“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I remember, involve me and I learn.” - This famous quote from Ben Franklin epitomizes the approach the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) is taking in its new “C² - Content to Context” program, to be held at the PCMA 50th Annual Meeting, scheduled for January 8-11, 2006, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, PA.

The experiential learning program will transport meeting planners out of the classroom and into unique venues where they can gain a new perspective on the knowledge they will learn.

“Meeting professionals are the ultimate jack-of-all- trades when it comes to the range of skills they need,” says PCMA Senior Director of Education Glen Ramsborg, Ph.D. “The programs we have designed will tap their hidden talents in several areas and provide learning experiences that they will be sure to remember.”

One program will take place at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, home to the Philadelphia Orchestra. Based on stage acting techniques, participants will focus on engaging an audience, owning the stage when they are speaking, and projecting confidence when dealing with real-world situations.

They will learn some innovative techniques as actors teach non-actors in the art of presentations.

Another program will take attendees to Ristorante Panorama and the world's largest wine preservation 'Cruvinet' system, where they will try food and wine pairings to enhance the culinary experience at their next meeting.

Finally, meeting participants will visit historic areas of Philadelphia, including Carpenter’s Hall, which hosted the First Continental Congress in 1774. It was here that Ben Franklin, one of the brightest minds of the time, made an impact.

The title of the session is Historical Dialogue: A Chat with the Past. Participants will learn from this master as they engage in conversation regarding the leadership he provided and apply the principles to this ever- changing world.

Registration is limited for these special C² - Content to Context learning programs, so those interested are encouraged to register early.