thinking about conspiracy thinking, and how it might differ from reasonable thinking.
Instructor: Dr. McDermid is a philosopher with expertise in critical thinking, epistemology (the study of the nature of knowledge), and philosophy of science. He moved to the Island in 2024, having taught at Montclair State University in northern New Jersey and the University of Western Ontario for 20 years, and is currently teaching at Camosun College in Victoria.
Price: $42.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesdays, September 8, 2026 until October 6, 2026; 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Online
Democracy and its Vulnerabilities: Dynamics of Democratic Backsliding and Resilience
Over the past two decades, many countries around the world have experienced a decline in democratic practices and institutions, a trend often described as "democratic backsliding". At the same time, we have seen the rise of populist movements, growing nationalism, and increasing challenges to democratic norms. This course explores two fundamental questions: What is democracy, and has there ever been a perfect democracy? While these questions may seem straightforward, scholars and citizens alike continue to debate how democracy should be defined and measured.
Together, we will examine the evolution of democratic systems, explore different models of democracy, and investigate the concept of democratic backsliding. Drawing on contemporary examples, we will consider how democratic institutions and civil society can respond to democratic backsliding. Through lively discussion and critical reflection, participants will explore questions such as:
Is there a gap between the ideals of democracy and how democracy functions in practice?
Is Canada immune to the democratic backsliding seen in other parts of the world?
What can citizens, governments, and institutions do to strengthen and protect democratic values?
*No prior background in political science is required, just an interest in understanding one of the most important issues shaping our world today.
Recommended Text: Bermeo, N. 2016. On Democratic Backsliding. I Journal of Democracy, 5-19. Johns Hopkins University Press: Baltimore, Maryland. Vol: 27, no. 1. https://www.ucg.ac.me/skladiste/blog_607795/objava_206974/fajlovi/On%20Democratic%20Backsliding.pdf
Other short articles and videos- links would be provided in the course outline.
Instructor: Reeta Tremblay is former Provost and Vice President Academic at the University of Victoria and is currently Professor Emerita of Political Science. She holds a PhD from the University of Chicago and an MPhil degree from Jawaharlal Lal Nehru University, New Delhi. Before coming to Victoria, she held other senior administrative positions including Vice President Academic and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Pro Tem) at Memorial University in Newfoundland; Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Memorial; and Chair, Department of Political Science at Concordia University, Montreal. She is the former President of the Canadian Political Science Association (CPSA), and the Canadian Asian Studies Association (CASA). Her major areas of research are secessionist movements in India, comparative federalism and politics of resistance. She has authored or co-authored several books and essays. Her work is widely reviewed and cited- in particular, her writings on Kashmir and India-Pakistan relations, a subject on which she is widely considered the leading North American expert. Some of her recent publications include: "Unpacking the Equity Myth: Diversity and Leadership Deficit” (2024); “Religion and Politics in Jammu and Kashmir" (2020); "India: Federalism, Nationalism, and the Marginalized – Covid India" (2020); Kashmir Elections: A Precursor to 'No More Two Flags, Two Constitutions" (2019); "Contested Governance, Competing Nationalisms, and Disenchanted Publics: Kashmir beyond Intractability?" (2018); Modi’s Foreign Policy"(2017). She has been also recognized for excellence in undergraduate and graduate teaching by Concordia Alumni association. She is widely sought by Canadian and global media on the issues of Kashmir, India-Pakistan and India-Canada relations.
Price: $66.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Fridays, November 6, 2026 until December 11, 2026; 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Location: Online
Ideas with Legs 4: Democracy
What is democracy and why, if at all, is it a good idea? This first episode in a series on the principles of democracy and its various instantiations will consist of a lively and interactive discussion of the philosophical underpinnings of the concept.
Instructor: John Black is a philosopher and historian of ideas who is fascinated by the way concepts echo down through the ages, shifting meaning in accordance with changing conditions. It would be fair to say that he is not particularly satisfied with what passes for democracy in many current political systems.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Monday, October 26, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Online
In/Equality An Alternative Anthropology
Explore a short introduction to Anthropology which will provide you with a framework for thinking and learning about other societies and about your own. It is about learning to see in a new way through a different, hopefully clearer, pair of glasses. It is about an anthropological understanding of the world, particularly the world of societies like our own, where some people have far more power and wealth than others.
Instructor: David Aliaga has a BA (Anthropology) and an MA (Interdisciplinary Studies) from the University of Calgary. He lectured in Anthropology at the same University. He has conducted migration field research among migrants both in Italy and Canada. He enjoys teaching Anthropology & Sociology.
Price: $66.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Fridays, November 6, 2026 until December 11, 2026; 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: Online
Joyful Living with a Meditation Practice
This is an ongoing course, exploring the Mindfulness of Breathing instructions that was the favourite meditation of the Buddha. You will join a dynamic group of seniors who have been meeting together to share the benefits of this ancient practice. There will be guided meditations and explanations of the Buddhist teachings that support this meditation. This course offers a journey of self-exploration aimed at cultivating insight for the purpose of enhancing daily life with greater clarity and wellbeing.
Instructor: Ralph Frank is a retired psychotherapist who has been practicing Mindful Meditation since 2003. Ralph has studied with renowned Buddhist monks and nuns at monasteries in Northern Thailand, as well as with numerous international teachers in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico. In his classes Ralph brings the essential teaching of the Buddha into an easy to understand exercise in meditation for the Western mind. As part of his classes, Ralph will show practical steps to develop a 10 to 15 minute daily meditation practice that will bring a pause to an overactive mind, and a sense of being in love with this moment just as it is.
Price: $132.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Mondays, September 14, 2026 until December 7, 2026; 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Location: Online
Life As We Know It - A Preview of Biofilia
This one-hour presentation serves as a precursor to the course Biofilia — a 16-hour “Grand Tour of Life” also offered through ElderCollege. Featuring 50 short video clips, this engaging slideshow offers a dynamic overview of life’s incredible diversity and intelligence.
You’ll explore what life is made of, from the remarkable molecules that animate cells to the fascinating worlds of Bacteria, Plants, Fungi, Animals, and Viruses. Discover how life is intelligent at every level and how understanding your connection to living things can bring you closer to nature.
Instructor: Thierry Vrain isa retired soil biologist and genetic engineer, He spent his entire research career with the Department of Agriculture in Canada. Thierry was the head of a research group of 40 professionals in Biotechnology, the Vice President and President of national and international associations of soil biologists, and an Associate Editor of several scientific Journals in Europe and in the USA. Living on Vancouver Island on the West Coast of Canada, a corner of paradise.
Website:www.innisfreefarm.ca
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Friday, September 4, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Online
Living on Earth as if We Want to Stay
The world is changing—are we ready to change with it? As humanity pushes against planetary limits, the old model of perpetual growth no longer works. But what if there was a better way? Join Mike Nickerson, author of "Life, Money & Illusion", for an eye-opening discussion on how rethinking our economy through the lens of nature’s time-tested systems can unlock a path to long-term well-being.
Just as children grow into responsible adults, humanity has reached a stage of collective maturity. With this transition comes not just responsibility but incredible opportunities. By adapting how we provide for one another, we can solve many of today’s pressing challenges—without sacrificing quality of life. Humans are capable of remarkable things. Be part of the conversation and discover how a shift toward More Fun, Less Stuff can create a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come. Don't miss this chance to reimagine what’s possible!
Instructor: Mike Nickerson co-founded the Institute for the Study of Cultural Evolution in 1971. He coordinated activity on the Canada Well-Being Measurement Act, drawing attention to the advantages of a Genuine Progress Index (GPI). Along with the Guideposts for a Sustainable Future video, numerous articles, pamphlets, and speaking engagements, he has written three books on sustainability and social change: "Change the World I want to Stay ON” (1977), "Planning for Seven Generations” (1990) and the most inclusive: "Life, Money and Illusion; Living on Earth as if We Want to Stay” (2006 & 2009).
Mike Nickerson has participated in: the Leeds and Grenville Waste Management Master Plan, the Board of the Ontario Environment Network, the Governing Council of the Green Party of Canada, and the World Federalist Foundation board. An enthusiastic gardener, he supports his study and writing habit by building custom furniture.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesday, October 27, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Online
“Lost Generation”: Two Writers Respond to the Great War
The Great War — now commonly known as World War I — left a profound and lasting impact on Western civilization. In this course, participants will grapple with T. S. Eliot’s complex and influential poem The Waste Land (1922), a landmark work of early modern literature. The course then turns to Ernest Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises, first published in 1926 and now marking its centennial year. Through both works, we will examine the characters, themes, and cultural disillusionment that emerged in the postwar era, while considering how these texts helped shape modern literary expression.
Instructor: Steve Lane (Ph.D.) is a retired professor of English and academic administrator who spent most of his career at Vancouver Island University. His doctoral work was in the area of the English Romantics, but he also pursued research on Ernest Hemingway, delivering several papers at the International Hemingway Conference.
Note: This course includes discussion of bullfighting, which some participants may find disturbing.
Required Text: The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway’s and The Waste Land by T.S. Eliot. The instructor will distribute free versions ahead of the first class meeting.
Price: $44.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Fridays, September 11, 2026 until October 2, 2026; 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: Online
Non-Fiction Club
After establishing a reading list, the club will meet once a month to discuss the book chosen for that date. We request that you bring a title of a nonfiction book that you recommend to the first meeting. Any genre such as history memoir, biography, politics, philosophy, environmental issues or travel is acceptable, as long as the book is non-fiction. At the first meeting, you can share a little about your recommended book and mention why you chose it. Members are responsible for locating their own copies of books, though we always check library availability.
Note: Books for September and October have been selected by the previous year’s book club to allow us to begin discussions right away. Books for the rest of the year will be chosen by new book club members.
Required Text:
September’s Book: “1929:Inside the Greatest Crash In Wall Street History- and How It Shattered a Nation” by Andrew Ross Sorkin
October’s Book: “Plastics Inc. The Secret History and Shocking Future of Big Oil’s Biggest Bet” by Beth Gardiner
Instructor: Anne Brailsford Ph.D is a lifelong reader of many genres, and a passionate advocate for
children’s literacy.
Price: $88.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesdays, September 16, October 21, November 18, December 16, January 20, February 17, March 17, April 21; 2.30 - 4:30 PM
Location: Online
Probate Bypass, Estate Planning and Mindful Investing
This course provides a practical introduction to estate planning, with a particular focus on strategies for avoiding probate. It will also touch on key investment considerations that relate to effective financial and estate planning. Designed specifically for Elder College students, the course explores the essential principles of estate planning, a basic introduction to the probate process, and some strategies to help minimize the costs, delays, and challenges often associated with probate.
Instructor: Nathan Paisley is co-owner of Nathina Financial Services and holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in business, with a particular focus on financial and estate planning. With over five years of experience working alongside his father and business partner, Len Paisley, Nathan brings a balance of academic knowledge and practical insight to his teaching. Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Nathan combines an understanding of local needs with broader financial planning strategies. His teaching style incorporates real-life examples, practical exercises, and useful tools to help students gain a clear understanding of probate bypass strategies and wealth preservation techniques.
Supplies: It is encouraged to bring a pen and paper.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Monday, October 26, 2026; 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: Online
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Monday, November 9, 2026; 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: Online
Rebel Painters: The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood
In Great Britain in the middle of the nineteenth century a group of painters, sculptors and poets set out to revitalise the visual arts by reversing what they saw as an historical wrong turn made in the time of Raphael. In this course we'll explore what they meant by this idea through discussing their unique contributions in painting, comparing these with their historical precedents and also with contemporary developments in France.
Instructor: John Black has taught numerous art history courses for Elder College, and has a fondness for the Pre-Raphaelites sparked by paintings he encountered while growing up in north-west England.
Price: $66.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Mondays, November 2, 2026 until December 7, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Online
The Origins of Writing
Writing is unquestionably one of the most important inventions of the human species, allowing for communication over time, space, and culture. How did writing come about? Where and how did the earliest writers practice their craft? How did we get from complicated hieroglyphic and cuneiform writing systems with thousands of characters to the simplicity of the alphabet? In this brief course, we will trace writing’s origins and development from the clay counters of the Neolithic Age of the Near East to the earliest accounting systems and the development of literary texts of Mesopotamia. We will compare this to other experiments with writing systems elsewhere in the world and how they evolved into the simplicity of the modern alphabet.
Instructors: Mitchell Allen, PhD (UCLA), is a research associate in archaeology at UC Berkeley. He has taught archaeology for over 20 years, and has done fieldwork in Israel, Afghanistan, and California.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Tuesday, September 1, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Online
The Rush to Climb Mount Waddington
In the 1920s and 1930s, once famed BC mountaineering couple Don and Phyllis Munday had begun getting the word out about 'Mystery Mountain' (later Mount Waddington, the tallest mountain within BC) in the 1920s, the race was on to be the first to climb it. The Mundays had climbed to the complex mountain's northwest peak, but one challenged remained: the final tower, a shaft of ice and rock. The rush to be the first to reach the true summit fell in to the historical context of many current quests for mountaineering glory at the time, whether it was in the attempt in conquering Mount Logan, the highest peak in Canada, or the tallest peak of them all, Everest. In this course, via readings from his book, and discussions with students, we'll get to know why there was such a rush to be the first to climb the tallest mountain in BC, and how this related to nationalism, the interwar period, and the traditions of mountaineering that ascended during the Victorian era in the Alps, brought over to Western Canada through immigration from the UK and Europe.
Instructor: Trevor Marc Hughes is the author of The Final Spire: 'Mystery Mountain' Mania in the 1930s & Capturing the Summit: Hamilton Mack Laing and the Mount Logan Expedition of 1925. He is the nonfiction editor for The British Columbia Review as well as the video segment producer for its BC author interview series.
Recommended Text: The Final Spire: 'Mystery Mountain' Mania in the 1930s by Trevor Marc Hughes
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Monday, December 14, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Online
Understanding BC’s Budget and Fiscal Plan
This short six-hour course will explore the following topics:
The meaning of government deficits and public debt, why they matter, their advantages and disadvantages, and how they can be managed.
The role of the BC Government’s Treasury Board, its relationship to Cabinet and other Cabinet committees, how financial decisions are made, and the provincial budget process.
Understanding key provincial financial documents, including BC’s Annual Budget, the Estimates, Quarterly Reports, and the Public Accounts.
Significant time will also be devoted to participant questions, discussion, and related topics of interest identified during the course.
Instructor: Gord Enemark has a Masters in Economics from the University of Victoria and was an Executive Director at BC's Treasury Board Staff for over a decade and at the Ministry of Housing for almost five years. His main responsibilities were analyzing and managing complex financial decisions for presentation to the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board regarding operating program requests and capital project approvals, in addition to managing the expenditure component of the annual budget process and helping to write the budget document. He subsequently led the development of the government's current housing plan, "Homes for BC," as well as the new 2023 legislation governing Short Term Rentals in BC. He previously taught introductory economics at a community college for five years. Gord lives in Victoria and is now happily retired!
Note: Links will be distributed prior to the course to publicly available published documents of relevance, primarily from the BC Ministry of Finance website.
Price: $33.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesdays, October 14, 2026 until October 28, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Online
Weekly Guided Meditation
Join Ralph Frank for a weekly meditation focused on relaxation and wellbeing. There will be guided meditations based on the Mindfulness of Breathing Meditation that was the favourite meditation of the Buddha that has been passed down through the millennium. Suitable for both beginners and those looking to deepen or broaden their meditation experience. You will learn a short meditation that can be introduced into daily life for the purposes of reducing stress and facing difficult challenges.
Instructor: Ralph Frank is a retired psychotherapist who has been practicing Mindful Meditation since 2003. Ralph has studied with renowned Buddhist monks and nuns at monasteries in Northern Thailand, as well as with numerous international teachers in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico. In his classes Ralph brings the essential teaching of the Buddha into an easy to understand exercise in meditation for the Western mind. As part of his classes, Ralph will teach practical steps to develop a short meditation practice that will bring a pause to an overactive mind, and a sense of being in love with this moment just as it is.
Price: $77.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Thursdays, November 5, 2026 until December 17, 2026; 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Location: Online
Your Home, Your Future: A Gentle Introduction to Reverse Mortgages
This course offers a clear, practical introduction to reverse mortgages in Canada, designed to help older homeowners understand how this financial tool can support their retirement goals. Participants will learn what a reverse mortgage is, how it works, and the safeguards built into Canadian regulations. We will explore eligibility requirements, payment options, interest considerations, and how funds can be used to reduce financial stress, supplement retirement income, or plan for future needs.
The course also addresses common misconceptions, including concerns about losing ownership of the home or leaving less for heirs. Real-world examples will illustrate when a reverse mortgage may be a suitable solution and when it may not be the right fit.
By the end, participants will feel more confident evaluating reverse mortgages as part of a broader retirement strategy.
Instructor: Rich Ulvild is a Seniors Lending Specialist and award-winning mortgage professional with more than 20 years of experience helping Canadians 55+ unlock the value of their homes safely, responsibly, and strategically. Recognized as one the Top 3 Mortgage Brokers in the Peach Arch News Readers’ Choice Awards in 2024 and 2025, Rich brings deep industry expertise and a long-standing commitment to serving his community.
He currently serves as Chair of the White Rock/Surrey Chapter of CARP (Canadian Association of Retired Persons), is a Steering Committee member of the Semiahmoo Seniors Network, and active member of Langley Seniors in Action. Rich recently completed his term on the board of the South Surrey White Rock Chamber of Commerce (now the Surrey White Rock Board of Trade), where he contributed to the Transition Committee, Interim Board, and CEO Search Committee. Whether supporting clients one-on-one or leading community-focused initiatives, Rich is known for his professionalism, integrity, and warm, approachable style - all grounded in a genuine commitment to helping seniors enjoy greater comfort, confidence, and financial security in retirement.
Price: $20.00 Taxes not included
Schedule: Wednesday, September 9, 2026; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: Online
Saturday Speaker Series
Fall 2026:
Saturday Speaker Series
The State of the World
Canada and the Shattering of World Order
Saturday, October 3, 2026
The Prime Minister of Canada delivered a eulogy for the Rules-Based International Order at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Mr. Carney described the RBIO as a “fiction” that was “partially false,” and suggests that we should not mourn its passing, but the implications of the shattering of world order are immense for a middle power like Canada. We are now in a world characterized by the return of great power conflict; a great economic regression; and a global democratic recession. It’s time for Canada to wake up from its decadent assumptions and get serious about strategic leadership for our country.
Presenter: Dr Mark S. Williams is a professor of Political Studies and Global Studies at Vancouver Island University and an adjunct faculty member in Political Science at UBC. He is the president of the Vancouver Island Branch of the Canadian International Council, a non-partisan think tank and democratic forum on Canadian foreign policy that has been in existence for nearly a century.
Mark is the editor of The Politics of the Asia-Pacific: Triumphs, Challenges, and Threats, published by the University of Toronto Press.
You can follow Mark’s ongoing social media production, @world.reordered, that chronicles the making and breaking of world order—its triumphs and tragedies—and the lessons it holds for our own perilous times.
Instagram Link: https://www.instagram.com/world.reordered/?hl=en
YouTube Shorts: https://www.youtube.com/@World.ReOrdered/shorts
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@world.reordered
Price: $10.00 GST included
Payment Method: For online registration click ‘Register Now’ below or pay CASH at the door, limited space available.
Schedule: On Saturday, October 3, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Nanoose Place Community Centre: 2925 Northwest Bay Road, Nanoose Bay, BC, V9P 9E6
The World Economy in Transition
Saturday, October 31, 2026
The world economy has been evolving for a long time. This talk will briefly review how and then discuss five key features of the contemporary world economy. If and how they are being reframed or upended by US policy will be analysed. The talk will conclude with some observations on the future of the world economy in light of U.S.-China geoeconomic rivalry.
Presenter: Paul Bowles is Professor Emeritus at the University of Northern British Columbia. He received his PhD from the London School of Economics and taught at universities in the UK and US before moving to Canada. He has published widely on the topics of globalization, development, and the political economy of China. He has presented to the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs on China’s economy and recently held the Fulbright Canada Research Chair at the University of California, Santa Barbara. He can now be found kayaking in the waters around Nanaimo, strolling on its soccer fields, and taking the dogs for a walk.
Price: $10.00 GST included
Payment Method: For online registration click ‘Register Now’ below or pay CASH at the door, limited space available.
Schedule: On Saturday, October 31, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Nanoose Place Community Centre: 2925 Northwest Bay Road, Nanoose Bay, BC, V9P 9E6
On Democracy
Saturday, December 5, 2026
Is democracy (as we know it) an endangered species? In this talk, Michael K. MacKenzie examines the state of democracy in the world today, as well as its past and potential futures. He argues that democracy is a way of doing politics that treats people as autonomous beings to be reasoned with instead of objects to be moved, manipulated, or used. When we navigate our disagreements using persuasion, deliberation, negotiation, compromise, or voting, we are acting democratically. But democracy is difficult to do well. It involves working with others, tolerating disagreements, and embracing the fact that people have potentially legitimate but divergent interests and perspectives. Democracies around the world are being threatened by autocratic leaders such as Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin who deny election loses or use violence and intimidation to get what they want. We may see the end of electoral democracy as we know it, but we will not see the end of democracy (just as we cannot clearly establish its beginnings). Democracy — like violence — is part of the human condition. We act democratically when it is pragmatic to do so. The challenge, then, is to create conditions that are conducive to democracy while making other forms of politics, such as intimidation and violence, more costly and thus less pragmatic and less desirable.
Presenter: Michael K. MacKenzie has spent the past 20 years studying and writing about democracy. He holds a PhD in political science from the University of British Columbia, an MA in political science & social statistics from McGill, and a BA from the University of Winnipeg. He was a policy analyst and facilitator with the Ontario Citizens’ Assembly on Electoral Reform, a post-doctoral researcher at the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at Harvard University, and an Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Pittsburgh. He is the inaugural Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership at the Vancouver Island University.
Price: $10.00 GST included
Payment Method: For online registration click ‘Register Now’ below or pay CASH at the door, limited space available.
Schedule: On Saturday, December 5, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Nanoose Place Community Centre: 2925 Northwest Bay Road, Nanoose Bay, BC, V9P 9E6