Embracing opportunity, attendees who streamed onto the exhibit floor when it opened at 11:30 a.m. Monday looked, learned, planned what to buy and started making purchases.

Many attendees exhibited a positive attitude, kicked networking with peers and exhibitors into high gear and were out to find the latest new products as well as items on pre-show shopping lists.

“I wasn’t sure what we would find from the manufacturers, but there is interesting new stuff out here,” said Dean Ecklund, Lew Rents, Olympia, Wash.

Most exhibitors also were happy with the opening day crowd and optimistic about Tuesday. “This is a step forward. People are enthusiastic and we hope it continues,” said Joe Jabbour, national sales manager, Doosan Portable Power.

All around the floor, notes were being taken for possible purchases and plans for 2010 and 2011, following the charge American Rental Association (ARA) award winners who challenged the industry have a better year in 2010 and beyond.

The day wrapped up with a special "social hour on the show floor" followed by the ARA Foundation auction.