Powell River Writers Conference

It was a most inspirational writers conference this past weekend. Writers from all levels of experience gathered under Powell River sunshine as professionals illuminated the world of writing.

It started with a Master Class Friday morning taught by Sylvia Taylor on self-editing. At the same time Grant Lawrence and Hannah Main Van-der Kamp worked with the students of Brooks School and Oceanview School. There are many talented young writers rising on the horizon. In the afternoon, Anthony Dalton taught us how to earn an income from our writing. A simple tip from him to sell my previously written RV articles overseas certainly illuminated my day. By late afternoon, writers were meeting with the presenters for 30 min. sessions. I kept hearing comments about how those sessions changed the way the author was writing.

Opening ceremonies with Jennifer Salisbury as MC and for the first time in 8 years I wasn’t MC. Jennifer did a beautiful job of organizing readings from all our presenters as well as the winning contest entries, young and old. Our youngest entry ever, 10  year old Maria glowed with pride as she read her poem.

Workshops on Saturday by Grant and by Hannah filled our minds with ideas and inspiration. A welcome last minute edition, Melody Poirier from Island Blue Print gave useful tips on how to get our book ready for the printer.  A fun-filled two days wrapped up with a delicious banquet catered by Tree Frog Bistro, and music by Sue Dixon and Cris Greenwell. Sue was at our very first writers festival in 2003.

The silent auction, a fund-raiser for Henderson School Breakfast program raised $450! WOW! Thank you to all those who donated items and to all who bid on them.

Already we have future presenters approaching us for next year, but the future of the Powell River Writers Conference is in jeopardy unless the numbers increase and we can find someone to take over from me who has  been the main organizer for 8 years. We have a great executive team who do tremendous work: My husband Dave, who although not a writer has been our treasurere for years, not to mention all the packing, unpacking and setting up he does. Gwen Enquist has been our secretary for years and puts out our newsletter. Donna Kolezar is my VP and just jumps in where ever we need her. Heidi Sullivan, our publicity director did a great job of promotion. Directors-at-large, Eva van Loon and Jennifer Salisbury pick up all the roles the rest of us can’t. I couldn’t wish for a better group of people to work with, and I am so grateful.

 In order to attract large enough numbers to keep this most valuable event going, it needs an organization with a bigger umbrella to take it over. We will be holding the annual general meeting  May 11, 7:00 pm in the lower board room of the School District Offices. If anyone or any group is interested in taking on my role as president and head organizer, and generally take PRWC over, please attend this meeting or contact me: 604-485-2732.

Over the years, hundreds of youth have benefited from this conference. Dozens of writers have grown and gone on to be published. The spotlight has been turned on Powell River because of wide-spread publicity from PRWC. The mayor describes it as one of the most important cultural venues in Powell River. We don’t want it to die and so we appeal to generous folks everywhere to take over where I  and my team leave off. It’s time for me to refocus on my writing as a business, and it’s time for a new face at the helm. I’ve enjoyed the ride. Next?

Barb Rees/President