Category: Possible Speakers

These posts are ideas for possible speakers at OG.

Connecticut CASA

He and his Executive Director are available to speak to the OG. Seems like a subject our group would enjoy.
As a bonus he plans to join the CTOG

Gary.

From their website – ConnecticutCASA.org

Connecticut CASA empowers a statewide network of caring, consistent volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocates to advance the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect—so every child can find a safe, permanent home to thrive.

Heather Wagner, “Good Vibrations: Music and Well-Being”

Good Vibrations: Music and Well-Being

Lifelong engagement in music has benefits in many areas of life, including our physical, psychological, spiritual, and social well-being. Being more intentional in how we use music in our everyday lives can enhance these benefits. Board-certified music therapist Dr. Heather Wagner will share how to harness the potential of music in your life and to improve your well-being. This presentation will include both information and music experiences. No musical skill is necessary, just an appreciation for music!

Heather Wagner, PhD, MT-BC is a music therapy educator, clinician, and supervisor with over 25 years of experience. She is an assistant professor and coordinator of the music therapy program at Southern Connecticut State University, and adjuncts for the master’s program at the University of Chulalongkorn in Bangkok, Thailand. She has extensive clinical experience with children and adults in medical, rehabilitation, and mental health settings, focusing on integrative approach to health and recovery. Heather is a fellow of the Association for Music and Imagery and is a trainer of the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music. She has a long history of service to the American Music Therapy Association both nationally and regionally. Her leadership of the Connecticut Music Therapy State Task Force resulted in legislation in 2023 for state licensing of music therapists. Heather’s research and scholarly efforts currently focus on music therapy and pain, trauma-informed practice, resilience, and self-determination theory.

Spoke at the Darien Men’s Association Nov 8, 2023. Ed Turbert attended.  Video below.

Suggested by Gary Banks

Video Presentation 

CT Mirror

An online newspaper focused on state news.  The publisher lives here in West Hartford.  They have several  reporter who are very knowledgable – Keith Pfanuf on state finances.

Suggested by Gary Banks

Joe DeNicola

“We do feel that responsibility to manage the waste that’s produced within the borders of the state, so that remains an objective of ours,” said Joe DeNicola, a senior policy advisor at the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). “And so diversion is the leading approach to achieving that.”

Suggested by Gary Banks