Speakers Bureau

ARTS AND HUMANITIES

Dr. Deborah Preston
Instructional Dean
240-567-5031
Deborah.Preston@montgomerycollege.edu 

Greek to Me: The Enigmatic Beginnings of Western Theatre
Greek theatre is considered to be the origin of all Western drama, but in some ways it is unrecognizable to a modern audience!  Learn about some of the surprising and sometimes bewildering theatrical practices of our ancient forefathers.  Presentation is 45 minutes and includes a PowerPoint.

BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT 

Laura M. White
Program Director, Workforce Development & Continuing Education
240-567-7497
Laurie.White@montgomerycollege.edu

Strengthen Your Business by Strengthening Your Employees
Discover how your business can obtain effective customized training conveniently, on site or at one of Montgomery College’s locations in the county. To meet the workplace needs of local business, government, and community organizations, the business training services of Workforce Development & Continuing Education can partner with clients to enhance your employees’ skills through training, professional development, and technical assistance solutions. The full course inventory of the College can be tailored to meet workplace education and training needs, and can be delivered in a wide variety of learning formats to include on-site, Webbased,intensive, or semesterlength instructional programs.Technical assistance may include: training needs assessments, conducting focus groups,curriculum design, and educational program design. Visual aids. 20 min.

Michelle T. Scott
Director of Affirmative Action
240-567-5276
Michelle.Scott@montgomerycolle.edu 

Staff
Workforce Development & Continuing Education

Paul D. McDermott
Professor Emeritus
301-926-9098
mapmcd@aol.com 

A Construction Project: Do It Yourself or Seek Professional Help
The talk will include a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages in undertaking a remodeling or construction project either through a “build-your-own” approach or a builder/contractor. Visual aids. 30 to 40 min.

New Home Construction from Start to Finish
A step-by-step review of new home construction discussing the methods and materials used in today’s homes. Visual aids. 30 to 40 min.

Going to Las Vegas? Planning a trip to Las Vegas?
The speaker has visited the city more than 20 times and has performed there as well. 30 min. Wayson P. Lee Class of 1986 Wilderness Images How our image of the wilderness has changed over time. Visual aids. 30 min.

The Ancient Ones of the Southwest
The speaker discusses the life and culture of ancient settlements in northern Arizona. Visual aids. 30 min.

Exploring Yellowstone
The speaker’s prize-winning images will illustrate Yellowstone’s natural wonders. The journey begins with a digital sound and image show and concludes with some observations of the place. Visual aids 25 to 45 min.

Mystery People of Central America—The Maya
Buried under the tropical forests of Central America, one finds the remains of an ancient mysterious people—the Maya. Learn about their civilization as it existed in 800 A.D. Visual aids. 30 min.

Canyonlands
The speaker provides a visual tour of the Canyonlands along the Colorado River. Visual aids. 30 to 40 min.

North to Alaska
The speaker provides a geographic tour of Alaska illustrating its mountains, glaciers, and wild life. Visual aids. 30 to 40 min.

Images of Maryland
The speaker provides a pictorial tour of Maryland, from the Eastern Shore to the plateau. A special sound and sight presentation is available upon special arrangement with the speaker. Visual aids. 30 min.

California Redwoods
This presentation covers the ecology and history of the Redwood Forest through drawings and photographs. Visual aids.

Life on the C&O Canal
A discussion of life as it existed on the canal in the 19th and early 20th century. The talk is based on old photographs taken when the C&O was operating. Additional information is provided by oral interviews of people who worked on the canal. Visual aids. 30 min.

Photographing Maryland Landscapes
The speaker discusses some of the interesting places that can be photographed in Maryland, and techniques for making images. Visual aids. 30 min.

The Capital Region
A discussion of the historical and cultural attractions of the Washington metropolitan area based upon the book of the same title. Visual aids. 30 to 40 min.

Landscapes of Maryland
This presentation is a photographic journey across the state of Maryland. Visual aids. 30 to 40 min.

Fire at Yellowstone
The speaker provides an interpretation and explanation of a summerlong fire at Yellowstone National Park. The presentation includes a discussion of its causes and longterm effects. Visual aids. 30 min.

Pine Barrens of New Jersey
A colorful look into the physical and cultural geography of this unique wilderness area. Visual aids.

Strollin’ on the C&O Canal
Historical and cultural geography of the canal. A special living history presentation with costume and music. Visual aids. 30 min.

The Middle East 
This presentation uses PowerPoint slides featuring Dr. Zook’s travels to sites in Israel considered holy by various Christian, Jewish, and Muslim groups.  By showing the interconnection between religion and politics, the presentation illustrates the difficulty policymakers face in achieving peace in this. Visual aids. 45 min. plus Q&A

Dr. Nathan Zook 
240-567-7286
nathan.zook@montgomerycollege.edu

Biotechnology: What Has It Done for You Lately?
What exactly is biotechnology and how has it changed your life? This talk can be adapted for your group to include the basics of biotech, the ethics of biotech, biotech and human health, or another aspect of the topic of your choosing. 30 min.

What is biotechnology and how does it affect you?
This is a brief introduction to the language, promise, and perils of biotechnology. Visual aids. 20 to 60 min.

Biotechnology
The speaker will discuss the impact of biotechnology on society, particularly on ethical issues, including artificial intelligence, implantable chips, and life extension. Visual aids. 60 min.

Bioethics, Biotechnology, and Ethics in the Information Age
A compelling discussion about advances in biotechnology, and the ethical issues it raises. Visual aids. 20 to 30 min.

Apprenticeship Works!
Montgomery College has been partnering with local businesses and trade associations for more than 20 years. During this time, the College has provided apprenticeship- related instruction programs designed to meet industry needs. Thousands of apprentices have completed these work-based learning programs through MC. Now these apprentices can be found throughout the region in high-paying and rewarding technical careers. Learn more about the apprenticeship option through this presentation. Visual aids. 20 min.

The Skills Standards Movement
More employers and educators are creating and using skill standards as education, training, and recruiting tools. Skill standards are established locally or nationally and can be adapted to meet specific employer and educational needs. Learn how skill standards are established and review potential applications. Visual aids. 20 min.

Assessment Techniques for Diverse Learners
This speaker provides strategies and methods for approaching learners of various backgrounds (nationalities, cultures, ages, physical/mental challenges, etc.) to lay a common foundation. The speaker will provide various ways for learners to demonstrate learning and for the instructor to assess and evaluate in a lessstressful atmosphere. 60 to 90 min.

Year-Round Education
The primary audience would be educators and parents connected with grades 1-12.  This presentation explains the philosophy and rationale for year-round school, how the calendar would work, and other features of this model that promotes improved learning for students.  Although the concept is not new and is in operation at various schools already, there are many people who are not familiar with it or who may wish to discuss the pro's and con's. Visual aids. 50 min.

Professional Learning Communities in Specific Academic Areas
The primary audience would be teachers and administrators in both grade school (1-12) and college.  Not simply the congregating of various stakeholders or the community in general, this Professional Learning Community concept--developed by and advocated by educators Richard duFour, Rebecca duFour, and Robert Eaker--is a specific way of using new insights and practices for improving student learning.  It is applicable to all subject areas and levels but is especially effective in remediation.  Visual aids. 50 min.

Susie Robinson
ESOL/Civics Outreach Coordinator, Workforce Development & Continuing Education
240-567-8175

Some Thoughts on “The Last Lecture”
Drawing on Randy Pausch’s nowfamous last lecture, the speaker explains how a great teacher is defined. 30 min.

Troubles in Higher Education
The speaker discusses, from a faculty member’s perspective, the problems facing colleges and universities today. 30 min.

Putting Research to Work: Best Practices for Teaching in the Culturally and Linguistically Diverse College Classroom
The diversity found in the college classroom is representative of our American society. This presentation will identify some of the challenges and best instructional practices based on current research for teaching culturally and linguistically diverse college students. The instructor will share the results of an informal survey of college students—identifying their needs and matching the best instructional practices for reading and writing at the college level. Visual aids. 60 min.

Role of Culture and Plagiarism
This presentation will present current research on the role of culture and plagiarism. What is considered plagiarism and does the definition vary from culture to culture? How can the culture of a student affect what might be considered plagiarism in our classroom. Visual aids. 60 min.

Fire and Water
The lecture provides an insight into how our environment is changed by fire and water. Visual aids. 30 min.

Rising Waters
This talk deals with the problem of floods in the United States. Questions addressed include what causes floods, when and where they usually occur, and what can be done to reduce damage and loss of life. Visual aids. 20 to 40 min.

Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head
The story of acid rain and its impact on the citizens and environment of the United States. Visual aids. 20 to 40 min.

What’s Happening to Our Beloved Chesapeake?
The story of current problems now affecting the Chesapeake Bay. Visual aids. 20 to 40 min.

Indoor Air Quality and Energy Management
A discussion of the relationship between indoor air quality and energy management. Issues will include contaminant sources and methods of elimination. Visual aids. 30 to 60 min.

Vanishing Tropical Rain Forest
An examination of man’s destruction of the world’s precious rain forest. Includes slides of the beautiful forest complex. Visual aids. 25 to 30 min.

Waste! Waste! Waste!
Reviews the nation’s waste disposal problems and ways of reducing and recycling waste. Visual aids. 30 min.

The Energy Crisis: Fact or Fallacy?
A discussion of the origins of the current energy problem and possible solutions. Visual aids. 40 min.

Renewable Energy at Montgomery College
A slide presentation of several applications of solar energy in Montgomery County. Visual aids. 30 to 60 min.

Sustainable Building Design at Montgomery College
A comparison of energy efficient building design versus standard building design. The impact of first cost, operating costs, and life-cycle cost. Visual aids. 30 to 60 min.

Electric Bills: Can You Afford the Switch to be on?
A look at PEPCO’s commercial time-of-use rates, the impact on commercial customers, and costeffective measures to reduce consumption. Visual aids. 30 to 60 min.

Dr. Nathan Zook
Professor, Political Science
240-567-7286
nathan.zook@montgomerycollege.edu

Focus on Presidential Leadership: Abraham Lincoln
The year 2009 is the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. This talk presents the facets of Lincoln’s life and presidency that contributed to his greatness. 30 min.

What Have We Learned Since JFK Died?
The year 2008 marked the 45th anniversary of the death of President John F. Kennedy. This talk focuses on the societal changes that have occurred since he died, as well as his legacy as it is viewed today. 20 min.

Focus on Presidential Leadership: Theodore Roosevelt
Recent writings have given us a far more detailed picture of Teddy Roosevelt, his persona, and his presidency. This talk will focus on his youth and how those experiences prepared him to exercise leadership as the president of the United States, upon the death of President William McKinley. 20 min.

Focus on Presidential Leadership: Franklin D. Roosevelt
Franklin D. Roosevelt is the only American president to be elected four times to the office. This talk will summarize his career path that led to the presidency—a path that was altered by his encounter with polio as an adult. Also discussed will be the changes in American life that were initiated by President Roosevelt. 20 min.

Is It Too Early to Think about the Next Presidential Election?
This talk examines how presidential elections are contested in the 21st century, with particular emphasis on the front-runners and the issues that will be the key elements of the next campaign. 20 min.

The Electoral College
The 2000 Presidential Election provided one of those rare occasions when the candidate with the leading popular vote lost in the electoral college. This talk focuses on the origins of the electoral college, the reasons it still exists today, and its implications in how campaigns are waged at the national level. 20 min.

Presidential Leadership
No political office in the United States commands the level of attention given to the presidency, and each president has left a mark on the office. This talk looks at examples of expansive presidential leadership and how certain individuals have changed the nature of the office for all time. 30 to 60 min.

Electronic Media and the American Presidency
This discussion addresses the changes that electronic media have brought to the presidency as an institution and the electoral process since Franklin Roosevelt. Emphasis will be on the televised press conference, presidential debates, and how the presidential primary process (delegate selection) enhances the role of the media in designating “winners” and “losers.” Visual aids. 35 to 45 min.

Should U.S. Presidents Serve Only Two Terms?
Shortly after Franklin Roosevelt was elected president for the fourth time, the concept of presidential term limitation was discussed with great intensity. The result was the 22nd Amendment, which limits presidential terms to two, or a maximum of 10 years. This talk will look at why such an amendment was not necessary earlier, the democratic arguments for and against a term limit, and the arguments now presented for possible repeal. 30 min.

Global Studies
A presentation on the field of study that focuses on what is happening in the world today and how cultures interact and impact one another. What role do politics play in our ability to study other cultures and nations? Why is the effort to gain knowledge worthwhile? Why do our students and younger generations today need a global perspective?  45 min.

Seniors and Sexuality
Does sexuality change after sixty? The good news and the bad news is "yes." This presentation will look at the changes that occur, in both mind and body, affecting sexuality. Common myths and misperceptions will also be addressed. Visual aids. 60 min.

For Girls Only: How to Eat Your Way to Perfect Hair, Skin, and Moods
Think you can stay thin by skipping breakfast? Think a soft drink and a bag of chips has fewer calories than a meal? This is your chance to see how powerful “real foods” and proper meal scheduling can be in promoting a clear complexion, a strong mind, and fabulous hair. And, you can significantly reduce the symptoms associated with PMS. Visual aids. 60 min.

It Really Does Matter What You Feed Your Kids
This talk presents the challenges of feeding your children while living in our “obesogenic” society. The speaker can tell you what you can do about it— if you’re willing to put the time and effort into it. Learn 10 tricks for providing a nutrition environment that can really help your child be her/his best. Visual aids. 60 mm.

The Power of Plant Foods
You’ve heard the recommendations: Eat five servings of fruits and vegetables a day for health. Well, five a day is just a start— 10 is better yet! And, not all fruits and vegetables are created equal. Learn how to choose the most powerful phytochemicals available locally. Visual aids. 60 min.

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Eaters
Great introductory presentation offering nuts and bolts guidance for food choices.  You'll learn seven habits to guide food purchasing, preparation, and consumption. 60 min.

Good Fats and Bad Fats: A Lesson in Lipid Biochemistry
We’ve been educated to believe that all fats are bad for us. Thankfully, recent lipid research is better able to show us which fats are good and which ones are bad. And, they’re not all bad. This lecture will cover the structural and functional differences between lipids groups including, for example: the sterols, omega 3 and 6 oils, and the harmful trans fats. 60 min.

What to Eat When You’ve Stopped
Hormone Replacement Therapy Studies demonstrating harmful effects of hormone replacement therapy keep coming. Maybe you don’t want to take the risk that hormones pose. Learn how nutrition can help you to improve your health outcomes while you transition. 60 min.

The Hard Facts about Soft Drinks
Soft drinks and fruit juice beverages have become such a common part of American life that we pay them little notice. Our complacency toward these beverages has created health problems now—and for the future. You’ll be shocked to learn how our contemporary health issues (e.g obesity, diabetes, high triglycerides, cancer, and accelerated aging) lurk inside these sweet beverages. Visual aids. 60 min.

The Connection between Food and Mood
It starts with a brief overview of neurotransmitters and mood disorders and then ranges through the food world, highlighting foods and food groups that support mental health and wellness. 60 min.

Environmental Health: Change 10 Behaviors to Improve Your Family's Health
Did you know that everyday products (cleaning supplies, toys, food packaging and scented personal care products) pose a health risk to you and your family?  It's shocking, but true.  Come learn what you can do to support your health. 60 min.

Working Toward a "Green" Kitchen
This presentation considers food purchasing decisions, cookware, and cleaning supplies and food preparation.  Go green!  60 min.

Obesity: It's More Than Just Calories
This presentation is designed for a more sophisticated audience.  Presentation offers a look at recent research implicating a number factors beyond calories that are implicated in the development of type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and obesity. 

Murder in Western Maryland
The speaker discusses how an infamous sheriff was brought to justice in 1827. Visual aids. 30 min.

Traveling with Lewis and Clark
The speaker discusses the history of the Lewis and Clark expedition. A special digital and stereo sound presentation is available on request. Visual aids. 25 to 30 min.

Colonial Vignettes: Life in Eighteenth-Century America
Selected examples of the activities and behavior of people who lived in the colonies, particularly in Maryland. A special living history presentation with costume and music. Visual aids. 30 min.

Life on the Oregon Trail 1840–1870
A discussion of trail life along the Mormon and Oregon trails during the mid-nineteenth century. A special living history presentation with costume and music. Visual aids. 25 to 35 min.

Custer’s Last Stand
Slides and narrative presentation focusing on the events and landscape involved in the defeat of General Custer at the Little Big Horn River, June 1876. Visual aids. 25 to 30 min.

In Sight of the Dome of the Capitol
The history of the Confederate attack on Washington in July 1864. This talk traces General Jubel A. Early’s march down the Shenandoah Valley, traveling through Hagerstown and Frederick, fighting a battle outside Frederick, and finally being stopped at Ft. Stevens, near present-day Georgia Avenue in Washington. 30 to 60 min.

The Lincoln Assassination
This topic covers some of the lesser-known details and interesting facts surrounding the conspiracy to assassinate President Lincoln. Visual aids. 30 to 60 min.

Undying Glory
Deals with the unique role of black Union soldiers during the Civil War. Visual aids. 30 to 60 min.

In the Prison Cell I Sit
Details the history and suffering of prisoners in Union and Confederate prison camps during the Civil War. Visual aids. 30 to 60 min.

Vicksburg: The Long Siege
The story of this Civil War site in Mississippi. 25 to 30 min.

Bloody Lane: The Battle of Antietam
The story of the Civil War battle at Antietam in western Maryland. 30 to 40 min.

Gettysburg: Three Days in July
A pictorial review of the Civil War’s most famous battle, which is described as the high-tide mark of the Confederacy. Visual aids. 30 min.

Paul D. McDermott
Professor Emeritus
301-926-9098
mapmcd@aol.com

AND

Tom Moreland
Adjunct Professor Applied Technologies
703-648-5736

The Homer S. Gudelsky Institute for Technical Education at Montgomery College represents the College’s commitment to provide high-quality, accessible education in technical and trade areas. Located at the College’s Rockville Campus, the institute houses the printing management, automotive technology, building and construction technology, and manufacturing and fabrication programs. However, technical education goes beyond this facility. By offering more than 50 technical credit programs and many noncredit programs, the College has demonstrated its commitment to the business community. Montgomery College seeks to serve business and industry needs as changes in the workplace continue. If your group would like to hear a presentation about technical education and the institute, please refer to the Careers and Education topics listed in this booklet. In addition, the following individuals will be happy to come speak to your group.

You may contact the Office of Communications at 240-567-5310.

Frederick Howell
Program Director
Printing Management
Montgomery College

Eric Jeffers
Program Director
Manufacturing and Fabrication Technology
Montgomery College

Estate Planning
The speaker will cover the options available to individuals for passing their assets to their heirs. He will discuss current federal and state tax filing requirements; having a will—and why not having one can spell disaster; why living trusts are not for everyone; and how to choose a professional adviser to prepare a will or a trust. 30 to 45 min.

Tax Planning for Individuals
The speaker will survey some of the basic tax reduction techniques one can take to minimize the year-end tax burden. There are some basic tax planning considerations every taxpayer should know including use of credit cards, estimated tax payments, pension plans, securities, sales, etc. The speaker will review current federal and state income tax law changes as they relate to individuals and discuss the pros and cons of tax preparation software. 30 to 45 min.

Cornelius L. Mhley, CPA 
Santos, Postal and Company, P.C.
240-499-2040
240-499-2070
clmhley@gmail.com

Variations of Normal Personality
The speaker provides a quick, light-hearted overview of contemporary personality research. The emphasis will be on “variations of normal personality.” Most of us have our own implicit theories of human nature, but we don’t often articulate them. Come prepared to match your thoughts on this subject with some of the main scholars in the field of personality study. Examples related to interpersonal relations, career, and lifestyle choices will be discussed. 25 to 45 min.

The Psychology of Engagement in Everyday Life
Living fully “in the here and now” is referred to as flow by some prominent researchers. Individuals who are more able to experience this unique state of consciousness tend to report greater life satisfaction and accomplishment. This talk focuses on the nature of flow and how we can achieve greater meaning and enjoyment in our lives. 25 to 45 min.

A Discussion of Dr. Wayne Dyer’s Works Part I: Inspiration, Your Ultimate Calling
In this workshop, participants will find out what Dr. Dyer means when he discusses the meaning of the word inspiration—or “in Spirit.” The speaker answers such questions as “why am I here?” and “what is my purpose?” The speaker also outlines the essential principles of finding your way to an inspired life. 30 to 50 min.

Part II: The Power of Intention
In this workshop, the speaker explains how to apply co-creating principles that will change your attitude and how you view the world. Part of this workshop will include the Seven Faces of Intention. 30 to 50 min.

How to Conquer Procrastination
In this presentation, participants will take an assessment inventory indicating how much they tend to procrastinate. Techniques will be demonstrated through the use of worksheets and small group work on how to get motivated to conquer procrastination. Visual aids. 25 to 45 min.

How Can We Tell When Our Teenagers Are Having Problems? 
This is a discussion of the various ways certain forms of psychopathology are manifested in teenagers in ways that are different from what we see in adults. The speaker will provide strategies for helping troubled teens. 60 min.

What Is Normal Adjustment?
A discussion of what constitutes normal adjustment to life’s stresses and how we can learn to better cope with these stresses. 60 min.

What Is Psychotherapy and How Does It Work?
This speaker provides an overview of several types of therapy with a focus on psychoanalytically oriented and cognitive behavioral therapies. The speaker tries to show people what actually goes on in a therapeutic session with hopes of demystifying it. 60 min.

Men, Women, and Humans
So often it seems that men and women really do come from different planets. The truth is, what we call differences are the gifts both sexes have been blessed with, gifts that are designed to be complementary rather than sources of conflict. Discover how men and women can use their gifts to support each other in reaching their full potential as human beings. 25 to 45 min.

NEW for 2013!  Don't Worry, Be Happy: How to Keep Stress From Taking Over Your Life
We've all faced situations that leave us feeling overwhelmed, and times when inner peace utterly deserts us.  But take heart! The good news is, you CAN release the overwhelm and reclaim your peace of mind.  Whatever the everyday - and not so everyday - pressures you face, you'll learn how to use the STRESS formula as your "GPS" system to successfully navigate your own challenges, both personal and professional.

Shelly Williams
Lecturer
301-443-1174

Digital Photography for the Serious Beginner
This session is designed for those who have enjoyed taking pictures with cell phones or older point-and-shoot cameras and now want to become more serious about this enjoyable hobby.  People at this stage face an almost bewildering array of camera choices, technical questions ranging for the simple to the very complex, and wide cost variations.  Bob Kauppi has been a photo enthusiast dating back to the film days, and more recently he has taken 3  classes from 3 MC professors who teach the subject. 

Golf as Therapy: Is It for You?
Golf has many obvious benefits, such as exercise, companionship, and a chance to enjoy the outdoors. Studies have shown that there can also be deeper mental benefits to the sport. Some researchers have likened these outcomes to the benefits of psychotherapy. Whether or not you are inclined to agree with this proposition, you will find this lighthearted session interesting and thought provoking. 30 to 45 min.

Maps in the News
A geography professor takes an in-depth look at journalistic maps—past and present. Visual aids. 30 min. Paul D. McDermott Professor Emeritus Dividing the Land This is a discussion of how and why land holdings differ throughout the United States. Visual aids. 30 min.

Flood to Eternity
The speaker tells the story of the famous Johnstown Flood, which took place in May 1889. This is a digital sight and sound show. The discussion includes some observations by the speaker. Visual aids. 30 to 40 min.

Intruders from Distant Places
The geography and ecology of places is changed dramatically by the purposeful and accidental introduction of plants and animals. These are some interesting stories of what has happened and where. Visual aids. 20 to 30 min.

Say Hello to Yellowstone
This is a stimulating look at the scenery and geology of Yellowstone National Park. 30 min.

Tsunami—A Natural Disaster!
The recent killer seismic sea wave was one of the largest natural disasters in the 21st century. This program investigates the cause and aftereffects of this geologic force. Visual aids. 20 to 30 min.

The Story of Pompeii
A huge volcanic eruption destroyed this Roman city in 79 A.D. The excavation of its ruins reveals much about life in this period. Visual aids. 30 min.

The Grand Canyon Is Divine
This is the geologic story of the Grand Canyon. The presentation is based on an article written by the speaker in World Book entitled, “Seven Natural Wonders of the World.” Visual aids. 30 min.

The Wonderful World of Nature Photography
A lecture focusing on the art and science of taking photographs using a 35mm camera. The speaker’s photographs have been featured in books and magazines including Mercator’s World and Journal of Geography. Visual aids. 30 min.

The Mystery of El Niño
This lecture describes how El Niño develops over the Pacific Ocean in December. It radically alters world weather patterns, causing drought in Australia and flooding in California. Visual aids. 20 to 30 min.

Volcanoes of the Pacific Northwest
Explore the fascinating volcanic landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. See the volcanoes that were the focus of the news media in 1981, such as Mt. St. Helen’s, Mt. Baker, and Mt. Rainier. Visual aids. 35 min.

Hurricanes: The Curse of the Eastern Seaboard
This talk covers the origins, history, and dangers posed by these complex storms. Visual aids. 30 min.

Tornado! A Killer Storm
Examines the origin and distribution of violent wind storms in the United States. Examples of past storm damage and technologies for reducing property loss and injury are provided. Visual aids. 20 to 30 min.

The Amazing World of Maps
Program discusses the history and development of mapmaking. Visual aids. 30 min.

Grand Canyon from Top to Bottom
A scenic tour of one of the nation’s most famous national parks. Visual aids. 30 min.

Creation of the Elements
This talk explains how the elements that make up the chemical universe were created by nucleosynthesis in stars after only hydrogen and helium were created in the “Big Bang.” Visual aids. 30 to 60 min.

Spectra of Stars, Analysis of Starlight
How the spectra and color of stars reveal their properties. Visual aids. 30 to 60 min.

Is Most of the Universe Missing?
What evidence do astronomers have that 90 percent of the universe is dark? This talk requires that the audience understand equations and be familiar with physics at the high school level. It’s ideal for high school physics students who have learned about circular motion with a radial acceleration (a=v2/R) and understand Newton’s law of universal gravitation (F=GMm/R2). Visual aids. 30 to 60 min.

Light Pollution: How Seeing the Stars Will Save You Money
We can no longer see the Milky Way from the Washington metro area, but this spectacle could return. In fact, it could be done in such a way as to save millions of dollars—for local, county, and state government—while putting more light on the ground where we humans need to see at night and in the spectral band (color) at which we have our peak visual acuity. Visual aids. 30 to 60 min.

Splendors of the Universe
Eighty of the most beautiful realistically correct color photographs of astronomical objects with relevant explanations of their meaning and significance. Visual aids. 30 to 60 min.

Solar Eclipse
This talk and slide presentation covers the solar eclipse in general and the Great Eclipse of July 11, 1991, when an eclipse expedition was mounted to Mexico from Montgomery College’s Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. Visual aids. 30 to 60 min.

The Whisper of Creation
This talk explores how the initial explosion creating the universe can be heard in microwave frequencies. This talk is suitable for school-age groups. Visual aids. 30 to 60 min.

Astrolabe: Past, Present, and Future
The astrolabe was the most important astronomical instrument before the telescope was invented and the most important astronomical calculator before the digital computer was invented. Geoffrey Chaucer of Canterbury Tales fame wrote the earliest work of science education in 1387, The Treatise of the Astrolabe, for his 10-year-old son Lewis. A Star Finder planisphere is a partially functioning astrolabe. A real astrolabe does what a planisphere does and a bit more. Is it history or science? Visual aids. 30 to 60 min.