Spring 2026 Classes
Painting with The Painted Turtle
Karen Daniels
Tuesday, Apr 14 9:30 - 11:30 Limit: 16 participants
Join Karen for a fun, relaxed painting experience where creativity matters more than perfection. With her lighthearted humor, Karen will show participants how to turn a blank canvas into a colorful work of art. This class focuses on enjoying the process, building confidence, and discovering that art truly can be for everyone.
All materials will be supplied by Karen. Cost of materials is $35.00 (in addition to class fee).
Karen Daniels is the creative force behind Paint the Town and The Painted Turtle Art Studio and has been inspiring the community for over 12 years. Known for her playful personality, easy-to-follow instruction, and welcoming teaching style, she makes painting approachable for artists of all ages and skills. Karen believes art should be joyful, accessible , and shared.
Cemeteries: Open-Air Museums of Art, History and Nature
Eileen Burk, Bruce Burk, Leigh Hayes
Fridays, Apr 17 (indoor) & Apr 24 (outdoor) 9:30 - 11-30
For places so often associated only with loss, local cemeteries are rich with discovery, beauty, and stories waiting to be told. In the first session, we will explore the natural, cultural, and historical elements of gravestones and graveyards—from symbolic carvings and headstone materials to intriguing names, notable individuals, children’s memorials, and even the lichens and insects that inhabit these spaces. In the second session, the class will visit one or two local cemeteries (locations TBD) to observe and discuss these features firsthand. This engaging two-part experience invites curiosity, reflection, and a new appreciation for these peaceful outdoor museums.
Eileen Burk is a retired educator whose fascination with cemeteries grew from her interest in architecture and symbolism. Bruce Burk, also retired, enjoys exploring Maine’s historic cemeteries. Leigh Macmillen Hayes, a retired teacher and Maine Naturalist, delights in sharing her knowledge and sense of wonder about the natural world.
Global Economic, Market and Geopolitical Outlook
John Doughty
Thursday, Apr 16 9:30 - 11:30
This presentation walks through the major economic, market, and geopolitical forces shaping the global landscape in 2026. We focus on why growth remains resilient despite elevated risks, how easing policy uncertainty, fiscal support, and AI-driven productivity are supporting markets, and where vulnerabilities are building beneath the surface. We also highlight key global and geopolitical flashpoints that could impact economic growth.
John Doughty is the Chief Investment Officer at R. M. Davis, managing over $8 billion in assets. He leads researchand oversees the firm’s investment strategy. John specializes in energy, economics, markets, and geopolitics, regularly presenting on global trends.
The Maine Mature Drivers Project
Dr. Tom Meuser
Tuesday, Apr 21 9:30 - 11:30am
This session examines how physical and cognitive changes can affect driving safety and offers practical strategies to maintain independence and mobility. Participants learn how the Bureau of Motor Vehicles reviews medical concerns, ways to self-regulate for safer driving, and how to plan for a smooth transition from driving when the time comes.
Dr. Tom Meuser is a clinical psychologist, applied gerontologist, and social scientist based in Portland, Maine. He previously served as Founding Director of the University of New England’s Center for Excellence in Aging & Health and now works as a geriatric neuropsychologist and researcher-educator with the Maine Bureaus of Motor Vehicles and Highway Safety.
A Cure for Operaphobia
or Why Am I So Afraid of the Opera?
Joe Devito
Thursdays, Apr 23 & 30, May 7 9:30 - 11:30am
We will learn what opera is, how it’s performed, and what’s it like to attend one. Significant ignorance of the subject is highly desired. The first session will be interactive and the other two will explore two very popular operas from both a dramatic and musical perspective. Knowledge of music is unnecessary but enjoying music is definitely helpful. Warning: Humor may be employed in these sessions!
Joe Devito For 20+ years, Joe has been lecturing on the Metropolitan Opera video performances at Fryeburg Academy. He is a one-time semi-pro baritone.
Financial Fraud
Payton Kennison
Tuesday, Apr 28 9:30 - 11:30
Financial fraud is becoming more common and sophisticated. This session will focus on scams targeting seniors, by phone, email and online. Participants will learn how to recognize red flags, protect personal and financial information, and take action if fraud is suspected. Attendees will leave feeling more confident and empowered to protect themselves and their finances.
Payton Kennison currently serves as Branch Manager for KeyBank in Norway. He currently has 4-years of bank management experience. His professional background includes helping individuals protect their finances in an increasingly digital world.
A Visit to Patch Farm
BrennaMae Thomas-Googings
Tues, May 5, 9:30 - 11:30 at 570 Main St, Denmark Limit: 20 participants
Patch Farm is a small, certified organic farm in Denmark employing no-till, human-powered methods. They use tarps, deep compost, and intention to give their plants healthy soil to grow in! Come and see what they are up to.
BrennaMae Thomas-Googings has been growing the vegetables at Patch Farm since 2014. she loves being with her two kids and being a part of the food community here in the Lakes Region!
Downsizing Made Easy
Rachel Davis
Tuesday, May 12 9:30 - 11:30
Thinking about simplifying your home or planning a move? This session will guide you through the downsizing process, from deciding what to keep to understanding housing options, market timing, and financial considerations. Learn practical strategies, reduce stress, and gain confidence as you plan a transition that supports your lifestyle and needs.
Rachel Davis is a Real Estate Broker with more than 32 years of industry experience and has a Master’s degree in Social Work. She specializes in helping older adults navigate the emotional and practical aspects of buying and selling homes.
Lake Region Recovery Center
Tracey Martin and Theresa Dumond
Thursday, May 14 9:30 - 11;30
Come listen and ask questions to learn about the mission and work being done at the LRRC.
A community hub supporting people of all ages and backgrounds, LRRC helps teens navigate life choices, assists elders facing isolation or grief, supports single parents, and aids those experiencing homelessness. We help with jobs, housing, medical appointments, and paperwork. At LRRC, everyone has a place, support, and hope.
Tracey Martin is the Executive Director of Lakes Region Recovery Center, and has served as a Recovery Coach since 2018. Theresa Dumond is a Lead Recovery Coach at LRRC, and a Certified Recovery Coach.
