Life Long Learning (Livingston Center)

Join us in making homemade vanilla extract from scratch. Supplies include all beans, alcohol base, jar, labels, and handouts. Learn the right alcohol-to-bean ratio for vodka, rum, and bourbon bases. Discuss how to make vanilla sugar, vanilla paste, and a "mother jar" for continuous refilling. Take home a 4 oz labeled jar of vanilla and some informational pages.

Learn the basics of traditional calligraphy using a flat edged pen in this hands-on class. We'll focus on how to hold the pen, create consistent strokes, and build clean, structured letterforms step by step. You'll be guided through a foundational alphabet and begin to understand how pen angle and spacing work together to create balanced, beautiful lettering.

Learn the fundamentals of pointed pen calligraphy and how to create the elegant thick-and-thin lines that define script lettering. In this hands-on class, you'll be introduced to using a dip pen and nib, controlling pressures, and practicing the foundational strokes that lead into letterforms. This style is requires a lighter touch and a bit more control, and you'll be guided step by step so you can build confidence as you go. No experience needed.

Discover the fundamentals of baking with yeast in this hands-on bread-making class. Participants will learn helpful tips, common mistakes to avoid, and best practices for creating successful yeast breads at home. Each student will receive a recipe card to take home and leave with a freshly baked loaf of bread. This class provides a strong foundation for anyone interested in exploring more advanced bread baking and working with yeast. All ingredients and supplies are included.

Learn the basics of safely preserving food at home through canning and other preservation methods. This demonstration style class will introduce participants to the equipment, ingredients, and techniques needed to confidently begin preserving fruits, vegetables, jams, and other foods. This class focuses on food safety, proper canning procedures, and preserving techniques that help reduce food waste and extend the life of seasonal produce. Participants will observe live demonstrations and gain practical knowledge. Participants will go home with recipes, a canning guide, and a jar of finished product.

Learn about sourdough bread inclusions and how they can add unique flavors, textures, and creativity to a loaf. From herbs and cheese to dried fruits and nuts, inclusions make every sourdough bake a little different and exciting.