Over 1,000 community business leaders, government officials, area students and citizens from around the region came to the Orlando Science Center to participate in the latest series of Essential Activities Workshops held July 9-12, 2002.

With the “Information Analysis” phase in the program getting under way, these workshops exemplified the transition from written language to the new visual language. The patterns, characteristics and dynamics of the region were displayed on over 250 maps, with tabletop computers offering an up-close look for participants to access the highly detailed maps.

Each of the 90-minute roundtable discussions focused on one of the 13 areas the project is studying, ranging from Economy/Workforce to Culture. The discussions allowed for questions to be raised by the participants and possible interpretations given by the project consultant, Michael Gallis. This series of workshops provided an idea of what the data reveal and how the community feedback helps to guide the process. The participants also discussed what the information collected means to the future of our region. “We need to stop looking at our region through tunnel vision and take an aerial look of the entire region as a market in the global economy,” said Kay Burk, Culture Co-Chair, regarding what the project is all about.

The workshops were an overwhelming success. “I attended the Tourism Workshop, and this was my first exposure to myregion.org. I was impressed by the experience and look forward to becoming an active participant in the future,” said Richard Sibley, Windermere Communications, Inc.

Workshop notes and lists of participants are located on the project Web site, www.myregion.org. Comments, suggestions and questions are welcomed, or you may call Shelley Lauten, Project Director, at 407.835.2444.