NEWSLETTER
Susan Varno -Editor of Newsletter
Thanks to all of you who have submitted information for this newsletter. Susan V
TWIN LAKES WRITERS
BRUNCH AT MEL’S DINER—
Tuesday, February 28, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon in the Betty Boop Room
MEL’S DINER is located in the Towne East Mall, 960 Highway 62 East, Suite 6 – lots of parking available (Jewel Chest at corner is Suite 1). No meeting, no critiques, just friendly conversation and food.
THE EMERY RED CANOE AWARD
Nancy Jennings won the Red Canoe Award for February. For March, she wants us to write the “worst metaphor we can think of” or bring in some terrible metaphor we’ve found in print.
Nancy sends along the following information about metaphors.
“I found some info on metaphors that might be interesting. I struggled with last month's assignment because I've never really understood what a metaphor IS. Then, the morning of the meeting, I was reading that awful book, and came across this about the character who was struggling with historical information: "He was a yarn ball in the cat's paw of history." Terrible metaphor, and that was why I thought of this assignment. What I'm imagining is either bad metaphors that we have written, or that we have found in a book. I didn't know that the assignment is usually 500 words, so we had better stick with that and see how many bad metaphors we can pack into those 500. The info following is from the book Writing Fiction: a Guide to Narrative Craft, by Janet Burroway.”
"Metaphor is the literary device by which we are told that something is, or is like, something that it clearly is not, or is not exactly like. What a good metaphor does is surprise us with the unlikeness of the two things compared, while at the same time convincing us of the aptness or truth of the likeness. A bad metaphor fails to surprise or to convince or both.
METAPHOR AND SIMILE:
A simile makes a comparison with the use of LIKE or AS, a metaphor without. Though this distinction is technical, it is not entirely trivial, for a metaphor demands a more literal acceptance. If you say, "a woman is a rose," you ask for an extreme suspension of disbelief, whereas "a woman is like a rose" is a more sophisticated form, acknowledging the artifice in the statement.
...METAPHOR is a dirty word in some critical circles, because of the strain of the pursuit. Clichés, mixed metaphors, similes that are inept, unapt, obscure, or done to death mar good prose and tax the patience of the most willing reader. After eyes have been red suns, burnt-out fuses, lighthouse keepers, and lumps of coal, what else can they be?
The answer is always something. But because by definition metaphor introduces an ALIEN image into the FLOW of the story, metaphor is to some degree always self-conscious. Badly HANDLED, it calls attention to the writer rather than the meaning and PRODUCES A SORT OF HICCUP IN THE READER'S INVOLVEMENT. A good metaphor fits so neatly that it FUSES to and ILLUMINATES the meaning..... Generally speaking, where metaphors are concerned, less is more and, if in doubt, don't.
The capitalized words in the preceding paragraph are dead metaphors, (i.e. so familiar that they have ceased to be metaphors and acquired new definitions). A metaphor is not a foreigner; a story is not water; we do not take comparisons in our fingers; they have no vocal cords; they do not congeal; and they don't give off light rays. But each of these words has acquired a new definition and so settles into its context without strain. At the same time, the metaphoric echoes of these words make them more interesting than their abstract synonyms: ALIEN IMAGE = INTRODUCES AN IMAGE FROM A DIFFERENT CONTEXT; badly HANDLED = badly WRITTEN. These abstract synonyms contain no imagery, and so they make for flatter writing.
To study good metaphor, read."
(Nancy again.) The above are just a few paragraphs from an entire chapter. She goes into depth about dead metaphors, extended metaphors, clichés, symbols, conceits, etc. I hope everyone has fun trying to figure out metaphors. I know I'm still trying to WRESTLE them to the ground, but I'm going after them because I'M A PIT BULL IN A CHINA SHOP.
Our next Twin Lakes Writers meeting will be
Saturday, March 17
10 a.m. to noon
Van Matre Center in Cooper Park, Mountain Home
FEBRUARY
TWIN LAKES WRITERS
http://www.twinlakeswriters.org/
Meeting: Saturday, February 18
10:00 a.m. to Noon
Van Matre Senior Center
1101 Spring Street
Cooper Park
Mountain Home, Arkansas
(From Highway 62 and Cardinal Drive, (Harps/Hastings Shopping Center) head south on Cardinal to Spring Street. Turn left onto Spring Street and proceed to the second entrance of Cooper Park. This will take you right to the Van Matre Center.)
FROM PRESIDENT JANICE VOTSMIER
The year 2012 is off to a great start. Twin Lakes Writers held their first meeting at the VanMatre Senior Center at 1101 Spring St., Cooper Park on January 21. We had 22 members in attendance and several of those where first timers.
I’d like to thank Steve Kampen for stepping into the vice-president position since Cherie Neal decided to resign due to other obligations.
The group voted to purchase “Building Great Sentences,” from the Great Courses catalog, and I’ve already received it. This is a series of twenty-four 30 minute lectures, compiled on four discs. All members are eligible to sign up and make use of this course.
I contacted Pamela Foster from OWLs to confirm with her that Twin Lakes Writers will sponsor one of the contests for this year. It was agreed that we will do the judging, and it would be limited to 1500 words about a mystery story about the Ozarks.
Your work for critique is always welcome, but please keep it to four double spaced pages.
I look forward to seeing you at our February meeting on Saturday, the 18th at 10 AM.
JANUARY TLW MEETING
Several new people attended our first meeting at the Van Matre Center including Donald Jackson, Richard Nevers, Nancy Jennings and others.
Janice announced the Donald Reynolds Library is having a used book sale Thursday, February 16, through Saturday, February 18. She said we are to enter and leave the Van Matre Center by the door on the far left of the building (outside) so we don’t disturb the art club in the next room.
THE EMERY RED CANOE AWARD
The “assignment” for January was a hook paragraph, and we had 7 entries. Our voting ended in a tie with Chuck Butkus and Jim Pierson taking the honors. The new assignment for February is use “a small stream through a forest” as a metaphor. Please keep the “assignment” to 500 words or less.
BRUNCH AT MEL’S DINER
The LAST Tuesday of each month, 10:00 a.m. until about noon in the Betty Boop Room.
This month, Tuesday, February 28
MEL’S DINER is in the Towne East Mall, 960 Highway 62 East, Suite 6.
MEMBER NEWS
From Ray Bachman: I am keeping busy here (in Florida). Teaching a class on both Tuesday and Wednesday. Have sold over 100 copies of my new book down here and a few online. I will soak up a little sun for you. It is supposed to be 80 degrees Tuesday. Have a great day.
Neil Chandler writes mysteries and was recently featured in the Baxter Bulletin. His latest book is THE SEARCH FOR AVIS BUCKMAN.
From Sheri de Grom: I've published my first book review on my blog. You may find it at http://sheridegrom.com/ Feel free to leave a comment and/or sign up to receive notice of future reviews.
From Kaye Milligan: Sorry to say, but I won't be attending meetings. I may get to one but not on a regular basis. It is too far and too early for me to travel from Cherokee Village.
From Nancy Thatcher-Cerny
Hello Phil,
Several writers you know were at the TLW brunch on Tuesday (Steve Kampen, Charlie H., Susan V. and Chuck Butkus...) I learned from them that one Phil Emery had been elected to some important position here in Mountain Home or Baxter County or nearby parts. We decided it was likely some another Phil Emery - but if it is you, we send congratulations and best wishes! At any rate, we want to let you know we'all are thinking about you, hoping you are well and missing your pleasant company at the writer's get-togethers. Hope to see you soon!
From Phil Emery: IT WAS NOT ME. I AM STILL HAVING SOME PROBLEMS RELATED TO THE SHINGLES, BUT HOPE TO MAKE IT TO NEXT MEETING.
From Mary Nida Smith: At the Ozarks Writers League's meeting last November I was talking about how the publishing industry is again in the pioneer stages. I said I feel like I'm sitting on a wagon heading west, and I'm not sure where we're going, but I know the trip is exciting.
OPPORTUNITIES TO READ, SPEAK, DISPLAY AND SELL
This year the Artisans Cooperative in Calico Rock will be sponsoring monthly Saturday demonstrations by artisans, writers and craftspeople. There will be publicity on websites, newspapers and radio. Some of these are through the COOP, some are in conjunction with four Calico Rock Museum “Reliving Calico Rock History” events. The first is with the museum on Saturday March 17 and will include live music, food and at least demos of pottery making and outdoor cooking.
Gloria Gushue said she would like Twin Lakes Writers to pick a date for a combination book signing and poetry and prose reading. Even if you don’t have a book for sale at the COOP, you can read. Let’s discuss this at Saturday’s meeting. http://www.calicoartist.com/
The Reynolds Library in Mountain Home hosts THE POETRY THING VII, poetry readings at 1:00 p.m. on April 21st. Registration is not yet open. Later go to: http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/popevent.cfm?curOrg=BAXTER&curApp=events&eID=1824021
Owls Annual Art # Photography Show
Saturday, February 18
Drop your pens and grab your Nikons, paint brushes, carving tools, or any other artistic medium! The OWL Annual Art & Photography Show is February 18, 2012. The rules are on the OWL web site: http://ozarkswritersleague.org/contests.htm Bring your entries to the meeting to enter them in the show. Lonnie Whitaker, Art & Photo Contest Chair, will have a table set up to receive your entries. Please send him an e-mail beforehand at lwhit@msn.com to let him know how many entries you’ll be bringing.
Photographers, don't forget the Cliff Edom Photography Contest. If you'd like your photos entered in the Cliff Edom Photo Contest, you can leave them with Lonnie Whitaker after Art & Photography Show, and he'll get them to Pam Jones, Contest Chair, who will be at the meeting. The deadline for entering Cliff Edom is the following Monday. Prize will be awarded at the May meeting.
4th Annual Delta Visual Arts Show (includes photography)
Newport Business Resource Center
201 Hazel Street
Newport, Arkansas 72112
February 25, 2012 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. http://newportaredc.org/Calendar/?action=displayevent&uid=7910
Contact Jon Chadwell director@newportaredc.org (870) 523-1009 for how to participate
The Friends of the Paul Weaver Library
“First Annual Literature Reading and Art Extravaganza”
April 19th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
John E. Miller Complex Auditorium, main campus of Ozarka College in Melbourne, Arkansas
Semi-formal literature reading by both professional writers and by Ozarka students.
Now taking applications for local writers with original short pieces of poetry and prose, humorous and dramatic short story, fiction or non-fiction, up to 10 minute spots on stage for an audience. Tables for sales of books will be made available to all writers.
There will be a one-time audition held on March 28,2012 at 2:00 pm at the Paul Weaver Library. Please come prepared with the piece you wish to present on-stage.
To apply and reserve your spot in auditions please call or write either:
Dan Lindsey, 870 368-2055, dlindsey@ozarka.edu or
Mary Ellen Hawkins, 870 368- 2054, mhawkins@ozarka.edu
CONTESTS
The Prole Laureate Prize http://www.prolebooks.co.uk/page6.html
For poetry closes on 1st March.
We are open to all forms of poetry. There is no line limit.
Winner: £130, publication in April 2012 issue of Prole and on the website.
Two runners up: £25 each, publication on our website and possible publication in our April 2012 print issue.
Fee £3 for first entry, £2 for subsequent entries.
From Mary Nida Smith
Open to Interpretation: Intimate Landscape
The photographs have been selected, and we are currently accepting poetry and prose.
View our online gallery for selected images.
Entries Due March 29, 2012 Submission Fees $10 per entry
For details: http://www.open2interpretation.com/submit_intimate_landscape.html
Gemini Magazine http://www.gemini-magazine.com/contest.html
The deadline for the Third Annual Gemini Magazine Short Story Contest is March 31, 2012. Take a shot at the $1,000 Grand Prize. Entry fee is $4.
From Pat Oplinger: The Arkansas Arts Council's application deadline for grants for novels is Friday, April 20, 2012. Check out their website. http://www.arkansasarts.org/grants/Default.aspx
Arkansas Writers Conference
June 1-2, Little Rock
Contest deadline April 30. For $10 fee enter up to 30 contests, all with cash awards
Write to: Clovita Rice, 1115 Gillette, Little Rock, AR 72227, for application and list of contests. 501-225-0166
From Mary Nida Smith
“The Writer Magazine” http://www.writermag.com/storycontest
2012 Short-Story Contest
Up to 2,000 words Deadline April 30
19th Original Play Festival
Aloha Theatre in Kainaliu, on the "Big Island" of Hawaii
Scripts of any length and on any subject will be accepted through postmark date May 1, 2012.
For more information, call the APAC office at 808-322-9924 (remember it’s four hours later there.)
Aloha Performing Arts Company, P.O. Box 794, Kealakekua, HI 96750
4th Annual “Scare The Dickens Out of Us” Ghost Story Contest
Entry fee of $20.00 Prizes, $1000, $500, and $250
We want ghost stories of 5,000 words or less, written in English.
We accept entries from July 1, 2012; the deadline is October 1, 2012 (postmarked).
Full rules and entry forms are at http://www.clarklibraryfriends.com/
CONFERENCES
OWL Meeting http://ozarkswritersleague.org/
Saturday, February 18
College of the Ozarks
Hollister, MO
Don’t forget the Friday night, February 17th, get-together at the Boxcar Willie Inn. Dinner starts at 5:30, with open mic right after. Make your dinner reservation at jymorrill@gmail.com. Meals are $9.00 payable at the door. Tickets will not be available for dinner for anyone who does not make a reservation by February 15.
From Mary Nida Smith
Velda Brotherton Workshop
Publish to Kindle
All day workshop Saturday, March 17th $25.00 fee
at Ozark Folkways south of Winslow on Hwy 71.
Contact Velda Brotherton at vebrotherton@gmail.com or call 479-634-3151 to register.
Missouri Society of Children’s Book Writers http://moscbwi.org/Events.html
Authorpreneurship Workshop on how to promote your book
Author Bruce Hale
Springfield, MO April 11
6:00 pm to 9:00 p.m.
Cost of the supper is $10. Cost of the workshop is $30 for SCBWI members and $35 for others.
Novel Revision Retreat/Workshop
April 27-29 St. Charles, MO
For advanced writers in children's genres from picture book to young adult (high school audience). Applicants should have a completed manuscript they want to refine with the assistance of Viking Editor Kendra Levin.
From Mary Nida Smith
Missouri Writers Guild Conference http://www.missouriwritersguild.org/conference2012v2/index.htm
April 20-22 in St. Louis
Contest information is posted and opens January 1st 2012.
Arkansas Society of Children’s Book Writers Spring Conference 2012
April 27-28
William F. Laman Public Library in North Little Rock, AR
For more information go to http://www.arkansasscbwi.org/conference.html
OF INTEREST TO WRITERS
From Mary Nida Smith
John Grisham's newest novel CALICO JOE will be released in April. It is a book about baseball with Calico Rock, AR as the backdrop.
Add a Kindle or Nook App to tablets, smartphones, and computers
If folks want to read an e-book, it's fairly simple to install the free Kindle app and free Nook app for tablets, smartphones, and computers.
Instructions on the free Kindle app:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000234621
Instructions on the free Nook app:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/u/free-nook-apps/379002321/
For iPads or iPhones, you need only go to the “App Store” to download the free Kindle app.
From Shannon Cavanaugh
Just wanted to make sure you guys new about the website http://www.newpages.com/ It lists all contests and call for submissions to journals. They ask for everything from screenplays to poetry and nonfiction. They also ask for photos and art. You can research most any journal on their website.
From Cherie Neal
Can you read these sentences right the first time?
01) The bandage was wound around the wound.
02) The farm was used to produce produce.
03) The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse.
04) We must polish the Polish furniture.
05) He could lead if he would get the lead out.
06) The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert.
07) Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present.
08) A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum.
09) When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes.
10) I did not object to the object.
11) The insurance was invalid for the invalid.
12) There was a row among the oarsmen about how to row.
13) They were too close to the door to close it.
14) The buck does funny things when the does are present.
15) A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewer line.
16) To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to sow.
17) The wind was too strong to wind the sail.
18) Upon seeing the tear in the painting, I shed a tear.
19) I had to subject the subject to a series of tests.
20) How can I intimate this to my most intimate friend?
Let's face it, English is a crazy language.
There is no egg in eggplant,
nor ham in hamburger; neither apple nor
pine in pineapple. English muffins weren't invented in England nor French fries in France. Sweetmeats are candies while sweetbreads, which aren't sweet, are meat. We take English for granted; but if we explore its paradoxes, we find that quicksand can work slowly, boxing rings are square and a guinea pig is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig.
And why is it that writers write but fingers don't fing, grocers don't groce and hammers don't ham? If the plural of tooth is teeth, why isn't the plural of booth, beeth? One goose, 2 geese. So one moose, 2 meese? One index, 2 indices? If teachers taught, why didn't preachers praught? Doesn't it seem crazy that you can make amends but not one amend? If you have a bunch of odds and ends and get rid of all but one of them, what do you call it?
In what language do people recite at a play and play at a recital, ship by truck and send cargo by ship, have noses that run and feet that smell? How can a slim chance and a fat chance be the same, while a wise man and a wise guy are opposites? You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language in which your house can burn up as it burns down, in which you fill in a form by filling it out, and in which an alarm goes off by going on.
English was invented by people, not computers, and it reflects the creativity of the human race, which, of course, is not a race at all. That is why, when the stars are out, they are visible, but when the lights are out, they are invisible. PS. - Why doesn't Buick rhyme with quick?
NEWSLETTER INFORMATION
Please send me information about what you're writing, also any information you think our members would find useful or interesting including MARKETS, CONTESTS, CONFERENCES, WEBSITES, bits of whimsy, helpful information, etc.
Susan Varno, Newsletter Editor
PO Box 71
Dolph, AR 72528 870-297-4223 mailto:svarno@hughes.net
TWIN LAKES WRITERS
http://www.twinlakeswriters.org/
Meeting: Saturday, February 18
10:00 a.m. to Noon
Van Matre Senior Center
1101 Spring Street
Cooper Park
Mountain Home, Arkansas
(From Highway 62 and Cardinal Drive, (Harps/Hastings Shopping Center) head south on Cardinal to Spring Street. Turn left onto Spring Street and proceed to the second entrance of Cooper Park. This will take you right to the Van Matre Center.)
FROM PRESIDENT JANICE VOTSMIER
The year 2012 is off to a great start. Twin Lakes Writers held their first meeting at the VanMatre Senior Center at 1101 Spring St., Cooper Park on January 21. We had 22 members in attendance and several of those where first timers.
I’d like to thank Steve Kampen for stepping into the vice-president position since Cherie Neal decided to resign due to other obligations.
The group voted to purchase “Building Great Sentences,” from the Great Courses catalog, and I’ve already received it. This is a series of twenty-four 30 minute lectures, compiled on four discs. All members are eligible to sign up and make use of this course.
I contacted Pamela Foster from OWLs to confirm with her that Twin Lakes Writers will sponsor one of the contests for this year. It was agreed that we will do the judging, and it would be limited to 1500 words about a mystery story about the Ozarks.
Your work for critique is always welcome, but please keep it to four double spaced pages.
I look forward to seeing you at our February meeting on Saturday, the 18th at 10 AM.
JANUARY TLW MEETING [last meeting]
Several new people attended our first meeting at the Van Matre Center including Donald Jackson, Richard Nevers, Nancy Jennings and others.
Janice announced the Donald Reynolds Library is having a used book sale Thursday, February 16, through Saturday, February 18. She said we are to enter and leave the Van Matre Center by the door on the far left of the building (outside) so we don’t disturb the art club in the next room.
THE EMERY RED CANOE AWARD
The “assignment” for January was a hook paragraph, and we had 7 entries. Our voting ended in a tie with Chuck Butkus and Jim Pierson taking the honors. The new assignment for February is use “a small stream through a forest” as a metaphor. Please keep the “assignment” to 500 words or less.
BRUNCH AT MEL’S DINER
The LAST Tuesday of each month, 10:00 a.m. until about noon in the Betty Boop Room.
This month, Tuesday, February 28
MEL’S DINER is in the Towne East Mall, 960 Highway 62 East, Suite 6.
MEMBER NEWS
From Ray Bachman: I am keeping busy here (in Florida). Teaching a class on both Tuesday and Wednesday. Have sold over 100 copies of my new book down here and a few online. I will soak up a little sun for you. It is supposed to be 80 degrees Tuesday. Have a great day.
Neil Chandler writes mysteries and was recently featured in the Baxter Bulletin. His latest book is THE SEARCH FOR AVIS BUCKMAN.
From Sheri de Grom: I've published my first book review on my blog. You may find it at http://sheridegrom.com/ Feel free to leave a comment and/or sign up to receive notice of future reviews.
From Kaye Milligan: Sorry to say, but I won't be attending meetings. I may get to one but not on a regular basis. It is too far and too early for me to travel from Cherokee Village.
From Nancy Thatcher-Cerny
Hello Phil,
Several writers you know were at the TLW brunch on Tuesday (Steve Kampen, Charlie H., Susan V. and Chuck Butkus...) I learned from them that one Phil Emery had been elected to some important position here in Mountain Home or Baxter County or nearby parts. We decided it was likely some another Phil Emery - but if it is you, we send congratulations and best wishes! At any rate, we want to let you know we'all are thinking about you, hoping you are well and missing your pleasant company at the writer's get-togethers. Hope to see you soon!
From Phil Emery: IT WAS NOT ME. I AM STILL HAVING SOME PROBLEMS RELATED TO THE SHINGLES, BUT HOPE TO MAKE IT TO NEXT MEETING.
From Mary Nida Smith: At the Ozarks Writers League's meeting last November I was talking about how the publishing industry is again in the pioneer stages. I said I feel like I'm sitting on a wagon heading west, and I'm not sure where we're going, but I know the trip is exciting.
OPPORTUNITIES TO READ, SPEAK, DISPLAY AND SELL
This year the Artisans Cooperative in Calico Rock will be sponsoring monthly Saturday demonstrations by artisans, writers and craftspeople. There will be publicity on websites, newspapers and radio. Some of these are through the COOP, some are in conjunction with four Calico Rock Museum “Reliving Calico Rock History” events. The first is with the museum on Saturday March 17 and will include live music, food and at least demos of pottery making and outdoor cooking.
Gloria Gushue said she would like Twin Lakes Writers to pick a date for a combination book signing and poetry and prose reading. Even if you don’t have a book for sale at the COOP, you can read. Let’s discuss this at Saturday’s meeting. http://www.calicoartist.com/
The Reynolds Library in Mountain Home hosts THE POETRY THING VII, poetry readings at 1:00 p.m. on April 21st. Registration is not yet open. Later go to: http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/popevent.cfm?curOrg=BAXTER&curApp=events&eID=1824021
Owls Annual Art # Photography Show
Saturday, February 18
Drop your pens and grab your Nikons, paint brushes, carving tools, or any other artistic medium! The OWL Annual Art & Photography Show is February 18, 2012. The rules are on the OWL web site: http://ozarkswritersleague.org/contests.htm Bring your entries to the meeting to enter them in the show. Lonnie Whitaker, Art & Photo Contest Chair, will have a table set up to receive your entries. Please send him an e-mail beforehand at lwhit@msn.com to let him know how many entries you’ll be bringing.
Photographers, don't forget the Cliff Edom Photography Contest. If you'd like your photos entered in the Cliff Edom Photo Contest, you can leave them with Lonnie Whitaker after Art & Photography Show, and he'll get them to Pam Jones, Contest Chair, who will be at the meeting. The deadline for entering Cliff Edom is the following Monday. Prize will be awarded at the May meeting.
4th Annual Delta Visual Arts Show (includes photography)
Newport Business Resource Center
201 Hazel Street
Newport, Arkansas 72112
February 25, 2012 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. http://newportaredc.org/Calendar/?action=displayevent&uid=7910
Contact Jon Chadwell director@newportaredc.org (870) 523-1009 for how to participate
The Friends of the Paul Weaver Library
“First Annual Literature Reading and Art Extravaganza”
April 19th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. John E. Miller Complex Auditorium, main campus of Ozarka College in Melbourne, Arkansas Semi-formal literature reading by both professional writers and by Ozarka students.
Now taking applications for local writers with original short pieces of poetry and prose, humorous and dramatic short story, fiction or non-fiction, up to 10 minute spots on stage for an audience. Tables for sales of books will be made available to all writers.
There will be a one-time audition held on March 28,2012 at 2:00 pm at the Paul Weaver Library. Please come prepared with the piece you wish to present on-stage.
To apply and reserve your spot in auditions please call or write either:
Dan Lindsey, 870 368-2055, dlindsey@ozarka.edu or Mary Ellen Hawkins, 870 368- 2054, mhawkins@ozarka.edu
CONTESTS
The Prole Laureate Prize http://www.prolebooks.co.uk/page6.html
For poetry closes on 1st March. We are open to all forms of poetry. There is no line limit.
Winner: £130, publication in April 2012 issue of Prole and on the website.
Two runners up: £25 each, publication on our website and possible publication in our April 2012 print issue. Fee £3 for first entry, £2 for subsequent entries.
From Mary Nida Smith
Open to Interpretation: Intimate Landscape The photographs have been selected, and we are currently accepting poetry and prose. View our online gallery for selected images.
Entries Due March 29, 2012 Submission Fees $10 per entry For details: http://www.open2interpretation.com/submit_intimate_landscape.html
Gemini Magazine http://www.gemini-magazine.com/contest.html
The deadline for the Third Annual Gemini Magazine Short Story Contest is March 31, 2012. Take a shot at the $1,000 Grand Prize. Entry fee is $4.
From Pat Oplinger: The Arkansas Arts Council's application deadline for grants for novels is Friday, April 20, 2012. Check out their website. http://www.arkansasarts.org/grants/Default.aspx
Arkansas Writers Conference
June 1-2, Little Rock Contest deadline April 30. For $10 fee enter up to 30 contests,
all with cash awards Write to: Clovita Rice, 1115 Gillette, Little Rock, AR 72227, for application and list of contests. 501-225-0166
From Mary Nida Smith
“The Writer Magazine” http://www.writermag.com/storycontest
2012 Short-Story Contest Up to 2,000 words Deadline April 30
19th Original Play Festival Aloha Theatre in Kainaliu, on the "Big Island" of Hawaii
Scripts of any length and on any subject will be accepted through postmark date May 1, 2012.
For more information, call the APAC office at 808-322-9924 (remember it’s four hours later there.) Aloha Performing Arts Company, P.O. Box 794, Kealakekua, HI 96750
4th Annual “Scare The Dickens Out of Us” Ghost Story Contest
Entry fee of $20.00 Prizes, $1000, $500, and $250
We want ghost stories of 5,000 words or less, written in English.
We accept entries from July 1, 2012; the deadline is October 1, 2012 (postmarked).
Full rules and entry forms are at http://www.clarklibraryfriends.com/
CONFERENCES
OWL Meeting http://ozarkswritersleague.org/
Saturday, February 18
College of the Ozarks
Hollister, MO
Don’t forget the Friday night, February 17th, get-together at the Boxcar Willie Inn. Dinner starts at 5:30, with open mic right after. Make your dinner reservation at jymorrill@gmail.com. Meals are $9.00 payable at the door. Tickets will not be available for dinner for anyone who does not make a reservation by February 15.
From Mary Nida Smith
Velda Brotherton Workshop Publish to Kindle
All day workshop Saturday, March 17th $25.00 fee
at Ozark Folkways south of Winslow on Hwy 71.
Contact Velda Brotherton at vebrotherton@gmail.com or call 479-634-3151 to register.
Missouri Society of Children’s Book Writers http://moscbwi.org/Events.html Authorpreneurship Workshop on how to promote your book Author Bruce Hale
Springfield, MO April 11 6:00 pm to 9:00 p.m. Cost of the supper is $10.
Cost of the workshop is $30 for SCBWI members and $35 for others.
Novel Revision Retreat/Workshop
April 27-29 St. Charles, MO
For advanced writers in children's genres from picture book to young adult (high school audience). Applicants should have a completed manuscript they want to refine with the assistance of Viking Editor Kendra Levin.
From Mary Nida Smith
Missouri Writers Guild Conference http://www.missouriwritersguild.org/conference2012v2/index.htm
April 20-22 in St. Louis
Contest information is posted and opens January 1st 2012.
Arkansas Society of Children’s Book Writers Spring Conference 2012
April 27-28 William F. Laman Public Library in North Little Rock, AR
For more information go to http://www.arkansasscbwi.org/conference.html
OF INTEREST TO WRITERS
From Mary Nida Smith
John Grisham's newest novel CALICO JOE will be released in April. It is a book about baseball with Calico Rock, AR as the backdrop.
Add a Kindle or Nook App to tablets, smartphones, and computers
If folks want to read an e-book, it's fairly simple to install the free Kindle app and free Nook app for tablets, smartphones, and computers. Instructions on the free Kindle app: http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000234621
Instructions on the free Nook app:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/u/free-nook-apps/379002321/
For iPads or iPhones, you need only go to the “App Store” to download the free Kindle app.
From Shannon Cavanaugh
Just wanted to make sure you guys new about the website http://www.newpages.com/ It lists all contests and call for submissions to journals. They ask for everything from screenplays to poetry and nonfiction. They also ask for photos and art. You can research most any journal on their website.
From Cherie Neal
Can you read these sentences right the first time?
01) The bandage was wound around the wound.
02) The farm was used to produce produce.
03) The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse.
04) We must polish the Polish furniture.
05) He could lead if he would get the lead out.
06) The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert.
07) Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present.
08) A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum. 09) When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes.
10) I did not object to the object.
11) The insurance was invalid for the invalid.
12) There was a row among the oarsmen about how to row.
13) They were too close to the door to close it.
14) The buck does funny things when the does are present.
15) A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewer line.
16) To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to sow.
17) The wind was too strong to wind the sail.
18) Upon seeing the tear in the painting, I shed a tear.
19) I had to subject the subject to a series of tests.
20) How can I intimate this to my most intimate friend?
Let's face it, English is a crazy language.
There is no egg in eggplant, nor ham in hamburger; neither apple nor pine in pineapple.
English muffins weren't invented in England nor French fries in France.
Sweetmeats are candies while sweetbreads, which aren't sweet, are meat.
We take English for granted; but if we explore its paradoxes,
we find that quicksand can work slowly, boxing rings are square and a
guinea pig is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig.
And why is it that writers write but fingers don't fing, grocers don't groce and hammers don't ham?
If the plural of tooth is teeth, why isn't the plural of booth, beeth?
One goose, 2 geese. So one moose, 2 meese?
One index, 2 indices?
If teachers taught, why didn't preachers praught?
Doesn't it seem crazy that you can make amends but not one amend?
If you have a bunch of odds and ends and get rid of all but one of them, what do you call it?
In what language do people recite at a play and play at a recital,
ship by truck and send cargo by ship,
have noses that run and feet that smell?
How can a slim chance and a fat chance be the same,
while a wise man and a wise guy are opposites?
You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language
in which your house can burn up as it burns down,
in which you fill in a form by filling it out,
and in which an alarm goes off by going on.
English was invented by people, not computers,
and it reflects the creativity of the human race,
which, of course, is not a race at all.
That is why, when the stars are out, they are visible,
but when the lights are out, they are invisible.
PS. - Why doesn't Buick rhyme with quick?
This explains why I can't write right?
NEWSLETTER INFORMATION
Please send me information about what you're writing, also any information you think our members would find useful or interesting including MARKETS, CONTESTS, CONFERENCES, WEBSITES, bits of whimsy, helpful information, etc.
Susan Varno, Newsletter Editor
PO Box 71
Dolph, AR 72528 870-297-4223 mailto:svarno@hughes.net
JANUARY 2012
THE EMERY RED CANOE AWARDThe January topic was a “hook” for a story about “Between a Rock and a Hard Place.” Jim Pearson and Chuck Butkus tied for the prize. For February, Chuck said we should write about “a stream through a forest,” using it as a metaphor for an idea or experience. Limit 500 words.
Our next Twin Lakes Writers meeting will be
Saturday, February 18
10 a.m. to noon
Van Matre Center in Cooper Park, Mountain Home
TWIN LAKES WRITERS
http://www.twinlakeswriters.org/
Meeting: Saturday, January 21
10:00 a.m. to Noon
Van Matre Senior Center
1101 Spring Street
Cooper Park
Mountain Home, Arkansas
JANUARY MEETING AT VAN MATRE CENTER
From President Janice Votsmeir: In 2012, we will be meeting from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the Van Matre Senior Center, 1101 Spring Street at Cooper Park, in Mountain Home, Arkansas. Below is a map that I hope will help with directions. From Highway 62 and Cardinal Drive, (Harps/Hastings Shopping Center) head south on Cardinal to Spring Street. Turn left onto Spring Street and proceed to the second entrance of Cooper Park. This will take you right to the Van Matre Center.
DECEMBER MEETING
From Vice-President Cherie Neal: Sixteen people attended the December Twin Lakes Writers meeting. Earl Belcher discussed Twin Lakes Writers sponsoring one of the Ozarks Writers League (OWLS) contests in 2012. The group voted to sponsor a 1500 “Mystery” 1500 writing contest. We will discuss this further at the January meeting.
ARTISANS COOPERATIVE OF CALICO ROCK
From Susan Varno: Do we want to sign up for another year of displaying our books? We have a good location but have sold very few books, though the CO-OP sold almost $20,000 in merchandise in 2011.
THE EMERY RED CANOE AWARD
Steve Kampen won the December Red Canoe Award. His topic for January is the same as for December, a one paragraph (100 to 150 words) “hook” for the beginning of a book but with the twist, the plot must be about being caught between a rock and a hard place.
BRUNCH AT MEL’S DINER
The LAST Tuesday of each month, 10:00 a.m. until about noon in the Betty Boop Room.
This month, Tuesday, January 31st
MEL’S DINER is in the Towne East Mall, 960 Highway 62 East, Suite 6.
MEMBER NEWS
Cheri Neal did a signing for her book SCARECROW GIRL on Saturday, January 7th at Hastings. “I signed four books. A lot of people came up and talked to me,” she said. “I learned a lot about what brings people to talk to you. Hastings is willing to set up anyone for a signing. They do this Saturday only, noon to 2:00 or noon to 5:00. Talk to Bruce is the manager.”
From Pat Oplinger: I was scheduled for left knee replacement surgery January 17th. Fate interceded. I fell on December 17th and tore tendons and muscles in my right shoulder and fractured a bone there. Yes, I’m right-handed. Shoulder surgery is on January 2nd. Knee surgery? Your guess is as good as mine. I didn’t break my brain. It only feels like it. Am having all kinds of new adventures and learning all kinds of new skills! My best to each and all for an excellent 2012. Keep writing. I am.
CONTESTS
From Pat Oplinger: The Arkansas Arts Council's application deadline for grants for novels is Friday, April 20, 2012. Check out their website. Last year the literary form was poetry and I didn't know it. http://www.arkansasarts.org/grants/Default.aspx
From Mary Nida Smith:
Oklahoma Writers’ Federation, Inc. (OWFI) http://www.owfi.org/contest.php
May 3rd through 5th
Contest deadline February 1, 2012. Check the website for rules and detailed category information.
Gemini Magazine http://www.gemini-magazine.com/contest.html
The deadline for the Third Annual Gemini Magazine Short Story Contest is March 31, 2012. Take a shot at the $1,000 Grand Prize.
CONFERENCES
From Mary Nida Smith
Missouri Writers Guild Conference http://www.missouriwritersguild.org/conference2012v2/index.htm
April 20-22 in St. Louis
Contest information is posted and opens January 1st 2012.
OREGON COAST CHILDREN'S BOOK WRITERS WORKSHOP, July 9-13
OF INTEREST TO WRITERS
From Steven LeBlanc
Helpful Writing Tips
http://www.writersblock.ca/tips/index.htm Fabulous concise reference for grammar and spelling.
http://www.smashingmagazine.com/2009/06/28/50-free-resources-that-will-improve-your-writing-skills/
For looking up words, I love http://www.onelook.com/ and http://definr.com/
Thesaurus for free download http://wordweb.info/free/
NEWSLETTER INFORMATION
Please send me information about what you're writing, also any information you think our members would find useful or interesting including MARKETS, CONTESTS, CONFERENCES, WEBSITES, bits of whimsy, helpful information, etc.
Susan Varno, Newsletter Editor
PO Box 71
Dolph, AR 72528 870-297-4223 mailto:svarno@hughes.net
TWIN LAKES WRITERS
http://www.twinlakeswriters.org/
Meeting: Saturday, December 17
1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Donald W. Reynolds Library
Knox Community Room B (second door on your right)
300 Library Hill, turn west off the Bypass onto Highway 201,
Then right onto Library Hill Road
Mountain Home
Information from President Janice Votsmeir
This is just a reminder that our next meeting will be Saturday, December 17th at 1:00 p.m. It will be our last meeting of 2011 and our last meeting at the Donald W. Reynolds library. Starting January 21, 2012, we will be ringing in the New Year at our meeting location at the VanMatre Center in Cooper Park. We will meet every third Saturday of the month from 10:00 a.m. to noon. Having a consistent time and place will allow us to promote our group more efficiently.
The VanMatre Senior Center is located at 1101 Spring Street at Cooper Park, in Mountain Home, Arkansas. I've attached a map that I hope will help with directions. From Highway 62 and Cardinal Drive, (Harps/Hastings Shopping Center) head south on Cardinal to Spring Street. Turn left onto Spring Street and proceed to the second entrance of Cooper Park. This will take you right to the VanMatre Center.
I would like to congratulate all our authors who participated in Authors Day at the library on Sunday, December 4th. Cheri Neal, Neil Chandler, Nancy Scarpa, Bill Rhodes, Dr. Earl Belcher and Mary Nida Smith all were participants for this event. I hope you all sold lots of books!
At our December meeting, Dr. Earl Belcher will make a presentation in regards to our group sponsoring one of the contests for OWL's for 2012. I think this would be a great learning experience for our club, and I look forward to your ideas and opinions.
I hope everyone has been working diligently on their assignment, a “hook” paragraph. Mine is done, and Dr. Belcher has kindly agreed to read it for me. I look forward to your critique.
I want to wish each of you a very Merry Christmas and an exciting New Year of writing, learning and having fun.
NOVEMBER MEETING
Cherie Neal presided at the November meeting. Twenty-two people attended including newcomers Bill Stallings and Lee McCormack. It was announced that Phil Emery and his wife were in a serious auto accident. Keep in touch with him. Nancy Scarpa suggested Twin Lakes Writers donate $25 to Wounded Warriors in memory of Tommy Tomlinson, son of Gloria Gushue from the Calico Rock Visitors Center. The group approved the expenditure.
Chuck Butkus presented a program on self-publishing, discussing the difference between vanity publishing (companies that do some editing and publicity but charge exorbitant fees) and self-publishing where the author is only paying for printing and some layout. Chuck has had good results with Amazon’s CreateSpace through Amazon. If you self-publish your book, you must do your own publicity through your website and social networks. E-books are another possibility. Creativity, tenacity, the right equipment, aggressive marketing and belief in yourself are necessary for success. Chuck’s latest book is UPSTAIRS WITH ANGELINA.
Steve LeFever recommended Whiskey Creek Press and Mundania Press as E-book publishers. Also check out which publishers can be trusted at “Writers Beware” online. Visit
http://www.epicorg.com/industry-member-listings.html for list of e-publishers.
THE EMERY RED CANOE AWARD
The November Award for “An Odd Duck Relative,” was won by Steven Kampen for “Family Memories.” The entire story is at the end of this newsletter. For December’s Red Canoe, Steve offered the topic, “A one paragraph (100 to 150 words) ‘hook’ for the beginning of a book.”
BRUNCH AT MEL’S DINER
The LAST Tuesday of each month, 10:00 a.m. until about noon in the Betty Boop Room.
This month, Tuesday, December 27
MEL’S DINER is in the Towne East Mall, 960 Highway 62 East, Suite 6.
IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL OWL MEMBERS
Brenda Brinkley, your PAST treasurer is receiving dues checks from members that should be going to the NEW treasurer, who is:
Brenda Black
10515 North Black Nursery Road
Prairie Grove, AR 72753.
MEMBER NEWS
From Pat Oplinger: Will make author signing at library Dec. 4th. Will not make meeting Dec. 17th; will be in South Carolina with 2 daughters & families. Am scheduling a left knee replacement for some time in January in Mountain View (Dr. Charles Varela).
From Laura McNerney: As our dear friend would never blow her own horn about her writing accomplishments, I wished to say something I found concerning some of her wonderful work. Please go to
http://www.arkansasonline.com/search/?site=www.arkansasonline.com&query=susan+varno&search_type=stories and see some of the great articles that she has published.
Susan Varno was surprised to learn her short entry to the Byline Calendar has been accepted for the 2012 Calendar. She thought she sent the entry for the 2011 Calendar. But good news is good news.
From Marian Yancey: Since I'm not a regular, I won't vote about what to do about meeting in December. If you do meet, it might be fun to do something a little different and have a writer's gift exchange with a NO dollar rule. Spend no money. Each person would grab something from their stash at home and wrap it creatively and write a brief something about winter or Christmas or Hanukah to share.
WRITING MARKETS
From Nancy Thatcher-Cerny
Nimrod International Journal's Spring 2012 issue
Theme "The View from Here."
Nimrod invites poets, fiction writers, and essayists to explore "The View from Here." All interpretations of this theme are welcome.
Postmark Deadline: January 15th, 2012
Publication will be in Nimrod's Spring/Summer 2012 issue, appearing in late April or early May 2012.
See website for details http://www.utulsa.edu/nimrod/manuscripts.html
If you have questions, or for more information, please write to us at mailto:nimrod@utulsa.edu%20 or call 918-631-3080.
From Mary Nida Smith
Romance stories needed for Valentine's Day anthology. Goldminds Publishing http://www.goldmindspub.com
CONTESTS
From Pat Oplinger: The Arkansas Arts Council's application deadline for grants for novels is Friday, April 20, 2012. Check out their website. Last year the literary form was poetry and I didn't know it.
"TV ME!" Pitch/Concept Contest for New Television Content
Deadline December 31, 2011
The TV ME! Contest requires only five-to-15-page pitches of a concept for television programming.
Sponsored by The Sarasota County Film & Entertainment Office (SCFEO) http://www.filmsarasota.com/
Submission instructions and prize information are available online at http://www.filmsarasota.com/tv-me-contest/
Contest prizes for the first place winner in each of three specific categories include trophies, cash awards and gifts from sponsors. SCFEO will submit those first-place winning concepts electronically to executives and decision-makers in the television industry for consideration. One grand prize winner is chosen for the best entry across all categories, who receives all of the prizes won by the three category first place winners, plus the grand prize of an escorted trip to Los Angeles California to "pitch" in person to a select group of industry professionals.
Categories:
1. Scripted series (from comedy to drama, animated to children's programs, science fiction to hybrids and other genres of recurring and/or series television);
2. Unscripted/partially scripted (reality programs, game shows, demonstration/training programs such as cooking, crafts, skills, documentary, interview and expose programs, etc.)
3. One-offs (single stand-alone programs such as a mini-series , a movie-of-the-week, an award or sporting event, a special televised gala, benefit, tribute, fundraiser, concert, staged performance, etc.).
CONFERENCES
From Mary Nida Smith
Missouri Writers Guild Conference http://www.missouriwritersguild.org/conference2012v2/index.htm
April 20-22 in St. Louis
OF INTEREST TO WRITERS
From Mary Nida Smith
From Donna Volkenannt: “Today on my blog, Melissa Ann Goodwin, author of The Christmas Village, shares the two techniques that have helped improve her writing most.” http://donnasbookpub.blogspot.com
From Mary Nida Smith
From ArkansasWriters.com
"Steampunk" is a sub-genre of science fiction, fantasy, alternate history, and speculative fiction that came into prominence during the 1980's. Steampunk involves a setting where steam power is still widely used—usually Victorian era Britain or “Wild West”-era United States—that incorporates elements of either science fiction or fantasy. Works of Steampunk often feature anachronistic technology or futuristic innovations as Victorians may have envisioned them, based on a Victorian perspective on fashion, culture, architectural style, art, etc. This technology includes such fictional machines as those found in the works of H. G. Wells and Jules Verne, or the contemporary authors Philip Pullman and China Mieville.
For anyone interested in exploring this genre, here are some titles from a site called goodreads.com:
Soulless by Gail Carriger, Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld, Boneshaker by Cherie Priest, Perdido Street Station by China Miéville, His Dark Materials (trilogy) by Philip Pullman, Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare
FAMILY MEMORIES
Winner of the November Emery Red Canoe Award
By Steven Kampen
The young politician had worked a full day, stopping at homes, ringing doorbells and speaking to potential voters, all in the effort to get elected to office. In the distance, he saw one more farmhouse. He gave it a look and thought to himself that he would make one more stop on his way home.
Soon, he was approaching a front porch where an elderly man was seated on a rocking chair, smoking a corn-cob pipe. The gray-haired farmer gave the young man a stern look as he was approached. Rocking slowly back and forth, the man did not recognize the stranger. Within minutes, the two of them were engrossed in conversation. The candidate for office was telling the older man why he deserved his vote in the upcoming election.
Soon, the farmer’s wife joined came out of the house onto the porch and joined the conversation. The young man was invited to sit and have a cold glass of lemonade. The three sat and discussed politics. The farmer and his wife nodded their heads in agreement several times as they heard what the young man had to say. Again and again they heard an idea, looked at each other and nodded in agreement while saying that what the young man had said was very good.
During the conversation, the young man noticed a strong European accent from his two hosts. Things went fine until the conversation was almost finished. The elderly man adjusted his bifocals with one hand, took the pipe out of his mouth with the other, and asked what office the young man was seeking. The young man was sure he had mentioned it earlier, but he again said he was running for a seat in the U. S. House of Representatives.
The three were about to say good-bye when the farmer had a final question. Again he took the pipe out of his mouth and looked the young man in the eyes as he spoke. “What party did you say you were with?”
The young man thought he had said this earlier, but he politely replied. When the other man heard the answer, he totally lost his temper. Within seconds he was yelling about ‘Labor Hating SOBs.’ He said a lot of things, but most of what he said was difficult to understand. The angrier he became, the louder he spoke and the more his accent garbled the words. The wife took the lemonade glasses and angrily stomped into the house while the older man told the candidate for office to get off of his property. If the politician had not heard the words, the older man was pointing angrily towards the front gate. While headed to his car, the young candidate could still hear the older man yelling.
While the young man was heading home, he wondered what had happened. The three of them had discussed political issues and possible solutions. Everyone seemed to be in agreement. Everything had gone fine until the young man had said he was a Republican.
During World War II, Melvin Laird earned the Purple Heart while serving in the navy. He was elected to congress where he served 26 years. He later became Secretary of Defense. He served under Nixon during Watergate. The man is now retired and living in Marshfield, Wisconsin.
I wonder if he still remembers the time he met my grandfather on that warm afternoon in 1952.
NEWSLETTER INFORMATION
Please send me information about what you're writing, also any information you think our members would find useful or interesting including MARKETS, CONTESTS, CONFERENCES, WEBSITES, bits of whimsy, helpful information, etc.
Susan Varno, Newsletter Editor
PO Box 71
Dolph, AR 72528 870-297-4223 mailto:svarno@hughes.net
TWIN LAKES WRITERS
http://www.twinlakeswriters.org/
Meeting: Saturday, November 12
1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Donald W. Reynolds Library
Knox Community Room B (second door on your right)
300 Library Hill, turn west off the Bypass onto Highway 201,
Then right onto Library Hill Road
Mountain Home
Information from President Janice Votsmeir
Just a reminder to everyone to sign up for the Library’s Authors Day as that is already open for sign up. Go to
http://www.baxtercountylibrary.org/ then open “Events Calendar.” Go to December 4th and click on 1:00 p.m. “Local Author Book Event.” This opens with information about the event. Click on “Register” and fill in the information.
Chuck Butkus will make his presentation on self-publishing at our meeting on the 12th.
At our November meeting, I would like to find out if the members would like to cancel the December meeting since it is so close to Christmas. The December meeting will be the third Saturday, December 17.
Twin Lakes Writers has a booth at the Craft Fair on Friday, November 18 and Saturday 19 from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Baxter County Fairgrounds. Let me know if you have books to sell. We also need volunteers for the booth.
For a personal page on the Twin Lakes Writers website, contact webmaster Cherie Neal. Costs is $10.00 a year.
ARTISANS COOPERATIVE OF CALICO ROCK
Tommy Tomlinson died in a fire at his home on Tuesday, November 1st. Tommy was the son of Gloria Gushue who runs the Artisans Cooperative in Calico Rock. Members of Twin Lakes Writers have books on display at the Coop, and several of our members worked with Gloria when they volunteered at the Coop. Sympathy cards may be sent to the Visitors Center, 104 Main Street, Calico Rock, AR 72519. Memorials can be made to Wounded Warriors, https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org
THE EMERY RED CANOE AWARD
Emma Barry was the winner of the October Emery Award writing about “Imagination.” For the November award, she suggests either 1. “A Stirring Childhood Memory” or 2. An “Odd Duck Relative.”
BRUNCH AT MEL’S DINER
The LAST Tuesday of each month, 10 a.m. until about 12:00 noon in the Betty Boop Room.
This month, Tuesday, November 29
MEL’S DINER is in the Towne East Mall, 960 Highway 62 East, Suite 6.
MEMBER NEWS
Neil Chandler’s new book THE SEARCH FOR AVYCE BUCKMAN is available.
From Cherie Clark: Look for my book WYOMING DREAMER on http://www.amazon.com/Wyoming-Dreamer-C-J-Clark/dp/144868630X https://www.createspace.com/
Coming soon! MARRY ME UNDER THE MISTLETOE www.cjclark.webs.com
www.ripplesinastream.blogspot.com
From: Dave Deines: OWLs invited New York Times bestselling author, Deborah LeBlanc as speaker at their meeting in August. She writers in the same horror genre that I write. We spoke at length about my manuscript, and she liked the title and opening. She recommended that I publish it as an e-book, since it will be the next generation in publishing.
I took her advice, and my e-book WHO GIVES A HOWL is available through Kindle e-books at http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias=stripbooks&field-keywords=Who+gives+a+howl&x=16&y=20 Also it is available at Barnes and Noble through Nook e-books at bn.com. At both locations enter “Who Gives a Howl” in the search area and click go or search and my book will appear. However, at the kindle site, double click the cover and an arrow will state “click to see inside.” Then the first 10 chapters and two thirds of chapter 11 will appear, allowing the reader to review before deciding.
Laura McNerney’s article about growing bamboo appears in the October issue of The Herbalist magazine.
Newcomers Jim and Judy Pearson attended our October meeting. They moved to Mountain Home recently from Washington State. He is an outdoor writer.
Susan Varno and Nancy Thatcher-Cerny have been informed their entries will be published in ECHOES OF THE OZARKS Vol. VII Anthology. Do some of our other members have entries being published in the Anthology?
From Janice Votsmeir: I’m afraid I have been totally absorbed in getting my store Satin and Lace (608 Church Street off the Square) open the day after Thanksgiving and haven’t paid the proper attention to the writers group. I hope within a few months I will be more organized and have a good employee I can depend on so I can take time off.
WRITING MARKETS
From Nancy Thatcher-Cerny
Nimrod International Journal's Spring 2012 issue http://www.utulsa.edu/nimrod/manuscripts.html
Theme "The View from Here."
Nimrod invites poets, fiction writers, and essayists to explore "The View from Here." All interpretations of this theme are welcome. At the moment, we see the "view" as from above or below, from inside or outside, from the heart and the head. The view may be from a window or a mountaintop, from flight or a great burning star. It may be narrow or expansive. "Here" may refer to a specific geographic location: Africa, Brazil, Egypt and so forth. Or it may be the attic or the basement, the front porch or the back garden.
Postmark Deadline: January 15th, 2012
Publication will be in Nimrod's Spring/Summer 2012 issue, appearing in late April or early May 2012.
All themed manuscripts should be marked "Theme" on both the outer envelope and the cover letter.
Send your interpretation of "The View from Here" to
Nimrod Journal
The University of Tulsa
800 S. Tucker Dr.
Tulsa, OK 74104
If you have questions, or for more information, please write to us at mailto:nimrod@utulsa.edu%20 or call 918-631-3080.
From Nancy Thatcher-Cerny
CREATIVE PRINT PUBLISHING LTD - NOVEMBER 2011 NOVELLAS (any genre) COMPETITION
Deadline November 30, 2011
Novellas (any genre).This is a genuine, no fee competition that stretches over 12 months. Each month a different genre; each month a winner. Winners are offered contracts, paid royalties, and receive full promotion and marketing strategies. This is not a competition with prizes. There is no entry fee. Only Print Ready novels of genuine merit will be chosen. http://www.creativeprintpublishing.com/publishing/competitions.php
phillip@creativeprintpublishing.com
From Mary Nida Smith
Romance stories needed for Valentine's Day anthology. Goldminds Publishing http://www.goldmindspub.com
CONFERENCES
From Mary Nida Smith
Missouri Writers Guild Conference http://www.missouriwritersguild.org/conference2012v2/index.htm
April 20-22 In St. Louis
Ozarks Writers League Conference http://ozarkswritersleague.org/
Friday, November 18th
Hillbilly Formal (in costume)
Contest winners will be announced
Conference Saturday, November 19
Plaster Auditorium, College of the Ozarks
Speakers Mary Horner and Teddie Norris discussing making revisions.
Send in your reservations and check for $10 per person to treasurer, Brenda Brinkley, for the Friday, November 18, “Hillbilly Formal” and awards dinner at Boxcar Willie’s. Her address is: 831 Plant School
Road, Marshfield, MO 65706. All reservations must be in no later than November 13th. After that date, no
reservations will be taken. If you want to attend the event itself, without dinner, you’re welcome to come and mingle.
Remember, there’s a prize for the best male and the best female costume, and it is “hillbilly formal”—lots of glitter and glitz and something comfortable.
CONTESTS
Dr. Doris Mueller Poetry and Prose Contest
Deadline November 15
Fiction for Children, Short story YA or Adult or Poetry
Topic: Imaginary Friends or chose your own topic
Fee $7 to Missouri Writer’s Guild
go to website for details
http://www.christwriters.info/index/2011-dr-doris-mueller-poetry-prose-contest
OF INTEREST TO WRITERS
Go to http://voicesinspace.com and see if we want to post information about our group. This is also a critique site run by Tara Kipnus admin@voicesinspace.com.
From Susan Kirkpatrick:
STORM COUNTRY is out and selling briskly! According to Deb Marshall, MWG President, right now it's 42,343 in Amazon sales ranking, for those who keep track of such things. Most important, if we wrote a check to Joplin School Libraries today, it would be for over $3,000---and we haven't held the 1st launch yet!
If you have the opportunity to attend the launch in St. Louis next Sunday evening, please do. Quite a large number of contributors are planning to attend.
Launch will be November 13, 2011, 7:00 p.m. at the Regional Arts Commission, 6128 Delmar, University City. Second event will be Sunday, December 4, 2011, 1:00 p.m. p.m. at the George A. Spiva Center for the Arts, 222 West 3rd Street in Joplin.
Storm Country is now available on Amazon.com! Available for Nook and Kindle on November 5th
To order direct go to: http://stormcountry.wordpress.com/
or send a check for $13.95 per copy to
MWG Joplin Book Drive
1203 Spartina Drive
St. Louis, MO 63031
From Nancy Thatcher-Cerny
Two Ebook online publications I subscribe to are:
http://www.publishyourownebooks.com/ http://www.bookbaby.com/
While I've never used their services, it helps to keep a finger on the pulse of this publication medium. Publish Your Own Ebooks offers a weekly subscription with articles entitled "Advantages of Ebook for authors," and "Formatting Guide for Ebooks." It offers some information, little hints and a promo for services or 'how-to' book.
There is also http://www.lulu.com/ Admittedly, I have never accomplished an ebook publication with any of them and simply use for information (so I won't feel so ignorant when people discuss ebooks).
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Susan Varno Editor
Susan Varno Editor
