Talk of the Town

In one large banquet room Wednesday night a listener could hear conversations about literature, politics, astronomy, finances, religion, and yes, even beer. Dynamic discussions took place among eight people at a table, with a different topic at each of the 40 tables at the sixth annual Great Conversations at the Great Northern Hotel.

This was the first year JoAnn Prost, of Helena, attended the event and just before attendees took their seats, she said, "I'm just on cloud nine."

The goal of Great Conversations is not to fix the problems of the world, but rather provide a venue to engage citizens in conversations on meaningful topics to spark an interest in subject matter, to share knowledge to inquiring minds and to inspire dialogue with our fellow community members.

Great Conversations is sponsored by the Helena Education Foundation, a nonprofit organization with a mission of promoting consistent community investment in the Helena Public Schools to provide rich and rewarding educational experiences.

HEF Executive Director Lisa Cordingley said it is one of the foundation's most popular events because it appeals to people from all walks of life. Read more in the Independent Record or view photos of this year's event.