Annual writer’s conferences set this weekend

Southwestern Oregon Community College is planning its 12th-annual South Coast Writers Conference this weekend in Gold Beach.

The conference, scheduled Friday and Saturday, features two days of workshops, author readings, book signings and writer critique circles. The event began as a way to energize local writers and lure others to Gold Beach for a one-day event and slowly has evolved into a weekend-long undertaking featuring around 100 writers from all over the state. Several renowned writers will share their knowledge as guest speakers, addressing various genres including fiction, poetry and creative nonfiction.

“We try to make it sort of a gathering of writers,” Southwestern Oregon Community College Curry Program Coordinator Janet Pretti said. “And we try to invite writers who get involved in the conference and aren’t just presenting. It’s a pretty good group of people.”

Participants can choose one of four seminar selections on Friday. Four 90-minute workshops also are offered on Saturday, with six options for each session. Cost for the Saturday workshops is $65, and the price for both days is $95. Friday Night Author Readings, scheduled at 7 p.m. on Friday, will be held in the Showcase Building on the Curry County fairgrounds. That event is free and open to the public.

Press Release Date: February 14, 2007