July 2015 Workshop FAQs

Q: When is it?
A: July 23-26, 2015 in Kent, WA.

Q: Can you give me a Programming Description?
A: Our full list of 2015 Programming will be available in May 2015. Please click here to see our 2014 Programming.

Q: Where is it?
A:
This intimate workshop will be held at the Ramada Inn in Kent, WA — 22318 84th Ave S, Kent, WA 98032-1522 –phone 1-253-395-4300

Q: How may seats are available?
A:
We’re hosting this special workshop for just 25 writers.

How much does it cost?
A: $250 per person.

Q: Can I make payments on my registration fee?
A:
Please contact [email protected] for alternate payment options. Scholarship information will be available on this website in Spring of 2015.

Q: Who attends the event?
A: Writers at all levels attend our events, from beginners to graduates of Clarion West, Viable Paradise, Taos Toolbox and Rainforest Writers Village.

Q: When does Registration open and close?
A:
Registration is open now and closes June 15, 2015, or when seats are filled.

Q: Do you need to see or approve my sample before I register? What is it used for?
A:
No. You will upload your sample when you fill out the registration form. The purpose of the sample is not to disqualify participants. Instead, we use the sample to ensure groups contain writers of all experience levels.

Q: What is the sample used for?
A: Each person who requests a place in the workshop must submit a 1,000-word writing sample as part of their registration. We select workshop groups based on the writing samples and the genre you expect to workshop in July. Groups will be a mix of beginner writers and more experienced writers and will ideally be placed with workshop leaders comfortable in those genres.

Q: Do the genre of my sample and my Workshop submission need to be the same?
A:
No. In June, you’ll submit a 3750 word (about 15 pages) portion of a story or novel for your critique group. This does not need to have any relationship to the sample you send us during your registration.

How do you select the Workshop groups?
Using your initial writing sample and the genre of work you intend to workshop, we build groups based on a mix of experience levels and interests. We believe learning how to help other writers is as important as being mentored by others.

Q: What if I have to cancel?
A:
Because we are a non-profit organization with a slim budget, we are not able to offer refunds. However, you may transfer your registration to someone else. Depending on the time of year, we may also be able to assist with transferring registration to members of our waiting list.

Q: Is lodging included?
A: Lodging is not included.  Please visit the Kent, WA Ramada Inn’s website to book your room.  To get the special room rate for our event, give them the group name ‘Cascade Writers.’  If you would like to make your reservation by phone, the number is (253) 395-4300.

Q: Will there be Wi-Fi ?
A:
Yes, there is free Wi-Fi for all your insatiable internet needs.

Do I have to workshop speculative fiction?
A.
Though Cascade Writers has historically been a home for Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror, we welcome writers of all genres including romance, noir, thriller, literary, and all the rest.

What if I’m not sure I want to publish traditionally?
A.
As the publishing industry changes, we’ll be incorporating indie press and self-publishing programming to our schedule. We’re a fan of writers and writing in all possible permutations.

What if I don’t know anyone else at the event?
A.
We were new here once too! We welcome our first timers and our alumni. Hanging out with other writers is a great experience and most of us go home with more new friends and contacts. We’ll have a designated Staff person for you to contact with questions and scheduled time to meet and greet other first timers and alumni alike.

Does Cascade Writers have a Code of Conduct or Harassment Policy?
A.
Yes. Please email [email protected] for a copy. The Code will also be circulated in your welcome packets at the conference.

You haven’t answered my question!
A.
Please contact us at [email protected] so that we can help.