February 21, 2014 - Are you interested in rolling up your sleeves and improving your neighborhood? Forming a new watch group, neighborhood association or tenant association - or looking for insights to help make your existing group a stronger advocate?

If you care about the quality of life in your community and about your neighbors, then mark your calendar: The City of Knoxville's Office of Neighborhoods is offering the Neighborhood Awards and Networking Luncheon at the Knoxville Convention Center on Saturday, March 8th.

The event starts with a 10 a.m. reception, and then offers a networking and idea-sharing session before the 12:15 p.m. luncheon. The event is a unique opportunity to connect with elected officials, members of City Council, City staff and other neighborhood leaders who care about their communities as much as you do.

Mayor Madeline Rogero will preside over the presentation of the Neighborhood Achievement Awards and the Diana Conn Good Neighbor of the Year Award. Entertainment will be provided by the Mount Olive Music Academy and spoken word artist Black Atticus.

"This event is designed to encourage citizens who are working hard to build community and strengthen the city's residential neighborhoods," said David Massey, the City's Neighborhood Coordinator. "It's a great opportunity for neighborhood leaders to meet and learn from their counterparts in other neighborhoods."

In addition, attendees will have a chance to talk with City staff and members of Knoxville City Council, as well as pick up brochures and other information on City programs and services.

Register by the early bird deadline (8 a.m. Wednesday, March 5th) to receive a free box lunch. After that deadline, citizens may still register, but a box lunch is not guaranteed.

Click here for more information about the Networking Luncheon.