I'm a newbie

Hello Everyone,
My name is John.  I'm a Canadian from Peterborough, Ontario – about 1.5 hrs NE of Toronto.  I'm in my 60's and planning to retire to Chiang Mai after many years as a college professor (computer science).  Although this is only my second trip to Thailand, I'm discovering daily what a beautiful kingdom this is; however, I need to learn at least enough conversational Thai in order to fully appreciate the Thai culture and what this country has to offer to expats… so I would be appreciative if anyone can direct me to Thai classes for BEGINNERS in the Chiang Mai area. 
BTW, does anyone else find that toilet tissue is widely used for many purposes in Thailand, and road lines and traffic lights are only suggestions to drivers?  :-)