TED has granted approval for Hallie Bram and me to host the TEDxCLE event. If you aren’t familiar with TED it is an annual event where some of the world’s leading “thinkers and doers” are invited to share what they are most passionate about. TED stands for Technology, Entertainment, Design — three broad subject areas that are, collectively, shaping our future. Past speakers include Bill Clinton, Bill Gates, Jane Goodall, Frank Gehry, Paul Simon, Sir Richard Branson, Philippe Starck and Bono.

TED is passionate about the power of ideas and the ability to change attitudes and lives. Hallie and I also embrace this passion and it is our responsibility as TED licensees to ensure that TEDxCLE communicates and reflects this same passion: to reveal the power of ideas from Cleveland in order to change the attitudes and lives of people in Cleveland. Further, to bring Cleveland innovation, development and positive change to the world. At TEDxCLE (the x = independently organized TED event), TEDTalks video and live speakers, spanning topics such as health care, urban revitalization, technology and art will combine to spark deep discussion and connection amongst speakers and attendees alike.

The event will be hosted at The Capitol Theatre in the Gordon Square Arts District of Cleveland, Ohio on Friday, February 26th from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. There will also be an after party, more details are forthcoming. More information on sponsors, speakers and attending TEDxCLE can be found at www.TEDxCLE.com. And follow TEDxCLE on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.