Comox Valley Eldercollege Search Results

ElderCollege membership Comox Valley is an annual membership from September 1 to August 31. CVEC does not run courses during the period of May 1 to August 31. By requesting membership with ElderCollege, I understand the membership fee is non-refundable; I consent to NIC releasing my personal information to the ElderCollege Executive Committee and its subcommittees, for the purposes of course registration/notification, and in supporting ElderCollege volunteer activities.

This workshop will connect you with the joy of creating with exploration, humour, and collaboration. Using modelling and assemblage, we will cultivate a sense of possibility, adventure, and imagination. Three-dimensional art expands our spatial awareness, and creating with unexpected materials can lower our inhibitions, providing a playful experience of creating with curiosity and openness to the unexpected... just for fun. $25 materials fee collected at the first class.KRISTINA CAMPBELL

Marianne will give an overview of her artistic journey from her exposure to original art as a young girl, to a career in architecture, and then becoming a full-time artist. She will share her creative process and her varied styles of painting with opportunity for questions and discussion.MARIANNE ENHORNING

Artist Sue Pyper will show you how she combines natural world subjects on live edge wood to create unusual and organic compositions. She will lead you through her process from selection and preparation of the wood to the finished piece. See what motivates and inspires her and how you can tap into that creative flow.SUE PYPER

This course is designed for artists and non-artists to encourage their creativity with an introduction of simple art techniques to develop an artist's eye, gain confidence, and develop new skills to create original art. The sessions will include art videos and interactive demonstrations. Participants are invited to present their work in a final show. A list of class materials costing $40.00+/- will be sent to participants 2 weeks before the course. KATE BROWN

Bill Nighy is a wonderful actor, like Alec Guiness before him, both possessing versatile acting skills. We will watch three of his movies: Wild Target, Pirate Radio, and About Time, and three of Alec Guiness: Kind Hearts and Coronets, The Lavendar Hill Mob, and the Man in the White Suit. Come prepared for the pure pleasure of these wonderful movies. KAY KENNEDY

Prior to the last decade or so there were only a handful of directors who were women. Now there are a significant number of women who are behind the camera and sharing their visions. We would like to showcase the best of these this term. The lineup will include six films: Ladybird, The Tempest, Past Lives, The Kids are Alright, Daughters of the Dust and In a Better World. BRIAN CHARLTON/LINDA BRUNE

This four-week improv course will continue to employ the basics of improv, hone one's creative skills, and provide ample opportunities to laugh with each other! This course is for those new to improv classes as well as seasoned veterans. No experience is necessary, just a willingness to be present. SUSAN OSSO

Best known for his hundreds of lieder, Franz Schubert (1797-1828) created an astonishing and sometimes disturbing sequence of masterworks in the final months of his too-short life. In four lectures we will explore a selection of these works, with reference to earlier compositions in the Schubert catalogue, celebrating the power, complexity, and emotional depth of his remarkable final musical thoughts.DAVID DUKE

Participate in vocal exercises designed to extend vocal range and to project your voice both in volume and in energy through intentional focus. This course is especially beneficial for members of choirs. A few with voice problems owing to health concerns have also benefited. The course will be held at Berwick Comox Valley. OLIVER CLARKE

An exploration of painters of the Flemish renaissance including the fascinating works of Jan van Eyck, Rogier van der Weyden, Hans Memling, Hugo van der Goes, and Hieronymus Bosch. The course deals with the innovative approaches of the place and time: the use of oils, glowing colours, decorative detail, portrayal of emotion, and fantasy representation. Participants will be encouraged to discuss their own reactions to the art presented. JOHN BLACK

This introduction to heraldry and symbols of history and heritage will teach you about the background and design of coats of arms and how they are granted in Canada. Discover the design aspects of heraldry and how you can develop you own coat of arms to tell your story. $10 fee added at registration for required text provided by course leader. STEVE COWAN

Do you have a life story or family history book idea? Imagine sharing your life or family history with family, friends, and beyond. We will explore motivation, sources of content, types of editing and structure. We'll walk through the overall process involved in going from interviews or rough draft to finished book. You'll leave inspired to record and share your life story or family history stories in book format. MALI BAIN

Discuss the types of material you wish to write and why. We will touch on books that influence you as well as where to find inspiration, stumbling blocks and how to overcome them, whether to use a publisher or self-publish. We will talk about editing and associated costs, the rewards of writing and publishing. The presenter will offer personal experiences of writing his first book and the challenges of writing the second.  ROBERT CROSBY

This is an interactive class in which writers and would-be writers may share their work and have it gently appreciated and critiqued by others. No formal instruction. MARVIN HAAVE/IAN MCINTYRE

We will work through all three parts of writing a book and cover topics that include inspiration, writing style, writer's block, editing, finding a publisher, publishing options, marketing and selling. JOHN CARSWELL

Write short, timed pieces for five to 10 minutes, then break into small groups to read aloud. The prompts will surprise. It will be stream-of-consciousness writing-fast and furious with no consideration for spelling, punctuation, or grammar. No editing of pieces will be done. Come join in the fun! SANDRA PETRIE

First session: Stewart describes how he wrote his novel, portraying the intertwined lives of two women deeply impacted by the Russia/Chechnya war, then shares his ideas and seeks suggestions for a sequel to My Friend, My Enemy, this time with Nadezhda and Alla caught up in Russia's devastating  war in Ukraine. Second session: participants share their ideas for writing projects with an interactive discussion useful for aspiring authors. STEWART GOODINGS

This interactive course presents an overview of the core concepts behind screenwriting. These include developing an idea, the difference between plot and story, creating compelling characters, and writing strong dialogue. Analyze some popular movies and TV shows (including some the instructor has written). Participants will also have the opportunity to try their hand at writing scenes in a supportive, risk-free environment. LARRY BAMBRICK

Understand why estate planning decisions should be made sooner than later and learn about wills, powers of attorney, representation agreements and trusts as considerations in estate planning. A financial and estate planner will be available for purchase at the course for $10. Registration is at 7 pm with the course starting at 7:30. LYLE CARLSTROM

As the cost of living has risen dramatically our ability to live the life we are accustomed to has become increasingly difficult. In this interactive seminar we will discuss the financial and legal options that exist for carrying debt into retirement. Our presenters have expertise in brokering mortgages and helping clients with their financial and estate planning. LYLE CARLSTROM

What's all the hype about internet cloud drives? Would it be wise to store your photos, documents, and other files there - or not? How do they work, and how easy are they to set up and use? This course will answer these questions and demonstrate cloud drive services from Microsoft (OneDrive), Google (Drive), and Apple (iCloud). You may be already using one and not even realize! TERRY HOOPER/ROGER TAYLOR

This is an introductory course on the nature and role of fear, individually and collectively. In the last three decades, especially since 9/11, fear has 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 and the importance of multiple perspectives to the culture of fear. R. MICHAEL FISHER

Learn about the different kinds of cannabis including sativa, indica, and hybrid varieties as well as various ways to consume it without having to smoke. Then learn how to prepare cannabis for making your own oil drops, edibles, or salves. JOANNE GAUTHIER

The educational and devotional benefit of this course is the realization that all traditions are based in the same spirit. Like yoga, devotional chanting unites us with the essential energy of the universe found in nature, which may be called God, Tao, Buddha, or the Great Creator. All are encouraged to participate, and all levels of singing ability are welcome. The course will be held at Berwick Comox Valley. $3+/- collected in class to cover the cost of materials. supplied by the course leader. OLIVER CLARKE

Medical research is showing that the slow, focused, and gentle moves of tai-chi improve memory, balance, and cognition and have a positive impact on health and longevity. Learning the form can be challenging but the challenge is good for the aging mind. This course is an introduction to not only the form and its moves but to the philosophy and art of moving meditation that is a part of tai-chi. ANN ZANBILOWICZ

Pack a lunch and come for a hike! Revisit the familiar and perhaps discover some new trails. We will be travelling once a week as far south as Bowser and north to Campbell River. We will carpool, when necessary. These hikes have variable terrain so they're not suitable for those with mobility issues. Our 6-9 km. hikes may often go over 3 hours. Please no dogs! TED GRAINGER

Hiking easy to moderate, familiar and new trails to sample local forest types, some with water features. Bring some food & water as hikes last 2 to 3 hours. Dress for expected weather. Pace is leisurely to moderate. We are hiking for exercise, meeting fellow seniors, photos and to admire what we see on our walks. Please, no dogs. JOHN BIEHL

This off-campus course is intended for those who like to take their cameras on hikes and walks. Cameras should be adjustable, and participants should be familiar with how to set shutter speed, aperture, and ISO settings on their cameras. Point-and-shoot and phone cameras will work, but not all techniques can be used with these types of camera. While exploring a different location each week, photographic techniques and composition will be presented. Participants should dress for the weather, for walking, and will have to drive to each location. NORM MATHEW

Do you ever wonder if you are getting enough nutrients for your overall health and well-being?  Do you find yourself hungry, experience cravings, or struggling with digestive issues? In this course we will review nutrition tips to support your health with easy and practical strategies that you can incorporate right away into your daily living. ERIN ROMAN

This course uses a modified version of the Functional Movement System developed by Gray Cook. Learn how we develop movement and movement patterns. Work together through a seven-step movement screen to determine your own function and then take away simple home exercises to correct dysfunctions.IRENE BORECKY

An introduction to the field of osteopathy--a manual therapy that uses gentle techniques to treat the body as a whole. Changes that occur with aging may mean that some traditional approaches are not suitable for older individuals. Osteopathy is a safe method to help mobility, communication, and function within joints, the nervous system, digestive system, etc.

Embrace the death positive movement in a safe space for open and authentic conversations. Participants are invited to explore emotions, experiences, and perspectives on death and dying. There will be inspiring discussions around topics such as the empowering benefits of community deathcare, planning for your own death, and the vital role of death doula practitioners. Bring something to take notes with. Refreshments will be served and post-session resources provided. CHRISTIE, O'DELL, ELLIS-BELL

Review the new long-term care village in Comox and how Providence Living is reinventing seniors care by creating a home for residents. This is a move away from a typical institutional model of care to a social-relational model. Residents will be invited to direct their own care, enhancing a normal lifestyle with freedom of movement and access to the outdoors. SHARON PARKES

This workshop helps you understand and recognize differences in typical versus atypical aging. Develop better observational skills to recognize and intervene effectively when behavioural challenges occur. Learn to approach, how to cue, and to connect with people affected by dementia. The workshop also addresses typical changes that happen in the early, middle, and late stages of the condition including the final care concerns. HEATHER MACLEOD

This two-part series introduces the philosophy of hospice and presents an overview of the psychosocial, emotional, and spiritual aspects of palliative care, caregiving, anticipatory grief, and bereavement support. Participants can submit questions for follow up in the second session and dialogue about how to increase your grief literacy and support grief allyship. CHRISTINE COLBERT

Explore a variety of topics that can be included in end-of-life planning to support you and your loved ones today and tomorrow. KRISTA MANUEL

During this hands-on course you will get the tools to steer towards a life you want and to manage your stress well, instead of being bossed around by it. In between meetings there will be small homework assignments. The presenter will provide handouts at no cost. JAN HESSELLING

This course involves experiential group exercises intended to help you connect with others, reflect on positive strengths and past experiences, learn more about yourself, see yourself in a new light, and discover meaning, purpose, and fulfillment as you age. BOB RENNIE

This course is designed to enable positive mental awareness through the tools of nutrition, meditation, positive energy, Reiki, colour, and light. LUBA OBETKOFF

The Enneagram is a personality system that comes from ancient roots. You will learn about the strengths and struggles of the nine personality types, and how to find more flexibility and freedom in your life. Studying this system will improve all your relationships. This is a small interactive class, combining teaching, meditation, journalling, conversation, music, and poetry. Optional $20 text. DK BEITEL

Learn about far flung corners where the course leader has lived or explored by bicycle. Dive into history, culture, current events, sprinkled with personal anecdotes. We'll spend time in Madagascar, Ladakh( Indian Himalayas), Papua New Guinea,, Iran, Indonesia, and Upper Mustang (NW Nepal). The course updates a past course. Part 1 (not a pre-requisite) was offered in Winter 24. GREGG STRONG

Explore the origins and development of an important modern European nation state, with an emphasis on the political, economic, and cultural significance of Dutch society, how it emerged as a republic, and became a leading world power in the 17th century. We will trace its diminishing role in international politics and conclude with its conversion into a monarchy after the Napoleonic Wars. JOHN STERK

Explore the creation and development of an important European monarchy, how it emerged as an arbiter of international disputes, how it became an important member of the European community, and how it enacted world-leading progressive social legislation in the 20th and 21st Centuries. JOHN STERK

Learn how to build branches and twigs and find your ancestors. This is a three-part beginner's course to help you start your tree online or on paper and find free and subscription resources. Session 1 gets you started, session 2 addresses your roadblocks, and in session 3 we make plans to continue. Family history research can become addictive and take up all the time you can spare! ANN BROWN

In March 2024, after the presenter had purchased an electric vehicle in January, a friend called and asked 13 questions about the pre-purchase, purchase, and post-purchase. They talked about Terry's personal experiences, starting in January 2023, of deciding, choosing, sourcing, negotiating, waiting, accepting, accessorizing, and the real-world use of an electric vehicle. This presentation is based on that two-hour call. Information sharing - not a debate. Interested in an EV purchase tale? TERRY HOOPER

The course will provide a history of the first Ukrainian pioneers to Canada's West during the period of 1891-1914. Along with visuals and stories we explore the conditions in Canada and Ukraine that led to this migration to a new life in Canada for so many. PETER SHOSTAK

This course combines international law with the history of Taiwan to demonstrate that, throughout most of its history, Taiwan was never part of the Chinese empire. For roughly two centuries, it was nominally claimed by China as its territory but was never under China's effective control. The claim that Taiwan is part of China is a myth manufactured by the Chinese Communist Party. CLIVE ANSLEY

Bacteria and all unicellular organisms are the base of the web of life; they feed and breathe the whole biosphere.  Learn about panspermia, spores, communication, microbiome, cyanobacteria, photosynthesis, archea, mitochondria, lateral gene transfer, symbiogenesis, evolution, protists, plankton, tree of life, and cell intelligence. THIERRY VRAIN

The first four hours of  Biofilia are about what life is made of: the incredible molecules that animate life, including the protein and RNA molecules that make life tick. You will learn how atoms and molecules are made and inject life into minerals, water, carbon, nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, cell membranes, metabolism, and information management in cells. THIERRY VRAIN

Zoology is the study of the animal "kingdom": one of the major groups of organisms on Earth.  The course will begin with an exploration of the features that are necessary for life in general, and for its evolution. We will then elucidate the properties that characterize animals. Finally, we will survey and study the main types of animals, both extant and in the fossil record. JOEL KOSITSKY

The course will examine several U.S. presidencies and their role in shaping the American nation and the U.S. role in world affairs.  Emphasis will be on Jefferson, Jackson, Lincoln, T. Roosevelt, F.D. Roosevelt, Nixon, Reagan and Trump. ERIC NELLIS

Learn how crude oil is produced in the field as well as the various refinery processes of separation, conversion and purification to produce consumer fuels. The last class will examine various ways to produce electricity.

A brief exploration of the understanding and the role of measuring the position of stars and developing accurate clocks to permit oceangoing exploration, trade, and war. Includes showing how these tools were vital to the Royal Canadian Navy's role during the Cold War years of the 1970s and 1980s. CHRIS COTTLE

This course, designed for the lay person, will review the evolution of Earth and how plate tectonics and accreted terranes shaped construction of BC and Vancouver Island.  We discuss age dating, major rock units on the island, paleontology, mass extinctions, earthquakes, etc.  We will look at ore deposits of Vancouver Island, as well as diamond and uranium deposits, then finish with a review of nuclear power. TED TRUEMAN

This fast-paced, interactive, action-oriented workshop focuses mainly on what we can do personally and publicly about climate change. Collaboration with other participants is part of the joy of our time together and is critical as building a community is key to dealing with climate change. We will learn from each other. Come ride with us on a light-filled journey through a dark subject. Solutions do exist! JOAN GILLIES/CELIA LAVAL

A focus on the structure and role of the Electoral College System that is called together once every four years to elect the president and vice president of the United States. We will also have an opportunity to look at five closely contested elections where the Electoral College made a difference. DON AXTELL

Snake oil is a term used to describe deceptive marketing, health care fraud, or a scam.' (Wikipedia)  This course is designed to help you understand scientific methods - without having to be a scientist.  The material that is presented should provide you with a 'toolkit' for distinguishing between genuine science and 'snake oil' or pseudoscience. ROD MONTAGUE

Founded in 1976, Habitat for Humanity has a proud history of working with volunteers to build affordable housing. Learn about Habitat's vision, purpose, and homeownership model and what the organization is doing locally to address the lack of affordable housing in the Comox Valley and Campbell River. Not only will you learn more about this great organization, but you'll also hear about the many ways you can get involved. CHRYSTAL ARNET

Beer has a fascinating history around the world and across Canada, BC, and Vancouver Island. Learn about the diverse collection of styles in Germany and Eastern Europe as well as classic beer styles and unusual serving techniques in Britain and Ireland that are now more popular than ever. Discover brewing for fun: what ingredients, equipment, and steps are needed to brew a drinkable beer. $10.+/- collected by coure leader for tasting. ADAM CHATBURN

The course will begin with an exploration of the features that are necessary for life in general, and for its evolution. We will then elucidate the properties that characterize plants, and the features that have allowed them to significantly alter the Earth's environment by oxygenating the atmosphere. Finally, we will survey the main types of plants, and study their structure, composition, physiology, reproduction and evolution. JOEL KOSITSKY

Composting makes use of waste and livens up soil. And it's easy to do. Come learn the secrets of safely and quickly making rich nutritious compost out of your kitchen and yard waste. Learn why, how, where, when, and what. Bring your questions for this fun discussion with a master composter. Feed the soil that feeds the plants that feed us! JOYCE MCMENAMON