Our Blue Light Environment Is Degrading Our Health

If you have any questions for our guest Scott Zimmerman that you were not able to ask during our class this evening, he said you are welcome to email him at Scott.Zimmerman@Silas.Tech.  You can visit Scott’s website at Lighting Inspired By Nature – Rooted In Science | Nira Lighting. 

Humans evolved in an environment rich in red and infrared light.

Early man was exposed primarily to light from heat-producing sources — sun and fire.  This light was rich in red and infrared light.  As a result, many of our basic microbiological processes — metabolism, hormonal regulation, brain function — became dependent upon continuous exposure to red and infrared light.  

In the early 20th century we transitioned our evening lighting from fires, candles, and lamps to the incandescent lightbulb.  This change posed no health problems to humans because the light provided by incandescent lightbulbs contains red and infrared light.   

Recently, however, our light environment has been changing for the worse.  The increasing use of LED streetlights, headlights, and indoor lights, combined with the light emitted from our computer screens, is transforming our light environment from  nourishing red and infrared light to blue and ultraviolent light.  This problem is being compounded by the coatings being applied to office windows, which are designed to filter out infrared light. 

In this episode Scott Zimmerman, a veteran of the lighting industry, will discuss the research showing the negative health effects of the blue-dominant light environment we’re creating, and what we can do to address them.    

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Speaker Bio

Scott Zimmerman is the founder of Silas, Inc., maker of NIRA lighting.  Scott has more than 35 years of experience in the fields of lighting and displays. His innovations and inventions have been used successfully in a wide range of military and commercial products, including night vision displays, liquid crystal display backlighting designs, and lighting fixtures.

Over the past few years, Scott has been focused on quantifying the health effects of natural sunlight. His efforts led to the development of the NIRA product line with its patent pending design that reintroduces near-infrared into our homes and offices. This research, co-authored with Professor Russel Reiter, was recently published in Melatonin Research ², a peer reviewed medical journal, and featured in LED professional ³.

In response to the pandemic, Scott extended this work toward developing novel lighting and HVAC systems that suppress disease spread. He authored a peer reviewed paper on this topic that was published in the Journal of Infectious Disease and Epidemiology.

We'll Meet at White Oak Gardens, 3579 Blue Rock Rd., Cincinnati, OH, 45247

Join us to get gardening tips from landscaping expert Tom Borgman.

We will start by considering your goals for your landscape.  Do you want it to be low-maintenance, colorful, simple, bold?  Do you want to attract butterflies?  Or do you have some other objective?

Next, we’ll consider the conditions that exist in your gardens, such as the soil, the amount of sunlight, and the size space you have to work with.

Lastly, we’ll present great new plant varieties, along with tried-and-true trees, shrubs and flower options, that can help you create a beautiful garden that will thrive in your yard. 

PLEASE NOTE: This class will not be held at the EmpowerU Studio — instead it will meet at White Oaks Gardens, at the following address:

White Oak Gardens

3579 Blue Rock Rd.

Cincinnati, OH 45247

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Speaker Bio

Tom Borgman has more than 35 years of conservation-related experience. Recently retired, Tom served in several positions with Great Parks of Hamilton County, including Natural Resource Manager and Conservation & Parks Trainer.  As a gardener, landscaper, naturalist, and plant enthusiast, Tom has had a lifelong interest in the connections between plants, wildlife, and people.

We Must Prevent Future Administrations from Opening Our Borders

What steps has Trump taken to reduce border crossings?

Ira will close by providing a blueprint for a rational American legal immigration system moving forward.

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 Speaker Bio

Ira Mehlman is the Media Director for the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR). He is a frequent guest on television and radio news outlets around the country, and has published opinion piece in major newspapers and online publications.

Prior to working at FAIR, he was a special assistant to Gov. Richard Lamm of Colorado, press secretary for the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense and an adjunct instructor at Hunter College in New York City.

Also, Learn About Challenge Range--An Addiction Recovery Program

Following Trump from the snow and ice of Iowa to the blistering heat in Pennsylvania and everywhere in between was a “Wild Ride”

As The Epoch Times ‘lead reporter’ covering the campaign leading to the reelection of President Donald Trump, Janice covered 60 events in-person, traversing the country from Hawaii to New Hampshire.

Most notably, she was there on July 13, 2024, when a gunman opened fire at a rally in Butler Township, Pennsylvania, leaving a spectator dead, and three other people injured, including Trump. Janice will give you perspective on the grueling schedule President Trump kept on the campaign trail and continues to keep since his historic re-election.

Janice will share her travels to Hawaii to learn more about Ryan Routh (the golf course shooter) and will discuss media bias and how Trump’s second presidency is reshaping American politics.

Don’t miss this unique, behind-the-scenes perspective as Hisle presents: “A Wild Ride: Covering the Trump 2024 Presidential Campaign.”

Janice Hisle will speak from 7:30-8:30 PM, Jaryd Motsinger will speak from 7:10-7:30 PM.

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A POSITIVE CURE FOR THE DRUG EPIDEMIC

Cincinnati Challenge Ranch, a nationally recognized facility, located 6 miles east of Milford, Ohio, is a faith-based drug and alcohol residential treatment center founded in 1972. We are incorporated as a 501-c3 and as a tax-exempt entity in the State of Ohio. We are a privately funded and program fee-based organization. 

Cincinnati Challenge Ranch is a minimum six-month faith-based residential program for those addicted to drugs and alcohol. A 3-year study, released through Northwestern University in June 1999, confirmed that 86% of those who completed the program have remained drug free. Compare this to the average government sponsored program’s 17% success rate. This study found that Adult and Teen Challenge graduates were “More likely to be living normal lives, holding down jobs and not needing further treatment.”  It went on to say that, “Nearly all have escaped the ‘revolving door phenomenon’ of substance abuse treatment.”  Cincinnati Challenge Ranch offers a proven cure to those with life controlling substance abuse issues. We are a local solution to a local problem. Our faith based cure to the drug epidemic involves a structured and disciplined atmosphere incorporating a holistic character development with education, soft skills and vocational training in preparation for job readiness.  The presentation will share why we do what we do, and why we are successfully restoring men’s lives, restoring their dignity and destiny. We’ll talk about our curriculum, the power of work therapy as well as keys that restore the heart.

Speaker Bio

Janice Hisle reports on former President Donald Trump’s campaign for the 2024 general election ballot and related issues. Before joining The Epoch Times, she worked for more than two decades as a reporter for newspapers in Ohio and authored several books. She is a graduate of Kent State University’s journalism program. 

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Jaryd Motsinger is the Executive Director and CEO of Cincinnati Challenge Ranch. He graduated from the University of Toledo with a degree in civil engineering and worked as a structural engineer at the Davis Besse nuclear power plant for four years. However, feeling called to a higher purpose, he left his engineering career to serve with Iris Global in Africa and Mexico alongside his family, later transitioning to the Middle East.

In 2023, Jaryd moved to Cincinnati and began working at Cincinnati Challenge Ranch, where he now leads as Executive Director. With a deep passion for pastoral counseling, he is a trained biblical exorcist and deliverance minister, dedicated to bringing physical healing, emotional restoration, and spiritual freedom to those in need. He has recorded over 100 physical healings and miracles, including blind eyes and over 20 deaf ears being restored, along with dozens of exorcisms of demonically oppressed and possessed individuals. Jaryd is passionate about leadership, mental health, character development, and spiritual well-being in the greater Cincinnati and tri-state area. His mission is to remain teachable and obedient to God and in His power, to equip and empower individuals to walk in freedom, healing, and purpose. To restore God’s dignity and destiny in their lives. He is a father of five and resides in the Milford area with His family, where he continues to impact lives through faith, service, and transformation through the Cincinnati Challenge Ranch.

What's Happening in Europe, and What Might It Portend for Us?

While authoritarianism has been on the rise among the political class, a populist reaction is taking place in response.  

In 2015 the EU opened its borders to an unvetted flow of immigrants from the Middle East.  This created lots of tension with EU citizens as the European and Muslim cultures began clashing, with numerous cities seeing dramatic increases in crime, including the grooming gangs in the UK.

At the same time, the European governments began moving in an increasingly authoritarian direction, most notably with crackdowns on free speech, including jailing people for “offensive” or “hurtful” comments on social media, and for praying silently in front of an abortion clinic. 

These trends have resulted in a rising populism among voters that has resulted in the elections of leaders such as the Netherlands’ Geert Wilders and the UK’s Nigel Farage.

Join us as Breitbart’s London Bureau Chief, Oliver Lane, gives us an insider’s view of these trends, how they might play out in the future, and their relationship to political trends in the US.

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Speaker Bio

Oliver Lane is the UK Bureau Chief at Breitbart News Network.  He received his BA with Honors in War Studies and Counter Piracy from the University of Wolverhampton, and his MA in Intelligence and International Security from King’s College London.

Also, George Lang to Discuss Getting Rid of Income Tax in Ohio

MAHA will be charged with investigating what is causing decades-long increase in chronic illness.

What is the action plan to get American’s Healthy Again?  Newly confirmed HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. will lead a commission at Health and Human Services which will investigate the causes of an increase in childhood chronic illness.   The initial order from President Trump states the commission will assist the President on how to exercise his authority to address the childhood chronic disease crisis.

Dr. Jay Rissover, one of our favorite EmpowerU speakers, will review the RFK JR movement of MAHA or “Make America Healthy Again.”    This presentation will include a little history of Robert F Kennedy and some of his controversial comments and positions.

RFK’s alarming warning of the unhealthy trends in America are numerous and factually correct.  Tonight, let’s look at the facts and some of the science.  Walk away with some information to remember as we start to learn more about MAHA.

George Lang will be speaking from 7:10-7:30, and Dr. Rissover will speak from 7:30-8:30 PM.

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Can We Get Rid of the Income Tax in Ohio?

Ohio State Senator George Lang will discuss how reducing these taxes can be accomplished and what the impact of such action will be to small business and each one of us as individual state taxpayers.In 2024 legislation was introduced to once and for all to eliminate the income tax for all Ohioans and the Commercial Activity Tax (CAT) by 2030. Ohio is ready to reclaim our role as the economic engine of the Midwest. This first step ensures Ohio is a destination for businesses to grow and attract people who want to work and live here, raise a family, and truly thrive.

Our small and mid-sized businesses are the heart of Ohio’s economy. Eliminating the CAT shows how committed we are to that mission of. ensuring Ohio is the ideal place to start and run a business, to be the place where every entrepreneur’s dreams can be realized.  If we look to the east or west, our income tax rates are higher.   Ohio is exceptional and must rise to the challenge of finding new ways to set ourselves apart.  We must seize this opportunity to take a fresh perspective on how our tax dollars are being spent. By providing permanent tax relief, we will also be looking at ways to ensure that, as taxpayers, you are getting the best return on your investment.  Ohio has incrementally cut and simplified the income tax consistently for over two decades. Now, bold action is necessary and possible, as we reign in the size of government, simplify taxes, and empower businesses and families to thrive.

Speaker Bio

Dr Jay Rissover is recently retired from Internal Medicine after 36 years in practice.  He founded and ran a local charity, taught post Graduate medicine at a local hospital system, he is a political activist and public speaker in person, on radio and TV. 

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Senator George Lang is currently serving in the Ohio Senate representing the people of the 4th Senate District, which covers the majority of Butler County. He previously served two terms in the Ohio House of Representatives.

Senator Lang graduated from Southeast Missouri State University in 1985 with a major in Communications and a double minor in Marketing and Speech. Since moving to West Chester in 1990, he has been an active member of the community, including more than two decades in public service. After serving seven years on the West Chester Board of Zoning Appeals, he ran for and won the election for township trustee in 2003, where he served until being appointed to the House.

Following eight years spent in various sales and managerial positions at Procter & Gamble, Senator Lang left to start his own business in the financial services industry and has started numerous businesses since. Today, more than 100 people are employed by businesses he helped to create. 

In 2018, Senator Lang and several of his Senate and House colleagues created the Business First Caucus to help small businesses in Ohio thrive and become more successful. Since then, the Business First Caucus has  grown to be the largest bi-partisan, bicameral legislative Caucus with a vast network of supporters including entrepreneurs and public and private organizations throughout the state. Lang and his high school sweetheart, Debbie, have been married for 36 years. They have two daughters, Amy and Alicia, and live in West Chester.

From Ancient Egypt to Modern America

The common phrase “as above, so below” is derived from Hermeticism.

Hermeticism is a body of philosophical beliefs that emerged in Egypt around the beginning of the Common Era.  Often attributed to Hermes Trismegistus, Hermeticism resulted from the blending of ancient Egyptian and Greek cultures and ideas that took place in Alexandria, which at that time was a global melting pot of peoples.

The caduceus is a symbol of Hermeticism.

Over millennia, Hermeticism has touched many different religions and belief systems, from early Christian Gnosticism, to Jewish Kabballah, to Islamic thought, to eastern philosophy, to esoteric and secret societies, to the European New Age movement.  Yet, Hermeticism is commonly misunderstood today.

John Hernandez, a highly accomplished expert in Hermetic thought, will guide us through the story of the development, evolution, and spread of these ancient concepts and beliefs.  John will trace their growth from Ancient Egypt to modern day America, illustrating our journey with a collection of fascinating images he has collected over the years.

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Speaker Bio

John Hernandez is a seasoned mentor in Alchemy and Hermetic Arts & Sciences who possesses a vast knowledge of ancient history and Western esoteric traditions, as well as a music producer and master sound engineer.

John, a co-founder of Domus Hermeticus, brings a wealth of experience in Hermetic mentoring to the Alchemy Center of Excellence. With over ten years of experience as an examining instructor at Dennis William Hauck’s Alchemy Study Program.

John teaches his students how to hear the voice of their inner calling. Through his adeptness in alchemical orchestration, John guides the aspirants in tuning their personalities to the distinct melody of their purpose. By resonating harmoniously with this unique rhythm of transformation, John’s students learn how to dance to their inner music and utilize their full potential.

John generously shares his deep Hermetic knowledge with hundreds of his students. He skillfully assists the seeker on an ongoing self-discovery path.  John emphasizes the importance of the practical application of the lessons learned and the utilization of alchemical tools and operations in all aspects of one’s daily life.  Additionally, John teaches Kabbalah and Tarot, and he has received training in the art of Chi Gung (Qigong), an eastern alchemical discipline.

John founded the Alchemy Coaching Institute, and he has successfully launched several other businesses. He also has a strong passion for wine and food, actively pursuing his professional interests in these areas.

He recently penned the foreword to The Coction Chronicles: Food as In-Formation, a two-book series authored by Melusina de Melita. In addition, he has authored two papers exploring the depths of Masonic symbolism, and remains actively engaged in various Hermetic traditions. Earlier in his career, in his role as a No Nation music band producer, John collaborated in the creation of Illumine, a progressive rock opera that serves as a musical representation of the Seven Operations of Alchemy.  John travels the world as an explorer, documenting Hermetic symbolism during his journeys.

Visit John’s personal website at Alchemy Coaching Institute:https://www.alchemycoachingins…

Also, We'll Learn How Drones Are Being Used In the Professional Photography Space

Witness the extraordinary transformation of this historic manufacturing site into a contemporary mixed-use complex.

Architect Ken Schon will discuss the renovation of the Peters Cartridge Factory — an ammunitions factory situated along the Little Miami River and Bike Trail — into 135 loft apartments and 15,000 square feet of commercial space.  Completed in 2022, the project received the Award of Merit from the Ohio Historic Preservation Office. 

In this talk Mr. Schon will walk through a brief history of the Peters Cartridge Factory using vintage photos. He’ll also walk through the development process, detailing the

physical and environmental conditions that existed on the site, the vision for the site, and why his firm came to commit to the project.  He’ll illustrate this part of the discussion with photos taken before and after the project’s completion. (7:30-8:30 PM)

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Camera-equipped drones can capture stunning views from a variety of angles and heights. This feature makes them extremely valuable commercial applications.  For example, they can help showcase a property or event location in a way that simply can’t be done with traditional photography.  They’re also extremely useful for documenting the progression of a construction project, for building a project portfolio, and for social media.  Carl Ray of Cincinnati Drone Photos will share his insights about this innovative technology. (7:05-7:25 PM)

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Speaker Bios

Ken Schon co-founded Bloomfield Schon & Partners 21 years ago. As partner he has led the architecture and real estate development teams to create over $150,000,000 in projects, finding creative solutions to complex problems.  His favorite work for the past 14 years has been as Assistant Coach for the St. Xavier Golf Team, where he demonstrates not only his passion for the game, but also his patience and compassion for the players he mentors. 

Mr. Schon is a Licensed Architect in the State of Ohio.  He received his BS in Architecture from Ohio State University, and his Master of Architecture from Miami University.

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Carl Ray started Cincinnati Drone Photos in 2016.  He is an FAA-Certified Remote Pilot for Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS), and he has completed photography projects in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Michigan.  He has worked in a spectrum of industries, including Hollywood films, the music industry, television commercials, real estate, commercial development, law, building inspection, weddings, and more.

Carl believes that sUAS’s provide a new pioneer spirit that is fascinating and historically unprecedented, leaving viewers in awe, wonder, and mystery of the perspective each view provides.

Carl and his wife Paula live on a farm in Indiana.  They have four children and five grandchildren.  Carl enjoys fishing, hiking, and being outdoors. He has been flying remote aircraft since 2006, and he has been a photography enthusiast for decades.

A Deep Look At China's Internal Challenges

What is life like within China’s borders? 

The image China projects to the world is familiar to most — that of a technologically advanced nation rapidly ascending to global dominance. 

But what about the domestic situation in China?  Most of us have only small fragments of insight about China’s inner workings — our picture of life within China is incomplete.  In this episode of EmpowerU, Breitbart’s Frances will complete that picture for us.

In her capacity as Breitbart’s International Editor, Ms. Martel has deep knowledge of the prevalent social, political, and economic issues China faces internally, and she understands the impact China’s internal state might have on its future standing in the world. 

Specific topics Frances will address include the following: the implications of the fact that young Chinese are not marrying and having children because they have no hope for the future; the shortage of females due to China’s since abandoned one-child policy; China’s persecution of Christians and other minority groups; the implication of the fact that the way in which Chinese use social media use in China differs from that in the United States.  Frances will take audience questions in the final 20 minutes of the hour.

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Speaker Bio

It was while working for Mediaite that Martel had her first interaction with Andrew Breitbart. “It was hard to keep up with Andrew’s brain — he was rapid fire. He hated elitism, hated the idea of an ivory tower of rich, white liberals telling the rest of us what to believe,” she says. “I clicked with that.”

It clicked for her so much that in 2013 she joined Breitbart News Network as free-lancer.  She proceeded to quickly rose through the ranks, becoming its International Editor.  Her expertise includes Latin America, China, Africa and the Middle East, and religious persecution globally.

Martel’s writing has been cited across the political spectrum, from Rush Limbaugh to Lawrence O’Donnell.  She holds a BA in Government studies from Harvard University, and a JD from Fordham University School of Law. 

How Close the New Nation Came to Falling Apart...

You think the dissention between the current political parties is bad now?

Learn about the conflicts involving the Federalists and Republican parties which caused The War of 1812.  Imagine now if a state refused to send soldiers to a National War and if they did everything they could to impede the prosecution of that war.

Thomas Jefferson’s Republican Party and Alexander Hamilton’s Federalist Party defined and jeopardized–the political life in the young Unites States.  The Federalists, although greatly outnumbered managed to subvert the policies of James Madison, the 4th President of the United States.   At almost every turn it was like we were almost fighting against ourselves.

The Star Spangled Banner Flag Flying at the Smithsonian

This class will tie together much of our Nation’s early history.   The War of 1812 was a local war between Canada (which was under British authority) and the US, as well as Great Britain and many of the Indian Tribes.   The war was a byproduct of the Napoleonic Wars which were fought mainly in Europe.  America had placed their bets on an overwhelming land victory while the British Army was busy fighting Napolean.

Washington D.C. Burns on August 24, 1814

With Britain competing for control of Europe, both sides understood the importance of disrupting the other’s supply sides.    America found itself being stuck right in the middle of important sea routes.   With Britain being the largest naval power of the world, was the new Republic in danger of losing its newfound independence?   What was the role of the Indian Tribes, and important strong was the great warrior and leader Tecumseh?   Much drama to be learned tonight including the background for our National Anthem and the Burning Down of Washington D.C.

Tecumseh

Join us tonight as Dan will teach us about the political struggles that led to a situation that almost destroyed the Young Republic.

Speaker Bio:

Dan Regenold first became active in Government in 2003 when he became involved fighting Eminent Domain and helping stop it in Evendale and in Norwood, Ohio. In 2006, he was one of the founders of WeDemandAVote.com which successfully fought and stopped, by ballot initiative, a sales tax increase in Hamilton County, Ohio. Later WeDemand stopped Red Light Cameras in Hamilton County.   

Regenold spoke at the CPAC Convention in 2008 to discuss major Grassroots initiative actions across the United States.   In 2009, Dan was unsuccessful in his efforts to bring accountability to the Federal Government’s finances with a citizen lead initiative WeDemandABalancedBudget.com (the bill was introduced to the United States Congress).  In 2010 Regenold was one of three leaders of the initiative to End Ohio’s Estate Tax which happened in 2011. The Tax Foundation called the repeal of Ohio’s Estate Tax one of the most important Tax accomplishments of 2011. In 2011 Regenold founded EmpowerUAmerica.org (starting it’s 29th semester in Fall 2022), a Free University offered in the Greater Cincinnati area with the goal of “empowering” citizens. 

In 2014, Regenold was one of the leaders of the effort to separate Music Hall from a County Wide Sales Tax which helped the Museum Center renovation get passed by the voters of Hamilton County.   Dan has recently concentrated recent efforts on the mess of Public Education in Ohio and specifically on topics like School Choice and Critical Race Theory.   Similarly, Dan helped led an EmpowerU initiative InGodWeTrustProject.com to teach students about the history of our National Motto.

Dan is a lover of Liberty and enjoys speaking to EmpowerU classes about subjects he is passionate about.  Recently he has discussed:  Milton Friedman, Saul Alinsky, D-Day, The Debt and Deficit,  Public Education, Winston Churchill, President Theodore Roosevelt, Thomas Sowell,  Sam Adams and Pearl Harbor at EmpowerU Classes.   Regenold is the retired founder and Chairman of FrameUSA.com, a Made-In-America picture frame manufacturing company.

Woodrow Wilson Greatly Expanded the Powers of the Presidency

What would the presidency look like in 2025 if Woodrow Wilson had never been #28?

Woodrow Wilson was the 28^th President of the United States, serving from 1913 to 1921. He was the only Democrat who served as president during the Progressive Era. He changed our economic policy, foreign policy, and greatly expanded the power of the presidency. 

In the 1912 election, Wilson defeated incumbent Republican William Howard Taft and third-party nominee Theodore Roosevelt, becoming the first Southerner to win the presidency since the 1848 election. During his first year as president, Wilson authorized the widespread imposition of segregation inside the federal bureaucracy and his opposition to women’s suffrage drew protests.

For one year and five months, Edith Wilson, oversaw her husband’s presidential affairs while he recovered from his illness.   Woodrow Wilson had suffered a severe stroke in 1919 that left him incapacitated until the end of his presidency.  Unofficially, she was called by many as the “First Lady President”.

Woodrow Wilson and Edith Wilson

Many Americans today believe that the Presidency is the most important office in our Constitutional system. In this class we will discuss how Woodrow Wilson – both as an academic and a politician – transformed the office of President from a relatively limited role to being the most powerful office in the land.

Speaker Bio:

Christopher Burkett is Associate Professor of Political Science and director of the Ashbrook Scholar program at Ashland University, where he teaches undergraduate and graduate courses on American political thought, including the American Founding and the Progressive Era. He is the author of numerous articles in his area of expertise.

Burkett is also the 2011 recipient of the Edward and Louaine Taylor Excellence in Teaching Award at Ashland University. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Ashland University and his M.A. and Ph.D. in politics from the University of Dallas.

This is a Virtual Class Only

Join EmpowerU For A Continuation Of Its Successful "Music Series"

The Magical Tale of How the Beatles Became a Band…

The story of how The Beatles touches the hearts of First Gen Fans who were there and resonates with today’s fans who see so much in the lads from Liverpool worth emulating. “The Birth of The Beatles” begins with the birth of the group’s founder and leader, John Lennon. As he grows and experiences one trauma after another, attendees can’t help but applaud his ability to square his shoulders and carry on. Living through (what John sees as) abandonment by his parents – who give John to an aunt and uncle to raise – the boy suffers loneliness and a feeling of intense insecurity, but learning to play harmonica, John manages to find peace in music.

Reunited with his musician mother Julia in his teen years, John is encouraged to form a band, and he recruits a few high school friends into a group called the Quarry Men. Julia invites them to rehearse at her house, and John and Jullia become inseparable mates. However, when Julia is hit and killed by a drunk driver a little over a year later, John is completely bereft…and the little rock’n’roll band he had quickly thrown together becomes John’s lifeline.

Via “The Birth of The Beatles” you will be a fly on the wall as John hones his band into something remarkable.  First, at a garden fête, he is introduced to Paul McCartney…and later, Paul introduces John to a very young (14-year-old!) George Harrison. You’ll find out how The Beatles’ first drummer Pete Best was selected and how early Beatles manager Allan Williams gave away to the refined and well-heeled manager, Brian Epstein. You’ll meet John’s college sweetheart – and later, his wife and mother of his son, Julian – the lovely Cynthia Powell. And you’ll travel along with the boys as they make their way to Hamburg, Germany, and then, into the hearts of fans throughout England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland.

Shades of Life Part 1 by Jude Kessler

As “The Birth of The Beatles” ends, the Fab Four have “come together” and are poised to invade America. Travel with Jude Southerland Kessler, author of The John Lennon Series and artist/photographer Rande Kessler through the deeply significant years of 1940-1963 as the phenomenal band that fomented Beatlemania evolves from naive teenagers into seasoned professionals. This is a whirlwind trip…and “you know that can’t be bad.”

Many of the rare photos in this presentation were taken by Rande Kessler in 1993-2000, during the Kesslers’  seven trips to Liverpool for interviews with The Beatles friends, family, early band members and business associates.

Speaker Bio:

Jude Southerland Kessler is the leading authority on John Lennon, having spent the last 38 years researching and writing the first six books in the anticipated nine-volume John Lennon Series. Jude attended Northwestern State University of Louisiana, garnering two undergraduate degrees in three years. She did her master’s work at the University of Maryland and taught English at Troy State University in Alabama.

As part of Kessler’s research for The John Lennon Series, she traveled to London and Liverpool 7 times from 1993-2000, interviewing over 100 Beatles friends, relatives, band members, and business partners including John’s sister Julia Baird, Cavern Club DJ Bob Wooler, EMI second engineer Richard Langham, John’s college flat mate Rod Murray, Beatles first manager Allan Williams, John’s friend and the founder of Mersey Beat Bill Harry, Beatles early bass player Chas Newby, John’s friend and designer of his famous cap Helen Anderson, Beatles early drummer Pete Best, and many more.

In the United States, she has interviewed CEO of Apple America Ken Mansfield, Elephant’s Memory Band bassist Gary Van Scyoc, and reporters who traveled with The Beatles in 1964 and 1965, including Larry Kane and Ivor Davis, as well as other noted Beatles associates.

Kessler hosted “The John Lennon Hour” on BeatlesARama radio for five years and the monthly Beatles podcast “She Said She Said” with Recipe Records Series author, Lanea Stagg for 10 years. Currently, she is the host of the bi-monthly podcast “Tell Me Why.” She has appeared on BBC radio with Martin Kelner and ABC Radio Australia with Rod Quinn; Kessler has also been featured on Radio Merseyside, on PBR’s “Up All Night” with George Noory. She writes a monthly column for Culture Sonar entitled “Lennon Matters,” and is a Contributing Editor for Beatlefan magazine.

Jude will be bringing and signing copies of her important books on John Lennon.   

Can Free Speech Be Sustained After Trump Leaves Office?

FBI Special Agent Elvis Chang’s 2022 testimony in the Missouri v. Biden case, along with Elon Musk’s release of the so-called “Twitter Files,” confirmed what many had suspected — that Executive branch departments, including the FBI, were colluding with Big Tech to censor Americans.

Source: New York Post

These groups censored two types of content — information and opinions deemed damaging to Biden’s 2020 candidacy, and information that contradicted the government’s narrative regarding COVID, the safety of COVID-19 vaccines, and the efficacy of Ivermectin and Hydroxychloroquine.

President Trump has vowed to correct this injustice, and his administration is already taking action to do so.  For example, in February the Federal Trade Commission announced it is conducting a criminal investigation into this type of censorship, and it solicited reports of censorship from the public.  The Trump administration’s efforts surely will have an impact in the short term, but will Trump’s changes be sustained after Trump leaves office?

Alex Marlow, Editor-in-Chief at Breitbart News, returns to EmpowerU to discuss these issues.

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Speaker Bio

Photo by Gage Skidmore.

Alex Marlow is the Editor in Chief of Breitbart News.  Alex befriended Andrew Breitbart in high school, and was Breitbart’s first employee, initially serving as Andrew Breitbart’s personal assistant.  He is the host of the flagship SiriusXM talk show, Breitbart News Daily. He is the author of Breaking the News.  Alex graduated from University of California at Berkeley. 

Also, Donna Murphy Discusses Heaven's Gain's Work With Families That Have Experienced Miscarriage

To Login to Tonight’s Class After 6:45 PM–Click Here

Required Reading: Amazon forest felled to build road for climate summit

Was Hoover really a free market purist? 

The legacy of America’ 31^st President, Herbert Hoover, is one remembered in infamy. Today’s narrative by New Deal historians portrays Hoover as a neglectful laissez-faire figure whose inaction only worsened conditions during one of modern history’s worst economic disasters, the Great Depression.

Yet is this truly what happened? Is this an accurate portrayal of Herbert Hoover, what he believed, and who he was? Was he truly the fatally neglectful laissez-faire supporter that New Deal historians make him out to be?

Hunter Oswald reveals that today’s narrative couldn’t be any farther from the truth. Through careful analysis, Hunter sheds light on one of America’s most hated and controversial presidents, exposing the falsehoods in today’s mainstream narrative. Hunter brings to light that it wasn’t Hoover’s embracement of the free-market that tarnished his legacy, rather, it was his disdain for it, and his embracement of big-government progressivism, that made him one of the most hated Presidents in American History.

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Donna Murphy, co-founder of Heaven’s Gain, will discuss her work helping families who have experienced miscarriage, stillbirth, or perinatal hospice. Heaven’s Gain uniquely provides for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of families before, during, and after the delivery of their precious child. Heaven’s Gain sells burial supplies and urns, has free support services, trains others on how to help families with pregnancy loss, and works to change state laws to ensure parents have the rights to their miscarried baby’s remains. Born out of her own experiences with miscarriage, Donna’s become known as a national miscarriage expert and is a sought-after speaker and trainer.  (Donna speaks from 7:05-7:25)

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Speaker Bios

Hunter Oswald is the Phil and Beth Gasiewicz Development Fellow, and a Research Fellow, with The American Spectator.  He is currently assisting with a project with the publication’s founder, Robert Emmett Tyrrell.  His Spectator articles have examined a plethora of issues, and he has done ground reporting for The Spectator, ranging from covering the 2022 Dobb’s protests in D.C to JD Vance’s Middletown Rally in 2024.

Hunter was the IFF Student Fellow in Conservative Thought for the Institute for Faith and Freedom where he assisted in research related to religious terrorism and insurgencies across the world, and their importance in addressing national security matters. He also assisted in researching the economic effects of revitalization projects to help inform local governments in their efforts to improve their communities.

He has contributed to various outlets, including Checkpoint News, Cogitare Magazine, and Convention of States.  Hunter is an enthusiastic student of history, and he understands its importance today.  He has always sought to make a difference in his community, and he has continued to do so through his involvement in politics.

Hunter graduated Cum Laude from Grove City College with a B.A in Political Science and minors in National Security, Economics, and History.

Donna Murphy and her husband Jim, are the founders of Heaven’s Gain Ministries (HGM).  HGM is the most comprehensive organization serving families who are experiencing stillbirth and miscarriage.  They serve over 1500 families a year with products and services that provide dignity to the child and support to the family. Donna is the Executive Director of HGM and is a Certified Baby Loss Family Advisor.  She has been a guest on Catholic Answers, Jim and Joy, Teresa Tomeo, and a number of radio stations throughout the USA.  Donna also travels teaching seminarians, priests, and pastoral care personnel on how to best serve those experiencing the loss of a baby.  For 25 years, Donna was a pro-life speaker traveling to high schools teaching the beauty of fetal development and the tragic methods of abortion, reaching up to 10,000 students a year.  This knowledge of fetal development was a type of preparation for the service she would provide to grieving families at Heaven’s Gain Ministries. Donna sits down with families and prepares them for the birth of their baby who has died.  Heaven’s Gain started out of Donna and Jim’s own miscarriage experiences at 9, 14, and 17 weeks. They were frustrated that they were unable to find a little baby casket for any of their miscarried babies. Jim and Donna believe each miscarried and stillborn baby is truly a loss. Proper burial of their miscarried/stillborn babies in a little casket was very important to them, and they did not want any other family to be in this situation and thus began Heaven’s Gain Ministries. Besides the many services Heaven’s Gain offers, they also offer dignified caskets and urns for families experiencing the loss of a baby at all gestational ages. Donna and Jim are the parents of eleven children: three in Heaven, and eight on earth. They have seven biological children. In December of 2012, they adopted their two-year-old foster child whom they had fostered since she was two days old.  

How to Replace Self-Limiting Beliefs With Self-Empowering Beliefs

Understanding the science of psychological change can help us transform our perspective, attitude, behavior and results.

Our beliefs about ourselves and the world can stifle our ambition and prevent us from realizing our full potential. For example, a common self-limiting belief is “ageism” — the belief that our age disadvantages us.  Ageism prevents us from even attempting to achieve the things we want to achieve.

Our beliefs are a component of our overall perspective on the world, and the saying “your perspective is your reality” is a truism.  If we can eliminate our self-limiting beliefs, and replace them with self-empowering beliefs, we transform our perspective, which frees us to achieve more than we ever imagined we would.

In this session we will learn proven techniques we can apply to change our self-limiting beliefs.  We’ll first explore the theoretical foundation of these techniques, including brain mechanics and the neuroscience of perspective. We’ll then review how to apply these theoretical foundations using techniques that work with the visual, auditory, and kinesthetic components of your beliefs. We’ll conclude by examining some simple daily practices to help you maintain an empowering perspective and overcome daily obstacles such as drama, fear, dysfunction, and ageism.

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Speaker Bio

Luann Horobin is a native Albertan, one of 1600 ICF Master Coaches, Executive and Leadership Coach, Career Accelerator, Transformational Consultant, Teacher, and Facilitator. Work ethic and community were key values, instilled in early childhood from the farm, that have been lifelong guiding principles. Yet when facing life and career transitions, a pivotal point was learning how to get what and where one wants that’s not about working harder, with less stress.

As an avid learner, books, programs and learning from others were staples in life, but gave modest results, compared to mindset., Luann guides executives, business leaders and high performers to use mindset, to achieve new ambitions, much quicker. In mere hours.,Mindset methods can save years of stress, trial, and error.

Luann’s deep dive into the neuroscience of transformation, led to her custom formula of career and transformation coaching for life-altering breakthroughs in leadership presence, relatability, relationships, and meaningful work beyond one’s upper limits. New mindset programs bring ambitions to life, to be your best self, make better decisions, and put the zest in life, without stress.

Outside of work Luann loves being a mom, dog grandma, pickleball, dancing, running, nature, walking, family and friends.

Arm Yourself With the Information You Need!

To Login to Tonight’s Class After 6:45 PM–Click Here

Required Reading:  Property Taxes Ranked by State from TaxRates.org–Click Here

Think Property Taxes are too High?  –The Dayton Daily News–Click Here

A 10-member Joint Committee on Property Tax Review and Reform headed by Senator Louis Blessing has recently submitted 21 recommendations to the legislature for review.

In addition to the recommendations given by this committee, there are also recommendations for more public meetings, a simplified process of passing and collecting property taxes, more transparency in clarifying terminology, and simplifying ballot language.

Are you concerned about your property taxes and what if anything can be done to lower, cap, or prevent taxes from going higher? This class is a starting place to voice your concerns and get answers to some of your questions.

Not all responses to the Property Tax Reform Committee have been positive and few tangible results came from the committee.   Read Senator Bill Demora’s comments about the Property Tax Reform Committee–Click here.

We look forward to welcoming Senator Blessing to EmpowerU.   He will speak from 7:30-8:30 PM.

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Maurice Thompson is the Executive Director of the 1851 Center for Constitutional Law, a non-profit, non-partisan law firm dedicated to protecting the constitutional rights of Ohioans. Tonight, Maurice will bring us up-to-date on the important work of the 1851 Center.    

Maurice will also talk to us about the important subject Property Taxes.   He has his own view of the State Committee that met about Property Taxes and will share those thoughts with us.   Maurice and 1851 have proposed an Ohio Amendment for Property Tax Relief which would cap property tax increases to 3%.  How would this work?  Who would it impact?  Would it work?  Maurice will be speaking from 7:10-7:30 PM

To Read the 1851 Center Propery Tax Plan Click Here

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Speaker Bios

State Senator Louis W. Blessing, III is serving his first term in the Ohio Senate. He currently represents Ohio’s 8th Senate District, which encompasses a portion of Hamilton County. He began his career in the legislature serving as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives, representing the 29thOhio House District.

Senator Blessing has an extensive background in electrical engineering. He currently works as an engineer at Super Systems, Inc. in Cincinnati and previously worked at Duke Energy and Nova Engineering.

He earned his Bachelor of Arts in mathematics and Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering at the University of Cincinnati. The Senator is a licensed professional engineer and isa member of the Ohio Society of Professional Engineers. He currently resides in Colerain Township with his wife Heather and their three sons.

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Maurice Thompson is a constitutional rights lawyer, author, commentator, speaker, and founder and director of the 1851 Center for Constitutional Law. Maurice fights for liberty across Ohio in high-stakes constitutional rights cases and provides legal support for freedom-oriented ballot issues. He has defeated state and local governments and agencies to protect property rights, taxpayer rights, free speech, parental rights, entrepreneurs’ rights, privacy rights, freedom to contract, and healthcare freedom. Maurice specializes in the Ohio Constitution.

​​Maurice comes from a long line of Wood County, Ohio farmers. Since growing up in Northwest Ohio, he has lived in Oxford, Cleveland, Washington D.C., Chicago, and Columbus, running his own businesses and working in a diverse array of organizations including the National Taxpayers Union, the Sam Adams Foundation, and the Buckeye Institute. He moved back to Ohio to start the 1851 Center in 2008.

To read more about the 1851 Center for Constitutional Law–Click Here

An Expert from The Dali Museum Will Walk Us Through The Evolution of Dali's Art

Through the lens of The Dalí Museum Collection, Sumaya will trace Dalí’s evolution from his rural beginnings, to his becoming an outspoken student, to conquering the art world as a member of the Surrealist group, to reinventing himself as a “nuclear mystical” artist after World War II. 

Examining numerous works of art, Sumaya will share stories from Dalí’s remarkable life to show how he shaped his world of dreams and created mind-bending illusions

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Speaker Bio

Sumaya Ayad has served as the School Programs and Education Manager at The Dalí Museum since February 2022. Having earned her master’s degree in Museum and Cultural Heritage Studies from Florida State University, Sumaya has held previous positions in elementary education, cultural heritage sites and art museums. Most recently having presented Empowering Young Voices: Junior Docents at The Dalí and in the Classroom at the Florida Art Education Association Conference, Sumaya aims to elevate any individual or artifact she works with.

At The Dalí, Sumaya is the link between the Museum and K-12 schools, driving strategy for and overseeing student programs, while also contributing to the educational initiatives of the Museum. Through programs like Teen Voices and Junior Docent Art Camp, she introduces students to the world of Dalí through a variety of artistic lenses. In addition to managing these programs, Sumaya is a co-facilitator of Innovation Labs at The Dalí, professional development workshops driven by creative problem-solving. Sumaya has a passion for continued education, inclusivity and, of course, art history.”

Also: George Brunemann and Keith Tenhundfeld Talk About Thier New Initiative RestoreWellness.org

Required Reading:  Learn About Budget Reconciliation–which will be used in the Senate to allow passage of Trump’s Tax and Spending Changes to avoid the 60 Vote minimum.

More History on the Ohio River Told by Peter Bronson

Peter Bronson, author of Promised Land: How the Midwest Was Won, will share with us the exciting story of the first settlers in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.  A sampling of some of the topics he’ll cover includes the following:

• How “Mad Anthony” Wayne won Ohio and the Northwest Territory
• The Courageous pioneers who risked torture and scalping to tame the “Miami Slaughterhouse”

• How Cincinnati’s “Twin Sisters” saved Texas
• A national secret society hatched in Cincinnati that plotted to create a slave empire
• The mysterious Mound Builders whose earthworks in Ohio go back 3,000 years

Signed copies of the book will be available for $20.   Peter Bronson will be speaking from 7:30-8:30 PM.

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RestoreWellness.org –New Initiative Started.  George Brunemann and Keith Tenhundfeld will discuss their new initiative to make us all healthier.  The mission of RestoreWellness.org is to provide education which will strive to help us all improve our health, wellness and vitality.   

This will be done with in person, with discussions and events and other tools we will use to connect with local, state and national efforts.  They will provide engagement strategies to share with your family and friends.  Join us and learn about our new initiative to help make YOU healthy!  George and Keith will be speaking from 7:10-7:30 PM.

Speaker Bios

Peter Bronson, author of Not In Our Town, Forbidden Fruit, and several other books, was editorial page editor and columnist for The Cincinnati Enquirer for nearly 20 years.  Under his leadership The Enquirer was judged Best Editorial Page in Ohio four years in a row.  Before coming to Cincinnati in 1992, he was editorial page editor and columnist at The Tucson Citizen in Tucson, Arizona. He began his news career in Michigan after graduating from Michigan State University in his hometown of East Lansing, Michigan. 

Peter has served on several non-profits, including Casa de los Niños home for abused children in Tucson, Northern Kentucky Children’s Home, Leadership Cincinnati, and Cincinnati Right to Life.

He was a regular panelist/producer on the Channel 9 WCPO TV show Hotseat, and on the weekly Tucson news show Arizona Illustrated.  He’s been a contributing editor and columnist at Cincy Magazine, and now is owner and publisher of Chilidog Press LLC, which offers publishing, writing, edition, and consulting.  His 2005 book, Behind the Lines: The Untold Stories of the Cincinnati Riots, was a regional bestseller. He is co-author of Legacy of Courage: True Stories of Honor Flight Veterans, and Legacy of Courage II.  Press has published dozens of books, including Judge A: Irretrievably Broken, Dance When You Can, and the national award-winning Submerged.  He is active as a group leader at Horizon Community Church.

He enjoys working on old sports cars, playing golf and travel. He is the father of two, and lives with his wife, Kathy, in Milford

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George Brunemann is a retired engineer with a 40 year record of innovation in electronic controls and artificial intelligence.  He began getting involved in community advocacy back in 2009 and has led several efforts in Southwest Ohio.  He is a frequent guest of Brian Thomas on the 55KRC morning show and has appeared on local news and national news to discuss both technical and community issues.

Restore Wellness Org is the result of a deep dive in pursuit of personal health and better understanding of the chronic illness epidemic.  The textbooks which formed the background of this research can be found here.  The goal of Restore Wellness is to share this information across the local and virtual community to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to live a full, healthy and vital life.

Keith Tenhundfeld–Practicing medicine is a calling to heal and in 1993, Keith started a journey into medicine. He studied both conventional and alternative therapies with a focus on being sensitive to all aspects of the patient’s experience. His approach includes getting back to natural modalities in order to be more cost-effective and more conducive in achieving wellness. Restore Wellness Org is the opportunity for us to regain the ownership of our wellness journey and make necessary changes to become the best we can be.