Public Programs

LearningQUEST has presentations open to the general public. All are welcome to attend these programs, so please join us.

Upcoming Programs:

P1-Climate Change: Fact or Fantasy
Instructor: Dr. Harriet Somerville
Date/Time: Wednesday, Aug 21st, 1:00 – 3:00pm
Location: Downtown Library, Auditorium

Climate change manifested by global warming is one of the most significant challenges that society has faced in modern history. The overwhelming majority of climate experts agree that this change is a consequence of the increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration from burning of fossil fuels coupled with deforestation. In the worst-case scenario, global warming will result in substantial reduction in habitable land mass from rising sea levels and severe drought. According to a recent report by United Nations scientists, we have just over a decade to mitigate the effects of global warming. This talk will address the scientific data supporting the predictions and the international and US policies that affect the future of climate change.

P2-The Healing Power of Stem Cells
Instructor: Dr. Charles Lee
Date/Time: Wednesday, Aug 28th, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Downtown Library, Auditorium

Dr. Lee answers questions concerning stem cell use for medical conditions. What are stem cells? Where do they come from? What conditions can they alleviate? What is PRP? Dr. Lee will describe his procedure for treatment of the following: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis; knee problems—collateral ligament sprains, meniscus tears, cruciate ligament tears, baker’s cyst and especially arthritis; shoulder problems—rotator cuff and labrum tears, tendinopathy, impingement syndromes, bursitis and severe arthritis; hip disorders—bursitis, early aseptic necrosis and arthritis; ankle and foot injuries—plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis and arthritis; elbow, wrist, and hand problems—tennis and golfer’s elbow, as well as arthritis; neck and back pain, muscle and tendon injuries—pulled hamstring, bicep, pectoralis, migraine and cluster headaches.

P3-Alabama Speaks!
Instructor: Anna Blair
Date/Time: Monday, Sep 16th, Noon – 1:00pm
Location: Downtown Library, Auditorium

Alabama Readers Theatre presents eight notable, and perhaps unsung, Alabama heroes past and present, all contributors to the betterment of our state, to speak to us in their own voices. Opportunity for Q&A after the performance.

P4-You Have a Great Product Idea, Now What? Introduction to Product Development
Instructor: Joe McGinty
Date/Time: Monday, Nov 4th, 1:00 – 4:00pm
Location: Downtown Library, Auditorium

This class presents product development from idea to sales-ready product. Topics include these: 1) Protecting the idea: US and international patents 2) Options to go forward: company, royalties, or buy out 3) Steps required to develop, manufacture, distribute, and target a product for sales in today’s environment 4) Financial realities, business plans, and investors 5) Manufacturing: imported, made in America, in house, or contract 6) Support in the field and warranties 7) A bit about marketing and sales 8) Possibilities, results, risks, and rewards.