“Learning for the fun of it”
Fall 2026
Registration: Tuesday, September 15 from 10 am – 2 pm
NOTE: Registration tables will not be open until 10:00 am
REGISTRATION:
REGISTRATION:
→ In Person: At the Glengarry Encore office at the address below (limited schedule);
Fees are payable by CASH or E-TRANSFER or DEBIT or CHEQUE
→ Mail in: Only if accompanied by CHEQUE payable to Glengarry Encore,
→ By Telephone: during office hours (Mon Tues Wed 10-12pm)
→ e-transfer to email only : [email protected] (via text not available)
Registrations accepted up to 3 days before scheduled date of each workshop
MAXIMUM PARTICIPANTS: If workshop space is limited, your place is reserved only upon receipt of payment.
CANCELLATION POLICY: Workshops may be cancelled due to inclement weather or at the discretion of the instructor. In the event of a cancellation, participants will be notified as soon as possible, and the workshop will be rescheduled where feasible.
REFUND POLICY: A full workshop refund will be issued if your workshop is cancelled, or you are unable to attend the rescheduled date. Request for a refund will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
SUPPLY FEE: Materials provided by the instructor are listed in the cost on the registration form. This fee is non-refundable.
LOCATION: Unless otherwise indicated, all workshops are held at Glengarry Encore Centre: Gary ShepherdbHall, 102 Derby St. W. Alexandria (Island Park)
Created, operated and presented by VOLUNTEERS!
DISCLAIMER: All views & opinions expressed in these workshops/courses are those of the LEADER & do not necessarily represent those of Glengarry Encore Education Centre. Glengarry Encore will not accept any liability in respect to information given in these settings.
Glengarry Encore will follow all EOHU covid protocols
We Need Your Help
The curriculum committee does its best to organize a curriculum that is varied and interesting. We are 6 volunteers who need your input. Would you volunteer to present an Encore session or do you know of someone who would share their talent, present a lecture or allow us to visit their location? If you do, we would be eternally grateful if you could pass on the information to Shelley at the office. Include a name and contact information. Thank you. #613-930-5887
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September 2026
1. Travel the Right Way
Leader: Brenda Noble
1 session
Date: Thursday Sept 17, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
Traveling the Right Way” looks at how to balance cost, comfort, and
practicality in the age of smartphones. Using personal stories and photos
from mid-range trips, it explores smart planning choices like budgeting,
comparing Montreal vs. Ottawa departures, and deciding between travel
agents and online booking. It also touches on safety versus affordability and
the accessibility challenges that still can’t be solved, offering a realistic take
on what it means to travel well.
2. Photo Club Leader: Daniel Cloutier
Weekly sessions
Date: Thursdays beginning
September 17, 2026
Time: 12:30pm – 2:30pm
Cost: $30 Supplies: $5
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, our club offers
a friendly and supportive environment to learn, share, and grow. Through
photo discussions, workshops, guest speakers, weekly challenges, and
occasional outings, members develop both artistic vision and technical
skills. Topics include composition, lighting, post-processing, and
contemporary photography. When possible, the year culminates with
PhotoArt Show, our annual exhibition, where members can showcase their
best work to the public. New members are always welcome—just bring your
interest in photography and a desire to learn! For more information send
your queries to [email protected]
3. The Lavender Journey: Grow, Harvest & Transform
Leaders: Monia Otis & Matthew Steiche
1 Session
Date: Friday Sept 18, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: 19929 County Road 43
Alexandria, Ontario, K0C 1A0
*Maximum: 20*
Join us for an immersive morning at our lavender farm in Alexandria, where
you’ll discover the art and science of growing lavender in our unique
regional climate. Get your hands in the field as you help us harvest lavender
— a calming, sensory experience that is as rewarding as it is relaxing. In the
second part of the session, we’ll explore the journey from plant to product,
uncovering how lavender is transformed into oils, balms, and botanicals.
You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for lavender’s remarkable benefits
for self-care and skin health, feeling refreshed and inspired. (Lavender
products will be available for purchase.)
4. Adventures in Weaving with Willow Leader: Chelsea Hope
1 session
Date: Monday Sept 21, 2026
Time: 10:00am -12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
Chelsea will share how she got started in weaving with willow and just what
makes it special! Her journey into this sustainable material has led her to
new places and new faces, as well as the lessons of being completely
present. Come share her enthusiasm for this wonderful material; she will be
bringing several baskets and willow creations for viewing.
5. Education, Hope and Healing in Malawi Leader: Melodie Hicks
1 session
Date: Monday Sept 21, 2026
Time: 1:00am – 3:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
Join me to learn more about the health care challenges faced by people
living in Sub-Saharan, Africa and what Vanier College is contributing to rural
Malawi. Watch a documentary film on the evolution of the Malawi Nursing
Exchange and learn how you can brighten a child’s day, and help us bring
quality medications, hope and healing to remote villages. Izzy Doll kits will
be available for a small donation.
6. Wood Carving Leader: Michel Latreille
10 sessions
Date: Start date – Sept. 22, 2026
(Every Tuesday for 10 sessions)
Time: 12:30pm – 2:30pm
Cost: $50 Supplies: $5
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
Michel’s ever popular carving class will continue on the dates listed, with the
students from last semester.
7. Demystifying AI: A Friendly Introduction to ChatGPT Leader: Thomas Cooper
1 session
Date: Wednesday Sept 23, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
An accessible and engaging introduction to ChatGPT for everyday users.
This workshop demystifies artificial intelligence by explaining what ChatGPT
is, how it works, and how it can be used to simplify daily tasks—from
drafting emails and managing documents to planning events, learning new
skills, and exploring creative projects. Participants will see live
demonstrations, receive practical tips, and have opportunities to ask
questions and try ideas of their own.
8. Farm Tour and Beyond Leader: Laura Nussbaumer Peck
1 session
Date: Wednesday Sept 23, 2026
Time: 1:00pm – 3:30pm
Cost: $15
Location:
20301 Power Dam Road W
Alexandria, Ontario, K0C 1A0
*Maximum: 20*
Join us at The Alexandria Retreat for an inspiring look at the life of Laura —
a mother, artist, and activist whose commitments and choices reflect a deep
connection to community and the environment. Learn about the importance
of growing food in Canada and Glengarry, explore the inner workings of a
cash crop farm, and discover practical ideas for reducing waste at home.
Laura’s experiences offer valuable lessons in sustainability, resilience, and
living with purpose.
9. WIN (Write It Now!) Leader: Anne Thevenot & Rosemary Lorimer
6 Bi-weekly sessions
Date: Starts Thursday Sept 24 th
Time: 9:30am – 11:30am
Cost: $30
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
*Maximum: 10*
Everyone has a story to tell. Write It Now is structured to help you get
started in preserving a bit of your life’s history for posterity. You will share
the joys, the sadness, and the laughter of your fellow writers as you share
experiences of growing up, of travel, of careers, of weddings and children.
Best of all, you will have a wonderful gift that will be a legacy to future
generations. (Dates: Sept 24, Oct 8 & 22, Nov 5 & 19, Dec 3)
10. Advanced Care Planning Leader: Arnold Scheerder
1 session
Date: Monday Sept 28, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
The presentation will briefly cover health care consent laws in Ontario,
including what a substitute decision maker is, who yours might be, and who
you would want to speak on your behalf if you’re unable to make decisions.
It will also highlight the importance of having conversations with your
substitute decision maker and what they need to understand about your
wishes. Finally, it will touch on advance care planning for people with
chronic illness and explain the role of a Power of Attorney for Personal
Care, including why someone might need one.
11. Human Adaptability and Environmental Stress Leader: Brent Whitford
1 session
Date: Wednesday Sept 30, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
This presentation introduces the human capacity to adapt to a wide array of
environmental (physical and social) stressors. Topics include: adaptation to
extreme environments (e.g. cold, hot, high altitude); (mal)adaption to
modern and urban conditions (e.g. sleep, crowding, noise, pollution); and
the role of genetics, culture/behaviour, and epigenetics in human
adaptation.
October 2026
12. Healthy Eating and Understanding Canada&s Food Guide Leader: Alena McBain
1 session
Date: Thursday Oct 1, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
In this workshop we will discuss healthy eating based on Canada’s Food
Guide and how to read nutrition labels. We will explore the different food
groups and their benefits on our health. We will also discuss plant-based
proteins and how to include them in our diets.
13. Introduction to Bible Studies Leader: Nicole Quesnel
1 session
Date: Friday Oct 2, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
Have you ever wanted to learn how to study the Bible and learn more about
God? Join Nicole for a welcoming group Bible study where we explore
Scripture together, share insights, and grow in faith through meaningful
discussion. Whether you are new to the Bible or have studied it for years,
this is an opportunity to learn, reflect, and connect with others in a
supportive and encouraging environment.
14. Age Well, Move Well Leader: Penny Decoste
1 session
Date: Monday Oct 5, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
*Maximum: 20*
Join us for an exercise program designed to help improve your overall
health, mobility, and confidence in everyday activities. Participants will learn
flexibility stretches, simple strength-building exercises, balance techniques,
and ways to increase endurance at a comfortable pace. These activities can
help to provide a better quality of life, reduce the risk of falls, and make daily
tasks easier. Staying active can also help you remain independent and in
your own home longer while enjoying greater energy and well-being.
15. Practical Tips for Patients & Families for Medication Safety at Home
Leader: Helene Lauzon
1 session
Date: Tuesday Oct 6, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
Helene is a local pharmacist who comes with much experience and
practical guidance for safely managing medications at home. She will
discuss organizing and storing medicines properly, handling expired or
unused medications, strategies for remembering doses, and recognizing the
warning signs of a serious adverse drug reaction. The session also
addresses common medication errors and the ways a pharmacist can
support patients and their families, including medication reviews.
16. Basic Quilting Leader: Manon Sabourin
1 session
Date: Wednesday Oct 7, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 2:00pm
Cost: $15 Supplies: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
*Maximum: 6*
Have you ever wanted to try quilting? This workshop will allow you to learn
and practice basic quilting skills. Participants will make a set of two (2) mug
rugs to enjoy their afternoon tea, or to gift to someone special. Provided
themed kits will be assembled.
Participants will need to bring a sewing machine in good working order as well as
basic sewing supplies such as scissors, threads, pins, and a measuring tool.
17. Adaptive Clothing: A local success story Leader: Katherine Perry
1 session
Date: Friday Oct 9, 2026
Time: 10:00am -12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
Katharine saw a problem; she set out to solve it; and then she appeared on
Dragon’s Den. For many people life would be so much easier using
adaptive clothing, but it all looks institutional and not at all inviting. Katharine
designed a stylish line anyone would be proud to wear. Come out to hear
Katharine’s story and view the clothing that solves a problem.
18. Zentangle for All Leader: Nicole (AKA Nika) Langevin
1 session
Date: Wednesday Oct. 14, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
*Maximum: 20 *
Discover the relaxing and creative art of Zentangle in this hands-on
workshop designed for all skill levels. We’ll use simple techniques to
deconstruct patterns for creating artwork. Deconstruction requires a few
easy steps to build simple patterns. Peer reviewed studies confirm that the
Zentangle Method for Mindful practice can reduce stress and increase
abilities to focus and learn
19. Learning Techniques in Acrylic Painting Leader: Marion Bebbington
2 Session
Date: Monday Oct 19 & 26, 2026
Time: 10:00am -12:00pm
Cost: $20 Supplies: $10
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
*Maximum: 6 *
Before we start creating masterpieces, we’ll learn key techniques and why
they matter. Our first class on Oct 19 will focus on black and white to build
dimension through shadows and highlights.
The Oct 26 class will explore color—working with primary colors, mixing
them, and discovering secondary shades. Mixing to find the right tones can
be challenging, but also fun.
After this foundation, you’ll be excited and ready to begin your next painting.
20. Cyber Security Leader: Mike Sues & Ashley Wilson
1 Session
Date: Monday Oct 19, 2026
Time: 1:00pm – 3:00 pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
The Internet is a convenient way to stay connected and manage daily
activities like banking, socializing, and accessing news. However, not
everyone online has good intentions, and some may try to scam or harm
others. This presentation explains common tactics scammers use and how
to recognize and defend against them. It covers phishing attacks, a real-life
Gmail account hack example, and practical steps to protect yourself and
your family. Topics include securing your phone, using strong passwords,
and staying safe on Facebook. It concludes with hacking demonstrations
and a Q&A session on cybersecurity.
21. Pumpkin Carving Leader: Ivan Coleman
1 session
Date: Wednesday Oct 21, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
This demonstration showcases a talented artist at work, offering a chance to
watch and possibly learn a few techniques along the way. The artist works
across multiple mediums, including painting and carving in wood, glass, and
stone. After mentioning a love of challenges, he was tasked with creating
an 18-foot piper for the village of Maxville, now standing at the north
entrance. Beginning with simple pumpkin carvings, his work has evolved
into detailed, age-appropriate designs, earning him recognition as a master
pumpkin carver.
22. Walking for Health and Joy Leader: Helena McCuaig
1 session
Date: Friday Oct 23, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
& Glengarry Trails
We will start with an in-class session where Helena will describe some of
her long-distance walking adventures and discuss some apparel, exercises
and preparations that can make walking more enjoyable. The second hour
of the class will be walking from the park to the trails. The walk will be
approximately 45 minutes long and at your own pace.
23. Dementia Friendly Community Leader: Josee Desrochers Leduc
1 Session
Date: Wednesday Oct 28, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
The follow-up session from this past spring will continue our conversation on
dementia and its impact in our communities, where many of us already
know someone affected. Josée from the Alzheimer’s Society in Cornwall &
District will build on the previous discussion, offering practical ways to
create welcoming, safe, and supportive environments. We’ll also explore
available resources for individuals and caregivers. Come prepared with
questions as we continue learning together. (No need to have attended the
previous session.)
November 2026
24. Painting with Marion Leader: Marion Bebbington
1 Session
Date: Friday Nov 6, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 2:00pm
Cost: $15 Supplies: $10
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
*Maximum: 6 *
This class is perfect for beginners and experienced painters alike, offering
step-by-step guidance in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Come
celebrate the spirit of Christmas while creating a piece of art, you’ll be proud
to display or gift.
25. Jaw & Feet: Hidden Sources of Everyday Pain Leader: Heather Pasco
1 Session
Date: Monday Nov. 9, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
*Maximum: 20*
Join Heather Pasco (Hughes), RMT, for a friendly and easy-to-understand
workshop on the hidden sources of pain: jaw & feet. Many people are
surprised to learn that issues in the jaw (TMJ) and the feet can cause
discomfort in other parts of the body—such as the neck, shoulders, back,
hips, and even the head. In this workshop, Heather will explain how these two
areas play an important role in balance, posture, and everyday comfort. You’ll learn
how small changes or tension in the jaw or feet can lead to aches and pains
elsewhere, and what gentle steps you can take to start feeling better.
26. Quilling (Snowflake) Leader: Carmella Ranellucci
1 Session
Date: Friday Nov. 13, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15 Supplies: $20
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
*Maximum – 10*
Primarily, the participants will learn to quill, "an art form involving rolling,
shaping and gluing thin strips of paper to create intricate, decorative 3D
designs". Once completed, they will create a snowflake ornament for the
Christmas tree.
27. Caitlin’s Critters Leader: Caitlin Raynor
1 Session
Date: Monday Nov 16, 2026
Time: 10:00am -12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
Caitlin Raynor’s journey into wildlife rehabilitation began in the aftermath of
the 2009 Black Saturday fires near Melbourne, Australia. Over the past 15
years, she has worked toward becoming an authorized wildlife custodian,
continuing her efforts in Ontario through her organization, Caitlin’s Critters
Wildlife Orphanage. Along the way, her path has included challenges such
as navigating fundraising, dealing with sometimes difficult members of the
public, meeting provincial licensing requirements, and managing the very
real impacts of burnout and compassion fatigue that can come with this
volunteer work. These experiences have shaped her approach, grounded in
ongoing learning, collaboration, and a deep respect for both wildlife and the
community that supports them.
28. Travels in South Africa Leader: Stuart Robertson
1 Session
Date: Tuesday Nov. 17, 2026
Time: 10:00am -12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
Stuart and his wife were fortunate enough to do two lengthy trips to
Southern Africa. Such beauty there. Exotic cultures, food, and experiences.
This presentation will highlight their most memorable experiences in several
countries of this remarkable continent.
29. A Morning with Tony Prophet Leader: Tony Prophet
1 session
Date: Wednesday Nov 18, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
Come and enjoy some classic favourite tunes with Tony in a warm and up-
close performance.
30. Finding Your Voice Leader: Arina Polyakova – registered psychotherapist
1 Session
Date: Friday Nov 20, 2026
Time: 10:00am -12:00pm
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
*Maximum: 15*
A Workshop on Personal Boundaries is an introductory workshop designed
to help participants better understand personal boundaries and their role in
emotional well-being, relationships, and self-care. Participants will explore
different types of boundaries, common challenges such as guilt and people-
pleasing, and the connection between boundaries and personal needs. The
workshop will also discuss practical boundary-setting tools that can support
clearer communication and greater self-awareness. Through discussion,
reflection, and simple exercises, participants will begin exploring their own
boundaries and needs.
31. Shine Your Light” with Card Making Leader: Francine Latreille
1 Session
Date: Monday Nov 23, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 12:00am
Cost: $15
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
Do you wonder what to do with lovely Christmas cards? Do you love
bringing joy to others? Then this session is for you. The organization, “Shine
Your Light” collects cards and repurposes them to bring a smile to those in
care facilities. Bring your scissors and help create over 6,000 smiles with
something as simple as a card.
32. Christmas Ornament Leader: Judith Edmonds
1 Session
Date: Wednesday Nov 25, 2026
Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Cost: $15 Supplies: $6
Location: Glengarry Encore Building
*Maximum: 8*
Whether it becomes a handmade Christmas gift or decor for your own
home, you will love this wee, glittering, Christmas tree. Judith will provide
the “tree” and the “jewelry” for your design. Best of all, this craft can be
adapted to use some of your old costume jewelry to produce pretty
decorations for any season.
