Learn about Smart Meter program at next Green Drinks meeting

Learn about the Smart Meter consumer education program at the next McHenry County Green Drinks meeting from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5, at Duke's Alehouse & Kitchen, 110 N. Main St. in Crystal Lake.

On the first Wednesday of each month, environmentally-minded people gather upstairs to network and talk about "greening" the future. Everyone is welcome.

Learn the benefits, how it works and how it can help you control your energy usage and save money.

A free drawing will be held for a Third Generation Nest thermostat. The Nest Learning Thermostat programs itself and automatically helps save energy when you're away. And you can control it using your phone, tablet or laptop. Come to an informative evening and possibly walk away with a new thermostat, valued at $250.

Tentative future topics are rehabbing on Nov. 2, and wine on Dec. 7.

Additional parking is available at the train station. To be added to the Green Drinks email list, send a note to GreenDrinksMC@gmail.com or "like" the group at www.facebook.com/GreenDrinksMcHenryCounty.

The Green Drinks network was founded in North London, England in 1989 and now is active in over 600 cities worldwide. Interested public is always welcome to attend the McHenry County Green Drinks monthly event. Each month there is a short presentation on a different eco-topic plus displays and demonstrations. Also, information about upcoming eco-events and green products and services is made available. Nonalcoholic and alcoholic drinks are available plus a featured "green drink."