The Michigan Municipal League has a new temporary feature on the main page of our website - it's a countdown clock to get the early bird rate on our 2010 Convention. As of today, there's just 25 days left until the early bird rate expires. The early bird rate deadline is Aug. 24 and the Convention is Sept. 21-24 in Dearborn. Signing up before the early bird rate expires will save you upward of $50 per registrant.

We understand how budgets are extremely tight for our communities and members, but this year's Convention is packed full of cost-saving ideas and examples. It's almost as if you can't afford not to attend!

At this year's convention you'll hear from Ford CEO Alan Mulally about how the automaker was able to succeed without having to file for bankruptcy or get federal financial support. Nationally known author and social critic James Howard Kunstler will discuss his vision of more livable communities. Flint Karate instructors Jacky and Dora King will explain that despite having very little resources they were able to turn more than a dozen over-grown abandoned lots into urban gardens. All of our speakers will give you inspirational ideas for your own communities.

In addition, there are conference sessions on how to use social media in your communities, the latest in Lansing legislative issues, dealing with taxpayer bankruptcy, the ins and outs of risk management and much more. We also will have pre-conference sessions on the Open Meetings Act, the Michigan Medical Marihuana Act, energy efficiency options and how to building community in today's economy.

There's definitely something for everyone so keep an eye on the countdown clock on our home page in the right corner as you won't want to miss this Convention and this early bird discount. For details go here. For a complete Convention schedule go here. For the line up of speakers go here. To register go here.

Matt Bach is director of communications for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at (734) 669-6317 or mbach@mml.org.