Conference Kickoff

It is 8:32 and attendees are gathering to hear Michael Chasen, Blackboard CEO introduce Cal Ripkin Jr. They've got a lively mix of music playing including U2, Big Country, and REM. Attendees are smiling. Blackboarders are rarin' to go.

Meanwhile, the adjacent Exhibit Hall, the conference team is busy putting last minute touches on the booths. The Building Blocks booth doesn't have power, computers or even the demo kiosks set up yet but I have faith. There is nothing like a deadline to focus one's energies.

Things are about to start!