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.

Maple syrup has a long history and cultural significance in Maine. It is a very diverse product with many more uses than just a pancake topper (although that is a particularly delicious use). In this program we will discuss the history, cultural significance, and current production practices of maple syrup producers. We will taste and discuss the various grades of syrup to highlight flavor differences and specific uses for the various grades. We will also taste maple products including candies, cream, and sugar. Don't miss this sweet event! This interactive class is presented by the Maine Maple Producers Association.

Instructor: Jason Lilley, Sustainable Agriculture Professional for University of Maine Cooperative Extension

This class takes place at Maine Tasting Center, 506 Old Bath Road, Wiscasset.

5 to 6 p.m. Thursday, 9/28

Maine Tasting Center, 506 Old Bath Road, Wiscasset

$35

In a Gateless Writing Salon, we sink into the subconscious via a five-minute sudden writing prompt to allow what wants to spill onto the page, and then move into a more expansive time to write (30 minutes) "alone among others" prompted by poetry and snippets of prose. After, we come back together to read our new work fresh from the page. No critique is given, just a few pearls of purely positive feedback. These sessions are excellent for writers at every stage, from curious beginners to seasoned authors. You will leave class with at least one draft piece, possibly two. Students must have an audio- and video-enabled laptop, desktop, or tablet and reliable internet connection to participate in class. We do not recommend using a smartphone.

The iconic wild blueberry’s 10,000-year history as the indigenous superfood of Maine is an age-old story packed with flavor. We’ll leave you in good taste as you see for yourself what sets the Maine wild blueberry apart from the rest! Discover the difference between the original Maine wild blueberry and hybridized “grocery store” blueberries through a guided tasting experience showcasing a variety of blueberry products made by Mainers. 

This class takes place at Maine Tasting Center, 506 Old Bath Road, Wiscasset.

If life-saving techniques might be part of your job, this American Heart Association-approved Heartsaver training for adults and children covers CPR, first aid, and the use of an AED. This 4.5-hour class includes practice with life-size manikins that simulate the effects of life-saving interventions. The instructor will email certification cards about a week after training is completed.

This meditation class is suitable for everyone, from beginners to advanced practitioners. We will come together once a week to sit in meditation. Natural meditation is a form of meditation in which we let go of the need to do something and learn to just sit and observe what arises - our thoughts, feelings, mental perceptions, and emotions. Through this process, we slowly reduce our reactivity to events, develop calm abiding, and gain insight into the nature of our intrinsic mind, the non-dualistic mind beyond all thoughts and concepts. A simple yet profound way to work towards developing equanimity in the face of life's many challenges. Al D’Andrea has been guiding meditation practitioners for many years as a practice leader of the Portland Maine Natural Meditation Practice Group, which has sat weekly for over 25 years. His many years of individual meditation practice led to numerous weekend and weeklong retreats with prominent Western and Tibetan masters. Al is a professional stage director, actor and playwright who came to Tibetan Buddhism in the 90s. He has always been drawn to a study of the human condition through his work in the theater. He is currently Artistic Director of Snowlion Repertory Company, where he has blended his spiritual and professional work into a common life’s path.

A series of classes on current geopolitical issues in the world can provide valuable insights and knowledge about the dynamics, complexities, and key aspects of global politics. These classes will equip you with a solid foundation in understanding and analyzing current political issues in the world. You will gain a broader awareness of the global political landscape, enabling you to make informed judgments, engage in constructive discussions, and contribute meaningfully to discussions on global affairs.It will thus enable you to become active participants in society, and contribute to positive changes in our communities and the wider global context.

This is a fun and exciting workshop in which students will participate in theater games, acting exercises, and structured improvisations to develop their creativity, spontaneity and people skills. The class is designed to help participants explore and access their imagination; help overcome shyness; and build self-confidence. They will learn to express themselves fully and freely, engage their adventurous spirit, create something from virtually nothing, develop an ensemble, and laugh and play the hours away while adding a colorful dimension to an already colorful Fall season. All are welcome to join this unique and invigorating theater workshop.