Spring Writers Conference returns to Wenatchee Valley College

WENATCHEE — After a seven-year absence, the Write on the River Spring Writers Conference is set to return to Wenatchee Valley College on May 16-18.

The event will feature workshops and classes led by professional authors and industry experts aimed at writers of all experience levels.

"Write on the River is a terrific opportunity for students to interact with fellow writers from all around the region, from dabblers to published authors," said Ana Maria Spagna, Wenatchee Valley College English professor who will be leading workshops at the conference. "The workshops can introduce them to new genres and strategies, give them a chance to practice outside of the classroom, and generally have fun with the written word."

The three-day conference will open with a 20th Anniversary and First Page Critique Party on Friday evening at Watercore Cider in Wenatchee. The session will be led by author Jason Brick and literary agent Rachel Letofsky in what organizers describe as a "He Said/She Said" style critique of participants' manuscript openings.

Washington State's poet laureate Derek Sheffield, who also teaches English at Wenatchee Valley College, will present a workshop titled "Nature Writing Now," exploring both poetry and prose. WOTR founding member Kay Kenyon will be among the featured Pacific Northwest authors speaking at the event.

The conference will conclude Sunday with "Fearless Writing," a master class led by William Kenower that organizers describe as "substantive and inspirational."

Discounted rates are available for Wenatchee Valley College students, with a full three-day conference package including lunch priced at $20, compared to standard registration rates.

The conference marks an important revival for the organization, which has maintained a presence in the community through other smaller events during the hiatus of its flagship gathering.

Write on the River is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting writers throughout Central Washington. Complete details about the conference schedule, speakers, and registration are available on the organization's website.