URI English Department to host June writers' conference

The University of Rhode Island will offer its second Ocean State Summer Writing Conference, due in large part to the success of its inaugural conference last year.

The conference, sponsored by URI's English Department, will be held Friday, June 20, and Saturday, June 21. Pre-conference writing workshops will run Thursday afternoon, June 19, and Friday morning, June 20.

Featured speaker, URI 1978 alumna Ann Hood, the author of more than 10 books, whose memoir "Comfort," comes out next month, will open the conference. Poets Denise Duhamel and Nick Carbó will give a keynote address on "Poetic Inspiration" the next day.

Internationally known poetcomposer Nina Cassian will read from her work on Friday. A concert featuring her music will be held that evening. There will be no charge for conference participants.

The conference offers panel discussions, and craft presenters will lead sessions about a particular aspect of or approach to writing fiction, non-fiction, and poetry, giving participants the opportunity to read, write, and respond. Participants will be able to retreat to a special Workout Room this year to write or receive one-on-one feedback. Readings and book signings are also offered.

The conference fee is $135 for the general public, $100 for students with a valid student ID. There is a $30 additional charge for dinner on Friday night. The pre-conference fee is $125 for the general public, $55 for students with a valid student ID.

For a full schedule of events and online registration go to www. uri.edu/artsci/eng/SummerWriting/ 08/index.html. Enrollment is limited.