The Cal-Nev-Ha District Mid Winter convention was the first time I took books to a Kiwanis convention. The convention was small, but the reception good. Many Kiwanians are involved in reading or literacy programs for kids, so I was hopeful that they’d be interested in books targeted at adults also.
The International convention in Vancouver was huge and there were tons of people. That brings us to the district convention in Reno, which ran from last Thursday through Saturday. In Reno, the organizers of the convention took an innovative approach to making sure attendees sought out the exhibitors. The approach was one I’d never seen before and brought attendees into the exhibits with an enthusiasm we seldom see at these events.
Each exhibitor was given a stamp (mine was a pterodactyl…I started singing “Fly like a seagull” because my bird looked vaguely like one). Each Kiwanian was given a sheet with an open spot for each exhibitor. The District put up a prize for those who went to each exhibitor and got their sheet stamped. For the first time, people were paying attention to who the exhibitors were. It was a great idea and made our jobs as exhibitors much easier.
I’m no longer surprised when people tell me, “I don’t read,” (I was shocked the first time I heard that) but was able to find a bunch of new readers as well as subscribers for my newsletter. All in all, it was a terrific convention. Thanks Kiwanians for what you do and your support!
Best First Novel Edgar Winner Chris Pavone