In November of 2008, I met the folks at Motown Writers Network at the suggestion of a friend. I attended their Conference, The Essence of Motown Literary Jam. The Network holds conferences yearly. Quite a great group of people!
If you are an aspiring author in the Metropolitan Detroit area, this is definitely an organization you may want to check out. Not only have they veteran authors, but didactic in-services at their Conferences ranging in topics from self publishing to film making. They also offer monthly author workshops at Barnes and Noble on the campus at Wayne State University featuring top writers and break out sessions regarding issues writers and authors face.
If you have a moment, and you are interested in checking them out, See: http://motownwriters.homestead.com/. I am sure you won't be disappointed.
Look for an upcoming podcast of a presentation on Overcoming Social Anxiety and Public Speaking subsequent to the weekend of September 12th, 2009 . . .
bravenet.com