Another great way to connect with the writing community (not to mention SF/F/H fandom) is to attend conventions. Industry professionals lead panel discussions about every aspect of writing, publishing, and media appreciation. You can join in the conversation, ask burning questions, sign up for workshops, and -- most importantly, according to some -- attend fantastic parties.
As with most awesome experiences, the downside generally is cost. Between travel, lodging and attending membership, your out-of-pocket bill can quickly exceed your budget. Yes, maybe you can write off the expenses come tax-time, but 'til then it's a hefty chunk of change.
Which is why attending the smaller, ultra-local cons can be a great choice. And -- lucky you! -- ultra-local cons abound in this particular neighborhood. In fact, one of 'em is coming up this weekend -- tomorrow! -- and that would be COSine, the Science Fiction convention of Colorado Springs.
COSine runs from January 27 to 29 this year. It'll be held in the Crowne Plaza Colorado Springs ($80/night for a single or double). Full weekend attendance costs $45 for adults, $10 for kids 5-10. You can also pay for just a single day's attendance.
Highlights of this year's event include Guest of Honor Charles Stross, Special Guests Connie and Courtney Willis, over 20 other authors, a "Cowboys & Aliens Dance" on Saturday night, an art show, a dealer's room, a weekend-long video/film program, and a whole hecka lotta gaming (both scheduled and open).
Getting to Colorado Springs from Boulder is pretty simple by car. You can also get there on the comfortable, speedy and wi-fi enabled Front Range Express from Denver for a one-way fee of only $11. You'll need to find another way back, however, unless you plan to stay the whole weekend; the FREX only runs Monday through Friday.
Of course this isn't the only local con in the state; it's not even the only con hosted in Colorado Springs. After COSine's over, let's talk a bit about GalaxyFest, shall we?
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