News

The Craft & Hobby Association (CHA) has announced that Dr. Jeffery Brown, a Harvard University psychologist and author, will be the keynote speaker at its 2011 Summer Conference & Trade Show on July 19 at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Ill. Additionally, CHA will introduce its new conference format at the Sumer Show that provides a greater value to Show attendees.

Brown’s presentation will be based on his new book “The Winner’s Brain: 8 Strategies Great Minds Use to Achieve Success,” which highlights strategies to increase specific brain functions that drive winning behavior. Using cutting-edge research connecting neuroscience and cognitive psychology, he explains how to unlock hidden potential through specific techniques. The New York Times, ESPN, The Wall Street Journal, The Boston Globe, Woman’s Day, FOX News, Family Circle, Boston Magazine and ABC.com have all referenced Dr. Brown’s psychology expertise.

To allow additional time for show participants to attend the keynote presentation and enjoy a richer overall experience, CHA will implement a new conference format, successfully introduced at the CHA 2011 Winter Conference & Trade Show. The new format provides attendees with greater value by offering more convenient show hours, increased networking opportunities, access to the Trade Show floor, unlimited access to conference programs and special events through an all-access Conference and Trade Show badge for only $25 (advance registration price).

The new badge gives attendees complete access to more than 30 workshops teaching the latest techniques in paper craft, jewelry making and more; nearly 50 one-on-one consulting sessions with leading experts on social media, marketing and public relations; all special events including the Taste of Rosemont, the keynote presentation, the Innovations Sneak Peek Media & Buyer Event and the show party called “Divas — A Tribute to Women in Pop” with live performances featuring the music of Madonna, Cher, Celine Dion and Beyonce; nearly 20 business education seminars among many other sessions tailored to meet the different needs of the retail, design and manufacturing sectors of the craft and hobby industry. CHA also will offer special Mixed Media Inspiration sessions that highlight the commercial appeal and sales potential of mixed media crafting.

Online conference registration opens May 5. To learn more about the upcoming 2011 CHA Summer Conference & Trade Show, including a complete schedule of all programs and events, exhibitor listings, travel discounts and other show highlights, visit www.chashow.org.