by Latricia Good

For new members and first-time attendees of NLC?s Congress of Cities and Exposition, which takes place Dec. 5-9 in Reno, Nev., this year?s conference promises to offer a variety of exciting educational and networking opportunities.

These conference participants will have a chance to take part in activities ranging from an orientation to a membership fair, as well as networking events, educational sessions, receptions and the opportunity to attend the largest and most represented municipal exposition in the country.

Activities will kick off on Wednesday evening, Dec. 6, at 5:45 p.m. with the New Member and First-Time Attendee Orientation, which provides a great opportunity to begin networking with fellow first-time attendees and new members, NLC staff and other delegates. Participants will also hear from NLC leaders and staff, who will discuss conference highlights, relevant workshops and sessions, and tips on how to navigate through the convention.

Following the orientation, new members and first-time attendees are encouraged to attend the opening welcome reception. The reception, which begins at 6:30 p.m., is open to all conference delegates and provides another great networking opportunity.

On Thursday evening, Dec.7 and Friday evening, Dec. 8, state leagues will host receptions where first-timers can drop in to learn more about their local state league and network with other local elected officials from their states.

Also on Thursday, NLC will host the 2nd annual Membership Fair from 4:45 p.m. to 6 p.m., showcasing the various opportunities members have to get involved with NLC and its many programs. NLC staff and delegates will be available to answer questions and offer resources and tips.

Throughout the conference, the new members and first-time attendees networking area will be open to give delegates a chance to meet with other new members and first-time attendees. At past conferences, the networking area has served as a great venue for developing lasting professional relationships with colleagues from around the country.

The new member and first-time attendee program will conclude on Saturday morning, Dec. 9 with the New Members and First Time Attendees Wrap-Up Session. The session gives participants a chance to offer feedback on their conference experience and discuss ways NLC can help delegates stay connected to the organization after the conference. During the session, delegates will also be asked to share their plans for staying engaged with the organization.

In addition to new member and first-time attendees activities, there will be four general sessions and more than 40 comprehensive workshops featuring nationally recognized speakers, seasoned subject matter experts and experienced city officials from across the nation.

The conference will conclude on Saturday evening with a closing celebration, sponsored by the City of Reno, that delegates won?t want to miss.

Details: For more information about the Congress of Cities and Exposition and special registration rates for first-time attendees, visit, www.nlc.org.