Ignite Bend

by Megan Slick

Husband – What is Ignite Bend anyway?
Me – It’s an event where community members speak for 5 minutes with 20 automatically rotating slides on any topic they choose.
Husband – I still don’t get it. Is it like… for networking?
Me – Sure. You meet lots of people. Ignites have been going on all over the world, like: Portland, Seattle, Boulder and Paris to name a few. Some of them draw crowds of thousands! You can check out the videos online.
Husband – Huh.
Me – So I volunteered to write an article to get people psyched about submitting topics for Ignite Bend #2. You want to help?
Husband – Why would someone what to submit a topic? [Oozing with skepticism]
Me – Hello? Tons of people like to be in the spotlight! One word – karaoke. There’s really no comparison though – hands down Ignite is more fun & interesting. Topics range from tech to gardening to current events. It’s fast, it’s fun, it’s theater/concert/stand-up all rolled into one! At Ignite Bend #1, speakers talked about Legos, social media, karma, acronyms, and one guy played a song about how Bend is a dirty wicked town – it’s awesome!
Husband – That does sound interesting.
Me – FINALLY! I’ll get on the website and get us tickets. It’s free but seating is limited. It’s on June 4th at the Tower Theater, doors open at 6:00pm, show stars at 7:00pm – put it in your Blackberry.
Husband – What about topic submissions? I might have a friend who is interested.
Me – Sure you do, a “friend”. You just don’t want to admit that this is super cool and now you want a piece too.
Husband – Whatever…
Me – You can submit your topic online at www.ignitebend.com before Thursday, May 21st at 5pm. Tell your friend that we need more sponsors too. They can get information about sponsorship on the website.

Note: The day before the above conversation occurred my husband and I saw Wolverine. Just like the leading lady, I have the power of suggestion. I have convinced my nemesis (aka editor husband) to do my bidding [sinister laugh]. Now I’m setting my sites higher – the Bend community. Submit your topics to www.ignitebend.com, sponsor Ignite Bend and attend on June 4th. I look forward to seeing you there!