Now may be as good a time as any to focus on being good neighbors to our potential passengers by being more environmentally friendly, while at the same time reaping those benefits for ourselves by using equipment that sets us apart from the competition.

So, where are you going to find the latest in alternative-fueled vehicles and eco-friendly products? At this year's BusCon, which is being held from Sept. 15 to 16 at the Navy Pier in Chicago.

As it has been in years past, 2009's BusCon is the perfect time for you to get out and kick the tires of all the latest models, see the newest technological advances and make new connections.

Be Green

Just as important as finding the newest in alternatively-propelled vehicles is getting up to speed on the new emissions standards that are on the horizon for 2010 and beyond. Our "2010 Engine Emissions" session will feature a panel of experts that will discuss the latest changes that will take effect next year as well as their impact on your maintenance programs. The session will also give you a sense of what the future holds, as new emissions standards lay just around the bend. 

Meanwhile, to help you be more discerning, Mitch Skyer, senior transportation consultant and president of Solstice Transportation Group, will be on hand to discuss "Avoiding the Feature Buzz: Choosing Transportation Technology Based On What You Need...Not What It Can Do." As we all know there are many inventions that haven't withstood the test of time, and knowing what suits your operation best will help you avoid purchasing something you don't need.

Get on board

BusCon is a great opportunity for attendees to inspect new buses, comparison shop and ask a manufacturer representative key questions that will help in making an informed decision. Our 140,000-square-foot show floor will have everything from cutaway vehicles to luxury motorcoaches, with many of those models more environmentally friendly then they have ever been. There will also be several companies showcasing new products that can help your vehicles or operations become more efficient.

Manufacturers on tap this year for one of the industry's largest collections of bus models are: ABC Companies, Bus and Coach International, Champion Bus Inc., Daimler Buses North America, ElDorado National, Federal Coach LLC, Girardin Minibus Inc., Glaval Bus Inc., Goshen Coach, IC Bus LLC, Motor Coach Industries, Startrans - A Supreme Corporation Co. and Turtle Top.

Whether it's the opening reception at the Hyatt Regency Chicago or the Networking Cocktail Reception at the ESPN Zone, BusCon, as always, is about getting out of the office and visiting with colleagues and making new connections, while also taking care of important business. This year is the best time to become more aware of the technologies that will help your operation be greener and run smoother.

For more about BusCon, visit www.busconexpo.com or call (800) 576-8788.