Speaking For A Change

The Beach Boys: America’s Band and Their Timeless Sound
2026-01-19 14:00 - 15:30 (America/Chicago) | Private Venue
With Brian Wilson’s death on June 11, 2025, American music lost one of its most dynamic and original creators. As co-founder of the Beach Boys, Wilson was the musical genius behind the California sound, melding lush harmonies, inventive arrangements, and emotional depth into pop music in ways few have ever done. From iconic early hits like Surfin’ U.S.A. to masterpieces like Pet Sounds and Good Vibrations, his work continues to inspire musicians across genres.
The Beach Boys created an unmistakably American sound — sunny, inventive, and layered with harmonies that captured the spirit of an era. Emerging from Southern California in the early 1960s, they became the soundtrack of surfboards, convertibles, and endless summers.
Yet their music was far more sophisticated than it first appeared. Brian Wilson, their creative force, blended rock, jazz, and classical influences to craft songs that still feel fresh decades later.
The Beach Boys constantly pushed boundaries from early hits like Surfin’ U.S.A. and California Girls to the groundbreaking Pet Sounds album and the iconic Good Vibrations. Their work influenced everyone from the Beatles to today’s indie bands. Behind the catchy tunes were stories of sibling rivalries, innovation in the studio, and the complicated personal struggles that shaped their artistry.
This fascinating multimedia program traces the history of the Beach Boys — from their modest beginnings in Hawthorne, California, to their rightful place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
With fabulous music clips, rare behind-the-scenes stories, and fascinating cultural context, we’ll rediscover why the Beach Boys remain one of American music history’s most important and beloved groups.
Whether you grew up with their records or are hearing them with new ears, their story is as moving as their melodies.

Benjamin Franklin
2026-01-20 18:30 - 20:00 | Zoom
Benjamin Franklin has been called “The First American.” Certainly, no life can compare to his. Benjamin Franklin was one of the most successful businessmen in American history. Although Franklin started his life in poverty, he grew to be phenomenally wealthy.
Franklin was a fantastic businessman, a brilliant writer, a political leader of immeasurable importance to America, a world-renowned scientist, and his inventions have been credited with saving countless lives throughout the centuries. And Franklin was also one of the funniest, most charming, and highly respected men of all time
In this fast-moving multimedia presentation, we will look at all aspects of the life of the amazing

Benjamin Franklin. He invented the lightning rod, bifocal glasses, the Franklin stove (which heated American homes for many years), the first working pedometer, and so many other practical items. But I think one of his greatest inventions is a little harder to recognize. Click here to read a short piece about what I consider Benjamin Franklin’s greatest invention. This exciting and unexpected multimedia presentation will examine Franklin’s immensely important role in shaping American business, giving voice to the new American nation, and transforming the world through his experiments and inventions.
COST
The program is available for a minimum contribution of $5.00, which helps support my work and allows me to continue offering engaging content.
PAYMENT OPTIONS
Cash/Check
Payable to: Barry Bradford
Mail to:
Barry Bradford
P.O. Box #177
Deerfield, IL 60015
Please write Ben in the subject line.
PayPal
Pay securely via PayPal:

(Please note: PayPal deducts 10% of your donation as a fee. I receive $4.50 per $5.00 donation.)
Venmo
Send to: @B-Bradford-1
Please include Ben in the note.
Zelle
Use the email address: Barry1776@ATT.NET
Include Ben in the note.
WAIVER OPTION
If you cannot afford to pay or feel my programs aren’t worth $5.00, you are welcome to attend for free or contribute less. Just email me to request a waiver—no questions asked! This one-time request will cover all future programs. I completely understand the challenges of living on a tight budget and offer this with compassion.
REGISTRATION LINK
Click Here to Register
DIDN’T RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM LINK?
If you don’t receive a confirmation email after registering, it means your sign-up wasn’t completed. Be sure to:

Check your spam folder for the confirmation email.
Save the confirmation email once you find it.

If you still can’t locate the email, return to the website and register again. Unfortunately, I am unable to manually send you the link, as it is generated directly by Zoom.

The Lifer And Career Of George Clooney
2026-01-23 12:00 - 13:30 | Seaford Public Library, 2234 Jackson Avenue, Seaford, NY, 11783, United States
George Clooney is one of the most celebrated actors and cultural icons of our time. From his breakout role as Dr. Doug Ross on ER to his commanding performances in Syriana and The Descendants, George Clooney has captivated audiences with his unique blend of charisma, talent, and versatility.
This multimedia program provides an in-depth look into the life and career of an actor who has become a true Hollywood legend.
In addition to his award-winning performances, Clooney’s filmography includes beloved hits such as Ocean’s Eleven, Michael Clayton, Batman and Robin, The Ides of March, and Up in the Air.
As an A-list producer and director, George Clooney has shaped the cinematic landscape, earning critical acclaim for films such as Confessions Of A Dangerous Mind and Good Night and Good Luck. His ability to bring depth and charm to his roles has cemented him as a leading figure in the entertainment world.
Beyond Hollywood, George Clooney is renowned for his humanitarian efforts and political activism, including advocacy for refugees and support for disaster relief efforts. A committed family man, he has balanced his personal life with his high-profile career, inspiring millions around the world. Don’t miss this engaging program that celebrates Clooney’s remarkable journey—sign up today!
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This Program is FREE and On Zoom!
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!

What Just Happened - January 2025 Current Events Uniper)
2026-01-27 14:00 - 15:00 | Uniper
Once a month, you can participate in a current events presentation and discussion with a twist. Award-winning professional historian Barry Bradford will help us learn “What Just Happened?”
This session is unique because we will not just discuss our opinions about the news but also learn the history behind the events and their underlying significance. We’ll discuss several of the most exciting events of the month, and there will be plenty of time for you to ask questions and offer your thoughts.
IMPORTANT NOTE: ALL comments and questions must be respectfully asked using appropriate language. Speeches and misinformation will be terminated at the moderator’s express choice.

What Just Happened - January 2026 Current Events (PM)
2026-01-27 18:30 - 20:00 | Zoom
Once a month, you can participate in a current events discussion presentation with a twist. Award-winning professional historian Barry Bradford will help us learn “What Just Happened?”
This session is unique because we will not just discuss our opinions about the news but also learn the history behind the events and their underlying significance. We’ll discuss several of the most exciting events of the month, and there will be plenty of time for you to ask questions and offer your thoughts.
IMPORTANT NOTE: All comments and questions must be submitted respectfully and in an appropriate tone. Speeches and misinformation will be terminated at the moderator’s express choice.
COST
I ask for a minimum donation of $5.00. If you cannot afford it or feel my programs are not worth $5.00, email me, and I will waive your fee. I struggle to support a family, so I understand the challenges of living on a tight budget with compassion.
Cash/Check Payable to Barry Bradford
Barry Bradford
P.O. Box #177
Deerfield, IL 60015
Please put ‘Jan. PM’ in the subject line.
Paypal:

√ Venmo
(send to @B-Bradford-1) Please add a note saying ‘Jan PM.’
√ Zelle – Use the email address Barry1776@ATT.NET (Please add a note that it is for Jan. PM)
√ Don’t pay (or pay less) if you cannot afford it! Please email me for a waiver if you are unable to pay.
REGISTRATION LINK – Click Here
NO ZOOM LINK??
If you do not receive a confirmation email, you did not sign up correctly. SAVE THE CONFIRMATIONEMAIL. If you cannot find your confirmation email, check your spam folder. The other alternative is to return to the website and sign up again. I’m unable to send you the link. They come straight from Zoom!

What Just Happened - January 2026 Current Events (NSSC)
2026-01-29 13:00 - 14:30 | North Shore Senior Center, 161 Northfield Road, Northfield, 60093

Great Fortunes Of The Gilded Age: Rockefeller
2026-02-03 14:00 - 15:00 | Private Venue
During the Gilded Age, a small circle of Americans accumulated fortunes so vast they reshaped the nation itself. But one man stood above them all.
When asked to name the richest American in history, most people instinctively say Bill Gates, Sam Walton, or Jeff Bezos. All impressive—but none come close to John D. Rockefeller. Adjusted for inflation, Rockefeller remains the wealthiest individual America has ever produced. At the height of his power, his personal fortune was so immense that it accounted for nearly 2 percent of the entire U.S. economy. No modern billionaire has ever approached that level of dominance.
So how did Rockefeller do it? Oil is the obvious answer—but it is only the beginning of the story. This program explores how Rockefeller built Standard Oil into a near-monopoly through ruthless efficiency, brilliant strategy, and business practices that shocked even his contemporaries. Yet the same man who crushed competitors also gave away more money than anyone in history before or since, funding universities, medical research, public health initiatives, and religious causes on an unprecedented scale.
This series on the great fortunes in American history places Rockefeller’s staggering wealth into historical perspective, offering modern comparisons, moral complexity, and cultural context. Love him or loathe him, John D. Rockefeller remains unmatched—a man whose money, influence, faith, and contradictions continue to shape the world we live in today.

Great Fortunes Of The Gilded Age: Rockefeller
2026-02-03 18:30 - 20:00 | Zoom
During the Gilded Age, a small circle of Americans accumulated fortunes so vast they reshaped the nation itself. But one man stood above them all.
When asked to name the richest American in history, most people instinctively say Bill Gates, Sam Walton, or Jeff Bezos. All impressive—but none come close to John D. Rockefeller. Adjusted for inflation, Rockefeller remains the wealthiest individual America has ever produced. At the height of his power, his personal fortune was so immense that it accounted for nearly 2 percent of the entire U.S. economy. No modern billionaire has ever approached that level of dominance.
So how did Rockefeller do it? Oil is the obvious answer—but it is only the beginning of the story. This program explores how Rockefeller built Standard Oil into a near-monopoly through ruthless efficiency, brilliant strategy, and business practices that shocked even his contemporaries. Yet the same man who crushed competitors also gave away more money than anyone in history before or since, funding universities, medical research, public health initiatives, and religious causes on an unprecedented scale.
This series on the great fortunes in American history places Rockefeller’s staggering wealth into historical perspective, offering modern comparisons, moral complexity, and cultural context. Love him or loathe him, John D. Rockefeller remains unmatched—a man whose money, influence, faith, and contradictions continue to shape the world we live in today.
COST
The program is available for a minimum contribution of $5.00, which helps support my work and allows me to continue offering engaging content.
PAYMENT OPTIONS
Cash/Check
Payable to: Barry Bradford
Mail to:
Barry Bradford
P.O. Box #177
Deerfield, IL 60015
Please write Rock in the subject line.
PayPal
Pay securely via PayPal:

(Please note: PayPal deducts 10% of your donation as a fee. I receive $4.50 per $5.00 donation.)
Venmo
Send to: @B-Bradford-1
Please include Rock in the note.
Zelle
Use the email address: Barry1776@ATT.NET
Include Rock in the note.
WAIVER OPTION
If you cannot afford to pay or feel my programs aren’t worth $5.00, you are welcome to attend for free or contribute less. Just email me to request a waiver—no questions asked! This one-time request will cover all future programs. I completely understand the challenges of living on a tight budget and offer this with compassion.
REGISTRATION LINK
Click Here to Register
DIDN’T RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM LINK?
If you don’t receive a confirmation email after registering, it means your sign-up wasn’t completed. Be sure to:

Check your spam folder for the confirmation email.
Save the confirmation email once you find it.

If you still can’t locate the email, return to the website and register again. Unfortunately, I am unable to manually send you the link, as it is generated directly by Zoom.

Television In The 1950s
2026-02-04 13:30 - 15:00 | Glenview Senior Center, 2400 Chestnut Ave, Glenview, IL, United States
The fabulous 1950s are often called The “First Golden Era” of Television!Mel
With programs ranging from “I Love Lucy” to Edward R. Murrow, Sid Caesar to live dramas weekly, , from rigged quiz shows, Gunsmoke, and soap operas, the 1950s were the incubator of modern television.
This unique multimedia presentation combines clips from many of the most iconic shows of the 50s with insightful analysis of how TV reflected and shaped a transformational era in American history and in American popular culture. This is not an exercise in nostalgia – we will look at the cultural changes happening in the USA as reflected by what we watched on TV.

The Beach Boys: America’s Band and Their Timeless Sound
2026-02-05 13:00 - 14:30 | North Shore Senior Center, 161 Northfield Road, Northfield, 60093

Bobby Darin: A Brilliant Career Cut Short
2026-02-05 13:00 - 14:30 | North Shore Senior Center, 161 Northfield Road, Northfield, 60093
With the debut of the new Broadway musical Just in Time on April 23, 2025, American music is experiencing a joyful revival of one of its most dynamic stars, Bobby Darin. The show has introduced a whole new audience to his brilliance, reminding us why songs like Mack the Knife, Beyond the Sea, and Splish Splash continue to sparkle with energy and charm.
Bobby Darin’s story is one of constant reinvention. He effortlessly moved from his days as a songwriter at the Brill Building to rock ’n’ roll teen idol to sophisticated nightclub crooner, from pop to folk to film. Darin’s career was tragically short—he died at just 37—but in that brief time, he left a mark that rivals artists who lived twice as long. His ability to reinvent himself musically and to captivate audiences with both showmanship and sincerity remains the essence of his legacy.
This program will celebrate Darin’s extraordinary life and music through rare clips, behind-the-scenes stories, and timeless recordings. We’ll also touch briefly on how Just in Time, featuring a celebrated performance by Jonathan Groff, is reintroducing Darin’s magic to a new generation. But the heart of our journey is Bobby Darin himself—the dazzling, restless, unforgettable performer who continues to inspire long after his curtain call.

The Richest Americans: Howard Hughes
2026-02-10 14:00 - 15:00 | Private Venue
Howard Hughes was a man whose ambition matched his fortune—and whose inner life was as complex as it was tragic. A record-setting aviator and aviation pioneer, Hughes was also a brilliant inventor, a powerful industrialist, a legendary Hollywood producer, a Las Vegas hotel magnate, and a behind-the-scenes political power broker. Few Americans ever shaped as many industries—or lived with as many contradictions.
At his height, Hughes dazzled the world. He broke aviation records, dated some of Hollywood’s most glamorous actresses, and seemed to embody the bold, fearless promise of American innovation. But behind the public triumphs was a man increasingly tormented by mental illness, crippling phobias, and deep personal demons that slowly overtook his life.
As his health declined and his fears intensified, Hughes withdrew from public view, retreating into isolation while the vast empire he built began to suffer without his leadership. In one of the most haunting reversals of the American dream, the richest man in the country ultimately became a reclusive figure—physically hidden from the world but never free from it.
This compelling multimedia presentation explores the full arc of Howard Hughes’s extraordinary life: his breathtaking achievements, his immense wealth and influence, his notorious eccentricities, and his devastating descent into mental illness. It is a story of genius and excess, ambition and isolation—and a sobering reminder of the human cost behind immense power.

The Richest Americans: Howard Hughes
2026-02-10 18:30 - 20:00 | Zoom
Howard Hughes was a man whose ambition matched his fortune—and whose inner life was as complex as it was tragic. A record-setting aviator and aviation pioneer, Hughes was also a brilliant inventor, a powerful industrialist, a legendary Hollywood producer, a Las Vegas hotel magnate, and a behind-the-scenes political power broker. Few Americans ever shaped as many industries—or lived with as many contradictions.
At his height, Hughes dazzled the world. He broke aviation records, dated some of Hollywood’s most glamorous actresses, and seemed to embody the bold, fearless promise of American innovation. But behind the public triumphs was a man increasingly tormented by mental illness, crippling phobias, and deep personal demons that slowly overtook his life.
As his health declined and his fears intensified, Hughes withdrew from public view, retreating into isolation while the vast empire he built began to suffer without his leadership. In one of the most haunting reversals of the American dream, the richest man in the country ultimately became a reclusive figure—physically hidden from the world but never free from it.
This compelling multimedia presentation explores the full arc of Howard Hughes’s extraordinary life: his breathtaking achievements, his immense wealth and influence, his notorious eccentricities, and his devastating descent into mental illness. It is a story of genius and excess, ambition and isolation—and a sobering reminder of the human cost behind immense power.
COST
The program is available for a minimum contribution of $5.00, which helps support my work and allows me to continue offering engaging content.
PAYMENT OPTIONS
Cash/Check
Payable to: Barry Bradford
Mail to:
Barry Bradford
P.O. Box #177
Deerfield, IL 60015
Please write Howard in the subject line.
PayPal
Pay securely via PayPal:

(Please note: PayPal deducts 10% of your donation as a fee. I receive $4.50 per $5.00 donation.)
Venmo
Send to: @B-Bradford-1
Please include Howard in the note.
Zelle
Use the email address: Barry1776@ATT.NET
Include Howard in the note.
WAIVER OPTION
If you cannot afford to pay or feel my programs aren’t worth $5.00, you are welcome to attend for free or contribute less. Just email me to request a waiver—no questions asked! This one-time request will cover all future programs. I completely understand the challenges of living on a tight budget and offer this with compassion.
REGISTRATION LINK
Click Here to Register
DIDN’T RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM LINK?
If you don’t receive a confirmation email after registering, it means your sign-up wasn’t completed. Be sure to:

Check your spam folder for the confirmation email.
Save the confirmation email once you find it.

If you still can’t locate the email, return to the website and register again. Unfortunately, I am unable to manually send you the link, as it is generated directly by Zoom.

Who Killed JFK – Historian Presents a Modern Analysis
2026-02-12 12:00 - 13:30 | Seaford Public Library, 2234 Jackson Avenue, Seaford, NY, 11783, United States
Who Killed JFK?
I’ll Tell You!

FREE ON ZOOM!
The murder of John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, shocked the nation. A suspect was quickly arrested and subsequently murdered. President Lyndon Johnson appointed a blue ribbon committee – the Warren Commission – to answer the question: who killed JFK?
They concluded that Lee Harvey Oswald was the sole assassin. Immediately, the public was skeptical. Stephen King described Oswald as “a semi-educated hillbilly with delusions of grandeur.” How could such an insignificant loser pull off such a dastardly crime? And why did Jack Ruby, accused of being a Mob member, kill Oswald?
We have been through with whispered knowledge of conspiracies, confessions, and coverups. And so the public has asked for an explanation of the “magic bullet.”
And the contradictory witness statements.
And Oswald’s shadowy past.
And all of the “secret files.”
And all of the conspiracy theories.
And all of the “mysterious deaths” associated with the assassination?
Books, articles, movies, and documentaries have raised innumerable questions about who killed JFK.
Who Killed JFK – Computer Analysis
So who killed JFK? I will attempt to answer as many of these questions as possible. First, I will attempt to separate historical fact from theory & speculation. Second, I will show what the historical record actually indicates happened. We have access to much more information today than the Warren Commission had in 1963/4 or the House of Representatives had in 1977. Third, we will examine what modern computer forensics can tell us about crime. For instance, the Warren Commission had access to the “Zapruder Film.” Today, we can use computers to enhance and analyze the film. We can use modern technology to analyze the path of each bullet that was fired.
Who Killed JFK – Computer Analysis
And we can use computers to isolate the mysterious sounds a Dallas motorcycle patrolman captured. In 1977, the House of Representatives believed that the recording showed four shots fired in Dealy Plaza. The National Academy of Science, among many other groups, have taken the same sound recordings and used state-of-the-art technology to analyze them. What do we know now?
You may disagree with my conclusions, but you will definitely learn a lot and come away with a new perspective on the historical record of who killed JFK.

The Best Movies That Didn't Win An Oscar
2026-02-13 10:00 - 11:30 | Lake Forest/Lake Bluff Senior Center, 100 E. Old Mill Road, Lake Forest, IL, 60045, United States
Some of the greatest films in cinematic history walked away from the Academy Awards empty-handed. Despite critical acclaim, box office success, and lasting cultural impact, masterpieces like The Shawshank Redemption, Singin’ in the Rain, and Dr. Strangelove never won a single Oscar. How did these beloved classics—and many others—fail to take home Hollywood’s biggest prize?
In this fascinating multimedia program, we’ll explore the stories behind these legendary films, the tough competition they faced, and the reasons why the Academy’s voters overlooked them. From groundbreaking musicals and unforgettable dramas to revolutionary comedies and visionary epics, we’ll take a closer look at the Oscar snubs that still have movie fans talking.
Whether you’re a film buff, a casual moviegoer, or just someone who loves a good Hollywood controversy, this program is sure to spark discussion and surprise you with little-known facts. Join us for an entertaining deep dive into some of the best movies never to win an Oscar.

Bobby Darin: A Brilliant Career Cut Short
2026-02-16 13:00 - 14:30, 2026-03-02 09:00 - 10:00 | Private Venue

George Washington: The Perfect Man For America
2026-02-17 14:00 - 15:00 | Uniper
George Washington is America’s greatest hero. He was our greatest soldier. He was also our greatest President. His contemporaries already knew that he was a man whose importance to the nation could never be questioned. One of the most honored statesmen of the day had this to say when Washington died: “First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen.”

George Washington was tall, athletic, and absolutely fearless. Yet his military career was cut short before Congress appointed him to be the commanding General, the head of the Continental Army. Click here to read a fascinating account of why he is still the highest-ranking American military officer of all time. Although we remember him as a great General, his first year of command was disastrous!
But then at the Battle of Trenton. General Washington’s courage, daring, and heroic leadership became evident to the world. That battle is best remembered for the breathtaking Christmas crossing of the Delaware River. Still, it also holds the amazing distinction of being the first military battle ever fought in an urban setting! More importantly, the Battle of Trenton directly changed the course of the history of America – and the entire world! It is the single most important battle in the history of the USA.

Click here to read more about why the Battle of Trenton is so important to the history of the world.
After the Revolution, of course, Washington’s fame and importance only grew. As the first President of the United States, he helped turn America from a series of promises laid out in the Declaration of Independence into a living Republic that continues to shine as a beacon of freedom and hope to people and nations around the world.
This multimedia presentation will offer a new perspective on the personality of the greatest American of all time!

George Washington: The Perfect Man For America
2026-02-17 18:30 - 20:30 | Zoom
George Washington is America’s greatest hero. He was our greatest soldier. He was also our greatest President. His contemporaries already knew that he was a man whose importance to the nation could never be questioned. One of the most honored statesmen of the day had this to say when Washington died: “First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen.”

George Washington was tall, athletic, and absolutely fearless. Yet his military career was cut short before Congress appointed him to be the commanding General, the head of the Continental Army. Click here to read a fascinating account of why he is still the highest-ranking American military officer of all time. Although we remember him as a great General, his first year of command was disastrous!
But then at the Battle of Trenton. General Washington’s courage, daring, and heroic leadership became evident to the world. That battle is best remembered for the breathtaking Christmas crossing of the Delaware River. Still, it also holds the amazing distinction of being the first military battle ever fought in an urban setting! More importantly, the Battle of Trenton directly changed the course of the history of America – and the entire world! It is the single most important battle in the history of the USA.

Click here to read more about why the Battle of Trenton is so important to the history of the world.
After the Revolution, of course, Washington’s fame and importance only grew. As the first President of the United States, he helped turn America from a series of promises laid out in the Declaration of Independence into a living Republic that continues to shine as a beacon of freedom and hope to people and nations around the world.
This multimedia presentation will offer a new perspective on the personality of the greatest American of all time!

COST
The program is available for a minimum contribution of $5.00, which helps support my work and allows me to continue offering engaging content.
PAYMENT OPTIONS
Cash/Check
Payable to: Barry Bradford
Mail to:
Barry Bradford
P.O. Box #177
Deerfield, IL 60015
Please write George in the subject line.
PayPal
Pay securely via PayPal:

(Please note: PayPal deducts 10% of your donation as a fee. I receive $4.50 per $5.00 donation.)
Venmo
Send to: @B-Bradford-1
Please include George in the note.
Zelle
Use the email address: Barry1776@ATT.NET
Include George in the note.
WAIVER OPTION
If you cannot afford to pay or feel my programs aren’t worth $5.00, you are welcome to attend for free or contribute less. Just email me to request a waiver—no questions asked! This one-time request will cover all future programs. I completely understand the challenges of living on a tight budget and offer this with compassion.
REGISTRATION LINK
Click Here to Register
DIDN’T RECEIVE YOUR ZOOM LINK?
If you don’t receive a confirmation email after registering, it means your sign-up wasn’t completed. Be sure to:

Check your spam folder for the confirmation email.
Save the confirmation email once you find it.

If you still can’t locate the email, return to the website and register again. Unfortunately, I am unable to manually send you the link, as it is generated directly by Zoom.

Celebrating Love – Wedding Officiating by Barry Bradford
2026-02-20 17:00 - 18:00, 2026-10-17 17:00, 2026-02-27 17:00 - 2026-03-01 18:00, 2026-03-07 17:00 - 18:00, 2026-03-21 17:00 | IL
I’m Officiating a Wedding During This Time!
This time block is reserved because I have the honor of officiating a wedding for a wonderful couple. While this ceremony is private, I’m always grateful to be a part of such joyful and meaningful occasions.
As an award-winning wedding officiant, I’ve had the privilege of conducting unforgettable ceremonies—large and small, traditional and contemporary, religious, civil, and same-sex—for couples from all walks of life. I don’t offer “cookie-cutter” weddings. Every ceremony is personalized to reflect the couple’s unique love story.
💍 Thinking about your wedding?Whether you’re planning a cozy backyard elopement or a grand celebration, I’d love to help you create a custom wedding ceremony that’s heartfelt, memorable, and true to who you are.👉 Learn more about officiant services👉 Watch a short video with testimonials from some of my happy couples!
Serving couples throughout Chicago, Lake County, and beyond, I bring warmth, professionalism, and joy to every wedding I officiate. Feel free to email me if you or someone you know is searching for a thoughtful, experienced officiant.

What Just Happened - February 2025 Current Events (Uniper)
2026-02-24 14:00 - 15:00 | Uniper

What Just Happened - February 2026 Current Events (PM)
2026-02-24 18:30 - 20:00 | Zoom
Once a month, you can participate in a current events discussion presentation with a twist. Award-winning professional historian Barry Bradford will help us learn “What Just Happened?”
This session is unique because we will not just discuss our opinions about the news but also learn the history behind the events and their underlying significance. We’ll discuss several of the most exciting events of the month, and there will be plenty of time for you to ask questions and offer your thoughts.
IMPORTANT NOTE: All comments and questions must be submitted respectfully and in an appropriate tone. Speeches and misinformation will be terminated at the moderator’s express choice.
COST
I ask for a minimum donation of $5.00. If you cannot afford it or feel my programs are not worth $5.00, email me, and I will waive your fee. I struggle to support a family, so I understand the challenges of living on a tight budget with compassion.
Cash/Check Payable to Barry Bradford
Barry Bradford
P.O. Box #177
Deerfield, IL 60015
Please put ‘Feb. PM’ in the subject line.
Paypal:

√ Venmo
(send to @B-Bradford-1) Please add a note saying ‘Feb PM.’
√ Zelle – Use the email address Barry1776@ATT.NET (Please add a note that it is for Feb. PM)
√ Don’t pay (or pay less) if you cannot afford it! Please email me for a waiver if you are unable to pay.
REGISTRATION LINK – Click Here
NO ZOOM LINK??
If you do not receive a confirmation email, you did not sign up correctly. SAVE THE CONFIRMATIONEMAIL. If you cannot find your confirmation email, check your spam folder. The other alternative is to return to the website and sign up again. I’m unable to send you the link. They come straight from Zoom!

What Just Happened - February 2026 Current Events (NSSC)
2026-02-26 13:00 - 14:30 | North Shore Senior Center, 161 Northfield Road, Northfield, 60093

1926 Time Capsule - America 100 Years Ago
2026-03-03 18:30 - 20:00 | Zoom
What was happening in America exactly 100 years ago?
In this annual installment of the popular Time Capsule series, historian Barry Bradford transports audiences back to 1926— the roaring heart of the Jazz Age.
It was a year of glamour and growth — but also of breakthroughs and storms.
In 1926:
• Robert Goddard launched the world’s first liquid-fueled rocket, quietly opening the door to the Space Age.• Gertrude Ederle became the first woman to swim the English Channel, stunning the world and returning home to a ticker-tape parade.• The devastating Great Miami Hurricane exposed the fragility of Florida’s booming real estate market.• Henry Ford helped reshape American labor by instituting the 40-hour work week.
Meanwhile:
• Queen Elizabeth II, Marilyn Monroe, and Dick Van Dyke were born.

• America lost Harry Houdini, Annie Oakley, and Robert Todd Lincoln.• George Gershwin was composing music that would define American sound.• The Chicago American Giants of the Negro Leagues won a dramatic World Series championship.
Through news headlines, sports, music, film, and cultural milestones, this richly illustrated multimedia program brings 1926 to life — and places it in context.
What did Americans believe about their future? How much did consumer items cost? What signs of change were already there?
Step inside the Time Capsule and experience 1926 as if you were there.
COST
The program is available for a minimum contribution of $5.00, which helps support my work and allows me to continue offering engaging content.
PAYMENT OPTIONS
Cash/Check
Payable to: Barry Bradford
Mail to:
Barry Bradford
P.O. Box #177
Deerfield, IL 60015
Please write 1926 in the subject line.
PayPal
Pay securely via PayPal:

(Please note: PayPal deducts 10% of your donation as a fee. I receive $4.50 per $5.00 donation.)
Venmo
Send to: @B-Bradford-1
Please include 1926 in the note.
Zelle
Use the email address: Barry1776@ATT.NET
Include 1926 in the note.
WAIVER OPTION
If you cannot afford to pay or feel my programs aren’t worth $5.00, you are welcome to attend for free or contribute less. Just email me to request a waiver—no questions asked! This one-time request will cover all future programs. I completely understand the challenges of living on a tight budget and offer this with compassion.
REGISTRATION LINK
Click Here to Register
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Save the confirmation email once you find it.

If you still can’t locate the email, return to the website and register again. Unfortunately, I am unable to manually send you the link, as it is generated directly by Zoom.

Broadway Leading Ladies
2026-03-04 10:30 - 12:00 | Addolorata Villa, 555 McHenry Rd, Wheeling, IL, 60090
Join award-winning, cultural historian and self-proclaimed Broadway nerd, Barry Bradford, for a joyful, behind-the-scenes journey through the lives and legacies of Broadway’s greatest musical stars. From the golden age of Ethel Merman and Mary Martin to the modern brilliance of Audra McDonald, Kristin Chenoweth, Sutton Foster, and more, this engaging multimedia presentation shines a spotlight on the women whose talent, presence, and unforgettable voices made them household names.
Through rare video clips, personal stories, and fascinating historical insights, we’ll explore how each decade produced a defining leading lady—and how some dazzling performers came close. We’ll celebrate both the big names and the underrated greats, offering a fresh look at what it takes to command a Broadway stage. Along the way, Barry shares personal encounters with several stars, offering touching glimpses of their humanity offstage.
Whether you’re a lifelong theater lover or new to the magic of musicals, this program promises laughter, inspiration, and perhaps a few surprises. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the performers who defied gravity, belted to the rafters, and left everything on the stage.
NOTE!
The event is free, and our hosts provide coffee, fruit, and baked goods. You do not need to pre-register just show up and enjoy the program.

TV By The Decades: Television in the 1960s
2026-03-04 13:00 - 14:30 | Glenview Senior Center, 2400 Chestnut Ave, Glenview, IL, United States
TV in the 1960s
The 1960s were definitely one of TV’s oddest decades! The 1960s began with Westerns dominating the ratings! The old West soap opera Bonanza became the most popular show on the air. One after another competing show was vanquished by the old-time sensibilities of an old-fashioned Western.
All you really need to know about the diverse nature of TV in the 1960s is found in the answer to the question: “What show finally was able to compete with Bonanza in the ratings?” The answer was a liberal, modern, and very controversial challenger: The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour. This bastion of the hip, cutting edge liberal comedy gave young viewers quite a stark alternative to the Ponderosa! (Trivia! Bonanza, like Dragnet, had their stars wear the exact same clothes every week. It saved money on costumes and allowed the producers to reuse old shots from previous episodes!
So the 1960s were the era of Gunsmoke and Wagon Train, Gilligan’s Island and The Beverly Hillbillies and Laugh-In and The Smothers Brothers! We will talk about how TV grew and changed as viewers who had enjoyed Combat began tuning in to Hogan’s Heroes. You won’t want to miss this fast-paced multimedia presentation!
IN THE COMMENTS BELOW – LIST YOUR FAVORITE TV SHOW OF THE 1960s!
NOTE: The cost to attend is $10. You do not need to register in advance – just show up and enjoy the show after paying. Coffee and dessert are provided for free!
