Kick-Off – January 2nd, 2013

The first meeting of 2013 was a seam-buster as we had to ask our gracious hosts at the Nokomis Fire Department for more chairs. With twenty in attendance, including first time guests Nancy Lucas, Becky Fried, Gene Caffrey, Sasha, and Meaghan, we made up for the regulars who were under the weather of the nasty flu bug floating around. My apologies to Sasha and Meaghan, I didn't get their last names. We also welcomed Jean Vogele from the poets group, who later read two of her great poems. Welcome to everyone.

As promised, Kat opened with a great presentation on starting your own blog. She handed out copies of the presentation so everyone could follow and make notes. We post all member links on the sidebar of this blog, so any member who submits their blog address to me will be listed. I expect I'll be adding a few more after Kat's easy-to-understand presentation.

After the regular welcoming and catching up on upcoming book fairs, Peter Frickel graciously stepped in for Rod DiGruttolo, who was under the weather, and wielded the invisible gavel for the reading part of the meeting. We would all like to diversify the readings somewhat and asked that future readings not be limited to self-written material, but also include passages from a favorite novel, or writings from an author who inspired or terrified you, or angered you. Even a well written column or article. Food for thought for future meetings.

Lois Stern asked about interest in doing a cable television show for writers being put together by a friend of hers. There were several deep in thought about the idea, but there were no immediate responses. I'm sure Lois would like to hear from anyone interested.

Peter read first, with an excerpt from T.S. Eliot, and as always evoked reflective thought with the selection. Russ Heitz followed with a selection from the great John Steinbeck. If anyone wants to describe a setting or environment with out the “-ly” words, they need to read the first few pages of Grapes of Wrath to see how it is done.

Joanne read next with her developing story, Adventures of a Sea Hag, this time getting us through the Windward Passage, all the way to the first time her skipper called her “Honey.” Great writing, at least this time we didn't need Dramamine to enjoy the sail. 

Don Westerfield surprised everyone with a short story, The Gift, which he graciously submitted for critique according to our new guidelines. He had copies for everyone, double spaced for space for comments and notes. He received really favorable feed back, but we kept the serious critiques on paper to be picked up at the next meeting.

Ed Ellis read his reworked futuristic tale of post-nuclear war and once again had everyone riding with him in the front seat as his protagonist banged fenders and fought his way out of Chicago. He miraculously edited his initial draft from using “I” 161 times to none! Zero! The word “I” never appeared in the rework. A remarkable task in itself. Try it sometime on something you've written in the first person.

We took a short break, then started the second part with two great poems by Jean Vogele. We hope Jean becomes a regular member, her works are just great! Chris Burton, who drives all the way down from Bradenton just for our meeting, read two really good pieces, Addy and Looking Glass. Cris reads with a verve that enhances her already great writing, we are glad she makes the long trip!

Robin Wise flipped on the humor switch with her crisp wit and sense of humor with a piece that drew enthusiastic applause, followed by a lesson in losing and finding accents by George Collias that actually had people laughing out loud. Both outstanding writers showing that good writing can evoke laughter as well as pathos, smiles as well as frowns and we found no better way to wrap up the meeting.

Coming up: Florida Writers Association Regional Director for Central Florida, AJ Robinson, will speak at the Feb 6^th meeting on the New Publishing World. Mark the first meeting in February on your calendar.

Once again, thank you Kat, for the great presentation.

Our next meeting will be January 16^th, see you then.

George

December 5th, 2012

We kicked off the meeting with thirteen writers attending at 6:30 pm.  Rod DiGruttolo again skillfully wielded the gavel and ran another great meeting.  We welcomed back Susan Haley, iconic founder and spark-plug for the group. Susan spent the summer with friends and relatives and returned only two days before the meeting. We also welcomed back Robin Wise and Dianne Shedlock, and it was good to see Ben drop in once again. It was another great evening as we heard from Russ Heitz who, working on an idea from Irv Newman, collected thoughts and comments about Ed Lyman to be used in a tribute to Ed that will be distributed at the Christmas meeting.

Our Christmas get-together will be held during the next meeting, Dec 19^th. Kerri is bringing the Dunkin' Donuts coffee, and every else is encouraged to bring whatever favorite holiday treats they'd like to share. Everyone is invited, including spouses and guests. Any goodies not consumed, more likely devoured, will be donated to the Nokomis Volunteer Fire Department. We will present the Fire Department Chief Steve Kona with the holiday donation we all made together, a total of $91.00 dollars.

A discussion about our meeting format will lead us to more presentations and guest speakers in the future. We'll kick off the New Year with a meeting January 2nd that will reduce the time available for reading, but allow for more discussions and presentations. Also decided was a new procedure for critiques. In the future, presentations for critique will be limited to 1500 words, or no more than three pages. All presentations will be printed for handout, double spaced, and will be returned to the presenter, without names, after the material has been critiqued. Discussions may follow the readings, but they will be general and not specific.

Rod solved one problem neatly by having Peter Frickel read first. That way, everyone has to follow Peter! Again, Peter's tales of youth of another time in Africa, He Looked At Me, and “Nell” held everyone's attention. Don Westerfield's The Flirt, caught everyone off guard. Not to be read outside the sanctuary, he asked. Funny stuff, great writing. Robin read “Sparky,” and had everyone convinced it was not a piece of fiction. It was, of course, although we have all had pets that have taken us to the edge. Her husband vehemently denied any part of “Walt's” heart attack. Great to have Robin back.

Ed Ellis continued with his work in progress, tentatively named Asymmetrical Wars. More great adventure writing, the post-nuclear war saga continues. We got to hear Chapter 27 of Joanne Phillips Adventures of a Sea Hag and said farewell to Sid, a character we had come to know quite well. Jim Kelly did it once again with two poems, Changes and Noise, both of which are excellent poems. We can't wait for Jim's next anthology.

Russ Heitz read Waiting, a unique short piece that started lightheartedly and turned introspective in less than one page! Great writing! Dianne Shedlock continued the spell-binding writing with her Flashback, a piece with an unexpected twist about dread and fatalism. Welcome back, Dianne, more writing, please.

We read through break, and finished early. We'll see everyone at the Christmas gathering on the 19^th. See you then.

George

Wednesday, June 6th, 2012

Our meeting kick-off Wednesday evening was interrupted by an event that drew a round of warm, thunderous, applause: Irv Newman rejoined the group for an extraordinary reunion. Accompanied by his beautiful wife, Beatrice, he was warmly greeted by everyone. Irv received over 100 cards from well wishers, and we again wish him the best.

Irv, who recently turned 90, later had a poignant piece about his brief stay in a hospice read by Jim Kelly. His “Thank You” letter to the staff and the directors was touching, and eye opening at the same time. Hospices should not be prejudged as “Death's Doorway.” We can't wait to read Irv's next effort about standing in front of an open coffin called, “Wait, Wait, I Have A New Idea I Want To Run By You...”

George Mindling brought up the schedule for July, which has our first meeting of the month on the Fourth of July holiday. By unanimous consent, that meeting will be skipped, so, July will have one meeting on the 18^th. The calendar can be checked anytime right here on our blog page.

Our next meeting will be a very special meeting on June 20^th as we celebrate a very special birthday of one of our most prolific members, Ed Lyman. Ed, who has been published of every single issue of Peppertree Literary Magazine since it first started publishing, will be 100!

Ed Lyman has also been coming to our FWA meetings since we first started getting together at the Gulf Gate Library, more than five years ago. And he always manages to stir up more than a few chuckles with his very original, clever and well-structured stories that always have a "snapper" ending.

Ed is also a generous supporter of his Venice community. He still volunteers at the Venice Hospital where he serves as a wheel chair "pusher" for people leaving the hospital. He also volunteers at a cat rescue and adoption service near Venice. That's where he adopted his beloved cat, Tammy. In addition to his time and effort, Ed has also generously provided funding to purchase a new truck for the local food bank, as well as a new air conditioned van for the feline adoption service.

In tune with his "giving" nature, Ed is also providing the money to buy the snacks and goodies that we'll be enjoying at his non-birthday party on the 20th of this month. It's a "non-birthday" party because Ed did NOT want a party for himself. He was adamant about that. He said, "It's just another birthday. No need to make a fuss over me." What he really wanted to do was give US a party, which is what we'll be doing at the next meeting.

Ed Lyman is our official Writer Emeritus and we hope he'll be around for at LEAST another 100 years! And we hope you all show up on Wednesday, June 20th, to share with Ed your best wishes for his "non-birthday."

We will play the meeting “by ear” so to speak, with possible readings in the first half of the evening, but the second half will be dedicated to a very special non-birthday wish to Ed. Sandwiches and coffee will be served, and if anyone would like to help with paper plates, napkins, or plastic dinnerware, please contact Russ Heitz at russ@russheitz.com. In fact, one reason Irv made a special effort to attend last night's meeting was to be present for the planning of Ed's non-birthday! Spouses and friends are welcome at the special meeting. Thanks to Russ for the marvelous information about Ed.

After more announcements about the upcoming FWA Convention in October, Ed Ellis got the meeting underway with Jim Kelly reading Irv's piece about his stay in the hospice. Irv and Beatrice graciously said goodnight soon after, everyone once again greeting and wishing them well.

We welcomed new-comers Charlotte Humphreys and Roger Sakowski to the meeting, and welcomed back Cathy Marine and Jim Kelly as well. Charlotte started the evening's readings with “Pear Tree and the Vanishing House,” a nostalgic, well written piece that drew warm response from the group. We look forward to more of Charlotte's writing.

Joanne Phillips read a really great poem about Englewood, which garnered her a 2^nd place ribbon in the Englewood contest, and followed with the next chapter of her book, “Memoirs of a Sea Hag.” A great discussion about style followed, but everyone agrees: More!

Susan Haley took a few minutes to remind us on this anniversary of D-Day, that we all take far too much for granted in our daily lives. Susan read Bart Stamper's one-line poem that brought a moment of silence to the whole room: “On Memorial Day it's so different when you know their names.. . . Ron Holeman, John Knaus, Cameron McCallister and dozens of others a thought to consider.”

Rod DiGruttolo followed with another of his great reflections of growing up in Sarasota in the 1950's called “Puppy Dog Tales.” Rod graciously thanked Ed Lyman and Peter Frickel for helping him develop the masterfully done series.

Peter Frickel read a chapter from his upcoming 18 part work named “Lilies of the Vlei.” “Umbubulu” was a masterfully told tale of a young man riding through the African night with his father, physician to the king of the Zulus, during dangerous and treacherous times. Again, marvelous stuff.

Rod then read a humorous piece called “Package Pandemonium,” published in 1966. It was written by none other than Ed Lyman's son, Dan. Must run in the family.

After a ten minute break, Ed wished he had his cow-bell back! Everyone rejoined the meeting after chocolates and fortune coolies, and we resumed with Lee Taylor Franke reading a great piece that linked nostalgia with the aging of a town simultaneously with its citizens. Well written and deeply emotional piece.

Jim Kelly read two of his great poems, starting with “Smoke and Ashes,”and “Light.” Two more masterful pieces of poetry that left the group speechless. Absolutely great writing.

Kerri Dieffenwierth read another piece of her upcoming work, “Homemade Rodeos,” again with writing that stands alone called “Run, Run Away.” It wasn't about the horse... More great writing.

Ed Ellis received great critical review after his difficult piece about writing what is possible or plausible. Paradoxical? A great success model for writing.

We wrapped up another great night with Patricia LaBarbera reading her “What We're Looking For,” a wonderful story that, as always, has delightful, unexpected twists. Patricia will keep us posted as to her next seminar on editing and editors, something none of the group should miss.

We turned off the lights and said goodnight. See everyone on the 20^th for Ed's birthday.

Special Thanks to Russ Heitz for the information about Ed Lyman.

PS: Kerri just forwarded information about a writing sweepstakes at:
BookBaby.com

George

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

As the lightning flashes of spring's first thunderstorm lit up the sky behind the Nokomis Volunteer Fire Department, the March 21st meeting of the Sarasota Writers Group got under way. After the greetings and catching up on all the latest news, of course.

We welcomed Stephen Aiken of Sarasota to his first meeting, and returning guests Don Westerfield and Kathleen Swartz. We reluctantly said goodbye to Lois Stern who is returning to New York for the summer. Rod DiGruttolo, as always did his masterful job of herding cats to make it another enjoyable meeting.

We started the meeting on a sad note as Susan Haley described the condition and determination of her friend and Pasco County FWA group leader, Dahris Clair, who has decided to drop life support and return home in peace and solitude. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dahris, her family and her many friends.

We resumed our regular readings, after Bill Elan told the “Amoeba story,” with Russ Heitz reading his great response to the “Dialogue Challenge.” Remember, “You're the one who wanted to talk.” Rod mentioned it is intimidating to follow any of our writers when its your turn to read. It is, but that doesn't stop us!

Lois Stern gave a great example by first reading a “Vase Challenge” poem by Jim Kelly, and then showing her writing virtuosity by giving no less than five different twists of her own on the challenge: a memoir piece, a fiction approach, historical non-fiction (!), mystery and suspense, and finally a humorous interpretation of the same challenge. Lois will be missed during her summer sojourn. Ellen Magnuson read a chapter from her book “S'Truth” that captured everyone. Of course she finished with “If you want to hear more, you'll have to buy the book!” (ISBN 13-978-1-4507-9327-0)

Bill Elan read his piece on continuing reflections of an old man, inspired by Cecile Bell Kennedy, who followed with a great poem called “Table Tart,” inspired by the “Vase Challenge.”

Joanne read her next chapter of her autobiographical “Memoirs of a Sea Hag.” The harrowing story of being caught in 20 foot swells in a 40 foot sailboat that had us all relieved when they finally made Dry Tortugas. A spirited 20 minute discussion followed that proved everyone had hung on to every word. A worn out audience then took a 20 minute break!

Ed Ellis kicked off the second half with a test of sorts. He delivered two different approaches to his up-coming book, tentatively titled “The Success Model.” His approach to the subject of thinking, good vs bad decisions, and ideas are time machines, all stirred the intense discussions that followed. Good stuff.

The delightful surprise of the evening was from newcomer Don Westerfield who read a touching piece about war titled, “Hello, Joe!,” and a poem entitled “The Passage.” The poem connected with every father who has ever walked his daughter down the aisle. This was Don's second meeting and we can't wait to hear more of his great writing.

Kerri Dieffenwirth read another chapter from her recently retitled work, now called “Homemade Rodeos, A Memoir,” that reached out and grabbed all the unsuspecting listeners. From light-hearted recollections of youth to the heart-stopping tragedy of a near fatal accident and its trauma on a young girl, wrapped and delivered in almost a single sentence. More great stuff! Great writing!

Susan Davis read her great interpretation of the “Dialogue only” challenge that was really nicely done. Susan can read anything she wants with her “FM” voice, we would all probably listen to her read the telephone book, but when she reads her own stories, it is really a great, entertaining experience.

We wrapped up the evening's readings with Kathleen Swartz, who also returned for her second meeting. Kathleen read part of Chapter 4 from her book “Jazzed at 69,” at least that's the working title, and again, left the group wanting more.

We'll have to wait 'til next time, April 4th, to hear more.

George

Wednesday Feb 15, 2012

A warm, beautiful sunset welcomed the latest meeting of the Sarasota chapter of the FWA, followed by another entertaining evening listening to a wide variety of writings by an eclectic group of writers.

We welcomed back Kris Palmer, author of “Dancing With An Elephant,” (http://www.dancingwithanelephant.com/) and newcomer Lori Davis of Dayton, Ohio. Lori is currently in Englewood and looking for a publisher for her first book. She has already started her second, also in the Young Adult Fantasy genre.

After the usual, congenial half hour “Catch-Up” session, Rod DiGruttolo started the meeting with announcements by Lois Stern and Bill Elam. Lois mentioned her website, (http://www.tales2inspire.com/) has a problem but will be restored in the next day or two. The Tales 2 Inspire contest will be extended to compensate for the inconvenience of the web site being unavailable. Bill mentioned an article in USA Today by Jefferson Graham about ebooks. The article is available at
"http://www.usatoday.com/tech/columnist/talkingtech/story/2012-02-14/ebook-self-publishing/53097762/1" at least for the time being. And that segued perfectly into Russ Heitz's presentation about e-publishing.

Russ shared his wealth of experience and savvy about e-publishing which is fast becoming the defacto method of getting new writer's material into the marketplace. He covered the different formats and how to approach both Amazon (Kindle) at https://kdp.amazon.com/self-publishing/signin, and with Smashword at http://www.smashwords.com/. A quick list of e-publishing websites are included at the end of this blog.

George started the evening's reading with “What,” his 250 word exercise of Rod's writing challenge to use only dialogue to tell a short story, followed by Rod's reading of our soon-to-be-Centenarian Ed Lyman's work, “Amazing! Well, Not Exactly!” Barbara Frickell read her delightful interpretation of Rod's dialogue challenge titled “Tete-a-Tete,” obviously set in Paris. Lee Taylor completely engrossed the group with her gripping story “Easy Prey With Decals,” which everyone took as a factual story rather than the fiction it actually was.

Bill Elam read his great piece about pilots and airplanes too old to be useful, evoking memories about scrapbooks and memories. Cecile returned, reading her short, delightful one-act play about two baby girls wrapped in blankets in a nursery. Light hearted fun seen from a certainly different perspective. Lois Stern then read her piece for Rod's challenge, adapted from one of her inspiring tales. Amazing fluidity in compressing time using only dialogue.

Susan Davis read two great short pieces from her favorite poets. “The Silent Articulation of a Face” by the 13th century mystic poet Rumi, was followed by a poem by Pablo Neruda dedicated to his love Matilda. Susan has had the pleasure of visiting Neruda's house in Chile. Both great poems, and of course, well read as always.

Kris Palmer celebrated her return with two poems, the very beautiful “Wind,” and a limerick entitled “Lot Lizard.” Glad to have Kris back, even for a short while.

After a relaxing break, we resumed with the inimitable Joanne Phillips. Joanne came through as anticipated with “Rojo Mojo,” an ingenious poem about her last week's encounter with a red headed fireman. “I'm a Little. You're a Lot,” was followed by “Magic Moment,” a tender poem with a soft touch. Nicely done. Ed Ellis read part of a story under development, and under a cloud of secrecy, apparently, about personal confrontation between nuclear holocaust survivors, Great so far, we want to hear more.

Susan Haley was finally coerced into reading a great paragraph resulting from a challenge she received at a different writing group. Her challenge was to write a paragraph based on a single word. Her word was Karma and no one is better suited than Susan to write that paragraph. Nicely done!

We had a few minutes to go, so Kris graciously read her great piece, “My Escort,” and Bill wrapped up the evening's readings with a follow-up story about the lovers he introduced last meeting. Another enjoyable, entertaining, and informative night.

Next meeting will be on March 7th, see everyone then!

George

Kindle https://kdp.amazon.com/self-publishing/signin
Smashword http://www.smashwords.com/
Createspace http://createspace.com (For paper books)
Cover Photos http://istockphoto.com
Cover Photos http://www.dreamstime.com/
Cover Layouts http://createimagesonline.com/
ebook publisher http://publishing.booklocker.com/
ebook publisher http://www.rainbowebooks.com/store/

ISBNs http://www.bowker.com/en-US/products/customer_type/serv_custype_author.shtml

Advertising "http://author-promotion.com/"
epub newsletter http://publishyourownbooks.com/

_________________________________________________________________
EVENTS

What, When & Where:

Mr. Philip Levine
United States Poet Laureate 2011-2012
Reading and Book Signing
7 p.m., Monday, April 9, 2012
Saint Leo University
Greenfelder-Denlinger Boardroom
Student Community Center
Saint Leo, FL 33574

Come and celebrate Poetry Month with the Poet Laureate of the United States! Mr. Philip Levine is the eighteenth United States Poet Laureate. His works of poetry include the 1991 National Book Award-winning "What Work Is," the 1995 Pulitzer Prize-winning "The Simple Truth," and his most recent "News of the World (2009)."

In the August 2011 announcement, the Librarian of Congress James H. Billington remarked, "Philip Levine is one of America's great narrative poets. His plainspoken lyricism has, for half a century, championed the art of telling 'The Simple Truth'...."

The event is co-sponsored by the Daniel A. Cannon Memorial Library, the English, Fine Arts, and Humanities Department, and Student Services. It is free and open to the public. Seating is first come, first served, however, for seating requests of 10 or more, and for directions and parking information, please call Ms. Tammy Hunt, 352-588-8294.

St. Leo, FL is approximately 90 miles north of Sarasota, east of I-75

Thank you, Kerri for the information, and thank you Ms. Hunt for your kind assistance

More...

More on the newly formed Sarasota Editors Association:
Patricia La Barbera mentioned the newly formed Sarasota Editors Group at the last meeting and has now announced their new web page at:
http://www.meetup.com/sarasota-editors-association

“Networking is an important tool for staying current with the publishing industry's standards. Join us to help sharpen your editing skills and share your knowledge. We'll have monthly lunch meetings at various Sarasota restaurants. Editors, guests, and those who'd like to learn more about editing are welcome. There's no charge, and the calendar includes our next lunch meeting (March 2 at 1 pm at Shakespeare's Pub in Sarasota). Let me know if you have any questions. Patricia La Barbera, patricialabarbera@live.com

Also...

Russ Heitz, author of Crosshairs, Dying in Deer Country, and Krazy Kritters of Florida, will do a presentation on publishing/uploading ebooks at the next meeting on Feb 15th. Several people at the last meeting seemed very interested in ebooks and Russ has graciously offered to share his expertise and experience.

Also...

The 2012 ROYAL PALM LITERARY AWARD COMPETITION is open for submissions February 15 through June 15, 2012.
The RPLA competition is a service of the Florida Writers Association established to recognize excellence in members' published and unpublished works while providing blind, objective, and constructive written assessments for all entrants. Entry fees are lowest at the beginning of the submission period, so don't delay. Download your entry package at..
http://floridawriters.net/RPLA.html

See you Wednesday, the 15th
George

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Our first get-together of November was another great meeting, with the return of both Susan Haley and long time member Linda White. We also welcomed Patricia La Barbera and look forward to her becoming a regular member of the group.

Rod's usual welcoming and introductions led to a great round of reading and interesting, often lighthearted, discussions. But first, Susan asked for volunteer assistance as our treasurer, Linda Malloy, will be unavailable until next March. The duties mainly include presenting the $5 we collect twice a year to the Nokomis Volunteer Fire Department where we meet. It is a donation we chip in to the Fire Department for allowing us to use their facilities. We do not collect dues, and there is no charge for being in the group. It is something we do to show our appreciation to our hosts. Anyone interested, please contact me at myakka@embarqmail.com, or Susan Haley directly at amberfawn@comcast.net.

The readings were as varied as the members themselves, Linda starting the evening with a beautiful, well written piece about her mother. New comer Patricia read next, presenting a piece of flash fiction that caught everybody off guard with its conclusion. Great writing. Good discussion afterward that led to comments about the Writer's Digest contest for short stories (1500 words or less), and on flash fiction, flash mobs, and just plain flashing.

Barbara then read a paragraph from the book “Vincent by Himself”, his own writing proves to be as descriptive as his paintings, followed by Peter Folaris who read two of his really great poems. First, from his work “Lucille and Other Manic Tales” and then another free form poem titled “Bronx Marie.' More great work. Peter Frickel then read a great piece “Darkness between the Shadows” and a piece from “A Writer's Book of Days” where writers such as ourselves are encouraged to present their work to groups such as ours for peer-review. We were warned, however, that “someone will always try to fry your banana.”

Jim Kelly did it again with a poem called “Chipmunk,” another great poem. Jim's book is being polished and we got to see the proof copy. “From the Embers” by James O. Kelly will be available soon. We'll post the information about availability as soon as we get it. Ben wrapped up the readings with the draft of Chapter Five of his science fiction novel, OneEarth. It is progressing well and has caught everyone's interest. He must be the ultimate researcher.

Discussions included Bart Stamper, a former member of the group who still stays in contact, and John Wolf, FOX & QUILL editor, a past visitor who is involved in writing contests in California, and somehow we got into a discussion about lizards. Never discuss lizards, geckos, anoles or any other form of lizard with a writer's group! Not this one anyway. Fabius Cunctator, indeed! It was an interesting, light hearted session.

We have added a Facebook page that allows everyone quick and easy access to our group. You can click into this blog from Facebook, or to there from here by clicking on the blog in the Facebook page. Please click the “Like” button to add your name to our list!

https://www.facebook.com/pages/FWA-Sarasota-Writers-Group/232280536832439

Take a look at the Lulu Short Story Contest at:
http://www.lulu.com/blog/2011/11/01/lulu-short-story-contest/

One of the comments of the meeting was a quote from Elmore Leonard: “I try to leave out the parts that people skip.” I hope I haven't left out something that no one would skip...

See you Nov 16,

George

Tom Smith's New Book

While we're tooting horns, here's another reason to celebrate.

Tom Smith, who has been attending our meetings for more than a year, announces the publication of his new collection of poems. The book is called "DUST AND OTHER POEMS" by Thomas Noel Smith and it is available through Amazon.com.

Congratulations, Tom! And best of luck with the marketing.

Posted by
Russ Heitz
www.russheitz.com

Win a Kindle ... and More!

Kerri Dieffenwierth passed along a website that she thought might be helpful to our devoted and versatile group. It's sponsored by the Gotham Writers Workshop in New York City. Their website is http://www.writingclasses.com.

This particular group is a wide-ranging source of information that covers just about every genre and every skill level. The site currently provides information about a variety of writing contests, one of which will be giving away to the winners IPads, Kindles and other eReaders. The site also has a list of How-To books for writers, plus up-to-date news about the publishing industry. As its web address suggests, the site is also the gateway for numerous writing classes.

Check it out. And win an IPad. Maybe. Or a Kindle. Maybe. But what was that old saying? "You can't win if you don't play." So give it a whirl.

Posted by
Russ Heitz

Wolfman Photos Wanted

For those of us who were at our mid-November meeting, FOX & QUILL editor, John Wolf, gave a very informative and interesting presentation about how us writer-folks can use our computers more effectively. He also sang a song that he wrote especially for our leader Susan Haley. In return, he'd like a favor from us.

Did anyone at the meeting take any pictures of John giving his presentation? Or of John eating cake? Or of John playing the guitar? Or of John, period?

If so, contact him at http://www.johnwolf.lobo@gemail.com.

Thanks!

Posted by
Russ Heitz
http://www.russheitz.com/

Saturday Morning Workshop

Some of our folks are unable to attend day or evening workshops and presentations because of job and family commitments. Here's a chance to attend a Saturday morning session. South County residents should take special note.

On Saturday, November 6th at 10:30 a.m. the Suncoast Writers Guild will be holding a meeting on the second floor of the Elsie Quirk Library on Dearborn Street in Englewood.

The speaker that day will be Gaile Harpan, a local writer who has published several children's books. Gaile's presentation will cover a wide variety of writing-related subjects such as how to turn an idea into a published book, tips on marketing your book, and turning your writing hobby into a small business for tax purposes and for foundation work.

She will also talk about the advantages of joining writing groups and attending writing conferences. For those who haven't done so yet, Gaile will also discuss book-signings: how to prepare for them, and what to expect.

For additional information about Gaile's talk or about the Suncoast Writers Guild contact Ann Favreau at favra1@comcast.net or Ed Ellis at edellis20@fusemail.com.

Posted by
Russ Heitz

Your Loss, Our Gain

For those who missed our meeting last night, see above. Ryan Van Cleave had an outstanding presentation plus a valuable handout for all who were there. He also graciously and thoroughly answered a lot of questions about a broad range of writing-related topics: agents, publishers, memoirs, ebooks, platforms, marketing, etc. There was something for nearly everyone.

Ryan is an advocate of "creative nonfiction"--using fiction techniques for nonfiction works. He talked about Freytag's Pyramid that includes the primary ingredients of any story: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

The helpful handout distributed was specifically about writing memoirs.

By using and analyzing popular movies as examples, Dr. Van Cleave also discussed how stories are built, how they are structured--whether the stories are developed in a fiction or a nonfiction genre.

He also talked about the necessity of having a "platform" and a clear-cut and aggressive marketing campaign no matter what your book is about or who publishes it. Ryan verified once again the mantra we've heard from all traditionally and non-traditionally published writers: it doesn't matter who publishes your book, you, the writer, will be required to do most if not all of the marketing or selling of it.

Thanks, Ryan, for an excellent presentation!

Wednesday Meeting--October 20th

A quick reminder. Our general meeting this coming Wednesday night, October 20th, will feature Ryan VanCleave, a successful and widely published author whose new memoir, UNPLUGGED, is an Amazon bestseller in four different categories.

UNPLUGGED's explanatory subtitle, MY JOURNEY INTO THE DARK WORLD OF VIDEO GAME ADDICTION, gives a clear indication of what the book is about.

Ryan is the author or co-author of sixteen books and he has taught creative writing and literature at Clemson University, Eckerd College, Florida State University, and the Ringling College of Art and Design.

Ryan lives in Sarasota and works as a freelance writer, editor, ghostwriter, script doctor, and an addiction & recovery consultant. Additional information about Ryan can be found at his website: http://www.ryangvancleave.com.

After Ryan's presentation he will be open for comments and discussions. So bring all your questions about writing in general, memoir writing in particular, computer addictions, publishing, editing, or any other writing-related topic.

Following Ryan's talk -- if time permits -- we will also be open to readings, so bring your short, three-pagers. See you then: same time, same place.

Posted by
Russ Heitz

Meeting Recap for October 6th

We had another good meeting last night, and a busy one at that. Three visitors: Patricia Deeder, Krista Gorman and Kathy Question Mark who didn't sign our sign-in sheet but is interested in quantum physics. All introduced themselves and told us a bit about their writing interests and goals. Patricia also shared with us some of her writings. We hope to see all three ladies again at our future meetings and encourage them to bring any questions or comments and perhaps something to read at our next "reading meeting."

Charles Meyer from the Sarasota County Film and Entertainment Office told us about Sarasota's burgeoning interest in TV and movie production and the possible building of a full-fledged soundstage production facility in our community. He also encouraged all of us to submit "fresh and creative" ideas for a contest about a possible television series that might even be filmed right here in Sarasota County. Check out his website, http://www.filmsarasota.com, for information about the program and click on the banner/logo "TV ME" for info about the contest. The grand prize winner of the competition will get a free, expense-paid trip to the LA/Hollywood area and a chance to pitch their TV show ideas to the people who make the decisions about new nationally broadcast TV shows. Deadline for the competition is November 30. Check the above-mentioned website for details about the contest and the categories for entries.

Rod DiGruttolo also asked me to remind everyone that he and Kerri Dieffenwierth are starting an on-line critique group which could possibly turn into an in-person critique group later on. Anyone who is interested in learning more about this on-line critique group should write to me at russ@russheitz.com and I'll send you Rod's and Kerri's email addresses.

We also had a full slate of readers for this "reading meeting," starting off with another humorous story from our Writer Emeritus Ed Lyman. The title of Ed's story was A NEEDLESS TRAGEDY which had to do with relationships, in general, and (Sly Old Dog that he is) sexual relationships, in particular. Phil Dobrin read another humorous excerpt from his newly released book, ADVENTURES OF A SURGICAL RESIDENT. Joanne Phillips read a short piece from the book she's working on. Peter Frickel's cultured and refined "radio voice" was put to work reading several pieces that other folks had brought in, including a short piece of his own. Joe Porter read a couple pieces about his earlier days traveling around the country. Andrew Parker read the synopsis of a possible novel about a paraplegic who is crossisng the country on a bicycle while promoting euthanasia. Andrew always seems to be working on topics that are fresh and unusual. Kerri Dieffenwierth also read an amusing story about her adventures with a surfboard.

Jim Kelly, Cecil Bell, and Cathy Marine also attended the meeting but didn't participate in the readings.

As a reminder for those who weren't at this meeting, our next meeting on October 20th will have a special speaker, Ryan Van Cleve, who will be talking about his new book about a new medical/psychological malady that is affecting more and more computer owners: computer game addiction. No, that's not a joke. Computer game addiction really is becoming a serious health issue throughout the computerized world. Some psychology and sociology experts tell us it is becoming just as serious and damaging as addictions to alcohol and drugs. Ryan will also discuss the writing of memoirs, a topic that is popular with quite a few of our local FWA attendees.

Madeline Mora-Summonte, one of our elusive FWA members who only appears at our meetings every now and then, has another impressive "published" credit to her name. A devotee of Flash Fiction, Madeline also has a flare for another short fiction genre called Hint Fiction, which is limited to -- believe it or not -- 25 words or fewer! Hint Fiction was inspired by Ernest Hemingway's well-known "six-word novel:"For sale: baby shoes, never worn." Madeline's Hint Fiction story, THE EMPTY NEST, was selected to appear in a new collection HINT FICTION: AN ANTHOLOGY OF STORIES IN 25 WORDS OR FEWER which is being published by W.W. Norton. This collection will be released November 1st and can be pre-ordered through most of the major booksellers including Amazon, Borders, and Barnes & Noble. The collection includes Hint Fiction stories by Joyce Carol Oates, James Frey, Peter Straub, and Ha Jin so once again, Madeline has surrounded herself with very good company. For more information about Hint Fiction go to http://www.robertswartwood.com/hint-fiction/the-ultimate-flash-fiction-package.

A final note, Susan Haley will be returning to Sarasota in November and expects to be back in the saddle for the November 3rd meeting. See you then, Susan. Hope to see the rest of you for our October 20th meeting.

Posted by
Russ Heitz
www.russheitz.com

Memoirists: Listen Up

There are two local publications that are looking for memoir-type articles about the "good old days." The first one is for MEN ONLY and it will be a printed anthology called "Toys Remembered." The submissions must be less than 1500 words and the deadline is September 30. The guidelines say: "Tell about a childhood toy/game/plaything that is memorable for some reason. Be creative; include details, use dialogue if possible. You probably don't recall exactly what you or someone else said in a given situation, but in a memoir it's okay to pull out your literary license and recreate what might have been said."

This anthology will be published by Madonna Dries Christensen. Madonna is also the editor. She will be donating the royalties for this anthology to the Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia. "Therefore, I cannot monetarily compensate contributors," Madonna says. "I ask for One Time Rights only. You retain copyright and all rights to the story. You may publish it elsewhere without my permission."

For submissions or further information contact Madonna at iowagirl1@aol.com. As I said, the submissions for this anthology must be submitted by MEN ONLY.

The second publication that Madonna produces is an online magazine called DOORWAYS MEMOIRS and bills itself as "Life History Stories." It is open to submissions from both men and women. The length of the articles is limited to 1500 words and there are some other restrictions. You must be a permanent or part-time resident of Sarasota County, AGE 50 OR OLDER. Although they are memoirs and therefore nonfiction, they should be written like a short story, with narrative and dialogue if possible. They should have a beginning, middle, and the end should "come full circle to a conclusion," Madonna says.

"Your story does not need to be extraordinary or involve a momentous event (although it can)" Madonna adds. "Did your grandmother umpire your little league games? Did that embarrass you, or did you think she looked cool in her uniform? Use detail; make us laugh, cry, sympathize, learn something new or see things in different light."

Submissions for DOORWAYS MEMOIRS are limited to the reading period of July 1st to October 31st. Manuscripts received at any other time will not be considered.

To submit to DOORWAYS MEMOIRS, or if you need additional information, write to Madonna at doorwaysmemoirs@aol.com. Submissions should be pasted into the body of the email. No attachments or photos. Also include your name, address, birth date, phone number and email address on the first page of the email. Include a short bio about yourself at the end of the story.

Posted by
Russ Heitz

NPR: Another Market For Local Writers?

A member of our local FWA group and director of the Suncoast Writers Guild in Englewood, Ann Favreau recently shared with us an email she received from Guild member Kathy Nixon. It may open the door for some of us to yet another possible market for our
work--National Public Radio--especially if you enjoy writing personal essays. Here's Kathy's account.

"Following the advice of our guest speaker on other ways to publish, I wrote a three minute essay about taking my grandchildren to an ancestral burial ground. I contacted the local public radio station. [In our area that would be WUSF-FM in Tampa-Ed.] The editor loved it and we arranged a time to record when Randy and I were visiting the grandchildren. The [NPR editor], Martha Woodroff, was so easy-going that she made the whole experience a real high point of the vacation. You can go to http://www.wmra.org/, click on Civic Soapbox (My Grandchildren's Half-told Family Story) and listen to the essay or click on Civic Soapbox blog to read it."

What makes this possibility even more interesting and potentially profitable is that our local NPR station (WUSF-FM) has recently purchased a radio station here in Sarasota and will be expanding their programming in our immediate area. That means they will also be needing a lot of material to fill their new daily schedules. And, yes, they DO pay you for your work. This is not a freebie.

If you have any short personal essays that could amuse, inform, enlighten or inspire NPR listeners, contact Sheila Rue, WUSF-FM's Program Director at srue@WUSF.org. Sheila should be able to direct you to the proper contact within the organization.

Give it a try. It won't cost you more than a stamp-less free email. And GOOD LUCK!

Posted by
Russ Heitz
http://www.russheitz.com/

Winding Down -- Winding Up

Susan's Alaskan Adventure is nearly over and my foray into the dreaded Klinkton County is about to begin! I don't have a blog to post my adventures but I'll try to post a summary when I return. To check out the blog that captures the essence of Susan's journey, and to see more of Karen's fantastic flower fotos go to www.fwasarasota.blogspot.com.

Posted by
Russ Heitz

Publishing News

For those who don't know him, Dan Poynter is an acknowledged guru in the independent publishing field. He's known not only in the United States, his world speaking tours cover just about every country on the globe. He also publishes a newsletter that is always chock full of up-to-date info about the writing and publishing world. His newsletter is FREE and you can sign up for it by going to his website, www.parapublishing.com. Here are just a few quotes from this month's issue.

"Books published in 2009 using traditional production methods: 288,355, a 1/2% decrease from 2008. Books published in 2009 using on-demand printing or internet printing services: 764, 488, a 181% increase over 2008.

"James Patterson has sold 1.4 million units of his books as eBooks for devices like Kindle and the iPad. "If eBooks get people who might otherwise not be reading to pick up a book, then that makes me happy," Patterson said.

"When bookseller Barnes and Noble started selling their new version of the Nook reader with both 3G and WiFi for $199, Amazon fired back and reduced the Kindle2 to $189. That's a $70.00 drop overnight.

"Barnes and Noble predicts that their sales of eBooks will reach $6 billion in three years while the sale of print books during that same period will fall by $6 billion.

"Authors who publish the digital edition of their books through Amazon will now receive 70% of the list price of their title. Amazon will serve as the publisher and retailer. Currently and typically, authors receive only 10-12% of the net receipts from large publishers. [Many publishers limit the royalties of their writers to 6% -- Ed.]

"The sales of eBook readers around the world totaled 1.43 million units in the first quarter of 2010. The shipment of eBook readers from manufacturers to vendors in April-May reached 740,000 units, with Barnes and Noble's Nook reader accounting for 37% and Amazon's Kindle trailing by 16%."

The writing and publishing world is rapidly changing, fellow writers, and adaptation is the key to survival.

Posted by
Russ Heitz
www.russheitz.com

Rain, Whales, Bears, Forests and Fjords

Sue Haley sent us another update on her Alaskan Adventures so, being the conduit that I am, I'll pass along her words again verbatim (more or less.)

"We have been in Seward for a week of pouring rain (intermittent WiFi signal, too) except for the day we hiked to the glacier! [My son] Bill went back the next day and took the difficult trail to the top of the mountain, to the ice fields. ... He said it was like being in Antarctica up there. The glaciers were gorgeous.

"We've done some exploring of the surrounding scenery and it's just beautiful. Even with the rain, the lushness and green in the forest almost looks tropical. I'd have never guessed so many beautiful ferns would carpet forest floors this far north.

"We donned rain gear and hiked a few short trails in the rain. I found a huge hole in among a tree root system that was attached to a huge rock wall and I'd bet my life it was a bear den. [We] trampled all around the entrance and [saw] what I think were droppings of a cub or two not far from the entrance. I decided NOT to knock on the 'door.'

"We did have a whale boat booked but they had to cancel every day due to 19 foot seas in the Gulf of Alaska! We are going to try one last time tomorrow and [then] we must move on to Homer on Tuesday. We can try again there, or take a shorter tour that stays in Resurrection Bay and at least see the fjords. ... They said the whales often come in there, too.

"Today the sun shown gloriously but seas hadn't diminished enough. Oh to see a whale after all else I've been so blessed to see would be the icing on a wonderful cake before leaving.

"Beautiful place, this planet Earth, as long as you get away from the hoards of people. I've made it a project of picking up trash in the forests; [I always] take a bag with me hiking. You wouldn't believe [the amount of tossed aside trash] even up here. People, collectively, are a scourge, I swear.

"I've eaten some great Alaskan halibut and cod and we did go to a stream where the salmon are on their tortuous trip upstream to spawn. Incredible how those fish jump to go against raging current on descending mountain rivers. ... 'Course, the bears are gathering at the major spawning sites for the hunt that will fatten them up for winter.

"After Homer, I'll be leaving out of Anchorage and not looking forward to it at all but Bill and Karen are beginning to think about their 5,000 miles trip [back to their home in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania] and I can't go into Canada [because I have no passport.]"

So, our own "den mother" will be coming back to sunny Sarasota one of these weeks. She's obviously having a wonderful time and well deserved, to which we can all say, "Amen."

Posted by
Russ Heitz

Memoirist, Check THIS out

DOORWAYS MEMOIRS, a new local Sarasota County publication is looking for memoir-type submissions of 1500 words or less and they even PAY for accepted stories: $50.00! BUT there are some restrictions. Such as:

You must be a permanent or part-time resident of Sarasota County, age 50 or older. Your story must be true (no fiction); and a maximum of 1500 words. One submission only is allowed during their reading period, which runs from July 1st to October 31st. Previously published stories are acceptable, as long as you own the copyright. And the stories must be submitted by e-mail. No snailmail submissions allowed. And no photos or attachments.

For more information, send a note to DoorwaysMemoirs@aol.com.

Posted by
Russ Heitz