Region Nine Development Commission would like to invite you to attend a session on broadband presented by Blandin Foundation.

Blandin Foundation (www.blandinfoundation.org) is a private foundation based in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, and is Minnesota’s largest rural-based and rural-focused foundation.

Bill Coleman, of Community Technology Advisors on behalf of Blandin Foundation, will be leading a discussion with attendees to define broadband and raise awareness about the value of broadband in rural communities.

Expanding the use of broadband technology increases the potential to retain jobs in rural areas, grows new markets for businesses, strengthens health care, enhances educational access and improves the quality of life.

We value your input!!! Our questions include: Do you have the broadband connectivity you need in your community? Are your community organizations and businesses making effective use of broadband? Are there opportunities for regional collaboration to improve connectivity and usage? Please join us for this important and informative discussion.

WHAT: Blandin Foundation Broadband discussion
WHEN: Wednesday, September 17, 2008
TIME: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Technology Plus Building
1961 Premier Drive
Mankato, MN 56001
Large Classroom
Please rsvp to Sarah Reichwald Beiswanger at 507-389-8880 or by email at sarah@rndc.org or contact Ronda Allis at 507-389-8886 or by email at ronda@rndc.org.
WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!