Brandon Christian Writers

Kat Heckenbach Speaks at Bloomingdale Library

2012-01-28T23:03:00.000-05:00

Author and BCW member Kat Heckenbach will be speaking at Bloomingdale Library about how she got her start writing and her journey to publication. She will also share about her Middle Grade fantasy novel, Finding Angel, which released September 2011 in print and ebook.

The details of the event are as follows:

Location: Bloomingdale Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico, FL 33596-6204

Date: Saturday, February 4th, 2012

Time: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Kat will have copies of her novels and anthologies available for purchase.

Video Presentation at January Meeting

2012-01-19T10:15:00.001-05:00

Our next meeting, on January 26th, will include a video presentation!

Title:

Making the Mummies Dance: Bringing Life to Words and People

Presenter:

Richard Allen Farmer, Bible Expositor & Concert Artist from Grand Prairie, TX.

Filmed before a live Audience of preachers, Bible teachers, and writers

Mr. Allen confesses to being a word junkie, then corrects himself, "No, I'm a dealer!"

Time: 60 minutes

Before the video, we will elect officers for 2012 and take care of any old business from last year. We encourage writers to attend this meeting and start the year with fresh inspiration.

Meeting starts at 7:00 p.m.

St. Andrews United Methodist Church3315 Bryan RoadFamily Center-Room 305Brandon, FL 33511

Voting for Your Favorite Christian Fiction

2012-01-16T21:12:00.000-05:00

There are a number of fiction awards given each year. Many require books to be submitted by authors and publishers, and the books are judged by a panel of professionals.

But there are also a few readers' choice awards, and two of them are open for voting right now on books released during 2011:

One is the Family Fiction Magazine Awards contest. Just click HERE and enter the names of your favorite books and authors in the appropriate categories using their online form. Voting closes February 29th, 2012, so spread the word!

Another is the Grace Awards contest. A very short email is all it takes, and the judges will take the top choices and pick a winner. Visit HERE for complete rules, categories, and email template. Voting also closes February 29th, 2012.

And remember...there may be eligible books published this year by your fellow BCW members. Please check out our "Books by BCW Members" tab--there is still time to read and fall in love with one of ours before you vote!

Starting Off 2012 Meetings

2012-01-05T08:33:00.001-05:00

BCW meetings resume this month! Yay!

Join us on January 26th from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

to kick off the 2012 meeting year.

We will be electing officers this month.

St. Andrews United Methodist Church3315 Bryan RoadFamily Center-Room 305Brandon, FL 33511

Reminder

2011-11-21T09:09:00.000-05:00

Just a reminder that Brandon Christian Writers

does not meet during the months of November and December.

Our meetings will resume on January 26, 2012.

Book Signing Photos

2011-11-03T17:03:00.000-04:00

BCW president Ruth Ellinger and BCW member Debora M. Coty joined Amish romance author Suzanne Woods Fisher at a Lifeway signing for her latest book, Lancaster County Christmas.

A Note From Ruth Ellinger--Brush Strokes Award

2011-10-31T10:41:00.000-04:00

Hello Writers,

Sorry to miss BCW’s October meeting, but was presenting an award at the 2011 greater Brandon Arts Council Brush Strokes Awards. Whew! Long name. I met so many interesting people through this one event and found it amazing that there are so many talented and compassionate people in our community. Very impressive.

“The Arts” not only include visual arts; painting, sculpting, and other forms of visual art, but other art forms such as writing, composing, drama, and music. This annual event is an all-inclusive night for the entire scope of creative arts, and those who support the arts and give generously to these community endeavors. The arts are the heartbeat and inspiration of any community, a wonderful and unique part of our society that we should celebrate every year with such events as the Arts Council awards presentations.

The gal with the hat is Betty Jones, "Love the Hat" lady.

Some say that creative artists are strange people. Well, perhaps this is so, but oh, what color and dimension they add to the human drama of life. I am glad to be counted among them. After all, wordsmithing is quite an art and it comes from exercising our imagination. In my new e-book soon to be released, I wrote:

Some stories are written from a vivid imagination and woven like threads in a tapestry to form a tale alive with color and contrast. Some are mere ideas, methodically and carefully framed and put into words. But others are the true experiences of life lived, of stories more wonderful than fiction could ever produce and the writer holds the pen.

Blessings to you all and keep writing,

Ruth Ellinger, President

Brandon Christian Writers

WOMEN OF FAITH 2011 WRITING CONTEST

2011-10-28T23:29:00.000-04:00

The Women of Faith 2011 Writing Contest is open through January 31, 2012 to writers of previously unpublished full-length books, fiction or nonfiction, of any genre, subjects, and/or memoirs.

This is a chance to win a publishing contract with Thomas Nelson (Grand Prize) or Westbow Press (First Prize).

For full information and to submit your completed manuscript of at least 10,000 words, visit http://www.westbowpress.com/ContestRules2011.aspx.

October Meeting Reminder

2011-10-20T09:28:00.000-04:00

Our next meeting is:

October 27th, 2011

at 7:00 p.m.

St. Andrews United Methodist Church

Family Center, Room 304

Please visit our "About BCW" page for a link to directions.

Call-out for Angel Stories

2011-10-11T18:21:00.000-04:00

Heavenly Company: Entertaining Angels and Other Strangers is a book project we [Cecil Murphey and Twila Belk] contracted with Summerside/Guideposts for an August 2012 release.

We want true stories of angelic appearances that resulted in changed lives.

Do you have an angel story to tell but can't write it yourself? Email us the details. If we believe your story has potential for this book, we will contact you for more information and will write the story for you.

We will edit every selected story for consistency and style.

We will not change factual information.

If you are unwilling to allow edits, please do not submit.

Submission Guidelines:

Deadline for stories is November 12, 2011.

All entries must be double-spaced, 12-point font, Times New Roman, ragged right margin, in a Word document.

Story length should be 900 to 1,400 words. We will not consider longer pieces.

We prefer first-person narratives.

We’ll include your name with your story. If you want to use someone else’s story, get written permission, write it in first person, and we’ll credit both of you. We’ll include a brief bio of all writers.

Every story must have a positive impact from the angelic encounter.

You may send an original or a reprint. (If a reprint, tell us where it was published and assure us that you own the reprint rights.)

If your story is selected, you’ll receive a $50 honorarium and retain reprint rights. You’ll also receive a free copy of the book.

If your story makes the preliminary cut, we’ll notify you by February or March 2012. The senior editor at Summerside/Guideposts will make final decisions for inclusion in the book.

Submission:

Send your story, formatted according to the guidelines, to heavenlycompany@gmail.com. Put the words "Story Submission" in the subject line. We will send a confirmation email shortly after your story is received.

Do not email to check on the status of your submission. We will notify you in February or March if your story is selected.

Visit the Heavenly Company Book website for more about the authors and a sample story.

Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat--Almost Here!

2011-10-03T10:03:00.000-04:00

It's almost here!

Founded in 2008 by Debora Coty and Ruth Ellinger,

the annual Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat (FIWR) is held every fall

at the lovely Cedarkirk Retreat and Conference Center,

1920 Streetman Dr, Lithia, FL 33547.

The 2011 FIWR will be on Saturday, October 8.

Early bird registration is only $95 and a limited number of reduced-price scholarships are available.

Please visit the "Writers Retreat" page here at the BCW blog (http://brandonchristianwriters.blogspot.com/p/writers-retreat.html) for more information and to download the registration form.

What Your Business Card Needs to Do

2011-09-26T16:56:00.000-04:00

(Reprinted with permission by the author, Kristen Stieffel. Originally posted on the New Authors' Fellowship.)

What Your Business Card Needs to Do:

American Christian Fiction Writers has an e-mail list for those attending its conference for the first time. For many, it’s not just their first time attending the ACFW conference, it’s their first time attending any conference. I admire their courage. This is a huge conference. Making it your first must be daunting.

Many first-timers had questions about business cards, including what to put on them other than name and contact info. A couple of people asked whether it was all right to put “writer.” They had apparently heard, somewhere sometime, that this was “presumptuous and amateurish” for an unpublished writer.

I am perplexed by this idea — that putting what you do on your business card is “amateurish.” A card that has only a name and no profession would be a social calling card. Handing out one of those at a business event — and a writers’ conference is a business event — is what I would call amateurish.

A business card must say what service you provide. If you repair cars, put “auto mechanic.” If you design spaceships, put “rocket scientist.” If you arrange words into sentences, put “writer.”

Remember the purpose of a business card is to help people re-connect with you later. Your card must remind them why they would want to. This is true in all industries. On the one hand, if I come back from a writers’ conference with a big stack of cards, probably most of those people are writers. But if they all wind up in one box on my desk with cards from chamber of commerce meetings and business expos (which is actually the case), then the cards better say what each person does.

If you have written a book, you are a writer. Put that on your card. That your writing is yet unpublished is beside the point. The business card tells people what you are selling, so they can decide whether to buy it from you.

What should be on your business card:

Name
What you do
At least two contact methods, such as phone and e-mail
Blog and/or website address

If your card doesn’t say what you do, it’s likely to wind up in the waste bin rather than the Rolodex.

Reminders!

2011-09-13T14:58:00.000-04:00

FIWR is just around the corner:

Founded in 2008 by Debora Coty and Ruth Ellinger,

the annual Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat (FIWR) is held every fall

at the lovely Cedarkirk Retreat and Conference Center,

1920 Streetman Dr, Lithia, FL 33547.

The 2011 FIWR will be on Saturday, October 8.

Please visit the "Writers Retreat" page here at the BCW blog (http://brandonchristianwriters.blogspot.com/p/writers-retreat.html) for more information and to download the registration form.

***

And don't forget our next meeting is September 22nd
at 7:00 p.m.

St. Andrews United Methodist Church

Family Center, Room 304

Member Book Release

2011-09-08T18:05:00.000-04:00

BCW member Kat Heckenbach's Middle Grade fantasy, Finding Angel, released this week.

Angel doesn't remember her magical heritage...but it remembers her.

Magic and science collide when she embarks on a journey to her true home, and to herself.

Angel lives with a loving foster family, but dreams of a land that exists only in the pages of a fantasy novel. Until she meets Gregor, whose magic Talent saves her life and revives lost memories.

She follows Gregor to her homeland...a world unlike any she has imagined, where she travels a path of self-discovery that leads directly to her role in an ancient Prophecy...and to the madman who set her fate in motion.

Finding Angel is available on Amazon in print and Kindle formats, and on Barnes & Noble in print (Nook comng soon).

You can learn more about Kat, Finding Angel and her other writing at www.katheckenbach.com and www.findingangel.com.

Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat--One Month Away!

2011-09-02T09:17:00.000-04:00

One Month Left to Register...

Founded in 2008 by Debora Coty and Ruth Ellinger,

the annual Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat (FIWR) is held every fall

at the lovely Cedarkirk Retreat and Conference Center,

1920 Streetman Dr, Lithia, FL 33547.

The 2011 FIWR will be on Saturday, October 8.

Early bird registration is only $95 and a limited number of reduced-price scholarships are available.

Please visit the "Writers Retreat" page here at the BCW blog (http://brandonchristianwriters.blogspot.com/p/writers-retreat.html) for more information and to download the registration form.

Chicken Soup Story Call-out: Messages from Heaven

2011-08-31T12:02:00.000-04:00

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Messages from Heaven
101 Miraculous Stories of Signs from Beyond, Amazing Connections, and Love that Doesn't Die
When our loved ones leave this world, our connection with them does not end. Death takes away their physical presence, but not their spirit, and we often sense them after they have gone. Sometimes we see or hear from them after they've passed, giving us signs and messages from beyond.

We want to hear from you if you have experienced the other side or received a sign or signal from a loved one who has passed. Has someone who has died come to you in a dream? Given you counsel or comfort? Have you gone beyond, but returned to life with new knowledge, insight, or awareness? Have you intuitively known the moment someone died? Share your true, touching, and astounding stories about messages from heaven or your own experiences with dying and coming back.

This book is for everyone who has a story, whether religious or secular. Please note that since we see many stories about messages from heaven in the form of rainbows, bird, butterflies, and coins, we will only be able to use a few stories on those types of messages from beyond.

Here are some possible story topics, but we know you can think of more:

Words of wisdom from a loved one who has passed
Personal exchanges with a loved one who has passed
Omens or visions from beyond
Receiving guidance or lessons from a loved one who has passed
Revelations from beyond
Apparitions from beyond
Signs from beyond from a loved one
Knowing the exact moment someone passed

Please remember, we do not like "as told to" stories. Please write in the first person about yourself or someone close to you. If you ghostwrite a story for someone else we will list their name as the author. If a story was previously published, we will probably not use it unless it ran in a small circulation venue. Let us know where the story was previously published in the "Comments" section of the submission form. If the story was published in a past Chicken Soup for the Soul book, please do not submit it.

If your story is chosen, you will be a published author and your bio will be printed in the book if you so choose. You will also receive a check for $200 and 10 free copies of your book, worth more than $100. You will retain the copyright for your story and you will retain the right to resell it.

THIS IS A NEW ADDITION TO OUR SPRING 2012 LINE-UP, WITH A QUICK PRODUCTION SCHEDULE! DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS IS OCTOBER 3.

SUBMISSIONS GO TO http://chickensoup.com
Select the Submit Your Story link on the left tool bar and follow the directions.

BCW in the "Patch"

2011-08-30T12:04:00.000-04:00

Our group has made the news! Okay, it's not CNN, but it's still exciting. Brandon Christian Writers was featured in the Bloomingdale-Riverview Patch.

Click HERE to read the story online and to see a few group photos.

We owe this all to our fearless leader, Ruth Ellinger, for founding BCW! Thank you, Ruth! And her partner in crime, Deb Coty ;).

This, That, and Other What-nots

2011-08-29T09:57:00.000-04:00

Interesting things are all over the internet. Here are a few things some BCW members have found recently:

A contest! Can you write a story in 100 words or less? Want to try? Check out:

http://www.100wordsorfewerwritingcontest.com/ and make sure to look at the "critique samples" page.

Speaking of critiques...here is a great blog post by author R.L. Copple:

7 Common Pitfalls of Critiquers

And just for fun...and a good, clean message:

Seven Days in Utopia (movie)

News and Thank-Yous

2011-08-27T10:42:00.000-04:00

First, a huge Thank You to Sheryl Young for speaking at our August 25th meeting! She filled our heads with so much useful information about self-publishing. Great job, Sheryl! If you didn't get a chance to buy her book at the meeting, please click HERE to order it directly from the publisher. Also available through Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Thank you to the members who came to listen to Sheryl and show their support!

And now some news:

Pam Lehman wrote a wonderful full-length article about two enterprising young girls who raise and show goats. It was published in "In the Field" magazine's August 2011 issue. Visit HERE and "turn" to page 50 to read the article online (full color version!).

Several of our other members announced that they have completed and submitted stories--so keep an eye out here for more announcements of BCW successes!

WHY SHOULD WRITERS USE TWITTER?

2011-08-22T12:00:00.000-04:00

A quick list of ten ways that writers can use Twitter.

1. Write a Professional Profile. Your profile on Twitter should contain a brief description of who you are and what you do. You should also provide a link to your business blog or site. Use a
professional photo of yourself or your company logo. You may be surprised at how many people visit your site after clicking the link in your profile on Twitter.

2. Join the Conversation.  Search for tweets about the topic you are currently working on. Find out what people are saying. Join the conversation. Tip: you should choose a short Twitter ID,
because you want to make it as easy as possible for people to "retweet" your messages and your Twitter ID will eat into the 140 characters allowed for the retweeted message.

3. Research a Topic.  See what questions people frequently ask about your topic and the answers provided. Ask some questions of your own. Discover some related resources that others are
recommending.

4. Build Your Reputation. Start tweeting about your niche or industry and start to build up your reputation as an expert.

5. Use HashTags.  When you tweet about a topic add relevant "hashtags". Hashtags are keywords starting with the # character, placed in tweets, which make it easy to find and follow threads on
particular topics. This will help people searching on those topics to find your tweets, e.g. #gardening or #sportswriting or #bookreviews

6. Find Experts.  Use Twitter to find subject-matter experts who are regularly tweeting on your topic. Contact them privately for an interview or for a quotation you could use in your next article.

7. Job Hunting.   Search at Twitter for relevant phrases such as "writing jobs" or "writer needed". Another good technique is to search for hashtags, for example #writingjob or #writingjobs. If
you find a Twitter account that regularly posts writing opportunities remember to "follow" them.

8. Interact with Other Writers. Search for tweets with writing-related hashtags such as #writing, #writetip and #amwriting. You will quickly find yourself in the middle of an active community of writers, with tons of good advice and writing tips.

9. Tweet Quality. If you are decide to use Twitter for business then make certain your tweets contain valuable and useful information. It is okay to tweet about your dinner or the movies occasionally - and in fact it can be beneficial to reveal glimpses of your life - however I recommend keeping these tweets to a low percentage.

10. Follow Potential Clients. Is there a particular client you would like to work for? Are they on Twitter? Find them and follow them. It is not a good idea to use Twitter to publicly ask someone
to hire you. But it is ok to follow them. Try to get to know them and to discover what they are looking for. Get involved in the conversation. If you then pitch to them outside of Twitter later they will probably remember you or know who you are already.

For the full article and other articles about writing, visit Worldwide Freelance at http://www.worldwidefreelance.com/

August 2011 Meeting Reminder

2011-08-19T17:13:00.002-04:00

Our next meeting is:

August 25th, 2011

at 7:00 p.m.

St. Andrews United Methodist Church

Family Center, Room 304

Guest Speaker: Sheryl Young

Topic: "The Ins and Outs of Self-publishing"

Don't forget our writing prompt for this month:

"The Approaching Storm"

Please visit our "About BCW" page for a link to directions.

Book Sales Advice from Ruth Ellinger

2011-08-17T14:46:00.000-04:00

Hello Writers!

I have just returned from a working vacation trip to OH and am looking forward to our next BCW meeting August 25^th with guest speaker, Sheryl Young.

While in OH, I delivered books to a variety of gift shops including the beautiful Glenlaurel Inn. This upscale Inn sells the Wildrose trilogy in addition to other lovely items. Online ordering is available.

This particular area of OH is the setting of my ‘Wildrose’ trilogy and has a number of unique shops frequented by summer visitors from all over the US. This it is a lively market for selling this trilogy.

On this note, my last post encouraged writers to seek unique events for marketing their work and this time, I would suggest that you not forget those privately owned and unique shops that lend themselves to high end and nostalgic buyers.

For one exclusive shop, I painted a small antique cupboard burgundy and found an oval framed painting in a thrift shop that suited the Wildrose theme. This shop charges 10 percent commission and they are happy to have my books of local interest. The hutch has shelving at the top and storage at the bottom so the staff can add books as needed. I do a brisk business from the little hutch. Every month I receive a nice check for books I am selling myself (and I’m not even there). My royalty could never match this.

Okay, you ‘creative writers’ out there;, find your niche in non-traditional shops and watch the sales grow!

Blessings to all,

Ruth Ellinger, President

Brandon Christian Writers

Story Call-out from Chicken Soup: "Finding My Faith"

2011-08-10T16:17:00.000-04:00

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Finding My Faith
101 Inspirational Stories about Life, Belief, and Spiritual Renewal
Faith is more than reading a holy book or following a set of rules. Faith is a lifestyle; it impacts everything we do. Whether we consider ourselves to be Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu or any other religion, our belief in a higher power directs our lives and our thoughts. But faith is not something we're born with. We may acquire faith through the teachings of our parents or religious leaders. Or we might find faith through an event in our lives that convinces us of the presence of God. Friends and even strangers can bring us into the knowledge that life is more meaningful when we have faith.

Everyone's "faith story" is different. Some of us find faith late in life. Others lose their faith after a tragic event or spiritual dry spell, only to rediscover it through a divine nudge. Faith can appear quickly or build up over time. It can hit us like a sledgehammer or whisper in our ear. It can show up in a miracle or in an ordinary event. However faith arrives, it is life-changing and powerful.

If you have an inspirational personal story of finding your faith, we want to hear from you! Did a pivotal event bring you to your knees in prayer? Was a special friend or family member the catalyst for your faith journey? Did you lose your faith and then find it again? Was God's presence made known to you in a way that just couldn't be ignored? Your story may even inspire someone else to find their faith!

Please remember, we do not like "as told to" stories. Please write in the first person about yourself or someone close to you. Do not ghostwrite a story for someone else. If a story was previously published, we will probably not use it unless it ran in a small circulation venue. Let us know where the story was previously published in the "Comments" section of the submission form. If the story was published in a past Chicken Soup for the Soul book, please do not submit it.

If your story is chosen, you will be a published author and your bio will be printed in the book if you so choose. You will also receive a check for $200 and 10 free copies of your book, worth more than $100. You will retain the copyright for your story and you will retain the right to resell it.

SUBMISSIONS GO TO http://chickensoup.com
Select the Submit Your Story link on the left tool bar and follow the directions.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS IS DECEMBER 31, 2011.
The book will be published in October 2012.

Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat

2011-08-05T08:16:00.002-04:00

Two Months Left to Register...

Founded in 2008 by Debora Coty and Ruth Ellinger,

the annual Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat (FIWR) is held every fall

at the lovely Cedarkirk Retreat and Conference Center,

1920 Streetman Dr, Lithia, FL 33547.

The 2011 FIWR will be on Saturday, October 8.

Early bird registration is only $95 and a limited number of reduced-price scholarships are available.

Please visit the "Writers Retreat" page here at the BCW blog (http://brandonchristianwriters.blogspot.com/p/writers-retreat.html) for more information and to download the registration form.

Be Blessed by Debora Coty's Stress-busters and Other Goodies

2011-08-03T08:43:00.000-04:00

Debora Coty's "2-Minute Stress Busters" are light-hearted but heavy-hitting practical tips for dealing with everyday stress from her new book, Too Blessed to be Stressed : www.DeboraCoty.com (Click on Stress Busters)

Also, she is holding a FaceBook Launch Party on August 25 at 8 pm for Too Blessed to be Stressed. Everyone is invited to drop in, chat a spell, and win some of the great prizes (including free books and a week's supply of chocolate!):

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Debora-M-Coty/151416868265841?ref=ts#!/event.php?eid=100796683354892

And lastly, the Kindle Sweepstakes running from Aug 4-25th. Just register to for the drawing for a free Kindle and Too Blessed to be Stressede-book. The winner will be announced at the FaceBook party on 8/25.

http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/text/13418047

August 2011 Meeting Reminder

2011-08-02T13:41:00.000-04:00

Our next meeting is:

August 25th, 2011

at 7:00 p.m.

St. Andrews United Methodist Church

Family Center, Room 304

Guest Speaker: Sheryl Young

Topic: "The Ins and Outs of Self-publishing"

Don't forget our writing prompt for this month:

"The Approaching Storm"

Please visit our "About BCW" page for a link to directions.

Chicken Soup Story Call-out for Family Caregivers

2011-07-29T13:46:00.000-04:00

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Family Caregivers
101 Stories of Love, Sacrifice, and Bonding
We are excited to announce that we are working with Joan Lunden on this book, which will be published in March 2012. Joan is very passionate about this topic as she is the family member in charge of her mother's care.

Caring for a family member on an on-going basis is a very difficult task, whether the care is in your home, the patient's home, or an outside facility. It requires the caregiver to be patient, kind, compassionate and giving. And having a little humor doesn't hurt!

Are you caring for a child, spouse, partner, or sibling due to a chronic illness or long-term or permanent physical or mental disabilities? Did you move in with a family member to care for him or her due to age-related illness? Are you part of the "sandwich" generation -caring for a parent and a child at the same time?

Or are you the person receiving care from a family member? Your stories are important too.

(Please know that we are in awe of professional caregivers, but we are only seeking stories about family members caring for family members for this book.)

The true stories in this book will show how lives change when caregiving becomes your responsibility. They will describe how the relationship between loved ones is affected when long-term care is needed. They will point out ways in which laughter or a silver lining can be found during a difficult time. And they will inspire and support family members who are making sacrifices to make sure their loved ones are well cared for.

Please do not submit eulogies or biographies of your loved one. We want to hear about the caregiving relationship, either from the point of view of the caregiver or from the point of view of the person being cared for.

If your story is chosen, you will be a published author and your bio will be printed in the book if you so choose. You will also receive a check for $200 and 10 free copies of your book, worth more than $100. You will retain the copyright for your story and you will retain the right to resell it.

Please remember, we do not like "as told to" stories. Please write in the first person about yourself or someone close to you. Do not ghost write a story for someone else, except in the case of the person you are caring for, if that person would like some help doing the writing! If a story was previously published, we will probably not use it unless it ran in a small circulation venue. Let us know where the story was previously published in the "Comments" section of the submission form.

SUBMISSIONS GO TO http://chickensoup.com
Select the Submit Your Story link on the left tool bar and follow the directions.

The deadline date for story submissions is August 31, 2011.

CONTACT US

Please do not reply or send questions to this address. For any further questions or correspondence, contact webmaster@chickensoupforthesoul.com or visit our website at http://www.chickensoup.com.

TO UNSUBSCRIBE please send an e-mail to webmaster@chickensoupforthesoul.com with UNSUBSCRIBE in the subject line or mail your request to:

Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing, LLCP.O. Box 700Cos Cob, CT 06807-0700

Miscellaneous News and Links

2011-07-26T10:39:00.000-04:00

BCW Member Shout-out
Cheryl Johnston is writing an article about the Daphne Landers Turango (www.daphnewrites.com) who was one of our presenters at the 2010 FIWR. It will appear in the August issue of Focus Lakeland magazine. Daphne was recently married and sounds like she is thoroughly enjoying the newlywed status.

Story Call-out
Market seeking articles about environmental issues:
http://www.worldwidefreelance.com/freelance-writing/nonfiction-articles/72-writing-for-environmental-publications

Helpful Links
Help with pinning down your characters' traits:
http://users.wirefire.com/tritt/tip8.html

Agent Rachelle Gardner's advice on pitching your novel:
http://www.rachellegardner.com/2011/07/pitching-your-novel/

Meeting Reminder

2011-07-22T09:51:00.000-04:00

Our next meeting is:

July 28th, 2011

at 7:00 p.m.

St. Andrews United Methodist Church

Family Center, Room 304

Guest Speaker: Kat Heckenbach

Topic: "Creating an Online Presence"

Don't forget our writing prompt for this month:
"The Approaching Storm"

Please visit our "About BCW" page for a link to directions.

Useful Writer Links

2011-07-17T11:23:00.000-04:00

Sharing some useful links for writers....

Comma usage:
http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/commas.htm

All things grammar at "Grammar Girl":

http://grammar.quickanddirtytips.com/

Search engine for short story markets:
http://www.duotrope.com/

Dealing with rejection--article by Steve Laube:
http://www.stevelaube.com/rejection/

Sally Stuart--Christian Writers' Marketplace:
http://stuartmarket.blogspot.com/2011/07/call-for-articles.html

What Passive Voice *really* is, by Rebecca LuElla Miller:
http://rewriterewordrework.wordpress.com/2011/07/16/clarifying-whats-passive/

Tooting Our Own Horns (July 15, 2011)

2011-07-15T09:03:00.000-04:00

Debora Coty
Christian Humorist Creates Video for Book Release
http://deboracoty.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Chrisitan-Humorist-creates-video-for-book-release.pdf

Kat Heckenbach announces her contract with Splashdown Books for her middle grade fantasy novel, Finding Angel
http://kat-findingangel.blogspot.com/2011/07/little-book-of-magic.html

Meeting Reminder

2011-07-11T12:02:00.000-04:00

Our next meeting is:

July 28th, 2011

at 7:00 p.m.

St. Andrews United Methodist Church

Family Center, Room 304

Guest Speaker: Kat Heckenbach

Topic: "Creating an Online Presence"

Please visit our "About BCW" page for a link to directions.

Update from BCW President Ruth Ellinger

2011-07-05T12:48:00.002-04:00

Hello Writers,

This summer, I had two writing events that were exceptionally fun and profitable. Neither event involved sitting in a store hoping someone would find my book interesting enough to buy. Recently, I have been exploring some options to the traditional “book signing” and finding these opportunities quite rewarding. I’m sure I will continue to do store signings after a book release, but it is good to explore the other options so readers can become acquainted with our work.

One event was a Scottish International Gathering of Clans that hosted a Davidson Clan booth at the Kansas City Scottish Games. Since my historical novels contain a Scottish theme, I was invited to seal my trilogy from the booth. The success in this non traditional setting was outstanding and I had so much fun! I sold loads of books with orders for more. I have also made some valuable international connections and received invitations to participate in other clan events right here in FL.

Another unusual event was out annual high school alumni event in Ohio. One of the alumni organizers had visited my web site and asked if I would speak about my books and about writing. I accepted with the same outstanding results. Sold lots of books and was invited to other bookish events. That same weekend, the town was hosting a tour of historical homes where our cookbook was featured in one of the homes. This spawned interest in my current writing.

Who wouldda thought? So don’t just look in the obvious places to promote your work. There are thousands of ways to get your “self” out there. Any unique suggestions from our members?

Ruth Ellinger, President

Brandon Christian Writers

Free Writers Workshop by Debora Coty

2011-07-04T11:52:00.000-04:00

Debora Coty is offering...

...a free writer's workshop:

"So You Want to be a Writer ..."

will be on July 30, 2011

from 1:00 to 2:00 pm

at Truth Christian Store in Plant City

and

August 13 at Brandon's LifeWay from 3:00 to 4:00 pm

following a book signing

from 1:00 to 3:00 pm

for her newest book:

Too Blessed to Be Stressed

Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat

2011-07-02T21:50:00.000-04:00

Three Months Left to Register...

Founded in 2008 by Debora Coty and Ruth Ellinger,

the annual Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat (FIWR) is held every fall

at the lovely Cedarkirk Retreat and Conference Center,

1920 Streetman Dr, Lithia, FL 33547.

The 2011 FIWR will be on Saturday, October 8.

Early bird registration is only $95 and a limited number of reduced-price scholarships are available.

Please visit the "Writers Retreat" page here at the BCW blog (http://brandonchristianwriters.blogspot.com/p/writers-retreat.html) for more information and to download the registration form.

Tooting Our Own Horns (July 1, 2011)

2011-07-01T11:28:00.000-04:00

Cheryl Turner did a story for Focus magazine on Local Heroes Casino Night, a fundraiser for five different charities. The article required focus on the event itself, but Cheryl spoke to many organizations that were interested in exposure, so she pitched the idea for a monthly column dedicated exclusively to non-profits, and Focus accepted the idea. Congratulations, Cheryl, on your new endeavor!

Laura Bentz has completed her book and is in the final stages of editing. Let's keep her in our prayers for success! She has also returned her focus to working on a sci-fi novel for middle graders that she started many years ago. Keep up the good work, Laura.

Kat Heckenbach has a story in the upcoming Chicken Soup for the Soul: Just for Preteens.

Kat's story "Armored and Dangerous" is about a unique situation she faced in eighth grade, and how she gained strength from the thing she hated most. The book is available for pre-order through Amazon and Barnes & Noble in both print and ebook formats. The official release date is July 26, 2011.

BCW Website Changes

2011-06-30T16:41:00.001-04:00

Hello, folks. Kat here. In case you haven't noticed, we've been making some changes here on the BCW blog. I thought I'd post a bit of a summary about what is going on.

We've added pages to the blog. So take a look at the menu bar above and do some clicking. You'll find out more information about monthly prompts, books and anthologies by our members, and where to find our members on the web.

Some of the things we intend to post on this blog:

Writing opportunities and story call-outs.
Information about member book releases and signings.
Member news such as story sales and finished manuscripts--anything that shows you are working and progressing in your writing journey. Baby steps are welcome!
Information about the Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat.
Prompts for upcoming meetings.
Information on upcoming guest speakers.
Local events for writers.
Other stuff. You never know what might be of interest :).

Remember, the news is all about BCW members. If you are part of our group you should have the contact info needed to submit your news. Please pay attention to the emails that come through from BCW so you can stay involved.

The goal is to make this someplace informative and fun. A place to "meet" in between meetings. A place to show the world what BCW is all about. (OK, maybe not the world, but anyone who happens to stumble upon this site.)

Hopefully you are already following this blog. If not, please do so. And if you just simply can't do the Google account thing, you can follow by email, by submitting your email address in that little box there in the upper right.

That's all for today. Check back for new changes as we get them up here. And most of all, stick with us and keep up to date on all things BCW!

Writing Opportunity...Chicken Soup for the Soul: Think Positive for Great Health!

2011-06-28T22:36:00.000-04:00

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Think Positive for Great Health!
Use Your Mind to Promote Your Own Healing and Wellness

Chicken Soup for the Soul is teaming with Dr. Jeff Brown of Harvard Medical School to create a wonderful new book, full of inspirational stories and useful medical and psychological information, to help people use positive thinking to improve their health.

The connection between our minds and bodies is powerful. Whether we experience a short-lived sickness, battle chronic illnesses, or simply want to live a consistently healthy life, our brains can serve as our most trusted ally when it comes to getting better, managing symptoms, and sustaining a healthy life.

We are seeking stories that highlight the successful relationship between your brain and your health. We're interested in hearing from people who are successful at maintaining healthy lifestyles, who daily win the battles over various symptoms, who have learned to integrate their thinking into a rehabilitation process, who have found innovative brain tricks for managing health, who have learned about themselves more deeply as a result of a medical condition, who stay motivated in spite of chronic symptoms, etc. Your stories will provide the inspiration and encouragement, while Dr. Brown provides the medical facts and psychological strategies.

Here are some possible story topics, just to get your creative juices flowing:

How has optimism, hope, wisdom or positive thinking affected your health?
What brain tricks have you learned to manage your particular health condition? (Quitting smoking, losing weight, irritable bowel syndrome, skin problems, diabetes, infertility, heart conditions, HIV, anxiety, depression.)
What behaviors have you changed that make you live a healthier life? How did you do it?
How have relationships with others helped you feel well?
How has successfully grieving for something or someone helped you feel better?
Describe how spirituality, humor, or meditation has been part of your health.
What negative emotions have affected your health?
Has changing your sleep habits affected your health?
And any other topic you think would be helpful to someone else in your position

If your story is chosen, you will be a published author and your bio will be printed in the book if you so choose. You will also receive a check for $200 and 10 free copies of your book. You will retain the copyright for your story and you will retain the right to resell it.

Please remember, we do not like "as told to" stories. Please write in the first person about yourself or someone close to you. Do not ghostwrite a story for someone else. If a story was previously published, we will probably not use it unless it ran in a small circulation venue. Let us know where the story was previously published in the "Comments" section of the submission form. If the story was published in a past Chicken Soup for the Soul book, please do not submit it.

SUBMISSIONS GO TO http://chickensoup.com
Select the Submit Your Story link on the left tool bar and follow the directions.

The book is scheduled for publication in May 2012.
Submission deadline is August 15, 2011.

Writing Opportunity from Chicken Soup for the Soul

2011-06-24T14:56:00.001-04:00

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Say Hello to a Better Body!
Weight Loss and Fitness for Women Over 50

Chicken Soup for the Soul is teaming with Dr. Suzanne Koven of Harvard Medical School to create a wonderful new book, full of inspirational stories and useful medical information, to help women over 50 lose weight and stay fit.

It can be so hard for women over 50 to lose weight and stay fit. Our bodies have changed and our old strategies just don't seem to work now. How did you find the motivation to lose weight and get fit? What were the creative and fun ways you found to exercise? Are there special routines that you have found that make it easier to maintain your weight and fitness? Did you find ways to make self-care more of a priority? We're seeking Chicken Soup for the Soul stories from women over 50 who have found the answers. Your stories will provide inspiration and camaraderie to other women, and Dr. Koven will provide the hard medical facts.

Here are some possible story topics, just to get your creative juices flowing:

Moving beyond past failures and trying again
Finding new motivation after 50
Finding the right exercise that you can stick with
Ways to measure healthy weight and fitness
Experiences with weight loss surgery
Menopause and weight
Osteoporosis and arthritis (prevention, managing with exercise, etc.)
Sleep and weight
Stress and weight
Obesity health complications (heart disease, diabetes, cancers, sleep apnea, etc.)
Assessing the array of diets
Estimating portions
Vitamins and minerals
Has your success influenced your friends or family members?
Do you have a success story in your seventies, eighties, nineties?

Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing, LLC
P.O. Box 700
Cos Cob, CT 06807-0700

Dear Contributor,

2011-04-13T11:24:00.000-04:00

You may recall my role as editor for story collections such as: A Cup of Comfort, Life Savors, Extraordinary Answers to Prayer, and Love is a Verb. Now I am putting together a volume tentatively titled, Encounters with the Other Side: True Stories of Supernatural Experiences.

The supernatural realm consisting of God and His angels, as well as evil spirits is ever present in our midst. On rare occasions this realm becomes visible or we see its direct effects in ways that cannot be explained in the natural realm. These true stories will cover the gamut of supernatural encounters: from supernatural miracles, angelic visitations, near-death experiences of the afterlife, manifestations of evil apparitions, and miraculous rescues. All stories must have a point and be from the Christian perspective. We are not looking for physical healing stories.

All stories must be fist person. The stories need to go beyond subjective or speculative interpretations of events and be as concrete as possible, so if presented in a court there would be no human explanation of hard evidence.

We’ll consider original, unpublished stories 1,000 to 2,000 words. Each story should have a creative title, an attention-grabbing introduction, main body with a conflict or challenge, and a clear, satisfying resolution. All stories need to be descriptive, rooted in time and place, with a realistic portrayal of the people involved. The stories need to be substantive stories rather than salvation testimonies or general Bible teachings, and should focus not onl on the supernatural realm, but on the spiritual lesson you learned.

The book will be release by Bethany House Publishers in 2012. Submissions for consideration will be due June 15, 2011, but we would prefer them much earlier. Please send your manuscript attached to the e-mail rather than pasting text in the email window. Send your manuscript in normal manuscript formatting, with your full contact information—name, address, phone number, email address, and 30-word or less bio—on the manuscript itself. We are offering a one-time fee of $50 for stories 1,200 words or more, and $25 for stories 1,000 to 1,200 words. After the book is published, authors will receive all rights returned to them, and during publication authors may sell reprints with permission.

We will send you contracts upon the publisher’s acceptance. Payment will be made after all contracts have been received. Please direct all inquiries and submissions to my colleague, Jeanette Littleton, at supernaturalstories@earthlink.net. If this email has been forwarded to you, and you can’t submit to this call but would like to hear about other editorial needs as they arise, please send us your email address and we’ll add you to our notification list.

Blessing to you and yours,

James Stuart Bell
Supernatural Stories (Bethany House, 2012)
A James Stuart Bell Project

Hello Writers

2011-03-02T20:10:00.000-05:00

The February 24th meeting of Brandon Christian Writers was an inspiration for all who attended. We elected officers for 2011 and members shared their writing aspirations for the year and ideas they were currently working on. Each writer shared a brief bio and expressed their special writing interest.

We are blessed to have such a diverse group of writers who share so many interesting stories and story ideas that spark all of our imaginations. Many are working on non-fiction articles, some are writing to a prompt that is a valuable exercise for any writer and others are working on book length projects for publication. Our published authors offer valuable tips and insight into the publishing and marketing world.

The mission of Brandon Christian Writers is to encourage, educate, and entertain writers and readers alike. Our goal is to equip writers for success in their chosen genre. New writers and published authors are always welcome.
The writing group offers critiques on writing projects to help writers who are endeavoring to understand the basic elements of writing well. I am happy to say that we have had marvelous success in the past several years with many in our group seeing their names on book covers, in anthologies, and bylines.

We hope to see you next month, March 24th.

Ruth C. Ellinger, President
Brandon Christian Writers

Come Join Us....

2011-01-19T11:46:00.000-05:00

We are electing officers for 2011 during the first hour on January 27th.

Due to the current economic strains, we are reducing our membership dues to $20 per year. Some have indicated the need to economize and $20 is a small amount to pay for the information and educational agenda of BCW.

Although BCW is a separate entity from Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat (FIWR), we work closely together with FIWR to present our community with a variety of topics and speakers for this one-day workshop. The date for the writers retreat is Saturday, October 8, at Cedarkirk Retreat and Conference Center, Lithia FL, so mark your calendar and put aside your fee for this inspiring and educational opportunity. Speakers will be announced later this spring.

Ruth C. Ellinger, President
Brandon Christian Writers

The 7th Annual Brush Strokes Awards for Excellence in the Arts

2010-11-23T10:09:00.001-05:00

“The only comprehensive awards representation of the Arts throughout Tampa Bay”

October 28, 2010

During a recent writers retreat (Florida Inspirational Writers), Awards Originator Cheryl S. Kuck, Chair person for the Greater Brandon Arts Council took a moment to visit the retreat and announce that one of our very own local artists and book authors Ruth C. Ellinger, was being presented an award, Artist of the Year by the FL Arts Council. This was a very exciting moment for both Ruth and all those that have come to know and love her.

Ruth’s first response was “I’m not an artist.” However, Ms. Kuck was quick to explain that, yes, she is an artist, who holds a pen. Some of Ruth’s other accomplishments include 2008 Writer of the Year award recipient for American Christian Writers, Florida Conference Orlando, Florida. She was also awarded 2006 Writer of the Year for the American Christian Writers Ohio Conference.

Ruth is a very successful Christian Writer, who just published her third book in the WildRose Series, “Sword of the Wild Rose.” Ruth is also the founder and President of the Brandon Christian Writers (BCW). BCW is the local chapter of American Christian Writers that meets monthly in Brandon. Visit us @ BrandonChristianWriters.blogspot.com. Ruth’s heart and passion is to help young and aspiring writers as well as published authors.

Upon arriving at Center’s Place Fine Arts & Civic Association (host of the Awards Presentation), I had no idea of what the evening held. We were furnished with a table of fine appetizers and beverage to sample as we strolled around the room to visit the displays presented by past and present award recipients. The mood for the evening was set by an orchestra string quartet by Bloomingdale High School.

The room was filled to capacity with other artists as well as visitors such as myself. What a marvelous time! The 2010 Awards presentation was an evening to remember. There were thirteen (13) categories of honoring artists. The 2009 artists in each category were introduced by Cheryl S. Kuch, who then introduced and presented the 2010 award recipients.

I was so amazed at the talent we have in this community. It was not only very interesting to hear the last year winner tell about themselves and their accomplishments, but also see the 2010 winner receive their awards.

I came primarily to support my dear friend Ruth C. Ellinger and to represent BCW writing group and our annual conference, Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat. I walked away with so much more. I felt like I had been to the Oscars… but in fact I had been a part of something much more, “Award Winning Artist” of our very own community.

AWARDS - October 28th, 2010

2010-09-28T13:32:00.000-04:00

It is my honor, Cheryl Kuck, to formally announce you, Ruth Carmichael Ellinger, have been selected to receive:

"The 7th Annual 2010 Brush Strokes Award for Excellence in the Arts" in the category of Artist of the Year.

The award ceremony will be held at Center Place, Brandon, on October 28 with a 6:30PM opening reception followed by the awards ceremony, concluding at 9:00PM.

This prestigious event was sponsored by the Tampa Tribune for five years when sponsorship was relinquished to the Greater Brandon Arts Council who is also the reception host.

Any FIWR, BCW organization members, family and friends are welcome to attend the reception. We only request to be informed of the approximate number of guests.

Cheryl Kuck
Awards Chair

American Christian Writers Conference - Orlando

2010-09-27T12:59:00.000-04:00

American Christian Writers Conference
Orlando Florida
November 20, 2010

http://www.jameswatkins.com/acw/acworlando.htm

Thank you.....

2010-09-26T14:39:00.000-04:00

Thank you for inviting me to be a part of this year’s Florida Inspirational Writers’ Retreat. The Friday Night Owl session and the Saturday retreat inspired me, and I drove home in silence as I marveled at all the talented people God brought together in one place. I’m still absorbing and uncovering what God started in my life in those two days. Please keep me posted on your progress. And I would love for you to follow along with me. My website is http://www.daphnewrites.com/. Read about me, my life story, sign up for my blog, comment, and pass along to others. Together we can experience comfort for the journey, and we can also fan the flames of the gifts God has given each of us. Blessings and … Write on! ~Daphne Landers

Thank you.....

2010-09-26T13:35:00.000-04:00

Thank you for inviting me to speak to your group this weekend. I was blessed to share with such a talented, gifted, and dedicated-to-your-craft group of Christian writers. I received far more than I gave. Again, if anyone is in need of editorial services, feel free to email me at Cheri@CheriCowell.com, and I hope you will let me know of your successes so I might rejoice with you. Blessings, Cheri Cowell Follow me on Twitter and Facebook and I'll "friend" you.On my website you can also sign up to get my monthly newsletter or daily devo. www.CheriCowell.com

A Writer's Prayer

2010-09-08T09:34:00.001-04:00

Lord, help me to not be intimidated

by the accomplishments of others.

When I see their long list of credits,

I am tempted to say, "I'll never be that good."

Instead of envying others,

help me to focus on my gifts.

Help me to polish them and use them

the best way I know how for Your glory.

Help me to be content with small beginnings,

trusting You to open bigger doors

in Your perfect timing.

by Frances Gregory Pasch

Focus Magazine opportunity

2010-07-29T14:40:00.000-04:00

Dear Brandon Christian Writers:

What can be better than writing about the good news and great stories of people in your community?

Focus Magazine wants local writers to contribute 275 or 550 word stories plus 2 or 3 photos with captions for each.

Report on events (preview or follow-up), business profiles, local artists or musicians, people with unusual talents or hobbies, students doing something great, centennial birthdays, etc. ... the opportunities are endless.

Simply submit your idea to Susan Riff at sriff@floydpublications.com. Visit www.theFocusMagazine.com or www.myFocusTV.com to see current and archived issues for ideas about the types of articles they need.

Feel free to mention BCW or Cheryl Johnston, as they know I'm encouraging you to write real.

Cheryl Johnson @ Kent State

2010-07-29T14:04:00.000-04:00

http://jmc.kent.edu/asne/

Once you've opened the link, click on the Projects tab, then on May 4. We were a team of 3, so you click on the individual photo to reach each team members feature and view/hear additional info and audio. Make sure to listen to "Ohio" on the bottom of my feature.

The ASNE (American Society of News Editors) Reynolds Institute 2010 at Kent State was an amazing 2-week experience. Perhaps one of the most significant lessons was memorizing the 45 words of the First Amendment (visit www.1forall.us) and take the challenge to defend our most important rights.

Right on Time

2010-07-26T11:04:00.000-04:00

Three little words dried my tears – and quickly. When He speaks, peace comes.

One Sunday during worship time, tears spilled from my eyes as I noticed the many couples praising God together. I so wanted my husband RJ by my side.

But, he had not yet come to the place of surrender, the step into belief, the beauty of relationship with the Creator.

Most of the time, attending church alone didn’t bother me. I was focused on my own spiritual journey as God revealed things in me that needed to change.

This particular Sunday, however, I couldn’t stop crying because time was slipping away. Would my husband ever join me in worship? The “two becoming one” vision seemed light years away.

Suddenly, as I raised my hands again to praise, His words pressed into my mind and heart. Not an audible voice – I’ve never had that privilege. Instead, three little words paced evenly through my head – “In MY time.”

Peace overtook me and tears dried mid-stream. My cheeks drew in a huge grin and the Lord’s joy soothed like a salve. Never before had I felt such a divine impression – this deep knowing that God cared about the details of my life and the deepest desire of my heart. I felt like the daughter of a protective and loving Father.

To this day, I don’t fret when I pray about my husband’s coming-soon change of heart. Those three little words are as fresh now as then. And “in His time” means it’s an already done deal and a perfectly sealed promise. Through dried tears I’m assured that Father knows best.

So for now, I wait and trust, for it’s simply a matter of time.

Cheryl Johnston - June 24, 2010

Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat

2010-07-26T11:02:00.001-04:00

September 24th - 25th

Forms can be downloaded from either:

www.Brandonchristianwriters.blogspot.com

http://www.ruthellinger.com/writers.htm

http://www.deboracoty.com/

Flourishes of FREEDOM

2010-07-26T10:56:00.001-04:00

Flourishes of Freedom is easier for you to read with all the f's in the address.

No one has posted in a while. But we'll get back at it. We want stories about America so a lot we write doesn't fit the message we want to get out there.

If anyone ever wants to post one I will need to see it first then I will send it to Pam in Texas to post. We did that so we could control what was said. There are crazies out there.

If anyone ever asked you about posting just tell them to ask me. Feel free to write something if you would like. When you read it you will see what we are after.
Thanks - Charline Haynes (chaynes3@tampabay.rr.com)

Cheryl Johnson @ Kent State

2010-07-22T06:34:00.001-04:00

Cheryl Johnston, who teaches English and Journalism at Strawberry Crest High School in Dover, was one of 250 high school newspaper advisers selected from 3,000 applicants to attend the two week Reynolds Institute in July at Kent State University. The challenge for the applicants was to make the essay portion of the application “creative.” Cheryl looks forward to learning new ways to engage the student news writers at The Crest Press and in particular, helping the school to publish its newspaper electronically.

Derek Maul

2010-07-19T10:26:00.000-04:00

Derek Maul writes regular columns for a number of news outlets, including the Tampa Tribune. His commentary and features have appeared in Newsweek, USA Today, The Christian Science Monitor, Presbyterians Today, Guideposts, Chicken Soup for the Soul and many other print and online publications.

Derek's first book, "GET REAL: a spiritual journey for men" was released in 2007; his second book, In My Heart I Carry A Star: stories for Advent" debuted in the fall of 2008; "The Unmaking of a Part Time Christian" was released September of 2009.

Derek is married to Rebekah, a Presbyterian pastor. They have two children, Andrew (who currently lives in Italy) and Naomi (who lives in Connecticut with her husband of 2 years, Craig Campbell).

Before becoming a full-time writer, Derek taught public school in Florida for eighteen years, including cutting-edge work with autistic children. He holds bachelor's degrees in psychology and education from Stetson University and the University of West Florida.

Derek is active in teaching at his church: adult Sunday school, small-group ministry, and a men's Bible study/spiritual formation group. He enjoys the outdoors, traveling, photography, reading, cooking, playing guitar, and golf.

Derek Maul - July 22, 2010

2010-06-18T11:03:00.000-04:00

Be sure to mark July 22, 2010 on your calendars for BCW’s special guest, Derek Maul, who will be speaking on the topic:

"Understanding people and their stories: why the truth is usually a lot bigger than a collection of facts."

Bette J. Lafferty 5/10/2010

2010-05-24T14:31:00.001-04:00

The emotion deep inside

my being

bubbles up like

a fountain of

dancing waters.

The unspoken motion

builds within my core,

waiting its time

like a volcano

to give up its fire.

The color of my love

is like the rainbow

captured in

floating liquid

spheres.

Reds, yellow, greens and blue

all abound

look around.

The joy is

incomprehensible.

Like molten glass

in shades too breathtaking

to describe,

comes tender moments

of passion divine.

Once released,

it sings its songs

of gold and silver cords,

intertwined with richness and grace

like a diamond without flaw.

Who, but God, could

freely give

such delight,

in complete surrender,

to those He loves.

Seeking manuscripts for Books (9 + 10)

2010-05-20T21:37:00.003-04:00

Dear Writer,

We are now in phase four of the Extraordinary Answers to Prayer series published by Guideposts. You are a valued writer and I welcome you to join us by contributing to volumes nine and ten of a series dealing with various aspects of prayer and how people from every walk of life have been transformed through God’s responses to their prayers. Recent titles include Expecting Miracles and The Healing Touch. These books will be mailed monthly as part of a book club promotion, and will be exclusive to this readership.

You may have contributed to some of the first eight titles or perhaps to my Cup of Comfort, Life Savors, or Love is a Verb brands. Or perhaps I am contacting you for the first time and will have the privilege of including your story with other powerful answers to prayer. Whatever the case, I am sure that God has worked in your life at some point in the areas of Closer to God, volume nine, and The Power of Praying Together, volume ten.

For volume nine, how has God answered your prayers for your loved ones, or even enemies, to draw them closer to God? Maybe they don’t yet have a personal relationship with God and your prayers helped bring them to the Lord. Perhaps they have just wandered away and lost their need for Him. Or perhaps they are having major trauma and need to grow spiritually in order for God to bring change for the better. Parents pray for their adult children, adults pray for their kids, and other combinations to build spiritual relationships, go to church, and to grow in their spiritual disciplines. The list is endless. We want to focus on the positive when the prayer for a closer walk with God is answered.

For volume ten we want to demonstrate the added power of Christians praying together for the same petition. This joint prayer can be congregational, small group, couples, friends, prayer chains, etc. How did the addition of one or more people help in getting amazing answers from God? The prayer can range from serious issues of a global nature requiring large numbers, like the devastation in Haiti, to small needs that still can’t be met with only one person praying. How were the lives of those who prayed drawn together and changed? What type of prayer was used in different groups and venues?

We would be pleased to accept as many stories as you wish to submit related to these two volumes. We’re accepting stories of up to 2,000 words and strongly prefer them not to be under 1,000 words. The stories should have a creative title, an attention grabbing introduction, main body with a conflict or challenge, and a clear, satisfying resolution. They need to be descriptive, rooted in a time and place, compelling personal experience stories with true-to-life characters. They need to be stories in the fullest sense, rather than mere testimonies, or focusing on mere feelings or mental states. The effective power of prayer needs to be clearly demonstrated.

We strongly prefer original stories but you may also submit previously published stories in which the full rights have been returned to you and not currently in print with a major publisher. The payment is $25 for stories under 1,200 words and $50 for stories over 1200 words. You may retain the rights to publish the stories in magazines and books with less than national distribution and not carried in nationwide bookstores.

We are accepting manuscripts for volume nine, Closer to God, until July 1, but the sooner you submit the better chance you have of acceptance. Manuscripts for book ten, The Power of Praying Together, are due by August 15.

It’s very important that you list the current status of rights at the top of the manuscript above the title of your story. If it’s an original story it should be listed as first rights. If you have received full rights back from a publisher it needs to be listed as reprint rights. We would also like details of what book it appeared in, the publisher, and the date of publication.

It is also important to put a 30 word or less biographical sketch on the actual manuscript because this will be included at the end of the book. We do not want it submitted separately. Also include within the manuscript – not in a separate email - your full name as you wish it to appear in the book, also your address, phone number, and email address.

Please direct all inquiries and manuscript submissions to my colleague, Jeanette Littleton, at incredibleprayers@earthlink.net. If this email has been forwarded to you, and you can’t submit to this call, but would like to be notified about other editorial needs, please send us your email address and we’ll add you to our notification list (we do not distribute these email addresses).

Blessings to you and yours,
James Stuart Bell
Compiler, Guideposts Extraordinary Answers to Prayer series

Plant City artist Debra Bryant teams with author to create cover art for “Sword of the Wild Rose,” released this month by Ambassador International

2010-05-19T12:17:00.001-04:00

Debra Bryant, an accomplished Plant City artist, has completed her painting, “The Price of Freedom,” to be used as the cover art for award winning author, Ruth Carmichael Ellinger’s latest historical novel which released this month to book stores and online sales venues. Sword of the Wild Rose, is the 3rd book in Ambassador International’s best-selling inspirational ‘Wildrose’ series. “Sword of the Wild Rose” will be distributed to international markets, as well as in the United States.

The collaboration of artist, Debra Bryant, and Ruth Carmichael Ellinger, local Brandon author, began when Ellinger attended a function at Center Place Arts and Civic Assn. in Brandon, FL in December. The artist had a display of her artwork, titled “The Masters as Teachers” on exhibit in Mook Gallery there. Impressed by the subject matter and sensitive renderings of the oil paintings, and discouraged by the prevalent use of cut and paste graphic art designers and their inability to visually capture her ideas, Ellinger contacted Bryant with the suggestion of creating the book cover she envisioned. Delighted with the project, Bryant used the text of the manuscript as her primary inspiration for the painting. She also drew upon her research into vintage period clothing, as well as the Davidson family history and colonial historical references in compiling the piece.

In “Sword of the Wild Rose,” Ellinger relates an engaging tale of her patriot ancestor, Derick Davidson, exiled Scot, and Daniel Morgan, Winchester Virginia’s intriguing militia Captain. The narrative is set in 1773 Colonial America, just prior to the Revolutionary War. On reading the manuscript, Bryant said, “Ellinger’s inspirational story and compelling literary style creates such a wealth of material for an artist, and I was honored to work with her on the cover art. In creating her characters, she reveals layers of strength and honor with emotional depth, inspiring dimensional visuals in the reader.”

Two oil sketch drafts were painted, depicting elements designed to capture the heart of the story. From among these, the artist and the author chose the strongest visuals and worked out their placement. These decisions made, the artist succeeded in capturing the essence of the story in pictorial form. About the painting process, Debra said, “This has been an invigorating project for me artistically, and very fulfilling personally. With each painting session, I was catapulted back into the story, re-living the chronicle of Derick Davidson, Daniel Morgan, and Kearan Mackenzie, and their choices in the quest for personal freedom and the independence of a nation.”

George R. Schember, Winchester VA historian, has this to say: “In her latest historical novel, Sword of the Wild Rose, Ruth Carmichael Ellinger not only tells an endearing story, but also accurately portrays the character and spirit of Daniel Morgan, a real life revolutionary war general in America’s War of Independence.”

GEORGE R. SCHEMBER is a distinguished Virginia historian, President of the Winchester Frederick County Historical Society, and holds an MA in history, University of Tennessee

Debra Bryant is a charter member and officer of The ART Lounge Gallery, a local artist co-op, located at 119 E. Reynolds Street in Plant City, Fl. You can view some of her paintings online at: http://debrabryant.blogspot.com/ or visit the gallery Tuesday-Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Currently with 12 artist members, The ART Lounge Gallery hosts Art After Dark, an open house with light refreshments, on the second Saturday of each month. Debra Bryant also teaches an ongoing oil portrait class at Center Place Fine Art & Civic Assn. in Brandon, Fl. For information call: (813) 423-1423 or e-mail: bryantstudio@gmail.com

A book signing event with the author and artist in attendance, is planned for June 26, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Life Way Christian Bookstore, 169 Brandon Town Center Drive, Brandon, FL 33511

(813) 653-9828

Ruth Ellinger's Time to Brag

2010-05-03T10:28:00.002-04:00

Hello Writers!

It was really exciting to find my book trailer on the front page of WORLD NEWS as an example of the books and trailers that can be accessed on the new Apple ipad. Read about Zondervan’s book promo for the ipad. Here is their headline:

Book News - Zondervan to Publish More Than 1,000 Christian Titles for iPad Launch The Examiner 2010-04-02

To accompany the long-awaited iPad launch, Zondervan is one of the first publishers to release titles in Apple's iBookstore beginning Saturday, April 3, 2010. More than 1,000 titles will be available for download from all product groups. Zondervan plans to release all its future ebooks in an iPad version and is working to release more than 150 additional books in the next three months....

To view more about this news and see my “front page: trailer, log onto the following link:
Trailer

Trailer for Sword of the Wild Rose coming up!

~Ruth

Bragging Rights

2010-04-30T14:56:00.000-04:00

Most of you know that I've been writing, and I've gotten quite a few things published. No books yet--at least not books all my own. I've been in some print anthologies, and will be in more to come over the next few months. Still, I want to see my name on the COVER of a book.

Well, this isn't my name, but it is my ART WORK! I sold a drawing to a publisher for use on a book cover. Here's the link to the announcement of the book's release and a picture of the cover: http://splashdownbooks.blogspot.com/2010/04/dukes-handmaid-gets-new-cover.html

I'm so excited! I've only sold one piece of art before, and it was a portrait that will never be seen by anyone except the person's family, so this really feels like my first professional sale.

Anyway, just had to share!

Kat

What can you say in just six words?

2010-04-13T22:37:00.000-04:00

According to a legend, Ernest Hemingway was challenged to write a novel in only six words. His response was: For Sale: Baby Shoes, Never Worn.

The Los Angeles Times online magazine, SMITH, invited the world to e-mail their true-life, six-word memoirs. They posted examples from names they figured most readers would know, such as Eat, Pray, Love author Elizabeth Gilbert (“Me see world! Me write stories.”) and celebrity chef Mario Batali (He sent seven, each enlightening, but none as pitch-perfect as “Brought it to boil, often.”)

More than 15,000 submissions later, SMITH editors are struck by what proves possible in only six words. The short, short life stories keep coming in. Read/submit your memoirs at smithmag.net if you’d like to see it online.

Now your challenge is to create your own six-word memoir. Post yours here.

For additional reading, check out www.npr.com and search topics for 6-Word Memoirs.

Example Story

2010-04-12T21:15:00.002-04:00

A short story is a work of fiction that is usually written in prose, often in narrative format. This format tends to be more pointed than longer works of fiction, such as novellas (in the 20th and 21st century sense) and novels or books. Short story definitions based upon length differ somewhat even among professional writers, due somewhat in part to the fragmentation of the medium into genres. Since the short story format includes a wide range of genres and styles, the actual length is determined by the individual author's preference (or the story's actual needs in terms of creative trajectory or story arc) and the submission guidelines relevant to the story's actual market. Guidelines vary greatly among publishers.

Many short story writers define their work through a combination of creative, personal expression and artistic integrity. As a result, many attempt to resist categorization by genre as well as definition by numbers, finding such approaches limiting and counter-intuitive to artistic form and reasoning. As a result, definitions of the short story based upon length splinter even more when the writing process is taken into consideration.