Welcome to Green Build 2009

Here we are again at Green Build! This year, we're in warm, sunny Phoenix, AZ. Quite a change of pace from the last two years of the bitter cold in Chicago and Boston. I'm not sure how I feel about it. Coming from the swampy heat of Jacksonville, FL, the cold at Green Build is often a welcome change of pace.

I expect in the evening hours, we'll appreciate the brisk of 50F instead of the bite of 20F.

So, a few updates from Day One. The Convention Center is accessible, well-marked, and extremely well organized. Looking back on the dismal days of the Chicago conference, I'm actually grateful for the organizational nightmare that was that convention. It's as if the convention organizers are determined to excel each year beyond our expectations so that the memories of Chicago are blurred by the satisfaction of subsequent years.

They're doing a fine job.

A few things to know (if you are reading this before you arrive):

First, the closest Starbucks is in the United Airlines Center (the sports arena) across from the Hard Rock Cafe. Exit the Convention Center, take a left. Go to the light, take a right. It's in the bottom floor. Can't miss it. Hey, it was important to me.

Second, the light rail system is very nice and easy to navigate. Keep in mind, though, it is not a complex route; therefore it doesn't take you many places. Basically, your options are anything on South Central. If you want to go there, great. If not, take the rail to the closest point on Central and then foot it the rest of the way.

Third, registration is on the lower level. Come in to the North Building and take the escalators downstairs. Not that you'll be hurting to find a "green shirt" to guide you in the right direction. They're eager (nearly aggressive) to assist. If you have already printed out your bar code, registration will take you about 6 seconds. I checked in Monday evening and the entire process from getting on the escalator to receiving my messenger bag was 3 minutes. Granted, it was Monday night and the crowds had not arrived yet. But, still... That's not too bad. Be prepared with your Photo ID and it will progress even faster. I highly encourage you to print out that bar code.

The overall dress code is getting far more casual this year. Many people in tshirts and jeans. A few in business suits and ties are looking disappointed. I'd bet they're going to change at lunch time.

The expo is, again, HUGE. It's in an L-shape so it doesn't appear as overwhelming, but don't be fooled. It is. Plan some time to cover it completely.

The bookstore is AWESOME! Lots of good titles, lots of good merchandise. They were setting it up when I arrived and a quick scan was impressive. Keep an eye out for this cool kids book called "Me and Green". :-) Much better take-home gift for your kids than a Green Build T-shirt that they probably will only wear to do yard work. Pick up the book and transform the next generation.

There's a number of restaurants within walking distance and a small food court in the convention center. I anticipate the food court will be inundated at lunch so it might not hurt to consider venturing out.

That's it for now. More updates to come as we venture forth and hit the education sessions.

Have a "green" day!