NSNC 2015 — Indianapolis
By Michelle Freed
2015 Conference Committee
National Society of Newspaper Columnists
1909 poster advertising the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (which opened in 1909).
Public domain
Writers are a work in progress. Always. Times change, perspectives adjust, and the quest for that perfect sentence or paragraph never ends. As Ernest Hemingway said, “We are all apprentices in a craft where no one ever becomes a master.”
Work on your craft this summer in Indianapolis and learn from some of the best writers and industry influencers at the 2015 National Society of Newspaper Columnists Conference, June 25-28. This annual gathering of columnists and bloggers from across the country features a jam-packed agenda that will foster your creative mojo, help you grow as a writer, and give you amazing stories to tell all your friends.
This year’s theme, Black & White and Read All Over, references the changing world of publishing, from traditional newspaper columns to online content, where the world can read your work with a click of a button. It’s also a nod to Indianapolis, and its rich history as the Racing Capital of the World.
But what about speakers? It’s a stellar lineup, including: Chicago Tribune columnist and Pulitzer Prize winner Mary Schmich; Judith Martin (a.k.a. Miss Manners); Pulitzer Prize winner and photojournalist Bill Foley; Tony Messenger, editorial page editor of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch; and Gene Seymour, film critic who has written about music, movies and culture for The New York Times, Newsday, Entertainment Weekly and The Washington Post. And that’s only the beginning.
During the conference, attendees will also enjoy excursions to:
Indianapolis Motor Speedway — The IMS, known as the highest-capacity sports venue in the world, will be hosting the inaugural appearance of the Bloomington Gold Corvettes USA, “The Granddaddy of Corvette Shows,” from June 25-27. The nation’s most prestigious and longest-running all-Corvette show will include a gigantic one-of-a-kind display of Corvettes with many of the world’s most valuable and collectible models. IMS is the home of the Indianapolis 500 and the Brickyard 400, and has a permanent seating capacity of 257,325.
Indiana State Museum — This world-class museum features exhibits and hands-on experiences that showcase the unique stories, events and characters that have helped shape Indiana’s history. Participants will enjoy the special exhibit Art Meets News: The Work of Photojournalist Bill Foley. Hoosier Bill Foley has spent decades recording news and events in his remarkable photographs. He’s captured the last known living portrait of Anwar Sadat and the first photos of the Sabra and Shatila massacre, for which he won a Pulitzer Prize in 1983. His iconic photos put a face on the complexities of politics, the tragedy of war, and the universality of the human spirit.
Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library — In honor of his wit and wisdom, the Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library champions the literary, artistic and cultural contributions of the late writer, artist, teacher and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut. The library/museum serves as a cultural and educational resource unique to the nation. [/]
While urban adventures are thrilling, perhaps the most alluring attraction comes in the form of the NSNC hospitality suite — one of the most anticipated features of our annual gathering. The suite is a writer’s haven, where attendees can network and exchange ideas the old-fashioned way: through personal conversation. Is there anything better?
You’ll also get some free time to use as you please, whether it’s exploring all that downtown Indy has to offer, or soaking in the beauty of The Alexander, a boutique hotel recognized for its emphasis on art and design. Guests will enjoy stunning accommodations, inspirational meeting spaces, unparalleled views of the city and an energetic vibe that will help make the weekend unforgettable.
Come feed your soul. Continue your quest for writing excellence. Grow. Learn. Enjoy.
Give yourself the gift of connecting with other writers and forming lasting friendships. We can’t wait to see you there. For conference details, visit our registration page.
Other links for story:
Indianapolis
http://www.visitindy.com/
The Alexander
