Bridgewater   

Explore how the wartime strategies of Churchill, Roosevelt, Stalin, Hitler, and Mussolini shaped the course—and outcome—of World War II. Each leader brought a distinct perspective, deeply influenced by their experiences in World War I, which informed their decisions in the global conflict that followed. This seminar examines how leadership at the highest level determined the direction of the war, often in defiance of expert counsel. Through their choices, we’ll see how war molded these men—and how they, in turn, molded war. This is World War II from the top down. Who among them proved to be the greatest strategist?

This in-person course traces the story of immigration to America from the arrival of the English in the 17th century through the 21st century. We’ll explore why people came, where they settled, the challenges they faced, and the lasting impact they’ve had on the nation. Sessions will include PowerPoint presentations and lively, thought-provoking discussions designed to deepen understanding and encourage participation.

In this course we will explore our supplies, shading techniques in still life drawing, learning how to show light, break things down into shapes, and negative and positive space. We will cover composition and proportion in landscapes, background, middle ground, foreground, perspective drawing using vanishing points, and proportion in figure drawing. Learn techniques and develop skills to help you build confidence and find your own personal style as well. Supplies needed: (can be purchased at- Michaels, Jo-Anns, Ocean-State Job Lot, Five Below) Drawing paper- 9 x12 pad wirebound version allows you to tear out pages, Drawing pencils- a set of graphite that includes 2H, HB, 2B, 4B, 8B, Kneaded eraser and a White eraser- avoid pink pearl they can rip paper, and Blending tool- called a stump or tortillon-used for blending.

Calling all music lovers—this is not your typical lecture series. This course is a fist-pumping, head-nodding, lyric-deconstructing journey through the music of protest, rebellion, and revolution—past and present. Each week, we’ll explore powerful themes like racial injustice, anti-capitalism, mental health stigma, women’s empowerment, and youth-led uprisings through the lens of music that demands to be heard. From icons you know—Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, and Aretha Franklin—to modern firebrands like Kendrick Lamar, Taylor Swift, Macklemore, and Logic, we’ll pair legendary anthems with contemporary tracks to see how music fights back across generations.   Each session includes two main songs (usually one rock/pop and one rap/hip-hop), lyric analysis, music videos, and live performances.

Over six weeks, members will build foundational skills, from understanding water control and layering, to learning how to show light and shadows. You will learn both wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry techniques. We will be inspired by landscapes, still life, flowers and figures.

This series covers the first years, Sep.1939 – Dec.1941 of World War Two from the viewpoint of Britain and the rest of Europe, before the United States entered this conflict. Beginning with the Peace Treaty at the end of World War One, with its effects on both the Axis and Allied powers in various parts of Europe, the Middle East and the Far East, and up to the December 7^th, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, when the United States declared war on Japan, making it a true World War. David Barrett was a young child living in London during the Blitz, and his memory of this important time adds to the understanding of this presentation.

Together we will embark on learning the basics of Massachusetts Native Wild Birds. We will start with our introduction and meet my copilot, Coco the Red Tailed Hawk. We will also discuss the distinctions and habits of songbirds, raptors, waterfowl, gamebirds, and shorebirds. We will discuss diseases, zoonotics, poisons, and most importantly how to keep our wild birds safe.

Are you a maker who wants to further their craft skills or a crafting novice who is looking for a creative hobby? Join us in this interactive course where participants will explore a variety of art and craft mediums each week. This course aims for you to spark creativity in a new arts and craft area or find joy in returning to a pastime favorite! This is a judgment-free zone for creative exploration, collaboration, and finding your favorite way to create. No prior experience required—just excitement about exploring your creative potential!

In this course, we will discuss the struggles that often accompany growing older, and how to cope effectively with them. We will consider the physical and cognitive changes that can develop, the various losses that are common with aging, and the effects of society’s attitudes toward older people. We will also emphasize the importance of maintaining autonomy and reimagining one’s purpose in later life. Each session will include a presentation and class discussion.

This course will show the origins of flight and elaborate on how modern-day aircraft fly. Planes stay aloft by the use of turbine engines and wing design.  The science behind this will be discussed by showing examples and explaining the principles of flight.  The class will also include the beginnings of rocket development, explaining the NASA space programs and their achievements. A full review of the Challenger Disaster, what really happened and why it was allowed to happen will be discussed.  We will review the principles of buoyancy, (how do large ships keep from sinking), along with other scientific principles and other theories using physics. All math will be done by the instructor with a full explanation of the problem being shown. Join us in this course and learn about the science we use every day.