Hi Folks:

Marc Kawanishi here. I’m the National Advisory Board representative hailing from AAJA North Carolina. As my time in this position is coming to a close I wanted to encourage you to join us as AAJA celebrates it 30th anniversary!!!

In just under 11 days our 22nd annual convention starts in Detroit, Michigan. For well over a year representatives of the AAJA Michigan have been preparing a spectacular convention lead Detroit Free Press star reporter Frank Witzel and Detroit News Multimedia guru Ankur Dholakia.

If you’re sitting on the fence about joining us I have a few ideas which might make it financially possible:

1) As a media professional many of your convention expenses are a tax deduction. Consult with your company CPA for better details. While I am not a CPA I can give you some practical tips: A) Take a gallon plastic bag to keep your receipts of expenses B) Mark exactly what each receipt is for at the end of the day. You can write who was with you and other important details. It’s boring but a great time saver. Plus you won’t have to remember every last detail. C) Keep all receipts in your bag. It’s far easier to throw some away then find them later. Don’t laugh: this tip has saved me thousands of dollars on my taxes each year.

2) Bring your family. Detroit has many great things to do! See them on the Visitors and Convention bureau website.

3) You still have plenty of time to get the 7 day price break on airline tickets. I’d also look at last minute fares and consider Priceline.Com’s pricing. I have no affiliation with them but I have bought tickets three times to attend the AAJA conference (for quite a savings). Also consider booking your taxi ahead of time to save money.

4) After you register for the conference you’ll have the option to sign up for the convention listserve. While the AAJA doesn’t connect anyone, you can search for a hotel roommate to share expenses at your own risk.

5) Finally, if you’re within driving distance, consider a day pass or two. Have a look at the schedule and see what works best for you!!!

Hope to see you there!!!

Blessings,

Marc