Jo Carol Jones
by
Evan Scott & the SUITE Staff
It's hard to hold this dynamo down...she can usually be found with notebook in hand, hair tousled, and a very tired look in her eye. But always, she has a smile, from ear to ear, always at the ready.
SUITE: I guess our first question would be...how long have you been involved in Romantic Times?
Jo Carol: Since the Houston (Texas) Convention in 1999.
SUITE: And how did you get roped into...uhhh...involved in the first place? LOL
Jo Carol:
My friend Peggy invited me to brunch with her and several ladies involved with the RT convention. During the meal I sat next to Kathryn Falk and we talked during the meal. The convention director at that time asked Peggy and me to help with registration.
SUITE: LOL...and it's grown from there. This is your first "official" year in navigating solo, preparing from stem to stern, the 25th anniversary conference. What's that experience been like?
Jo Carol: It's been great so far. I've done a little more each year and this seemed like the next logical step for me and so far it has been everything I hoped for. I have had some ideas to make the convention even better and this has given me the opportunity to see some of those come to fruition.
SUITE: What is the scope of your responsibilities as convention director?
Jo Carol: I help with site selection and hotel contract negotiation. I also work with Carol Stacy (publisher and Internet director) on timelines for completing projects such as programs, promotional sponsors, menu selection, budgets and event themes. I work with all the volunteers to make sure they get the things they need. I work with a Book Seller to put together and produce the Book Fair. Kelli Salkin and I work on the website. And then I work with Connie Perry on set designs, finding a DJ for events. I'm also responsible for the design and maintenance of the on-line enrollment system and tracking registration. I process payments and send confirmations to attendees. And I work with wonderful volunteers, authors and industry people. more >>
