The Countdown Show (HD) - Channel 9

We are just ONE week away from meeting you all in Barcelona and this week Rick and Joey bring you several items not covered in previous Countdown Shows.First, if you have not yet decided on the sessions you'd like to attend, we have some sample schedules that several of our fantastic community members have put together. Each one of our guys have posted their tips in the blog section but we have the links for you right here:Adnan HendricksSimon DavisFredrik NilssonNext up there are some great sessions this year from our friends in the Office team. Here are the session codes that we featured in this episode:Developer Sessions:DEV B207 Office 365 Developer Kick OffDEV B307 Weave your enterprise solutions directly into Office products with the App ModelDEV B309 Deep dive into the Office 365 RESTful APIsIT Pro Sessions:OFC B320 Overview of Security and Compliance in Office 365OFC B312 Data Loss Prevention in Office 365: Prevent That Ooops MomentOFC B336 Office 265 Professional Plus Deployment Deep DiveNext up in the episode, Rick and Joey are happy to have been given the opportunity to invite everyone to the Office Party being held Thursday Oct 30th from 20:30-23:30 at Opium Mar. Make sure you get your invite from one of the speakers in the Office 365 track or stop by the Office booth in the Expo Hall.Next up the Channel 9 Event App. Make sure to get the Ch9 Events app installed on your device! Browse conference content, follow your schedule, stay connected throughout the event and submit session evaluations afterwards.Download Ch9 Events for Windows 8 | Windows Phone | iOS | AndroidPlease note that to make the catalog easier to browse on your mobile device, we do not show Hands-on Labs, Instructor-led Labs, or Pre-Conference seminars.  All breakout sessions and foundational sessions are listed for your convenience.For additional support you can reach out to: support@eventboardmobile.comFinally don't miss out on Channel 9 LIVE. Bringing you interviews and other fun content LIVE from Barcelona! Tune in on Channel 9 beginning Tuesday October 28th!Note: Joey mistakenly mentioned shuttle service runs Sunday and Monday. Shuttles will run Monday and Tuesday. Below is the correct information on shuttles.Complimentary airport shuttle service between both terminals at Barcelona airport and the Fira Barcelona Gran Via: Monday 27 October, 08:00 – 19:30, and Tuesday 28 October, 07:00 – 09:00. This is your last chance to not miss out on this fantastic event! Make sure you register today for TechEd Barcelona.We also would love for you to give us your feedback:Twitter: use the #tee14 hashtag or comment to @teched_europeOfficial Facebook Page: TechEd EuropeAsk your questions in the ForumsFollow @TechEd_EuropeFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89

We are just two weeks away from TechEd Europe and Rick and Joey are back to give you the information you need in order to get around the city safely and easily. Here is the summary:When you arrive:When you arrive at the Barcelona-El Prat International Airport, we recommend that you take the complimentary TechEd shuttle service directly to the Fira Barcelona Gran Via to check-in for the conference! A welcome desk will be located in the luggage claim area of both terminals and staff will have hand-held signage. Shuttles will take you directly to the convention center where you can check in at Registration prior to transferring to your hotel.Complimentary airport shuttle service between both terminals at Barcelona airport and the Fira Barcelona Gran Via: Monday 27 October, 08:00 – 19:30, and Tuesday 28 October, 07:00 – 09:00. Beat the rush:We encourage you to take advantage of this free shuttle service and check in for TechEd before transferring to your hotel. You'll save time, money, and beat the Tuesday morning rush. Remember, the Keynote starts at 08:30 on Tuesday.Registration check-in will take place in Hall 8 at the North Entrance to the convention center. Open hours will begin on Sunday at 14:00 for those who arrive early. You will receive your final barcode confirmation email on Thursday, October 16. Please print and bring it with you to Registration check-in, Badge Collection is located in the North Lobby. From your hotel:You can get to the Fira Barcelona Gran Via on the metro. A T-10 ticket (1 zone) will get you to and from the convention center, with 10 trips costing roughly 10€.From Catalunya (which is at the city center) take the metro to Pl. Espanya (located on red line 1 and green line 3) and then change onto the FGC, going to the Europa Fira station (three stops from Espanya). You'll scan your ticket at Catalunya and again at Espanya, but it counts as one trip all the way through to the convention center. Return trip is just reversed—easy!Tip: When using public transport, always choose the busiest part of the bus or metro. Security tips for exploring the city:We want your experience at TechEd Europe to be successful and safe. Take these precautions and you'll enjoy exploring beautiful Barcelona, with nothing to spoil the trip.When you check in at your hotel, keep an eye on your baggage. Don't leave your luggage behind you—keep it up front where you can see it at all times.Don't keep your wallet in your back pocket. Keep it on your person, up front, and keep track of it. If you don't need it, leave it in your hotel safe.Log-out of the conference when you leave the convention center. Take off your badge when you leave the Fira Barcelona Gran Via. When heading into the city, leave your badge, conference bag, and Microsoft branded clothing at your hotel, and blend in with the locals.Use the safe in your hotel room to keep your passport, wallet, return airline tickets, and electronics...safe. Carry a photocopy of your passport and leave your passport in the hotel safe.Don't go solo! Go with colleagues or make new friends to explore with. Don't wander around on your own.Only use a taxi that is obviously licensed and never share with strangers. Don't miss out on this fantastic event! Make sure you register today for TechEd Barcelona.We also would love for you to give us your feedback:Twitter: use the #tee14 hashtag or comment to @teched_europeOfficial Facebook Page: TechEd EuropeAsk your questions in the ForumsFollow @TechEd_EuropeFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89

Can you believe that we are just THREE weeks away from the start of TechEd Europe in beautiful Barcelona Spain?! Rick and Joey are back once again this week to bring you the latest news and notes about the event. This week they cover off two very important Day 1 activities with the Keynote and Foundation Sessions.Don't miss the opportunity to hear from Microsoft's Jason Zander, Corporate Vice President, Microsoft Azure, and Joe Belfiore, Corporate Vice President, Tablet and Phone, Operating Systems Group, live at the TechEd Europe 2014 Keynote Session presented on Tuesday 28 October, 08:30 – 10:30 in Hall 6.If you're a TechEd alumni, you know that the Keynote sets the tone for the rest of the week, providing expert insights into Microsoft's roadmap and the latest industry trends. Don't miss the opportunity to hear from Microsoft's Jason Zander, Corporate Vice President, Microsoft Azure, and Joe Belfiore, Corporate Vice President, Tablet and Phone, Operating Systems Group, live at the TechEd Europe 2014 Keynote Session presented on Tuesday 28 October, 08:30 – 10:30 in Hall 6. Be sure to add KEY01 to your session schedule in Schedule Builder.While you are planning your agenda for TechEd Europe, don't overlook the value of Foundation Sessions, held on Tuesday 28 October, 11:00 – 12:00, following the Keynote.Heavy on demos and presented by Microsoft product experts, Foundational Sessions dive deeper into themes presented during the Keynote, providing practical solutions to solve important technical and business issues your company faces today.Check the Content Catalog for Foundational Session descriptions and speakers, and add one to your conference schedule with Schedule Builder.Choose from one of 6 Foundational Sessions:FDN01 Empowering Enterprise MobilityFDN02 Modern Application Lifecycle Management and DevOpsFDN03 Optimizing Your Datacenter with Windows Server, System Center, and Microsoft AzureFDN04 The Microsoft Data Platform EvolutionFDN05 The Microsoft Development Platform: Create Applications That Span Mobile and CloudFDN06 Windows 10: What's In It for the Enterprise?Make sure you register today for TechEd Barcelona and while you are at it, give us your feedback:Twitter: use the #tee14 hashtag or comment to @teched_europeOfficial Facebook Page: TechEd EuropeAsk your questions in the ForumsFollow @TechEd_EuropeFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89

Rick and Joey are back once again for another episode of the TechEd Countdown show. This week they give you more details on the venues for the Country Drinks! Here are the official venues by Country:Austria Agua Belgium/Luxembourg BestialDenmark/Norway/Finland PachaGermany ShokoNetherlands  Pullman Barcelona SkipperSweden/Switzerland  Club CatwalkUK Carpe Diem Lounge Club (CDLC)Rest of World Opium MarThen Rick and Joey reveal the BAG! That's right they give you a sneak peek at the official TechEd Europe backpack. What pockets are available? How about storage for laptops and tablets? Well you'll just have to watch the video to find out!Make sure you register today for TechEd Barcelona and while you are at it, give us your feedback:Twitter: use the #tee14 hashtag or comment to @teched_europeOfficial Facebook Page: TechEd EuropeAsk your questions in the ForumsFollow @TechEd_EuropeFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89

We are just SIX weeks away from TechEd Europe 2014 in Barcelona and this week Rick and Joey are joined by David Tesar for a new segment of the Countdown Show... Spotlight On.David covers how DevOps is not just about product, but also people and processes. There are a number of sessions around DevOps including a special Pre-Conference session (PRC-02) that occurs on October 27th. This session is presented by both Microsoft and Industry experts from both Developer and Operations including Kurt Bittner from Forrester. Make sure when you register, you sign up for the Pre-Con session.There are also several things you can do before you head to TechEd to get yourself up to speed on DevOps before you head to Barcelona.MVA Course - DevOps: An IT Pro Guide a recorded MVA Course that you can watch on demand for FREELive Jumpstart - Azure Resource Manager a FREE live event happening on October 9th from 9AM-1PM PDTRead the Microsoft DevOps BlogTake action today. Help us understand where you are on your DevOps journey and architectural preference by taking this 7-question survey today. Your response will help us shape the agenda and content we deliver.Make sure you register today for TechEd Barcelona and while you are at it, give us your feedback:Twitter: use the #tee14 hashtag or comment to @teched_europeOfficial Facebook Page: TechEd EuropeAsk your questions in the ForumsFollow @TechEd_EuropeFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89

Updated: 29 September Rick and Joey are back with an out of band episode of the TechEd Europe Countdown Show. What could possibly be so important? Mark your calendar for Wednesday, 29 October and join us for Country Drinks!  Join us at Barceloneta Beach—a historic seaside neighborhood full of atmospheric bars and restaurants, to network and have drinks with other delegates from your community while enjoying Spanish tapas and soft drinks, beer, wine, or cava.  When: Wednesday 29 October | 20:00 – 23:00 | Barceloneta BeachThe Country events will be held at the following venues:Austria Agua Belgium/Luxembourg BestialDenmark/Norway/Finland PachaGermany ShokoNetherlands  Pullman Barcelona SkipperSweden/Switzerland  Club CatwalkUK Carpe Diem Lounge Club (CDLC)Rest of World Opium MarAdditional details will be included in your Conference Guide, which you'll receive onsite at Registration. Don't miss out on this incredible evening of networking on the beach!If you haven't yet registered for TechEd Europe 2014, don't miss out on the best networking and educational opportunity of the year. Check the Content Catalog to view this year's sessions and labs, and register today!

Rick and Joey are back again with just 7 weeks to go until TechEd Europe in Barcelona, it's time to build your schedule with Schedule Builder!  If you have registered , you can now use the Schedule Builder to create your ideal personal agenda.Our Attendees have asked for the ability to identify new sessions and labs as they are added to the Catalog and Schedule Builder. We are happy to announce that this capability has been added! Simply look for the red colored NEW in the session list or choose to sort for newly added sessions.We also have the ability for you set priority on sessions. That means if you choose to select multiple for the same time slot, you can specify one as primary to help us determine the proper rooms for the sessions.Please get those sessions added to your schedule to assist us with room selection! We'd love to hear which sessions top your agenda for TechEd Europe 2014 so share them using any of the social media links below or even in the comments of this post.Twitter: use the #tee14 hashtag or comment to @teched_europeOfficial Facebook Page: TechEd EuropeAsk your questions in the Forums Follow @TechEd_EuropeFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89

Rick and Joey are back again and this week, they share with you their tour of some of Barcelona's most incredible attractions. Watch the video, and see their top picks that you should add to your itinerary while you're at Microsoft TechEd Europe 2014. From historic landmarks, museums and parks, to football and Flamenco dancing... this city has it all!Flamenco at Tablao de CarmenExperience authentic Flamenco dancing at Tablao de Carmen, which opened in 1988 as a tribute to the legendary Carmen Amaya, who once performed in the area and became one of the most important figures in the history of the dance.At Tablao de Carmen, the show is constantly evolving, with renowned Flamenco artists combining their talent with that of promising young performers—usually a few soloists and a grand jam session to round out each night. It's a great place for dinner or tapas and cocktails while you enjoy the show. Located within the Poble Espanyol de Montjuïc, it's very close to other attractions, like the Magic Fountain, the Olympic Ring, The Grec Theatre, and the MNAC (see below).http://tablaodecarmen.com/Twitter: @tablaocarmen Camp Nou (the stadium for Barca, the Barcelona Football Club)Tour the largest stadium in Europe, and home to the FC Barcelona! Camp Nou, built in 1957, seats 99,786 people (the 11th largest stadium in the world) and will be packed in October for the Champions League. Check availability early if you hope to join the crowd. If you can't score tickets to a game, it's still worthy of a tour and a visit to the gift shop for a souvenir jersey. The museum, trophy room, and visitors' locker room are all on the tour—and while you can't touch the pitch, the tour gets you really close to where the action happens. Tours take around 90 minutes and cost 23 €.Camp Nou is accessible from the Barcelona Metro. The closest stations to the stadium are Palau Reial, Maria Cristina, and Les Corts, on L3; i Badal i Collblanc, on L5. All are 500 to 1000 metres from Camp Nou, depending on which of the gates (accesses) to Camp Nou one uses.http://www.fcbarcelona.com/camp-nouTwitter: @fcbarcelona Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC)Take in some Barcelona culture and history, and great views of the city, at the MNAC. With exhibits ranging from the 9th through the early 20th centuries, you'll see the best collection of Romanesque mural paintings in the world. Gothic art, great European Renaissance and Baroque painters like Tiziano or Velázquez are well represented, along with Catalan Modernists like Casas and Gaudí. Beautiful outdoor spaces compete with the exhibits—so even if you never go inside, it's an incredible place to visit and explore. Did we mention the views? From here you can also see the Font màgica de Montjuïc (the magic fountain), created for the Great Universal Exhibition of 1929.http://museunacional.cat/enhttp://www.barcelona.com/barcelona_directory/attractions_in_barcelona/magic_fountain Park GüellA masterpiece of famed architect Antonio Gaudí, Park Güell is one of the most impressive public parks in the world. Playful and imaginative details are everywhere, including the grand centerpiece—an immense (intended) covered market with a rooftop terrace offering views of the city. Take a seat on the ergonomically designed mosaic tiled bench which forms the balustrade. Next door, the Gaudí House Museum offers a closer look at Gaudí's genius. Entrance to the park is free; the museum charges 5.50 € for adults.http://parkguell.org/ Sagrada FamiliaLocated in the center of Barcelona, this immense (can we say awesome?) church has been in construction for 132 years and has become an enduring symbol of the city, and Spain. An expiatory church (meaning, its building has been funded entirely by donations), this architectural and spiritual gem is beyond compare. Gaudí took over as architect in 1883 and devoted his efforts exclusively to Sagrada Familia from 1910 until his accidental death in 1926. Work continues today with hope for completion in time for the 100th anniversary of Gaudí's death.Check out the Virtual Visit on their website (below) and you'll want to see it in person. There are many options for unguided and guided tours, ranging from 14.80 € to 23.80 € (including options that cover entrance to the Gaudí House Museum). Or, grab a coffee and watch the construction from the park.http://www.sagradafamilia.cat/sf-eng/index.phpTwitter: @sagradafam Make sure that you register so you don't miss out on this amazing experience!We want to hear from YOU! What are you most looking forward to at TechEd Europe? Let us know:Twitter: use the #tee14 hashtag or comment to @teched_europeOfficial Facebook Page: TechEd EuropeAsk your questions in the ForumsFollow @TechEd_EuropeFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89

Rick and Joey are back and for the next 10 weeks will provide you with the information you need to make the best of TechEd Europe! This week, they announce that the TechEd Europe 2014 Content Catalog is LIVE! The catalog has the details on Breakout Sessions, and Hands-on and Instructor-led Labs—all covering this year's hot topics, and delivered by industry experts. We will be adding more sessions and labs in the coming weeks, so please check back often for updates. Explore the Catalog to see what you could take away from your TechEd experience, and mark your calendar for the launch of Schedule Builder on 9 September to create your ideal conference agenda.Not yet registered? Use the Content Catalog to convince your boss that TechEd is a great investment. Then, register to begin planning your personalized session schedule with Schedule Builder in September! Remember, adding Breakout Sessions, Hands-on Labs, and Instructor-led Labs to your schedule does not reserve a seat. Sessions are on a first-come, first-seated basis. The Catalog will grow to more than 550 Sessions and Labs between now and October, so check back often for new content and speaker bios.We'd love to hear which sessions top your agenda for TechEd 2014 so share them using any of the social media links below or even in the comments of this post.Twitter: use the #tee14 hashtag or comment to @teched_europeOfficial Facebook Page: TechEd EuropeAsk your questions in the Forums Follow @TechEd_EuropeFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89  

Last week Rick and Joey showed you that there is fine food everywhere in Barcelona. This week they continue on their adventure in Barcelona visiting some of the city's dining hot spots. Here are four more that topped our list. Check out their websites, and you'll want to include them in your dining plans while you're in Barcelona for Microsoft TechEd Europe 2014!Torre d'Alta MarEnjoy spectacular 360° views of Port Vell and the city, from the top of the old port's cable tower, designed and built by Carles Buigas in 1929 for the Barcelona Universal Exhibition. The Torre d'Alta Mar restaurant offers an international menu with a focus on fresh and modern Mediterranean cuisine.http://www.torredealtamar.com/enRestaurante Dos CielosIf you're looking to take your expense account for a spin, check out Dos Cielos in the Hotel Melia Barcelona Sky, located on the outskirts of section 228 in the high tech area. Created by twin brothers Sergio and Javier Torres, this 1 Michelín Star Restaurant offers a nine-course dinner for 100€ that requires at least two hours to enjoy. With only seven tables, reservations are required, and you'll want to book in advance. The Foie Gras Ravioli is a favorite.http://doscielos.com/Els Quatre Gats (4 Gats)Walk in the footsteps of Hemmingway and Picasso, at 4 Gats (cats). This 115 year-old bar and restaurant is located in the gothic area, in a building designed by architect Puig i Cadafalch. A favorite hangout for the creative luminaries of the day, it was popular with architects like Gaudí, musicians like Isaac Albéniz, and artists including Picasso, Casas, Opisso, and Rusiñol. Their works and photos provide endless entertainment while you enjoy a beer or coffee and soak up the historic atmosphere.http://4gats.com/en/Llamber RestaurantLocated in Barcelona's "Soho" neighborhood, Llamber is a gastronomic tavern offering a hip ambiance and fresh, seasonal products. Llamber is known for beautiful presentation, and for being organic and eco-friendly. Their award winning chef has created an amazing menu that includes the freshest seafood, local vegetables, artisan breads and cheeses. Visit their website, to view their full menu. A "Mar y montaña" (of land and sea) restaurant, the menu includes such traditional dishes as:Cabrales (Spanish: queso de Cabrales), a cheese made in the artisan tradition in the north of Spain. This cheese is made from pure, unpasteurized goat milk by one man in a cave.Fabada asturiana, a rich Spanish bean stew, originally from and most commonly found in Asturias, but widely available throughout the whole of Spain and in Spanish restaurants worldwide.Blood Pudding, with rice, cumin, pepper, cut in half and grilled with squid and squid ink.Dining at Llamber is family-style. A party of four would typically order eight different dishes and share. They also offer a nice artisan cheese platter, which would pair well with a selection from their extensive wine list—featuring 120 bottles and 30 wines by the glass. Prices range from €2.50 to €390. See the Sommelier/Manager, Donald, for recommendations. We can honestly say that everything at Llamber is "buenissimo"!http://llamberbarcelona.com/eng/Twitter: @LlamberBCNBoadas CocktailsOpened in 1933, Boadas was another popular hangout for playwrights, poets, artists, and celebrities, and it retains its historic flair. Dubbed the oldest cocktail bar in Barcelona, it's the perfect place for drinks before dinner.http://boadascocktails.com/en/ Not registered for TechEd Europe? Don't miss out on the best learning and networking opportunity of the year. (And, did we mention the food?) Register today.Twitter: use the #tee14 hashtag or comment to @teched_europeOfficial Facebook Page: TechEd EuropeAsk your questions in the ForumsFollow @TechEd_EuropeFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89

Time once again for the Countdown to TechEd Europe! While planning your trip to beautiful Barcelona for Microsoft TechEd Europe 2014, make time to visit some of the city's best restaurants! Good food is everywhere in Barcelona, so we sent Rick and Joey around Barcelona to try to help you narrow it down to the top choices—where you're sure to have a memorable meal.  La Bombeta Tapas RestaurantThis popular local bar serves some of the best tapas in Barcelona. A 100-year-old, family-run business, La Bombeta retains the authentic charm of its Barceloneta neighborhood, formerly a fishing village. Two Bombas (potato "bombs" with meat filling and a spicy sauce) are €3.90. Try the calamari—it's amazing and so fresh! This is the perfect place to grab a pint and lunch away from the tourists.http://barcelonanavigator.com/la-bombeta/ Pastelerias MauriYou'll be amazed by the pastries in the glass display at this historic Pastisseria, serving coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and much more since 1929. The quality is superb. We especially enjoyed the espresso and coffee—their coffee blend has been handed down for generations. Or, try the hot chocolate with cream and churros. They've got it all, from sweet treats to sandwiches and salads. The perfect choice for breakfast, lunch, or afternoon snacks.http://www.pasteleriasmauri.com MoritzThis historic factory building, opened in 1864 by Louis Moritz (founder of Moritz Beer), has been completely renovated and redesigned by acclaimed architect Jean Nouvel. The result is an immense and spectacular space—where you can drink great beer and enjoy amazing food. For beer enthusiasts, there is a small showcase brewery and tasting bar, as well as a beer museum. Chef Jordi Vilà, who has a Michelin star at the Alkímia Restaurant, designed the menu for Moritz around Catalan cuisine. It's hard to believe you're in a brewery...the food is that good.If you're planning for a group, they have various private rooms, including a room that can host a 350-person standing cocktail party.http://moritz.com/enTwitter: @MoritzBarcelona Chachitos BarcelonaIf you're looking for atmosphere, this is the place for you—and the food is fantastic, fresh, and always changing. There's a Sangria bar at the entrance—they serve 55 different types of Sangria, with five bases including red wine, high-end red wine, Cava, Champagne, or non-alcoholic. Most choose to add mixed fruit. Yum! Also at the entrance is a ham bar, and upstairs you'll find a Seafood Planchette (grill). Downstairs, the nightclub is open from 23:00 – 03:00. The extensive menu spans breakfast specialties, tapas, and desserts. They serve Paella Catalan-style (no saffron), with stock made fresh every day. Their fall specialty is White Truffles, and we look forward to enjoying Foie Gras with White Truffles! Follow their very active social channels for updates on what the chef is serving and other fun social updates.http://cachitosbcn.com/#inicioTwitter: @cachitosbcnWatch for more on the best of Barcelona restaurants!Not registered for TechEd Europe? Don't miss out on the best learning and networking opportunity of the year. (And, did we mention the food?) Register today.We love your feedback! Join the conversation:Twitter: use the #tee14 hashtag or comment to @teched_europeOfficial Facebook Page: TechEd EuropeAsk your questions in the ForumsFollow @TechEd_EuropeFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89

We made it! TechEd North America 2014 is here and Rick and Joey sneak into the Expo Hall to the Channel 9 stage to bring you the latest news about how YOU can participate in TechEd North America even if you cannot make it to Houston.This year you will be able to watch the Keynote, select sessions, and special live interviews beginning at 9AM CDT on Monday May 12th and continuing through the end of day Thursday May 15th.Make sure that you register today and join us on the live stream. Here is the blog post that has the entire live stream schedule. Twitter: use the #msteched hashtag or comment to @teched_naOfficial Facebook Page: NorthAmericaAsk your questions in the Forums Follow @TechEd_NAFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89 

Less than ONE WEEK before we all descend on Houston, Texas for TechEd North America. Rick and Joey are back providing you the last minute details that you need prior to departing to Houston. Topics in this jam packed episode include:Shuttle SchedulesTaxi Flat fares in downtown HoustonMake sure you have signed up for your exams that you will take on-siteChannel 9 Live Stage including a special LIVE episode of the Countdown ShowJam Sessions and how Musicians are already gathering in the ForumsSpeaker Idol at the Digital WallVote for the Best Of TechEd Awards (Link to voting opens May 9th and ends May 14 1PM)Evening EventsSpecial Astros Discount tickets for Tues/Weds NightTech Expo Lounges where you can Recharge Sit Relax and socialTechEd 101 - Regardless if this is your first event or you have been to several TechEd Conferences, don't miss this session on Sunday at 2pm and 4pm.Last minute tips from Rick and JoeyRick and Joey also give a huge THANK YOU to the people behind each and every episode of the TechEd Countdown show, they couldn't do it without you!Remember to interact with us and get all of the TechEd news and information by following us on:Twitter: use the #msteched hashtag or comment to @teched_naOfficial Facebook Page: NorthAmericaAsk your questions in the ForumsFollow @TechEd_NAFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89

Less than TWO weeks remain until TechEd North America in Houston Texas! This week Rick and Joey sit down with Michelle to talk all things Tech Expo. The Tech Expo is the place where you get to meet and interact with not only Microsoft folks, but also our fantastic Partners!Michelle brings a map and Rick breaks out his red pen and we break down the entire Expo hall zone by zone, highlighting key areas such as the Experience Lounge, the Resource Zone, and the Digital Wall.We cannot wait to see you all in Houston! Did I mention less than TWO WEEKS?!Follow all of the TechEd news and information by following us on:Twitter: use the #msteched hashtag or comment to @teched_naOfficial Facebook Page: NorthAmericaAsk your questions in the ForumsFollow @TechEd_NAFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89

WOW! It's getting real folks! We're under 20 days until TechEd North America invades Houston Texas (May 12-15).  Todays show covers a mish mash of all sorts of topics that have come up recently on the TechEd North America forums. Have you checked out the forums lately? It's one of the most direct channels of feedback and forum for questions to the TechEd team and TechEd Community as a whole.  But wait! If you are looking for even MORE direct and quick answers about TechEd North America - a little birdy has let us know that Rick and Joey are planning a takeover of the @teched_NA twitter account on May 1st at 11 am PT.  More details to come - but set your reminders to join in on the fun and follow the #mstechedchat hashtag.  Follow all of the TechEd news and information by following us on:Twitter: use the #msteched hashtag or comment to @teched_naOfficial Facebook Page: NorthAmericaAsk your questions in the ForumsFollow @TechEd_NAFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89

WOW! The response to TechEd North America has been phenomenal! So much so that we have SOLD OUT the event for 2014.If you wish to be placed on the registration waiting list, head on over to the TechEd Registration Page and click on the "Waitlist Signup" button below to create an account and sign up. You will be asked to complete minimal contact information. If we are able to accommodate additional registrations, spaces will be filled in the order that requests are received. You will receive a confirmation from the TechEd Registration Team asking you to access your record and complete the registration and payment process. The TechEd North America 2014 Registration Team will contact you regarding the status of your registration request no later than May 5, 2014.If you have not yet signed up for the Pre-Conference Seminars, you can still do so by clicking here.There are also still Expo Only passes available. The TechExpo Only Pass registration fee includes access to the TechExpo Hall (Partner Solution Expo and Microsoft Solution Experience) Monday, May 12 – Thursday, May 15, 2014 during open hours, as well as the Welcome Reception on Monday, May 12.Be sure to take our fun quiz to determine which type of TechEd attendee you are!To always be sure you get the latest TechEd news and information by following us on:Twitter: use the #msteched hashtag or comment to @teched_naOfficial Facebook Page: NorthAmericaAsk your questions in the ForumsFollow @TechEd_NAFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89

Only 1 Month to go until TechEd North America invades Houston Texas (May 12-15). It's time for one of Rick and Joey's favorite episodes... NEWBIES!If you are new to the TechEd experience or perhaps even a seasoned attendee, Joey and Rick cover off some of the most frequently asked questions including:What should I do before I arrive?When should I arrive and register?What should I bring with me?How do I keep up with my normal routine (fitness)?Exporting my scheduleHallway sessions/networkingTechEd 101 what is it and should I attend?AND MORE!Of course you will also be sure you catch the rest of our Countdown Shows that we have done for this years event.Follow all of the TechEd news and information by following us on:Twitter: use the #msteched hashtag or comment to @teched_naOfficial Facebook Page: NorthAmericaAsk your questions in the ForumsFollow @TechEd_NAFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89 

With only 5 weeks remaining until TechEd North America in Houston Texas (May 12-15) Rick and Joey get into the details of the day one schedule. It all starts with making sure that you are all checked in to registration on Sunday so you can grab some breakfast and head into the Keynote.Following the Keynote the next session that you will attend is one of the six Foundational sessions that are available. Joey and Rick discuss how the Foundational Sessions help you make the best use of your time at TechEd, by providing key insights that will allow you to get more out of the sessions you attend. Heavy on demos and presented by Microsoft product experts, Foundational Sessions dive deeper into themes presented during the keynote, providing practical solutions to solve important technical and business issues your company faces today.After covering your day one it's once again Forum question time, this week addressing a question around the Hands On Labs and Instructor Labs.Follow all of the TechEd news and information by following us on:Twitter: use the #msteched hashtag or comment to @teched_naOfficial Facebook Page: NorthAmericaFollow @TechEd_NAFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89

Only 6 Weeks left until TechEd North America in Houston May 12-15th! This week Rick and Joey go to the forums and answer your questions about Parties... When are they and how do you get invited.Of course you all should be aware of the attendee party that is Thursday night at Minute Maid Park (catch that show here). But did you know there are other events open to all attendees? Rick and Joey go night by night for your social networking opportunities, including something new to TechEd North America.UPDATE: The Certification Nation Party is on Monday. Rick and Joey will be flogged for misstating the day.Follow all of the TechEd news and information by following us on:Twitter: use the #msteched hashtag or comment to @teched_naOfficial Facebook Page: NorthAmericaFollow @TechEd_NAFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89

It's lucky episode 13 of the TechEd Countdown show and we are just 7 weeks away from TechEd North America in Houston May 12-15th. This weeks show kicks off with another visit to the forums where Joey and Rick discuss the question asking "When should I arrive and depart Houston?"  Next up Joey has absconded with the sample of the TechEd 2014 attendee bag! This is the place to get a sneak peek at this years backpack and all of the great design features!While planning your trip, you'll want to check out the food scene in Houston—this city has good EATS! Over on the Blog, We've put together a brief dining guide to help you find the snacks, drinks, or serious steaks you're looking for. If you missed the previous episodes of the Countdown Show where Rick and Joey visit some of these locations, have a look at these videos:The One With Things Not to Miss in HoustonThe One With More Things Not to Miss in HoustonThe One We Finish the Things Not to Miss in Houston TrilogyMake sure to get registered? This year at TechEd is going to be a great one!Follow all of the TechEd news and information by following us on:Twitter: use the #msteched hashtag or comment to @teched_naOfficial Facebook Page: NorthAmericaFollow @TechEd_NAFollow @JoeySnowFollow @RicksterCDNFollow @Golnaz89