Join up-and-coming artisan craftsman and maker Grant Hawkes of Wildfolkwanderer for a weekend making beautiful wooden spoons and plenty of curly wood shavings! Spoons are one of the most universal tools of humanity, being crafted and used across the globe for thousands of years. In this course we will explore the details of spoon carving, diving fully into the process of transforming a freshly cut log into a functional and beautiful spoon using simple hand tools. We will cover tool use and care, wood selection, spoon design, carving techniques, and discussions on craft and the role it plays in our lives as we carve together. Over the weekend, each participant will have the opportunity to work on a couple different projects, completing the course with new skills and utensils to take home.

Date: August 3-4, 10:00 am Saturday to 4:00 pm Sunday

Cost: $300-400 sliding scale, meals and accommodation included (see registration form for more details)

Online registration: 

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSelchi5ELeqPjMdd_UqKWVxqDJ4Vc6HUOF3vYMUrTGoAZRAPA/viewform

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. The iconic wild blueberry's 10,000-year history as the original 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! In this class, attendees will learn about Maine's wild blueberry industry while sampling a wide variety of wild blueberry products made by Maine producers.

Paint Night w/ Shirley! Have you ever wanted to paint on a wine glass? Come join us and paint a set of 4 (no stem) wine glasses with beautiful flowers. This class is designed for beginners. Shirley Anderson will lead you step by step through the process of creating a gorgeous set of wine glasses for yourself or as a special gift. This class has an additional materials fee for supplies of $20, payable to the instructor on the night of the workshop.

Have you taken computer classes before and been totally lost? Well, this unique class is for those who are looking for simple and practical instructions. Your patient instructor has trained 1000s of older adults with 4 and 5-star ratings! We will discuss the popular YouTube website that offers 1000s of free informative and entertaining videos, show a few email tips and tricks, demonstrate online shopping, visit AARP and other related websites for seniors, use some shortcut keys, and navigate Google Search to do research and get information. So, if you have been frustrated with other classes, consider taking this refreshing and informative computer class for older adults! You won’t be disappointed!

Are you interested in obtaining a USCG Captain’s License? Do you want to learn the differences between an Operator Uninspected Passenger Vessel (OUPV) license and a Master 100GT license, and what experience the Coast Guard requires for each? These informational sessions will help answer these questions and others about the two licenses. Also discussed will be the different methods for completing the course requirements. We plan to offer both courses in Maine during the Fall of 2024, representing the Captain School Key West/Miami. This information session is free, but please register in advance, so the instructor knows how many individuals will be attending and can send login instructions.

Are you interested in obtaining a USCG Captain’s License? Do you want to learn the differences between an Operator Uninspected Passenger Vessel (OUPV) license and a Master 100GT license, and what experience the Coast Guard requires for each? This information session is free, but please register in advance, so the instructor knows how many individuals will be attending and can send login instructions.

Join Shirley Groody, a seasoned artist and PVAEC instructor, in a whimsical painting adventure! Create your own charming honey bee masterpiece on a wooden truck cutout. Shirley’s expertise and engaging teaching style cater to students of all levels. All necessary supplies will be provided, but feel free to bring your own brushes if you have them. Immerse yourself in the joy of art and bring home a unique, buzzing creation!

A beautifully arranged charcuterie and cheese board is a sure way to impress, whether you're entertaining at home or contributing to a pot luck. The best way to improve upon this classic appetizer is to fill your board with locally-sourced cheeses, meats and accouterments. In this class, students will be introduced to a wide variety of Maine producers; sample their products and learn how to incorporate them into your next charcuterie board. Attendees will also explore the fundamentals of arranging a beautiful charcuterie board - from cutting techniques for meats and cheeses to selecting and arranging eye-catching garnishes. This class will offer plenty of opportunity to taste products and practice various cutting and arranging techniques. All materials and product lists/recipes will be provided.