Frequently Asked Questions for First-Time and Returning Attendees

PROGRAM/EDUCATION QUESTIONS

Which educational sessions should I attend?
The three-day meeting is designed to provide a variety of sessions to suit the diverse interests of green industry professionals at every career level. To help you plan your day, descriptions of the sessions, are provided online beginning in October.  The schedule-at-a-glance is also available online. 

Where can I find the locations of the session rooms?
Room locations are located on the schedule grids which are posted online. The room locations will also be listed in the program book which will be available in early December.

Will there be handouts available for the sessions?
We request that all speakers provide us with a handout for their session. However, it is not always possible for speakers to provide us with handouts. If handouts are available for a given session, they will be located outside the entrance to the seminar room.

REGISTRATION QUESTIONS

Do I have to register in advance or can I register onsite?
Advanced registration is encouraged and will save you money!  However, onsite registration is also allowed.

How much does Expo cost?
Fees range from $5 for Friday, trade-show only registration to $110 for on-site 3-day with education registration. Register in advance to obtain the best pricing. Also, members of MNLA or MTGF-allied associations are entitled to a $20 per person discount off 1- and 3- day with education registration. If you’re not an association member see the MNLA or MTGF websites for information!

Can I register in advance for $5 Friday - Trade Show only passes?
No, $5 Friday is onsite walk-up registration only.

What’s the best registration deal?
The best value is 3-day with education advanced registration at $79 for members. That boils down to $6.58 per hour for education – plus you get the trade show and casino party!

Where do I pick up my name badge?
Advanced registration will begin in October 2009. Name badges will be mailed to advanced registrants who are registered by December 18, 2009. Those registering after December 18 can pick up their badges at Expo's will call window.

What happens if it snows and I have to plow, or I cannot attend?
The Expo will be held regardless of weather conditions. Our refund policy is as follows: The Northern Green Expo will refund 100% of registration fees for cancellation requests received by December 24, 2009. There will be no refunds for Expo no-shows or for cancellations received after December 24, 2009.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

When should I plan to arrive?
The Northern Green Expo begins on Wednesday morning, January 6. Those who wish to attend Super Tuesday programs will want to arrive a day earlier.

How long should I stay?
Educational sessions take place throughout the three-day event, from Wednesday morning, January 6, through Friday afternoon, January 8. The full educational schedule and session descriptions can be found online. The trade show floor will also be open all three days.

Where should I stay?
The headquarters hotel for the Northern Green Expo is the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis. Room blocks have also been reserved at the Minneapolis Millennium Hotel. Hotel contact information and an area map featuring the hotel locations can be found online.

Where should I park?
The earlier in the day that you arrive, the easier parking will be. Parking is available in a number of ramps and surface lots near the convention center.

What’s appropriate attire for the meeting?
Business casual attire is appropriate, but attendees should be sure to wear comfortable shoes as getting from session to session requires a bit of walking.

Are food and refreshments provided during the meeting?
Coffee will be provided each morning – while supplies last in Lobby B. The Casino Party on Thursday, January 7 will feature hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Check the Day-at-a-Glance for the dates and times of these events. Food and beverages will also be available for purchase at concession stands and the cafeteria in the exhibit hall and other areas of the convention center. For those who wish to venture outside the convention center, Meet Minneapolis will have a booth in the Lobby offering restaurant reservation services.

When is the exhibit hall open?
The exhibit hall will be open on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday and is located in Halls B & C of the convention center. Click here to see the hours.  Name badges are required for entrance.

Is there a coat check?
There will be a coat check available in the lobby of the Minneapolis Convention Center during specified hours.

Where do I pick up my tickets to the MNLA Awards luncheon?
Pre-purchased luncheon tickets will be held at the Information Desk in Lobby B of the Minneapolis Convention Center for pick-up. No tickets will be mailed in advanced. If tickets remain on-site they can also be purchased at the Information Desk.

Where can I post my company’s job openings?
The Northern Green Expo hosts a free job posting board on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please click here to read instructions about the posting procedures!

I have some extra time to spend in Minneapolis – what can I do in the city?
The Expo also encourages attendees to visit the web site of Meet Minneapolis before leaving for the meeting.