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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260423T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260425T170000
DTSTAMP:20260126T180532Z
CREATED:20260126T180101Z
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UID:1180-1776931200-1777136400@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:2026 Annual General Meeting
DESCRIPTION:The English-Speaking Union welcomes its members to NYC for the 2026 ESU Annual Conference. The conference\, under the theme “United by Language\, Inspired by Liberty.” The conference program will include the ESU 2026 Annual General Meeting\, social events such as receptions and meals\, breakout sessions\, panel discussions\, and local tours. We invite you to participate in the camaraderie and help us advance our programs that support teachers\, students\, and recent immigrants. \n\n\n\nHIGHLIGHTS \n\n\n\nRevolution in Old New York: Soldiers\, Spies & Statesmen of the American Revolution Walking Tour:Trace the footsteps of revolution through Manhattan’s past and present.Lunch on historic Stone Street or Fraunces TavernOne of New York City’s oldest surviving streets\, originally paved in 1658.andArt of the Gilded Age at The Met Museum Guided TourUncover the brilliance and forgotten voices of the Gilded Age at The Met. \n\n\n\nOur Conference venue will be at the ESU House\, 144 East 39th Street\, and the Shelbourne-Sonesta Hotel\, 303 Lexington Avenue\, New York\, NY 10016. We have a special hotel room at The Shelbourne Sonesta Hotel\, which will be available Thursday night through Saturday night. Hotel prices do not include taxes or additional fees\, and prices are valid through March 23\, 2026. We will have a special opportunity to see the USA finals for the International Public Speaking Competition. Space is limited\, first-come-first-served. \n\n\n\n$650 \n\n\n\nPrint Registration Form
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/2026-annual-general-meeting/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260514T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260514T210000
DTSTAMP:20260327T162950Z
CREATED:20260327T162948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T162950Z
UID:1203-1778781600-1778792400@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:Shreveport Branch Meeting on Thursday\, May 14\, 2026 will be Shannon Terry Wiley who will speak on her latest book\,Yellow September
DESCRIPTION:Shannon Terry Wiley who will speak on her latest book\,Yellow September about the 1873 Yellow Fever Epidemic.  She has done extensive research and should be a most interesting presentation.
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/shreveport-branch-meeting-on-thursday-may-14-2026-will-be-shannon-terry-wiley-who-will-speak-on-her-latest-bookyellow-september/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260515T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260515T170000
DTSTAMP:20260429T193011Z
CREATED:20260429T193008Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260429T193011Z
UID:1206-1778860800-1778864400@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:Happy Hour: Elizabeth I: in Her Own Words
DESCRIPTION:The New York City Branch of the English Speaking Union invites you to join us on  \n\n\n\nMay 13\, 2026 at 5PM EDT \n\n\n\nESU National Board Member Mary Coleman Way in Conversation with Tamara Meneghini on \n\n\n\nElizabeth I: in Her Own Words \n\n\n\nA critically acclaimed one-woman play\, by Carole Levin\, in collaboration with Tamara Meneghini and Sabin Epstein\, that combines Elizabeth I’s own letters and speeches\, the poetry of Shakespeare\, and music of the period to reveal a complex woman and ruler reflecting on her life and reign.  The play\, which has performed to sold out audiences at the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe Festival and elsewhere\, explores her inner thoughts\, fears\, loves\, and triumphs\, from the Spanish Armada to her relationships with her cousin\,Mary\, Queen of Scots\, her mother\, Ann Boleyn\, her sister\, Mary Tudor\, and both Robert Dudley and the Earl of Essex\, challenging perceptions of the “Virgin Queen.” The program will include excerpts from the performance. \n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE \n\n\n\nAbout Tammy Meneghini \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTammy Meneghini is the co-creator\, collaborating writer\, producer\, and plays the role of Elizabeth I in Elizabeth I: In Her Own Words\, a full-length solo play.  She has toured the play to various theatres and venues in the United States\, as well as being featured at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2024\, receiving 4 and 5-star reviews to sold out audiences.  She is an accomplished actor and director\, based in Colorado\, where she works frequently onstage and off.  Currently\, she is in the BETC (Boulder Ensemble Theatre Company) production of Mary Jane\, by Amy Herzog.  She is one of the founders of the Rocky Mountain Artists Safety Alliance and collaborated with regional theatre companies to create the Community Standards for Theatre for the Colorado Theatre Community. She is on the faculty at the University of Colorado Boulder\, where she teaches courses in acting\, movement\, voice\, musical theatre\, and the annual senior showcase of work in NYC.  Her work on the Elizabeth Project continues to grow and play to receptive audiences far and wide.   \n\n\n\nFor more information\, please visit: \n\n\n\nwww.tamarameneghini.com \n\n\n\nAbout Mary Coleman Way \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMary Coleman Way has made a lasting impact on the theater community by dedicating more than a decade to leading Southwest Shakespeare Company\, where she is now Vice President of the Board of Directors. A multifaceted artist\, she is a member of the League of Professional Theater Women\, an NEA adjudicator\, and a frequent participant in classical theater auditions and ESU\, Kennedy Center\, and HSMT competitions. She is also a writer for film\, stage\, and television\, a director\, composer\, and administrator.  Mary’s commitment to the arts is furthered through her active involvement on the Boards of Arizona Citizens for the Arts\, Southwest Shakespeare Company\, and the National Board of the English Speaking Union. Beyond Shakespeare\, Mary\, alongside her husband\, founded Fit Via Vi\, a film production company that has expanded to include Broadway and TV\, earning several Tony and Oscar nominations. Most recently\, the company produced Redwood\, the highly acclaimed Broadway musical starring Idina Menzel\, Sugarcane\, a 2025 Academy Award nominee for Best Documentary\, and ARCO\, a 2026 Academy Award nominee for Best Animated Feature Film. \n\n\n\nHappy Hour Cocktail \n\n\n\nQueen Elizabeth loved a good beer. So take out a Blue Moon with a refreshing slice of lemon or lime\, and enjoy! Cheers!
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/happy-hour-elizabeth-i-in-her-own-words/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260603T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260603T170000
DTSTAMP:20260429T195229Z
CREATED:20260429T193415Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260429T195229Z
UID:1208-1780502400-1780506000@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:The History of Shakespearean Theatre in Hawaii
DESCRIPTION:Sponsored by the ESU Hawaii and Seattle Branches Did you know that Edwin Booth\, brother of John Wilkes Booth (President Lincoln’s assassin)\, performed Shakespeare plays in the Kingdom of Hawaii in the 1850s? And he wasn’t alone. The Hawaiian Kingdom hosted many actors who came to the fabled islands to perform Shakespeare. Our guest speaker\, Professor Mark Lawhorn\, will speak on the history of Shakespearean theatre in Hawaii. He put together a detailed display on this topic for the exhibit of Shakespeare’s First Folio at Kapi’olani Community College in 2016. This ESU Happy Hour is sponsored by the ESU Hawaii and Seattle Branches. ESU Happy Hour programs are online\, free\, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required. \n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE \n\n\n\nAbout Mark Lawhorn\, PhDMark Lawhorn is Professor of English at Kapi’olani Community College\, Honolulu\, Hawaii. In 2016\, he spearheaded the acquisition of a copy of the First Folio as part of the national tour of First Folios in all 50 States to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death. Kapi’olani Community College was the only community college selected to host a copy of the treasured collection during its tour. Lawhorn is the President of the ESU Hawaii Branch and is a member of ESU’s National Board of Directors.
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/the-history-of-shakespearean-theatre-in-hawaii/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260624T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260624T170000
DTSTAMP:20260429T193832Z
CREATED:20260429T193831Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260429T193832Z
UID:1211-1782316800-1782320400@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:Happy Hour: America: Made in Virginia
DESCRIPTION:Sponsored by the ESU Richmond\, VA BranchWith the Commander of the American Forces from Virginia\, four of the first five Presidents from Virginia\, the authors of the Declaration of Independence\, the Bill of Rights\, and the Constitution from Virginia\, an early Chief Justice of the Supreme Court from Virginia\, multiple signers of the Declaration of Independence from Virginia and\, indeed\, the very land on which Washington D.C. stands from Virginia\, it is safe to say that Virginia was indispensable in the creation of our country.  Ellen LeCompte\, President of the ESU Richmond VA Branch\, will share the people\, places\, and things that Virginia contributed to successfully establishing our democracy. This ESU Happy Hour is sponsored by the Richmond\, VA Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online\, free to attend\, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required to receive the webinar link.REGISTER HERE \n\n\n\nAbout Ellen LeCompte \n\n\n\nEllen LeCompte is president of the ESU Richmond Branch\, a former Regional Chair\, and an ESU SSE alumna. She is a graduate of the College of William and Mary and is a proud Virginian and an acknowledged expert on the UK listed by Travel + Leisure magazine as one of their top Advisors in the United States. She has co-authored two books on the late Queen Elizabeth II’s historic relationship between Virginia and Great Britain. In 2025\, Ellen was honored by King Charles III to be made a Dame of the Order of St John\, one of Britain’s oldest chivalric orders dating back to the 12th century.  \n\n\n\nCocktailIt should be a Mint Julep served in a pewter Jefferson Cup—preferably made with Bourbon from George Washington’s distillery at Mount Vernon! \n\n\n\nIngredients8 mint leaves1/4-ounce simple syrup*2 ounces bourbonGarnish: mint sprigGarnish: Angostura bitters (optional)StepsIn a silver or pewter cup or rocks glass\, lightly muddle the mint leaves in the simple syrup.Add the bourbon then pack the glass tightly with crushed ice.Stir until the cup is frosted on the outside.Top with more crushed ice to form an ice dome and garnish with a mint sprig and a few drops of bitters (optional).*Simple Syrup Ingredients1/2 cup granulated sugar1/2 cup waterPrepare Simple SyrupAdd the sugar and water to a small saucepan over medium heat.Stir until sugar is dissolved.Let cool\, then pour into a glass jar and seal tightly with a lid.Simple syrup will keep\, refrigerated\, for about one month.
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/happy-hour-america-made-in-virginia/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260624T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260624T210000
DTSTAMP:20260429T194900Z
CREATED:20260429T194858Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260429T194900Z
UID:1213-1782324000-1782334800@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:Shreveport Branch Meeting with Mayor Tom Arceneaux
DESCRIPTION:Mayor Arceneaux will speak about the state of Shreveport while he has been mayor.  He is a native of Shreveport and an attorney where he practiced with Blanchard\, Walker\, O’Quin and Roberts prior to be elected mayor.
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/shreveport-branch-meeting-with-mayor-tom-arceneaux/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260712T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260716T170000
DTSTAMP:20260528T160919Z
CREATED:20260528T155716Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260528T160919Z
UID:1217-1783843200-1784221200@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:ESU 2026 Founder’s Award Gala and National Patron Tour “Ovid and Shakespeare’s Metamorphoses”
DESCRIPTION:Dear Friends\, \n\n\n\nThank you again for being part of the truly special week in New York City this past April — a week that brought together the Annual General Conference\, the National Shakespeare Competition\, and\, as its highlight\, the Celebrate Legacy – Inspire the Future reception marking the 25th anniversary of the ESU House and honoring the leadership donors to the first-ever ESU Capacity Building Campaign. We appreciated the support\, enthusiasm and generosity you brought to the evening. Your presence made the event truly memorable\, and we are deeply grateful for your continued commitment to the ESU. \n\n\n\nI am delighted to reiterate the wonderful news I announced that evening: in just one year\, the ESU Capacity Building Campaign has raised over $900\,000\, more than 90% of our $1 million goal\, thanks to you\, our most generous leadership donors. With one year remaining in the Campaign\, we will soon open this effort to the broader ESU community. I have every confidence that they will follow your example and help us exceed our goal. \n\n\n\nWe are profoundly grateful for the generous contributions of so many of you in attendance. Among our leadership supporters is Mr. Donald Best\, who will be the honoree of the 2026 Founder’s Award Gala in London on July 14 at the Oxford–Cambridge Club. \n\n\n\nMr. Donald Best is a distinguished Board member\, devoted steward of our mission\, passionate internationalist and one of the ESU’s most generous donors. His commitment to the ESU of the United States has extended far beyond our national borders: for many years he has championed ESUs around the world and enthusiastically promoted the global fellowship at the heart of our mission. \n\n\n\nHis recognition will be a highlight of an extraordinary week of activities surrounding the Gala. \n\n\n\nUnder the theme of Metamorphoses and guided by Dr. Catherine Loomis\, our program in and around London will feature a series of specially arranged visits to palaces and cultural institutions\, offering behind-the-scenes access and opportunities to meet members of historic families\, distinguished scholars and individuals whose work and insights illuminate the week’s theme. These exceptional experiences\, together with intimate receptions and shared moments with the international ESU community\, will culminate on Tuesday evening\, July 14\, with the Founder’s Award Gala at the Oxford and Cambridge Club honoring our dear friend Donald Best. \n\n\n\nIt promises to be a remarkable week of celebrations\, and I very much hope some of you will join us. Space is limited to 16 participants\, so I encourage you to reserve your place soon by following the link provided. \n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE  \n\n\n\nThank you once again for your support\, your friendship\, and your belief in the ESU’s mission. I look forward to seeing you in London. \n\n\n\nWith warm regards\,Dr. Quinn PeeperChairman\, The English-Speaking Union \n\n\n\nhttps://secure.esuus.org/np/clients/esuus/event.jsp?event=199  \n\n\n\nhttps://www.esuus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Registration-Form-for-ESU-2026-Founders-Award-Gala-and-National-Patron-Tour-in-and-Around-London-July-13-17-2026-1.pdf \n\n\n\nhttps://d2r0txsugik6oi.cloudfront.net/neon/resource/esuus/files/The%20English-Speaking%20Union%202026%20Founder’s%20Award%20Dinner%20and%20National%20Patron%20Tour\,%20London\,%20July%2012-16\,%202026%20v9.pdf?forwardedFromSecureDomain=1 \n\n\n\nhttps://d2r0txsugik6oi.cloudfront.net/neon/resource/esuus/files/ESU%202026%20Founder’s%20Award%20Gala%20and%20National%20Patron%20Tour%20in%20and%20Around%20London%20July%2013-16\,%202026%20Participant%20Agreement.pdf?forwardedFromSecureDomain=1
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/esu-2026-founders-award-gala-and-national-patron-tour-ovid-and-shakespeares-metamorphoses/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260715T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260715T170000
DTSTAMP:20260707T144407Z
CREATED:20260707T144406Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T144407Z
UID:1221-1784131200-1784134800@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:Happy Hour: Halifax Resolves
DESCRIPTION:During the 250th Anniversary of the birth of our nation\, many focus on the colonial activities centering around New England. A little-known event occurred in North Carolina in the little village of Halifax that helped turn the tide and create our nation. The Halifax Resolves and the three North Carolina Delegates that attended the Second Congressional Congress were the catalysts that brought us to the founding of the United States of America. \n\n\n\nWe invite all ESU members and guests to be part of ESU’s continuing celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary with this Happy Hour. Brian Burns will describe a historic event that was the first official action for independence from any of the thirteen British colonies in continental North America. \n\n\n\nThis ESU Happy Hour is sponsored by the ESU Sandhills Pinehurst\, N.C. Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online\, free\, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required to receive the webinar link. \n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE \n\n\n\nAbout Brian Burns \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBrian Burns is a retired Army Officer living in Pinehurst\, NC. He is thePresident of the Sandhills Pinehurst\, N.C. Branch of the ESU. He is also onthe ESU Happy Hour Committee\, and a member of the ESUUS NationalBoard of Directors. An avid military historian\, Brian earned his degrees inUS Military History from Purdue University and the University of Arkansas.With many of the battlefields of the American Revolution and the Civil War within driving distance\, Brian has traveled and visited most up and down the Eastern Seaboard. Although not known for the most famous actions in the American Revolution\, as we celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the United States\, he will show how North Carolinaplayed a significant role in the formation of our nation. \n\n\n\nCocktail:Colonial Rum PunchMake ahead: Oleo Saccharum (the colonial secret weapon) Peel strips of lemon zest andtoss with ½ cup of sugar and let rest for 30 minutes. The oils from the peel dissolve intothe sugar\, creating a fragrant\, silky syrup.Prepare:Combine one shot of rum\, ½ cup of citrus juice and one tablespoon of oleo saccharum.Add cold water (or cooled black tea for extra depth – a popular colonial trick). Add alarge ice cube and enjoy. \n\n\n\nRegister Here
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/happy-hour-halifax-resolves/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260729T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260729T170000
DTSTAMP:20260707T145009Z
CREATED:20260707T145006Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260707T145009Z
UID:1224-1785340800-1785344400@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:Happy Hour: The Loyalist and the Patriot
DESCRIPTION:Step into a gripping dialogue with acclaimed prize-winning historical biographer Flora Fraser and Doug Bradburn\, President and CEO of George Washington’s Mount Vernon\, as they reexamine the American Revolution through a provocative lens. This conversation challenges the familiar narrative of unity and independence. It reveals a nation divided—neighbors\, friends\, even families torn apart by opposing allegiances. Was this truly a revolution\, or America’s first civil war? Through vivid storytelling and historical insight\, Fraser and Bradburn explore the deeply personal conflicts between those who risked everything for independence and those who remained steadfastly loyal to the British Crown.ESU continues celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary with this intriguing Happy Hour. Expect a thought-provoking journey into the complexities of loyalty\, identity\, and the true cost of freedom. \n\n\n\nThis Happy Hour is sponsored by the ESU New York City Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online\, free\, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required to receive the webinar link.  \n\n\n\nRegister Here \n\n\n\nAbout Flora Fraser \n\n\n\nFlora Fraser is a historical biographer\, based in London\, specializing in archival research on women of the eighteenth century in Europe and in America. Her books include Beloved Emma: The Life of Emma\, Lady Hamilton\, The Unruly Queen: The Life of Queen Caroline\, Princesses: The Daughters of George III\, and Venus of Empire: The Life of Pauline Bonaparte. \n\n\n\nHer recent book\, The Washingtons: George and Martha\, won the 2016 George Washington Book Prize. Her new life of Scottish heroine\, Flora Macdonald is available in the UK as Flora Macdonald ‘Pretty Young Rebel’ (Bloomsbury) and in the US as Flora Macdonald: “Pretty Young Rebel”: Her Life and Story (Knopf).About Douglas Bradburn\, PhD \n\n\n\nDouglas Bradburn is the President and CEO of George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Bradburn joined Mount Vernon in 2013 and was the Founding Director of The George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon. He became the 11th Director of George Washington’s Mount Vernon in 2018. He is an award-winning author and well-known scholar of early American history. Bradburn is the author of The Citizenship Revolution: Politics and the Creation of the American Union\, 1774-1804\, and three anthologies\, including Early Modern Virginia: Reconsidering the Old Dominion. He is the co-founder and editor of the award-winning book series\, Early American Histories\, at the University of Virginia Press\, and the winner of numerous awards\, grants\, and fellowships\, including the yearlong Gilder Lehrman Research Fellowship at the Robert H. Smith International Center for Jefferson Studies at Monticello.Exclusive Patron Membership OfferFor a limited time\, we invite you to enjoy a special benefit available only through this ESU Happy Hour event. Members who upgrade to a National Patron Membership\, and new supporters who join at the National Patron level\, will receive an autographed copy of Flora Fraser’s acclaimed book\, Flora Macdonald: Pretty Young Rebel her life and story\,” a unique keepsake from this exceptional presentation featuring Flora Fraser and Doug Bradburn.Patron Members play a vital role in sustaining the English-Speaking Union’s mission to educate\, inspire\, and connect people through the power of the English language and its rich cultural heritage. Signed copies are limited and will be available while supplies last. We hope you will take this opportunity to become a National Patron Member and help ensure the continued strength and impact of the ESU for years to come.Colonial Rum Punch“One of sour\, two of sweet\, three of strong\, four of weak.”Ingredients:1 part fresh lime juice (the “sour”)2 parts sugar or simple syrup (the “sweet”)3 parts dark rum (the “strong”)4 parts water or weak tea (the “weak”)Optional: grated nutmeg on top (very traditional!)Instructions:Stir the lime juice and sugar together until the sugar dissolves.Add the rum and mix well.Pour in the water or tea and stir again.Taste and adjust—colonial recipes were flexible.Serve over ice (or without if you want to stay historically accurate). \n\n\n\nRegister Here
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/happy-hour-the-loyalist-and-the-patriot/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260819T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260819T170000
DTSTAMP:20260722T145946Z
CREATED:20260722T145945Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260722T145946Z
UID:1228-1787155200-1787158800@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:Happy Hour: Connecticut: “The Provisions State”
DESCRIPTION:As ESU Happy Hours continue to salute America’s 250th birthday\, we turn to the great state of Connecticut. By the mid-to-late 1700’s\, western Connecticut had developed as a quiet\, agricultural “backwater\,” landlocked and insulated from the politics and secessionist turmoil of the big colonial cities. Nevertheless\, during the Revolutionary War\, Connecticut earned the nickname “The Provisions State\,” by supplying vast amounts of meat\, grain\, clothing\, and weaponry to General George Washington’s Continental Army\, and was second only to Massachusetts in the number of men serving in the war. \n\n\n\nGovernor Jonathan Trumbull was the only colonial governor to openly and actively support the rebellion from the beginning. George Washington heavily relied on Trumbull’s logistical support\, famously referring to him as “Brother Jonathan.”  Many other soldiers\, spies and resistance activities came out of “the Nutmeg State.” Join us as our guest speaker\, Judge Edward Krumeich\, relates the many lesser-known military men\, skirmishes\, and resistance activities that came out of Connecticut. \n\n\n\nThis Happy Hour is sponsored by the ESU Greenwich\, CT Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online\, free\, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required to receive the webinar link. \n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE \n\n\n\nAbout Judge Edward Krumeich  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEdward Krumeich serves as a judge of the Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford and is a former partner at the Greenwich law firm of Ivey\, Barnum & O’Mara. A lifelong Greenwich resident\, he developed an early appreciation for the town’s rich history and traditions through his mother\, Marie C. Krumeich\, a public-school teacher and respected historian who authored A Child’s History of Greenwich. Inspired by her passion for local history\, Judge Krumeich has written extensively about Greenwich’s past in a variety of publications. \n\n\n\nBefore taking the bench\, Ed built an impressive record of public service. A graduate of Hamilton College and the Case Western Reserve University School of Law\, he served for many years in a variety of leadership roles in local government. His service included serving as Chairman of the Greenwich Board of Social Services\, as a member of the Representative Town Meeting\, and on the Budget Committee of the Board of Estimate and Taxation\, the town’s finance board. \n\n\n\nEd is also an experienced performer\, with featured roles in community theater and performances with “The Off Sounders\,” a local men’s a cappella group. His wife\, Elizabeth\, is also a lawyer and active community member. As a student\, Beth received the ESU Isabel Carden Griffin Memorial Scholarship to study in England during her gap year between high school and college. \n\n\n\nRegister Here
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/happy-hour-connecticut-the-provisions-state/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260902T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260902T210000
DTSTAMP:20260722T151157Z
CREATED:20260722T150957Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260722T151157Z
UID:1232-1788372000-1788382800@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:ESU Shreveport Branch Dinner Meeting with Twin Blends
DESCRIPTION:A new presentation on Ironclad Ships and the Red River.
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/dinner-meeting-with-twin-blends/
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260923T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260923T160000
DTSTAMP:20260809T194858Z
CREATED:20260809T194857Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260809T194858Z
UID:1239-1790175600-1790179200@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:Happy Hour: Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story
DESCRIPTION:Philadelphia\, PA.\, America’s first capital\, held a pivotal role as the cradle of American democracy. When George Washington took the oath of office in 1789\, Philadelphia had the largest free and literate community of Africans in the entire British Atlantic. This community raised families\, built institutions\, created opportunities for self-emancipated Africans to continue north\, fought for equal rights\, and they participated in public life. They exemplified the ideals of the new republic. Oliver St. Clair Franklin is the creator and co-executive producer of a feature length documentary of our Founding Era through the lens of the Black Philadelphia community of that time. Franklin’s documentary\, Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story\, explores how diverse groups that included European colonists\, Native Americans\, free Black communities\, and enslaved Africans lived and worked side-by-side to shape the new United States. Join this ESU Happy Hour as Oliver Franklin describes his film as a shared national and international historical record that explains how America came to be\, how it expanded\, and how its founding ideals continue to resonate today. This Happy Hour is sponsored by the ESU Philadelphia Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online\, free\, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required to receive the webinar link. \n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE About Oliver St. Clair Franklin\, CBE \n\n\n\nOliver St. Clair Franklin curated one of the first Black Film Festivals in the US (1972-78) and then produced documentary films. He became the first Deputy City Representative for Arts and Culture for the City of Philadelphia (1984-90). After his municipal role\, Oliver became an executive at several financial services firms specializing in institutional investments and was Co-Managing Partner of the first US mutual fund to invest in The Republic of South Africa. He has served on many civic and cultural institutions including the National Endowment for the Arts\, the Pennsylvania Humanities Council\, The Philadelphia Foundation\, and The Independence Historic Trust. He also served as the Honorary British Consul in Philadelphia and received the OBE and CBE honors from the late monarch. A Baltimore native\, Oliver is a graduate of Lincoln University (Pa) and Oxford University. He is also a Hon. Fellow of Balliol College\, Oxford.  Cocktail: The Founders’ Toast A simple bourbon-based cocktail tying to colonial/early American roots:-2 oz bourbon-3/4 oz fresh lemon juice-1/2 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey + warm water\, stirred)-Top with a splash of ginger beer-Garnish: lemon twist or mint sprigShake bourbon\, lemon\, honey syrup with ice; strain into a glass with fresh ice; top with ginger beer. Non-alcoholic version: swap bourbon for apple cider\, same lemon/honey/ginger beer combo.  \n\n\n\nRegister Here
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/happy-hour-becoming-american-philadelphias-story/
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261007T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261007T160000
DTSTAMP:20260809T195348Z
CREATED:20260809T195344Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260809T195348Z
UID:1243-1791385200-1791388800@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:Happy Hour: Daniel Boone: The First Kentuckian
DESCRIPTION:Daniel Boone (1734-1820) was an American pioneer\, trailblazer\, outdoorsman\, revolutionary\, and adventurer whose frontier exploits made him one of the first folk heroes of the United States. The story of the early settlement of Kentucky is well documented\, and Daniel Boone is most famous for his exploration and settlement of what is now the U.S. state of Kentucky\, which was then beyond the western borders of the Thirteen Colonies. \n\n\n\nThere is a difference between the myth and the man who actually existed. Daniel Boone lived an extraordinary life—even if he didn’t wear a coonskin cap! Boone was celebrated in his own lifetime especially after stories of his adventures were published in 1784\, making him famous both in America and Europe. \n\n\n\nThis ESU Happy Hour welcomes acclaimed actor\, Kevin Hardesty\, who has created a one-man play “Daniel Boone: The First Kentuckian.” Hardesty brings the famous frontiersman to life as he portrays Boone as a man who established himself as an accomplished hunter and explorer in Kentucky. We will see Hardesty live\, in-person\, as well as watch some recorded segments from his one-man play. \n\n\n\nAs ESU continues to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary\, it is noteworthy that Daniel Boone moved to Kentucky and established a settlement just over 250 years ago in 1774. \n\n\n\nJoin us for this special ESU Happy Hour sponsored by the ESU Kentucky Branch. ESU Happy Hour programs are online\, free\, and open to all members and the public. Registration is required to receive the webinar link. \n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE \n\n\n\nAbout Kevin Hardesty \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHardesty received a B.F.A in acting/theatre from the University of Kentucky in 1986\, and has since performed in theatre\, film\, and television\, including prominent roles in Biloxi Blues\, Hamlet\, Macbeth\, and Romeo and Juliet and leading roles in Of Mice and Men and A Streetcar Named Desire. Film and TV credits include co-starring roles in Not to Forget\, Heathers\, Happy Together\, 100 Proof\, The Cavanaughs\, TV 101\, and Family of Spies. Kevin also appeared with Ashley Judd in the Arthur Miller teleplay Interview with Ryan for PBS. He has been an actor\, writer\, and director for more than 20 years. \n\n\n\nRegister Here
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/happy-hour-daniel-boone-the-first-kentuckian/
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261022T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261022T210000
DTSTAMP:20260928T161212Z
CREATED:20260910T151325Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260928T161212Z
UID:1262-1792692000-1792702800@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:ESU Shreveport Branch Dinner Meeting with Dr. Alex Mikaberidze
DESCRIPTION:Dr. Mikaberidze will speak about “The Man Beneath the Hat” which examines Napoleon beyond the battlefield\, focusing on the character traits and work habits that drove his remarkable success\, but also helped contribute to his downfall. The lecture will explore his discipline\, memory\, ambition\, decisiveness\, and capacity for intense work\, while also considering how those same qualities could lead to overconfidence\, over extension\, and costly mistakes. It will offer a closer look at Napoleon as a complex individual whose greatest strengths were often closely tied to his greatest weaknesses.
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/esu-shreveport-branch-dinner-meeting-with-dr-alex-mikrabedze/
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261104T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261104T170000
DTSTAMP:20260910T143609Z
CREATED:20260910T143608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T143609Z
UID:1247-1793808000-1793811600@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:Happy Hour: Virginia’s Role: From English Rights to American Constitutions
DESCRIPTION:Today our ESU Happy Hour takes us on a journey through the pivotal events that shaped America 250 years ago\, this time in the great state of Virginia\, where revolutionary ideas became constitutional action. On May 15\, 1776\, at the Fifth Virginia Convention in Williamsburg\, delegates in Philadelphia proposed to transition Virginia from a British colony into an independent commonwealth\, to establish a new state government\, and urged the Continental Congress to declare full national independence from Great Britain. \n\n\n\nTheir work produced the Virginia Declaration of Rights—one of the most important documents in American history. It was a landmark statement of liberty and limited government and laid out the basic rights and freedoms that all people should have and set limits on what the government could do. The Virginia Declaration of Rights also influenced other state bills of rights\, the U.S. Bill of Rights\, the U.S. Declaration of Independence\, and France’s Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. \n\n\n\nJoin us for a lively step back into this revolutionary moment with Professor A.E. Dick Howard\, who will present “From English Rights to American Constitutions: Americans Transcribe Their Values and Aspirations in State Constitutions.” This special ESU Happy Hour is sponsored by the ESU Charlottesville\, VA Branch. The program is online\, free\, and open to ESU members and the public. Registration is required to receive the webinar link. \n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE \n\n\n\nAbout A.E. Dick Howard \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA.E. Dick Howard is the White Burkett Miller Professor of Law and Public Affairs Emeritus at the University of Virginia. He was a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University and served as a law clerk to Justice Hugo L. Black\, at the Supreme Court of the United States. He has written prolifically on a range of historical and constitutional subjects\, including The Road from Runnymede: Magna Carta and Constitutionalism in America. \n\n\n\nActive in public affairs\, Professor Howard was the chief architect of the Constitution of Virginia. He has compared notes with constitution-makers in various foreign countries\, including post-communist Central and Eastern Europe. Seven universities have conferred on him an honorary degree of Doctor of Laws. Washington magazine has called Professor Howard “one of the most respected educators in the nation.”  In 2015\, Virginia’s General Assembly named Professor Howard as that year’s “Outstanding Virginian.” \n\n\n\nCocktail \n\n\n\nAs we are marking the 250th anniversary of Independence\, it would be fitting to recall the imbibing preferences of Thomas Jefferson. When he was our minister to Paris\, Jefferson acquired a taste for French and Italian wine. He explored the vineyards of Burgundy and Bordeaux\, hoping to replicate European viniculture in America. I propose a white burgundy for the occasion. \n\n\n\nRegister Here
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/happy-hour-virginias-role-from-english-rights-to-american-constitutions/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261209T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261209T170000
DTSTAMP:20260910T144001Z
CREATED:20260910T144000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T144001Z
UID:1251-1796832000-1796835600@www.esuus.org
SUMMARY:Happy Hour: The Surprising History of Santa and Christmas Traditions in America
DESCRIPTION:Christmas in America has a much richer and stranger history than the cozy images we know today. This festive ESU Happy Hour explores why early New Englanders outlawed Christmas\, how rowdy wassailing gangs once filled the streets\, and how German\, Dutch\, and English traditions eventually blended into the modern Santa. We’ll trace the journey from medieval St. Nicholas and Alpine mischief-makers to Thomas Nast’s German-American illustrations\, the Civil War era’s sentimental reinvention of the holiday\, and the 20th-century rise of Rudolph\, department-store Santas\, Coca-Cola branding\, and iconic Christmas foods. With a pint in hand\, you’ll learn how a mix of immigrant customs\, reform movements\, and cultural trends brought today’s version of American Christmas into being. Join us as Erica Benson brings a story-packed journey tracing how America invented its own version of Santa and reshaped Christmas into the celebration we recognize today. The ESU Kansas City Branch sponsors this special ESU Happy Hour. The program is online\, free\, and open to ESU members and the public. Registration is required to receive the webinar link. \n\n\n\nREGISTER HERE About Erica Benson: \n\n\n\nErica Benson\, founder of Third Place Historian\, is a seasoned historian and educator with over a decade of experience teaching U.S. history at the college level. She holds multiple degrees in history\, including a master’s degree in North American history\, and brings a deep scholarly background to her work in both academic and public history.A recipient of the prestigious James Madison Congressional Fellowship\, Erica has participated in numerous elite history seminars and institutes\, continually advancing her expertise in American political and social history. Her commitment to historical education extends beyond the classrooms. She is a contributing writer for the National Women’s History Museum and an advocate for gender equality issues and the Equal Rights Amendment. Erica’s work is grounded in a passion for making history accessible\, engaging\, and relevant. Her lectures are known for combining rigorous scholarship with compelling storytelling\, offering fresh insights into the complexities of the American past. Cocktail: EggnogEggnog evolved from posset\, a warm medieval British drink made of milk\, ale\, and eggs. Aristocrats drank it with expensive sherry\, while colonists in America substituted cheap rum. By 1775\, the name “eggnog” appeared\, transforming into a popular holiday tradition and even sparking a famous 1826 military academy riot. Ingredients:4 egg yolks1/3 cup sugar\, plus 1 tablespoon1 pint whole milk1 cup heavy cream1 1/4 ounces bourbon1 1/4 ounces dark rum1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg4 egg whites Directions:-In the bowl of a stand mixer beat together the egg yolks and 1/3 cup sugar until the yolks lighten in color and the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the milk\, cream\, bourbon\, rum\, and nutmeg and stir to combine.-Place the egg whites in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat to soft peaks. With the mixer still running\, gradually add one tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the mixture. Yields six cups. Chill and serve. \n\n\n\nRegister Here
URL:https://www.esuus.org/shreveport/event/happy-hour-the-surprising-history-of-santa-and-christmas-traditions-in-america/
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