Anyone who knows me knows that I don’t travel. As a matter of fact, I very seldom leave Northern Virginia. So on that rare occasion when I do venture out of the area, you can best bet it’s for something very special. That said, last Wednesday I got on a plane and headed to Chicago to attend the 2008 Romance Slam Jam Conference. For those who don’t know Slam Jam, it began in 1995 and has since become the foremost venue for African American romance book lovers. It’s a conference where authors, readers, and industry professionals come together to celebrate each other and the wonderful world of African American Romance.
As soon as I got off the plane and got on the shuttle to the hotel I met up with a good friend, Sharon McCalop. We hadn’t seen each other in years and I didn’t even recognize her. When she said her name it didn’t faze me who she was until I sat down. I turned around and she was laughing, wondering how long it would take for me to catch on. She still jokes about seeing my expression. I jumped up, grabbed and hugged her. We laughed and talked until the bus driver made us sit down. That’s basically how the rest of the week and weekend went. I reunited with old friends like Louise Brown and Bobbie Austin, whom I’ve talked to for years and I met new friends like Kimberly Kaye Terry, who I talked with for over an hour at the airport. Slam Jam was like coming home to the biggest, best, family reunion ever.
The following days, Thursday, Friday and Saturday I attended reader and writer workshops, an intimate session and a book signing with such great names as Mary B. Morrison (aka. Honey B), Kimberly Kaye Terry, Beverly Jenkins, Rochelle Alers, Michelle Monkou and Bettye Griffin. Talking with these women and just being in their presence was phenomenal, and even though I’ve been in the business for over seven years, it’s still good to sit and learn from the masters. I also learned more about RWA (Romance Writers of American) by having dinner with RWA president Sherry Lewis and RWA executive director, Allison Kelley.
I have to say that this year’s Slam Jam, sponsored by the Chi-Town Rawsistaz Book Club and Chicago host authors, was like coming home. Thank you RSJ Chicago Committee, you rocked it!
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Sounds like you have a blast. I'm sure your fans were delighted to see you. Keep up the good work.
Michelle
I am glad that I got a chance to meet you at RSJ.
Didn't know you did not like to travel so I am glad you enjoyed yourself and yes it was an awesome RSJ.
Take with you soon
Beverly (beachlover)
Niambi