Elder College

We offer courses at minimal cost to individuals in the community who are 50 years plus. Courses are provided by volunteers from the community who wish to share a skill, area of expertise, or a life experience. Annual membership fee is $5.00. Course content and dates are organized by a volunteer advisory committee. Most courses are held at the Island Savings Centre, 2687 James Street, Duncan. To register for a program, call 250-748-7529 ($2.25 fee applied if charging by phone) or come to the ticket centre at the Island Savings Centre. For further information about Elder College, please call Jennifer Carmichael at 250-746-0414 or send a message to Elder College. If you wish to be notified by email when the next Active Living Guide is published, ask to be put on an emailing list for that purpose only.

WINTER/SPRING 2012 PROGRAMS AT A GLANCE

Click on a title to see the details or scroll down the programs, listed in order of start date (January, February, March, April, May, June)

Armchair Travel Kayaking Moresby Island, Haida Gwaii Northern India Peru, Ecuador & the Galapagos Peruvian Adventure Saudi Arabia Spatsizi Provincial Park Yangtze River Arts Beginners' Fly Tying Challenges in Calligraphy Clay Sculpting Create a Hanging Basket Iris Folding Cards Jewelry Making Making Cards: Embroidering and Embossing NEW Neuland for Beginner Calligraphers NEW Pop-up Cards What a Sweetheart! Computers/Photography Digital Cameras - 101 Introduction to Digital Archiving Introduction to Digital Photo Editing Introduction to Windows 7 Photo Editing etc. with GIMP

Fitness and Recreation Beginners Line Dancing Beginners' T'ai Chi Gentle Yoga Mondays NEW Gentle Yoga Tuesdays NEW Introduction to Golf Pickleball Wild Goose QIGONG Games Intermediate Bridge Traditional Chinese Mah Jongg General Interest Ladies, it's time to talk about money. Your money. Seeing and Feeling an Aura The Making of Canada, 1535 to 1914 The Secrets to Affording Retirement Health and Well Being A Vegetarian Diet for Good Health Adult CPR and AED (Automated External Defibrillation) Enhancing Memory with Movement Healthy Grieving: Finding Your Personal Path to Healing after Loss Life Without Driving Technology and Aging

Language and Literature A Morning with William Morris What Is a Classic? Local History Bedtime Stories: Dreaming of Vancouver Island Celebrate Bamberton's 100th Anniversary Fairbridge Farm School: Cowichan's Oranges and Sunshine Story Music Elder College Singers Guitar Finger Picking Lessons Learn to Play the Ukelele Out and About A Walk to the Koksilah Ancient Forest Beach Walk - Cherry Point Beach Beach Walk - Thetis Island Hiking the Cowichan Valley Nature Walk - Spring Flowers Tour of St. Peter's Quamichan Historic Church and Country Tour in a Garry Oak Meadow Walks in the Woods

We welcome your feedback. Email Elder College to tell us how you liked a past Elder College activity.
We also welcome your suggestions for the next session. To suggest an activity, email Elder College.

Starting in January

Starting in February

A Morning with William Morris Artist and designer, poet, and social reformer, WillIam Morris was one of the most extraordinary of the Victorians. We will take a look at many aspects of this remarkable man in a morning of discussion, reading, and viewing some of Morris' designs. Instructor: Dr. Gwyneth Evans Wed 10:00 am – 1:00 pm Feb 1 1 session/$14 Code: ISC-15935	Armchair Travel: Spatsizi Provincial Park We backpacked for 10 days with our 7-year-old son into this remote mountainous area in 1988. August this year we returned to be camp hosts and hike the interior of the park, view wildlife and the spectacular scenery. Come and share these adventures with us. Presenters: Warrick and Jan Whitehead Mon 1:00 – 3:00 pm Feb 6 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15936	The Making of Canada, 1535 to 1914 An epic tale of how the forces of geography, economics, and politics conspired to produce one vast nation from sea to sea to sea. Instructor: Nick Prowse Thur 10:00 am – 12:00 noon Feb 9 – Feb 23 3 sessions/$30 Code: ISC-15938
Introduction to Digital Photo Editing For Beginners. Topics will include Resolution & pixels, Re-sizing, Cropping, Reading histograms, Colour adjustments, Levels & Curves, and adding text. Although we will be using Photoshop CS3, skills taught will be common to most digital photo editing programs. Prerequisite: Basic knowledge of MS Windows. Instructor: Bruce Kingham Mon 2:45 – 4:45 pm Feb 13 – Mar 5 4 sessions/$40 Code: ISC-15939	Adult CPR and AED (Automated External Defibrillation) Learn the basics of Adult CPR and choking, including an introduction to Automated External Defibrillation (AED). Instructor: Leanoir for St. John Ambulance Tue 12:30 – 4:00 pm Feb 14 1 session/$14 Code: ISC-15940	Introduction to Windows 7 All the basics you need to use a Windows 7 computer. No prior computer knowledge required. Laptop type computer needed in class (borrow a friend's laptop!). Instructor: Rob C.W. Robinson Wed, Fri 10:00 – 12:00 pm Feb 15 – Mar 2 6 sessions/$50 Code: ISC-15941
Armchair Travel: Peruvian Adventure In this fast-paced slide show, the Ratcliffs show glimpses of the Peru they discovered - its coastal desert, high mountains and deep canyons, some wildlife, local culture, and architecture, including Machu Picchu, the jewel in the crown. Presenters: Rosemary and Jeff Ratcliff Wed 1:30 – 3:00 pm Feb 22 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15942	Armchair Travel: Yangtze River Travels down the Yangtze River in 1995, before the new dam has flooded the upstream areas and created a huge lake. These scenes and experiences are now history and cannot be repeated. Starting at Chongqing and ending in Wuhan. Video presentation. Presenter: Shane Davis Tue 1:30 – 3:30 pm Feb 28 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15943	Intermediate Bridge Already play bridge but wish to improve your game? A review of hand evaluation and opening bids and responses, then competitive bidding including useful conventions, partnership play, opening leads and signals, getting that extra trick, defensive play and signals and bridge ethics. Instructor: Gord Thomas Wed, Fri 1:30 – 4:00 pm Feb 29 – Mar 16 6 sessions/$50 Code: ISC-15944
What a Sweetheart! A novel way to deliver a love note to your Valentine. Weave a little bag no larger than 3 inches square from strips of paper, the perfect size for a small treasure. Embellish the bag with embossing, beads, and a button to make it one-of-a-kind, just like your true love! $2 to instructor for paper. Instructor: Alison Irwin Wed 9:00 am – 12:00 noon Feb 29 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15937		Beginners' T'ai Chi Students will learn basic positions, how to move, and the first 18 moves of the set. Wear comfortable clothes. Instructor: Rebecca Lusk Wed 1:00 – 2:30 pm Feb 29 – Apr 18 8 sessions/$50 Code: ISC-15945

Starting in March

Photo Editing etc. with GIMP GIMP is the GNU Image Manipulation Program. It is a freely distributed piece of software for such tasks as photo retouching, image composition, image authoring and image scanning. Better than Photoshop and it's free. Will install in first session. Project will be to make a photo style Christmas card. Instructor: Rob C.W. Robinson Tue, Thur 1:30 – 3:30 pm Mar 6 – Mar 29 8 sessions/$60 Code: ISC-15947	A Vegetarian Diet for Good Health Interested in moving towards a more plant-centered, vegetarian diet? We will explore how eating less meat and fewer animal products can benefit our health and the health of the planet. Includes alternative food ideas. Instructor: Margaret Davis Tue 1:00 – 2:30 pm Mar 6 – Apr 3 5 sessions/$45 Code: ISC-15948	Walks in the Woods A series of easy walks at a relaxed pace, away from the noise of traffic. A different location each week. Led by members of the Cowichan Outdoor Group. Walks go rain or shine and are pet free. Leaders: Cowichan Outdoor Group Wed 9:00 – 11:30 am approx Mar 14 – Apr 18 6 sessions/$28 Code: ISC-15949
Hiking the Cowichan Valley A series of 6 hikes, including some steep areas and hills. Participants need to be reasonably fit. Time to enjoy the views, snacks and the company. Led by members of the Cowichan Outdoor Group. Hikes go rain or shine and are pet free. Leaders: Cowichan Outdoor Group Wed 9:00 am – 1:00 pm approx. Mar 14 – Apr 18 6 sessions/$28 Code: ISC-15950	Gentle Yoga Mondays A gentle yet challenging class suitable for beginners as well as those with some Yoga experience. The class will focus on balance, strength, and flexibility, using Yoga poses. Bring a blanket for relaxation. No class Apr 9. Instructor: Shirley Mura Mon 9:30 – 11:00 am Mar 19 – Apr 30 6 sessions/$43 Code: ISC-16059	Introduction to Digital Archiving An introduction to scanning and digitally archiving slides and negatives for those who want to preserve their family photos using an easy to understand method for guaranteed success. Course is not designed for advanced digital photographers and/or advanced computer practitioners. Instructor: Allan Lundgren Mon 1:00 – 3:00 pm Mar 19 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15951
Gentle Yoga Tuesdays A gentle yet challenging class suitable for beginners as well as those with some Yoga experience. The class will focus on balance, strength, and flexibility, using Yoga poses. Bring a blanket for relaxation. Instructor: Shirley Mura Tue 9:30 – 11:00 am Mar 20 – Apr 24 6 sessions/$43 Code: ISC-16058	Fairbridge Farm School: Cowichan's Oranges and Sunshine Story Fairbridge was part of child migration schemes that involved nearly all major child care agencies and charities in the UK. Learn about this place in our history, and its rich heritage: the farm, school, people who lived there, and founder, Kingsley Fairbridge. Instructor: John Hardy Wed 1:00 – 2:30 pm Mar 21 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15986	Beginners Line Dancing Fun and exercise while learning the basics of line dancing. Aimed at beginners and those with limited experience. A partner is not required. Cowboy boots or leather-soled shoes are best, not shoes with soles that stick to the floor. Instructor: Cliff Knowles Wed 2:45 – 3:45 pm Mar 21 – Apr 25 6 sessions/$42 Code: ISC-15952
Ladies, it's time to talk about money. Your money. You're smart, savvy and successful. You've built the life you deserve and plan to enjoy it. But have you considered how realities like a longer life expectancy and time away from the workforce can impact your plans? Instructor: Ray Sapergia Mon 4:30 – 5:30 pm Mar 26 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15954	Digital Cameras - 101 Are you thinking of getting a digital camera? Do you have one and want to learn more about using it? Bring your questions, your camera and instruction manual. A discussion session for novices. Instructor: Eric Marshall Mon 10:00 am – 12:00 noon Mar 26 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15953	Armchair Travel: Peru, Ecuador & the Galapagos An illustrated account of the nature, history and native culture based on a trip made in September 2011. Includes the Amazon rain forest, Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands. Presenter: George Anderson Fri 1:30 – 3:30 pm Mar 30 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15955

Starting in April

Seeing and Feeling an Aura The human energy field, the aura, is visible. We can all see them, when we know how and where to look. Auras can also be felt. This half day experiential workshop teaches people how to see and feel auras. Instructor: Jane Hutchins Thur 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Apr 5 1 session/$14 Code: ISC-15956	Traditional Chinese Mah Jongg Dust off those antique Mah Jongg sets and learn to play this classic Chinese tile game, steeped in tradition. Combines elements of strategy and luck. Both beginners and experienced players welcome. Instructors: Judi Baker and Eleanor Granek Thur 10:00 am – 12:00 noon Apr 5 – Apr 26 4 sessions/$46 Code: ISC-15957	Introduction to Golf Begin your journey of golf with the Basics of Golf: grip, stance, and the proper posture, starting with the short game and leading to the larger swing. Bring $15 for rental of baskets of balls. Instructor: Dave Campbell's Golf Instruction Tue 10:00 – 11:00 am Apr 10 – May 1 4 sessions/$30 Code: ISC-15958
The Secrets to Affording Retirement If this were an invitation to a free golf lesson or spa day you'd probably jump at the opportunity. Instead, why not attend an event where you will discover the secrets of how to afford a retirement where you can play golf, enjoy spa days and more, long into your future? Instructor: Ray Sapergia Mon 4:30 – 5:30 pm Apr 16 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15959	Armchair Travel: Northern India A whirlwind slide presentation tour through six cities (Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Kharajaho, Varanasi, Sarneth) and six national parks (Corbett, Ranthambore, Bharatpur, Bandhargavgh, Pench and Kanha) featuring monuments of history, religion and romance, and, wildlife galore. Presenter: Carolyn Prellwitz Tue 1:30 – 4:00 pm Apr 17 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15960	Life Without Driving The difficult decision to no longer drive has a profound impact on many seniors. This workshop explores the warning signs that indicate the need to consider other ways of getting around and encourages advance planning. Alternatives to driving are described. Instructor: Council of Senior Citizens of BC Wed 1:00 – 2:30 pm Apr 18 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15979
Nature Walk - Spring Flowers Come out and see the wild flowers and other signs of spring in a Garry Oak Preserve. An easy walk. Dress for the weather. Wear good walking shoes & bring water. Leader: Eric Marshall Fri 9:30 am – 1:00 pm Apr 20 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15961	Tour of St. Peter's Quamichan Historic Church and Country Tour in a Garry Oak Meadow Buried in the cemetery of St Peter's, the oldest Anglican Church in the Valley, are many notable people - learn more about them and the Church itself. Instructor: Priscilla Lowe Mon, Thur 1:30 – 3:30 pm Apr 23 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15962	Wild Goose QIGONG Wild Goose Qigong is gentle, traditional Chinese exercise for health originally developed 1800 years ago by Daoist monks to cultivate longevity. It is very good for co-ordination, circulation, joints, flexibility and strengthening the immune system. Instructor: Lee Masters Mon 10:00 – 11:00 am Apr 23 – May 7 3 sessions/$28 Code: ISC-15963
Enhancing Memory with Movement A fun, interactive hour and a half presentation about enhancing memory with movement (Brain Gym). Instructor: Jean Gurnett Tue 1:00 – 2:30 pm Apr 24 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15964	Pop-up Cards Students will be introduced to a variety of pop-up cards and will complete at least two cards that will be suitable for Mother's Day, Father's Day or birthdays. Please pick up a supply list when you register. Instructor: Linda Yaychuk Fri 9:00 am – 12:00 noon Apr 27 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15965	Learn to Play the Ukelele Learn Ukulele tuning, basic chords and strumming. For beginners and new players. Instructor: Sherie Robb Sat 10:00 am – 12:00 noon Apr 28 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15966

Starting in May

Armchair Travel: Saudi Arabia Be prepared for some surprises as we explore the country at the very core of Islam. We travel through both northern and southern regions, visiting ancient and modern towns and cities, and enjoy the natural features of the countryside. Presenter: Gwyneth Kingham Thur 1:30 – 3:30 pm May 3 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15968		Neuland for Beginner Calligraphers Strong and bold, this versatile and easily learned hand will lead us to exciting design possibilities. Paper pads will be available at the class for an approximate cost of $8. No class May 21. Instructor: Betty Locke Mon 1:00 – 4:00 pm May 7 – June 4 4 sessions/$38 Code: ISC-16036
Technology and Aging More and more our society is including access to technology as part of daily living. Many of the advances that have been developed are of use to older adults, and this workshop describes what is available now and what the future promises to provide. Instructor: Council of Senior Citizens of BC Wed 1:00 – 2:30 pm May 9 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15980	Iris Folding Cards Make beautiful cards with folded shiny papers to create an image. To be paid to instructor: $2.00 per card made. Instructor: Carole Walker Fri 9:00 am – 12:00 noon May 11 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15969	Making Cards: Embroidering and Embossing Class 1: sewing an image from a template onto a card with fine needle and thread (1 card). Class 2: embossing using felt pen on rubber stamps, rubber stamds with inks and colored powders and plastic folders. (2 cards). $2 to be paid to instructor per card made. Instructor: Carole Walker Fri 9:00 am – 12:00 noon May 18 – May 25 2 sessions/$20 Code: ISC-16035
Celebrate Bamberton's 100th Anniversary Share Bamberton's 100 years of amazing stories featured in an entertaining movie showcasing archive pictures and personal interviews with former employees of the cement plant and residents of the company village. Presenter: Maureen Alexander Mon 1:00 – 2:00 pm May 28 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15970	A Walk to the Koksilah Ancient Forest Visit this amazing Douglas Fir forest with trees 9 metres diameter, over 89 mts tall. One of our areas remaining old-growth forests, it has yet to become a park Good trail 3½ kms. Sturdy footwear and raincoat, bring a lunch to eat by the river. Leaders: Warrick and Jan Whitehead Wed 9:00 am – 4:00 pm approx. May 30 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15971

Starting in June

Create a Hanging Basket We will build a huge 18" hanging basket for sun or shade, like the ones at the library. Baskets, and plants from our stock, the finished product priced. Cost $50 to $75 depending on plant choices. Instructor: Della Walters Sat 10:00 am – 12:00 noon or completion Jun 2 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15973		Beach Walk - Thetis Island A walk on the beach at low tide to see the various organisms on a muddy shore and a rocky shore. A road walk of about a mile takes us from the beach near the ferry landing to a rocky shore. Leader: Eric Marshall Mon 9:30 am – 4:00 pm Jun 4 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15974
Beach Walk - Cherry Point Beach A walk on the beach at Cherry Point where we will see the marine organisms visible at low tide. We will also visit Cowichan Bay briefly to see the eelgrass beds near the boat launch. Leader: Eric Marshall Tue 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Jun 5 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15975	Bedtime Stories: Dreaming of Vancouver Island Romp through Vancouver Island's history with the Seeds and Salt Theatre's movie Bedtime Stories: Dreaming of Vancouver Island. Featuring The Bride Ships, Strathcona 100, The Second Son and The Chocolate Bar War, true stories hilariously and movingly told using minimal props and agile acting that will challenge your imagination and capture your emotions Presenter: Maureen Alexander Wed 1:00 – 2:00 pm Jun 6 1 session/$12 Code: ISC-15976

To register for a program, call 250-748-7529 ($2.25 fee applied if charging by phone) or come to the ticket centre at the Island Savings Centre.

Please register early! We cancel programs with insufficient registration one week prior to start date.

We welcome your feedback. Email Elder College to tell us how you liked a past Elder College activity.
We also welcome your suggestions for the next session. To suggest an activity, email Elder College.

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