Leisure and Special Interest
Try a new hobby or just learn something new with our wide range of special interest courses!
How to Register
- Register online by selecting "Add to Cart" on the desired course(s) and select "Cart" at the bottom of the page when you are ready to checkout.
- The “Seats Left” information is updated every half hour and when you checkout.
- Other registration options are available.
Don’t see the course you are looking for below? Join our mailing list to get updates and news about upcoming classes.
Courses
- American Cider
- Be Your Best Self
- Complete Paranormal Research
- Digging Deeper into Cemeteries
- Drink Like a Pirate
- Gemstone Divination
- Introduction to Canva
- Introduction to Off-Roading
- Learn the Tarot
- Paranormal Research: Psychic Abilities
- Solar Power at Your House
- Tales In Our Bones
- Thanksgiving Wines
- The Interesting World of Mocktails
American Cider
Cider was among Colonial America’s most consumed beverages and is an art form still practiced today. We’ll learn about and sample ciders from Maine to Virginia, and a few from the west, as we delve into the history of apple growing and cider making. We’ll study and sample cider, applejack, apple brandy and pommeau. Must be 21 years of age or older to register for this course.
Course will be held in Williams Hall, Room 113
Carlo DeVito, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thursdays, 9/17 - 9/24 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm |
ZSPI-397 500 | 32 seats left | $79 | Opens 8/26 |
Be Your Best Self
This “hero building” course is for anyone interested in self-improvement or personal development who is excited about becoming the best version of themselves and thus a hero to the people around them. This world needs heroes today more than ever! This course is designed to help you reach your full potential and will follow a step-by-step process to help you determine who you want to be and help you build a protocol to achieve what you find most important in your life.
Course on will meet at HVCC North, 345 Hermes Rd, Malta, NY
Rick Spiezio, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, 10/14 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm |
ZSPI-400 500 | 20 seats left | $34 | Opens 8/26 |
Complete Paranormal Research
Developed by nationally renowned paranormal investigator Jack Kenna, this course will provide comprehensive information and knowledge on the methods, tools, and approach to become a successful, knowledgeable, and professional paranormal team member, investigator or researcher. Topics include spiritual protection, equipment use, techniques for spirit communication, using divining rods, smudging or cleansing a home or person, connecting with your five senses, working with clients, and much more. Required reading for this class is “Paranormal Research: A Comprehensive Guide to Building a Strong Team” ISBN-13: 978-0764355264.
Course will be held in Daycare Center, Room 138
Jack Kenna, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesdays, 9/16 - 11/11 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm |
ZSPI-399 500 | 16 seats left | $74 | Opens 8/26 |
Digging Deeper into Cemeteries
In this class, get a behind-the-scenes look at how cemeteries operate and explore the many options available for final disposition, including cremation and various types of final resting choices. Participants will leave with the knowledge and confidence needed to make informed decisions, plan thoughtfully, and clearly communicate their wishes, easing the burden and uncertainty for loved ones.
Course will be held in Daycare Center, Room B05
Lisa Dooley & Kerry McGovern from NYS Division of Cemeteries, Instructors
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, 10/27 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm |
ZSPI-371 500 | 15 seats left | $15 | Opens 8/26 |
Drink Like a Pirate
In this class, learn about Madeira, rum, wine, beer, cider, grog, planter’s punch, and more, and hear tales of Henry Morgan, Captain Kidd, Blackbeard (Edward Teach), Black Bart Roberts, Calico Jack (John Rackman), Charles Vane, and Mary Read and Anne Bonny. Sample pirate-inspired cocktails as well. Must be 21 years of age or older to register for this course.
Course will be held in Williams Hall, Room 113
Carlo DeVito, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thursdays, 10/1 - 10/8 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm |
ZSPI-362 500 | 32 seats left | $79 | Opens 8/26 |
Gemstone Divination
Did you know that you can use gemstones like tarot cards to give insight into your past, present, and future? Participants in this workshop will learn about the divination properties of gemstones, observe a sample reading, and practice stone castings in pairs or small groups. Everyone will go home with a complete kit of 11 large polished stones, directions, and a casting board. Students who have to withdraw must do so at least one week prior to the start of the course for a full refund.
Course will be held in Daycare Center, Room B06
Alyssa Yeager, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thursday, 10/22 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm |
ZSPI-369 500 | 15 seats left | $42 | Opens 8/26 |
Introduction to Canva
Get comfortable with Canva in this four-part beginner series designed to turn “where do I click?” into “look what I made.” You’ll learn the essentials step by step: navigating the platform, working with text, colors, and effects, understanding free vs. paid features, and using graphics, elements, and layers. We’ll cover photos, frames, and templates, plus how to choose between personal and commercial use. In the final class, you’ll create a simple flyer (think garage sale) using guided constraints to build confidence. By the end, you’ll have the skills to design clean, eye-catching visuals for everyday projects. Students will need to bring their own laptops to class; tablets are not allowed for this class. Students need to set up a free Canva account prior to the start of the class.
Course will be held in Daycare Center, Room 137
Julie Ann Price, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mondays, 9/21 - 10/19 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm |
ZSPI-381 500 | 12 seats left | $79 | Opens 8/26 |
Introduction to Off-Roading
So, you’ve just picked up your first full size 4x4 – congratulations! Whether it’s fresh off the dealership lot or a project you’ve been bringing back to life, you’re probably eager to see what it can really do. If you’re ready to get off the pavement and explore the outdoors with confidence, this course is the perfect place to start. Off-roading is more than just driving on the dirt – it requires technical understanding, preparation, and responsible decision-making. It’s about understanding your vehicle, reading the terrain, and being prepared for whatever comes next. This course is designed for budding enthusiasts seeking to build foundational skills while learning how to operate their vehicle safely and effectively.
Course will be held in Daycare Center, Room B06
Scott Pignatelli, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saturday, 10/3 9:00 am - 12:00 pm |
ZSPI-385 500 | 20 seats left | $39 | Opens 8/26 |
Learn the Tarot
The goal of this class is for you to learn about tarot cards. We will look at the metaphors, symbols, and archetypes to help you better understand the tarot and how the tarot can help you understand yourself and tap into your inner resources with more confidence. We will utilize an interactive workshop format with short weekly “work” activities to help you connect to your cards and their meanings. This class is based on the Rider-Waite-Smith deck. You are welcome to borrow a deck during class if you don’t have one for class.
Course will be held in Williams Hall, Room 113
Melody Kearney, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saturdays, 9/19 - 10/24 9:00 am - 11:00 am |
ZSPI-121 500 | 12 seats left | $79 | Opens 8/26 |
Paranormal Research: Psychic Abilities
This course goes in depth into connecting with your latent psychic abilities, enhancing the abilities you may already have, understanding the different types of psychic abilities, identifying what abilities you may have, using these abilities to connect with spirit, assisting with paranormal investigations, and identifying positive and negative energies. The course also covers spiritual protection and cleansing techniques and tools, how to detect and close spirit portals, the signs of spirit attachment, and in-class exercises to help develop psychic abilities.
Course will be held in Daycare Center, Room 138
Jack Kenna, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesdays, 9/15 - 11/10 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm |
ZSPI-319 500 | 16 seats left | $74 | Opens 8/26 |
Solar Power at Your House
This class will answer all the questions about putting solar on your house that solar companies won’t tell you. Is there any truth to the ridiculous ads you see online about everything being free? Do you still have power when the power goes out? Does New York pay you to go solar? Cut through the nonsense with this informative class geared towards homeowners who are curious about solar power but don’t know who to trust.
Course will be held in Daycare Center, Room B05
Jesse Ryan, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday, 10/19 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm |
ZSPI-326 500 | 20 seats left | $27 | Opens 8/26 |
Tales In Our Bones
Welcome to the fascinating world of forensic anthropology! This introductory course explores how forensic anthropologists analyze skeletal remains to solve crimes, identify disaster victims, and uncover mysteries of the past. Through case studies, virtual 3D models, and practical exercises with replica specimens, you’ll learn the basics of bone identification, how forensic anthropologists determine age, sex, and cause of death, the critical role they play in criminal investigations, and some of the challenges facing the field. Perfect for true crime enthusiasts, aspiring forensic scientists, or anyone curious about the science behind identifying the dead. No science background required – just bring your curiosity!
Course will be held in WILL, Room 113
Myeashea Alexander, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, 9/15 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm |
ZSPI-366 500 | 20 seats left | $36 | Opens 8/26 |
Thanksgiving Wines
This class will cover all your wine needs for the upcoming great American holiday and give you the skills and knowledge to impress friends and family alike. From fizzy starters like sparkling wine and cider to delicious whites, tasty reds, and sumptuous dessert wines, learn the pairings that will make your holiday dinner complete. Must be 21 years of age or older to register for this course.
Course will be held in Williams Hall, Room 113
Carlo DeVito, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thursdays, 10/22 - 10/29 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm |
ZSPI-398 500 | 15 seats left | $79 | Opens 8/26 |
The Interesting World of Mocktails
Join us for a lesson on mixing modern seasonal mocktails that will elevate your next party or family brunch. In this interactive workshop, learn the art of crafting refreshing non-alcoholic drinks and explore the basics of mixology, including how to balance sweet, sour, bitter, and bubbly elements to build complex, satisfying mocktails. We will offer ideas on how to craft unique and exciting concoctions and guide everyone step-by-step through making three signature recipes, sharing tips on shaking, stirring, muddling, garnishing and presentation along the way. We will employ fresh juices, herbs, syrups, and spice-forward ingredients to demonstrate and create drinks that feel festive and intentional rather than sugary or simple. The class is designed for all levels – no prior bar experience needed – and is a welcoming option for sober-curious guests, designated drivers, and anyone who wants the fun of a cocktail class without alcohol. You will enjoy a tasting of our creations and leave with recipes. Students who need to withdraw must do so at least one week prior to the start of the class for a refund.
Course will be held in Williams Hall, Room 113
Gayatri Hingwala, Instructor
| Schedule | Section | Seats Left | Cost | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, 11/17 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm |
ZSPI-370 500 | 32 seats left | $55 | Opens 8/26 |
Get in Touch
Office of Workforce Development and Community Education
Fax: (518) 629-8103
Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (excluding college holidays and vacations)