Veteran meeting planner Ann J. Boehme has written a book about basic meeting planning techniques for administrative assistants who have no experience in planning events or conferences. Published by the American Management Association, Planning Successful Meetings & Events has 12 chapters, covering such basics as setting objectives, how to select a site, how to negotiate a contract, budgeting, promotions, food and beverage planning, and planning international events. It is full of useful time lines, checklists, and resources, and is available in paperback through Adams Business Media's Bookstore at (800) 396-3939. Boehme is founder and president of Meetings and Management Techniques Plus, a meeting planning firm based in Valley Stream, N.Y.