Natural Awakenings publishers from throughout the nation came together from October 2 to 5 for the annual publishers’ conference, held this year at the Omega Institute, near Rhinebeck, New York. Nearly 50 publishers attended the event, which began with remarks from Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. (NAPC) founder and CEO Sharon Bruckman.

“We’re here to support each other, sharing our hearts and energy to lift our magazines and communities to a higher level,” Bruckman said. Topics covered included using editorial and online coupons to support the growth of holistic, green businesses; the Natural Awakenings web store that is launching in November; and the Natural Awakenings Network card, a nationwide health services and green products discount network being implemented in cities around the U.S.

“Coming together to celebrate our connection and inspiring family serves to reestablish our commitment to building a healthier world together,” said Melbourne/Vero Beach publisher Kris Urquhart.

Natural Awakenings magazines are part of a nationwide franchise, each locally owned and operated. Launched by Bruckman in 1994 with a single magazine in Naples, Florida, the magazine has grown to become one of the largest free, local healthy lifestyle publications in the world, and currently serves more than 3.5 million readers in 86 cities across the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

For more information on the Natural Awakenings Network card, online opportunities or the Natural Awakenings web store, visit www.myNaturalAwakenings.com. For information about owning a franchise, visit NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.