SRI in the Rockies Conference 20th Annniversary Oct 25-28, 2009 Tucson, AZ

Do you have questions about the SRI in the Rockies Conference? Select from among the following categories to view answers related to that category.

Agenda
Q: What's on the agenda this year? Who will be speaking?
A: Our 2009 agenda will be available in June 2009. Each year, SRI in the Rockies offers a Professional Education Track focused on investment and practice management issues, and a Social Issues Track, which will present expert commentary and interactive dialogue on various timely social issues, shareholder advocacy strategies, and community investment opportunities. We expect to provide 6-8 hours of CE credit to Certified Financial Planners.
Q: Will presentations be recorded?
A: Yes. The conference content is so rich that we record all presentations. All 2008 presentations were uploaded to the website after the conference. Please go to the Agenda dropdown box on the Welcome page to access the 2008 sessions you are interested in. You may also go to the Events dropdown box on the home page of this website to order CDs from the 2007 conference.
Attendance
Q: Who attends SRI in the Rockies?
How many conference attendees do you expect this year?
Do I need to be a licensed investment professional to participate?
A: SRI in the Rockies is designed to stimulate, inspire and serve the needs of people who are actively involved in the sustainable and responsible investment industry (SRI). About one-third of the expected 650+ participants will be licensed investment professionals serving investor clients; about one-third will be representatives of SRI mutual fund companies, asset managers, social research organizations and other product/service providers to the industry; and about one-third will represent non-profit organizations, community development banks and credit unions, religious organizations, and other groups that work with the SRI community on various social change initiatives.
Q: This will be my first conference experience. Is there anything special that I should know?
A: Be prepared to discover that SRI in the Rockies feels a lot like a BIG family reunion. Many participants know each other, work closely together in a variety of ways, and have been attending the conference for many years. We try to make it easy for first-time participants to begin to feel like part of the family. You will want to attend our New Participant Orientation at 2:15 PM Sunday, October 25th. This session will assist you in understanding the size, scope and dynamic nature of the group that gathers at SRI in the Rockies; give you a feel for the flow of the agenda; and introduce you to some of the leaders in the industry. In addition, there will be several other events and sessions designed to help you meet as many new friends and colleagues as possible, and quickly come to feel an integral part of the SRI community.
Conference Hosts, Producers
Q: Who hosts and produces the conference?
A: SRI in the Rockies is produced by First Affirmative Financial Network in collaboration with the Social Investment Forum. You will see a lot of your conference hosts throughout your stay at the JW Marriott Starr Pass - on stage, in the hallways, on the dance floor... Our goal is to make your conference experience as valuable and memorable as possible.
Handicap Access
Q: I am physically challenged and cannot walk very far. Should I attend?
I am in a wheelchair. Will I be able to get to all of the sessions?
A: If you would like handicap assistance, please notify Krystala Kalil at 888.774.2663 /Krystala@SRIintheRockies.com. The JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa provides some lodging rooms with special provisions for physically challenged guests. In addition, meeting rooms and restrooms are wheelchair accessible. There is Braille on the elevator panels, on each lodging room number, and outside each meeting room door.
Q: I am hearing/sight impaired. Is it possible I could have an assigned seat in the front row of the sessions I attend?
A: Yes. Just let Krystala (888.774.2663; Krystala@SRIintheRockies.com) know which sessions you want to attend and we will be happy to reserve a front-row seat for you.
Internet Access
Q: Will there be internet workstations available for participant use?
A: Yes. There will be CyberStations in the exhibit area with high-speed internet access available free of charge for participant use. Wireless high speed internet connectivity is available in the lodging rooms free of charge. Wired-for-Business internet access is available in sleeping rooms for a charge of $12.95 per 24-hour period. In addition, wireless internet access is available in public areas such as lobbies and lounges, excluding the Conference Center.
Location
Q: Where is the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa?
How do I get there?
Where is the Conference Center?
A: The JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa is a 20 minute drive from the Tucson, Arizona airport. Both for sustainability reasons, and for ease of traveling, we recommend that you contact Arizona Stagecoach for tranportation between the Tucson airport and Starr Pass. Complete information is in the "Transportation" section of these FAQs. If you wish to rent a car for recreational purposes, please refer to the "Transportation" section as well. There are car rental discounts available to conference participants. The conference center and all meeting rooms are in the same building as the lodging rooms.
Q: What kind of climate can I expect in October?
A: The JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa is at approximately 2500 feet elevation. In late October, the weather will be sunny and mild. Temperatures will vary between the high 70s Fahrenheit in the daytime and low 50s Fahrenheit in the evening. Be sure to bring sunscreen and wear it when outdoors during the day!

 If you come from a humid climate, we suggest that you give your body some time to acclimate to the dry weather. If you come from sea level, be sure to drink plenty of water.  Headaches are a common occurrence among those new to low humidity as well as those not used to elevation.  In both cases, drinking lots of water is strongly recommended!
Lodging
Q: What kind of lodging is available at the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa?
What amenities are included in the rooms?
A: Lodging is handled separately from conference registration. Please book your reservation directly with Starr Pass at 888.527.8989 or follow this link: http://marriott.com/tussp?groupCode=srisria&app=resvlink.

The discounted room rate is $215. per night exclusive of taxes for single or double occupancy. This group rate is available between October 19th and November 1st. All 575 spacious guestrooms and suites feature a private patio/balcony with brilliant Tucson views. Guest rooms offer coffee maker/tea service, bathrobes, full size hair dryer, separate tub and walk-in shower, a safe, minibar, and high-speed internet access.

Wireless access is available in all guestrooms. "Wired-for-Business" access is being provided to all First Affirmative guests at no charge.  Self parking is being provided at no charge.  A 10% discount on food and beverage (excluding alcoholic beverages) in all restaurants, including room service.  This discount specifically does not apply to Primo Restaurant since it is not owned by the resort.
Q: I'd like to share a room with another conference participant. Do you have a roommate matching service?
A:

Find a roommate here.
Q: Are spouses and families welcome?
Is childcare available?
Are there recreation breaks that I could spend with my family?
A: Feel free to bring family members along to Tucson! We offer a special discounted registration rate of $500. for spouses and children, which essentially covers our cost for food. Family members will need a conference badge to access conference meals. Please contact the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa directly about childcare needs. This link will take you to the Rising Starr Kids Club: http://www.jwmarriottstarrpass.com/tucson-arizona-recreation/family-vacation-resorts.asp.

We start early and work late every day, but we take a two and a half hour break in the afternoon (Monday and Tuesday) for recreation. Do a hike, ride a bike, take a nap, or a dip in the pool (if necessary, have a meeting). We hope you enjoy the Tucson desert!

Meals
Q: Are meals included in my registration fee?
Will there be vegetarian choices at the meals?
Is it possible for the kitchen to accommodate special needs?
A: All meals, breaks and receptions are included in your registration fee: dinner Sunday, October 25th through brunch on Wednesday, October 28th. There will be vegetarian choices available at all meals. Please indicate all special dietary needs on your registration form. If there are additional needs not addressed on the form, please let Krystala know: 888.774.2663 or Krystala@SRIintheRockies.com.
Networking
Q: What kind of networking opportunities can I expect?
A: From start to finish, from our New Participant Orientation session to the Closing Circle, a primary goal of SRI in the Rockies is to provide participants with multiple networking opportunities. You will find conference attendees extraordinarily friendly. Don't be shy!
Q: Are there opportunities for small groups to gather around a topic of special interest?
A: Yes. In addition to the presentations and sessions listed on the conference agenda, lunch on Monday (October 26th) and breakfast on Tuesday (October 27th) features Topic Tables. These are popular conversation circles that provide an informal opportunity for participants to share ideas on topics of mutual interest. Topics range across a broad spectrum of issues. Look for a table sign that sparks your interest and join the group. A few tables will have blank signs to allow groups to form spontaneously. Just write your topic, post your sign, and others will join you.
Packing Suggestions
Q: What suggestions do you have for packing?
A: Before packing, please check the weather online to avoid any surprises!

Attire for the conference is business casual (no ties!). In late October, we can expect temperate, dry days and clear, cool evenings.

Most conference events will occur indoors, but you will want to be prepared to enjoy the clear desert air. Bring your swimsuit for use in the outdoor pools and hot tubs, as well as shoes and clothing appropriate for your favorite outdoor recreation activities.

Recreation
Q: What kind of recreation is available at Starr Pass and in the Tucson area?
A: A wide range of recreational activities are available. Starr Pass offers horseback riding, biking, swimming (check out the heated Monsoon Falls Waterslide as well as outdoor pool), hiking, jogging/fitness trail, the Hashani Spa (massage, facials, Ayurvedic treatments), tennis, and golf at the Starr Pass Golf Course. A few of the attractions and landmarks in the Tucson area include the Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum, Pima Air & Space Museum, Saguaro National Park West, Colossal Cave Mountain Park, and Old Town Artisans.
Registration
Q: How do I register for SRI in the Rockies?
A:
Q: How do I register for SRI in the Rockies?
A: Online registration is available at http://www.regonline.com/Checkin.asp?EventId=690498. Credit card payment is required for online registration.  For mail-in registration, you may print out a registration form, complete it, and mail it in with a check.  For phone registration, please call Krystala Kalil at 888.774.2663.  We will accept onsite registration, but would much prefer to have a name badge and registration packet ready for you. If you have a question about registration, feel free to contact Krystala Kalil at 888.774.2663 /Krystala@SRIintheRockies.com.

Lodging must be booked separately by calling the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa directly at 888.527.8989 or online at http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/tussp-jw-marriott-starr-pass-resort-and-spa/?groupCode=srisria&app=resvlink.

 
Q: I can't come to the full conference. May I register and pay for a portion of it?
A: No. The cost of attending SRI in the Rockies is significantly lower than any comparable financial conference, particularly considering that all meals are included in the registration fee. The conference operates on a very tight budget. Participants are expected to pay for a full conference registration even if arriving late or departing early.
Q: What is the cancellation policy?
A: Refund requests will be granted less a $100. administrative fee through October 1, 2009. Thereafter, no refunds will be available.
Special Events
Q: What's the Moskowitz Prize?
A: The Social Investment Forum awards the annual Moskowitz Prize for excellence in academic research on a topic germane to the socially responsible investment industry. The Prize is named after research pioneer Milt Moskowitz, one of the first to look for the connection between good corporate citizenship and profitability.
Q: What's the SRI Service Award?
A: Presented each year at SRI in the Rockies, the annual SRI Service Award recognizes outstanding contributions to the socially responsible investment industry. Conference participants cast ballots during the first two days of the conference for nominees who have demonstrated leadership, innovation, high standards of professional conduct, and accomplishment in collaboration with other industry leaders.
Q: Is the Social Investment Forum's Annual Meeting open to all conference participants?
A: Each year at SRI in the Rockies, the Social Investment Forum reviews its progress, announces new initiatives, and explores ways we can all work together to strengthen the socially responsible investment industry. Forum board members highlight opportunities for action and collaboration in the areas of public policy, advocacy and community investing. This session will also serve as the Forum's Annual Membership Meeting and Election of Directors. All are welcome.
Sponsorships
Q: Is there an exhibit hall?
What kind of exhibitors are involved?
A: SRI in the Rockies is so inexpensive primarily because of the support of our conference sponsors. Sponsoring organizations have found that the conference provides valuable visibility and exposure to the sustainable and responsible investment community. The three-day gathering is fertile ground for creating business partnerships, networking, and marketing. After dinner on Monday night, we will all join the Exhibitor Fair to mix and mingle, meet conference sponsors, and learn about socially responsible investment products, services, and resources designed to enhance our ability to serve SRI-oriented investors. For sponsorship information, please contact Krystala Kalil at 888.774.2663 / Krystala@SRIintheRockies.com or Steve Schueth at 303.442.8400 x101 / steveschueth@firstaffirmative.com.
Transportation
Q: Does the conference provide transportation to/from the Tucson airport?
Do I need a rental car at Starr Pass?
Can I sign-up for a carpool list?
A:

SRI in the Rockies does not provide transportation between the Tucson airport and the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa. Registered conference attendees can reserve a seat between the Tucson airport and Starr Pass with Arizona Stagecoach by calling 877.782.4355, online, or walking up to the Arizona Stagecoach desk, located in the baggage claim area at the Tucson airport. The conference discount code is SRI2009. You may pay by cash or credit card, but checks are not accepted. Single rates are $25. one way, $50. round trip. Rates for two people are $29. one way, and $58. round trip. For discounts for larger groups, please contact Arizona Stagecoach.

If you want to lower your carbon footprint and your costs by sharing, go to http://www.sriintherockies.com/Forum/forum.jsp.

If you wish to rent a car for side trips during recreation, please contact the car rental companies directly.

Both Avis and Hertz are providing discounts for conference attendees.

Avis: The following link is auto-filled with the SRI in the Rockies discount number: https://www.avis.com/AvisWeb/reservation/ReservationsInitializer?&AWD_NUMBER=J996266

Hertz Rental Cars has an outlet at Starr Pass. The conference discount is 20% off regular rates. To receive this rate, go to www.hertz.com or call 520.792.1540 and state that you are with the SRI in the Rockies Conference. The discount code is CDP # 211812.

Q: Are there any airline discounts available?
Are there any rental car discounts available?
A: Continental Airlines: When 20 or more passengers fly to Tucson for the SRI in the Rockies conference, a discount is available depending on your fare class.  For further information, you may book online at www.continental.com, using the Z Code "ZFHY" and the Agreement Code "AP2B0Y".  Or, you may call your travel agent, or contact Continental Airlines MeetingWorks at 800-468-7022 and provide "Z Code: ZFHY" and "Agreement Code: AP2B0Y".  Travel agents must list the Z Code in the Ticket Designator Box and Tour Code Box on the ticket.  There is a $15. service fee, per ticket, if you book through a travel agent or MeetingWorks. Valid travel dates: October 20 - November 1, 2009.

Please contact Continental Airlines directly with any questions regarding these discounts: 800-468-7022.

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