Join us for an exciting and engaging Beginners Photography Class at SAD 1, held every Tuesday night from 6 PM to 8 PM! This class is designed for those who want to explore the art of photography, whether you're a complete novice or looking to sharpen your skills.

Throughout the course, we will delve into various photography styles, focusing on landscapes and macro/close-up photography. You'll learn how to look at the world through a photographer's eye, discovering the beauty in everyday scenes and intricate details.

Our sessions will cover essential topics, including:

- *Composition:* Understand the fundamental principles of framing your shots to create visually appealing images.

- *Lighting:* Learn how to harness natural and artificial light to enhance your photographs and set the mood.

- *Camera Operation:* Gain hands-on experience with your camera, mastering its settings and features for optimal results.

Each week, we'll combine discussions, demonstrations, and practical exercises to ensure a well-rounded learning experience. Whether you’re capturing sweeping landscapes or the delicate beauty of a flower petal, you’ll develop the skills and confidence to express your artistic vision through your lens.

Join us for an inspiring journey into the world of photography, and start capturing the moments that matter! All skill levels are welcome, and participants are required to bring their own cameras. We look forward to seeing you there!

***DO NOT PAY UNTIL AUGUST 2025***

About our teacher:

Jason Grass is a talented and accomplished photographer known for his artistic vision and dedication to the craft. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Maine, Jason has cultivated a strong foundation in the principles of design and visual storytelling. His academic background has provided him with the tools necessary to explore and express his creativity through photography.

Throughout his career, Jason has had the privilege of training under master photographers from around the world. These experiences have not only refined his technical skills but also broadened his artistic perspective, allowing him to develop a unique style that resonates with audiences. His commitment to continuous learning and growth in the field has positioned him as a respected figure among peers and within the photography community.

As a former member of the Professional Photographers of America (PPA), Jason has been actively involved in promoting excellence in the photography profession. His participation in this esteemed organization reflects his dedication to maintaining high standards in his work and contributing to the overall advancement of the industry.

Jason's portfolio showcases a diverse range of subjects and styles, from stunning landscapes to portraits. His ability to capture the essence of moments and emotions has earned him recognition and appreciation from clients and fellow photographers alike. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Jason continues to push the boundaries of his craft, creating compelling images that leave a lasting impression. In addition to his photography, Jason is an advocate for the arts, often engaging in community projects and workshops aimed at inspiring the next generation of creatives. Through his work and mentorship, he aspires to share his knowledge and passion for photography, fostering a love for the art form in others. As he looks to the future, Jason Grass remains committed to his journey as a photographer, constantly seeking new challenges and opportunities to grow. With an impressive background and a passion for the craft, he is poised to make a lasting impact in the world of photography.

Are you or someone you know new at navigating information on the different kinds of assisted living out there? Kaitlyn Morse, founder of Maine Aging Partners, understands the difficult road many face when looking into assisted living and wanted to do something to help families and loved ones navigating what assisted living is (and isn't). During this one-night presentation, she’ll discuss how it gets paid for and a roadmap for your loved ones to set expectations for the process. After the presentation, Kaitlyn will have time for a Q&A.

Please note: All information shared covers what independent living, assisted living, memory care, and nursing home facilities look like in Maine and may not apply to sites in other states.

Minimum: 4   |   Maximum: 10

Thinking about starting your own business but not sure where to begin? This 4-week hands-on course will guide you from idea to launch—step by step. Designed for aspiring entrepreneurs and side hustlers, this program simplifies the business startup process in practical, achievable ways. You’ll explore how to create a business plan, choose a legal structure, register your business in Maine, manage finances, and develop your brand—all with expert guidance and useful take-home tools.

What You’ll Walk Away With:

A business plan draft tailored to your idea

A registration & licensing checklist specific to Maine

A startup budget and marketing plan

Branding exercises and launch strategies

Confidence to open your business—your way—in 30 days

Who Should Enroll: Anyone with a business idea—no prior experience needed! Whether you’re dreaming of a bakery, a freelance service, or an Etsy shop, this course is for you.

Come learn how to decorate sugar cookies with me! Because of the demand and popularity of the decorated sugar cookies I have decided to teach a beginners class on how to decorate. I will provide 6 cookies and royal icing for decorating. Each month will have a different theme that I have preplanned. (September-fall, October- Halloween, November-Thanksgiving, December- Christmas) This is a beginners class so everyone is welcome! Check out my website at bakedbycam.com 

Instructor: Casey Marsh - Casey fell in love with baking years ago while baking annual Christmas cookies with her mother and grandmother.  She has always been a creative and artistic person (who also  LOVES to feed people) so it only made sense that she start a business doing just that! She is a fully licensed home baker. She completed the baking and pastry associates program at York County Community College, but the majority of her skills are self taught.

Have you ever wanted to learn how to hand embroider? Look no further! In this two-night class, Heather will teach you the ins and outs to get you started on your hand embroidery journey. You will learn basic stitches, learn about materials you can embroider, and understand how the right needle and thread can make all the difference. This is a great class for all skill levels. By the end of the class, you will have completed an embroidery piece that you can display proudly in your home.

Don't forget to bring your imagination!

A kit fee of $25 is due at the start of class to the instructor.

All participants will receive a $25.00 American Indian Beading Design kit in which instructions are included. Together, we will work through the directions for a beaded rosette over two class periods. Beaded rosettes were typically used as a decorative artform that symbolizes wealth and status. Rosettes were used as trade items. Now, native artisans attach these beaded forms to a wide variety of garments, from headdresses or bonnets to shirts, pants, moccasins, and gloves. Let’s Create for Useful Sake!

This workshop is designed to loosen and stretch the hip joint so that movement in that area is easier and less tense. We will combine some restorative yoga poses with some that will increase flexibility and strengthen the body (especially the hip joints). Much of what we cover can be done at home after the workshop so you can continue opening the hips and leg muscles on your own.

All equipment will be provided for you. Information learned through yoga classes and workshops should not be considered a substitute for medical advice. 

All participants will have an opportunity to learn knitting by making a winter hat out of yarn. Knitting is believed to have originated in the Middle East in the 5th century and traveled to Europe with wool traders soon afterwards. We will cast on, knit, knit two together, bind off and hand sew. All yarn materials are provided including instructions. All participants need to purchase a set of size US11 knitting needles. Let’s stay warm and Create for Useful’s Sake!

BIO: As a retired educator with a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction, Bette Kersting Bell now teaches creative activities that have useful outcomes. These experiential workshops happen at schools, libraries, community settings or conferences. Wherever learning takes place, it will always be fun, hands-on, and have a useful product. She can be reached at francescalucia.com@gmail.com or 205-420-8938.