Thank outside the box: Better gifts for moderators

That pen and pencil set or mug is so 20th century, dear conference organizers. If you want to thank your panel moderators, thank outside the box with these creative gift ideas:

• Underscore authority: For a formal moderator or one who's moving up to chair entire meetings, this solid walnut gavel and round block are tools she can use again and again. Check out these resources and books on using Robert's Rules of Order as an extra help for the moderator-turned-chair. Together, they're gifts that underscore her authority.
• Help make a point: The Logitech Professional Presenter R800 with Green Laser Pointer is one of the most popular, and will let your moderator set a timer on buzz to keep her silently aware of how long each speaker's gone on, among other features.
• Help for next time: The Eloquent Woman's Guide to Moderating Panels is less expensive at $3.99 than most pen and pencil sets--and more useful, particularly if you give it in advance of the panel discussion. A recent purchaser bought 30 of these for an entire conference's speakers. Shouldn't it be standard issue at yours?

(Creative Commons licensed photo by BCLT Berkeley Law)