Enjoy an evening exploring the tales and writing process of Corry native, John Seitz – the author of “Everyday People and Ordinary Places.” Learn how and why he became a first-time writer just six years ago at the age of 70, and his approach to discovering potential stories about Corry and his writing selection process. John will be reading a few newly written accounts of growing up in Corry and selections from his upcoming book “I See Stories…Observations of Love and Discovery from Within the Ordinary.” He will also encourage those attending to share their memories of Corry - memories that may have been sparked by some of John’s stories. For those interested in publishing a book, John will be available to discuss Amazon publishing and the practical concerns with, and benefits of, self-publishing. “Everyday People and Ordinary Places” will be available for purchase at the event.

This free presentation will be held Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 6:30p-8p at the Corry Hi-Ed. Preregistration is required and can be completed at www.corryhied.org or by calling 814-664-9405.

The Boutique By Sarah brings a unique experience to Corry - a hat bar! The DIY Hat Bar classes are the ultimate hands-on experience for anyone looking to create a one-of-a-kind accessory. For $55, each participant gets to choose their preferred hat style and color—think fedoras, cowboy hats, or Panama styles—and customize it with a wide variety of accessories. From ribbons and hat bands to feathers, charms, and pins, every detail is up to you. We provide all the materials and guidance you need to design a personalized hat that perfectly matches your style. No matter the occasion, our Hat Bars are all about creativity, fun, and fashion.

The class will be Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 6p-8p at the Corry Higher Education Council. The cost to register is $55 and includes all materials. To register, please visit www.corryhied.org or call 814-664-6405.

This two-part introductory course is designed for individuals with little to no prior experience with Microsoft Excel. Participants will learn the fundamental skills necessary to create, edit, format, and manage spreadsheets efficiently. The class covers key features including:

-Navigating the Excel interface and understanding workbook structure

-Entering and organizing data in worksheets

-Basic formulas and functions (SUM, AVERAGE, COUNT, etc.)

-Formatting cells for readability (fonts, colors, borders, number formats)

-Using basic charts and visualizations

-Sorting and filtering data

-Saving, printing, and sharing workbooks

Through guided instruction and hands-on exercises, students will gain confidence in using Excel for everyday tasks, whether for personal use, education, or professional settings.

This two-part class will be held on Tuesday, April 28 and Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 4:30p-7:30p at the Corry Higher Education Council. The cost to register is $50. To register for the class, please visit the Corry Hi-Ed website at www.corryhied.org or call 814-664-9405. 

Citizens pay taxes to the Federal, State, and Local Government as well as the School District they live in. Come learn about those local municipal taxes that are set by your local elected officials and how that tax money supports the hometown you live in.

The free presentation will be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, from 5:30p-7p at the Corry Higher Education Council. Preregistration is required at www.corryhied.org or by calling 814-664-9405.

The Corry Higher Education Council has teamed up with QUINNtessential Grant Works to present an engaging, hands-on workshop for organizations pursuing grant funding. Participants will discover how artificial intelligence can streamline the grant application process, helping save time and enhance results.

Facilitated by Erin Sekerak, Founder and Grant Strategist, the session highlights practical strategies for integrating AI into every stage of grant development — from locating funding opportunities and strengthening proposal narratives to organizing and managing submissions more effectively.

This free presentation will be held on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, from 5:30p-7p at the Corry Higher Education Council. Registration is required by visiting www.corryhied.org or by calling 814-664-9405.

Phil Kerner - The Tool & Die Guy!

With over 40 years in the manufacturing industry, Phil Kerner — affectionately known as The Tool & Die Guy — brings real-world experience, historical insight, and humor to every presentation.

Phil began his career in 1980 as a toolmaker and moldmaker apprentice, eventually building his own thriving shop that employed 40 skilled craftspeople. Today, he continues his work at Industrial Sales & Mfg. and remains a passionate advocate for the trades, inspiring others through his popular YouTube channel with more than 40,000 subscribers.

Manufacturing runs deep in Phil’s bloodline — his father and grandfather were also toolmakers, a tradition documented as far back as the 1920 U.S. Census. His talks combine a century of family legacy, practical shop-floor wisdom, and a contagious enthusiasm for American manufacturing.

Speaking Topics Include:

• The Future of American Manufacturing – Why the trades matter more than ever.

• Shop Etiquette & Professionalism – Building respect, relationships, and reputation.

• Lessons from the Tool Room – What 40 years in the trade can teach about leadership.

• The Legacy of the Toolmaker – Honoring history while inspiring the next generation.

Why Audiences Love PhilPhil’s presentations blend storytelling, humor, and hands-on experience to engage audiences of all ages — from students considering the trades to seasoned professionals reigniting their passion for the craft.Whether speaking at schools, industry conferences, or manufacturing associations, Phil’s mission is simple:To celebrate the craftsmanship, pride, and people that keep American manufacturing alive.

The presentation will be held on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 5:30p-7p at the Corry Hi-Ed. The cost to register is $10. To register, please visit www.corryhied.org or call 814-664-9405.

Presented by PA CareerLink, the purpose of this workshop is to teach you how to optimize your LinkedIn profile, grow your network, and leverage platform tools for job searches, professional branding, and career growth.

The workshop will be held at the Corry Higher Education Council on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 1:30p-2:30p. The workshop is free to attend, but registration is required by calling the Hi-Ed at 814-664-9405 or visiting the Hi-Ed website at www.corryhied.org.

Presented by Taylor Skalos of Skalos Customs, create your own wood-burned Pennsylvania cutting board. Participants will be provided a 14.5 x 6.5 Acacia wood cutting board with a PA state outline making it accessible to even beginners. Wood burners will be provided to go over the stencil to create hand-made cutting board. All materials are included in the cost of registration.

The workshop will be held at the Corry Higher Education Council on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, from 5p-6:30p. The cost to register for the workshop is $40, and those interested can register at the Hi-Ed website at www.corryhied.org or by calling 814-664-9405. A signed waiver will be required at the time of check for the workshop.