Contest - Poetry - Writer's Digest

Writer's Digest Poetry Awards. We’re pleased to announce the only Writer’s Digest competition exclusively for poets! Regardless of style—rhyming, free verse, haiku and more—if your poems are 32 lines or fewer, we want them all.
Entry Deadline: Tuesday, December 20, 2005.
Prizes
First Place: $500; Second Place: $250; Third Place: $100; Fourth Through Tenth Place: $25; Eleventh Through Twenty-Fifth Place: $50 gift certificate for Writer's Digest Books.
Complete rules: http://www.writersdigest.com/contests/poetry/index.asp

Upcoming Writers' Conferences

Florida Christian Writers Conference, Christian Retreat Conference Center, Bradenton, FL. March 2-5, 2006

The 2006 Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop, SOLD OUT!

The 2006 Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference, April 7-11, 2006, Mt. Hermon, CA. (near San Jose)

The Susquehanna Valley Writers Workshop, near Selinsgrove, PA, Saturday, April 8, 2006

The 2006 ASJA Writers Conference, Grand Hyatt Hotel, New York, NY. April 28-30, 2006.

Cecil Murphey, One Day Writers' Conference, Ringwood, NJ, Cecil Murphey, May 13, 2006

The Colorado Christian Writers Conference, May 17-20, 2006. Estes Park, CO.

2006 Blue Ridge Writer's Conference, May 21-26, 2006. Ridgecrest, NC. (near Asheville)

Write! Canada, Guelph, Ontario. June 15-17, 2006

Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference, Date to be determined (usually August), Philadelphia. PA.

5th Annual ACFW Conference, September 21-24, 2006. Dallas, TX.

Sandy Cove Christian Writers' Conference & Retreat: October 1-5, 2006, North East, MD.

Glorieta - More!

Photo taken by Louise Bergmann DuMont
at the Glorieta Conference Center,
Albuquerque, New Mexico

Still soaring from my great experience at the Glorieta Christian Writers' Conference. I've posted a number of photos and some commentary on my website. Here is a direct link. http://www.louisedumont.com/glorieta.html

I'm looking forward to shareing more with everyone at the next meeting.
(Monday, November 14)

Louise Bermann DuMont
NJCWG Facilitator

Glorieta - Maude's Story

GLORIETA...Maude's Story:

Louise Bergmann DuMont, Ann Lefevre and I spent an exciting, yet intense week high in the mountains of New Mexico with several hundred like-minded people, giving glory to God, pitching writing projects and learning to hone our craft. We had opportunities to network with writers of every genre, publishers, editors and agents. At the conclusion of the conference the three of us spent a few hours in Santa Fe, admiring the earthy adobe-like structures, enjoying spicy South-Western food, and exploring little shops that enticed us with their wares: turquoise, exquisite hand-made leather boots, Indian pottery, terra cotta folk-art storytellers, etc.

I wish I could tell you that an enthusiastic publisher snapped up my poetry manuscript and offered me a contract on the spot, but that didn't happen. Publisher after publisher said "no" to poetry. Some offered a few alternative suggestions, which I'll keep in mind. One young publisher did ask for my query letter and promised to get back to me after Christmas, so there is a faint glimmer of hope on the horizon. In the meantime, my next step will be to prayerfully send queries to publishers listed in the market guide. I know God has a plan.

A DIVINE APPOINTMENT:

During the conference, Heather Gemmen, author of "Startling Beauty," had the opportunity to share her testimony during one of the general sessions. It was the story of a young woman who became pregnant as the result of rape. She bore the child and she and her husband decided to raise her. Ten years later the marriage ended in divorce. Heather's story was one of anger, brokenness, healing and restoration. Heather eventually married again, this time to a man who loves her more than she has ever been loved. At the conclusion of the message she told us she had been injured as a child in an automobile accident. The car caught fire. She was burned, scarred and lost two fingers of her right hand. But God even worked something beautiful out of that. The next thing the author did was to leave the microphone, walk to the grand piano, sit down and play a beautiful contemporary hymn. Deeply moved, I bought her novel to read on the plane on the way home. This was highly unusual because since becoming Born Again, twenty-six years ago, I have not read a novel. Instead, I read my Bible, books about Christian living, poetry and books about poetry.

Well, aboard the plane, a very attractive woman, bound for her home in Germany, sat beside me. Surprisingly, we began to chat like close friends. A few minutes into the conversation she confided that she had been raped. I told her I had purchased a book for myself at Glorieta, but that it was absolutely clear that God had me buy it for her. I reached into my carry-on, pulled out the book and gave it to her. Tears streamed down her cheeks. She talked about her life, and diverse New Age experiences, such as sweat lodge, drumming and mountain-peak encounters with spirits of deceased loved ones. I, in turn, shared my story and personal awesome experiences that have resulted from walking closely with my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She said she could see I am happy, even though I, too, went through painful circumstances. My countenance was radiant, she said, with a faith that obviously works for me. My new friend asked me to write something personal in the book and to include a prayer for her, which I was glad to do. When the plane landed we hugged each other warmly and promised to keep in touch.

Maude Carolan

Writing Op - Women Speak

Women Speak is currently looking for Women Inspirational Writers to share their stories with others. Visit their website at www.womenspeak.net and pass this information to other women in your writing group.
You can Contact: Antionette at 404-513-8995

Glorieta-After

Glorieta Christian Writers' Conference
Albuquerque, New Mexico

Many of the NJCWG members have already contacted me asking how my trip to New Mexico went. The answer is, well, it was -- WOW!!

Having Maude & Ann as roommates was terrific. There is nothing like sharing a great experience with good friends.

The confernece itself was everything I hoped for... and more. Some authors were teaching, others simply attended classes, and many who were on staff took advantage of the classes during their their off times. We were just one big happy family

For my comprehensive classes I took the fiction track. Angela Hunt (author of over 70 novels) taught these classes. I learned SO much. She made each class not only understandable but fun. What a blessing. Of course I bought the recorded CD's of the sessions so we'll be listening it during our NJCWG classes at some point. I also managed to buy about a dozen other classes (sigh). It seemed that when I took a class I just couldn't part with it so I HAD to take it with me!

If the classes were the only good thing about Glorieta it would have been enough ... but there was so much more. The worship was amazing. The presense of God filled that place with every lifted hand. The devotions each morning and each evening were done by noted authors and each person made their time on stage into an offering to God. I bought a number of those CD's as well. James Scott Bell, NYTimes best selling author and columnist for Writers Digest, (http://www.jamesscottbell.com/index.html) was one of those who spoke to us through a devotional. He's one amazing man. Brandilyn Collins (http://www.brandilyncollins.com/) was there as were the Cheetah Chicks, Tonya & Nancy (http://tonyanancy.blogspot.com/). Now there are some girls who know how to have fun! Kathy Pride (http://www.tapestryministry.com/) a new author that is really going places fast was such a blessing to me. You must check out her website! Nancy Anderson (she was on the Montel Willimas show) was an other author who just blew me away (http://nancycanderson.com/) with her genuine love, amazing message and heart for new authors. I don't want to leave the guys out of my list. John Thuman (http://www.lifewaylink.com/templates/con14gl/default.asp?id=26963) was a great influence on me this past week. We had a number of opportunites to talk and he and I shared coffee at the Chuck Wagon the evening that The Writers View met for a photo op. Oh! I almost forgot! I had a few nice chats, up-close and personal, with my agent, Janet Kobobel Grant (http://www.janetgrant.com/index.html). That was really special. She's a West Coast agent and I'm an East Coast author. She's been my agent for a few years but this is only the second time we've met in person!

Now I haven't even gotten to tell you about all the editors, publishers, and up and coming authors I met. It was a week I will not soon forget. LOTS of details will be forthcoming at our next NJCWG meeting. You won't want to miss it -- Monday, November 14!!!

Lots of pictures will be on the blog soon too. Just keep checking it out!

Louise Bergmann DuMont
Author & Speaker
Facilitator, NJCWG

Glorieta-Before

Glorieta Conference Center, 20 miles east of Santa Fe

Hi! Louise here...
I will be leaving for the Glorieta writers' conference in New Mexico early tomorrow morning. This blog will likely not have any new content until after I return (early in November). Please be patient and check back at that time. Hope to see many of you at the next meeting of the NJCWG on 11/14/05.

Louise Bergmann DuMont
Author & Speaker
www.cafemochalight.blogspot.com
www.louisedumont.com

Writing Op - Apples of Gold

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
From Peg Phifer of Word Smith Writer
http://wordsmithshoppe.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Apples of Gold - Pictures of Silver

Word Smith Writer is accepting submissions for this new feature. Devotionals, reflections, prayers, food for thought...limited only by your heart to share. If it is writing-related, great! But it does not have to be. However, it must be non-controversial and Biblically sound. It can be thought-provoking, a gentle "warm fuzzy," "slice-of-life" observations...even a short Bible study.

Quoted Scripture must show book, chapter and verse, and reflect the version cited: i.e. [KJV] [NKJV] [NIV] [LB] [AMP] [MSG] etc.

Strictly limited to 200 words maximum, excluding title and byline. Your name only will be shown. If you have a website you wish to link, it will be embedded in your name. It may seem strange, but it has happened...anonymous submissions will be rejected.

Submission must be sent in the body of an email. Attachments will not be opened. All submissions will be considered, but only those selected will be acknowledged. These will be notified in advance to being featured in The Wordsmith Writer.

This is a non-paying market at the present time, but, God willing, I hope that will soon change.
To submit, go to: words@wordsmithshoppe.com

NJCWG Meeting - Tonight

Some members at a recent meeting of the
North Jersey Christian Writers Group (NJCWG)

MEETING - TONIGHT
Monday, October 24, 2005
6:15-7:00 pm - Chat Time
7:00-8:00 pm - Lesson
Our lesson-time tonight will take a different direction. I'd like input from those of you who attend the NJCWG - A Reason to Write Conference. I'd also like to share with you some of the things that Maude, Ann & I have done to prepare for the Glorieta conference (I leave Wed-10/26 and return Mon-10/31).
8:00-9:00 pm - Critques

Up Coming Meetings & Events
2005
November
Meetings
11/14/05
11/28/05
December
12/12 - Christmas Party - More Info to Come
12/26 - NO MEETING - Holiday Break

2006
January
1/9
1/23
February
2/13
2/27
March
2/13 - NO MEETING - Louise at Mentor Clinic
2/27

Industry News

Seems there is a LOT of movement within the CBA lately--and more to come. When one editor moves, a ripple effect takes place. Others move to fill the empty spots and it keeps going until newcomers are pulled in and things quiet down. For now, here are the hotspots:

--Gary Terashita left Broadman & Holman for Warner Faith. His B&H position remains open.
--Anne Goldsmith left Tyndale for Warner Faith. Her Tyndale position remains open.
--Jeff Gerke left Realms and Siloam (Strang Communications) for NavPress.
--Linda Holland filled Jeff Gerke's position at Strang Communications.
--The editorial department of Zonderkidz was disbanded, with Amy DeVries being shifted to the Bible division (I'm assuming to work on children's Bibles), Robin Crouch was released, and Bruce Neffer continues to produce Zonderkidz books.
--Tom Dean has been moved into marketing from Inspirio, the gift book imprint for Zondervan. His editorial position remains open.
--Jenny Baumgartner has left Westbow. Her position remains open.
--Barb Sherrill at Harvest House shifted to marketing director from editorial director. The editorial position remains open.

Next Meeting - NJCWG

Some members at a recent meeting of the
North Jersey Christian Writers Group (NJCWG)

NEXT MEETING
Monday, October 24, 2005
6:15-7:00 pm - Chat Time
7:00-8:00 pm - Lesson
8:00-9:00 pm - Critques

2005
November
Meetings
11/14/05
11/28/05
December
12/12 - Christmas Party - More Info to Come
12/26 - NO MEETING - Holiday Break

2006
January
1/9
1/23
February
2/13
2/27
March
2/13 - NO MEETING - Louise at Mentor Clinic
2/27

Writing Op - Christian Gift Book

Wanted: Recipes, stories and devotionals in regard to afternoon or high tea, to be published in a Christian gift book. If you have a good family recipe for sandwiches, cookies, sauces, snacks, scones, etc. please send to Christina Slike, cladachbooks@aol.com, by December 31, 2005.

All contributors with published entries will receive a copy of the book. Christina Slike.

CLADACH Publishing, P.O. Box 336144 Greeley, CO 80633. http://www.cladach.com/

Writing Op - Reverent Submissions Journal

Reverent Submissions Journal, a new theme-based quarterly journal is accepting submissions for the February 2006 issue.

Deadline: December 29, 2005
Theme for the February: Love

Christian-focused articles – fiction, non-fiction, poetry, devotional, inspirational, etc. – are welcomed with complete manuscript up to 600 words. Please include a short bio and all contact information. Manuscripts will not be returned. We reserve the right to edit and will notify you should this be necessary. Payment will be two free copies of the issue of the Journal in which your work appears.

Manuscripts should be in MS Word for Windows or .rtf text file format. Electronic submissions are preferred. Please submit via email as attachment to reverentsubmissions@comcast.net with “submission” in the subject line or as hard copy via U.S. mail to: Reverent Submissions, 908 N 30th St, Renton, WA 98056, with “submission” in lower left corner of envelope.

Tyndale & President Bush

TYNDALE TO PUBLISH BUSH PHOTO BOOK
Tyndale House Publishers was picked by the Presidential Inaugural Committee to publish George W. Bush: Portrait of a Leader, a collection of full-color photographs from the first four years of his presidency. The book also features selected quotes and a reprinting of his 2005 inaugural address. It releases Nov. 1.

Google Legal Suit

AUTHORS GUILD FILES SUIT AGAINST GOOGLE.
The Authors Guild filed a class action lawsuit against Google, contending its plan to digitize copyrighted books without permission constitutes copyright infringement. The Assoc. of American Publishers issued a statement supporting the lawsuit.

CBA Marketplace Lists

CBA’S OCTOBER CHRISTIAN MARKETPLACE LISTS
The new October best-seller and category top-seller lists—based on August sales—are now online at http://www.cbaonline.org/TrackingLists/BSLHome.jsp

Blink Again Sudden Fiction from the Upper Midwest http://www.spoutpress.com/news.html
Spout Press seeks submissions of very short fiction, 1,200 words or less, for the upcoming anthology Blink Again: Sudden Fiction from the Upper Midwest.

Authors must reside in the following states to be eligible: MN, WI, IA, ND and SD. Blink Again is the sequel to Blink, our first anthology of sudden fiction by thirty-seven writers, including Jim Northrup, Jonis Agee, Jim Heynen, Alison McGhee, Sheila O'Connor and Jenny Lock.
Payment will be in copies of the book.DEADLINE: Stories must be postmarked by December 01, 2005.Send up to 4 submissions to: Spout Press Blink Again Submissions, P.O. Box 581067, Minneapolis, MN 55458-1067

Contests, Contests, Contests

4th Annual Stickman Review Fiction Contest
Deadline November 1, 2005
We welcome all mainstream and experimental literary fiction. We are very unlikely to consider genre fiction (Westerns, Romance, Horror, Science-Fiction, Mystery, etc.), unless the story transcends the typical requirements of that genre. 8000 words or less.1st Prize: $250; 2nd Prize: $50Email: fiction@stickmanreview.com
Guidelines http://www.stickmanreview.com/fictioncontest.html

15th Annual Acton Essay Competition.
Deadline: November 15, 2005.
Open to all seminarians, undergraduate, graduate and post-graduate students studying religion, theology, philosophy or related fields are encouraged to enter, regardless of religious denomination or affiliation.
1,000-1,500 words
Theme: The human person, by virtue of being created imago Dei, is an independent being, individually unique, rational, the subject of moral agency, a co-creator, and inherently social. Accordingly, human persons possess intrinsic value and dignity, implying certain rights and duties with respect to the recognition and protection of the dignity of themselves and other persons. These truths about the human person's dignity are known through divine revelation, but are also discernible through reason.
Previously published work may not be entered.
1st Prize: $2,000; 2nd Prize: $1,000; 3rd Prize: $500
Entry by mail only including application form on web site.
Address: Lord Acton Essay Contest, The Acton Institute, 161 Ottawa NW, Suite 301, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Email: awards@acton.org
Info and Entry form: http://www.acton.org/programs/students/essay/

2005 Angel Horses Story Contest.
Deadline: November 15, 2005
Creative Non-fiction
2,000 words or less.
The Angel Animals Network (AAN) is accepting story submissions about horses who have performed exceptional acts of compassion, protection, healing, courage, or have been part of a miraculous or mystical experience. Stories must be original, based on real horses, people, and events. Preference will be given to emotionally evocative and well-written creative nonfiction stories. Please, do not submit journalistic articles, profiles, testimonials, essays, or fiction for this contest.
1st Prize: $250; Five 2nd Prizes: $25 each
Angel Animals Network, PO Box 26354, Minneapolis, MN 55426
Email: angelanimals@aol.com
URL: http://www.angelanimals.net/awardshorses.html

The Robert Olen Butler Fiction Prize
http://heh.pl/&2pR
Del Sol Press announces the Robert Olen Butler Fiction Prize for the best short story, either published (in a periodical) or unpublished
2000-8000 words
The top ten finalist stories will be published in book form in Spring 2006. Finalists will be invited to submit book-length manuscripts for consideration by Del Sol Press.
Winner Receives: A $1,200 honorarium, paid in February 2006, publication in a Spring 2006 Del Sol Press anthology, a brief introduction by the judge, and 20 copies of the anthology that features their story.
Deadline (postmark): November 1, 2005.
Stories must be between 2000 and 8000 words.
$16.00 contest fee for the first story (includes a copy of the anthology when it is published if you send a 8x10" SASE with $4.50 to cover printing and postage)

"The only reason for being a professional writer is that you can't help it."
~~ Leo Rosten

E-Courses - Word Smith Writer

E-Courses

Word Smith Writer recently wrapped up a six-week course with Janice Thompson on Creative Writing. These lessons have been archived on the Word Smith Yahoo groups page and can be accessed if you join the group. How do you do that? It's easy. Just subscribe to the Word Smith Newsletter.

Subscription Instructions:
Click on the link below. Fill in the easy (only eight lines) form. When it asks how you heard about Word Smith Writer, use the drop down list to chose Referal/Friend. The next question asks who that friend is, write Louise DuMont - word.worker@verizon.net (you must put both my name and that email address or it won't count). Everything attributed to my name will go to the NJCWG. After that you simply click subscribe. Your email box will not be filled with hundreds of emails. You only get only one newsletter per month.
http://wordsmithshoppe.com/memberdrive.htm

Once you've signed up, the lessons can be found under "Files" on the left-hand column.

I am really excited about these courses. It is a great new way to help writers. E-Courses are a more "hands-on" class than the one-hour chat classes. I sincerely hope you'll consider taking part in future events.

Writing Op - Casa Kids

CasaKids is the new (Spanish) kids' book line of Casa Creación. The stories will focus on the Spirit-filled life for children and how kids can have a relationship with Jesus from an early age. "We start from the view that there is not any kind of 'junior Holy Spirit' for kids. They don't have to wait to grow up to experience and apply the Bible's teachings in their lives," noted Pat Matuszak, children's editor for CasaKids. "Each adventure story will empower children in the areas of prayer, health, diversity, self-esteem and the importance of having a personal relationship with Jesus," Matuszak said. "While there are many wonderful Christian children's books already out there, these stories will be distinct in that their emphasis will be on children experiencing God, rather than learning principles about God. There is a great thirst for spiritual things in the hearts of children today, and we want them to know that God wants to satisfy that need in a way that nothing else can." website: www.casakidsbooks

Location:
600 Rinehart Road
Lake Mary, FL 32746

Contact:
Phone: (407) 333-0600
Fax: (407) 333-7100

Writing Op - New Man Mag

New Man Magazine
Introduced: 1994
Frequency: Published 6 times per year
Publisher: Stephen Strang
Associate Publisher: Marcos Perez
Editor: Robert Andrescik
Assistant Editor: Jonathon Heide
Assistant Editor: Lorie Munizzi
website: http://www.newmanmag.com/

Writers' Guidelines
For Men On a Mission

Our Purpose

"Helping men to develop Christ-centered perspectives that will transform their lives, their families and their worlds."

Our History

With a circulation exceeding 100,000, New Man is America’s #1 magazine for Christian men.

From 1994 to 1997, we had the honor of serving as the official magazine of Promise Keepers. While we no longer serve with the organization in that capacity, we continue to work side-by-side in ministry to men.

Additionally, we have formed key relationships with other ministries working to reach and disciple men, including Kenny Luck’s "Every Man" Ministry, Patrick Morley's Man in the Mirror, the National Coalition of Men’s Ministries and more.

Our Content

New Man is about spiritual transformation. The magazine is aimed at "men on a mission" (not a specific demographic, but a TYPE of man). These are men who are passionate about God and want more of Him in their lives. Men who crave adventure, take risks and pursue truth. Men who realize that an adventure with the Creator doesn’t begin and end on Sunday morning, but everywhere, everyday!

Each issue, we profile "men on a mission"- church leaders, professional athletes, businessmen and entertainers- completed by Christ, these men are transforming their lives, their families and their worlds. Plus, we offer biblical perspectives from today's Christian leaders, and tons of candid and practical, not predictable, advice about marriage, parenting, work, health and fitness, sex, God and faith.

New Man challenges men to apply biblical teaching to every area of their lives. It is bold, in-your-face and benefit-oriented in approach. Never boring, but always relevant and Christ-centered.

New Man is described like this: Practical. Candid. Entertaining. Radical. Masculine. Gritty. Key topics of interest include: spiritual growth, evangelism, discipleship, risk taking, leadership, integrity, physical fitness, stewardship, sex, marriage and family, faith and entertainment, sports, thrill and adventure, relationships.

Here are the types of articles most likely to be published:

• Profiles With Teaching Points: Stories that will equip readers with Christ-centered perspectives and help them to grow spiritually. These should be more than historical recaps of an individual’s life. We should learn about them, AND, we should learn from them.

• Transformation Stories: Men who have experienced 2 Corinthians 5:17: "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new man; the old has gone, the new has come!"

• Men’s Ministry Reports: Profiling church and parachurch ministries presenting a creative, and credible, offer of the Gospel to men.

• Trends: Investigative reports on issues affecting men today. Informing and equipping Christian men to engage the world with a biblical response.

• Spiritual Growth: Biblical perspectives on men’s issues that are practical, but not predictable.

• Faith and Risk: Stories about men who take risks, defy convention and face ridicule for God's glory.

We do not publish fiction, sermons or poetry.

Our Procedures

* New Man magazine does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Articles are developed in-house and written by free-lance writers with whom we have worked in the past. Those who would like to be considered for future assignments can send writing samples and article ideas to the address below (e-mail preferred). Please study the magazine before submitting article ideas.

* If you are a publicist looking to pitch story ideas or products for possible review in New Man, please send your materials to the address below. Please know that we consider everything sent to us. Follow-up phone calls are not necessary.

* We buy ALL RIGHTS.

Write to us at New Man magazine, 600 Rinehart Road, Lake Mary, FL 32746, e-mail us at newman@strang.com, or call us at 407-333-0600.

Cecil "Cec" Murphey's Mentoring Clinic

Just a few of Cecil Murphey's many wonderful books.

I'm so excited and I want to share my good news with all of you. I was recently offered the opportunity of a lifetime! In March of 2006 I will be attending Cec's mentoring clinic, held in Yorktown, VA. Nearly every moment between now and March will be used to prepare my manuscript for that event. Please join me in prayer that God will use this clinic to prepare me for the next step in writing for Him.

I happen to have met Yvonne (the hostess of this event) when she submitted portions of her devoational to me for critique a few years ago. She is a cancer survior and has become a most blessed friend.

There are just a few spots left for this particular clinic (Cec takes no more than 10 writers per clinic). Please pray to see if God is call YOU to attend this event.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

YORKTOWN, VIRGINIA INTENSIVE MENTORING CLINIC
March 15-18, 2006

INSTRUCTOR: CECIL MURPHEY
Author of 100 books
Winner of Silver Angel Award 2004 and 2005

· Clinic is limited to ten writers
· Intense, daily work on your manuscript
· Clinic starts with dinner on Wednesday at 6:00 P.M.
· Classes from 8:45 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday
· One-on-one consultations with Cecil Murphey

Cost -- $450 if paid 30 days or more in advance (otherwise $500)
Make check payable to Living Enterprises
Includes clinic, dinner on Wed evening and lunch Thur through Sat

Mail check to: Yvonne Ortega, PO Box 955, Yorktown, VA 23692

Location of Clinic: Yvonne’s home-Street address & directions to follow payment in full

Accomodations:
Yorktown Motor Lodge (1-800-950-4003)
8829 George Washington Memorial Highway
Yorktown, VA 23692
www.yorktownmotorlodge.com
Only $64.95 for single or double
10% discount off these rates when you mention the Mentoring Clinic

All rooms have free coffeemaker, microwave, refrigerator,
hair dryer, iron, ironing board, clock radio, and free cable TV

*****Required: Laptop, Flash Drive, & Manuscript*****

Writing Op - Touched by the Hand of God

I recently got the email below. I don't know anything more about this site or this person but thought some of this blog's readers might want to check it out.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

I’m writing to tell you about a Web site that you might be interested in: http://www.touchedbythehandofgod.com

This is a site where people share stories of how God has opened doors, hearts and minds for them in remarkable ways, at just the right time and place. These are firsthand reports from everyday people of God’s loving grace at work in our lives. You could even call them reality stories that give God the glory.

I started the site just about a year ago and continue to be awestruck by the powerful, inspiring examples of how God so perfectly leads and blesses us! (And, of course, the stories on the site represent the tiniest fraction of such examples.) Stories come from all over, some as far away as New Zealand. The Dallas Morning News selected it as Website of the Week last spring and other news publications have featured it, too.

I hope you’ll forward this message to the Group, as well as friends, family and church members, so they can surf around the site and be blessed by what they read. Moreover, I invite everyone to submit a story for publication on the site. Sharing a story doesn’t take very long to do, it can reach more hearts and souls than we can imagine, and its impact can be everlasting! (Guidelines can be found by clicking on the “Share a story” link located on the left-hand side of each page. Learn more about how the site came to be via the “Our story” link.)

I realize that some of you are published authors. BTW, I occasionally arrange with authors to feature on the site an appropriate excerpt from their previously published inspirational stories or essays — with proper © notices, permissions, credits, etc. and even the url for their own site. Coming up late this month is such a feature from Kali Schnieders’ “Truffles from Heaven.” This arrangement enables the author’s message to reach more hearts and minds. If interested, just let me know. But, of course, one does not have to be published elsewhere to share a story with TOUCHED BY THE HAND OF GOD.

Thank you so much for your consideration. May you all be uplifted and motivated by the stories of God’s grace.

In Christ,
Ms. Barrett Batson

Wanted: Recipes, stories and devotionals in regard to afternoon or high tea, to be published in a Christian gift book. If you have a good family recipe for sandwiches, cookies, sauces, snacks, scones, etc. please send to Christina Slike, cladachbooks@aol.com, by December 31, 2005. All contributors with published entries will receive a copy of the book.

Christina Slike. CLADACH Publishing, P.O. Box 336144 Greeley, CO 80633. http://www.cladach.com/

Quotable Quote

"The only reason for being a professional writer is that you can't help it."

-- Leo Rosten

GREAT WRITER's RESOURCE

The Word Smith Writer membership drive is now underway and its goal is to reach 1,000 subscribers by December 31, 2005. For each referal put in under my (Louise DuMont) name, the NJCWG gets one entry in a drawing. The person who gets the most subscribers between now and the end of the year wins a Gift Basket worth over $80. If the NJCWG wins, that basket will be shared with those who subscribed at the next meeting. The gift basket will include: the 2006 Christian Writer's Market Guide from Sally Stuart; a copy of Terry Whalin's "Book Proposals That Sell"; a copy of Carmen Leal's "You Can Market Your Book" plus a CD of "Pinches of Salt, Prisms of Light" - a beautiful selection of music; and some other delicious goodies to warm any writers heart. Peggy Phifer (Word Smith Writer owner and editor) is not finished collecting things for this basket so I have little doubt it is going to be an amazing gift. C'mon, folks...let's sign up for this newsletter!

By the way, the best part is not winning the basket -- its what you get in the newsletter! Word Smith Writer ezine is filled with marketing information, contests, writing hints and helps and so much more. Peggy does a grand job so check it out!

How do you subscribe? Click on the link below. Fill in the easy (only eight lines) form. When it asks how you heard about Word Smith Writer, use the drop down list to chose Referal/Friend. The next question asks who that friend is, write Louise DuMont - word.worker@verizon.net (you must put both my name and that email address or it won't count). Everything attributed to my name will go to the NJCWG. After that you simply click subscribe. Your email box will not be filled with hundreds of emails. You only get only one newsletter per month. This is a GREAT resource -- so what are you waiting for! Subscribe now!

For details go to

http://wordsmithshoppe.com/memberdrive.htm

Thanks,

Louise Bergmann DuMont
Facilitator, NJCWG

Bylines Writers' Calendar

Byline is collecting for their upcoming 2007 Writers' Calendar. This calendar features writers of all genres, both secular and Christian.
http://www.bylinescalendar.com/guidelines.php

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Attention Writers!
Contributors Wanted for Bylines 2007
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We are now accepting submissions for Bylines 2007 Writers Desk Calendar and we invite dedicated, serious writers who have been published and paid for their work to submit an entry. All genres and disciplines are welcome.

Submission Guidelines
We're looking for succinct personal stories about the writing life. The oh-wow success tales, the naked truth about what motivates you, the heartache of rejection, the toughest lessons, the joy and pain of freelancing. Humor is good, so is pathos. Please avoid routine, trite, ordinary stories. Read the many insightful submissions in the current Bylines and you'll see what we mean. We strongly urge you to read these entries so you understand what we're looking for. Click on the
links below for three examples of entries from previous Bylines.

Andrew Bill
Karuna Eberl
Nora Frances Horn

The best way to see what we're looking for is to obtain a copy of Bylines 2006. (Bylines 2006 will be available starting October 15th.) For order information, click on the "order Bylines" button at the left.

Writer's Bio
A few sentences about yourself. You're not dry and boring, so your bio shouldn't be either. Give us your accomplishments but round out your profile so our readers feel like they'd like to meet you for coffee. Or a beer.

Submission Length
The combined word count of your writing paragraph and bio should not exceed 300 words. We want room for your photo. However, don't send your photo yet. We'll let you know if your submission has been chosen and request your picture then.

Writer's Photo
If your submission is accepted, we will require a high resolution photograph. You may send a digital image as long as the resolution is 300 dpi or higher. If you do not have a high resolution digital image, please send us a quality snap shot that we may use. Please note, your photograph will not be returned. Do not send us your photo until you are notified that your submission has been accepted for the calendar.

Submission Method
Send your submission via email in text, RTF or Microsoft Word format to: info@bylinescalendar.com. Include your full name, address, phone number, email address and website in the body of your submission. Do not mail hard copies.

Deadline
Submissions must be received no later than February 1, 2006. Writers will be notified by April 15.

Fine Print
We reserve the right to edit submissions and bios chosen for Bylines but you will have the opportunity to approve any changes. Bylines has one-time use rights. Submissions and photographs will not be returned. We will accept previously published work; just let us know when and where it appeared. Writer agrees that pull quotes from their submission may be used on the Bylines web page, or in other marketing.

Writer Compensation
1. Exposure and promotion. Bylines is sold at bookstores nationwide and on the Internet. Your website and email address are listed in the calendar (with your permission), and we provide a link from our website to yours. If you're the outgoing type, we help arrange book signings at your local bookstore and/or interviews with your local media. We also send out hundreds of press releases.
2. You get one free calendar and discounts on additional purchases.
3. Money. It's only $5, but at least you can count us as a paying market. This is the first year we've been able to offer to pay writers anything. Remember, this is a labor of love, a tribute to writers and a break-even project.

Overcoming Fear & Worry

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

Dr. MaryAnn Diorio will be speaking at the Women's Breakfast of the Calvary Chapel of Mercer County in Ewing, New Jersey, on Saturday, November 12, 2005, from 9-11 AM. Her topic will be Overcoming Fear and Worry. For further information, please contact the church office at(609)530-9524.

Dr. MaryAnn Diorio: Certified Christian Life and Business Coach, Certified Behavioral Consultant, Certified Biblical Counselor, and popular Bible teacher, author, and speaker on Life Management issues. For more information on Life or Business Coaching, call (856) 327-1231 or email MaryAnn at MaryAnn@CelebrationCoaching.com

Contest - Literary Loves Company

There is a writing contest called 'Literary Loves Company'. Entrants have an opportunity to submit their short stories, poetry and articles for a book anthology. To find out more information about this contest log onto: www.fountainpenn.com/WritingCompetition

Writing Op - Pathway Press

YOUTH AND CHRISTIAN EDUCATION LEADERSHIP
Pathway Press
1080 Montgomery Ave.
P.O. Box 2250
Cleveland TN 37311
Phone: (800)553-8506
Fax: (800)546-7590
E-Mail: bill_george@pathwaypress.org
Website: www.pathwaypress.org
Contact: Bill George, editor

Quarterly magazine covering Christian education.
"Youth and Christian Education Leadership is written for teachers, youth pastors, children's pastors, and other local Christian education workers."
25% freelance written
Established: 1976
Circulation: 12,000
Pays on publication
Publishes manuscript 6 months after acceptance.
Buys first or one-time rights.
Editorial lead time 3 months.
Submit seasonal material 6 months in advance.
Accepts queries by: Mail & E-mail
Accepts simultaneous submissions
Responds in 3 months to manuscripts.

Sample copy for $1 and 9x12 SASE.
Writer's guidelines online or by e-mail.
Nonfiction Needs: How-To; Humor (in-class experience;
Inspirational; Interview/Profile; motivational,
seasonal short skits
Buys 16 manuscripts/year.
Submission method: Send complete ms; include SSN. Send SASE for return of ms.
Length: 400–1,200 words.
$25-50. Accepts previously published submissions.
Send typed, double-spaced ms with rights for sale noted and information about when and where the material previously appeared.
Pays 80% of amount paid for an original article.
Some columns open to freelancers, SEE SAMPLE edition OR SITE. 500-1,000 words.
Send complete ms with SASE.
Pays: $25–50 for columns.

Contest

First place:
$50 Gift Certificate
Good towards a Script Critique
Thanks to Green Chair Pictures

Second Place:
$29.95 Gift Certificate
Good for one Free entry to the 2006 ScriptBiz Short Script Competition (opens January/deadline April Fools Day) Thanks to ScriptBiz Screenwriting Seminar

500-600 ESSAY MUST START WITH THIS BLURB:
"There's beauty in movies; in the way they allow us to escape reality, to learn new things, and to dream new dreams. Yet, I can't help but wonder, shouldn't it be the other way around? Shouldn't our lives reflect the movies we've watched?"

All entries must be received by: November 26, 2005 by 8 p.m. Eastern Time Zone.

To learn more: http://thedabblingmum.com/contests/essay.htm

NJCWG - Cancelled Meeting

Sorry. Due to a serious case of writers conference "overload" there will be NO NJCWG meeting on Monday, October 10, 2005 (tomorrow).

Please make note that our NEXT meeting WILL be Monday, October 24.

God Bless,

Louise Bergmann DuMont
Facilitator, NJCWG

WOW

Well, our 2005 NJCWG - A Reason to Write Conference is over. Those who attended know that the event was a wonderful success. Compliment after compliment came to me regarding the speakers, our Sample Writing Book, the food, the handouts, the keychains, the literature tables, the "stress book"give-aways, the door prizes and, yes, the chocolate truffles (I say this with a broad grin that spreads across my chocolate coated face).

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WHAT COULD HAVE GONE BETTER

First: The Weather. It would have been nice to have a crisp fall day with clear blue skies, wouldn't it? But even the torrential rains did not keep Brandy Brow (seven months pregnant) and her mom from driving all the way from Vermont!

Second: The Luncheon. The food was fabulous but a serious oversight on my part nearly caused a lunchtime disaster. I can be so dense when it comes to this sort of thing. My dear husband took care of the bagels and pastries for breakfast, snacks & beverages for the breaks and a full meal for lunch. He planned a wonderful luncheon (lemon chicken, chicken marsala, penne w/vodka sauce, dinner rolls, a Caesar salad, a lovely chef salad and cheese cake & chocolate cake for dessert) and I just assumed he'd take care of everything -- after all he's a fabulous cook and often prepares similar dishes for large groups. What I did NOT think about was the fact that when he normally prepares those large meals he has substantial staff to assist him. I just left the poor man in the kitchen to do everything himself (Louise wipes a tear away from her eye at this point). Lunch time came around and John was running "a bit" behind (read -- nothing was ready and we only had 45 minutes to serve, eat and clear). I praise God for Nancy Baker, Karen Flores and a number of others who jumped right in to pull it all together! God is good. The meal did get on the table and we ended up running only five minutes into the next session.

WHAT WENT WELL

• A number of attendees were brought to understand the "industry" of writing as well as the skills required to write.
• Our speakers/teachers were generously inspired to say just the right thing to just the right individuals.
• Individuals left the conference excited about projects that they previously did not even consider.
  
• Our sample writing book (thanks to Clare Cartagena's efforts) inspired many people to consider joining our NJCWG. This will allow them to hone their budding skills for God's glory.
  
• Writers who lacked confidence, left understanding that God can do great things with willing hands.
• Even the speakers (who were able to sit in on other classes when they were not teaching) shared their excitement in having learned some new fact or a new approach to a problem.
• Many of our speakers shared with me their encounters with students who were excited and blessed by the lessons.
• We received numerous of gifts that were combined to create more than a dozen great door prize drawings.
  
• The literature Karen Flores & Ann Crediford requested prior to the conference needed to be crammed onto our oversized literature table. The generosity of the publishers was overwhelming and the efforts of Karen and Ann were greatly appreciated by those attending the conference.
  
• For many, this was a first-time conference experience. Each stated they never realized what they were missing and asked about future conferences.

In all, it was an amazing day. All praise to God and to Him be the glory.

Louise Bergmann DuMont
Director - NJCWG - A Reason to Write Conference 2005

A Reason To Write Conference

NJCWG - A REASON TO WRITE CONFERENCE

Saturday, October 8, 2005

8:00-5:00
Praise the Lord!

The 2006 Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop will be held Thurs., March 23
to Sat., March 25, 2006 in Dayton, Ohio. Keynote speakers include
Dave Barry (Pulitzer Prize-winning humor columnist) and Susan Konig
(former New York Post columnist and author of Why Animals Sleep So
Close to the Road and Other Lies I Tell My Children). Breakout
session speakers include Craig Wilson (USA Today columnist), Carolyn
Howard-Johnson (author of The Frugal Book Promoter: How to Do What
Your Publisher Won't), Kristen Godsey (editor, Writer's Digest
magazine) and Bruce Cameron (author of 8 Simple Rules for Dating My
Teenage Daughter), among others. You can see the complete lineup at
http://www.humorwriters.org/2006SpeakerBios.html

The registration fee is $325 and includes all workshop sessions as
well as two continental breakfasts, two lunches and three dinners.
For more information, see http://www.HumorWriters.org

Tim Bete
Director, Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop
University of Dayton
937-229-4960
bete@udayton.edu
www.HumorWriters.org

Need Helpers

FOR NJCWG MEMBERS
October 8, 2005
A Reason to Write Conference

Friday evening I will be at the church sometime between 5:00-6:00 pm to start setting up speaker rooms, getting attendee packets ready, setting up literature tables, book signing tables, wrapping door prizes and attendance gifts, SO much to do.

If you are available to help, I would really appreciate your coming to the church on Friday evening. Please email me so I can get an idea of how much help I'll have: njcwg.dumont@gmail.com.

Sincerely,
Louise Bergmann DuMont
njcwg.dumont@gmail.com

Grace By The Cup

As the saying goes, "all good things must come to an end."

Yesterday I received notice that my first book, Grace By The Cup: A Break From the Daily Grind, is going out of print. I can't tell you how sad that made me. It feels like only a short time ago I was sharing with the NJCWG all the details of my first publishing adventure. Despite the temporary melancholy that accompanied the news, there is an upside. For the next month, I can "buy up" cases of the book at a steep discount. If I come into a sudden wind-fall of cash I may do just that (smile).

Jehovah-Meqaddeshkem (The Lord Makes Me Holy)

Louise Bergmann DuMont
Author & Speaker
www.louisedumont.com

Faith-Dipped Chocolate: Rich Encouragement to Sweeten Your Day
& Grace by the Cup: A Break From the Daily Grind

Writing Op - Kids' Ark

This was sent to me by the editor of Kids' Ark.
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I hope this finds you all well and blessed. I am sending out another request for submissions for the Kids' Ark. We are at present in need of stories under the theme of Fear. The previous deadline of 9/26 has been extended to 10/5. If you have a good story that would minister to children ages 8-12 regarding fear, we would love to read it.

Also, we will need submissions for the following themes each month from October through January.

Patience - Due 10/24
Lies - Due 11/21
Perseverance - Due 12/19
Praise and Worship - Due 1/30

Please make sure when you send your submission that you include the theme in the subject line and send the story as a Word attachment. Anyone in need of guidelines or sample stories please e-mail me at writingwonder78@yahoo.com.

Thank you for your interest and may God bless you exceedingly, abundantly above all you can ask, think or imagine.

Sincerely,
Joy

Joy Mygrants
Senior Editor
The Kids' Ark

Writing Op - Self Publish News

SPNews (Self Publish News) is searching for writers to join their
staff and submit short stories, articles and poetry for their online
publication. Although this is a non-paying position (for now) this is
an excellent way to build your writing portfolio and to share your
writing talent with the world.

To get an idea of what we are looking for visit our staff of writers
at: www.selfpublishnews.com

We are accepting submissions from various categories:

Humor
Sci-Fi
How-to's
Mainstream/Literary Short Story
Inspirational: Christian
Success Stories
Romance (Not Erotica)
Poetry
Suspense
Mystery
Non-Fiction
History
Writing Instruction

Writers' Guidelines:

All writing samples must be typed double spaced, 12 point font
(Arial, Courier or Times New Roman) and must be aligned to the left
margin.

The maximum pages for poetry are 3 to 5 pages (2000 word maximum);
fiction 10 to 20 pages (8000 word maximum).

Address your submissions to the 'Editorial Department'.
Email your submissions to:
dan@selfpublishnews.com


Danielle-Kim Davis
VP/FountainPenn Enterprise
www.fountainpenn.com

WD Popular Fiction Awards Call for Entries

WD Popular Fiction Awards Call for Entries
_________________________________________________________

The WD Popular Fiction AwardsIt's a new short story competition from Writer's Digest! We want your best writing in five categories: Romance, Mystery/Crime, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Thriller/Suspense and Horror. You can compete and win in every category--just make sure your entries are 4,000 words or fewer and we receive them by the November 1, 2005 deadline.

Visit http://www.writersdigest.com/specialoffers.asp?DMpopfiction093005 for more information!

Enter the contest and your fantastic fiction could bring home these big prizes:
GRAND PRIZE: $2,500 cash, $100 worth of Writer's Digest Books, plus a manuscript critique and marketing advice from a Writer's Digest editor or advisory board member.
FIRST PRIZE: The First-Place Winner in each category receives $500 cash, $100 worth of Writer's Digest Books, plus a manuscript critique and marketing advice from a Writer's Digest editor or advisory board member.
HONORABLE MENTION: All Honorable Mentions will receive promotion in Writer's Digest and the 2006 Novel & Short Story Writer's Market.Don't wait--visit http://www.writersdigest.com/specialoffers.asp?DMpopfiction093005 for guidelines and to enter today!

Trends in Christian Writing

UP Trends in the CBA Marketplace
Nonfiction
"Creative" Nonfiction
How-To Articles
List Articles
Shorter Articles & Manuscripts
Easy to Read Language
Christian Living Articles
Inspirational Stories
Fiction
New Terminology -- Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Etc. is now "Speculative Fiction"
More open to new authors in Speculative Fiction
Romance with an "edge"
Brown Bag Books (difficult subject matter, approached via fiction)
Darwinism / Creationism
Old Testament
Children's Lit
Nonfiction Anything
Biographies of lesser known individuals
Ethnically Diverse Books

DOWN Trends in the CBA Marketplace
Nonfiction
Abuse Books
Anthologies (Chicken Soup types)
Fiction
Abortion, Rape, Drugs
End Times (unless your name is LaHay or Jenkins)
Books of Short Stories
Poetry
Formula books (unless you are a big draw author)
Children's Lit
Talking Animals
Talking Inanimate Objects
Personification of anything that isn't actually a person

The Road to Publication - Handout NJCWG 9/6/05

The Road to Publication
Presented by Louise Bergmann DuMont
At the NJCWG – 09/26/05

Are you an author who is just bursting to publish a book? What do you need to do before you earn the right to submit your manuscript to an agent or a publishing house? What creates the smoothest path and avoids unnecessary pitfalls and detours? The answer is found in your clips (clips: published articles which show evidence that other editors found your writing worthy of publication). You need to start small. Take-home papers and small press (often for no pay) publications offer the greatest opportunity to new writers.

Getting published (whether it's a book or an article) is as much the result of following the correct procedure as it is skill and talent. Both the Christian (CBA) and US (ABA) publishing industry, just like any other business, works on trends, contacts and sound business principles.

Chose a market. New authors often work backwards. They write a story or an article and then try to find a publisher who wants to publish their work. This wastes a great deal of time. Every publication has specific needs, wants, slants, formats and quirks. When you do find a suitable market for a piece you've already written, it is likely that you'll have to do a serious rewrite to accommodate the publication. A better way to go about your writing is to choose a market that is open to new writers and uses freelancers for least 80% or more of their publication.

Research your market. Know your target. This means understanding their audience, their editor and their advertising. Read at least five past issues. You can get these at the library or by writing to the publication and supplying the appropriate self-addressed stamped envelope for them to mail the publications to you. The world as a whole doesn't much what kind of scarf you wear this winter -- but if you are teenage girl you will want to know that short, "fuzzy" scarves made from "eyelash" yarn are all the rave. If you are targeting a publication with a large female, teenage audience, this information could be important.

Follow the Writers Guidelines. The second greatest reason that writers are rejected is because they don't follow the publisher's "instructions." If you don't have a copy of their writers' guidelines, you can usually find them online. If you can't find them there, you can always write and request a copy of their guidelines. Follow them to the letter!

Know what the current market and industry needs. What is hot - not just in regard to general trends, but for the genre you write and the industry as a whole. If there is a current glut on the market of "end of the world" scenario literature, a publisher is less likely to take a chance on a new author in this venue. Make your first piece something in the same genre but with a different slant. You also need to know the current writing trends. Learn what publishers want and fill their needs. That is the quickest way to publication.

Know how to approach editors and publishers. Does the editor you are targeting want a complete manuscript, a proposal or query letter? Do they accept email queries or only postal mail ones? Will they accept phone queries? Do they prefer a formal or informal approach? How can you know the answers to these questions? Study Sally Stuart's Market Guide. Talk with other authors. Join writing groups both local and online ones. Ask. If in doubt, make a phone call and ask the receptionist or editors administrative support person. They are often happy to tell you what you need to know. Do NOT ask to be treated special or for "inside" information. That will most certainly turn them off. DO act professional and treat every person you talk to with respect.