This conference is one of the most diverse I’ve ever attended. People from all walks of life, of all ages, with a variety of agendas andinterests have converged in Memphis, Tennessee this weekend. I see what my sister described as “crunchy” folks — the granola crowd — when she accompanied me to my registration the night before the event. I’m not sure where I fit in her definition. I think I’m a bit “crunchy” from time to time myself.

I also see corporate suits (although these are in the minority) and everything in between. There are college students and retirees. There are concerned citizens and executive directors, some are here as activists, some have come to become educated on what’s at risk — there are women and men from all over.

This is also one of the most diverse groups from a technology standpoint. Some people are concerned most with the traditional media outlets, but there is an amazingly high percentage of wired participants. Wall outlets are in high demand. I’ve never attended a conference where so many members of the audience are “connected” during the presentations.

There are over 3000 people in attendance and “diversity” is certainly the best word to describe this conference on all levels.