Post Dogwood Writing Conference

I had a great time at the 2016 Dogwood Writing Conference, an annual event sponsored by KYOWA Writers (Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia Association).  

The conference last weekend was entertaining and informative. I met some nice folks, some of whom are published authors and a few who are aspiring authors. 

Carter Caves SRP Lodge

The event was held at rustic Carter Caves State Resort Park, near Olive Hill. It was my first visit there and I plan to return to do some hiking, and perhaps some writing.

Mark Mirabello

Mark Mirabello, a history professor at nearby Shawnee State University, opened the conference with an enlightening presentation about ghosts. He's written several books about the paranormal, and his next will out in August, titled "A Traveler's Guide to the Afterlife: Traditions and Beliefs on Death, Dying and What Lies Beyond." I recommend him to those interested in history, ghosts, and all things paranormal.

Mary Shortridge

Mary Shortridge, a professor at Ashland Community College, led a unique (at least to me) exercise in short-story writing in Saturday's first session. I was paired with Gertrude, and I must say that I thought we came up with a very good story in the 15 minutes we had to put it together. Readers and writers groups as well as schools, libraries should contact Mary for their events. 

S.G. Redling

Bestselling mystery writer Sheila Redling (she goes by S.G. Redling), of Huntington, W.Va., discussed her approach to writing fiction and her life as a writer. Her latest novel is "Baggage." Her sixth book will be published in August. Give her a read, you won't be disappointed.  

Cathie Shaffer

Cathie Shaffer, who is president of KYOWA, closed the conference with an insightful presentation about marketing books and how authors can promote themselves. Shaffer has published several novels and is involved in Fat Cat Publications.

And yours truly talked about writing fiction and nonfiction. I wasn't booed or hissed so I think I did OK, and a few folks even purchased some of my novels after the presentation. You can't beat Kentucky (Ohio and West Virginia) hospitality!

Dogwood Writing Conference

If you have a writers group that would like to have a speaker(s) or if you would like some information on how to have a conference, you should contact Cathie at mizcathie@yahoo.com. I'll be happy to help as well.

Until the next time....

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