On April 22-25 automation’s top leaders will come together to network and map their road to long-term success. Included in the conference are One-on-One Sessions with ASPs and Manufacturers, the New Product Showcase, and numerous opportunities for networking and connecting with you peers.  Nothing can replace the power of face-to-face and this conference provides you with that critical opportunity.

Knowing the challenges that are yet to come is crucial in determining your company’s strategies for 2009. Our speakers are chosen with this in mind:

• Alan Beaulieu is back to tell you how (and how long) to weather this storm. His economic predictions were on the mark in 2008 and his insights for 2009 will be critical for you to know. 
• Sam Richter will share best practices to improve your sales force’s impact – especially when they are prospecting through cold calling. (Yes, even now!) The first 100 people to register will even get a complimentary copy of Sam’s book, “Take the Cold Out of Cold Calling”. 
• Finally, one of your own, Doug Wood from 80/20, Inc., will leave you motivated to lead effectively through these turbulent times.

Updates
Conference Materials Available to Members
All of the speaker materials and attendee, spouse, and speaker rosters are available here.

Guestroom Rates Lowered to $219/Night
We know every little bit helps these days, so we are pleased to announce a discounted guestroom rate available to all meeting attendees for our 2009 Spring Meeting.  Our new reduced room rate is $219, down from $269. Please go to the Location/Travel page for more details and reservation instructions.

Registration Now Available
Registration is now open and can be completed using a meeting voucher if you have already paid your dues. You should have received your meeting voucher number with your 2009 dues receipt. (See, you’re saving money!) Contact Maggie Skarich if you need a voucher reminder. Do it soon; only the first 100 attendees get Sam Richter’s valuable book included with their registration! Additional copies will be available for purchase onsite for anybody interested.

New Time and Date for Exhibiting Opportunities
The New Product Showcase will move to 5:30 - 7:30 on Thursday, April 23. Hopefully, this allows you time to enjoy dinner with your colleagues this night.

The Manufacturer/ASP One-on-One Sessions have moved to the afternoon of Friday, April 24. This time the sessions won't compete with workshops, so you will have your colleagues' undivided attention.