Kirsten Hill, an outgoing member of the State Board of Education will join us at the beginning of our class from 7:10-7:45. Kirsten, will discuss Senate Bill 178 which is currently being considered that would put the Ohio Department of Education under a cabinet-level official in the governor’s office and rename the agency the Department of Education and Workforce–DEW. A cabinet official, chosen by the Governor, would oversee the department, a task currently held by the state school board. The department would have two divisions: one for primary and secondary education and one for workforce training.
Currently, the 19-member state school board, made up of 11 elected members and eight members appointed by the governor, would continue to exist, but it would be stripped of most of its duties. It would oversee educator licensing, and possibly discipline and select the superintendent of public instruction. who would be an advisor to the DEW leader in the governor’s office.
According to Governor DeWine, “I think what the public expects is accountability. And it’s hard to have accountability under our current system with joint control.” The Education Committee’s committee chair, Sen. Andrew Brenner, a Delaware County Republican, said the new department would likely begin in 2025. Brenner said he’s frustrated with the Ohio State Board of Education because it is not holding the Education Department accountable. The state board has been beset with infighting and Ohio hasn’t had a permanent superintendent of public instruction for nearly 15 months*.
What do you think of the Governor and Ohio Senate’s Direction for Ohio Education? What will happen if the Governor’s office transitions to a Democrat–will any progress be totally flipped or changed? Kirsten will give us her analysis and also give a few suggested bullet points for more effective change. Kirsten Hill will be with us from 7:10-7:45.
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From 7:45-8:30 PM Brendan Shea will join us. Brendan is also a State Board of Education member. He will give us his thoughts about the Governor’s proposed change but mostly he will be with us to discuss Title IX and the Federal Impact of our Government on Ohio Schools. Brendan Shea recently introduced a four-page resolution State Board of Education that opposes the Biden Administration’s expansion to Title IX. Title IX is a federal law that has banned discrimination based on sex in school since 1972. On June 23, the U.S. Board of Education proposed an expansion to Title IX to include protection for students who face discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Shea’s resolution would stop transgender students from using the bathroom and locker room of the gender they identify with. It would also stop them from being allowed to try out the sports teams that reflect their gender identity. Shea said the U.S. Department of Education’s changes would “require sports teams to be based on gender identity rather than biological sex, forcing biological women and girls to compete on an unfair basis against biological males for athletic opportunities and scholarships.”
Critics of Shea’s resolution say that the state could lose federal education funds if they are found in violation of Title IX. The Board of Education has heard testimony from a large number of people about this subject and sent the resolution to an Executive Committee for consideration. The resolution is due for a vote at this month’s meeting.
Hear from Brendan about Title IX in Ohio from 7:45-8:30 PM. Learn from him about the coercion taking place by the Federal Government on our local schools and what might happen to Ohio students if we don’t take a stand now. There will be time for your questions.
*Some information taken from Cleveland.com
Speaker’s Bios:
Kirsten Hill- Kirsten is an elected member of the Ohio Board of Education since January 2019. She is chairman of Totally Engaged Americans, a community group of conservatives, in Lorain County. It was founded in 2009 and meets monthly. She also helps lead Free Ohio Now, which was founded in 2020 in reaction to government tyranny and Ohio Freedom Action Network founded in late 2021 to support local group leaders.
Kirsten and her husband, Andy, operated her family’s year-round farm market in Lorain County for 25 years. She also ran a seasonal farm-tour business, hosting families and preschool through elementary classes for many years. She has two children, a software developer and a physician. Prior to being a small business owner, she worked as a certified public accountant in Cleveland and in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Kirsten was on the Amherst Schools Education Foundation board for 20 years and on the Amherst Township Board of Zoning Appeals for 15 years, most of them as chairman. Kirsten has a degree in accounting and a master’s degree in business administration.
Brendan Shea- Brendan was elected to the State Board of Education by the people of the 10th District in November 2020. The 10th District includes Adams, Brown, Clark, Clermont, Clinton, Fayette, Gallia, Greene, Highland, Jackson, Lawrence, Madison, Pike, Ross, Scioto and the western portions of Pickaway and Vinton counties.
Hailing from a large family of educators, Brendan believes deeply in the life-changing power of education. He believes education should focus on the good, the true and the beautiful and that children must learn to think critically and develop wisdom and virtue, allowing them to achieve their God-given potential and to become engaged citizens and productive members of society.
As the father of five young children, Brendan knows firsthand the unique challenges families face in raising and educating their children today. He believes parents are the first and primary educators of their children, and he will be a strong voice for both parents and children on the Board.
We Regret that This Class Has Been Cancelled due to family Illness.
Madi's House 2360 Kipling Rd. Cincinnati, Ohio 45239
Thursday, November 17, 2022
We regret that This Class Has Been Cancelled due to family illness. We hope to reschedule in Spring 2023
We will start the evening touring Madi’s House which was founded in 2020 by Steve and Julie Raleigh in honor of their daughter Madison who died by suicide on January 17,2019, after battling mental illness. For nearly a half million people in our area, when struggling with addiction and mental illness, the current system is broken.
Money is spent on short-term crisis recovery but very little is spent to prevent relapse, or in transitioning back into everyday life. There is a vicious cycle of illness, treatment, and relapse with no long-term solution, especially when transitioning back into everyday life. Madi’s House fills an unmet need by providing a welcoming, non-judgmental, upbeat, and enjoyable place to simply hang out! Madi’s House breaks that cycle, and is the only one of its kind in the region. Julie Raleigh will give us a tour of Madi’s House and talk about the challenges and successes.
At 7:45, we will meet and hear from Steve Raleigh on meteorology. Meteorology is the science dealing with the atmosphere and its phenomena, including both weather and climate. Beyond weather forecasting, meteorology is concerned with long-term trends in climate and weather, and their potential impact on human populations. An important area of meteorological research these days is climate change and the effects it may cause.
Steve Raleigh will share his 38 years of being a meteorologist, and his experience covering tornados, tropical systems, broadcasting live from a cruise ship steaming into San Francisco Bay, broadcasting live from inside a plane with the nation’s leading stunt pilot, and broadcasting weather from the top of the Golden Gate Bridge. Let’s hope Mother Nature doesn’t come calling on November 17.
Speaker’s Bio:
Before coming to WCPO 9 in 2005, Steve spent nearly 20 years at KRON-TV in San Francisco as their Chief Meteorologist. He pioneered the country’s first instant weather information access, the California Weather Network. While there, he represented the United States at the World Weather Conference in Barcelona, Spain. He also broadcasted live from the White House lawn during a Presidential Conference on Climate Change. He’s become somewhat of a hurricane hound broadcasting live from the scene of over a dozen tropical systems. Steve is in his 38th year in meteorology covering everything from tornado outbreaks to major snow events, and still brings his my “comfortable” air mattress frequently using it during severe weather seasons.
In 2020, Steve and wife Julie founded Madi’s House in honor of their daughter Madison, who died by suicide on January 17, 2019, after battling mental illness and addiction for many years. The Raleigh Family including Madi’s three siblings assists any and all who are struggling with addiction and mental health issues to find true happiness and recovery through Madi’s House. With Madi’s House, they hope anyone struggling will find relief in order to avoid the same fate Madi faced. Madi’s House is a free, non-residential community center for young adults who struggle with addiction or mental illness. It is a safe place to hang out providing fun, recreational activities and emotional support to foster ongoing wellness.
"Not in Our Town" -- New book to be discussed.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Thursday, November 17, 2022
(Note: Madi’s House event originally planned for tonight has been cancelled due to family illness. It has been replaced with the following season ending event)
Join EmpowerU tonight for our SEASON ENDING EVENT–the end of our 24th Semester!
Happy Hour * Appetizers * Sandwiches * Peter Bronson * Guitarist Daniel Regenold * Fun!
From 6:00-7:00 PM we will host a happy hour event with the following DETAILS:
–Beer, Wine and Sandwiches to be provided,
–Please bring an Appetizer or Dessert
–We’ll have some GREAT entertainment–Guitarist Daniel Regenold to Entertain
–Let’s have fun–maybe bring a friend or neighbor
Peter Bronson’s Class will start at 7:15 PM-8:15 PM–Get your signed copy of the book! We are very glad to have Peter back to talk with us and entertain!
How did Cincinnati stay “Ivory clean” while the Mob ran an empire of gambling, prostitution, drugs, corruption and murder right across the river in Newport? The answer is in Peter Bronson’s new book, Not in Our Town, a sequel to his regional best-seller, Forbidden Fruit: Sin City’s Underworld and the Supper Club Inferno.
Not in Our Town is an amazing, untold story of the gritty and dangerous battle against organized crime. As the Mafia moved in, the Queen City fought police corruption, sex scandals and epic battles against underworld smut king Larry Flynt, making national headlines with its crusade for decency.
Career newsman Peter Bronson did extensive research into FBI files, national archives, court testimony and interviews to find out about…
The underworld network in Ohio cities
Mafia bosses who lived in Cincinnati
The silent partners in Larry Flynt’s empire of porn
Police corruption and stag parties with hookers
How the media was played by the porn Mob
A plot to blow up the U.S. Supreme Court
A CIA spy linked to the JFK assassination who worked for Larry Flynt
The “Wizard of Odds,” Charlie Keating, Si Leis, Jerry Springer, the Mapplethorpe meltdown and more…
“Most people today would not understand what it was like in the 1970s. You had to be there, to live through it, to describe it. This book is an entertaining history, informative and well written.” – Former Cincinnati Police Vice Detective Jimmy Simon
Get your RSVP in for this event!
Speaker Bio
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 started his news career in Michigan after graduating from Michigan State University in his hometown of East Lansing, Michigan. He 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 also 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 best-seller. He is co-author of Legacy of Courage: True Stories of Honor Flight Veterans, and Legacy of Courage II. Chilidog 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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Entertainment
Daniel Regenold, lead guitarist for the well-known Cincinnati Band The Vims, and local performer, will entertain us tonight with Acoustic Guitar Music to help us close out our 24th semester at EmpowerU. Daniel will play a one hour set starting at 6:00 PM.
This season-ending event is always a fun place to meet new friends and enjoy. See you then!
This is your opportunity to learn everything you have ever wanted to know about the US Secret Service past and present.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Jim Meyers, a previous US Marine Corps Officer and Vietnam combat veteran, will reflect on his time served as a Special Agent with the US Secret Service during the Nixon and Ford Presidencies. He will educate us on the beginning of the US Secret Service, the post-civil war monetary challenge posed to President Lincoln’s surviving union, the Cincinnati connection (“Greenbacks” and Chase), and the consequent need and spawning of key Federal Law Enforcement Agencies from its own ranks.
In addition, he will cite how the agency’s little-known crime-fighting capabilities have expanded- as technologies have advanced over time and economic risks have been brought to bear on US citizenry by new cybercriminals. These new criminal activities, impact the US economy well beyond the statutes dealing with counterfeiting, forgery of government securities, and personal protection- for which the USSS has been known. And, these new global criminal activities have led to the creation of sophisticated cyber-forensics and interagency task forces to reach the perpetrators.
In addition, the protective intelligence mandate for which the US Secret Service is known globally, has been expanded to include the coordination of local, state and federal law enforcement and intelligence services to oversee the security of selected special events, such as our Cincinnati’s “Flying Pig Race,” “The World Series” of major league baseball, and National Football League’s “The Super Bowl.”
Jim will give his personal reflection on his own time served in Special Agent training, the field office, foreign dignitary protection assignments, and presidential protection serving at The White House, Key Biscayne, and San Clemente. Come prepared to ask Jim questions about things you have always wanted to know about the Secret Service. Jim Meyers presentation will go from 7:30-8:30 PM.
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From 7:05-7:30 PM –Jeff Capell will join us to talk about phone scammers. Telephone scams have grown rapidly and it seems like they’re only getting worse. These scams cost Americans billions of dollars per year, but government efforts to combat them are mostly ineffective. At this class we will learn about the scam industry, the most common types of scams, and how to protect yourself and others. We will conclude by learning how you can fight back against the scammers.
This will take us into the world of scambaiting – where ordinary folks waste valuable time of scammers to prevent them from victimizing others, while learning more about their operations and using that knowledge to inform others. Scambaiters have been quite effective at costing scammers money, and you can find numerous viral videos of the hilarious moments their interactions have created. Join us for a fun and informative presentation where we’ll learn about the scamming world and the tactics used by scambaiters to fight back
Speaker’s Bio:
Jim Meyers:Jim Meyers graduated from Gettysburg College in 1964 and began his military service in the US Marine Corps shortly thereafter. Upon graduation frothe Marine Corps Officer Candidate School in 1966, Jim received small leadership training at The Basic School, Quantico, Virginia, followed by additional training at Camp LeJeune, NC. He was deployed to the Republic of South Vietnam in 1967 and assignd to the 2d Batallion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division.
Jim is a combat Vietnam Veteran participating in numerous tactical patrols and operations, including Operations Tuscaloosa, Independence, Union I and II, Dixie, Essex, and the battle for Hue (“Hway”) City. In addition to his expert marksmansp badges, service and campaign ribbons, he is also the recipient of several combat personal and unit awards, such as the Navy Achivement Medal with Combat “V,” Two Presidential Unit Citations, Combat Action Ribbon, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm. His unit’s action, as well as his 13 month combat tour of duty has been memorialized in author Lucia Viti’s book: Dr. Tom’s War: A Daughter’s Journey, published in 2010.
In 1968, after his combat tour of duty, Captain Meyers was selected as the Aide-de-Camp for Major General Mike Ryan, Deputy for Education, US Marine Corps, Marine Corps Base Quantico. Following his release from active duty, Mr. Meyers entered federal law enforcement and was commissioned as a Special Agent with the US Secret Service in Washington, DC, serving with the Nixon and Ford Presidencies.
Entering civilian life, Jim served a 25 year industrial career and credits his rapid rise to leadership positions to the training he received in the Marine Corps. He has actively led, at the executive level, several companies known for developing bioactive implantable products to reconstruct damaged human bodies. He holds 4 patents in the field of implantable medical devices and retired from that industry in 2004. He has served as a member on Boards of Directors in industry, venture capital, church and charities. Jim is a Christian and served four years as a Supply Pastor in the United Methodist Church in Gainesville, Florida.
Jim Meyers now resides in Blue Ash, Ohio, with his wife of 45 years, Susan Rose- with whom he is raising the “last in the ranks” of their six children. He has served on the Board of Fellows of Gettysburg College, and stays active in the Association of Former Agents of the US Secret Service, the Marine Corps League Detachment 968 in Deerfield, and is Past Commander of Northeast Post 630 of the American Legion in Blue Ash, Ohio. Jim was recognized as the 2018 Veteran-of-the-Year by the City of Blue Ash.
Jeff Capell is an experienced local activist who has taken both leading and supporting roles in efforts that have saved Hamilton County taxpayers over $1 billion. He is the Chairman and co-founder of No More Stadium Taxes, which works to prevent further stadium taxes and subsidies. Jeff was elected to Blue Ash City Council in 2017, defeating a 17-year incumbent, and was re-elected without opposition in 2021. He worked for 20 years as a professional economist until retiring at age 44 in 2020, shortly after which he became an active scambaiter.
“Ours may become the first civilization destroyed...by the ignorance of our teachers and the dangerous nonsense they are teaching our children”—Thomas Sowell
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Thomas Sowell is one of the great social theorists of our age. In a career spanning more than a half century, few scholars have matched his range and accessibility. He has written more than forty-five books, covering topics from economic history and social inequality to political philosophy and race. In all his work, Sowell would strive to prove that “facts and evidence matter.”
(Thomas Sowell pictured with his friend Milton Friedman)
Sowell’s bold and unsentimental assaults on liberal orthodoxy have endeared him to so many but enraged most of his fellow intellectuals and civil-rights establishment and many in the media. As a result, critics with political correctness and wokeness have demeaned or ignored his important contributions.
“Racism is not dead, but it is on life support—kept alive by politicians, race hustlers, and people who get a sense of superiority by denouncing others as racists.”
—Thomas Sowell
Tonight, you will learn about the life of the great economist Thomas Sowell, originally a Marxist, who became a student of Milton Friedman’s at the University of Chicago. Was Sowell’s teaching similar to Friedman’s or different? Sowell talked frequently about higher education that often meant the lowering of expectations for blacks and minorities. He challenged his students and rejected the idea that you help minority progress by holding them to lower standards.
Although 2/3 of his writing was on subjects other than race, he started weighing in on racial controversies out of frustration at the direction of public discussion. Sowell, when discussing universities passing over White and Asian students for students that fit a specific skin color, Sowell said:,
“What sort of grotesque situations have we talked ourselves into when a promised pre-med student is passed over in favor of a ‘high risk’ student?” — Thomas Sowell
Dan looks forward to discussing Thomas Sowell’s work through his own words and video and tonight his life will be presented in a way you may not know. Be prepared to examine your own thoughts and feelings on the important issues of our day. Dan will speak from 7:15-8:30 PM.
“If you believe in equal rights, then what do “women’s rights”, “gay rights”, etc. mean? Either they are redundant or they are violations of the principle of equal rights for all”–Thomas Sowell.
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At the start of the night meet Cherise Wilson a leader from the Black Republican Renaissance (BRR) Group for a few minutes. Their organization seeks to consult with politicians/candidates on how to successfully do outreach to urban, black communities. They also host content that challenges main stream media views on conservative/republican leaning people of different backgrounds.
After Cherise, Hear from Dawson Smith on the Forest Hills Board of Education Election.
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Dawson Smith will be presenting his personal observations and opinions on factors that contributed to the successful election of four (4) conservative and Republican Party endorsed candidates to the Forest Hills School District (FHSD) Board of Education (BOE). The FHSD includes Anderson Township, and Newtown Village.
Dawson attributes this achievement to good and hard working BOE candidates; a dedicated policy team; and superior ground game teams. All of whom worked synergistically to help educate a significant number of FHSD citizens, parents, and property tax paying voters to issues involving the outgoing and past BOE’s, and the top level FHSD administration. Dawson will speak from 6:55-7:15 PM.
Speaker Bio:
Dan Regenold: Dan 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. 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 Estate Tax one of the most important Tax accomplishments of 2011. In 2011 Regenold founded EmpowerUAmerica.org (starting it’s 24th 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 his efforts on the mess of Public Education in Ohio and specifically on topics like School Choice and Critical Race Theory. 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, Net Neutrality, D-Day, The Deficit, How to Destroy America in America, Public Education, Winston Churchill and President Theodore Roosevelt at EmpowerU Classes. Regenold is founder and Chairman of FrameUSA.com, a Made-In-America picture frame manufacturing company in Springdale, Ohio.
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Dawson Smith is a 32-year resident of Anderson Township. Each of his two sons went through FHSD elementary (Wilson), middle (Nagel), and high schools (Turpin). They continued their academic education and graduated from the University of Utah (’12), and the US Air Force Academy (’13) respectively. And presently have ongoing and successful business and military careers.
Dawson Smith is an Anderson Township Republican Party Precinct Executive and Ward Chairman. He is also a member of the Hamilton County Republican Party Executive Committee, and was a recent reform minded candidate for the Ohio Senate District 7 Republican Party State Central Committee (SCC).
Dawson’s main political work and focus is on “political operations”. Meaning the recruiting, training, assisting, and holding Precinct Executives accountable for executing the “ground game” tasks of helping Republican and conservative candidates get elected.
Dawson has attended Candidate and Campaign Management programs, conducted by the Ohio State Republican Party, and several Political Action Committee groups. He has also attended the regional US Constitution Boot Camp, and the on-line Hillsdale College courses on the US Constitution, and other subjects.
Prior to his retirement in 2016, Dawson earned and executed Senior Manager roles in a world-class high tech medical device company (presently Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies- Lakewood, CO). During his 40 years with the Company, he was a recognized individual contributor, and leader of talented engineering, operations, and marketing/sales colleagues and teams. Which helped the Company grow from zero sales in 1982, to approximately one billion dollars in annual worldwide sales, and industry leading market share, and profitability, by 2016.
Dawson also worked as an Industrial Engineer in the semiconductor industry (Motorola Semiconductor- Phoenix, AZ). and, during the Vietnam and Cold War eras (LTV Aerospace- Dallas, TX), and for the Top Secret US government contractor (Mason and Hanger- Amarillo, TX). Which managed the final assembly, and maintenance of the US arsenal of thermonuclear weapons.
Dawson is an active member of Horizon Community Church in Newtown; continues his 53 years of dedicated and continuous multi-sport triathlon fitness training; and self manages a portfolio of family investments.
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Cherise Wilson: A lover of freedom, a wife, mom, veteran homeschool parent (son graduated in 2022), community garden /food share organizer, VP of Black Republican Renaissance, Precinct Executive in Forest Park, volunteer/member of for Secular Pro Life movement, Conservative Agnostics/Atheists, Deaf Conservatives, active member of Ohio Battleground Alliance and Northeast Republican Women. Univ. of Cincinnati 1998 graduate.
Explosive, stunning, and shocking: The story of an American company and the Third Reich.
IBM and the Holocaust was first published in 2001 and again in 2012, yet there are many people who have not heard of the events, in this book. The discoveries came about from a visit to The Holocaust Museum in Washington DC. While Edwin and his parents (who survived Hitler’s reign) stood looking through a glass at an IBM machine, and not understanding the significance, he promised them he would find out why it was there.
It is the stunning story of IBM’s strategic alliance with Nazi Germany—beginning in 1933, in the first weeks that Hitler came to power, and continuing throughout World War II. As the Third Reich embarked upon its plan of conquest and genocide, IBM and its subsidiaries helped create enabling technologies, step-by-step, from the identification and cataloging programs of the 1930s to the selections of the 1940s. Only after Jews were identified—a massive and complex task that Hitler wanted done immediately—could they be targeted for efficient asset confiscation, ghettoization, deportation, enslaved labor, and, ultimately, annihilation. It was a cross-tabulation and organizational challenge so monumental, it called for a computer. Of course, in the 1930s no computer existed.
Black’s book is so enlightening because it paints a richly textured picture of how a man (Thomas Watson, Chairman of IBM), and an entire company, can ignore all sense of morality while not once transgressing the lines of business ethics. The case is simple and stunning: that IBM facilitated the identification and roundup of millions of Jews during the 12 years of the Third Reich.
Speaker’s Bio:
Edwin Black is the award-winning, New York Times bestselling international investigative author of 200 award-winning editions in 20 languages in 190 countries, as well as scores of newspaper and magazine articles in the leading publications of the United States, Europe and Israel. With more than 2.2 million books in print, his work focuses on human rights, genocide and hate, corporate criminality and corruption, governmental misconduct, academic fraud, philanthropy abuse, oil addiction, alternative energy and historical investigation. Editors have submitted Black’s work thirteen times for Pulitzer Prize nomination, and in recent years he has been the recipient of a series of top editorial awards. He has also contributed to a number of anthologies worldwide. He hosts the weekly Edwin Black Show. Black’s eleven award-winning bestselling books are IBM and the Holocaust (2001 and 2012), Financing the Flames (2013), British Petroleum and the Redline Agreement (2011), The Farhud (2010), Nazi Nexus (2009), The Plan (2008), Internal Combustion (2006), Banking on Baghdad (2004), War Against the Weak (2003 and 2012), The Transfer Agreement (1984 and 2009), and a 1999 novel, Format C:.
Take 20: Orlando Sonza for State Senate (9th District)
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Leonard Franklin Slye, famously known as Roy Rogers and the man who would become known to the world as the “King of the Cowboys” was born to Andrew & Mattie (Womack) Slye in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1911.His family lived in a tenement building on 2nd Street in downtown Cincinnati. When he was just a year old, his family moved to Portsmouth, Ohio on a houseboat and Leonard spent his formative years in Portsmouth, Ohio. Leonard attended McDermott High School until his sophomore year when his family moved back to Cincinnati, where his father worked in a shoe factory.
He was an American cowboy actor and singer who glorified the cowboy era in Hollywood with his charming singing and action-packed acting. For many Americans and people throughout the world, he was the embodiment of the all-American hero. Rogers’ humble background and the financial adversities that he faced when he was young did not stop him from becoming a matinee sensation and an American legend; From 1939-1954, he made it to the Motion Picture Heralds’ Top Ten Money-Making Western Stars Poll and was listed in it for 15 years at a stretch. In the early 1970s, he sold the rights to his name to the Marriott corporation and they used his name, which represented his stature, popularity and fan following, to convert their Hot Shoppes locations to ‘Roy Rogers Restaurants’.
For his brilliant contribution to the Hollywood cinema and glorifying the cowboy era, Rogers received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, second star for his singing and contribution to the radio and third star for his contribution to the television. But Roy Rogers was more than just a cowboy movie star, he was a father, a philanthropist and an overall good guy.
Tonight we will take a walk through the life of Roy Rogers. John will discuss Roy Rogers from 7:30-8:30 PM.
Don’t forget to wear your cowboy or cowgirl hat!
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Candidate for Ohio State Senate, 9th District, Orlando B. Sonza Jr., will speak at EmpowerU on why he’s running for state office, how he plans to win this race, and give you an update on his campaign. If you live or know someone who lives in the 9th district and hasn’t met Orlando, this is your chance. Orlando will speak from 7:10-7:30 PM.
Speaker’s Bios:
John O’Neill–In John’s 35 year professional career he has participated in and managed people and projects in the corporate as well as the consulting services industry. His professional background includes significant career experience in a broad spectrum of business disciplines including sales of technology resources, corporate and consulting services management, software development and personnel training.
Orlando Sonza is proud to be an Ohioan. A second generation Filipino American, Orlando was raised in New Jersey and attended the United States Military Academy at West Point. While there he met his wife, Jessica, a Mexican/Filipino American, fellow Academy classmate, and Cincinnati native.
Orlando graduated top ten in his class at West Point where he majored in political science and minored in systems engineering. Upon graduation, he and Jessica both commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army. Orlando served on active duty as an Infantry Officer and Finance Officer with the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart, Georgia.
After leaving active duty, Orlando and Jessica moved to Cincinnati to raise a family. While helping to raise their kids, Orlando obtained his master’s degree in taxation from the University of Cincinnati and his law degree from Georgetown Law. Orlando is an Ohio CPA with experience working in Big 4 Accounting as a senior tax accountant. While in law school, he was a legal intern at the U.S. Department of Justice, Criminal & Tax Divisions. Orlando currently works at the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office.
Orlando and Jessica currently live in Springfield Township with their four children.
The "Pandemic" has exposed the brokenness of our “Health Care System”.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Have you noticed how the (legal) Drug Culture permeates everything, everywhere in our society? We’re bombarded with pharmaceutical ads (did you know that ONLY the U.S. & New Zealand, among industrialized nations, even allow direct-to-consumer advertising of prescription medication?); we pay more for drugs than any country in the world; as of Dec. 2021, “U.S. medical bills & indebtedness were responsible for 66.5% of all American personal insolvencies.” HOW DID WE GET HERE??
Dr. Debbi will present a discussion of our broken Sick Care System, over-regulated by the corrupt FDA (Fraud & Death Administration), misguided by the CDC (Center for Disease & Corruption) & dominated by Big Pharma. She’ll share some history of how this mess started: the Oiligarchy, spawning the Flexner report, commissioned by the Carnegie Foundation…& the insidious eradication of any & all alternative, complementary, eclectic medical schools—any training program that did not support the burgeoning science of pharmacology.
We’ll discuss the healthcare politics of legislation that allowed this transformation of American medicine, & horror stories of pioneers in natural healing who have been systematically squelched, suppressed, imprisoned—or worse, depriving untold numbers of Americans from receiving safe, effective, non-toxic healing remedies & even cures. All of which will demonstrate why it is so critical for us to stand up & speak out, to demand action by our legislators—to preserve our very bodily autonomy. A bibliography will be provided. Dr. Debbi will speak from 7:30-8:30 PM.
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Darbi Boddy, is an elected “conservative” member of the Lakota Board of Education. Darbi will discuss the baseless but unrelenting ridicule from the institutional establishments that continue to control education in our county and their attempts to discredit her. Darbi will speak from 7:10-7:30 PM.
Speaker’s Bio:
Dr. Debbi Silverman: Debbi Silverman, M.D., C.W.C., the “Recovering Allopath,” practiced conventional Adolescent Medicine & Family Practice (& later, Addiction Medicine) for over 30 years—but got over it! Passionate about wellness & disenchanted with Sick Care, this former New Yorker has embraced Functional/Complementary/Alternative Medicine & holistic/energy healing modalities, from hypnosis & cymatics to herbal & homeopathic. She has taught U.C. graduate & medical students, retirement communities, public & professional groups. Her signature MeduTainmentTM programs combining performing arts & wellness education have delighted audiences from Ohio to Florida for 25+ years. “Dr. Debbi’s Musical Medicine Show,” a parody of healthcare in Cincinnati & America, has been presented regionally & in the 2005 Cincinnati Fringe Festival of the Arts.
After getting embezzled in 2000, Dr. Debbi spent several years doing professional acting & singing, & became a Certified Wellness Coach. Back in Medicine, she worked at the Health Dept’s Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinic, then treated chronic pain patients & addiction clients in Suboxone clinics—always searching for better, non-drug, holistic approaches. Most recently, she’s done some professional Medical Illustration, creates 3D found-art dioramas, & is rehearsing with her wonderful keyboard player, Mitch Liberman. She’s still convinced that music & laughter are the best medicines!
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Darbi Boddy- On November 3rd, 2021, Darbi Boddy was elected to the Lakota Board of Education. She is the wife of a Marine. They have been married for 17 years. Darbi has four children, three dogs, two cats, two guinea pigs and a snake. She grew up north of Dayton in a small farming town, where she was a multisport athlete, played the Oboe for 7 years, and was in her high school flag corp. Darbi went to a local college on a cross country scholarship.
Darbi had a unique childhood growing up in the Dayton area. Her parents became foster parents at her request which resulted in many foster children moving in and out of her home. When Darbi was 14, she met her adopted brother when he was just three days old. Darbi has always had a heart for special needs children, volunteered to assist with the special education gym class in high school, and had a job in college working for a paraplegic and with students with cerebral palsy.
Darbi is a wife, a mom, volunteer in the community and church, an accomplished bodybuilder, and has run three half marathons. Darbi has over 20 years of experience in business, with 17 years in retail management. Her volunteer work has taken her to Jamaica, Italy, Switzerland, and a Hopi reservation in Arizona. She has been involved in many non-profit organizations including Roots Family Collaborative, Family Outreach Inc., Reach Inc., the Salvation Army, Family Promise, National Parks Conservation, Red Cross and Kaboom.
As a member of the Lakota Board of Education, Darbi has distinguished herself as a bold and hardworking advocate for the conservative values that she based her campaign on. She serves on the Board’s Policy, Diversity, Facility and Safety Committees. Darbi’s community involvement includes Habitat for Humanity and Lakota Cares. The growing and unwavering support she garners from her unwillingness to cower in the face of the baseless but unrelenting ridicule from the institutional establishments that continue to control education in our county, is not just an inspiration to all in this battle, but is a clear indicator that a change is upon us.
Take 20: Betsy Sundermann Discusses the Importance of the Domestic Relations Judge
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Described by Alexander Hamilton as the “least dangerous branch”, the United States Supreme Court continues to play an important role in the American experiment. We hear about the important cases all the time, but often it is hard to understand them and determine their importance.
Join Joseph Ashbrook, President of the Cincinnati Lawyer’s Chapter of the Federalist Society as he discusses the five most important Supreme Court cases of all time from Marbury v. Madison to present. Joseph will speak from 7:30-8:30 PM.
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Betsy Sundermann will join us tonight to discuss Domestic relations cases which include divorce, separation, unmarried parent, and modification cases about child custody, parenting time, and child support. The judiciary enforces the law, under the Constitution, citizens must be confident of obtaining protection for their rights and freedoms. A judge always should act with dignity and perform his duties to the highest standards to uphold and maintain the integrity of his/her office. Judges play a significant role in the fabric of our society and are elected to their position by the people. It is important before an election to know the judges you will be voting for. Betsy will be speaking from 7:10-7:30 PM.
Speaker’s Bio:
Joseph Ashbrook: Joseph is President of the Cincinnati Lawyers Chapter of the Federalist Society. Founded in 1982, the Federalist Society promotes the principles that the state exists to preserve freedom, separation of governmental powers is central to our Constitution, and it is the province and duty of the judiciary to say what the law is, not what it should be. Mr. Ashbrook was the editor-in-chief of the Virginia Law Review and currently practices at the law firm Ashbrook Byrne Kresge LLC, providing outside general counsel and litigation services for businesses and individuals.
Betsy Sundermann: Betsy has the resume and the experience to serve as Hamilton County’s next Domestic Relations Judge. She has served as a Hamilton County Prosecutor, Magistrate, and as a member of Cincinnati City Council. She has also practiced law privately, helping clients with mental health issues. She understands the importance of having strong families, and will utilize her experience as an attorney, prosecutor, magistrate, community leader, and mother to ensure that the Domestic Relations Court is the first step in strengthening our Hamilton County families. Strong families result in more opportunities and safer communities. Betsy is currently serving as a Magistrate in Hamilton County Probate Court. She resides in Cincinnati with her husband and two daughters.
Has the United States Military Gone Woke?
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Congressman Davidson will address developments in the military that are jeopardizing readiness, including: Covid-19 vaccine mandate for service members, use of taxpayer dollars to pay for gender reassignment surgery, lack of inspector general for tens of billions in taxpaper-funded assistance to Ukraine, lack of accountability for disastrous 2021 Afghanistan departure, and lack of oversight into DOD’s purchasing of Americans’ domestically, browsing history, and other data.
The Congressman looks forward to answering your questions on these, and other, important issues. Due to redistricting, Congressman Davidson is now the Congressman for several northern Hamilton County areas. This is your chance to meet your new representative. Congressman Davidson will speak from 7:30-8:30 PM.
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From 7:10 to 7:30, hear from Karen Cartier on Being The Best You Can Be! Socrates once said: “We cannot live better than in seeking to become better.” During this engaging presentation, we’ll begin by gauging our physical health, emotional health and spiritual health from a practical point of view. The main point of the exercise is to recognize that we can be our best in order to help and care for each other, not only focus on ourselves.
Speaker’s Bio:
Congressman Warren Davidson: Warren Davidson was born and raised in Sidney, Ohio. He enlisted in the Army after high school and later earned an appointment to West Point. He served in the Old Guard, the 75th Ranger Regiment, and the 101st Airborne Division. After returning to civilian life, he helped grow his father’s small company with 20 employees to multiple companies with over 200 employees. Warren has been married to his wife, Lisa, for 27 years, and they have 2 adult children.
In 2016, Warren won a special election to fill the remainder of the term of outgoing US Representative John Boehner. He was re-elected in 2020 to his 3rd full term in Congress, and serves on the House Financial Services Committee. He also serves on the United States Military Academy Board of Visitors, the House Warrior Caucus and House Army Caucus.
Karen Cartier: Karen is an avid reader, writer, learner, wife, and mother of two. She has worked in IT as a technical writer for over 30 years and is currently working full-time in IT. Outside of her paying job, she serves as an officer in Toastmasters International as well as a volunteer Community Educator for the Alzheimer’s Association.
Find out about the latest cyber-threats and what to do about them.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Cyberattacks are rising in frequency and severity and it seems that no organization or individual is safe from cybercrime. In this seminar, we’ll bring you up to speed on the latest cybersecurity threats and what you can do to protect yourself, your family and your organization. Topics covered will include:
How we got here
Threats – Email / Phishing, Social Engineering, Malware, Misconfiguration, Internet of Things, and Deepfakes
Come prepared to hear from a real expert in the cybersecurity field. Dave is always ready to answer all of your questions too!
Speaker’s Bio:
Dave Hatter: “Doomsday” Dave Hatter is a technology leader with nearly 30 years of software development, cybersecurity and project management experience. He has earned numerous industry certifications and, holds a BS in Information Systems from NKU. Dave is especially good at bridging the gap between business and technology and has delivered more than 200 successful software solutions earning nearly 60 testimonial letters from his clients. Additionally, he has written or contributed to 12 technology books, written more than 100 technology related articles for publications and, been quoted in many publications.
Libertas Technologies, the software development company Dave founded in 2001, was honored with many awards, but he is especially proud of winning the Cincinnati Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics in 2007. Dave is now a Cyber Security Consultant at Intrust IT, where he works with clients to educate them about cyber security risks and to help them defend their assets.
Dave is a regular on-air contributor on WXIX (FOX19) and Local 12 (WKRC-TV) and he can be heard every Friday morning at 6:30 AM on 55KRC’s “Tech Friday” segment with host Brian Thomas. He was elected Mayor of Fort Wright, Kentucky in 2014 after serving eight terms on the Fort Wright City Council. Dave currently serves as the VP of Training and Certification for the PMI Southwest Ohio Chapter, and has also served on numerous other boards.
Take 20 with Jack Atherton who explains
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
EmpowerU is excited to have Jay Ratliff join us to talk about any and everything pertaining to aviation. If you live in radio distance of WKRC and WLW in Cincinnati than no doubt you at some time have heard Jay. The ‘Pandemic” significantly changed the airline industry making flying less enjoyable, and less dependable. Jay will talk about how an airport in any region impacts the economics of that area, he will give travel tips that will save you money like when to buy your tickets, what to do if your flight is cancelled, etc.
Making sense of the summer of misery is no easy task, but Jay will tackle that issue as well. He has some crazy stories of happenings in the airport and on the plane that will have you laughing or scratching you’re head. For those online participants that may not know Jay be sure to mark your calendar to sign up, as Jay’s knowledge and advice is pertinent for everyone wherever you live. Jay Ratliff will speak from 7:30-8:30 PM.
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Jack Atherton joins us tonight to talk about Elite Capture. Elite capture is a term now being used by the Chinese to describe their infiltration of Washington, high-tech, universities and perhaps the most spectacular capture in history, that of the president of the United States for at least $31 million. However, the threat goes far beyond China to the one world mindset of elites in business, academia, media and the rest of America’s ruling class aiming to overturn the foundational idea of America: that of anti-authoritarianism, limited, decentralized government and, most important, individual rights.
In tonight’s segment we will begin by noting that liberal filmmakers have been warning of this future for at least forty years, from Blade Runner to more recent dystopian flicks like Spielberg’s Ready Player One. We will also cover a lot of ground, geographically and historically. and end by urging the audience to move forward and unite. Jack will speak from 7:10-7:30 PM.
Speakers’ Bios:
Jay Ratliff has served as the Aviation Analyst for iHeart Radio for 31 years and FOX News for the last 17 years following his management career with Northwest Airlines. After his position with Northwest Airlines was eliminated, he decided to take his part-time love of stock trading to full time and moved into a motel room to create his approach, living in the Travelodge motel at the Dayton Airport for ten years as he did so. During that time, he delivered newspapers from 4:00am until 7:30am, watched the stock market from 9:30am until 4:00pm and ended his day building GM car seats from 5:30pm until 2:30am. (Existing thru the week on 2-3 hours a sleep per night)
Several years later he launched the Day Trade Fun company as he started teaching people from around the world his approach to flipping stocks for quick profits and has been doing so for the last 12 years.
Jay is a Travel Weekly Magellan Award winner for his contributions to the Travel industry and in 2006 teamed up with Marlo Thomas on her best-selling book “Right Words at the Right Time.” His contribution was featured in Reader’s Digest in May of 2006, and he won their Editor’s Choice Award as more than 80 million people were reached.
Jay has also spent considerable time in prison…(pause for effect) as he worked with the Ohio Department of Corrections helping to create the EXODUS Program. The program was designed to help inmates transition from prison to the workforce and was implemented 30 days prior to the release date.
Jay has been married to his wife Sherry for 16 years and is a dual resident south of Dayton and in Savannah, GA. He has two daughters who serve as ICU nurses.
Jack Atherton- , former anchor at FOX19 and WLWT, and friend of EmpowerU will join us. After anchoring and reporting in San Antonio and Miami, Jack helped start The Ten O’Clock News on Cincinnati’s FOX19. During his 15 years there, it was among the highest-rated primetime newscasts in the country. Jack also contributed columns to Cincinnati Gentlemen magazine and taught a course on the history of electronic media at the University of Cincinnati. Jack has discussed the Media at EmpowerU sessions in the past.
The Education of a Free Man
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
This talk is devoted to one of the greatest works in the History of American Politics, Frederick Douglass’s Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, Written by Himself. This book is at once a damning indictment of American Slavery and an inspiring tribute to the power of the human soul.
No book seems to capture better the natural human longing for freedom, equality, and dignity. While our primary task will be to understand the character and purpose of this great work, we will also reflect on Douglass’s career through his other great works and speeches. Gregory McBrayer returns to EmpowerU for a second very important class and will start his presentation about 7:30 PM.
Speaker’s Bio:
Gregory A. McBrayer – An Assistant professor of political science and director of the core curriculum, joined Ashland University in 2017. He teaches courses in political philosophy and international relations. Prior to coming to Ashland, he was an assistant professor at Morehead State University, a postdoctoral fellow at Emory University, and a visiting assistant professor at Gettysburg College. He has published articles in Interpretation: A Journal of Political Philosophy and Kentron: Revue Pluridisciplinaire du Monde Antique, as well as reviews in Interpretation, The Journal for Hellenic Studies, The American Journal of Islamic Social Science, and Political Science Quarterly. He is the author (with Mary Nichols and Denise Schaeffer) of Plato’s Euthydemus (Focus, 2011) and is the editor of Xenophon: The Shorter Writings (Cornell, forthcoming).
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Hamilton County Mental Health & Recovery Services Board has cancelled on attending EmpowerU’s Information Session Tonight. Erik Stewart, Executive Vice President cancelled his appearance and gave EmpowerU 24 hours notice. EmpowerU contacted Hamilton County two months ago (August 17) and has had constant email correspondence with their representative Jens Sutmoller since about this meeting. To read more about Hamilton County Ohio and where your money is being spent–Click Here. We appologize for an inconvenience this causes you. We had invited Hamilton County Jobs and Family Service to discuss their upcoming Mental Health Levy which is an approximate increase in the levy costs of 32%.
Join us for the virtual only class from Influence, and Persuasion Expert Bill Gladwell
Remember how easy it was for most of us to make friends in grade school? Not only were we less worried about being rejected, but we weren’t as particular about who we were hanging out with. And it was a huge advantage that we had opportunities to interact with other humans daily.
As adults, things have changed. Aside from the fear of rejection, making new friends takes time — making time can be difficult. So instead, we lament the fact that our circle of friends is shrinking. You’re not alone.
In addition to discussing How to Make Friends as an Adult, Bill will be discussing How to Communicate with Difficult Family Members.
Speaker’s Bio:
Bill Gladwell: For over 30 years, Bill has been a consultant, speaker, and writer focusing on hypnosis, influence, and persuasion. He has helped hundreds of thousands of humans communicate effectively, ethically influence others, and get what they want.
“Think ‘How to Win Friends & Influence People’ but updated, hipper, and more effective.”
(That’s a quote from a seminar attendee, so take it up with her, Dale Carnegie fans!)
Bill is an expert on how humans interact. For example, individuals in a group are influenced by one another’s behavior making them more predictable and suggestible. Bill teaches how to use this phenomenon to influence others. (Note: A group can be as small as just two humans, so what Bill teaches applies to any human interaction you have.)
To you, this may mean meeting new humans, developing solid relationships, increasing your confidence, and having more fun. Others may want to make more sales, improve their negotiation skills, and increase their income.
The heart warming story of Samuel, and the mother who fought for his life to have meaning.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Do not miss this opportunity to hear a most amazing and heart rendering story from a mother who was determined to give her disabled son life, education, and opportunity. Never under estimate the power of a ‘Mama Bear’. Tera shares her journey that began when early testing showed her son, Samuel, had Downs Syndrome and her doctor advised her to terminate her pregnancy saying “if you do not you will be burdening your life, family and community.” Those were fighting words to Tera and she has proved to be a Champion in the Ring!
She believed “Her baby was a human being created by God and that made him worthy of life.” She not only had to fight the medical establishment but also the Teachers Union who thought it was a waste of time to give her son a good education. When she went to register Samuel for kindergarten she was told to just ‘put him where he would be comfortable, don’t stress him out by trying to teach him.’ When she pushed for him to attend his neighborhood school with his sisters, she was told to ‘just go home and let us do what we do.’ When she inquired about functional learning she was told ‘this is all you get, like it or not,’” Well, suffice to say, she did not like it! So instead of giving up she responded by working to pass legislation in Ohio for a special needs scholarship giving access to the programs that meet their children’s needs.
Tara also worked to start a new functional learning program at her local private school. All of this did not go unnoticed and the Proud Mama Bear relates what happened due to her efforts. President Trump invited her son to speak at the White House. Tera said “President Trump did not dismiss my son; he showed Samuel he valued him and was proud of what he accomplished. He gave Samuel an equal seat at the table”. This is an exceptional and inspirational personal pilgrimage which clearly shows you should never underestimate ‘The Power of One’. Tara will speak from 7:30-8:30 PM.
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Barb will explain the separation of powers between the three branches of government as set out in the Constitution, and how the recent actions of Congress and the President appear aimed at destroying the power of the Supreme Court. She will explain what codification is and how it works, and look into the legitimacy of executive orders.
Also to be discussed are recent actions of the Legislative and Executive branches to browbeat and dishonor the Supreme Court Justices in an attempt to override their independence in ruling on future governmental actions. She is concerned that the true purpose here is to ultimately delegitimize the Constitution itself. Barb will speak from 7:10-7:30 PM.
Speaker’s Bio:
Tera Myers: Tera has over 27 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities. She has advocated for choice in education at the state and federal levels for the past 18 years. Her son Samuel is one of the first recipients of Ohio’s Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship, which she helped get passed in 2011. Upon passage of the bill, she partnered with a local private school to start and direct a special needs program. In December 2019, she and Samuel spoke at the White House for a Roundtable discussion on Education Freedom with the President of the United States.
Tera was a 2020 Republican National Convention speaker highlighting her family’s story and her work for Education Freedom. She is currently an Advisor for Families of Individuals with Special Needs with the American Federation for Children, based out of Washington, D.C. Tera’s passion is to help ensure that all students have access to an education that best meets their individual learning needs. Tera is the wife of Lewis, and the mother of Samuel, Lynsey, and Maggie.
Barb Horwitz: Barb was a member of the Butler County, Ohio, legal community for many years, serving first as a paralegal in two general practice firms, then as the bailiff for retired Common Pleas Judge Michael J. Sage, and finally as an attorney in a firm where she specialized in insurance litigation and consumer bankruptcy. She has continued her practice of insurance law and consumer bankruptcy in a partnership with her son Jonathan Horwitz at offices presently in Centerville, Ohio.
She resided for many years in Springfield Township, where she served as a president of the View Place Civic Association. In addition, she has volunteered in several political campaigns. She and her husband Gary have now resided and raised their family in Wyoming for several years.
Confused about the legality of carrying a firearm? Get Your Questions Answered.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
It is one thing to relax in the relative safety of your home, with a shotgun in the corner, or a handgun on your nightstand. It is an altogether different proposition to carry a firearm openly or concealed, on your person or in your motor vehicle outside of your home.
Guns on the Go, what you should know, must know, and can’t afford to miss about carrying a firearm outside of your home in Ohio. After this seminar, you will have a clear understanding related to carrying a firearm outside of the home in the State of Ohio.
Speaker Bio:
Sean Maloney: Sean is a licensed Ohio attorney with a firearms legal practice emphasizing Gun Rights, who practices in all areas of firearm-related law in both State and Federal Courts, including 2nd Amendment rights, Criminal Defense related to Federal and State firearms charges, Federal and State restoration of gun rights, National Firearm Act issues, Federal Firearms License representation, State lawsuits to enforce violations of Ohio’s preemption laws, and federal background Form 4473 NICS appeals. Sean is a criminal and civil firearms consultant and has appeared as an expert witness in a variety of civil lawsuits related to firearms. Sean is also a national speaker on topics related to the 2nd Amendment, self-defense, lethal force, and concealed carry.
Sean is a National Continuing Legal Education Speaker, educating Attorneys on topics related to State Firearms Law, Lethal Force and the Law, Legal Ethics related to Firearms Practice, Federal Title I & II Firearms, Firearms Dealers Licensing Requirements, Concealed Carry, Open Carry, Constitutional Carry of Firearms, the requirement of Federal Form 4473, and The National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
In addition, he is a former member of the NRA Board of Directors, a member of the NRA ILA Speakers Bureau, NRA-ILA Frontlines Coordinator, NRA Golden Eagle Benefactor Life Member, Founder and Chairman of the Butler County Friends of Youth Shooting Sports Committee, a multi-discipline Certified NRA Firearms Instructor, Glock Armorer, Leader and Legal Counsel for Buckeye Firearms Association, Legislative Director of Buckeye Firearms Association, Director of Faculty Administrator Safety Training Emergency Response, F.A.S.T.E.R., (arming school personnel) in Ohio. Sean is a recipient of the NRA Jay M. Littlefield Memorial, for exceptional activism, Sean is a member of the NRA-Institute for Legislative Action, Hall of Fame.
Sean is also co-founder and Defense Attorney for Second Call Defense (www.SecondCallDefense.org), a national organization that provides complete legal protection for armed self-defense, with thousands of members in all fifty states. Second Call Defense provides immediate criminal defense and civil suit protection for members forced to use lethal force in self-defense. Second Call Defense provides access to all of the legal and financial protection members need to deal with police properly and defend members rights.
Ohio’s Most Sensational--68 Year Old-- Murder Mystery
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Thursday, September 29, 2022
We apologize, there is no recording due to technical difficulties for this night’s class
(One Armed Man)
It was a crime that stunned the nation, shivered the suburbs, and spawned “The Fugitive” television series. The 1954 Cleveland slaying of beautiful Marilyn Sheppard endures as the most infamous cold case in American criminal history. Because this 60 year saga featured an enthralling cocktail of sex, sin, and murder, while spinning more plot twists and legal turns than any mystery novel could render.
Found guilty of killing his wife, Doctor Samuel Sheppard was released from prison ten years later when his conviction was overturned. “Dr. Sam” was acquitted at his second trial in 1966, only to die four years later a haunted, broken man. But fascination with the case did not die with him.
(Sam Sheppard)
Join Crime Historian JT Townsend, as the author of the newly released “Summer’s Almost Gone” puts the pieces of this complex psychological and forensic puzzle together and names Marilyn Sheppard’s killer…
Speaker’s Bio:
J.T. Townsend- Townsend is a freelance writer, armchair detective, and lifelong resident of Cincinnati. He is the author of the 2009 regional true crime best seller Queen City Gothic, and 2014’s Queen City Notorious. His work has appeared in the Cincinnati Enquirer, Cincinnati Magazine, Word Magazine, Crime Traveler and Clews. He has presented over 300 programs in the Cincinnati area as part of his True Crime Lecture Series, including Jack the Ripper, Lizzie Borden, the Lindbergh Kidnapping and the Lincoln Assassination.
Take 20: Americans For Prosperity on Healthcare
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
There isn’t a day that you turn on the news that you don’t hear about crime whether it is in your own community or someone else’s. Hamilton County has been fortunate to have a Prosecuting Attorney with the experience of Joe Deters, who has always been tough on crime. At a time where it seems like all of the focus is on helping criminals, Prosecutor Deters has remained focused on protecting the rights of victims.
Prosecutor Deters will talk about Ohio Issue #1 that will be on the November ballot, explaining the importance of this issue for the safety of everyone in Ohio. He will cover the challenges law enforcement is facing today, and what needs to be done to change the direction of rising crime. Even if you don’t live in Hamilton County, this is an issue that affects people across the country – and Ohio has the opportunity to do something to stop it. Prosecutor Deters will be joining us from 7:30-8:30 PM.
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Personal or Public Option? Every year Americans list Health Care as an issue they are most concerned about. While many are satisfied with their own care, they believe the system needs repair. Learn about the alternative from Ezra Escudero of Americans for Prosperity, see what is different between the two, and become empowered to make an informed decision on this most critical and costly issue. Become familiar with the areas this option will address, and why they were chosen.
Areas to address – This is not an all-inclusive list but highlights a few areas of concern and visions on how to improve. Insurance at an affordable price; access to the latest lifesaving drugs and treatments; ability to choose your doctor; knowledge of cost of service before bill is rendered; right to try experimental drugs and treatments; and safety nets for the most vulnerable.
Visions of how to improve: Expand health-savings accounts; strengthen Health Reimbursement Accounts; promote telehealth, repeal certificate-of-needs law, allow nurses to deliver the care they are trained for and allow both doctors and nurses to practice across state lines, speed up FDA drug approvals, and remove barriers to diagnostic health.
Ezra will expand on the benefits of the “Personal Option” and discuss whom to contact to share your concerns and how to become involved in this most critical and timely issue. American’s for Prosperity will be joining us from 7:10-7:30 PM.
Speaker’s Bios:
Prosecutor Joe Deters began his legal career in 1982 working as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in Hamilton County’s Juvenile, Municipal, and Common Pleas Courts. In 1988, after six years as an Assistant Prosecutor, Joe was elected as Clerk of Courts for Hamilton County. While in this position Joe honed his skills as the manager of a large office and gained the respect of other officeholders and the community.
In 1992, Joe returned to the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office after being appointed, and later that year, elected Prosecuting Attorney. Through his tireless efforts prosecuting tough cases, Joe garnered a reputation as a no-nonsense prosecutor of violent crime and became a key figure in making Hamilton County safer. Joe never lost sight of the victims in cases he prosecuted and he knew more needed to be done to help victims navigate the legal system. He created Hamilton County’s first ever Victim/Witness Advocate Program, giving victims of violent crime and their families the assistance they needed and deserved as they navigated the criminal justice system. Joe was subsequently re-elected in 1996 and continued to vigorously pursue his goal of making Hamilton County a safer place to live and work.
In 1999, Joe was sworn in as Ohio’s 44th Treasurer of State where he was responsible for collecting, managing and investing more than $11 billion in assets for the State of Ohio. In the fall of 2004, Joe returned to Hamilton County to once again run for Prosecuting Attorney. He was elected with nearly 60% of the vote. He was subsequently reelected in 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020.
As Hamilton County’s longest serving Prosecuting Attorney (1992-1999 and 2005-present), Joe currently oversees and manages an office of more than 170 employees which includes assistant prosecuting attorneys and support staff in both our Criminal and Civil Divisions. The office prosecutes felony and misdemeanor crimes committed by adults and all offenses committed by juveniles. The office also serves as the legal counsel for all county officials, county agencies, and various county boards.
Joe is a lifelong Cincinnatian, graduating from St. Xavier High School in 1975, the University of Cincinnati in 1979, and the University Of Cincinnati College Of Law in 1982. In May 1997, Joe was awarded the University of Cincinnati Distinguished Alumnus. He is a member of the Cincinnati Bar Association, National District Attorney’s Association, the Ohio Prosecuting Attorney’s Association, and serves on the St. Joseph’s New Cemetery Board of Trustees. Previously, Joe served on the University Of Cincinnati Board Of Trustees, Ohio Organized Crime Commission, and the Southern Ohio Leukemia Foundation. Joe is married and the proud father of four children and two grandchildren.
Mr. Ezra C. Escudero is an Ohio native of Mexican heritage who has earned a reputation for successful leadership in technology, entrepreneurship, philanthropy and public policy. While at The Ohio State University in the 1990’s, Ezra was an active International Studies student and a member of Alpha Psi Lambda, Romophos & Sphinx honor societies, and the OSU Speech & Debate team. Since graduating in 1996, he has worked in the tech industry, published a bilingual Spanish-English newspaper, and served in state government during the Taft, Strickland, and Kasich administrations. Today, Ezra serves as Coalitions Director with Americans for Prosperity in Ohio, and resides with wife Beth in Gahanna, close to family and friends.
Take 20: Manfred Schnetzer's life in Germany During and After World War II
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Meet Christopher Smitherman who is a candidate for County Commissioner of Hamilton County. This very important position is responsible for the 816,684 people in Hamilton County and the City of Cincinnati. Christopher is well known as a three term past member of the City of Cincinnati Council where he was a fiscal conservative and fought for proper funding of police and fire. (Picture below Christopher with his family).
A former President of the NAACP, learn about what needs to happen in Hamilton County for us to make it great. You will also learn about important grassroots initiatives that Christoper has lead to improve our County. Christopher will be running as an independent in the election in November. He will be running against incumbent Democrat Commissioner Stephanie Dumas and Republican candidate Matt O’Neill.
This is your chance to meet Christopher and find out if he is your best choice for Hamilton County Commissioner. Christopher will be speaking from 7:30 PM to 7:45 PM.
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Hear from Manfred Schnetzer- the story of a boy who grows up in Germany during World War II and his eventual immigration to the United States. Manfred will speak from 7:15-7:40.
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Take 20, Part II–Bonus Speaker–Paul Jacob will join us from 8:15-8:30 PM. Americans for Citizen Voting works to constitutionally set voting as the exclusive right of U.S. citizens. In recent years, efforts to allow non-citizens to vote have succeeded in California, Maryland, Vermont and most notably last December in New York City.
This November, Ohio voters will see Issue 2, a constitutional amendment clarifying that only U.S. citizens are entitled to vote in all state and local elections in Ohio. In the last four years, Alabama, Colorado, Florida and North Dakota have passed such amendments with overwhelming margins. The ACV website is here: https://onlycitizens.vote/
Speaker’s Bio:
Christopher Smitherman was born on July 16, 1967, in Cincinnati, Ohio. His father, Dr. Herbert Smitherman, was a chemist and the first African-American with a PhD hired at Procter & Gamble. His mother, Mrs. Barbara Smitherman, was a teacher and administrator at Cincinnati Public Schools. Christopher has five siblings – one sister and four brothers. Christopher and his five siblings grew up in North Avondale.
After attending St. Mark Elementary and completing high school at School for Creative and Performing Arts (SCPA) he moved to Bowling Green, Ohio, to attend Bowling Green State University. Christopher studied at BGSU to obtain a master’s degree in counseling. Throughout his time in college, Christopher worked as a resident advisor (RA) and, in 1990, he accepted full-time employment as a hall manager at BGSU.
It was at BGSU that Christopher met Pamela Thorton. The two began dating and soon married.Pamela and Christopher married in 1990 and, in 1997, returned to Cincinnati and settled in North Avondale. Together, they raised five children – four boys and one girl – all products of Cincinnati Public Schools. Christopher is a Financial Planner and small business owner. He has owned and operated his financial planning practice since returning to Cincinnati in 1997.
In 2009, Christopher purchased the old Bond Hill Library and relocated his financial planning office to the building located in Bond Hill, Cincinnati. As a financial planner, On January 15, 2019 Christopher’s wife Pamela died after a two-year battle with breast cancer and an autoimmune disease. Pamela Smitherman was an educator at Cincinnati Public Schools and left behind her husband and five children.
Christopher was elected to Cincinnati City Council on November 4, 2003, as a member of the Charter Committee. During his term, Christopher focused on neighborhood improvements. He introduced legislation to pioneer regional economic cooperation via Joint Economic Development Districts (JEDD) and Cooperative Economic Development Agreements (CEDA). Christopher also worked to firm up the city’s working capital fund and played a leading role in ending Fire Department brownouts.
On March 27, 2007, Smitherman was elected president of the Cincinnati Chapter of the NAACP. During his term the chapter’s membership increased 600% from 500 to 3,000 members and the chapter’s debt was eliminated.
During Smitherman’s time as president, the Cincinnati NAACP co-authored and co-sponsored five ballot initiatives, three of which were successful. Those initiatives that passed included defeating a county jail tax, stopping red-light cameras, and allowing voters to ratify the sale of Greater Cincinnati Water Works. In order to place these initiatives on the ballot, Smitherman helped collect more than 100,000 signatures.
Christopher ran as an Independent on a platform of balancing the budget, properly funding police and fire, and fixing the city’s pension. He went on to win reelection in both 2013 and 2017. On December 13, 2017, Mayor John Cranley appointed Christopher to serve as the Vice Mayor. Cranley also appointed Smitherman to serve on the Cincinnati Planning Commission. Christopher serves as Chair of the Law and Public Safety Committee.
In the Spring of 2020, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine appointed Christopher to serve on the State’s Minority Health Strike Force. As a member of this board, he helped craft directives to address the covid impacts on minority communities across the state.
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Manfred Schnetzer: Born July 21, 1935 in FRIEDRICHSHAFEN, GERMANY.
Grade School in Stuttgart and Kempten/Allgaeu.
Started as Drafting Apprentice in 1949 in Kempten.
Immigrated to the United States in 1952 and lived in New York, Portland Maine and currently in Cincinnati, Ohio
Inducted into the US Army from 1958 to 1960
Married Regina Hueffer of Germany in 1961
Started work as Co-Op Student at General Electric Aircraft Engines in Cincinnati
B.S. Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Cincinnati in 1968
Retired in 2000 from GE after 38 years.
Currently V.P. of the German-American Citizens League and the German Heritage Museum.
He has six children; three boys and three girls and thirteen grandchildren.
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Paul Jacob is president of the Liberty Initiative Fund, a national organization helping citizens place issues on the ballot to hold politicians accountable, fight crony capitalism and protect our liberties. “If there’s anyone who’s been involved in more citizen initiative campaigns in the history of this country [than Paul Jacob],” said Los Angeles Times reporter Joe Mathews, “I’m not aware of them.” For more than a decade, Paul was the voice of the term limits movement, leading U.S. Term Limits, the nation’s largest such group.
April Few , from USPIE, Star of the Movie to Join Us for Discussion
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Join April Few who will be travelling, from Columbia, S.C. to visit with EmpowerU tonight to discuss and show the excellent film that USPIE has created called Truth and Lies in Education. The popcorn will be provided by EmpowerU as we watch and learn about public education from this great movie.
April Few is, a young mother of two, who embarks on an eye-opening exploration of the current state of American government schools and makes some alarming discoveries regarding agendas kept hidden from the eyes of both students and parents like her. Through a series of interviews with educational experts, she explores the following questions:
– Are public schools forming a wedge between parents and children?
– Are children being trained to become political activists for the political left?
– What is the true aim of so-called comprehensive sexuality education?
– How much transgender influence is there in government schools?
– How is Critical Race Theory indoctrinating American children?
– Is there a federal education scheme to control the nation’s workforce?
April meets the authors of several books that guided her journey of discovery and gave her a newfound mission—to educate parents of school-aged children about the indoctrination taking place in government schools.
Partial cast members of the movie include: Dr. Carol Swain, Sam Sorbo, Alex Newman, President of USPIE Sheri Few, Dr. Mary Grabar, Donna Hearne, E. Ray Moore, Dr. Duke Pesta, Jarrett Stepman, Dr. Gary Thompson, and Lily Tang Williams. The movie is about 1 hour and 9 minutes long. After the movie April will join us to discuss education in America and what she learned on the journey to make Truth and Lies in Education. Special time tonight for the movie and discussion is 6:30-8:30 PM at EmpowerU Studio.
The Mission for U.S.P.I.E. is – United States Parents Involved in Education (USPIE) is a nonprofit, nationwide coalition that seeks to return education to its proper local roots and restore parental authority over their children’s education by helping parents and local communities to escape federal and other national influences. Grassroots leaders from around the country will work to 1) expose the lies being taught in government schools that harm children and threaten freedom, 2) encourage parents to take back responsibility to educate their children, 3) initiate and support efforts to return complete local control of government schools, and 4) encourage states to wean themselves off the federal education dole.
To read complete information about the Vision, Values, Honesty, Excellence, Fiscal Accountability and 2022-2023 Goals of USPIE—Click Here.
Shiver Me Timbers! Join Dan, out on the boat, for an important announcement tonight as EmpowerU embarks on an initiative to put God back into Ohio’s Public Schools. Reflecting on the wisdom of President Dwight David Eisenhower, we hope as Citizens you will join us in this important effort.
On February 7, 1954 President Eisenhower said, “Out of faith in God, and through faith in themselves as His children, our forefathers designed and built the Republic. We will recall the struggles of the Pilgrims, the testing of George Washington at Valley Forge, and the determined battle of Abraham Lincoln to save the Union: All of these men shared a steadfast belief in God.”
Let’s share that belief with the kids in our 614 Ohio Public Schools. Join Dan tonight for the announcement.
After the announcement, Dan will bring us up-to-date on EmpowerU’s November, 2019 class “About the Debt”. We’ll take a look at the Federal Debt and the Budget of the United States of American in 2022. Where are we are at in the Country right now and how does compare to where we were just 3 years ago?
There were several benchmarks we discussed in the previous budget class–how will they compare today? We will try not to bog you down too much in actual numbers but think you will find the trends interesting.
Finally, we will take your calls using call-in technology…as we start our 24th semester. This is your chance to sound off about anything you want–maybe a few things are on your mind… Student Loan Debt– The Border–The Inflation Reduction Act–Climate Change–Extremism, Crime, God, The Ohio Secretary of State and more.
You can call into the show at: 513-572-1266.
Speaker Bio:
Dan Regenold is the Managing Board Member of EmpowerUAmerica.org. Dan looks forward to our 24th semester of FREE classes to help you Educate * Enjoy * Engage. He is proud of the team and the GREAT schedule they have put together for you this semester. See you at the events and join us. To read Dan’s Bio Click Here.
Even if it's your second time watching, join us and discuss!
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Thursday, August 4, 2022
Join EmpowerU At The Movies!
Registration is Full, Thank You For Your Interest!
At a recent EmpowerU session we took a poll of over 100 people to find out how many of them had seen the movie 2000 Mules and how many of them wanted to see it again. Over 60% of the people attending told us they wanted a showing to see the movie for a 2nd time! Join us for this important movie on August 4. Sign up for your free tickets now.
2,000 Mules is a documentary by political commenter Dinesh D’Souza. The data from the film was provided by the non-profit, True The Vote, an organization run by Catherine Engelbrecht. The documentary refers to “mules” as those who were paid to illegally collect and deposit ballots into drop boxes in Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin during the 2020 presidential election.
According to former President Donald Trump: “This movie exposes the lies of the Democrats, RINO’s and Fake news who say it was the “most secure election in history.” It was perhaps, the least secure in history.”
We encourage people from all political parties to attend: Republicans, Democrats, Independents. And, EmpowerU will be supplying the popcorn. Class Starts at 6:30, we’ll talk about the movie for 30 minutes after we are done. Please join us for summer learning.
Dinesh D’Souza has had a prominent career as a writer, scholar, and public intellectual, and has also become an award-winning filmmaker. Born in India, D’Souza came to the U.S. as an exchange student at the age of 18 and graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Dartmouth College. Called one of the “top young public-policy makers in the country,” D’Souza quickly became known as a major force in public policy through his books, speeches, and films. (D’Souza Media (dineshdsouza.com)
Catherine Engelbrecht is prominent in the news recently because of the documentary 2000 Mules, which made its international debut on May 2, 2022. It was her organization True the Vote (founded Nov. 30, 2009) – partnering with election investigation analyst Gregg Phillips – that provided the source material for this important exposé on election fraud in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election. Working together since 2013, in 2021 Engelbrecht and Phillips purchased over $2 million worth of geospatial cell phone data and surveillance video footage. Prior to that they had large numbers of witness testimonies of vote fraud arriving on the TTV Hot lines. They also heard directly from whistleblowers acting as ballot mules (i.e. traffickers) in the 2020 election.
Take 20: Information on Smart Meters...
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
There are few Americans who have much or any knowledge of most of the countries of the world or even where in the world they are. One of those countries is India. Not that long ago India was a far away, mysterious and violent place. Most Americans had never met an Indian or traveled there and probably never would.
India is a country in South Asia with over 1.25 billion people. Recorded history dates back to around 5000 BC. According to consensus in modern genetics, anatomically modern humans first arrived on the Indian subcontinent from Africa between 73,000 and 55,000 years ago.
The history of independent India began when the country became an independent nation within the British Commonwealth on 15 August 1947. Direct administration by the British, which began in 1858, affected a political and economic unification of the subcontinent.
The nation has faced religious violence, casteism, naxalism, terrorism and regional separatist insurgencies. India has unresolved territorial disputes with China which in 1962 escalated into the Sino-Indian War, and with Pakistan which resulted in 4 separate wars over a 30 year period. The number of languages spoken make conversing and compromise difficult. The languages of India are divided into various language families, of which the Indo-Aryan and the Dravidian languages are the most widely spoken. For example the Dravidian family of languages includes approximately 73 languages that are mainly spoken in southern India and northeastern Sri Lanka, as well as certain areas of surrounding countries.
So…. In spite of these and other obstacles India has managed to evolve into a global economic and military power. Tonight we will cover a small segment of the history of India and share some of the surprising facts about a little known country to most Americans. Time for your to learn about one of the Countries you will be hearing about most in the next decade! This class on The Rise of India will take place from 7:20-8:30 PM.
Take 20 Presents Important Information on Smart Meters–from 7:05-7:20
Do you know why your Duke Energy bills are so high?
In recent years, Ohio utility companies have significantly raised its “customer fees” and that action has resulted in consumers losing control over a big portion of their monthly utility bills – even if energy use decreases. Ongoing rate increases and delivery riders have been approved by state regulators (PUCO) for AMI Smart Meter installation/replacement including the $30/month Smart Meter opt-out fee instituted by state regulators (PUCO) in 2016. Many complaints from Southwest Ohio Duke Energy consumers about overcharges prompted a recently completed study using comparative data from local residents’ utility bills.
The study itself concentrated on the hidden cost items on the bills which are the delivery riders for both gas and electric usage. It is very difficult for consumers to track unlisted riders that are lumped into their utility bills. These costs are well known subsidies to Ohio lawmakers and the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO). Learn about the billing study findings that show costly overcharges on monthly consumer bills. Duke Energy has a well documented history of enforcing the highest number of utility shutoffs and collections among Ohio energy utilities.
Speaker Bios:
Vince Welage: Vince is a retired Medical IT Analyst. He worked for many years in database software development especially in areas related to accounting, energy, inventory control, and Occupational Health. In the most recent past, he was employed as the Occupational Health Administrator for a large consumer products company in Cincinnati for 10+ years. He managed data access privileges to employee medical records for 32 health units in North America. He provided End User support for the day to day operations of all medical database applications including vendor interface devices. He developed data entry modules for the in house Occupational Health application as well as any related summary and/or trend reporting.
John O’Neill- In John’s 35 year professional career he has participated in and managed people and projects in the corporate as well as the consulting services industry. His professional background includes significant career experience in a broad spectrum of business disciplines including sales of technology resources, corporate and consulting services management, software development and personnel training.
Leigh Ann Cartier- Leigh Ann grew up in Cincinnati and graduated from Wilmington College and she is always looking to learn new things. Leigh Ann has taught a prior EmpowerU class on getting started with gardening in the spring semester of 2021. Leigh Ann is the Producer for EmpowerU and runs our website www.EmpowerUAmerica.org.
This Class is Perfect for Homeschoolers!
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Saturday, July 16, 2022
Thank you for Your Interest, At This Time Registration is Closed
Let’s get the kids educated on the Constitution. This is your child’s, grandchild, or relative to attend a special Constitution Boot Camp just for them. Homeschoolers this class is perfect for you!
Join us for this one-day, seminar style, class that will give you a working knowledge of the US Constitution including its purpose, and true meaning. You will leave with an understanding of the founder’s intentions for our nation and the ways in which we are dangerously off-course. This course will help students to learn to recognize when political power is legitimate and when it is being usurped- and what can be done about it!
The first step to restoring our Constitutional Republic is teach the public to understand the Constitution and the limits it places on our federal government. Kids–up to college age–we want you to learn about your constitution. By attending each student will receive The Handbook for We the People, The Federalist Papers, Bastiat’s The Law and The Precinct Guide.
Free $25 Best Buy Gift Cards to the first 25 students (College age and Under) who sign up and complete the class. Let’s Educate the Kids! Space in this class is limited to 45. We will start out until July 8, just accepting reservations from kids. If the spaces in this class do not fill up we will open this class to the public.
We will be on a tight schedule today so please bring a bagged lunch.
Speaker Bios:
Jim Lewis: Marine, retired Sales Representative, co-founder of Building Blocks for Liberty, currently teaching American History, World History and the US Constitution for homeschoolers in the PEP program at the Mason location. Jim has been interested in history since childhood. During his down time, he continues to read books on history, types of governments and law.
John Hindery: Marine, retired Accountant, co-founder of Building Blocks for Liberty, currently teaching American History and the US Constitution for homeschoolers in the northern Kentucky area. John has been interested in history since 5th grade, worked on the Nixon and Goldwater Campaigns and continues to read books on the founders and presidents.
Rick Herron: Navy, IT Specialist, currently teaching the importance of Central Committee throughout the Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana region for over four decades. He co-founded the Platform Republicans educating conservatives in becoming precinct executives. Rick wrote and self-published a book entitled, “Actually Making a Difference” which explains how important the local level participation can determine local, county, state and national candidates.
Each man specializes in specific areas that compliments the BBFL mission. As part of the military, Jim, John and Rick took an oath to support and defend the US Constitution which lead them to teaching. Our class focuses on the Founding Fathers wisdom, Natural Law, types of governments and much, much more. Each instructor recognized the need to teach what the Founding Fathers gave us so out of frustration US Constitution Boot Camp was born. We are a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and all volunteer. The donations received help us further focus on educating the younger generations through scholarships.
We Will Be Collecting Items for Valley Interfaith's Back to School Night Tonight!
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Tonight’s Thesis: Was Teddy Roosevelt one of the Greatest American Presidents?
When we look at the pictures on Mount Rushmore of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln there is little doubt these are great American Presidents and heroes. But what about the fourth President on the monument—third from left—Theodore Roosevelt. We will learn about “Teddy” in tonight’s class.
Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt became president in 1901, after the assassination of President William McKinley, who was six months into his second term. While the 26th president was no founding father, he as a key figure in American expansionism. Roosevelt’s work in creating the Panama Canal, busting monopolies in the American economy and conserving valuable public lands set a successful tone for the United States at the turn of the 20th century. During his speeches he exercised plain, ordinary virtues, which called on all good citizens to possess common sense, honesty, courage and energy.
From his childhood years, where he suffered from asthma, Roosevelt took up boxing and hunting lions and his “Rough Rider” days became almost mythical in stature. Often, crossing party lines to get things done, Roosevelt injected himself directly into foreign policy and domestic issues. His foreign policy became known as, “Speak Softly and Carry a Big Stick.” Roosevelt’s relationship with the Kaiser Wilhelm of Germany was similar to many of the foreign leaders who were in awe of Teddy.
Learn about Roosevelt, the “Great Regulator” and Teddy’s domestic program named “The Square Deal”. Roosevelt’s helped seal his image of a cowboy soldier when he formed a group called “The Rough Riders” who would see battle in the Spanish American War. And what about that Teddy Bear?
Join us tonight for focus on our early American History and learn about the life of President Theodore Roosevelt, a true President for the people.
Please Bring a few School Items to Donate to Valley Interfaith’s Back-to-School Program!
John Keuffer is the Executive Director of Valley Interfaith, an incredible resource in Lockland which by provides emergency resources–through it’s Food Pantry and Clothing and Housewares outreach–and social support in partnership with our community and its agencies. John will share with us a great story about the day he met motivational speaker Zig Ziglar, which will be sure to brighten your day. John will also tell us about Valley Interfaith’s great Back-to-School program and the people that it serves. Please help Valley by bringing a few school items to donate to this important cause for the community. John will be with us until about 7:15 pm.
Zig Ziglar
Speaker Bio:
Dan Regenold: Dan 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. 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 Estate Tax one of the most important Tax accomplishments of 2011. In 2011 Regenold founded EmpowerUAmerica.org (starting it’s 24th 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 his efforts on the mess of Public Education in Ohio and specifically on topics like School Choice and Critical Race Theory. 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, Net Neutrality, D-Day, The Deficit, The Dangers in America, Public Education and Winston Churchill at EmpowerU Classes. Regenold is founder and Chairman of FrameUSA.com, a Made-In-America picture frame manufacturing company in Springdale, Ohio.
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John R. Keuffer, III is a Cincinnati native currently residing in Clermont County Ohio with his wife Kendra (a Police Officer) and his 9 year old daughter Gracie. John has over 31 years as a Nonprofit professional. He started his adult career as a Police Officer and held positions as a talk radio show host on WIZF-FM, WAIF-FM, and WCIN-AM for over 12 years discussing community issues. Mr. Keuffer was a partner (since retired) in a Celebrity Marketing firm; handling the marketing and charity relations for Pro Athletes and Musicians. This position led him to represent several New England Patriots players for 13 years and some Rock n Roll Hall of Fame musicians. Mr. Keuffer has produced seven Sports Specials for FOX and ESPN. Mr. Keuffer enjoys time with his family and helping NPO’s that are struggling.
*Date Changed to Thursday, July 7th*
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Thursday, July 7, 2022
Tonight’s Event is Sold Out! We are at Maximum Capacity Tonight, Thank You For Your Interest!
Tonight we will be watching Matt Walsh’s powerful new Documentary, What is a Woman?
What is a Woman is the question you are not allowed to ask. The documentary they don’t want you to see. Join Matt Walsh on his often comical, yet deeply disturbing journey, as he fearlessly questions the logic behind a gender ideology movement that has taken aim at women and children. Watch “What is a Woman” with your friends at EmpowerU.
Tonight, while watching the movie, you will learn more about the Gender Ideology that is taking over the United States of America. Currently about 5 percent of young adults in the U.S. identify as transgender or nonbinary. 42% of adults now say they know someone that is transgender and a little over a quarter of adults say they have a friend who is trans. Many people believe that the transgender adult population of .6 percent has doubled from the most widely accepted projection of .3% of the population used just 5 years ago.
Matt Walsh
What is the reason for this huge increase in transgender population? The movie will discuss, in depth, Gender Transition Surgery and how this is being introduced in schools and governments across America. Learn more about how our kids are being indoctrinated and how schools have begun to talk to students about Gender Dysphoria without their parents approval or knowledge. In some cases parents have found themselves against the law as they try to stop their children from undergoing damaging surgery which cannot be reversed. A recent study found that after surgical reassignment, the suicide rate of those who had undergone sex-reassignment surgery rose to 20 times that of comparable peers.
After the movie we will “speak freely” and discuss Gender Ideology and the movie. We will look forward to hearing your input and thoughts about “What is a Woman?” And as always, the popcorn will be supplied by EmpowerU!
About Matt Walsh and the Daily Wire
Matt Walsh is a popular writer, blogger, and speaker. His columns on The Daily Wire are read by millions each month. Matt is well known for his controversial and provocative insights into culture, politics, and religion. He lives outside of Baltimore, Maryland with his wife and two children.
The Daily Wire (www.DailyWire.com) The Daily Wire is an American conservative news website and media company founded in 2015 by political commentator Ben Shapiro and film director Jeremy Boreing. It is the second most popular publisher on Facebook, and produces podcasts such as The Ben Shapiro Show.
The World Isn't Getting Any Safer!
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Are you a new or prospective gun owner who feels the need to exercise their 2nd amendment right to self-defense during these troubling times, but are apprehensive about running afoul of the law? Maybe you have read the books by the “experts” and gone to the gun store only to come away more confused and intimidated than ever.
The world isn’t getting any safer and someday soon you could be confronted with that moment when the world goes FYBYOYO: “Forget You Baby, You’re On Your Own”. Come listen to someone just like you who has made the dangerous and often confusing journey from first time gun owner to experienced every-day-carry (EDC). A skilled corporate trainer and IT consultant,
Dave Moorman has applied his 36 years of strategic problem solving expertise into educating himself on what it means to be a responsible and effective handgun owner. He has documented his growth and insights including some nearly catastrophic mistakes, and wants to share them with you. He will discuss the psychology of violent encounters, how to conquer surprise and fear, and how to deal with a taunting adversary without allowing yourself to be tricked into placing yourself at physical or legal disadvantage.
Finally, he will walk you through a real life defense encounter where discharging his firearm successfully prevented harm to himself, his wife, and even the adolescent perpetrator. This class is an excerpt of Dave’s full 5 hours of private interactive instruction on all aspects of owning, carrying and yielding a handgun. The full course covers everything you need to design and implement a responsible, comprehensive and effective firearm based defense plan by detailed walk throughs of numerous scenarios including:
Walking into crimes in progress (armed robbery, assault & battery, sexual assault)
Getting caught up in third party domestic violence
Attempted car-jacking with a toddler in the car seat
Countering different types of home invasions
Dealing with the crazy-ex who doesn’t know when to quit
Taunting & Brandishing
Defeating a Mob
How easily your eyes can fool you, how it gets you in trouble, and what to do about it
Are “warning shots” ever justified
The proper way to call 9-1-1 and deal with responders
Firearm safety when there are children in the home
Hiring a private investigator
Selecting the right firearm & ammo
Basic gun cleaning & maintenance
Common misconceptions and mistakes about the process of Draw, Point and Shoot
Why even a 300 lb. defensive tackle should carry a rape whistle
Most of us spend weeks selecting a new car and even longer buying a home. But in a self-defense encounter you may be forced to make a life-changing decision in under a second. Are you mentally, emotionally and physically prepared for that? This class can’t get you there in 90 minutes, but it will provide you with a roadmap for getting started and the confidence that you have everything you need to take control of your own safety.
Speaker’s Bio:
Dave Moorman: With 36 years of business, technology and consulting experience, Dave Moorman is a born problem solver. Whether it is writing programs for mobile phones, starting a business, negotiating multi-million dollar IT deals or building a self-defense strategy, he knows how to break tough problems down into pieces and parts, develop a solution, and train people how to implement it. So when he was unexpectedly faced with a potentially life-changing threat a decade ago, he turned his skills to building a plan to ensure his family would never again be left defenseless and at the mercy of an aggressive adversary.
His journey was one of discovery, personal growth and even near fatal mistakes. An experienced corporate educator who has built two complex software training curricula, he now wants to dedicate his time and talent to helping others make the same journey quickly and safely. He firmly believes in not only your natural right to self-defense, but that anyone who can drive a car has the proven physical and mental capacity to yield a firearm responsibly and effectively once they get decades of Hollywood propagated rubbish out of their head.
Meet and work with the incredible artist's at Visionaries and Voices
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Wednesday, June 22, 2022
This Class has been CancelledIn this class, students will be using Jackie Fisher’s bold line drawings as inspiration for their own versions of similar drawings. Using black permanent marker, gel pens, and washable marker, Jackie will lead students through her process of line making on pieces of cardstock paper. Once students have covered the entire 8.5 x 11 sheet of paper in their marker design, facilitators will help them to cut their paper into strips, approximately 2-3 inches thick. Once the strips have been cut, students will choose the strip with their favorite composition to laminate into a bookmark. Once laminated, students will punch a hole in the top of the bookmark and add a tassel using colorful lanyard string. This class is limited to 20 people.
This is your student or child’s opportunity to meet and work with an incredible artist from Visionaries and Voices. The Tri-County V&V Studio has been located at the Frame USA Building for the last 15 years. See their great work in retail store area. Don’t miss this creative opportunity.
Jackie Fisher- Jackie is known for her maze-like vibrant marker drawings. She begins her compositions with a large “S” shape. From that initial mark she creates pencil curves and shapes that reflect the twisting and turning of feathers, scales, roots, and rivers. These works recall bold graphics of tribal tattoos, inked onto magenta and sky blue, lavender and citrus orange backgrounds. ( This photo of Jackie is from a project done by artist Michael Wilson called Cherished).
Permaculture Gardening for City Spaces and Small Yards
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Replicate natural ecosystems in your backyard to step towards sustainably and let nature do the work, even in small spaces!
Permaculture is “an agricultural system or method that seeks to integrate human surroundings so as to create highly efficient self-sustaining ecosystems.”
In this introduction to permaculture, learn how to create nature-friendly, sustainable food gardens, with an emphasis on low-maintenance techniques. We will also review some of the urban permaculture projects in the Cincinnati area.
Speaker Bio:
Amy Stross : Amy is a permaculture designer and author of the award-winning book, The Suburban Micro-Farm: Modern Solutions for Busy People. She writes about permaculture gardening on her popular website, TenthAcreFarm.com.
Join this special Virtual only class on Wednesday, May 4th
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
This course will be built around THE book of the same name — 67 SHOTS: KENT STATE AND THE END OF AMERICAN INNOCENCE — which dives deeply into a singular moment in American history. On May 4, 1970, Ohio National Guardsmen fired upon and killed four students at Kent State University and wounded nine, one paralyzed for life. EmpowerU will be exploring Kent State on the 52nd Anniversary of the tragic shooting.
The shootings shocked the nation, but in two different directions. One side saw it as a brutal putdown of a legitimate student protest against the war in Vietnam. The other cheered the shootings as not only deserved but long overdue. Then as now, America was a deeply divided nation, coming off a decade defined by assassinations, the Civil Rights struggle, burgeoning feminism, and so much more. All those roiling waters of the 1960s flowed together that weekend a little more than half a century ago on the Kent State campus in northeast Ohio.
Howard Mean’s great book “67 Shots”--makes extensive use of more than one hundred twenty-five oral histories stored at Kent State. It finds and defines faults, it traces patterns, but it doesn’t take sides, and this course won’t either. America itself went off the rails on May 4, 1970. Author Howard Means will show you why and how, and with what lasting consequences. Those 67 shots fired at Kent State live with us still.
Speaker Bio:
Howard Means is the author or co-author of eleven books, including the first biography of Colin Powell; Johnny Appleseed: The Man, the Myth, and the American Story; 67 Shots; and most recently Splash! 10,000 Years of Swimming. A former syndicated columnist (King Features) and senior editor at Washingtonian magazine, he lives in rural Virginia.
EmpowerUAmerica.org partners with The West Chester Tea Party to Sponsor this Event
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
We are at FULL CAPACITY for In-Person Registration, If you would still like to join, please register virtually. Thank you for your interest.
EmpowerUAmerica is partnering with the West Chester Tea Party to Sponsor This GREAT Event:
Timeline for tonight: 6:00–7:00 PM Potluck-Social Hour, Class Goes from 7:00-8:30 PM, Come Meet New Friends!
Registration is limited to the first 110 people who sign up to attend at EmpowerU Studio. There is no limit for virtual sign-ups.
Covid Pandemic – The Great Reset, we’ve been hearing a lot about both. What’s the connection between the two? Tom DeWeese will make the connection and more!
For several decades the forces of the Left have been preparing for global control. The United Nations has been in a relentless drive to destroy national sovereignty, kill free enterprise, and eliminate private property. They have openly promoted these goals through Agenda 21, Agenda 2030, and the Green New Deal. Many thought these were just too radical to be taken seriously. Finally, as a trial run, the global forces succeeded in shutting down the world economy under the man-made Covid Pandemic.
To achieve it, the UN used all of its resources, including the World Health Organization, International Monetary Fund, and the World Economic Forum to take the final steps to lock it all in. They call it the Great Reset, and they plan to use the Covid Lockdown as the guideline for finally imposing their ultimate goal. Control of energy, food supplies, manufacturing, Wall Street investing, development, and individual choice are all the targets to bring it about and change human society forever, under their thumb.
Tom DeWeese will give you the details on who and how it’s being done, and most importantly, what can we as individuals do to stop it. Don’t miss hearing and learning about this topic that everyone is talking about.
Speaker Bio:
Tom DeWeese- Tom is one of the nation’s leading advocates of individual liberty, free enterprise, private property rights, and American sovereignty and independence. Tom DeWeese was one of the first to voice concern over the radical agenda of the environmental movement and to question its motives.
Tom is a native of Ohio. He’s been a candidate for the Ohio Legislature, served as editor of two newspapers, and has owned several businesses. In 1989 Tom led the only privately-funded election-observation team to the Panamanian elections. In 2006 Tom was invited to Cambridge University to debate the issue of the United Nations before the Cambridge Union, a 200 year old debating society.
Today he serves as Founder and President of the American Policy Center and editor of The DeWeese Report and author of three books: “Now Tell Me I Was Wrong,” “ERASE,” a fictional political thriller, and his most recent policy book entitled “Sustainable, the War on Free Enterprise, Private Property and Individuals.”
Take 20—An update on the Convention of States--from 6:45-7:30 PM
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Michael Patton will talk about the Cincinnati Frontier from 7:30-8:30 PM. Our mental images of the American frontier are formed by stories, television shows, and movies more than by actual history. But there was much more to it than what innumerable Hollywood productions show. We do not have to go farther west to look at the history of the frontier; when Cincinnati was founded it was the frontier.
We have more than enough history for a television mini-series – plenty of wilderness; lots of Indians; one-sided treaties; an army with a couple very bad commanders and resounding military defeats; an army then reformed into the Legion of the United States with a competent commander and a major victory; a traitor; intrigues by the British, French, and Spanish; a judge who sold thousands of acres of land with fraudulent titles, settlers; and the very first congressional inquiry of the executive branch
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When the United States and Great Britain ended the Revolutionary War in 1783 with the Treaty of Paris, Britain agreed that the western boundary of the United States shall be the Mississippi River. A huge area west and north of the Ohio River, soon to be called the Northwest Territory, would allow incredible room for expansion. But most of the land west of the Appalachian Mountains had been reserved to the Indians by the Royal Proclamation of 1763, and even though subsequent treaties quickly reduced the extent, the northwest area was still theirs. And no Indian tribe had signed the Treaty of Paris.
The chiefs of a few tribes signed treaties in the next several years in which they agreed to move and yield the lands in southern Ohio area to the United States. Join Engineer and local Cincinnatian Michael Patton who will walk us through Cincinnati Frontier Treason, Fraud, and the Indian Wars in the Early Settlement
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From 6:45-7:30 PM– The Convention of States will present an overview of the process for a minimum of 34 State Legislatures to make applications for a Convention of States. The purpose of holding a convention is for the purpose of suggesting proposed amendments to the US Constitution in 3 limited areas: term limits for Federal officials, imposing fiscal restraints on Federal spending & taxation, and limiting power, scope, and jurisdiction of the Federal government. Just like any amendments proposed by Congress, it still takes 3/4ths or 38 states to ratify any proposed amendments before they would become effective. He will share where the project stands currently in Ohio and in the other states active in this movement.
Speaker’s Bios:
Michael Patton- is a professional engineer who has been working locally 25 years in the aerospace industry. He is interested in alternative energy, film, and history, especially the history of the American Indians in this area and of Cincinnati when it was the frontier. He is a frequent contributor to Streetvibes, the biweekly paper of the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless and which is sold downtown. Seminars at EmpowerU are one of the sources used for the articles.
He has learned that much news and even many histories are often so incomplete to be quite misleading. A good question to keep in mind is, “what am I not being told?” Among his favorite authors are Ayn Rand (Atlas Shrugged), C.S. Lewis (The Screwtape Letters and That Hideous Strength), Agatha Christie (mystery writer and observer of human nature extraordinaire), and G.K. Chesterton (religious writer and author of the Father Brown mysteries). One of his favorite quotes is by Chesterton and is appropriate whenever your view and actions are outside the norm: “A dead thing can go with the stream, but only a living thing can go against it.”
Bill Scott- A graduate of Penn State University, Mr. Bill Scott, the State Director of Convention of States in Ohio, studied business administration and accounting. He was a corporate auditor, CPA, and financial consultant for the former international accounting firm of Arthur Andersen, becoming a Partner with that firm in Philadelphia. With a specialization in the insurance industry, he later served as Chief Financial Officer for several insurance-related organizations before retiring. After moving to Dayton 4 years ago from out-of-state, he held several leadership positions within Convention of States, becoming the State Director for Ohio last year.
Join Us For This Special Saturday Class!
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Saturday, April 23, 2022
This Class Has Just Been Added to Our Schedule
This movie is limited to the first 100 people to reserve tickets.
Audiences are raving about Whose children are They? Calling It:
“A brilliant jaw-dropping film!”
“A real wake up call!”
Whose Children Are They? — This new movie exposes the Hidden Agenda in America’s Schools. A groundbreaking and powerfully persuasive documentary featuring brave teachers, empowered parents, and front-line experts who pull back the curtain about what is truly happening in our public schools today. This film will be the starting point for a full cultural conversation about the need to return to the original intent of education, not indoctrination.
Join EmpowerUAmerica.org for a special Saturday Class where we will watch this movie early starting at 9:00 AM. Stay with us afterwards and we will discuss the movie from 11:00 am-12:00 pm and take your comments and questions.
EmpowerUAmerica.org will be helping you wake up this morning with Coffee and Danish. Don’t miss this incredible event. Bring all parents of children that are attending our schools.
This isn’t Forensic Files, but will be just as fascinating. Take a glimpse into the world of forensics as we listen to some amazing stories and outcomes from Dr. Ken Manges.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
As a Forensic Psychologist, Dr. Kenneth J. Manges testifies in civil, criminal and military cases. When asked what he do, he is fond of saying, “I never talk to the dead, but I always listen.” This is his way of saying he investigates the circumstances of what happened just before a person’s death, whether by murder or accidental circumstances, and in the instance of evaluating a survivor, how the assault, explosion, fire, or motor vehicle collision has ruined their lives.
Dr. Manges will talk for EmpowerUAmerica and provide a glimpse at some of the amazing stories about how the twists and turns of the evidence, research, and interviews he has had, which have led to some surprising outcomes over the hundreds of times he has testified in court.
Speaker’s Bio:
Kenneth J. Manges, Ph.D., ABVE, CVE, CFP
Forensic Vocational & Psychological Expert
Areas of Focus & Competency: Forensic (psychological & vocational), Trauma (emotional physical pain & suffering), Consultation and treatment for referrals from state and federal agencies including, but not limited to Ohio Lawyers Assistance Program (OLAP), Legal Aide, Workers Compensation and the Industrial Commission.
Teaching & Supervision: Has instructed graduate psychology courses in forensic psychology, and counseling. Has participated in the training and supervision of students and practitioners in both the academic and professional areas of competence, forensics, pain management, disability and vocational matters.
Education: Certification in Forensic Psychology, University of Virginia; Ph. D., University of Maryland; M.S., Brooklyn College, New York; B.A., Adelphi University, New York
Licenses & Diplomates: Licensed Psychologist, Ohio and West Virginia
Diplomate, American Board of Vocational Experts, American Academy of Pain Management, American Board of Professional Disability Consultants, American Board of Forensic Examiners, and American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress
Professional Affiliations: Academy of Medicine Hamilton County, Ohio, American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress, American Board of Professional Disability Consultants, American Board of Vocational Experts, American Psychological Association, and Ohio Psychological Association
Publications/Professional Contributions: “Manges-Garmize Behavioral Assessment Scale.”; “Preliminary Diagnostic Questionnaire” contributing editor, project supervisor; “Burros Mental Measurement Year Book,” contributing editor. (2000); “National Computer Systems,” Beta test site; Working in the Community, Co-author, Eighth Annual Institute of Rehabilitation Issues; and Editor: Journal of Forensic Vocational Assessment
This Class is Sponsored by Diane Landi
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Cartel–How Your Own Money Is Being Used Against You!
The Author of Woke, Inc., Vivek Ramaswamy visits EmpowerU tonight. In tonight’s topic Vivek will focus on how there is a cartel of the top 3 largest asset managers in the world (Blackrock, State Street, and Vanguard) that pushes a one-sided political agenda. This cartel uses not their own money, but the money of retirees, pensioners, the American people at large to advance their goals in a way that betrays their fiduciary duty to their clients and that would make their clients’ blood boil if they knew what was going on.
Vivek will also touch on his book, Woke, Inc. that makes the case that politics has no place in business, and sets out a new vision for the future of American capitalism. In the book Vivek talks about an invisible force at work in our economic and cultural lives. It affects every advertisement we see and every product we buy, from our morning coffee to a new pair of shoes. “Stakeholder capitalism” makes rosy promises of a better, more diverse, environmentally-friendly world, but in reality, this ideology championed by America’s business and political leaders robs us of our money, our voice, and our identity.
Vivek Ramaswamy is a traitor to his class. He’s founded multibillion-dollar enterprises, led a biotech company as CEO, he became a hedge fund partner in his 20s, trained as a scientist at Harvard and a lawyer at Yale, and grew up the child of immigrants in a small town in Ohio. Now he takes us behind the scenes into corporate boardrooms and five-star conferences, into Ivy League classrooms and secretive nonprofits, to reveal the defining scam of our century. The modern woke-industrial complex divides us as a people.
Also, we expect that Vivek will talk about the new book he is writing that is due to be released September 13, 2022—Nation of Victims. The book talks about America’s inner spirit and how that spirit has been domesticated by a new culture that rejects excellence and embraces victimhood. Hardship is now equated with victimhood. Outward displays of vulnerability in defeat are rewarded more than winning unabashedly. The pursuit of excellence and exceptionalism are at the heart of American identity, and the disappearance of these ideals in our country leaves a deep moral and cultural vacuum in its wake.
Meet Cincinnati native Vivek Ramaswamy tonight at EmpowerUAmerica.org tonight and ask your questions.
Speaker Bio:
Vivek Ramaswamy founded Roivant Sciences, a biopharmaceutical company, in 2014, after a career as a successful biotech investor. A 36-year-old first-generation American, he is a graduate of Harvard College and Yale Law School. Vivek became a hedge fun partner in his 20’s, and grew up the child of immigrants in the small town of Evendale, Ohio. He now lives with his wife Apoorva and their son Karthik. Vivek took on the nation last year and published his book Woke, Inc. which takes you behind the scenes of corporate boardrooms. Vivek will share with us what has happened since the publication of Work, Inc and also share information about his new book which comes out in September 2022 called Nation of Victims.
Mr. Ramaswamy serves on the board of directors of the Philanthropy Roundtable and the Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity. In his new book Woke, Inc. Vivek takes you behind the scenes into corporate boardrooms and five-star conferences, into Ivy League classrooms and secret nonprofits, to reveal the defining scam of our century. The book begins as a critique of stakeholder capitalism and ends with an exploration of what it means to be an American in 2021. Vivek is a graduate of St. X High School and has recently been turning heads on Tucker Carlson’s show and on the Opinion pages of the Wall St. Journal.
How many of us would be willing to give up everything we had worked for when you felt your leaders had made a bad decision putting military personnel in a precarious position, and making the country you serve look weak?
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Lt. Col. Stuart Scheller is a 17 year infantry officer who resigned at the rank of Lt. Col. after witnessing a poorly planned and executed Afghanistan withdraw. He was thrust into the media when he posted a video on Facebook and LinkedIn from his office as a Battalion Commander. Wearing his uniform, he identified himself in the video with rank and title and then proceeded to criticize the decisions of his senior military and political leaders.
A series of escalating events occurred following the initial video between himself and the Marine Corps which resulted in his imprisonment and court martial. This is his story. Why he joined the Marine Corps. Why he loves America. Why he joined during a time of war, and why he wanted to experience combat. How he progressed through his career. How his experiences in places like Afghanistan and Iraq shaped his thinking. How his military education created deeper questions about America’s foreign policy approach. And how the events of Afghanistan compelled him to sacrifice everything in his life up to that point.
Speaker Bio:
Lt. Col. Stuart Scheller’s Degrees:
2004: Bachelors of Science from the University of Cincinnati – Focus in Accounting
2019: Masters in Military Science from Marine Corps University – Focus in Foreign Diplomacy
Military Experience:
January – December 2005 Officer Candidate School, Basic School, and Infantry Officer Course, as a Student.
January 2005 – July 2008 First Battalion, 8th Marines
First deployment with this unit was June to December 2008 with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. You get on ships and float around. Thought we were going to Iraq, but got caught up in the 2006 Israeli/Lebanese conflict and had to secure the embassy and conduct an evacuation of American citizens to Cyprus.
Second deployment with this unit was to Ramadi, Iraq from Sep 2007 to April 2008. He was a company Executive Officer Alpha Company. His friend Dave Borden got hit with an SVEST on this deployment. This was the same unit as the unit hit with an SVEST in Afghanistan. It came full circle for him.
July 2008 – June 2010 Infantry Training Battalion East – Echo Company Commander
June 2010 – July 2011 Joint IED Defeat Organization (JIEDDO). Afghanistan CIED Team Leader.
Served in Paktika East, Ghazni Province, and Andar District. Served as a CIED expert for the Army infantry units, and did all the patrols with EOD and route clearance platoon. It was a very kinetic deployment.
July 2011 – June 2012 Expeditionary Warfare School – Student
June 2012 – August 2012 Officer Candidate School – Platoon Commander
August 2012 – October 2015 Third Battalion, Second Marines
26th MEU deployment March 2012 – December 2013. Headquarters and Service Company Commander. No combat operations on this deployment. Bilateral in Egypt, Jordan, Djibouti, Oman, Qatar. Unit Deployment East, deployment January 2015 – July 2015, to Okinawa, Japan, and Korea. Weapons Company Commander. No combat operation on this deployment.
October 2015 – July 2018 The Basic School Instructor
Taught officers the basics, and was the Operations Officer, Company Commander, and Warfighting Director on this tour.
July 2018 – July 2019 Command and Staff College – Student
Received a Master’s Degree in military science.
July 2019 – July 2020 MARSOC. 2d Support Battalion.
Battalion XO. Prepared small teams to deploy around the globe.
July 2020 – June 2021 6th Marines.
Operations Officer. Was the regimental operations officer who prepared V1/8, the unit that conducted the Kabul evacuation, for their deployment.
June 2021 – Present.SOI East. – AITB Battalion Commander
Senior Awards:
Bronze Star
Army Commendation with Valor.
3 X Meritorious Service Medals
3 X Navy Commendations
Combat Action Ribbon
Iraq Campaign Medal
Afghanistan Campaign Medal
2 X Humanitarian Service Medal
What would life be like without Freedom? As Americans, we can’t imagine it. Those who don’t have it, dream of it. Don’t miss Annie’s Story.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Anni grew up in the Islamic Republic of Iran where as a woman, she faced many abuses and injustices, all of which were permitted by law. At the age of 13 she was sold by her father. Two years later, with help from her grandmother, she was smuggled out of Iran to Turkey where she lived in a refugee camp until eventually being granted asylum in the United States.
Anni will tell her story, educate the audience on life under Islamic law and the value of the freedoms we have here today.
Speaker Bio:
Anni Cyrus is a former Child Bride from Iran who has devoted her life to defending, rescuing and shining a light on the plight of women and girls suffering oppression around the world, particularly where fundamentalist Islam has taken hold. A Middle East expert, Anni speaks 3 languages, English, Farsi and Dari* and monitors international broadcasts in their local languages. She is an expert contributor on Afghan and Middle East policy on Lindell TV and has her own channel on Frankspeech, named after the organization she founded, Live Up To Freedom. She is a human rights activist and social media influencer with nearly three million views of her previous Illinois appearances. Anni brings her unique experience of having been sold as a slave, married as a child, imprisoned as a teen and smuggled over borders. She was an asylum seeker and became a legal U.S. Citizen, a freedom-loving patriot and follower of Jesus Christ. In spite of the dangers, she has risen to become a model of extreme courage, determination, compassion and strength. WWW.LIVEUPTOFREEDOM.COM.
If you are concerned about a free and fair election touring the Board of Elections may be just what you need to reinforce confidence.
Hamilton County Board of Elections 4700 Smith Rd. Cincinnati, Ohio 45212
Thursday, April 7, 2022
This Class is Full at Maximum Capacity, Thank You For Your Interest
On a tour of the Board of Elections facility in Norwood, you will get a first-hand look at how election officials administer elections in Hamilton County. You will see how the ballot is created, from petition-filing, to board certification, programming, proofing, and printing. You will learn how The BOE organizes, stores, and tests thousands of pieces of equipment that must be delivered to and from hundreds of polling locations throughout Hamilton County.
Whether it is the recruiting and training of over 2,000 poll workers, running the early vote center, conducting audits, or maintaining an accurate voter registration database with almost 600,000 voters, the work of running elections continues beyond election day, and this tour will show you how election officials work year-round to deliver free and fair elections in Hamilton County. There will be time for Q&A, plus a mock election.
This is an On-Site Class only at the Hamilton County Board of Elections, meet in the front lobby, main entrance is off of Wall St, look for the 3 large flag poles.
Speaker’s Bios:
Alex Linser is the Deputy Director of the Hamilton County Board of Elections. He is responsible for administering free and fair elections for Hamilton County’s 580,000+ registered voters. He is a licensed attorney with experience in business, litigation, government & administrative law. Prior to joining the Board of Elections, Linser’s public service included leadership on issues ranging from child poverty to equitable development to the addiction epidemic. Linser has served on the board of several civic nonprofit organizations and is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati. In 2010, he received his law degree from the University of Cincinnati’s College of Law. He currently lives in Mt. Washington with his wife Joanna and their seven children.
Sherry Poland was appointed Director of the Hamilton County Board of Elections in June of 2014. She began her career with the board in March of 2004. She is responsible for administering all local, state, and federal elections that occur in Hamilton County, along with the day-to-day operations of the board. Ms. Poland is a member of the U.S. Elections Assistance Commission Local Leadership Council, serves as the Vice President of the Ohio Association of Elections Officials, and as a member of the Bipartisan Policy Center’s Task Force on Elections. She is a graduate of Mount St. Joseph University. She and her husband live in Cincinnati and have two daughters.
Take 20: Leigh Ann Cartier--Want to Start Gardening But Don't Know Where to Start?
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Visit Rick Gibbs’s future classes on May 19th and the 26th ( changed to not on the 12th) at Solid Rock Church, 903 N. Union Rd Lebanon, Ohio, its right there close to the Ohio Gaming place. Its starts at 6:00 pm sharp and will end at 7:45. Please bring writing material and any Questions you may have.
Rick Gibbs will be focusing on a program he teaches “Practical Preparedness” that shares a common sense approach for survival during many types of life situations including natural disasters and current events.
Specifics to be covered are simple and practical ideas for being prepared, in case of utility disruptions, or food shortages. Rick will stress the need to think about needed household items and being ready in case of an emergency situation. Always be planning ahead and have a back-up plan. Many of his suggested items are available locally, and may be necessary should a natural disaster or unexpected event disrupt our normal lives. He will be giving us a presentation with a handout on preparedness. Be sure to come to this one!
Gardening: Leigh Ann Cartier will discuss–Do you ever see the gardening section at the store full of seeds and plant starts and wonder “What’s the difference between all the different tomatoes or beans, etc.?” Confused on what to start growing? Do you want to start growing but have a small space? You can grow more than you think if you choose the right kind of variety for your situation. You can grow in containers if you are tight on space. There are more options than you think.
Speaker Bios:
Rick Gibbs is from Middletown, has been fascinated with American History since childhood. He enjoys teaching the young and old alike. Rick taught American History at Germantown Christian School and also teaches homeschoolers the importance of our American Heritage. His presentations on American History bring historical events to life – oftentimes through the attire and period items he includes in his talks. Rick is often asked to speak on the Constitution and The Declaration of Independence and their signers. He’s also known as an accomplished singer.
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Leigh Ann Cartier- Leigh Ann grew up in Cincinnati and graduated from Wilmington College. She has a passion for gardening and has had her hands in the dirt ever since she was young. She is always trying new things in the garden and exploring new techniques for gardening. Leigh Ann has taught a prior EmpowerU class on getting started with gardening in the spring semester of 2021. Leigh Ann also helps produce classes for EmpowerU.
Building Blocks for Liberty joins us for this special Saturday Class!
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Today, the federal government is constantly violating the US Constitution and usurping powers that belong to the States and the People. State’s Attorney Generals sue the federal government in federal courts asking the feds to define what their powers are instead of using the Constitution. Others want to hold an Article V convention to propose amendments to restrict the federal government. We had an amendments convention in 1787 to “Remedy the defects in the Articles of Confederation only”, find out how that turned out!
A completely new Constitution with it’s own method of ratification. What is the right way to oppose federal overreach? Did the Founder’s leave us any directions? YES, they did! Come and see this presentation and find out how the Founder’s said we should combat the federal government when they make laws, create agencies, issue executive orders or have supreme court opinions that violate the Enumerated/Delegated powers found in the Constitution.
Speakers’ Bios: Jim Lewis (Left) and John Hindery (Right)
Building Blocks for Liberty is a 501c3 non-profit educational organization dedicated to the preservation of the U.S. Constitution by teaching others the importance of this historical document that governs our nation. Building Blocks for Liberty is the brainchild of Marines Jim Lewis and John Hindery. In the United States Marine Corps, Jim Leiws and John Hindery spent four years defending the United States and the Constitution they took an oath to uphold and protect.
As American citizens, they became increasingly alarmed as they watched in astonishment the endless attacks on the liberties of Americans by an overreaching government. Determined to stop the daily barrage of misinformation, the two men decided to combine their love of history with a desire to educate the public the truth about the Constitution, and developed the unique teaching partnership now known as Building Blocks for Liberty (BBFL).
Take 20: Learn about Cincinnati Classical Academy a New Charter School in Partnership with Hillsdale College
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
America is experiencing huge federal deficits, massive federal debt, and so much free, “helicopter” money from the government that many Americans choose not to work. And all this was done in response to the COVID crisis. When you combine our current situation with the plans that have been proposed – like Build Back Better and the Green New Deal – the USA seems to be pivoting from a quasi-Capitalist system over to a social democracy like those in Europe, or maybe even something to the left of that.
So, how did we get here? We will take a look at that through the painstaking research of author Amity Shlaes, who explains how progressives, socialists, and communists used two earlier crises to implement socialist programs while attacking our capitalist system. In The Forgotten Man she describes how FDR and many leftists in his New Deal administrations first moved the dial away from capitalism towards socialism in the 1930s. Their efforts were greatly aided by Americans’ desire to end the crisis of the Great Depression. She convincingly shows how the New Deal failed in that mission, yet its programs remained in place.
Then, in The Great Society she tells how LBJ and his Great Society and – surprisingly – even Richard Nixon and his administration took us even closer to socialism in the 1960s and early 1970s. LBJ’s efforts were driven by Americans’ laudable desire to eliminate poverty. And, like FDR’S New Deal, LBJ’S Great Society failed to defeat poverty, but its programs remained in place. Tom Hagedorn will discuss the important events and characters from these watershed periods of American history.
Jed Hartings will discuss the emerging growth of public classical charter schools as an education alternative in Ohio, with focus on our experience founding the Cincinnati Classical Academy.
He will describe the core tenets of the classical approach to education and how they differ from today’s public schools, with illustrations from school curricula. He will discuss what’s required to found a school, our experiences and challenges, the partnership with Hillsdale College, and related founding efforts across the state.
Speakers’ Bios:
Tom Hagedorn has been studying American history for over 30 years. Some of his study has focused on education. Eight years ago, he published “Founding Zealots: How Evangelicals Created America’s First Public Schools, 1783-1865.” It tells how those first schools came about and what they were like. But it also describes in detail how this story has been ignored and distorted by the progressive historians who have a very different vision for American schools, society and government than did our Founders. Since he published his book, he has been focusing on the increasing role of socialism and socialists in American institutions, what some have called “the long march” of western Marxism through our institutions.
Tom has been providing investment advice to individuals for four decades. When he was not researching and writing Founding Zealots and studying history, he was involved in various political, charitable, and community activities. He remains active in all those things and in the fight to return the schools to a traditional role in American society, in service to their parents and to their parents’ values.
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Jed Hartings: Jed grew up on the West Side of Cincinnati and attended St. Xavier High School. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame and earned a doctorate in neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh. He then served 8 years as a medical research officer in the U.S. Army at Walter Reed, separating from service at the rank of Major. Jed returned home in 2008 to join the faculty at the University of Cincinnati, where he researches stroke and brain trauma as a tenured professor in the Department of Neurosurgery. He lives with his wife and daughters in Evendale. He enjoys running, motorcycles, classical music, politics, and reading, and hopes one day to sail the Great Lakes with his family.
Take 20: Meet Chris Monzel, a republican candidate in the primary for Ohio House District #28.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is just one cog in the Whole Child Framework(1) wheel–which is part of the Ohio Department of Education. There has been a highly coordinated effort to turn schools into places that conduct behavior therapy on children rather than instruct them in academics. Academics have been purposely diluted by the injection of SEL programs. Values, attitudes and beliefs inculcated by the ‘experts’ displace the family and community values, attitudes and beliefs.
Come learn the myriad players and routes to control Ohio children and the children’s social connections from Kirsten Hill, current member of the State Board of Education. Kirsten was a member of the Integrated Students Support Committee and the State Board at the time Ohio’s Social and Emotional Learning ‘Standards’ were approved in mid-2019.
Chris Monzel is a Republican candidate in the primary for Ohio House District #28. Chris has a long history of serving the public including his 8 year stay as a Hamilton County Commissioner ending in 2018, including when he served as President of the Commission. Also, Chris also served as a Council Member of the Cincinnati City Council. Come Early at 6:30 to say hello to Chris!
Speakers’ Bios:
Kirsten Hill is an elected member of the Ohio Board of Education since January 2019. She is chairman of Totally Engaged Americans, a community group of conservatives, in Lorain County. It was founded in 2009 and meets monthly. She also helps lead Free Ohio Now, which was founded in 2020 in reaction to government tyranny and Ohio Freedom Action Network founded in late 2021 to support local group leaders. Kirsten and her husband, Andy, operated her family’s year-round farm market in Lorain County for 25 years. She also ran a seasonal farm-tour business, hosting families and preschool through elementary classes for many years. She has two children, a software developer and a physician. Prior to being a small business owner, she worked as a certified public accountant in Cleveland and in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Kirsten was on the Amherst Schools Education Foundation board for 20 years and on the Amherst Township Board of Zoning Appeals for 15 years, most of them as chairman. Kirsten has a degree in accounting and a master’s degree in business administration. She is on the Republican County Central Committee, ran for State Central Committee and is currently running for the Ohio Senate.
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Chris was born in Hamilton, Ohio, and was raised in Loveland, Ohio. There he attended Loveland Public Schools and St. Columban Elementary School and later graduated Valedictorian from Moeller High School in 1986. His passion for public service was first sparked while at Moeller when he took part in student government, the American Legion’s Buckeye Boys State, and the Cincinnati City Council’s Youth in City Government Program.
Chris graduated from Purdue University in 1990. In 1993, he and his wife, Jana, decided to pursue public service by accepting a position with the Marianist Volunteer Service Community in Queens, New York where they worked for a year at the Angel Guardian Home Foster Care Agency in Brooklyn, New York. While there, Chris worked with teens, helping them to develop independent living skills in order to prepare them for life outside the foster care system. They then became the acting Director of a homeless shelter in Oakland, California, where he learned firsthand, the many housing and health care issues facing inner-city communities.
Chris’ growth as a public servant is the product of years volunteering in the communities in which he lived. He has served as trustee for the Mt. Adams Civic Association, and Vice-President of the Winton Place Community Council, now known as Spring Grove Village. Chris was an active member of Spring Grove Village’s Citizens on Patrol group. as well as in prior elected office as a member of Cincinnati City Council. Chris also served as a Hamilton County Commissioner from 2011-2019.
A Six Sigma Master Black Belt recipient, Chris is presently employed by General Electric Aviation, as the CSA Productivity focal for CFM56 Services Engineering. This designation denotes acquired enhanced skills and results in achieving increased productivity. Chris, his wife Jana and their children currently reside in Glendale. Chris and Jana are both deeply involved in their children’s activities. They believe that providing a stable family environment steeped in faith and tradition is their primary responsibility.
Take 20: Mechanics of Government with Kerry Smyth
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
“The Old Lefthander & Me”: Long-time TV columnist John Kiesewetter tells his favorite Joe Nuxhall stories with a powerpoint presentation about his new book, “Joe Nuxhall: The Old Lefthander & Me – My Conversations with Joe Nuxhall about the Reds, Baseball and Broadcasting.” Over a 21-year span, Kiesewetter spoke to the beloved Reds radio announcer about his baseball and broadcasting careers; his 31-year partnership with Marty Brennaman; the pranks they played on each other off the air; his all-time favorite Reds players; and even his Kroger TV commercials.
Stories from Marty Brennaman (who wrote the foreword), Johnny Bench, Tom Browning, Pete Rose, George Foster, Jeff Brantley, Chris Welsh, Ron Oester, Lou Piniella, Marge Schott, George Clooney, David Letterman, Jonathan Winters, Al Michaels and many others are in the lineup for Kiesewetter’s entertaining 300-page book. He will sign copies of the book available for $20 cash or check. Part of the proceeds benefit the Nuxhall Foundation.
–Please wear your Reds Hat, Shirt and Gear! Even if they are on strike, we’ll have fun.
–Cracker Jacks are on the House and We’ll sing “Take Me Out to the Ball game!” under the professional singing of Barb Horwitz!
We are sorry to report that Kerry Smyth will be unable to join us tonight as he has cancelled with little notice. We apologize for this inconvenience.
7:05-7:25 PM–Kerry Smyth is President of the Cheviot City Council. He will join us tonight to discuss
Mechanics of Government, focusing on the origins of self-government and how it’s applied today. Kerry Smyth will give a presentation that will be focusing on the origins of our form of self-government and how it’s applied today.
Speaker’s Bios:
John Kiesewetter- For more than three decades, John Kiesewetter has been the Cincinnati authority on TV, broadcasting and media. His stories, columns and blogs have covered national and local broadcasting breaking news and trends, and chronicled local TV/radio personalities and the TV stars who grew up here, for the Cincinnati Enquirer (1985-2014), and now for Cincinnati Public Radio’s WVXU-FM and wvxu.org.
After the Middletown native graduated from Ohio University in 1975, he was hired by the Enquirer, where he worked 40 years as a reporter, suburban news editor, Tempo section editor and columnist. He traveled more than three dozen times to Los Angeles for the Enquirer to preview TV series and visit Hollywood studios – although his favorite trips were to Riverfront Stadium to watch Marty Brennaman and Joe Nuxhall broadcast Reds games.
John lives in Fairfield, Ohio, with his wife, Sue, a freelance reporter for the Enquirer. They have three adult sons.
Kerry Smyth-is the President of Cheviot City Council since 2021, Press Director of the annual American Priority Conference held at Trump Doral, FL since 2018, Product Lead for PureSocialNetwork.com Kerry is the former Co-Host of YourVoice America with Bill Mitchell 2016-2017, political podcaster from 2014-2019.
Take 20: Senator Louis Blessing III to Discuss SB 242: A Bill that Requires Acceptance of Cash
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
School Choice Ohio was launched shortly after the creation of Ohio’s EdChoice Scholarship Program. Since that time, School Choice Ohio and its allies have continued to expand opportunities that empower families to choose their child’s school. At this moment, over 60% of Ohio families have access to a state funded scholarship.
While there has been much success, and Ohio is among the nation’s leaders in empowering families, there is much more to go. Impediments to expanding parental power over education are political, sociological, and practical.
In this course, we hope to cover the history of school choice in Ohio. The present state of play. The most substantial impediments to expanding school choice and parental power. And, most importantly, what can grassroots activists do today to help expand the cause of educational freedom. The school choice part of our topic tonight will take place from 7:30-8:30 PM.
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SB 242 is Legislation that requires cash to be accepted as a form of payment at retail merchants. We are slowly moving to a cashless society, and the ramifications of that are profound. As was seen in Canada, governments can and will work with the financial and tech sectors to shut citizens out of the economy if they deem it necessary. The good news is that SB 242 has the support of groups on the left who also have privacy concerns and issues moving to a completely cashless society. The bill represents an innovative, bipartisan approach to pushing back against increasingly technocratic governance. Senator Louis Blessing III joins EmpowerU to discuss the topic that is currently under review by the Ohio General Assembly. We will hear from Senator Blessing from 7:10-7:30 PM.
Speaker’s Bio:
Rabbi Eric “Yitz” Frank – Serves as President of School Choice Ohio and as the executive director of Agudath Israel of Ohio since 2013. In that capacity he is engaged in multiple projects to educate community organizations about various governmental programming, funding opportunities, and serves as a liaison to the Ohio Department of Education on behalf of Jewish day schools. Rabbi Frank was previously appointed by the Ohio Senate to serve on the NonPublic School Graduation Requirements Advisory Committee and is a member of Governor DeWine’s School Safety Working Group.
An expert in education policy and nonpublic schools, Rabbi Frank also serves as the President of the Ohio Council for American Private Education and on the community relations committee of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland. He is also President of Congregation Zichron Chaim, located in Beachwood. Rabbi Frank also does government relations and policy work at the federal level related to the National School Lunch Program, ESEA, IDEA, and other related issues. As President of School Choice Ohio and its related entities, Rabbi Frank is proud to serve as the tip of the spear along with the dedicated team and grassroot activists to expand school options and empower families throughout Ohio. He firmly believes that School Choice is not only the civil rights issue of our time, but crucial to the success of our economy and Ohio.
Senator Louis W. Blessing III, represents the 8th Senate District (western and northern Hamilton county) since 2019, and currently the Chairman of the Senate Ways and Means committee. Former state representative from 2013-2019. Licensed professional engineer (electrical) since 2011. Resides in Colerain Township with his wife Heather and two boys: Louis IV and James.
Take 20: Tyson Butler and Jessica Franz Discuss Protecting Our Children and the Bethel School Situation
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
From 7:45-8:30 PM we will be discussing the difficult subject of Childhold Trauma. Childhood Trauma is a major, largely unaddressed issue in the State of Ohio and nationally, with one of every five children 3-17 years old experiencing two or more adverse trauma events annually.
Steps are underway to develop a broad base of support in the Ohio State Legislature and Cincinnati City Council, leading to adopting a formal resolution and passing legislation, declaring a State of Emergency to be signed by Governor DeWine and Mayor Aftab Pureval.
Ron Hummons, himself a victim of severe traumatic incidences, beginning at age 5, will be joined by Cinny Roy and Burr Robinson, representing therapeutic and social service interests to discuss how citizens can come together to have Ohio become the first state and Cincinnati the first city to declare a Child Trauma State of Emergency, and to greatly expand effective solutions and become a national model.
Childhood Trauma is an important subject, especially how poverty impacts Childhood Trauma. Our goal tonight is to learn about this topic from our informed guests. EmpowerU was concerned about some of the wording in the original legislation backing the Childhood Trauma Emergency Request as it was racially targeted. Just today we received a copy of the new Resolution, with much of the worry-some language removed, which is going to the General Assembly —Click Here to Read the Resolution.
From 7:10-7:40 we will be joined by Tyson Butler and Jessica Franz. Tyson Butler is passionate about our kids and their education. He is the new Southwest Ohio Director of Protect Ohio Children a coalition to stop Critical Race Theory (CRT), Comprehensive Sex Education (CSE) and Social Emotional Learning (SEL). Tyson is a great resource to meet as your kids, grandkids and friends have problems with these issues in their schools.
Tyson will introduce Jessica Franz who is a new School Board Member for the Bethel Board of Education. She will detail the disastrous handling of a situation that involves a trans-identified student accessing the restrooms at Bethel Schools. It is important for you to learn about what is going on in Bethel and how it can easily become a part of your school district. If anything, Jessica’s story will only reaffirm the importance of watching carefully everything that is going on in your school district. You don’t want to meet missing Tyson Butler and Jessica Franz tonight.
Speaker Bios:
Ron Hummons – “Over the past 25 years …Loving Father, Childhood Trauma Activist, Award Winning Author, Film Producer, and Entrepreneur having survived severe Childhood Trauma experiences in first 22 years of life.”
Burr Robinson is happily married to Terry, father of three and grandfather of 7. Grew up in Minnesota until heading east to attend Yale University, where he graduated. He and his wife Terry are now in their 57th year of marriage, the first two of which were in Germany, where Burr was a U. S. Army officer. Upon their return, he began a 31 year career with Procter & Gamble, focusing on sales and marketing. When not working for Proctor & Gamble his heart was increasingly involved in community service activities dealing with people in need. This eventually led to an early retirement and the founding of Jobs Plus Employment Network, with the mission of helping men and women turn around wayward lives that had landed them in jail, or on the streets. The goal of Jobs Plus was to help people first deal with the trauma in their lives, then develop a plan to deal with the trauma, and then help them secure productive jobs while focusing on goals to address their personal issues.
Tyson Butler is a lifelong activist, who has experienced a profound passion for organizing and empowering his community to be active participants in protecting our freedoms in this country. HIs calling is in educating/coaching young people to achieve their highest potential. Whether it was coaching collegiate sports, mentoring students in the classroom or developing life skills; Tyson has always found that my heart is full for children and their journeys towards success. He am honored to be a part of Protecting Ohio Children, where he believes, he has the opportunity to combine two of my strongest passions in an effort to better serve my community and our country’s most precious resource… our children.”
Jessica Franz is a Christian, a Constitutionalist, a Fiscal Conservative and a Lifelong Learner. She is a new member of the Bethel School Board (she was sworn in January 2022) and supports parents and teachers in their respective roles. Jessica strongly believes in keeping racial and sexual politics out of our students’ curriculum. Jessica believes in the following quote from Mark Levin: “Education is not supposed to be about administrators and educational bureaucrats, labor unions, tenured educators, improvident construction projects and statist indoctrination. It is supposed to be about the enrichment and improvement of young people and society.”
Take 20: Ohio’s Death Penalty, and why a growing number of conservatives are opposing it
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Do to a Production Error, this Class was not video taped. We appologize.
Tonight’s Schedule of Events:
6:30-7:00 PM — Meet and Greet with Jim Renacci
7:00-7:30 PM — Hear from Rebecca Heimlich on the Death Penalty
7:30-8:30 PM — Hear from Jim About His Plans for Ohio
While in Congress, Jim earned a reputation for being a principled conservative and effective legislator. He quickly rose through the ranks to serve on the Committee on Financial Services, as vice-chair of the Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Credit, and as a member of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. After just two years, Jim was named to the powerful Ways and Means Committees and Budget Committees. Jim’s track record as a blue-collar entrepreneur demonstrates his only allegiance has ever been to the very people who D.C. bureaucrats forcibly unemployed that fateful day in an Ohio car dealership — the everyday Americans forgotten by the Swamp. He represents the people’s hopes and fears, bringing actionable results back to the working people who gave him a voice.
Running Mate Joe Knopp has informed us that he will not be able to attend our 3/15 class (Sorry).
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From 7:00-7:30 PM–Twenty-three states have banned the death penalty, and governors have placed moratoriums on the death penalty in three more states. In Ohio, two bi-partisan bills (one in the House and one in the Senate) have been introduced to end Ohio’s death penalty. Why are more and more conservatives reconsidering their stance on this issue and joining the effort to ban Ohio’s death penalty?
Ohioans To Stop Executions Executive Director Hannah Kubbins and Conservative Outreach Coordinator Rebecca Simpson will talk about the reasons conservative opposition to the death penalty is growing. For example, some of the reasons include the exorbitant cost to taxpayers, the significant number of those sentenced to death being later exonerated, its ineffectiveness in deterring violent crime, and the proper role of a limited government. Hannah and Rebecca will also talk about the status of the two pending Ohio bills, how to learn more and keep up to date on the progress of the bills, and ways to engage on this important issue.
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Speakers’ Bio:
Jim Renacci- In 2009, the Obama Administration took over General Motors, shuttering dealerships across the country— including Jim’s in Northeast Ohio. Shutting down Jim’s dealership killed 50 good-paying jobs in his community — and Jim wasn’t going to stand by while neighbors were going hungry. How could Washington blatantly interfere in the everyday lives of hard-working Americans who wanted nothing more but their own chance at the American Dream?
In 2010, Jim filed to run for U.S. Congress in Ohio’s 16th Congressional District, taking on a well funded Democratic incumbent. Jim won the election by 9 percent.
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Hannah Kubbins– Hannah started at OTSE as a research intern during her senior year at Denison University (2017). She joined the full time staff after graduating and now serves as the organization’s Executive Director. Hannah has played a significant role in coordinating the NoDeathPenaltyOH campaign, which represents a diverse number of organizations all with the same goal in mind of repealing Ohio’s death penalty. Hannah oversees, manages, and implements the campaign and statewide strategy to repeal Ohio’s death penalty. She also serves on the board of the Columbus chapter of America’s Future.
Rebecca Heimlich: : Rebecca is an attorney with Finney Law Firm and has recently joined Ohioans to Stop Executions’ team as its Conservative Outreach Coordinator. Rebecca has more than 25 years of diverse advocacy and litigation experience, and has served as an assistant prosecutor, criminal defense attorney, and State Director for Americans for Prosperity Ohio. Rebecca has been staunchly opposed to the death penalty since her experience working in the criminal justice system early in her career. Rebecca’s focus areas at Finney Law firm include litigation and labor and employment matters as well as government and public affairs and small business assistance and advocacy.
‘Politicians don’t’ start parades, they join them’. Learn from our speaker who has been working diligently reviewing the 2020 election. What happened, and what is the Fix.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
The United States is headed for a constitutional crisis. Sixty percent of the public now believes that the outcome of the 2020 General Election was fraudulent, and this number is growing daily. Dr. Douglas Frank, one of EmpowerU’s favorite speakers, has been intimately engaged in the election integrity effort since December of 2020, and has been catapulted into the national dialogue because of his alliances with several prominent patriots including Mike Lindell, General Flynn, Col. Phil Waldron, and Captian Keshel. He was invited to be the keynote speaker at President Trump’s coming-out rally in Wellington Ohio in 2021, and legislators from several states have requested his assistance and testimony as they examine the fraud in their own states and craft legislation in order to address it.
But the most important aspect of all his work has been cultivation and support of grassroots efforts in about forty states. We are winning the public discussion because the grassroots are demanding that the situation be addressed. “Politicians don’t start parades, they join them”, has been the theme that is carrying the day. As individual citizens are remembering that “We the People” are supposed to be the government in our constitutional republic, they are stepping up and engaging their civic duty. This speaks loud and clear to our government leaders, and it is empowering the true patriots among them.
During this class, he will first review how our elections are being stolen, and then provide an update regarding the national Fix 2020 effort. The momentum is growing, and a lot is happening.
Speaker Bio:
Douglas G. Frank:
Dr. Frank grew up on a small Black Angus Ranch in Northern California. His parents were successful entrepreneurs in the areas of insurance, investments, and real estate. Dr Frank earned a B.A. in Chemistry from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California in 1983. He attended graduate school at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he completed his doctoral requirements before transferring to the University of Cincinnati in 1986 as part of the Ohio Eminent Scholar program. In 1990 he completed a Ph.D. in Surface Analytical Chemistry. During his graduate work, he discovered a new phenomenon which was featured in several science books and international journals, including cover articles in Science and Naturwissenschaften.
Dr Frank left academics in 1996. His scientific reputation gained him introductions to several U.S. companies, where he continues to apply his scientific, electronics, engineering, and computer expertise to real-life research and manufacturing challenges. He specializes in the development of custom control and analytical solutions, and has invented several instruments for surface optical characterization, precision force application, and soil analysis by means of portable electron microscopy and spectroscopy. A common thread in his work is the combination of precision motion with delicate measurement and analysis of large amounts of data.
Dr Frank lives in Morrow, Ohio and is married to his high school sweetheart, Donna. He has three adult children: Dynnelle, Daniel, and Deryk. Dr Frank believes in giving back to the community. He is Past-President of the Blue Ash/Montgomery Rotary Club (2002). He is a popular speaker in the areas of Creativity & Innovation, Ethics & Character, Science & Religion, Rotary Polio Eradication, Climate Change, Covid-19, and now Election Integrity.
He was honored by the Executive Board of the Presbyterian Association on Science, Technology and the Christian Faith as “one who exemplifies the practice of science as a Christian vocation.” Dr Frank is chair (now on sabbatical) of the Math and Science department and Director of Music at The Schilling School for Gifted Children, a school for extraordinarily bright students he helped to establish in the mid 1990’s.
Dr Frank’s work can be followed on Telegram, MeWe (Follow the Data with Dr Frank) and Rumble (Dr Frank), and he can be contacted at DrDouglasGFrank@Outlook.com
This Class is SOLD-OUT due to location capacity
White Oak Gardens 3579 Blue Rock Rd Cincinnati, Ohio 45247
Tuesday, March 8, 2022
Class is on-site at White Oak Gardens Sign up early at Attendance will be limited by space.
Introducing newer, stand out, easy to grow plants for your landscape. Join Jeff Webeler, Horticulturist and President of White Oak Gardens, for a discussion of cool plants to add to your landscape gardens and demystify Hydrangeas. Form larger flowers to better shrub form, from new colors to longer bloom periods, and of course, vigorous, disease-resistant growth. The secret to a great landscape isn’t working longer and harder, it’s planting the right plants that work better in your gardens.
Speaker’s Bio:
Jeffrey L Webeler, was born and raised in Cincinnati, Oh. Jeff purchased White Oak Nursery in 1979. He and his wife, Patty, have two sons, Evan and Andrew, both are involved with the business. He is a Horticultural Specialist and Graduate of Utah State University. When Jeff is not golfing, hiking, snow skiing or spending time with his family, he is probably in the yard playing in his landscape. He is active with trade associations. American Horticultural Association…Past President of Midwest Landscape Network, Served on Board of Directors & Chairman of Retail Committee of Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association and the Cincinnati Flower Growers Association. Currently serving on the Board of Civic Garden Center of Greater Cincinnati, a non-profit, founded in 1942, whose mission is building community through gardening, education and environmental stewardship.
He is Owner/President of White Oak Garden Center – a full service, year-round retail lawn & garden center selling annual & perennial flowers, trees, shrubs, houseplants, landscape supplies, fertilizers, control products, seasonal holiday plants & décor. Their Horticultural expertise enhances their customers quality of life.
Jeff is also Owner/President of White Oak Environmentals, Inc. – a landscape design-built contracting business, focusing on the residential market. Specializing in renovations, new installations, landscape (other than mowing and snow removal), hardscape- paver patios, walks and walls.
In 1975, Jeff graduated from Western Hills High School, Cincinnati, and in 1979 earned his B.S. Degree in Ornamental Horticulture from Utah State University, Logan UT.
Take 20: Meet Kim Georgeton, Candidate House District 28
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
This Class is Sponsored by Americans for Prosperity
We will discuss some of the elements of a good story and how to use a story to impact your legislators. While stories are not the only way to move our elected officials, they are most assuredly the easiest and most effective way to do so. We will also discuss several other ways to get the attention of those whom we have chosen to represent us at the different levels of government.
Speaker Ray Hoskins, is a senior trainer for Americans for Prosperity’s Education and Training department, he brings his unique background of teaching high school history, coaching wrestling, football, and track, and entrepreneurship along with an MBA and experience as a small business owner to his job. He has coached and mentored field staff, other trainers, and activists to perform at a high level. He has a great passion for helping people succeed even where they do not think they can.
If you need to step-up your communication to governmental officials, start with this class! This part of the class on The Power of Storytelling will start about 7:30.
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Meet Kim Georgeton–from 7:05-7:30 PM
Kim is a candidate for the Republican Primary for District 28 for the Ohio House of Representatives. Here is what Kim stands for: “Follow the Constitution. No Mandates. Less Government. Less Taxes. More Small Business. More School Choice. Protect Parental Rights. Protect Free Speech. Protect Gun Ownership. Protect Life. Defend Our First Responders. Advocate Fair Elections. Fight Corruption. Serve With Integrity.“
Feel free to come to EmpowerU Studio early tonight (after 6:30) to meet and speak with Kim Georgeton.
Speakers’ Bios:
Ray Hoskins- Ray is a veteran of the United States Air Force, where he served as a Special Operations Pararescueman. He is passionate about issues that affect not only veterans, but also those who are currently serving our country. As the director of veteran’s education, he works closely with Concerned Veterans for America producing and delivering content around a myriad of subjects, including foreign policy, VA health care, and ending endless wars.
He has been married to his wife and best friend, Jenny, for twenty-four years. They have five boys ranging in age from fourteen to twenty-eight. His oldest son, Vince, is proudly serving in the United States Army. His next son, Mason, is an engineer. His third son, Hayden is studying to become an engineer. His fourth son, Peyton, is currently in high school, and his youngest son, Damon is also in in high school. He also has two daughters-in-law and four grandchildren.
Kim Georgeton was born and raised in Cincinnati, the daughter of a WWII Marine Veteran. She graduated from the University of Cincinnati and has a 25-year career in Consulting. She lives with her Husband John, owner of the Red Squirrel Restaurant, her daughter, and her two Whippets.
Kim is a strong constitutional republican candidate and stands for traditional family, legal and political values. She believes the government has overreached their position in recent years and will stand firmly to correct that imbalance. With a focus on the Constitution, Kim underscores that “governments were instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed” – The Declaration of Independence, 1776. Kim’s overall goal as your representative is to uphold and protect the unalienable rights of We, the People.
Take 20: Dynamics of Ohio State & Federal Races
This Class is a Virtual Only Class Please Register for This FREE Class Below ,
Learn to forgive and go from hurting to healing and hope. Drawing on the presenter’s extensive professional experience, doctoral research of interpersonal forgiveness, and recent books, The Path to Forgiveness (May, 2018) The Path to Forgiveness Study Guide (March, 2019), participants will deepen their understanding of and gain new insights into the forgiveness process.
They will learn about what forgiveness is and is not, myths and misconceptions of interpersonal forgiveness, reasons to forgive, the benefits of forgiveness, strategies for practicing forgiveness, while also considering the effects of forgiveness on one’s cognition, affect, and behavior. The above mentioned books may be purchased from the speaker at a discount, purchase information will be given after his presentation.
Dr. VanLoon’s presentation will run from 7:30-8:30 PM. Tonight’s class is a Virtual Only Class.
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Tom Zawatowski will be joining us from 7:05-7:25 pm. Tom is Ohio’s leading activist. He will be bringing us information about the dynamics of the Ohio US Senate and Governor’s races as well as the Ohio State House and State Senate races. Tom has been recognized as one of the top liberty group leaders in the nation for his efforts to defend the legal right of Liberty groups across the nation and he produces the popular We The People Convention Podcast which is Posted Every Friday at www.wethepeopleconvention.org.
Speakers’ Bios:
Preston VanLoon- With a passion for making a difference in the lives of people and organizations, Dr. Preston VanLoon has served as a College Professor, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counselor, Pastor, Board Certified Chaplain, and Director of Spiritual Care. He also has experience as a Bioethics Consultant and Mental Health First Aid Instructor. His education includes a doctorate in Educational Psychology with a specialization in Human Development and additional graduate studies in Special Education, Christian Education, and Biblical Studies. Dr. VanLoon is the author of The Path to Forgiveness: Moving Forward with Hope and Healing One Day at a Time and The Path to Forgiveness Study Guide. He has spoken domestically and internationally on a variety of topics including interpersonal forgiveness, the topic of his doctoral dissertation. Dr. VanLoon has two sons and lives in Mandan, ND with his wife, Mary, and Rocky, their golden retriever, a Certified Therapy Dog.
Tom Zawistowski- Tom, is the CEO and Founder, with his wife Nanette, of TRZ Communications, a 38 year old technology company based in Akron, Ohio. In 2009 he was one of the founders of the Portage County TEA Party, for which he became the Executive Director in 2010, a position he still holds.
In 2011, Tom was nominated by liberty leaders around the state to head a group of volunteers that was challenged with the task of putting on the first ever state convention for liberty minded citizens. His “We the People” Convention which was held at the Columbus Convention Center during the 4th of July weekend of 2011 was attended by over 1,000 Patriots.
He has been recognized as one of the top liberty group leaders in the nation for his efforts to defend the legal right of Liberty groups across the nation and he produces the popular We The People Convention Podcast which is Posted Every Friday at wethepeopleconvention.org.
Take 20: Meet State Representative Jennifer Gross Joins EmpowerU
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
The narratives presented by liberal and conservative news organizations on any given story typically are polarized — that is, each side literally says the opposite of the other. For example, liberal news outlets claim President Trump has made baseless claims that the 2020 election was stolen, while conservative outlets have reported on countless claims of election fraud uncovered by American citizens and state legislatures.
When liberal and conservative news organizations provide their audiences with different facts it divides us politically, leaving us incapable of productive dialogue. It also divides us socially, as so many of us over the last 6 years have had close friends and relatives sever ties with us over our political views.
In this talk Mr. Mercier will provide an empowering prescription for bridging this divide. He will present techniques for bypassing the media to get to the truth, for challenging journalists who stoke this divide, and for awakening others to these manipulations.
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Rep. Jennifer Gross is running for re-election in the 45th District. Whether you are in her district or not she represents all Ohioans, so if you haven’t had the chance to meet her she will be available between 6:30 – 7, to meet and chat with you. Rep. Gross authored HB248, and will give a recap and update, including the discharge petition and ballot initiative. She will also give some insight on what it really takes to run for a political office, and what the role of a Legislator is.
Speaker’s Bios:
Michael Mercier:
Michael is the Founder and President of Screen Education, which conducts research, and provides training and consulting services, on the impact of information technology on human wellness. Mr. Mercier has conducted 25 research studies on digital addiction with teens, college students, summer campers, parents, Millennials, and full-time employees. His research has examined the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical consequences of digital addiction, as well as its impact on academic performance and workplace productivity and safety. He also has studied the benefits people derive from digital detoxes.
He has spoken on smartphone addiction to schools, corporate audiences, colleges and summer camps, as well as at numerous conferences, including educational technology, summer camp, mindfulness, workplace safety, and marketing conferences. His research partners have included EMI Research Solutions, Stark Statistical Consulting, Camp Kern, Camp Ernst, Camp Livingston, The Jewish Community Center Association of North America, Hiram College, BOLDFISH, and Calvert Catholic High School.
Mr. Mercier has presented his research to US Congressmen Jim Jordan and Brad Wenstrup, and to the legislative staffs of US Senators Brown, Hawley, Markey, Portman, and Sasse. Congressman Wenstrup made a House floor speech about his findings on cyberbullying, and he co-organized with the Congressman roundtable discussion with educators on the role that social media plays in bullying and school violence. He has been interviewed on a variety of radio and television shows.
He holds a BA in Psychology from Vassar College, an MBA in Marketing from the University of Michigan, and an MS in MIS from the University of Cincinnati.
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Jennifer Gross: State Representative Jennifer Gross is currently serving her first term in the Ohio House of Representatives. She represents the 52nd District, which includes West Chester Township, Liberty Township, Fairfield Township and part of Sharonville in Butler County. She is a 21-year Air Force veteran and retired Lt. Colonel, who served our great nation in Saudi Arabia during Operation Provide Comfort and in Sarajevo during Operation Provide Promise. Gross retired from the military in 2008. She is currently a member of American Legion Post 681 and VFW Post 7696, where she became the first active female inductee in February, 2019.
Representative Gross has been a Family Nurse Practitioner for over 16 years and a registered nurse for over 30 years. Prior to becoming an NP, she managed a three million dollar territory for Eli Lilly. She most recently participated as a sub-investigator for Operation WARP Speed developing treatments to help battle COVID-19. She also currently manages a small business as a health coach. Representative Gross believes in strong public policy that supports Ohio business success, legislation which supports and protects the unborn and will uphold Ohioans Constitutional Freedoms. She resides in West Chester with her husband, Chris, and their two sons.
Do Financial Missteps, Broken Bylaws, and Poor Management Hinder Ohio Republican State Party?
This Class is a Virtual Only Class Please Register for This FREE Class Below ,
Wednesday, February 9, 2022
This Class is Sponsored by the Everything’s Political Podcast with Thea Shoemake
EmpowerU is providing a forum for discussion and debate of public issues, and in light of the lawsuit that has been filed, by Bainbridge, Rosenberger and others as listed below, we seek to obtain more information. EmpowerUAmerica.org is not supporting or ratifying the statements provided by the presenter but simply seeking more information and clarification.
Mark Bainbridge is a retired partner from the Big Four Accounting firm of Ernst & Young. He is also a member of the Ohio Rebublican State Central Committee. Bainbridge and four other members—JoAnn Campbell, Joe Miller, Laura Rosenberger and Denise Verdi have filed a lawsuit against Ohio Republican Party Chairman Robert Paduchik, accusing him of misreporting over $3 million in missing funds, without adequate explanation, among other violations. Bainbridge and the other plaintiffs demand accountability from Paduchik and other party leaders.
Among other findings, the plaintiffs detail significant funds that have gone missing from ORP financial statements without adequate explanation, including but not limited to $1.7 million that disappeared in 2017, $437,000 in 2019, $638,000 in “Accounts Receivable” that were established in 2017 and 2018 and then written off in 2021, and $271,000 this year—a total of more than $3 million. Furthermore, the plaintiffs claim Paduchik wrongly supported candidates who were unendorsed by the ORP and improperly removed the plaintiffs from their committee assignments including the Audit Committee and Fiscal Review Committee after they raised financial questions and complaints about his chairmanship. Also named in the lawsuit is ORP Treasurer Dave Johnson, who was responsible for overseeing the unexplained missing funds. Read Treasurer Johnson’s letter on the subject here.
Mark Weaver, an Attorney for Robert Paduchik and the Ohio Republican Party just sent a letter to EmpowerUAmerica.org denying any allegations of financial mismanagement at ORP–Read His Letter Here. Weaver also sent a document from Compass Point CPA’s about the work that they performed for the Ohio Republican Party. Read Compass Point’s letter Here.
Laura Rosenberger, one of the plaintiffs said: “As proud Republicans who believe in fiscal conservatism, we won’t rest until Robert Paduchik and his enablers answer for their utter ineptitude and abandon the positions of power they never should have had. The millions of Republicans across our state deserve accountability and we are demanding it on their behalf. The Ohio Republican Party needs to be saved from within.”
Concerning to EmpowerU is the attached video which is 24 minutes longof a Ohio Republican State Central Committee meeting which occurred on December 3, 2021. At this meeting three resolutions were presented to the 66 members. Resolution #1 the Bainbridge Resolution called for the financial statements of the party to be audited (claim is that the financial statements have not been audited for at least 16 years). Resolution #2: The Rosenberger Resolution required the recent reorganization of the chairman of Standing ORP Committees to follow Section 3 of the Permanent Rules and Revisions and “The Audit Committee”. Watch Alex Triantafilou, as Chairman of the Hamilton County Republican Party, stop Laura Rosenberg’s Resolution for the Ohio Republican State Central Committee to adhere to their bylaws, practice good governance and to initiate an audit of the State Central Committee financial statements by referring her motion to committee–(Time 9:31 of video). Resolution #3 The Leneghan Resolutiondirects handling of cash contributions and what is defined as Candidate Services, and that statewide candidates who have not been properly endorsed return all in-kind and cash contributions.
All three of these “good governance” resolutions were pushed down to other committees by State Central Committee–almost like it was a “cabal”–take a look at the video and decide for yourself. All State Central Committee members who have disagreed with Chairman Bob Paduchik have been removed from their permanent committees.
This possible issues at the Republican State Central Committee were discussed in an article in The Ohio Star written recently–Click Here.Dirty Tricks, yes, learn about them too. In an effort to defeat whistleblower Mark Bainbridge a man named Brian Bainbridge, WITH THE SAME LAST NAME has been recruited to run against him. Also Chairman Robert Paduchik possibly violate party rules by keeping the public from attending the February 4th Candidate Endorsement Meeting–Click Here.
Tonight, EmpowerU will be taking a look at your Ohio Republican State Central Committee and Party. Is the Ohio Republican Party Corrupt, guilty of bad governance and weak management or are these claims untrue? Join us and we will learn and take your questions. To read a copy of the Ohio Republican Party Bylaws Click Here. To watch Duane Pohlman’s from Local 12 investigative report on this subject Click Here .
If you are from the Republican State Central Committee and you want to disagree with any materials in this class we want to hear from you email: info@EmpowerUAmerica.org
Speaker Bios
Mark Bainbridge is a Certified Public Accountant and a Chartered Global Management Accountant with 30 years of experience driving the financial growth and strategic development of organizations across several industries. He possesses an in-depth understanding of board governance, corporate compliance, and ethics required to achieve board governance. Mark is a retired Ernst & Young Partner, one of the Big Four Accounting Firms where he worked from 1973-2009. He is a Board member with several companies across Ohio and the United States. Mark has a been recognized throughout his career for advising on fiduciary responsibilities. He is also an elected Ohio Republican State Central Committee member representing Senate District #16 in western Franklin and Union County. Mark Bainbridge is shown below.
Laura Rosenberger was elected to represent Clark, Greene and Madison Counties (District 10), a hotbed of conservative political activity. She has been politically active in her district for over a decade, launching her first major statewide crusade against Obamacare with Ohio’s Healthcare Freedom Amendment. She is a homeschool veteran of 25 years who not only teaches her own children, but also classes of students in American government and literature. Her latest efforts include spearheading Ohio House Bill 387, the Election Integrity Bill, which calls for stronger citizenship ID and ballot harvesting controls. In 2022, Laura was elected as a Board Director of the Clark County Board of Elections. When not dressed up to attend a board meeting, she runs a small organic farm with her husband, her children, and her favorite AR-15. Laura is shown below.
Mark Bainbridge and Laura Rosenberger shown below
Become a part of the movement for Educational Freedom in Ohio. Host a Backpack Bill Party.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Ohio State Representatives Marilyn John (R-Richland County) and Riordan McClain (R-Upper Sandusky) have officially introduced House Bill 290, better known as the Backpack Bill. The Backpack Bill will extend school choice to all students throughout Ohio, expanding their educational opportunities. The General Assembly recently passed a robust school funding overhaul, which takes strides toward identifying the costs associated with the individual education of each child. In addition to identifying the costs of a quality education, we should ensure tax dollars are being used to improve outcomes for Ohio’s children. The “Backpack Bill” is one initiative that will give parents freedom in educating their children. Learn about this important possibility for Ohio parents and students.
Be prepared to give your child their best Future. Make sure that Ohio funds students, not bureaucracy. Find out about Parental Rights and Alternative Childhood Education. Learn the facts about Ohio’s childhood Education system. Discover taxpayer-funded scholarships that follow your student wherever they go. Protect your child or grandchild from Public School indoctrination.
Will you help? It is time to provide choice for all parents and students about what is best for them individually. We are asking you to join us at EmpowerU tonight to become a part of the movement for Educational Freedom in Ohio by hosting a Backpack Bill Party. Troy McIntosh, Executive Director of Center for Christian Virtue’s Ohio Christian Education Network (OCEN), who helped write and craft the Backpack Bill will join us tonight and teach us how we can each sponsor a party with 10 of our friends to help move the initiative forward. It’s easy and you will walk away from the class with all the tools necessary to be successful. Not sure if you want to sponsor a party? Come anyway and learn. We need your help to get make this opportunity available to all students in Ohio. Gather Your Friends, Let Your Legislators Know: Pass the Backpack Bill!
Speaker Bio:
Troy McIntosh is Director of CCV’s Ohio Christian Education Network (OCEN). Troy comes to OCEN after serving 27 years in Christian education as a teacher, principal and, for the last eight years, as head of school at Worthington Christian School in Worthington, Ohio. Prior to his time in education, he worked in the Ohio House of Representatives in the Legislative Services Commission Fellowship program.
Troy’s time at Worthington Christian, he served the broader Christian school community as an Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) Regional Council Member and Accreditation Commission Member, accreditation team chairperson, and conference presenter. For the last 15 y
ears, he has held various roles with the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA), including President of the Central District Athletic Board and Vice President of the OHSAA Board of Directors.
Troy is a graduate of Wheaton College (B.A. Economics) and The Ohio State University (M.Ed. Education) and is a Colson Fellow with the Colson Center for Christian Worldview. He and his wife Julie live in Westerville, Ohio and have three grown daughters.
Third Eye believes in helping everyone open their “minds eye” to a world of new possibilities…..one pint at a time. Join us for a fun evening at the brewery for our ending event!
Third Eye Brewery 11276 Chester Rd. Sharonville, Ohio 45246
Thursday, November 18, 2021
Third Eye features a large open taproom and lots of outdoor space including a covered patio with an upper deck. A wide range of beers and other hand crafted beverages to meet a variety of tastes – even for non-beer drinkers! Also offered is a limited selection of wine and spirits, non-alcoholic beverages, and a full kitchen.
For a cost of $12 we will tour the brewery and see firsthand how craft beer is made. We will sample four different craft beers, while one of Third Eye’s brewers describes how each flavor is made. EmpowerU will provide appetizers. Sign up early, class is limited to 50, payment can be made on the registration page.
Company’s Bio:
Third Eye Brewing Company. How it got to this point is just as mind-bending as some of their experimental beer creations. The idea had been conceptualized for over 20 years, but once the official paperwork was submitted in 2017, the ingredients needed for a successful venture seemed to slowly blend like a fresh batch in one of Third Eye’s fermenters. Third Eye first welcomed guests on June 17, 2020, in the middle of a global pandemic. While many businesses were forced to close their doors due to Covid-19,
Third Eye opened theirs and people haven’t stopped walking through since. The first 13 months couldn’t have gone much better for Third Eye, a good omen for the first piece of the puzzle in the revitalization of Sharonville’s once buzzing Northern Lights district. The Third Eye Family are having a heck of a time living out the mantra that can be found all over the brewery: live life, do good, and drink beer.
Karen Cartier Talks About Made In the U.S.A. Take 20: Governor Candidate Joe Blystone Visits EmpowerU!
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Join this class as Karen Cartier talks about products intentionally made not to last. Be aware of products that are made ‘not to last’ including automotive, newer construction materials, electronics and what is ending up in our landfills. Instead of throwing them away, learn the value of keeping some of your appliances longer and getting them repaired (or fixing them yourself – you may be surprised). Stay aware of the long-term impact of our global “throw away society” and do your part to fight back as you’re able. Think before you buy! This class supports Made in America.
Joe Blystone will be with us from 7:05-7:30 PM. He cares passionately about Ohio’s future. Joe built the path to his American Dream – and is dedicated to make sure every Ohioan can too. He is going above and beyond to take the next step in protecting the American Dream in Ohio. Joe believes our freedoms are at stake and now is the time we take them back. He wants to restore the freedoms our overreaching government has taken away. Joe promises to make Ohio a more affordable state to live in and friendly to large and small businesses! Joe knows he is the right leader for Ohio and will put Ohioans first every day. He knows what Ohioans truly want and need. Ohio will be revitalized, and Joe Blystone will get it done. The future of Ohio depends on the strength of Ohioans!! It is time to strengthen Ohio. It is time to put conservative values back in the people’s house!
Speaker Bios :
Karen Cartier: Karen is an avid reader, writer, learner, wife, and mother of two. She has worked in IT as a technical writer for over 30 years and is currently working full-time in IT. Outside of her paying job, she serves as an officer in Toastmasters International as well as a volunteer Community Educator for the Alzheimer’s Association.
Joe Blystone is a true Ohio native, born in East Liverpool, Ohio. He is happily married to Jane Blystone. They’ve been blessed with 3 children; Joe has one son, and Jane has two sons. They brought their families together in 2010. Family, faith, and freedom have always been foundational to the Blystone family.
Joe founded the Blystone Farm in 2004 and his nonprofit, Blystone Agricultural Community, Inc. in 2019. For more than a decade he has dedicated his time to serving the community and helping young adults and children learn the importance of hard work and living a happy and healthy lifestyle. The Blystones care deeply about their community and provide many agricultural classes to kids and their parents. Joe and Jane are freedom loving patriots, who have encouraged many to value and practice their God-given freedoms.
David Mowery is an engaging speaker, now he is back to bring us our regions history during the Civil War. Don’t miss it!
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
During the American Civil War, Cincinnati played a crucial role in preserving the United States. Not only was the city the North’s most populous in the West, but also it was the nation’s third most productive manufacturing center. The Queen City of the West served as a key provider of the Union’s soldiers, weapons, supplies, medical aid, and political influencers.
In this presentation, Cincinnati historian David L. Mowery will reveal some of the Queen City’s key structures, such as military installations, hospitals, churches, businesses, and private homes, in the way they appeared at the time of the Civil War. Simultaneously, he will show how those same buildings look today. Come join David as he gives the highlights of Cincinnati’s impact on the outcome of the Civil War through a visual comparison of the past with the present.
Speaker Bio:
David L. Mowery is a native resident of Cincinnati, Ohio, and a graduate of the University of Cincinnati. American military history piqued his interest at an early age. Since childhood, he has researched and visited over seven hundred battlefields across fifty states and nine countries. In 2001, David joined the all-volunteer Ohio Civil War Trail Commission as its Hamilton County representative, but over the years his role expanded to include the final design and historical validation of the entire length of the John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail of Ohio. He is the coauthor of Morgan’s Raid Across Ohio: The Civil War Guidebook of the John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail (Ohio Historical Society, 2014) and the author of Morgan’s Great Raid: The Remarkable Expedition from Kentucky to Ohio (History Press, 2013). Since 1995, David has been a member of the Cincinnati Civil War Round Table, for which he has written various papers on Civil War subjects and has led many Civil War tours of the Cincinnati region. He has also served with the Buffington Island Battlefield Preservation Foundation, the grass-roots organization working to preserve Ohio’s largest Civil War battlefield.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Tuesday, November 9, 2021
Sorry This Class Has Been Cancelled as Professor Tuchfarber has Decided Not to Participate. We Apologize for the Inconvenience!
This Class is Sponsored by Betty Overstreet
The purpose of tonight’s class is to give attendees……1) An opportunity to better understand the major changes and conflicts occurring in the US, and 2) An understanding of the diverse roles the US plays around the globe, how they are changing, and how our enemies are changing.
A few of the Questions to be answered are: 1) Will the US remain #1 across the globe? 2) Will American prosperity continue? 3) Whither goes inflation? 4) Where should investors look for investment opportunities?
Predictions to be made include: 1) When will we achieve a post-pandemic “New Normal?” 2) Which party will control the House and Senate after the 2022 elections? 3) Will radical progressives take control of US politics and policies? On politics you won’t hear from a more interesting speaker than Professor Al Tuchfarber, PHD.
Jim Renacci to Join EmpowerU!
From 7:05-7:30, Jim Renacci, Candidate for Governor will join EmpowerU. As Jim’s campaign heats up Economics in the State of Ohio will surely become on of the largest issues. Join Jim tonight as he will discuss the 2022 campaign and part of his plan for major tax reform.
Speaker Bios:
Alfred J Tuchfarber PhD, Professor Emeritus of Political Science – University of Cincinnati Owner – Tuchfarber Political-Economics, LLC, Blogger – TuchfarberReport.com
Al Tuchfarber is an academic and entrepreneur who has had a successful career as a teacher, researcher, senior administrator, campaign manager, political analyst, organizational strategist, and writer.
He holds a PhD in political science and has well over 100 publications.
Al’s intellectual and practical interests are very wide-ranging. He has spent his career both in the arena of ideas but also in the “real-world” where the rubber hits the road…where things must work.
Areas of special interest to him are American politics and political-economics, global politics and global political-economics, political polling, campaign and organizational strategies, demographics, and societal change.
Tuchfarber founded the Ohio Poll and directed it for a quarter century. The Poll established a remarkable record for accuracy in predicting elections and has been rated one of the nations best.
Al brings that experience and skill-set to his weekly blog — the Tuchfarber Report, as well as to his consulting, speaking, and writing.
His predictions are 80 to 95% accurate because they are based on facts, data, history and common sense…NOT on ideology, partisanship, or hopes.
As a political-economic analyst and author of the Tuchfarber Report, Al brings you insights and forecasts that you will not find elsewhere.
In 2009, the Obama Administration took over General Motors, shuttering dealerships across the country- including Jim’s in Northeast Ohio. Shutting down Jim’s dealership killed 50 good-paying jobs in his community – and Jim wasn’t going to stand by while neighbors were going hungry. How could Washington blatantly interfere in the everyday lives of hard-working Americans who wanted nothing more but their own chance at the American Dream? In 2010, Jim filed to run for U.S. Congress in Ohio’s 16th Congressional District, taking on a well funded Democratic incumbent. Jim won the election by 9 percent.
While in Congress, Jim earned a reputation for being a principled conservative and effective legislator. He quickly rose through the ranks to serve on the Committee on Financial Services, as vice-chair of the Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Credit, and as a member of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. After just two years, Jim was named to the powerful Ways and Means Committees and Budget Committees.
Jim’s track record as a blue-collar entrepreneur demonstrates his only allegiance has ever been to the very people who D.C. bureaucrats forcibly unemployed that fateful day in an Ohio car dealership – the everyday Americans forgotten by the Swamp. He represents the people’s hopes and fears, bringing actionable results back to the working people who gave him a voice.
The Incredible Life of Booker T. Washington Examined Tonight!
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Join EmpowerU and Professor of Political Science at Ashland University, Gregory McBrayer, as he relates the life story of the often overlooked American Historical figure Booker T. Washington.
Booker T. Washington was born on April 5,1865 and became an educator, author, speaker and confidant of U.S. Presidents. Born into slavery, he was a leading voice for civil rights for African Americans. His voice and message continues to play a fundamental role in the ongoing civil rights debate today. Gregory McBrayer will paint the picture of the life of Booker T. Washington from being born into slavery, struggling against disenfranchisement and “Jim Crow” laws to mobilizing coalitions of blacks and whites focusing on self-reliance, self- help and the concept of “racial uplift”. Enjoy learning about this important American historical figure, his personal challenges living in the South immediately after the Civil War and his important contribution to healing the wounds of a nation torn by the war which pit brother against brother.
Do not miss this opportunity to hear from this amazing speaker who is passionate and knowledgeable about this subject and genuinely cares about true American History!
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From 7:05-7:25–an important session featuring Corrinne Vidales– about the Backpack Bill. Literacy, Lawyers, and Lobbying: How a young lawyer has been led to transform education legislation after years of service in children’s nonprofits and legal research on the state of education rights. The daughter of educator learned that parents truly are the first and primary educators of their children and we need a system that support them in that role. The “Backpack Bill” is one initiative that will give parents freedom in educating their children. Learn about this important possibility for Ohio parents and students. Will you help?
Speaker Bios:
Gregory A. McBrayer, assistant professor of political science and director of the core curriculum, joined Ashland University in 2017. He teaches courses in political philosophy and international relations. Prior to coming to Ashland, he was an assistant professor at Morehead State University, a postdoctoral fellow at Emory University, and a visiting assistant professor at Gettysburg College. He has published articles in Interpretation: A Journal of Political Philosophy and Kentron: Revue Pluridisciplinaire du Monde Antique, as well as reviews in Interpretation, The Journal for Hellenic Studies, The American Journal of Islamic Social Science, and Political Science Quarterly. He is the author (with Mary Nichols and Denise Schaeffer) of Plato’s Euthydemus (Focus, 2011) and is the editor of Xenophon: The Shorter Writings (Cornell, forthcoming).
Corrinne Vidales is an attorney and lobbyist at Center for Christian Virtue where she serves as Assistant Director for the Ohio Christian Education Network. Corrinne is a graduate of Bowling Green Statue University and Ave Maria School of Law. During Law school she interned with the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations and well as Heartbeat International. Prior to her legal career, Corrinne worked with Catholic Charities in Syracuse, New York and Toledo, OH. it was these charity programs as well as her educator parents that influenced her interest in Education Law and Policy. Today, she is blessed to work on amazing initiatives with OCEN and CCV like the Backpack Bill.
Finally, a class about Mellennials! Take 20: Educator Kelly Kohl's Empowers Parents and Citizens
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Jonathan Jakubowski explains why Millennials are leaving the Left, why that matters, and how conservatives can embrace them. Faith, family, freedom. These three pillars are interdependent in the American experiment. These timeless principles represent the reason for this book. With so many wonderful sources of literature discussing these ideals, one must ask, why is this book worthy of my time? Naturally, before spending countless hours writing, Jon had to ask himself the same question. It was upon the recognition of my unique location, living in Wood County, Ohio, a “Swing County”, that I knew that I had struck gold. Through a compilation of seven stories of Millennials in Swing County America, who swung from Obama to Trump, this work revives the importance of these timeless ideals of faith, family, and freedom in the electoral context.
Join Dr. Kelly Kohls as she teaches School Board Member Training. Why has public education been so widely criticized in the last 10 years? Learn why and how we know public education is failing us both academically and financially and how it can be fixed. Is the teachers union in full control of public education and if so what this means for your students, parents, community and country.
Speakers Bio:
Jonathan Jakubowski is the Author of an award-winning book that has gained national attention. Jonathan and Bellwether Blues – A Conservative Awakening of the Millennial Soul have been featured on the Rush Limbaugh Show, Newsmax, the Washington Times, Newsweek, The New York Times, BBC World News, The Federalist and dozens of other leading media outlets. He is also Director of SmartSolve, an award-winning startup business focused on sustainable packaging. Jonathan played football and received his undergraduate degree from Bowling Green State University and Masters Degree in Public Policy from Georgetown University. Jonathan is the Founder of Champions in Action, Chairman of the Forge Leadership Network Board of Directors, and Fellow at Club For Growth. You can check out his new monthly blog on Newsmax titled The Red Pill. Jonathan, his wife Missy, and their four children reside in Northwest Ohio.
Dr. Kelly Kohls is an involved freedom activist, an educator and a businesswoman. With her extensive background in the fields of health care and education, Dr. Kohls has seen politics and public education change in ways that many citizens do not fully understand. She alerts citizens to those changes and empowers citizens and parents to maintain an active involvement in public and school matters by taking personal responsibility for their own lives and children’s education needs. As a leader of several Statewide and county organizations, Kohls travels the state of Ohio at her own expense, educating the public on “Why Education Is Failing Our Students and Why Common Core Is Not the Answer.” “Why we need to get more involved in public office candidate selection and mentoring”. She presents not only the problems, but solutions and recommendations, as well.
Dr. Kohls is the current President of the Ohio Republican PAC whose mission is to recruit, select and assist candidates for office that will strictly adhere to the US Constitution. She can be reached at the Ohio Republican PAC . com or the Ohio Republican PAC facebook page.
On the fence about whether homeschooling is for your family? This two hour class is for YOU!
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Thea Shoemake’s Powerpoint Will Be Loaded Here on This Website on Monday, November 1, 2021
This Class is Sponsored by Dr. Jay Rissover
Have you been considering homeschooling; wondering what it would take to be successful? Starting to think you have no choice? Sign up for this two hour class, and hear from someone who has done it. The overriding goal of homeschooling is to seed and encourage a curiosity that inspires life-long learning; an appreciation of the good, the beautiful and true, that through logic and reason, enables a free-thinking society that values logical and rational discourse. This class is for parents, grandparents, or anyone with a degree, who you may wish to homeschool your child(ren).
You can homeschool your child, so everyone considering the lifestyle can benefit from this class. The statistics on homeschooling have crushed most of the myths about the community, and we will certainly cover those, but at the end of the day, the most successful children have involved and engaged parents that have those important discussions at the dinner table…it’s just a matter of how many of those you need to “undo” before you have them. Like the profession of teaching, today’s homeschooling community is comprised of two groups: those who homeschool as a calling, and those who homeschool as a refuge or alternative schedule. Neither is right/wrong, good/bad, but why you homeschool may dictate the initial part of the journey. Toward that end, this class will cover “Myth-busting,” how to be “Legal” in Ohio, “Curricula,” and other areas about which people usually ask such as “Sports/Extra Curriculars.”
So, this is a 2 hour class on Saturday morning! We’ll make sure to have some coffee ready for you as you learn about this important information.
Speaker Bio :
Thea Shoemake chose to settle and raise their family in Cincinnati over 20 years ago. In addition to her political involvement supporting unbridled liberty in education, Thea kept quite busy in her two favorite roles as homeschool mom and tutor in both home and traditional school environments. A recent empty-nester, Thea continues to tutor and frequently helps other families considering the challenging but extremely rewarding lifestyle of home-centered education. Thea is also the founder of the Podcast Everythin is Political. This can be listened to on Apple, Spotify or Spreaker: https://www.everythingspolitical.org/podcasts. You can also get more up-do-date information atwww.everythingspolitical.org.
Entrepreneur Luke Perry Discusses Mark Levin's New Book and Take 20 : Nancy Brunemann gives tax updates for 2021
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Join Empower U to discuss “American Marxism” Mark Levin’s most recent best seller. The most important thing this book does is to name the malevolent political force that has been tearing this country apart as of late – Marxism. Levin reveals how the core elements of Marxism are now pervasive in American society and culture. He astutely notes that the original Communist Manifesto divided the people into two classes the “oppressors” and the “oppressed.”
The “Great One” Mark Levin’s Book is #1 on the NY Times Best Sellers List
Today’s version of this tactic in use by the American Left goes “Either you agree that all the systems of American life and government are systemically racist and evil and ought to be torn down, or you support racism and evil.” It is exactly this type of false binary choice that is a tool of the Marxist movement to enforce conformity across their political objectives. In his book, Levin exposes tactics like this as well as the institutions, intellectuals, and activists who are leading this Marxist revolution, and he provides some answers and ideas on how to confront them.
Levin ends the book addressing the reader directly saying “In the end, it is up to you to decide how best to help actively save our republic and what role you will choose…. While this is the end of the book, it is the beginning of a new day.” The backlash to the American Marxist revolution is here, and this book is a guide for patriotic Americans, informing us as to how we can be most effective in defeating the Marxist movement. This is a very important book, and it comes at exactly the right time.
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50 Years ago in August 1971, President Richard Nixon imposed Wage and Price Controls on the United States. Not since the 1970’s, has inflation increased as fast as it is in the United States now. Inflation and shortages persisted during much of the 1970’s when inflation reached a high level 14.8% in March 1980 . With the Producer Price Index today up 8.28% from one year ago, 9 out of 10 Americans say they are concerned. Managing Board Member Dan Regenold will discuss Wage and Price Controls. How much of a problem is inflation? Is it likely that wage and price controls could be imposed by the Biden administration? What has the history of controls been? What do the experts say? Tonight’s Take 20 is a warning of where our Country could be going and the fact that you should be prepared.
Speaker Bio :
Luke Perry is and entrepreneur and a Cincinnati native. He will speak tonight about Mark Levin’s Book. Luke became involved in community politics in 2020 as he witnessed the rise of CRT and abuse of the government’s emergency powers surrounding COVID. Now, Luke writes the weekly email for Empower U’s sister group StopCriticalRaceTheory.com, and he engages with his local, state, and federal government representatives on a regular basis to discuss important issues.
Luke is also the board chairman of Ohio Valley Associated Builders and Contractors, an organization of nearly 300 businesses in the region that support the merit shop philosophy. He is active in his family’s general contracting business and the Goering center at UC. In his spare time, Luke enjoys exercising, competitive shooting, hunting, and bothering his wife.
Dan Regenold
Dan Regenold is the Managing Board Member of EmpowerUAmerica.org a FREE university that was founded in 2011. He is also the founder and chairman of Frame USA, Inc. a online manufacturer of picture frames in Springdale, Ohio. To read Dan’s full bio —Click Here.
This Class Has Been Been Cancelled Due to a Complication in Travel Plans for Vivek. We hope to reschedule!
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Tuesday, October 26, 2021
This Class Has Been Been Cancelled Due to a Complication in Travel Plans for Vivek. We hope to reschedule!
“Vivek Ramaswamy provides the single most informative and insightful analysis yet of woke ideology … WOKE, INC. is indispensable for understanding how America’s newest and most consequential cultural dogma is fundamentally transforming virtually every sector of our lives.”
— Glenn Greenwald, journalist, constitutional lawyer, and author of four New York Times bestselling books
The Author of Woke, Inc., Vivek Ramaswamy visits EmpowerU tonight. A young entrepreneur makes the case that politics has no place in business, and sets out a new vision for the future of American capitalism.
There’s a new invisible force at work in our economic and cultural lives. It affects every advertisement we see and every product we buy, from our morning coffee to a new pair of shoes. “Stakeholder capitalism” makes rosy promises of a better, more diverse, environmentally-friendly world, but in reality, this ideology championed by America’s business and political leaders robs us of our money, our voice, and our identity.
Vivek Ramaswamy is a traitor to his class. He’s founded multibillion-dollar enterprises, led a biotech company as CEO, he became a hedge fund partner in his 20s, trained as a scientist at Harvard and a lawyer at Yale, and grew up the child of immigrants in a small town in Ohio. Now he takes us behind the scenes into corporate boardrooms and five-star conferences, into Ivy League classrooms and secretive nonprofits, to reveal the defining scam of our century. The modern woke-industrial complex divides us as a people. By mixing morality with consumerism, America’s elites prey on our innermost insecurities about who we really are. They sell us cheap social causes and skin-deep identities to satisfy our hunger for a cause and our search for meaning, at a moment when we as Americans lack both.
This book not only rips back the curtain on the new corporatist agenda, but it also offers a better way forward. America’s elites may want to sort us into demographic boxes, but we don’t have to stay there. WOKE, INC. begins as a critique of stakeholder capitalism and ends with an exploration of what it means to be an American in 2021—a journey that begins with cynicism and ends with hope.
Vivek will be signing his book, Woke, Inc., at 6:30 PM before the class and after the class. Make sure to grab one at this event.
“In this engaging, brilliant book, Vivek Ramaswamy hits the nail on the head: companies go woke because they get richer from division rather than unity. This book is an essential weapon in the battle to reclaim America’s soul.”
— JD Vance, author of Hillbilly Elegy and venture capitalist
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From 7:05-7:30 Todd Palmeter, Chief Executive Officer for Great Parks of Hamilton County will join us to discuss Issue 29. The new levy would raise an extra $20 million annually for Great Parks. Great Parks of Hamilton County will ask voters in November to double the amount of property taxes they pay for county parks.
The five-member board Thursday approved a tax hike that would pay for more trails and maintenance at the 21 county parks and conservation areas and six golf courses. For the homeowner of a $100,000 house, the tax hike would cost an additional $33 per year. That’s on top of the current park levy that costs that same homeowner $30 per year.
The tax hike is lower than the original proposals of 1 mil to 1.25 mills. That would have cost homeowners $35 to $43 per $100,000 each year. And it’s just over half the tax increase the park district tried to ask in 2020 when they voted to put a 1.8 mil, $63 per $100,000 tax hike on the ballot.
Speaker Bio:
Vivek Ramaswamy founded Roivant Sciences, a biopharmaceutical company, in 2014, after a career as a successful biotech investor. A 35-year-old first-generation American, he is a graduate of Harvard College and Yale Law School. Vivek became a hedge fun partner in his 20’s, and grew up the child of immigrants in the small town of Evendale, Ohio. He now lives with his wife Apoorva and their son Karthik.
Mr. Ramaswamy serves on the board of directors of the Philanthropy Roundtable and the Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity. In his new book Woke, Inc. Vivek takes you behind the scenes into corporate boardrooms and five-star conferences, into Ivy League classrooms and secret nonprofits, to reveal the defining scam of our century. The book begins as a critique of stakeholder capitalism and ends with an exploration of what it means to be an American in 2021. Vivek is a graduate of St. X High School and has recently been turning heads on Tucker Carlson’s show and on the Opinion pages of the Wall St. Journal.
Todd Palmeter, Chief Executive Officer The Chief Executive Officer serves as the chief administrator and executive officer overseeing all operations of Great Parks of Hamilton County, reporting directly to the Board of Park Commissioners. The Chief Executive Officer works and collaborates with Great Parks Forever.
Sponsored by Senior Care Partners. Take 20: Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted Joins EmpowerU to discuss Higher Education Alternatives
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Uncertainty seems to be lurking all around us these days. This can derail us if we are not careful. Let’s add Dementia to the brain of someone you love and your whole world can feel upside down, falling apart. We can’t fix this one but with the right instructions the holidays can still be meaningful. I can add some much needed tools to your tool belt, help you realize there is life even with dementia and find hope while dealing with progressive memory loss.
I hope you will join me to learn better ways to enjoy family time even with someone living with Dementia. Mark your calendar for Oct. 21st at 7pm and have your notepad ready as I take you on a journey into our holiday traditions.
Thank goodness EmpowerU provides a platform where adults can gather in person or online to learn about issues that many of us are dealing with. This event is being sponsored by Senior Care Partners.
7:05-7:25 PM–Jon Husted, Lieutenant Governor for the State of Ohio joins EmpowerU. Navigating Pathways to Credentials and Careers. Description: Americans owe an estimated $1.57 trillion in student loan debt. Some want the debt “forgiven,” and some want college to be “free.” There are affordable solutions out there for students and families if you know how to navigate the system. It’s my goal as Lieutenant Governor to help Ohioans figure out how to reach their destination. If you take advantage of the opportunities available right now in Ohio, you can receive a college degree, an industry-recognized credential and a pathway to a rewarding career, all debt-free, no matter your age or background.
Speaker Bio:
Teresa Youngstrom is a Seasoned Registered Nurse and Dementia Specialist. She has more than 35 years of Clinical and Leadership experience in Healthcare. She became intensely focused on Memory Care when it touched her own family. Teresa is a PAC Certified Independent Trainer under Teepa Snow. Her passion for improving the lives of people living with Dementia led her to start her own business, “A Better Approach to Memory Care”, where she provides staff training, family consulting and professional education.
Lt. Governor Jon Husted oversees the Ohio Common Sense Initiative (CSI) and serves as the Director of both the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation and InnovateOhio. Jon Husted started his life in a foster home before being adopted by his loving parents, Jim and Judy. He is the oldest of three children and was raised in Northwest Ohio’s Williams County. The small community instilled in him the importance of faith, family, and hard work that serve as the foundation of his public service. He graduated from Montpelier High School and earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from the University of Dayton (UD).
Jon was an All-American defensive back for the Dayton Flyers and a member of UD’s 1989 Division III National Championship Football Team. After receiving his Master’s Degree, Jon remained in the Miami Valley and served as the Vice-President for Economic Development at the Dayton-Area Chamber of Commerce.
Wild Birds Unlimited : Everyone loves hummingbirds, but what about all the other wild birds. Take 20: Tom Hagedorn talks about American Education.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
WHO ARE OUR BACKYARD BIRDS? HOW CAN I ATTRACT THEM TO MY BACKYARD? Tim Coates who has owned and operated Wild Birds Unlimited in Forest Park for over 20 years will share his vast knowledge and first hand observations of Backyard Wild Birds and help us make them our Backyard Buddies. Moreover, His presentation style and sense of humor will keep you entertained throughout his class!
Wild Birds is a nation-wide franchise with over 300 stores in 45 states and four provinces in Canada and is headquartered in Indianapolis, IN. They have been serving the Backyard Birding community for nearly 40 years. Tim will share his insight on topics including, “Who are our Backyard Birds”, “How Can I Attract Them to My Backyard”, “Selecting Food and Feeders to my Backyard” and “The Wonderful World of Bird Behavior”. Tim will also be glad to answer any questions you have so bring them with you!
If you are a bird lover you will not want to miss this class, and if you are not you may just turn into one!
Join Tom Hagedorn as he talks about American Education and its Takeover by International Socialism. International socialism began its nearly complete “long march” through every major American institution over one hundred years ago. Education was a prime early target. They knew that Abraham Lincoln was right when he said, “the philosophy of the school room in one generation will be the philosophy of government in the next.” The leader of this sinister mission was John Dewey, a self-proclaimed democratic socialist, who is widely recognized as the Father of American Education. This class will take you on a quick tour of the persistent war waged by American Marxist educators since the 1920s, when Dewey came back from a tour sponsored by Stalin’s Russia to write glowing reports of conditions in the Soviet Union. Dewey and other socialists hatched their plans in the 1930s at Columbia University and started to recruit followers at the highest levels of American education. You will learn how their plans were methodically implemented and fine-tuned over every generation since then, into what is known today as progressive education. This system, intended only for a socialist America, has dominated education in public, private, and even religious schools for some time. In many ways, it explains both WHY and HOW traditional Christian norms in law, morality, and society have been replaced by the radical secular absence of standards that now dominates American thought, culture and society. Progressive education has set the stage for a peaceful revolution.
Speaker Bio:
Tim Coates: Tim opened Wild Birds Unlimited in Forest Park, in October, 1995. He has grown it into the largest store to include not only fresh, no-filler seeds and seed blends, but also state of the art feeders, houses, birdbaths and an exclusive Advanced Pole System. There is a huge assortment of nature and backyard books, field guides, garden art, and wind chimes. Additionally, the store includes an entire squirrel department with feeders and toys, just for squirrels.
He was raised in Illinois farm country, attended the University of Indianapolis, and arrived in Cincinnati via Federated Department Stores in the late 70’s. Tim has appeared on Live in the Morning, WXIX Channel 19, and gives about 3 to 4 talks every month. He has lived in the Cincinnati area for over 40 years, has two sons, Robert (39) and Garrett (37), and two grandchildren.
Tim has created a welcoming atmosphere in which to browse and relax, while enjoying a complimentary cup of hot tea, coffee, apple cider or hot chocolate along with a bag of snacks.
Tom Hagedorn: Tom has been studying American Education for 30 years. While pursuing an independent study of the history of the Buckeye State, he stumbled upon a sentence in the Ohio Constitution that would change his life forever: “Religion, morality, and knowledge, however, being essential to good government…it shall be the duty of the general assembly…to encourage schools and the means of education.” His shock that the public schools were created to support religion and morality led him on a long, tedious journey. Eight years ago, he published “Founding Zealots: How Evangelicals Created America’s First Public Schools, 1783-1865.” It tells how those first schools came about and what they were like. But it also describes in detail how this story has been ignored and distorted by the progressive historians who have a very different vision for American schools, society and government than did our Founders.
Tom has been providing investment advice to individuals for four decades. When he was not researching and writing Founding Zealots, he was involved in various political, charitable, and community activities. He remains active in all those things and in the fight to return the schools to a traditional role in American society, in service to their parents and to their parents’ values.
For all entrepreneurs. How about grave-robbing or body snatching as a business, are you thinking “out of the box”? Take 20: Lauren Bowen talks about the Freedom Foundation and her important work informing unionized employees.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Mary Cunningham who, in the 1870s, with her husband William were in the business of aiding many young Cincinnati medical students in their studies by providing them with cadavers upon which to examine. They were grave-robbing body snatchers! Irish born Mary was a fun-loving woman that liked her whiskey and was rough around the edges. At the time you “see” Mary her beloved husband William, known as the “Ghoul of Cincinnati,” had passed away. Mary, dubbed as “Alligator Jaws” will enlighten you of the fine arts of bodysnatching, which was a very lucrative market in Cincinnati during that time. What else we know of Mary are from the many Cincinnati newspaper articles about bodysnatching.
The Freedom Foundation has One Mission, One Goal : We are an action-focused, non-profit policy organization- a “Think tank”- based in Olympia, Washington and active across the nation, with additional offices in Oregon, California , Ohio and Pennsylvania. Founded in 1991 by Bob Williams and Lynn Harsh to advance the ideals of ” free markets and limited accountable government,” today we are a national leader in winning the fight for freedom at the state and local level. Since 2012, our singular focus has been battling public-sector unions, and no one fights government unions more aggressively or successfully than the Freedom Foundation. We battle the union political machine by defending workers’ constitutional rights, enforcing campaign finance laws, introducing reforms that protect workers’ rights, working to increase union transparency, and exposing the illegal actions of big government unions. Hear this interesting story from Ohio Director, Lauren Bowen.
Speaker Bios:
Joyce Lovins Browning- is a native of Ohio growing up in Harrison and Okeana. She has been performing Living History for over 18 years. She retired after 20 years as the Naturalist Coordinator from Great Parks of Hamilton County in 2018, and now enjoys working as a part-time Tour Coordinator for Ohio Travel Treasures, sending groups on wonderful bus tour adventures.
Lauren Bowen: Ohio Director- Lauren is a lifelong Ohio resident and calls Cincinnati home. After earning a master’s degree in international politics from Wright State University in 2014, she led an innovative, first of its kind, digital government accountability and transparency project, called the Ohio Checkbook. Through that leadership experience, Lauren developed a fierce determination to undermine government corruption. She has since joined the Freedom Foundation as State Director to fight union tyranny and oppression. In her spare time Lauren enjoys collecting early American antiques and trying new restaurants with her husband.
What would you do if you were caught in an Active Shooter situation? This class will prepare you should it ever happen.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Tuesday, October 12, 2021
Note: We are Sorry, but the Virtual Part of Tonight’s Class has been cancelled due to the complexity of the Powerpoint Presentation. We do not believe the slide and video presentation would translate well to a virtual showing. Please join us live for the class at EmpowerU Studio at 6:30 PM.
An intense 2 hour, awareness-level class will help you better understand:
Lessons learned from current research on active shooter (killer) incidents and, how to prepare as an individual to avoid, deter or delay an active shooter (killer) incident. If you and your family are caught in one of these incidents, what should you do? Do you know why these incidents happen, or if there are any patterns to such crimes? You’ll learn response considerations for the concealed carry individual, and what kind of training is available. Should you consider always having some kind of equipment on you to minimize loss of life and maximize your chances for survival?
Businesses will want to consider legal considerations of workplace violence (WPV) and active shooter (killer) incidents. As an employer do you have a workable active shooter (killer) response plan? “Hardening” your facilities, improving your procedures, & training your greatest assets: your co-workers and you! Equipment considerations (safety, medical, etc.) to minimize loss of life and maximize your chances for survival. Communication considerations, both internal and external, to include 9-1-1, your loved ones, and your employees.
Speaker Bio:
COL Bob Cutajar, USA (ret.) (coo – TIE – yer”)
Has managed the Center for Haz Mat, Rescue & Safety at Cincinnati State College’s Workforce Development Center for 6 years. Retired after forty years in the Army as infantry officer; sniper instructor; warrant officer & helicopter pilot. Combat service in: Grenada, Central America, Desert Storm, Balkans, Kosovo, Afghanistan, Iraq, Saudi Arabian peninsula (wounded twice). Retired from P&G after twenty-six years as CBD/PS. Spent 10 years in Florida as Reserve Deputy Sheriff. Firearms Instructor (NRA / USCCA; OH and KY concealed carry licenses) Curriculum developer of both the “Active Killer Awareness & Safety” and “Basic Emergency Casualty Care” Workshops at Cincinnati State College.
Digital Dollar? Bitcoin? Are you prepared for future changes to the dollar? Take 20--Barb Horwitz discusses Civil Disobedience.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Move over Bitcoin The Federal Reserve is taking what may be the first significant step toward launching its own virtual currency, a move that could shake up banks, give millions of low-income Americans access to the financial system and fortify the dollar’s status as the world’s reserve currency. The idea of creating a fully digital version of the U.S. dollar, which was unthinkable just a few years ago, has gained bipartisan interest from lawmakers as diverse as Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and John Kennedy (R-La.)
The explosive rise of private crypto currencies in recent years motivated the Fed to start considering a digital dollar to be used alongside the traditional paper currency. Although crypto currencies like bitcoin are digital, a Central Bank Digital Currency would be fundamentally different from current cryptos because it would still be controlled by a central bank rather than a decentralized computer network.
Coinbase, maybe you’ve never heard of it. Or, maybe you’re confused about what it even is. A quick explanation: Coinbase is an app that lets you buy and sell all sorts of cryptocurrencies. You can also use Coinbase to convert one cryptocurrency to another, or to send and receive cryptocurrency to and from other people. Coinbase also shows you the current price and trends for cryptocurrencies, a look at your portfolio of holdings, and news stories about the industry.
China’s central bank is rolling out its own digital yuan as it cracks down on the mining and usage of crytocurrencies within its border.
In May, Goldman Sachs launched their Digital Assets dashboard which provides daily and intraday cryptocurrency market data and news to their clients.
Barb Horwitz speaks on Civil Disobedience. Remember the sit-ins at segregated lunch counters in the South in the early 60s? Remember the flag burnings to protest the Vietnam War? And more recently, think about Edward Snowden’s release of highly classified NSA documents to bring public awareness of the government’s unconstitutional surveillance practices and infringement of civil liberties. These are examples of civil disobedience, which is the active, non-violent refusal to accept the dictates of governments. It’s a grass roots form of action when traditional methods of protest such as petitioning, lobbying, marching, and voting have failed to get a response from the government. It came to public attention in the mid-1800s through the work of the famous American philosopher, Henry David Thoreau, and achieved its greatest recognition when Martin Luther King used practical methods to implement it during the fight for civil rights in the 1960s. We’ll take a look at Thoreau’s and King’s thoughts about it tonight, and see what insights they can give us today to meaningfully react to and protest current governmental policies.
Speaker Bio:
Michael Hiles: Michael is a business executive focused on early-stage technology research and development. As a software engineer, he is a technology solutions architect with marketing, business operations, and financial experience. Michael began developing software on mainframe systems at an early age in the late 1970’s. He began his career in the early 1990s as a software engineer for Sabre Systems and Services, which later became Manatron – a provider of local county government enterprise solutions. In 1995, Michael founded SoftLynx Interactive, one of the first web development companies in the Cincinnati, Ohio, area.
After exiting his web development firm in 2000, Michael sought to bring web technology to other industries. He became the lead internet architect for Proware, a Cincinnati-based govtech software provider. Proware builds judicial management solutions, and Michael’s team won a Smithsonian Laureate Award for being the first to ever connect a judicial system to the world wide web (courtclerk.org).
Michael served as President of the Board of Directors for the Franklin County Economic Development Commission in Franklin County, Indiana in 2012. While acting as board president, Michael’s efforts led to the creation of a local business development TIF district and relocation of a large manufacturing plant (Uni-Ref) into a vacant facility, creating many career-wage jobs.
He launched the Cincinnati chapter of Founder Institute, the local operation for the Silicon Valley-based global accelerator founded by Adeo Ressi. In three years, the local accelerator launched almost 30 companies with pre-money valuations of $1 million each. Early in 2017, Michael formalized the founding team and launched 10XTS, a provider of blockchain information governance, risk, and compliance information and data solutions.
Barb Horwitz: Barb was a member of the Butler County, Ohio, legal community for many years, serving first as a paralegal in two general practice firms, then as the bailiff for retired Common Pleas Judge Michael J. Sage, and finally as an attorney in a firm where she specialized in insurance litigation and consumer bankruptcy. She has continued her practice of insurance law and consumer bankruptcy in a partnership with her son Jonathan Horwitz at offices presently in Centerville, Ohio.
She resided for many years in Springfield Township, where she served as a president of the View Place Civic Association. In addition, she has volunteered in several political campaigns. She and her husband Gary have now resided and raised their family in Wyoming for several years.
Heritage Foundation on History of Critical Race Theory and What We Can Do To Fight Back
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Critical race theory (CRT) is a descendent of critical theory (CT), a school of philosophy that began in Frankfurt, Germany, in the 1920s and 1930s at the University of Frankfurt’s Institute for Social Research. It became known as “the Frankfurt School” and was one of the first, if not the first, Western Marxist schools patterned after the Marx–Engels Institute in Moscow.
The Frankfurt School’s scholars fled to Columbia University’s Teachers College in New York in 1934 to escape persecution by the Nazis, and were careful to erase the word Marxism from their research papers so as not to attract attention in America. Critical theory was, from the start, an unremitting attack on Western institutions and norms in order to tear them down.
It next became a short step to critical legal theory in the late 1970s and 1980s. CLT built on critical theory’s idea that the world is based on systems of power and claims that American law is systemically oppressive. From there it was another short step to Critical Race Theory which further claimed that America is systemically racist, and that this racism produced an alliance between working-class whites and the oppressor capitalist class, which prevented working-class solidarity.
When followed to its logical conclusion, CRT is destructive and rejects the fundamental ideas on which our constitutional republic is based. Applying the philosophy would violate a multitude of American civil rights laws by treating people differently according to race. This presentation will dive into the history and origins of critical theory, critical legal theory and critical race theory, how Americans can identify it, and how we can fight back against this destructive ideology.
Stephanie Kreuz, who many of us know from her important work at Heritage Action will be joining Mike Gonzalez in his presentation.
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From 7:05-7:25 Meet Isaac Adi, born in Nigeria. Isaac is running for School Board in the Lakota District. He will discuss The America he came to which was one that gave everyone an equal chance to succeed. How all people should have a chance to take advantage of the opportunities that America offers to achieve the American Dream–and how it is different than the Country he came from.
Speaker Bio:
Mike Gonzalez is a Senior Fellow at The Heritage Foundation. He writes on Critical Race Theory, identity politics, diversity, multiculturalism, assimilation and nationalism, as well as foreign policy in general. He spent close to 20 years as a journalist, 15 of them reporting from Europe, Asia and Latin America. He left journalism to join the administration of President George W. Bush, where he was speechwriter for Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Christopher Cox before moving on to the State Department’s European Bureau. He joined Heritage in March 2009.
Stephanie Kreuz–Stephanie Kreuz has been involved in public policy and political campaigns since 2005. Prior to joining the Heritage Action team she worked in the legal field, and wrote for WatchdogWire, a project of the Franklin Center for Government and Public Integrity. She also previously interned for the Mackinac Center for Public Policy in Midland, Michigan in education policy. Stephanie graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Hillsdale College in 2012, with a major in Politics and a minor in Latin. She grew up near Toledo, OH and currently resides in Cincinnati.
Isaac Adi– is running for the Lakota School Board. He is a very proud US citizen. He came to America from Nigeria over 18 years ago to provide my family with the opportunities in America that did not exist in his country.
The America Isaac came to was one that gave everyone an equal chance to succeed. Isaac believes if you take advantage of the opportunities and work hard you will fulfill your dream.
His family has taken advantage of the opportunities America offers by getting a strong education and working hard. America is a country that rewards those who are prepared, and are willing to work every day to achieve their own American dream. In America, we are all given the chance to achieve our dream. While Isaac loves his country of birth, he also love the country he chose so many years ago, America. His family and he are examples of what can happen if you get a good education and work hard every day to achieve your American dream. Isaac has a Business Administration graduate of Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, Nigeria and has received a Master’s in Science from Colorado Technical University in Colorado Springs, CO. He is a managing partner of Ohio based KGN Petroleum and a member of the Ohio Oil & Gas Association. https://www.isaacadi.com/on-the-issues
Systemic Woke Suburban Thuggery… and Take 20: Brendan Shea Talks About Today's Ohio Education System.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Both Rachel R. Citak and Max Black discuss cancel culture and silencing issues in the suburban community. In case you didn’t know—white, suburban, middle-class liberals are the face of today’s political intimidation tactics. And political intimidation is the new tool for shutting down public discourse—especially when it comes to threatening parents and candidates who are willing to speak out against Critical Theory. But the real question is, how many are being silenced and victimized by these covert tactics? How can you identify and respond? How can you keep from getting #canceled? What are the civil and criminal legal options available to you? Join us for an eye-opening and informative class discussing the ins and outs of Systemic Woke Suburban Thuggery. From mail fraud to identity theft, doxxing to glitter bombs, join CRT expert Attorney Rachel Citak and Canceled Out podcast host Max Black as they discuss the widespread silencing firsthand accounts of victims and pending litigation, coming straight from an Ohio neighborhood near you. And yes—we have the receipts. With local school board elections just around the corner, our voices and k-12 curriculums are at stake. Call it the modern mafia, call it the worst of woke-ism— but what you cannot call it is apolitical. Whether you are a candidate, parent, or concerned-citizen, you won’t want to miss this.
Brendan Shea discusses Critical Race Theory (CRT), Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), and Social Emotional Learning (SEL). In this talk, State Board of Education member Brendan Shea, a parent of 5 children, will equip you with knowledge and tools to combat these three harmful programs plaguing education today.
Speaker Bios:
EmpowerU guest Rachel R. Citak Ohio-licensed attorney and owner of her own legal practice, RACHEL R. CITAK, ATTORNEY AT LAW LLC. Her firm services clients across Ohio in multiple practice areas. Additionally, her conservative advocacy and public relations work has included appearing on Ohio news stations and testifying at the Ohio Statehouse. In addition to publishing op-ed articles as a member of the Cincinnati Enquirer Board of Contributors, she has also authored op-eds in the Western Journal and Columbus Dispatch—with a feature by Ben Shapiro’s Daily Wire. Prior to opening her firm, she specialized in Criminal Law with a focus on prosecution in law school while clerking for the Ohio Attorney General and Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office.
Rachel has extensive experience working in Columbus as both a registered lobbyist and in-house counsel. She currently serves as a board member for Cincinnati Right to Life and Stand With Cops. As passionate firearms enthusiasts, Rachel and her husband Rob are active members of the second amendment community in addition to serving as advisory attorneys for the USCCA network. When she’s not servicing her clients, you can find her participating in equestrian sport, hanging out with her German Shepherd and Cavalier Spaniel, or shooting her Glock 42 on their outdoor range at home.
Moderator Max Black is host of the Canceled Out podcast covering local politics with the goal of inspiring and encouraging individuals on how to make a difference in their communities. He is a Project Manager, US Navy submarine veteran and graduate from Middle Tennessee State University with a Bachelor’s in Music Business. Upon returning to his hometown of Cincinnati, he familiarized himself with the importance of local elections and politicians’ responsibilities to their constituents. His mission is to build a framework for effecting change by leveraging modern technologies, including the podcast and building platforms like Chronikles.org, to provide a reliable resource for information on local stories. When he’s not working, Max spends his time reading, hiking with his dog and enjoying IPAs at the local breweries.
Brendan Shea was elected to the State Board of Education by the people of the 10th District in November 2020. The 10th District includes Adams, Brown, Clark, Clermont, Clinton, Fayette, Gallia, Greene, Highland, Jackson, Lawrence, Madison, Pike, Ross, Scioto and the western portions of Pickaway and Vinton counties.
Hailing from a large family of educators, Brendan believes deeply in the life-changing power of education. He believes education should focus on the good, the true and the beautiful and that children must learn to think critically and develop wisdom and virtue, allowing them to achieve their God-given potential and to become engaged citizens and productive members of society.
As the father of five young children, Brendan knows firsthand the unique challenges families face in raising and educating their children today. He believes parents are the first and primary educators of their children, and he will be a strong voice for both parents and children on the Board.
This Class is Virtual Only : House Representative Jennifer Gross joins EmpowerU and Take 20-- Meet one of Ohio's Future Leaders--Ruth Edmonds
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Freshman State Representative Jennifer Gross (Dist. 52 West Chester) joins EmpowerU to discuss various issues including the contentious House Bill 248. House Bill 248, the Vaccine Choice and Anti-Discrimination Act, authored by Representative Gross who is joined by fifteen co-sponsors in the Ohio House from across the state. This bill would prohibit the imposition of a “vaccine mandate” and carrying a “vaccine passport” in order for Ohioans to work, exercise or enter public buildings. Proposed legislation in Ohio has rarely caused such a dramatic separation of viewpoints among legislators, businesses, and Ohioans. After Ohioans have lived under lockdowns, mask restrictions and a mandatory vaccination scheme for more than a year, House Bill 248 attempts to bridge the divide between safety precautions taken on behalf of the public “Common Good” and the very basis of individual liberty and personal responsibility. Get your popcorn!
From ghetto girl to God’s Ambassador, Ruth Edmonds a self-professed modern day government mountain prophet with the loyalty of Ruth, the anointing of Deborah and the call like Esther for such a time shares how her faith journey shaped her approach to being a candidate for the U.S. Congress. Oh and if you haven’t had a chance make sure to watch that incredible interview Ruth had with Tucker Carlson–to watch click-here.
Speaker Bios:
State Rep. Jennifer Gross is currently serving her first term in the Ohio House of Representatives. She represents the 52nd District, which includes West Chester Township, Liberty Township, Fairfield Township and part of Sharonville in Butler County. She is a 21-year Air Force veteran and retired Lt. Colonel, who served our great nation in Saudi Arabia during Operation Provide Comfort and in Sarajevo during Operation Provide Promise. Gross retired from the military in 2008. She is currently a member of American Legion Post 681 and VFW Post 7696, where she became the first active female inductee in February, 2019.
Representative Gross has been a Family Nurse Practitioner for over 16 years and a registered nurse for over 30 years. Prior to becoming an NP, she managed a three million dollar territory for Eli Lilly. She most recently participated as a sub-investigator for Operation WARP Speed developing treatments to help battle COVID-19. She also currently manages a small business as a health coach. Representative Gross believes in strong public policy that supports Ohio business success, legislation which supports and protects the unborn and will uphold Ohioans Constitutional Freedoms. She resides in West Chester with her husband, Chris, and their two sons.
Minister Ruth Edmonds, Director Christian Engagement, Center for Christian Virtue (CCV)
Ruth Edmonds is a Christian conservative leader, public policy activist and a sought after voice by clergy, lay ministers, the faith community and national media on issues impacting culture such as Critical Race Theory (CRT), School Choice, NewsMax, Sebastian Gorka and Tucker Carlson programs.
Ruth has a distinguished public service career having been a key aide to the administration of conservative elected office holders including Franklin County Auditor Clarence Mingo, Ohio Governor Bob Taft, and former Congresswoman Deborah Pryce. She’s a former president of the Columbus Branch NAACP, the nation’s largest and oldest civil rights organization. Recently she ran and finished strong in a special primary election for the open OH-15 Congressional District seat, placing in the top 5 of an 11 way race and second in the largest county of the district beating out two state senators, a state rep and a self-funded businessman.
Ruth is a licensed and ordained minister serving on the ministry leadership team at her home church, Columbus Christian Center. A proud U.S. citizen, defender of the U.S. Constitution, committed to ensuring the strongest American government of the people, by the people and for the people, Ruth’s principles, character, ethics, and integrity are grounded in a biblical worldview. A mother of two adult daughters, Ruth lives in Upper Arlington, Ohio with her husband George.
Take 20: Meet 13 Year old Hawke Busby, a kid Who Believes He Can Make a Difference
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
6:15-7:00 PM–Come Early–Live Music From Mike Biere –Join US!
Mike Biere to Play Live Acoustic Music from 6:15-7:00 PM–Come Early!
So what does it mean to EmpowerU? Let’s get into tonight… Dan will bring us up-to-date on Critical Race Theory in Ohio. He will talk about activism and his Lawsuit against the “Woke” Ohio Board of Education. Can we win? He will mix in a few interesting stories that have happened along the way (There have been many!) and relate this battle to our history and why it is so important to understand exactly what is happening.
Dan Regenold is one of the founders of the initiative StopCriticalRaceTheory.com a Coalition of 41 Ohio groups. The mission: Stop Critical Race Theory in Ohio’s schools, universities and governments. One of the goals of the class is to help people at EmpowerU catch-up with what has happened in the State of Ohio and Critical Race Theory over the last 3 months. Also a discussion about Education in Ohio…you won’t like what you hear…
During this presentation you will also learn about “Equity”, and how schools all around Ohio have hired consultants to create racist “School Equity Plans.”–paid for with Covid money. Learn how to talk back to teachers and educators trying to indoctrinate your kids. Also, we will look at Governor Mike DeWine’s role in moving Ohio towards Critical Race Theory and the legislation that is currently pending in Ohio (House Bill 327) to end CRT and the teaching, advocation or promoting divisive concepts. Dan’s goal tonight is simple. To help get you more Empowered in your life and take on tough topics whether it be in business, your personal life or involvement with your kids! Dan dares you to EmpowerU!
Also on this night you will get to meet an incredible 13 year old Hawke Busby. He was homeschooled last year and will be attending the Ohio Christian Academy this year. He loves Hip Hop Dance, Breakdancing and Basketball. He believes kids can make a difference in the world and he is simply using his voice to do his part. Hear Hawke’s incredible story and voice tonight at EmpowerU. (See picture of Hawke Busby below)
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. 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 Estate Tax one of the most important Tax accomplishments of 2011. In 2011 Regenold founded EmpowerUAmerica.org (now in its 22nd semester), 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 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, Net Neutrality, D-Day, The Deficit Mess, America and Winston Churchill at EmpowerU Classes. Regenold is founder and Chairman of Frame USA, Inc., a Made-In-America picture frame manufacturing company in Springdale, Ohio.
Parents Rise up and Protest at the Board of Education!
Ohio Board of Education 25 S. Front Street Columbus, Ohio 43215
Tuesday, September 21, 2021
Important: If you are concerned about Critical Race Theory and the direction of education in Ohio we need you at this rally to show support. Please consider taking a day off work for this important event–it’s critical! The speaker lineup for this invent is incredible including, Josh Mandel, Ruth Edmonds, Andy Brenner, Rev. C.L. Bryant, Jennifer Gross, 14 Yr. Old Haddon Lockyer, Kirsten Hill, Jenny Kilgore, Isaac Adi, Sarah Fowler Arthur, and Senate Candidate Mark Pukita! To see a complete list of speakers and their bios–Click Here
Protest the Board’s Resolution #20–The Onset of Critical Race Theory in Ohio!
Protest Governor Mike DeWine’s Support of Racist Equity Plans taking over School Districts Across Ohio (have you checked your School System?)
Protest the State School Board’s refusal to hear public comment on the subject of “Race” at their Board Meetings at a time when the Legislature is discussing Racism in Public Schools.
Protest bad education outcomes in schools across Ohio!
Agenda:
8:00 AM –Arrive at the Board of Education, 25 South Front St. , Columbus, OH 43215–Protest Picket
8:30 AM –9:45 AM–Hear Inspirational speakers from around Ohio on the important subjects of education and Critical Race Theory. We will be protesting and Picketing while we hear from speakers.
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM — Join us as we visit local legislators at the Statehouse and the Riffe Center. Let them know what we think about Critical Race Theory. We will continue to Protest and Picket.
11:45-12:30 — Capitol Square South Plaza – Hear from More Speakers for this event.
12:45 PM — Protest Ends and please return home safely! Please Register for this FREE Event!
For questions about this event email: info@StopCriticalRaceTheory.com .We may offer more buses from around the State as we accept registrations.
StopCriticalRaceTheory.com is a Coalition of the following41 groups and is an initiative EmpowerUOhio.org, Inc., the Sponsor of this Protest. If your group or Business wants to be included in our Coalition email: info@stopcriticalracetheory.com.
Please sign on to www.StopCriticalRaceTheory.com and tell your friends to take the pledge today! By taking the pledge you allow us to keep you informed of our initiative and let you know of hotspots and problem schools as they show up. Thank You!
To Contact Daniel Payne at Politico to tell him your story–if you are a parent–and considering running for an office–email Daniel at: dpayne@politico.com
Mandatory Summer School! You have 34 Days to Sign Up to Run for School Board in Ohio!
Tom Hach from Free Ohio Now to Join EmpowerU!
This overview training for running for School Board in Ohio is designed to help prospective school board candidates, who want Ohio schools to educate the fundamentals, including reading, writing, math, history, science and critical thinking, run effective campaigns and win! At this time, there is an effort by some elements in society, including the education establishment, the media, as well as federal, state and local government officials, to impose comprehensive sex education, Critical Race Theory, The 1619 Project and other race-based theories and ideologies into Ohio classrooms starting as early as kindergarten and running through 12 grade and beyond.
Countering the drive to sexualize and ideologically indoctrinate our children is an American Resurgency movement consisting of everyday Ohioans, like you and me, who are engaging with our schools to ensure a balanced and factually substantiated curriculum regarding sex education and American history are being taught. A movement which ultimately believes our schools should graduate students who are well educated, independent thinkers, seekers of wisdom and who are on their way to being productive fellow citizens.
If we are going to restore our constitutional republic, leaders must rise up to run for school board in order to make a real and lasting difference in what is being taught in Ohio schools. Let us work together to demystify the ‘ins and outs’ of running for school board, and start down the road to relearn our responsibilities for sustaining a self-governing society.
Is this class a calling for you? Is this your opportunity to Empower your local School Board. Give a good listen at this class and make your decision.
Chris Hicks from Clermont County, and Brendan Shea, State School Board Member will discuss and go over with us his creative Contract With The District for School Board Members. This is a document, introduced at the last State Board of Education meeting, created to help citizens hold their School Board’s Accountable–for everything. This Contract can also be used as a tool for individuals running for School Board — like you! Chris will be joining our session between 8:00-8:10. Pictured below Chris Hicks (L), Brendan Shea (R).
Tom Hach
Speaker Bio:
Tom Hach is the Executive Director of Free Ohio Now, which is a state-wide liberty group Fighting the New Normal. Free Ohio Now has brought Ohioans together throughout the state to push back against growing government and big business tyranny through peaceful protests, rallies and legislative action. Prior to co-founding Free Ohio Now, Tom worked as an IT program manager for many years, and he is also retired from the Navy Reserve after a 21 year career, during which he served in Iraq from 2006 to 2007.
In addition to several volunteer positions, Tom is in his third term as a member of the Board of Education for the Riverside Local School District in Lake County, Ohio. He has a BS in Chemistry from Miami University, and an MBA from Case Western Reserve University. He lives in the Cleveland-area, and enjoys a good cigar once or twice a week!
Chris Hicks
Chris Hicks is an outspoken government ethics and integrity activist in Clermont County. Mr. Hicks is an independent business consultant who has worked companies such as Samsung, Dell, IBM and SAP (Sybase) on sales and channel growth in over 50 countries. He is a fervent MAGA supporter who is committed to “draining the SWAMP.” Mr. Hicks worked with others to catalyze the “Contract with the District,” a tool to better understand local school board candidates’ positions on key issues facing school boards and to recruit better candidates for the 2021 election.
He lives in Union Township, Clermont County with his wife of 30 years and son who will be a senior at Miami University. Mr. Hicks is active in Clermont County politics: as the Chairman of the Union Township Republican Central Committee and as a member of the Clermont County Republican Executive Committee. He has prevailed in legal cases involving protection of 1st Amendment rights and the Ohio Open Meetings Act. He has been involved with convictions of several elected officials and the termination of several government employees for improper activities. His focus on exposing corruption and unethical behavior has earned him four impeachment votes and one trial within the Republican Party. His HicksWatchdog Facebook page is a well-known source of information on politics in Clermont County.
Brendan Shea
Brendan Shea was elected to the State Board of Education by the people of the 10th District in November 2020. The 10th District includes Adams, Brown, Clark, Clermont, Clinton, Fayette, Gallia, Greene, Highland, Jackson, Lawrence, Madison, Pike, Ross, Scioto and the western portions of Pickaway and Vinton counties.
Hailing from a large family of educators, Brendan believes deeply in the life-changing power of education. He believes education should focus on the good, the true and the beautiful and that children must learn to think critically and develop wisdom and virtue, allowing them to achieve their God-given potential and to become engaged citizens and productive members of society.
As the father of five young children,
Brendan knows firsthand the unique challenges families face in raising and educating their children today. He believes parents are the first and primary educators of their children, and he will be a strong voice for both parents and children on the Board.
Meet Parents, Teachers and Educators Who Tell You the Facts
This is a Virtual Class Only
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Tuesday, May 11, 2021
Price Winners: Michelle L, Constant Y, Rich F, Finn L … Congrats!
“We are corrupting kids’ souls” — Bob Frantz, The Authority 1420 AM
Critical Race Theory (CRT) holds that the law and legal institutions in the United States are inherently racist insofar as they function to create and maintain social, economic, and political inequalities between whites and nonwhites, especially African Americans. –Brittanica
Since the Ohio State School Board passed the Resolution to Condemn Racism and Advance Equityin July 2020 under the cover of Covid-19, Critical Race Theory has started to spring up in schools all around the State. Tonight we will hear from Parents of Students that have seen CRT first hand and the wedge it creates by pitting students of different colors against each other. You will hear from Kara Molfetta, a Lakota Parent and what she found out about the school’s lesson plan one day when her son came home from school. You’ll learn about Dan’s lawsuit against the State Board of Education and what happened when the Board told Dan that he was not allowed to make any public comments about Race to the State of Ohio School Board.
Meet Kirsten Hill, an elected member of the State Board of Education. Kirsten will fill you in on the background of the School Board and how the decision made by the Board has allowed Critical Race Theory to become more prevalent. Hear from researcher Tom Hagedorn who will take us through a short description of Marxism and the clear line between Marxism and Critical Race Theory. It’s a definition you need to be clear on. Meet Mark Raczynski an 8th grade American History teacher for the past 24 years on the importance of teaching History to our kids and his views on the Board of Education’s Resolution.
Kirsten Hill
Tom Hagedorn
Mark Raczynski
Learn about the large–6th largest in the State–Olentangy School District, with it’s 22,000 students and 4 Diversity Officers. Maureen Botos will talk to you about the length the School District has gone to indoctrinate children and their teachers. Including their choice of speakers hired by the district for “training”.
Maureen Botos
On this night we will also be joined by Karen Burton and Colleen Schitter who have lived in the King’s Local School District for 8 and 20 years. They will talk to us about the kids required reading list (does the name Ibram X. Kendi sound familiar?) and issues involved with concerns over curriculum.
Karen Burton and Colleen Schitter
More than anything tonight, EmpowerU wants to send you the clear message that Critical Race Theory is in Ohio now and you need to watch what is happening in your kids and grandkid’s schools.
Just added to the program, Kim Georgeton will discuss CRT and its evolution to Private Schools and the potential of this “Marxianity” moving into your churches. Hey we want to make sure you understand D.E.I. if it comes up in your school.
Kim Georgeton
The Governor of Ohio, ultimately has the ability to stop the Marxist Class Warfare of Critical Race Theory. We have reached out to Governor Mike DeWine and Lieutenant Jon Husted and asked one of them to make a comment at tonight’s session. To read the many, many resource articles on Critical Race Theory go to www.empoweruohio.org and choose the first tab at the top “Critical Race Theory” or click here.
Jack Windsor – is an Investigative Reporter for WMFD in Mansfield and the Managing Editor at The Ohio Star. During the first several months of Covid-19 Jack was the reporter who consistently asked Governor DeWine difficult questions. Jack joins EmpowerU from 7:05-7:15 PM to fill us in on his perspective of his work on Covid-19 and how he thinks Ohio has done with the pandemic. He’ll also give us an update on projects that he is currently working on.
Speakers Bio
Kirsten Hill was elected to the State Board of Education in November 2018, representing District 2. Her term began in January 2019 and expires in December 2022. Kirsten and her husband, Andy, operated her family’s year-round farm market in Lorain County for 25 years. She also ran a seasonal farm-tour business, hosting families and preschool through elementary classes for many years.
Kara Molfetta, is a Lakota Parent. Learn what she found out about her school’s lesson plan one day when her son came home from school. Kara has been instrumental in talking about CRT and sex education in schools and has helped mobilize people to help parents understand the real threat that is taking place.
Tom Hagedorn is a “professional student.” He loves reading, researching, and writing about many topics. In his college days, he co-published two papers in peer-reviewed scientific journals. More recently, he published Founding Zealots: How Evangelicals Created America’s First Public Schools, 1783-1865.” He has taught classes at Xavier University and for the Osher Lifelong Living Institute (OLLI). He has enjoyed a career in financial services that spans five decades. He is married with two adult children and three grandchildren.
Mark Raczynski has been an 8th grade American History teacher for the past 24 years. He is also a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps where he served as a tow missile operator in Desert Shield/Storm. He lives in rural Ashland County with his wife, Christi (also a teacher), and his three high school children, Joshua, Rebekah and Nathan. He is currently a member of the VFW and Medina Bible Church both located in Medina, Ohio.
Colleen Schitter has lived in the Kings Local School District in Warren County, Ohio for 20 years. She and her husband raised two children who attended public school, vocational school and a home-schooling cooperative. Colleen became a watch dog for the public schools when, while working on a bond issue, she discovered issues spanning campaign violations to concerns over curriculum. Her passion is advocating for the students and the community to obtain and maintain excellency in Kings Local.
Maureen Botos is a native Ohioan that moved to the Olentangy district from Missouri in March 2020. Her husband and three kids, 13, 11, and 6, moved to the district because they were told it was one of the best in the state near Columbus. After being in the district for just a few months, Maureen, a stay at home mother, noticed that the district was promoting many controversial views. While working with many like minded parents to open the schools full-time this Fall, she was shocked at what was actually being taught in the classrooms already. This prompted her, and many other parents to create a Facebook group to gather information, expose CRT to other parents, and organize a way to keep it out of the classroom. From this group, they are starting a non-profit called Olentangy For Students. This will allow the group to get messaging out to parents and also show parents how they can help to combat this racist ideology.
Karen Burton has lived in the Kings Local School District for 8 years. She raised two sons who are both husbands, fathers and productive members of society. One is an IT Manager at a Fortune 500 company, and the other is a research scientist at a National Laboratory. She recently became a voice for parents who are afraid to speak against Critical Race Theory when a friend shared her child’s struggle with a required reading assignment that vilified Christians, white people and the foundations of our country.
Kim Georgeton is a concerned parent of a ninth grade student at a local private Christian school in Cincinnati, Ohio. She has been following the cultural and societal developments over the last several months and has grave concerns about the future education of our youth. She has noticed changes in the “worldview” being force-fed into our society by the mainstream media, through governmental education policies with our very own tax dollars and even through a shift in the church that seeks to manipulate the minds of our next generation. She was born and raised in Cincinnati, OH, but has traveled the world.
Vivek Ramaswamy Joins EmpowerU to Discuss His book "Woke, Inc."
The November 2020 Elections….The pieces are finally coming together, and they reveal a masterpiece of electoral larceny involving Big Tech oligarchs, activists, and government officials, who weakened ballot chain of custody and voter verification policies, and violated the constitutional authority of state legislatures.
Hear a front liner’s recounting of what actually transpired in Georgia, Pennsylvania and Michigan, from Ken Blackwell, former Secretary of State of Ohio. He worked with teams at these sites and examined the consequential irregularities, illegalities and unconstitutional actions that impacted vote counts. Ken will share his observations and concerns.
Where do we go from here, and how can citizens become involved in bringing about the reforms at the state level?
Vivek Ramaswamy will join us from 7:05 – 7:30 PM. Vivek is a traitor to his class. He’s founded multibillion-dollar enterprises, led a biotech company as CEO, he became a hedge fun partner in his 20’s, trained as a scientist at Harvard and a lawyer at Yale, and grew up the child of immigrants in the small town of Evendale, Ohio. Now he takes you behind the scenes into corporate boardrooms and five-star conferences, into Ivy League classrooms and secret nonprofits, to reveal the defining scam of our century. Vivek’s new book, Woke, Inc. begins as a critique of stakeholder capitalism and ends with an exploration of what it means to be an American in 2021. A graduate of St. X High School, meet a local star that is turning heads on Tucker Carlson’s show and on the Opinion pages of the Wall St. Journal.
Vivek Ramaswamy
Speaker Bio
Ken Blackwell is the Senior Fellow for Human Rights and Constitutional Governance at the Family Research Council. He is a national bestselling author of three books: Rebuilding America: A Prescription For Creating Strong Families, Building The Wealth Of Working People, And Ending Welfare; The Blueprint: Obama’s Plan to Subvert the Constitution and Build an Imperial Presidency; and Resurgent: How Constitutional Conservatism Can Save America.
He serves on the Board of Directors of various high-profile organizations including the Timothy Plan, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems, the United States Air Force Academy Foundation, etc. Mr. Blackwell has had a vast political career. He was Mayor of Cincinnati, Treasurer and Secretary of State for Ohio, Undersecretary at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Human Rights Commission.
He has received many awards and honors for his work in the public sector. These accolades include the U.S. Department of State’s Superior Honor Award for his work in the field of human rights which he received from both the administrations of Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton. In 2004, the American Conservative Union honored Mr. Blackwell with the John M. Ashbrook Award for his steadfast conservative leadership. Ken’s commentaries have been published in major newspapers and websites. In addition, he has been interviewed by many media outlets.
His continuing education has included executive programs at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard. Mr. Blackwell has also received honorary doctoral degrees from ten institutions of higher education. He holds Bachelor of Science and Master of Education degrees from Xavier University in Ohio, where he later served as a vice president and member of its faculty. In 1992, he received Xavier’s Distinguished Alumnus Award and was inducted into Xavier’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2015.
This Class is SOLD OUT!
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Thursday, April 29, 2021
This Class is Sold Out — Sorry!
Doors to EmpowerU Studio Open at 6:30 PM
“Political correctness is the elevation of moral posturing about sensitivity over truth” –Jordan Peterson
Join EmpowerU at the movies as we watch the incredible documentary of “The Rise of Jordan Peterson.” Had enough of the new PC culture and social justice that is dominating us? This movie is for you as it presents a rare, intimate glimpse into the life and mind of Jordan Peterson, the academic and best-selling author who captured the world’s attention with his criticisms of political correctness and his life-changing philosophy on discovering personal meaning.
Christened as the most influential public intellectual in the western world, University of Toronto psychology professor Jordan Peterson skyrocketed to fame after he published a controversial viral video series entitled “Professor Against Political Correctness” in 2016. Peterson had enough of what he saw as a campus culture where “social justice warrior, left-wing radical political activists” ran rampant. He zeroed in on Canadian human rights legislation that prohibits discrimination based on gender identify or expression. Peterson was especially frustrated with being asked to use alternative pronouns as requested by trans students or staff, like the singular “they” or “ze” and “zir” used by some as alternatives to “she” or “he”. Peterson’s employer warned that he could run afoul of the Ontario Human Rights code and his faculty responsibilities should he refuse to use alternative pronouns when requested.
“Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today.” –Jordan Peterson
Peterson’s main concern was that by outlawing the use of language and certain words that our liberties are being run over by Government. Within 2 years, he had sold over 3 million copies of his self-help book “12 Rules for Life,” and became simultaneously branded by some as the academic rock star selling out theatres around the world, and by others as a dangerous threat to progressive society.
“The Rise of Jordan Peterson” intimately traces the transformative period of Peterson’s life while visiting rare moments with his family, friends and foes who share their own versions of the Jordan Peterson Story.
“The purpose of life is finding the largest burden that you can bear and bearing it.” –Jordan Peterson
Since this class is a movie presentation it will not be presented virtually–please join us.
This Class is Only an In-Person Class
Join Ray Hughes and Follow This Incredible Adventure
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
The Great Escape, as it came to be known, was a mass escape attempt from the prisoner of war camp Stalag Luft III located near the Polish town of Zagan. The purpose-built camp was opened in April 1942, and the Germans considered it to be practically escape-proof.
The camp housed mainly British and American airmen whose planes had crashed on Axis territory. The Germans generally captured prisoners with the words ‘For you the war is over.’ However, it was the sworn duty of all captured military personnel to continue to fight the enemy by surviving, communicating information and escaping. The Germans believed that security at the new camp was so tight that it would be impossible for anyone to escape.
Picture from the Famous Movie
It was realized early on that for any escape attempt to succeed it had to be well planned and organized. The Prisoners at Sagan therefore established an escape committee. The committee decided to build three tunnels and the plan was to effect the escape of at least 200 prisoners. The tunnels were given the code names ‘Tom’, ‘Dick’ and ‘Harry’. Lots were drawn for 200 places, and on March 24, 1944, The Great Escape was attempted. Of the 76 men who escaped, 3 made it home to the UK, 23 were recaptured and sent back to Sagan. Hitler personally ordered the execution of the other 50 men.
Although only 3 men managed to reach safety and 50 men were murdered, the escape caused havoc among the Germans.
Speaker Bio
Intelligence Operations Airman 2nd Class Raymond G. Hughes, Petersburg, KY, entered the Air Force in 1956, serving for four years in the USAF intelligence school Target Planning & Survival unit until 1960. Hughes served during the Cold War with the 8th Air Force 100 Bomb Wing Intelligence Division, primarily with Strategic Air Command.
Airman Hughes continued to serve his community as an instructor at the Yudan School of Self Defense Karate and Judo, where he trained men, women, and children in the art of self-defense. He became a voice for veterans and one of the most respected members of the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders, where he dedicated his time and energy in making life more comfortable for other members.
Raymond serves as historian and even manager for the USS Hornet Breakfast Group conducts events for veterans at the Cincinnati Hamilton County Public Library, and interviews veterans of all wars in collaboration with the National Archives in Washington, D.C. where he has interviewed 75 veterans to date. Twice each month, he can be found transporting veterans from Twin Towers Retirement Center to shop for personal items. Raymond is involved in the Sons of the American Revolution and takes pride in helping others trace their ancestral lineage.
How To Fight Back to Save Your Community!-- In Person and Zoom
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
There is a determined force in the world dedicated to an agenda designed to “reorganize human society.” To achieve that agenda they are on a drive to change our American economic system, abolish private property, and change our system of representative government. Most importantly, they have focused on making those changes primarily through control of government on the local level. This presentation will reveal the players and their tactics, and how to fight back. You will learn how to take the offensive to restore your community as a Freedom Pod where free enterprise, private property and individual choice are protected.
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Tom DeWeese is one of the nation’s leading advocates of individual liberty, free enterprise, private property rights, and American sovereignty and independence. Tom DeWeese was one of the first to voice concern over the radical agenda of the environmental movement and to question its motives.
Tom is a native of Ohio. He’s been a candidate for the Ohio Legislature, served as editor of two newspapers, and has owned several businesses. In 1989 Tom led the only privately-funded election-observation team to the Panamanian elections. In 2006 Tom was invited to Cambridge University to debate the issue of the United Nations before the Cambridge Union, a 200 year old debating society.
Today he serves as Founder and President of the American Policy Center and editor of The DeWeese Report and author of three books: “Now Tell Me I Was Wrong,” “ERASE,” a fictional political thriller, and his most recent policy book entitled “Sustainable, the War on Free Enterprise, Private Property and Individuals.”
Rodney Musterspaw on What It's Really Like to be a Police Chief
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Tuesday, April 20, 2021
Doors to EmpowerU Studio Open at 6:30 PM. In Person or Virtual Class.
For 30 years, former Middletown Police Chief Rodney Muterspaw handled brutal crimes that invaded his hometown. During his tenure, he saw the dark, ugly and cruel side of human nature. One of his survival mechanisms was to journal the daily events. It relieved his tension. It was therapy. He wrote in notebooks, on his laptop and on his phone. One day, while unpacking boxes, he discovered his journal entries. As he sifted through them, he was overpowered by the myriad of emotions stemming from each memory. “There were funny stories, notes of the day, things he had heard, his experiences, serious thoughts and observations that he had had. Little did he know that a simple daily journaling habit would turn him into an author.
The ex-chief does not condone bad behavior by cops. In his book he addresses the complex issues of racial profiling, evidence planting and untruthful statements. While he sometimes paints a transparent, unflattering portrait of police officers, he also acknowledges that the opioid crisis, structural poverty, lack of education and racial profiling have contributed to more crimes than a single police department could handle.
Rodney will take you to the inside of a police officer’s life, the life you don’t see. It will change the way you think about law enforcement. He says “The truth is that you cannot be trained enough to do this job.”
The Blue View is a brand new release and is already a 5 star read on Amazon, and the audio book was just released in January. Plus it has already been read in four other countries. Autographed copies of The Blue View will be available for $15, cash only, immediately following Rodney’s presentation.
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EmpowerU Board Member Barb Horwitz will be joining us from 7:05-7:25 tonight to talk to us about McCarthyism. With cancel- culture at its height this discussion, which takes us back to the 1950’s may prove to be beneficial for many of us to learn about and reflect on.
Barb Horwitz
Speaker Bio
Rodney Muterspaw was born and raised in Middletown, Ohio. He rose through the ranks of the police force, becoming Chief in 2015. He won numerous rewards throughout his career before retiring in 2019. Remains active in his community through his new career in real estate, community work, and speaking engagements. Muterspaw still resides in Middletown, Ohio, is married with three children and two grandchildren.
Learn About One of the Most Important Political Decisions Ever Made
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Charles Krauthammer called Winston Churchill “the most important person of the 20th Century”. Learn about his incredible life.
Churchill was a British statesman, army officer, and writer. He was Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1940-1945 during the Second World War he formed the key triangle of Allied Leaders which included Franklin D. Roosevelt, Churchill, and Joseph Stalin. Churchill again became Prime Minister from 1951 to 1955. Aside from his two years between 1922 and 1924 Churchill served in Parliament from 1900-1964. During this time he represented several different constituencies. In the early years from 1904-1924 Churchill was a member of the Liberal Party and was ideologically an economic liberal and imperialist for most of his career. Later, he served as a member of the Conservative Party, where he was leader from 1940-1955.
Joseph Stalin, Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill
Fearless on the battlefield, he hated war. He was a famous journalist and and the greatest orator of our time despite a lisp and chronic depression. His speeches were inspirational. His open-mindedness made him a trailblazer in social welfare, though he remained almost totally politically incorrect. Learn about the key decision Churchill made that may be the most important decision ever made by a political leader. EmpowerU Managing Board Member Dan Regenold helps us learn and focus on the accomplishments of Prime Minister Winston Churchill.
As Boris Johnson, current Prime Minister of the United Kingdom says, “Most of all, Churchill was proof that one person–intrepid, ingenious, determined–can make all the difference.”
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. In 2010 Regenold was of three leaders of the initiative to End Ohio’s Estate Tax which happened in 2011. The Tax Foundation called the repeal of Ohio Estate Tax one of the most important Tax accomplishments of 2011. In 2011 Regenold founded EmpowerUOhio.org (now in its 21st semester), 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 Sale Tax which helped the Museum Center renovation get passed by the voters of Hamilton County. 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, Net Neutrality, D-Day, The Deficit Mess and America at EmpowerU Classes. Regenold is CEO of Frame USA, Inc. in Springdale.
Bob McEwen Returns to Speak At EmpowerU --as We Travel on The Road to 20th Century Theater
20th Century Theater 3021 Madison Road Cincinnati, Ohio 45209
An economics major and six-term Member of the United States Congress, Bob explains the part that Liberty plays in understanding why some nations are rich and some nations are poor. America has been a very successful nation. What has set America apart? What has allowed it to become the most prosperous in the world? Our economic system and trade policy have significant implications on both our freedom and prosperity.
Currently, America is at a crossroads and must make a choice about how it will chart its course over the next decade. It can either embrace what has allowed our country to become successful or it can adopt the ways of less prosperous and less free nations around the world.
Speaker Bio
Bob McEwen served six terms in the U.S. House of Representatives representing Ohio. During his congressional tenure, McEwen was selected by his colleagues to the senior position as one of four Republicans on the powerful House Committee Rules that manages floor time for members and has jurisdiction over all legislation. He was also a member of the House Select Committee on Intelligence and a U.S. delegate to the European Parliament for over a decade. Prior to Congress, he served three terms in the Ohio House of Representatives. In 2020, he was appointed by President Trump to the 1776 Commission to better enable a rising generation to understand the history and principles of the founding of the United States. He is also the Executive Director of the Council for National Policy.
Nancy Brunemann, Accountant to Join Us for Last Minute Tax Tips!
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Anyone who remembers hearing about the Ryan Widmer “bathtub drowning” case—and people who just wonder about what happens behind-the-scenes in any major court case—will find this talk fascinating!
Award-winning author Janice Hisle, who covered all three of Widmer’s trials for The Cincinnati Enquirer, will reveal unique insights about one of the region’s most-debated murder cases—and will discuss powerful lessons that can be learned from it.
Janice lives near the Warren County, Ohio, neighborhood where 24-year-old Sarah Widmer drowned in her own bathtub back in 2008; Sarah’s husband of four months, Ryan, then 27, was accused of murder. Even after Widmer was convicted in 2011, Janice couldn’t stop thinking about the case. So she combed through more than 10,000 pages of records…and found compelling new information that was never made public during any of Widmer’s trials. This information was released for the first time in Janice’s book, SUBMERGED: Ryan Widmer, his drowned bride and the justice system.
Some people believe that Widmer’s story “just didn’t add up,” and they think he is right where he belongs–behind bars, serving 15-to-life. But many other readers of SUBMERGED wonder whether Sarah Widmer’s death was really a murder at all.
She did suffer from strange bouts of sleepiness and other possible signs of medical disorders that have been linked to unexplained drownings—yet no tests were ever done to rule out those problems, not even during her autopsy. Since then, prosecutors have refused to release Sarah’s DNA for testing; a battle over the DNA and other issues has been pending for more than six years in federal court.
Janice will outline controversies and questions that continue to swirl around this baffling case now, more than a dozen years after a beautiful young woman’s relaxing bath turned tragic—either by murder or by medical misfortune.
Autographed copies of SUBMERGED will be available for $20, cash only, immediately following Janice’s presentation.
Nancy Brunemann, an accountant with Platinum Accounting Services will join us between 7:05-7:20 pm to discuss any last minute tax filing tips. We hear that the Federal Government is going to require us to turn in our tax return for 2020 sometime…. Join Nancy for good and important information you can use.
Nancy Brunemann
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Janice Hisle worked more than two decades as an award-winning journalist before becoming an acclaimed author and freelance writer.
In 2020, her debut book, SUBMERGED: Ryan Widmer, his drowned bride and the justice system, took top honors in the True Crime category of two national contests: the Indie Reader Discovery Awards and the National Indie Excellence Award. The book has earned more than 100 five-star ratings on Amazon.com, and, at times, has ranked among the top 30 in its category. Janice has done more than 50 public presentations about the book, sometimes speaking to standing-room-only crowds of people who, like her, continued to wonder about the 2008 drowning of 24-year-old Sarah Widmer and the prosecution of her husband of four months, Ryan.
SUBMERGED exposes hidden angles of a nationally publicized bathtub-drowning mystery, which Janice covered for The Cincinnati Enquirer through three spellbinding trials.
Janice recently completed her second book, a biography of a Cincinnati-area philanthropist; she will share information about it during her EmpowerU presentation.
A summa cum laude graduate of Kent State University, Janice worked 15 years for the Enquirer, and previously worked for newspapers in Dayton, Youngstown and Kent-Ravenna.
In recent years, she also has covered high-profile court cases for The Associated Press, including the 2019 trial of a Warren County teen who was acquitted of killing her newborn infant. But the teen, Brooke Skylar Richardson, was convicted of corpse abuse for burying the baby in her home’s back yard. Janice also covered the trials of Ray Tensing. He was the University of Cincinnati police officer who stood trial for murder twice in 2017-18, but both trials ended with deadlocked juries.
On the side, Janice teaches group fitness classes—so her feet stay as busy as her keyboard does.
Sin City’s Underworld and The Supper Club Inferno
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
The Beverly Hills Supper Club was Vegas before Vegas was cool. It was known as the “Showplace of the Nation” before it burned to the ground in 1977, killing at least 165 people—one of the worst fires in U.S. history. But few knew that the Beverly Hills had a violent past of deadly arson beginning in 1936, when it was taken over by the Cleveland mob that ran “Sin City” in Newport, Kentucky—an open city of prostitution, extortion, gambling and violence for decades, until new U.S. Attorney General Bobby Kennedy went to war on the mob in 1961. His first target was Newport.
This is the story of a crime empire on the banks of the Ohio River, in the backyard of Ivory clean Cincinnati, and the war to clean it up that led to the assassination of Bobby’s brother, President John F. Kennedy. It’s a story of mobsters, hookers, murder and dice; dirty cops, crooked politicians and the underworld bosses whose power reached into the FBI, Congress and the White House.
Given the context of history, what happened in 1977 and the cover-up that followed were no surprise. Survivors have spent four decades digging to unearth disturbing evidence that the fire was arson—just like the first fire in 1936.
Their case is presented here, with the aid of FBI files obtained through an FOIA request, first-hand witness accounts and extensive research that uncovers new evidence and tragic stories of the victims and survivors. Autographed copies of FORBIDDEN FRUIT will be available for $20, cash only, immediately following Peter’s presentation.
Speaker Bio
Peter Bronson, author of 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 started his news career in Michigan after graduating from Michigan State University in his hometown of East Lansing, Michigan. He 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 also 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 best-seller. He is co-author of Legacy of Courage: True Stories of Honor Flight Veterans, and Legacy of Courage II. Chilidog 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.
The Tyranny of Experts Turned a Pandemic into a Catastrophe!
What was the price of the Covid 19-Panic? For the first time in history, the world shut itself down—by choice—all for fear of a virus that was not well understood. The government, with the support of most Americans, ordered the closure of tens of thousands of small businesses—many never to return. Almost every school and college in the country sent its students home to finish the school year in front of a computer. Churches canceled worship services. “Social distancing” went from a non-word to a moral obligation overnight. Moral preening on social media achieved ever-new heights.
The world will reopen, and life will go on, but what kind of world will it be when it does? It cannot be what it was, because of what just happened.
Relentlessly focused on what we know and don’t know about the coronavirus, Professors Jay Richards, William Briggs, and Douglas Axe take a deep dive into the crucial questions on the minds of millions of Americans during one of the most jarring and unprecedented global events in a generation. They relentlessly focused on what they knew and didn’t know about the coronavirus demonstrating in this eye-opening study what real experts can contribute when a pandemic strikes. We need to know what and how it happened, to keep it from ever happening again.
Speaker Bios
Jay W. Richards, Ph.D., O.P. is a Research Assistant Professor in the Busch School of Business at The Catholic University of America, a Senior Fellow at the Discovery Institute, and the Executive Editor of The Stream.
Richards is author or editor of more than a dozen books including the New York Times bestsellers Infiltrated (2013) and Indivisible (2012), The Human Advantage, and Money, Greed, and God, winner of a 2010 Templeton Enterprise Award. His newest book is The Price of Panic: How the Tyranny of Expert Turned a Pandemic Into a Catastrophe.
He is also creator and executive producer of several documentaries, including three that have appeared widely on PBS. Richards’ articles and essays have been published in The Harvard Business Review, Wall Street Journal, Barron’s, Washington Post, the New York Post, Newsweek, Forbes, Fox News, National Review Online, The Hill, Investor’s Business Daily, Washington Times, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Huffington Post, The Federalist, and many other publications. He has written and lectured on a wide range of topics, including culture, economics, public policy, natural science, technology, and the environment.
Sean Maloney Returns to Empower!
EmpowerU Zoom Class Register to Attend Online ,
Tuesday, March 23, 2021
To Contact Sean Maloney here is your contact information: smaloneyesq@gmail.com Phone: 513-463-0073 Office
5 Universal Concepts Every Gun Owner MUST Understand
Do you know that just touching a gun might be considered lethal force … that “stand your ground” means something different in every state … that you may be judged by a “reasonable man” standard?
Do you know the only reason you can justifiably use lethal force? Are you prepared to prove the “3” elements that justify your use of lethal force? Attorney and gun law expert Sean Maloney from Second Call Defense will review the basic concepts of lethal force, how they are interpreted by the legal system, and what it all means for you as a gun owner.
Speaker Bio
Sean Maloney
Sean Maloney is a passionate defender of the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution. He is a defense attorney and member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers who practices in all areas of firearm-related law, including 2nd Amendment rights, criminal defense, federal and state restoration of gun rights, and federal NICS appeals. He has appeared as an expert witness in a variety of civil lawsuits related to firearms.
As an attorney, Sean’s law practice focuses on defending the rights of law-abiding gun owners who are forced to use their firearms in self-defense through Second Call Defense, which he co-founded.
Anyone with an Internet connection can read the latest news, listen to their favorite music, chat with friends, search for anything online, shop, pay bills, play games, and watch videos, all for “free”. But it’s not really free. If you’re not paying with money, you’re paying with data. You’re not the customer, you’re the product.
Companies like Google and Facebook harvest every little bit of data that they can get their hands on, and monetize it in a variety of ways including selling it to other companies, who may or may not secure it correctly. And the now with the nature of the Internet coupled with the ever increasing number of “smart” devices that we interact with are collecting volumes of very detailed information about how and where we live, work and play 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It’s relentless and pervasive and in many cases, not obvious. Americans are sleepwalking into a future nearly as frightening as the one the Chinese are constructing”.
At this session, Dave Hatter will explore privacy and security for your devices. He will also discuss the type of data that is being collected, how it’s being collected, how it’s being used, how it’s being misused, why you should care about improving your privacy, and tools and techniques to limit your digital footprint. When Dave is done with his presentation we will allow you to call in live to ask Dave questions from your home zoom connection. The number to call is:
513-672-1266
Our new call-in technology puts Dave as close as you fingertips for you IT questions.
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Speaker Bio
“Doomsday” Dave Hatter is a technology leader with nearly 30 years of software development, cybersecurity and project management experience. He has earned numerous industry certifications and, holds a BS in Information Systems from NKU. Dave is especially good at bridging the gap between business and technology and has delivered more than 200 successful software solutions earning nearly 60 testimonial letters from his clients. Additionally, he has written or contributed to 12 technology books, written more than 100 technology related articles for publications and, been quoted in many publications.
Libertas Technologies, the software development company Dave founded in 2001, was honored with many awards, but he is especially proud of winning the Cincinnati Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics in 2007. Dave is now a Cyber Security Consultant at Intrust IT, where he works with clients to educate them about cyber security risks and to help them defend their assets.
Dave is a regular on-air contributor on WXIX (FOX19) and Local 12 (WKRC-TV) and he can be heard every Friday morning at 6:30 AM on 55KRC’s “Tech Friday” segment with host Brian Thomas. He was elected Mayor of Fort Wright, Kentucky in 2014 after serving eight terms on the Fort Wright City Council. Dave currently serves as the VP of Training and Certification for the PMI Southwest Ohio Chapter, and has also served on numerous other boards.
Convention of the States Update to Be Discussed from 6:45-7:30 PM
With all the issues with censorship and personal data misuse by services providers and Big Tech, there has been interest in finding providers who respect personal data and refuse to censor content. Specifically tonight, we will discuss MeWe and Telegraph. Many have you have asked for a “deeper” dive on MeWe and this is your change. Rich Inman will present a few solutions describing how to sign up, how to find friends, expand your network, how to share content, and why you would use each solution.
Just to give you an idea of how much Mark Zuckerberg at Facebook values your input? Here is an package he refused from EmpowerU in December after our class on Social Media where you forwarded your messages to him.
Refused Package Sent by EmpowerU
to Facebook and Mark Zuckerberg
At the first Pirate Radio Session on February 2, several people asked about the status of the Convention of State Project. Mike Mowry is the volunteer leader and State Director for Convention of States in Ohio. Mike will join us from 6:50-7:30 (note special time) to give us an update on the project. In Mike’s words, “I became concerned that the normal electoral process will never address the problem of our Country’s ever-increasing national debt and prospects of passing that debt onto our children and grandchildren. Join Mike Mowry at this session. Convention of States is a controversial subject but offers Citizens one of the few ways that they might win…
Speaker Bios
Richard Inman’s career has focused on leveraging practical technology innovation for strategic advantage. After attending Tri State University, he began his career focusing on Manufacturing Process Control and R&D. He was an early pioneer in Computer Telephone Integration developing multivendor / multiplatform telephony solutions. He also built and managed early Wireless last mile internet access solutions. Rich has spent the last 15 years innovating with Kroger Technology. He has worked with various non-profits to drive digital marketing and social media engagement. He is a vocal privacy and security advocate.
Is Climate Change Real? Dr. Frank Returns to EmpowerU!
Is Climate Change Real? Of course! The climate always changes.
The questions that matter are: do we have much to do with it, and are there things we could possibly do that might actually make a difference.
Dr Frank will walk you through the actual data so that you can make up your own mind, and so you will be able to see through the propaganda from all sides. He’s been aggressively studying the subject, tracking the scientific literature, and Following the Data since the early 1980’s, when the threat of an impending ice age was all the rage.
Dr Frank has tens of thousands of followers on several social media sites (“Follow the Data with Dr Frank”), and his previous appearances and classes have been well received here at Empower U Ohio. You don’t want to miss Dr Frank’s educational, entertaining, and provocative presentation!
Speaker Bios
Douglas G. Frank, Ph.D., grew up on a small Black Angus Ranch in Northern California. His parents were successful entrepreneurs in the areas of insurance, investments, and real estate.
Dr Frank earned a B.A. in Chemistry from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California in 1983. He then attended graduate school at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he completed his doctoral requirements before transferring to the University of Cincinnati in 1986 as part of the Ohio Eminent Scholar program. In 1990 he completed a Ph.D. in Surface Analytical Chemistry.
During his graduate work, he discovered a new phenomenon which was featured in several science books and international journals, including cover articles in Science and Naturwissenschaften.
Dr Frank left academics in 1996. His scientific success as a graduate student and post-doctoral fellow gained him introductions to several U.S. companies, where he continues to apply his scientific, electronics, engineering, and computer expertise to real-life research and manufacturing challenges.
He specializes in the development of custom control and analytical solutions, and has invented several instruments for surface optical characterization, precision force application, and soil analysis by means of portable electron microscopy and spectroscopy. A common thread in his work is the combination of precision motion with delicate measurement and analysis of large amounts of data.
Dr Frank lives in Morrow, Ohio and is married to his high school sweetheart, Donna. He has three adult children: Dynnelle, Daniel, and Deryk. Dr Frank believes in giving back to the community. He is Past-President of the Blue Ash/Montgomery Rotary Club (2002). He is a popular speaker in the areas of Creativity & Innovation, Ethics & Character, Science & Religion, Rotary Polio Eradication, Climate Change, and now Covid-19.
He was honored by the Executive Board of the Presbyterian Association on Science, Technology and the Christian Faith as “one who exemplifies the practice of science as a Christian vocation.” Dr Frank is chair of the Math and Science department and Director of Music at The Schilling School for Gifted Children, a school he helped to establish in the mid 1990’s.
Recently, Dr Frank has gained notoriety for his modeling work on the Covid-19 pandemic. He has been making his work available to the public since January of 2020, and his Facebook page “Dr. Frank Models” (now “Follow the Data with Dr Frank”) has over 50,000 members and followers. Dr. Douglas G. Frank Doug@ToolsForAnalysis.com DrDouglasGFrank@Outlook.com
Steve Goodin, New City of Cincinnati Council-Member to Join EmpowerU
If you’re interested in supplementing your table with fresh organic produce that you can grow with your own skill, try this class. Talk about ‘farm to table’ you can’t get any fresher herbs and vegetables than from backyard to table.
Nothing tastes better than fresh tomatoes, peppers, potatoes and more! The flavor is better than in the grocery store! Try different types and varieties of herbs and spices for example; basil, drying hot peppers, marjoram, sage, lavender, fennel, dill. Watch them grow! There are many benefits to growing your own food. You can even grow in an apartment or patio. There are so many more varieties and colors out there than in the grocery store.
Cincinnati Lawyer Steve Goodin is one of the newest member’s of Cincinnati’s City Council replacing Council-Person Jeff Pastor. Join Steve tonight from 7:05-7:25 PM to learn about his vision of Cincinnati and what he hopes to accomplish.
Steve Goodin
Steve Goodin was appointed Interim Council member to Cincinnati City Council on November 30, 2020. Goodin is a proud product of public schools. He received his undergraduate degrees from Miami University and his juris doctorate from the University of Cincinnati College of Law. He also did coursework at the University of Virginia College of Law JAG school.
He was raised in a union household and understands the value of hard work. He is a partner at Graydon Law where he serves on the Executive Committee and has lived in three neighborhoods—Northside, Downtown and Clifton. He is the father of three children.
His primary goal is to address systemic corruption at City Hall. He hopes to return council’s focus to creating jobs, providing safe neighborhoods and fostering a more just and inclusive city for all.
Public service has been a constant throughout Goodin’s life. He served in Africa as a Peace Corps volunteer and later as an officer in the U.S. Army Reserve. In 2007-08, he was mobilized as a Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG) prosecutor with the XVII Airborne Corps at Fort Bragg, N.C.
Speaker Bios
Karen Cartier:
Karen is an avid reader, writer, learner, wife, and mother of two. She has worked in IT as a technical writer for over 30 years and is currently working full-time in IT. Outside of her paying job, she serves as an officer in Toastmasters International as well as a volunteer Community Educator for the Alzheimer’s Association.
Leigh Ann Cartier:
Leigh Ann is a senior at Wilmington College majoring in Criminal Justice and Spanish. She has been successfully growing organic vegetables both in-ground and in containers as a hobby for some time.
Thea Shoemake joins EmpowerU to update us on "Everything's Political"
We have all encountered loss during the COVID-19 pandemic, loss of loved ones, loss of connections and loss of the freedoms we enjoyed before. As a result, many of us experience anger, frustration, and fear that at times can become overwhelming. Please join Erica Birkley in learning and practicing science-based strategies for effectively managing and regulating these emotions.
Thea Shoemake joins EmpowerU from 7:05-7:25 pm to update us on Education and her new Podcast called “Everything’s Political”.Twenty-five years ago, after answering his umpteenth question about sports by using a political analogy, my husband asked: “Is everything political to you? “No,” I responded. “Everything’s political, period. Meet Thea and access a new, resource for Ohio and more.
Everything’s Political Podcast–Produced by Joe Strecker
Speaker Bio
Dr. Erica Birkley is an Anderson Township resident, spouse, and mother to a 4-year old curious explorer. She is a psychologist and Assistant Professor within the UC College of Medicine. Dr. Birkley specializes in the treatment of stress, insomnia, anger, and depression among adults and couples. She loves bonfires with her neighbors, shopping Plants by Wolfangel, Zumba at the Mercy Anderson Healthplex, Beech Acres, A Fair of the Arts, Salem Garden’s burgers, and Coney Island’s tube slide.
This class will examine the impact of Alexander Hamilton on the founding of the United States. Both Alexander Hamilton and George Washington were shaped by their experiences during the American Revolution. Serving at Washington’s side during that war, Hamilton was appalled by the inefficiency of the government under the Articles of Confederation and by the reluctance of the states to contribute to the war effort. On September 11, 1789, the nomination of Alexander Hamilton as the nation’s first Treasury Secretary was submitted by President Washington.
Later that day, Hamilton became the first cabinet nominee confirmed by the United States Senate. President Washington and Secretary Hamilton were determined not only to strengthen the new American government but to create a sense of American identity. They were devoted to persuading their fellow citizens to think of themselves as Americans, not as Virginians or New Yorkers. It was truly remarkable that they succeeded in this endeavor, creating a Republic that has survived for over 230 years.
George Brunemann, is a local activist and will join us from 7:05-7:25 pm to talk about the next steps that Citizens need to take to preserve our Great Country. George was the leader of one of the largest groups, The Southwest Ohio Tea Party, for several years in Hamilton County.
Speaker Bio
Stephen F. Knott is the Thomas & Mabel Guy Professor of American History and Government at Ashland University and Professor of National Security Affairs at the United States Naval War College.
He served as co-chair of the University of Virginia’s Presidential Oral History Program and directed the Ronald Reagan Oral History Project. He is the author of Alexander Hamilton and the Persistence of Myth; Secret and Sanctioned: Covert Operations and the American Presidency;The Reagan Years;At Reagan’s Side: Insiders’ Recollections from Sacramento to the White House, and Rush to Judgment: George W. Bush, the War on Terror, and His Critics. His most recent book, Washington and Hamilton: The Alliance that Forged America, was co-authored with Tony Williams, and was published in September, 2015.
Professor Knott received his Ph.D. in Political Science from Boston College, and has taught at the United States Air Force Academy and the University of Virginia.
Matt Wahlert and Jay Carson to Join Us from 7:05-7:30 PM
If you missed the first installment of Talks held earlier this month, you missed a lot of fun. “Talks” is a new series of
fered by the team at EmpowerU. This is an opportunity for those who have attended EmpowerU classes to talk and listen to
members of the community. With so many things going on in the world right now it seems like the perfect time to hear what you have to say.
Our new technology allows you to call in on the telephone while we are on a “Zoom” call and discuss topics you find most important. EmpowerU “Talks” is a sort of a “Pirate Radio” station in a time when Big Media is shutting down conservative free thought. Shiver Me Timbers!
Join us for on Tuesday, February 25 for a second installment of this edgy new talk format designed to give us an uncensored forum.
There are many things we can discuss:
The Great Rush Limbaugh–Tell us a Story that You Remember–Or Share something you learned!
Does Either Political Party Represent you?
Who should replace Rob Portman?
Big Tech Censorship
Education in Ohio
Biden and Trump
Covid 19 and Governor DeWine
Equity vs. Equality
If you have been talking about all these subjects…maybe to yourself…now if your time to sound-off! When you sign on to Zoom if you want to talk you will be given a telephone number to dial into.
(513)572-1266
(Call in number if you want to talk)
EmpowerU wants to hear what you have to say…now!
Matt Wahlert is an Vice-President of the Colerain Township Government and will join us from 7:05-7:15 PM. He is a PHD in Political Science. Matt learned about the great fraud problem in the Ohio Government when he received a W2 from the Ohio Unemployment Commission for earnings that he never received that were fraudulently generated by hackers and thieves. Learn about this massive fraud of your monies in the State of Ohio. What do you do if this problem happens to you–it is happening to many, many people. Matt will join us from 7:07-7:15 PM)
Attorney Jay Carson from Buckeye Institute also to Join Session… Jay Carson is a Senior Litigator for the Buckeye Institute. Find out about the important two lawsuits Buckeye has filed on behalf of two Ohioans-Eric Denison of Westerville and Josh Schaad of Blue Ash-which call for the courts to declare unconstitutional an Ohio law that allows the cities of Columbus and Cincinnati to tax the income of workers who do not live in, and have not been working within, the respective municipalities. These lawsuits could have important implications for you if you work from home. Jay will join us from 7:15-7:30 PM.
Jay Carson
Speaker Bio
Dan Regenold is the Managing Board Member of EmpowerU, which is about to begin it’s 21st semester offering FREE Classes in Ohio. In his ,free time Dan loves to dream about what is… and how GREAT things could be. Join Dan on this maiden voyage of EmpowerU “Talks”. See if he falls flat on his posterior! Dan loves his work as CEO of Frame USA, Inc. a GREAT American Made Manufacturer of Picture frames located in Springdale, Ohio. To find out more about Dan Click Here.
“Talks” is a new series offered by the team at EmpowerU. This is an opportunity for those who have attended EmpowerU classes to talk and listen to members of the community. With so many things going on in the world right now it seems like the perfect time to hear what you have to say.
Our new technology allows you to call in on the telephone while we are on a “Zoom” call and discuss topics you find most important. EmpowerU “Talks” is a sort of a “pirate radio” station in a time when Big Media is shutting down conservative free thought.
Join us for on Tuesday, February 2 for an edgy new talk format designed to give us an uncensored forum. Soapbox radio… Dan’s “burning” of the 3×5 card of conventional wisdom.
There are many things we can discuss:
Does Either Political Party Represent you?
Who should replace Rob Portman?
Big Tech Censorship
Biden and Trump
Covid 19
Equity vs. Equality
If you have been talking about all these subjects…maybe to yourself…now if your time to sound-off! When you sign on to Zoom if you want to talk you will be given a telephone number to dial into.
(513)572-1266
(Call in number if you want to talk)
EmpowerU wants to hear what you have to say…now!
Speaker Bio
Dan Regenold is the Managing Board Member of EmpowerU. which is about to begin it’s 21st semester offering FREE Classes in Ohio. In his free time Dan loves to dream about what is… and how GREAT things could be. Join Dan on this maiden voyage of EmpowerU “Talks”. See if he falls flat on his posterior! Dan loves his work as CEO of Frame USA, Inc. a GREAT American Made Manufacturer of Picture frames located in Springdale, Ohio. To find out more about Dan Click Here.
This New Class Will Be Presented Virtually EmpowerU Studio is Closed Due To Covid-19
The Webinar will address the second major COVID stimulus bill passed after months of wrangling between Republicans and Democrats in Congress that provides (i) tax deductibility for expenditure of prior PPP payments, (ii) new PPP program for qualifying companies (much more limited eligibility than previously), (iii) more direct payments for many taxpayers, (iv) an extension of the eviction moratorium and direct subsidy to some landlords, and (v) improved tax treatment for restaurants and bars.
This seminar follows up on a blockbuster presentation this Spring by Rebecca Heimlich bringing details of the original stimulus program to the most well-attended EmpowerU seminar or webinar ever. A link to that presentation is here. Rebecca and Seth will provide a comprehensive update on the new 5,593-page legislation.
Speakers Bio
Rebecca Heimlich Seth Morgan
Rebecca has over 25 years of litigation and advocacy experience. After graduating from Vanderbilt University School of Law, Rebecca began her career at Taft, Stettinius & Hollister, continued it at Squire, Sanders & Dempsey, and also served as an Assistant Prosecutor in Clermont County.
Rebecca’s varied career also includes over 10 years of advocacy work for commercial and non-profit interests, including extensive experience in government and public affairs across the Midwest. Rebecca Heimlich is an attorney at the Finney Law Firm.
Seth Morgan is the CEO of MLA Companies, a financial service and advisory group. Under his guidance, MLA has become one of the largest business advisory firms in southwest Ohio. Morgan entered politics as a young man, seeking to make a difference by putting to use his passion for public policy, philosophy of a responsible government, and love for America.
Trash Twitter * Fire Facebook * Gone Google — Get Rid of Them!
In our November 19 class at EmpowerU we asked you to Trash Twitter, Fire Facebook and Get Rid of Google. To help you we must also teach you what other options are available for you to stay on Social Media. Join one of the best instructor’s of Social Media in the United State Dr. Douglas G. Frank, P.H.D..
Dr. Frank has been more successful with his utilization of Social Media than almost any guest that EmpowerU has ever had. Learn from a pro, the expert. Stay Social–make a move now! Find out which programs are best for you and how to use them. Don’t miss this class.
Douglas G. Frank, Ph.D. grew up on a small Black Angus Ranch in Northern California. His parents were successful entrepreneurs in the areas of insurance, investments, and real estate. Dr Frank earned a B.A. in Chemistry from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California in 1983. He then attended graduate school at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he completed his doctoral requirements before transferring to the University of Cincinnati in 1986 as part of the Ohio Eminent Scholar program. In 1990 he completed a Ph.D. in Surface Analytical Chemistry. During his graduate work, he discovered a new phenomenon which was featured in several science books and international journals, including cover articles in Science and Naturwissenschaften.
Dr Frank left academics in 1996. His scientific success as a graduate student and post-doctoral fellow gained him introductions to several U.S. companies, where he continues to apply his scientific, electronics, engineering, and computer expertise to real-life research and manufacturing challenges. He specializes in the development of custom control and analytical solutions, and has invented several instruments for surface optical characterization, precision force application, and soil analysis by means of portable electron microscopy and spectroscopy. A common thread in his work is the combination of precision motion with delicate measurement and analysis of large amounts of data. Dr Frank lives in Morrow, Ohio and is married to his high school sweetheart, Donna. He has three adult children: Dynnelle, Daniel, and Deryk. Dr Frank believes in giving back to the community.
He is Past-President of the Blue Ash/Montgomery Rotary Club (2002). He is a popular speaker in the areas of Creativity & Innovation, Ethics & Character, Science & Religion, Rotary Polio Eradication, Climate Change, and now Covid-19. He was honored by the Executive Board of the Presbyterian Association on Science, Technology and the Christian Faith as “one who exemplifies the practice of science as a Christian vocation.” Dr Frank is chair of the Math and Science department and Director of Music at The Schilling School for Gifted Children, a school he helped to establish in the mid 1990’s. Recently, Dr Frank has gained notoriety for his modeling work on the Covid-19 pandemic. He has been making his work available to the public since January of 2020, and his Facebook page “Dr. Frank Models” (now “Follow the Data with Dr Frank”) has over 50,000 members and followers. Dr. Douglas G. Frank Doug@ToolsForAnalysis.com DrDouglasGFrank@Outlook.com
“If the freedom of speech is taken away, then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter”.
–George Washington, 1783
Trash Twitter * Fire Facebook * Get Off Google!
At no time in our recent past have we entered an area of danger, like now, as Big Tech Companies infringe on the values that we hold so clear–specifically The First Amendment and our Right to Free Speech.
Join us tonight, for this important session of EmpowerU as we close out 20th Semester. You will hear from several presenters who have spoken at previous classes of EmpowerU over the years. These friends will be talking to you about the importance of Free Speech and why they hold The First Amendment so dear–in 5 minute live (Zoom) video talks.
Speakers Announced :
While the speeches are going on, during our Zoom Webinar, you will also have the opportunity, to publicly Deactivate or Delete your Twitter and Facebook Accounts and Stop your Google Activity–either permanently or for 120 days. During this process you can watch as friends and colleagues take this Deactivation and Deletion step online. You will also have the chance to send, in writing, a written message, via EmpowerU, to Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Goggle CEO Sundar Pichai. Tell them how you feel. Tell them you don’t like their influence in our Elections and in what we say. Use some choice words about Big Tech Censorship!
EmpowerU will not keep you hanging. At this class we will also be offering you suggestions on other social media options that are available to you to keep you in the news and on top of your game and to help you meet new friends. You might even have more fun!
Our ability to hold Big Tech accountable from their Orwellian decision to censor us is within your very hands–the hands of the people… Prepare to take action, prepare to let the world know that our First Amendment and Free Speech rights matter. Join us on November 19, 2020 at 7:00 PM.
A modern view of Ulysses S. Grant – He was a remarkable General, father, and President, and more than that, he saw good in almost everyone and took them at their word. He was well known for his innovative strategy to finally force the confederacy to capitulate. But Grant’s character, along with his treatment of African-Americans, American-Indians and Jews, matured from first-hand experience during the Civil War, as well as his Presidency. Grant’s support and leadership in civil rights, was decades ahead of his time. He stood up for their rights, despite widespread opposition from the south and the American public. Their determination, coupled with his support, unleashed opportunities they never experienced before. He lived the last 24 years of his adult life believing all people should be treated with respect and dignity.
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Chris Burns is a Civil War historian and lifelong Ohio resident. Since 2000, Mr. Burns has been conducting research for an upcoming book about Ulysses S. Grant with noted historian Dr. James A. Ramage. He currently speaks on various aspects of Grant’s life, as well as the Siege of Cincinnati. He was interviewed by WKET TV in Kentucky for a three-part series on Grant that ran in 2019. Burns is a former adjunct history faculty-member at Northern Kentucky University. His passion is linking the past to the present and bringing history to life.
Digital Addiction is a massive societal problem. It compromises childrens’ academic performance, social connectedness, mental health, their development of skills and personal interests, and the time they spend engaged in non-screen recreational activities. It kills adults’ productivity at work, fosters conflict among colleagues, and causes accidents that damage property and result in injury and death. It also degrades family life, diminishing the amount and quality of the time families spend together.
Mr. Mercier’s research reveals that a strong majority of people are very frustrated by their digital addiction, are fully aware of the problems it causes them, wish they could control it, but ultimately find themselves unable to do so. This is utterly unacceptable; we can’t continue to allow digital addiction to squander our human potential in this way. We must find a way to help people bring their recreational screen use under control.
In this talk Mr. Mercier will provide a framework for addressing digital addiction at a societal, institutional, and individual level. Topics covered include the causes of tech addiction, its many consequences, the fundamental challenge in addressing tech addiction, a framework for developing a strategy to address it, legislation addressing tech addiction, a review of the various solutions being employed around the world, tech monitoring and blocking applications, and digital detoxes.
Betsy Sundermann was sworn into office on March 5, 2020 as a City of Cincinnati Council Person. She replaced retiring Councilwoman Amy Murray after receiving an endorsement from the Hamilton County GOP. Sundermann is a former Hamilton County probate court magistrate.
We look forward to meeting Betsy Sundermann and talking to her about what it is like to be one of the only two Republican Conservatives on the City of Cincinnati Council. What are her goals in the position? Is it possible to get anything done? What are her priorities? How is it to work with the different Council Members including The Gang of Five? Who will be the next Mayor?. How about defunding the police? Betsy Sundermann will join EmpowerU from 7:05-7:25 PM.
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Michael Mercier is Founder and President of Screen Education, which conducts research, and provides training and consulting services, on the impact of information technology on human wellness.
Mr. Mercier has conducted 18 research studies on digital addiction with teens, college students, summer campers, parents, Millennials, and full-time employees. His research has examined the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical consequences of digital addiction, as well as its impact on academic performance and workplace productivity and safety. He also has studied the benefits people derive from digital detoxes.
He has spoken on smartphone addiction to schools, corporate audiences, colleges and summer camps, as well as at numerous conferences, including educational technology, summer camp, mindfulness, workplace safety, and marketing conferences. His research partners have included EMI Research Solutions, Stark Statistical Consulting, Camp Kern, Camp Ernst, Camp Livingston, The Jewish Community Center Association of North America, Hiram College, BOLDFISH, and Calvert Catholic High School.
Mr. Mercier has presented his research to US Congressmen Jim Jordan and Brad Wenstrup, and to the legislative staffs of US Senators Brown, Hawley, Markey, Portman, and Sasse. Congressman Wenstrup made a House floor speech about his findings on cyberbullying, and he co-organized with the Congressman a local roundtable discussion with educators on the role that social media plays in bullying and school violence. During the 2020/2021 academic year he will be teaching several courses on tech addiction at Cincinnati State’s Workforce Development Center. He has been interviewed on a variety of radio and television shows.
He holds a BA in Psychology from Vassar College, an MBA in Marketing from the University of Michigan, and an MS in MIS from the University of Cincinnati.
EmpowerU Managing Board Member Dan Regenold discusses America and Ben Shapiro’s new, best-selling book How to Destroy America in Three Easy Steps. A growing number of Americans want to tear down what has taken us 250 years to build. We are starting to see this destruction of America in the canceling of our shared history, our ideas and our culture. Violence is in our streets is erupting in the bigger cities.
In front of our very eyes, traditional areas of civic agreement are vanishing. We cannot agree what makes America special, or if it is special. The 1619 project, which looks at America through the lens of being racist and corrupt is starting to be taught to our kids as history instead of the history of America’s founding that you learned growing up.
Could America be radically transformed over the next decade? Could our incredible Country become something we don’t even recognize? Learn about the Disintegrationists and their attack on values that have built our nation. Ben Shapiro is an American conservative political commentator, media host and attorney. At 17, he became the youngest national syndicated columnist in the United States. He founded The Daily Wire and he is now the host of The Ben Shapiro Show. Dan encourages you to read the Ben’s newest book before class and be ready to join the conversation.
The thesis and question of tonight’s class is: Can America be Transformer over the Next 10 Years?
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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 W
eDemandAVote.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. In 2010 Regenold was of three leaders of the initiative to End Ohio’s Estate Tax which happened in 2011. The Tax Foundation called the repeal of Ohio Estate Tax one of the most important Tax accomplishments of 2011. In 2011 Regenold founded EmpowerUOhio.org (now in its 18th semester), 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 Sale Tax which helped the Museum Center renovation get passed by the voters of Hamilton County. Dan enjoys speaking to EmpowerU classes about subjects he is passionate about. Recently he has discussed: Milton Friedman, Saul Alinsky, Net Neutrality, D-Day, and The Deficit Mess at EmpowerU Classes. Regenold is CEO of Frame USA, Inc. in Springdale.
Retired UC Political Science Professor, Al Tuchfarber, returns to Empower U to handicap the 2020 elections for President, the Senate, and the House. He will:
Review the latest polls and explain if they are going to be right or wrong this year.
Review the strengths and weakness of Biden and Trump.
Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the campaigns that have been waged.
Highlight the key states that will determine who wins the Electoral College majority.
Review the craziness that has made 2020 a unique political year.
And he will probably make some predictions.
Come prepared to ask questions!
Bruce Hoffbauer is a candidate for Hamilton County Sheriff in November 2020. After hearing from both of the Democratic candidates for Sheriff in our Spring Semester it is time to hear from the Republican candidate. Bruce Hoffbauer began his 34 year career as a law enforcement professional in 1985 as a Hamilton County Deputy Sheriff. He was initially assigned to the Corrections Division. Since then Bruce has served the City of Cincinnati in over a dozen different roles in several districts.
Bruce’s assignments have included the uniform patrol force, traffic unit investigator, relief supervisor, relief commander, Special Events Unit, Vortex Unit (in partnership with the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office), and Police Academy Commander. Hoffbauer will join EmpowerU from 7:05-7:25 PM to discuss the importance of the Hamilton County Sheriff and how he compares to the person he is running against Charmaine McGuffey.
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Alfred J Tuchfarber, PhD, Professor Emeritus of Political Science – University of Cincinnati Owner – Tuchfarber Political-Economics, LLC, Blogger – TuchfarberReport.com
Al Tuchfarber is an academic and entrepreneur who has had a successful career as a teacher, researcher, senior administrator, campaign manager, political analyst, organizational strategist, and writer.
He holds a PhD in political science and has well over 100 publications.
Al’s intellectual and practical interests are very wide-ranging. He has spent his career both in the arena of ideas but also in the “real-world” where the rubber hits the road…where things must work.
Areas of special interest to him are American politics and political-economics, global politics and global political-economics, political polling, campaign and organizational strategies, demographics, and societal change.
Tuchfarber founded the Ohio Poll and directed it for a quarter century. The Poll established a remarkable record for accuracy in predicting elections and has been rated one of the nations best.
Al brings that experience and skill-set to his weekly blog — the Tuchfarber Report, as well as to his consulting, speaking, and writing.
His predictions are 80 to 95% accurate because they are based on facts, data, history and common sense…NOT on ideology, partisanship, or hopes.
As a political-economic analyst and author of the Tuchfarber Report, Al brings you insights and forecasts that you will not find elsewhere.
Dusty Rhodes is one of the most interesting political personalities in the Greater Cincinnati area. He became Hamilton County Auditor in 1990 becoming the first Democratic endorsed candidate to win a Hamilton County Administrative office in two decades. He won in his most recent race for Auditor in 2018 by a margin of over 65% against his opponent.
Along the way Dusty has served as a Hamilton County Trustee. From 1955 to 1969 he could be heard playing oldies on WMKV 89.3 and also appeared on WLW, WKRC and the original WSAI on 1360 FM. He has been named “Cincinnati’s Most Popular Disc Jockey by Billboard Magazine.
So many things we plan to talk to Dusty about. His work as an entertainer. What was it like to help bring the Beatles to Cincinnati in 1964? Hamilton County-the ups and downs—what are his observations about the County? The Stadium Mess? Working with the City of Cincinnati–can the relationship ever be repaired? Tax Abatements—what is their role in the County?. When should tax abatements be used, when should they not be used? And finally, Dusty and current Sheriff Jim Neil being part of the “cancel culture” when their own party, the Democratic Party turned against them. What caused this to happen? What does Dusty plan to do in the future? And, what about Twitter?
Don’t miss an interesting discussion when Dusty Rhodes visits EmpowerU.
Mr. Tom Burton is Superintendent of Princeton City Schools, located just outside Cincinnati, Ohio. There are many choices that are made every day of our life. Some are personal, others are professional, regards, decisions abound. Tom Burton will discuss decision making and the concept of going slow, to move fast. Further, detailing the importance of neuroplasticity in decision making, Burton will interactively engage the audience for deep learning. Lastly, he will leave the audience with a greater sense of motivating others through collaborative discussion points.
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Dusty Rhodes was re-elected to an eighth term as Hamilton County Auditor in 2018 almost two-to-one (65%) over his opponent, a margin of over 100,000 votes, the most of any candidate running county-wide. In 1990 he became the first Democratic endorsed candidate to win a Hamilton County administrative office in two decades. He was re-elected every four years since and ran unopposed in 2002 and 2006.
Previously he was a Delhi Township Trustee for twenty-one (21) years. He was also President of the Hamilton County Township Association for seven (7) years. He served sixteen (16) years on the Board of the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), chairing the Board for three (3) years. PERS is one of the nation’s largest private pension plans with over $60 billion in assets.
Tom Burton is the Superintendent of Princeton City Schools, located just outside of Cincinnati, Ohio.
Tom has been in administration since 1995 and has been in the Princeton district since 2015. He is the author of “Mark of Leadership: Strategies for Leading with Purpose, Plans, and Passion.” Additionally, Tom has written articles for publications both in Ohio and nationally and a columnist for Middle Ground Magazine.
As superintendent, Tom lives out the Princeton mission to empower each student for college, career, and life success. He celebrates the achievements of all students. His Business and Community Partnership Quarterly Breakfasts connect students with business leaders and foster conversations about the students’ courses and interests generating conversation about post-high school education and occupations. Tom has been actively pursuing business/community partnerships and most recently hosted over 120 business community leaders at the quarterly breakfast.
He was named the 2018 Business Person of the Year through the Sharonville Chamber of Commerce. Further, Tom was the winner of NASSP/MetLife Ohio Middle School Principal of the Year, Distinguished Young Alumni Award from Slippery Rock University. Additionally, he was selected as the recipient of the Gordan Vars Lifetime Achievement Award, Ohio Educator of the Year by the Ohio Middle Level Association.
Tom is married to wife Franca, and they share the joy of raising three children, Cailey (2017 Princeton Graduate), Bryce (2019 Princeton Graduate), and Tommy (Class of 2022) as residents in Sharonville.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Thursday, October 15, 2020
This Class Has Been Cancelled.
We Are Sorry. Commissioner Denise Driehaus has refused to debate saying “She is too busy.” Candidate Alicia Reece has told us “She Will Not Debate”. We regret the cancelling of this debate for the 817,000 people in Hamilton County.
In November 2020, two commissioners will be elected to the Hamilton County Commission. Andy Black (R), Dr. Herman Najoli (I) and Alicia Reece (D) will run for one Commissioner Position. Matt O’Neill (R) will run against incumbent Denise Driehaus (D) in the other election. As of this time Andy Black, Dr. Najoli and Matt O’Neill have confirmed their participation in the Debate. We hope to host this debate at a physical location you can attend.
If we are unable to because of the pandemic this class will be hosted on Zoom.
Commissioner Candidate Andy Black was born and raised in Cincinnati. He grew up in a household where East Side met West Side, with his mother originating from Colerain and his father from Madeira. Andy was born in Delhi Township and raised in Mariemont where he attended their public schools through high school.
Andy he attended Miami University where he played college football and earned his Bachelor’s in History. While working full time, he then continued his education by attending Bellarmine University where he completed and earned his MBA.
Andy then launched himself into the private sector, serving for 15 years in the financial technology sector, primarily with Diebold-Nixdorf & NCR Corp. In this role he was responsible for managing a global account team with revenues in excess of $75,000,000.
Currently, Andy serves as Vice President of a design-build firm specializing in commercial real estate opportunities for community based banks and credit unions. This role has prepared Andy to take on the complicated task of economic development and job creation in Hamilton County, as well as given him the necessary experience in working hand-in-hand with local businesses to accomplish their goals.
Beyond Andy’s professional career, he has dedicated himself to service to the public. In 2009 he became the youngest individual ever elected to Mariemont council and was subsequently appointed as Chairman of the Finance Committee. He then served as Vice Mayor of Mariemont from 2011-2012. In addition to his service as an elected official, Andy has been active as a board member for the Northeast Hamilton County Republican Club and the Hamilton County Republican Party Leadership Council, and has served in leadership roles on the reelection campaigns for Congressman Steve Chabot and Senator Rob Portman.
Andy has been married to his wife Courtney for 14 years and they live with their two sons in Indian Hill.
Commissioner Candidate Dr. Herman Najoli–As an academic, Dr. Najoli supports learners of all ages. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Economics and a minor in Commerce from the University of Nairobi (2000). He graduated from the Honor Academy Leadership Internship in Garden Valley, TX (2002). He has two Masters degrees, one in Organizational Leadership from Regent University (2004), and the other in Advanced Leadership Studies from Indiana Wesleyan University (2009).
Najoli holds a Doctoral degree in Organizational Leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University having completed a 245-page dissertation on Wisdom and Organizational Citizenship Behavior in Leaders (2012). He is firmly at grips with how cognitive, affective, and reflective dimensions of wisdom correlate to the altrusim, conscientiousness, sportsmanship, courtesy, and civic virtue of citizenship behavior.
In Hamilton County, 37% of residents have a Bachelors degree or higher. Out of these 22 % have a masters degree. Of those with advanced education, 4% have a doctoral degree. I have the educational acumen to serve as commissioner and will support learning in all sectors and levels throughout Hamilton County.
Commissioner Candidate Matt O’Neill was born in Cincinnati and has lived in all parts of the Cincinnati area. He graduated from Our Lady of Visitation grade school and St. Xavier High School. Matt received his undergraduate degree in Accounting and Finance from Miami University in 1984 and his MBA degree from Xavier University in 2002.
Matt has lived 24 years in Green Township, 5 in Loveland, 5 in Deerfield Township, 4 in Fort Thomas and for the last 20 in Oakley. His familiarity with all areas of the county will help Matt be a commissioner who considers the needs of residents. Matt has worked most of his career in School Finance with 11 years at Xavier dealing with treasury accounting. Matt has worked in similar accounting positions at Chaminade- Julienne High School, and The Health Alliance at University of Cincinnati. For the last 3 years Matt has worked at Protech Medical Company, a publicly traded durable medical equipment company in Wilder, KY.
Matt has completed the Flying Pig Full or Half Marathon 15 times and is most proud of Cincinnati on this day when the city host runners from 50 states. Most of them leave with a great impression of our city. Matt is an active parishioner at St. Cecilia in Oakley and enjoys interacting with the needy at the parish holiday dinners. Matt has volunteered at the Pregnancy Center East as a greeter, and he regularly visits with disadvantaged people who attend the Crossroads Coffee Ministry.
We spend over $26 billion in Ohio on the state’s K-12 public education system. The state has 5 school choice programs as well, giving some Ohio families an option on how, when, and where their students are educated. Averel Meden, Executive Director of a network of Ohio schools and parents will share some history on Ohio’s education system, the statewide scholarships available to students, and how her organization is fundamentally changing the conversation on parent empowerment in today’s primary education system. This dialogue will help you navigate many of the questions you have about programs, such as the Ed Choice Scholarship.
Attorney Robert Newman will join EmpowerU from 7:05-7:25 to discuss his recent lawsuit filed against the City of Cincinnati. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Copurt, seeks to overturn Cincinnati’s residential tax abatement program and to award millions of dollars in tax breaks to Black homeowners. The suit accuses city officials of knowingly operating a system that rewards wealthy white homeowners in predominantly white neighborhoods while punishing minorities and poor people who don’t qualify for the tax breaks.
Newman claims “The result for neighborhoods in Cincinnati is that Caucasian neighborhoods have become more affluent, more exclusive and more White.” Tax abatements are a reduction of property taxes usually given for 10-15 years. Newman is a civil rights lawyer and has practiced since his graduation from Emory Law School in Atlanta Georgia in 1967.
Averel Meden is the Executive Director of the Ohio Christian Education Network (OCEN), a network of Protestant and Christian schools who advocate for a parent’s right to choose the best education for their children.
Prior to her work with OCEN, she founded and currently operates a small consulting firm, focusing on education, children and family issues, and non-profit issues, which provides coalition building, lobbying, and advocacy training for non-profits.
Averel worked at the Ohio House of Representatives and later at the Ohio Department of Education during the adoption of Common Core, the Ohio Report Card, Teacher Evaluations, and Ohio’s Graduation Requirements. Additionally, she has nearly 20 years of experience in political campaigns at both the state and national level.
She played a critical role in the creation of Ohio’s Education Expansion program for low income families and has a passion for student-centered learning and parental involvement in education and public policy. She works with parents, students, and education professionals to prepare them to engage in public dialogue.
Over the past 20-25 years physicians have found refuge from the complexities of private practice through employment with large health care corporations. This seemed like the logical business move to make, no overhead costs, the staff is provided for you, and a 9-5 schedule. The idea of focusing solely on patient-health and not the bureaucratic side of medicine was ideal. Often times, smaller, private clinics would be bought-out by health care companies which, at the time, seemed like the most appropriate step to improve patient care.
With all the difficulties surrounding the implementation of medicine (predominantly insurance reimbursement), this was an easy way to improve patient and self-care, or so it seemed. There is a new trend emerging in health care (not surprisingly) that shadows physician employment from a long time ago. More physicians are making the decision to go back into private practice, leaving their large corporate “safety net”, but why?
7:05-7:25 PM–Jed Hartings is a founding board member of Cincinnati Classic, applying to be a Hillsdale College Charter School that plans to launch in Cincinnati a conservative Education for K-12 students.
Dr. Cory Gaiser is a physician of Internal Medicine who currently practices in the Cincinnati area, and has been in practice since 2016. He has completed a 3 year residency at The Jewish Hospital in their Internal Medicine Residency Program, followed by a year as Chief Resident. Most recently, he worked in an Internal Medicine Group owned by Mercy Health, and is currently setting up his own practice called New Body Aesthetics, on Harrison Ave. in Cincinnati, OH. He is a member of the American Medical Association and American College of Physicians.
Dr Gaiser, his wife and two children live on an 8.5-acre Honey Bee farm on the west side of Cincinnati where they also raise goats, chickens, peacocks, and geese. He is a second generation physician who, with his wife, owns and operates several small businesses including Gaiser Bee Company, West Side Market, Gaiser Management Group and Gaiser Realty.
On a volunteer basis he was Director of the Code Blue Advancement Committee for Surgical and Medical Residents at Jewish Hospital and served on the Critical Care Committee.
He is an outdoors enthusiast and in his spare time he enjoys beekeeping, managing his mini-farm, kayaking, and competing in outdoor events. He also enjoys scuba diving and restoring cars and boats.
With over 42,000 followers on Facebook, it is not hard to understand why Dr. Frank has become a phenomenon with his discussions about Covid-19. In this talk, Dr. Frank will describe the interface between science and society, and how best to sort out the science from the politics.
He will emphasize his later modeling work on Covid-19, although he has been modeling epidemics, elections, and natural phenomena for his entire professional life.
EmpowerU followers have shown an unending interest in the data behind Covid-19. Don’t miss this interesting presentation. Dr. Frank looks forward to your questions.
Mary G. will be joining us tonight from 7:05-7:25 PM. Mary G. is a Cincinnati native and a child of The Bicentennial years! Love of America and an understanding of our system of government was a given. (She holds a BA from Purdue University and a Master of Education in Administration from Xavier University). After years of working with children in the Midwest, she came to the realization that the system of governance under our constitution, really could disappear in a single generation of uninformed citizens. A few years ago she attended EmpowerU, and during downtime this summer, she dug into The Federalist Papers. The rest is history! Mary G’s ApplePie podcast was born to share that history surrounding The Federalist Papers and the Patriots who built the USA. Tonight she will share with us some thinking about Alexander Hamilton’s use of pseudonyms in sharing his message for our new country and some Cincinnati connections that you will find interesting.
Douglas G. Frank, Ph.D. Douglas G. Frank grew up on a small Black Angus Ranch in Northern California. His parents were successful entrepreneurs in the areas of insurance, investments, and real estate. Dr Frank earned a B.A. in Chemistry from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, California in 1983. He then attended graduate school at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he completed his doctoral requirements before transferring to the University of Cincinnati in 1986 as part of the Ohio Eminent Scholar program. In 1990 he completed a Ph.D. in Surface Analytical Chemistry. During his graduate work, he discovered a new phenomenon which was featured in several science books and international journals, including cover articles in Science and Naturwissenschaften.
Dr Frank left academics in 1996. His scientific success as a graduate student and post-doctoral fellow gained him introductions to several U.S. companies, where he continues to apply his scientific, electronics, engineering, and computer expertise to real-life research and manufacturing challenges. He specializes in the development of custom control and analytical solutions, and has invented several instruments for surface optical characterization, precision force application, and soil analysis by means of portable electron microscopy and spectroscopy. A common thread in his work is the combination of precision motion with delicate measurement and analysis of large amounts of data. Dr Frank lives in Morrow, Ohio and is married to his high school sweetheart, Donna. He has three adult children: Dynnelle, Daniel, and Deryk. Dr Frank believes in giving back to the community.
He is Past-President of the Blue Ash/Montgomery Rotary Club (2002). He is a popular speaker in the areas of Creativity & Innovation, Ethics & Character, Science & Religion, Rotary Polio Eradication, Climate Change, and now Covid-19. He was honored by the Executive Board of the Presbyterian Association on Science, Technology and the Christian Faith as “one who exemplifies the practice of science as a Christian vocation.” Dr Frank is chair of the Math and Science department and Director of Music at The Schilling School for Gifted Children, a school he helped to establish in the mid 1990’s. Recently, Dr Frank has gained notoriety for his modeling work on the Covid-19 pandemic. He has been making his work available to the public since January of 2020, and his Facebook page “Dr. Frank Models” (now “Follow the Data with Dr Frank”) has over 50,000 members and followers. Dr. Douglas G. Frank Doug@ToolsForAnalysis.com DrDouglasGFrank@Outlook.com
In this session, material expert Tim Burgess, will be sharing invaluable ideas and concepts that we can use to live a happier and more fulfilled life. Right now, more than any time in the past several decades, the world is mired in fear. From COVID-19, to the many related pandemic issues, to the many current social injustice issues, people are stuck in this vortex of negativity and many just do not know what to do. It is dominating their thoughts, their feelings, and their lives!
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
In this session Tim Burgess will cover the impact fear typically has on us and why it can be paralyzing if we’re not careful. He will accurately illustrate this effect fear has on our thoughts, feelings and actions. From there Tim will also explain how fear is really nothing more than “False Evidence Appearing Real.” With this awareness Tim will also show how we can use fear to help us be more alert so that we can make better, more accurate decisions. This puts us in control of our lives instead of being paralyzed by it.
We certainly hope that you will be able to join us for this riveting discussion on FEAR. It could be the session that helps change your life for the better.
Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose will join EmpowerU from 7:05-7:30 PM. LaRose will bring us up to date on the issues involved with the Election for the State of Ohio. Will the election be safe? What will happen if Covid-19 reappears? Will there be a decision about who wins on election night. LaRose currently serves as Ohio’s Secretary of State after serving two terms as a Republican member of the Ohio State Senate from Ohio’s 27th Senate district of Wayne County. Learn from LaRose how things look and hopefully we will have time for a few questions.
Tim Burgess has been studying success principles for over twenty years. His primary focus has been in the areas of Dynamic Thinking, Effective Communication/Personality Traits, and the Entrepreneurial Mindset. Tim has studied extensively Napoleon Hill, Earl Nightingale, Bob Proctor, and many more renowned experts in the field of personal development. After several years of studying this material he decided to apply it to the real estate profession.
The proof that what he had been studying works proves out in the 17 listings he achieved in his first full-time month in real estate (December, 1999) and the 92 closings that he secured in his first full-time year. And his real estate success only improved from there. After several years of success in selling real estate he turned his attention to helping other real estate agents achieve greater success through the knowledge, experience, and skills that he developed. One footnote that you may find interesting about Tim is that he is an eighth grade drop-out.
Thomas Jefferson used to be loved by all Americans and claimed by people of both political parties. In the 20th Century, he was put on our money and called America’s Founding Father. But now many people see Jefferson as a hypocrite and some even want to tear down his statues.
This isn’t the first time that Jefferson has been controversial. In his own lifetime, Jefferson had strong admirers and enemies. So which was he: a political saint or sinner?
We will try to answer this question by talking about the life and times of Thomas Jefferson and looking at three of the writings for which Jefferson himself wanted to be remembered: the Declaration of Independence, the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, and the founding of the University of Virginia. We’ll try to understand Jefferson’s views on government, religion, freedom, and slavery – all the topics that made him controversial in his day and ours.
Jeffrey Sikkenga is Executive Director of the Ashbrook Center and professor of political science at Ashland University. Jeff received his BA from the University of Virginia and his MA and PhD from the University of Toronto. Jeff has been at Ashland and connected to the Ashbrook Center since 1997, serving as an adjunct fellow of the Center, a faculty member in Ashbrook’s Teaching American History program, co-director of the Ashbrook Scholar Program, and Interim Executive Director.
At Ashland University, Jeff served as President and Vice-President of the Faculty Senate and was chair of the search committee for the Provost of the University. He was also assistant chair of the Department of History and Political Science.
Jeff has been a senior fellow in the Program on Constitutionalism and Democracy at the University of Virginia, a visiting scholar at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution, and the William E. Simon Distinguished Visiting Professor at the School of Public Policy at Pepperdine University. He has lectured across the country on religious liberty, American politics, and the Supreme Court. He is the author of a number of reviews, articles, and book chapters on political thought, the US Constitution, and politics and religion. They have appeared in journals such as the American Journal of Political Science, Political Theory, History of Political Thought, Journal of Politics, and Political Science Quarterly. He has published several books, including History of American Political Thought (2nd edition).
(Due to a technical issue about 2-3 minutes of Maurice’s opening comments were not filmed)
1851 Center for Constitution Law is a non-profit, non-partisan law firm dedicated to protecting the constitutional rights of Ohioans from government. The 1851 Center litigates constitutional issues related to property rights, taxpayer and entrepreneur rights, regulation, parental rights, and search and seizure.
Maurice Thompson runs the 1851 Center. During the pandemic Businesses found themselves closed and individuals around Ohio found their constitutional rights being violated by Governor Mike DeWine and the State of Ohio. In a series of court actions the 1851 Center sued Ohio to protect Ohio Daycare Owners and then sued Ohio to protect Ohio Diners, Court action was also taken against Ohio when Ohio refused to allow gyms to re-open, and 1851 also sued to protect Business Owners that were deemed “Non-Essential.”. The 1851 Center had great success in validating the Constitutional Rights of Ohioans during the Quarantine.
At a time when many of us felt our rights were secure we learned that many of our economic rights had been taken away from us. Tonight, Maurice Thompson will talk to us about what our rights are in the State of Ohio. He will talk to us about how to protect ourselves against further Ohio laws and sanctions should we be forced to close down again due to the pandemic. Maurice will talk to us about the important subject of life and liberty in the State of Ohio.
Greg Lawson will join EmpowerU from 7:05-7:30 PM to discuss the financial impact of the pandemic on the State of Ohio. Many people have discussed the “looming title wave” that is coming with the economic consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic. Greg will put Ohio’s financial situation into prospective and guide us through what we can expect. Higher taxes? Reduced services? Is the financial impact larger our state budget or our local city and county budgets. Join us for an overview of the financial condition of the State of Ohio.
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.
EmpowerU Studio to Reopen! A Follow-Up to Our Class on April 14
Mike Wilson and Dr. Rob Bulas will join our session at EmpowerU on June 11 in an important follow-up to our class on April 14. The public is demanding accurate data and information about Covid-19 that the media is not providing. What you will learn from this important class is a data driven presentation on COVID 19–What we know, what we don’t know and the policy Implications. Mike Wilson will provide you data on tracking the spread of the pandemic, some of what would be more medically focused. Dr. Rob Bulas will provide information about the disease itself, current treatments, scientific origin of our distancing protocols and impact on schools. Dr. Bulas will also give a unique overview critique of how we got here and where we go from her medically.
Since our first class on COVID-19, EmpowerU has received many requests for an update of where we stand on COVID-19. Don’t miss our update class on June 11. This class will be hosted live as EmpowerU Studio re-opens. The studio will accept 40 reservations for people who want to attend. Other guests are welcome to watch this class live on the internet by joining this class at the following link at 6:50 PM on June 11. Click Here to join the webinar on June 11. Register below if you plan to attend live–you must have a ticket to attend this class live at EmpowerU Studio.
Mike Wilson is a Cincinnati native and proud graduate of St. Xavier High School and the University of Cincinnati. His degree is in Applied Mathematics which has served him well as CTO of Interlink Cloud Advisors, a local Microsoft focused consulting firm, and in analyzing data trends in other spheres.
Mike has stepped back from recent political activism, but founded the Cincinnati Tea Party in 2009 and quickly built an organization that become one of the largest and most respected truly grassroots organizations in the country. Mike also was instrumental in leading the successful grassroots effort to amend the Ohio Constitution with the Health Care Freedom Amendment in 2011.
Dr. Robert Bulas received his B.S. (’85) and M.D. (’89) degrees from The Ohio State University. He completed his Internship and Residency at The Medical College of Virginia in Richmond (1989-1993), before returning to Ohio. He completed a fellowship in Neuroradiology at the University of Cincinnati in 1994. He has practiced medicine in Cincinnati, Ohio since 1993, and he served as the Director of Interventional Neuroradiology and the Director of Magnetic Resonance Imaging at The Christ Hospital for 24 years. The primary focus of his career was stroke prevention, and he has lectured extensively on the subject, from lifestyle modification to surgical and endovascular intervention. Dr. Bulas also served as a Principle Investigator on multiple national and international clinical research trials.
In addition, Dr. Bulas has lectured extensively on free market and socialized health care solutions over the last 15 years. Recently, he retired from his clinical practice and has transitioned into primary care medical mission work, with a focus on infectious disease. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he has written extensively on the subject and has served as a consultant to private Ohio businesses as they transition to re-opening. Dr. Bulas is a student of American pandemic history, and he hopes to help Ohio recover smartly from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Several weeks ago, Finney Law Firm (FLF) did a webinar for EmpowerU on the relief offered to small business and self-employed under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). One of the main focuses of that webinar was the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which offers forgivable loans to small businesses. Since that time, over 4.5 million companies have received PPP loans totaling over $510 Billion. And, approximately $100 Billion in funding for PPP loans remains unused.
If you are one of the small businesses or self-employed that received a PPP loan (or if you are considering applying for one), you’ve likely been wrestling with questions on how to make sure your loan is forgiven. The SBA has now provided significant additional guidance on PPP loan forgiveness, including, for example:
New rules on what payroll counts toward forgiveness
New rules on what you can spend PPP funds on other than payroll
New rules on when you must spend PPP funds
How you calculate your reduction in loan forgiveness if you decrease employees and/or compensation (including safe harbors that help preserve PPP forgiveness)
And, Congress is considering changing the rules to allow more time and flexibility in spending the funds. In this webinar, FLF will outline these new rules and the potential changes, and how to maximize your PPP loan forgiveness.
Even for small businesses that received a PPP loan, that loan is likely not the only assistance needed to survive and thrive in this changing economy. One of the lessons learned over the last several weeks is that the economic impacts of the COVID 19 pandemic are likely longer lasting and more far reaching than we originally imagined. Recognizing this reality, FLF has launched a Small Business Solutions Group, https://finneylawfirm.com/practice-areas/small-business-solutions-group/
Tuesday, June 9, the presenters will explain the the importance of how to get your PPP Loan forgiven by your financial institution and the SBA. If you have a PPP Loan don’t miss this class.
Brad Wenstrup was elected in 2012 to represent the people of Ohio’s Second Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives. He has been deeply involved in the PPP loan program to help businesses. He brings experience as a doctor, Army Reserve officer, Iraq War veteran, and small business owner to help Congress tackle the economic and security challenges facing the nation.
In the 116th Congress, Brad serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. He previously spent six years on the Armed Services Committee and the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. As a member on the Ways and Means and Intelligence Committees, Brad is working to address the national health care situation and systemic poverty issues, while strengthening our national security. He has long been a voice of support for southern Ohio’s veteran community.
A Cincinnati native, Brad graduated from Saint Xavier High School and the University of Cincinnati. He went on to earn a medical degree in Chicago as a podiatric physician and after completing his surgical residency he established private practice in Cincinnati, treating patients for 26 years.
During his time in Congress, Brad is fulfilling his Reserve duties by serving as the Medical Policy Advisor for the Chief of the Army Reserve as well as seeing patients at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda. Brad and his wife, Monica, reside in Cincinnati with their children Brad Jr. and Sophia. Brad will be joining us on the Webinar on Tuesday night, June 9.
Chris Finney is a licensed attorney in Ohio, Kentucky and the District of Colombia, as well as a licensed Ohio real estate title insurance agent. Mr. Finney was named Ohio Lawyer of the Year in 1998 at the age of 37.
Bringing more than 30 years of experience as a real estate attorney, Mr. Finney has knitted together the attorneys of the Finney Law Firm with the title professionals and attorneys at Ivy Pointe Title to create a sophisticated and robust commercial and residential title insurance company. The Finney Law Firm gives depth to the title company in the areas of corporate and transactional law, real estate law, probate and estate administration, trust law, bankruptcy law, and commercial dispute resolution.
Mr. Finney is the owner of Finney Law Firm, where he concentrates in commercial and public interest law as well as matters of real estate law and title to real estate.
The height of Mr. Finney’s legal career to date was reached with two wins before the United States Supreme Court in June of 2014, for clients suing the Ohio Elections Commission over their administration of the Ohio “False Claims” statute, empowering a panel of bureaucrats to judge the truth or falsity of statements made during election campaigns. Mr. Finney challenged the statute, and the criminal penalties attendant thereto, in a series of cases spanning five years. After losing the issue before three separate District Court judges, and all fifteen Judges on the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals (an 0-18 losing record on this issue), Mr. Finney won back-to-back 9-0 decisions on the cases from the US Supreme Court. Contact Information: chris@finneylawfirm.com 513-943-6650
Mr. Finney is an experienced transactional attorney and commercial litigator, allowing him and his firms to seamlessly document and close your transaction, as well as address disputes that can arise during the course of a transaction.
Rebecca Heimlich is an attorney at the Finney Law Firm.
EmpowerU welcomes Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors as a Co-Sponsor of this class.
Glendale Lyceum Outdoor Pavillion 865 Congress Avenue Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Tuesday, May 12, 2020
Rain or Shine Event–We Will Move Inside to the Glendale Lyceum if it Rains!
Bring your lawn chair and experience the meaning of our motto, “Educate, Enjoy, Engage.” 55KRC radio personality Brian Thomas will serve as the master of ceremonies. On this special evening we will celebrate the end of EmpowerU’s 19th Semester and Empowered Citizen Awards will be handed out. Will you receive one? Chris Monzel, a friend of EmpowerU, and other special guests will also be with us.
EmpowerU will be grilling burgers and hot dogs as well as providing water and soft drinks. Attendees are asked to bring a side dish or dessert to share at the potluck table. Adult attendees are welcome to BYOB. There is no charge for this event, but your donation is gratefully accepted. We look forward to seeing all our friends at this GREAT annual event. Master Chef Mike Burnham will be on the grill.
Schedule for the Evening: Dinner is from 5:45-6:45, Featured Guest Speakers from 6:45-7:45
Our special guest and headline speaker for this evening will be Butler County Sheriff Richard K. Jones. One of our core subjects of concentration this semester at EmpowerU has the Government’s role in protecting the citizens. This role seems to be faltering nationwide, but Sheriff Jones, by his actions and words, gets it. Nationally, the sheriff, known as “Jonesy” to his friends he is most often compared to President Trump. He has been a controversial, but important voice on topics such as immigration and the overdose reversal drug, naloxone and how to protect our children in schools. You might also enjoy the letter Sheriff Jones has written to President Trump about the role of the FBI–click here. Join us for a great night of friendship, camaraderie and good food, and a great message. Make sure to register for a spot for tonight’s class.
Richard K. Jones is currently serving his fourth term of office as Sheriff of Butler County, Ohio. He is a candidate in the March, 2020primary, seeking to serve the residents of Butler County, Ohio for a fifth term.
After high school graduation, Richard served two years in the United States Army from 1973 to 1975. Richard obtained his Masters’ Degree in Corrections from Xavier University. He began his 18 year corrections career at the Lebanon Correctional Institution, Lebanon, Ohio. In December, 1992, he ended his career with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections as Major to become Chief Deputy of the Butler County Sheriff’s Office in January, 1993, where he served for 12 years. In November, 2004 he was elected to his first term as Sheriff.
Sheriff Jones co-authored a book in 1991 entitled “Behind Prison Bars” through the American Correctional Association. He graduated from the Executive Development Program through the National Sheriff’s Institute, FBI Academy, Quantico, Virginia. He taught classes at Wilmington College and Southern States College. He was a Certified Basic Peace Officer Academy Instructor, Certified Corrections Academy Instructor and Certified Law Enforcement Manager through the Buckeye State Sheriff’s Association.
He is a member of the National Association of Chiefs of Police, the Buckeye State Sheriff’s Association, and serves on their Legislative Committee; a member of the National Sheriff’s Association, and serves on the NSA’s Drug Enforcement, Congressional Affairs and Immigration and Border Security Committees.
Sheriff Jones visited the Mexican Border in October of 2007 and May of 2010. He, a state representative and local reporter were given an in-depth, guided tour of the Tucson Sector by Sheriff Larry Dever, Cochise County, Arizona.
He has appeared on many popular national television and radio shows, and has been quoted in many nationwide paper and magazine articles; for his insights and expertise of high profile cases, the recent heroin epidemic, and immigration issues.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Thursday, April 30, 2020
Cincinnati Memories is a virtual tour of Cincinnati past and up to modern times. Jeanne Rolfes is very knowledgeable and will take us a step back in time to learn and visit downtown Cincinnati landmarks and buildings such as Fountain Square, Carew Tower Complex, Dixie Terminal Building, City Hall, Findlay Market, Union Terminal and, an early look at the John Shillito Company, to name a few. Her history in pictures of how great Cincinnati has always been, will surely be enjoyable for all history lovers of the Queen City.
Jeanne Rolfes, is a resident of Kenwood and native of Cincinnati, she attended Summit Country Day, Edgecliff College, and graduate school at Xavier University. She enjoys reading and traveling having been to Iceland, Cuba, and Alaska. Jeanne was an original walking tour guide for the Cincinnati Preservation Association program entitled Architrek, a two mile tour, which started in 2000. Jeanne received funding from the Ohio Valley Foundation, and helped to develop a virtual walking tour aimed at senior centers, retirement communities, and church groups. She has given more than 450 presentations to more than 3,000 people. Due to the popularity of her presentation, Memories 1, she developed additional presentations called Memories 2, 3 & 4.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Thursday, April 30, 2020
Bill Seitz is one of the most important leaders in the Ohio State Government in his current role as House Majority Floor Leader of the Ohio House of Representatives. Long a friend of EmpowerU, Bill has spoken to us on subjects as diverse as Obscure Ohio Laws, Ohio Energy Policy, Education, Fiscal Policy and Ohio Government Mandates.
Tonight, Bill will host a “Crossfire” session on the Ohio Statehouse by talking to us about four important Ohio issues that are being discussed at the time of our session. Each of these four issues will be discussed for 15 minutes which will leave us time for extensive questions and answers. One of these issues sure to be discussed will be EdChoice and the Ohio voucher program for struggling schools.
Take advantage of the chance to ask Representative Seitz questions about other pressing issues in Ohio. This evening promises great fellowship and an opportunity to hear from our own “homegrown great orator” Representative Bill Seitz. In 2016, Columbus Monthly Magazine ranked Bill #1 out of 132 legislators as Ohio’s best speechmaker, most knowledgeable, and savviest lawmaker. Join the incredibly entertaining Bill Seitz as he discusses Ohio at EmpowerU.
A lifelong resident of Western Hamilton County, State Representative Bill Seitz has worked to represent the best interests of the Greater Cincinnati area at the Statehouse. Known for his colorful floor speeches and legal acumen, Seitz began his public service career as a member of the Cincinnati Board of Education and the St. Antoninus Parish Education Commission. He was twice elected Green Township Trustee, where he also served as President of the Hamilton County Township Association. He has never forgotten his local government roots.
Beginning in 2000, Seitz served in the Ohio House of Representatives for almost seven years. There, he rose through the ranks, serving as Majority Whip and Assistant Majority Whip and chair of the Civil and Commercial Law Committee. Seitz then went on to serve in the Ohio Senate from 2007 to 2016 before returning to the Ohio House where he is now serving the 30th House District in his second consecutive term. In the Senate, Seitz served as Chairman of the Public Utilities Committee and Vice-Chairman of the Government Oversight & Reform Committee. A fiscal conservative, Seitz is a champion of government efficiency. While others in Columbus talk about reducing the size of state government, Representative Seitz has put tangible ideas on the table, including now-enacted proposals that would reduce prison overcrowding and save the state hundreds of millions of dollars. A lawyer since 1978, he is currently of Counsel with Dinsmore and Shohl and for over ten years he has been listed in the Best Lawyers in America book.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Tuesday, April 28, 2020
We spend over $26 billion in Ohio on the state’s K-12 public education system. The state has 5 school choice programs as well, giving some Ohio families an option on how, when, and where their students are educated. Averel Meden, Executive Director of a network of Ohio schools and parents will share some history on Ohio’s education system, the statewide scholarships available to students, and how her organization is fundamentally changing the conversation on parent empowerment in today’s primary education system. This dialogue will help you navigate many of the questions you have about programs, such as the Ed Choice Scholarship.
Averel Meden is the Executive Director of the Ohio Christian Education Network (OCEN), a network of Protestant and Christian schools who advocate for a parent’s right to choose the best education for their children.
Prior to her work with OCEN, she founded and currently operates a small consulting firm, focusing on education, children and family issues, and non-profit issues, which provides coalition building, lobbying, and advocacy training for non-profits.
Averel worked at the Ohio House of Representatives and later at the Ohio Department of Education during the adoption of Common Core, the Ohio Report Card, Teacher Evaluations, and Ohio’s Graduation Requirements. Additionally, she has nearly 20 years of experience in political campaigns at both the state and national level.
She played a critical role in the creation of Ohio’s Education Expansion program for low income families and has a passion for student-centered learning and parental involvement in education and public policy. She works with parents, students, and education professionals to prepare them to engage in public dialogue.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA This is an Online Class ,
Thursday, April 23, 2020
To reach Jonathan Dever regarding his offer of 1/2 hour of free consultation help for financial problems-debt resolutuion email him at: jonathan@deverlawfirm.com * www.deverlaw.com * 513-823-2112 * twitter @jonathandever
Policy Solutions for the Pandemic: How to Fight the Impact of Coronavirus
The Buckeye Institute is an independent research and education think tank whose mission is to advance free-market public policy in the states. Buckeye has been totally out front on the Pandemic and written several policy positions on Solutions for the Pandemic. These include:
Transitioning Ohioans Back to Work
Using the Rainy Day Fund to Fight COVID-19
Redirecting State Resources to Fight COVID-19
Lifting Restrictions on Nurses to Fight COVID-19
Moves by the State that can get us through the Pandemic
Greg, a frequent contributor to EmpowerU will guide us through the highlights of Buckeye’s conclusions on how The State of Ohio should deal with the Pandemic. Don’t Miss this Discussion. Greg will be with us from 7:05-7:40 PM.
Greg Lawson
Greg R. Lawson is a Research Fellow at The Buckeye Institute.
In this role, Lawson works with all members of the Buckeye research team with a particular focus on local government and education issues. He is also Buckeye’s main liaison to the statehouse where he educates policymakers in both the legislative and executive branches on free-market solutions to Ohio’s challenges.
Prior to his position at Buckeye, Lawson served in the Ohio General Assembly as a Legislative Service Commission Fellow. He then went on to several government affairs roles focusing on numerous public policy topics, including Medicaid, school choice, transportation funding, and Ohio’s Building Code. He also has a background in PAC fundraising, grassroots organizing, and communications and served for five years on the boards of two Columbus-based charter schools.
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Preparing Your Finances in the Midst of Economic Uncertainty. Non-Bankruptcy Alternatives and Negotiating Workouts.
In this uncertain time, being prepared for the unknown is vital to your family’s long term financial well being. Jonathan Dever founded his law firm in 2002 as our nation was recovering from the September 11 attacks. He quickly realized that he was able to use hsi legal know-how to help families and small business owners facing difficult financial and emotional circumstances.
Once the Great Recession began five years later, he took what he had learned from these experiences to help out consumers and businesses at the height of that crisis. This meant defending homeowners, fighting foreclosures, and helping business owners maintain their livelihood without filing for bankruptcy.
Today, we find ourselves in uncertain economic times. Businesses are being shuttered by the government without any real assurance of when this will end. Many workers have been sent home without paychecks. Funds that were saved for rainy days must now outlast a 100-year flood. And we don’t know for certain how long this process will last. More disconcerting, money promised for small businesses hasn’t arrived.
Jonathan knows that we can weather this or any challenge, because while the causes of financial turmoil change, the ways to address it do not. Jon will be with us from 7:40-8:15 PM.
Jonathan will take his knowledge of helping thousands of small businesses and individuals and give you some tips on how to best prepare your family for the economic conditions that we are facing as a State and Nation.
Jonathan Dever, Esq is one of Cincinnati’s most talented attorneys. With over 20 years of experience, Jonathan is known as a litigator, entrepreneur, and an accomplished legislator. Jonathan rose to prominence in the State of Ohio as a respected Representative from Southwest Ohio.
Dever brings a breadth of knowledge as a respected attorney handling a vast array of matters, from complex debt restructuring cases, real estate issues, Uniform Commercial Code, foreclosure and housing and business issues, to representing various interests in negotiation and advocacy before various bodies. Jonathan has never lost a jury trial.
While serving in the Ohio House of Representatives, he was appointed to serve as the Chairman of the prestigious Financial Institutions Housing and Urban Development Committee. Mr. Dever, He has been an outspoken advocate for reforms in lending and housing issues. Mr. Dever has been a strong voice of the disabled, authoring and shepherding the Ohio ABLE Act, establishing the first active program in the country to effectively give individuals with disabilities the power to save and invest for their future.
Tom Zawistowski Added to Program to Discuss Liberty
Tom Zawistowski will join us at the beginning of Tuesday Night’s class from 7:05-7:25. He will talk about his view of where we are at with Liberty in the State of Ohio. Join us for his important, informed view. When most people think about Liberty in the State of Ohio they think about this guy.
Tom, is the CEO and Founder, with his wife Nanette, of TRZ Communications, a 38 year old technology company based in Akron, Ohio. In 2009 he was one of the founders of the Portage County TEA Party, for which he became the Executive Director in 2010, a position he still holds.
In 2011, Tom was nominated by liberty leaders around the state to head a group of volunteers that was challenged with the task of putting on the first ever state convention for liberty minded citizens. His “We the People” Convention which was held at the Columbus Convention Center during the 4th of July weekend of 2011 and was attended by over 1,000 Patriots.
He has been recognized as one of the top liberty group leaders in the nation for his efforts to defend the legal right of Liberty groups across the nation and he produces the popular We The People Convention Podcast which is Posted Every Friday at ethepeopleconvention.org.
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Matt Miller-Novak to Discuss The First Amendment
Lorain, Ohio residents recently came to City Council meeting with their mouths taped shut, as dozens of people sent a strong message at the meeting that they demanded to be able to speak in a public comment portion of the meeting. Cleveland, Ohio does not allow public comment at it’s Monday night meetings. What is happening in your community?
Matt Miller-Novak, from Godbey Law, LLC will teach an important First Amendment course at Empower U on April 21, 2020. The course will focus on the constitutional rights of citizens speaking during public participation portions of local government meetings. The course will cover the case law precedent regarding the First Amendment’s application to protected speech, the government’s ability to manage participation, and potential rights of action and consequences for unlawful viewpoint animus.
Matt Miller-Novak will provide a lecture and some examples. He will also answer audience questions, and he greatly enjoys audience participation, so do not be surprised if he asked those in attendance to join in. Matt’s part of the class will run from 7:25-8:15 PM.
Matt Miller-Novak is an attorney at Godbey Law, LLC. Matt received his Juris Doctorate from Chase School of Law, his Master of Fine Arts degree in painting from the University of Cincinnati, and his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in painting from Youngstown State University. Matt first moved to Cincinnati in 2001 to study painting at the University of Cincinnati after marrying his wife Jamie. Jamie began teaching high school English in the Three Rivers School District, and Matt began teaching painting and drawing at Northern Kentucky University while exhibiting his art regionally and nationally.
Matt soon developed an interest in local government and began getting involved in campaigns and other community service. Moreover, his faith had always driven his desire to empower those with less bargaining power in our society. In the year 2010, Matt decided to stop teaching and attend law school. Upon his admission at Chase Law, Matt focused his studies on Constitution jurisprudence and employment discrimination. He graduated Cum Laude, and he received honors for his trial advocacy skills and legal writing. In addition, Matt published two law review articles, and he spoke at Whittier Law School regarding employment matters in 2014.
Matt is now a civil litigator at Godbey Law, and he is actively empowering citizens in government accountability cases, employment discrimination cases, and other civil matters. He has received his share of coverage in various local news reports on his cases, and his practice at Godbey Law continues to grow. In his private life, Matt continues to paint, as well play guitar and piano at his church in Walnut Hills. He also serves on his own local government, he remains happily married to Jamie, and he is the proud father of a 12-year old son.
This Class is a Virtual Class Only –EmpowerU Studio Closed Due to Coronavirus
Barbara Holwadel to Discuss Mass Transit and Issue 7
Barbara Holwadel has been researching mass transit and Issue 7 since she first started to learn about the levy around first of the year. Issue 7 is the largest levy tax increase in the history of Hamilton County. She will catch you up on her thoughts about what happens if we burden our government and citizens with such a large tax like this when our economy which is on the verge of crashing.
Don’t miss Barbara’s insight into this important topic which will include outside research on where mass transit is headed in the United States. Barbara will be with us from 7:05-7:25 PM
Born and raised in Anderson Township. She is a graduate of Anderson High School then Wilmington College with a B.S. in Business. Believing the American dream is under siege from politicians of both parties, she got involved in the struggle to fight the ever-expanding size and scope of government.
Barbara was elected Precinct Executive and subsequently Ward Chair of the party (2010-2018) in Madeira and always made sure there were people working the polls on Election Day. She has been active in local groups such as the Ohio Battleground Alliance, the Hamilton County Victory Centers and general candidate support (especially President Donald J. Trump) since that time. She has run for State Central Committee and Madeira City Council. From those efforts Barbara has learned a lot about campaigning and the power of incumbency.
Barbara’s research into the economic drain of mass transit and the deceptive nature of Issue 7 inspired her to fight to defeat it by educating voters. She’s grateful to the hard-working team of volunteers that have stood outside in the cold at the Board of Elections during early voting.
This presentation will begin to explore the important changes that the Chinese Coronavirus Pandemic is causing in the US, China, and around the globe. The changes will be economic, political, and social. Many aspects of life will be affected, and, in a number of areas, the changes will be dramatic and enduring.
Dr. Al Tuchfarber and The China Part of Our Class Will Start at 7:25 PM
How and Why the US & China Will Change Because of the Coronavirus Pandemic
This investigation is, of course, just the beginning. But many important changes and outcomes are already visible or near certain to occur. Among the changes that Dr. Tuchfarber will address are:
Why is a US economic recovery likely by summer?
Why are effective treatments of the coronavirus illness more important now than a vaccine?
Why will China get most of the blame for the worldwide devastation caused by the virus?
How will the globalization of the world economy slow and change?
Why will China’s economy never fully recover from the pandemic?
Why is the US now more in control of the international economy and financial system than ever before?
How will the US job market and workplace change because of the crisis?
Why will President Trump and future presidents have more emergency powers and resources?
Why will the US and world be better prepared for the next pandemic?
Why has “America First” become a worldwide, “Every Nation State First?”
How might the coronavirus pandemic in the US affect the November elections?
Will US life get back to normal? ANSWER: Yes, substantially but slowly.
Alfred J Tuchfarber PhD, Professor Emeritus of Political Science – University of Cincinnati. He is owner – Tuchfarber Political-Economics, LLC, Blogger – TuchfarberReport.com. As a political-economic analyst and author of the Tuchfarber Report, Al brings you insights and forecasts that you will not find elsewhere. Al Tuchfarber publishes the weekly Tuchfarber Report — a summary and analysis of the important things occurring is US and world politics, economics, and society. It can be found at TuchfarberReport.com
Al Tuchfarber is an academic and entrepreneur who has had a successful career as a teacher, researcher, senior administrator, campaign manager, political analyst, organizational strategist, and writer.
He holds a PhD in political science and has well over 100 publications.
Al’s intellectual and practical interests are very wide-ranging. He has spent his career both in the arena of ideas but also in the “real-world” where the rubber hits the road…where things must work.
Areas of special interest to him are American politics and political-economics, global politics and global political-economics, political polling, campaign and organizational strategies, demographics, and societal change.
Tuchfarber founded the Ohio Poll and directed it for a quarter century. The Poll established a remarkable record for accuracy in predicting elections and has been rated one of the nation’s best.
Al brings that experience and skill-set to his weekly blog — the Tuchfarber Report, as well as to his consulting, speaking, and writing.
His predictions are 80 to 95% accurate because they are based on facts, data, history and common sense…NOT on ideology, partisanship, or hopes.
As a political-economic analyst and author of the Tuchfarber Report, Al brings you insights and forecasts that you will not find elsewhere. Al Tuchfarber publishes the weekly Tuchfarber Report — a summary and analysis of the important things occurring is US and world politics, economics, and society. It can be found at TuchfarberReport.com
If you would like to see a free issue, email Professor Tuchfarber at al.tuchfarber@gmail.com
Mike Wilson will join our session at EmpowerU tonight by starting off our class with a discussion about the analytics of Covid-19. For those of you who have read his lengthy posts on Facebook about Coronavirus you can tell that Mike is someone who bases his decisions on data. With so many of the Cornuavirus pandemic decisions based on ill-formed models and bad data, Mike has the information to help set us straight and get us thinking differently on this difficult subject. Oh yes, and what about the economy?
Be prepared to open your minds and look differently at one of the most difficult problems that has ever transpired in the United States of America.
Mike will be with us from 7:05-7:30 PM.
Mike Wilson is a Cincinnati native and proud graduate of St. Xavier High School and the University of Cincinnati. His degree is in Applied Mathematics which has served him well as CTO of Interlink Cloud Advisors, a local Microsoft focused consulting firm, and in analyzing data trends in other spheres.
Mike has stepped back from recent political activism, but founded the Cincinnati Tea Party in 2009 and quickly built an organization that become one of the largest and most respected truly grassroots organizations in the country. Mike also was instrumental in leading the successful grassroots effort to amend the Ohio Constitution with the Health Care Freedom Amendment in 2011.
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The Status of Healthcare in the United States of America
Nationally known Health Care expert Grace-Marie Turner joins EmpowerU for an exclusive Webinar on the status of our Health Care System. Grace-Marie will be addressing the following topics plus your questions.
– What is the current status of efforts to move our current system away from unnecessary regulation and toward a thriving free market system for the vast majority of Americans while still providing alternatives for the needs of those with pre-existing health problems and special needs.
– How can we address the current status and the challenges we face since Obamacare has been partially amended leaving us with a bureaucratic mess, along with very limited options for some parts of the country and for those who buy their own insurance (small business/individual markets).
– Learn about what we’ve learned from the COVID-19 situation and how most of the true solutions and innovation are coming from the free market
– Finally–Why Medicare for All would be a nightmare and nationalized systems are struggling. An election primer is coming…
Be prepared to ask questions about whatever concerns you have with the direction of America’s health care. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to have questions answered by a real expert!
Grace will be with us from 7:30-8:15 PM.
Grace-Marie Turner is president of the Galen Institute, a public policy research organization she founded in 1995 to promote an informed debate over ideas to transfer power over health care decisions to doctors and patients. She has served on the Long Term Care Commission, the National Advisory Board for the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and the Medicaid Commission. She testifies regularly before Congress and has been published in hundreds of newspapers, including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and USA Today. She edited Empowering Health Care Consumers through Tax Reform and has contributed to numerous other books.
She speaks extensively in the U.S. and abroad, including Harvard University, the London School of Economics, Oxford University, and the Gregorian University at the Vatican. She received the 2007 Outstanding Achievement Award for Promotion of Consumer Driven Health Care from Consumer Health World.
Curt Hartman–Everything About This Contentious Race…. 7:05-7:20 PM
Curt Hartman is running for judge in the Hamilton County Common Pleas Court against Karen Falter who is a Magistrate in the Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas. The election has gone negative and there are all sorts of complaints involving “courthouse and party-insider gossip”. The latest dispute involves Falter’s campaign accusing Hartman of moving to Hamilton County 3 years ago to take a position. Curt Hartman Joins EmpowerU to discuss the contentious race and fill you in on finding by The Board of Professional Conduct regarding the case. Meet Curt Hartman from 7:05-7:20 and learn about the facts of this race at EmpowerU Chats.
Speaker Bio
In March 2017, Hartman was appointed judge on the Hamilton County Common Pleas Court where he served. He had a reputation of being an excellent jurist, seeking to ensure and advance justice for all involved with the legal system. Curt, a graduate with distinction, from the Naval Academy had a robust private practice caseload where he was involved in cases at all levels of the state and federal judiciary, including the U.S. Supreme Court.
Pete Witte–One of the Areas Most Interesting Citizens 7:20-8:00 PM
Pete Witte is a lifelong Price Hill Resident who has been involved with the Core of the City of Cincinnati. He has never lived more than a block off West 8th Street in West Price Hill his entire life. He has served on many local boards and commissions. We will have an opportunity to speak with Pete about many important things that are going on currently in Cincinnati and Hamilton County that he is involved with.
The Millenium Hotel
“This is a huge risk we are taking,”– Adam Gelter, CFA Board Member
“It is going to a black hole… This is not a good decision for the residents, or the county.” Stephanie Dumas–Hamilton CountyCommissioner
We will discuss the subject of Quasi Government. Is Quasi Government, good government. Can the taxpayers understand what is happening. Should the County have invested $59 million via the Cincinnati Port to buy the Millenium Hotel ($36 million purchase price + $12 million+ to demolish it)? Who made the decision to purchase? What is the role of the Convention Facilities Authority (CFA) with the Millenium? What role does CFA play in the Area? The Cincinnati Port, what role does it play in County and City affairs? Is the Port starting to take on risky areas outside of normal Government that should concern taxpayers–like its ownership of the FC Cincinnati Stadium? How can taxpayers find out and hold accountable their elected officials that operate “Quasi” Boards like the CFA and the Cincinnati Port that operate outside the bounds of normal Government?
What is the future plan for the Millenium? What has happened with the $5 million lawsuit involving the Millenium that was recently filed by the agent that brokered the deal for the Millenium to be purchased by the Port. What happens with the Tax rates for hotels that visitor’s will pay to stay at local hotels? Is the Tax Rate Going Up? How is the Millenium financed? Other things to be discussed tonight will be Tax Abatements, Issue #7, a possible run for City of Cincinnati Council and Pete’s Podcast.
Speaker Bio
Pete is married to wife Ann. He has two kids, Alex 20 and Lilly 19, both currently in college. He recently adopted a puppy named Igby. He is a graduate of Elder High School. Alex is a 3rd generation Elder grad and Lilly a 3rd generation Seton Grad. Pete’s mom was a founder of the Elder Food and Toy Drive back in the early 1980s. She coordinated up till her death in 2005. Pete and his wife have carried on this role that his mom started and have coordinated the Toy side of the Elder Food and Toy Drive since 2005.
Pete’s and his Dad founded what is now known as Baron Engraving in 1987. They started in the basement of his parent’s home and now operate on Glenway Avenue in West Price Hill. His company specializes in custom engraving, name badges, interior signs, and recognition products. We offer a variety of signs for almost any application.
Pete’s involvement in the neighborhood first started in 1996. I served for many years as an active member and elected officer of the Price Hill Civic Club, which is now known as West Price Hill Community Council. I also held the title of President for 10 consecutive years.
I have served on a variety of boards and political committees over the last 25 years:
City of Cincinnati Planning Commission (2001-2004)
Cincinnati Metropolitan Housing Authority (2006 – 2014): I served as a Chairman from 2012—14 and oversaw the hiring process of the current CMHA CEO Greg Johnson.
Board Member of the Cincinnati Police Safe City Corridor Project (2005-2010)
Board member of the City of Cincinnati Community Development Advisory Board (2016-2019)
Board member of the Convention Facilities Authority, the entity that owns both the Duke Energy Convention Center and the Sharonville Convention Center (2018 – current)
Pete was a founding member of POWR PAC (Partnership Of Westside Residents Political Action Committee). He has taken part in multiple political campaigns both for candidates and issues. I was also one of three signed petitioners, along with Christopher Smitherman and Amy Murray, in the effort that ended Mayor Mark Mallory and City Council’s plan to privatize parking meters in 2013.
Pete was unsuccessfully in his run for Cincinnati City Council in 2003. In 2018 he started a podcast in 2018 called Live From Table 1. I interview people of interest from my favorite table at Price Hill Chili.
Attorneys Chris Finney and Rebecca Heimlich of the Finney Law Firm will present “Significant Relief for Business Owners and Self-Employed in the COVID-19 Pandemic Crisis.” So many businessmen and women who have built the businesses for years and decades have watched their investments become imperiled as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic crisis, and in many cases the government mandates relating to it.
As a result, an unprecedented millions of Americans have been furloughed or laid off because the businesses no longer have the money to keep them employed. On Friday Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which includes the Paycheck Protection Program to provide funds to businesses and the self-employed to keep the wheels of commerce turning and allow those businesses to bring back the loyal employees that allow it to exist and grow.
This Thursday, the presenters will explain the act and how businesses owners can quickly access the funds to avoid insolvency.
Chris Finney is a licensed attorney in Ohio, Kentucky and the District of Colombia, as well as a licensed Ohio real estate title insurance agent. Mr. Finney was named Ohio Lawyer of the Year in 1998 at the age of 37.
Bringing more than 30 years of experience as a real estate attorney, Mr. Finney has knitted together the attorneys of the Finney Law Firm with the title professionals and attorneys at Ivy Pointe Title to create a sophisticated and robust commercial and residential title insurance company. The Finney Law Firm gives depth to the title company in the areas of corporate and transactional law, real estate law, probate and estate administration, trust law, bankruptcy law, and commercial dispute resolution.
Mr. Finney is the owner of Finney Law Firm, where he concentrates in commercial and public interest law as well as matters of real estate law and title to real estate.
The height of Mr. Finney’s legal career to date was reached with two wins before the United States Supreme Court in June of 2014, for clients suing the Ohio Elections Commission over their administration of the Ohio “False Claims” statute, empowering a panel of bureaucrats to judge the truth or falsity of statements made during election campaigns. Mr. Finney challenged the statute, and the criminal penalties attendant thereto, in a series of cases spanning five years. After losing the issue before three separate District Court judges, and all fifteen Judges on the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals (an 0-18 losing record on this issue), Mr. Finney won back-to-back 9-0 decisions on the cases from the US Supreme Court.
Mr. Finney is an experienced transactional attorney and commercial litigator, allowing him and his firms to seamlessly document and close your transaction, as well as address disputes that can arise during the course of a transaction.
Rebecca Heimlich is an attorney at the Finney Law Firm.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Wednesday, April 1, 2020
“Back then people closed their eyes and listened to music” – Neil Young
Neil Young is one of the most influential songwriters and guitarists of his generation, known for recording such favorites as ‘Old Man,’ ‘Harvest Moon’ and ‘Heart of Gold.’ Born in Canada in 1945, Neil Young arrived in the U.S. in the mid-1960s and co-founded the band Buffalo Springfield. He earned fame both as a member of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young (CSN&Y) and as a solo artist, writing and recording such timeless songs as “Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black),” “Rockin’ in the Free World” and “Heart of Gold”—a No. 1 hit.
Nicknamed the “Godfather of Grunge” for his undeniable influence on that genre, Young is also a strong advocate for environmental and disability issues. Young in his youth suffered from epilepsy, Type 1 diabetes and polio. By 1951 his health had deteriorated so far that he was unable to walk.
As his health recovered in the 1960’s Neil began making the rounds on the Canadian folk circuit, rubbing elbows with other up-and-coming Canadian musicians, including fellow folk singer Joni Mitchell and the rock band the Guess Who. In Los Angeles in 1966, Young ran into Stephen Stills and soon thereafter, Young, Stills, Palmer Ritchie Furay and Dewey Martin formed Buffalo Springfield. They debut self-titled album including the hit “For What It’s Worth” became a Top 10 hit. In 1968 a strain inside Buffalo Springfield led him to strike out on his own.
In 1969 Young signed with Reprise Records1969 and released his self-titled debut album to mixed reviews. But Young followed up just a few months later with Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere, a signature album, on which drummer Ralph Molina, bass player Billy Talbot and guitarist Dan Whitten, collectively known as Crazy Horse, backed him up. With their raw sound serving as the counterpoint to Young’s distinctively melancholy and untrained voice on such tracks as “Cinnamon Girl” and “Down by the River,” the album climbed up the charts to No. 34, and eventually went gold.
Meanwhile, Young had reconnected with Stephen Stills, who had formed a new group with David Crosby of the Byrds and Graham Nash of the Hollies. Young joined the trio, which was renamed Crosby, Still, Nash & Young and they began to perform and record, playing the legendary Woodstock Festival in August 1969 (This was CSNY’s second performance ever—Young would not allow himself to be filmed for the movie). The band’s subsequent tour and album release, 1970’s Déjà Vu, catapulted them to fame—so much so that they were at times referred to as the “American Beatles.” However, Young’s relationship with his bandmates quickly became contentious, and he left the group to focus more exclusively on his solo work.
“There is an edge to real rock ‘n’ roll. It’s all that matters.”
In 1970 his album After the Gold Rush broke into the Top 10 and featuring such Neil Young classics as “Only Love Can Break Your Heart,” “Tell Me Why” and “Southern Man.” (The latter, a condemnation of racism that angered many Southerners, would inspire Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama,” in which Neil Young is called out specifically.) Young outdid himself the next year with Harvest, a hallmark work that contains the songs “The Needle and the Damage Done,” and “Old Man”. At the end of 1972, Young and his girlfriend, Academy Award–winning actress Carrie Snodgress, had a son, Zeke, who was born with cerebral palsy, and Snodgress had to set aside her acting career to care for him. A few months later, shortly after being fired by Young before their upcoming tour, Crazy Horse guitarist Dan Whitten died of a drug overdose. These events were compounded by a string of relatively unsuccessful projects, including the 1972 film Journey Through the Past, the live album Time Fades Away and 1974’s On the Beach. Young and Snodgress split up in 1975, the same year that Young released his album Tonight’s the Night, which had been recorded shortly after Whitten’s death and reflected Young’s frame of mind with its dark character and themes, as well as Zuma, a hard-edged album featuring Crazy Horse’s new lineup
Things got even better the next year, when Comes a Time broke into the Top 10, and Young married Pegi Morton (who was waitress at a restaurant near his ranch and would inspire many of Young’s songs in the future, most notably, “Unknown Legend”) and embarked on a tour with Crazy Horse called “Rust Never Sleeps,” during which they showcased songs from an upcoming album. Released in 1979, Rust Never Sleeps echoed the structure of the concerts, alternating between quiet, acoustic tracks and aggressive electric numbers. Among its highlights is one of Neil Young’s best-known tracks, the anthem “Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black).”
“With Crazy Horse, it’s all one big, growing, smoldering sound, and I’m part of it It’s like gliding, or some sort of natural surfing.”
Neil Young is one of the most prolific recorders of music in the History of Rock and Roll with over 40 albums recorded since 1969. Young was inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995. In our session at EmpowerU you will learn about Young’s different groups that he’s played with. His complicated love-hate relationship with Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. The impact on Young of the death of Crazy Horse guitarist Dan Whitten. The inspiration behind such hits as “Old Man” and “A Man Needs a Maid”. His contributions to the Benefit for Farm Aid, his countless charitable efforts, and his ownership of Lionel Trains. And the straw the finally broke the back of CSNY, David Crosby’s comments about Neil’s marriage to actress Daryl Hannah in 2018.
You will learn about Young’s incredible impact on Rock and Roll as we look as his music—through video and discussion– in a way that you will enjoy. It’s going to be a loud night at EmpowerU –tell your music friends and don’t miss this one! Come early around 6:15 pm and Daniel Regenold, the lead guitarist for the Vims will open up the night with a 45 minute set dedicated to Neil Young. We will be serving draft beer, soft drinks and water at the event and feel free to bring beverages of your choice.
Dana W. Gore
Speaker Bio
Dana was born January 28, 1953 in Shreveport, LA. His father was in the military and we moved many times in the early years. They lived in Kansas, Missouri, Kentucky, North Carolina, and then finally in 1962 they settled in Falls Church, VA. This is where music started to change his life forever.
Next door to him lived a boy who was much older than him, but despite the age difference they still became very good friends, initially through their love of sports. This is where it happened. He vividly remembers the boy’s record player in his living room and the day he pulled out this album with a huge wave on the front, with a surfer on his board. It was the Beach Boys “Surfin’ U.S.A”. The title cut opens the record, and that was it, he was hooked. Then he showed him a record by someone named Chuck Berry titled “Chuck Berry is on Top”, and played the song “Johnny B. Goode”. He couldn’t believe my ears. It was truly a magical moment.
The final piece of the puzzle fell in to place on February, 9, 1964 when the Beatles made their 1st appearance on Ed Sullivan. Like so many others, this was a defining moment for him. From that day on, until today 50+ years later, music was the one constant in his life. From elementary school through high school, college, marriage, children, grandchildren, and lifelong friends, music has been with him for the entire ride.
Starting with his 1st concert in the spring of 1969, with Led Zeppelin opening for The Who, and up until his last concert on May 6, 2017 in Tampa, FL when Joe Walsh opened for Tom Petty, he has been blessed. But of the hundreds of bands and concerts he has seen, none brought him back again and again more than Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Close behind, Neil Young who will be the focus of tonight’s class. Dana had a long career in the record business with Penguin Feather Records in Virginia and served for 29 years as the President of Posterservice, Inc, a sister company of Frame USA.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Wednesday, April 1, 2020
“Political correctness is the elevation of moral posturing about sensitivity over truth” –Jordan Peterson
Join EmpowerU at the movies as we watch the incredible documentary of “The Rise of Jordan Peterson.” Had enough of the new PC culture and social justice that is dominating us? This movie is for you as it presents a rare, intimate glimpse into the life and mind of Jordan Peterson, the academic and best-selling author who captured the world’s attention with his criticisms of political correctness and his life-changing philosophy on discovering personal meaning.
Christened as the most influential public intellectual in the western world, University of Toronto psychology professor Jordan Peterson skyrocketed to fame after he published a controversial viral video series entitled “Professor Against Political Correctness” in 2016. Peterson had enough of what he saw as a campus culture where “social justice warrior, left-wing radical political activists” ran rampant. He zeroed in on Canadian human rights legislation that prohibits discrimination based on gender identify or expression. Peterson was especially frustrated with being asked to use alternative pronouns as requested by trans students or staff, like the singular “they” or “ze” and “zir” used by some as alternatives to “she” or “he”. Peterson’s employer warned that he could run afoul of the Ontario Human Rights code and his faculty responsibilities should he refuse to use alternative pronouns when requested.
“Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today.” –Jordan Peterson
Peterson’s main concern was that by outlawing the use of language and certain words that our liberties are being run over by Government. Within 2 years, he had sold over 3 million copies of his self-help book “12 Rules for Life,” and became simultaneously branded by some as the academic rock star selling out theatres around the world, and by others as a dangerous threat to progressive society.
“The Rise of Jordan Peterson” intimately traces the transformative period of Peterson’s life while visiting rare moments with his family, friends and foes who share their own versions of the Jordan Peterson Story.
After the movie, which runs about and hour and one-half, we’ll talk about political correctness and discuss how we can neutralize it in our own lives. Please note early 6:30 pm start time.
“The purpose of life is finding the largest burden that you can bear and bearing it.” –Jordan Peterson
Since this class is a movie presentation it will not be presented virtually–please join us.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Wednesday, April 1, 2020
Mary Cunningham who, in the 1870s, with her husband William were in the business of aiding many young Cincinnati medical students in their studies by providing them with cadavers upon which to examine. They were grave-robbing body snatchers! Irish born Mary was a fun-loving woman that liked her whiskey and was rough around the edges.
At the time you “see” Mary her beloved husband William, known as the “Ghoul of Cincinnati,” had passed away. Mary, dubbed as “Alligator Jaws” will enlighten you of the fine arts of body snatching, which was a very lucrative market in Cincinnati during that time. What else we know of Mary are from the many Cincinnati newspaper articles about body snatching. Joyce Lovins Browning will tell us about this fascinating story.
Also joining us tonight at from 7:05-7:30 is Dusty Rhodes who is the Auditor of Hamilton County. Recently he has spoken up vocally about the dramatic increase in tax-exempt properties–tax abatements–which is shifting the tax burden for such critical services as transportation and education to property owners who don’t get tax breaks.
The value of property owned by governments, nonprofits, and other tax-exempt organizations in Hamilton county climbed to $19.1 billion last year, making up more than a quarter (26.7%) of the total market value of all property in the county.
The tax-exempt share is up from about 16% in 2005 and just 10% in 1991. The growing number of tax-exempt properties will lead to rate hikes for many non-exempt property owners. Dusty will join us tonight from 7:05-7:30 to discuss this alarming tax abatement trend
Joyce Lovins Browning- is a native of Ohio growing up in Harrison and Okeana. She has been performing Living History for over 18 years. She retired after 20 years as the Naturalist Coordinator from Great Parks of Hamilton County in 2018, and now enjoys working as a part-time Tour Coordinator for Ohio Travel Treasures, sending groups on wonderful bus tour adventures.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Wednesday, April 1, 2020
An intense 1+ hour, awareness-level class will help you better understand the issues involved.
Lessons will be learned from current research on active shooter (killer) incidents and, how to prepare as an individual to avoid, deter or delay an active shooter (killer) incident. If you and your family are caught in one of these incidents, what should you do? Do you know why these incidents happen, or if there are any patterns to such crimes? You’ll learn response considerations for the concealed carry individual, and what kind of training is available. Should you consider always having some kind of equipment on you to minimize loss of life and maximize your chances for survival?
Businesses will want to consider legal considerations of workplace violence (WPV) and active shooter (killer) incidents. As an employer do you have a workable active shooter (killer) response plan? “Hardening” your facilities, improving your procedures, & training are your greatest assets: your co-workers and you! What are you equipment considerations (safety, medical, etc.) needed to minimize loss of life and maximize your chances for survival. Also, we will discuss communication considerations, both internal and external, that are needed and how best to reach out 9-1-1, your loved ones, and your employees.
COL Bob Cutajar, USA (ret.) (coo – TIE – yer”)
Has managed the Center for Haz Mat, Rescue & Safety at Cincinnati State College’s Workforce Development Center for 6 years. He retired after forty years in the Army as infantry officer; sniper instructor; warrant officer & helicopter pilot. Bob’s combat service was in: Grenada, Central America, Desert Storm, Balkans, Kosovo, Afghanistan, Iraq, Saudi Arabian peninsula (wounded twice). He retired from P&G after twenty-six years as CBD/PS and he spent 10 years in Florida as Reserve Deputy Sheriff.
Bob is a Firearms Instructor (NRA / USCCA; OH and KY concealed carry licenses
Bob Cutajar is a curriculum developer of both the “Active Killer Awareness & Safety” and “Basic Emergency Casualty Care” Workshops at Cincinnati State College
EmpowerU brings you the long requested class on Google to be presented by Dr. Robert Epstein live Webinar for EmpowerU only. Dr. Epstein’s 2015 report in PNAS entitled “The Search Engine Manipulation Effect (SEME) and Its Possible Impact on the Outcomes of Elections” (https://bit.ly/1REqzEY) has been accessed or downloaded more than 200,000 times from PNAS’s website. The report describes one of the largest effects ever discovered in the behavioral sciences, and because SEME is nearly invisible as a source of influence and leaves no paper trail for authorities to follow, it is an especially dangerous form of influence. Dr. Epstein’s research suggests that SEME is currently determining the outcomes of upwards of 25 percent of the world’s national elections and that it is affecting a wide range of opinions, not just voting preferences. In 2016, Dr. Epstein discovered that the search suggestions we see in Google’s “autocomplete” can also be used to shift votes and opinions without people’s knowledge – a manipulation he calls the “Search Suggestion Effect” (SSE).
Dr. Epstein has also built the only systems ever deployed to capture the ephemeral content that search engines show people. In the days leading up to the 2016 presidential election in the U.S., he preserved 13,207 election-related searches on Google, Bing, and Yahoo, along with the 98,044 web pages to which the search results linked. He found a significant pro-Clinton bias in Google search results (but not in Bing or Yahoo results), sufficient to have convinced between 2.6 and 10.4 million undecided voters to vote for Mrs. Clinton without knowing they had been influenced. Dr. Epstein reported these findings even though he was a Clinton supporter and is not a conservative politically.
In 2018, he preserved 47,294 searches and 392,274 web pages, again finding a significant pro-liberal bias only on the Google search engine. This time the bias was sufficient to have shifted upwards of 78.2 million votes to Democrats (spread across hundreds of elections). He is currently raising funds to build a much larger and more comprehensive monitoring system in 2020, one that will monitor many potentially biased sources of online influence, not just search results. You can donate money to aid in this effort at http://MyGoogleResearch.com.
ROBERT EPSTEIN is Senior Research Psychologist at the American Institute for Behavioral Research and Technology (AIBRT) and the former editor-in-chief of Psychology Today magazine. A Ph.D. of Harvard University, he has published 15 books on artificial intelligence, adolescence, and other topics, as well as more than 300 scientific and popular articles, including scientific reports in Science, Nature, and the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS).
Dr. Epstein was seen most recently on The Tucker Carlson show.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Wednesday, March 25, 2020
Do you love baseball? Do you know everything there is to know about the game, and about the Reds in particular? An enjoyable evening of baseball, facts, figures, and fun. An in-depth talk given by Doug Brownlee about the players he has known, all the stats and even the farm teams they came from. He knows their families, he knows it all. He also can talk baseball history, players, coaches, good and bad. Baseball is his field and he knows it well. When Marty Brenneman was introduced to Doug he was quite impressed and suggested he should work at the Reds Hall of Fame and, he is. He gives great tours and no one at the Hall of Fame can stump him, though many try. What about you, can you stump Doug on any baseball trivia? Join Empower U for peanuts, cracker jacks, and beer to kick off the 2020 baseball season that begins on March 26. See you at the studio!
Doug Brownlee was indoctrinated into the world of baseball on the night of August 28, 1956 when his Dad took him to Crosley Field for the Reds-Giants (then based in NYC) game. He has been a fan ever since, cutting his teeth on the statistical aspect of the game, so much so that, even at 8 years old, he was getting perfect grades in arithmetic at school. All other classes netted no more than a C.
He has been with the Reds in the good and bad times. He was thirteen when the song. “They are all batty about Cincinnati” hit the airwaves. He has had the pleasure of volunteering at the Hall of Fame and museum for the past three years, and enjoys speaking with the fans of other teams.
It was a thrill for Doug to win the 1998 Cincinnati Enquirer contest concerning how he would like to see the GABP configured. The Enquirer took his picture, with a used Yogi Berra 1961 World Series bat in front of the Crosley Field scoreboard. Doug always had a dream to circulate to every MLB Park, and even though there were only 16 parks in existence at the time of his High School graduation in 1966, he didn’t get the chance to fulfill his dream.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Tuesday, March 24, 2020
This Class has Been Cancelled–This Class Will Not Be Reschedule–Sorry!
Millie Henley of Historical Connections will wear 1860’s attire as she tells stories of some of the most ingenious ways enslaved people devised to get to freedom.
Desperate enslaved people of the pre-Civil War South did not let their terrible experiences crush them, but acted on their yearning to breathe free, by devising all kinds of ways to escape from bondage. Some of their methods were creative and surprising. From hiding in plain sight to disguises, to piloting a ship under Confederate cannons, brave people on the run used all their daring abilities to make a better life.
They faced horrific consequences if caught, but the attempt was worth it to them. They ran for themselves and to protect their families. Their escapes showed that they were able to hold on to their sense of self-worth and personhood despite the dehumanizing experience of being owned. They stayed strong in their minds and souls and did not allow their victimized condition to define their lives. They went on to make new lives of their choosing. The people who ran were claiming the American promise laid out in the principles of the Declaration of Independence. Their stories are very much a part of the American story.
This class will not be presented virtually.
Millie Henley has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois and a Master’s Degree from Kent State University. She was a professional librarian for 25 years and is an avid lifelong student of history, spending months researching each presentation. She travels to historic reenactments of the 18th and 19th Centuries and delights in historic dancing. Her great joy is to share her passion for history with audiences who may not have known how intriguing it is. Millie wears historical style clothing to match the period of each program. She specializes in people and events of the 18th and 19th Centuries.
Millie agrees with Ken Burns when he says that the most engaging way to learn history is through stories. They create a connection to the past that no other method can. We still need data and trends, but engaging with people of the past deepens the experience and gives it meaning.
In her Historical Connections presentations, she tries to humanize events and allow the audience to feel connected with people who came before. If we don’t know our past, we can’t know who we are. As Michael Crichton said, “If you don’t know history you don’t know anything. You are a leaf that doesn’t know it is part of a tree.”
Millie has presented at historical societies, Civil War Round Tables, historical reenactments, an adult education organization, historical sites, libraries, and special events, including U.S. Grant Days in Georgetown, OH, and Heritage Village Civil War Days in Cincinnati, OH.
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Thursday, March 19, 2020
This Class Has Been Cancelled–We Hope to Reschedule
A fascinating presentation by Don Brown will take you inside the life and reality of becoming part of the 89th Airlift Wing that is based at Andrews, AFB. The outfit had been around for many years, starting as the 1254th Troop Carrier Squadron (1948 – 1966). The VC-137’s were controlled from the Vice-Chief of Staff of the Air Force Office, and were directly controlled by White House request.
Being a pilot for the White House staff seems like it would be exciting and the highlight of a pilot’s career, and it is, but there is much more involved than flying. Learn what it takes to be selected to serve with the organization. You’re on call unless on leave. Immediate response of one hour if assigned alert duty (usually once or twice a week). Short notice like sudden decision of Rosalynn Carter to go to Cambodia. Extensive briefings for any planned trip from security and crew coordination for hotels, food, guard vehicles, diplomatic clearances and visas, etc.
At Squadron level the pilots carried the Vice-President, Cabinet, Congress, First Family, and visiting foreign dignitaries. Endless baggage checks, hotel sweeps, being observant were a part of life. A lot changed after “Squeaky” Fromm attempted assassination of Ford, and we learned to watch how people in a country treated their fellow countrymen. Don was honored with the responsibility of flying many prominent notables such as Walter Mondale, Bush 41, Secretary of State, Cyrus Vance, Secretary of Defense, Harold Brown, and First Lady Rosalynn Carter.
Don Brown has forty-six years of aviation experience, both military and civilian aircraft. He is a former Pilot for Astar Air Cargo, served as Captain on three different aircrafts operating internationally. He was an air transport instructor as Second Officer on a large aircraft in international operations. He is a former pilot for Tempelhof Air, and a FAA Designated Company Instructor responsible for training, monitoring, and evaluating Captains and First Officers. He also flew for Air Ambulance Service and support for heart transplant teams of the Berlin Free State Hospital throughout Eastern and Western Europe. He is a former pilot for the United States Air Force. He has also served as a Safety Program Manager and platform Instructor for International Operations and Flight Examiner in Boeing 707 operations for the White House at Andrews AFB, Maryland. Don also served as Military Aide for Reagan White House Transition Team for the incoming Domestic Affairs Advisor. Don has also been fortunate enough to have landed an airplane on every continent.
Currently, Don volunteers at the National Museum of the United States Air Force which serves over 1 million guests each year. He also serves as one of the “Keepers of their Stories” for the individuals in aviation history that have served to make the United States a leader in the world
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA 225 Northland Blvd Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
This Class Has Been Cancelled (we hope to reschedule!)
EmpowerU partners with the Ohio Auditor’s Office to present Sunshine Laws Certification Training. If you are interested in obtaining this certification EmpowerU is providing an opportunity for you to do so locally.
With many municipalities struggling with Open Records and Meeting Violations we encourage all citizen activists to take this training. Accountability in Government starts with Sunshine–but training is a must.
The Sunshine Laws Certification Training, provided by the Ohio Auditor’s Office, is a three-hour certification training session provided to all elected officials, and/or their appropriate designees, as well as members of the general public.
Ohio Revised Code Section 109.43(B) states:
The Auditor shall develop, provide, and certify training programs and seminars for all elected officials or their appropriate designees in order to enhance the officials’ knowledge of the duty to provide access to public records as required by section 149.43 of the Revised Code. The training shall be three hours for every term of office for which the elected official was appointed or elected to the public office involved.
Each session includes an in-depth analysis of Ohio’s Public Records Act, with a brief discussion of Ohio’s Open Meetings Act.
You absolutely must register for this FREE class to be included and to receive your certification. Because this class includes certification it is not presented virtually.
Registration opens at 9:30 am.
This Class is Sponsored by Jay Janus, Jr.
Our presenter from the Ohio Auditor’s Office will be Patrick LeClair.
This Class Will Be Presented Virtually Only. Please Attend Online. EmpowerU Studio will not be open for people to attend this class in person. Please do not come to EmpowerU Studio–(very sorry!).
The “Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act” of 2019, better known as the SECURE Act, which originally passed the House in July, was signed into law on December 20 by President Donald Trump.
The SECURE Act will make it easier for small business owners to set up “safe harbor” retirement plans that are less expensive and easier to administer.Many part-time workers will be eligible to participate in an employer retirement plan.The Act pushes back the age at which retirement plan participants need to take required minimum distributions (RMDs), from 70½ to 72, and allows traditional IRA owners to keep making contributions indefinitely. The Act mandates that most non-spouses inheriting IRAs take distributions that end up emptying the account in 10 years, and The Act allows 401(k) plans to offer annuities.
The landscape for building wealth in retirement plans and IRAs has changed dramatically after the SECURE Act passed. Individuals need to balance their personal needs with what they desire to pass on to children and future generations in an asset protected manner.
An important change to many is the removal of a provision known as the Stretch IRA, which has allowed non-spouses (your children) inheriting retirement accounts to stretch out disbursements over their lifetimes. The new rules will require a full payout from the inherited IRA within 10 years of the death of the original account holder, raising an estimated $15.7 billion in additional tax revenue. (This will apply only to heirs of account holders who die starting in 2020.)
It doesn’t matter how much money you have, what matters is how you can pass it on to your beneficiaries. Suggestions will be made as to amendments to Revocable Trusts and the efficient, asset protected building of ROTH IRA assets.
Robert W. Buechner is President of the law firm of Buechner Haffer Meyers & Koenig Co., L.P.A. in Cincinnati, Ohio. He is a graduate of Princeton University and the University of Michigan Law School and has earned the prestigious CLU and ChFC designations from the American College.
He has been designated as a Super Lawyer since 2009 and is certified as a specialist in Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law by the Ohio State Bar Association. Nationally recognized as an authority on tax and financial matters, Mr. Buechner has authored six books, published 18 articles and has spoken at over 1,000 tax, financial, and motivational forums.
In addition, he has been an entrepreneur starting “Team Coaching for Winning at Life” and has developed a seminar program with Tara L. Robinson titled “Connecting Passion and Purpose.” Also, he has been a co-chair of “Champions for Urban Youth” which connects caring adults with inner-city children.
He has served as Chair or Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the following organizations: Southwestern Ohio Tax Institute, Tax Section of the Cincinnati Bar Association, church council of Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church, the City Club, Greater Cincinnati Estate Planning Council, the Cincinnatus Association, the Princeton Club of Southwestern, Ohio and Cincinnati Country Day School. (“CCDS”). He hosted his own T.V. show, “Greater Cincinnati Business Review” for 11 years. He has also served on the Board of Directors of two publicly traded corporations and is a former trustee of SORTA.
This Class is Sponsored by Georgia Crowell–Thanks!
Gardening that supports birds, bees, bats, butterflies and beetles in your back yard. Create a landscape that looks beautiful and is alive with welcomed wildlife! Design basics, successful plant selection, and some information about local wildlife will be covered in this session.
White Oak Gardens is a member of the American Nursery & Landscape Association, the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association and the Association of Floriculture Professionals. They live and breathe this stuff. They also love to share what they’ve learned over the years and see people achieve their goals, big and small. www.whiteoakgardens.com
Due to this class being presented off-site, this class will not be available virtually–please join us at White Oak Gardens.
Tom Borgman has more than 35 years of conservation-related experience. Recently retired from Great Parks of Hamilton County, Tom served in several positions including Natural Resource Manager and, Conservation & Parks Trainer. As a gardener, landscaper, naturalist, and plant enthusiast, Tom has had a lifelong interest in connections between plants, wildlife, and people.
When the federal government orchestrated the bankruptcy of General Motors causing Jim Renacci to lose his Chevrolet dealership, he made the decision to run for office. In 2011 he became Congressman Renacci. His presentation will give an overview and background of a dysfunctional government, a system that isn’t working, congressmen unable or unwilling to understand the budgeting process, and the long-term financial consequences of their actions.
This class is an opportunity to learn firsthand from Congressman Renacci as he enlightens us on the reality of being in congress as well as the fiscal state of the nation, failure of leadership, the role of money, disrupting the Political Elite, committees, and the numbers, politics, as usual, bipartisanship is not a dirty word and, most importantly the solutions and moving forward. Congressman Renacci’s recently released book “The GOP’s Lost Decade” covers these topics and more, which he will be signing and selling after the class.
Congressman Jim Renacci earned a degree in business administration and became a Certified Public Accountant and financial advisor. A successful businessman for more than 30 years he has been involved with real estate, automobile dealerships, nursing homes, and other businesses. Renacci is a former city council president and two-term Mayor of Wadsworth, Ohio.
He served as the U.S. Representative for Ohio’s 16th congressional district from 2011 to 2019. In 2011 he joined a wave of 107 newly elected congressmen, mostly Republications, who vowed to change the way Washington works. Almost from the day he arrived at the Capitol, Renacci encountered pervasive and entrenched dysfunction, perpetuated by both parties, and over the next eight years in office, he became increasingly frustrated by the inability of Congress to get anything done. Ten years after Renacci and his fellow lawmakers started down a path to change our government, many have left in frustration, and the situation in Washington has only gotten worse.
Renacci was ranked the 46th most bipartisan member of the U.S. House of Representatives during the 114th United States Congress (and the third most bipartisan member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Ohio).
7:05-7:25 PM Sheriff Jim Neil will be joining us to introduce himself to EmpowerU. Sheriff Neil has was elected Sheriff of Hamilton County in 2012 and will again be a candidate in the Democratic Primary for Sheriff on March 17. Neil is a lifelong resident of Hamilton County. After graduating from Western Hills High School, Jim continued his studies at the University of Cincinnati, where he earned a Master’s degree in Graduate Studies and Research. In 1981 he was hired into the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office and has been an employee there for 38 years.
Also: Meet Sheriff Candidate Charmaine McGuffey Tonight’s important session of EmpowerU covers Sorta Issue 7, and the proposed sales tax increase that will appear on Hamilton County ballots during Ohio’s March 17 primary election. This proposal, put directly on the ballot by Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority, will ask voters to raise the sales tax by 0.8 percent in order to increase funding for Cincinnati Metro bus service as well as for road and bridge improvements.
Sorta is currently funded at a rate of about $50 Million by the City of Cincinnati’s earnings tax. Issue 7, would make the City Earnings Tax be reduced from 2.1% to 1.8% and fund Sorta completely with a countywide sales tax levy. This levy would raise about $100 million a year for the busy system, plus another $30 million a year for roads and bridges, with the infrastructure portion of the sales tax. The levy would go for 25 years which would make this levy the largest levy ever, at a total of $3.20 billion (about 5 times the total cost of Paul Brown Stadium and The Great American Ballpark).
25% of the proceeds of the levy will be used for public infrastructure projects, like building or maintaining roads or bridges, 75% of the levy will provide general revenues for operating the Metro transportation system. Sorta hopes to add new bus routes to better align them with job centers in suburban Hamilton County. On major routes, there will be a bus every 15 minutes. Some buses will run 24 hours a day. More crosstown service and more weekend service will be added. Hamilton County’s Integrating Committee will oversee the spending of the infrastructure portion of the levy.
Sorta is governed by a 13-member volunteer citizens’ board of trustees. Currently, seven trustees are appointed by the City of Cincinnati and six are appointed by Hamilton County. The Hamilton County Integrating Committee is made up of nine representatives from the city and county.
Issues Involving the Sorta Sales Tax Increase:
Should a “Quasi” unelected, volunteer board be allowed to be responsible for this much taxpayer money?
Should Hamilton County be structurally in charge of the Sorta Board since this is a Hamilton County Levy?
What happens if there is yet another disagreement between Hamilton County and the City of Cincinnati (MSD, Union Terminal, The Banks, The Stadiums) regarding Sorta operation and service?
What happens if there is a problem with the levy? Are we stuck for 25 years? Do we have the ability to change directions? Can the levy be dropped?
Why do we need an infrastructure levy when we currently pay tax to the state, and we just passed a Gasoline Tax increase?
At 7.8% Hamilton County Sales Tax will be one of the highest in the state. Is this dangerous?
What Governmental Agency will be responsible for overseeing Sorta’s finances?
What is the role of the Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce is lobbying for this large County Tax Levy?
Why has the Hamilton County Republican Party not taken a position with respect to this Tax Levy?
Tonight, Brendon Cull who is the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Cincinnati Regional Chamber and a Board Member of Sorta and Cam Hardy will present the information for the SORTA–Issue 7 Tax Levy. Cam Hardy will also be present. It is really through Cam Hardy’s hard work, representing the issues of bus riders county-wide that this Tax Levy and possible increase in service is presented. William Monnier (Bill) from the Cheviot Gazette will also join us tonight to discuss his opposition to the levy and a recent article he wrote about the levy. There will be plenty of time for your questions and comments about the levy.
Charmaine McGuffey will be joining us at about 8:05 PM after the Sorta Forum to give us a vision of her candidacy for Sheriff of Hamilton County. She is the endorsed Democratic candidate for Sheriff of Hamilton County. Charmaineis a retired Major, former Commander of Jail and Court Services, and a 33-year veteran of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.
Brendon J. Cull
Brendon Cull is the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber. Prior to joining the Chamber, Cull was the Senior Director of Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs at The Kroger Co. From 2000-2005, Cull was the Legislative Director and Press Secretary for Cincinnati Mayor Charlie Luken.
Cull is member of the board of the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority and the Mercantile Library.
Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Cull graduated in 1999 from Xavier University with a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Communication. Cull lives in Clifton with his wife and daughters.
Cam Hardy
Born and raised in Cincinnati Ohio. Works at Frost, Brown and Todd law firm in Intellectual Property. President and Co-founder of the Better Bus Coalition. The Better Bus Coalition is a grassroots organization supporting investment in Hamilton County’s bus system. We mobilize riders, engage public and private entities, and activate the community to push for a revamped bus system that provides true mobility and economic viability for our region. Some of our projects include building benches to put at bus stops that had high ridership but no where for bus riders to sit. Another major project we did was create a bus plan based off what the community wanted to see out of a bus system. We took our message across the county and gathered feedback based off what people wanted. This is a true grassroots movement and we are proud of the work we have done and will continue to do to improve the quality of life for bus riders.
William Monnier
Bill has lived on the Westside of Cincinnati his entire life. He grew up in Delhi Township and graduated from Oak Hills High School in 2004. He furthered his education with Cincinnati State Community College majoring in Sales and Marketing in 2005. William founded a local publication station in Cheviot, Ohio called the Cheviot Gazette, which covers local news in the Westside of Cincinnati through a monthly printed edition as well as online.
Through the Cheviot Gazette William has promoted a wide assortment of local businesses and events. He believes captivating people’s attention will prompt the resident’s involvement within their communities. The Cheviot Gazette aims to provide honest local news where residents can engage in a number of issues through conversation and action, not divisiveness.
William is currently working on two books that are on track to be published by the end of 2020. Although he isn’t one to shy away from a challenge, enjoying his time with this son Lincoln is his top priority. “I’m always working, but I’m a father first, and Lincoln is the best boss I’ve ever worked for.”
Surveillance capitalism is the business model that fuels tech titans such as Google and Facebook. Anyone with an Internet connection can read the latest news, listen to their favorite music, chat with friends, search for anything online, shop, pay bills, play games, and watch videos, all for “free”. But it’s not really free. If you’re not paying with money, you’re paying with data. You’re not the customer, you’re the product. Companies like Google and Facebook harvest every little bit of data that they can get their hands on, and monetize it in a variety of ways including selling it to other companies, who may or may not secure it correctly. And the now ubiquitous nature of the Internet coupled with the ever increasing number of “smart” devices that we interact with are collecting volumes of very detailed information about how and where we live, work and play 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It’s relentless and pervasive and in many cases, not obvious. Americans are sleepwalking into a future nearly as frightening as the one the Chinese are constructing”.
At this session, Dave Hatter will explore: The type of data that is being collected, how it’s being collected, how it’s being used, how it’s being misused, why you should care about improving ur privacy, and tools and techniques to limit your digital footprint.
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Note Regarding Sheriff Jim Neil: Sorry to report that a scheduling error will force Sheriff Jim Neil to postpone his visit to EmpowerU tonight. We are trying to reschedule his visit to one of next week’s class, before the primary election.
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“Doomsday” Dave Hatter is a technology leader with nearly 30 years of software development, cybersecurity and project management experience. He has earned numerous industry certifications and, holds a BS in Information Systems from NKU. Dave is especially good at bridging the gap between business and technology and has delivered more than 200 successful software solutions earning nearly 60 testimonial letters from his clients. Additionally, he has written or contributed to 12 technology books, written more than 100 technology related articles for publications and, been quoted in many publications.
Libertas Technologies, the software development company Dave founded in 2001, was honored with many awards, but he is especially proud of winning the Cincinnati Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics in 2007. Dave is now a Cyber Security Consultant at Intrust IT, where he works with clien
Before coming to WCPO 9 in 2005, Steve spent nearly 20 years at KRON-TV in San Francisco as their Chief Meteorologist. He pioneered the country’s first instant weather information access, the California Weather Network. While there, he represented the United States at the World Weather Conference in Barcelona, Spain. He also broadcasted live from the White House lawn during a Presidential Conference on Climate Change. He’s become somewhat of a hurricane hound broadcasting live from the scene of over a dozen tropical systems. Steve is in his 38th year in meteorology covering everything from tornado outbreaks to major snow events, and still brings his my “comfortable” air mattress frequently using it during severe weather seasons.
Jim Meyers: Jim Meyers graduated from Gettysburg College in 1964 and began his military service in the US Marine Corps shortly thereafter. Upon graduation frothe Marine Corps Officer Candidate School in 1966, Jim received small leadership training at The Basic School, Quantico, Virginia, followed by additional training at Camp LeJeune, NC. He was deployed to the Republic of South Vietnam in 1967 and assignd to the 2d Batallion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division.
Cherise Wilson: 
IBM and the Holocaust was first published in 2001 and again in 2012, yet there are many people who have not heard of the events, in this book. The discoveries came about from a visit to The Holocaust Museum in Washington DC. While Edwin and his parents (who survived Hitler’s reign) stood looking through a glass at an IBM machine, and not understanding the significance, he promised them he would find out why it was there.
Orlando Sonza is proud to be an Ohioan. A second generation Filipino American, Orlando was raised in New Jersey and attended the United States Military Academy at West Point. While there he met his wife, Jessica, a Mexican/Filipino American, fellow Academy classmate, and Cincinnati native.
Dr. Debbi Silverman: 
Joseph Ashbrook: Joseph is President of the Cincinnati Lawyers Chapter of the Federalist Society. Founded in 1982, the Federalist Society promotes the principles that the state exists to preserve freedom, separation of governmental powers is central to our Constitution, and it is the province and duty of the judiciary to say what the law is, not what it should be. Mr. Ashbrook was the editor-in-chief of the Virginia Law Review and currently practices at the law firm Ashbrook Byrne Kresge LLC, providing outside general counsel and litigation services for businesses and individuals. 
Betsy Sundermann: Betsy has the resume and the experience to serve as Hamilton County’s next Domestic Relations Judge. She has served as a Hamilton County Prosecutor, Magistrate, and as a member of Cincinnati City Council. She has also practiced law privately, helping clients with mental health issues. She understands the importance of having strong families, and will utilize her experience as an attorney, prosecutor, magistrate, community leader, and mother to ensure that the Domestic Relations Court is the first step in strengthening our Hamilton County families. Strong families result in more opportunities and safer communities. Betsy is currently serving as a Magistrate in Hamilton County Probate Court. She resides in Cincinnati with her husband and two daughters.
Congressman Warren Davidson: Warren Davidson was born and raised in Sidney, Ohio. He enlisted in the Army after high school and later earned an appointment to West Point. He served in the Old Guard, the 75th Ranger Regiment, and the 101st Airborne Division. After returning to civilian life, he helped grow his father’s small company with 20 employees to multiple companies with over 200 employees. Warren has been married to his wife, Lisa, for 27 years, and they have 2 adult children. 
Bill Gladwell: For over 30 years, Bill has been a consultant, speaker, and writer focusing on hypnosis, influence, and persuasion. He has helped hundreds of thousands of humans communicate effectively, ethically influence others, and get what they want.
Christopher Smitherman was born on July 16, 1967, in Cincinnati, Ohio. His father, Dr. Herbert Smitherman, was a chemist and the first African-American with a PhD hired at Procter & Gamble. His mother, Mrs. Barbara Smitherman, was a teacher and administrator at Cincinnati Public Schools. Christopher has five siblings – one sister and four brothers. Christopher and his five siblings grew up in North Avondale.
The Mission for U.S.P.I.E. is – United States Parents Involved in Education (USPIE) is a nonprofit, nationwide coalition that seeks to return education to its proper local roots and restore parental authority over their children’s education by helping parents and local communities to escape federal and other national influences. Grassroots leaders from around the country will work to 1) expose the lies being taught in government schools that harm children and threaten freedom, 2) encourage parents to take back responsibility to educate their children, 3) initiate and support efforts to return complete local control of government schools, and 4) encourage states to wean themselves off the federal education dole.
Catherine Engelbrecht is prominent in the news recently because of the documentary 
Jim Lewis: Marine, retired Sales Representative, co-founder of Building Blocks for Liberty, currently teaching American History, World History and the US Constitution for homeschoolers in the PEP program at the Mason location. Jim has been interested in history since childhood. During his down time, he continues to read books on history, types of governments and law.
After the movie we will “speak freely” and discuss Gender Ideology and the movie. We will look forward to hearing your input and thoughts about “What is a Woman?” And as always, the popcorn will be supplied by EmpowerU!
In this class, students will be using Jackie Fisher’s bold line drawings as inspiration for their own versions of similar drawings. Using black permanent marker, gel pens, and washable marker, Jackie will lead students through her process of line making on pieces of cardstock paper. Once students have covered the entire 8.5 x 11 sheet of paper in their marker design, facilitators will help them to cut their paper into strips, approximately 2-3 inches thick. Once the strips have been cut, students will choose the strip with their favorite composition to laminate into a bookmark. Once laminated, students will punch a hole in the top of the bookmark and add a tassel using colorful lanyard string. This class is limited to 20 people.
Today, the federal government is constantly violating the US Constitution and usurping powers that belong to the States and the People. State’s Attorney Generals sue the federal government in federal courts asking the feds to define what their powers are instead of using the Constitution. Others want to hold an Article V convention to propose amendments to restrict the federal government. We had an amendments convention in 1787 to “Remedy the defects in the Articles of Confederation only”, find out how that turned out!
Stories from Marty Brennaman (who wrote the foreword), Johnny Bench, Tom Browning, Pete Rose, George Foster, Jeff Brantley, Chris Welsh, Ron Oester, Lou Piniella, Marge Schott, George Clooney, David Letterman, Jonathan Winters, Al Michaels and many others are in the lineup for Kiesewetter’s entertaining 300-page book. He will sign copies of the book available for $20 cash or check. Part of the proceeds benefit the Nuxhall Foundation.
Ron Hummons – 
– Hannah started at OTSE as a research intern during her senior year at Denison University (2017). She joined the full time staff after graduating and now serves as the organization’s Executive Director. Hannah has played a significant role in coordinating the NoDeathPenaltyOH campaign, which represents a diverse number of organizations all with the same goal in mind of repealing Ohio’s death penalty. Hannah oversees, manages, and implements the campaign and statewide strategy to repeal Ohio’s death penalty. She also serves on the board of the Columbus chapter of America’s Future.
But the most important aspect of all his work has been cultivation and support of grassroots efforts in about forty states. We are winning the public discussion because the grassroots are demanding that the situation be addressed. “Politicians don’t start parades, they join them”, has been the theme that is carrying the day. As individual citizens are remembering that “We the People” are supposed to be the government in our constitutional republic, they are stepping up and engaging their civic duty. This speaks loud and clear to our government leaders, and it is empowering the true patriots among them.
Third Eye features a large open taproom and lots of outdoor space including a covered patio with an upper deck. A wide range of beers and other hand crafted beverages to meet a variety of tastes – even for non-beer drinkers! Also offered is a limited selection of wine and spirits, non-alcoholic beverages, and a full kitchen. 
During the American Civil War, Cincinnati played a crucial role in preserving the United States. Not only was the city the North’s most populous in the West, but also it was the nation’s third most productive manufacturing center. The Queen City of the West served as a key provider of the Union’s soldiers, weapons, supplies, medical aid, and political influencers. 
EmpowerU Studio at Frame USA
You can homeschool your child, so everyone considering the lifestyle can benefit from this class. The statistics on homeschooling have crushed most of the myths about the community, and we will certainly cover those, but at the end of the day, the most successful children have involved and engaged parents that have those important discussions at the dinner table…it’s just a matter of how many of those you need to “undo” before you have them. Like the profession of teaching, today’s homeschooling community is comprised of two groups: those who homeschool as a calling, and those who homeschool as a refuge or alternative schedule. Neither is right/wrong, good/bad, but why you homeschool may dictate the initial part of the journey. Toward that end, this class will cover “Myth-busting,” how to be “Legal” in Ohio, “Curricula,” and other areas about which people usually ask such as “Sports/Extra Curriculars.”
Uncertainty seems to be lurking all around us these days. This can derail us if we are not careful. Let’s add Dementia to the brain of someone you love and your whole world can feel upside down, falling apart. We can’t fix this one but with the right instructions the holidays can still be meaningful. I can add some much needed tools to your tool belt, help you realize there is life even with dementia and find hope while dealing with progressive memory loss. 
Wild Birds is a nation-wide franchise with over 300 stores in 45 states and four provinces in Canada and is headquartered in Indianapolis, IN. They have been serving the Backyard Birding community for nearly 40 years. Tim will share his insight on topics including, “Who are our Backyard Birds”, “How Can I Attract Them to My Backyard”, “Selecting Food and Feeders to my Backyard” and “The Wonderful World of Bird Behavior”. Tim will also be glad to answer any questions you have so bring them with you!
Mary Cunningham who, in the 1870s, with her husband William were in the business of aiding many young Cincinnati medical students in their studies by providing them with cadavers upon which to examine. They were grave-robbing body snatchers! Irish born Mary was a fun-loving woman that liked her whiskey and was rough around the edges. At the time you “see” Mary her beloved husband William, known as the “Ghoul of Cincinnati,” had passed away. Mary, dubbed as “Alligator Jaws” will enlighten you of the fine arts of bodysnatching, which was a very lucrative market in Cincinnati during that time. What else we know of Mary are from the many Cincinnati newspaper articles about bodysnatching.
Joyce Lovins Browning- is a native of Ohio growing up in Harrison and Okeana. She has been performing Living History for over 18 years. She retired after 20 years as the Naturalist Coordinator from Great Parks of Hamilton County in 2018, and now enjoys working as a part-time Tour Coordinator for Ohio Travel Treasures, sending groups on wonderful bus tour adventures.
Businesses will want to consider legal considerations of workplace violence (WPV) and active shooter (killer) incidents. As an employer do you have a workable active shooter (killer) response plan? “Hardening” your facilities, improving your procedures, & training your greatest assets: your co-workers and you! Equipment considerations (safety, medical, etc.) to minimize loss of life and maximize your chances for survival. Communication considerations, both internal and external, to include 9-1-1, your loved ones, and your employees. 
COL Bob Cutajar, USA (ret.) (coo – TIE – yer”)
Mike Gonzalez is a Senior Fellow at The Heritage Foundation. He writes on Critical Race Theory, identity politics, diversity, multiculturalism, assimilation and nationalism, as well as foreign policy in general. He spent close to 20 years as a journalist, 15 of them reporting from Europe, Asia and Latin America. He left journalism to join the administration of President George W. Bush, where he was speechwriter for Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Christopher Cox before moving on to the State Department’s European Bureau. He joined Heritage in March 2009.
Freshman State Representative Jennifer Gross (Dist. 52 West Chester) joins EmpowerU to discuss various issues including the contentious House Bill 248. House Bill 248, the Vaccine Choice and Anti-Discrimination Act, authored by Representative Gross who is joined by fifteen co-sponsors in the Ohio House from across the state. This bill would prohibit the imposition of a “vaccine mandate” and carrying a “vaccine passport” in order for Ohioans to work, exercise or enter public buildings. Proposed legislation in Ohio has rarely caused such a dramatic separation of viewpoints among legislators, businesses, and Ohioans. After Ohioans have lived under lockdowns, mask restrictions and a mandatory vaccination scheme for more than a year, House Bill 248 attempts to bridge the divide between safety precautions taken on behalf of the public “Common Good” and the very basis of individual liberty and personal responsibility. Get your popcorn!
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 
Jack Windsor – is an Investigative Reporter for WMFD in Mansfield and the Managing Editor at The Ohio Star. During the first several months of Covid-19 Jack was the reporter who consistently asked Governor DeWine difficult questions. Jack joins EmpowerU from 7:05-7:15 PM to fill us in on his perspective of his work on Covid-19 and how he thinks Ohio has done with the pandemic. He’ll also give us an update on projects that he is currently working on.
We have all encountered loss during the COVID-19 pandemic, loss of loved ones, loss of connections and loss of the freedoms we enjoyed before. As a result, many of us experience anger, frustration, and fear that at times can become overwhelming. Please join Erica Birkley in learning and practicing science-based strategies for effectively managing and regulating these emotions.
Dr. Erica Birkley is an Anderson Township resident, spouse, and mother to a 4-year old curious explorer. She is a psychologist and Assistant Professor within the UC College of Medicine. Dr. Birkley specializes in the treatment of stress, insomnia, anger, and depression among adults and couples. She loves bonfires with her neighbors, shopping Plants by Wolfangel, Zumba at the Mercy Anderson Healthplex, Beech Acres, A Fair of the Arts, Salem Garden’s burgers, and Coney Island’s tube slide.
ou missed the first installment of Talks held earlier this month, you missed a lot of fun. “Talks” is a new series of
To attend this class virtually click here after 6:50 pm the night of the class.
Rebecca Heimlich Seth Morgan
Tim Burgess has been studying success principles for over twenty years. His primary focus has been in the areas of Dynamic Thinking, Effective Communication/Personality Traits, and the Entrepreneurial Mindset. Tim has studied extensively Napoleon Hill, Earl Nightingale, Bob Proctor, and many more renowned experts in the field of personal development. After several years of studying this material he decided to apply it to the real estate profession. 
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.
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