The Audio Publishers Association is gearing up for its busiest season, and has announced the dates and locations of its major spring events. The organization's annual educational conference, APAC, will be held Thursday, June 3, 2004, at the Union League Club in Chicago. APAC is the traditional kickoff for audio publishers and others interested in the audio industry who are attending BookExpo America. APA member publishers may take advantage of a special rate to book rooms and suites at the Union League Club. For room and APAC information, please contact the APA's Lesa Farris at (703) 556-7172.

This year, APAC will include three distinct tracks of programming (Publishers, Fundamentals, Narrators), so that members/attendees may pursue their specific interests. The professional track for publishers includes panels on negotiating and on attracting more listeners. Audiobook publishing basics include "Deciding on a Format." Narrators will have the opportunity to hear stars in the field and get advice about working with producers.

Also in the Windy City during BEA, the Ninth Annual Audies Awards Gala will be held on Friday, June 4, at the Winter Garden of the Chicago Public Library, 400 S. State St. Tickets and corporate sponsorship packages are available for purchase by members through APA headquarters.

And on Saturday afternoon, June 5, convention-goers can take a break at the BEA/APA Audiobook Tea. Scott Turow, Kinky Friedman, Amy Tan and Augusten Burroughs comprise the lineup of featured authors/speakers for the event.

Watch for more event details in our May 3 issue.