This issue features a recap of the Writing Conference held on September 18 in Tempe, Arizona. Several of the attendees are getting published by submitting articles giving each member highlights of the classes. What an easy way to break in to publication!

For me, each Conference Day is full of tension; some of it is nerves, some is excitement and anticipation. I go, I work the fringes of registration, I set up my books for sale, I refer people to solution-makers, I introduce speakers, I attend classes, I take pictures, I do a walk-through to check for left-behind items, then I take a deep breath and go home. It's a whirlwind of activity, and the whole Presidency feels the strain.

However…

We also experience the incredible joy of having a nearly flawless conference taking form around us. We meet old friends, get to know new ones, solve problems, resolve to let the catering office know not to serve mocha dessert next year, then fall into bed amazed that things went so well!

Since we discovered that hosting the Conference at Fiesta Inn was doable, here are some of the things we don't have to deal with:

1. Finding volunteers to plan, prepare, and serve lunch.
2. Finding volunteers to set up and take down physical setting needs, like tables.
3. Finding volunteers to make table decorations.
4. Buying enough table covers.
5. Buying WAY too much food for lunch, and having tremendous piles of leftovers.

Next year, we will most likely use Fiesta Inn again. It is centrally located for members and the public who live in the metro Phoenix area. It is handy to the airport for those coming from afar. The staff is usually kind and gracious, and they do all the setting up!!!

Many of you can't come to Tempe to attend the local Conference. We know this. We hope you will make an effort to attend local writing seminars and classes for your enrichment and knowledge. If you live where a chapter is available, get together and discuss hosting writing events in your locality. Such events don't need to be as big as the one here. They don't even need to be writing conferences. How about having a local author come and give a talk? Find a place and an author, set a ticket price to cover any expenses, and tell us all about it. If several of you are published, contact your local bookstore about having a joint book signing. Make it fun; find some joy!