Noted Futurist Headlines Sustainability Conference

Nationally recognized economic futurist Ted Abernathy, a recognized leader and expert in economic development trends, principles and best practices, will deliver the keynote address at the Brand New Ballgame conference hosted at Spirit Communications Park (home of the Columbia Fireflies baseball team), on Thursday, October 6. As a part of his conference session, Abernathy will reveal how demographic shifts and other trends are changing the nation's future and how communities can use that knowledge to be more competitive, more sustainable and more successful. Abernathy also serves as economic development policy adviser to the Southern Governors Association and is managing partner of Economic Leadership LLC.

The Brand New Ballgame conference is actually the byproduct of two popular city event conferences joining forces—the Green Is Good for Business and the OMG of Home Ownership conferences. Registration will open at 8:30 a.m., and the conference will run from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Other activities include an All-You-Can-Eat Ballpark Lunch; an afternoon ice cream break; a Green Expo, featuring sustainable products, services and organizations; and a Team EV electric vehicle showcase.

Cost: $30. Location: Spirit Communications Park, 1640 Freed Dr., Columbia. For more information, call 803-545-2722 or visit http://ow.ly/8YwZ3048eSr.