Hi David,

Yes, LinuxCon registration is $499.00 - but various discounts are available; Randal Schwartz was offering one, and other ticket promotions are available (ask Google.com).

http://events.linuxfoundation.org/events/linuxcon

This should be a great "first" Con event in the land of the OSDL, Linus, Freegeek, etc.

Gas will cost about $200.00 both ways in my car and take 20 hours driving each way, which would be split by the number of riders.

I am trying to hook up lodging with friends in Portland (where I lived for many years) so I don't have to pay hotel/motel costs also. 

LPI certification is available from the CON also, should that assist anyone making the decision?