AUSTIN SCBWI—The Conference is almost here!

Since everyone is super-inspired with SCBWI Nationals this past weekend, it's a great time to mention that our local Austin SCBWI chapter has its annual conference coming up in February. Austin is a dynamic writing community filled with tons of amazing authors, and I love how strong and supportive our chapter is. So even if you've never attended a conference before, don't let that stop you. I can still remember the first SCBWI conference I went to. I knew one person, and I had a blast.

The conference is filled with great faculty, and I'll even be speaking (doing the presentation I did at the Digital Symposium back in October). So whether you're looking for a critique, great networking, or just some good inspiration, now is the time to sign up!

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Regional Conference 2012: Something for Everybody

February 17-19, 2012
Austin, TX
St. Edward's University
Ragsdale Center

*Registration is Now Open!*
Click Here

Are you a newbie? A multi-published old pro? Craft fiction or non? Do you write and/or illustrate with tiny tots, middle-graders or teens in mind? Do you favor the gleeful or the gothic tale? Are you ready to proudly present your amazing portfolio for the world to see? Does wading through the legalities of publishing world issues boggle your mind? Want to learn the basics of shameless self-promotion? Are you ready to take your work to a shiny new level of stellar excellence? Well, then, this conference is for you!

We've gathered together the industry's finest professionals – agents, editors, an art director, a publicist, a legal expert, authors, and illustrators – to offer something for everyone at the 2012 Austin SCBWI Chapter Regional Conference. We'd love to have you join us. Won't you?

Early bird Registration Base Rate– Register online or postmarked on or before Dec. 15, 2011: $135 Members / $150 Non-members

After Dec. 15, 2011: Base Rate is $150.00 Members/ $165.00 Non-members

Base-rate Registration includes:

Panels and lectures on writing, illustrating and the publishing businessAdmission to two Wine and Cheese Socials with Agents, Editors, and Esteemed GuestsAccess to Top Agents, an Art Director, and Editors throughout the weekendFriday Night ReadingsPortfolio Display and ContestDoor PrizesSilent AuctionSaturday morning Coffee/Tea BarDelicious catered lunchBook StoreAutograph Party

For an additional fee, you can add:

A 10-minute consultation with the Agent, Editor, or Accomplished Writer of your choiceA 50-minute professional review with Publicist Kristen Kappy (sold out)A 10-minute portfolio review with Art Director Patty HarrisSmall-Group Intensive SessionsA full day YA Intensive Session on Sunday, February 19

Space is limited for all of the above. So sign up now, no whining!

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SEE YOU THERE!