History & Current Affairs   

By presenting relevant concepts and data, this on-going course aims to equip each participant to be an educated consumer of news on a wide range of economic topics. Discussions will be fact-driven and nontechnical; no formal economics training is required.

American World’s Fairs (1851 to 1984) were more than spectacle; they were windows into the nation’s evolving identity. In this class, we will survey several U.S. World’s Fairs and discuss the influence they had on architecture, consumer culture, transportation, entertainment, and daily life in America. Through these discussions we’ll explore how innovation, optimism, progress, and power were displayed at the Fairs through America’s material culture.

No description of the world we live in is complete without data. Let's examine what the numbers tell us about both world and American demographics, economy, health, education, environment and politics - both at present and over time. We'll also look at how the US compares to other wealthy countries.

Participants are invited to give short (10–20 min) presentations on a key issue shaping American democracy—covering such aspects as governing principles, current challenges and global comparisons. Each presentation will be followed by open discussion aimed at fostering civic awareness, critical thinking, careful listening and respectful dialogue. Together we will deepen understanding of community values and engage in meaningful conversation about America’s changing role in a changing world.

Over a three-week period, we will explore historical aspects of Black Hills mining and the mining towns of Jerome, Clarkdale, and Clemenceau. In week one, we will detail histories of the two largest mining companies: United Verde Copper Company and United Verde Extension. Week two will delve into the Verde Valley railroads. Special guest Cody Ely, ranger at Jerome State Historic Park, will present this session. Week three will highlight the smelters and their processes in the communities.

This is the Second presentations celebrating the 250th anniversary of the strength, courage and intellectual wit of those who laid the foundation for the American Experiment. Having explored John Adams through McCullough's interviews last fall, we now turn to George Washington, who McCullough called "Our Greatest President." In this series, we will segue between McCullough and various Washington biographies to enlighten and expand our knowledge of what we know of The Father of our Country.

Discover the stories of five remarkable women who helped shape the history and spirit of the Grand Canyon. From Ada Bass, Mary Colter, Polly Mead Patraw, Bessie Hyde, and Katie Lee, these trailblazers reveal how women found creativity, courage, and purpose in one of America's greatest landscapes. Join me to explore their legacies and lasting influence.