Volunteers sought for Marketplace for Entrepreneurs The 19th annual Marketplace for Entrepreneurs will be held Wednesday, Jan. 16, in Grand Forks. This economic development conference will offer classes, "how-to" demonstrations and exhibits. An emphasis is placed on the tools, information, skills and practical advice that is necessary for small and start-up businesses and community leaders seeking to encourage new business growth. Volunteers are needed in the following areas: * Classroom monitor: Monitor Marketplace classes (be the eyes and ears in the classroom); help presenter(s) distribute handouts, observe classes and complete evaluations. * Guides: Help people with directions and answer their questions. * Exhibit Hall monitor: Assist with set-up of the exhibit hall floor. Assist exhibitors with move-in. Walk floor during exhibit hall hours to answer questions and help with directions. * Registration: Assist participants in the registration process, answer their questions and give directions. Volunteer times vary; shifts usually run from three to four hours long. Volunteers are sought from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 15, and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 16. Please pass the information on to people in your business/organization that you feel would be interested in helping, and pass their contact information along to me at marketplace2@btinet.net. A complimentary lunch will be provided to those volunteering over the lunch hour both days. The event is sponsored by U.S. Sen. Kent Conrad and Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson. -- Sara Ketterling, volunteer coordinator, Marketplace of Ideas, 311 East Thayer Ave. Suite C, Bismarck, ND 58501, (701) 663-0150 or toll free 888-384-8410.