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REACH Speakers Bureau

World History

Mel Mauer

MM-104

The Truth about the Titanic

In character as Col. Archibald Gracie IV, a real survivor of the Titanic disaster, you'll step back to September 1912 and hear his gripping firsthand account of the sinking and his harrowing escape. A dramatic, immersive experience!

Royals & Famous People

Mel Mauer

MM-105

I Was a Titanic Survivor

I portray Colonel Archibold Gracie IV, a survivor of the Titanic. We pretend it�s September of 1912, 5 months after the ship sank and Colonel Gracie tells of his experiences on the great ship and his escape from it as it sank.

Royals & Famous People

Mel Mauer

MM-106

The Man Who Would be Batman

It's the humorous true story of my adventures playing Batman in Franklin and Nashville for "Toys for Tots" when I was the T4T Campaign Chairman for Williamson County just south of Nashville. What was it like as an executive of a major division of a large corporation to have a secret life as a superhero? Over the years it has become popular as a Christmas presentation. A humorous true story of a corporate executive by day - and Batman by night! Hear about his adventures donning the cape for Toys for Tots in Tennessee, and how a secret superhero life became a community favorite (especially around Christmas!).

Royals & Famous People

Mel Mauer

MM-107

Jesse James - The Last Rebel

The true story of Jesse James - Confederate Guerrilla and notorious outlaw - subject of countless articles, numerous books and over 70 movies and TV shows. Jesse James was an early celebrity for all the wrong reasons. Was he a true folk hero - an American Robin Hood - or was he a ruthless criminal, a killer who served only his own interests? His life is covered from birth through assassination - told with a sense of history and with humor.

Royals & Famous People

Mel Mauer

MM-108

Performance as President Lincoln: An Evening with President Lincoln

It's February of 1865 and President Lincoln had been reelected the past November and will be inaugurated for his second term on March 4th. His wife Mary, in her efforts to raise money for soldiers and their families, has committed Lincoln to a talk at a fundraiser before an audience in Washington DC at Ford's Theater. The President will speak about his life, beliefs, policies, and the war as it nears its end. His words will provide insights into that era, seasoned with his characteristic sense of humor. President Lincoln will take questions from the audience after his remarks, and all are encouraged to participate.

American History

Mel Mauer

MM-109

Lincoln on Leadership

In this performance, President Lincoln addresses West Point cadets on leadership, its triumphs and its failures. Drawing on examples from Civil War commanders, Lincoln offers timeless insights on character, courage and responsibility.

American History

Mel Mauer

MM-110

The Assassination of Abraham Lincoln

The shocking story of April 14,1865: how the plot was hatched, the murder carried out, and the conspirators captured. A compelling slide presentation of one of the most dramatic events in American history.

American History

Mel Mauer

MM-111

The Escape and Capture of John Wilkes Booth

Follow the dramatic 12-day manhunt for Lincoln's assassin, John Wilkes Booth. This slide presentation traces his escape, pursuit, and ultimate capture: A story of intrigue, betrayal, and justice served.

American History

Mel Mauer

MM-112

Protecting the Kennedy's

I portray Secret Service Agent Clint Hill, who was Jackie's agent and was there when JFK was assassinated. He talks about his experiences with the Kennedy family and the assassination.

Heath & Wellness

Michael Laurenty

ML-100

Finding Your Bliss

We are emotional creatures sometimes overwhelmed by the world around us. In this session, we will examine simple ways to garner the power of the healer inside ourselves to empower logic and regulate emotion. This cleansing will help you find balance and assist in your life's journey.

American History

Michael Laurenty

ML-101

The 1940s

The decade known as the "War Years" is a subject of patriotism and hope, sorrow and development. We will move from Roosevelt's final term, the travesty of WAR, to the Boeing B-50's first non-stop flight around the world, and more!

American History

Michael Laurenty

ML-102

The 1950s

The decade is known by many names including the "Atomic Age, Decade of Prosperity, and the Golden Age of television." It was the postwar years, and a time of growth, economic prosperity, and low unemployment, However, it was also thwarted by segregation and the Cold War. We will move through the primarily President(ed) "Eisenhower era" and rediscover more!

Nature & Gardening

Michael Laurenty

ML-103

Breaking Down the World Around Us

Ever wonder just how many countries there are in the world, how many waterways exist, percentages of population, or other general facts about the world around us? Well, let's get started and discover that this third rock from the sun has much more to offer than most of us realize!

Language & Literature

Michael Laurenty

ML-104

Leave Your Legacy Behind!

I have never heard a story of a boring life because everyone has a story to tell. Why not share yours so others can have a better understanding of your point of view about what you did in your life. Don't wait any longer! Let me help you gather your thoughts, develop a plan, and then chronicle all that is YOU! If only my parents left this for me, it would be a treasure!

American History

Michael Laurenty

ML-105

The 60s

Please join us as we travel back to the 1960's and recall the music of Motown, the space race, the Civil Rights movement, countercultures, fashion, films, and festivals. There's too much to mention, so reserve your seat and standby for a review of the transformative decade in American history.

Health & Wellness

Pat Blackmon

PB-100

Mindfulness: A Meaningful Approach to Healing and Wellness

Discover how simple mindfulness practices can improve your well-being, reduce stress and enhance emotional balance. Through breathing medication, chair Tai Chi, walking Tai Chi, and practical strategies for managing pain, stress and anxiety, you'll learn how the brain and body work together to support healing. Explore proven mindfulness techniques, the power of acceptance and the benefits of focusing on the positive. Gain a deeper understanding of the science behind wellness - and leave with tools you can use every day.

Health & Wellness

Peggy Cannon

PC-100

Low Impact Dance and Exercise Using Irish Dance Basics

This class provides a low impact exercise opportunity for seniors. Irish Dance offers many health benefits, including but not limited to, improving balance, sharpening the memory and strengthening muscles around the joints to assist with arthritis and overall fitness. All are welcome and no experience is necessary. The class will cover various styles of Irish Dance from "old style" to "Irish Ceili (social dance)" and basic steps of traditional Irish step dance that are used in Ceili Dance. Sean Nos is the oldest form of Irish Step dance characterized by a relaxed upper body and steps danced close to the floor. It is very different from modern style Irish Dance. In Sean Nos, arms move freely with the natural rhythm of the dance steps, and the steps are typically confined to a small space. The steps interpret the music. There are many similarities to tap dance and clogging. Ceili dance uses very basic Irish dance steps allowing all to participate. Everyone can learn the steps for Ceili dance, even without a partner and benefit from the exercise and fun.

Health & Wellness

Rachel Metz

RM-100

Intro to Aromatherapy: Essential Oil Toolkit for Holistic Living

Searching for a more natural solution to incorporate into your lifestyle while shifting away from harsh chemicals? I will be sharing my passion and knowledge about the science and art of essential oils, and how to easily integrate them into your home environment and personal-care routine. Topics will include choosing and caring for your oils, tips for optimal seasonal use, and ideas to nurture your spaces, your senses, and your body with this beautiful plant medicine. Participants will leave the workshop with the tools to create their own personalized blends along with two complimentary recipes.

Ohio & Local History

Renee Durkee

RD-100

Prohibition in Northeast Ohio

We discuss the who, what, where and why of Prohibition and its impact and reaction on Northern Ohio. Featured are infamous Lake Erie Rumrunners, secret coves, Coast Guard chases and local gangsters like the Purple Gang. Participants will learn all about how Lake Erie was a major route of alcohol smuggling.

American History

Renee Durkee

RD-101

Civil War Nurses

At the outbreak of the Civil War, nursing was a male profession, with many nurses being fellow soldiers. Women were considered too delicate for the occupation. However, the war changed public opinion as demand outweighed the supply of nurses. Women, rising to the need, proved they were not only capable, but often superior caregivers. Explore the requirements and dangers faced by female nurses on the battlefield and in hospitals. Discover the stories about outstanding nurses who went above and beyond the call of duty, including the only woman given permission by Generals Grant and Sherman to serve on the front lines.
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