"I am honored to again be hosting what has become the nation's premier forum for women, where the world's greatest hearts and minds convene every year to empower women to find a common purpose, be united by a shared conversation, and see themselves as a collective `We,"' Shriver Maria Shriver, daughter of Peace corps Founding Drector Sargent Shriver, is a writer, journalist and first lady of California.
Stars align for Maria Shriver's `We Empower,' he largest gathering of women in the nation
Stars align for `We Empower'
By John Canalis, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 09/17/2008 09:25:05 PM PDT
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LONG BEACH - California first lady Maria Shriver on Wednesday announced the final lineup of 50 well-known speakers from the worlds of politics, entertainment and business at her annual Women's Conference at the Long Beach Convention Center.
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, investor Warren Buffett, U2 singer Bono and attorney and author Caroline Kennedy are among the top-billed spears at the event on Oct. 21 and 22.
"I am honored to again be hosting what has become the nation's premier forum for women, where the world's greatest hearts and minds convene every year to empower women to find a common purpose, be united by a shared conversation, and see themselves as a collective `We,"' Shriver said in a statement.
About 14,000 women are are expected at "We Empower," reportedly the largest gathering of women in the nation.
As has become tradition since Shriver inherited the annual event, the speakers rank among some of the most accomplished women - and men - in various professions.
This year's lineup includes CNN reporter Christiane Amanpour, athlete Lance Armstrong, actresses Sally Field, Jennifer Lopez and Jenny McCarthy, actor Michael J. Fox, "Project Runway" host Heidi Klum, MSNBC's Chris Matthews, hip-hop legend Russell Simmons and pioneering feminist Gloria Steinem. Musician Bonnie Raitt will perform.
Though the main event is sold out, there are still tickets for a "Night at The Village" in honor of WomenShelter Long Beach at 5 p.m. on Oct. 21.
The new event in the 160,000-square-foot Long Beach Convention Center will feature an interview with celebrity chef Rachael Ray, exhibitor booths, stage presentations, book signings, shopping, food and musical entertainment.
"We envision `Night at The Village' as the place for celebrating women, launching products for women, and having fun," Shriver said. "The Village is our answer to a call from women for more time to
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just be - whether it is to mingle casually, network for work, or shop around for items and experiences that will enrich their mind, body and soul. All of this can now happen only at The Village."
"The Village" will also be open on Oct. 22.
john.canalis@presstelegram.com, 562-499-1273
