Get Ready for Bestselling Authors and Writing Opportunities at Dogwood Writers Conference
Pamela Hall
Ashland Beacon
Do you love to write? Have you written a novel but have no idea what to do with it? Are you a “closet” writer who writes but doesn’t want anyone to know? Or are you an aspiring writer who needs tips on becoming a great writer? Here’s the place for you!
The KYOWA Writers Group will host its annual Dogwood Writers Conference on Saturday, April 29 at the Boyd County Public Library Midland Branch. The event begins at 9 a.m. with registration starting at 8:30. The cost is $50, which includes lunch.
The Dogwood Writers Conference began in 1999. The KYOWA Writers Group saw the need for a conference for local writers without having the big expense of traveling to some of the other out of town conferences. The conference was so successful that it has been held annually each spring with the exception of the pandemic years.
This year’s conference will include guest speakers that are successful authors who will give writing tips and other helpful information. There will also be a panel consisting of bookstore owners and librarians who will discuss what genres are most popular and what is being read today.
Guest speaker Jules Bennett is a USA Today bestselling author who writes contemporary romance. She is originally from the Scioto County, Ohio area and is published by Harlequin. She will be speaking about “Writers Life.”
Guest speaker Maddie James is a bestselling author of nearly 140 books. She writes contemporary romance and romantic suspense. She will speak on “Plotting for Pantsers.”
“We're really excited about being able to offer such a great program here in our own area,” said Cathie Shaffer, President of the KYOWA Writers Group. “The two featured speakers bring incredible experience and talent, and we're thrilled to have them with us.”
There will also be a critique panel for those who wish to participate. Those attending may bring two or three pages of something they’ve written to submit to the panel. This is done without the names of the authors given. After the pages are read aloud by the readers, the panel will give pointers on how to improve the passage.
“The day will benefit both beginner and established writers,” Shaffer stated. “Over our 20 year history, the Dogwood Writers Conference has helped a number of authors find their way to publication.”
The Dogwood Writers Conference is an opportunity to meet with other writers and get rejuvenated about writing. Attendees will have education opportunities on how to perfect their craft and also networking opportunities with other writers.
Registration will begin at 8:30 that morning, April 29, at the Midland Branch of the Boyd County Public Library. Pre-registration is not required. Payment for the conference may be made with cash, check, or credit card.
Don’t miss this year’s Dogwood Writers Conference. You may be the next local writer who becomes a published author!