Phoenix Phiesta XXXVII: “The After AG / RG”
Speaker Profiles
Look for speakers names here as we fill out the 34 time slots between now and Thanksgiving. Click on a name in the list to view their profile and program description. This schedule is subject to change. The official times and room locations are the ones found in the Agenda to the right. Those in the Speaker Profiles may not have caught up to any last minute changes.
Hotel meeting room map is HERE.
Speaker Presentation System Information is HERE.
Hotel meeting room map is HERE.
Speaker Presentation System Information is HERE.
Got an Idea for a Speaker?
Contact our Programs Coordinator with a speaker's name and contact info who would be interested in speaking or tell us about your own idea in the Call for Speaker's form.
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Adrian Brettle
- A native of London and graduate of Cambridge University, Adrian Brettle earned his PhD in history from the University of Virginia. He joined ASU as a lecturer in August 2018, and is now associate director of the Political History and Leadership Program. Adrian lectures on nineteenth-century American and British history, and the history of globalization of that period. He has also published articles on British foreign policy, and has spoken to both university and community groups about Brexit. A specialist in placing the Civil War in a wider, world context, his forthcoming book, to be launched in August 2020 is entitled Colossal Ambitions: Confederate Planning for a Post-Civil War World. There will also be an exhibition next summer at the American Civil War Museum in Richmond based on Adrian's research: "Southern Ambitions: War for the Future."
Brexit: A Present-Day Crisis With Deep Roots in the Past
11:00 AM to 11:50 AM Saturday, November 30th in Pinetop RmBrexit is part of the popular revolt against so-called "establishment" politicians across much of the world: an anti-globalization movement hostile to transnational organizations including the European Union. However, Brexit also draws from the peculiar history of British-European relations. Since 1945, the political plan for European unity has divided both major political parties in Britain. In response, British leaders held their parties together by marketing the EU as a flexible, beneficial economic enterprise involving little loss of sovereignty. Revelations about schemes of European integration therefore created crises in British politics; but it was only after the post 2008 recession and the 2015 Syrian refugee crisis, which undermined the single market and its free movement of people, that the fragile consensus on EU membership collapsed. The same misunderstanding means Britain cannot secure an acceptable Brexit deal and the prolonged crisis now threatens to revive older Scottish and Irish grievances within the UK. -
Patricia Brooks
- Patricia Brooks is the proud author of three memoirs, has served as president and founder of the Scottsdale Society of Women Writers and Brooks Goldmann Publishing, LLC, for more than twelve years. She lives in Old Town Scottsdale with her author husband Earl L. Goldmann, where they enjoy the arts and cultural vibe of their community.
Write the Memoir You're Afraid to Write
10:00 AM to 10:50 AM Friday, November 29th in Prescott RmIn an encouraging and insightful presentation, Patricia L Brooks will help you capture your untold story that must be written and published. Through her presentation, she will share with you how to produce a memoir to your own satisfaction so you can conquer the story's emotional essence. With tips from writing her own daring memoirs, and those she has helped others write, Patricia will show you how to take the necessary steps to complete your own memoir. She will discuss why you should keep a writing journal and never apologize about your writing. She will stimulate your creative talents by showing you how to break through your silence to find your voice and give yourself permission to write your truth. -
Ed Bufford
- After a long career in marketing education and as the president of the Phoenix Union Classroom Teachers Association, Ed Bufford has focused his organizational skills on animal advocacy. He has worked since his retirement towards the improvement of animal care and animal laws in Arizona. He has developed and spearheaded an animal task force that created many improvements at county animal shelters. He lives in Tempe with his wife, 12 cats and 6 dogs.
Animal Advocacy in Arizona
2:00 PM to 2:50 PM Friday, November 29th in Payson RmAnimal lover and advocate Ed Bufford will present an overview of current Arizona law on the care and treatment of stray animals, and how he, along with other advocates, continue to fight for humane and compassionate guidelines for animal shelters in the state. Ed has developed and spearheaded an animal task force that has improved conditions in county animal shelters. He is the administrator of Ed's Animal Advocate Friends Group, which aims to end "convenience killing" in shelters. -
Nathaniel Burns
- Nathaniel J. Burns is a producer whose credits include film and theatre. He is the founder and Producing Artistic Director of Aside Theatre Company in Phoenix, Arizona. Burns is originally from San Diego, California and earned an entrepreneurship scholarship from the New Endeavor Foundation which he used to continue his study of drama, music and business.
Local Theatre in Phoenix: Challenges and Delights
3:00 PM to 3:50 PM Friday, November 29th in Prescott RmAside Theatre Company Founder and Producing Artistic Director Nathaniel Burns provides theatre and film professionals--playwrights, screenwriters, actors, directors, producers and more--with an opportunity to perform their otherwise "off topic" or passion projects aside from their own company's mission or season. Nathaniel will give some insights into the challenges and rewards of running a theatre company in Phoenix whose intention "is to surprise and delight you with new paradigms and challenging works for both stage and screen." -
Kebba Buckley Button
- Kebba Buckley Button passionately pursued a hydrology career, 2.8 university degrees and years working for the Army Corps of Engineers and a flood control district. At 26 she had a painful health crash. She took up meditation and energy medicine, becoming an expert in Jin Shin Jyutsu, Healing Touch, and Divine Healing. In 8 years, she had recovered. Now she has a passion for helping people find the both the vitality and inner peace they have been seeking. She has a holistic healing practice, speaks, and writes award-winning books. She is also an ordained minister. Kebba’s books teach people how to trade in their stress for energy (Discover The Secret Energized You, 2008), find their personal peace (Inspirations for Peace Within, 2017), and, if they are interested, get into a closer relationship with the Divine (Sacred Meditation: Embracing the Divine, 2018). The two more recent books are in full color. Kebba also has several ebooks and hundreds of free articles.
Dealing With Difficult People: A Fresh View
11:00 AM to 11:50 AM Friday, November 29th in Pinetop RmHow many times have difficult people stood between you and a pleasant day or you and the completion of a task? You've been told there are a half dozen types of difficult people. You've been told that understanding those personalities will help you deal better with these types.This framework can be a good start. However, in this session you will learn a more streamlined system for being effective with these people. You will learn simple techniques for modifying situations while maintaining your sanity and even your energy level. Be open to taking a completely fresh view of difficult people and how to deal effectively with them. -
Bob Faith- Banquet Entertainment
- Bob Faith performs his comedy hypnosis for a wide range of audiences, providing customized shows to dazzle any group and keep them entranced and engaged. Bob began his eclectic hypnotism career practicing hypnosis in Vietnam in 1969, working with a psychiatrist treating soldiers for post-traumatic stress syndrome. He went on to obtain his diploma as a hypnotist and master hypnotist and is a Certified Hypnotherapist. Bob is also a Registered Nurse, specializing in critical care. Complemented with a background in psychology, Bob also works extensively to help people with weight and smoking problems. Bob Faith’s psychology background and his diverse frame of reference, coupled with his innate sense of humor and energetic stage presence, introduced him with great success as America’s Hottest Hypnotist!
Comedy Hypnotist - Bob Faith
During the Banquet Saturday, November 30th in Phoenix BallroomEntertainment for Saturday Night Banquet -
Stephen Dale Floyd
- Stephen Dale Floyd is a long-time member & winner of 2 Owl Awards. He most recently taught Spanish at Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ. He earned the 2015 Evans Lerma Portillo Scholarship for graduate study at La Universidad de Deusto in Bilbao, Spain. He is a member of the Cervantes Society of America & the Modern Language Association. He has made presentations on Medieval Spanish literature & culture at the 2014 Boston AG, 2015 Northeastern MLA Toronto conference, 2016 San Diego AG, 2017 Barcelona European Mensa AG & (Aug 2018) Belgrade, Serbia EMAG, as well as Phoenix RGs.
"NOBODY Expects the Spanish Inquisition!"
2:00 PM to 2:50 PM Friday, November 29th in Prescott RmThe Spanish Inquisition was intended to identify heretics, mainly among the Jews and Muslims who had (often, forcibly) converted to Catholicism. Begun in 1478 by Ferdinand II and Isabella I, the Inquisition endured for three centuries and was not totally abolished until 1834. While it has been estimated that around 150,000 people were prosecuted during the duration, are all theses claims true---or might they have been, as some modern scholars suggest, exaggerated by political and religious enemies of Spain? -
Valerie Foster
- Valerie Foster is an award-winning educator and author of "The Risk of Sorrow: Conversations with Holocaust Survivor, Helen Handler," archived in six countries; "Dancing with a Demon," named Best Nonfiction Narrative by American Book Fest and Finalist by International Book Awards, and short story, "Loss," published by the River Poets Journal Anthology. With public speaking in Vancouver, B.C., Los Angeles, San Diego, Texas, New York and throughout Arizona, she has been featured on Sunday Square Off, The God Show, The Arizona Republic, Jewish News, East Valley Tribune and Voyage Phoenix Magazine. Website: valeriefoster.com.
The Risk of Sorrow: Lessons from the Holocaust
9:00 AM to 9:50 AM Friday, November 29th in Pinetop RmWhat can the few remaining survivors of the Holocaust teach us before they are gone? What is it that has not yet been said? Valerie Foster, an Irish-Catholic public school teacher, takes us on a compelling through her complex relationship with Helen Handler, a Jewish survivor of Auschwitz, who challenges her to listen as she bares her soul about this great atrocity. Their unlikely meeting resulted in an acclaimed memoir now archived in six countries. The Risk of Sorrow is an intimate conversation between two women of different generations and cultures, who together examine deep questions of faith, forgiveness, love and survival, and find a profound friendship in their mutual exploration. -
James M. Giunta
- James M. Giunta is a Certified Hypnotherapist and Inspirationist. He has been distinguished as “Hypnotist of the Year” by the International Medical and Dental Hypnotherapy Association and is a Certified Instructor for the National Guild of Hypnotists. James is the creator of “Hyp+Note=Therapy”© and he presented his noteworthy hypnotic induction in a TEDx talk in 2014. James holds a Master’s Degree in Communication and Information Studies from Rutgers University.
James M. Guinta - Affirmations + Self-Hypnosis Playshop: The Art of Auto-Suggestion
11:00 AM to 11:50 AM Saturday, November 30th in Payson RmAttend this class and learn how to use your language effectively and influence yourself productively and positively. Take this time to examine your beliefs, honestly and objectively see what is true for you, and create new pathways to getting what you want. All participants will have a chance to learn to write affirmations and to share this technique with others. All who wish to remain quiet and discreet may do so; no verbal participation is necessary or required. And of course, if you do wish to speak up, as Mensans love to do, there will be ample time for that, too! Learn from a professional hypnotist about the power of your mind to change, improve and expand. -
Mark Goldstein
- Mark Goldstein is President of International Research Center, providing consulting, custom research, and strategic support for business, legal and public policy clients across a variety of disciplines and arenas since 1992. IRC concentrates on clients' needs in the complex worlds of telecommunications, information technology, the Internet, eCommerce, eContent, eLearning, fintech, biotechnology, cleantech, and other domains by harnessing global information resources for informed decision making. He also represents Sustainability Partners, a transformative finance company that provides full funding for sustainable energy and deferred maintenance projects.
The Autonomous Revolution of Vehicles and Transportation
3:00 PM to 3:50 PM Friday, November 29th in Payson RmThis presentation is a detailed overview of the transformation of transportation through autonomous vehicles and the advent of Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) on the ground and in the air, including why Arizona is a hotbed for development and deployment, insight into the enabling sensor and communication technologies, and a forward-looking view of societal impact, markets and opportunities. Waves of change will roll through the transportation industry and practices as autonomy ramps up in personal and mass transportation, as well as in logistics/delivery segments. Join us as we examine how autonomous vehicles will be developed, deployed and monetized, creating new business models across the transportation sector. Explore autonomous vehicles roadblocks and operational challenges, emerging standards and protocols, connected services and their associated big data strategies and opportunities. -
Joe Gruberman
- Joe Gruberman - Every year (that I'm in town) I offer a brand new custom presentation that combines that year's Phiesta theme, behind-the-scenes movie topics and interesting trivia especially for my fellow Mensans. I have nothing to sell and (sadly) nothing to give away. My past presentations:
---Phiesta XXXV: "Hey, You Stole My Idea!! (Writing for Hollywood)"
---Phiesta XXXII: "Everything I Know About Mental Health I Learned in Dark Movie Theaters"
---Phiesta XXXI: "Pulling a Phast One: How Hollywood Special FX Phool Us"
---Phiesta XXIX: "Movies and How to Make Them"
I'm a retired corporate director turned movie producer, with two feature films coming out in theaters (or Netflix) next year and another in development right now.Who's Your Superhero?
4:00 PM to 4:50 PM Saturday, November 30th in Payson RmIndie film producer Joe Gruberman returns to GPM's RG for another rollicking romp through moviedom. But this time, the subject is SuperHeroes.
How have superheroes evolved in their transition from comic books to the big screen? How have our tastes and expectations changed since the first appearance of Superman in Action Comics #1? And, of course, what's the technology behind modern superhero movies?
Do you have a favorite? Which superhero do you most identify with? Expect to participate in an interactive discussion that will include everything from graphic novels to graphic cinema, and from special powers to special e!se! It's a Phoenix Phiesta XXXVII exclusive! -
Merissa Hamilton
- Merissa Hamilton is a public speaker and political activist who seeks to solve social welfare challenges with less government. She previously worked on criminal justice reform and homelessness for the Office of Councilman Sal DiCiccio. She currently serves on Rep. Walt Blackman's earned early release credits and ad hoc committee as Chair of the Policing and Policing Diversion Programs sub-committee. She is on the board of the Republican Liberty Caucus. Prior to entering the political arena, Merissa worked as an expert in the field of data integrity and master data management in the food service, retail, and supply chain industries. She co-authored several national standards documents for the Global Data Synchronization initiative under GS1.org, an international standards organization.
"Tough on Crime" = #FAIL: Public Safety, Poverty and Criminal Justice Reform
10:00 AM to 10:50 AM Friday, November 29th in Pinetop RmMany politicians continue to double down on legislative action to keep people in jail longer with fewer services and programming, citing that true justice for victims is lengthy punishment. But has this worked? Are victims safer because of these policies? Have modern criminal justice reform measures made us less safe?
My presentation will cover a brief history of criminal justice in the United States; the impact it has had on public safety and poverty; how the modern movement to reform past policies has impacted these arenas, and what policies we should pursue in the future to improve public safety and poverty. I will present research through the lens of my perspective as a survivor of violence. -
Larry Hedrick
- Larry Hedrick is the co-founder of the Superstition Mountain Historical Society and Museum. Mr. Hedrick founded and commanded a Civil War cavalry unit that appeared in two Presidential Inaugural Parades and has several motion picture and television documentary credits. He is a producer of the Mysteries of Superstition Mountains television program.
Mr. Hedrick also found the famous Canadian Club hide-a-case buried in the Superstition Mountains. You may contact him at larryhedrick75@gmail.com.The True Story of the Lost Dutchman Gold Mine
10:00 AM to 10:50 AM Saturday, November 30th in Prescott RmCo-Founder of the Superstition Mountain Historical Society and Museum, Larry Hedrick will speak about the true story of Jacob Waltz and the Lost Dutchman Gold Mine. -
John Herrmann
- John Herrmann is a retired mechanical engineer who used to design and build assembly line equipment for Hewlett Packard in Oregon. He became a snowbird, got caught by a wonderful lady named Judy in 2012, and is now a resident of Chandler. Still "engineering," designing gadgets and tinkering in his large sawdust and swarf factory.
Fun with the 3rd Dimension
2:00 PM to 2:50 PM Saturday, November 30th in Prescott RmAre we REALLY 3-dimensional thinkers? Because of gravity, we relate to the third dimension (up/down)in a very different way than we do to the others. This talk will explore some interesting aspects of our relationship to the third dimension, ranging from "how deep is the ocean" to "how high is the sky?" -
Clark Jones
- Clark Jones has been involved in computers since high school--starting a few weeks after Neil Armstrong took "one small step." Clark has been known to say that his first programming experience was unplugging the wires from a wiring board so that he could re-use it. After finally earning a BS in Computing and Information Science, Clark worked for 23 years in the semiconductor industry.
Besides computers, Clark has been interested in electronics since the mid 1960s. During his college years, he worked as an electronics technician and did a stint as a broadcast engineer at a TV station.
Clark is an active Life Member of Mensa, joining in 1981. Amongst other things, he has served two 2-year terms as RVC9, as well as 12 years on the National Bylaws Committee.Exciting Learning Gadgets
11:00 AM to 11:50 AM Friday, November 29th in Prescott RmIn recent years some exciting gadgets for kids aged 8 to 108 to learn about programming have appeared, though they have some strange-sounding names.
Clark will give us a presentation that he first put together for a retirement community in Connecticut in October 2018. The talk introduces three popular families of "gadgets" that, at least originally, were aimed at being affordable ways for youngsters to learn about programming computers. The three families Clark will address are the microbit; the Arduino, and the Raspberry Pi. The presentation is fairly nontechnical. -
Amanda Jordan
- Amanda Jordan received a MSUS degree from ASU's School of Sustainability in 2017. She also holds a BBA from Parsons the New School for Design. Prior to joining ASU, she has held positions in a variety of industries including design and advertising, technology, government and higher education.
Innovation + Circular Business Solutions: An Introduction to Circular Economy
3:00 PM to 3:50 PM Friday, November 29th in Pinetop RmIn this workshop, participants will learn about innovation, what it means to be an innovator, and disruption of the linear economy. Activities are based on circular economy, design thinking, mapping methodologies and leverage points. Attendees will walk away understanding the importance of innovation and disruption of the linear economy system, what it means to be an innovator, how to assess opportunities and reimagine solutions, circular economy principles and concepts, and more. -
Michael Kielsky
- Michael Kielsky is a partner at Udall Shumway in Mesa, admitted to the law in Arizona and California. His practice is focused on defending everyday people in legal proceedings initiated by the government in criminal, civil and administrative law matters. Before the law, Mr. Kielsky had nearly 20 years of experience in software engineering and IT, at companies including DHL, Intel and Motorola.
"Shut the Fork Up!" Your Right to Remain Silent
9:00 AM to 9:50 AM Saturday, November 30th in Pinetop RmA presentation and discussion focused on why to remain silent in most police encounters, and several simple techniques and practices for remaining silent. Intended as a sober assessment of the present state of the law, best practices for the innocent (and mostly innocent) and not intended to disparage law enforcement. -
Al Krever
- Al Krever is a 45 year practitioner of Aikido and 55 year student of the martial arts in general. He admits to being a retired software type and also a piano teacher, it fits if you think about it.
Words and Concepts in Japanese That We Don't Quite Get
4:00 PM to 4:50 PM Saturday, November 30th in Prescott RmThere are many Japanese words and phrases that have been adopted as part of Western studies such as Zen Buddhism, Shinto, Crafts and the Martial Arts. We will, in this session, explore some of these and try to convey what they mean to Japanese native speakers and what we think they mean to us Western folks. Other language groups have the same cross-translation problems as well. You are invited to bring your own examples for discussion. -
Stacy Lynch
- Stacy Lynch is the founder and owner of Inertia Therapy Services, where he hopes to help make a difference in the healthcare industry in America. He is the U.S. organizer for the Association of International Aquatic Therapy Faculty. Stacy was integral to the first published case review on Aquatic Therapy and Alzheimer's Disease, and co-wrote the first published case review on Aquatic Therapy and End-Stage Dementia. He is an international keynote speaker and has been a guest on a number of podcasts and webinars, including the Aquatic Section of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). Stacy currently works full-time as an aquatic therapist at Oakeson Physical Therapy in Peoria. He continues to work with the development of aquatic programs for residents with dementia in the long-term care community.
Aquatic Therapy and Alzheimer's Disease
10:00 AM to 10:50 AM Saturday, November 24th in Payson RmThe Alzheimer's Association states that there are over 5 million people living with Alzheimer's Disease, and that 1 in 3 seniors will die with the disease or with another form of dementia. There are currently no pharmocological treatments that have been found effective in altering the progression of Alzheimer's or restoring cognitive function. This presentation will cover the newest research involving the relationship of physical activity to cognitive decline and improvement.
The aquatic environment an allow for the maximizing of cognitive, visual, motor and somatosensory stimuli. Recent research has concluded that immersion alone increases cerebral blood flow and its velocity, as well as increasing this response with physical activity. Additionally, immersion has been found to decrease cognitive errors during single and dual cognitive/motor tasks. -
Sandra Marinella
- Sandra Marinella is an award-winning teacher and writer. In recent years she has taught more than 10,000 writers and given 200+ professional workshops. In 2012 when she faced breast cancer, Sandra turned her focus from teaching to writing as a way of healing. She began volunteering with veterans and cancer patients. As she watched writing help them to transform their lives, she discovered her new passion---sharing the power of their stories and the methods they used to heal their lives. After researching and writing her book, The Story You Need to Tell, Sandra founded the Story You Need to Tell Project at www.storyyouneedtotell.com. Here, individuals can learn the power of reworking their personal life stories with the goal of finding hope, inspiration, and a better way of living.
The Story You Need to Tell: How Writing Our Stories Transforms Us
9:00 AM to 9:50 AM Saturday, November 30th in Payson RmDo you have a story that needs to be told? Most of us do! Based on Sandra Marinella's pioneering work with thousands of writers, veterans, and cancer patients, the presenter will share inspiring stories that demonstrate how our personal stories and writing can help us move past physical or emotional hardships and toward resilience and renewal. As demonstrated in her recent book, The Story You Need to Tell, participants will discover powerful ways that writing and sharing our personal stories can enhance well-being and transform our lives. -
John B. Maxwell III
- John B. Maxwell III was elected President of Intertel by default in 2019. It wasn't his fault, he promises. Prior to that, he served as a Regional Director for four years. Rumor has it that life membership was bequeathed on him in utero, but since he is also the archivist at present, no record of such mischief can be found.
Intertel Meet and Greet
10:00 AM to 10:50 AM Saturday, November 30th in Pinetop RmJohn B. Maxwell III, or a minor minion, will share with current, former and prospective members the behind-the-scenes-convoluted-curtain goings on of Intertel--a society for the intellectually gifted top 1%. Drop by for information, or to make connections with other members. All are welcome. -
Dr. Susan Maxwell
- Susan L. Maxwell, PhD is a clinical psychologist who has been practicing in Phoenix since 1971. She has treated a diverse patient population and is very experienced in working with personality disorders.
Sociopathic Behavior in Everyday Life
11:00 AM to 11:50 AM Saturday, November 30th in Prescott RmThose of us who do not meet the diagnostic criteria for Personality Disorder, Sociopathic Type, are nevertheless at times capable of sociopathic behavior. This talk will examine, through examples, how psychologically healthy people use sociopathic strategies to accomplish goals in everyday life. -
Dr. Raymond Moberly
- Dr. Raymond Moberly, a consulting subject matter expert in the field of Information Theory, is knowledgeable about the principles of error correction, cryptography, and data compression. He has worked extensively in the field of software defined radio and has led development efforts for embedded software and firmware on microcontrollers, digital signal processors, and field programmable gate arrays.
Raymond holds a bachelor's degree in engineering from Caltech; Masters in Applied Mathematics from San Diego State University, and a doctorate in computational science from the Claremont Graduate University.Mini-Marketing Talks for Small Businesses
4:00 PM to 4:50 PM Friday, November 29th in Payson RmMini-Pitch-Fest is a series of 5-7 minute marketing pitches from our entrepreneurs and business members in attendance at the RG. If you want to give your pitch, whether it's new innovation or a product you've spoken about 1000 times, sign up by email: raymond.moberly@ieee.org.
Your presentation can include slides, video and speaking in any combination, but limited to not more than seven minutes. Those not presenting in attendance will vote on the best pitch. Time permitting, we will do evaluations and give feedback at the conclusion. -
Richard Morris - GPM LocSec
- Richard Morris’ arc of membership in Mensa parallels that of many members of his vintage. He joined in the ’70s, was active for a while but dropped out when life happened. He rejoined when he relocated to Phoenix in the late ‘80s. After a relapse to the real world he dropped out again but rejoined early this century. Since then he’s been active in GPM Marketing, RG committees, chairing several times and has served on the ExCom as Recording Secretary, Asst. LocSec, LocSec, and Parliamentarian.
GPM Forum
4:00 PM to 4:50 PM Saturday, November 30th in Pinetop RmWhat's wrong...or maybe...what's right about GPM? Your LocSec and such other ExCom members who aren't otherwise occupied will take questions, suggestions and (constructive, hopefully) criticism--all intended to find out how ExCom can serve you better. Don't be surprised if we ask for volunteers to put suggestions into effect!Visual Trivia
4:00 PM to 4:50 PM Friday, November 29th in Pinetop RmTeams of three will attempt to answer three questions each about ten images in a minute per question. The teams will keep their own scores. The images will be selected from the worlds of Art, Literature, Geography, Science and Politics. The winning team will receive bragging rights for the remainder of the RG. Disputed answers will be adjudicated by the moderator whose decision will be final. -
Laura Orsini
- Laura Orsini is an independent book publisher and marketing consultant who specializes in new author book launches. Socially conscious authors hire her to help them identify their ideal readers, publish their works, and streamline their marketing processes so they can sell more books. Her goal is to change the world one book at a time – and to dismantle the self-sabotaging belief that people have to be trained writers in order to publish good books.
With a BA in Nonfiction Writing from the University of Arizona, Laura is the author of many books, including Publish Your Book Already!, The Author’s Media Tool Kit, Practical Philanthropy, and the award-winning 1,001 Real-Life Questions for Women. She will publish her first novel in Spring 2019.
Laura began her public speaking career presenting on the topic of creativity for such groups as American Express and the Scottsdale Library. When she’s away from the computer, she enjoys movies, music, the outdoors, chatting over chai latte at a local coffeehouse, and spending time with her husband and her pets.Let's Talk Podcasting!
9:00 AM to 9:50 PM Friday, November 29th in Payson RmChances are pretty good you've listened to at least one podcast. For those who are newbies, a podcast is just an audio program streamed over the internet or delivered as a downloadable file. Think old-timey radio shows. There are podcasts on every topic imaginable. They're free with your iPad and via many other channels. And, they are one of the best ways to get visibility for your business, either as the expert host, or as an expert guest on other people's podcasts. We'll talk about the basics for getting started, and answer any questions! -
Wes Putnam
- Wes Putnam is the Center Manager of the Phoenix Landmark Center and is accountable for the delivery of Landmark's programs in the states of Arizona and New Mexico. Landmark Worldwide exists to empower and enable people in fulfilling on those matters that are of interest and importance to them, and in the process, are left transformed with more power, freedom, self-expression, and peace of mind. He has a background of 11 years of transformational programs and is one of 48 people worldwide who is accountable for the development of our local leaders
Leadership and the Power of Listening
3:00 PM to 3:50 PM Saturday, November 30th in Pinetop RmWhether you participate in a work team, professional association, civic group, or any other community organization, how you listen can cause breakthrough results! Participants in this workshop will: Discover hidden preconceptions about leadership that limit your capacity to lead effectively; participate in exercises that allow you and your colleagues to experience the power of listening, and explore the vital role it plays in effective leadership; receive valuable insights that are immediately relevant both at work and in your personal life. -
Steve Roberts
- British by birth, Steve Roberts came to Texas in 1991 to study for a Masters Degree in Computer Science. After graduating from the University of Houston he worked for various energy companies in Houston until, at the age of fifty, he decided it was time to retire.
Since then, Steve has published two books and spent four and a half years teaching in northeast China. He lives in the Texas Hill Country near Austin and fills his time hiking, participating in community projects and traveling in the UK and China.
oming SoonChina: My Experiences and Insights
3:00 PM to 3:50 PM Saturday, November 30th in Prescott RmSince the beginning of 2008, Steve Roberts has spent 4 and a half years living and working in China. In addition to making many good friends and having some wonderful experiences, he has been in a position to observe the changes as the new President-for-Life consolidates his power. As China works to become the premier player on the world stage, it is important that we all try to understand the motivation of the Chinese government and the expectations of the Chinese people. -
David Rosenthal
- Possessing a hands-on knowledge of program development and execution within diversified environments, Mr. Rosenthal is recognized as a highly organized, articulate, bilingual professional with the ability to help organizations achieve targeted goals.
Revitalizing Existing Nonprofits/Building Start-up Nonprofits
9:00 AM to 9:50 AM Friday, November 29th in Prescott RmThe Managing members behind NonProfit Consulting Group (NPCG) will share their background and expertise in nonprofit development and management. For existing nonprofits, this includes how to recognize and repair organizational issues that can lead to failure and to align all aspects of the organization to work in sync together. For start-up nonprofits, includes providing the steps to developing your own nonprofit to serve a cause or industry that is important to you along with creating your internal organizational structure, filing state and federal documents, and providing a platform for success as you take your first steps. Your members will gain awareness and understanding of behind the scenes efforts that shape the culture and the organizational integrity of highly successful nonprofit organizations. -
Frank Sasso & Barbara Hoffmann
- Master Frank Sasso is a Karate and Tai Chi instructor who has been actively involved in the martial arts for nearly 50 years. Sensei Sasso was promoted in April of this year to an Eighth Dan Master (8th degree) in Goju Shorei Karate, a martial arts system that incorporates both hard and soft styles. He has been awarded the titles of Renshi, expert teacher, and Shihan, master teacher who heads his own style. He has also been inducted into three Martial Arts Halls of Fame with a Golden Life Achievement Award as a Distinguished Master.
Sensei Barbara Hofmann is a 2nd degree Black Belt in Goju Shorei Karate and a Certified Instructor of Western Tai Chi. Ms. Hofmann was a school teacher for many years. She also traveled much of North America: every US state except Alaska, southeastern Canada, and various locations in Mexico. However, she always maintained her interest in martial arts. After moving to Arizona and finding Master Sasso, she studied Karate and Tai Chi seriously, and received her first Black Belt the day before her 70th birthday.Western Tai Chi
4:00 PM to 4:50 PM Friday, November 29th in Prescott RmWe will be presenting a short lecture on the history of tai chi and its health benefits. Our Western Tai Chi is Master Sasso's modern version of the traditional Eastern style, adapted to appeal more to Americans. We accompany the exercise with modern music known to Americans. However, the health benefits remain. We will demonstrate a pattern or two. After introducing tai chi and its benefits, we invite the participants to join us in performing tai chi, a gentle, low impact exercise. -
Steve Schumacher
- Steve Schumacher is a leadership analyst, consultant, trainer, and public speaker with over 25 years of experience in numerous industries throughout North America. He is the monthly leadership columnist for an industry trade magazine and has authored more than 100 articles on leadership, management, and change.
Steve developed his interest in Phoenix history over 10 years ago and has written several research papers on various aspects of Phoenix history. His most recent paper is entitled Building the Future of Phoenix History. He has spoken to the Mayor and City Council of Phoenix on Phoenix history and has been interviewed on KAET, Channel 8 on the same subject. He has also worked closely with Pueblo Grande on historic issues.
Steve is an accomplished long distance runner who has traveled throughout North America running races. He has two adult children who live in California and Tempe.
Steve holds Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Business from Arizona State University and a Doctorate in Education from Pepperdine University. He has been a member of MENSA International for 30 years and served on the faculty of the University of California, Irvine Gifted Students Academy. He resides in Chandler, Arizona3 Keys to Being Socially Adept
2:00 PM to 2:50 PM Saturday, November 30th in Pinetop RmHave you ever felt left out at parties or gatherings? Are you hesitant to attend Mensa events because you don't feel confident meeting new people? In our world of social media, it is very easy to create a very likeable persona that shows all of our good sides. Inevitably, we need to come out from behind that façade and meet people face to face. If that thought makes you nervous, or if you just struggle to build interpersonal relationships, this seminar is for you. In this high-impact, interactive seminar, you will learn the most important for becoming more socially adept. These skills include being aware of body language, listening skills, first impressions, and speaking with confidence. If you want to be less of a wallflower, or just want to sharpen your skills, this seminar will be time well spent. -
Lyn Stinnett
- Lyn Stinnett has lived in Arizona off and on since 1952. Since she came from a "moving every year" family during her childhood, she continued this with various trips overseas throughout the years. She attended Chandler schools, then finished high school in London, England. She then spent time in the US Navy before returning to Gilbert, Arizona to raise her six children. After completing nursing school and medical school to obtain her Family Nurse Practitioner/Physician Assistant licenses, she worked for the state prison system for 4 years before leaving for an extended tour of 23 years overseas with the State Department and other government agencies working as a medical provider in 27 countries. Now retired, she remains put, more or less, as a 40-year Mensa member.
Where in the World Has Lyn Been?
2:00 PM to 2:50 PM Friday, November 29th in Pinetop RmFrom 1992 until 2015 I worked in 27 third world countries for the State department and other contractors as a medical provider to Peace Corps volunteers, US Embassy staff and employed local nationals. My presentation consists of photos I took while living and working in these countries, showing various items of interest not usually seen by tourists. My working contracts were varied from several years or more in some countries, to a quick in and out for a month or so for others. Most of my assignments were with the Peace Corps as I taught the volunteers how to stay safe, healthy and sane during their two-year assignments. My usual assistant in each country was a local hire MD, so my nonexistent language skills in these many local hospitals and referral clinics were not essential. My other obligation was to train the local MD in "American" medical practices...a novel idea!
...the adventure continues...what fun!! -
Sean Sweat
- Sean Sweat spends his days in Intel Corporation's supply chain, and his nights improving Phoenix's transportation options through The Urban Phoenix Project and various City of Phoenix committees. Past notable projects include Valley of the Sunflowers and St. Luke's Complete Streets initiative. He has a BA Physics from Austin College, BS Industrial Engineering from Columbia University, and MS Transportation from MIT.
Legalizing Casitas to Unbreak Your City
9:00 AM to 9:50 AM Saturday, November 30th in Prescott RmPhoenix is the fastest growing city in the country, adding 27 households a "day." But are we building 27 more homes a day? And if we are, are those homes out on the fringe erasing the desert and worsening urban heat island?
At the same time, Arizona only has 25 affordable homes for every 100 extremely low-income households. This is a housing affordability crisis. Our current housing policies are unsustainable and barreling us headlong into disaster. One thing that must be done to bring our systems back into equilibrium is to re-legalize the casita. No matter who you are, this can be good for you. -
Ron Tasso
- Ron Tasso, a real estate developer and investor, graduated from the University of Washington. He is a veteran of the U.S. Air Forces Strategic Air Command, where he worked in photo intelligence during the Cold War.
Archimedes and the Genesis Code
11:00 AM to 11:50 AM Friday, November 29th in Payson RmWhen I read this quote several years ago in the Physical Anthropology and Intelligent Design by Rabbi Maimonides (Rambam), born 1135, died 1204: "The account of the beginning of the Bible is natural science, but it is so profound it is cloaked in parables," I started research into its meaning. The books of Genesis, Exodus and Numbers are full of numbers, and I will present my conclusion that these numbers are accurately describing the astronomy of our solar system. -
Mark Williams
- Mark Williams spent the first 21 years of his career as a Special Agent for the Organized Crime Division of the State Attorney General's Office. As part of his duties, he investigated organized crime, homicides, and fraud cases submitted by other agencies in various capacities. After he retired, he became a high school English teacher, department chair, crisis coordinator, and professional development specialist at an inner-city school in central Phoenix where he is the fourth generation in his family to live in the valley.
He has written six novels: Emancipating Elias,Holy Ground, Looking for Indianola, Fathers' Day, Labrelotte Bay, and Last Ship from Vladivostok..
Mark was married for almost thirty-eight years, his wife passing in 2018. He has three children and ten grandchildren. He currently resides in PhoenixLast Ship from Vladivostok and Other Tales- From Start to Finish
10:00 AM to 10:50 AM Friday, November 29th in Payson RmI will share with you my experience with writing with my seventh book, Last Ship from Vladivostok, as our guide. From that first book idea you've always had--its creation through its process, and those things that could trip you up and those things that were really helpful in not only writing, but how to publish that new born creation you made. We can talk about tricks that I have learned to use and what you can do to simplify all those ideas running in your head, how to organize them, use of editors and the use of agents, as well as audience selection and what are the odds of selling---anything!!! -
More to Come
- Bio Coming Soon
Program TBD
11:00 AM to 11:50 AM Saturday, November 30th in Pinetop RmProgram Description
Like minds who like minds