Long Beach, California, U.S., is the venue for TCLEE 2003. Located on the shores of the Pacific Ocean in San Pedro Bay, the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles are the two largest ports in the U.S. Combined, they represent the third largest port in the world. These two ports were connected to the major transcontinental railroads through the design and construction of the Alameda Corridor, a $2.4 billion, 20-mile-long rail cargo expressway, which has just been completed. The area is also the home of two large aqueduct systems from the Colorado River (Colorado River Aqueduct) and the Sacramento and San Joaquin River delta (California State Water Project). Both Long Beach and the greater Los Angeles area have experience in responding to earthquakes. Lifelines were damaged in the 1933 Long Beach, the 1971 San Fernando, and the 1994 Northridge earthquakes. TCLEE 2003 will be held in the 70th anniversary year of the 1933 Long Beach earthquake. Come learn and see firsthand how Long Beach and the greater Los Angeles area are working toward mitigating the effects of earthquakes and other technological events on lifelines. Work, then Play Long Beach is centrally located to all Southern California attractions - and just a boat ride away from Catalina Island. Enjoy a day at the Aquarium of the Pacific or tour the Queen Mary and still have time for a walk on the beach or a bike ride at sunset. If you're looking for outstanding cultural arts, music festivals, or world-class sporting events, you'll find them here, too. Long Beach has much to offer - shopping, dining, the arts, outdoor recreation, and nightlife! In addition, the city will be hosting several special events during our conference: International Sea Festival - aquatics fun for the whole family including the Catalina Water Ski Race and the Oar and Paddle Regatta (www.ci.long-beach.ca.us/park/recs_programs/seafest.htm). Long Beach Jazz Festival - a three-day event with some of the best jazz performers (www.longbeachjazzfestival.com). SpyFest - held aboard the Queen Mary, SpyFest is an interactive exhibition including kiosks, insider lectures, book and still signings by celebrities, and video and film presentations (www.Spyfest.org).