North Wildwood Beach Writers’ Conference returns

Writers, take note!
We know that writing is a solitary business. It’s just you and your keyboard (or pen, or tape recorder) for hours on end.
Thank goodness for the seventh annual North Wildwood Beach Writers’ Conference, which will draw writers together for invigorating and inspiring discussions about all aspects of the craft.
It takes place at the Wildwoods Convention Center on June 2 and 3.
Co-chairs Carolyn Miller and Jacob Schaad have created a schedule of lively sessions with 12 speakers who will present talks on such topics as writing for magazines, writing for the Web, and First Amendment issues for writers.
Some of the prestigious presenters are: John Riddle, the founder of I Love to Write Day; John Harnish of Infinity Publishing; and Charis Conn, contributing editor at Harper’s Magazine.
Some of the prestigious local writers presenting are: Jim Vanore, author of Beware the Leaven; Gayle Stahlhuth, artistic director of East Lynne Theater Company in Cape May; and Patricia MacDonald, whose latest work, of many, is Stolen in the Night: A Novel.
The cost of the two-day conference is $75, which includes all presentations, a dinner and continental breakfast. Attendees may bring a guest to dinner for an additional $30. The deadline to register is May 22.
There will also be a Writing Contest in two categories: poetry and essay/article, limited to 1,500 words total. Three prizes will be offered in each category: $100, $50, and $25 (based on a minimum of five entries in each category). This opportunity is open to all attendees. Entries must be received by May 8.
In addition, the event will include a chance for attendees to have their work evaluated by one of our presenters in a 15-minute, one-on-one session, for an additional fee of $25. Submit up to 25 pages of a book or up to five pages of an article or poem—must be received by May 8.
Attendees will receive goody-bags at registration, and door prizes will be awarded at the dinner. The Grand Prize–a publishing package valued at $700 from Infinity Publishing—will be awarded to the attendee whose book or project is ready (or close to ready) for publication.
A special event—lunch at the Blue Water Grille with authors Dan Poynter and John Harnish—has been planned for those who would like to chat informally with the experts. The luncheon cost is $20.
During the event, some presenters will have copies of their work available for purchase and signing by the authors.
Attendees are invited to apply for free table space for their books. Send your request to NWBWC.com and include all relevant information about your book, including the price.
The deadlines to apply are quickly approaching. Make your plans now to come to the Wildwoods for practical advice and invaluable inspiration.