Mobile workshops transform Central Florida into classroom.

In 2008, Congress of Cities host city Orlando, Fla., has developed a comprehensive set of mobile workshops during which delegates will explore the city and hear directly from those making the city a great place to live.

Sharing solutions that work is a top priority for Congress of Cities delegates. By leveraging the expertise and knowledge of members and partners, NLC offers cutting-edge learning opportunities and builds the capacity of both new and veteran city officials, staff and associates to address the present and future needs of cities.

"Mobile Workshops will transform the Central Florida region into one big classroom," said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. "Rather than just hearing about how a given program or initiative works, convention delegates will actually be able to see these exciting and innovative community programs in action. They'll be able to talk to residents whose lives are being bettered They'll be able to ask questions and receive advice and help on how they might create a similar program in their own communities."

Visit the website, www.NLCCongressofCities.org, for details. Titles and descriptions are subject to change. Registration is required for each mobile workshop.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

2008 Congress of Cities Mobile Workshops

Extreme Makeover Orlando--Downtown Edition: See and experience Orlando's downtown make-over where $3.5 billion in new development is underway.

Orlando's Hidden Treasures: What you don't see is what you get--a tour of Orlando's six protected historic sites and three Main Street programs and how they encourage economic development.

Orlando is Booming: Diversifying the economy through strategic community partnerships--examples of economic hot spots created out of strategic partnerships.

Green Works Orlando: City and region specific action to make a cleaner, greener Orlando--tours of several innovative and unusual success stories related to its green initiatives.

Improving Neighborhoods, Engaging Citizens: Learn about Orlando's planning and neighborhood outreach strategy.

It Takes a Village: Orlando Rises to the Challenge of outreach to the City's Youth and Future--visit the Parramore neighborhood's Kidz Zone, which features innovative educational, recreation, health and culture initiatives aimed at creating a supportive neighborhood for Parramore's 2,066 children (73 percent live in poverty).

The Magic of Orlando Arts: See the other side of Orlando and its arts community and traditions.

Home is Where the Heart is--Housing in Orlando: Tour affordable and attainable housing and community development projects.

Small Towns, Big Future--The rural side of our thriving region: Tour cities outside of Orlando that have created family-friendly and economically strong communities.