Friday, February 24, 2006

Cec Murphey's Classes-May 13


The North Jersey Christian Writers Group
is pleased to sponsor a
SPECIAL
one day
2006 A Reason to Write Conference
on
May 13, 2006.

Guest Speaker Cecil "Cec" Murphey

~~~~~
About Cecil Murphey
~~~~~
Cecil Murphey (http://www.cecilmurphey.com/index.html) is one of the most noted ghost writers of inspirational nonfiction in the CBA. One of Cec's latest books, 90 Minutes in Heaven (by Don Piper w/Cecil Murphey) sold over 400,000 copies and is listed on the Barnes and Nobel Top 100 list. It is also #5 on the WalMart Book List. Cec also wrote I Choose to Stay: A Black Teacher Refuses To Desert the Inner City (by Salome Thomas-EL with Cecil Murphey) which is being made into a Disney movie tentatively titled The Great Bishops.

Cecil Murphey is an award-winning author (http://www.cecilmurphey.com/awards.html) who will be teaching a full-day of classes in North Jersey. The majority of the costs for this conference are being covered by generous benefactors.
~~~~~
May 13, 2006
A Reason To Write Conference
Conference Location: Ringwood Baptist Church,
30 Carletondale Road, Ringwood, NJ
Cost per attendee -- ONLY $30.00
(This includes four classes & lunch)

For more information contact the NJCWG Facilitator, Louise Bergmann DuMont at njcwg.dumont@gmail.com


CONFERENCE CLASSES
(taught by Cec Murphey)
1. Six Professional Secrets. These six factors mark the difference between want-to-publish and those who become professional writers. Follow them and move out of the amateur level.

2. Sell the Truth—Write Nonfiction. Nonfiction books outsell fiction and usually have a longer shelf life. You’ll learn the two absolutes of good nonfiction, how to incorporate fiction techniques, where to get ideas, how to grab readers’ attention, help on outlining your manuscript. Murphey offers inside information on editors, agents, and the publishing industry today. You’ll learn how to sell your book and what you need to do to promote your book.

3. The Interview: Asking and Active Listening. How do you prepare for the interview? How do you start an interview? What is active listening? What are the three crucial questions to ask? How important is empathy? What’s the one question not to ask?

4. The Self-disciplined Writer. How does individual personality affect self-discipline? How do you get more disciplined? Most important, how to link self-discipline with your personality type.

If you live in the NewYork/New Jersey/Pennsylvania area,
this is one conference you won't want to miss!

7th Annual Photo, Art & Poetry Exhibition



7th Annual Photo, Art & Poetry Exhibition
March 10, 11 & 12, 2006
Sponsored by the St. Catherine of Bologna - Patron of the Arts Assoc.Place: St. Catherine of Bologna Parish Center, 112 Erskine Road, Ringwood, NJ
For information, go to: www.saintcatherinephotoart.com or call David J. Nocera, exhibition coordinator at (973) 962-0563

REMINDER - NJCWG WORKSHOP



REMINDER - REMINDER - REMINDER - REMINDER

Monday, February 27, 2006

NJCWG Quarterly WORKSHOP

Begins at 6:00 pm
Ends at 9:00 pm

Write, critqiue, rewrite, critique sessions

To get the most out of these session, be sure to review the handouts from the last two meetings - located in previous blog posts.

BRING: Paper, Writing Implements (pens/pencils/etc) and Every Ounce of Creativity You Can Muster

FREE Business Cards - One More Time



Vista Print is once again offering 250 FREE business cards. The quality is excellent and your choice of artwork for the free cards is also very good (obviously if you pay for the cards you get even more options).

Yes, there is a catch. On the back of your FREE cards (in a very small font) Vista Print offers their website. You must also pay shipping charges to have the cards delivered, but shipping isn't much.

Go to the following website to see their options. You can create your business card and place your order right on line. No, I don't get anything for letting you know about this. If you have any questions though, you can drop me an email. I buy my card through Vista Print and I've also purchased postcards, bussiness card magnets, calendars, and note cards from them.
My email: njcwg.dumont@gmail.com

Vista Print "special" link to get FREEE business cards.
http://www.vistaprint.com/vp/ns/studio.aspx?icparts=yes&cfs=-1&pf_id=064&combo_id=4298&combo1=904.100.18.11339113391370&gallery_id=53

Wednesday, February 22, 2006

Writing Op - Guideposts for Teens


NEW MAGAZINE -- GUIDEPOSTS SWEET 16
(Guideposts for Teens... is no more...)
Guideposts Sweet 16
1050 Broadway
Suite 6
Chesterton, IN 46304
Submission Email: writers@sweet16mag.com
Magazine Website: http://www.guidepostssweet16mag.com/contactus.html

For Writers' Guidelines go to: http://www.guidepostssweet16mag.com/guidelines.html

Writing Op - Brave Hearts Mag



BRAVE HEARTS
Brave Hearts Editorial
1503 SW 42nd St.
Topeka, KS 66609
www.braveheartsmagazine.com

Description: BRAVE HEARTS is a quarterly magazine from Ogden Publications. The magazine is written by and for ordinary people who have an inspirational message to share. BRAVE HEARTS seeks short manuscripts (up to 900 words), photographs, prayers, and related material on special inspirational subjects for each issue. A nominal payment of $5 to $12 is made upon publication. An additional payment of $2 is made for each item used on our Web site.

Frequency: Quarterly
Circulation: 2,000
Queries: Does Not Accept Queries
Manuscripts: DOES Accept Unsolicited Manuscript Submissions
Submission formats: Hard copy Only - no email, no fax.
Material should be submitted at least six months in advance of publication. Notification of acceptance or rejection will be made within approximately six months of receipt.
Response: 3-6 months.
Freelance content: 100%
Rights: Purchases All Rights to the items used. No simultaneous submissions are accepted. No e-mail submissions accepted.
Payment: On publication

Tips: “Our magazine is geared to inspire people each time they open it, to make them smile. We’re looking for articles that tug at the heart, that have a message to impart, that are inspiring and inspirational. Avoid sappy, maudlin or overly religious pieces, or illness-of-the week type of stories.”

Writing Op - A Cup of Comfort for SPIRITUALITY


A CUP OF COMFORT FOR SPIRITUALITY
Adams Media Corp.
57 Littlefield
St.Avon, MA 02322
cupofcomfort@adamsmedia.com
www.cupofcomfort.com
Description: Submit creative nonfiction anecdotal stories; 1,000-2,000 words. Soulful true stories about positive spiritual experiences and relationships--such as gifts/lessons of spiritual teachers/mentors; discovering a spiritual path, divine truth, or kindred spirit; receiving and actualizing (putting into positive action) a spiritual lession; miracles; epiphanies; divine intervention and direction; evidence of a higher spirit; awakening/deepening one’s inner spirit; enlightening, life-defining, life-changing spiritual experiences. All benevolent spiritual paths and religions welcome.
Deadline: December 31, 2006
Prize: Publication; $500; $100; complimentary copy of book

Writing Op - A Cup of Comfort for LOVE



A CUP OF COMFORT FOR LOVE
Adams Media Corp.
57 Littlefield St.
Avon, MA 02322
cupofcomfort@adamsmedia.com
www.cupofcomfort.com
Description: Submit creative nonfiction anecdotal stories; 1,000-2,000 words. Real-life romantic “love stories” for/about couples, lovers, soul mates--including puppy love; true love; new love; enduring love; first love; unrequited love; the love of one’s life; mature love; rekindled love; friends become lovers; unique engagement, wedding, anniversary experiences; turning points and milestones in a marriage/partnership; defining moments and “aha” moments that spark, shape, or strengthen a love relationship
Deadline: August 1, 2006
Prize: Publication; $500; $100; complimentary copy of book

Writing Op - Cup of Comfort for FAITH



A CUP OF COMFORT FOR FAITH
Adams Media Corp.
57 Littlefield St.
Avon, MA 02322
cupofcomfort@adamsmedia.com
www.cupofcomfort.com
Description: Submit creative nonfiction anecdotal stories; 1,000-2,000 words. Inspirational true stories and testimonials of the power of faith, such as answers to prayers; evidence of God’s holy grace; miracles; divine intervention; affirmation of religious teachings/scriptures in daily life; finding or reclaiming one’s faith. Traditional religions only.
Deadline: July 1, 2006
Prize: Publication; $500; $100; complimentary copy of book
Entry: November 1-March 17

Friday, February 17, 2006

Writing Op - New Jersey Monthly


NEW JERSEY MONTHLY
The Magazine of the Garden State
New Jersey Monthly, LLC
55 Park Place
P.O. Box 920
Morristown NJ 07963-0920
Phone: (973)539-8230
Fax: (973)538-2953
E-Mail: editor@njmonthly.com
Website: www.njmonthly.com

Contact: Christopher Hann, senior editor
About NEW JERSEY MONTHLY: Magazine covering "just about anything to do with New Jersey, from news, politics, and sports to decorating trends and lifestyle issues. Our readership is well-educated, affluent, and on average our readers have lived in New Jersey 20 years or more."
Frequency: Monthly
Editor's Note: This magazine continues to look for strong investigative reporters with novelistic style and solid knowledge of New Jersey issues.

Freelance Facts:
75-80% freelance written
Established: 1976
Circulation: 95,000
Pays on completion of fact-checking.
Publishes manuscript 3 months after acceptance.
Byline given.
Offers 20% kill fee.
Rights purchased:
 First North American serial rights
Editorial lead time 3 months.
Submit seasonal material 6 months in advance.
Accepts queries by: Mail, E-mail, Fax, Phone
Accepts simultaneous submissions
Responds in 2 months to queries.

Nonfiction:
Needs: Book excerpts, Essays, Exposé, General Interest, Historical, Humor, Interview/Profile, Personal Experience, Photo Feature, Travel (within New Jersey), arts, sports, politics
Does Not Want: "No experience pieces from people who used to live in New Jersey or general pieces that have no New Jersey angle."
Buys 90-100 manuscripts/year.
Submission method: Query with published magazine clips and SASE.
Length: 800–3,000 words.
Pays $750-2,500.
Pays reasonable expenses of writers on assignment with prior approval.

Columns & Departments:
Columns open to freelancers: Exit Ramp (back page essay usually originating from personal experience but written in a way that tells a broader story of statewide interest), 1,200 words.
Buys 12 columns/year.
Submission method: Query with published clips
Pays $400.

Fillers:
Needs: Anecdotes (for front-of-book)
Buys 12-15 fillers/year.
Length: 200–250 words.
Pays: $100

Tips: "The best approach: Do your homework! Read the past year's issues to get an understanding of our well-written, well-researched articles that tell a tale from a well-established point of view.

Writing Op - Modernism Magazine


MODERNISM MAGAZINE
333 N. Main St.
Lambertville NJ 08530
Phone: (609)397-4104
Fax: (609)397-4409
E-Mail: andrea@modernismmagazine.com
Website: www.modernismmagazine.com

Publisher: David Rago
Contact:
Andrea Truppin, editor-in-chief
About MODERNISM MAGAZINE: Magazine covering 20th century art and design.
Frequency: Quarterly

"We are interested in objects and the people who created them. Our coverage begins in the 1920s with Art Deco and related movements, and ends with 1980s Post-Modernism, leaving contemporary design to other magazines. Our emphasis is on the decorative arts--furniture, pottery, glass, textiles, metalwork, and so on--but we're moving toward more coverage of interiors."

Freelance Facts:
70% freelance written
Established: 1998
Circulation: 20,000
Pays on publication
Publishes manuscript 4 months after acceptance.
Byline given.
Offers 25% kill fee.
All rights
Editorial lead time 6 months.
Submit seasonal material 6 months in advance.
Accepts queries by: Mail, E-mail, Fax
Accepts simultaneous submissions
Accepts previously published submissions
Responds in 1 month to queries.
Sample copy for $6.95.
Writer's guidelines free

Nonfiction:
Needs:
Book excerpts
Essays
Historical
Interview/Profile
New Product
Photo Feature
"No first-person."
Buys 20 manuscripts/year.
Submission method: Query with published clips
Length: 2,000–2,500 words.
Pays $400.
Does not pay the expenses of writers on assignment.
Reprints: Accepts previously published submissions.

Photos:
State availability of or send photos with submission.
Reviews: Contact sheets, Transparencies, prints
Photos Require: Captions, Identification of subjects
Buys one-time rights
Negotiates payment individually

Tips:
"Articles should be well researched, carefully reported, and directed at a popular audience with a special interest in the Modernist movement. Please don't assume readers have prior familiarity with your subject; be sure to tell us the who, what, why, when, and how of whatever you're discussing."

Industry News


On Monday Simon and Schuster acquired Howard Publishing. You can read the official release at:
http://terrywhalin.blogspot.com/2006/02/simon-schuster-acquires-howard.html

Simon & Shuster is one of the six largest publishers in the world.

Industry News


Hallmark has announced that it is planning to launch its own magazine later in 2006. "The as-yet-unnamed magazine is expected to focus on topics including food, home, and relationships."

Source: publications.mediapost.com

Writing Op - Katrina Stories


A fellow Christian writer was devestated by Hurricane Katrinia. He's putting together a book proposal of stories about how God helped those who survived this disaster. If you or someone you know was affected by this event, consider submitting a story. Guidelines below:

The Lord Is My Shepherd...
"Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you..." -- Mark 5:19

If you want to share your story of survival and healing from Hurricane Katrina, don't hesitate! Write it up and send it in! In submitting your story, please adhere to the following guidelines:

Length: Stories should be between ten and twenty pages in length, single spaced, typed in 12 point Times New Roman or Courier New font.
Format: In addition to the length requirements, please submit your story in either MS Word "DOC" or Adobe Acrobat "PDF" file format. Please make sure file is scanned for viruses before you send it. If any viruses are detected on our end, the file and e-mail will be deleted. Thank you for understanding!
Originality: All work must be your original work. If any other sources are used, they must be quoted and disclosed.
Copyright: It pains us to have to include this, but we must. Since this book is not for the profit of any individual or group, in submitting your story you waive any copyright, fees, licenses, and entitlements to your work. However we agree not to use your work in any other form or fashion other than the stated purpose of "The Lord Is My Shepherd," nor will any of your information be released to any party without your explicit, written permission.
Pray! This may seem silly as a submission guideline, but we very much want this book to help others and be of benefit to them. Before submitting your story please pray over what you wrote and pray for the project as a whole. May God use this book to bring healing to those in need.

Wednesday, February 15, 2006

Show Vs. Tell Practice Exercises


Now Its Your Turn
Here are a few phrases for you to practice your "Showing Technique." If you aren't sure if you've got it yet, drop me an email and I'll be happy to help you throught it.
Louise Bergmann DuMont - njcwg.dumont@gmail.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Show Vs. Tell Practice Sentences
Workshop Preparation
by Louise Bergmann DuMont
2/13/06
~~~~~~~~~~~~
REVISE EACH SENTENCE TO BRING IT FROM TELLING TO SHOWING.
  1. At first glance, the wrinkled paper seemed worthless.
  2. The girl cried and cried, believing that she would never again be happy.
  3. The button on the jacket popped off as he tried to button it.
  4. The file folders were stuffed with papers and the file cabinet was stuffed with folders.
  5. The garden was filled with flowers that contained every color of the rainbow.
  6. The men laughed and joked like teenage boys.
  7. The snow fell for nearly forty-eight hours.
  8. The book’s pages were brown and smelled musty.

Show VS Tell Handouts


Here are the handouts from the NJCWG meeting of 2/13/06. I hope they clarify the Show Vs. Tell issue even more. I'll post again a little while providing you with a few addtional practice exercises.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Show, Don’t Tell Your Story
Workshop Preparation
by Louise Bergmann DuMont
2/13/06


Good writing is not about using big words...
Good writing is not about using more words...
Good writing IS about using words that soothe,
words that bite, words that entice words that motivate...
Good writing is about using the right words,
at the right time, and in the right way.

In this handout I’ve given you a few hints that will help you to turn telling writing into showing writing.

~~~~~~
HINT 1
Choose your verbs carefully.
Use verbs that accurately reflect the character’s personality and the action taking place.

If your character is a burly Vietnam vet he may or may not lumber down the street.

Think about these things. Is your character drunk? Did he put on a significant amount of weight after he got home from the war? How old is he now? Does your story take place right after his return from Nam or much later? If he’s a young guy who is in good physical condition he probably won’t lumber. He might sulk, he might bolt, he might saunter – but lumber implies a slowness that that comes from an inability to walk due to inebriation, overweight or physical defect. Now... even if the guy was in good physical condition but he was carrying his drunk friend over his shoulders, he may lumber.

Your verbs move the story forward. Choosing the right one can make the difference between a story that ‘pops’ with life or one that is ready for the morgue.

EXAMPLE
Notice the differences in these sentences. It’s all in the verbs.
Bob walked down the street.
Bob went down the street.
Bob moved on down the street.
Bob strutted down the street.
Bob ambled down the street.
Bob slunk down the street.
Bob lumbered down the street.
Bob shuffled down the street.
Bob meandered down the street.
Bob rushed down the street.
Bob sauntered down the street.
Bob strolled down the street.
Bob marched down the street.
Bob strode down the street.
Bob paced up and down the street.
Bob hiked down the street.
Bob tottered down the street.
Bob staggered down the street.

~~~~~~
HINT 2
Write using your five senses.

Pick senses that complement the circumstances of your scene and the personality of your characters. Applying a variety of senses to your scenes will keep your writing fresh and interesting. Applying the right senses to each scene will avoid awkward moments..

If our burly Vietnam vet (as per above example) arrives at a restaurant with his date you probably would not have him comment on the beautiful scent of the lilac bushes outside the restaurant door. If the scent of lilacs is an integral part of your story, you may have his date make a comment on lovely aroma, or you could have him note the almost sickeningly sweet smell. Notice that his date notices the lovely aroma but he smells the scent. Your choice of words unfolds the scene in a particular way. It allows us to SEE different aspects of the characters.

Here is an other hint – males are more visual and females more verbal. Be sure to at use those senses to describe environments related to their gender. A male’s secondary sense is touch and woman’s is scent. Both males and females can be intuitive but males are more likely to filter their ideas through practicality and women through emotion. This does not mean that males can not smell and verbalize or that female should never see or touch; but it is important that a writer use to their advantage the character’s primary senses.

~~~~~~
HINT 3
Never show simply for the sake of description.
Showing must bring the reader something significant. It must open up the character’s life or impart vital plot information. To show the reader a table spread with luscious desserts – no matter how artfully done – is meaningless unless the desserts are significant to the story. To share details of a character’s past only frustrates the reader unless it gives depth to a person we want to know and/or moves the plot forward.

~~~~~~
HINT 4
Don’t tell the reader what emotions are coming.

Let readers feel things for themselves. When you tell a reader what to feel, you rob them of the actual event
and you take them out of the story.

TELLING
In a totally unexpected move, Mary slapped her husband, turned on her heels and walked out.
SHOWING
The crack of her hand against his unshaven cheek burned its way into her palm. She turned on her heels, tears changing the soft blue-gray of her eyes into small beads of polished steel.

~~~~~~
HINT 5
Showing is about clarifying what you want to say.
When you tell (rather than show) you leave the reader unsure about what the author really meant.

EXAMPLE
The woman was impressed with the well-dressed man.

How impressed was the woman? What feelings did the well-dressed man inspire in her? How impressed was she? Would she have given him the job as a VP? Would she go out with him? Would she marry him? Was man well-dressed for a Caribbean cruise? Was he wearing a wool and cashmere suit? Were his clothes designer chic or pristinely pressed K-Mart?

Details help to make a story – just be sure to keep the details pertinent.

~~~~~~
HINT 6
Feel the action and play it out on the paper.
Telling catalogs action. Showing allows the reader to see the actions and the emotions contained in the event. It is the difference between a laundry list and the actual laundry.

TELLING
“Let’s Go.” Mary said impatiently
SHOWING
The click of Mary’s heels on the marble floor followed the snap of Mary fingers and a curt, “Let’s Go!”

~~~~~~
HINT 7
Showing is not JUST details.
A grocery list may give plenty of details about the items you want to purchase. It may give the brand, size, weight, color, flavor, etc. But a grocery list is still just a list telling us what to buy. Good writing shows us what the purchaser is feeling.

Grocery List (TELLING)
4 Large, Ripe, Chiquita Bananas
1 box Kellogg’s Special-K, Small Box
Coffee – Bed & Breakfast, Whole Bean

Quality Narrative (SHOWING)
The four plump bananas fairly begged to join the rich mixture of brown sugar and butter, in what would become my lover’s sweet birthday banana bread.

Special-K. I bought the small box, hating myself for second guessing the potential of this diet already. What was so ‘special’ about Special-K anyway? A bowl of soggy flakes that you drown in week old milk – nothing special about that.

Each gently roasted bean had been ground to a perfect course grain. The scalding hot water allowed precious oils to rise to the surface of the cup. I sipped it like ambrosia – the acidic bite popping my eyelids open and refreshing my weary soul.

Sunday, February 12, 2006

NJCWG - Next Meeting


Next Meeting of the NJCWG
Tomorrow!
Monday, February 13, 2006
Ringwood Baptist Church
6:15-7:00 Chat Time
7:00-8:00 More... help with Show Vs. Tell
9:00-9:00 Critiques

Workshop
In Two Weeks
Monday, February 27, 2006
Ringwood Baptist Church
6:00-9:00
You won't want to miss this opportunity to hone your Show vs Tell Skills.

Friday, February 10, 2006

Writing Op - Women of Spirit


http://www.womenofspirit.com/home.php
Women of Spirit
E-mail: WomenofSpirit@rhpa.org
Women of Spirit
55 West Oak Ridge Drive
Hagerstown, MD 21740
Fax: 301-393-4055
Phone: 301-393-4125

Writer's Guidelines

We're happy you want to write for Women of Spirit, a magazine to inspire and disciple Christian women. Women of Spirit seeks to be a friend and mentor, stimulating spiritual vitality, nurturing emotional growth, fostering balanced, healthy living, and encouraging a loving Christian witness in the home and community.

To fulfill this mission, Women of Spirit seeks writers from a diversity of ethnic and cultural backgrounds who think creatively and seek God deeply. Though primarily targeting Seventh-day Adventist women, this magazine appeals to women of other faiths and therefore avoids using language and experiences not easily understood outside the Adventist arena. Women of Spirit aims to build a joyful sense of community among women and to affirm their place of service in the body of Christ. Women of Spirit welcomes you to share a piece of your heart.

Women of Spirit Needs: Stories, Devotionals/Spiritual Topics, How-to Articles, Personal Issues, Short Humor (500 Words), Poetry (Use very little), How I Share My Faith at Work (150 words), Spirited Life (500 Words), Manuscript Length (between 500 - 1,000 words)

Tips for Good Writing
  • Keep your writing personal and conversational. Imagine that your reader is sitting right next to you.
  • Make sure you have a solid beginning that hooks your audience into reading your article or story.
  • Use strong action verbs.
  • Your descriptions should enable your reader to see what you see as you write.
  • Get rid of clichés.
  • Include realistic dialogue in your story.
  • Show, don't tell.
  • Remember that truth is better than fiction.

Writing Op - Highway News



HIGHWAY NEWS (a magazine for Christian truckers)
Transport For Christ
1525 River Rd.
Marietta PA 17547
Phone: (717)426-9977
Fax: (717)426-9980
E-Mail: tfcio@transportforchrist.org
Website: www.transportforchrist.org
Contact: Jennifer Landis, editor

About HIGHWAY NEWS: "We publish human interest stories, testimonials, and teachings that have a foundation in Biblical/Christian values. Since truck drivers and their families are our primary readers, we publish works that they will find edifying and helpful."

Editor's Note: Does not pay writers.
Freelance Facts:
50% freelance written
Established: 1950
Circulation: 35,000
Publishes manuscript 1 year after acceptance.
Byline sometimes given.
Rights purchased: First rights
Submit seasonal material 9 months in advance.
Accepts queries by: Mail, Email, Fax
Accepts simultaneous submissions
Accepts previously published submissions
Responds in 2 weeks to queries.
Responds in 2 months to manuscripts.
Sample copy free.
Writer's guidelines by e-mail (editor@transportforchrist.org)

Nonfiction:
Needs: Essays, General Interest, Humor, Inspirational, Interview/Profile, Personal Experience, Photo Feature, Religious, Trucking
Does Not Want: No sermons full of personal opinions.
Buys 20-25 manuscripts/year.
Submission method: Send complete manuscript
Length: 600–1,200 words.
Pays in contributor copies.
Does not pay the expenses of writers on assignment.

Photos: Send photos with submission.
Reviews: Prints, GIF/JPEG files,
Photos Require: Captions, Identification of subjects, Model Releases
Buys one-time rights
Does not pay for photos.

Columns & Departments: Columns open to freelancers: From the Road (stories by truckers on the road); Ladies' Corner (stories for truckers' wives), both 600 words. Send complete manuscript

Fiction: "We use very little fiction."
Needs: Humorous, Religious, Slice-of-life Vignettes
Does Not Want: No romance or fantasy.
Buys 1 or fewer manuscripts/year.
Submission method: Send complete manuscript
Length: 600–1,200 words.

Writing Op - Volunteerist



Volunteerist - (http://www.volunteerist.org/magazine/guidelines.html)
Story ideas submitted via query letter are welcome at The Volunteerist. All queries should be sent via email to query@volunteerist.org. No postal mail queries please.

Manuscripts that have not been preceded by a written query will neither be considered nor returned. We are not responsible for the return or loss of, or for damage to, unsolicited manuscripts, unsolicited artwork, or any other unsolicited materials.

A general familiarity with what The Volunteerist has published in the past is the best guide to our needs and preferences.

No payment is offered for our “Voices” guest column. Other sections pay between 50 cents and one dollar per word depending on writer's experience. The editor may request copies of published clips prior to granting an assignment.

Send questions, comments, and queries to query@volunteerist.org.

Writing Op - HowStuffWorks Website


HowStuffWorks Website (http://www.howstuffworks.com/)

If you are interested in writing for HowStuffWorks, we would love to see your résumé and some samples of your work. Please keep in mind, however, that we receive a high volume of e-mail from interested writers, but work with only a small group of freelance contributors. In other words, we are highly selective.

Above all, we are looking for authors who exhibit exceptional writing and research ability. Authors should also be able to:

* understand complex subjects and break them down for a general audience
* contribute entirely original, previously unpublished work
* finish assignments in a timely manner (no more than a month from assignment to completion)
* adapt to the HowStuffWorks voice and article structure

HowStuffWorks does not accept unsolicited articles. Please only send samples of previous writing. If we decide to try you out as a writer, we will give you an article assignment. If we decide to accept your submission, we will pay you for the article. All work is work for hire.

If you are interested in writing for HowStuffWorks, e-mail your résumé and writing samples to Authors@HowStuffWorks.com.

Thursday, February 02, 2006

Poetry Contest - The Writer's Online Poetry Spotlight


You are invited to submit a poem to The Writer's Online Poetry Spotlight! Award-winning poets Kay Day, Kim Addonizio, Alfred Nicol and Claudia Grinnell will critique selected poems online.

The critique will include suggestions as well as comments citing the poem's strengths. Guest poets will address form, poetic devices, sound, sensory elements and style, and will offer purely constructive comments.

If your entry is selected for critique, you will receive a one-year subscription to The Writer.
The best Spotlight poem posted on The Writer Web site in 2006 will receive $100!


Click here for more details and the submission guidelines:
http://www.writermag.com/wrt/default.aspx?c=a&id=2823

Wednesday, February 01, 2006

Writing Op - U.S. Catholic


U.S. CATHOLIC
Claretian Publications
205 W. Monroe St.
Chicago IL 60606
Phone: (312)236-7782
Fax: (312)236-8207
E-Mail: editors@uscatholic.org
Website: www.uscatholic.org

Editor: Fr. John Molyneux, CMF.
Managing Editor: Heidi Schlumpf.
Executive Editor: Meinrad Scherer-Emunds.
Contact: Fran Hurst, editorial assistant

About U.S. CATHOLIC: Magazine covering Roman Catholic spirituality. "U.S. Catholic is dedicated to the belief that it makes a difference whether you're Catholic. We invite and help our readers explore the wisdom of their faith tradition and apply their faith to the challenges of the 21st century."

Frequency: Monthly
Editor's Note: Please include SASE with written ms.
Freelance Facts:
100% freelance written
Established: 1935
Circulation: 40,000
Pays on acceptance
Publishes manuscript 2-3 months after acceptance.
Byline given.
Rights purchased: All rights
Editorial lead time 8 months.
Submit seasonal material 6 months in advance.
Accepts queries by: Mail, E-mail, Fax, Phone
Responds in 1 month to queries.
Responds in 2 months to manuscripts.
Sample copy for large SASE.
Guidelines by e-mail or on website.
Nonfiction:
Needs:
Essays
Inspirational
Opinion
Personal Experience
Religious
Buys 100 manuscripts/year.
Submission method: Send complete manuscript
Length: 2,500–3,500 words.
Pays $250-600.
Sometimes pays the expenses of writers on assignment.
Photos:
State availability of photos with submission.
Columns & Departments:
Pays: $250–600 for columns.
Fiction:
Contact: Maureen Abood, literary editor
Needs:
Ethnic
Mainstream
Religious
Slice-of-life Vignettes
Buys 4-6 manuscripts/year.
Submission method: Send complete manuscript
Length: 2,500–3,000 words.
Pays: $300 for fiction.
Poetry:
Contact: Maureen Abood, literary editor
Needs:
Free Verse
Does Not Want: "No light verse."
Buys 12 poems/year.
Submit maximum 5 poems.
Length: 50 lines.
Pays: $75.

Writing Op - Dragons, Knights & Angels


Here is market you may not have heard of. Please check their writers guidelines as indicated.

DRAGONS, KNIGHTS, AND ANGELS: THE MAGAINZE OF CHRISTIAN FANTASY AND SCIENCE
Fiction: 5461 W. 4605 S., West Valley City UT 84120
Email: dkamagazine@quixnet.net
Website: www.dkamagazine.com
Nondenominational
Family friendly magazine of Christian fantasy and science fiction.
Monthly ezine; 600 hits/mo
80% unsolicited freelance
Petry: Accepts 12/yr
Tips: Submissions are only accepted during designated reading periods listed on the website. Submissions sent at other times will be rejected

Monday, January 30, 2006

NJCWG - Next Meeting


Next Meeting of the NJCWG
Monday, February 13, 2006
Ringwood Baptist Church
6:15-7:00 Chat Time
7:00-8:00 More... help with Show Vs. Tell
9:00-9:00 Critiques

Writing Op - Take-Home-Papers - Courage


Courage
Take-Home-Papers

Courage is looking for well-written sotries that show the truth about God (related to the weekly Sunday school less) as it comes to bear in the lives of children today. They especially need stories for boys,l or stories that have both boy and girl characters.

At the webite below you can access specific writers guidelines:

http://www.rbpstore.org/about/writefor.cfm

Writing Op - Take-Home-Paper for Children - Adventures


ADVENTURES
6401 The Paseo Blvd.
Kansas City MO 64131-1213
Phone: (816)333-7000
Fax: (816)333-4439
E-Mail: acallison@nazarene.org

Contact: Andrea Callison
About ADVENTURES: Published by Adventures for children ages 6-8. Correlates to the weekly Sunday school lesson.

FREELANCE FACTS
Columns & Departments:
75% freelance written
Pays on publication
Publishes manuscript 1 year after acceptance.
Rights purchased: All rights
Accepts queries by: Mail, Fax
Responds in 2 months to queries.
Sample copy for #10 SASE.
Writer's guidelines for #10 SASE.

Columns open to freelancers: Fiction and Nonfiction Stories, 250 words, Pays $25; Rebus Stories, 125-150 words, Pays $25; Interesting Facts/Trivia, 100-125 words, Pays $15; Recipes & Crafts, Pays $15; Activities, Pays $15.
Submission method: Send complete manuscript

Fiction:
Accepts life application stories that show early elementary children dealing with the issues related to the Bible story, Bible Truth, or lesson goals. Children may interact with friends, family, or other individuals in the stories. Make characters and events realistic. Avoid placing characters in a perfect world or depicting spiritually precocious children.
Length: 250 words.
Pays: $25 for fiction.

Poetry:
Short, fun, easy-to-understand, age-appropriate poetry that correlates with the Bible story, Bible Truth, or lesson goals is welcome. "We prefer rhythmic, pattern poems, but will accept free verse if reads smoothly out loud."
Length: 4–8 lines.
25¢/line, min. $2

Writing Op - In Touch Mag


In Touch Magazine

Freelance authors wishing to contribute their work to the In Touch magazine should adhere to our writer’s guidelines. Be sure to study several issues of In Touch magazine to understand our tone, approach, and topics of interest. Archived articles are available at www.intouch.org.

Mission
In Touch magazine strives to inspire, encourage, educate, and change lives by communicating God’s Truth, and connect people to God’s work through In Touch Ministries.

Editorial Content
Effective writing for In Touch magazine presents biblical truth in a practical and approachable manner. We desire to publish articles with take-away value—helpful hints, available resources, or principles our readers can integrate into their lives. Except in rare cases, articles are written in first or third person. Writers should not assume reader’s familiarity with Christian terminology.

Since In Touch is a ministry-affiliated magazine, our readers expect articles to adhere to sound biblical theology and agree with the teachings of Dr. Charles Stanley.

Second Story (1,600 words) A feature article with a Christian principle. A wide range of topics is permissible.

Mighty In Spirit (1,200 words) An exegetical treatment of a Bible character who demonstrates faith in or dependence upon God. Application to today should be clearly made.

By Faith (800 or 1,200 words) An article that showcases inspirational stories of Christians demonstrating God’s influence in their lives.

Solving Problems God’s Way (800 or 1,200 words) These articles identify problems or situations to which most of our readership can relate. Solutions should be both practical and biblically sound.

Family Room (800 words) This category deals with issues affecting children from infancy through college. Parenting and other family issues are appropriate topics. Scriptural principles should be included.

We do not publish news or external source sermons.

Query Submission
In Touch magazine does not accept unsolicited manuscripts for publication. Freelance writers may submit a query of one typed page/400 words which includes:

* the section of the magazine for which the article is intended
* a working title
* a tentative outline or detailed summary
* expected length and proposed completion date
* the author’s qualifications to write the piece

Queries may be submitted to the attention of the Associate Editor by e-mail to writers@intouch.org or to the following postal address.

In Touch magazine
3836 DeKalb Technology Parkway
Atlanta, GA 30340

Mailed queries must include an SASE for reply. We do not accept simultaneous queries. Please allow 6 – 8 weeks for response.

Query Acceptance
If your query is accepted, we will invite you to submit your article on speculation. A properly formatted manuscript will be

* typed
* double-spaced
* numbered
* printed on only one side of the paper.
* In the top right corner of the first page, please include your name, address, telephone number, e-mail address, and the word count of the document.

We prefer Bible references from the New American Standard Bible. If using another version, please cite the version with each reference. Re-titling or editing for length or content may be requested of the author or performed by the editors at their discretion. Again, please allow 6 – 8 weeks for a response.

Payment
Payment is made only if the manuscript is accepted. Editors reserve the right to reject any manuscript at any stage. The current rate is 30-35 cents per word for first rights. We do not accept reprints at this time.

Picture Book Info


I just found this WONDERFUL website http://picturingbooks.imaginarylands.org/using/using.html
It has tons of information as well as picture books as examples.
If you have any interest in writing pictures books you MUST check this out !

Wednesday, January 25, 2006

Resourses - The Writer Newsletter - FREE


The Writer Newsletter
Its FREE
Register for The Writer's FREE e-mail newsletter. Every other week we'll provide you with valuable information and deliver it right to your inbox.

FROM THE WRITER
Newsletter features include:
Highlights from the current issue of The Writer - Find out what's in each issue and preview selected articles
Announcements - Learn about contests, scholarships, grants and writing events in your area
Special Offers - Take advantage of the special offers we provide
Tips and inspirational quotes - Stay motivated with words of wisdom and helpful advice from experienced writers.

What's more, our FREE newsletter is a great way to stay up-to-date on announcements from the magazine. You don't need to subscribe to the magazine to get this FREE bi-weekly newsletter. And your e-mail address is safe with us; we won't sell it, give it away, or otherwise violate your privacy. You'll also have access to the free areas of our forums when you register. You'll be able to create topic discussions, reply to other users, and share your opinion on a variety of writing subjects. The forums provide an interactive way to learn about an array of writing topics from finding time to write to discussions related to the business of freelance writing.

Register for The Writer's FREE bi-weekly newsletter and forums!

Tuesday, January 24, 2006


POETRY NEWS
From Maude Carolan

7th Annual Photo, Art & Poetry Exhibition
March 10, 11 & 12, 2006
Sponsored by the St. Catherine of Bologna - Patron of the Arts Assoc.
Place: St. Catherine of Bologna Parish Center, 112 Erskine Road, Ringwood, NJ

For information, applications and guidelines, go to: www.saintcatherinephotoart.com
or call David J. Nocera, exhibition coordinator at (973) 962-0563

Writing Op - Tahi Mag


This recently came to me from Kimberlie Clark

I am looking for artists, writers, (all genres) poets, illustrators who want to promote their work in the Tahi magazine (Great Exposure) on MSN The Arts Have It.
http://www.theartshaveit.com/

There will be a Poetry contest coming up for Balentines and I will post more about that later. If interested contact Bella admin@theartshaveit.com or me proud_momof22000@yahoo.com.

Thanks
Kimberlie

WorkOut - Show, Don't Tell


YOUR TURN TO TRY
Using the information presented in my last two blogger posts, try your hand at turning these TELLING phrases into examples of SHOWING.
TELLING:
flying flag
cheap wine
hot chocolate
deadly weapon
old woman
cold weather
EXAMPLE
Telling: flying flag
Showing: the flag flapped like the wings of sea gull
MORE PRACTICE
Rewrite these TELLING paragraphs, using the SHOWING technique..

Use these questions to help you see what you should change.
Do I care about the characters?
What can I do to make my readers know and care about the characters?
What words are too vague?
Are there like/as comparisons that would help me convey the thought better?
Can I use dialogue to enrich the story?
Is this a visual passage?
What needs to be done to create word pictures in the reader’s mind?
PARAGRAPH 1
George was hot. Sweat poured off his brow and soaked his shirt. Being a farmer is not the life for me, he thought.
PARAGRAPH 2
The car was traveling about 70 mph when it hit the old oak. The man inside the car miraculously survived, too drunk to even notice that his car was now unrecognizable.
PARAGRAPH 3
Andrew was mad. Really mad. He was so mad he wanted to hit something – and hit it hard. Unfortunately for him, the next person to enter the room was the police sergeant.
If you would like to share what you've written with me, you can email me (Louise Bergmann DuMont) at njcwg.dumont@gmail.com I will critique your attempts ONLY if you request that I do so -- but I promise to read them all.
Jehovah-Nissi (The Lord is My Banner) Exodus 17:8-16
Louise Bergmann DuMont
Facilitator, NJCWG

Part 2-Show, Don't Tell Handouts



Here is the first handout from last night's meeting where we discussed the directive:



Show, Don't Tell

I've included instructions and three examples. If you have any questions, drop me an email. As always, I'm available to NJCWG members private discussions. All you need to do is pick up the tab for coffee at the Ringwood Diner (smile).

Please note that these handouts are in preparation for our 2/27/06 Writers' Workshop

~~~~~~~~~~
HANDOUT #2
~~~~~~~~~~
Show, Don’t Tell
Workshop Preparation

by Louise Bergmann DuMont
1/23/06
POINTS TO PONDER

Show the smoke instead of the fire.
New writers try too hard to describe the snap of the twigs, the intense heat, and the color of the flames. Sometimes it pays to take a more subtle approach. Describe the smoke and let the reader determine that it comes from a raging fire. Remember what it is you want the reader to focus on. When you concentrate on a description of the fire you move the focal point off of the protagonist. Better to describe the protagonist choking on the smoke.

TELL to quickly move past something.
SHOW to pause and draw attention to something.
If you want to get your character to a new location, or you need to let your reader know facts pertinent to a coming event – TELL.
If a scene is significant to the plot, is easily portrayed by action or reveals something important about a character – SHOW.

Use comparisons and analogies (like or as) to bring life to dry descriptions.
Instead of Saying: The boy took of his clothes quickly.
Say: The boy shed his clothes like a boy on the banks of the Mississippi in August.
Instead of Saying: There were some shiney coins.
Say: The coins glittered by the light of the slots as if they were the jewels in a queen’s crown.
Instead of Saying: The woman had a beautiful voice.
Say: The woman's voice rose like a lark in love.

Use strong nouns and active verbs.
Instead of Saying: the cloth was rough
Say: the coarse fabric tore at her skin
Instead of Saying: she took a cool drink of water
Say: the cool water brought new life to her parched throat
Instead of Saying: her pretty new clothes
Say: her fashionable silks drew the attention of every woman in the room

Part 1-Show, Don't Tell Handouts



Here is the first handout from last night's meeting where we discussed the directive:
Show, Don't Tell

I've included instructions and three examples. If you have any questions, drop me an email. As always, I'm available to NJCWG members private discussions. All you need to do is pick up the tab for coffee at the Ringwood Diner (smile).

Please note that these handouts are in preparation for our 2/27/06 Writers' Workshop

~~~~~~~~~~
HANDOUT #1
~~~~~~~~~~
Show, Don’t Tell
Workshop Preparation

by Louise Bergmann DuMont
1/23/06


One of the first things an agent or editor will tell a new writer is, “You must Show me the action, Don’t Tell me what happens.” But what does Show, Don’t Tell really mean? How do you achieve this? First you must understand what Show, Don’t Tell is – and what it is not.

1. Both SHOW & TELL can be descriptive but SHOWING creates a mental picture in your readers mind. TELLING only gives the reader information. Descriptive TELLING simply gives the reader more information.
2. SHOWING involves your reader in the story. It does this by evoking feelings and by getting them to think for themselves and draw their own conclusions. TELLING gives the reader information about the character’s feelings without drawing the reader in.
3. SHOWING helps the writer avoid preachy writing. You don’t TELL a reader what to think or how to act. You simply SHOW them the events and allow them draw their own conclusion – based on your illustration.
4. SHOWING recognizes that the reader is smart enough to “get the point” that you are trying to make. TELLING conveys that you believe the reader is not smart enough to understand your intent. You ‘bang the reader over the head’ with your text.
5. SHOWING uses strong nouns and active verbs. TELLING is more likely to use adjectives and adverbs.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

EXAMPLE 1
Turn a ‘telling’ statement into narrative that draws the reader into the story.

TELLING
Dani was angry – too angry. She feared that her tone and body language would alienate her sister. She took a deep breath and tried to relax before continuing the discussion.

MORE DESCRIPTIVE – BUT STILL TELLING
Dani was angry and it showed on her face and in her mannerisms. She found herself waggling a finger in the face of her sister, much the way her mother used to. Dani knew that she had to calm down so she relaxed her stance, and for the moment, tucked both hands into her jean pockets.

SHOWING
As Dani’s words fell from her tongue, she caught a glimpse of herself in the hall mirror. One hand sat firmly on her hip while the other waggled a commanding index finger in her sister’s face. Despite the trim figure and waves of chestnut hair that fell to her shoulders, the reflection she saw was one of an evil witch. She forced the muscles in her face to relax and, for the moment at least, she stuffed both hands into her jean pockets.

EXAMPLE 2
Turn a ‘telling’ statement into narrative that allows the reader to know your characters and experience their situations.

TELLING
The old man’s joints ached terribly as he hurried to meet his grand daughter at the other side of the mall.

MORE DESCRIPTIVE – BUT STILL TELLING
The old man’s joints ached as he walked the length of the mall. Each step was evident on his face. He hobbled forward, his steps slow, his movements awkward, but he walked with purpose – eager to hold his grand daughter in his arms once again.

SHOWING
Ancient lines on the old man’s face deepened with each determined step. His bent back forced the weight of his frame onto gnarled white knuckles that clutched an antiquated walking stick. A small child with smooth pink skin escaped the grasp of her mother and scampered across his path like a baby bunny. Anticipation roped his heart as images of his grand daughter played in his mind. The man tried to smile at the pursuant young mother but the event forced his right foot to turn painfully inward. His mouth twisted along with his foot, deflecting the smile and replacing it with an anguished mask. The next step he took was slower but no less determined to meet his grand daughter.

EXAMPLE 3
Turn a ‘telling’ statement into dialogue that adds realism, energy and “pop” to your writing.

TELLING
Dani and her ward, 16-year-old Samantha, fought vehemently regarding Sam’s recent decision to cut class. When Dani told her sister that she was grounded and that she would need to get a tutor to bring up her grades, Samantha was less than appreciative.

MORE DESCRIPTIVE – BUT STILL TELLING
Dani didn’t know whether she should be happy or sad that her sister Samantha had been offered only an in-school suspension for cutting class. Since their parents’ death, Dani had taken charge of raising Sam. She loved her sister but it seemed they hardly knew each other anymore. Money was tight and now she would have to hire a tutor to get Sam’s grades up. It was hard to watch her sister spiral ever downward. Dani’s own emotional state didn’t provide the resources her sister needed and now she’d have to watch Sam even more closely. What happened to the young girl Dani remembered? Was there hope for Sam? For their sisterly relationship?

SHOWING
“Sam, you know I love you but…” Dani held back a grimace as ‘that thing’ once again thrashed about in her stomach. “It’s getting harder to trust you. The school said you’ll only get one day of in-school suspension. They’re going to be lenient this time, but the next time...” Her words trailed off. Could she assume there would be a next time? She tried again.
“If it happens again, they’ll have to suspend you.”
Sam’s fingers played with a loose thread that hung from a button on her sweater. Her eyes focused on the task, seemingly fascinated by something no obvious to her older sister.
Forcing her hands deeper in her pockets, Dani chewed nervously on her lip. Was she getting through? She had to get through.
“The school said you can’t make up the test you missed when you cut. Since you’re almost failing that class I’ll have to hire a tutor to make sure the rest of your grades bring up your average. You’re obviously grounded until things turn around and… ”
Dani froze mid sentence. A smile had appeared on Samantha’s face. It was not the innocent childhood smile Dani remembered from years past. This smile reminded her of the wicked witch of the west after she captured poor little Toto. The hair on Dani’s forearms rose and tickled her skin. She yanked her hands out of her pockets, placed them on opposing sides and began rubbing her arms as if to ward off a chill. When Samantha spoke her words fell like ice water on Dani’s burdened shoulders.
“That’s what it’s all about isn’t it. Money. First I can’t have a few bucks to go to the movies with my friends. Now, you’re mad because you have to pay for a tutor.” Ugly bits of spittle flew through the air and burned Dani’s arm with their malice.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Telling can also be described as portraying the character and action from the point of view of the storyteller or omniscient narrator. Telling is the easy way out for the writer but it sidesteps emotion and dramatic tension. Telling takes the story out of scene. Writing in scene is different from describing a scene. Writing in scene combines character and action. This usually includes dialogue and your character’s inner thoughts. The following will help you stay in scene and show instead of tell.
1. Point of view means you are inside your main character’s head, heart and gut—you are seeing the world through the eyes of your character.
2. Dialogue is one of the fastest ways to show a scene. Everyone talks. Everyone can write dialogue.
3. Action can be as simple as a disagreement between two characters.
4. Flashback (used sparingly) can help you find out what makes the character tick. Go back into a scene from the past that informs the present. When you are writing flashback, you are in that moment.
5. Name your characters. Sometimes this takes a while but make sure you get just the right name. Katherine (with a K) may become the character that Catherine (with a C) or Katie or Cathy could never become. Knowing who your character is will help you and your reader become a part of the story.

Contest - First Novel


FROM: Jennifer Cardine

I came across this contest and thought you might be interested for your blog. It's the second one listed, the Paul Zindel First Novel Award.

From the website: Hyperion Books for Children and Jump at the Sun are proud to announce the fifth annual Paul Zindel First Novel Award. The award is given annually to the winner(s) of a competition for a work of contemporary fiction set in the United States that reflects the diverse ethnic and cultural heritage of our country. The prize is a book contract on the publisher's standard form, covering world rights including but not limited to hardcover, paperback, e-book and audio book editions with an advance against royalties of $7500 and a $1500 cash prize. The prize is not redeemable for cash or transferable; and no substitution is allowed.

http://www.hyperionbooksforchildren.com/contests.asp#zindel

Monday, January 23, 2006

MEETING TONIGHT - "ON"


Tonight's Meeting is ON

The weather report says that it should clear up later today. If anything, there will be rain, not snow or ice. So... the NJCWG meeting for tonight is ON.

North Jersey Christian Writers' Group Meeting
TONIGHT - 1/23/05

6:15-7:00 Chat Time - If you have specific writing questions, this is where you get answers. If you have a new project and you need a listening ear to work out the details, ask your fellow writers during Chat Time. If you received your first check, submitted your first manuscript or received your first rejection -- Chat Time is where you can go to brainstorm, brag, beg or breakdown - so long as it is writing related, we'll listen.
7:00-8:00 TeachingTopic: SHOW, DON'T TELL
8:00-9:00
Critiques - We have a number of critiques to go through tonight.

Show, Don't Tell
On Monday, 1/23/06 (tonight) we will offer the first of a two part lesson (Part 2 takes place on 2/13/06). Use the skills you learn here to prepare for our first 2006 NJCWG Workshop Session.

IMPORTANT NOTE: No matter how many times you've been published or how skilled you've become with words you still need to refine the skills you've acquired. You won't want to miss the Show Vs Tell lessons and our upcoming workshop session.

ALSO TO BE DISCUSSED TONIGHT:
I've narrowed down the topics for Cecil Murphey's one day writers' workshop (May 13, 2006) -- but I still want to hear your opinions. Tonight will be your last chance to let me know what classes you want him to offer.

NJCWG Workshop Session
Monday, 2/27/05
Ringwood Baptist Church
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
(No chat time, No critques)
Bring paper, writing implements, any notes you feel would be helpful and a good imagination.

Louise Bergmann DuMont
Facilitator, NJCWG
551-427-3794

Sunday, January 22, 2006

Meeting - 1/23/05


Regarding our meeting of 1/23/05 - the weather is supposed to be pretty bad tonight and tomorrow. Please check this blog again tomorrow to see if the meeting is canceled.
I ALWAYS post cancellations on the blog.

IF the meeting is cancelled, the topic of discussion (show vs tell) will be taken up at our first meeting in February.

Louise Bergmann DuMont
Facilitator, NJCWG

Saturday, January 21, 2006

Writing Op - Lost Treasure Magazine


Lost Treasure, Inc.
Post Office Box 451589
Grove, Oklahoma 74345-1589
Phone 918/786-2182
Fax 918/786-2192
Janet Warford-Perry, Managing Editor
http://www.primediabusiness.com/magazines/magweb.asp?page=Magazines

GUIDELINES FOR WRITERS
Lost Treasure, Inc. reviews manuscript submissions for two treasure magazines as follows: 1) Lost Treasure, a monthly publication, accepts lost treasure, folklore, personal adventure stories; legends; and how-to articles for treasure hunters and metal detector users; personal adventure stories when accompanied by a sidebar consisting of a how-to lesson or tips (hunting, research, technique, etc., related to the story); who’s who features (by query only) and miscellaneous how-to tips. 2) Treasure Cache, an annual publication, accepts only documented treasure cache stories with a sidebar from the author telling the reader how-to search for the cache highlighted in the story.

SUBMISSIONS
1. Original Stories with photos, maps, and documentation are what we want! No rehashes of well-known treasure stories; no articles that have been submitted or already published in any other treasure hunting forums.
2. Queries are not required for Lost Treasure, but are for Treasure Cache. Queries, one page or less, and may be emailed to the managing editor . Queries are answered as quickly as possible, usually 2-4 weeks.
3. Source Documentation: Lost Treasure and Treasure Cache require source documentation. Personal experiences dealing primarily with how-to information do not require source documentation unless the author makes reference to information outside of the realm of his/her personal experience. Then documentation is required. For source documentation requirements, see Source Documentation, #16.
4. Format, Disk: Manuscripts must be Times New Roman font, 11 pt. single spaced, caps and lower case (not all capital letters), flush left, with only one space after each sentence, no line spacing between paragraphs, and no tab indentions. Manuscripts may be submitted two ways: 1) via email to the managing editor in Microsoft Word or within the body of the email or; 2) via mail to P.O. Box 451589, Grove, OK 74345-1589, on a readable 3-1/2” floppy disk in ASCII or Microsoft Word.
5. Page Identification: Your name, address, email address, telephone number (including area code) and social security number should appear on the first manuscript page in the upper left hand corner.
NOTE: Do not rubber stamp nor write information on the backs of photos, maps, etc., as damage may result making them unusable. TIP: Type information on a sticky back label and affix or, type on a piece of paper and tape to the back of the photo.
6. Word Count: An approximate word count should appear in the upper left hand corner on the first page of your manuscript.
7. Page Numbering: Do not insert the page numbering format.
8. Sequence: Manuscripts should be typed in the following sequence: 1) Photo Captions 2) Article Title 3) Body of Article. 4) Sources
9. Identification - Photos and Captions: Photos should be scanned at 300 dpi and sent in .jpeg or .tiff format. Photos should be assigned an identification number (i.e., 1, 2, 3, etc.) and named the same as the story. Accompanying captions should be typed and numbered to correspond to photo I.D. numbers.
10. All or Nothing: All photos, maps, documentation, other pertinent information should accompany your manuscript at the time of submission.
11. Article Lengths: Lost Treasure-500-1200 words. Treasure Cache- 1,000-1,500 words. Two-part articles are rarely published. These are accepted by query only.
Issue Themes: Lost Treasure articles should coordinate with an issue’s theme (editorial calendar enclosed). Stories deviating from the theme are always considered and used whenever possible. How-To articles are used in each issue. Treasure Cache is documented stories.
13. Caution: Stories should not read like ads for particular products. It is acceptable to name products in your story, but refrain from consistently repeating the detector’s name or the name of other equipment.
14. Returning Manuscripts: A self-addressed, stamped envelope, with sufficient postage must accompany submissions if they are to be returned.
15. SOURCE DOCUMENTATION: At least two sources (preferably more) are required with each submission. Exception: personal experience stories.
Newspapers: List newspaper name, issue date, article title. If newspaper clippings have no identification or date, note this fact in your sources.
Magazines: List magazine title, publication date (month and year), article title, article’s author.
Books: List by author, title, publisher, publication date.
National Archives, Library of Congress, etc.: List title, document number.
Historical Societies, Museum Files, etc.: List organization name, location (city, state), and other identifying information as applicable.
Personal experience stories: Yours--Identify yourself as the source telling this is a personal experience, where it happened and when. Others--Identify whose experience it is, where it happened and when. Tell how you learned of the experience (examples: interview, letters, other). TIP: Write down source information as you work. This insures accuracy and eliminates the necessity of backtracking.
16. PHOTOS: (Remember to identify them.)
Cover Photos: Accepted with or without accompanying story. Only 35 mm color slides (vertical shots) are accepted.
Article Photos: Color photos, scanned in .jpeg or .tiff format at 300 dpi must be included on the disk or within the email. No Polaroid shots. All photos must have sharp focus with good contrast.
17. MAPS: May be hand drawn or copied and should also be scanned per the instructions in #9 above. They should include where the lost treasure is located and contain specific directions to the treasure site(s).
18. PICTURES, BLACK AND WHITE LINE ART (not created by you): May be used only if you have received permission to do so and, credit is given to the source (museum, Library of Congress, illustrator’s name, etc.). Exception: Newspapers - permission is not required but credit must be given to the newspaper if a picture is copied. Must be scanned as per #16 above.
19. CARTOONS: As a rule we do not use cartoons in our magazines. Occasionally a cartoon accompanying a story is used.
20. SAMPLE ISSUE OF OUR MAGAZINE: Available on request. Write to: Managing Editor, Lost Treasure, Inc., P. O. Box 451589, Grove, OK 74345. Enclose SASE with $1.52 postage for the magazine.
21. NON ACCEPTANCE: We do not accept foreign manuscripts. Writers must reside in the U.S.A.
22. CONTRACT: We required a signed contract (U.S. and World Magazine Rights Agreement) from each writer giving us ALL rights to all material used (manuscripts, photos, art, etc.). No exceptions.
23. PAYMENT: Cover shots - $100.00. Articles - 4¢ per word. Photos, hand-drawn maps, artwork - $5.00 is paid for each item used. Payment is made on publication, not acceptance.

Writing Op - Scouting Magazine



Writers

The magazine is published by the Boy Scouts of America six times a year. Issues are: January-February, March-April, May-June, September, October, and November-December. It is mailed to about one million adult volunteer and professional Scout leaders (Scouters). Subscription is included as part of each Scouter's annual registration fee.

Scouting magazine articles are mainly about successful program activities conducted by or for Cub Scout packs, Boy Scout troops, and Venturing crews. We also include features on winning leadership techniques and styles, profiles of outstanding individual leaders, and inspirational accounts (usually first person) of Scouting's impact on an individual, either as a youth or while serving as a volunteer adult leader.

Because most volunteer Scout leaders are also parents of children of Scout age, Scouting is also considered a family magazine. We published material we feel will help parents in strengthening families. (Because they often deal with communicating and interacting with young people, many of these features are useful to a reader in both roles as parent and Scout leader).

We also feature an occasional general-interest article geared to our adult audience. These include subjects such as nature, social issues and trends, historical topics, and humor.

Many of our best article ideas come from volunteer and professional Scouters, but most stories are written by staff members or professional writers assigned by us. We seldom publish unsolicited manuscripts (the exception being inspirational accounts or successful program ideas by individual Scouters). We rely heavily on regional writers to cover an event or activity in a particular part of the country.

A query with a synopsis or outline of a proposed story is essential. Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope to insure a reply. We respond to queries within three weeks. We buy short features of 500 to 700 words; some longer features, up to 1,200 words, usually the result of a definite assignment to a professional writer. We do not buy fiction or poetry.

We pay on acceptance. We purchase first rights unless otherwise specified (purchase does not necessarily guarantee publication). Photos, if of acceptable quality, are usually included in payment for certain assignments. (We normall assign a professional photographers to take photographs for major story assignments.) Payment rates depend on the professional quality the of an article. Payment is from $300 to $500 for a short feature, $650 to $800 for a major article, and more for quality articles by frequent contributors.

Writers or photographers should be familiar with the Scouting program and Scouting magazine. A sample copy will be sent if you provide a stamped, self-addressed 9 x 12 envelope and $2.50.

Our address is:

Scouting Magazine
1325 W. Walnut Hill Lane
P.O. Box 152079
Irving TX 75015-2079
Phone: (972)580-2367
Fax:(972)580-2079
Web site: http://www.scoutingmagazine.org

Writing Op - American Profile Magainze


Home Page: http://www.americanprofile.com/issues/
Writers Guidelines
American Profile’s audience lives in communities with an average population of 7,000. Our articles are useful, informative, human, and concise; full of detail and color, writing and reporting at its best. Our readers are intelligent and discriminating, our standards are high. This is not a market for beginners; send only your most professional work. No fiction, nostalgia, or poetry. Coverage of people and places must be enlightening and instructional, and have a broad regional or national relevance. We also cover health, food, gardening, home projects, nature, and finances. Articles should be topical, but have a long shelf life. Length varies from 450 to 1,200 words. Payment within 45 days of acceptance. Fees are competitive but vary widely. Byline and one-sentence bio given. Mostly freelance written. No reprints. Buys exclusive first-time print rights and all electronic rights to unpublished pieces for six months, non-exclusive rights thereafter.
Queries: Send a one-paragraph query with clips and SASE. No phone, fax, or e-mail submissions.

Mailing Address:

    American Profile
    341 Cool Springs Blvd., Ste. 400
    Franklin, TN 37067

Phone & FAX:

Phone: (800) 720-6323

(615) 468-6000
Fax: (615) 468-6100