ALLTO

Gardening
2025-12-16 16:30 - 17:30 (America/Toronto) | https://allto.ca/event/gardening/2025-12-16/
The Gardening Club is for anyone who loves growing things, whether in a garden, on a balcony or indoors. We meet very informally, year round, with no set agenda or presentations. We share updates on the health of our plants, and how best to maintain them, soil cultivation, watering schedules, pruning, pest control, etc., etc. We admire photos of luxuriant blooms and commiserate over scrawny failures! Upcoming garden tours may be recommended, or unsatisfactory tree service companies advised against. We had a very successful field trip to Spadina House Garden last year and hope to arrange more trips in the future.

Book Club A
2025-12-23 16:30 - 17:30 | Zoom
Love to read but yearning to discuss what you’ve read with others? Join one of the book clubs to discuss interesting works of fiction and non- fiction. Details will be confirmed via email. All meetings are conducted on Zoom.

Book Club B
2025-12-24 16:30 - 17:30 | Zoom

Democracy: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly
2026-01-05 00:15 - 14:15 | Tartu College – G1, 310 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W4, Canada
Can democracy be saved? Join us for a wide-ranging discussion about democracies; how they flourish and how they fail. How do democracies become dictatorships and how do dictatorships become democracies? What is populism and when did it start? Can a single, strong leader have a significant impact on the course of a country? Each participant will lead off the discussion for up to a maximum of 20 minutes highlighting key aspects of the subject for the other participants to consider and discuss. There is no assigned reading list and extensive workshop notes will be provided. Facilitators Stephen Johnson is a Chartered Accountant and is the co- founder of a Toronto asset management company. He is interested in history and current affairs and co-facilitates the Democracy: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly workshop and has also facilitated the Equality and Inequality workshop and the Sport and its Influence on Society workshop. Carol Austin worked for many years in management and training in the pharmaceutical industry. She joined the Academy in 2020 and is looking forward to another exciting year of intellectual discussion on a variety of topics.
Facilitators
Stephen Johnson is a Chartered Accountant and is the co- founder of a Toronto asset management company. He is interested in history and current affairs and co-facilitates the Democracy: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly workshop and has also facilitated the Equality and Inequality workshop and the Sport and its Influence on Society workshop.
Carol Austin worked for many years in management and training in the pharmaceutical industry. She joined the Academy in 2020 and is looking forward to another exciting year of intellectual discussion on a variety of topics. InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Mondays | Bi-Weekly12:15pm – 2:15pmIn-person Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

Fortunes and Fiascos
2026-01-05 10:00 - 12:00 | Tartu College – G1, 310 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W4, Canada
New this year!
This workshop explores what makes companies tick. How should success be defined? Are there behaviours, conditions or opportunities that tend to generate winners? Focus will be placed on specific corporations and leaders.
Corporations: Corporations today control budgets larger than the GDP of many countries. Some relative newcomers have succeeded masterfully, like Microsoft and Apple, and others have exhibited enduring success, for example, Nestle and Shell. Some have been dismal failures, e.g. Napster, Kodak and Nortel. Still others are hard to judge, like Blackberry. Why do some succeed while others flop? What makes the difference?
Business events have implications far beyond the Boardroom – AI development, the sub-prime mortgage crisis, the 1929 market crash. Some businesses are all about new tech and science, like Nvidia and Tesla, and this raises questions about longer term success or failure. Business issues impact both politics and the broader economy.
Leaders: What role do leaders play in their company’s success, the movers and shakers who guide these corporations? Many business leaders seem to have stepped out of a Marvel action movie – Bill Gates, Elon Musk, Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg, Bernie Madoff, Albert “Chainsaw” Dunlap, Richard Fuld and many more. Some are “rock stars;” others, villains or rogues.
The workshop will focus on two topics each session. Each participant will develop a 15-minute talk designed to stimulate discussion. Background resource materials will be suggested so that participants come to the session informed. There are many critical studies, biographies, self-serving autobiographies and films as resource materials.
Facilitators
Patti Stoll is an engaged and curious member of the Academy for seven years and has co-facilitated several workshops. Before retiring, Patti worked as a consultant for a global systems firm, ran her own business, and held teaching and leadership roles in higher education. In retirement she continues her training consultancy and mentoring female university students.
Linda Reeser worked in the advertising industry for more than 20 years. She managed the advertising for such well-known companies as Coca-Cola, American Express and Procter & Gamble. She had a “retirement” job teaching Marketing at York University’s Schulich School of Business. Linda has been a member of the Academy for five years. Topics and Suggested Resources
Focus
This workshop takes a deep dive into the factors that help create powerful, polarizing businesses and business icons.
In the case of business leaders, the person’s life story provides context for our focus: understanding the decisions they made, the industries they shaped (or shattered) and the ethical crossroads they navigated.
In looking at individual companies, the focus is on understanding the corporate culture and the strategic business decisions that resulted in success or failure.
With respect to the events category, the challenge is to move beyond the retelling of the event to explore the root cause(s) and the broad implications of the event.
Note: The following are some suggested topics and references. They are suggestions only: once registration is complete, participants are free to choose from this list or to suggest a topic in consultation with the facilitators.
Disrupters, Polarizers, and Devils
1. Mark Zuckerberg
Description: A transformative innovator who redefined social connectivity through Facebook but faces criticism for privacy violations, misinformation, and monopolistic practices.
Reference: “The Facebook Effect: The Inside Story of the Company That Is Connecting the World” by David Kirkpatrick.
Movie/Documentary: The Social Network (2010).
2. Albert “Chainsaw” Dunlap
Description: A notorious corporate downsizer whose aggressive cost-cutting and accounting manipulations led to short-term profits and long-term destruction.
Reference: “Chainsaw: The Notorious Career of Albert Dunlap in the Era of Profit-at-Any-Price” by John A. Byrne.
Movie/Documentary: The Corporation (2003) (documentary).
3. Elon Musk
Description: A visionary entrepreneur pushing boundaries in electric vehicles, space exploration, and AI, yet often criticized for erratic leadership and controversial social media behavior.
Reference: “Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future” by Ashlee Vance.
Movie/Documentary: Return to Space (2022) (Netflix documentary).
4. Bernie Madoff
Description: The mastermind behind history’s largest Ponzi scheme, defrauding thousands of investors of billions of dollars over decades.
Reference: “The Wizard of Lies: Bernie Madoff and the Death of Trust” by Diana B. Henriques.
Movie/Documentary: The Wizard of Lies (2017) (HBO film).
5. Michael Dell
Description: A tech pioneer who revolutionized the personal computer industry through direct-to-consumer sales and innovative supply chain management.
Reference: “Direct from Dell: Strategies That Revolutionized an Industry” by Michael Dell and Catherine Fredman.
Movie/Documentary: Something Ventured (2011) (documentary featuring tech entrepreneurs).
6. Henry Ford
Description: The father of mass production and a champion of industrial efficiency but also criticized for anti-Semitic views and monopolistic tendencies.
Reference: “Henry Ford: My Life and Work” by Henry Ford and Samuel Crowther.
Movie/Documentary: American Experience: Henry Ford (2013) (PBS documentary).
7. Richard Fuld
Description: The “Gorilla of Wall Street,” whose leadership of Lehman Brothers epitomized the hubris and risk-taking that fueled the 2008 financial crisis.
Reference: “A Colossal Failure of Common Sense: The Inside Story of the Collapse of Lehman Brothers” by Lawrence G. McDonald and Patrick Robinson.
Movie/Documentary: Too Big to Fail (2011) (HBO film).
8. Martha Stewart
Description: The “Icon of all things Domestic,” she built an empire of advice, also spending some time in jail.
Reference: “Martha Inc: The Incredible Story of Martha Stewart. Omnimedia by Christopher Byron.
Movie/Documentary: Martha Inc: The Story of Martha Stewart (2003), starring Cybill Shepherd. Or Martha (2004) documentary on Netflix.
Innovate… or Become a Dinosaur
9. Apple
Description: A trailblazing technology company renowned for its innovative products like the iPhone, Mac, and Apple Watch, which have revolutionized personal computing, communication, and entertainment.
Reference: Becoming Steve Jobs: The Evolution of a Reckless Upstart into a Visionary Leader by Brent Schlender and Rick Tetzeli.
Film: Steve Jobs (2015) – A biographical drama focusing on key moments in Steve Jobs’ career.
10. Kodak
Description: Once a dominant force in photography, Kodak is a cautionary tale of failing to adapt to the digital revolution despite inventing the first digital camera.
Reference: The Innovator’s Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail by Clayton M. Christensen.
Film: The Last Kodak Moment (2012) – A BBC documentary exploring the company’s downfall.
11. Amazon
Description: A pioneering e-commerce and technology company that revolutionized online retail, cloud computing, and logistics, becoming one of the world’s most influential corporations.
Reference: Amazon Unbound: Jeff Bezos and the Invention of a Global Empire by Brad Stone.
Film: Amazon Empire: The Rise and Reign of Jeff Bezos (2020) – A PBS Frontline documentary examining Amazon’s rise and controversies.
12. Napster
Description: The groundbreaking peer-to-peer file-sharing service that disrupted the music industry in the early 2000s, leading to debates over digital rights and copyright laws.
Reference: Downloaded (2013) (documentary film directed by Alex Winter).
Film: Downloaded (2013) – A documentary focusing on Napster’s creation and impact.
13. Shell
Description: A global energy giant at the center of the oil and gas industry, often criticized for environmental impacts but increasingly focusing on renewable energy initiatives.
Reference: Crude World: The Violent Twilight of Oil by Peter Maass.
Film: The Spiders Web: Shell’s Strange Days in Nigeria (1998) – A documentary addressing Shell’s controversial environmental and human rights record in Nigeria.
All in the Family
14. Walmart
Description: The world’s largest retailer, known for its aggressive pricing, global reach, and influence on supply chains, but also criticized for labor practices and its impact on small businesses.
Reference: The Walmart Effect: How the World’s Most Powerful Company Really Works by Charles Fishman.
Film/Documentary: Walmart: The High Cost of Low Price (2005) – A documentary exploring Walmart’s corporate practices and their effects on communities.
15. Samsung
Description: A global technology conglomerate that has driven innovation in electronics, semiconductors, and mobile phones, while grappling with allegations of corruption and labor violations.
Reference: Samsung Rising: The Inside Story of the South Korean Giant That Set Out to Beat Apple and Conquer Tech by Geoffrey Cain.
Film/Documentary: Inside Samsung: The Power of Innovation (2017) – A documentary on the rise of Samsung and its dominance in global markets.
16. McCain
Description: A multinational frozen food company, best known for its French fries, that has grown into a major player in the global food industry through innovation and expansion.
Reference: McCain Foods: A History of the Company by Bill McDonald.
Film/Documentary: No major documentary, but Food, Inc. (2008) explores the broader industrial food system, which includes McCain.
17. Thomson
Description: A multinational media and information company, known for its leadership in financial data services through its Reuters division, and its role in media, education, and healthcare.
Reference: The Financial Times: The Inside Story of the Rise of Thomson Reuters by T. Boyden.
Film/Documentary: No specific film, but Inside Job (2010) looks at the financial industry, of which Thomson Reuters is a key part.
18. Koch Brothers
Description: The Koch family and its conglomerate, Koch Industries, have amassed significant political and economic influence through vast holdings in energy, chemicals, and manufacturing.
Reference: Dark Money: The Hidden History of the Billionaires Behind the Rise of the Radical Right by Jane Mayer.
Film/Documentary: Koch Brothers Exposed (2012) – A documentary that explores the Koch brothers’ political and business influence.
19. Tata Group
Description: An Indian multinational conglomerate with diverse interests in steel, automotive, IT, and consumer goods, recognized for its philanthropic initiatives and business leadership.
Reference: The Tata Group: From Torchbearers to Trailblazers by Sumantra Ghoshal.
Film/Documentary: The Rise of the Tatas (2017) – A documentary about the Tata Group’s growth and legacy in India and worldwide.
Managing the Brand
20. LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy)
Description: A global leader in luxury goods, LVMH strategically manages its prestigious portfolio of brands by combining heritage, craftsmanship, and modern marketing to maintain exclusivity and allure.
Reference: Deluxe: How Luxury Lost Its Luster by Dana Thomas.
Film/Documentary: The Secret World of Haute Couture (2007) – A documentary that explores the world of high fashion, including LVMH’s influence in the luxury goods industry.
21. Nestlé
Description: As the world’s largest food and beverage company, Nestlé expertly manages its brand by focusing on quality, innovation, and sustainability while navigating challenges around health, ethics, and environmental impact.
Reference: The Nestlé Story: How the Swiss Giant Became the World’s Largest Food Company by David J. Calvillo.
Film/Documentary: Food, Inc. (2008) – A documentary that examines the power and influence of major food companies, including Nestlé, in shaping the global food system.
22. Coca-Cola
Description: Coca-Cola has successfully maintained its brand dominance through powerful marketing strategies, including the creation of a strong global identity, while adapting to trends like healthier alternatives and sustainability.
Reference: The Coke Machine: The Dirty Truth Behind the World’s Favorite Soft Drink by Michael Blanding.
Film/Documentary: The Coca-Cola Case (2009) – A documentary that explores Coca-Cola’s legal battles and global marketing strategies.
Disruptive Events
23.1929 Stock Market Crash
Description: The 1929 Stock Market Crash marked the beginning of the Great Depression, a disruptive economic event that triggered global financial instability, widespread unemployment, and a fundamental shift in economic policies.
Reference: The Great Crash 1929 by John Kenneth Galbraith.
Film/Documentary: The Crash of 1929 (2009) – A PBS documentary examining the causes and consequences of the stock market crash.
24.Subprime Mortgage Crisis (2007-2008)
Description: The Subprime Mortgage Crisis was a disruptive financial event where risky lending practices in the housing market led to the collapse of major financial institutions, triggering the global financial crisis and a reevaluation of regulatory practices.
Reference: The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine by Michael Lewis.
Film/Documentary: Inside Job (2010) – An Oscar-winning documentary that investigates the causes of the 2008 financial crisis, including the role of the subprime mortgage market.
New Media
25. Facebook (Meta)
Description: Facebook revolutionized social communication, connecting billions of people worldwide, but its impact on society has been mixed, raising concerns about privacy, mental health, misinformation, and its role in shaping public opinion.
Reference: The Facebook Effect: The Inside Story of the Company That Is Connecting the World by David Kirkpatrick.
Film/Documentary: The Social Dilemma (2020) – A Netflix documentary examining the dangerous human impact of social networking, with a focus on Facebook’s role in society.
26. TikTok
Description: TikTok has rapidly transformed global social media culture by making short-form video content viral, influencing trends, politics, and marketing, but it has also raised concerns about privacy, data security, and its influence on youth.
Reference: TikTok Boom: China’s Challenge to Hollywood by Chris Stokel-Walker.
Film/Documentary: The Social Dilemma (2020) – While not solely focused on TikTok, it examines the broader social media landscape, touching on TikTok’s societal effects.
27. X (formerly Twitter)
Description: X (formerly Twitter) has reshaped how news is disseminated, enabling real-time communication and social movements, but also contributing to the spread of misinformation, online harassment, and political polarization.
Reference: Twitter and Tear Gas: The Power and Fragility of Networked Protest by Zeynep Tufekci.
Film/Documentary: The Social Network (2010) – While primarily focused on Facebook, this film highlights the broader impact of social media, including the role of Twitter in shaping online discourse.
InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Mondays | Bi-Weekly10:00am – 12:00pmIn-person Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

Memoir Writing and Reading (FULL)
2026-01-05 10:00 - 12:00 | Tartu College – G6, 310 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W4, Canada
Memoir, unlike autobiography, is the art of reminiscing about particular events, people and/or time periods in our lives and is becoming increasingly popular. As in previous years, participants will present extracts from their own writing. Ideas/prompts are offered to stimulate writing in class and provide a source for longer pieces. Time will be given to share these explorations in a supportive and inviting atmosphere. Participants are encouraged to provide constructive feedback to sharers (who request it), as learning from others (and from published memoirs) is a significant component of this workshop.
Facilitators
Kathy Honickman is a retired French and Special Education teacher of 38 years. She is inspired by writers and the wondrous benefits derived from the sharing of memoir.
Sally Spofforth conducts leadership workshops in Toronto schools. She enjoys hearing the stories of others and is excited by the creative possibilities in the making of memoirs. InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Mondays | Bi-Weekly10:00am – 12:00pmIn-person Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

Short Stories: The Long and the SHORT of It (FULL)
2026-01-05 12:15 - 14:15 | https://allto.ca/event/short-stories-the-long-and-the-short-of-it-2/2026-01-05/
A short story is a love affair; a novel is a marriage. Short stories are one of the oldest types of literature and are a growing and important aspect of contemporary literature. We will learn about significant and influential contemporary short story writers as well as focus on Irish short story writers. We will discuss the short stories, how they are written, and their impact. Each participant will present a short story from either The Granta Book of the Short Story, edited by Anne Enright (2010) or the O. Henry Prize Winner Short Stories, edited by Amor Towles, (2024). Everyone is expected to read the short stories so we can engage in a lively and thoughtful discussion.
Facilitators
Thea Herman is a retired judge, lawyer, and senior civil servant. In addition to her activities at the Academy, she enjoys playing flute in a band and learning Spanish. Thea has co-facilitated workshops at the Academy on dance, pandemics, psychology and reading. She looks forward to exploring the world of short stories with other booklovers.
Yvette Matyas studied undergraduate psychology at McGill and worked for over twenty years in healthcare administration. She has co-facilitated workshops at the Academy on architecture, ageing, birds, dance, pandemics, art, psychology and reading. She looks forward to exploring the world of short stories with other booklovers. InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Mondays | Bi-Weekly12:15pm – 2:15pmOnline via Zoom Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

Climate Change—Challenges And Opportunities
2026-01-05 14:30 - 16:30, 2026-01-12 14:30 - 16:30 | Tartu College – G1, 310 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W4, Canada
New this year!
This workshop will help you go beyond the headlines to explore the complex issue of climate change and its global impact. Grounded in science and cutting-edge research, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the science behind climate change, its current and projected effects on the environment, and the societal challenges it presents.
The curriculum begins with an overview of climate science, explaining key concepts such as greenhouse gases, global warming, and sea-level rise. It then delves into the environmental and human impacts, including extreme weather events, biodiversity loss, and health risks.
A significant portion of the course focuses on the possibilities for positive change. Participants will learn about innovative technologies, renewable energy sources, and sustainable practices that can mitigate climate change. The course also highlights the roles of policy and community action in driving meaningful changes.
Through participants’ presentations and interactive discussions, we will discover how we can contribute to climate solutions. The course emphasizes the importance of intergenerational collaboration and the unique perspectives and experiences that older adults bring to the table.
By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to advocate for climate action within their communities and beyond. They will understand that while the challenge is daunting, there are numerous opportunities for positive change and amelioration.
No prior scientific background is required, just curiosity and a desire to learn.
Facilitators
Priscilla Platt is a retired lawyer who practiced law in Ontario for close to 40 years. Despite this background, she has had a lifelong fascination with science and environmental issues. Priscilla has been with the Academy a number of years and has co-facilitated several workshops.
Carol Austin worked for many years in management and training in the pharmaceutical industry. She joined the Academy in 2020 and is looking forward to another exciting year of intellectual discussion on a variety of topics. InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Mondays | Bi-Weekly2:30pm – 4:30pmIn-person Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

Henry James Novels Adapted to Film
2026-01-06 10:00 - 12:00 | https://allto.ca/event/henry-james-novels-adapted-to-film-2/2026-01-06/
New this year!
Henry James is considered among the greatest of English novelists and was nominated for the Nobel literature prize three times. He was born into a wealthy American family. As a child he travelled with them frequently to England, where he finally settled as an adult. He briefly attended Harvard Law School but preferred literature.
At age 21 he wrote his first novel and went on to write 23 in all, often describing romantic entanglements and the inner lives of aristocrats. James’ fiction is sometimes considered difficult and highly cultured, more appropriate to classroom study than to popular consumption. However, public appreciation has been fostered through over 150 screen and TV adaptations, particularly since the sixties. In this workshop we will read a few of these novels, view the film adaptations online, and explore the continued appeal of his work to the screen.
Facilitators
Laura Hill retired in 2006 and joined the Academy soon after, with the luxury of time to explore new avenues of study, and make new social connections. A lengthy career in the school system as a psychological consultant, followed by 20 years in real estate led to the best career of all – rekindling life as a bookworm, a painter, and a traveler. It is a pleasure to assist Rhona in facilitating a study of Henry James’ esteamed body of work in the company of like-minded colleagues.
Rhona Wolpert has enjoyed being an Academy member since 2006, in particular the intellectual stimulation and social interaction it offers. She has facilitated several Academy workshops. Rhona practiced physiotherapy in three countries before switching to psychoanalytic child psychotherapy in Toronto for 25 years. She loves literature and film and looks forward to learning from participants’ discussion in this workshop. InformationTwo Terms | Week 2Tuesdays | Bi-Weekly10:00am – 12:00pmOnline via Zoom Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

Canada on the Edge: China + the US in the Evolving World Order (FULL)
2026-01-06 12:15 - 14:15 | https://allto.ca/event/canada-on-the-edge-china-the-us-in-the-evolving-world-order-2/2026-01-06/
China’s rise coupled with “America First” are fundamentally changing the dynamics of the world order. Canadian alliances and trade have been tied to the U.S. for decades.
Recent events suggest that even with a “reprieve” from tariffs, the status quo with the U.S. may not be tenable or advantageous for Canada on the not-too-distant future. This workshop will consider these challenges and evaluate their implications for Canada. It will also explore potential options and opportunities in relation to China, the U.S. and Asia.
Facilitators
Rick Guisso has facilitated numerous Academy workshops on China, Japan and the Middle East since retiring from the University of Toronto. Over the past decade, he has led an annual month-long study tour for students to different parts of China. Post-pandemic, he hopes to return to China.
Greg King is a retired lawyer, corporate director and community participant. His interests are diverse, ranging from politics to gardening. InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Tuesdays | Bi-Weekly12:15pm – 2:15pmOnline via Zoom Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

Documentary Films
2026-01-06 14:30 - 16:30 | https://allto.ca/event/documentary-films-2/2026-01-06/
Documentary films are a powerful medium that can be used to inform, educate, observe, persuade, expose, improve, and challenge ideas. In this workshop, participants will watch documentary films available on various streaming services including Netflix, Kanopy (free with a library card), CBC Gem and YouTube and then we will discuss the films at each meeting.
The categories for the films may include science, nature, history, biographies, music, sports, crime, socio-political issues, and technology. Each member will select a film of their choice and will introduce the film and start the discussion. Members will view the films on their own before each meeting. Two films will be selected for each two-hour session. Different aspects of the films may be examined including new or interesting ideas or information, themes, the director, the cast, and production values.
Join us as we engage in lively discussions of thought-provoking documentary films.
Facilitators
Roma Donatelli studied languages at Carleton University and then went to the University of Heidelberg on a scholarship. She spent 38 years as an agent for Air Canada. As an Academy member for 13 years, Roma has sat on the membership committee, led the short walks and facilitated the coffee chats.
John Weatherburn retired from IT in 2013 and joined the Academy. He has been President and on several different committees. He has lead workshops on Photography and on Toronto Neighbourhoods. As well, his main interests are photography and family history research plus of course family: now five grandkids.
InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Tuesdays | Bi-Weekly2:30pm – 4:30pmOnline via Zoom Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

Disruptive Technologies
2026-01-06 16:45 - 17:45 | Zoom
Join fellow ALLTO members to chat about what’s happening in the field of Disruptive Technologies including artificial intelligence, drones, robotics, security, and any other technology-related topics the group would like to discuss. Details will be confirmed via email.

Exploring the World of Podcasts
2026-01-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Tartu College – G1, 310 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W4, Canada
Podcasts are a relatively new use of technology to share information, expand our understanding of the world as well as to entertain us while we go about our active lives. There is a topic for every interest. This workshop aims to explore the world of podcasts by examining those that tackle a variety of topics (example: The Daily by New York Times journalists) to ones that delve deeply into specific subjects (Science Friday) to ones that tell a story (The Memory Palace). We will examine how to choose podcasts that are both reliable and enjoyable. Workshop participants will select a topic, and explore up to three podcasts on that topic. Each presenter will recommend that fellow participants listen to the podcast chosen for the presentation prior to the workshop to enable an informed discussion led by the presenter. Presentation topics may include the biographical sketch of the podcast host(s) and guests, format and style, and quality of the information.
Facilitators
Connie Uetrecht is a retired public health professional whose interest spans from nutrition, health promotion, continuing education, gardening, horticulture and music to politics. She is looking forward to another year of exploring the world of podcasts.
Sue Kralik is a retired school principal whose interests include political activism, history, choral singing, Scottish Country Dancing, and astronomy. Sue looks forward to a year of learning and sharing ideas in Exploring the World of Podcasts. InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Wednesdays | Bi-Weekly10:00am – 12:00pm (Two Terms)In-person Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

Canada in the Twentieth Century
2026-01-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Tartu College – G6, 310 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W4, Canada
New!
In 1904, Canada’s Prime Minister, Wilfred Laurier, predicted that “the 20th century will be the century of Canada.” Looking back at the end of the first quarter of the 21st century, what do we think of Sir Wilfrid’s prediction? What does Canada’s twentieth century look like from this vantage point in the 21st century?
The purpose of this workshop is to consider Canada in the 20th century. Participants are invited to make a presentation of 15 to 20 minutes in length and to join in discussion on any aspects of Canada’s 20th century that are of interest to them. The topics can range from political to the military to social and cultural issues. Canada’s twentieth century encompassed many notable events and many extraordinary personalities. Any of these can be a topic for learning and conversation in this workshop. Each workshop session will consist of presentations and discussion on two topics.
This workshop offers an opportunity for participants to learn more about Canada’s unique history at a time when Canada’s sovereignty is being challenged.
Facilitators
David Phillips is a retired lawyer and association executive in the financial services industry, specializing in financial regulation. David is also a university graduate in history and has maintained an active interest in history, especially Canadian history, for many years. David has been a member of the Academy for 6 years. InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Mondays | Bi-Weekly12:15pm – 2:15pmIn-person Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

Contemporary Film A
2026-01-07 12:15 - 14:15 | Tartu College – G1, 310 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W4, Canada
Please join us for lively discussions of contemporary films. At each meeting we choose two films released since 2019 and available on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Kanopy, to view before the next class. Decisions about cinema films will be made on a case-by-case basis. Films may be from any genre — indies, art films, documentaries, blockbusters, anime. Members will propose films for group consideration, volunteering in turn to create a presentation and lead a discussion on one of the films chosen, stimulating debate. Two presentations per class will focus on aspects such as themes, production values, take-home values.
After rating the films individually, we compare our class rating to the Internet rating. In preparation for the first session, the co-facilitators will contact registered members with an invitation for two participants to volunteer. They will have the one-time opportunity to select and present a film of their own choice.
Facilitators
Sue Kralik is a retired school principal whose interests include political activism, history, choral singing, Scottish Country Dancing, and astronomy. Sue’s enjoyment of film has increased since becoming an Academy member and she looks forward to another year of viewing films and sharing opinions and ratings.
Marg Morriss is a retired English professor from Ryerson University and now enjoys the social and intellectual stimulation of the Academy, book clubs and travel. InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Wednesdays | Bi-Weekly12:15pm – 2:15pmIn-person Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

Genealogy
2026-01-07 12:15 - 14:15 | Tartu College – G6, 310 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W4, Canada
Genealogy involves collecting, organizing, and analyzing information about ancestors of a particular person or family. Using databases (such as Ancestry, MyHeritage, Billion Graves) and data like birth records, marriage certificates, census data, military records, wills, archives, and family stories, a family tree can be built. We will focus on people’s experiences, people’s intentions, and the tools. The intent in this workshop is to share people’s experiences or intentions with topics such as: DNA testing, comparing online databases and resources, illustrating research methods and techniques, understanding different types of records, tracing ancestor’s immigration, and sharing family history.
Techniques used for securing information in Canada as well as other countries will be examined. Additionally, information about a place where an ancestor lived many years ago may be of interest. It is not required that participants have already done family research. They are encouraged to share their goals and provide ideas/feedback on what others have discovered or are planning.
Facilitators
John Weatherburn retired from IT in 2013 and joined the Academy. He has been President and on a number of different committees. He has lead workshops on Photography and on Toronto Neighbourhoods. As well, his main interests are photography and family history research. Plus of course family: now five grandkids.
Ellen Walters since retiring from a career in education, has been on an intriguing learning curve: digging into genealogy, researching family history and context, and exploring ways to capture and preserve family stories. A bonus has been the family trips to our homeland, making wonderful connections while gathering local knowledge.
InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Wednesdays | Bi-Weekly12:15apm – 2:15pmIn-person Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

Economist Readers (FULL)
2026-01-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Tartu College – G1, 310 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W4, Canada
This group will meet to extract the wit and wisdom in politics, business, finance, culture, literature and science from this influential international journal. Subscription copies can be delivered by mail (phone 1-800-456-6086) or electronically (economist@neodata.com). At each session, the group selects about eight articles and the discussion is begun by the proposer of each article with a short introduction to the article.
Facilitators
Linda Tu is a scientist by training and persuasion. She has taught science courses at university level and informally to bright children.
Sheila Neysmith Professor Emerita, University of Toronto has published extensively on how policies affect the paid and unpaid caring labour of women. Sheila is a founding member of House Calls (a multi-disciplinary home care team). Sheila serves as Ethics and Board Chair of both SPRINT Senior Care and Carefirst Senior and Community Services.
Don Plumb wrote science textbooks and worked in classrooms, teacher training workshops, and educational television with the goal to expand teaching beyond chalk-and-talk.
David Brodie has been a member since 2003 and has attended and facilitated numerous workshops on a variety of topics – few of which relate to his academic background in Physics and Business Administration – but all of which he enjoyed. InformationTwo Terms | Weeks 1 & 2Thursday | Weekly10:00am – 12:00pmIn-person & Online via Zoom Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

The New Yorker Readers (FULL)
2026-01-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Tartu College – G6, 310 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W4, Canada
The New Yorker Readers workshop provides provocative and thoughtful engagement with The New Yorker magazine. At each meeting, we discuss three to five items from among recent articles, commentary, reviews, criticism, short stories, poems, cartoon contests and magazine covers. Readers choose items from recent issues and online material and let the facilitator know their willingness to present.
The facilitator prepares the agenda of what will be presented which is distributed by email in advance of the workshop. Participants are expected to have read the chosen items in advance. The presenter leads off the discussion with a 5-to-7-minute presentation and poses questions. After the presentation, the floor is open for comments and opinions. The New Yorker magazine is available by subscription (print and online), wherever magazines are sold, and online through the Toronto Public Library, via PressReader.
Facilitators
Doug Reeve loves the New Yorker and has been an enthusiastic member of the New Yorker Readers group for several years. He worked as an engineering professor and consultant. He latterly focused on engineering leadership development in the classroom and the workplace. Doug is currently relearning the three R’s: Reading, Writing, and Reflection.
Zella Wolofsky began reading the New Yorker in1969. Following her first retirement as a modern dancer then getting her doctorate in Adult Education at age 40, Zella worked in Labour Relations for the Ontario Government. After her second retirement, she travelled extensively. She has been an Academy member for many years. InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Thursdays | Bi-Weekly10:00am – 12:00pmIn-person Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

The Supremes: Function and Impact of Our Supreme Court
2026-01-08 12:15 - 14:15 | Tartu College – G6, 310 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W4, Canada
Are you interested in learning more about the highest court in Canada and how it shapes our country’s laws and policies and impacts Canadian society? Do you want to find out about the Supreme Court’s rulings affecting social, moral and ethical issues including reproductive rights, human rights, medical assistance in dying, the environment and indigenous rights? This workshop provides the opportunity to delve into the reasoning of the Court on significant issues affecting us all and to discuss the rationale for the decisions.
We will also look at how our top court in Canada operates and how it compares with the US Supreme Court. Regardless of your background, this opportunity to discuss these ground-breaking decisions and issues is sure to provide valuable insights. No technical knowledge of the law or terminology is required, and participants have flexible options for presentation.
Facilitators
Priscilla Platt is a retired lawyer who practised in Ontario for close to 40 years, much of it as a litigator in the area of privacy law. During her career she had also taught Law and had written and spoken often on legal topics. She has been with the Academy for over five years and has co-facilitated several workshops.
David Phillips is a retired lawyer and association executive in the financial services industry where he specialized in financial regulation. David appreciates the opportunity that retirement provides to pursue a range of interests – Canadian history in particular. David has been a member of the Academy for five years. InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Thursdays | Bi-Weekly12:15pm – 2:15pmIn-person Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

The Web of Natural Science
2026-01-08 12:15 - 14:15 | Tartu College – G2, Tartu College, Toronto, ON, Canada
Our natural world is a web of wonder, beauty and complexity. In this workshop we will take a broad look at natural phenomena through many scientific disciplines. These may include psychology, chemistry, physics, geology, bacteriology and more. We will see that there are many ways in which scientific studies overlap to inform our everyday existence. Each session will focus on an article of your choice, generally from the current year of the journal Scientific American. Other source material may include scientific magazines such as Discovery Magazine, Science News, Science, and The New Scientist.
Facilitators
Linda Tu is a scientist by training and persuasion. She has taught science courses at university level and informally to bright children.
Jill Humphries has been a member of the Academy for several years and has been on the Talks Committee and the Curriculum Committee. Prior to her retirement she was a research consultant in cultural management and cultural policy for more than 20 years. She has also had a lifelong interest in science, particularly biology and medicine. InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Thursdays | Bi-Weekly12:15pm – 2:15pmIn-person Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

Jazz, Blues and More
2026-01-08 14:30 - 16:30 | Tartu College – G1, 310 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W4, Canada
The workshop features all aspects of jazz such as various eras, styles, musicians, groups, and instruments. Each participant is requested to select a jazz related topic and prepare one or two presentations (depending on workshop size) of 50 minutes, the majority of which will be recorded music. Discussion occurs spontaneously during and after each presentation.
This is enthusiastic, interactive, and fun class. All are welcome from curious beginners to those who have enjoyed all aspects of jazz for many years.
Facilitators
Frank Richmond retired after forty years as a trial lawyer and moved with his wife to Lake of Bays. He spends most of his outdoor time hiking, swimming, sailing, and canoeing. He spends most of his indoor time collecting jazz recordings, listening to jazz (which has been his passion since his early teens) and drinking wine.
Bill Krangle has been playing the clarinet since he was eight years old. At Michigan’s famed Interlochen Music Camp, he joined the prestigious High School recording orchestra for several seasons. Later, while a student at Cornell University he led the Concert Band as concertmaster in a special invitational performance at New York’s Lincoln Center. InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Thursdays | Bi-Weekly2:30pm – 4:30pmIn-person Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

ALLTO Board Meeting
2026-01-09 09:30 - 12:00 | Ontario

Best Films, Ever (FULL)
2026-01-09 12:15 - 16:30 | Tartu College – G1, 310 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W4, Canada
Devoted film buffs want to share their love of fine films by viewing them together and having great discussions about them. This in-person workshop is designed for just that.
The 12 films will be chosen by Workshop members and the Co-facilitators. The films will be drawn from the list of 100 Best Films as ranked by the critically acclaimed 2022 Sight and Sound poll conducted by the British Film Institute (BFI). The films will be rented from Bay Street Video. Each participant must contribute to cover these rental costs, expected to total less than $10 per person.
Can we do this within the usual two-hour window of the Academy workshops? Nope. Instead, the Curriculum Committee has provided a four-hour block of time for this Workshop. This will allow time for one or two members to briefly introduce the film, then for all to view the film together, and discuss it for an hour or more after the credits roll.
Facilitators
Carol Ann Witt loves to watch good films and talk about them with other film buffs. She bets you do, too. She is not a film professional – far from it – but she does have some skills in communication. Carol Ann undertakes to use those skills to facilitate lively and congenial discussion about the films we watch.
Irv Ash was raised on films attending them at an early age and thereafter spending a large part of the succeeding years in the dark. Irv has estimated seeing over 15,000 movies both at theatres and on TV and both is lucky and, in some cases, cursed in remembering most of them. Taking courses on film and reading many books in the area, Irv looks forward to sharing insights and encouraging discussion about movies. InformationTwo Terms | Week 1Fridays | Bi-Weekly12:15pm – 4:30pmIn-person Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

Dates that Matter: Turning Points in History (FULL)
2026-01-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Tartu College – G1, 310 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W4, Canada
We have all lived through significant historical shifts. Think 9/11, Oct 7th, Nov 22, 1963, or the fall of a wall in Berlin in 1989. Further back in history: 1066; 1453; the shooting of an archduke in Sarajevo; the Magna Carta of 1215; December 7, 1941; 1929; 1867; 1492; the 1455 discovery of the printing press; the killing of the Russian czar; and many more. “Black swan” events jolt us and shift how we see the world.
Understanding history is more like looking at a kaleidoscope than witnessing an orderly unfolding of events. Unexpected tilts dramatically disrupt our view of the world.
This Workshop examines selected turning points in history. Some pivotal moments are political, others, scientific or religious. The focus will be on what happened and how this impacted subsequent history.
A list of sample-turning-points and resource materials is provided in the Notes attached. Once registration is complete, participants are free to choose from this list or to suggest a topic along with background resources in consultation with the facilitators. Each member of the workshop will develop a 15-20-minute introduction to their chosen topic designed to generate discussion. Everyone will be encouraged to do some background preparation.
Facilitators
Barrie Wilson is a retired professor of intellectual history from York University. A member of the Academy for six years, he’s interested in interactive discussions on a variety of historical topics.
David Phillips is a retired lawyer and association executive in the financial services industry, specializing in financial regulation. David has been a member of the Academy for six years. Topics And ResourcesBelow are suggested topics and references. Once registration is completed, participants are free to choose from this list or to suggest a topic in consultation with the facilitators. Topics in Group A are for the Fall term; Group B, for the Winter. This way we can help ensure some semblance of chronological order.
Group A Topics [Fall term]

October 14, 1066 – Battle of Hastings/Norman Conquest of England
The Norman victory reshaped English society, law, and language, laying the foundation for modern England and strengthening ties to continental Europe.
Book: The Norman Conquest by Marc Morris
Documentary: 1066: A Year to Conquer England (BBC)
1440 – Invention of the Printing Press
Johannes Gutenberg’s invention revolutionized the spread of knowledge, democratizing access to information and fueling the Renaissance, Reformation, and Scientific Revolution.
Book: Gutenberg: How One Man Remade the World with Words by John Man
Documentary: The Machine That Made Us (BBC, hosted by Stephen Fry)
May 29, 1453 – Fall of Constantinople/Rise of Ottoman Empire
This marked the end of the Byzantine Empire and shifted trade routes, spurring the Age of Exploration and solidifying Ottoman dominance in Southeast Europe and the Middle East.
Book: 1453: The Holy War for Constantinople and the Clash of Islam and the West by Roger Crowley
Documentary: Fall of Constantinople 1453 (History Channel)
October 31, 1517 – Martin Luther’s 95 Theses
Luther’s challenge to Catholic practices ignited the Protestant Reformation, leading to religious fragmentation and laying the groundwork for modern notions of individualism and religious freedom.
Book: Here I Stand: A Life of Martin Luther by Roland H. Bainton
Documentary: Luther and the Reformation (PBS)
July 1, 1867 – Dominion of Canada Formed
The creation of the Dominion of Canada through Confederation established the framework for Canadian independence, uniting provinces under a federal system and laying the groundwork for future expansion and nationhood.
Book: The Story of Confederation by Oscar D. Skelton
Documentary: Canada: A People’s History (CBC)
December 28, 1895 – Lumière brothers’ first screening of motion pictures
The birth of cinema paved the way for the development of a global entertainment industry with significant economic and cultural influence.
Book: The Lumière Galaxy: Seven Key Words for the Cinema to Come by Francesco Casetti
Documentary: The Story of Film: An Odyssey (Mark Cousins)
December 17, 1903 – Kitty Hawk: First Powered Flight
The Wright brothers’ first successful flight at Kitty Hawk marked the beginning of the aviation age, revolutionizing transportation and warfare.
Book: The Wright Brothers by David McCullough
Documentary: The Wright Brothers (PBS)
June 28, 1914 – Archduke Ferdinand Assassinated
The assassination triggered World War I, a conflict that redefined geopolitics, introduced modern warfare, and led to the downfall of empires.
Book: The Sleepwalkers: How Europe Went to War in 1914 by Christopher Clark
Documentary: The First World War (BBC)
July 17, 1918 – Czar Nicholas II’s Family Murdered
The execution of the Romanovs symbolized the end of imperial Russia and solidified Bolshevik power, leading to decades of Soviet rule and communist influence worldwide.
Book: The Romanovs: 1613-1918 by Simon Sebag Montefiore
Documentary: The Last of the Czars (Netflix)
January 18, 1919 – Paris Peace Conference
The Treaty of Versailles ended World War I but planted the seeds for World War II through harsh reparations and territorial disputes, while also creating new nations.
Book: Paris 1919: Six Months That Changed the World by Margaret MacMillan
Documentary: The Treaty of Versailles (PBS)
November 14, 1921 – Discovery of Insulin
Canadians Frederick Banting, Charles Best, John J.R. Macleod, and James Bertram Collip discover insulin, revolutionizing the treatment of diabetes, saving millions of lives, and leading to major advances in medical science.
Book: The Discovery of Insulin by Michael Bliss
Documentary: The Miracle of Insulin (PBS)
October 24, 1929 – “Black Thursday” Stock Market Crash
The stock market collapse triggered the Great Depression, leading to widespread economic hardship and significant political and social changes worldwide.
Book: The Great Crash 1929 by John Kenneth Galbraith
Documentary: The Crash of 1929 (PBS)
December 7, 1941 – Attack on Pearl Harbor
The Imperial Japanese Navy’s surprise attack on Pearl Harbor brought the United States into World War II, dramatically shifting the balance of the war and marking the decline of Japanese naval dominance.
Book: At Dawn We Slept: The Untold Story of Pearl Harbor by Gordon W. Prange
Documentary: Pearl Harbor: Into the Arizona (National Geographic)
February 4-11, 1945 – Yalta Conference
The Yalta Conference between Churchill, Roosevelt, and Stalin reshaped post-war Europe, dividing it into spheres of influence, which led to the Cold War and the formation of the United Nations.
Book: The Yalta Conference by Diane B. Kunz
Documentary: The Yalta Conference (PBS)

Group B Topics [for Winter term]

October 1, 1949 – Rise of Communist China
Mao Zedong’s declaration of the People’s Republic of China marked the beginning of communist rule, fundamentally transforming Chinese society and establishing China as a major global power.
Book: The Rise of Modern China by Immanuel C.Y. Hsu
Documentary: China: A Century of Revolution (PBS)
October 16-28, 1962 – Cuban Missile Crisis
The Cuban Missile Crisis brought the world to the brink of nuclear war, significantly influencing U.S. and Soviet relations and leading to the establishment of direct communication between the two superpowers.
Book: One Minute to Midnight by Michael Dobbs
Documentary: The Fog of War (Errol Morris)
July 20, 1969 – Moon Landing
The Apollo 11 mission demonstrated the triumph of human ingenuity and marked the height of the Space Race, symbolizing the potential for peaceful exploration and fostering technological innovations across industries.
Book: Rocket Men: The Epic Story of the First Men on the Moon by Robert Kurson
Documentary: Apollo 11 (directed by Todd Douglas Miller)
April 17, 1982 – Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, entrenched in the Canadian Constitution, guaranteed fundamental rights and freedoms, shaping the country’s legal and political landscape.
Book: The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms by Peter W. Hogg
Documentary: The Charter: The Human Rights Revolution (CBC)
August 15, 1947 – Partition of India into India, Pakistan
The partition of British India into two separate states, India and Pakistan, created widespread displacement and set the stage for decades of conflict in the region.
Book: The Great Partition by Yasmin Khan
Documentary: The Day India Burned (BBC)
May 14, 1948 – Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel
The founding of Israel marked a significant moment in the history of the Middle East, establishing a Jewish state amid ongoing tensions with neighboring Arab nations.
Book: Israel: A History by Martin Gilbert
Documentary: The Birth of Israel (PBS)
November 22, 1963 – President Kennedy Assassinated
The assassination of President John F. Kennedy shocked the nation and marked a turning point in U.S. history, leading to deep political and social changes.
Book: JFK: A Biography by Fredrik Logevall
Documentary: The Assassination of President Kennedy (PBS)
April 4, 1968 – Martin Luther King Assassinated
The assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. deepened racial tensions in America and marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for civil rights.
Book: Bearing the Cross by David J. Garrow
Documentary: King in the Wilderness (HBO)
September 5, 1972 – Munich Massacre
The terrorist attack during the Summer Olympics in Munich resulted in the deaths of 11 Israeli athletes, forever altering the landscape of international sport and terrorism.
Book: One Day in September by Simon Reeve
Documentary: Munich: The Olympics Massacre (PBS). Also film “September 5th.”
July 25, 1978 – IVF Birth of Louise Joy Brown
The first successful birth through in vitro fertilization (IVF) revolutionized reproductive medicine and altered the landscape of family planning and genetics.
Book: The IVF Journey by Valerie Whittlesey
Documentary: The First Test Tube Baby (BBC). Also film “Joy.”
November 9, 1989 – Fall of the Berlin Wall
The wall’s fall symbolized the end of the Cold War, paving the way for German reunification and a new era of European integration.
Book: The Berlin Wall: A World Divided, 1961-1989 by Frederick Taylor
Documentary: The Fall of the Berlin Wall (National Geographic)
December 26, 1991 – Dissolution of the Soviet Union
The collapse ended the Cold War, leading to the emergence of independent states and a shift to U.S. global dominance in a unipolar world.
Book: Revolution 1989: The Fall of the Soviet Empire by Victor Sebestyen
Documentary: The Fog of War (Errol Morris)
September 11, 2001 – Terrorist Attack on World Trade Center
The attacks reshaped global security policies, led to the War on Terror, and profoundly impacted international relations and civil liberties, deepening tensions between the Western and Islamic worlds.
Book: The 9/11 Commission Report
Documentary: 9/11 (directed by Jules and Gedeon Naudet)
January 9, 2007 – The iPhone
Unveiled by Steve Jobs during a keynote address this device revolutionized mobile communications by bringing the internet and phone into one single device.
Book: The One Device: the Secret History of the iPhone
by Brian Merchant; Also for its ongoing social impact, The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt.
Documentary:
May 25, 2020 – George Floyd Murdered
The murder of George Floyd sparked worldwide protests against racial injustice and police brutality, leading to renewed discussions on systemic racism.
Book: His Name Is George Floyd by Robert Samuels and Toluse Olorunnipa
Documentary: Amend: The Fight for America (Netflix)

InformationTwo Terms | Week 2Mondays | Bi-Weekly10:00am – 12:00pmIn-person Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

History of Spain and Travel in Spain Today
2026-01-12 10:00 - 12:00 | https://allto.ca/event/history-of-spain-and-travel-in-spain-today-2/2026-01-12/
Spain has a long and interesting history, as successive waves of conquerors have come to the land of the original Iberian peoples, each leaving its particular marks. Looking at this gives not just the flavour of Spain, but of the Mediterranean itself. Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Gauls, Celts, Goths and Visigoths with early church Roman Catholicism, Islamic Moors of North Africa, and Jews of the Middle Eastern diaspora, these and more have impacted the development and diversities within this nation state.
At the same time, we will look at provinces and cities where the participants have or would like to visit and explore the rich artistic legacy of historical Spain.
Facilitators
Brenda Doyle has an honour’s degree in history. She taught this at a secondary level before returning to graduate school, becoming a psychologist. She has travelled widely in Europe, the Middle East and in Asia.
Axel Peter von Bertoldi started travelling at an early age, in Europe, where he is from, then to Latin America, North America and parts of the rest of the world. Has been in Spain many times, always visiting some different region. InformationTwo Terms | Week 2Mondays | Bi-Weekly10:00am – 12:00pmFall: In-person | Winter: Online via Zoom Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

The European Rollercoaster: Europe Since the End of the Cold War (FULL)
2026-01-12 12:15 - 14:15 | Tartu College – G1, 310 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1W4, Canada
New this year!
This workshop will focus on understanding today’s Europe in all its complexity.
Why? After the Cold War ended, there was a widespread sense that democracy would prevail, peace and prosperity would follow, and the horrors of fascism and communism were past. In the intervening years, that quaint notion has fractured: war in Yugoslavia (1990s); Islamist terrorist attacks on European cities after 9/11; the global financial crisis of 2008; Putin’s seizure of Georgia (2008) and then Crimea (2014). The migration and refugee crisis that erupted in 2015 was not only a human tragedy but shook European politics, leading to right wing populist movements in both eastern and western Europe. The EU was badly shaken by Brexit, then COVID 19, and in February 2022, Putin’s attack on Ukraine. Today, said the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, “Europe faces a clear and present danger on a scale that none of us has seen in our adult lifetime.”
The workshop will look at the forces at play since the end of the Cold War in 1989, the “cascade of crises” (Timothy Garton-Ash) which hit European states after the global financial crisis of 2008, and the unfolding political, economic, military, climate, and security challenges today. We’ll look at the institutional frameworks of the EU and NATO, the different political paths taken by EU members and focus on particular themes like the migration and refugee crisis; the rise of the far right; energy security; cyberwarfare; the EU’s radically changed geopolitical situation; as well as topics suggested by workshop participants. We will encourage those interested in individual countries, European leaders or opinion-makers to present their roles in shaping developments.
Background reading will include Timothy Garton-Ash’s, Homelands (2021); Crisis and Renewal: An Introduction to the EU by John Van Oudenaren (2022); Roller- Coaster: Europe 1950-2017 by Ian Kershaw; (2018); as well as relevant articles, podcasts and films.
Facilitators
Gwyneth Buck has long been fascinated by European history and politics. She has degrees in modern history and French/English translation; and a lifelong love of choral music led her to learn German in her fifties. After retirement from York University administration she joined the Academy in 2012 and has co-facilitated a workshop on Contemporary Quebec (with Mandy Thomson).
Mandy Thomson is a long-time Academy volunteer, learner and Facilitator. After retiring from education administration, she has spent her retirement volunteering in non-profit governance. Her first workshop at the Academy, back in 2005, was about the European Union. She looks forward with great anticipation to examining anew with Academy colleagues, the rollercoaster ride that Europe is experiencing as it finds its role in the evolving world order. InformationTwo Terms | Week 2Mondays | Bi-Weekly2:30pm – 4:30pmIn-person Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register

Health and Wellness
2026-01-12 16:30 - 17:30 | Zoom
If you are interested in the latest science and what’s new and exciting in the fields of Health and Wellness, please join us for discussion and insights.

Artists’ Lives (FULL)
2026-01-13 09:45 - 11:45 | https://allto.ca/event/artists-lives-3/2026-01-13/
Join our continuing exploration of artists’ lives and artwork spanning a variety of time periods, geographies, cultures, identities, art forms, and media. We’ll also analyze representation of these lives and consider connections to our own world. As a member of our workshop, you will present once, selecting your own focus, e.g. the artist’s life, artwork, influences, challenges, themes, philosophies, and/or legacy. Presentations, which usually run 20-40 minutes, should include interesting research findings, thought-provoking discussion prompts, and, ideally, some images.
Much of each session is spent on in-depth discussion by a group of very engaged participants. A list of possible resources will be provided for each artist, but it’s up to the presenter to determine if any should be watched/listened to/read ahead of time. Tentative Year 5 artists are: Eileen Agar, Siona Benjamin, Edward Burtynsky, Elizabeth Catlett, Kapwani Kiwanga, Gabriele Münter, Marianne North, Claes Oldenburg and/or Coosje van Bruggen, Cecilia Paredes, Rose B. Simpson, Gunta Stölzl, and Salman Toor.
Facilitator
Trudy Akler loves to analyze literature and art, and, through them, learn about the world, especially women’s stories and histories. Long-term experience includes arts and gifted education, book club presentations, the Global Art Project for Peace, and a lifetime of creative projects. Other passions include Qi Gong, meditation, poetry, and the wonders of sunrises and stardust. Note:This is a smaller-group workshop with one in-depth presentation and extensive discussion per session. Please see the attached “Is the Artists’ Lives Workshop For Me?” section below.
Is the “Artists’ Lives” Workshop for Me?This Workshop is ideal for people who:

Thrive in a smaller workshop. We hold our enrollment maximum at 12. We find this allows for deeper, more equitable discussions, greater relationship building among members, and an overall stronger supportive group feeling. It also means we can focus on one presentation/artist per session.
Are excited about exploring the lives and art of ALL the artists on our list. You are expected to present once. For the other 11 sessions, the presenter may request that we read/watch/listen to texts ahead of time in order to participate fully in our discussions. Regardless, many of our members enjoy further study using some of the text suggestions provided for each session.
Love the idea of an in-depth dive into an artist’s life and work. Your presentation research goes well beyond what someone could find in a simple Google search.
Enjoy the autonomy of designing their own presentation. The 2-hour block is yours to fill, keeping in mind that a good part of it is for group discussion. The total presenting time usually runs 20-40 minutes, but our members find creative ways to incorporate discussion and sometimes other activities. Some people start with a question or activity to get the ball rolling, while others sprinkle discussion prompts throughout the presentation, and still others leave all the discussion until the end. It’s up to you. We usually take about a 10-minute break near the middle of the 2-hour block. Since we are studying art and artists, it’s ideal if you can include images. But you do not have to do a slide show. There are many creative ways to present your work. Please ask if you need suggestions.

This workshop won’t be a perfect fit for people who:

Can or want to only do a quick bit of research and then read their findings to us. Please see above.
Only have one artist on our list that they want to research and present. Once we receive our workshop group list, we invite members to submit their top 3 choices, allowing about a week to consider the options. We then work with people’s choices, coming up with the best schedule for the whole group. People often do get their 1st choice but, on rare occasion, in order to make things work, sometimes people don’t even get their 3rd choice. Our members are flexible and understand that we are ALL exploring and learning about ALL the artists on our list.
Are uncomfortable with art and discussions involving nudity, various genders and sexual orientations, different backgrounds and life philosophies, a feminist viewpoint. Of course, not all the material we cover deals with this, but sometimes it does. As well, some participants choose to share related personal information to enhance our discussion.

A special shout out to Firefly Creative Writing from which this format is respectfully borrowed.
InformationTwo Terms | Week 2Tuesdays | Bi-Weekly9:45am – 11:45pmOnline via Zoom Become a member Already a member? Click here to login. Register
