On Tuesday, April 19, the University of Minnesota hosts Minnesota Sparks in Brainerd at Cragun's Resort on Gull Lake. The event brings three university researchers-who are tackling the area's most critical issues-into conversation with the community, a U of M release said.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m., presentations and question and answer discussions are held from 6-7:15 p.m., and an open social hour will be held at 7:15 p.m. to close the evening. Minnesota Sparks is free of charge, and all are welcome to attend. Registration online at www.minnesotaalumni.org is encouraged, but walk-in attendance is welcome. The event is hosted by U of M Regent David McMillan and Dutch Cragun.
Minnesota Sparks in Brainerd features three U of M researchers:
• Minnesota's Economic Outlook: Laura Kalambokidis will reveal the trends that impact Minnesota and Brainerd's local economy. Kalambokidis, Minnesota State Economist, oversees the production of our state's twice-annual economic and revenue forecast. She is a U of M Extension economist and professor in the Department of Applied Economics.
• Seeing Sustainability in the Golf Industry: Brian Horgan will discuss how the golf industry's goals of conservation, economy and player engagement are a window into sustainability. Horgan will show audiences how the U of M is driving innovation in the sport. Brian Horgan is a professor and Extension Specialist in the Department of Horticultural Sciences at the U of M.
ADVERTISEMENT
• Dentistry as a Picture of Health: Nelson Rhodus will share how diseases such as cancer, diabetes and leukemia often first manifest in the mouth. Audiences will discover what their oral health can reveal about their overall health. Rhodus is a Morse Distinguished Professor and Director of the Division of Oral Medicine in the U of M's School of Dentistry.
