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