We have decided not to hold an in-person conference this year on October 30 because of uncertainty about conditions in the Fall. We are currently having virtual meetings to plan what we might do instead, possibly involving hosting live panels or speakers via digital streaming — on one or more dates.
We would love to hear from those who have ideas about what sorts of things they would like to see.
Also, if you have had positive — or negative — experience with online panels or conferences and have suggestions on how best to conduct them, please let us know.
WriteAngles Conference 
I think you should get together with Pioneer Valley Writers (led by Joy Biglio) and Straw Dog Writers Guild (Jackie Sheehan and others) and have ONE Writers conference. WAY BEFORE the Conference, I think you all should ASK THE MEMBERS OF EACH GROUP what they would want and prioritize at a Writers Conference. The many many writers conferences I have attended usually have all or some of three-point program.
1) The first is what I call THE DRAW. You have a famous writer talking about the nuts and bolts of their work — how they did it how it was received how they think it affected people; how it could be improved.
2) At least two very NUTS AND BOLTS workshops. For example, HOW TO WRITE DIALOGUE. HOW TO HANDLE TIME SHIFTS. THE QUESTION OF POV.
3) More abstract questions — To what extent should writers ‘take on’ “social justice issues?” Does it mean for a writer to ‘take more risks”? How does one write about family without creating future murderers seeking revenge.
Thanks for your ideas. We’ll talk about them.
That’s a wise decision. I had a great experience with the virtual literary festival I participated in last month. A friend and I offered a writing workshop, it attracted about 40 people from all over, and was very well-received. I’d be happy to submit a proposal if you decide to do an online conference.
All best!
Thanks for your idea — we’ll discuss this at our next meeting.