Fall 2025 Classes
Black and White Photography: A world without color.
Dave Hursty
Tues., Sept, 23 - 9:30-11:30am
The class will focus on the aesthetics and techniques of black and white photography. David will discuss how to “see” in black and white and take you on a journey from the original color photographic image to the transformation into a black and white fine art
print. Throughout the process you will have the opportunity to ask questions about the artistic and technical choices David makes.
David Hursty was first introduced to photography in his father’s Rudimentary home darkroom. Though his academic background is in history, his career in independent schools across the country allowed him to continue developing his passion. He made use of school darkrooms both to create his own work and to teach black and white photography to interested students. Since retiring, David has devoted more time to his photography. He is a permanent exhibiting member of Gallery 302 in Bridgton and Full Circle Artisans Gallery in Cornish, with his work also featured in a variety of other venues throughout Maine. His recently published book, Winter in Black and White, is available at Gallery 302 and the Bridgton Public Library. You can also view more of his work online.
Pollinators Found in Maine Gardens
Nancy Donovan
Wed., Sept. 24, 9:30-11:30am
The pollinators found in Maine gardens include bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, moths, wasps, flies, birds, bats, beetles, and other insects. Many pollinator species that are native to Maine are facing growing threats. During the process of completing theUniversity of Maine Master Gardener Volunteer program, Nancy became interested indeveloping her gardens to support pollinators. Nancy will review, with pictures andinformation, the pollinators she finds in her gardens and methods that can easilyincluded in all gardens to support Maine’s native pollinators. Nancy collects Monarch butterfly eggs from the milkweed on her land and raises and releases them. If she still has monarchs at the time of the class, attendees will be invited to watch a release.
Nancy Donovan completed her University of Maine Master Gardener Volunteer certification in 2020. She serves on the State of Maine Pollinator-Friendly Garden Certification Committee and has provided invited presentations on the topic of pollinator gardening. Nancy writes the biweekly garden article titled, “Down the Garden Path, for the BridgtonNews.
Outdoor Recreation in Maine
Matt Markot
Friday, Sept., 26, 9:30-11:30
Outdoor recreation in Maine - it's a big part of what makes Maine "vacationland." In this session Matt Markot will talk about outdoor recreation, what it is, why it matters, where it comes from, and where it might be headed. Matt will talk about Loon Echo Land Trust's role in facilitating outdoor recreation across the Lake Region and how the organization is planning for the future of "time spent outside." The session will also discuss the growing movement to reduce barriers to outdoor access including ADA compliant infrastructure and programs to get young people, older Mainers, and new Mainers outside.
Matt Markot has been Executive Director at LELT since 2019. Prior to that he worked for the Maine Chapter of The Nature Conservancy and as an AmeriCorps volunteer with the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands. Matt has lived in Bridgton since 2013 and volunteers as vice chair of the Town's Open Space Committee.
Gallery 302 Tour – A Celebration of Local Art & Artists
Oct. 7, - 9:30-11:30
Join us for a special Tuesday visit in October to Gallery 302, a vibrant artist cooperative in the heart of Bridgton, Maine. Operated by the Bridgton Art Guild since 2003, the gallery features the original work of over 40 juried member-artists. During this enriching walk-through, you’ll explore an inspiring range of artwork—paintings, pottery, photography, fabric art, wood sculpture, jewelry, and more—while learning about the history and mission of the gallery. Several artists will be on hand to share insights into their creative process, offering a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into their work. This visit is a wonderful opportunity to engage with the arts, celebrate local talent, and connect with fellow lifelong learners.
***This class will be held at Gallery 302, 112 Maine Street, Bridgton***
Estate Planning
Andrew Pierce
Thurs., Oct. 9, - 9:30-11:30am
In this class, Attorney Andrew Pierce will guide participants through the fundamentals of estate planning. Topics will include the purpose and function of wills and trusts, the use of revocable transfer on death deeds, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Andy will also explain the probate process and how it fits into overall estate planning. This session is ideal for anyone looking to better understand how to protect their assets, ensure their wishes are honored, and simplify the legal process for loved ones.
Attorney Andrew Pierce is a partner at the Hastings Law Office, P.A. in Fryeburg, Maine. Andy and his family have lived in Fryeburg for the past 10 years.. Andy is licensed to practice law in both Maine and New Hampshire, with a focus on estate planning, probate, and real estate law. His practice is centered on helping individuals and families plan for the future with clarity and confidence.
Classical music: What’s not to love?!
Gary Hardie
Monday, Oct. 14, - 9:30-11:30am
Join us for a relaxed and inspiring exploration of classical music. We’ll listen to some of my favorite pieces and uncover simple, powerful ways to deepen your enjoyment of them. Along the way, we’ll dispel a few common myths and focus on just a handful of essential guidelines that can truly transform your listening experience. Whether you're new to classical music or looking to reconnect with it, this class will leave you eager to hear more!
Gary Hardie is a retired professional cellist and teacher. He taught music at the college level until he saved up enough to retire. He is passionate about classical music, its wide variety, and its special magic.
Legends, Lore & Lives of Old Bridgton: Three True (and Nearly True) Tales from the Past
Mike Davis
A Shrewd Yankee Trader: The Inventive Mind of Merchant Andrews
Fri., Oct., 10, - 9:30-11:30am
A biographic presentation on one of Bridgton's most remarkable early residents, the merchant king of North Bridgton, Samuel Andrews. Featuring tales of water, fire and rum in old North Bridgton, come hear the strange account of his life, death, and hopes for the hereafter, in which folk songs and self-propelled carriages vie with chemistry and buried treasure.
Westward Ho! Bridgton's Pioneers on the American Frontier
Fri., Oct. 17, 9:30-11-30am
Many a son of New England went west in the olden days to seek his fortune and grow up with the country; from Gold Rush '49's and Texas Rangers to Cowboys, Outlaws and Cavalry Scouts, meet the remarkable men and women of Bridgton who once braved the Oregon Trail or Transcontinental Railroad to the Old West. Featuring a special extra supplement on the Extermination of the Rattlesnake in Western Maine.
The Beast of Bridgton: Haunting Tales from Mt. Henry
Fri., Oct. 24, - 9:30 - 11:30am
In honor of Hallowe'en, come gather 'round the hearth for legends of the dreaded Wolfaboomus, old time Bridgton's very own boogeyman. From 1886 to the present day, things have roared, screeched, and gone bump in the night on old Mt. Henry. After hearing these stories, you too will wonder; is he still in the woods?
Mike Davis has entertained many attendees of the Senior College with his colorful tales of days gone by.. He is the author of the Bridgton News column “In Ye Olden Times” and has lectured at local Historical Societies. Come enjoy the history of the past brought to life through Mike’s presentations.
Chiropractic Care
Wed., Oct. 15 - 9:30-11:30
Dr. Derek Eagan
Join Dr. Eagan for an insightful class exploring the principles and benefits of chiropractic care. Dr. Eagan will discuss the evolution of the practice, clarify what chiropractic truly entails, and explain how it can support your overall health and well-being. Learn how chiropractic care can contribute to a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life.
Dr. Derek Eagan is a chiropractor with over 16 years of experience serving the Bridgton community. A proud graduate of Fryeburg Academy, he was raised in Brownfield, Maine, where he and his family continue to live and remain active in local community causes. Dr. Eagan brings a deep commitment to patient care and community wellness.
Weight Management
Wed., Oct. 22 - 9:30-11:30am
Dr. Suzanne Dater
Dr. Suzanne Dater will present evidence-based information about comprehensive weight management for weight loss, weight gain, and weight maintenance. She will include current guidelines regarding diet programs, nutrition, and components of a balanced diet. Dr. Dater will also briefly discuss current medications and the applications to weight management.
Dr. Suzanne Dater has been board-certified in internal medicine since the year 2000, and board-certified in obesity medicine since 2019. She worked at Bridgton Internal Medicine for 12 years and then moved her practice to Intermed in Portland. Dr. Datereturned to Bridgton to establish a Direct Care Practice called Living Well Adult Medicine & Weight Management in Bridgton
Eyes in the Sky: How Drones Support Volunteer Firefighting
Todd Perrault and Dan Harden
Thurs., Oct. 23 - 9:30-11:30am
Join members of the local Volunteer Fire Department for an inside look at how drone technology is transforming emergency response in rural communities. Learn how drones assist in wildfire monitoring, search and rescue operations, structure fire assessment, and hazardous material detection—all while keeping firefighters safer on the ground. This session will include real-life examples, a demonstration (weather permitting), and a chance to see how technology and tradition work together to serve and protect our town.
Deputy Fire Chief Todd Perrault has served with the Bridgton Fire Department for over 40 years and is also the town’s Director of Emergency Management. A lifelong Bridgton resident, Todd is deeply committed to the community and leads the town’s growing drone program, which supports fire, police, search and rescue operations, and crowd management during major events.
Dan Harden has been with the department for 5 years and a Bridgton resident for over 20. Dan is an active member of the drone team and has organized the town’s Winter Carnival for the past 12 years. Both Todd and Dan are passionate about serving and strengthening the Bridgton community.
