This year’s Fall Writers’ Conference in Janesville, Wis. Sept. 23, 24, had a full attendance and a wide variety of speakers who spoke about everything from beginning a writing career to a new paradigm in publishing. Poetry buffs were treated to Tom Montag’s version of 99 poetry Propositions for writing good poetry. Jenny Turner showed us how to begin a career as a successful novelist by explaining the events that shaped her success and the methods she used to accomplish her goals. Local Literary Agent, Jack Byrne, described how writers often misunderstand the role of a literary agent, what agents expect of writers, and what writers can do to increase their chances of being published. Professional editor, Chris Roerden, described common mistakes writers make on their manuscripts and how to remedy them. Jack Magestro talked about ways to get your book published and where the publishing industry is headed and Patricia Fry explained networking secrets and how writing a successful book proposal can help a writer get published.

Noted Wisconsin author, Ben Logan, received the Robert E. Gard Award for Excellence and treated the Jade Ring Banquet to a short reading. Harvey Stower, former recipient, presented the award to Mr. Logan, and LaMoine Maclaughlin, president of the Robert E. Gard Foundation, hosted the event. The ceremony was followed by the presentation of the Jade Ring awards by Cary Fellman who is now retiring. The future of the Jade Ring Contest will now fall into the equally competent hands of Jenny Turner who will take over as Jade Ring Chair.

All and all, the conference was a grand success because of the combined efforts of many dedicated members of WRWA and the attendance of many dedicated writers.

A complete review of speakers and events will appear in the winter addition of the WRWA Newsletter. Be sure not to miss it!