Speakers, contest part of seminar
4/13/2003A writers' conference with critiques, a short-story contest, and a variety of topics will be held May 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Franciscan Center of Lourdes College in Sylvania.
The seventh annual Maumee Valley Writers' Conference will feature Paul Martin, author of The Writer's Little Instruction Book, as keynote speaker. He'll also give sessions on self-editing and tips for new writers.
Sandra Gurvis, who has written nine books and hundreds of articles, will give a two-hour workshop on “The Art of Book Promotion.”
Angela Palazzolo will speak on “Using Acting Techniques for Writing Fiction” and “Sparking Your Creativity.” She produces a cable television program, Not for Writers Only! and coordinates the large Columbus Writers' Conference.
Douglas Gray, from Columbus State College, will talk about “Coping with Writer's Block” and “Your Writer's Website.”
Gretchen Hirsch, author of Is It It's or Its? and Womanhours, will speak on “Ghostwriting and Collaborating” and “Time Management for Writers.”
Robert Nailor, poetry editor for the online publication, “The Emporium Gazette,” will give sessions on science fiction and fantasy writing.
In addition, people who want their 20-page fiction, nonfiction, or poetry assessed by an editor should mail them in advance with a $30 fee. Manuscripts must be received by April 25. The winner of a short-story writing contest will be announced at the conference. Unpublished original stories, 2,500 words or less, will be accepted until April 25 for a $15 fee.
Cost of the conference is $89; $59 for students. It includes continental breakfast and lunch. Information: call 419-824-3707, or write Gloria Burke, Maumee Valley Conference Coordinator, Lourdes College, 6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania, OH 43560.