Coming together twice a year is important to the livelihood of our organizations. During the gloomy days of late winter, we all definitely deserve a few days of refueling in April. Portland, Ore., will be the perfect place for that.

The local committee is enthusiastic and making excellent progress on what will be a memorable convention. How could it not be with keynoters Nigel Jaquiss and Tim Harrower, special strands of programming, a very strong slate of featured speakers, three fantastic issue seminars, and the usual mix of workshops, breakout sessions, contests, and social events to exchange ideas.

A few updates about which you should be aware:
HILTON HOTEL RATE NOW $149: The Hilton hotel rate has been reduced to $149 per night. That is a significant savings and makes this one of the lower-priced hotels in our room block. It’s a great facility in the heart of downtown Portland, very convenient to the MAX light rail and to shopping, dining and entertainment downtown. It takes less than 15 minutes to ride to the convention center from downtown, about the same time to walk from the Doubletree to the convention center. Please strongly consider the Hilton as you make your plans.

DESIGN WORKSHOP WITH TIM HARROWER: For just $40 per person, spend all day Thursday at the convention learning from the master of design and coverage, Tim Harrower. It’s a tremendous opportunity and a great price.

SPECIAL TRAINING FROM DART CENTER: You’ll want to attend these sessions to learn how you and your students can prepare for the effects of tragedy and trauma — both for your coverage and for your own health. Instructors from the Dart Center at the University of Washington team with Paul Kandell, the current National High School Journalism Teacher of the Year to share knowledge.

ON-SITE CRITIQUES: Remember the publication will be sent to the judge but the payment will be sent to Ellen Kersey at the address in the registration book. Ellen also needs people to critique the publications on behalf of the local committee.

WAYS TO EARN REGISTRATION (PICK 2): Moderate Write-Off contest, judge Write-Off category, judge Best of Show, present a session, present a second session, chaperon a dance.

DANCE CHAPERONS: We’re looking for some people to help at the dance by checking badges at the door and monitoring to ensure things stay under control. Serving as a dance chaperone will also qualify as one of two convention duties a person can perform to earn complimentary registration. Contact Emily Griesser at NSPA (emily at studentpress dot org) if you are interested.

MAX LIGHT RAIL: For just $2.30, ride the MAX light rail directly from the airport to the Convention Center area or to the downtown Hilton. I did this, and it’s easy to find, easy to ride, convenient and cheap. Between the Convention Center area and downtown, you ride free!