Contributed by Debbie Buck, SAS Global Forum Conference Chair

SAS users from around the world are in Las Vegas this week for SAS Global Forum. Attendees are continuing to register, but the official count as of last night was 3,335 of whom 25% are here from outside the US.

Why do SAS users travel hundreds, often thousands of miles to attend? Because for 36 years, SAS Global Forum (once known as SUGI) has been SAS users’ premier source for new ideas, tutorials, tips, techniques and invaluable networking.

You are part of that tradition – and I want to help you make the most of it. Here are some of today’s highlights:

• Technology Connection – At 8 a.m. in the Forum Ballroom, Ground Level, you’ll get the inside scoop from SAS R&D on what’s new and what’s coming in SAS software and solutions. They’ll also show off new techniques for getting the most out of your SAS software. During the presentation, you’ll hear the results of the SASware Ballot® and meet the winner of this year’s User Feedback Award.
• Don McMillan – Immediately following the Technology Connection, stand-up comic, writer and actor Don McMillan will take the stage with his "Application Specific Integrated Comedy." So plan to sit back and enjoy a humorous start to the day!
• Hands-on workshops – This year there are 18 FREE workshops taught by expert SAS users. You’ll have access to a PC so that you can practice as you learn. Check the schedule for a workshop that is right for you.
• Section keynote presentations – On Tuesday morning at 10:30 a.m. Ramon Littell will present his personal perspective on the Evolution of Linear Models in SAS in the Statistics and Data Analysis section. At 2 p.m., Greg Nelson will provide us with a look behind the scenes at creating a data warehouse for the SAS Global Users Group in the Data Integration section.
• Mixer hosted by SAS Customer Loyalty – SAS will be your host for this mixer in the SAS Support and Demo Area, where we will celebrate SAS users. Enjoy some great food, drinks and fun entertainment with your SAS friends from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Have a great day!

Debbie Buck
D.B. & P. Associates
Conference Chair