Tooting my own horn, of course, but I really am excited about the conference. However it means that I won’t be blogging and probably hard to reach this week.

The twelfth Congress for the New Urbanism is rolling into town this week, and even if you can’t register for the whole shebang or aren’t a member of CNU (although you should join), there are many events that Chicagoans who care about walkable, diverse communities should consider attending:

WEDNESDAY, 6/23
– The Coalition to Lower Obesity in Chicago’s Children presents Environmental Barriers to a Healthy Lifestyle
This one-day conference will explore community-level barriers to good nutrition and physical activity, and local efforts to confront the obesity epidemic. Speakers include Katherine Kraft and Rich McClintock. information and free registration

– First Congress of the Next Generation of the New Urbanism
For one day, a group of students, young professionals, academics and practitioners will gather to discuss the future of the New Urbanism. registration

– Next Generation after-party
Join the Next Generation for an evening event following the first NGNU Congress. Cash bar. 9pm, Handlebar, 2311 W. North Ave.

THURSDAY, 6/24
– New Urbanism 101
This in-depth program is open to anyone getting a first taste of New
Urbanism. Sessions on the movement’s history and principles will be
supplemented by segments on the link between public health and urban design,
green urbanism, and a panel discussion on new urbanist retailing.
Registration includes admission to the Thursday evening opening session. information / registration

– New Urbanism 202
Professionals are invited to these advanced seminars with expert new urbanist practitioners. Choose from six sessions:
1. Financing New Urbanism
2. Real Streets: Designing, Getting and Keeping Them
3. Transit-Oriented Development: Making it Work in the Marketplace
4.Top Techniques for Successful Charrettes
5. Mixed-Use Town Centers: Tenant Selection, Programming, Planning and
Design
6. Developing the New Urbanism
information / registration

– Tours
Twelve tours, guided by knowledgeable local tour guides, offer urbanists a behind the scenes look at Chicago — from Lake Forest to Lawndale, from a mile-long walk through Wicker Park to a 40-mile circuit around Chicago. (I will be giving tours C and K.) information / registration

SATURDAY, 6/26
– Charter Awards luncheon
Join our mid-day celebration for the winners of CNU’s 2004 Charter Awards. The awards recognize exemplary projects that advance New Urbanism though diverse land uses, innovative designs, and expert planning, at all three scales of the Charter of the New Urbanism: building, neighbohood, and region. [more info /
registration]

– Saturday Night Party
Sustainable human environments include laughter, dinner, dancing, and fireworks! Join us on Navy Pier for a gala evening set against unforgettable lake and skyline views, including a special show from Second City. [more info / registration]