I am not sure, but I think the Mission Palms won't accept reservations until the show is announced. Last year I tried to book a room early and was told I had to wait until after a certain date to book for the Forum. Then I waited 4 days and all sold out. This year I have just resigned myself to driving back and forth.

There are a lot of smaller hotels around that area because of the university and stadium so close. Call Sherri and see if there are other hotels other than the Marriott. Hopefully they are mindful of the economy minded attendee ;-)

The Best Western is a fair walk from the Mission Palms however! Not long by NYC standards, but driving distance by Phoenix or LA standards.

And just assume that there is not a single cab, city bus, or other public transportation in the entire Phoenix metro area. No cabs here.