Community Speakers Bureau

Contemporary Issues topics

Arab Experiences Help Westerner Re-think Middle East Misconceptions by Don Lambert – Working in the Middle East for more than a decade (Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates) gave Don a first-hand look at the Arab World and Islam. He’ll give an overview of the culture, the political and business environment and his own personal experiences, and update you on current issues and events.

Are We Prepared After 9/11? by Dennis Bachman – Now, years later, the question is still unanswered. Dennis will discuss what we, as a community, can do to protect ourselves and discuss the role of residents in emergency preparedness.

Are We Prepared For a Disaster? by Dennis Bachman – Dennis will discuss home and family preparedness in the event of a natural disaster or pandemic event.

Bioterrorism and WMD in America by Dennis Bachman – Dennis has been working with the Center for Disease Control and Homeland Security to acquire the latest information on bioterrorism and weapons of mass destruction. Take advantage of his research and resources to learn about this critical issue.

Cell Phones: Do They Provide Real Safety? by Dennis Bachman – Cell phones and emergency 911 calls may not provide the safety most people think. Learn important facts about your cell phone.

Child Abuse: The Problem & The Prevention by Jana Enfield – Child abuse is a reality in our society. How widespread is the problem? Why does it happen? What can we do about it? Jana will talk about the Child Abuse Prevention Services agency and what’s being done locally, and help you understand how you can become a part of the solution.

Community Opportunities in Grinnell by Bill Menner – In Poweshiek County, Bill wears many hats – community and economic development (especially downtown/commercial/ industrial development opportunities), historic preservation, and consultant on public policy issues. A former political reporter and broadcaster, he’s willing to speak on any of these topics.

Emergency Services: Where Do We Go From Here? by Dennis Bachman – Emergency medical services have evolved over time into important medical vocations. Join Dennis as he explores emergency medical service professions … past, present, and future.

Gambling Treatment Program by Jewel Cooper – What happens when gambling is no longer fun or social and it interferes in someone's life? Jewel, whose client base includes Marshall and Tama counties, will share information on signs and symptoms of compulsive gambling and treatment options available locally.

Integration of Immigrant Populations Into Iowa by John Kalkwarf – Our goal should be to make integration of immigrants into Iowa less painful for local populations and state governments, but especially for the immigrants themselves. It helps to see statistics of different ethnic groups, languages spoken, Dream legislation, the effect on Iowa’s workforce, the effect on the economy, and even to “bust” some myths. These statistics show that an influx of immigrants into the state is essential for our economic health. An examination of their culture helps us to realize how their diversity can enrich our state.

Samaritan’s Purse – Operation Christmas Child by Ruth Knudson – Six million shoe boxes filled with age-appropriate hygiene, activity, and “survival” items for third-world children were distributed last year through Samaritan’s Purse - Operation Christmas Child. Ruth says this program is a new “personal mission” and she’s anxious to share information about how others can help meet the new goal.




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