Ferguson hits home 
The events in Ferguson Mo. over the past two weeks have more semblance to pre-civil rights America than the inclusive nation of acceptance that we like to believe we are. Spending his youth in Ferguson, local pathologist and Marian Medical Center Chief of Staff Kevin Ferguson grew up not far from where the protests are taking place. Last month he visited his hometown for a family reunion and noticed that little had changed since he left for college. Kevin will be here to share his observations.
Philanthropy can change the world 
Heidi McPherson firmly believes that philanthropy can change the world. Where you live, what you care about and how you share your time, talent and resources are all part of what makes our philanthropic journey meaningful – and helps us build stronger and healthier communities. Heidi joined The Community Foundation of San Luis Obispo as the new CEO this past May after serving as founding president for a major foundation in the Philadelphia region. She brings more than 25 years of experience as a nationally recognized leader in the philanthropic community and will share her journey with us.
From SLO to the Indy 500
Townsend Bell has competed in the Indianapolis 500 eight times, finishing fourth in 2009, with KV Racing Technology, and qualifying fourth in 2011 for Sam Schmidt Motorsports. His passion for racing was ignited when he first saw the 2.5-mile oval during his first trip to the Indy 500 with his dad. Soon thereafter a three-day Skip Barber racing school solidified his desire to make a career racing. Armed with ambition and a stack of business cards, he set out to make his dream a reality. Townsend will speak on the power of desire in achieving success.
Connecting with millennials in the workplace
In the modern office, up to four different generations can be housed under one roof, which presents opportunity and challenge. For the past 30 years Dr. Ronda Beaman has worked with millennials and card carrying AARP members, learning the nuances of multigenerational communication and employing successful strategies for employers and employees. Dr. Beaman is here to help you figure out how to connect and motivate young people, explore methods to make your point without alienating others and give you a laugh at the old models of communication.
Defending America’s coastline
In December 1941, one week before the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Civil Air Patrol (CAP) was founded by citizens who were concerned about the defense of America’s coastline. Today, the CAP operates as a federally chartered nonprofit corporation with 60,000 adult and youth volunteers. SLO resident Brigadier General Larry F. Myrick was recently confirmed for the top leadership position as Civil Air Patrol National vice commander. Myrick is here to share more about the role of the CAP and the power of volunteers.
Xeriscaping: less water usage, less upkeep
With California facing one of the most severe droughts on record, and cities across the state imposing mandatory outdoor irrigation restrictions, it is time to rethink our landscape designs to include more drought tolerant plants. Megan Paulson, local nursery owner and master gardener with the UC Cooperative Extension, will share tips on plant choices for a drought tolerant landscape and the best time of year to plant perennials.
Back by popular demand
The Bucket Busters from Music Motive are a unique percussion group who play entirely on buckets, trash cans, and water bottles. These kids, ages 10-17, perform regularly throughout the Central Coast and learn about community service, team building, leadership, performance skills, and musicianship. Donations from their performances, and sales from their new CD, “Trash Talk”, provide scholarships for kids who otherwise would not have the opportunity to learn music.
