BRIDGTON — Seven classes will be offered in person at the Webb’s Tavern at the Magic Lantern, 9 Depot Street, on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. from April 24 through May 16. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required. Masks are optional. Membership Fee is $15 for the Session if you did not pay earlier in this academic year. Class Fees for the Spring Session: Single day class is $10; Two-session class is $15: Four-session class is $20.

Classes offered include:
Thoreau’s Walden: Mondays: April 24, May 1
Many who promote an ecocentric lifestyle consider Henry David Thoreau their patron saint. Conservationists rally around his famous phrase, “In wildness is the preservation of the world.” This course will consider Thoreau’s relevance to current environmental concerns by reading and discussing his major work, Walden, now available for purchase at The Bridgton Book Store. The instructor is Ken Gibbs.

Tips and Techniques for Joyful Gardening: Tuesdays: April 25 & May 2
These sessions will include information about planning a garden, ensuring soil is optimum, cleaning the garden in the spring, identifying and controlling weeds without pesticides, composting, gardening to support wildlife, deer-resistant plants, what to do about groundhogs and other critters in the garden, bird feeder and birdbath care, and many other related gardening topics. The instructor is Nancy Donovan.

History of Bridgton Area: Wednesdays: April 26, May 3, 10, 17
This course will cover four topics in the history of the Bridgton area: Bridgton in the 18th  Century; Settlers, Proprietors and Land Speculators; The Timber Industry in Early Bridgton; Stage Roads and Steamships; The Ridge Neighborhood, from Libraries to Opera Stars. The instructor is Michael Davis.

Basics of Interior Design: Monday, May 8
Take a journey throughout the house as we learn about the history and purpose of everyday features, explore design concepts that can be applied in your home, by you, on day one, and gain a better understanding of how to design for a happy, comfortable, and safe home. The instructor is Julie Whelchel.

History of the B&SR Railroad and the B&H Railway: Tuesday, May 9
A presentation of the history of the B&SR Railroad and the B&H Railway with a focus on the economic impacts the railroad had on the town of Bridgton and surrounding areas. When compared to the previous B&SR presentation this one will include more maps and more of a focus on the economic impact on the town of Bridgton. The instructor is Adam Cook.

Staying Active and Safe as You Age: Monday, May 15
During this class, the four types of activities (muscle strength, cardiorespiratory endurance, flexibility, and balance) that must be included to increase physical fitness will be described and activities/exercises to improve each type will be outlined and demonstrated. In addition, home modifications to improve safety in order to decrease the chance of falls will be discussed. The instructor is Nancy Donovan.

Discovery Through Aviation: Tuesday, May 16
Once the author earned her wings, flying became her career, her hobby, and her calling. Finding her true passion changed her life. Her book Finding Myself In Aviation is about so much more than flying. It chronicles this woman’s journey of discovery from an abusive childhood to finally finding freedom in the skies. Mary Build’s story is an inspiration to anyone who has wondered what their true purpose is in life, while her adventures as a pilot will keep you on the edge of your seat. The instructor is Mary Build.
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The Senior College at Bridgton is the home-town program for anyone 50 years or older in Bridgton and surrounding Lakes Region communities to learn new things and meet new friends. Senior College has sessions in the spring, fall, and winter each year that are designed to appeal to every interest. Membership is open to any senior in the Lakes Region.

Reservation Forms are available at the Bridgton Library and at the Senior College website http://www.seniorcollegeatbridgton.org. Everyone should fill out the Reservation Form to reserve a space in the class(es) you wish and return the form. If you are not a member, please enclose a $15.00 check if you wish to become a member. Class Fees are $10, $15, or $20. Mail to: Senior College at Bridgton, P.O. Box 308, Bridgton, ME 04009 If you have questions contact Kappy Sprenger, Senior College Registration, at 207- 647-5593 or seniorcollegebridgton@gmail.com .