Discover how nature’s designs have inspired some of humanity’s most important innovations. Biomimicry is the practice of studying and adapting solutions found in nature to solve human challenges. Examine examples from biomimicry research, including bees’ hexagonal hive structures, seashell spirals, plant burrs (the inspiration for Velcro), and biomedical adhesives modeled on gecko skin. Consider how these and other natural systems continue to influence human technology. Time for questions, hands-on activities, and take-home resources will be included.

Historical markers commemorate historical people, places, and events. In this class, we’ll tackle some big questions: What do these markers tell us? What do they leave out? Who decides, and why? Looking at historical markers in Massachusetts and beyond, we will explore controversies, tell stories, and discover the choices that communities make as they remember their histories.

Explore meaningful ways to give back, whether you’re a retiree, need to fulfill community service hours, or are considering volunteering as a path to a new career. Hear from an experienced volunteer coordinator about how nonprofits identify their needs, recruit effectively, and value their volunteers. Learn how to read volunteer listings to find opportunities that match your skills, availability, and personal passions.

Are you thinking about getting heat pumps for your home? Get an overview of what you should know before talking with installers, including different types of heat pumps, financial incentives, factors that affect annual heating costs, A to Z of the installation process, and resources available through the Electrify Arlington program. Whether you’re ready to make a change or just curious about the options, you’ll leave with the knowledge to make informed decisions. All proceeds from this event go towards the ACE Scholarship fund.

Rising energy costs are a concern for many people. Learn practical strategies for lowering utility bills, including understanding electricity rate options, making cost-effective home improvements, evaluating whether solar panels or heat pumps could save you money, and using heat pumps efficiently. We will also cover demand management programs, available incentives, and resources for low- and moderate-income households. All proceeds from this event go towards the ACE Scholarship fund.

Campy. Thrilling. Iconic. For more than 60 years, the James Bond film franchise has delighted audiences while continually reinventing itself to keep pace with changing times. The Bond films also reflect the culture and politics of the Cold War, offering a fascinating lens through which to examine the era’s geopolitics, consumer culture, gender relations, and more. Through five films—each featuring a different incarnation of 007—this course explores these historical themes: From Russia with Love, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, The Spy Who Loved Me, The Living Daylights, and GoldenEye. Watch the films independently before class, then delve into the historical context and broader themes of each film through lecture and discussion.Class Overview Class 1: From Russia with Love and the Origins of the Cold War, 1945-1963 Class 2: On Her Majesty’s Secret Service and the Upheavals of the Sixties, 1963-1969 Class 3: The Spy Who Loved Me and the Politics of Detente, 1969-1979 Class 4: The Living Daylights and the Cold War Reheats, 1979-1988 Class 5: GoldenEye and the End of the Cold War, 1989-1995