Meeting Schedule NJCWG 2007

R-E-M-I-N-D-E-R

THE NEXT MEETING OF THE NJCWG WILL BE
SATURDAY, January 6, 2007
NEW DATE AND TIME
Meetings will be held the FIRST SATURDAY of every month,
2:30-3:30 p.m. - Meeting
3:30-4:30 p.m. - Critques

CHANGES:
* Meetings will no longer be twice each month (previously 2nd & 4th Monday), they will now be held only once each month. I am hoping that by reducing the number of meetings, more people will be able to fit the NJCWG into their schedule. I would like to see the group grow and mature.
* Meetings will be held on Saturdays (previously Mondays). This should accommodate those who are taking evening classes, those who have to work late, those who need a spouse to babysit, and those who have evening church conflicts.
* Meetings will be in the afternoon (previously evening). Some members found it difficult to maneuver the narrow, winding Ringwood roads in the dark – especially during the winter months when snow and ice makes our roads even more treacherous. By moving the time to late afternoon, I hope that more members will be comfortable attending.
* The new schedule will be tentative. After a few months the group can re-evaluate the arrangement and we can decide if we like Sat afternoon meetings or if we want to go back to evening meetings.

~~~~~~~~~

A 2007 Calendar, will be handed out at our first meeting.

~~~~~~~~~

2007 Meeting Schedule
January 6, 2007
February 3, 2007
March 3, 2007
April 7, 2007
May 5, 2007
June 2, 2007
July 7, 2007
August 4, 2007
September 1, 2007
October 6, 2007
November 3, 2007

God Allows U-Turns (Anthology)

GOD ALLOWS U-TURNS
is currently NOT accepting new submissions.

The God Allows U-Turns Project
P.O. Box 717
Faribault MN 55021-0717

Fax: (507)334-6464
E-mail: editor@godallowsuturns.com
Web site: www.godallowsuturns.com

Writing Op - Christian Journal (Newspaper)

CHRISTITAN JOURNAL
801 S. Riverside
Medford, OR 97501

Phone: (541)773-4004
Fax: (541)773-9917
Email: info@thechristianjournal.org
Web site: www.thechristianjournal.org

Contact: Chad McComas, editor
About CHRISTIAN JOURNAL

Free, monthly newspaper covering Christian support/encouragement.

"It is the purpose of the Christian Journal to encourage the reader with Christian support articles--personal experiences, stories about ministry, hope in God, poetry, uplifting short pieces, etc."

Freelance Facts
* Established: 1998
* 80% freelance written on a one-time basis.
* Byline given.
* Not copyrighted.

# Editorial lead time 1-2 months.
* Accepts queries by:
o Mail
o E-mail (info@thechristianjournal.org)
o Fax
o Phone
* Accepts simultaneous submissions
* Accepts previously published submissions
* Responds in 2 weeks to queries.
* Responds in 1-2 months to manuscripts.
* Sample copy for 9x12 envelope & 3 first-class stamps.
* Writer's guidelines available at web site (click here).

Needs
Types of Articles:
* Book excerpts
* Exposé
* General Interest
* Historical/Nostalgic
* How-To
* Humor
* Inspirational
* Interview/Profile
* Opinion
* Personal Experience
* Religious (fiction and nonfiction)

Does Not Want: Nothing of theological controversy.
Submission method: Query or send complete ms.
Length: 400–900 words.

Does not pay the expenses of writers on assignment.

Columns & Departmemt

Columns open to freelancers: Health; Senior Views; both 600-800 words.
Submission method: Send complete manuscript

Photos
Send photos with submission.
Reviews:* GIF/JPEG files
Photos Require Identification of subjects

Buys one-time rights
Offers no payment for photos.

Tips: "Be willing to have your work edited and used to touch readers."

Writing Op - The Christian Century

THE CHRISTIAN CENTURY
104 S. Michigan Ave.
Suite 700
Chicago IL 60603-5901

Phone: (312)263-7510
Fax: (312)263-7540
E-mail: main@christiancentury.org
Web site: www.christiancentury.org

About THE CHRISTIAN CENTURY

Format: Magazine for ecumenically-minded, progressive Protestant church people, both clergy and lay.

Frequency: Biweekly

"Authors must have a critical and analytical perspective on the church and be familiar with contemporary theological discussion."

Freelance Facts
* 90% freelance written
* Established: 1884
* Works with new/unpublished writers.
* Circulation: 30,000
* Pays on publication.
* Byline given.

Rights purchased: All rights

# Editorial lead time 1 month.
# Submit seasonal material 4 months in advance.

Accepts queries by: Mail & E-mail
* Responds in 1 week to queries.
* Responds in 3 months to manuscripts.
* Sample copy for $3.
* Click here for manuscript guidelines

Nonfiction:
"We use articles dealing with social problems, ethical dilemmas, political issues, international affairs, and the arts, as well as with theological and ecclesiastical matters. We focus on issues of church and society, and church and culture."

Needs:
* Essays
* Humor
* Interview/Profile
* Opinion
* Religious

Does Not Want: No inspirational.
* Buys 150 manuscripts/year.
* Submission method: Send complete ms; query appreciated, but not essential..
* Length: 1,000–3,000 words.
* Does not pay the expenses of writers on assignment.

Photos: State availability of photos with submission.

New Spirit Led Writer Online

The latest issue of the Spirit Led Writer is online.

ARTICLES
Market Guidelines: Seven Steps on the Path to Getting Published
Conquering Mountains
Feed the Sheep: Writing for the Weary and Scattered
Analyzing a Magazine
Overcoming the Fear of Submission

COLUMNS
Parchment and Scrolls
You may have heard someone say, "Experience is the best teacher," but the words mean nothing unless they motivate you to action.
Encouraging News
Knowing the alphabet is an important part of being a writer. Find out how to use that knowledge to take your writing to the next level.
Inspired Romance
Where should I begin? This is a common question for a writer, but time and experience shows that a beginning should: open at the point of change, open with action, and should capture the reader's interest.
Polishing Your Prose
This article describes a handful of writing and editing jobs. (I have written several of the descriptions from personal experience, and the rest come from interviews with other people.)
Nuggets for Personal Journaling
Can you recall some things in your life where you said, "I will never do that?" Certainly, I can.
Poetry Potpourri
NEW When an inner voice tells you to write, and when your poetic cup runneth over, write. For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh— and so does the pen.

Bare Your Bookshelf

As Christians and writers we likely have a number of Bibles and and other Christian books on our bookshelves. Christian Resources International has begun a program called BARE YOUR BOOKSHELVES. This program provides individuals with everything they need to send a box of Bibles and Christian books to a pastor in a needy third-world area. Your name and address never appears on any of the materials so you don't have to worry about someone getting a hold of your information. Here is a link to this worthy ministry: http://cribooks.homestead.com/bareyourbookshelf.html

Christmas Break

Well, my Christmas "break" is over and we all have to get back to writing. I'll be posting a few dozen items here over the next few days. Please drop me an email to let me know if these are helpful or if there are other types of posts you would rather see.

Merry Christmas and may you and yours have a blessed New Year in Christ our Lord.

Louise Bergmann DuMont
Facilitator, NJCWG
njcwg.dumont@gmail.com

NJCWG Changes

NEW - NEW - NEW - NEW - NEW
JANUARY MEETINGS
NEW - NEW - NEW - NEW - NEW
Starting in January, NJCWG meetings will take place on a new day and time. This decision was made with a great deal of prayer and the consideration of its members.

CHANGES:
* Meetings will no longer be twice each month (previously 2nd & 4th Monday), they will now be held only once each month. I am hoping that by reducing the number of meetings, more people will be able to fit the NJCWG into their schedule. I would like to see the group grow and mature.
* Meetings will be held on Saturdays (previously Mondays). This should accommodate those who are taking evening classes, those who have to work late, those who need a spouse to babysit, and those who have evening church conflicts.
* Meetings will be in the afternoon (previously evening). Some members found it difficult to maneuver the narrow, winding Ringwood roads in the dark – especially during the winter months when snow and ice makes our roads even more treacherous. By moving the time to late afternoon, I hope that more members will be comfortable attending.
* The new schedule will be tentative. After a few months the group can re-evaluate the arrangement and we can decide if we like Sat afternoon meetings or if we want to go back to evening meetings.

NEW DATE AND TIME
Meetings will be held the FIRST SATURDAY of every month, in the afternoon
2:30-3:30 - Meeting
3:30-4:30 - Critiques
SATURDAY
January 6, 2007 - FIRST MEETING
February 3, 2007
March 3, 2007
April 7, 2007
May 5, 2007
June 2, 2007
July 7, 2007
August 4, 2007
September 1, 2007
October 6, 2007
November 3, 2007

NJCWG Changes

NEW - NEW - NEW - NEW - NEW
JANUARY MEETINGS
NEW - NEW - NEW - NEW - NEW
Starting in January, NJCWG meetings will take place on a new day and time. This decision was made with a great deal of prayer and the consideration of its members.

CHANGES:
* Meetings will no longer be twice each month (previously 2nd & 4th Monday), they will now be held only once each month. I am hoping that by reducing the number of meetings, more people will be able to fit the NJCWG into their schedule. I would like to see the group grow and mature.
* Meetings will be held on Saturdays (previously Mondays). This should accommodate those who are taking evening classes, those who have to work late, those who need a spouse to babysit, and those who have evening church conflicts.
* Meetings will be in the afternoon (previously evening). Some members found it difficult to maneuver the narrow, winding Ringwood roads in the dark – especially during the winter months when snow and ice makes our roads even more treacherous. By moving the time to late afternoon, I hope that more members will be comfortable attending.
* The new schedule will be tentative. After a few months the group can re-evaluate the arrangement and we can decide if we like Sat afternoon meetings or if we want to go back to evening meetings.

NEW DATE AND TIME
Meetings will be held the FIRST SATURDAY of every month, in the afternoon
2:30-3:30 - Meeting
3:30-4:30 - Critques
SATURDAY
January 6, 20067 - FIRST MEETING
February 3, 2007
March 3, 2007
April 7, 2007
May 5, 2007
June 2, 2007
July 7, 2007
August 4, 2007
September 1, 2007
October 6, 2007
November 3, 2007

DECEMBER MEETINGS
There will be NO NJCWG Meetings in December. Please use this time to reflect on Christ's gift to humanity and to enjoy your family & friends.
Have a blessed, blessed Christmas!
Meetings will resume in January.

CHRISTMAS PARTY
There will be no NJCWG Christmas Party this year.

NEW - NEW - NEW - NEW - NEW
JANUARY MEETINGS
Starting in January, NJCWG meetings will take place on a new day and time. This decision was made with a great deal of prayer and the consideration of its members.

CHANGES:
* Meetings will no longer be twice each month (previously 2nd & 4th Monday), they will now be held only once each month. I am hoping that by reducing the number of meetings, more people will be able to fit the NJCWG into their schedule. I would like to see the group grow and mature.
* Meetings will be held on Saturdays (previously Mondays). This should accommodate those who are taking evening classes, those who have to work late, those who need a spouse to babysit, and those who have evening church conflicts.
* Meetings will be in the afternoon (previously evening). Some members found it difficult to maneuver the narrow, winding Ringwood roads in the dark – especially during the winter months when snow and ice makes our roads even more treacherous. By moving the time to late afternoon, I hope that more members will be comfortable attending.
* The new schedule will be tentative. After a few months the group can re-evaluate the arrangement and we can decide if we like Sat afternoon meetings or if we want to go back to evening meetings.

NEW DATE AND TIME
Meetings will be held the FIRST SATURDAY of every month, in the afternoon
2:30-3:30 - Meeting
3:30-4:30 - Critques
SATURDAY
January 6, 20067 - FIRST MEETING
February 3, 2007
March 3, 2007
April 7, 2007
May 5, 2007
June 2, 2007
July 7, 2007
August 4, 2007
September 1, 2007
October 6, 2007
November 3, 2007

NJCWG Holiday Schedule

There are NO Meetings of the North Jersey Christian Writers Group (NJCWG) for the remainder of 2006. Our next meeting will be Monday, January 8, 2006.

I am considering moving the meetings to once per month - on the first Saturday of the month form 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
MEMBERS ONLY - if this appeals to you, please contact me via email

Louise Bergmann DuMont
Facilitator, NJCWG
njcwg.dumont@gmail.com

Upcoming Christian Writers Conferences

NOTE: This is a LONG Blog Entry
A number of you seem interested in attending a Christian Writers Conference. Here is a list of some of the upcoming conferences. It is not all inclusive, nor should you think that this is a list of my "favorite" conferences. I've attended some of these and others I am listing simply because the came to me through other reliable sources.
~~~~~
2006

November HEART OF AMERICA CONFERENCE – Kansas City MO
Mark LittletonPhone/fax 816-459-8016
MLittleton@earthlink.netwww.HACWN.org

November SOUTHWEST WRITERS MINI CONFERENCE – Albuquerque NM
Southwest Writers505-265-9485
swriters@aol.comwww.southwestwriters.org

November BAYOU WRITERS GROUP WORKSHOP - Lake Charles LA
Randy DuprePO Box 602Iota LA 70543

11/17-19: MY THOUGHTS EXACTLY WRITERS' RETREAT – Schuyler NE
Cheryl Paden402-727-6508

11/18: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE - Orlando FL
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

11/26-Dec. 3: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS CARIBBEAN CRUISE
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.com www.ACWriters.com

2007
JANUARY
January 12-16: CATHOLIC WRITERS RETREAT - Tucson AZ
Vinita Hampton Wright520-744-3400
office@desertrenewal.orgwww.desertrenewal.org

January 29-February 3: ADVANCE 2007 (CBA) – Indiana Convention Center
800-252-1950
www.cbaonline.org

February (early): SCBWI WRITERS & ILLUSTRATORS CONFERENCE IN CHILDREN'SLITERATURE - New York City
Lin Oliver323-782-1010
SCBWI@SCBWI.orgwww.SCBWI.org

February – SOUTHWEST WRITERS MINI CONFERENCE – Albuquerque NM
505-265-9485
Info@southwestwriters.comwww.southwestwriters.org

February: WRITERS SYMPOSIUM BY THE SEA - San Diego CA
Dean Nelson619-849-2592
deannelson@ptloma.eduwww.ptloma.edu/writers

February 7-11: CATHOLIC WRITERS RETREAT - Tucson AZ
Vinita Hampton Wright520-744-3400
office@desertrenewal.orgwww.desertrenewal.org

February 9-10: CASTRO VALLEY CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE - Castro Valley Ca
Pastor John Drury510-886-6300
jond@redwoodchapel.org

February 9 -11: WORD WEAVERS RETREAT – Leesburg FL
Eva Marie Everson407-695-9366
EvaMarieEverson@aol.com

February 10: AUSTIN CHRISTIAN WRITERS WORKSHOP - Austin TX
Lin Harris512-601-2216
linharris@austin.rr.com

February 15-18: JERRY JENKINS WRITING FOR THE SOUL CONFERENCE – Colorado Springs CO
Wayne Atcheson866-495-5177, ext. 37
wayne@christianwritersguild.comwww.christianwritersguild.com

February 16-17: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS DALLAS CONFERNECE - Dallas TX
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

February 17: OREGON CHRISTIAN WRITERS WINTER CONFERENCE – Salem OR
D. J. Young360-828-7036
djbeyoung@yahoo.comwww.oregonchristianwriters.org
Sally Stuart speaking

February 23-24: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS OKLAHOMA CITY CONFERENCE –
Oklahoma City OK
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

February 23-25: WRITERS WEEKEND AT THE BEACH - Ocean Park WA
Birdie Etchison360-665-6576
etchison@pacifier.comwww.patriciarushford.com

Spring: BONEFIRE! CONFERENCE - Durham NC
Gail Hayes(919)286-4200
gmhayes@daughteroftheking.orgwww.aacmcoalition.com

March: COMIX35 CHRISTIAN COMICS TRAINING SEMINAR - Mexico City, Mexico
Nate Butler
COMIX35@comix35.orgwww.COMIX35.org

March 1-4: FLORIDA CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE – Bradenton FL
Billie Wilson321-269-5831
billiewilson@cfl.rr.comwww.FLWriters.org

March 2-3: BETHEL COLLEGE CHRISTIAN WRITERS WORKSHOP – Mishawaka IN
Dr. Christian DavisKim Peterson574-257-3427
petersk@bethelcollege.eduwww.BethelCollege.edu/writersworkshop

March 10: HEART TALK - Portland OR
Beverly Hislop503-517-1881
bwhislop@westernseminary.eduwww.westernseminary.edu/women

March 12-13: HEART OF AMERICA MENTORING CONFERENCE - St. Louis MO
Mark LittletonPhone/fax 816-459-8016
HACWN@earthlink.netwww.hacwn.org

March 16-17: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS GREENSBORO CONFERENCE - Greensboro NC
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

March 24: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS CLEVELAND CONFERENCE - Cleveland OH
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

March 30-31: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS FORT WAYNE CONFERENCE - Fort Wayne IN
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

March 30-April 3: MOUNT HERMON CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE - Mount Hermon CA
David Talbott831-430-1241
dtalbott@mhcamps.orgwww.mounthermon.org/writers
Sally Stuart leads Career Track

March 31: WRITE ON! WORKSHOP - Dayton OH
Valerie Coleman937-307-0760
colemanbfp@aol.comwww.penofthewriter.com

Early April : MINNESOTA CHRIST. WRITERS GUILD SPRING SEMINAR - Minneapolis/St. Paul MN
Nancy Hudson952-881-1470
nancyah@earthlink.netwww.mnchristianwriters.org

April: BLUE RIDGE MT. CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE – Nashville TN
Yvonne LehmanRon Pratt
Ron.Pratt@lifeway.com

April 1-3: HEART OF AMERICA MENTORING CONFERENCE - Kansas City MO
Mark LittletonPhone/fax 816-459-8016
HACWN@earthlink.netwww.hacwn.org

April 13-14: QUAD-CITIES CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE - Bettendorf IA
Twila Belk563-332-1622
iamstraightway@aol.comwww.gottatellsomebody.com

April 13-14: CALLED TO WRITE - Girard KS
Deborah Vogts620-244-5619
debvogts@terraworld.netwww.christianwritersgirard.org

April 14: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS MEMPHIS CONFERENCE - Memphis TN
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

April 14: INSPIRATIONAL WRITERS ALIVE! AMARILLO SEMINAR – Amarillo TX
Jerry McClenagan806-355-7117jerrydalemc@sbcglobal.net

April 19-21: DELAWARE CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE - Newark DE
John Riddle302-834-4910
Delawarewriters@yahoo.comwww.DelawareChristianWritersConference.com

April 20-21: OBADIAH PRESS CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE – Merrill WI
Tina Miller715-536-3167
tinamiller@charter.netwww.obadiahpress.com/conference.htm

April 21: ORANGE CO CHRISTIAN WRITERS FELL. SPRING WRITERS DAY – Lake Forest CA
John DeSimone714-538-7070
John@occwf.org

April 21: WFCA WRITERS CONFERENCE - Milwaukee WI
Andrea Boeshaar/Patti Wolf414-355-5202
andrea@andreaboeshaar.comwww.wisconsinchristianauthors.com

April 26-28: HEART OF AMERICA MENTORING CONFERENCE - St. Louis MO
Mark LittletonPhone/fax 816-459-8016
HACWN@earthlink.netwww.hacwn.org

April 28: MERCER ONE-DAY WORKSHOP - Mercer PA
Evelyn Minshull or Gloria Clover724-475-3239 or 724-253-2635
eminshull@certainty.net"
mailto:gloworm@certainly.net">gloworm@certainly.net
www.stdavidswriters.com

May: ANTELOPE VALLEY CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE – Quartz Hill CA
Don Patterson661-722-0891
donpatterson@verizon.netwww.theology.edu/writers

May – SOUTHWEST WRITERS MINI CONFERENCE - Albuquerque, NM
Southwest Writers505-265-9485
Info@southwestwriters.comwww.southwestwriters.org

May: INSPIRATIONAL WRITERS ALIVE! EAST TX SEMINAR – Tyler TX
Maxine Holder903-795-3986
mholder787@aol.com

May: NORTH JERSEY A REASON TO WRITE CONFERENCE – Ringwood NJ
Louise Bergmann DuMont551-427-3794
njcwg.Dumont@gmail.com

May 4-5: SPU CHRISTIAN WRITERS RENEWAL – Seattle WA
Clint Kelly206-281-2723
christianwriters@spu.eduwww.spu.edu/fellows

May 5: GEORGIA CHRISTIAN WRITERSÕ SPRING FESTIVAL – Atlanta area GA
Lloyd Blackwell770-421-1203
lloydblackwell@worldnet.att.net

May 16-19: COLORADO CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE - Estes Park CO
Marlene BagnullPhone/fax: 610-626-6833
mbagnull@aol.comwww.writehisanswer.com

May 19: OREGON CHRISTIAN WRITERS SPRING CONFERENCE – Eugene OR
D. J. Young360-828-7036
djbeyoung@yahoo.comwww.oregonchristianwriters.org

June: WRITERS ALASKAN CRUISE – AK
Louise B. Wyly763-533-6207
Lsnowbunny@aol.comwww.nhcc.mn.edu/ctd

June: FICTION INTENSIVE - Tehachapi CA
Lauraine Snelling661-823-0669
tlsnelling@yahoo.comwww.laurainesnelling.net

June: KARITOS CHRISTIAN ARTS CONFERENCE – Wheaton IL
Bob Hay847-749-1284
bob@karitos.comwww.karitos.com

June: ST. DAVIDS CHRISTIAN WRITERSÕ CONFERENCE – Beaver Falls PA
Audrey Stallsmith724-253-2738
registrar@stdavidswriters.comwww.stdavidswriters.com

June 1-2: ARKANSAS WRITERS CONFERENCE – Little Rock AR
Barbara Mulkey 501-312-1747
blm@aristole.net

June 2: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS LOUISVILLE CONFERENCE - Louisville KY
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

June 2: EAST TEXAS CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE – Marshall TX
Dr. Jerry Hopkins903-923-2269
Jhopkins@ETBU.eduwww.ETBU.edu/news/CWC/default.htm

June 6-9: WRITE TO PUBLISH CONFERENCE – Wheaton IL
Lin Johnson847-296-3964
lin@writetopublish.comwww.WriteToPublish.com

June 8-9: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS COLUMBUS CONFERENCE - Columbus OH
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

June 13-16: CHRISTIANS IN THEATRE ARTS NETWORKING CONFERENCE - Chicago IL
Bryanne Barker864-679-1898
admin@cita.orgwww.cita.org

MidJune: SOUTHEASTERN WRITERS CONFERENCE – St. Simons Island GA
Sheila Hudson
Info@southeasternwriters.comwww.southeasternwriters.com

June 17-22: WESLEYAN WRITERS CONFERENCE – Middletown CT
Anne Greene860-685-3604
agreene@wesleyan.eduwww.wesleyan.edu/writers

June 22-23: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS GRAND RAPIDS CONFER. - Grand Rapids MI
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com
Sally Stuart speaking

June 22-24 : FAITH-BASED ARTS CONFERENCE – Durham NC
Fbliterary@nc.rr.comwww.fbfictionlovers.com.

July 1-31: ACT ONE: WRITING FOR HOLLYWOOD - Hollywood CA
Chris Riley323-464-0815
info@actoneprogram.comwww.ActOneprogram.com

July 6-7: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS ATLANTA CONFERENCE - Atlanta GA
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

July 22-27: MONTROSE CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE - Montrose PA
Patti Souder570-278-1001
mbc@montrosebible.orgwww.montrosebible.org

July 26-28 – MIDWEST WRITERS CONFERENCE – Muncie IN
Midwest Writers765-282-1055
midwestwriters@yahoo.comwww.midwestwriters.org

July 28: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS DAYTON CONFERENCE - Dayton OH
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

July 30-August 2 – OREGON CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE – Canby OR
Pat Rushford360-449-0456
patrushford@comcast.netwww.oregonchristianwriters.org
Sally Stuart teaching

July 30-August 5: GMA MUSIC IN THE ROCKIES CONFERENCE – Estes Park CO
John W. Styll615-242-0303www.gospelmusic.org

August (early): SCBWI WRITERS & ILLUSTRATORS CONFERENCE IN CHILDRENÕS LITERATURE - Los Angeles CA
Lin Oliver323-782-1010
SCBWI@SCBWI.orgwww.SCBWI.org

August – SOUTHWEST WRITERS MINI CONFERENCE – Albuquerque NM
Southwest Writers505-265-9485
Info@southwestwriters.comwww.southwestwriters.org

August: STATE OF MAINE WRITERSÕ CONFERENCE – Ocean Park ME
Jim Brosnan401-598-1424
Jim.Brosnan@jwu.edu

August: GREEN LAKE CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE – Green Lake WI
Russann Hadding800-558-8898
RussannHadding@glcc.org
mailto: Program@glcc.org
www.glcc.org

August 2-6: THE WRITING ACADEMY SEMINAR - Minneapolis MN
Mar Korman218-792-5144
pattyk@wams.orgwww.wams.org/pages/2seminar.htm

August 4: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS INDIANAPOLIS CONFERENCE – Indianapolis IN
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

August 4: TEXAS CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE – Houston TX
Martha Rogers713-686-7209
marthalrogers@sbcglobal.net
Sally Stuart speaking

August 4-5: DAYTON CHRISTIAN WRITERS GUILD CONFERENCE – Dayton OH
Tina V. Toles937-836-6600
August 10-11: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS MINNEPOLIS CONFERENCE - Minneapolis MN
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

August 10-12: FAITHWRITERS.COM WRITING CONFERENCE – Livonia MI (Detroit Metro area)
Scott Lindsay
support@faithwriters.comwww.faithwriters.com/conference.php
Sally Stuart speaking

Mid-August: GREATER PHILADELPHIA CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERNECE - Langhorne PA
Marlene BagnullPhone/fax: 610-626-6833mbagnull@aol.comwww.writehisanswer.com

August 18: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS SPRINGFIELD CONFERENCE - Springfield MO
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

August 19-24: CAPE COD SUMMER WRITERS CONFERENCE and YOUNG WRITERSÕ WORKSHOP (ages 12-16) - Cape Cod MA
Jacqueline M. Loring, dir.508-420-0200
writers@capecodwriterscenter.orgwww.capecodwriterscenter.com

August/September: NORTHWEST CHRISTIAN WRITERS ALASKAN CRUISE – AK
Carla Williams360-802-2547
events@nwchristianwriters.orgwww.nwchristianwriters.org

Fall: ACW DETROIT SEMINAR - Detroit MI
Pam Perry248-426-2300
pamperry@ministrymarketingsolutions.comwww.ministrymarketingsolutions.com

September: SAN DIEGO CHRISTIAN WRITERS GUILD SEMINAR - San Diego CA
Robert & Jennie Gillespie760-294-3269info@sandiegocwg.orgwww.sandiegocwg.org

September: NORTHWEST OHIO CHRISTIAN WRITERSÕ CONFERENCE - Toledo OH
Diane Kashmer419-898-1343
kamio@cros.net

September: GEORGIA WRITERS ASSN./CHRISTIAN WRITERS POD - Woodstock GA
Lloyd Blackwell770-421-1203.
lloydblackwell@worldnet.att.net

September 7-8: NORTH TEXAS CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERNECE - Keller TX
Frank Ball817-915-1688
frank.ball@ntchristianwriters.comwww.ntchristianwriters.com

September 7-8: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS COLORADO SPRINGS CONFERENCE - Colorado Springs CO
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.com
www.ACWriters.com

September 9-15: MARANATHA CHRISTIAN WRITERS SEMINAR – Muskegon MI
Verna Kokmeyer231-798-2161
info@maranatha-bmc.orgwww.maranatha-bmc.org

September 14-15: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS SPOKANE CONFERENCE - Spokane WA
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

September 30-October 3: SANDY COVE CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE – North East MD
Jim Watkins800-234-2683
info@sandycove.comwww.sandycove.org/docs/writers.php

September/October: AD LIB CHRISTIAN ARTS RETREAT – Allenspark CO
Judith Deem Dupree619-473-8683303-823-9938
adlib@ixpres.comwww.adlibchristianarts.org

Early October: MINNESOTA CHRIST. WRITERS GUILD FALL SEMINAR - Minneapolis/St. Paul MN
Nancy Hudson952-881-1470
nancyah@earthlink.netwww.mnchristianwriters.org

October: SPAN SMALL PUBLISHERS MARKETING CONFERENCE - San Mateo CA
Scott Flora719-475-1726
scott@spannet.orgwww.spannet.org/conf-home-2006-htm

October: RICHMOND CHRISTIANS WHO WRITE SEMINAR - Richmond VA
Rev. Thomas C. Lacy804-749-4050
RichmondCWW@aol.com

October: CHRISTIAN AUTHORS GUILD FALL SEMINAR - Woodstock GA
Diana Baker770-928-2588
dianajbaker@cs.comwww.christianauthorsguild.org

October: WEST BRANCH CHRISTIAN WRITERÕS ONE-DAY CONFERENCE - Montoursville PA
Cindy Emmett Smith
Cswriter@yahoo.com

October: SMALL PUBLISHERS MARKETING CONFERENCE - San Mateo CA
Scott Flora719-475-1726
October 5-6: PEN TO PAPER LITERARY SYMPOSIUM - Dayton OH
Valerie Coleman937-307-0760
colemanbfp@aol.comwww.penofthewriter.com

October 6: SANTA BARBARA CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE - Santa Barbara CA
Opal Mae Bailey805-682-0316
opalmaedailey@aol.com

October 11-13: OZARK CREATIVE WRITERS CONFERENCE – Eureka Springs AR
Clarissa Willis423-929-1049
ozarkcreativewriters@earthlink.netwww.ozarkcreativewriters.org

October 12-13: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS ANAHEIM CONFERENCE – Anaheim CA
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

October 13: REVWRITERS CONFERENCE - Bucks County PA
RevWriter - Sue Lang215-453-5066
conference@revwriter.comwww.revwriter.com

October 17-21: GLORIETA CHRISTIAN WRITERS CONFERENCE - Glorieta NM
CLASServices505-899-4283
info@classervices.comwww.glorietaCWC.com

October 19-20: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS PHOENIX CONFERENCE - Phoenix AZ
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

October 19-20: EARLHAM SCHOOL OF RELIGION COLLOQUIUM: THE MINISTRY OF WRITING – Richmond IN
Director800-432-1377765-983-1423
esr@earlham.eduwww.esr.earlham.edu

October 20: OREGON CHRISTIAN WRITERS FALL CONFERENCE – Portland OR
D. J. Young360-828-7036
djbeyoung@yahoo.comwww.oregonchristianwriters.org

November: OAKWOOD COLLEGE CHRISTIAN WRITERS SEMINAR - Huntsville AL
Dr. Cecil Daly256-852-8656
November – SOUTHWEST WRITERS MINI CONFERENCE – Albuquerque NM
Southwest Writers505-265-9485
Info@southwestwriters.comwww.southwestwriters.org

November 3: SOUTH-EASTERN ARIZONA CHRISTIAN WRITERS WORKSHOP – Benson AZ
Floyd Pierce520-384-3064

November 12-15 (tentative): MOUNT HERMON MENTORING CLINIC - Mount Hermon CA
David Talbott831-430-1241
dtalbott@mhcamps.orgwww.mounthermon.org/writersclinic

November 16-18: MY THOUGHTS EXACTLY WRITERSÕ RETREAT - Schuyler NE
Cheryl Paden402-727-6508

November 17: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS ORLANDO CONFERNECE - Orlando FL
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

Nov 25-Dec. 2: AMERICAN CHRISTIAN WRITERS CARIBBEAN CRUISE
Reg Forder1-800-21-WRITE
ACWriters@aol.comwww.ACWriters.com

December: EAST METRO ATLANTA CHRISTIAN WRITERS SEMINAR - Covington GA
Colleen Capes Jackson404-444-7514
cjac401992@aol.comwww.emacw.org

Next Meeting NJCWG

Next Meeting -- NJCWG
Monday, November 13, 2006
6:15-7:00 Chat Time
7:00-8:00 Lesson (Tapes from 2006 Glorieta)
8:00-9:00 Critiques

I am considering moving meetings to once each month on the first Saturday of each month from 3:00-5:00 pm and I would like to know what the rest of the members think of this....

Louise Bergmann DuMont
Facilitator, NJCWG

Screen Writing

Ambassador Communications Inc., the home of Christian screenwriting and the Christian Screenwriters' Newsletter, invites you to enter the 1st Annual Faith and Values Screenwriting Competition, honoring the best in faith-based TV Series Pilots and Feature Length Screenplays. The winners will receive cash and sponsor prizes, and will be considered for representation by WGA agent TERRY PORTER of AGAPE PRODUCTIONS. In addition, the winning scripts will be read by FOX FAITH, JENKINS ENTERTAINMENT, NUMENOREAN FILMS, REVOLUTION MEDIA, DISTILLERY PICTURES, PURE FLIX ENTERTAINMENT, DUSTSTORM PRODUCTIONS, L.A. PICTURES, and SAYLORS BROS. ENTERTAINMENT. To enter the contest, please log on to http://www.ambassadorcommunications.biz/faithandvalues.html or email info@ambassadorcommunications.biz or call 204-292-4095. The deadline for entries is January 15, 2007.

Thank you very much for your assistance.

Sincerely,

Claire Hutchinson

President

Ambassador Communications Inc.

www.ambassadorcommunications.biz

NJCWG Important Info

For the remainder of 2006 there is
ONLY ONE MEETING
Next Meeting - Monday, 11/13/06

NO MEETING - 11/27/06 (due to Thanksgiving)
NO MEETING - 12/11/06
NO MEETING - 12/25/06 (due to Christmas)

ALSO - due to a lack of... ??? -- there will be NO NJCWG Christmas Party this year.

Online Writing Groups

So, you want to be published? Get connected.
Can't find a writers group near where you live? Join an online group!

For your convenience, I am once again listing a number of great online writers groups you can join.

FCW - Fellowship of Christian Writers
Excellent group that shares writing help along with promoting accountability
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FCW/

TWV1 - TheWriters View 1
For published authors only - lots of marketing and industry info.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TheWritersView/

TWV2 - TheWriters View 2
For writers who are just starting out - GREAT group.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TWV2/

CWG - Christian Writers Group
General discussion group.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CWG/

Writing Exercise

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Here is a writing exercise for those writers who need a bit of inspiration - or a kick in the you-know-what to get them started.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Most of you know the line "It was a dark and stormy night.." made famous by the THE most famous (infamous?) writer of our century - Snoopy. This line was originaly penned by Victorian novelist Edward Bulwer-Lytton, 1st Baron Lytton, as the beginning of his 1830 novel Paul Clifford. Here is the complete opening line.

"It was a dark and stormy night; the rain fell in torrents, except at occasional intervals, when it was checked by a violent gust of wind which swept up the streets (for it is in London that our scene lies), rattling along the housetops, and fiercely agitating the scanty flame of the lamps that struggled against the darkness."

Your assignment -- rewrite this opening using Showing techniques rather than Telling ones. Don't overwrite. Don't use a lon list of adjectivs. Break up the sentence into manageable bites. In other words -- write tight -- write clean -- write a great opening.

If you are interested in a free critque of your rewritten paragraph, drop me an email.

Louie Bergmann DuMont
Author, Speaker & Facilitator of the North Jersey Christian Writers Group (NJCWG)

Book Proposals That Sell

"If you are currently writing a book or even thinking about writing a book, you won't want to miss this online event. "
Louise Bergmann DuMont, NJCWG

---------------------------------
From Editor and Author - Terry Whalin
---------------------------------
Let's Talk About Book Proposals
On Thursday, October 26th, I will be chatting for two hours at the Institute of Children's Literature. The topic is book proposals and how as writers submit better proposals, then they will improve the results from their submissions.
If you can, join us for the chat. I recommend you go to the chatroom ahead of time to register (free) then participate.
Here’s the times:
9-11 p.m. Atlantic/Canada
8-10 p.m. Eastern
7-9 Central
6-8 Mountain
5-7 Pacific

If you are reading this article after October 26th, the transcript for this chat are stored online. These archives are a rich resource of writing information on a variety of topics from many different participants. In the past, I've been in this chatroom--in fact three times but Thursday will mark the first time talking about Book Proposals That Sell. I hope to see you there.

Chat with Terry Whalin

On Thursday (10/26/06), Terry Whalin is going to be chatting about Book Proposals That Sell for two hours at the Institute of Children's Literature website. This event is free--but he advises that you register ahead of time so you will be ready to participate. If you can't make it, the transcript will be stored on the ICL website--after the chat.

Here's where you can learn the details: http://tinyurl.com/ygvrps

Writing Op - Morning Song

This just came across my desk
Facilitator, NJCWG
-------------------------------
I am the publisher of a new e-Newsletter called "Morning Songs". The newsletter is about Christian and Gospel music, Christian life, faith, spirituality, and just life in general. If you are interested in contributing to this monthly publication, send me a 500 word article along with your contact information. We'll review it for potential publication. If you have any more questions about it you can contact me directly at morningsongs_newsletter@yahoo.com. I think there can be some great, ongoing contributions that come from you. I can't wait to hear from you. If you just want to read it when its done, you can also email me. We hope to have the first publication ready in November, just in time for Thanksgiving. Be blessed.

Chance Glenn
Editor - Morning Songs

Next Meeting - NJCWG

Louise Bergmann DuMont at the Glorieta Christian Writers Conference
She is teaching her KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE/WRITE TO MARKET class.

I'm SO excitied about our next meeting. I hope to share some of the many things I learned at the 2006 Glorieta Christian Writers Conference.

The worship, devotionals, opening and closing sessions were amazing.

The classes exceeded everyone's expectations.

God brought me so much more than I ever expected during the faculty to faculty sessions (you will be nearly as excitied as I am when you hear about it all).

The attendee to faculty appointments that I participated in were awsome as well.

And of course I reconnected with great old friends and made dozens of new ones.

To be the first to hear all the details, come to our next NJCWG meeting.

Next meeting -- NJCWG
Monday, October 23, 2006

Ringwood Baptist Church
30 Carletondale Road
Ringwood, NJ 07456

6:15-7:00 - Chat Time
7:00-8:00 - Lesson / Glorieta
Networking Ops, Classes, Connections, , CD's Available, Writers Guidelines & Sample Copies... and so much more.
8:00-9:00 - Critiques

Terry Whalin, Fiction Acquisitions Editor Howard Books

Terry Whalin, Fiction Acquisitions Editor Howard Books, and author, Louise Bergmann DuMont, pose for a picture after dinner at the 2006 Glorieta Christian Writers Conference, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Editor Appointments

Attendee and editor in the midst of an all-important appintment.

Nick Harrison

Nick Harrison, author and Acquisitions Editor for Harvest House, allowed me to snap this picture one afternoon when we were having lunch together. It was such a pleasure to learn from this knowledgeable (and patient) man.

Joe Box Mysteries author, John Robinson

One of my favorite authors, John Robinson, takes a break and enjoys the glorious weather in between his faculty to faculty appointments, attendee to faculty appointments, and rigorous teaching schedule. It was a real blessing for me to reconnect with John at this conference. 

Glorieta's Chuck Wagon

TheWritersView1 Members taking a break at the Chuck Wagon

TheWriters'View1 is an online Christian writing group for those activingly engaged in publication. We gathered after the days sessions for popcorn, lattes and a good time at Glorieta's Chuck Wagon Cafe. These after hour get-togethers are a great place to connect with editors and publishers whose appointment schedules are full during the day.

De-Cluttered Bug

Author, Kathryn Porter, poses with her new book (Too Much Stuff: Decluttering Your Heart and Home) and friend Louise Bergmann DuMont. We met at last yer's Glorieta Christian Writers Conference and were able to reconnect this year. SO much fun. One great reason for attending writers conferences is the friends we make -- friends who encourage us and lift us beyond the places we can go on our own.

Do check out Kathryn Porters books. She is both an amazing person and great author. You'll be seeing more from this lady.

Nancy Wialliams

Author, counselor, speaker & life coach - Nancy Willaims (o the left) shares a moment of fun with fellow Glorieta attendee. 

Writers View Phot

TheWritersView1 members got together in Glorieta's after hour cafe (The Chuckwagon) for a few lattes and this photo.

SpiritLedWriter - Pls Read

The SpiritLed Writer has been having a few electronic problems. If you submitted to this publication, please read the message below.

-------------------------------
Hi all,

When your publication works solely by email, an ISP problem is a big deal. SO...

Just a quick note to say that due to a problem with the host for the magazine:

1) we've lost all emails in my inbox from July, including submissions and requested manuscripts (unfortunately, we didn't realize this until last month when we noticed no emails coming in, and when the inbox was wiped out).

**Our webmaster is trying to figure all this out, but in the meantime we have issues to get out...

2) we are experiencing problems receiving email (including responses to our feedback buttons, etc.). If you received a "blocked" email from the site this explains why.So, I'd appreciate any help with the following.

Please respond to me at lacrayton@yahoo.com

1) you have sent a manuscript, please resend (I responded positively to several subs last month, and have not received the manuscript -- I expect these were blocked) -- at lacrayton@yahoo.com

2) if you have a reprint to offer, please submit it at lacrayton@yahoo.com

3) please continue to pray for the ministry of SPIRIT-LED WRITER, we so appreciate it.

Thanks,
Lisa, Publisher

FREE Business Cards

Vista Print is at it again. They are offering FREE business cards to anyone who wants them. Sure there is a catch (you didn't really believe that they would give them away without a catch did you?).

Here's the deal - 1) you must pay the shipping - which is minimal. 2) Vista Print puts their web address in very small print on the back of each card. That's it.

I use Vista Print for all of my business cards, oversized publicity post cards, etc. They do an excellent job and you sure can't beat this price.

Writers need business cards. While I was at Glorieta I collected dozens of them and will file them for future contact information. Editors and publishers file them for future use too. Get 250 FREE Business Cards Now! Here is their link: FREE CARDS

To see all of Vista Print's products and other free offers go to: vistaprint.com

Kathy Pride- Featured Author of the Month

October's Featured Author
Kathy Pride
Author of Winning the Drug War At Home

Kathy Pride wears many hats, including author, newspaper columnist, speaker, and parent educator. Her favorite roles are as a mother to her four children, best friend to her husband, and high energy advocate for people whose hope tanks are running low. She has recently authored a book entitled Winning the Drug War at Home, released by AMG Publishers in April, 2006.

You can find out more about Kathy and her ministry (Tapestry Ministries) at her website.

Cec Murphey Update

A Note From Cecil "Cec" Murphey

Don Piper for whom I wrote 90 Minutes in Heaven will appear on the Today Show the first week of November. (That's the "sweeps" week.) They've asked representatives from four different religions about heaven and how to get there. Don, because of his experience, will speak from the Christian perspective. If you've never heard Don, not only did he have a powerful experience, but he's delightful to hear. I learned last week that the book has hit 1.1 million copies in sales. I'm amazed--and grateful to God.

CecCecil "Cec" Murphey
http://www.cecilmurphey.com
Author, When Someone You Love Has Alzheimer's
Co-author, 90 Minutes in Heaven: A True Story of Death and Life
Co-author, Daily Devotions Inspired by 90 Minutes in Heaven (available in November)

Contest - EPIC

EPIC's has a new writing contest, which is open to home-schooled as well as public school and private school kids.

CHavel EPIC New Voices 2007 contest open for entries between August 1, 2006 and November 1, 2006.

This is a writing contest for students attending public, private, or homeschools anywhere in the world. There is no entrance fee. Students should be in junior high/middle school or high school in the US or the equivalent level in the school system of their country. The student may write a story, poem, or essay for the contest or enter something written for a school assignment. For more information, visit the EPIC website:
http://www.epicauthors.com/newvoices.html

Writing Op - Kids Ark

Hello Wonderfully Blessed Writers!

I hope this finds you all well. This e-mail has been long in coming and I don't think I'll answer ALL of the questions many of you have e-mailed me all right now. But, I need to share with you what is going on with the Ark and should then later be able to answer anything else.

1. We are slowing down the monthly printing of the Kids' Ark to every other month until we are through the process of becoming nonprofit. There are temporary financial restrictions to publishing monthly until the nonprofit status is gained. Once that happens, we will resume monthly publications.

2. Having said that, here are the updated anticipation publication dates for previous themes. (Those of you whose stories have been accepted for these themes- you will receive your payment and complimentary copy at that time).
Perseverance - October
Meekness - December
Pride - February
Anger - April
Wisdom - June
Laziness - July

3. While deadlines have already passed for Anger, Widsom and Laziness, the editorial panel is still finalizing decisions on submissions. I hope to have decisions for all stories by next week.

4. Also, we will have additional themes and submission deadlines by next week as well.

Thank you all for your prayers and patience. I realize it's difficult for you to not hear from us for so long. For that, I apologize. We held off due to the number of changes being made to make this ministry everything God wants it to be.

God really is doing great things with this magazine. In church, just the otherday, the wife of a man who is known as the "watchman" of our church, commented how much she enjoys having the stories available for her grandchildren. You are impacting so many children through your giftings. Thank you for sharing them with the world.

May God bless you exceedingly, abundantly above all you may ask, think, orimagine!I'll be in touch again soon!

Blessings,
Joy Mygrants
The Kids' Ark

Glorieta Christian Writers Conference

Glorieta Conference Center, Albuquerque, NM

Well I'm back from the Glorieta Chrisitan Writers Conference. I'm almost embarased to say that I'm hard pressed for words to describe this year's experience. During the next few week's I will post dozens of writing opportunities that were presented to me by the other staff members. God is now placing them in your hands. What you do with them is between you and your creator.

I was blessed to reconnect with a number of writing colleagues and I made dozens more. I hope to post a number of photos as well. I also purchased (more than a few) CD's of the classes. These will be shared over the next few weeks at our NJCWG meetings. You won't want to miss those. I also gather writers guidelines and sample copies from dozens of publications. Again, these will be shared at the next few NJCWG meetings.

Next Meeting
Monday, October 23, 2006
Ringwood Baptist Church
Our "lesson" will be a brief recap of the conference and some interesting lessons-learned.
Hope to see you there!

Louise Bergmann DuMont
Facilitator, NJCWG

9/9/06 Meeting Canceled

Unfortunatly I need to cancel the Monday, October 9, 2006 NJCWG meeting. Our next meeting will be 10/23/06. My apologies. As soon as I get back from Glorieta I'll post an update.

MEETING CANCELLED
Monday, October 9, 2006

Louise Bergmann DuMont
Facilitator, NJCWG

Update From Cecil Murphey

Cec Murphey with NFL's Most
Valuable Player for 2005,
Shaun Alexander

What's new with author, teacher & speaker Cecil "Cec" Murphey

If you want to see pictures, go to: http://www.WhatsNewWithUs.com

Cecil ("Cec") Murphey www.CecilMurphey.com

I came home tired after teaching in a two-day conference followed by
an intense mentoring clinic in Dallas. For a full month, I can stay
home to write daily, run each morning, and play in my garden every
afternoon.

My next mentoring clinic is in Walnut, CA (near LA) January 17-20.
Peter Lundell (host) says we still have room for two people.

On the news front, Touchdown Alexander that I wrote for Seattle
running back, Shaun Alexander, sold 50,000 copies and nearly 2,000 of
the audio version during its first month. Daily Devotions Inspired by
90 Minutes in Heaven by Don Piper and Cecil Murphey
(Berkeley/Penguin) comes out in November with an initial printing of
110,000 copies. CBD (Christian Book Distributors) asked me to write
study questions for each chapter of 90 Minutes in Heaven. They want
to put this in their Giant Reading Group and promise (according to my
editor Vicki Crumpton) "to give the book big promotion in terms of
catalog space, focus, and sales,"

The fall issue of Marriage Partnership printed a series of articles
about couples and cancer. Shirley's breast-cancer story is in it
along with a first-person story by my friend, Dr. Amy Givler. The
issue features a story about another friend, Chris Maxwell. He had
viral encephalitis and no longer has any short-term memory. It's an
inspirational account written by Corrie Cutrer.

Comfort Cafe - New Devotional

Louise Bergmann DuMont has a new Devotional at the Comfort Cafe
Moving a Mountain - One Mole Hill At A Time
http://comfortcafe.net/?p=402

Writing Op- Adams Media

Writing Op forwarded to me by Maude Carolan
--------------------------------------------

Has God ministered in your life through the Serenity Prayer? Is there an element of the Serenity Prayer that especially speaks to you?

If so, you're a prime candidate to write a personal experience story for a compilation book on the Serenity Prayer that Adams Media is putting out as part of their Christian line, and I'd like to invite you to be part of this.

We're looking for 1000-1200 word stories on how the Serenity Prayer has affected or changed lives. Your story will need to be deeper than just, "I prayed the Serenity Prayer and God made everything wonderful." Instead, focus on a specific time in your life when this prayer or an aspect of it made a difference in your life. Tell us specifically how this prayer made a difference--specifically how God used it to bring grace, healing, renewed relationships, courage, or whatever. As in any time you tell a story, remember to "show" us instead of just "telling" us. Also, it looks like too many writers so far are focusing on the "Accept the things I can" aspect of the prayer, so you might consider writing on another section of it.

This book is distinctly Christian, but will be sold in secular outlets (and Adams is a secular publisher that has a Christian arm, like the Cup of Comfort Devotions series, and the His Forever testimony book). So in your writing, try to weed out Christianese--try to give spiritual concepts concrete support so the readers can relate, and don't assume your reader knows what the Christian phrases mean. Feel free to use scripture in this as well--just watch the Christian lingo.

Also, one of my concerns is that too many of the stories submitted will focus on AA or recovery programs. It's great if the Serenity Prayer has ministered to you through this, but downplay programs and concentrate on the difference in your life. Also feel free to pull from elements of the long version of this prayer: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serenity_Prayer

The stories are due Oct. 25 (this has been extended from the original deadline), but I'll start accepting them right away. Yes, you may tell someone else's story in their voice, an "As Told To." You'll receive $50 for each story that's accepted. If you have questions or would like to submit a story, the e-mail address for this one is: serenityproject@earthlink.net. I prefer attachments in Word.

And please, feel free to pass this along to your writing friends! This is the perfect opportunity for people who want to write something that will make a spiritual difference in markets that aren't Christian bookstore markets. So a perfect venue for those of you who have a desire to be "missionary writers."

Thanks. I look forward to reading how God has used the Serenity Prayer in your life.

Jeanette

Jeanette Gardner Littleton
Editor, Serenity Prayer Project
Adams Media

Note From NJCWG Faciliator

Glorieta Conference Center, Albuquerque, NM

Well, I've once again neglected the blog for a short time. This was due to preparation for the upcoming Glorieta conference in Albuquerque New Mexico. I will be teaching Writing Devotions: 101 and Know Your Audience / Write To Market

Please keep me in your prayers for the following:
1) That I might have a good flight - without incident and on time
2) That my teaching might be of benefit to those taking my classes
3) That my conduct might glorify Christ
4) That my pitches might fall on receptive ears
5) That someone needing encouragement might find it in my words
6) That God's direction for my writing might be made clear
7) That I might bring back loads of information and writing opportunities for the NJCWG
8) That I might sell a few copies of my books in the bookstore
9) That I won't be totallly exhausted when I get back on Monday night (10/16) since I do have to go back to work on Tuesday (10/17)
10) That God would use all the speakers and teachers to raise up writers for His purpose
11) That editors and publishers would find the writers that they need and that writers would find a market for their work at Glorieta

Please note that the NJCWG is meeting on Monday, 10/9/06. Hope to see many of you there.

Louise