Take Part in the National Gallery of Writing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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