TEDxNewport Announces Lineup for "Tides of Change" Talks

NEWPORT, RI—TEDxNewport is coming Nov. 5 at the historic Jane Pickens Theater, once again bringing some of the brightest minds in the area together for talks that "explore changes, patterns, and forward-thinking ideas that are present in Newport."

Launched in 2009, the TEDx program consists of locally-organized community events that offer the same type of experience as the widely-known and influential TED Talks. Some of the more compelling TEDx events have been featured on TED.com and viewed by millions.

The list of speakers this year comes after more than 60 applications and nominations. The theme is "Tides of Change" and a total of 13 speakers were selected after a "refreshing challenge to select speakers among such a diverse group of contenders," said Alyssa Bottone, TEDxNEwport licensee and coordinator.

Here they are:

1. Sam Birger

2. Jim Egan

3. Steve Heath

4. Kelly Kittel

5. Valerie Larkin

6. Kate & Amanda Leese

7. Dave McLaughlin

8. Jim Mullowney

9. Rupert Nesbitt

10. Sean O’Callaghan

11. Christopher Reeves

12. Steve Sabo

13. Onne van der Wal

Bottone said Newport is a natural location for TEDxNewport, not just for its natural beauty and lively atmosphere.

"It’s also a place of great innovation, spirited entrepreneurship, and ceaseless creativity,” Bottone said. "We want to highlight the brilliant ideas of our friends and neighbors, encourage conversation and debate, promote further discovery, and share our distinctive identity with the world."

The license from TED stipulates that no more than 100 people can attend the first event, which means it will be invitation only. But there will be live-streaming options available. There is a chance for viewing gatherings at non-commercial venues. Those interested should email tedxnpt@gmail.com.

The TEDxNewport team will be streaming the event to at least one centrally located venue. Information about how to connect to the livestream will be available at www.tedxnewport.com.

Necessary information on how to tune into the webcast, as well as details on the livestream venues are expected to be available on the website by October 14th.

Organizers invite the public to follow TEDxNewport on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for updates and more information.

TEDxNewport sponsors include: DIF Design, Drupal Connect, Newport Biodiesel, Newport County Development Council, The Fitzpatrick Group and Towerhill Associates.