An Expo Debut in Dallas, Texas

I flew to Dallas and back in less than 48 hours, unfortunately, never spending more than a couple minutes outside. I was, however, in what has to be the largest convention center I've ever been in, maybe even rivaling Chicago's McCormick Center. A good chunk of downtown Albany from Lark Street south to the Capital could squeeze into this mega-building.

Between the two huge ballrooms, a expo kicked off today for the International Association of Fire Chiefs and Fire Rescue International. Every square inch of space is open for some 13,000 of the most prominent fire and emergency service leaders to talk about the industry. Dozens of high-end pumpers, EMF vehicles, hook and ladder trucks, rescue, tanker, HazMat and crash trucks are on display.

I dare to venture that the price-tag on the retail value of these safety vehicles would exceed the combined income of most of Albany. Security and surveillance keeps a close vigil on every face and ID tag coming and going.

What's ironic is that the Convention Center has the audacity to keep it cold as a freezer inside and still pin up posters everywhere that boast how 'Green' they are. How does that happen?

In addition, a new swanky hotel is under construction in time for the 2011 Super Bowl at the new Texas Stadium. Make your reservations now.