2008 Media

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This is a copy of the press release submitted for the '08 Northland Bioneers Conference.

Northland Bioneers Conference Features Prominent Speakers to Highlight Solutions to Environmental and Social Issues

Affordable conference welcomes all interested in connecting the ecosystem and social health MINNEAPOLIS, MN – October 21, 2008 – The Northland Bioneers Conference announces the third conference to be held in Minnesota on November 15-16, 2008. The goal of the conference is to help people understand how they can shape a healthy, sustainable future for themselves and society. The conference is a unique, affordable community event that brings together every day people from all walks of life.

The Northland Bioneers Conference (www.nbconference.org) gives people across political, cultural, economic and faith perspectives a place to learn and work together. “The timing of this conference, just ten days after one of the most important elections in U.S. history, provides an opportunity for participants to help reshape and reinvent our communities and our relationship as a community with the planet we inhabit,” said Vonda Vaden, conference director. “We're sure real solutions show up when there's an effort to fully understand each other and the common concerns we face.”

The event will be guided by emcee Nina Rothschild Utne, artistic director Marcela Lorca and conversation guide Yogiraj Achala. Featured will be screenings of the national Bioneers plenary sessions which took place October 16-19 in San Rafael, California, as well as locally produced programs on regional issues, with a focus on creating community dialogue, a space for networking, entertainment and an exhibit hall. "The greatest opportunity people face today is growing to better understand each other. This conference sets the conditions in motion to move in that direction,” said Vaden. “Most conferences give participants lots of great information. This one’s no different. In addition, though, participants get to practice using what is learned. It's going to take more than new faces in the White House to bring about change. This conference prepares people to lead from their houses.”

Northland Bioneers Conference organizers prioritize engaging a wide range of participants and perspectives. It is intended to attract people who want to take personal steps toward being a part of the solutions that guide the world to global balance and well being for all.

Some of this year’s National Bioneers plenary speakers, shown via DVD, include:

 Ray Anderson, founder and chairman of the environmentally groundbreaking company, Interface, Inc.

 Janine Benyus, naturalist and author of Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature. Janine is acclaimed by several Fortune 500s for her work.

 Paul Stamets, President of Fungi Perfecti, who studies fungi and their use to solve pressing environmental issues.

 Alexandra Cousteau, granddaughter of legendary Jacques-Yves Cousteau.

 Naomi Klein, Canadian journalist and author of The Shock Doctrine.

 A full list of local workshop speakers and presenters can be found on the website, www.nbconference.org.

Twenty-seven percent of capacity is reserved for scholarship registrants. Weekend rates for the conference are under $60 for early-registrants. This is all in keeping with the commitment to make the conference accessible.

This year's conference will take place at the University of Minnesota, Willey Hall on the west bank. Conference sponsors include: 10th Dot, Eureka Recycling, Air America, and Sunday's Energy. For program info or to register, visit www.nbconference.org.

Advertising inquiries should contact the Northland Bioneers Conference Director at (612) 247-0781 or nbconference@gmail.com

http://www.bioneers.org/press has more press information for National Bioneers.

A limited number of Media passes are available to press professionals covering the Twin Cities event. Press Registration