I saw an event at the Smithsonian, in case anyone else here is interested. Although, on the downside, it takes from 10-4 on a November Saturday. It sounds interesting, though, so I thought I'd share.
From: http://residentassociates.org/ticketing/tickets/reserve.aspx?utm_source=...
Mystery writer John Gilstrap takes you through the process of developing a spine-tingling page-turner from concept to completion using writing exercises and discussion. By seminar's end, you'll be on your way to writing fiction with a criminally clever twist.
Please bring pencil and paper.
10 to to 11:15 a.m. Putting Pen to Paper
How to create a believable plot and keep suspense high throughout the narrative.
11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Creating Compelling Characters
Mystery fans are tough. They may forgive a faulty plot device but never one without a character to love—and maybe one to hate.
12:45 to 2 p.m. Lunch
Participants provide their own lunch.
2 to 3:15 p.m. Draft No. 2 of 30
The practical side of structural decision-making; using an outline; gathering facts; knowing when to stop polishing details.
3:30 to 4:30 p.m. After It Is Finally Done
Finding the right agent; pros and cons of self-publishing.
QUICK TIX CODE: 1H0-618
LOCATION
S. Dillon Ripley Center
1100 Jefferson Drive, SW
Metro: Smithsonian Mall Exit (Blue/Orange)
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46,212 / 50,000
nov. 3, 2009 - 10 19
Yeah, I saw that... it sounded really interesting to me until I saw the price tag... $131 unless you're a member of the Smithsonian Resident Associate Program!
And while I'm sure that it's an excellent seminar and well worth the $131, I can't fit that kind of expenditure into my budget!
If anyone takes it let us know know it went!! :)
----------Whitney
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NaNoWriMo Virgin, 2007
10-90: The Life and Times of an American Bank Robber [50,143]
NaNoWriMo "Pro", 2008
(Untitled) [50,445]
NaNoWriMo "Master", 2009
Collective Noveling Adventure [14,769 and counting]
39,392 / 50,000
nov. 3, 2009 - 14 37
Um. I have a ticket for it. I'm a member of the Resident Associates. It is taking away time but I'm hoping to build up enough of a cushion that it'll be okay.