General Information
Welcome to Western/Central Upstate NY's home on the SCBWI web!
Our region encompases NY state from just west of Albany to Buffalo, and from the Pennsylvania border to Canada!
Our annual conference is in January or early February, and is held in Baldwinsville, a suburb northwest of Syracuse, NY. Easily accessible from Rte 81 or the Thruway, this conference is a great way to chase away the winter blues, recommit to writing or illustrating, and make new friends. A full day conference, this event will always feature an author, an illustrator or an editor (or agent). Afternoon breakout sessions follow morning speeches and a delicious lunch. I can't forget to mention the awesome doorprizes handed out at this conference, too!
Other events are added at venues around the state as needed. Rochester has been the site for the past two years for a "Nuts and Bolts" conference. This event is geared towards the newer writer and illustrator, and is a fun way to get your feet wet and your questions answered.
Every other year we'll host a writers retreat for our more experienced members. Focusing on the novel, this retreat gives seasoned writers a chance to hone their craft and meet other professionals.
Local Shop Talk meetings around the state are a great way to get information and connect with local members. They are as follows:
Syracuse: Last Tuesday of every month, Erie Blvd Barnes and Noble, 7pm.
Rochester: First Thursday of every month (except July and August!). Barnes and Noble, Pittsford, 7pm. This event run by RACWI, Rochester Area Children's Writers and Illustrators.
Ithaca: First Monday of every month. Bookery II Bookstore, Dewitt Mall, Downtown Ithaca. 6-8PM. Contact Laura Gates-Lupton, alpine_writer@yahoo.com
Buffalo: First Thursday of every month. B is for Books Bookstore (6562 E. Quaker St) Contact: Collen Darby, colleen@colleendarby.com
Southern Tier: Third Wednesday of every month. Barnes and Noble, Town Square Mall in Vestal, 7PM. Contact, Betsy Garufi: shine@stny.rr.com.
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