All Topics in Chicago

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  Wills, Trusts and What Every Family Needs To Know About Estate Planning

  Robert J. Varak, Law Offices of Robert J. Varak

  TOPIC CATEGORY: Financial

  Most people know that they should have a will, but why? When should you have your first will drafted? What is the difference between a will and a trust? How do I make sure that my children will be taken care of in the event of a family tragedy? What is probate and how does it work? I will give direct, understandable answers to these questions and any others you might have about the world of estate planning. MORE >

  Attendees will leave this talk knowing all the basics of the estate planning process, how to go about finding a qualified attorney, what is involved on their part and how much the process should cost them. It's the perfect one-stop primer to learn about wills, trusts, guardianship, powers of attorney and other sometimes intimidating but universally important topics.

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  How to Stay in Shape By Doing What You Love

  Andrea Scott, MS, Andrea Scott, LLC

  TOPIC CATEGORY: Health & Fitness

  Many of us struggle to stick to an exercise program. We even forget that our own fitness is the legacy we leave our families. Learn to fit your exercise into your life, not your life into your exercise.

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  Imagine the Possibilities

  Tinamarie Hernandez, Executive Director, Diveheart

  TOPIC CATEGORY: Motivational

  Discover Diveheart and how we use Scuba Therapy to help people with disabilities "Imagine the Possibilities" in their lives. Hear inspirational stories of courage, hope and healing.

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  Why Me? Achieving Success Through Change / Stress Management

  Stacey Jenkins, M. Psych, Founder, Adjunct Professor, Crux Conception

  TOPIC CATEGORY: Motivational

  Stacey’s lecture will give hope and inspiration as he recounts his recovery, and struggle with mental illness. He openly reveals his anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and his passion for psychology along with his care for the consumer. Stacey shares his story of, attempted suicide, trauma, shame, involuntary commitment and his road to recovery. His speech/lecture will reinforce to the audience the key measures necessary to shape and uphold a connected culture while inspiring the mental health community devoted to the effort of constructing better lives for those affected by mental illness. MORE >

  Note:
  The first segment of the will be a narrative of "My Story"
  The second segment will be the outline of my Speech/Lecture

  What happens to a 20+ year Homicide Detective, who had never displayed any signs of a Mental Illness in his life, who suddenly decides to end his own life?

  *Incarcerated by his own peers
  *Further Suicide attempt, while in his cell
  *72-Court Ordered Commitment
  *Clinically diagnosed with PTSD
  *Adapting, Overcoming
  *ACHIEVING SUCCESS THROUGH CHANGE/STRESS MANAGEMENT.

  Why Me?:
  On June 14, 2017, at approximately 3:51 am, I was found unresponsive, while seated in the driver’s seat of my unmarked FWPD vehicle. The responding Officer knocked on the window of the car until I woke up and rolled the window down. The Officer asked was I okay and what was I doing in that area so late. I told the Officer that was heading to KREAGER PARK, and I was immediately asked by the Officer; “what for?” I informed the Officer that I was heading to the park to kill myself. Did I fail to mention that I was traveling with my loaded .357 Smith & Wesson revolver, which was openly placed on my passenger seat; this was the revolver, I intended to use to end my life.

  Subsequently, I was told to exit the vehicle and soon after and advised to submit to a portable breath test (PBT), which I complied. I was asked if I had been drinking, I responded yes, and that I had a half glass of vodka to accelerate the effects of the painkillers/muscle relaxers I had taken to assist with my death.

  I also stated that I had received a total of four (4) injections from my family doctor (3 for back spasms and 1 for my diabetes) earlier that morning and had also consumed many prescribed muscle relaxers. Furthermore, I had lifted my shirt, to displayed bandages of the four (4) injections (3 for the pain in the back) and one (1) for diabetes, that I had received. Nonetheless, I admitted the consumption of several prescription pills and repletely stated that I wanted to end my life.

  Now, if you ask yourself; if I wanted to die at that time; the answer is a resounding, yes! As I repeatedly told the officers, “I want to die! I want, to kill myself.” I have never thought of taking my life before this incident. However, I was depressed due to discovering information I had received concerning my 18-year-old daughter who suffers from Bipolar and was recently arrested (at my request, to scare her straight); however, I later discovered that she had been the victim of sexual assault (a week prior).

  According to my Clinical Psychologist, the prescribed muscle relaxers that I consumed (BACLOFEN 20 mg) has been known to cause Bipolar reactions including suicidal thoughts.
  At this point and time, I should have been taken to a hospital for a psychiatric evaluation, which is FWPD protocol. Instead, the Officers informed FWPD-DISPATCH to cancel the ambulance heading to my location; stating that their assistance, was not needed.

  At the scene, were several Officers, Supervisors (3), a Lieutenant and Deputy Chief. These individuals neglected to secure my mental well-being. Instead, I was arrested and placed under suicide watch in solitary confinement; rather than obtaining me the medical attention needed (these acts ignored, written department policy/protocol).
  Note:

  The FWPD has a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT); of which I was a member of, the Program was implemented to provide an immediate response by trained law enforcement Officers to deal with persons who are experiencing a mental health crisis.

  Former Indiana Governor Mike Pence, signed a law in 2015 requiring the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy to instruct trainees regarding CIT protocol.
  According to the FWPD website: “The goal of the program is to divert persons with a mental illness from incarceration and to treat the mental illness as the priority.”

  According to the FWPD CRISIS INTERVENTION TEAM POLICY #PD01-0125: If a misdemeanor crime has been committed by the individual, the mental health detention will occur, and criminal charges will not be filed. Criminal charges of any nature cannot be filed if the person has been held on a 24-hour or 72-hour hold (Obtained from the FWPD Intra-net).
  Situation cont.:

  During my incarceration, I was not allowed to make any phone calls to my family, nor did either agency; the FWPD or the ALLEN COUNTY JAIL (ACJ) did not bother to contact my family to inform them of the events, which had transpired. In fact, my wife was not notified until later that morning, that I had been arrested and would be transported to PARKVIEW BEHAVIORAL HOSPITAL (PBH); where I remained for five (5) days, under a court-ordered involuntary commitment.

  Lingering Questions:

  While housed at PBH under the 72-hour court-ordered hold; the FWPD arrived at my home and removed all my weapons, which were voluntarily relinquished to them by my wife.

  I am stating these facts, merely to point out that if the FWPD went to such great lengths to obtain a 72-hour court-ordered mental hold, and collect all my weapons; then why didn’t I receive adequate and immediate physical and psychiatric care?

  As stated above, this incident took place in June 2017. However, it was in November 2017 when I could read any of the Officers reports, to review the justifications for their actions; however, no matter how it was worded, there can be no valid explanation or rationalize as to why they delayed the care that was desperately needed?
  The Unjustified Conclusion:

  To date, all criminal proceedings are final; there are no more court dates or alcohol classes. Thus, I have satisfied all requirements regarding my sentencing. While I am no longer suspended from the FWPD (30-day suspension), I am on “admirative sick leave.” Because of this incident; I have been clinically diagnosed by Psychiatrists, Psychologists, and Therapists with the following:

  PTSD
  Anxiety
  Paranoia
  Due to the clinical diagnoses, I was removed from Department’s Hostage Negotiation Team

  What Happens Now:

  I know what happened to me, could happen to anyone; yes, that is the question. But more importantly, the lingering question of what happens now is still at the forefront of “mental health” preparedness.

  Whereas I was at the top of “my game” professionally and personally, but this - no my situation (sometimes you must own, what you have earned) had me down so far, that I thought it was impossible to get-back-up; but I overcame.

  I once was angry, withdrawn, and wanted to blame others/the administration for what happened to me; but this ain’t no blame game, it's about lives in need of mental wellness.
  However, time and a team of mental health professionals allowed me the once again see the man God intended me to be.
  The Plan Going-forwarded:

  To work tirelessly to “make my mess my message.” By helping to establish laws or form a platform to the protect/acknowledge the “rights” of those in “in need of psychiatric attention.” Then and only then will “change” have a chance to make a mark in our society. To further educate Law Enforcement and Mental Health Agencies, to form workshops, inspire forms, and engage in speaking groups.

  Why Question:

  Law Enforcement’s inability to safeguard the mental wellbeing of one of their own.

  Career Background:

  As a twenty-plus years Law Enforcement veteran, I have tirelessly sustained the day-to-day operations as an honorable officer, with the Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD); whereas during those twenty-plus years, I have served my community as a Homicide Detective and Hostage Negotiator, Profiler. In addition, I formally served my country as a Federal Agent with the Department of Homeland Security.

  As a veteran Law Enforcement Officer, I believe that education is the cornerstone of success in any profession. Therefore, I presently hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Psychology, a Master’s Degree in Forensic Psychology, and currently, I am a Doctoral Candidate, working towards my Ph.D., in Forensic Psychology. I would be remiss not to mention; I have also served as an adjunct professor.

  Why the Inquiry:

  Because of situations that repletely happen and ultimately violate the rights of citizens that need medical/psychiatric attention. That citizen was me, and the situation surrounding what I believe violated my rights; if it could happen to me, it could happen to anyone. The inquiry is a necessary form of investigating efforts needed to establish a platform; which will serve to protect the rights of all who are marginalized, by the words “in need of psychiatric attention.”

  Goal:

  Inspire the audience to become influential by endorsing secure and humane actions to those suffering a mental health crisis, and to encourage civic alliance that will advocate for people struggling with mental illness and in crisis, needing psychiatric assistance.

  Stacey’s lecture/speech will display to the audience that when individuals are in crisis, the usage of Language awareness is reassuring and practical.

  During Stacey’s situation, he felt as if no one heard his cry for help. Stacey will share with the audience his Hostage Negotiator’s training regarding Active Listening Skills (ALS). The audience will see first-hand, by way of audience participation how these skills can be used in situations when aiding a Consumer.

  Stacey’s lecture will consist of his candid and emotional story regarding his suicide attempt, which leads to an arrest, attempted hanging in his jail cell, and a 72-hour court-ordered commitment, which lasted 5-days.

  To many individuals, their conflict with stress may seem futile. Through humor, sensitivity, and enlightenment, Stacey’s lecture will inspire the attendees to think creatively and channel the negative energy of:

  “The bills keep coming.”

  “I do not have enough time in the day.”

  “the demanding obligations of family and work never seem to end.”

  Key Takeaways:

  Overall Alertness- Regarding the Onset to Stress
  Stress at one’s place of employment
  Mentally Supporting Yourself
  Recognize the best method in a tense setting
  Stacey’s method of HUMOR and Affection titled the “DR. DRE METHOD.”

  Attendees will learn to:
  D. DISCOVER the cause of their Stress
  R. RECOGNIZE that the Stress is affecting their lives
  D. DODGE future Stress elements
  R. REGAIN self-esteem
  E. EQUALIZE the threat of Stress reappearance

  Additional Takeaways:

  The attendees will ascertain what lifestyle factors can be modified to decrease stress
  Utilize certain life habits to reduce stress
  Practices to increase physical and environmental entertainment
  How to use their everyday skills to deal with stressful experiences
  How to document, recognize indicators of stress and develop a strategy to eliminate or reduce
  Self-Awareness of ones’ control

  Life set-skills for:
  Adapting: Overcoming obstacles and Achieving one's goals
  Success: by restoring/keeping a positive mindset
  Motivate: by aspiring to inspire through strength and leadership skills

  Stacey’s lecture will emphasize the managing your Stress is all about securing control. Control of your judgments, existence, reactions, and the technique we use to cope with our difficulties.

  Attendees will ascertain the no matter how taxing life may appear; there are platforms we and utilize to release the burden and reclaim control.

  Stacey’s lecture/speech will display to the audience that when individuals are in crisis, the usage of Language awareness is reassuring and practical.

  During Stacey’s situation, he felt as if no one heard his cry for help. Stacey will share with the audience his Hostage Negotiator’s training regarding Active Listening Skills (ALS). The audience will see first-hand, by way of audience participation how these skills can be used in situations when aiding a Consumer.

  Followed by a concise Q&A from selected audiences members wanting to inquire further detail of his story.

  The end of the speech/lecture is designated for audience participation, which will engage in activities that will display the totality and need for continued understanding regarding our countries crisis and misunderstanding of the Consumer.

  Target Audience and Participant Expertise Level:

  The speech/presentation will engage all facets of our mental health community from;

  Consumers
  Advocates,
  Mental Health Service Providers,
  Practitioners,
  Family Members (of the Consumers) and more.
  Objectives:

  At the end of his speech, the audience will take with them:

  Communication tools, using skills they now possess and used to maximize engagement that will allow for Rapport amongst all surfaces of our mental health community from; Consumers, Advocates, Mental Health Service Providers, Practitioners, Family Members (of the Consumers) and more.

  How to individualize engagement leaving the consumer to feel as if he/she is NOT just a “number and unimportant.”

  Detailed steps to form a culture of culpability and measurement within our Mental Health Community.

  Exercises and tools to support and reward the desired behavior (for escalated situations).
  Tools and methods to engage family members (they too are facing a crisis).

  Steps to produce a motivational and innovative culture with both Consumers and Family members, Mental Health Professionals thus creating a productive team dynamic.

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  Negotiating internationally with confidence

  Kirk Samson, Owner, Samson Atlantic LLC

  TOPIC CATEGORY: Business

  Negotiating effectively is critical to your business and personal success. The importance of this skill is reflected in the wide range of books you can find in libraries or bookstores on how to improve your negotiation savvy. Unfortunately, almost all of these books represent an American perspective on how to negotiate. The negotiation process and strategies can vary wildly around the world, and many of the techniques that business people use daily here in the U.S. will serve you poorly overseas. MORE >

  In this presentation, Kirk Samson will highlight some of the major differences you can expect while negotiating overseas and how you can 'shift gears' to negotiate with confidence around the globe.

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  The Attraction Principle: How to Shift from Working to Get Clients to Attracting Them Effortlessly

  Tom Kelly, Business Coach, Potential In Motion

  TOPIC CATEGORY: Business

  If you are looking to dramatically increase your sales, make more money with less effort, and build a sales system that produces predictable results, then this presentation is for you! In this presentation, Master Certified Business Coach Tom Kelly covers the 5 shifts that you need to make in how you approach your business so that you can attract what you want, as opposed to chasing it. MORE >

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  Be Your Own Personal Trainer

  Andrea Scott, MS, Andrea Scott, LLC

  TOPIC CATEGORY: Health & Fitness

  Andrea is an athlete and fitness expert. She is also a comic who performs around the Midwest. Her talk is a humorous take on committing to an exercise program for life.

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  Entrepreneurship: “Who is holding your ladder?”

  Peter A. James, Speaker, Coach, Professor

  TOPIC CATEGORY: Business

  We, as entrepreneurs, have a tendency to work our tails off... by ourselves. It is often not our own faults. We just gain momentum and stay in our own bubble with our own goals. But are we hurting ourselves by remaining in this bubble? And if so, what is the best way to accomplish success? This workshop will allow your audience to see the true beauty in numbers. MORE >

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  Why are some people so much luckier than others?

  Nathan Kontny, CTO, Rockstar Coders

  TOPIC CATEGORY: Motivational

  Some people seem to have all the luck and others of us struggle to find opportunities. We'll explore the life of James Garner, who, without any acting experience and a hatred of talking in front of people, landed a well connected Hollywood agent to jumpstart his career. Was he just lucky?

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  Stress, Wellness and Humor

  Dr. Jeffrey Smith, Author, Wellness Coach, Acupuncturist, Humorist & Chiropractic Physician

  TOPIC CATEGORY: Health & Fitness

  Dr. Smith will teach the audience how to increase the body’s ability to fight off disease and stress, and prevent injuries through all the latest and greatest on wellness and humor.

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