While most Americans know it's among their civic responsibilities to be informed and vote, a lot of people are checking out of both. As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, organizers of an interactive presentation hope to increase engagement by delving into the role civics and communications – from Revolutionary War papers to podcasters – have played in the nation's history. That includes the separation of powers among the branches of government and the system of checks and balances, the various civic duties and responsibilities of being an American, and how to find trusted sources of news and information. The hourlong sessions, titled "250+ Years of American Civics and News," have received positive audience feedback in Yankton , Rapid City , Pierre , Brookings, Vermillion , Watertown , Mitchell and Sioux Falls. Here are details of the next stop: Brandon, Sunday, Oct. 25 – details forthcoming. The series is sponsored by News Watch , SDPB, the League of Women Voters of South Dakota , the Chiesman Center for Democracy at the University of South Dakota and the Mike Huether Public Service Academy at South Dakota State University. To schedule a session with your school, service club or other organization, contact Walker at 605-610-9366 or carson.walker@sdnewswatch.org . South Dakota voter guide What South Dakotans need to know about voting in statewide elections, and who and what are on the ballot. South Dakota News Watch Molly Wetsch Share your thoughts on this story South Dakota News Watch is an independent nonprofit. Read , subscribe for free and donate at sdnewswatch.org . Contact: info@sdnewswatch.org . Government/Politics News Watch Justice News/Investigations