Help Southern Living Plan A Writers Weekend In Texas

[Gary Ford, SL Senior Writer]

HI EVERYONE,
Southern Living is planning a special event in Texas featuring writers from around the state and the nation. At a relaxing resort in the state, we'll host three or four select authors who'll present informal workshops. You'll get a chance to meet with them at a reception, a banquet, over breakfast, and at an afternoon book signing--all over the course of a Friday night and Saturday. We'd love to get your input on such an event. Let us know your thoughts by answering the following questions.

1. Where would you like to attend such a weekend? Name a resort (or hotel) in Houston, the Dallas/Fort Worth area, Austin, or San Antonio.

2. What authors would you love to meet? Name a few of your favorite writers from around the nation.

3. Would you prefer this event in fall, winter, or spring?

4. What other activities at this weekend would you enjoy?

We look forward to your input. Feel free to e-mail your thoughts to gary_ford@timeinc.com (mailto:gary_ford@timeinc.com).


Thanks,
Gary Ford, Senior Writer

[CindyDaniel]

I am co-chairing a mystery writers/fan event hosted by Mystery Writers of America -- SW Chapter. It will be held in Dallas over Father's Day weekend. www.mwasw.org

BUT...we have a lot of great readers in Texas who would love another writer's weekend. I know I would. I'm a crazy reading fan, mostly mysteries, but I always enjoy a good book and enjoy hearing writers talk about their motivation and how they get their story ideas. Panels are always good, as are writing workshops. And it's nice to hear authors speak along side their agents and publishers to get 'the big picture.'

The Fall or Winter would be a good time, and not conflict with other regional events. And I would absolutely LOVE having the event at The ***lord Texan in Grapevine. What a fun retreat that would be.

I would also like to be considered as a speaker or panelist. I'm a mystery writer and I've also just published a book I co-wrote with my daughter - it's a non-fiction that details how my breast cancer affected HER! It's a book that we hope will help lots of young girls who have dealt with, or are dealing with, being a caregiver for their ill mother.

Thanks,
Cindy