More Bang for Your Buck
at the ANWA Fall Conference
by Carrie Marsh
The Annual Fall Conference is in approximately two weeks, four days, and fifty-five minutes! Did you remember to send in your registration form, and get a babysitter? Here are some ideas to have a more fulfilling experience.
First, you need to attend! I can promise you that you won't get as much out of the conference by just reading your newsletter. Nothing can replace the inspiration and associations that you will get from attending.
Second, volunteer for a committee. Being involved can heighten your experience. Jeni still needs people for set-up and some strong, healthy men for clean-up. If you live on the east side, have your husband pick you up, and volunteer him. You can get hold of Jeni at 480-892-xxxx. She will be ever so thankful that you did (and so will you!). Stephanie Abney is heading the food committee, and help in that area would also be appreciated.
Volunteer (that word again!) to write a report on one of the workshops. This is a great way to exercise your talents. By my count, we will need at least nine reports. I'd like to hear from a few of you who haven't contributed before (you know who you are).
Third, this may sound elementary, but bring paper and pencil (or pen). You remember much more when you take a few notes. Oh, and by the way, as long as you're taking notes, it will be that much easier to write an article.
Fourth, join in on the discussions. Sometimes as writers, we tend to sit back and observe. That's a good thing. In the case of attending a conference, however, there is more to do than to merely sit back and bask in the knowledge that is pouring into our brains. Sitting in the back of the room and sleeping off lunch may seem like a lovely way to pass the afternoon, but what exactly was it you missed when you were in mid-snore? Be involved in the discussions, ask questions, meet the speakers.
Are you excited yet? There's something for everyone at the annual ANWA Fall Conference. Don't forget the breakfast with Valerie if you sent in your manuscript. So, get ready, get set, make sure you have gas in the car, grab your notebook, and I'll see you on October 20th.
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