To mark nation鈥檚 250th anniversary, workshops explore pivotal people, moments
June 8, 2026
In celebration of the United States鈥� 250th Anniversary, 麻豆传媒映画 Community Education is presenting a series of three workshops on pivotal moments and people in our founding and history.
The workshops are led by David Vaina, who has a Ph.D. in political theory and regularly publishes articles on social movements, politics, and climate change for both academic and public audiences. He has taught American history and other subjects at every level and volunteers as an instructor in the prison system.
The workshops will be held at 麻豆传媒映画鈥檚 Blount Center, 530 West University Ave., Gainesville, FL. There is a $17.76 charge for each workshop.
Click on All Classes on the left. Scroll to Community Education and then History & Culture. Or call 352-395-5193. Seats are limited.
America's Big Moments: 25 Turning Points in 250 Years
Wednesday, June 17, 2026, 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. View calendar
Experience the pivotal moments that have defined the United States from 1776 to the present. This dynamic one-day course spotlights 25 significant political, cultural, scientific, and social milestones that have shaped the nation's story. Ideal for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in discovering how America has transformed over the past 250 years. Dive into history and discover what makes America unique!
Thomas Jefferson鈥檚 Big Brain
Wednesday, June 24, 2026, 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. View calendar
Thomas Jefferson was so many things: a revolutionary thinker and politician, a Christian, an inventor, a gardener, a foodie, a Francophile, and of course, a lifelong slave owner. Who and what ideas influenced Jefferson into becoming such an incredibly complex Founding Father? And what makes Jefferson today such an intriguing albeit controversial figure? This multi-media presentation will include plenty of photos from Jefferson's fascinating universe and we will end by enjoying scoops of vanilla ice cream based on Jefferson's classic, five-ingredient recipe!
Fireworks and Freedom: The History of the 4th of July
Wednesday, July 1, 2026, 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. View calendar
Explore how Americans have celebrated the Fourth of July from the nation鈥檚 founding to the present. Through historical documents, cultural traditions, and public commemorations, participants will learn how our Independence Day has been used to express patriotism, political ideals, protest, and community identity. From early parades, speeches, and fireworks to abolitionist critiques, immigrant celebrations, and modern festivals, the course highlights how the meaning and celebration of July 4th have evolved alongside the nation itself.
