Writers Cantina Writing Conference...Another Success

Yesterday, the presentations were packed up, the posters taken down, good-byes were exchanged and promises to keep in touch were made.

The second-ever Writers Cantina writing conference came to an end.

Another amazing success.

Last year was an experiment--having no history, we didn't know if it would even work. Turns out, it did, so we scheduled another one, added another day, and waited for the months and weeks to pass until we could do it again. 

What I love about this conference is it has something for a writer at almost every level, just starting out, having a few things published, a seasoned writer, and the pro. A friend of mine who has produced double-digit novels wanted to sit in on a panel of a writer who can sell, and I mean...really sell. My friend wanted to learn from the master how to become better salesman.

Another thing I love is the cantina aspect, large spaces where creatives can gather, catch-up, swap stories, network, and make new friends--even hear a guitar lick or two. I pitched an anthology idea to a writer I highly respect and he's on board. 

We're scheduled for Writers Cantina, 3rd Edition for July, 2025. I can't wait. Thanks Nate. Thanks Jana. Thanks JC. And thank you to everyone who came, helped on panels, and made this year's edition another amazing success.

Check out the pictures of some of the great times.

Yeah...It's A Scam

 This one was interesting. Since I do (or try to do...) a lot of writing, I am on my computer many hours of the day, not including while at my day job. When you're on the computer, if you're like me, you check out social media posts from time to time. I've seen my share of scams, both on social media and almost every e-mail I receive...

So many scams.

Yesterday, I see the above add pop up on my Facebook timeline. I've seen posts like this before..."We're having a moving sale and need to clear everything out," or "We're decluttering and we're sick of all this stuff--come and get it." But this one, was different.

The seller was an author friend. I have literally hundreds of author Facebook friends, many of whom I've never met. This isn't unusual. I think all authors have friended other authors without actually meeting them. So, I started reading and if someone could have crafted the perfect ad for my family at this point in time, this would have been it. Sure, we could use the other stuff, but I have two sons looking for transportation. The youngest...a truck, the other, a reliable car. This ad had both, and for prices that would make a miser cry (namely, me...). Plus, they were selling a tractor for dirt cheap and we just ordered five tons of gravel that needs to be moved.

Still, I was leery. The prices were too good to be true, but you never know unless you ask. I began a text dialogue with my Facebook "friend."

I thought, what the heck...I'll continue, even though the response contained several grammatical errors.

I can forgive errors on a text, as my response includes a misspelled word, but this is supposed to be a writer, and she should know better. Then again, maybe she was just excited to have someone come and take these things off her hands.

I was still thinking this was a scam, and her next response confirmed it--pay a deposit, to me a sure scam sign. I thought I'd give her a test just to make sure.

All of our mutual Facebook friends are writers. I'm involved in a writing conference coming up next month called the Writers Cantina. I thought I'd throw it out to see if she was coming, or at least, say something about it. That's the response I got. "Don't talk about other things, I have stuff to sell."

I thought I'd give her one more chance.

She didn't bite. She returned to the deposit, then surprisingly, asked if I was a bot. That made me laugh. I asked for some specific information from her to see if it was really her, and she blew it off. I told her we weren't interested and wished her with the relocation of "her father."

That's the thing about scams...you want them to be real so badly. If this were real and we bought the two vehicles and the tractor, we'd be saving around $25k, and that's after paying the posted price.

Maybe it's because I'm getting older, but I go back to the old adage: it's it sounds too good to be true...

It probably is.

Writers Cantina...Registration Is Now Open!

 As sure as winter turns to spring and those who live in colder climes venture out from their hibernated states, a writer's mind turns to other things...creative things. It's perfect then, that we're about to enter the season of gatherings. Or, in other words...

Writing conventions.

Last year a group of friends and colleagues decided there ought to be yet another destination for those who want to improve their craft, and so the Writers Cantina Writers Conference was born. The newborn entity took its first steps last summer. This summer, we're seeing if it'll speak.

What will those first words be, I wonder.

If you're in the area June 28 - 29, 2024, check us out. For more information, check out the website by clicking: HERE. You can also register to let us know you're coming.

Writers Cantina focuses on providing practical and useful knowledge to both the novice and experienced writer. What I love about smaller conferences is the access you have to some incredible talent. There's something for everyone--those with the knowledge and experience helping those looking for help. 

Last year, was great. We're working to make this year even better.

Give Thanks...A Writer Reunion

 Last weekend several writers at various stages of their creative career gathered for a one-day writing conference. It was a reunion for sorts for four of us. Those of us in the above picture all have at least one thing in common...we were all published through a small press, Xchyler Publishing. 

The name brings back so many wonderful memories.

Xchyler was my first paid gig. They published three of my short stories, two steampunk shorts and a paranormal, in various anthologies. The first one came out ten years ago and it changed my life.

I had graduated with my masters in English a few years before. I saw a call for submissions on a steampunk anthology. I entered. My piece was chosen. The year Mechanized Masterpieces came out, I went to my first writing con. As I sat at a vendor table, a family passed, everyone decked out in excellent steampunk cosplay. The father stopped and we chatted. I explained Xchyler was looking for submissions in their anthologies and hopefully publish any novels their short story writers had written. The man took the card.

He was a writer and submitted several stories to Xchyler. His stories were chosen. He told his co-worker about Xchyler and the co-worker submitted stories, too. His were also chosen. Those two authors have gone on to write and edited numerous novels. In addition, they have become ambassadors for writing in my state.

All of us at one time opened a box of books and saw our names on the cover. We can thank Xchyler for that. I'm grateful for Xchyler for publishing our words and stories. I'm grateful I can call these writers friends. I'm grateful someone took a chance on some unknowns. The reunion was wonderful. Hopefully, we can do it again next year.

Give Thanks...Smiles From The Writers Cantina Con

The smiles told the story. In the morning I saw people descend the stairs excited for the event to begin. Eight hours later, the same people ascended the stairs, tired but happy...

The smiles told the story.

Yesterday the inaugural Writers Cantina finally arrived. The idea began last year, a few writers wanted to create an event where writers could gather to discuss writing...not other things found at other writing conferences, but the art of writing--what is is and how to improve the craft. The con's main cheerleader was Nathan Shumate. His determination and passion pushed the idea forward. He created the non-profit, booked the venue, and organized the volunteers.

I helped, but mostly I sat and BS'd with good friends and new acquaintances. Nate's vision was to have a writers conference where everyone--panelists and attendees alike--were treated like special guests. The "Green Room" was unlike any I've ever seen. The room was open to everyone complete with snacks (good snacks...) and tables where a novice writer could sit and talk shop with an Internationally known bestselling author.

Nate's vision turned out to be just what we wanted and just what we needed.

It was only a one day affair. We're hoping to double the days next year. That's the goal, anyway. But since Nate's goals for this year's show appear to have turned out, I have faith it'll get done. We have other plans for next year as well.

I'm grateful to be involved (albeit to a small degree...) with this event. I'm grateful for friends who gave up their time and talents to help writers who, a few years earlier, sat in the audience chairs instead of a panelist's chair. I'm grateful to have found such an amazing group.

Yes, the smiles--excited at the beginning of the day, tired at the end, but smiles none the less--told the story, the story of storytellers sharing a Saturday together. See you next year!

Join Us...Won't You?

 At 9am tomorrow morning, a group of hardy authors will gather at a convention hall in West Valley City, Utah.

You should join us.

To be honest, I have no idea what's going to happen tomorrow. It's new for everyone...for the organizers, for the panelists, for the attendees. I do know, however (because I know most of the people involved...) that it's going to be a lot of fun.

I mean, how could it not be?

There will be intellectuals, gamers, nerds, science fiction enthusiasts, fantasy enthusiasts, and others. They'll be under one roof for one day, the first and only day of the Writers Cantina Writing Conference. I will be there to help facilitate the activities and hopefully help others have an amazing time. 

The event is relatively cheap--since pre-registration has come and gone, it's only $20 for people 13 and older, $5 for anyone 12 and under. That's a steal--don't let anyone tell you differently. We'll have best-selling authors, gamers, video game creators, but mostly writers who can't wait to share the "tricks of the trade."

The location: The Utah Cultural Celebration Center, or UCCC. It's at: 1355 W 3100 S, West Valley City, UT 84119. Registration and check-in are from 9am to 9:50am. Then, the fun really begins.

You can learn more by clicking: HERE. I'd love to see you there. 

Utah's Newest Writer's Conference...Writers Cantina...Is Almost Here

 It's getting closer...can you feel it?

In exactly ten days, writers will assemble, gather, join each other to swap stories, tell jokes, brag (sometimes to the point of lying...), and have a great time. It's something, if you're considering coming, you should do.

The conference is on July 8th at the Utah Cultural Celebration Center, or UCCC for short. It's in West Valley City, Utah. Click: HERE for information on the center. The cost is $15 if you register early, and a little bit more (but not much...) day of the event.

One good thing about attending the inaugural event is you can make history by just being there. You'll be able to tell your kids/grandkids/random strangers that you were there when the doors opened for the first time, when the awesomeness that flowed throughout the conference washed over you and changed your life forever.

But seriously, it you're in town and would like to spend a Saturday among some amazing writers and invited guests and presenters, click: HERE and check out the conference. We'd love to see you there.

It's getting closer...can you feel it?

Writers Cantina...The Schedule Is Posted

 

As time ticks on, things that seemed far in the future become nearer...such is the way of it. We make plans, we invite others, we set the date, then we plan. During the months between first idea and final event, people reach out and are contacted, commitments made, and because we tend to be an organize bunch (some of us, anyway...), a spreadsheet forms, names added, times chosen, until a schedule is done.

Subject to change, of course.

The one-day schedule for the Writers Cantina Writing Convention is up. You can access it by clicking: HERE. The plan is for the convention to grow and next year, and have it even bigger the year after that. I'm excited to see how this thing turns out. 

We've got exactly fifty-four days until the doors open in West Valley City. Check out the schedule and see if there's something you'd be interested in. Even if not, you can hang with some tremendous authors and chew the fat. It's going to be great.

Writers Cantina Presenter Spotlight: Larry Correia...Bringing Out The Big Guns

 In our local literary universe, you've got moons, and planets. Some planets are bigger than others...it's just the way of it. And one of the bigger planets in our solar system is our latest Writers Cantina presenter spotlight: Larry Correia.

Larry is a true literary success story. He is proof that with hard work and dedication to the craft can pay off big time. His success story is fascinating. 

Larry and another presenter, Steve Diamond host the Writer Dojo podcast where the two (and invited guests...) deliver valuable information on how to not only be a better writer, but all the other things new writers don't know they don't know.

If you've met Larry, you know he's a straight shooter, to use another gun analogy. It's apt because for years Larry worked as a writer covering the firearms industry. He knows his stuff, and that knowledge has helped him build an incredibly loyal fanbase. Plus, when you attend any panel in which Larry is involved, it's not your average panel. You never quite know what's going to happen.

Larry has a huge personality and in exactly sixty days, you can attend the inaugural Writers Cantina writing convention on July 8th, 2023 in West Valley City, Utah and find out for yourself.

We'd love to see you there.

Writers Cantina Presenter Spotlight: Jay Barnson...Gentleman, Author

 Jay Barnson is an author and computer programmer and another featured presenter at this year's Writers Cantina Writing Convention taking place on July 8, 2023 in West Valley City, Utah...exactly sixty-five days from today.

He's also a great guy.

I remember first meeting Jay at a steampunk convention almost ten years ago. I was attending my very first event--even got to participate on a panel. I was there trying to sell books, specifically my first published work, a short story in a steampunk anthology called, Mechanized Masterpieces.  My Story, Little Boiler Girl changed my life.

The table was set up and Jay stopped by along with his family. They were all decked out in awesome steampunk garb...they cosplayed and did a wonderful job at it, too. I remember talking to him about the publisher and how they were looking for authors and they used their anthologies to mine for talent. Fast forward a couple of years and Jay and I were both in another anthology. Then, because apparently Jay can't stop writing, he's published a series, then he goes and starts another.

I've gotten to know Jay better in those ten years, as well as his family. They are great people. Before the great shutdown, we used to see each other several times a year. It was always fun catching up. If you attend this year's inaugural Writers Cantina convention, be sure catch any panel in which Jay in involved. It'll be well worth your time. You can access the convention's website by clicking: HERE, and find out more about Jay at the convention by clicking: HERE.

Jay Barnson...gentleman, author, all-around great author and even better person.

Writers Cantina Presenter Spotlight: Steve Diamond...Honestly, Great

 Steve Diamond has been announced as a presenter for the Writers Cantina Writing Convention taking place exactly seventy-five days from today on July 8th.

Believe me...if you're into horror writing and how to do it well, Steve is one presenter you won't want to miss.

Steve's literary stock is rising with current and future projects on many bestseller lists. What makes Steve so successful is he's put in the work. I first met Steve when, in addition to his writings, he was a much sought-after reviewer. I asked if he'd review my book and he said he would, but he gave me a warning. He told me that if my novel was chosen, I'd better be prepared for an honest review, and not just honest, but brutally honest. He told me that good reviews from him can very much help a book, but the opposite an be said if they find my words less than adequate.

I ended up passing on the review, not because his words scared me. It's just something I didn't do. Even thought I didn't know Steve well at all, that little conversation told me one thing--he is honest. What you get from Steve is the real article. He is who is says he is, no matter the consequences.

This is not only a fantastic trait for a reviewer, but for an author as well. 

Check out Steve at the Writers Cantina website by clicking: HERE, and Steve's page specifically by clicking: HERE. Steve and the other presenters are well worth it.

Writers Cantina Presenter Spotlight: Jana S. Brown...She Loves The Written Word

 I've never read any of Jana's books, but from doing a little research, there's one thing I can say about her...

She loves the written word.

I mean, she must considering how much time and effort she's put into writing, editing, collaborating. To do that, you have to be dedicated to the craft. Otherwise, you'd throw in the towel a long time ago. 

In exactly 79 days, Jana will be among other writers and editors gathering at the Writer's Cantina writers convention, held on July 8th, 2023 in West Valley City, Utah. You can learn more about the convention by clicking on her webpage on the convention's website: HERE. You can also access Jana's Amazon page by clicking; HERE.

What I've found while researching these presenters is a kinship, common bond among writers. When I see the number of titles, the collections under her name, I respect what she's done. It's not easy to create that amount of work.

If you go to the conference, you'll learn more about her and the other excellent presenters scheduled to attend. I hope to get to know them better myself.

Writers Cantina Presenter Spotlight: D.L. Campanile...She Knows Her Business

 News dropped recently of another presenter at the Writers Cantina writing conference. D. L. Campanile will be included with other excellent presenters at the inaugural event taking place exactly 87 days from today.

You can find out more about D. L. on the conference website by clicking: HERE. On the author's page, we learn about D. L.'s background in business. If you know anything about being a writer, you understand the importance of knowing the fundamentals of business. In many ways, much of an author's success depends on this knowledge.

One thing I learned early on about being a writer is that you're also by default the owner/operator/sole proprietor of a business. Your product is not just the words you put on paper/digital paper, but your image, your brand, your style...pretty much anything associated with you and what your produce. It's something most authors don't consider, but should.

If you attend the Writers Cantina conference on July 8th in West Valley City, Utah, D. L.'s knowledge of both writing and business is only some of the excellent advice you can glean from our presenters and other attendees. Click: HERE for conference information above to learn more about registering, as well as the other announced presenters. 

D. L. Campanile...she knows her business.

Writers Cantina Presenter Spotlight: J.C. Chambers III...A Writer Of Fun Stories

 I've heard said that the hardest thing to pull off, is comedy. In theater, film, if you can nail the comedy, you've accomplished a lot. If an actor is successful in comedic roles, they can almost always succeed in dramatic roles. Robin Williams, Melissa McCarthy, Whoopi Goldberg, Tom Hanks, Steve Martin, Jim Carrey are but a few of highly successful dramatic actors who were once only known for their comedy.

The same can be said for authors.

Comedy is tough.

But, if you can make people laugh, you've reached them in a way that few others can. J.C. Chambers III is a writer who admits he, "decided to write fun stories. And much to the exasperation of literally everyone around him, he never stopped trying to write fun stories."

Take, for example, his Cocoon Chronicles series. As Book One (Begrenesh Initiate) on the book's Amazon page has been described as, "The Cocoon Chronicles are a high-flying, action-packed, and comedic romp through a completely new fantasy world filled with fantastic locations, original creatures, and secrets just waiting to be discovered." You can access the Amazon page by clicking: HERE.

In only 96 days from today, you can attend the Writers Cantina writers conference and hear from J.C. himself. Find out why comedy is so important and get tips on creating more humor in your own writing. Or just attend to hear some great stories. You can access the conference website by clicking: HERE, or learn more about J.C. by clicking his presenter page: HERE.

Register today.

Writers Cantina Presenter Spotlight: Jared Garrett...A Fascinating Author

 As I got to know my local writing community, a name kept popping up. This is a testament to this person's persistence as a self-marketer. A few years ago at a League of Utah Writer's conference (held at the same hotel where my wife and I had our wedding reception...) I finally met Jared Garrett.

Since then, I've gotten to know more about Jared.

The more I learn, the more fascinating a writer and person he's become.

Check out Jared's bio on his website. After reading that, you'll agree with me that he's not your average Utah writer (and that's a good thing...). You can access the bio page by clicking: HERE.

When you don't know someone but share many friends, you sort of get an opinion of the person--it's difficult not to. Since meeting and getting to know Jared I've found him to be as fascinating as I thought, but also a fun, upbeat, thoughtful person who is generous with his time.

In just 103 days, you can have the opportunity to attend the Writers Cantina conference and hear Jared as one of our presenters. You can access the conference website by clicking: HERE and more information about Jared as a presenter by clicking: HERE. If you're on the fence about attending, Jared is one other excellent reason to show up.

Writers Cantina Presenter Spotlight: Holli Anderson...Wearer Of Many Hats

 The Writers Cantina writer's conference announced more presenters this past week, included among them is Holli Anderson. Holli is an accomplished author...

And so much more.

I first met Holli almost a decade ago at the first Salt Lake Comic Con, now FanX. She was one of several authors representing Curiosity Quills Publishing. They had published a few of her books with more on the way. A few years later, I never hear of Curiosity Quills, but I definitely have heard of Immortal Works.

An independent publishing house Holli and a few other authors created.

In 109 short days you can attend the inaugural one-day writer's conference and hear from Holli and the other excellent presenters. You can access the conference website by clicking: HERE and learn more about Holli by clicking her Writers Cantina page: HERE or her Amazon author page: HERE.

Yes, Holli wears many hats, and wears them extremely well.

Writers Cantina Presenter Spotlight: John M Olsen...Gentleman, Author

 The Writers Cantina announced yet another presenter this week, John M. Olsen, the writing conference that begins in just 115 short days.

The local writing community seems big, but actually it's a small group. Yes, there are hundreds, even thousands of authors, but when you gather for local conventions and conferences as often as they do, you get to know everyone, or at least you get to know someone who knows someone (sort of a few degrees of separation situation...). Ten years ago, no local author knew of John...he hadn't written/published much...

What a difference a decade can make.

I met John when both he and I were published in some of the same anthologies from the same publisher. Because of this, we'd spend many hours talking as we tried selling books at various conventions and conferences around the state. We also found out we had other connections. He went to high school and was friends with my brother-in-law back in the day, and his wife and I attended the U of U at the same time and participated in the LDS fraternity/sorority functions. After a decade of seeing each other several times a year, I consider them both good friends.

John has thrown himself into the writing world. He's produced novel after novel and even ascended to president of the League of Utah Writers. As a presenter, John brings a lifetime of practical experience, including that of an author, editor, and leader. If you want to know how to succeed in the confusing and sometimes overwhelming world of writing, John is an incredible resource.

You can find out more about the Writers Cantina writers conference by clicking: HERE, and more about John specifically by clicking: HERE.

I know many authors personally, not as many as some, but more than most. I can honestly say John is a great writer/editor/collaborator...but he's an even better person.

Writers Cantina Presenter Spotlight: Lance Conrad...Apparently, You Can't Stop Him

 Lance Conrad will be in the house (the Writers Cantina house...) in just 117 short days.

And based on the bio on his website, he can't wait.

I have never personally spoken with Lance, but I did see him in action last summer. Our local library has an open house in the spring to kick off their summer of reading. It was my first year participating and even though I only sold one book, I had a great time.

I set up my table between two of my author friends, one of which knows Lance very well. He told me to watch Lance in action, saying the man can sell books like few others. I watched and can confirm...my friend was right. He's engaging, fun, knowledgable, and personable...everything a successful author needs to be but few actually are.

I'm excited to get to know him better at this year's Writers Cantina writing conference. It'll take place on July 8th in West Valley City, Utah. You can find out more about the conference by clicking: HERE and find out more about Lance by clicking: HERE. If you'd like to visit his website, click: HERE.

Writers are a strange breed...

Of course, some are stranger than others. ;)

Writers Cantina Presenter Spotlight: Brad R. Torgersen...Military Man

 Another presenter for the Writers Cantina Writing Convention has been announced, and now, you can read up on our next guest author.

Brad R. Torgersen.

If you are not familiar with Brad's work, you're missing out.

I've read several of Brad's works. Torgersen's name has been compared with giants in the science fiction world...Heinlein, Clarke, among others. I agree. His stories are deep, thoughtful, introspective. His novel, The Chaplain's War, mixes themes of philosophy, religion, self-reflection, and the role the military plays in not only our culture, but that of other sentient species as well. I loved the novel, as well as other anthologies he has created.

In addition to his writing career, Brad is a National Guard reservist. My father served in WWII as did four of his brothers. I have the upmost respect for anyone willing to serve and put their lives on the line for people they've never met. I believe this experience has given Brad a valuable and important perspective and it shows in his writings. I've attended several conferences where Brad presented. If you're interested in learning more about writing in general and science fiction writing specifically, Brad alone is definitely worth the price of admission.

In just 124 days, the doors of the Utah Cultural Center in West Valley City, Utah will open and (hopefully...) many will attend a day of learning, presenting, networking, and overall good times. If that interests you, click: HERE to access the conference website and click: HERE to read more about presenter Brad Torgersen.

Writers Cantina Presenter Spotlight: D.J. (Dave) Butler...Esquire

 Sure, it's months away, but why not get excited about the event now?

Exactly.

On July 8th, 2023--a mere 127 days from today--authors will gather, stories will be swapped, relationships formed and strengthened, and most important, knowledge will be both given and received. That's where D.J. Butler comes in. He, along with others, will be presenting at the Writers Cantina Utah writers convention.

One of many,

And they're looking for more.

Click: HERE to access the event's webpage. Click: HERE to read more about the amazing Mr. Butler. Yes, it is the conference's inaugural voyage. I remember hearing about the Salt Lake Comic Con's inaugural show. They booked a hall, then booked William Shatner...

Then they booked the state's biggest vendor space to handle all the people who wanted to attend. It was nuts. Now, will the same thing happen to this little gathering? Possibly. I mean, once the masses hear that they booked D.J. (Dave), well...who knows what can happen?

Exactly.