The Center for Middletown Studies and Ball State University invite paper and panel proposals for a conference exploring the distinctive challenges that have confronted and still confront small cities. By small cities we mean municipalities with a population of roughly 40,000 to 100,000. Proposals for papers and sessions dealing with the historical, economic, political, social, and cultural aspects of the small city experience will be considered. Preference will be given to proposals that focus on small cities in North America. The conference organizers encourage submissions from social scientists, humanists, urban planners, and public officials.

Proposals for complete panels, including two or three papers, a chair, and a commentator, are encouraged. We will also consider proposals for single papers and for roundtable sessions. All proposals should include a one-page description of each paper and a brief c.v. for each participant. Proposals for complete sessions should also include a brief (no more than 500 words) discussion of the common issues raised in the panel. The deadline for submissions is March 1, 2000. Send proposals to Bruce Geelhoed, Center for Middletown Studies, Ball State University, Muncie, IN 47306. Phone: (765) 285-8037. Fax: (765) 285-3571. Email: bgeelhoe@bsu.edu.

The conference will be held September 14-15 at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. Accepted papers must be completed and received by August 24, 2001.