This year we have a rare opportunity to gain support in Washington for protection and enhancement of our Great Lakes region's economy and environment. As you probably know, many Great Lakes members of Congress have ascended to key leadership positions.

Great Lakes Day events on Capitol Hill, March 6-7, are one of our best opportunities of the year to demonstrate that we are united behind the region's leading state, city and conservation organizations' priorities for the Great Lakes. The Great Lakes Commission and the Northeast-Midwest Institute are proud to host these annual events.

REGISTER TODAY! Space is limited! Visit www.glc.org/greatlakesday for more information and to register online. The registration fee for Great Lakes Day events is $50.00 (U.S.)/$57.00 (CA), which includes lunch on March 6, breakfast on March 7 and all meeting materials.

Events on Tuesday, March 6, include a legislative briefing and preparation for Hill Office visits. Anyone who is interested in participating in the visits with members of Congress on March 7 is encouraged to attend the briefing session on March 6, scheduled for 12-5 p.m. at the Jurys Washington Hotel. March 6 will conclude with an evening reception at the Canadian Embassy, hosted by the Government of Canada and the Healing Our Waters Coalition. PLEASE NOTE: All registrants are invited to the reception but RSVP in advance is required. See www.glc.org/greatlakesday/howreception.html

March 7 events include the annual Great Lakes Day breakfast on Capitol Hill. Invited guests include the House and Senate Great Lakes congressional delegation; Great Lakes governors, mayors and tribes; and congressional staff. Opportunities to advance Great Lakes priorities will continue on throughout the day with the afternoon devoted to visiting Member's offices on the Hill. The Great Lakes Commission will be coordinating office visits, along with the Healing Our Waters Coalition and Great Lakes state offices in Washington.

Registration is appreciated by Feb. 23 to assist us in our planning for these events. See www.glc.org/greatlakesday for online registration, an updated agenda, and travel and lodging information.

See you in Washington!

Sincerely,
Tim Eder
Executive Director
Great Lakes Commission