Events

We begin this four-part series with the early English colonies that dominated the Atlantic coast of North America, north of Florida. While they comprised a very small portion of the British gross domestic product, for a century and a half they thrived financially. But while the Americans that lead the Colonies considered themselves loyal British subjects, they liked the freedom and independence colonial separation accorded. The French and Indian War changes everything.

The second of this four-part series will review the short timeframe between the French and Indian War and the Declaration of Independence. A series of British authoritarian proclamations negate the freedoms enjoyed by the colonies. Loyal British subjects in America begin to believe they are not viewed by Parliament as full citizens of Great Britain and examine applicable options that include separation from the rule of King George III.

The third segment of this four-part series will examine the American Revolution. Following a series of disputes with British authority and the implementation of restrictions that negated the colonist's personal freedoms, and the right to self-government, the American colonists revolted. We will examine the boldness of the Declaration of Independence and the challenging times of the American Revolution.

We wrap up the series by stepping into the messy, fascinating aftermath of the Revolution. Winning independence was one thing — figuring out how to govern 13 separate republics was another. With the Articles of Confederation falling apart, America faced a new challenge: creating a unified nation. This session explores how the struggle led to the U.S. Constitution and the foundation of the country we celebrate today.

American history is filled with surprising coincidences—moments that feel too remarkable to be random. Some people even say there are no true coincidences, only events we don’t yet fully understand. Join Jim Sherbert as he shares some fascinating and unexpected connections in our nation’s past. These unusual historical “coincidences” are sure to spark curiosity, conversation, and maybe even a few raised eyebrows.

As the future of the Colorado River hangs in the balance, learn how history, policy, drought, and changing conditions are shaping Arizona’s water supply. Explore the agreement governing Colorado River allocations, why reservoirs are critically low, and how evolving water management decisions could affect communities, economies, and the future of Arizona.

How can American education better prepare students for the future? Explore the challenges facing K–12 education, their implications for civic engagement and workforce readiness, and potential paths forward. This timely discussion examines innovative learning models and the growing role of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning, opening a conversation about how emerging technologies could help improve student outcomes.

From landmark decisions to modern controversies, the Supreme Court has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation. Explore the Court's history, purpose, and continuing influence on American life and government. Whether you are a lifelong student of history, a concerned citizen, or simply curious about how nine justices can impact the lives of millions of Americans, this presentation offers valuable insight into one of the most fascinating institutions in our constitutional system.

NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, was created following WWII to provide the rebuilding nations of the European continent with the confidence they would be defended against foreign invasion. New geopolitical ideologies along with altered geographic boundaries would test these new governments.We will examine NATOs formation and its progress from its beginning to its current structure and function.