Friday, May 2, 2014

North East Texas Writers Organization Spring Writer's Roundup by Jim Hart




This past weekend I had the privilege of attending the North East Texas Writer’s Organization (NETWO) Spring Writer’s Roundup conference in Mt. Pleasant, Texas. It was my first time at that conference, and also my first time outside of an airport in Texas!

In talking with a number of conferees I found just how much the members of NETWO value their critique partners, and how their writing continues to improve because of being involved in a critique group. Several noted that they are also part of an on-line critique group, in addition to their local group.

I was pleasantly surprised to find that in a crowd of around 100 writers there were several young people in attendance. Young writers just starting out with lots of energy and even more questions. I encouraged the ones that I had a chance to meet with to take advantage of every resource that NETWO has to offer. And they were encouraged to also contribute to the organization and be an active participant in their writing community.

It’s energizing to be around a community of writers, all of whom are at varying stages in their journey. It’s also a great pleasure to somehow be a part of that journey.

Thanks to Paul Parris, NETWO President who had the task of picking me up at the Dallas/Ft. Worth airport a couple of hours away. And special thanks also to conference directors Caryl and Ron McAdoo who put together a really impressive conference.

If you live in that area of the country, check out this fine writer's organization at http://www.netwo.org/

I met some great people, some talented writers, talked about books and the publishing business all weekend, and had TexMex food – what could be better?

4 comments:

Diana Flegal said...

Jim, I am so glad you enjoyed the conference. Being amongst so many gifted people energizes me. I see the benefit of critique groups in all successful writers.

Terry Burns said...

Glad it was a good experience for you. I've been at NETWO several times and it was always a good conference.

Caryl McAdoo said...

I tried to leave a comment from my iPhone, but I'm still challenged a bit :) We loved having you there, Jim! You should've got to read the exit forms - how many complimented you for your encouragement and help. It was our blessing for sure! Thank you for your kind words. I also enjoyed sharing music on the way to the airport :) May God's blessings and favor be on your every work for the Kingdom!

Anonymous said...

Jim,

Thank you so much for being a part of our conference. We are always excited to have agents speak and give us the inside scoop on how to snag one!! Also thanks for the kind words of recommendation. We feel our conference has much to offer and appreciate the endorsement.
Pattie Ball writing as Ann Everett