Write Thoughts

99% poetry

2011-11-17T09:55:00.000-08:00

There is a site for poetry called "99 Poems for 99 percent." The link is http://99poemsfor99percent.blogspot.com

This is a blog that speaks to the issues of the majority. Dean Rader, an English professor at the University of San Francisco, is the curator.

I would recommend that you log into this web page to see how relevant poetry is to Americans today.

And there still may be time to submit your voice to the outcry.

Today's "Get Fuzzy" Comic Strip

2011-10-30T11:43:00.000-07:00

http://www.gocomics.com/getfuzzy

October 30's contribution by Darby Conley is appropriate for writers and the times.

Hope you don't take it seriously, though it does give pause.

Poetry has its place in the world today. The fear factor needs to be balanced by the beauty of words and by creating a respite for us all with the images that lift our spirits. Poets are there too to provide the echo of the turbulence.

What are your thoughts about this?

Cupertino Poet Laureate: "First Words" and David Denny

2011-10-15T12:44:00.000-07:00

Today marked the event,"First Words,' conducted by the Cupertino Poet Laureate, David Denny. He read some of his inspired poetry and was joined by six other local poets during the program.

Dave Denny is a teacher of poetry, literature, and creative writing at De Anza College. He holds the distinction of being chosen as the first Poet Laureate of Cupertino. The motto for his term as Poet Laureate is "Celebrate Creativity."

The other poets who presented their works were Jennifer Swanton Brown, Jack Hasling, Karl Kadie, Ron Miller, Ann Muto, and Laura Oliver. The audience at the outdoor Civic Center Plaza in Cupertino was delighted at the diversity of poetry presented.

I am honored to share that I am invited to participate as a reader of my poetry next time. For more information, please see www.cupertino.org/poet laureate

National Writing Project: Why I Write October 20

2011-09-30T12:15:00.000-07:00

This has been copied from http://www.nwp.org/cs/public/print/events/566?x-t=sites_eos.view

Events

NWP Radio: Why I Write

OCTOBER 20, 2011

One way we're celebrating the National Day on Writing is by talking with writers about writing.

Join us for a conversation with Katherine Schulten , editor of theNew York Times Learning Network and a New York City Writing Project fellow; New York Times education reporter Fernanda Santos ; Dana Goodyear , Figment co-founder and staff writer for the New Yorker; and novelist and Writing Project teacherAshley Hope Perez .

Details

When: Thursday, October 20, 2011, 7 p.m. EST / 4 p.m. PST
Where: NWP Radio on Blog Talk Radio

Questions

For more information, contact Tanya Baker at tbaker@nwp.org.

Poetry Foundation

2011-09-16T09:11:00.000-07:00

There is a website that is a must-see for poets. It is www.poetryfoundation.org

I learned about it through American Public Media. Garrison Keillor does a spot there called "Writers Almanac," in which he reads a poem aloud every morning.

You can sign up for biweekly messages from poetryfoundation.org online.

To review the Writers Almanac offerings, see http://writersalmanacgather.com/

Poem about September 11 for 10th anniversary

2011-09-11T09:28:00.000-07:00

This poem of mine was published in the September issue of "Writers Talk," the newsletter of South Bay Writers.

September 11.2001

by Susan Paluzzi

Are your loved ones O.K.?

On this gruesome day

That's the question we ask

As we face the task

Of clearing the debris

That could herald World War III.

The echoes resound

As the buildings tumble to the ground

Have you seen this person around?

Have you seen my daughter, my brother, my wife?

Or have we lost another life?

People hurtled from windows in terror

The images are imprinted forever.

Center for Writing Excellence & Newsletter & Contest

2011-08-25T09:43:00.000-07:00

The Center for Writing Excellence is seeking contributions to the free newsletter, "Excellent Writing." Contributors are encouraged to include their bio and contact information.

There are guidelines at http://janiewrites.com/newsletter/writers-guidelines/

The newsletter is released the first Monday of each month. Subscribers are allowed a free classified ad.

A contest with the deadline to enroll of September 30, 2o11 is also being held. Entrants get five days to write 700-1000 words based on a prompt. See: http://janiewrites.com/writing-contests/a-fiction-in-five-rules/ for more information. There is a nominal entry fee.

The C4WE also offers classes, as well as webcasts, for a very reasonable price.

National Writing Project Is In Danger of Being Cut

2011-08-12T13:04:00.000-07:00

The National Writing Project is a non-profit organization and the mission statement is " The National Writing Project focuses the knowledge, expertise, and leadership of our nation's educators on sustained efforts to improve writing and learning for all learners."

To save this nationwide network of teachers go to http://www.causes.com/causes/591544-save-the-national-writing-project It is at risk due to the budget crisis.

The National Writing Project Newsletter e-voice is part of the National Writing Project, which is

dedicated to "improving writing and learning in the nation's schools."

The website is www.nwp.org

Santa Clara County 2nd Poet Laureate Sally Ashton

2011-08-05T08:22:00.001-07:00

Sally Ashton, 2nd Poet Laureate of Santa Clara County, began her 2 year stint on April 1, 2011.
She is an excellent, encouraging poetry teacher, attended San Jose State University, and edits the DMQ Review, which is an online journal. She possesses an MFA, which she earned through Bennington. She also received the honor of an Artist Fellowship in Poetry from the Arts Council Silicon Valley.

Ashton has won numerous awards for her fine poetry and been nominated for Pushcart Prizes. She founded and directed the California Poets Festival. She supports the SJSU student group Poets and Writers Coalition. She has been published and this summer led a poetry workshop in Portugal.

Ashton has performed notable readings including with Nils Peterson, the first Santa Clara Poet Laureate, and been part of the Poetry Center San Jose for years.

Her project as Poet Laureate has been a call for the public to choose favorite poems. Readings of these favorite poems, as well as others, will begin on September 18 at 1 p.m. at Barnes & Noble on Stevens Creek Blvd. in San Jose.

Look Into Project Written About in July "Poets & Writers"

2011-07-28T12:22:00.000-07:00

A painter named Eric Fischl created a national art project which involves poets. It is a show that is to go around the nation and not only includes creations of poets, but also filmmakers, musicians, playwrights, and visual artists.

The title of the work is "America:Now and Here" and it addresses what the contributors would like to focus on in the present as a way of diffusing the toxic situation of our society today.

The poets contacted created a "renga" which starts with a three-line stanza which includes seventeen syllables. The poet who began the renga passed it on to the next poet, who, in turn, wrote a couplet of seven-syllable lines, according to Alex Dimitrov, who wrote the article in "Poets and Writers." The three-line stanza and couplet continued as the piece was offered to one chosen poet after another. The result in this case was the work entitled " Crossing State Lines," which is on exhibit within the total project of "America:Now and Here."

The entire traveling show will be visiting different cities in the United States starting Fall 2012 for two years. Each host city is able to make their own unique contribution to "America:Now and Here" which will be presented at that particular site. To get involved or learn where the project will be available for viewing, see www.americanowandhere.org

Kay Ryan

2011-07-22T23:55:00.000-07:00

Kay Ryan who was the nation's poet laureate from 2008-2010 received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in April 2011.

Ryan was born in California in 1945.

The work that earned her the Pulitzer is "The Best Of It."

I met her and heard her speak a few years ago. She is very personable and gave the impression at the time that she takes herself lightly by the comments she made.

I believe she even allowed me to pose with her for a photo!

MEMOIR IN THE FALL

2011-07-16T14:44:00.000-07:00

After a hiatus, I am resuming my blog. I signed up for a Memoir class with instructor Ann Thompson during the spring and was only able to attend a few sessions. However, she did inspire me to write.

I have given my memoir more thought and effort. What came to mind was to gather old notes from throughout the years, including journals, and then proceed. So that is what I have been doing.

I am only part way through but noticing that I had more done from the past that I am able to use than I had thought. The book is taking shape in my mind, as well as in consolidation online.

Ann Thompson will be teaching the Memoir class again in the fall at the Campbell Community Center around Labor Day. If you Google the City of Campbell, CA. you will obtain the information.

I intend to stay with this mode of blogging for now and do not plan to have the separate blog for my book at this time. I will continue to inform you about writing and related topics. Stay tuned...

Another Memoir Resource

2011-02-01T13:49:00.000-08:00

An associate of mine mentioned "Story Circle" when I told her I was planning to write a memoir.

I Googled it and came up with "Story Circle Network" at www.storycircle.org, which is described
as a network for women with stories to tell.

A conference is advertised for Memoir Writing on the site. It is "Stories From The Heart VI" Women's Memoir Conference. It is to be held in Austin, Texas on April 13-15, 2012.

The explanation about Story Circle Network on the site is as follows:
"The Story Circle Network is a national not-for-profit membership organization made up of women who want to document their lives and explore their personal stories through journaling, memoir, autobiography, personal essays, poetry, drama and mixed-media."
You may subscribe to a free e-mail newsletter on the site. Online classes are also offered.

Blogging Coach

2011-01-24T12:04:00.000-08:00

I learned through a question of Dan Poynter, a workshop presenter, (Google CWC South Bay Chapter, Jan. 15, 2011) that an associate of mine coaches clients about the best way to blog a book.

Nina Amir, the blogging coach, also has products on her website at a good price which address this topic. Her website is www.copywrightcommunications.com

Her contact info and credentials are listed there. Nina Amir earned a journalism degree.

She also has many years of experience.

I look forward to the possibility of working with her!

Memoir Info

2011-01-14T10:55:00.000-08:00

I am still reading Betty Auchard's recent memoir, and learned from the front pages already that she took more than one class in writing memoirs. So, I signed up for one too.

Betty Auchard's book, "The Home for the Friendless," is a series of vignettes about her childhood memories. It is poignant and often funny. She divides the book into sections, which makes it more cohesive and readable. The fact that the stories are brief makes it easy to follow. I hope I may do as well.

She will be leading a memoir writing workshop at the Wild Mind Writer's Retreat which is being held from April 16-17, 2011. For mor information, see www.wildmindwriterpresents.vpweb.com

To see more about Betty Auchard, visit www.bettyauchard.com

Memoir Resource

2011-01-07T15:35:00.000-08:00

As you know, my plan is to begin a memoir. I decided to do some footwork first.

I am considering joining a writer's group to keep me on track. That way I will be obligated to have written 5 pages a week to share and get feedback.

I also intend to read another memoir by my associate at the California Writers Club, Betty Auchard. I will let you know about that in a future entry. At the very least, I know it will be a good read. The title is "Home for the Friendless."

The resource I find to be most helpful so far is Linda Joy Myers. She is the President of the National Association of Memoir Writers. Her blog is www.memoriesandmemoirs.com

Her website is lindajoymyersphd.com Check them out. There is a lot of worthwhile guidance there.

NPR Links to Best Books of 2010/2011 Blog Info

2010-12-31T12:10:00.000-08:00

Below are two National Public Radio links for the best books of 2010 and the recent NPR best seller's book list.

http://www.npr.org/series/131336530/best-books-of-2010

http://www.npr.org/sections/books/

Happy New Year and Happy Reading!

I will be starting a new blog soon about writing my memoir, but there will be a transition period where I will be researching how to write a memoir and that info will be posted here.

Happy Writing too!

Nils Peterson Santa Clara County Poet Laureate Poem

2010-12-21T09:50:00.000-08:00

From his book "For This Day": of Christmas poems written annually and collected finally. With the author's permission:

Poem entitled "For This Day"

"In which everything is meant for you

And nothing need be explained"

Wallace Stevens

For this day, the sweet lowings, the brays,

the heavenly music are all for us. The world

brings us the presents we so richly deserve,

for are we not children of the Father?

For this day we sit on Mary's blue lap

at home with ox, ass, shepherd, king, angel

Yes, there is a Herod, but for this day

he rages off-stage in the empty city.

For this day, the trees are for us, and then,

"the whole wideness of the night."

Merry Christmas

Bill Costley's Recent Poem on The New Verse News

2010-12-15T18:48:00.000-08:00

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2010

CL@SSIFIC@TIONISM

by Bill Costley

While you’re reading this
Somebody’s deciding whether
it’s filling empty minds with
stuff of the classifiable category

that oughtn’t be open to just 
anybody reading this. Trilemma:
Open, Closed, Classified.

Classified’s a transient value
of sometimes no value @ all. 
[Ex. Air is getting sorta scarce.]

Classified /not-quite classified?
Classified; lest panic ensue. 
You can all breathe now. Closed.

Bill Costley has served on the Steering Committee of the San Francisco Bay area chapter of the National Writers Union. He lives in Santa Clara, CA.
_____________________________________________________

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Ego Boost

2010-12-15T18:24:00.000-08:00

Upon attending the Poetry and Music To Celebrate Christmas at St. Mark's in Santa Clara, I was surprised to hear from the person sitting in front of me, Bill Costley, that he had sent a copy of an newspaper article, which I had written that included info about him, to the archives of his alma mater. He had also mailed this same article which had been published in the Santa Clara Weekly to his friend in northern England. I felt like I had made a difference in his life and that was very gratifying.

Bill has a blog also. He also writes poetry about news! The site where you can read his poetry is www.newversenews.com To read his blog, go to www.costleybill7.blogspot.com

The first Santa Clara County poet laureate Nils Peterson touchingly read his own Christmas poetry, as well as selections from Garrison Keillor and Jean Shepherd at the aforementioned event. The Symphony Silicon Valley Singers sang magnificently under the direction of Elena Sharkova. I will include a poem or two written by Nils Peterson in my blog next week to mark the season.

Writers Digest Poetry Contest Info

2010-12-10T10:54:00.000-08:00

http://writersdigest.com/poetryawards Contents are below for the upcoming deadline for the Writers Digest poetry contest.

Poetry Awards

6th Annual Writer's Digest Poetry Awards Competition

We're pleased to announce the only Writer's Digest competition exclusively for poets! Regardless of style—rhyming, free verse, haiku and more—if your poems are 32 lines or fewer, we want them all.

Entry Deadline: December 15, 2010

Prizes | Contest Rules | Privacy Promise | Entry Form

Prizes

First Place: $500 and a trip to the Writer's Digest Conference in New York City

Second Place: $250

Third Place: $100

Fourth Through Tenth Place: $25

Eleventh Through Twenty-Fifth Place: $50 gift certificate for Writer's Digest Books.

* The names and poem titles of the First through Tenth-Place winners will be printed in the August 2011 Writer's Digest, and afterwards their names will appear on www.writersdigest.com. All winners will receive the 2011 Poet's Market.

The 6th Annual Writer's Digest Poetry Awards Collection

The 1st- through 50th-place poems will be printed in a special competition collection. Use the entry form to order your copy or purchase a copy online using a credit card. (Publication date: May 2011. You are not required to purchase the collection to enter the competition.)

Competition Rules

1. The competition is open to poems 32 lines or fewer. Entries longer than 32 lines will be automatically disqualified. Long poems may not be broken into segments and entered as separate entries. Each poem must be self-contained and must be titled. Style and subject matter are open. Type the line count along with your name, address, phone number and email address at the top left-hand corner of the page. No refunds will be given for disqualified entries.

2. The entry fee is $15 for the first poem submitted and $10 for each additional poem. You may enter as many poems as you wish. If you are submitting your entry via regular mail, you may send one check (in U.S. funds) and one entry form for a single entry or batch of entries. You may pay with a check or money order, Visa or Mastercard when entering online or via regular mail. Entries received without an entry fee will be disqualified. Entry fees may not be sent after poems have been received. There will be a $10 fee for declined credit cards or returned checks. Credit cards will be charged within 90 days of the contest deadline. Charges will appear on your statement as "F+W Contests."

3. All entries must be in English, original, unpublished, and not submitted elsewhere at the time of submission. "Unpublished" means poems may not have appeared in print or on the Internet for public consumption (i.e., poems posted on a public forum or on your Web site may not be entered). Writer's Digest reserves the one-time publication rights to the 1st through 50th-place winning entries to be published in aWriter's Digest publication, on Writer's Digest's Web site, or in other digital materials.

4. If you are submitting your entry via regular mail, all entries must be typewritten on one side of 8-1/2 x 11 white paper (computer printout acceptable) or A4 white paper. Unusual typefaces, colors, and graphics should not be used. Poems will not be returned so keep a copy for your records. No refunds will be issued for disqualified entries.

5. Entries must be postmarked by December 15, 2010. Online entries will close after midnight EST on December 15, 2010.

6. Winners will be notified by March 15, 2011. If you have not been contacted by this date, you may assume that your entry is not a finalist and may be marketed elsewhere.

7. Enclose a self-addressed, stamped postcard with your entry if you want to be notified of its receipt. We cannot notify you personally of your poem's status before the winners are announced. This includes phone and email status inquiries. If entering online, you will receive a confirmation email for each entry you submit. Please note, the emailed confirmation will come from writingcompetition@fwpubs.com.

8. Winners' names will appear in the August 2011 issue of Writer's Digest magazine. Afterwards, their names and poem titles will be posted at www.writersdigest.com.

9. The following are not permitted to enter the competition: employees of F+W Media, Inc., and their immediate families and Writer's Digestcontributing editors and correspondents as listed on the masthead.

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Privacy Promise
Occasionally we make portions of our customer list available to other companies so they may contact you about products and services that may be of interest to you. If you prefer we withhold your name, simply send a note with your name, address and the competition name to: List Manager, F+W Media, Inc., 4700 East Galbraith Road, Cincinnati, OH 45236.

Entry Form

To submit your entry online, visit our secure online entry form.

To enter via regular mail, use the printable form, and send it with your poem(s) and entry fee(s) to:

Writer's Digest Poetry Awards
4700 East Galbraith Road
Cincinnati, OH 45236

Questions?

For questions, contact us at (715) 445-4612 ext. #13430 or email writing-competition@fwmedia.com

Publicity and Marketing

2010-12-03T16:06:00.000-08:00

It is a natural progression for a journalist with a marketing degree to pursue publicity jobs.

The contacts one makes with the media offer an avenue to promote events, people, and organizations. Journalism is only one way I write for others.

My path from that recent aforementioned memorable writing retreat ( see earlier blog entry) which gave me the impetus to decide to begin a book journey in the new year also led me to an occasion that I would like to share. It is my way of service to publicize the information below.

This past week I took part in a sacred empowerment by a high lama in the Nyingma Buddhist lineage. The series of empowerments is called the Richen Terzod and has only been transmitted once before in the United States, back in 1988. The occurrence takes place from December 1-February 18. It is held in Alameda in Orgyen Dorje Den for the benefit of all beings. For more information, please see http://www.orgyendorjeden.org/rinchen_terzod.html There is a fee.

epiphany

2010-11-16T17:25:00.000-08:00

I am writing another blog entry this week cause I missed one last week and I have something else to say.

A college friend sent me her handouts from a writing workshop she attended and I received the sweet gesture in the mail today. This combined with a Buddhist healer recently encouraging me to share my life's story to help others has given me pause.

So, since the beginning of this blog series had an entry about finally writing a book, a childhood and recent actual dream of mine, I have come full circle and know now what I am to do. I am to create a book relating my experiences since that is what I know best, and writing is what I love most in my work life.

I probably will begin another blog by the end of this year, so you can journey with me. I am off to a new adventure, after exploring this past year what avenues to take with my creativity.

Like Minds

2010-11-16T11:26:00.001-08:00

Recently I learned that a friend of mine had met a local poet. My friend is a caregiver in a facility which houses those whom have suffered strokes and the like. This friend told me she had told the local poet about my work as a poet and that the local poet wanted to meet me.

Imagine my surprise and humility when I met someone who is well-known and published. We exchanged books wherein we had our works. Mine were simply in an anthology; hers was one of many which contained works only by her. She even signed it to me and encouraged me to continue writing poetry and offered me assistance if I needed it. I couldn't believe my fortune in having met such a kind and sensitive creator, so unaffected by her fame.

In addition, it was revealed that the local poet who was temporarily laid up with the results of the stroke, was close friends with another poet whom I have befriended. It is amazing how poets communicate with the same soul language and how we gravitate towards like minds.

Getting a web site

2010-11-05T12:54:00.000-07:00

This week I met with a young man who designs websites for a living. I learned that if I wanted a really classy website which included audio, video, and search engine optimization, I would need to pay.

In order to create my own web page, I could use wordpress.com There I could register for a domain name, which is the actual address with which I could be reached. Then, I would need a host for my link.

Search engine optimization is created by having key words included in the copy on the site, to make the search for your site easy and to allow for more "hits" or readers of your link.

It was recommended that both my blog and my web page be at the same site, also to maximize the number of hits. For MAC users, creating a web site might be more straightforward, though

the site might be a very basic one if using the tools on me.com.

Retreat Report

2010-10-25T18:17:00.000-07:00

Pema Osel Ling is the perfect place to recharge. Meditating while Buddhist monks were chanting at the shrine transported me into a peaceful state. And I got a wonderful massage from experienced masseur David Tobey.

David's contact info is David.Tobey@gmail.com He lives in Felton, CA. and has healing skills that were absolutely a blessing for me. You should pursue this. He is a professional.

Regarding the workshop aspect of the retreat, I got all the questions I arrived with, answered, and learned even more. I also made some new acquaintances by meeting other attendees. And I got to know friends and associates better.

The workshops were run by Nina Amir, Jay Swartz, and Nora Profit. I would recommend them all highly.

Dale King and Danita Craft did a great job of making sure things were running smoothly. I would consider my time spent at the NorCal CWC writing retreat a great success.

Writing retreat

2010-10-12T11:44:00.001-07:00

Next week I am scheduled to take part in a writer's retreat sponsored by California Writers Club NorCal.

I am looking forward to the opportunity of perhaps writing in a new genre-short story. There is also a pool for exercise and a shrine for meditation. Right up my alley...

There will be an agent, as well as five workshops including how to pitch to an agent, all part of the price. Dale King has been working diligently to make this retreat as good as the first one was back in April.

The retreat is located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, an optimal hiking spot too.

So, I hope to recharge and rewrite! I will give a report of how it went in two weeks.

Take Part in the National Gallery of Writing

2010-10-05T17:54:00.000-07:00

Take Part in the National Gallery of Writing

October 20 is the 2nd National Day on Writing. A resolution was passed by the Senate to "express support" for this designation. A National Gallery of Writing was created, which collects "all kinds of writing from people from all walks of life-people just like you," according to the web site at www.ncte.org/dayonwriting.

You can submit "stories, poems, recipes, e-mails, blogs, even audio, video and artwork," it says on the link mentioned above.

To learn more about submitting your writing, see http://www.ncte.org/library/NCTEFiles/Involved/DayonWriting/SubmitYourWriting.html

Writer as Marketer

2010-09-29T12:03:00.000-07:00

The eWomen event I attended last week taught me some things. Not only is it a good idea to network, but also it is worth it to occasionally pay for a marketing table at an event.

The important thing about setting up your table is to be prepared in advance. I was able to easily create a colorful flyer using Word. It highlighted my writing skills. Of course, one should also have enough updated business cards handy. An introductory marketing speech that hits home is valuable. It is a bargain to share a table with someone else. I made signs that designated my portion of the table as mine.

I learned that it is good marketing to have something memorable for your potential clients to "take away." There are companies that make pens or other useful items with your logo or name on them, but it is best to be creative. In addition, something that stands up on the table and can be seen from far away is attractive. A fellow marketer had a eucalyptus scent wafting from her table that drew people there.

Finally, if you leave a book that might have your published works in it on the table, be sure to mark it as a sample, especially if you intend to sell copies. People think they are free to take.

eWomen

2010-09-20T10:23:00.000-07:00

Today I am preparing for an eWomen networking event. eWomen is a business networking resource, and www.eWomenNetwork.com tells more about it.

I have participated in eWomen events before, but each time is different. My local chapter is changing with the times, to allow women to participate even in this poor economy.

Usually, a lunch or dinner is the meeting grounds for women (and men) to exchange information in the unique eWomen way. Tonight is an abbreviated version, a reception,which is less expensive. I have a marketing table there, and am sharing it, to make that affordable also.

The goal of eWomen is that we all help one another. And I quote, "We approach networking from a position of abundance, where giving to others leads to unlimited opportunities for all." This quoted information was sent to me via an eWomen network e-mail on September 19,2010.

Blogging

2010-09-14T08:38:00.000-07:00

Well, here I am after a long hiatus. I met with someone who is well known in the blogging community: Mr. Bill Belew. He revived my blogging interest and taught me some information about how to blog successfully.

Bill's blogs can be seen at www.panasianbiz.com

Bill is an active member at South Bay Writers, the largest chapter of California Writers Club.

He also sends out newsletter updates and gives blogging workshops. To get more information, write him at Bill@BillBelew.com He is a respected professor and CEO.

Bill's next Meetup for Silicon Valley Blogger is on Thursday September 16. He will be a guest speaker at the Covenant Orthodox Presbyterian Church presenting "The Stories Chinese Characters Tell." RSVP to http://www.meetup.com/Silicon-Valley-Bloggers/calendar/14745253/

Journalism Joy

2010-03-03T14:52:00.000-08:00

Doing the job of newspaper reporter, I have had the privilege of meeting people from all walks of life.

One person who has touched my heart is Bernard Smith. Bernard is a talented musician.

He sings richly, plays several instruments, and is in more than one band.

What is even more wonderful than the gift of music he shares is that Bernard has found an avenue of expression.

Bernard Smith is autistic.

To obtain a copy of his CD, please write Donna Smith at dms5358@sbcglobal.net

The choice of songs and the way they are sung will bring you joy.

Mary Lou Taylor:Artist In Residence

2010-02-18T12:19:00.000-08:00

Mary Lou Taylor is a classmate of mine and a wonderful poet. Recently, she was recognized by Montalvo Arts Center when asked to be an artist in residence.

"Artist in residence programs allow visiting artists to stay and work 'for art's sake.' They offer conditions that are conducive to creativity..." (Wikipedia)

Mary Lou Taylor was invited to live in a studio on the inspiring grounds at Montalvo for ten days to do her work. She was fed with both delicious meals and inspiring conversation from other artists with different specialities. It did rain, so her walks outdoors were limited, but she accomplished most of what she set out to do, including finishing her manuscript. The one requirement for the Montalvo Arts Center for her residency was to execute an exit interview, and she comments that "My stay was a five-star experience."

She brought 3 boxes with her, including the book: 100 Essential Modern Poems.

For more information about Mary Lou Taylor, see www.maryloutaylor.wordpress.com

To learn about Montalvo Arts Center, see montalvoarts.org

Anthologies: A Way to Get Public Affirmation

2010-02-09T10:15:00.000-08:00

Several weeks ago I wrote about an anthology for which I had offered an entry. While the author usually gets paid with a free copy of the book, it affords some other benefits.

First, you get the satisfaction of seeing something of yours in print. And as Margaret Abruzzi, writer and contributor to the anthology, "Clothes Lines," shares, " We have given readings at local bookstores, and it has been a wonderful experience for me."

Margaret Abruzzi's selection refers to her childhood during World War II. It captures that time through the eyes of a youngster.

In this anthology, works covering the theme of clothing were solicited-hence, the clever title. The editors are Celia H. Miles and Nancy Dillingham. 75 western North Carolina writers are included in this volume. It is the second anthology opportunity offered by these two editors.

To order a copy, see www.catawbapublishing.com

Robert Burns

2010-01-25T17:02:00.000-08:00

Robert Burns, who is often referred to as the "National Poet of Scotland," was born on this day in 1759.

He was also a lyricist and his poem and song, "Auld Lang Syne," is usually sung on New Year's Eve.

John Steinbeck used a line of Burns' poem, " To A Mouse," in the title of his book "Of Mice and Men," in 1937.

Bob Dylan chose Burns' song, "A Red, Red Rose," as the lyric that affected him the most.

O my Luve's like a red, red rose
That’s newly sprung in June:
O my Luve's like the melodie
That’s sweetly play'd in tune.

As fair art thou, my bonnie lass,
So deep in luve am I:
And I will luve thee still, my dear,
Till a’ the seas gang dry:

Till a’ the seas gang dry, my dear,
And the rocks melt wi’ the sun;
I will luve thee still, my dear,
While the sands o’ life shall run.

And fare thee weel, my only Luve
And fare thee weel, a while!
And I will come again, my Luve,
Tho’ it were ten thousand mile.

The source of this information is Wikipedia.

Class Act

2010-01-18T09:00:00.000-08:00

A word to the wise. I was asked to write for an anthology about women a couple of years ago and my piece was rejected because my research sources became quickly outdated, due to being online sites.

However, I did refer the anthology compilers and editors to other potential contributors. I had forgotten all about my disappointment with the aforementioned project, to which I had dedicated much toil and time, and was pleasantly surprised when the book was published. A contributor whom I had recommended and had been accepted, wrote to me and said that in the beginning pages of the anthology, I was thanked by name for referring contributors.

So, I am looking forward to reading "Contemporary American Women: Our Defining Passages."

I suggest you do the same. The class act editors are Carol Smallwood and Cynthia Vincent-Brackett.

Mesh

2010-01-12T18:59:00.001-08:00

This is something I intended to post back when it was published in December 2009.

I had the privilege of interviewing my friend and associate, Martha Engber. The link of the article in the Santa Clara Weekly is http://scw.tearn.com/2009/12/santa-claran-launches-literary-novel.html

I met Martha some time ago at a meeting of the South Bay Chapter of the California Writers Club. I am best known as a poet there.
Who knew that years later I would be writing a story about Martha Engber for the newspaper, while I was wearing my journalist hat.

In my work as a reporter, I meet people from all walks of life. In fact, I was recently asked to speak at a retirement hotel by one of my former interviewees. My topic is what it is like to be a writer.

It is always an inspiration to see how different facets of one's life overlap. My next blog post will continue with another unforeseen outcome and connection. Stay tuned... : )

Just for fun

2010-01-04T11:01:00.000-08:00

Puns For Educated Minds

1. The roundest knight at King Arthur's round table was Sir Cumference. He acquired his size from too much pi.

2. I thought I saw an eye doctor on an Alaskan island, but it turned out to be an optical Aleutian .

3. She was only a whiskey maker, but he loved her still.

4. A rubber band pistol was confiscated from algebra class, because it was a weapon of math disruption.

5. No matter how much you push the envelope, it'll still be stationery.

6. A dog gave birth to puppies near the road and was cited for littering.

7. A grenade thrown into a kitchen in France would result in Linoleum Blownapart.

8. Two silk worms had a race. They ended up in a tie.

9. A hole has been found in the nudist camp wall.. The police are looking into it.

10. Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.

11. Atheism is a non-prophet organization.

12. Two hats were hanging on a hat rack in the hallway.. One hat said to the other: 'You stay here; I'll go on a head.'

13. I wondered why the baseball kept getting bigger. Then it hit me.

14. A sign on the lawn at a drug rehab center said: 'Keep off the Grass.'

15. The short fortune-teller who escaped from prison was a small medium at large.

16. The man who survived mustard gas and pepper spray is now a seasoned veteran.

17. A backward poet writes inverse.

18. In a democracy it's your vote that counts. In feudalism it's your count that votes.

19. When cannibals ate a missionary, they got a taste of religion.

20. If you jumped off the bridge in Paris, you'd be in Seine.

Jo March

2009-12-28T09:13:00.000-08:00

Finally, I am back and intending to post on this blog regularly again. For today, I have a link which will help inform you about Louisa May Alcott, a strong influence upon me. Her character in "Little Women", Jo March, is a writer also and empowered by this occupation. I knew at a young age that writing was my vocation and Jo March affirmed this for me.

Please see http://www.alcottfilm.com/the-documentary/

Tonight on PBS there is a documentary about Alcott and her life.

Happy New Year,

Suzy

NPR: Julie Andrews Celebrates the Sound of Poetry

2009-10-20T18:31:00.000-07:00

On October 16, National Public Radio did a story about Julie Andrews. During the program, she read some of her favorite poetry, but also referred to a project she and her daughter accomplished which relates to their favorite poetry selections.

You may enjoy the readings and get more information at:

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=113791709&sc=emaf

How Local Sites Can Participate in the National Day on Writing - National Writing Project

2009-10-07T11:42:00.001-07:00

How Local Sites Can Participate in the National Day on Writing - National Writing Project

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NOTE: YOU MAY COMMENT ON MY POSTS BY CLICKING ON IT TO THE RIGHT OF THE SCREEN UNDER ARCHIVES. THANK YOU.

Price is Right

2009-09-21T14:51:00.000-07:00

On October 2 and 3, there is a very affordable writer's conference taking place in San Luis Obispo.

It is named the Central Coast Writers' Conference and is located at Cuesta College there. The description below is taken from part of the website at :

http://www.communityprograms.net/wc/wcteaser.htm

Enrollment is limited and the cost ranges from $40 to $149, depending upon how much you want to participate. See

http://www.communityprograms.net/wc/conf-fee-reg.htm for more information.

32 workshops covering fiction, nonfiction, memoirs, freelancing, poetry, writing for children and screenwriting

A special rate for Teen Writers (High School/Jr High)

Friday night reception & Saturday continental breakfast

Table Talks with the faculty

Manuscript critique and contest

More Advice About Writing a Book

2009-09-14T11:47:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday, at a meeting of the South Bay Writers, I had the privilege of hearing Katie Hafner speak about her writing and book: "A Romance on Three Legs." The South Bay Writers is the largest chapter of the California Writers Club. You can learn more about the organization at:

http://www.southbaywriters.com/

Katie Hafner has been a journalist for years for some impressive periodicals. She wanted to write a book and offered the advice that "Not only should we write about what we know, but about what we are truly passionate." She adds, " It brings out the best in us." Hafner also chose to "stay within my comfort zone," and wrote a non-fiction book. Finally, she spoke about writing as if the reader knew nothing about the topic and gearing your book towards what the reader wants to know.

All this insight is from experience, which, as they say, is the best teacher.

The success of Katie Hafner's book about "Glenn Gould's Obsessive Quest for the Perfect Piano," testifies to her wise counsel. The book is a fast read, well-written, and hard to put down. You can obtain your copy at "http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1596915242/httpwwwkatieh-20

Colleagues

2009-09-10T12:27:00.000-07:00

It is important to network and meet people in the same field. Pat Nipper is someone I met at a class which focused on starting your own critique group, led by Martha Alderson. Pat went on to do just that, start a critique group. I became her first member. Because of her leadership of the group, the growth of my writing was facilitated.

Pat and I became good friends as well as associates. She has sent ideas and listings of writing opportunities my way.

Recently, she passed on a gem I wanted to share. We were talking about writing books, ( and Pat has had several creations published), and she said that the question that is asked by most authors when they tackle that project is: "What If?" At the time we were chatting about the book, "The Time Traveler's Wife." In that particular case, the question the author posed was "What if time travel were possible?"

Pat Nipper's website is www.patdeckernipper.com/index.html She is also quite the grammar guru.

July/August Saturday Evening Post

2009-09-01T14:07:00.000-07:00

"America" is a poem by Ray Bradbury. It was published most recently in the July/August issue of the Saturday Evening Post. Bradbury turned 89 on August 22. In the September/October issue of the Post, there is a new story by the renowned author entitled "Juggernaut." See
http://www.saturdayeveningpost.com/2009/06/25/art-literature/fiction-poetry/ray-bradbury-america.html should you choose to comment on the poem.

America
By Ray Bradbury

We are the dream that other people dream.
The land where other people land
When late at night
They think on flight
And, flying, here arrive
Where we fools dumbly thrive ourselves.
Refuse to see
We be what all the world would like to be.
Because we hive within this scheme
The obvious dream is blind to us.
We do not mind the miracle we are,
So stop our mouths with curses.
While all the world rehearses
Coming here to stay.
We busily make plans to go away.

This is just an excerpt of the stirring poem.

Poet Laureate Kay Ryan: Poet as Teacher, Teacher as Poet - National Writing Project

2009-08-28T09:23:00.001-07:00

Poet Laureate Kay Ryan: Poet as Teacher, Teacher as Poet - National Writing Project

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Book Recommendation

2009-08-28T08:54:00.000-07:00

Better late than never... : )

I opened a book last night that is a joy to read. "The Three Junes" by Julia Glass, was applauded by the Pulitzer prize winner Richard Russo, so that should say something to you. Almost every sentence is rich with wonderful words, and the story line is absorbing. I wish I could devote more time to this treasure. I can hardly wait to get back to it.

Please see the separate posting for info about Kay Ryan, written by another author. Kay Ryan is serving her second year as National Poet Laureate.

Rethinking writing a book,NPR...

2009-08-17T13:01:00.000-07:00

First of all, my apologies for not updating my blog. Lots going on...

On car trips I took the last few weeks, I tuned in to public radio more often than in the past.

One thing I learned from the interview there of the author of "Eye of the Whale" is that he wrote his book to answer a question for himself. So, that is one more way to think of a topic for writing a book: pose a philosophical question.

Also, I realized that I need LOTS more training before I undertake that project. I saw a blog entry from Martha Alderson, and she addresses that very point. She talks about writers' egos getting in the way of learning more about the structure of the craft in her August 9 post of www.plotwhisperer.blogspot.com

Back to National Public Radio...Garrison Keillor has a show wherein he has poetry read there too. Film reviews also can be found. Quite the resource and entertainment...

If you are having trouble commenting on this blog, please e-mail jomarch06@yahoo.com

Thanks!

A Book for This Season

2009-07-20T16:41:00.000-07:00

As we all know, the current economic and employment scene is dismal. So, when I was told about a book entitled, "Job Interview Body Language," I thought it was worthwhile to review.

Authors Michael J. Willson and Karen Kelly wrote a straightforward, easy to read set of guidelines. These tips take the interviewee from start to finish during a job search. The reader becomes aware of not only the impression the prospective employee makes and how to refine it, but also the body language cues the interviewer might be relaying.

This book is divided into short chapters, with a summary at the end of each. There are also samples of situations and ideas highlighted throughout the paperback.

"Job Interview Body Language" is well worth the read, and a good reference, even for those networking. I gave it four stars on Amazon, where it can be ordered.

WORDS

2009-07-11T11:15:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, I am delayed in reading the book I promised to review this time: "Job Interview

Body Language."

Instead, I am devoting this post to words...

Steve Wetlesen, local poetic artist, coined a new word in his line offered to the poet laureate for Nils Peterson's mass poem. ( Look back at my past blog for more info on the county call for a line as an entry.)

The word is "skywhale" and Wetlesen's line was referring to a blimp he saw over Moffett Field.

The line is: "Moffett tarmac-white blimp, the floating skywhales return!" He notes that the new word might also refer to balloons.

Another time recently where the wonder of words hit me was after seeing the performance, "Wicked." Unexpectedly, there are some turns in words in the dialogue that are very amusing and entertaining. I am not going to give any examples so as not to spoil the effect. It is my hope that "Wicked" will be transformed into a movie, complete with all the sets, costumes, singing, etc. like both "Rent" and "Mama Mia" were recently.

Words may also be used to remember a loved pet. Our dog Copper died last week and I am submitting a poem in his honor to the Poodle Rescue Society's newsletter.

The King of the High Wire & More

2009-07-01T07:20:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, working in my journalist role, I got the privilege of covering a unique story. Nik Wallenda, of the famous Wallenda family, walked on a wire above the Great America Theme Park here.

He is a descendant of Karl Wallenda, who started The Flying Wallendas, and who also is credited with the origin of the seven man pyramid. Nik is the holder of two Guinness Records: one is for the EIGHT man pyramid, and the other is for riding a bicycle 131/2 stories above the ground.

The story I wrote is published in the Santa Clara Weekly. I have been writing for the paper for over two years. See www.santaclaraweekly.com for more information.

Wallenda is scheduled to honor his ancestor Karl by walking over the Grand Canyon before the year is over.

It is nice to be able to go behind the scenes at events like this due to holding a press pass. Nik Wallenda appears to be quite a stable, good role model for his family and he and his wife seem quite close. She blew him a kiss when he was at the point of walking on the high wire at 100 feet above the ground. He watches what he says in front of his children and the children sat well-behaved until the show was over.

Regarding my book, I decided to write about my personal journey over the next two years because a lot is happening in my life that might be helpful and relevant to others. The journal I won in a raffle at eWomen ( a leadership group) is perfect for the daily entries. Stay tuned...

And speaking of books, I expect to be finished with one entitled "Job Interview Body Language" by Michael J. Willson and Karen Kelly so I intend to post my comments next week.

Santa Clara County Poet Laureate

2009-06-22T11:41:00.000-07:00

Wow, was this morning's e-mail exciting! I was informed the one line I submitted to the Santa Clara County's Poet Laureate's call for a mass poem is included! ( I did write this on Monday, but wanted to make sure that it was okay to include the below in my blog first. Now it is public knowledge.) There were about 500 entries according to the media, and 100 were chosen.

The reading is to be Wednesday June 24 at as the invocation for the Board of Supervisors in the lobby at 70 West Hedding Street at 9:30 a.m. There is also a news conference at 11:30 a.m. where the poem is to be unveiled on Tuesday June 23.

Nils Peterson, who is the first Santa Clara County Poet Laureate, is reciting the 100 line poem which is composed of lines from Santa Clara County residents.

The requirements were to write a line every morning with 9 to 13 syllables and then submit a favorite at the end of the month. About those offered, Nils Peterson is quoted as saying (from an e-mail from the County Office of Public Affairs): "...there were many good lines that had to be left out. Some were very close in subject matter and I had to choose one over another. Others just didn't seem to find a comfortable place as the album grew. We all have boxes of pictures that never got put in the book that are as good as the ones that did. Some lines had a syllable or more too many. I hasten to add, there will be more chances to speak about this place and our time in it."

Nils Peterson, according to his biography web page at www.pcsj.org/biographies/nilspeterson.html was nominated for a Pushcart Prize in 2005.

He is well known in the Silicon Valley as being a premiere poet and taught for over 30 years at San Jose State. He also serves as a poetry consultant and editor, and is a key figure at Poetry Center San Jose.

See

www.sccgov.org/poetlaureate

An aside: Re last post: Regarding press releases, it may be indeed that in order to be legal, an initial one has to be published in a local paper per my friend, editor Sara Aurich.

3 Tips/Learning for Free

2009-06-15T12:46:00.000-07:00

Today is a random day, since I am at Starbucks writing this due to no DSL. I intend to add my favorite blogs soon to this page. And the server I am using is free also, by the way.

The first tip I have is that in response to a friend's friend asking me the question, press releases are best sent via a service by e-mail. Newspapers are no longer the best way to go. This info was learned in a free teleconference offered by The San Francisco Writers Conference.

The second tip I gained by going to a free seminar from an eWomen associate and involves Linked In. It appears that if you are looking for employment through Linked In, the more endorsements you have there, the better.

And, finally, regarding my search for a book topic, an associate from South Bay California Writers Club offered the suggestion that I read non-fiction books to see what speaks to me and incorporate the subject that resonates even in a fiction book.

If you have any questions you would like me to address, please don't hesitate to comment.

Anne Frank

2009-06-08T15:29:00.001-07:00

Anne Frank's 80 th birthday would have been June 12. I have been a member of The International Women's Writing Guild and just received an e-mail that the organization has teamed up with the Anne Frank Center of New York to honor Anne Frank. The opening night ceremony for the 32nd annual "Remember the Magic" Summer Conference of the IWWG will be free and include Part 1 of the Anne Frank Birthday Tribute with Maureen McNeil, the Director of Education at the Anne Frank Center. The location for this event is the Gannett Auditorium at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. The conference schedule is from June 12-19. For more information, see www.iwwg.org

According to the email I received from Hannelore Hahn, Founder of the IWWG, Anne Frank received her diary on her thirteenth birthday. Anne Frank wrote about her family in hiding during World War II. She was captured and her diary was found in her family's hiding place after her death in a concentration camp. According to the information at www.annefrank.org, Anne wanted her diary to be published and started rewriting it with that in mind. Her father followed through and made that happen.

The blog regarding press releases will come at another time. Stay tuned...

The Key(board) to Success

2009-06-01T16:56:00.000-07:00

Writing for businesses and about the business of writing is my specialty. I have experience with journalism, web text, and a newsletter column. I also have assisted clients with marketing ideas.

Having been diagnosed with arthritis in my hands, back and neck, I have been looking for ways to ease the stress on my body while writing on the computer. Below I summarize some research.

Laura Moser wrote a column regarding this topic in the St. Petersburg, FL. Times on May 21.
She conducted tests on 6 different ergonomic keyboards with regard to relief of pain for those suffering from ills which compromise comfort when typing for long periods of time. Moser also looked into ease of use and also if any extras are included.

The four keyboards that met her standards ( the price range for all six was $57 to $299) are:

Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Desktop 7000, Logitech Cordless Desktop Wave,Kinesis Freestyle VIP, and Kinesis Advantage Ergonomic Keyboard.

The two keyboards that did not do well in the survey are Adresso Tru-Form Pro Contoured Ergonomic Keyboard, and Goldtouch Ergonomic Keyboard.

Voice recognition software is also a tool for those with physical limitations. I broke down and bought MacSpeech Dictate but just recently fixed my faulty computer so I haven't learned it fully. Seems there is an upgrade now called MacSpeech Dictate 1.5

Of course, taking breaks -for which you may choose to set a timer- is one of the best medicines for a sore body.

Next week, I plan to address press releases since I had someone ask me about this.

Memorial Blog

2009-05-25T21:58:00.000-07:00

Today is Memorial Day, a memorable day to start my blog about my life as a writer. My dad was a veteran and he left his mark on the world.

This past week I awoke on Wednesday morning, feeling happy, and the first thought that popped into my mind was: "I am going to write a book."

My next thought was: " About what?"

A dear friend reminded me about my journals. That brought to mind notes I had taken over the years for book ideas. But they are no longer timely, as they were going to be non-fiction-pertinent to the experience. For example, I had wanted at one time to write about living in another country, but that log was created too long ago.

And, then it hit me! I had once bought a book by a popular author of our times which was a guide to writing and which included exercises that are book beginnings. So, that is a project for me to pursue...I need to find that book and revisit those spotlights.

And, reading a fellow author's blog reminded me there are other tools at my disposal, since I have never written a book. I have composed articles, poetry, essays and papers-some of which have been published. This associate's name is Martha Engber and her book has won 5 stars: " Growing Great Characters from The Ground Up." This guide would most certainly help my plan along.

I know there are courses out there also, including affordable ones at Adult Ed, and more expensive selections online or through local universities. For example, Writers Digest offers online courses.

Right now, I have a lot of other paying writing prospects in the fire, so I will savor this and write the book for myself. What got me to this point, I believe, is an offer to join a critique group. At that time, I felt my priority should be making an income, but that didn't feel right. I realized I needed a creative outlet in addition to my other writing. Poetry used to provide that fulfillment for me.

Seems like my path is widening. Upon reflection, I realized I had written bits of a fantasy legend at the age of eight-darting to my desk in the middle of the night. That may not be my intent now, but this new goal is invigorating!

My next blog, a week from now, will be regarding software and keyboards to save your hands.