Were you ever in a club as a kid? I was in several, including the Girl Scouts, the Spanish club and – my favorite – the Future Problem Solvers of America club, which involved me going to college bowl-type events in an ill-fitting blazer and deliberating with other eighth graders on topics like child abuse and hunger in Africa. I don’t remember much about any of these clubs, other than the fact that the best part was usually just hanging out, eating and chatting with new friends. Indeed, the highlight of the Future Problem Solvers of America club was when our teacher, Mr. Brown, took us out to Friendly’s for mozzarella sticks and ice cream sundaes afterwards.

Fortunately, my diet has improved since then, but my love of fun, informal networking gatherings hasn’t. So I’m excited to announce that beginning this year, ASI Show is establishing clubs in all of the show host cities, beginning with ASI Orlando January 4-6. Like to eat as much as I do? Then join some of your industry peers at an ASI Show Dining Club event. In Orlando, Managing Editor Joe Haley and Advantages Editor Kathy Huston will be hosting a group at a tapas restaurant near the convention center.

Other club options in Orlando include The Good Spirits Club (where Counselor Editor Andy Cohen and I will lead a tasting of fruit-infused martinis at a local hotspot); the Explorers Club (where ASI marketing guru Jake Krolick will lead show-goers on an epic wakeboarding adventure); a Yoga Club and a Running Club. We’ll feature similar clubs in Dallas and the other ASI Shows throughout the year.

Besides participating in a fun activity or checking out a new restaurant, joining an ASI Show Club ensures one thing: You may not solve the world’s problems, but you’ll definitely meet a lot of fellow attendees and have some fun.

Fees for these clubs are nominal, but you need to sign up in advance, and they’re expected to sell out. So if you’re interested, head to www.asishow.com now and get yourself signed up. I hope to see you in Orlando!