Energy workshops can help reduce winter utility costs

LIBERTY, NY — Homeowners and renters can learn to reduce energy consumption and lower energy bills at a Save Energy, Save Dollars workshop on Tuesday, November 24, from 6 to 8 p.m. This EmPower New York class is being offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County at its Gerald J. Skoda Extension Education Center.

Participants who attend this free event will learn about reducing energy bills by following some low-cost and no-cost energy conservation methods. Each person will receive three compact fluorescent light bulbs at no cost to them.

Advanced registration is encouraged by calling 845/292-6180. Additional dates and times can be obtained by visiting www.human.cornell.edu/dea/outreach/index.cfm and selecting “Empower Energy Use Management Workshop Schedule.”

EmPower New York workshops are sponsored by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and developed by Cornell University Cooperative Extension and NYSERDA.

Growing microgreens hydroponically

PORT JERVIS, NY — The Public Computer Center (The Hub) at the Port Jervis Free Library will be partnering with Friends of the Garden Sullivan County to offer a series of classes as part of its popular “Backyard Series.” The first in the series will be “Growing Microgreens Hydroponically” presented by Jakuin Saunders. This hands-on class will be held Thursday, December 3 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Community Room of the Port Jervis Library.

Microgreens are young plants between seven and 10 days old that have sprouted from seeds. These super-food seedlings are considered naturally high in quality protein, vitamins, minerals, trace elements, enzymes and antioxidants. Come to the class and taste microgreens. Then plant your own micro-lettuce, take it home, place on the kitchen counter to grow, and in just 10 days harvest your own crop.

The class is limited to 20 participants and pre-registration is required. Reserve your spot by calling 845/772-7586 or emailing thehub@portjervislibrary.org.

Learn to play holiday music on the harmonica

PORT JERVIS, NY — The Hub, the Public Computer Center at the Port Jervis Free Library, will again hold the popular program “Learn to Play Holiday Music on the Harmonica” on Saturday, December 5 from 12:45 to 2 p.m.

Harmonicist Patti Gessner will lead this step-by-step class for adults and young adults.

During this program, you will download a harmonica tablature on the Hub computers (trainers are available to help) and learn how to play a holiday favorite by the end of the class. The fee is $10, which will entitle you take your new harmonica home. If you plan to bring your own harmonica, the cost is $5 and it will be necessary for your harmonica to be in the key of C.

Space is limited to 20 seats.To register and for more information, call 845/772-7586, or email thehub@portjervislibrary.org.