W I N T E R
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LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
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ecently, the Vail Symposium Board completed our strategic plan for the next two-to-three years. The Symposium staff and volunteers have worked very hard and smart over the last three years to increase the quality of the programs with better speakers, topic framing, venues and audio-visuals, including simple things like risers for better visibility. I am delighted to brag about the great improvement we have had in attendance and the feedback we have received on our programs. The average attendance per program this season is up more than 70 percent; we have more than doubled our average attendance versus two years ago. We constantly hear feedback that audiences are delighted with the quality and variety of the intellectually stimulating programs that the Symposium hosts. Our Planning Committee and Board unanimously approved our programming strategy that more than half of our programs each season will be our unique offerings of GeoPolitical, Hot Topics and Special Interest programs, like Saturday Night Live’s Director Don Roy King and our program on the Dead Sea Scrolls. We will continue to include a mix of other program series like Art, Consciousness and Financial. We will also focus on bringing unique programs and partner with organizations where the Symposium can bring value to the breadth and strength of a program, as in Health and Wellness, Environmental Awareness, Unlimited Adventure, Speaking Locally and Education. This winter program showcases the strategy that we’ve agreed upon and, I think, continues the quality and strength of programming and leadership that we’ve enjoyed. It’s through the great efforts of the staff and volunteers that we have achieved the outstanding results that we have. But it’s also thanks to you, our audiences, who have not only attended programs, but also asked great questions in our now lengthened Q&A time period. Lastly, I want to thank our donors who have stepped up to the increased needs of the Vail Symposium to make it what it has become and help it get to the next level that the staff, programming committee and board expect to achieve. The donations have enabled us to hire our full time Program Manager, Claire Noble; she has already had a positive impact on our programs. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this winter’s program schedule and seeing you at our programs. Dale Mosier Vail Symposium Board Chairman
LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
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’m writing this letter the day after our final 2018 summer program, “The State of the Valley.” One of the takeaways from this program is that our valley is unique and in great shape and I’m pleased to report that the Vail Symposium is, too. This summer, we exceeded expectations on all counts from the quality of our speakers to an 80 percent increase in attendance and new levels of donor support and engagement. Thank you! We could not achieve these goals without our donors, sponsors and volunteers. On behalf of the board of directors and the staff, I’d like to thank all of you for your generous support. It is my pleasure to share the 2019 Winter Season. In this brochure, you will discover an amazing line up of programs that are only possible through the hard work and dedication of our programming committee, our staff and suggestions from you our loyal attendees. The descriptions of these programs are accurate at the time of printing, but we embrace the evolving nature of our Hot Topics and Geopolitical programs and encourage our speakers to adapt as the topics and situations change. We also recognize that your insightful questions influence and enhance the final outcome of any program. These programs are for you, for our community, and I encourage you to share your experiences at the Vail Symposium with others who might enjoy or appreciate our offerings. If you appreciate and enjoy the contributions the Vail Symposium makes to your life and your community, I encourage you to grow your involvement: attend more programs, bring a friend, make a donation or volunteer. All of these actions contribute to our success, our growth and our long-term sustainability. I look forward to seeing you at our programs this winter. Kris Sabel Executive Director
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C O N TENT S 04
board & staff members
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support the symposium
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donors
staff spotlight
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programs
get involved
thank you to our sponsors
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policies, ticket & program information
M IS S I ON The Vail Symposium is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to year-round lifelong learning for the Vail Valley community through educational programs that are thought-provoking, diverse and affordable.
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B OARD & STAFF M EMBE RS STAFF Executive Director Kris Sabel Program Manager Clarie Noble Office Manager and Event Coordinator Arzu Basyildiz
PROGRAM COMMITTEE
Chair Emeritus Karen Morter
Dale Mosier (Chair) Cathie Bennett Doris Dewton Greg Dobbs Gary Gilman Kat Haber Michael Hazard Dr. Robert Lipnick Rebecca Matlon George Nimmo Mary Pat Rapp Kathryn Regjo Wendy Rudolph
Terry Minger Priscilla O’Neil Ebby Pinson
Marketing Manager Katie Coakley
ADVISORY COUNCIL
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dr. Eben Alexander Michael Balk Pam Bard Richard Bard Jack Eck Judson Haims Richard Mah Jamie Metzl Thomas Wright
Chairman Dale Mosier Treasurer Rob LeVine Gary Gilman Andy Kaufman Kathy Kimmel Laurie Kleisinger Mary Lamb Lucas Jeanne Mosier Mary Pat Rapp James C. Ruh Brian Stockmar
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HONORARY BOARD
DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Jeanne Mosier (Chair) Kathy Kimmel Laurie Kleisinger Mary Lamb Lucas Jim Ruh
S UP PORT THE SYMP OS IUM D O N AT E T O D AY ! Less than 15% of our income comes from ticket sales. The rest comes from you. Your donation ensures that the Vail Symposium can thrive, grow and, ultimately, continue to bring amazing speakers to the Vail Valley.
A donation of any amount is enough to make a difference in your community through the Vail Symposium. Please don’t wait. We need your support today!
Make a donation online at www.vailsymposium.org or send a check made payable to Vail Symposium to PO Box 3038, Vail, CO 81658
DONOR LEVELS Member
$50 - $99
Torch Member $1,000 - $1,499
Spark Member
$100 - $249
Torch Underwriting Member $1,500-$2,499
Candle Member
$250 - $499
Spot Light Member
$2,500 - $4,999
Lantern Member
$500 - $999
Flood Light Member*
$5,000 - $9,999
Arc Light Member*
$10,000+
Donors at the Torch Member level or higher qualify as a major giver and a member of the Lighthouse Society All donors receive a direct mailing of our seasonal program brochure and acknowledgement in the brochure and on our website.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS General Lecture Ticket Major Donors Recognition Event
Spot Light
Torch
Lantern
Candle
Spark
4 per program
2 per program
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General program tickets and member passes are transferable. Tickets and passes are not valid for fundraisers, workshops or other events deemed “special” unless otherwise noted. Member passes are valid for one year from donation date. For additional information about how to support the Vail Symposium, please contact Kris Sabel at 970-476-0954 or ksabel@vailsymposium.org. The Vail Symposium is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization in accordance with Federal Tax Law and is eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions. 5
PALLIATIVE CARE AND MEDICAL AID IN DYING: PUTTING THE PERSON FIRST AT THE END OF LIFE
06 DEC
HEALTH AND WELLNESS with: Dr. Jean Abbott, Dr. Mindy Cooper, Dr. Regina Fink, Dr. Jean Kutner and Matt Stinson, moderated by Dr. Jeanie Youngwerth when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Edwards Interfaith Chapel and Community Center | Edwards
When faced with terminal illness, there are few avenues for those who are contemplating the end of life, but palliative care is one option. Palliative care is not hospice: It is patient-family centered care that decreases pain and symptoms, eases suffering and increases survival for patients when offered early for people contending with serious illness. It is designed to address the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs to improve quality of life. Unfortunately, palliative care is a limited resource in many community settings. In 2016, Colorado voters approved Proposition 106, “Access to Medical Aid in Dying” for terminally ill Colorado residents to ease their suffering and hasten the end of their lives peacefully through medication. Where this is available and the process for administering are not well known. Similarly, palliative care, its processes and challenges, are also unclear to many people. In this presentation and panel discussion, health care professionals who are recognized experts in their fields will provide an overview of palliative care and present information about medical aid-in-dying. We will address the challenges in delivering palliative care and aid-in-dying medication in rural settings and answer questions as well as proposing solutions such as increased support, education and telemedicine. Join us for this important healthcare discussion and get your questions answered by the experts. Dr. Jean Abbott, MPH, is a board-certified Emergency Medicine physician and faculty member at the University of Colorado. She has a Masters of Humanities from CU and is a longstanding member of the University of Colorado Hospital Ethics Committee and Ethics Consult service. Her current work focuses on clinical consultation, palliative care and end-of-life issues through the CU Center for Bioethics and Humanities. She designs and teaches the ethics content for the CU Palliative Care Master’s Program, training healthcare professionals in palliative care. Dr. Mindy Cooper is board certified in Internal Medicine and Nephrology; her practice in the Vail Valley includes taking care of patients with kidney disease, dialysis patients and transplant patients and has now expanded to include work in palliative care and as an advocate for medical aid-in-dying. Regina Fink, Ph.D., RN is an associate professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and College of Nursing. She is co-director of the Interprofessional Master of Science in Palliative Care program, the first in the U.S. She conducts research to improve palliative care to Latinos with serious illness throughout Colorado. She has also received a Colorado Health Foundation grant to improve advance care planning in underserved populations. Dr. Jean Kutner is a tenured Professor of Medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. She is Board Certified in internal medicine, geriatric medicine and hospice and palliative medicine and is co-chair of the NIH-funded Palliative Care Research Cooperative Group. Her research focuses on improving symptoms and quality of life for people with serious advanced illness and their family caregivers. Matt Stinson, MSPC, MPAS, PA-C is a physician assistant in oncology and palliative care at Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs, CO. He launched a hospital-based palliative care program to better care for seriously ill patients in his community. Dr. Jeanie Youngwerth (Moderator) is an Associate Professor of Medicine at University of Colorado School of Medicine (UC SOM), board-certified in Internal Medicine and Hospice and Palliative Medicine and is the Director of the University of Colorado Hospital Palliative Care Service. This program is generously underwritten by Lynn & Dr. Andrew Kaufman and is presented in partnership with the Eagle County Healthy Aging Program. 6
CHASING DENALI: THE SOURDOUGHS, CHEECHAKOS, & FRAUDS BEHIND THE MOST UNBELIEVABLE FEAT IN MOUNTAINEERING
10 DEC
UNLIMITED ADVENTURE with: Jon Waterman when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: The Sebastian-Vail | Vail
In 1910, four gold prospectors summited North America’s tallest mountain in a single day, using little more than donuts and rudimentary equipment. Their journey is the starting point for the history of mountaineering on Denali—but were they telling the truth? The miners and their backgrounds are largely forgotten—contemporary historians call them “the Sourdoughs”—and much of their climb remains misunderstood and shrouded in mystery. Aided by new research and modern technology, the veracity of their ascent and how they actually performed it can be examined, explained and, ultimately, revealed. Join us as Jon Waterman unravels the mystery in a presentation about these unlikely climbers that blends adventure and history and brings the story to life. Author of 14 books, including "Running Dry" and "Arctic Crossing," Jon Waterman started shooting photographs on his expeditions four decades ago but is principally known as a writer. He has made films for television, including “The Logan Challenge” (PBS, 1991), “Surviving Denali” (ESPN, 1994), “Odyssey Among the Inuit” (OLN, 2000), ANWR Trek (PBS 2007), and “Chasing Water” (Pete McBride films, 2011). He often works for the National Geographic Society, whose grants have funded his conservation research and journeys down the Colorado River and to the Arctic. This program is generously underwritten by Martha Head and is presented in partnership with the Vail Public Library.
AN EVENING WITH GOVERNOR JOHN HICKENLOOPER
26 DEC
SPECIAL EVENT with: Governor John Hickenlooper when: Dec. 26, 2018 where: The Bard home | Beaver Creek
Former Mayor of Denver and outgoing Governor of Colorado John Hickenlooper will be the guest of honor at the house of Pam and Richard Bard for a special evening of insights into his views of the financial and political world. He was inaugurated Governor of Colorado in 2011 and has been extremely engaged in many different aspects of Colorado finance and politics. As a well-regarded governor, he has had significant dialogue on national issues. Also a successful businessman, Hickenlooper will incorporate those insights with his two terms of experience as governor. He will give us a short summary of his views on the most important issues facing our state and nation and then be available for an extensive Q&A session to address those topics in which you have an interest. This is a special fundraising event to be held in a private home and, as such, attendance is limited. This program graciously underwritten by Pam and Richard Bard. 7
TURBULENT TIMES: TURKEY’S TENUOUS RELATIONSHIP WITH THE WEST
03 JAN
GEOPOLITICAL with: Kemal Kirişci when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Four Seasons Resort Vail | Vail
Turkey’s president Recep Tayyip Erdogan has recently been back in the news with the exposure of the Saudi Arabian murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. This is occurring against the background of democratic regression, the rise of religious nationalism and growing economic woes in Turkey, all occurring under his stewardship of the country. Once lauded as a model for democratic transformation and economic success, the growing tensions with the United States and Europe raise significant questions about the future of the Turkish relationship with, and its role in, the greater Middle East. What is the likely relationship of Turkey with the EU? What is the role as a current member of NATO, especially as Turkey appears to get closer to Russia? What is to become of the millions of Syrian refugees in Turkey and Turkey’s involvement in the Syria crisis? In this special program, Kemal Kirişci will provide a balanced view of Turkey's historic and future role, describing the challenges the country faces as well as its potential to advance. Kemal Kirişci is the TÜSİAD senior fellow and director of the Center on the United States and Europe's Turkey Project at Brookings, with an expertise in Turkish foreign policy and migration studies. Within the project, Kirişci runs the Turkey Project Policy Paper series and frequently writes on the latest developments out of Turkey. His most recent book, “Turkey and the West: Fault Lines in a Troubled Alliance,” was published by the Brookings Institution Press in November 2017. He is the co-author of the monograph "The Consequences of Chaos: Syria's Humanitarian Crisis and the Failure to Protect" (Brookings Institution Press, April 2016), which considers the long-term economic, political and social implications of Syria's displaced and offers policy recommendations to address the humanitarian crisis. Before joining Brookings, Kirişci was a professor of international relations and held the Jean Monnet chair in European integration in the department of political science and international relations at Boğaziçi University in Istanbul. His areas of research interest include EU-Turkish relations, U.S.-Turkish relations, Turkish foreign and trade policies, European integration, immigration issues, ethnic conflicts, and refugee movements. Kirişci earned a doctorate in international relations from the City University, London; a master's in international relations from the University of Kent at Canterbury, England; and a bachelor's in finance and management from Boğaziçi University, Istanbul. Kirişci has also extensively published articles on Turkish foreign policy, EU-Turkish relations and immigration in academic journals and numerous op-eds on current affairs in Turkey. This program is generously underwritten by Brian Stockmar and Nina & Ken Wise. 8
INCREASED PRODUCTIVITY & DECREASED STRESS: ACHIEVE BETTER LIFE BALANCE THROUGH TIME MANAGEMENT
09 JAN
HEALTH AND WELLNESS with: Stephanie Wachman when: Doors open at 8 a.m.; program begins at 8:30 a.m. where: Colorado Mountain College | Edwards Campus
Squeezing more hours out of your day is not always possible. Are meetings and email weighing you down? Are you perpetually procrastinating or finding yourself sucked down the hole of the internet? If your workload is growing and you constantly feel overwhelmed and stressed, then this is the program you need to attend. Stephanie Wachman will address how to manage your time and energy to lower your stress, increase your productivity, improve work performance and find more balance in your life. Stephanie Wachman is a Certified Executive Coach, author, public speaker and trainer. She was born in Montreal, Quebec, Canada where she received her BA in Communications from McGill University. With more than 25 years of experience in marketing, product management, sales and national sales management, Stephanie’s business and sales skills were honed at both small companies and Fortune 500 companies. She is the author of “Own Your Time: Professional Time Management Strategies for a Profitable and Balanced Life” and “Own Your Sale: Techniques on How to Sell Without Being ‘Sales.’” Stephanie works with all levels of organizations in areas of time management, business development, leadership, conflict management and culture. This program is presented in partnership with the Vail Valley Partnership.
IN DEEP: BILL STEELE’S JOURNEY TO THE HIDDEN WORLD BENEATH OUR FEET
10 JAN
UNLIMITED ADVENTURE with: Bill Steele when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Donovan Pavilion | Vail
Bill Steele explores the unexplored—the vast underground reaches of cave systems snaking underground throughout the world. Join Steele on a journey to the dark depths beneath the earth’s surface and discover the fascinating and unique sights found only there while learning more about caves as an important piece of our planet’s puzzle. Sistema Huautla was discovered by cavers in the mid-1960s. It is the deepest known cave in the Western Hemisphere, located in the remote Sierra Mazateca mountains of southern Mexico. “Caveman” will speak about the 2018 expedition to Sistema Huautla which included significant discoveries and a surprise flood which trapped a team in a deep underground camp for a week. He will also discuss what it takes to organize an international expedition in modern times including: team selection, setting objectives, seeking support, dealing with emergencies as they arise and local public relations, which may include sensitivity regarding indigenous spiritual beliefs. Bill Steele is a speleologist who has led and participated in expeditions to many of the longest and deepest caves in the United States, Mexico, Belize and China. Steele has written two books: “Yochib: The River Cave” and “Huautla: Thirty Years in One of the World’s Deepest Caves.” He has also written many magazine articles, chapters for books and journal articles. This program is presented in partnership with the Vail Public Library. 9
FACT VS FICTION: THE ADVENT OF FAKE NEWS AND HOW TO DISCERN THE TRUTH
17 JAN
HOT TOPICS with: Sam Gill and David Mikkelson, moderated by Greg Dobbs when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Hotel Talisa | Vail
Turn on the television, pick up a paper or peruse social media and chances are you’ll find a mention of “fake news.” But what are the origins of fake news? The term is relatively new, but the proliferation of inaccurate information is nothing original. But it’s not just up to journalists to seek out the truth from fiction (though that’s an integral part of their jobs) — individuals must learn how to measure validity, too, because the impact of fake news on society is still being measured. In the last national election, the term “fake news” reached its zenith in the public lexicon but many questions remain: How can an inaccurate news story influence voters’ choice of candidate? Did the proliferation of fabricated news influence the outcome of the 2016 presidential election? What are some strategies we can use to distinguish between fake news and truthful reporting? How can individuals, families, organizations, companies and governments protect themselves in this new information environment? Join the Vail Symposium for a special program where these questions and many others will be addressed as our experts help distinguish fact from fiction. Sam Gill joined the Knight Foundation in June 2015. The Knight Foundation fosters informed and engaged communities and supports ideas that promote quality journalism. Gill oversees the Community and National Initiatives program, which works to attract and nurture talent, promote economic opportunity and foster civic engagement in 26 communities across the United States. He also oversees the Learning and Impact program, which pursues research on the broader context of Knight’s work and the impact of Knight-supported programs. Gill earned a Bachelor of Arts with honors from the University of Chicago and a Master of Philosophy in politics from the University of Oxford, England, where he was a Rhodes Scholar. David Mikkelson is the founder and CEO of Snopes.com, the oldest and most respected fact-checking site online. Mikkelson founded the site in 1994 and today the site receives more than 20 million unique monthly visitors. Managing everything from researching and writing articles about urban legends to overseeing the site’s technical infrastructure, he made Snopes.com the go-to place for Internet users to query the veracity of anything questionable they encounter online. Mikkelson also speaks worldwide about combating fake news and the rise of the digital age and its impact on investigative journalism. From his “boots on the ground” news coverage in more than 80 countries around the world, moderator Greg Dobbs is a professional speaker on global affairs, the author of two books (with two more in the works) and a journalist for almost 50 years, spending most of his time as a correspondent for two American television networks. Greg is the winner of three Emmy awards and the "Distinguished Service Award" from the Society of Professional Journalists; in 2017, Greg was inducted into the Denver Press Club Hall of Fame. This program is generously underwritten by Sandy & Fred Pack and Laura Tumperi; the Hot Topics Series is generously underwritten by Cindy Engles and Kathy & Neal Kimmel. 10
THE RISE OF ASIA IN THE 21ST CENTURY: WHAT IT MEANS FOR THE UNITED STATES JAN
23&24
GEOPOLITICAL with: Johanna Kao, Jamie Metzel, John Pomfret and Brad Setser, moderated by Greg Dobbs when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Donovan Pavilion | Vail
Will the 21st century be the “Asian Century?” Asia is a global powerhouse of economic growth. However, Asia's future trajectory remains uncertain due to serious challenges that are environmental, political, economic and social. Militarily, China continues to flex its muscles and extend its reach in the South China Sea while North Korea’s nuclear weapons program continues to be a grave concern. This two-day, four session program will provide an in-depth focus on major issues impacting both Asia and the United States and the relationship between the two powers. Wednesday, January 23, Session 1: 6 - 7:15 p.m.; Session 2: 7:30 - 8:45 p.m. Session 1: Is China Ready for Global Leadership and What Does that Mean for the U.S.? with John Pomfret With the election of Donald Trump and Britain’s Brexit vote, does China have an historic opportunity to seize the reins of global leadership from the United States and the West? What is meant by the China Solution and does it represent a viable alternative to the western world order? China is engaged in a massive international infrastructure project called One Belt, One Road that involves Asia, Africa and Europe. The Chinese insist the initiative will increase connectivity, observers see it as a bid for dominance in global affairs and trade. However, will China’s own challenges of a declining birth rate, shrinking workforce, rapidly aging population and monumental environmental problems halt their ascent? Or, will AI and robotics be China’s trump card? Session 2: Does Anyone Win a Trade War? with Brad Setser The U.S. has now put tariffs on about half of its imports from China and is threatening to put a 25 percent tariff on all imports from China at the start of 2019. Are the tariffs a justified reaction to China’s failure to live up to the spirit, if not the letter, of its WTO commitments and its import-substituting policies? Or are they an over-reach that will only damage American firms and consumers? Are there alternative tools available to encourage economic reform in China? The trade situation between the US and China changes constantly; Brad Setser will provide an update and interpretation of the latest developments. Thursday, January 24, Session 1: 6 - 7:15 p.m.; Session 2: 7:30 - 8:45 p.m. Session 1: Hear My Voice: Reflections on Democratic Change in Asia and What Lies Ahead with Johanna Kao In the past 20 years, east Asia has witnessed profound economic and social change. The broad parameters of the Asian economic story are well known; perhaps less so is the way in which Asian societies have adopted – and adapted – democratic norms. Across the region, countries emerged from periods of authoritarian rule and took on democratic institutions and practices. It can be argued that the region as a whole is more democratic than it was 20 years ago, but perhaps less democratic than 10 years ago. With that in mind, how meaningful have these changes been and are they sustainable? What impact have these transitions had on the lives of ordinary citizens? From her perspective of two decades of work with activists and practitioners in Asia, Johanna Kao will share first-hand accounts of the civic and political leaders who have shaped the nature and trajectories of these struggles and the way that ordinary citizens have embraced democratic ideals to effect change over their lives. CONTINUED ON PAGE 11 »
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THE RISE OF ASIA IN THE 21ST CENTURY: WHAT IT MEANS FOR THE UNITED STATES ( C O N T I N UED) Session 2: China and the Coming Post-American World with Jamie Metzel China’s spectacular rise and the largely self-inflicted damage the United States has wreaked on itself has hastened the demise of the postwar international order far more quickly than most anyone could have predicted only a few short years ago. As China seeks actively to recast the international order in its own image, how should America and the rest of the world respond? In a world where competition can be both win-win and zero-sum, what is the right response to the challenge and opportunity of China that increases the potential for mutually beneficial future developments and minimizes the chance of conflict and war? John Pomfret served as a correspondent for The Washington Post for many years. He is the author of the acclaimed book “Chinese Lessons” and has won several awards for his coverage of Asia, including the Osborne Elliot Prize in 2003 by the Asia Society. He holds a BA and MA from Stanford University and was one of the first American students to go to China and study at Nanjing University; he attended Singapore’s Institute of Southeast Asian Studies as a Fulbright Scholar. During his 15 year tenure at The Washington Post, Pomfret covered big wars and small in Afghanistan, Bosnia, Congo, Sri Lanka, Iraq, southwestern Turkey and northeastern Iran. Pomfret spent seven years covering China: one year in the late 1980s during the Tiananmen Square protests and then from 1998 until the end of 2003 as the bureau chief for The Washington Post in Beijing. Pomfret speaks, reads and writes Mandarin; he has been a bartender in Paris and practiced Judo in Japan. Brad W. Setser is the Steven A. Tananbaum senior fellow for international economics at the Council on Foreign Relations. His expertise includes macroeconomics, global capital flows, financial vulnerability analysis, sovereign debt restructuring and the management of financial crises. Setser served as the deputy assistant secretary for international economic analysis in the U.S. Treasury from 2011 to 2015, where he worked on Europe’s financial crisis, currency policy, financial sanctions, commodity shocks and Puerto Rico’s debt crisis. He was previously the director for international economics, serving jointly on the staff of the National Economic Council and the National Security Council. He did his undergraduate studies at Harvard and post-graduate studies at Oxford and Sciences-Po (Paris). Johanna Kao serves as Asia Regional Director for the International Republican Institute, bringing more than 20 years of experience in international political development, non-profit management and citizen empowerment to the role. Kao has lived and worked in Asia for most of her life in some of the region’s most challenging and dynamic countries at critical times in their political development. Working with both established and emerging political and civic leadership, Kao provides strategic advice, facilitates training and skills-building opportunities and manages a diverse portfolio of programs across 17 countries in Asia. Kao was born and grew up in Hong Kong. She graduated from the University of Chicago with a degree in political science and completed her LLM at the University of Hong Kong. Jamie Metzl is a Senior Fellow of the Atlantic Council, novelist, blogger, syndicated columnist, media commentator and expert in Asian affairs and biotechnology policy. He has served in the US National Security Council, State Department, Senate Foreign Relations Committee, as Executive Vice President of the Asia Society and with the United Nations in Cambodia. From his “boots on the ground” news coverage in more than 80 countries around the world, moderator Greg Dobbs is a professional speaker on global affairs, the author of two books (with two more in the works) and a journalist for almost 50 years, spending most of his time as a correspondent for two American television networks. Greg is the winner of three Emmy awards and the "Distinguished Service Award" from the Society of Professional Journalists; in 2017, Greg was inducted into the Denver Press Club Hall of Fame. This program is generously underwritten by Brian Stockmar and Laura Tumperi. 12
“THE HUMAN ELEMENT” FILM SCREENING
28 JAN
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS with: James Balog, Olivia Ahnemann when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Battle Mountain High School | Edwards
“I can’t escape the fact that coal made me who I am today,” said photographer James Balog, whose grandfather died at 62-years-old in a coal-mining accident. Balog has chronicled one climate change consequence of human coal use in “Chasing Ice” and narrated a film documenting another in “Message in a Bottle.” In “The Human Element,” he ponders “the fifth element” (after water, earth, air and fire). By changing the other four elements, he says, humans are “shaping the Earth as we know it.” Balog documents this collision between people and nature through stories ranging from Chesapeake Bay’s dwindling Tangier Island to California’s record-breaking wildfires of 2017 to last summer’s three devastating hurricanes. For 35 years, photographer James Balog has broken new conceptual and artistic ground on one of the most important issues of our era: human modification of our planet’s natural systems. He and his Extreme Ice Survey team are featured in the 2012 internationally acclaimed, Emmy award-winning documentary “Chasing Ice” and in the PBS/NOVA special, Extreme Ice. He is the author of “ICE: Portraits of Vanishing Glaciers” and seven other books. Olivia Ahnemann has been producing and directing documentary films for nearly 20 years. Most recently, she produced “Under the Gun” with director Stephanie Soechtig, which premiered at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival, and “Racing Extinction” with director Louie Psihoyos, which premiered at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival. In 2016, Olivia was nominated for an Emmy Award for Exceptional Merit in Documentary “Film Making”. Olivia was co-producer of “The Cove,” which has garnered more than 70 awards globally, including the 2009 Academy Award for best documentary and the Producers Guild of America documentary award. The film brought worldwide attention to the annual dolphin drives in Taiji, Japan and high levels of mercury in seafood, man’s primary source of protein. Television credits include programs for National Geographic, PBS, A&E and Discovery. Olivia has contributed to several independent films, including “Enlighten Up!,” which had a nationwide theatrical release in 2008. This program is generously underwritten by Priscilla O'Neil; the Environmental Awareness Series is generously underwritten by Holly & Buck Elliot. This program is presented in partnership with Walking Mountains Science Center.
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MO I N THE M O U N TA IN S
31 JAN
UNLIMITED ADVENTURE with: Maureen Beck when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Vail Interfaith Chapel | Vail
What is life is like for an adaptive athlete in a nontraditional sport such as climbing? Unlike sports such as skiing, swimming or basketball, the climbing community was late in establishing programs and systems for adaptive climbers trying to break into the sport. Maureen Beck, better known as Mo, came of age in the generation of doers and creators in adaptive climbing who were instrumental in establishing these programs. Join the Vail Symposium as Mo discusses what creating a new style of climbing was like and the work it took to build this community. She will share personal stories of growth and challenge as well as what it is like to be an inspiration--and the responsibility that comes with that role. The presentation will include footage from the 2017 film “Stumped,” about Mo’s first 5.12 project, as well as footage from the unreleased film “Adaptive,” which covers her 2018 expedition to the Cirque of the Unclimbables. Maureen Beck was born without her left hand but that didn’t stop her from picking up the sport of climbing at the age of 12 and learning to climb all over New England. Now based in Colorado’s Front Range, Mo spends her nights training at Earth Treks and her weekends climbing all over the American southwest. She works closely with the adaptive climbing community through Paradox Sports and is the Chair of the USAC Paraclimbing Committee. As a competitive climber, she has won four national titles, a gold medal at the 2014 Paraclimbing World Championships in Spain and defended that title with a gold medal at the 2016 World Championships in Paris. In 2018, she went on her first alpine expedition to the Northwest Territories in Canada’s Nahanni National Park where she and fellow adaptive climber Jim Ewing attempted the legendary Lotus Flower Tower. Maureen starred in the 2017 Film “Stumped” which has won numerous awards and toured hundreds of cities all over the world. Mo is an athlete for Sterling Rope and The North Face. This program is presented in partnership with the Vail Public Library. 14
TH E E NE RG Y C O D E S ® : AWA KE N YO U R S P I R IT, HEA L YO U R BO DY AND L I V E YO U R B EST LIFE
06 FEB
CONSCIOUSNESS with: Dr. Sue Morter when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Four Seasons Resort Vail | Vail
Everything is energy, including you. Quantum science is showing us, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that everything in our world--including our thoughts, feelings and beliefs--is energy held in different patterns. These patterns are the basis of our reality impacting our perceptions, our vitality and even our health. Learning the truth of who we are as energy beings, we become powerful creators of our life experience. Based in quantum science, neuroscience and energy medicine, The Energy Codes® teach us how to train the mind to serve the great intuitive presence that we truly are, by listening to the unspoken language from within the deep core of the body--a true celebration of the human spirit. Dr. Morter describes her journey as a doctor who had a spontaneous awakening to the Soulful Self, codifying the process of guiding others to do the same. Learning to shift from living in our heads and the stress created there to claiming the benefit of living in our wholeness has never been needed more. Our current times are calling us to awaken a greater version of ourselves and experience the life we were intended to live. Join the Vail Symposium as Dr. Morter guides us to this greater understanding with her fun, uplifting and inspired presentation style. Dr. Sue Morter is an international speaker, Master of BioEnergetic Medicine and Quantum Field visionary. Dr. Morter redirects the flow of energy patterns in the body to activate full human potential. Through her seminars, retreats and presentations, she illuminates the relationships of quantum science and energy medicine, as well as the elevation of human consciousness and life mastery. Morter draws from her experience from more than 30 years both as a doctor and as a facilitator of groups and individuals interested in natural healing and a better life. Her globally taught Energy Codes® coursework teaches individuals how to clear subconscious memory blockages and how to master the energetics of their lives. Morter is a member of the Transformational Leadership Council and is founder of the Morter Institute for BioEnergetics, an organization committed to teaching individuals self-healing techniques and a new approach to life based on Quantum Science. She will be releasing a book with Simon & Schuster in March of 2019. This program is generously underwritten by Ron Zastrow. 15
FLEEING HOME: THE REFUGEE EXPERIENCE IN THE UNITED STATES
12 FEB
HOT TOPICS with: Hardin Lang and Abdi Nor Iftin when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Vail Interfaith Chapel | Vail
A refugee is a person who has fled their country due to fear of or actual persecution and violence due to their race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group or political opinion. Refugees, also called displaced persons, are unable to return to their country because the adverse conditions that prompted their flight have yet to be resolved. The 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees defined the term and the responsibilities of nations to grant asylum to those rendered stateless due to warfare, famine or natural disasters. Globally, there are nearly 70 million displaced persons. Hardin Lang will provide an overview to understand the issues that refugees face in their own countries, describe their path to reach a country that will accept them, their experience after arriving in the accepting country and the process to become integrated. Abdi Nor Iftin will join Lang for this presentation, describing his unique journey and those of his peer group in coming to the United States, both struggles and experiences. Hardin Lang is vice president for programs and policy at Refugees International. He is a veteran of six United Nations peacekeeping and humanitarian field missions. During his UN tenure, Hardin helped launch the UN stabilization in Mali, served as head of office for the UN special envoy for the Haiti and worked on the UN mission in Afghanistan. Earlier in his career, Hardin spent two years working for the UN mission in Kosovo and three years working for the UN and human rights organizations in Guatemala. Immediately prior to joining Refugees International, Hardin was a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress (CAP) where he specialized in Middle East conflicts and national security policy. He has also been a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). Hardin has published widely, including in The Wall Street Journal, Foreign Policy, Newsweek and U.S. News and World Report. Hardin holds a master’s degree in public policy from Princeton University’s Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, a master’s degree in international history with a focus on the Middle East from the London School of Economics and a bachelor’s degree from Oberlin College. Abdi Nor Iftin currently lives in Portland, Maine, where he works as an interpreter for Somalis who have immigrated to the state. Abdi was recently accepted to the University of Southern Maine where he will be studying political science. His memoir, “Call Me American” was published in 2018 by Penguin Random House. It is the incredible true story of a boy living in war-torn Somalia who escapes to America–first by way of the movies; years later, through a miraculous green card. This program is generously underwritten by Barbara Krichbaum & Kent Erickson; the Hot Topics Series is generously underwritten by Cindy Engles and Kathy & Neal Kimmel. 16
YOUR BODY ON MEDITATION: THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF MINDFULNESS MEDITATION
21 FEB
HEALTH AND WELLNESS with: Dr. J. David Creswell and Mandy Benedict when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Vail Interfaith Chapel | Vail
Over the past two decades, there has been significant interest in mindfulness training interventions with some promising health benefits in initial randomized controlled trials. However, little is known about how mindfulness interventions get under the skin to influence health. This program describes research linking mindfulness interventions with a broad range of health outcomes and shares studies showing how mindfulness interventions change the brain and physiology in ways that may explain their health benefits. Following the presentation there will be a short break; the program will continue with a guided meditation. J. David Creswell is an Associate Professor in Psychology and the Neural Basis of Cognition at Carnegie Mellon University. As director of the Health and Human Performance Laboratory, his work broadly focuses on understanding what makes people resilient under stress. Creswell received the American Psychological Association and the American Psychosomatic Society Early Career Awards and was named a Rising Star by the Association for Psychological Science. His work is regularly profiled in the media including coverage in the NY Times, LA Times, NBC News and the Today Show. Mandy Benedict is a certified Conscious Transformation trainer and energy practitioner. She is also the owner of Ruggs Benedict in Vail where she helps the business thrive by creating a strong network of relationships. While her ongoing successes fulfilled her in many ways, she intuitively felt there was more to life. In December of 2010, an opportunity to attend a weekend workshop with Joey Klein created new meaning in Benedict’s life. Within these teachings, she learned and embraced the true meaning of transformation, expansion and unconditional love. Her appreciation of this authentic joy and fulfillment inspires her to dedicate her life to sharing these teachings with others. This program is generously underwritten by Mary Lamb Lucas and Amy & Jay Regan.
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POLI T I CS A N D T H E U . S . EC O NO MY
28 FEB
FINANCIAL SERIES with: Thomas Hoenig and Richard Bard when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Donovan Pavilion | Vail
The impact of politics on the economy in the United States is undeniable. From “Reaganomics” to trackable peaks and dips of the stock market that accompany tweets, our country’s economic successes or downturns are inextricably linked to what is happening in the White House and on Capitol Hill. In this special fireside chat with Richard Bard, former Vice Chairman of the FDIC Thomas Hoenig will delve into the economic ramifications from the 2018 election, tax law changes, debt and spending issues, the impact of foreign policy as it relates to tariffs and NAFTA and other topics, delivering real-time insight on these important issues. Thomas M. Hoenig was confirmed by the Senate as Vice Chairman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation on Nov. 15, 2012. He joined the FDIC on April 16, 2012, as a member of the FDIC Board of Directors for a six-year term, which ended in April 2018. He also serves as President of the International Association of Deposit Insurers, elected to the position in October 2015. Prior to serving on the FDIC board, Mr. Hoenig was the President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City and a member of the Federal Reserve System’s Federal Open Market Committee from 1991 to 2011. Mr. Hoenig was with the Federal Reserve for 38 years, beginning as an economist and then as a senior officer in banking supervision during the U.S. banking crisis of the 1980s. In 1986, he led the Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank’s Division of Bank Supervision and Structure, directing the oversight of more than 1,000 banks and bank holding companies with assets ranging from less than $100 million to $20 billion. He served as President of the Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank for 20 years, until 2011. Mr. Hoenig is a native of Fort Madison, Iowa. He received a doctorate in economics from Iowa State University. Richard Bard is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Bard Capital Group, LLC, a middle market private equity firm with a diversified portfolio. He has been involved in the acquisition and operation of several private and publicly traded businesses over the past 30 years. He previously served as the Chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. Bard serves as the key interviewer for the Vail Symposium’s Financial Series. This program is generously underwritten by Rob LeVine.
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TH E F UT UR E O F F O O D : TH E I M PA C T O F F O O D O N TH E H EA LTH OF THE P L A N E T A N D H U MA NK IND
04 MAR
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS with: Chris Cochran, Susie Davis and Lewis Ziska, moderated by Mercedes Quesada-Embid when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Hotel Talisa | Vail
The food we consume and how it is produced has a profound impact on our environment. From water used in irrigation to water polluted from animal waste to methane emissions from cattle and carbon dioxide emissions from food transportation, making our food supply more sustainable has the potential to improve the health of the planet and the humans living here. This challenge permeates all levels of the local and global community. Starting locally, this program will address the extent of food insecurity in our own community and the efforts to address it. At the same time as so many face food insecurity, so much food is wasted. Fortunately, food waste is something in which everyone can address; this program will provide actionable steps to be part of the solution. Finally, discussions around climate change often address factors such as temperature and precipitation levels. However, just as impactful on our global food supply is the levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Plants need carbon dioxide to grow, but can there be too much of a good thing? Rising levels of carbon dioxide have the potential to reduce the nutritional value of the world’s staple crops--find out how and how this is best addressed. Chris Cochran is the executive director of ReFED. ReFED is a multi-stakeholder nonprofit, powered by an influential network of the nation’s leading business, nonprofit, foundation, and government leaders committed to reducing U.S. food waste. Previously, Cochran was the senior manager of Sustainability at Walmart where he developed a farm-to-consumer view of food waste while leading sustainability for Walmart’s global produce business. Cochrans’s experience with tackling food waste from multiple points in the value chain helps ReFED bring together new collaborators on food system challenges. Susie Davis is the director for community impact for Our Community Foundation. With more than twenty years experience in organizational leadership, Davis uncovers creative approaches to problem solving and has a talent for bringing people together toward a common goal. During her 15-year tenure with The Youth Foundation, a local youth development organization, Susie led an exceptional staff through substantial growth, building an environment of trust, caring and infectious commitment. Dr. Lewis Ziska is a plant physiologist with the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service in Beltsville, Maryland. After graduating from the University of California, Davis, he began his career as a Smithsonian fellow and then took up residence as the Project Leader for global climate change at the International Rice Research Institute in the Philippines before joining USDA. Since joining USDA, Dr. Ziska has published more than 100 peer-reviewed research articles related to climate change and rising carbon dioxide that address: Agriculture and Food Security; weeds and weed management; invasive species and plant biology and public health. Dr. Ziska is a contributor to the 2014 International Panel on Climate Change report (Food Security Chapter); the 2014 National Climate Assessment (Public Health Chapter) and, most recently, The Impacts of Climate Change on Human Health in the United States: A Scientific Assessment. His most recent book: “Agriculture, Climate Change and Food Security in the 21st Century: Our Daily Bread” is available through Cambridge Scholars publishing. Moderator Mercedes Quesada-Embid joined Colorado Mountain College (CMC) as a faculty member in Fall 2011, just as the new Bachelor’s in Sustainability Studies (BASS) began. Much of her work at CMC centers on advancing institutional sustainability endeavors through the collaborative efforts of student research and innovative campus and college-wide projects. Quesada-Embid, along with other faculty and staff, works toward continuous enhancements of the BASS program curriculum and the expansion of a culture of sustainability across all CMC campuses. This program is generously underwritten by Amy & Jay Regan and Wendy Rudolph & Graeme Bush; the Environmental Awareness Series is generously underwritten by Holly & Buck Elliot. This program is presented in partnership with Walking Mountains Science Center. 19
MAK I NG N E W S : T H E Q UARTER CEN T URY C O L L A B O R AT I ON B ETW EEN CO RRE S P O N D E N T DAV I D M A RTIN A ND PR ODUC E R M A RY WA L S H
07 MAR
HOT TOPICS with: David Martin and Mary Walsh when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Donovan Pavilion | Vail
It takes weeks, months and sometimes years to get a news story from conception to broadcast on a show such as “60 Minutes” or “CBS Sunday Morning.” CBS News Correspondent David Martin and Producer Mary Walsh, who have worked together for 25 years and recently won an Emmy for Outstanding Feature Story in a Newscast for their story “Aftermath,” will discuss how stories are crafted, how decisions are made and how reporters handle the tsunami of news in these challenging times. Mary Walsh is the national security producer for “CBS News;” her work includes producing stories for the “CBS Evening News,” “CBS Sunday Morning” and “60 Minutes.” She has been assigned to the Pentagon since 1993 and has covered the American military all over the United States and in many parts of the world, including Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Turkey, Somalia, Bosnia, Haiti, Germany, the Philippines and Korea. As CBS News producer in Tokyo from 1989 to 1993, Walsh was responsible for news coverage in all parts of Asia – with focus on China, Korea, Burma, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Japan. She was based in New York in 1987-89 and Atlanta in 1985-87. She has won three Alfred I. DuPont awards from Columbia University, five Emmy awards, an Overseas Press Club Award, the Joan Shorenstein Barone Award for Excellence in Journalism, a Wilber Award from the Religious Communicators Council, the University of Texas School of Communication 2010 Distinguished Alumnus Award, the 2013 Rosalie Wynn Hearst Distinguished Public Service Award and the 2017 Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation journalism award for coverage of National Security David Martin has been CBS News' national security correspondent, covering the Pentagon and the State Department, since 1993. In that capacity, he has reported virtually every major defense, intelligence and international affairs story for the “CBS Evening News,” as well as for other broadcasts, including “60 Minutes” and “48 Hours.” During the invasion of Afghanistan and the war in Iraq, Martin's in-depth knowledge of how the State Department, intelligence community and military operate, both on the battlefield and in Washington positioned him as the "big picture" reporter for CBS News. Martin has received several Emmys; he has also received two Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Awards (2002 and 2004) for his body of work, most of which has appeared on the “CBS Evening News” and “60 Minutes Wednesday.” Martin also received the 2004 Joan S. Barone Award for excellence in Washington-based national affairs and public policy reporting awarded by the Washington Radio & Television Correspondents' Association. This program is generously underwritten by Doris Dewton & Richard Gretz and Mary Pat & Keith Rapp; the Hot Topics Series is generously underwritten by Cindy Engles and Kathy & Neal Kimmel. 20
L IFE BE F O R E L IF E : E X T RA ORD IN A RY C A S E S O F C H ILD R EN WH O RE M E M B E R PA S T LIV ES
14 MAR
CONSCIOUSNESS with: Dr. Jim Tucker when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Vail Interfaith Chapel | Vail
Researchers at the University of Virginia, beginning with Ian Stevenson, have investigated children’s reports of memories of previous lives for the past fifty years, studying more than 2,500 cases from around the world. Dr. Jim Tucker took over the project when Dr. Stevenson retired in 2002. JAMA, the Journal of the American Medical Association, stated in a review of one of Dr. Stevenson's scientific books that, "in regard to reincarnation he has painstakingly and unemotionally collected a detailed series of cases...in which the evidence is difficult to explain on any other grounds." This program will explore the various features of this world-wide phenomenon, with Dr. Tucker describing numerous cases along the way. Common features in the cases include a child talking about a past life at a very early age; behaviors that appear connected to that life, such as phobias related to the mode of death and sometimes birthmarks or birth defects that correspond to wounds the previous person suffered. The presentation will include a review of the research and the details of recent American cases. Jim B. Tucker, M.D. is Bonner-Lowry Professor of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences at the University of Virginia. He is director of the UVA Division of Perceptual Studies, where he is continuing the work of Ian Stevenson on children who report memories of previous lives. He is the author of two books that together have been translated into twenty languages, “Life Before Life: A Scientific Investigation of Children’s Memories of Previous Lives” (2005) and “Return to Life: Extraordinary Cases of Children Who Remember Past Lives” (2013), a New York Times bestseller. This program is generously underwritten by Dierdre & Ronnie Baker.
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THE JOURNEY HOME: CELEBRATING THE RESILIENCY OF THE HUMAN SPIRIT WITH THE VAIL VETERANS PROGRAM
21 MAR
SPECIAL EVENT with: Col. Greg Gadson, Capt. Dawn Halfaker and Lt. Jason Redman, moderated by Pete Thompson when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: TBD
Before they were veterans, they were ordinary people who agreed to do the extraordinary. From all walks of life, men and women across our country voluntarily join the armed forces. They undertake long deployments away from loved ones, often enduring grueling living conditions all while risking their physical and emotional well being. America feels a profound sense of gratitude for the sacrifices and contributions veterans and their families make. Fifteen years ago, Cheryl Jensen did more than that: She got the idea to bring wounded veterans to Vail to ski. Since 2004, the Vail Veterans Program has transformed the lives of military injured and their families through innovative programs that build confidence and life-long relationships. The Vail Symposium is honored to present a special program in collaboration with the Vail Veterans Program. After their profound sacrifices while serving their country, three Vail Veterans Program alums continue to set an example long after their military service has ended as exemplary citizens. Listen to their stories of healing, recovery and post-service accomplishment. Colonel Gregory D. Gadson is a 25-year career Army officer. In May 2007, as commander of the 2nd Battalion, 32nd Field Artillery, an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attack cost Gadson both legs above the knees and normal use of his right arm and hand. Despite this, he remained on active duty in the Army and continued to inspire many with his message of courage, perseverance, determination and teamwork. Captain Dawn Halfaker is the founder and CEO of Halfaker and Associates. Prior to starting Halfaker and Associates, Halfaker also served as a Military Police Officer in the United States Army. Halfaker held several leadership positions and deployed to Iraq with the 3rd Infantry Division where she commanded a military police platoon in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. She was subsequently wounded during a combat patrol near Baghdad in 2004, earning a Purple Heart and Bronze Star for her service. Lt. Jason Redman spent eight years as an enlisted SEAL and was selected for the Seaman to Admiral Commissioning program in 2000. He attended Old Dominion University and was commissioned as a Naval SEAL Officer. Redman completed combat deployments in both Afghanistan and Iraq. In 2007, outside of Fallujah, Iraq, Redman’s Assault Team came under heavy fire and he was severely wounded. Redman is the recipient of the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, the Purple Heart, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, two Combat Action Ribbons and the US Army Ranger tab along with numerous other personal and unit awards. Moderator Pete Thompson is a ski instructor with Vail Resorts, a finance instructor at Colorado Mountain College and the Vail/Minturn VFW post commander. Thompson served six years in U.S. Army, with a tour in Vietnam in 1968. This program is generously underwritten by Martha Head and is presented in partnership with the Vail Veterans Program. 22
AG I NG S L OW E R , H E A L I N G FA STER : TH E L ATE S T R E S E A R C H O N S TEM CELL S AND S TAYI N G YO UNG ER LO NG ER
28 MAR
HEALTH AND WELLNESS with: Dr. Johnny Huard when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: TBD
As the worldwide population ages, the healthcare systems of every country--including the United States--will face significant challenges to meet the needs of an aging population. Dr. Johnny Huard is a regenerative-medicine researcher, with more than two decades of stem cell research. He is seeking ways to help the body age slower and heal faster. Anti-aging is more than vanity medicine: Unchecked, the staggering cost of healthcare for our aging population will pose a heavy financial burden on our country. Dr. Huard’s research has led to methods to delay aging by years, thus improving quality of life for individuals and reducing healthcare costs for society. Huard will present interventions as innovative as stem cell banking and as accessible as daily exercise during a discussion intended to give attendees actionable items to begin living younger immediately. Johnny Huard, Ph.D. is a world-renowned scientist and is currently the Chief Scientific Officer and Director of the Center for Regenerative Sports Medicine at the Steadman Philippon Research Institute (SPRI) in Vail, Colorado. Huard is also the Distinguished Professor and Vice Chair for Research in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston effective May 1, 2015. Additionally, he is the Director of The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine Center for Tissue Engineering and Aging Research in Houston, Texas. Prior to his new position at SPRI and UTHealth, Huard held the Henry J. Mankin Professor and Vice Chair for Musculoskeletal Cellular Therapeutics and the Director of the Stem Cell Research Center in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh for 20 years. He also held joint appointments in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Bioengineering, Pathology and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Pediatrics and the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI) at the University of Pittsburgh. Huard was also the Deputy Director of Cellular Therapeutic Research at the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh. This program is generously underwritten by Dierdre & Ronnie Baker and Bobbie & Jim Ruh.
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“WEED THE PEOPLE”: EXPLORING THE MEDICINAL VALUE OF MARIJUANA APR
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HOT TOPICS with: Abby Epstein when: TBD where: TBD
Medical marijuana is now legal in a majority of states and most Americans support full legalization. However, marijuana remains controversial. One of the primary hurdles to utilizing marijuana for medical use on a variety of ailments from epilepsy to cancer is the fact that, like heroin and LSD, it is classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a Schedule I drug, meaning it has “no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.” Medical marijuana skeptics point to the lack of studies demonstrating marijuana’s efficacy, but its designation as a Schedule I drug limits the research that can be conducted. Director Abby Epstein and Executive Producer Ricki Lake made “Weed the People” to explore the potential of medical marijuana and the regulatory challenges families and researchers must overcome to use it. This 2018 documentary follows the journey of families fighting to gain access to cannabis treatments for their children diagnosed with cancer and, in the process, hopes to promote awareness and remove the stigma from using marijuana medically. Director Abby Epstein made her film directing debut at the 2004 Sundance Film Festival with the documentary “Until the Violence Stops,” featuring Jane Fonda, Eve Ensler, Salma Hayek and Rosie Perez. The film played at the Miami, Santa Barbara, Maui and Locarno Film Festivals and won the Audience Award at the Amnesty International Film Festival in Vancouver. “Until the Violence Stops “premiered on Lifetime Television and received an Emmy and a Gracie Allen Award. Prior to her film work Abby directed theater, helming National Tours and international premieres of “RENT” and “The Vagina Monologues.”
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DREAM MESSAGES FROM THE AFTERLIFE
04 APR
CONSCIOUSNESS with: Rosemary Ellen Guiley when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Four Seasons Resort Vail | Vail
Dream expert Rosemary Ellen Guiley presents a ground-breaking validation of powerful, life-changing dream reunions with the dead that bring comfort, guidance, closure and the healing of grief. Her presentation will include inspiring accounts of dream visits from deceased loved ones, descriptions of the unique characteristics and types of dream visits, how to benefit from dream visits from the dead, related deathbed visions and dream previews of the afterlife, premonitory dreams of death, near-death experiences and out-ofbody experiences. Rosemary Ellen Guiley is a leading expert in the metaphysical and paranormal fields with more than 65 books published on a wide range of paranormal, spiritual and mystical topics, including nine single-volume encyclopedias and reference works. Her current work focuses on inter-dimensional entity contact experiences, problem hauntings, spirit and entity attachments, the afterlife and spirit communications, psychic skills, dreamwork for well-being, spiritual growth and development, angels, past and parallel lives and investigation of unusual paranormal activity. She has worked full-time in the field since 1983.
IMMIGRATION, LOCALLY: HOW TO PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS AND ADVOCATE FOR WORKERS
11 APR
SPEAKING LOCALLY with: Jonathan Grode and Amy Novak when: Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. where: Colorado Mountain College | Edwards Campus
Since the start of the Trump administration, workplace enforcement actions have increased 5-fold. No longer is the focus merely on compliance within the frame of I-9 regulations, but the government is also focused on compliance surrounding the hiring of temporary seasonal workers. Now, coupled with a constricting visa processing system and aggressive removal practices, the constraints on foreign workers and the companies that employ them have never been more challenging. This practical panel will explore what employers can do to ensure compliance and help lobby for an expansive use of business based visas for low skilled workers. Jonathan Grode serves as the practice director for the firm Green and Spiegel. Grode has continuously worked in the U.S. business immigration law field since 1999 and has amassed considerable experience obtaining nonimmigrant and immigrant visas for new company start-ups, professional workers, artists and entertainers, athletes, physicians and scientific researchers. Grode also has significant experience dealing with Department of Labor and Department of Homeland Security enforcement actions as well as with EB-5 Investor filings. Amy Novak founded the Novak Law office in 2005. Focusing on employment and family immigration, her firm has built a reputation for working extensively with clients to deliver successful results. Novak also heads up the Colorado office for the renowned law firm Green and Spiegel. As a leading national speaker and expert on temporary employment visas, she is responsible for their nationwide H-2B practice. This program is presented in partnership with the Vail Valley Partnership.
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TAKE RELAXATI ON TO NEW HEI GHT S . Recharge and reconnect next summer in Vail, where you can discover world-class shopping and dining options in a setting Like Nothing on Earth. Discover all Vail has to offer at Vail.com.
With nearly 150 shops, 10 spas, and more than 75 restaurants, there’s always something exciting to experience in Vail.
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We are pleased to acknowledge the following donors for their support of the Vail Symposium for gifts received between November 1, 2017 and November 1, 2018. All gifts received after November 1, 2018 will be acknowledged in our summer brochure. These acknowledgments are believed to be accurate at the time of publication and we apologize for any inaccuracies or omissions.
ARC LIGHT MEMBER $10,000 and above
Antlers at Vail* Colorado Mountain College* Donovan Pavilion | The Grand View* Cindy Engles The Frechette Family Foundation The Four Season’s Resort Vail* Hotel Talisa* Jeanne and Dale Mosier*** Town of Vail Vail Daily* Vail Resorts Epic Promise*
FLOOD LIGHT MEMBER $5,000-$9,999
Alpine Bank Anonymous Dierdra and Ronnie Baker Colorado Mountain Express* Holly and Buck Elliot Martha Head Jay and Kirk Huffard
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*Denotes gift made wholly or partially in-kind
Kathy and Neal Kimmel Leila and Walt Mischer Amy and Jay Regan The Sebastian Vail* Brian Stockmar Laura Tumperi
SPOT LIGHT MEMBER $2,500-$4,999
Anonymous x2 Ainbinder Family Trust Pam and Richard Bard Doris Dewton and Richard Gretz ** Dr. Andrew and Lynn Kaufman Mary Lamb Lucas Rob LeVine and Evelyn Pinney Mary Pat and Keith Rapp Jim and Bobbie Ruh TV 8* Vail Health Vail Public Library The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa at Beaver Creek Mountain * Ken and Nina Wise Ron Zastrow
** Longtime members of the Patrons Circle
TORCH UNDERWRITING MEMBER $1,500-$2,499
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TORCH MEMBER $1,000 - $1,499
Lynn and Jerry Anderson Shannon and Todger Anderson Norma and Juan Carlos Aziz Jimmy and Marka Brenner The Bross Family Charitable Fund Sallie Smith and James Butterworth Susan Kaemmerlen and Paul Chapman Claggett/Rey Gallery Dr. David Cohen Steve and Amy Coyer William Day ECOTV* Pete and Carole Feistmann Harry and Susan Frampton Grace and Stephen Gamble Tom and Margie Gart Jean Graham and Phil Smith Jane and Ray Heller Kent Hopkins Tom and Verna Howard Artie and Jodi Israel Dr. Maurice and Jan John
Reese and Alberta Johnson Art and Elaine Kelton Michele and Buzz Larson Steven and Susan Marton Joseph and Brenda McHugh Mountain Digital, Inc.* Frank and Allison Navarro George Nimmo R.J. Croteau and Karen Nold Eric Noreen and Suzie Hill Sally and Dick Oloughlin William Pierce Diane Pitt and Mitch Karlin Ann and Tom Rader Art and Lindsay Reimers Rhonda and Bradley Schiff Ski Butlers* Carel and Mark Slatkoff Beth and Rod Slifer Slifer Smith and Frampton Foundation Tim and Lisa Swift US Bank Bonnie Vogt Gena Whitten and Robert Wilhelm George and Elizabeth Wiegers Wyndham Resorts Vail
LANTERN $500-$999
The Estate of Carol Cockrum TJ Conners Crazy Mountain Brewing Company* Andrea Eddy Gary Gilman and Julie Stoxen George and Lizette Lamb Peter MacDonald Marshall Gordon Heather McInerny Marilyn and Kurt Metzl Melinda and Eric Phannenstiel Anne Prinzhorn Riverwalk Wine and Spirits* Howard and Cathy Stone Kaye Summers Marjorie Vickers Sharon and Bob Winders *Denotes gift made wholly or partially in-kind
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S PA R K $100-$249
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Michael Beltracchi Dick Cleveland and Kathy Langenwalter Alan and Sylvia Danson Jerome & Phyllis Darnell Susan and Mark Dean Greg Dobbs Charles Dolan and Susan MackinDolan Charley Ford Georgia Fox Jane Hall Jane and Thomas Healy Brenda and Alan Himelfarb Chris and Dan Havekost James Kleckner Anne and Robert Louthan Barbara and Edward Lukes Lynn Marior Gloria McMahon Jeanne McQueeny Liz and Luc Meyer Martha Milbery Pat Montgomery Cheryl K. Moskal and Richard Jackson Collier & Ann Kirkham Peggy Nichols Michael Offutt Judith Olson Joe Parsons Skip and Adelle Picking Robert Rush Nancy and John Snyder Stephen Snyder Robin and Tim Thompson Deborah and Richard Travers Norm Vogel Karin and Rand Waltzman Robert Warner Christopher Wise Kelsey Wise *Denotes gift made wholly or partially in-kind
STAFF SPOTL I GHT
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ou know their smiling faces at programs, checking you in or adjusting the microphones and podiums for the speakers. But how well do you really know the Vail Symposium’s Event Coordinator and Office Manager, Arzu Basyildiz, and Program Manager, Claire Noble? We sat down with Arzu and Claire and asked probing, thoughtful questions; the answers might surprise you. VS: When did you start working with the Vail Symposium? AB: September, 2017 CN: May, 2018 VS: How long have you lived in the valley? AB: 17 years CN: I have been a part-time resident of the Vail Valley since 2004; my family and I moved here full-time in 2016. VS: It’s hard to believe, but we know that you’ve had lives outside of the Vail Symposium. Can you tell us more about your past lives? AB: I was born in Turkey and worked as a bank branch manager there for seven years. I got married in 1994 and moved to Colorado. My husband and I started a wholesale business in Denver; after our son was born we moved to Vail and opened our retail store in Edwards. I’ve managed, acted as a buyer, interior designer and accountant of our business for 22 years. I was involved with many of the non-profits and schools as a volunteer in the Valley, including Vail Jazz, where I also worked as a community engagement and volunteer coordinator before coming to work for the Vail Symposium. I am also a national professional Turkish interpreter for legal and medical needs. CN: Prior to moving here I lived a peripatetic lifestyle, residing overseas for about 20 years, mostly in Asia but also Europe and the Middle East. While living in Hong Kong I decided to go back to school to pursue an MFA in Creative Writing. Attending an international university with students and faculty from all over the world was a transformative experience, and my writing improved somewhat. VS: Which program are you most looking forward to this winter? AB: We are going to have a very exciting winter program coming up and I am looking forward to so many of them, especially “Turkey’s Role in the Middle East” and the time management program. CN: Our lineup of programs for the winter season has something for everyone. As a geopolitics junkie I am especially excited about our geopolitical double-header focusing on Asia. VS: The speakers at the Symposium’s programs are amazing, but what would be your “fantasy speaker” (living or deceased) that you wish we could add to the season? AB: I would love to have Stephen Hawking come and speak to us. CN: As program manager it is my job to entice speakers to Vail to address our community. A dream speaker of mine would be Mark Twain. His keen insight and wry humor are sorely needed in our time. VS: And lastly, what’s the thing you love best about the Vail Symposium? AB: The diverse subjects we discuss and speakers we bring in are very exciting. CN: What I love about the Vail Symposium are the curious, knowledge-seekers who attend our programs. 31
GET I N VOLVE D THERE ARE MANY WAY S TO HELP THE SYMPOSIUM THRIVE:
Volunteer at a program or in the office Tell a friend about the Symposium Follow us on Facebook and Twitter Submit a program idea Become a member Make a donation
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR SUMMER 2018 VOLUNTEERS Donna Albani
Sara Iafrate
Jeanne Mosier
Kim Blackford
Susie Kincade
Terry Mutter
Paul and Susan Chapman
Debbie King
Felicia Nassi
Laurie Kleisinger
George Nimmo
Sandy LaBaugh
Brigitte Noble
Penny LoFaro
Marv Olson
Molly McCabe
Debbie Robbins
Beth McKnight
Carole Wolff-Sowers
Annie Egan Alicia Gresley Jane Hall Kimberly Herner
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A VAIL SYMPOSIUM VOLUNTEER? Contact Arzu Basyildiz at arzu@vailsymposium.org.
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Vail Resorts EpicPromise is proud to foster life-long learning alongside the Vail Symposium during the 2019 season.
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800.420.2424
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T H AN K YOU TO OUR S P ON S ORS A simple ‘thank you’ does not even begin to describe the overwhelming gratitude we have for our sponsors. Our mission to provide thought-provoking and affordable programming would not be possible without the backing of our community. We invite you to continue to support our valuable Vail Symposium sponsors and the mission to better our community.
Giving Back to the Community: Liv Sotheby Broker Andie Ohde will donate a portion of the commission from any referral sales to support the Vail Symposium. Please mention this program if you choose to work with Andie on your next real estate transaction.
SWEET DREAMS ACCOUNTING
MOUNTAIN DIGITAL, INC.
Brochure design by Carly Arnold Creative. Brochure printing and mailing by Old Gypsum Printer. The Vail Symposium thanks you for your help and hard work! 34
POLICIES, TICKET & P ROGRAM INFORMAT ION RESERVE IN ADVANCE AND SAVE Did you know you can receive $10 off the ticket price of most of the programs just by purchasing your tickets in advance? Just go to www.vailsymposium.org or give us a call at 970-476-0954 before midnight on the day before the program to receive $10 off the door price. Tickets must be paid for at the time of purchase to receive the discount. Students, teachers, Vail Resorts employees, Eagle County Government employees and members of the Vail Valley Young Professionals Association (VVYPA) may be eligible for an additional discount.
TICKET SALES Please note all ticket and/or pass sales are final and non-refundable. Tickets and passes must be paid for at the time of purchase and are transferable. Complimentary tickets offered to donors per the benefits are also transferable.
TICKET DONATIONS If you are unable to attend a program, please call our office at 970-476-0954 to donate your tickets to area students. You will receive a tax acknowledgment letter for each ticket you return and the sincere gratitude of the Vail Symposium and local students.
PROGRAM OFFERINGS We are not a political organization. We strive to present speakers who can address thoughts and ideas from all viewpoints. Our speaker’s views do not necessarily represent the views of the Board and the Vail Symposium.
THIRD PARTY MATERIALS No third party material will be distributed or handed out at Vail Symposium programs, events or meetings without the prior consent of the Executive Director, Board Chair or Program Committee Chair. All materials must be submitted at least 48 hours in advance of a program, event or meeting for consideration. No exceptions. No guarantees.
VENUES & DIRECTIONS All venues and directions are listed online at http://vailsymposium.org/venues-and-directions/.
LATEST UPDATES All information listed as ‘To Be Announced’ or ‘TBA’ will be announced first on www.vailsymposium.org and Vail Symposium social media sites. All current program information can be found on www.vailsymposium.org, Facebook and Instagram. Please like us on Facebook and Instagram @VailSymposium to stay up-to-date on the latest Symposium news, announcements and events. 35
PERMIT #30
PAID
GYPSUM, CO
US POSTAGE
NONPROFIT ORG
P ROGRA M S AT- A -GLA N C E 12.6.18 Palliative Care and Medical Aid in Dying: Putting the Person First at the End of Life
12.10.18 Chasing Denali: The Sourdoughs, Cheechakos, and Frauds Behind the Most Unbelievable Feat in Mountaineering
12.26.18
1.9.19 Increased Productivity and Decreased Stress: Better Life Balance is Achievable Through Time Management
VA I L , C O 8 1 6 5 8 970.476.0954
1.3.19 Turbulent Times: Turkey’s Role in the Middle East
VA IL S Y M P O SI U M P O BO X 3 03 8
An Evening with Governor John Hickenlooper
1.10.19 In Deep: Bill Steele’s Journey to the Hidden World Beneath Our Feet
1.17.19 Fact vs Fiction: The Advent of Fake News and How to Discern the Truth
1.23-24.19
3.4.19 The Future of Food: The Impact of Food on the Health of the Planet and Humankind
3.7.19 Making News: The Quarter Century Collaboration Between Correspondent David Martin and Producer Mary Walsh
The Rise of Asia in the 21st Century: What It Means for the United States
3.14.19
1.28.19
Life Before Life: Extraordinary Cases of Children Who Remember Past Lives
“The Human Element” Film Screening
1.31.19
3.21.19 The Journey Home: Celebrating the Resiliency of the Human Spirit with the Vail Veterans Program
Mo in the Mountains
2.6.19
3.28.18
The Energy Codes®: Awaken Your Spirit, Heal Your Body and Live Your Best Life
Aging Slower, Healing Faster: The Latest Research on Stem Cells and Staying Younger Longer
2.12.19 Fleeing Home: The Refugee Experience in the United States
2.21.19 Your Body on Meditation: The Science Behind the Health Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation
2.28.19 Politics and the U.S. Economy
TBD “Weed the People”: Exploring the Medicinal Value of Marijuana
4.4.19 Dream Messages From the Afterlife
4.11.19 Immigration: How to Protect Your Business and Advocate for Workers
VA I L S YMP OS IU M P.O. BOX 3038 | VAIL, CO 81658 • 970.476.0954 INFO@VAILSYMPOSIUM.ORG • WWW.VAILSYMPOSIUM.ORG FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM | @VAILSYMPOSIUM
#For TheLoveOfLearning