Scheduled for Feb. 18-22 in downtown Anchorage, the purpose of the conference is simple: exchange ways to improve the lives of those of us who live in the North, from health care and economic development to better ways to clear snow off northern streets.

The public is invited to any of the four days of programs, but is especially encouraged to attend opening ceremonies, the International Culture Night, the Youth & Citizen Forum and the International Marketplace.

Iditarod champion Martin Buser wows the audience with tales of the trail when he opens the conference at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 18 at the Performing Arts Center. (His dogs will be there to keep him honest!) Other top-notch entertainment includes the national award-winning group, Pamyua, and the Air Force Band of the Pacific's Top Cover.

In between, the conference will focus on issues as diverse as how to design playgrounds for northern children, the Finnish model of dealing with studded snow tires, promoting sobriety among northern residents, and innovative construction techniques like anti-skid pavement.

Anchorage, which also hosted the 1994 Winter Cities conference, is the only city to be selected twice because of our geographic location, diverse culture and growing international economy.

This year, even more attendees are expected, along with international media who will convey Anchorage's story back to their TV and radio stations and newspapers.

The Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau estimates the conference will have a significant economic impact on the Anchorage economy, bringing in close to half a million dollars in delegate spending.

But just as important as the economic shot in our arm is the good will the conference will build among Alaska's northern neighbors. A couple dozen mayors from northern cities will gather during a special mayor's conference to explore "best practices" for delivering city services in northern climates.

Some of Alaska's most thought-provoking leaders will address the conference, including University of Alaska President Mark Hamilton, First Alaskans President and long-time business and Native leader Byron Mallott, and Ron Duncan, CEO of GCI, one of the state's most innovative technology companies.

Winter Cities is really three events in one. In addition to the conference, there are two trade shows. The Pacific Rim Construction, Oil and Mining Expo will be held Feb. 18 & 19 at the Sullivan Arena and the Winter Cities International Market Place will run Feb. 20-23 at the Egan Convention Center. The Market Place will be open to the public and will feature culture, crafts, arts and entertainment representing countries from around the world.

Winter Cities coincides with the start of Anchorage's premier winter carnival, Fur Rondy, so local residents will have plenty of opportunity to show off our warm hospitality.

Many Alaska companies and institutions are donating thousands of dollars to help underwrite the conference, including ConocoPhillips, Wells Fargo, Municipal Light and Power, Alaska Housing Finance, David Green & Sons, the Alaska Railroad Corporation, Port of Anchorage, Port of Tacoma, Anchorage Water & Wastewater Utility, Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau, Solid Waste Management, KPMG, DOWL Engineers, Davis Wright Tremaine LLC, First National Bank Alaska, GCI, and HDR.

As the Winter Cities theme puts it: "Winter is Hot!" Alaskans can attend the entire conference, or just day sessions at a special rate.

To find out the cost of various events and schedules, please visit the Web site at www.wintercities2004.org or e-mail info@wintercities2004.org.

Mark Begich is mayor of Anchorage.