2020 Programs

Precious gemstones have captured the imagination for centuries, with the allure, value and often mystery. Mr. Walker will dazzle us with stories about Sapphires, Rubies and Emeralds. Where are they found and why are some regions more desirable than the others? What contributes to their color and other properties? Additionally, he will examine some of the most notable gems owned by monarchs, celebrities and American royalty, past and present.

Brad Walker is a fourth-generation jeweler and executive vice-president of Shreve Crump and Low, one of America’s oldest institutions. He received his Graduate Gemology degree prior to graduating from Babson College with a BA in Business. Shreve Crump and Low was first opened in 1796 just 20 years after the Declaration of Independence.

Scientists believe that the Moon was formed out of a collision between the Earth with a Mars sized planet named Theia at a very early stage of the development of the solar system. From then on, the Earth and the Moon’s evolution have been intertwined. The Moon has kept the Earth’s rotational axis pointing in the same direction providing a significant level of stability for the Earth’s climate. Today, the Moon holds many fascinating mysteries for scientists to explore. Scientifically there have been a number of stunning advances in lunar science and a realization that going back to the Moon will provide scientists with the opportunity to accomplish transformational science in understanding the origin and evolution of our solar system. NASA’s future plan is to go to the Moon to stay and then onto Mars.

Dr. James Green is NASA’s Chief Scientist who focuses on NASA’S strategic science objectives. He has written over 115 scientific articles.

Daryl will travel to Cuba with the goal of shooting documentaries for magazines and television and will share his nonstop, day to day adventures, experiences, discoveries, and valuable lessons he learned on these incredibly spiritual journeys. He will discuss his style, philosophy, and various techniques he uses when photographing subject matter. Equipment, lighting on location, environmental portraits, and travel tips on planning a trip to Cuba will all be covered as well.

Daryl is also the former host and producer of the television show “The Unconventional Traveler” which featured some of the worlds’ leading explorers, travel photographers and filmmakers sharing their work from various expeditions and documentaries. He produced over 100 shows over a 10 year period and some of his guests included Jane Goodall, Buzz Aldrin, Reinhold Messner and George Schaller.