Learn to play the ukulele! It has never been more popular and you don’t even have to know how to read music! On the uke you can knock out folk music, rock, blues, jazz, pop, country, tunes old and new -even Classical music. Duncan Perry, who has taught more than 700 students of all ages, will introduce you to essential chords and playing techniques using commonly known songs. Oh, and there are lots of laughs along the way. And, learning to play an instrument is good for your brain! You will need a playable ukulele and an electronic tuner or a tuner app. And when folks hear you play this happy instrument, well, they just have to smile! If you don’t own a ukulele, please contact us for information. Students must have an audio and video-enabled laptop, desktop, or tablet with reliable internet to participate in class. We do not recommend using a smartphone.

Learn the fundamentals of making Chinese Dumplings at home. In this class, you will learn how to make fresh scratch-made dough and roll your own wrappers, then how to fold and pleat them after stuffing with pork filling. We will then water-fry/steam them to create a restaurant favorite - pot sticker dumplings! Additionally, you will learn to make your own ginger-scallion oil and the instructor will talk about other common Chinese condiments used for dipping sauces. All ingredients, materials, equipment, and recipes will be provided. Plant-based ground meat can be substituted for pork upon request. Dumpling wrappers include gluten.  

Make your own cards with love. These classes will teach you how to make beautiful cards, providing instructions and techniques. You will make four unique cards, and each class will teach a different design. The instructor fee is $5 per class (payable the night of each class) and there is always a door prize. All supplies are provided.

Did you ever know all the amazing things you can make from dandelions? Join us in this class.to learn how to collect and process these amazing plants. Learn recipes with dandelion greens, how to use dandelion flowers to make jams, teas, and wines, and all the beneficial properties of dandelion roots. We will taste and make some delicious dishes!

Questions about Medicare? Join Jo-Ann Neal for this informational seminar outlining the basics of Medicare. Jo-Ann will answer your questions including what Medicare does and does NOT cover when to enroll, the difference between MedicareAdvantage and Medicare Supplement Plans, and which plan is best for you. Following the presentation, Jo-Ann will be available for a question and answer session. Jo-Ann Neal of Allen Insurance and Financial is a licensed insurance agent specializing in Medicare. Jo-Ann joined Allen Insurance and Financial in May 2013, bringing with her 10+ years of human resources and benefits administration experience. In 2016, she earned a Benefits Account Manager certification from the National Association of Health Insurance Underwriters and became appointed to work with customers on Medicare plans.

Your instructor, Chris Toy is the author of 6 popular cookbooks, a private chef, and has taught Asian-fusion cooking for several Maine community education programs. Cooking students will learn how to prepare a variety of recipes from Asia, Europe, and the Americas incorporating traditional and local ingredients. Each meal will actively engage cooks with the tools, techniques, and stories behind the dishes being created.

Step back to a time when President Franklin Roosevelt, Eleanor, and their family escaped to their “beautiful little island” in the Canadian Maritimes, Campobello Island. We will be exclusive guests of the international park, staying in historic Victorian cottages. Workshop participants will explore and paint the same coastal scenery enjoyed by the summer residents at the turn of the 20th century. All meals are included in the workshop fee as well as specially planned optional evening activities designed to extend your learning from the day’s workshops, including a private concert by award-winning Celtic Fiddle player, Katherine Moller, in the Victorian parlor of Hubbard House. Register for the retreat then call Sherry Mitchell at 506-752-2922 to make room reservations. Acadian Arts Retreats participants will have exclusive overnight accommodations in the park. 

Comments from recent Acadian Arts Retreats participants: 

“I learned so much that Chris taught me, and the recipes were attainable."  “Chris speaks slowly and encourages questions."

Your instructor, Mary Laury is an accomplished watercolorist and highly esteemed teacher. She encourages all her students to believe they can be successful. Painting is an exciting medium; it flows and moves and does beautiful things. If you have never painted in watercolors, we will start at the beginning. If you have painted before, you will pick up some new tips and tricks as well. We all learn together!

Step back to a time when President Franklin Roosevelt, Eleanor, and their family escaped to their “beautiful little island” in the Canadian Maritimes, Campobello Island. We will be exclusive guests of the international park, staying in historic Victorian cottages. Workshop participants will explore and paint the same coastal scenery enjoyed by the summer residents at the turn of the 20th century. All meals are included in the workshop fee as well as specially planned optional evening activities designed to extend your learning from the day’s workshops. including a private concert by award-winning Celtic Fiddle player, Katherine Moller, in the Victorian parlor of Hubbard House. Register for the retreat then call Sherry Mitchell at 506-752-2922 to make room reservations. Acadian Arts Retreats participants will have exclusive overnight accommodations in the park. 

Feedback from recent Acadian Arts Retreats participants: 

“Mary is a wonderful guide and a gifted teacher.”  “Very helpful watercolor instruction."