Have you ever thought about preserving your own food? Perhaps you enjoy the bounty of farmers markets, and want to find a way to enjoy local produce year-round. Or, maybe you have your own vegetable garden and end up with more produce than you can eat. Whatever your reason, if you want to try preserving but aren’t sure how to get started, this is the class for you! In this four-part, hands-on class, taught by Master Food Preserver and cookbook author Allison Carroll Duffy, we’ll cover all of the primary home food preservation methods you’ll need to get started, including canning, freezing, drying, fermenting, and cold-storage (root cellaring). Each week we’ll focus on a different method (or two), discussing proper procedures, techniques, food safety, and use of tools and equipment. We’ll then practice the method(s) hands-on, preparing and preserving food as a group, enjoying some samples as well. No matter what types of foods you enjoy and are hoping to preserve, this class will provide all you need to know to get started preserving food confidently at home! *A materials fee of $40 must be paid to the instructor on the first night of class.

Merrymeeting Bay is an amazing wetland area right in our backyards, yet unknown to many because of limited access. This online class will acquaint you with Bay in two ways: first, during six weekly online meetings you’ll learn about the nature and ecology of the Bay. Second, you’ll be introduced each week to a different nature preserve that touches on the Bay, with complete directions for exploring the trails at your own pace and time.

Join us for an evening of painting, where we will focus on the Piping Plover, a highly protected bird species known for nesting near the shoreline here in New England. In this class we will learn to paint the bird’s distinctive black neck band and soft grayish underbelly, set against a soft muted seascape with beach sand. No painting experience needed, Shirley Anderson will guide you step by step. Canvas and paints are supplied.

In this class, students will learn the basics of the Salsa footwork and some simple, fun moves that will get you out on the dance floor. You will learn how to connect with any partner, and build confidence dancing to different styles and tempos and music. Students will be introduced to the famous Salsa Rueda. Partner is recommended. This is a 5 session class.

2/26/25: SPECIAL NOTE: The start and end time for this class has been updated, it will start at 6:40 and end at 7:30. 

Hand sewing, darning, fixing, and mending clothing are age-old, keystone human skills. Patches can be made to be beautiful as well as functional. Needles and thread can always be made from naturally-harvested organic material, while sewing comprehension with industrial supplies remains invaluable in the modern world. Fix it, use it, wear it out - make it do, or do without. Learn the vital art of sewing, darning and mending. We'll study cross-hatch hole-mending, then employ a few simple stitches to create a functional cloth pouch. Bring your holy garments! We have an assortment of yarns and fabrics. We’ll fix as much as we can.

Bring your stones and crystals to this hands-on, interactive class. We will work together so you can build a grid to help you manifest your dreams. Did you know that crystals help you speed up the time in receiving what it is you want?  You will learn what stones work well together, how to balance your grid, and at least two ways to create grids! Come join the fun! 

*NOTICE OF DATE CHANGE: This class will now run on Thursday 5/15.

In this three hour class we will make traditional scones from the Savoy Hotel as well as novel recipes like Strawberry Scones, Lemon Blueberry Scones, Chocolate Chip scones and Orange Cranberry. You will take home samples of all the varieties. Bring your containers and have a Scone-tastic with new friends! Class size limited so sign up early! All materials included.

Join master wood carver Ken Wise and cooking instructor Chris Toy for a fantastic weekend of hands on Carving and Cooking instruction. Come learn how to carve cooking utensils such as chopsticks, spatulas, and spoons. Then learn how to use them to prepare, cook, and eat some tasty Asian fusion recipes from Chris Toy's cookbooks! The retreat happens on the shores of Merrymeeting Bay in the Butler Head Nature Preserve. A limited number of AirBNB style overnight accommodations with shared bathrooms are available. Contact Chris Toy at christoy.net@gmail.com FMI. About the instructors: Ken Wise has been carving spoons, turning bowls and making Wildlife Art in Mid-Coast Maine for many years. He enjoys sharing the fun and challenges of working with wood through classes and private instruction. Chris Toy, long time cooking instructor, Maine Guide, and author of 6 Asian cookbooks has taught community education, in kitchen stores, and privately around midcoast Maine for many years. *There is a $25.00 non-refundable fee for cancellations.