Minnesota Futurists Home Page

Current Meeting & Topic Schedule

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January 5, 2008

Future Studies & Special Presentations

Title: Two Shots of Espresso and a Strep Test To Go, Please"

Guest Speaker: John Fraser, CEO, MEDNET USA

Moderator: David Keenan

Abstract: Consumers today enjoy quick service from coffee shops on every street corner. Services are fast and friendly, even for complex orders (make that a double espresso, skinny, with whipped cream please!).

When it comes to our arrangements for health care, we've come to expect delays, frustrations and long waits. How can we change this? The vision of MEDNET USA is to empower consumers to receive health care quickly, efficiently and at the point of care, whether it's in a new retail clinic like Minute Clinic, at the immunization clinic at school, in an emergency situation, or at your regular doctor's office. We'll do this by using an ATM-style card model to identify you, as a patient, then accessing an advanced directory system to identify where your health records are stored, and retrieving them securely.I'll outline how MEDNET USA is delivering on this vision, and what it will be like in 5-10 years to live in an environment where health care delivery flows as easily as a double cappuccino!

Visit http://www.mednet.org for more information. 2007-01-05-MN-Futurists.Talkv1.0.ppt

Also Open Source Health Care

The Rich Man's Michael Moore (Wall Street Journal, Feb. 23, 2008)

 

January 12, 2008

Econ Futures SIG

Title: "Investing Down The BRIC Road"

Discussion Leaders: Dick Saunders, Eric Hand and Roger Rydberg

Abstract: How and where to search for stocks, stock and country index funds (ETFs) and commodities that reflect the rising economies in emerging markets such as Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC).

For more info see:ETF Charts

Jim Rogers video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MEu5sqac99M

Wild Hog For China - Fortune Dec 2007; Hamburger Index

Latest China Investment News

Baltic Dry Index at http://www.investmenttools.com/futures/bdi_baltic_dry_index.htm

NOTE: A four-part series of follow-up classes for serious investors will tentatively start at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 24 and May 22 at Grand City Buffet, 8917 Hwy. 7, St.Louis Park (in Knollwood Mall. For further info, e-mail dicksaun@gmail.com or call 612/861-1061 after 5 p.m..

 

January 26, 2008

Society/Management Futures SIG Title: Minnesota's Population: Past, Present and Future

Guest Speaker: Martha McMurry, PhD, Minnesota Demographers Office

Moderator: Ron Monroe

Abstract: This presentation will review demographic topics including the size of Minnesota's population, rate of growth, where people live, age, race and ethnicity, and fertility and mortality. View the presentation: MNFuturistsJan262008.ppt  

 

February 2, 2008

Future Studies & Special Presentations Title:The Second Coming (of Computing)

Discussion Leader: David Keenan

Abstract: Futurist David Gelernter,a professor of computer sciences at Yale, proposes a new structure to simplify the interface between computer and Internet. He was chief scientist at Mirror World Technologies, is author of several books, and writes columns for three arts/culture magazines and for newspapers.

Source Material: http://www.edge.org/3rd_culture/gelernter/gelernter_p1.html

Presentation: MNF The Second Coming.ppt

Research Items Discussed:

Contact Lenses with Circuits - http://uwnews.washington.edu/ni/article.asp?articleID=39094 

Shape Shifting Robots - http://technology.newscientist.com/article/dn13244-shapeshifting-robot-forms-from-magnetic-swarm.html"

http://technology.newscientist.com/article/dn13244-shapeshifting-robot-forms-from-magnetic-swarm.html Microinsects - http://www.deviceguru.com.nyud.net:8080/2008/01/21/robotic-fly-to-descend-on-new-york/

Progress on Assembly of Synthetic Genome - http://www.rdmag.com/ShowPR.aspx?PUBCODE=014&ACCT=1400000100&ISSUE=0801&RELTYPE=LST&PRODCODE=0000000&PRODLETT=IK&CommonCount=0  

 

February 9, 2008

Economic Futures SIG

Title:“Streaming Media: Infinity and Beyond”

Guest Speaker: Dr. Remi Douah

Moderator: Jim Zitek

Abstract: Web 2.0 technologies give us the ability to create, add content and connect with a community of Internet users around the world. My presentation will focus on web-based video messaging, with a live demonstration of an innovative way to incorporate TV and streaming technology to provide a low-cost service to conduct group business and facilitate interactive teaching methods. remid@helloworld.com www.vmdirect.com/remid

Speaker's Bio: Remi Douah, Coordinator, Multicultural/Academic Affairs, University of Minnesota   Dr. Remi Douah served with a U.S. embassy in Africa developing highly interactive Internet communications strategies for use in African schools. He now markets interactive video services in the U.S. He also is an academic progress coordinator at the UM Multicultural Center for Academic Excellence (MCAE). Remi was a Fulbright Scholar from the Ivory Coast from 1989-1994 and received a master of arts in American studies from Michigan State University in 1991. He completed his Ph.D. in design, housing and apparel at Minnesota in 2006.  

 

February 16, 2008

Technology Futures SIG

Title: "Future of the Private Space Travel Industry" MNF

Discussion Leader:Dick Saunders

Moderator: Hank Lederer

Abstract:Space followers have been dreaming of a trip into space since the 1961 Mercury 7 suborbital flight by astronaut John Glenn. Now a group of well-endowed entrepeneurs are developing zero-gravity flights with reusable vehicles and launching platforms that may some day lead to regular commercial space trips to the moon and beyond.  Who are they and what are their visions? (Saunders covered aerospace news for the Minneapolis Tribune (1958-1961) and served as a public relations consultant to Honeywell's Aerospace Division during the Gemini and Apollo programs (1966-68).) Commercial Space Travel SIG Outline

Video: Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo Animated FlightVideo: Spaceport America Construction PlansSpace PortSpace TerminalBezos Space Project (www.blueorigin.com) bigelowaerospace.com spacex.com zerogen.com Orbiting Hotels (www. watg.com)  

 

February 23, 2008

Society/Management Futures SIG

Title: "The Niche for Small Residual Biomass Plants"

Guest Speaker: Ulrich Bonne, Ph.D., Chemical Physicist, Consultant and CTO of MinneFuel, LLC

Moderator: David Keenan Abstract: Small biomass plants represent an opportunity to profitably make and operate a network of small plants to convert “small” sources of residual biomass from farm and forestry operations into renewable fuel or fertilizers. The presentation will detail availability of residual biomass, and why small plants, producing 10-30 gallons per hour (gal/h), can compete with large plants with outputs of 375-3750 gal/h (30-300 million gal/year) or the >300 million gal/y “big oil" producers, despite traditional scaling laws.

PB-08-Futurists-14-April.pdf Updated 14Apr08  

 

March 1, 2008

Future Studies & Special Presentations

Title: Managing Personal Change

MNF Discussion Leader Brian K Toren Moderator: David Keenan Abstract: Everybody encounters change that affects their personal and/or professional life. This change can be for the good or the bad, ranging from a death in the family, job loss, home loss to winning the lottery. We deal with change in different ways and spans of time. The transition  depends on the severity and source of the change; whatever the case, individuals go through a similar transition. This transition has several stages to pass through before the individual can move on. These are: > The triggering event > Grief > Denial > Acceptance of need to move on > Insight - using creativity to address the change response   This SIG will guide the participant through a past, present or expected future transition and ask how he/she could have or can do better. Each person attendee will fill out a form that will help in the transition.   

 

March 8, 2008

Economic and Investment Futures

Title: "Sovereign Wealth Funds: Threat or Boon to U.S. Economic and Political Independence?"

MNF Speaker: Dick Saunders

Abstract: More than 40 sovereign wealth funds with bank balances exceeding $1.5 trillion have been organized by both democratic nations and  conservative kingdoms to invest trade surpluses in U.S. and other foreign companies, or to build infrastructure in the home country. Over time, will these unregulated funds be used to buy control of geopolitically sensitive or critical U.S. resources, and eventually represent a threat to U.S political security? Or will such foreign purchases be accepted as timely examples of an increasingly interdependent world of high finance?  

 

March 15, 2008

Technology Futures SIG

Title: "Cornucopia of Technology Futures"

MNF Discussion Leader: Hank Lederer

Abstract: A wide array of future technology items will be reviewed and discussed.  Bring your ideas, items, articles, weblinks from readings, activities, internet searches, etc on coming & potential technological changes and breakthroughs.  Prepare a 2-3 minute pitch. To be added:Lost Technology Withers Leadership, Growth, and Vitality.doc   

 

March 22, 2008

Peace SIG

Title: The Middle East Peace Process - Is It Dead? MNF Speaker: Roger Rydberg Moderator: Dick Saunders Abstract: The outlook for the troubled Israel/Palestine peace process. A video "Life in Occupied Palestine" captures extensiveness of Israeli encroachment on Palestinian land and everyday lives. What are possible long-range solutions to long-term peace in the region? What is the state of current Bush administration initiatives to press for negotiations? What positions have 2008 U.S. presidential candidates taken?

References : Iraq War - Israel LinkPeace Talks Going NowhereMcCain Obama Face Off On IsraelBush's Peace EffortsThe Real Story Yet To Come

Middle East History

Jimmy Carter - Middle East Analysis

A Realistic Peace Plan

Map Of Israel

 

March 29, 2008

Management, Society and Education SIG

Title: "Community Boxing Program"

Guest Speaker: A.J. Moon

Moderator: David Keenan

Abstract: Boxing As A Discipline

 

April 5, 2008

Future Studies & Special Presentations

Title: Energy Conservation Experiments; Alternative Energy Examples In This Area"

Guest Speaker: Dale Stenseth Moderator: David Keenan Abstract: Starting with the big picture, the US Energy Flows for 2002 and 2006 are compared and contrasted.  Energy flow forecasts through 2030 are included.  A few home conservation experiments over a 30 year period are described, some with unexpected, or unintended consequences.  Examples of local alternative energy sources will be described, including successes and failures.  Conclusion will be an open discussion of SWOT, (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) for various energy sources.

Reference Links:

http://www.eia.doe.gov/oiaf/aeo/aeoref_tab.html   US Energy Flow Forecast to 2030 http://www.stenseth.org/adventure/energy.html

   Working note space and pictures.

 

April 12, 2008

Econ Futures SIG

Title:"Securing a Clean Energy Future: The Case for Action"

 

Video Summary of Governors' Conference Proceedings, Jan. 2008

Speakers: Thomas L. Friedman, author and columnist for The New York Times)

Jeffrey R. Immelt (Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, General Electric Company

Discussion Leader: Roger Rydberg

Ref.

Plenary Friedman Video

Plenary Immelt Video

Conference Agenda

 

April 19, 2008

Society, Management and Education SIG

Title: "How Does Technology Evolve?"

Video of Kevin Kelly: "How Does Technology Evolve?:

http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/view/id/19 24 minutes http://www.poptech.org/popcasts/PopCasts.aspx?viewcastid=37 24 minutes THE TECHNIUM AND THE 7TH KINGDOM OF LIFE essay

http://www.edge.org/documents/archive/edge217.html

Moderator: David Keenan Kevin Kelly has been publisher of the Whole Earth Review, executive editor at WIRED, founder of visionary nonprofits, and writer on biology and business and "cool tools." 

 

April 26, 2008

Technology SIG

Title: "Printing Nanoparticles"

Speaker: Mike Renn, PhD, Optomec

Moderator: Hank Lederer/Dave Keenan

Abstract: 3D printers may be the next "Big Thing." Is "Just-In-Place-Manufacturing" soon to be in our future.

 

May 3, 2008

Future Studies & Special Presentations

Title: Biometric Identification 

Speaker: David Keenan Abstract: This will provide background regarding the state of biometric technologies for identification.    We will discuss the materials in preparation for the June 7 workshop. Presentation:Biometric Identification.ppt

 

May 10, 2008

Econ Futures SIG

Title:"Will World Credit Crisis Get Worse?"

Discussion Leaders: Dick Saunders and Roger Rydberg

Abstract: The world credit crisis is now estimated at $300 trillion, and may be closer to $700 trillion when credit default swaps are included. How and when do we stop the waterfall that has nearly drowned world derivative trading markets -- and created huge losses for value investors -- for six months? Four of the world's leading economists, investors and regulators give us some hints. Background:

Niagara Falls

Book or Video: Stiglitz on the Economy

George Soros Interview with Reuters - April 3

Warren Buffet's Annual Message to Shareholders - May 3

Citigroup, AIG, GM Rescap Suffer Heavy 1Q LossesBonds Ready To Crack?NY Times - Triple-A Failure of Regulation$200 Oil Coming?

 

May 17, 2008

Technology SIG

Title: "Pursuit of the 'God' Particle"

Discussion Co-leaders: Brian Toren and Dick Saunders

Abstract: The world's largest particle accelerator, under construction by CERN in Switzerland/France, will soon open to allow physicists to search for the long-sought Higgs Boson, or "God" particle, because it would represent the smallest discernable energy force in the universe.

Background Sources: (March 2008)national geographic

 

May 24, 2008

Education, Management, and Society SIG

Title: "Our Disinformation Society -- Where Is it Leading Us?"

Discussion Leader: Jack Carter Video Producer and Director: George Paulos

Presentation: Disinformation Society.ppt

Post Presentation Recap: Disinformation Society Recap.doc

Abstract: What is disinformation? How do we identify it from "true information"? Governments have used it negatively for years to sway public opinion in favor of war, and positively to rally public opinion in times of crisis. Politicians use it daily to attempt to swing public sentiment to their side. So do corporations, through their lobbyists, newspaper, radio and TV news and opinion columns. What role does the media play--as early warning detectors, or flag-waving supporters--as these causes evolve? How do we develop the critical reading and listening skills to minimize errant decisions in our personal lives, businesses and society at large? And how do Joseph Campbell's widely accepted myth theories of the mid-1990s come into play in formulating company team-building strategies in the super-competitive world of the next decade?

 

May 31, 2008

Peace Futures SIG

Title:"Where Ends the Chase for Bin Laden?"

Discussion Leaders: Dick Saunders and Roger Rydberg

Guest Speaker: Army Specialist Roderick Rotzien

Abstract: The Taliban have revived their attacks on southeast Afghanistan. Pakistan is believed to be continuing to harbor Bin Laden. The two Pakistani coalition leaders elected to replace former President Musharraf have split over restoration of banned supreme court justices. Meanwhile, the U.S.-backed Karzai government appears to have been unable to establish control. What outcomes -- military or diplomatic -- might be feasible as the Afghan war enters its seventh year? Specialist Rotzien will tell stories about his first-hand encounters with Baghdad street insurgents from behind the wheel of an Abrams tank during two tours of duty in Iraq. Background: Latest Analysis of U.S. Search Problems:www.nytimes.com

 

6-30-08

wikipedia - Bin_Laden Lost At Tora Bora Pakistan Peace Issues Musharraf and Bin Laden Afghan Issues

Taliban Regaining Hold

The Status of the Military

War Report Afghanistan

 

June 7, 2008

Future Studies & Special Presentations

Title: "Biometric Identification for US Citizens, Visitors and Guests - A Systems Analysis Workshop"

Speaker: Bill Peter

Moderator: Dave Keenan

Abstract: Comprehensive System Analysis Methods As we develop possible and likely scenarios for the future, it is important that we broadly analyze the key variables and the potential consequences and possible unintended consequences. "Ethanol from corn" is a recent major mistake for our society because such a comprehensive systems analysis was not undertaken by  Congress. And the next alternative energy source -- cellulosic ethanol -- looks worse.

In this workshop, we will tackle a challenging subject "Biometric identification of all U.S. citizens, residents and guests" as a study team and work toward a First Draft of a Comprehensive Systems Analysis.

Positive Personal Identification.ppt

 

June  14, 2008

Econ Futures SIG

Title:"Economics For A Crowded Planet"Econ For A Crowded Planet - Synopsis

Amazon The Book

Also:

http://www.sachs.earth.columbia.edu/commonwealth/index.php

Review of a new book by Prof. Jeffrey Sachs

Discussion Leaders: Ulrich Bonne and Roger Rydberg

Economist Jeffrey Sachs says that the world's population, climate change, poverty and resource use are all closely intertwined. In his book Common Wealth: Economics for a Crowded Planet, Sachs argues that humanity must address global problems on a global scale. "One-sixth of the world remains trapped in extreme poverty unrelieved by global economic growth," Sachs writes. "The poverty trap poses tragic hardships for the poor and great risks for the rest of the world."  Sachs asserts that solutions are readily at hand. He focuses on four challenges: heading off global warming and environmental destruction; stabilizing the world's population; ending extreme poverty, and breaking the political logjams that hinder global cooperation on these issues.  Sachs's entire agenda would cost less than 3% of the world's annual income. He notes that a mere two days' worth of Pentagon spending would fund a comprehensive antimalaria program for Africa, saving countless lives. Forthright government action is the key to avoiding catastrophe, the author contends, not the unilateral, militarized approach to international problems practiced by the current administration. See: Global American Technology Alliances

for Sachs"s suggestions for our next president:

1.  end the Iraq war because money spent there can be better spent elsewhere;

2.  end the Bush tax cuts of 2003;

3.  invest more heavily in sustainable energy initiatives;

4.  dispatch a climate envoy to the BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China)

5.  stop 1/3 of our corn crop going to produce fuel (ethanol);

6.  sign the international convention on biodiversity;

7.  invite African and Middle East leaders to participate in the drylands initiative to address hunger and water shortages;

8.  reestablish the United Nations Population Fund;

9.  reinstitute the UN's Millennium Development goals to get US out of last place in donating only .16% of our income to world needs;

10. create a U.S. cabinet-level department for international sustainable development

Professor Jeffrey D. Sachs is the Director of The Earth Institute, Quetelet Professor of Sustainable Development, and Professor of Health Policy and Management at Columbia University. From 2002 to 2006 he was also Director of the UN Millennium Project and Special Advisor to United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan on the Millennium Development Goals to reduce extreme poverty, disease and hunger by 2015. Sachs is also President and Co-Founder of Millennium Promise Alliance, a non-profit organization aimed at ending extreme global poverty.   For additional but supportive views, see: Earth The Sequel by Fred Krupp Or See: World Population Situation

 

June 21, 2008

Technology SIG

Title: "Nuclear Power's Downside: Waste Storage Capacity Limited; Yucca Mountain a Political Football"

Discussion Leaders: Brian Toren and Dick Saunders   Abstract: Nuclear power construction in the U.S. stopped at 104 in 1970 with the Three-Miile Island plant's partial meltdown. And, for legal and NIMBY reasons, undersized Yucca Mountain in Nevada may never open as the nation's permanent nuclear waste depository. Yet, the U.S. government is offering the moribund nuclear industry $18 billion in incentives to restart production of new or improved reactor designs. How will we be able to dispose safely of old and new spent fuel rods after on-site storage capacity is reached in Minnesota and elsewhere?

NRC - Atomic Renaissance Is a Bad Idea

 

June 28, 2008

Education, Management and Society

Title:  "Is America Taking Adequate Steps to Eliminate Voter Fraud in Future Elections?"

Discussion Leader: David Keenan (for Hank Lederer) Moderator:

Abstract:Video "UNCOUNTED" is an explosive new documentary that shows how the election fraud that changed the outcome of the 2004 election led to even greater fraud in 2006 - and now looms as an unbridled threat to the outcome of the 2008 election. This controversial feature length film by Emmy award-winning director David Earnhardt examines in factual, logical, and yet startling terms how easy it is to change election outcomes and undermine election integrity across the U.S. Noted computer programmers, statisticians, journalists, and experienced election officials provide the irrefutable proof. Take-home suggestions for improving the system: 1. Near-term: Volunteer as election judge and register by July 1 for the next elections 2. Long term: Save paper, voter-labor, vote-counting labor, and vote counting system cost by adapting the existing/safe IRS tax handling system for voting for state and federal office. Voter Fraud Issues  Presentation: MNF Election and Voting Concerns.ppt