Simsbury DCE
Simsbury Department of Continuing Education
Martocchio Music: 3 Lesson Trial (F-1)
Sunday September 1 2024
Our lesson program is for students of all ages! Give yourself, your younger child a head start with lessons, or help your older child excel in their school music program. Try our very popular 3 lesson introductory package that is available to all first time students. You will be amazed how music will help your Heart and Soul! For more information, visit our website at www.martocchiomusic.com/lessons. (3 lessons) $120.00
Martocchio Music
Martocchio Music: Fall Session (TF-6)
Tuesday September 3 2024
Our lesson program is for students of all ages. We offer 1/2 hour and 1 hour private in-person lessons and virtual lessons are also available. Learn piano, vocal, guitar (acoustic & electric) bass, drums, sax, flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, tuba, violin, viola, cello and more. We also have instruments for rent if you need one. (Fall) $630.00
Martocchio Music
Digital Photography (TF-10)
Tuesday October 8 2024
Get a better understanding of how your 35mm digital camera works. Learn specific controls, settings, and editing to produce amazing pictures! Bring your camera with battery charged along with lenses and instruction booklet. (3 Sessions) $65.00
Henry James School
Financial Strategies for Successful Retirement (TF-2)
Tuesday October 8 2024
This in-depth three-session course offers retirees or people thinking about retiring the opportunity to plan for a comfortable retirement. You’ll learn strategies designed to help generate a steady income, help protect your assets from erosion, reduce taxes, and provide a more secure retirement for you and your spouse. This seminar is designed for retired individuals and couples, and those planning on retiring in the next 5 to 10 years. You will also learn how to make the best use of your employer’s retirement plan, evaluate lump-sum distribution options, and help potentially reduce estate taxes through proper estate planning. You’ll also learn about various types of annuities. We will also cover Social Security, Medicare, and ways to provide asset allocation to properly position your assets to your objectives, risk tolerance, and prior investment experience. A spousal guest is included at no cost, but must register. (3 Sessions) $50.00
Henry James Memorial School
Little Chefs Cooking: Gr. 1-3 (E-27 OCT)
Thursday October 10 2024
Have fun and learn some basic cooking/baking life skills. We will be creating different treats each week while learning together. Our young chefs will learn the necessary skills needed for cooking. We will focus on safety in the kitchen, reading and following recipes, measuring ingredients, familiarization with kitchen equipment and tools while creating tasty treats. Recipes are nut free but may contain dairy, eggs, and gluten. Come share my passion for cooking with me!
There is an $8.00 fee per session for materials to be given to the instructor at the first class. This is a drop off program and children should bring a water bottle. (4 sessions) $140.00
Henry James Memorial School
Little Chefs Cooking: Gr. 4-6 (E-28 OCT)
Thursday October 10 2024
Have fun and learn some basic cooking/baking life skills. We will be creating different treats each week while learning together. Our young chefs will learn the necessary skills needed for cooking. We will focus on safety in the kitchen, reading and following recipes, measuring ingredients, familiarization with kitchen equipment and tools while creating tasty treats. Recipes are nut free but may contain dairy, eggs, and gluten. Come share my passion for cooking with me!
There is an $8.00 fee per session for materials to be given to the instructor at the first class. This is a drop off program and children should bring a water bottle. (4 sessions) $140.00
Henry James Memorial School
What is a Trust? (TF-4)
Tuesday October 15 2024
What exactly is a trust? And what can a trust do for you? You’ve heard about the different types: Revocable, Irrevocable, Special Needs, Discretionary, Testamentary, and Tax trusts. In this program, we’ll demystify trusts and explain how a trust could be suitable for you and why. You’ll walk away knowing how to use trusts to do things like minimize or avoid taxes, protect assets from potential ex-spouses and creditors, keep public benefits for loved ones, provide for a beneficiary who is disabled or has special needs, and how to avoid probate court. Whether you are new to trusts or even understand them well, you’ll walk away understanding how to use these powerful planning tools to your advantage. Following the class, all students will receive an easy-to-understand trusts guidebook written by our attorneys. (1 Session) $15.00
Don't Lose Your House! (TF-5)
Tuesday October 22 2024
Connecticut’s long-term care costs are the 2nd highest in the nation. You’ve likely heard horror stories of people losing their homes to pay for care. Attend this session to learn how you can protect assets with a carefully orchestrated plan. You’ll walk away understanding how you can properly protect your life savings. You’ll also learn about Medicaid and how it can help you pay for long-term care costs, Medicaid’s confusing rules, what it takes to apply, who can help you complete an application, and much more will be discussed. We’ll also cover strategies to protect your money if an unforeseen crisis arises. Following the class, all students will receive an easy-to-understand Medicaid and planning for long-term care guidebook written by our attorneys. (1 Session) $15.00
Cut Costs in Difficult Times (RF-12)
Thursday October 24 2024
If you are trying to drastically cut costs because your retirement plan or your savings plan has lost money or your income does not meet your expenses, and you want to learn how to save, this course will greatly help you. Bev Nathan, who is strictly a consumer advocate, will explain how to save money. Topics discussed in detail are ways to save money by investing on your own with no-load mutual funds or index funds; the benefits of credit unions; buying used and new cars wisely; buying home and life insurance; and methods to reduce your school and county taxes. There are many money saving websites that will be shared as well to help you save a considerable amount of money. (1 Session) $45.00
Henry James Memorial School
Secrets About Wall Street (RF-2)
Thursday October 24 2024
Have you just come into some money or have some to invest? This lively, fact packed seminar is a must for those who want to learn from a knowledgeable consumer advocate. Mr. Nathan will be straightforward about things that you are not supposed to know and were never taught in school. Don’t be ripped off when purchasing or leasing a new car; buying insurance; investing long-term care insurance; investing with financial planners and mutual funds. After taking this course, you will have confidence to invest on your own or find a financial planner that meets your needs. It’s time to take charge of your hard earned money! (1 Session) $45.00
Henry James Memorial School
Entrepreneurship: Starting your Own Business (RF-13)
Thursday October 24 2024
From this lively and informative seminar, you will learn behind the scenes practical information on how to start a successful home-based, second-income business which can then become full time. With little money down, you will learn how to decide on a business or product to sell with knowledge learned in this class. You will also learn how to avoid making major financial mistakes. Taking this course will save you time, money, and worry. Franchising will also be discussed. (1 Session) $45.00
Henry James Memorial School
Paying for College Without Going Broke (RF-1)
Thursday October 24 2024
Consumer advocate, Richard Nathan, will teach you how the student, parent and/or guardian can avoid large college loans. Discuss FAFSA, different types of grants, loans, scholarship sources, work study programs, federal versus private loans, problems of parent plus loans, refinance of loans, 529 plans, and the Navient lawsuit. Also, helpful websites and books on this matter will be shared. (1 Session) $45.00
Henry James Memorial School
Beginner Crochet (RF-7)
Tuesday November 5 2024
Welcome to the art of crochet! This is a beginner course where you will learn the basics of crochet, from how to hold the yarn and hook, to simple stitches that will enable you to make all kinds of crochet projects for yourself or others. We will make a beautiful scarf that incorporates what we’ve learned in this class! Please bring Red Heart Super Saver yarn in a bright, solid color, and a size 5.50 or 6.00 crochet hook. (5 Sessions) $60.00
Simsbury Public Library
Little Chefs Cooking: Gr. 1-3 (E-29 NOV)
Thursday November 7 2024
Have fun and learn some basic cooking/baking life skills. We will be creating different treats each week while learning together. Our young chefs will learn the necessary skills needed for cooking. We will focus on safety in the kitchen, reading and following recipes, measuring ingredients, familiarization with kitchen equipment and tools while creating tasty treats. Recipes are nut free but may contain dairy, eggs, and gluten. Come share my passion for cooking with me!
There is an $8.00 fee per session for materials to be given to the instructor at the first class. This is a drop off program and children should bring a water bottle. (4 sessions) $140.00
Henry James Memorial School
Little Chefs Cooking: Gr. 4-6 (E-30 NOV)
Thursday November 7 2024
Have fun and learn some basic cooking/baking life skills. We will be creating different treats each week while learning together. Our young chefs will learn the necessary skills needed for cooking. We will focus on safety in the kitchen, reading and following recipes, measuring ingredients, familiarization with kitchen equipment and tools while creating tasty treats. Recipes are nut free but may contain dairy, eggs, and gluten. Come share my passion for cooking with me!
There is an $8.00 fee per session for materials to be given to the instructor at the first class. This is a drop off program and children should bring a water bottle. (4 sessions) $140.00
Henry James Memorial School
ABC's Planning for Loved One with Special Needs (RF-4)
Thursday November 7 2024
This class educates families on the importance of planning for the future of their child or dependent with special needs. Properly addressing these vital issues ensures not only lifetime of care, but quality of life for your loved one. Topics range from the following important issues such as:
- Guardianship and Conservatorship
- Protecting Government Benefit Eligibility
- SSI, SSDI, Medicare, Medicaid
- Special Needs Trusts
- Financial Security and Funding Options
- ABLE Accounts
- Letters of Intent
Join us for this insightful class and plan for the secure future of your loved one today! (1 Session) $15.00
Henry James Memorial School
Beginning Amigurumi Crochet (RF-2)
Thursday November 7 2024
Welcome to beginner amigurumi, the Japanese art of creating small, stuffed yarn creatures! In this class, you will learn the basics of how to make adorable stuffed crochet items. In order to take this course, you must already know how to do the single crochet stitch. Bring bright, solid-colored yarn, worsted weight, a size G or larger crochet hook, and a darning/yarn needle. (5 Sessions) $60.00
Simsbury Public Library
Instant Piano for Busy People (MF-4)
Monday November 11 2024
In just a few hours, you can learn enough secrets of the trade to give you years of musical enjoyment. Learn to play piano the way professionals do-using chords. The chord method is LOTS of fun and dramatically easier to learn than reading notes. Fee includes the online book, online follow up lessons, a recording of the class and also an optional periodic question and answer session. Class is held online using zoom and is partly hands on instruction and partly lecture demonstration. Ages 13+ (1 session) $65.00
ABC's of Government Benefits for Special Needs (WF-5)
Wednesday November 13 2024
This workshop with Mr. Hawkins, with Futures Planned, LLC, will provide a greater understanding of the various government benefits available to your loved one. We will discuss how to qualify and preserve benefits such a Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability (SSDI), Medicaid, Medicare, and the ABLE Act (a state-run savings program for eligible people with disabilities). (1 session) $15.00
Henry James Memorial School
Plan Your Social Security (WF-1)
Wednesday November 13 2024
Do you know which strategy is best for you? When should you take your Social Security? How do you apply? What impact does your spouse’s Social Security have on what you collect? This 90-minute presentation covers not only the basics of Social Security but also reveals strategies for maximizing your benefits. We will discuss how to minimize taxes on Social Security benefits and how to coordinate your Social Security with your other sources of retirement income. We welcome your questions about Social Security benefits as you explore your own personal options in making this financial decision. (1 session) $15.00
Instant Guitar for Busy People (WF-3)
Wednesday November 13 2024
In just a few hours you can learn enough about playing the guitar to give you years of musical enjoyment, and you won’t have take private lessons to do it. This crash course will teach you some basic chords and get you playing along with your favorite songs right away. Fee includes the online book and follow up lessons, a recording of the class and also an optional periodic question and answer session. Class is held online using zoom and is partly hands on instruction and lecture/demonstration. For ages 13+. (1 Session) $65.00
Radio City, NY Bus Trip (RS-6)
Saturday November 23 2024
Experience the Radio City Christmas Spectacular like you’ve never seen before. Using Christmas Vision, a digital mapping technology, the interior of Radio City Music Hall will transform into a massive and magical canvas. In addition to the beloved scenes of Parade of the Wooden Soldiers, New York at Christmas, and The Living Nativity, this year’s Christmas spectacular features captivating new scenes, dazzling new Rockette numbers, and state of art technology that will immerse the audience in the magic of Christmas. Lunch is on your own. Kick off the wonderful holiday season in grand style with the best seats in the house - orchestra seats! (1 Day) $190.00
Iron Horse Boulevard Parking Lot (behind Fitzgeralds)
Playing Piano by Ear (SA-1)
Saturday November 23 2024
Learn how to play songs without relying on music. A very practical presentation of music theory that includes predicting chord progressions, learning from recordings, and transposing - all expressed in everyday language. This is an ideal follow-up to the ‘Instant Piano’ class and is open to anyone who has a basic understanding of instrumental chords. Expand your musical horizons and be the life of the party! Prior experience with chords recommended. Fee includes the online book and follow-up lessons, a recording of the class and an optional monthly question and answer session. Class is held online using Zoom. (1 Session) $65.00
Martocchio Music: Winter (RW-2)
Wednesday January 1 2025
Our lesson program is for students of all ages. We offer 1/2 hour and 1 hour private in-person lessons and virtual lessons are also available. Learn piano, vocal, guitar (acoustic & electric) bass, drums, sax, flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, tuba, violin, viola, cello and more. We also have instruments for rent if you need one. (Winter) $630.00
Martocchio Music
Plan Your Social Security (TF-1)
Tuesday October 8 2024
Do you know which strategy is best for you? When should you take your Social Security? How do you apply? What impact does your spouse’s Social Security have on what you collect? This 90-minute presentation covers not only the basics of Social Security but also reveals strategies for maximizing your benefits. We will discuss how to minimize taxes on Social Security benefits and how to coordinate your Social Security with your other sources of retirement income. We welcome your questions about Social Security benefits as you explore your own personal options in making this financial decision. (1 session) $15.00
You Really Need to Have an Estate Plan (TF-3)
Tuesday October 8 2024
The past couple years have taught us that life circumstances can change in an instant. If they do, are you prepared? Consider some difficult questions. Do you want to be on life support? Who will pay your bills if you can’t? If you pass away, how will your estate be divided amongst your heirs? In this program, you’ll learn about wills, trusts, powers of attorney (POA), and healthcare directives. You’ll walk away understanding what these documents are for, and what you need to do to create yours. Even if you have already created an estate plan, come learn about recent law updates and discover if you should have your existing documents reviewed and updated. Following the class, all students will receive an easy-to-understand estate planning guidebook written by our attorneys. (1 session) $15.00
Getting Paid to Talk/Voice Over (RF-11)
Thursday October 3 2024
From audio books to advertisements and beyond, we encounter recorded voices everywhere! In this one-night, online class, your instructor will take you behind-the-scenes in the voice over field for a fun and realistic look at how the voice over field really works. You’ll gain inside perspective on developing skills, and how to leverage your voice’s strengths and interests, and more. Because this call is live, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions! Additionally, there will be a chance for a one on one script read with the instructor at the end of the class. (1 session) $25.00
Salem Witch Museum Bus Trip (RS-5)
Wednesday October 2 2024
Begin your day with a self-guided tour of the Salem Witch Museum (admission included) where you can experience first hand the reign of terror and hysteria that was rampant in Salem in the 1690’s through the powerful multi-sensory presentation. Visitors are given a dramatic history lesson using stage sets with life-size figures, lighting and narration (an overview of the Witch Trials of 1692). That summer, 180 people had been accused and imprisoned totally defenseless against accusations of witchcraft in a society driven by superstition and fear. The afternoon will permit free time to enjoy “Haunted Happenings” around town. Visit the Witch Dungeon Museum or the Salem Pirate Museum (admission not
included). You can take a walking tour or ride the trolley. Enjoy the unique shops and quaint stores Salem offers. Lunch is on your own at one of the many restaurants in the area. The possibilities are endless! (1 Day) $134.00
Iron Horse Boulevard Parking Lot (behind Fitzgeralds)
Take Great Photos with your Smartphone (TF-11)
Tuesday September 24 2024
The quality of smartphone cameras is improving rapidly. Their capabilities extend far beyond what some people primarily use them for... taking selfies. In many situations they work quite well as stand-ins for 35mm cameras. This class is for those interested in producing high-quality images with their smartphone cameras. That means learning and understanding the camera controls as well as when and how to use them. Doing so will put you in better control of your camera. And that means significantly better photographs. In addition, two types of editing programs will be introduced. A complete handout will be provided to all participants. Please note: This class will not cover the taking of selfies. (2 Sessions) $60.00
Henry James Memorial School
Discovering Essential Oils (RF-8) (CANCELLED)
Thursday September 5 2024
Come learn about the world of essential oils and how they can enhance your life. In addition to learning about the history of essential oils, you will learn what essential oils are, how they are made and how to use them safely. You can use oils for personal care, cleansing, emotional support, etc. You will learn about ways to use six of the most popular oils and create a “make & take” at each class. (4 Sessions) $75.00
Henry James Memorial School
Floorball: Grades 4-6 (RF-15) (CANCELLED)
Thursday September 5 2024
Join us for a fast-paced and exhilarating game of Floorball - a no-contact sport. As the pace of the game increases, the challenge of ball handling, shooting, and passing increase as teams try to score more goals than their opponents. All players need sneakers - no hockey experience necessary. Sticks and balls are provided. Come and join the fun! (4 sessions) $80.00
Henry James Memorial School
Floorball: Grades 7-8 (RF-14) (CANCELLED)
Thursday September 5 2024
Join us for a fast-paced and exhilarating game of Floorball - a no-contact sport. As the pace of the game increases, the challenge of ball handling, shooting, and passing increase as teams try to score more goals than their opponents. All players need sneakers - no hockey experience necessary. Sticks and balls are provided. Come and join the fun! (4 sessions) $80.00
Henry James Memorial School
Scratch Below the Surface: Gr. 7-12 (E-31)
Tuesday September 17 2024
Begin your computer programming adventures with this introduction to Scratch coding. Design and create an animation using backdrops, sprites and scripts, and costumes you may have created. Motion and sound will bring your project to life! As you learn what scratchers can do, you will realize what you want to create. Scratch code can be used to program robotics tools. Learned skills from this course may be applied to Java and Python. Requirements: 1. Proficiency using the computer you bring to class; 2. An existing account on scratch.mit.edu (8 sessions) $60.00
Henry James Memorial School
Plan Your Social Security (MF-3)
Monday September 16 2024
Do you know which strategy is best for you? When should you take your Social Security? How do you apply? What impact does your spouse’s Social Security have on what you collect? This 90-minute presentation covers not only the basics of Social Security but also reveals strategies for maximizing your benefits. We will discuss how to minimize taxes on Social Security benefits and how to coordinate your Social Security with your other sources of retirement income. We welcome your questions about Social Security benefits as you explore your own personal options in making this financial decision. (1 session) $15.00 Instructors: Charles Yannich, Jr./Albert D'Agosto of Retirement & Money Strategies
Pickleball on Mondays (WF-5A)
Monday September 16 2024
Are you looking for a fun and an exciting way to stay active this fall? Look no further! Join our Pickleball classes for newcomers and experience the thrill of this fast-growing sport! Pickleball is fun, social and friendly! The rules are simple and the game is easy for beginners to learn, but can develop into a fast-paced, competitive game. Pickleball is played either as doubles (two players per team) or singles; doubles are most common.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a complete beginner, our skilled instructors will guide you through the game and ensure you have a blast on the court. No equipment necessary -- the paddle and ball will be supplied. (5 sessions) $60.00
Henry James Memorial School Tennis Courts
Introduction to French (WF-13)
Thursday September 12 2024
Looking to learn something new this fall? Dreaming of a trip to Europe or even Quebec? In this course, you will learn introductions and greetings, how to order a meal, ask for help with directions, as well as basic vocabulary. Cultural knowledge is incorporated into each topic, concluding with a popular film discussion to introduce you to one of the French-speaking world’s favorite pastimes. For a nominal fee, participants will need to purchase the French Made Easy Level 1 book: An Easy Step-By-Step Approach To Learn French for Beginners prior to the beginning of class. (no senior discount) (6 sessions) $85.00
Henry James Memorial School