Tacoma Shift Happens

Shift is back January 30, 2012

The City and Tacoma/Pierce Co. Chamber are co-sponsoring the 2012 Tacoma Shift Happens conference again this year - and you get to decide, as consumers, how to support the event. On Monday, January 30, 2012, at the Greater Tacoma Convention Center, you can be an attendee, become a member, or just pledge to participate in our local economy. Visit the website at http://tacomashifthappens.com to learn more and put it on your calendar. There will be speakers, presentations, information booths, and knowledge (and, of course, food) to be shared with all. As the website notes:

"It’s a shift in the way we think. It’s a shift in the way we do business. It’s a shift in the way we relate, eat, drink, buy, spend, communicate and build the future of Tacoma.
It’s a shift in our priorities – one that puts local living first. It’s the kind of shift that’s changing the world one community at a time.
More than anything, Shift Happens is a celebration of local, independent businesses, and all that they contribute to life in Tacoma."

We've all heard of the three E's of sustainability: Environment, Energy and Equity; but how often do we really get to influence the last one, and just what does "Equity" mean anyway? In simple terms it's all about supporting the local economy through our purchasing power as consumers. Whether the products are building materials or agricultural goods, our dollars spent in the community can directly influence the growth and stability we want. Economists estimate for every $100 spent at a local shop, $68 is returned to the community, while only $43 is returned from national stores.

SHIFT Happens – Day of the Event:
The whole Community is invited!

FREE to attend Shift Happens!

with 4 optional
Sustainable Smart Labs for just $10

1:00-4:00 pm
Sustainability Smart Labs -
Just $10 for one Smart Lab or all!
Please Register for each lab you would like to attend.
Smart Lab 1:00-2:30 pm – Key Indicators of successful Entrepreneurs
Smart Lab 2:30-3:00 pm – Unlocking Your Situated Advantage: the hidden wealth potential of body, place, and commons
Smart Lab 3:00-3:30 pm – Customer Acquisition Tool Box
Smart Lab 3:30-4:00 pm – Becoming a BEST Business
Smart Lab Descriptions & Sign up


4:00-5:45 pm
Local Food and Beverage Extravaganza Happy Hour – FREE
20+ food vendors, cash bar, and networking

6:00-6:45 pm
Shift Happens 2012 program – FREE
2011 Pledge Grand Prize Giveaway – Indie Awards – Mayoral State of the City Address

6:45-9:00 pm
Local Vendor Showcase – FREE
Experience 100+ unique Local Independent Businesses, Non Profits and Artists + Desserts!