California Educational Data Processing Association
	DataBus - Vol. 38, No. 3 April-May, 1998

Event: Palm Springs site of 1998 meeting.

Terrell Tucker, Panama-Buena Vista Union School District

Imagine yourself sitting at your desk looking for the answer to a router problem. Suddenly, you realize that Joe Smith of XYZ School District has the same equipment and, undoubtedly, the answer to your problem. You dial his number to find he is in Palm Springs at the 1998 CEDPA Conference. Your first thought is "I need to be there too!"

Do't let this happen to you! Before you read the remainder of this article, mark October 14,15 & 16 on your calendar. This year's conference looks to be another essential trip to find answers to many of your district's problems. What better way to spend a few days than to network with peers, exchange ideas and learn what is going on in the industry? Not to mention a few days in the beautiful Palm Springs sunshine!

The buzzwords around the technology world all seem to involve E-rate, Standardized Account Code Structure or the year 2000 snafu. With vital issues such as these hounding you daily, answers are essential. Each year, the CEDPA Conference proves to be the most effective mechanism to get the information you need. It's also the best way to renew old acquaintances and make new ones.

The Conference agenda will be filled with the usual, exciting slate of presenters, exhibitors and internet/intranet/network tools. However, this year will also include the first Network Operations Center. Our goal is to present a room filled with the latest technology, fully linked to various network operating systems, the web and up-to-date switching and routing solutions. There will also be engineers from many companies to answer questions, demonstrate products and provide quot;tech talks". These mini-breakout sessions will complement the breakout sessions that always prove to be the real meat of the Conference. They will be scheduled in advance, technical in nature and catered to the current needs of attendees. There will also be ample time to speak with engineers one-on-one and to surf the net or retrieve e-mail.

There will be hospitality rooms, another large exhibit area with tons of donations from generous vendors, hospitality suites and, of course, everything will begin with the President's reception. The Conference will end with the third annual, post-conference golf tournament. This will truly be a week to remember. Do not miss it!

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