In-Person

Patagonia encompasses large portions of southern Argentina and Chile and is often identified as a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts.

Earlier this year, Mike Stillman, a Maine State Guide, traveled to Chile, and, while fishing was his primary reason, he planned some extra days to learn more about the area. In doing so, he explored the city of Buenos Aires and smaller communities, sampled foods in many establishments, and talked with many people who live and work there.

Then he went fishing for the next several days before an interesting return trip to Maine. So come, sit back, and enjoy photos and stories of his South American adventure.

Date: September 9, 2026

Time: 10:00 am - 11:30 am

Location: Fusion Center, room 101

Mike began working in Maine at Baxter State Park between his junior and senior years of high school, returning for extended periods over the following years.

After graduating from college, he and his wife settled in Pennsylvania while she completed her education. During that time, they made the decision to move permanently to Maine.

Alongside his work, Mike learned the craft of building bamboo fly rods—a skill he continues to practice today. He also became a licensed Maine State Guide, a role he still holds, and he regularly travels throughout the United States, Canada, and beyond to pursue his passion for fishing.

In-Person

Free

Date: September 16, 2026

Time: 12-2 pm

Location: Kineowatha Park/Barn

A time to get together and socialize with fellow Gold LEAF members.  This will be a potluck lunch at Kineowatha Park in Wilton from 12 noon until 2 PM.  Donations welcomed.

In-person

We will explore Mindfulness and Meditation in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh (Plum Village) and how they can help us deal with the challenges in our daily lives and in our world.

This will include how to stop, calm, rest, and heal before speaking or acting when upset - so that our actions can be more helpful in our struggling world.

We will listen to some of Thich Nhat Hanh's teachings and will explore ways to bring them into our daily lives, if that appeals to us.

4 sessions

Dates:

September 22, 29, 2026

October 20, 27, 2026

Time: 1 pm-2:30 pm

Location: Education Center, room 113

Martha (Marty) Soule discovered this practice in 1993 and brought it into her life. It helped support her as she raised her children, worked several jobs, and dealt with her mother's cancer, her father's Alzheimers, and other challenges.

After Martha went to her first retreat with Thich Nhat Hanh in 2001, she began a community of practice (Peaceful Heart Sangha) which still meets every Monday evening and every Thursday morning. Martha was ordained as a member of the Order of Interbeing in 2009 and became a Dharma Teacher in 2022.