Library offers technology classes for beginners

TORRINGTON — The Torrington Library has partnered with Goodwill of Torrington to present three free monthly technology-forbeginners classes.

Intro to Computer Basics: Jan. 15, 11 a.m. Learn all about these newfangled computers, what different types of computers and software are available, and how to navigate the internet and email.

Intro to Microsoft Basics: Feb. 12, 11 a.m. This workshop covers what each Microsoft program is and what it can be used for. Programs include Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, and Access.

Intro to Mobile Tech: March 12, 11 a.m. Put down that flip phone and learn how to navigate smart phones and tablets for job searching, using social media, and more. Learn to create and update a LinkedIn account as well as utilize social media sites such as Twitter. Increase the reach of your job search and improve your daily communications through the convenience of your cell phone.

Register for the whole series or each individual class on the designated registration date at torringtonlibrary.org.

Tech-savvy teens sought for program

WASHINGTON — For teens, using today’s technology is as easy to many as breathing. With a few quick swipes they can access so much – music, games, information, and more. But parents and grandparents are not as likely to be so savvy. Why not spend some time teaching them how to use their devices?

The Gunn Memorial Library is looking for Teen Techs: teens who can teach adults how to navigate their iPhones/iPads, emails, google searches, social media, and more. Teens can fulfill community service requirements while giving back and connecting with older community members. Those who choose to sign up must commit to weekly one hour time sessions where adults will have the opportunity to ask questions about using their devices and teens will get to show what they know!

Teens who wish to participate in the program should sign up for a time slot by contacting Jessica at the Library or by signing up online at www.gunnlibrary.org/teens, choosing a time that works best for them. For example, if a Monday after school works best for you, tell us which hour you’d like to volunteer for and that will be your time slot. You can take the bus right from school or we can work out an evening or weekend time slot.

This program is free and open to the public. Registration is requested. For further information call 860868-7586 or visit www.gunnlibrary.org

The Gunn Memorial Library is located at 5 Wykeham Road at the juncture of Route 47, opposite the green in Washington.

Climate change is topic of program

WOODBURY — The study of climate change is developing very quickly. Significant new information is coming out — literally — every day. Flanders Nature Center is holding a program on this important topic and why it matters to us all, led by Dr. Mitch Wagener. He holds a master’s degree in Stream Ecology and a doctorate in Soil Ecology and teaches climate ecology, entomology, and related courses at Western Connecticut State University.

Wagner’s talk will explain the basics but also mix in some new information to an understanding of the world and our future in a warmer world where weather events will be more severe, sea levels higher, and people displaced. The talk will be followed by an opportunity for people’s questions on why climate change can be considered the greatest challenge humanity has ever had to face.

The program is being held Jan. 25, 7 p.m. at the Flanders Studio which is located at the corner of Flanders and Church Hill roads in Woodbury. The cost is $5 for members and $10 for non-members. Those interested may register online at www.flandersnaturecenter.org or call 203-263-3711, ext. 10, for more information.

Church offering Alpha course

BARKHAMSTED — The Alpha course is being offered at Praise Christian Fellowship, Barkhamsted from Jan. 22-April 16, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

This 13 week program explores life’s questions like “Is there more to life than this?” “How can I have faith?” “Who is the Holy Spirit?”

For more information: 860-7389039 or praisect.org Pre-registration is required. Each informal session includes a free meal (donations appreciated).

Assistance available from Cookie Jar fund

BARKHAMSTED — In the spring of 1998, welfare assistance was removed from local communities and run by the state, and there were few resources to which residents could turn for financial assistance. At that time, the Cookie Jar was created to help meet emergency needs for Barkhamsted residents, according to Don Stein, First Selectman.

“The endowment balance of this fund has come from donations and contributions of the burning permit fees,” Stein said in a statement. “The vision was to grow a fund which would generate revenues along with the donations.

“As a result, the fund balance is substantial and is available for residents in need of assistance. There is an application form and the assistance is typically limited to $400 on a one-time basis. Such assistance can take the form of heating oil, electric bills, gasoline, grocery cards and other similar household expenses,” he said.

To apply, go to https://www.barkhamsted.us/ sites/barkhamstedct/files/ uploads/application_for_ assistance_-_updated_1-19.pdf

Student art show set at SHS

SHARON — The Sharon Historical Society & Museum is pleased to announce the opening of the next exhibit in Gallery SHS, the 9th Annual Northlight Art Center Student Show which runs from Jan. 19 through March 8. The public is invited to attend the artists’ opening reception, Jan. 19, 5-7 p.m. The show features a broad variety of artworks created over the past year by students of all ages, including drawings, pastels, watercolors, acrylic and oil paintings, representing a wide range of subject matter. Most of the artworks will be available for purchase. A portion of all purchase proceeds will support the Sharon Historical Society & Museum’s mission.

Northlight Art Center was founded in 2010 by artist Pieter Lefferts. NAC, originally located in Sharon and now operating in Amenia, offers art classes for all ages taught by working professional artists in drawing, painting, photography and more. Gallery SHS is located in the Sharon Historical Society & Museum at 18 Main Street in Sharon. For more information and directions to Gallery SHS, call 860- 364-5688. For additional information about the Sharon Historical Society & Museum, visit www.sharonhist.org.