Christian Humor

Those of you interested in writing Christian humor might want to check out this blog.
http://www.christianhumorwriters.blogspot.com/

Writing Op - Highlights for Children

From Kim Griswell, Coordinating Editor
Travel and Adventure
Articles that feature adventurous travel. Not the "family vacation" kind of thing, unless your family goes to study turtles in the Galápagos Islands, as does the author of "Stars and Sea Lions" (June 2006). We prefer articles that feature kids in some way. Publishable-quality photos are almost essential for these kinds of articles, since it would be difficult (or impossible) for us to acquire photos if the writer couldn't provide them. Please remember that even travel and adventure articles need a focus—not simply "We went here and did this," but something that reveals the meaning behind the travel or the reason for the adventure, etc. 750 words maximum.

From Marileta Robinson, Senior Editor
Fiction for Young Readers
We need fun, lively stories as well as quiet, thoughtful stories for young readers at first- and second-grade reading levels. I would like to see more stories with boy appeal, like "Training Wheels" in September 2005 and "Fox and His Halloween Tail" in October 2005. 500 words maximum.

From Carolyn Yoder, Senior Editor
World Cultures
• Intimate looks at other peoples and their traditions—particularly in northern and southern Africa, Asia (other than India), Europe, Canada, the Caribbean, and the Pacific (articles on children)
• Holidays—first person

U.S. History
• Modern history (20th century), particularly the Civil Rights movement
• Holidays, particularly Christmas and Thanksgiving
• Articles that touch on the diversity of people in the United States
• Biographies of U.S. subjects as children
• Anecdotal articles on George Washington and Abraham Lincoln
• Articles on patriotic themes
• HUMOROUS articles on U.S. history (review back issues for articles on Lincoln and humor, Washington and his teeth, Jefferson getting his life mask, and Ben Franklin and his love of exercise)

From Judy Burke, Associate Editor
Sports
We're interested in sports articles that focus either on a known athlete (a squeaky-clean one), on the development of specific skills (for example, fielding a grounder), or on the challenges faced by athletes of any kind (for example, being smaller than your teammates). Successful articles often include quotes gained from personal interviews with athletes or experts and useful tips for
readers who play that sport. 800 words maximum.

From Andy Boyles, Science Editor
Science and Nature Articles
Our guidelines state that our word limit is 800, but articles that are even shorter (350–400 words) are especially welcome as possible one-page features. We put a high value on articles that show science as a process—articles that follow a scientist or group of scientists as they try to solve one of nature's mysteries.

We are always looking for science articles about animals that are of high interest to kids. An article might follow researchers who study such animals. The article may tell the adventures of only one day, but information about the animals and the research will arise naturally in the course of the action, so our readers will learn something about both.

We currently have enough articles about birds, reptiles and amphibians, insects (especially bees), and volcanoes.

From Joëlle Dujardin Kirkland, Associate Editor
Crafts: Crafts with boy-appeal, games, holiday crafts, and crafts from other cultures (with background included)

Younger Nonfiction: First-person accounts of fieldwork; arts stories; biographies with interesting slants; kids living in other cultures; ancient history; animals; details from urban life (workers, transportation, etc.). These stories should have a clear focus and should be written at a first- or second-grade reading level. 450 words or fewer.

Gallant Kids: Leads (or articles) on kids under thirteen years old doing service in their communities. 350 words

From Linda Rose, Assistant Editor
Full-Page Puzzle Activities
On the inside-back cover, we like to take advantage of the cover-stock surface by using a large illustration or incorporating photos in the puzzle. Often, this is the page on which we can do several activities within one (for example, using one illustration for a number of activities). Submissions to this area ideally include detailed art directions/notes, as well as succinct and easily understood activity directions for the reader. (Artwork or photos do not need to be submitted with the manuscript.)

Careers Articles
We are always in the market for fresh and interesting articles that take an in-depth look at a career. Our hope is that a career profile will provide kids with information that they cannot easily get elsewhere, such as in a typical "careers" book or in an encyclopedia. Instead, we want our career pieces to be intriguing reads that just happen to be about a person's career.

As our guidelines point out, "We prefer biographies that are rich in anecdotes." Substantive and "insider" anecdotes are often critical to the success of these articles; we want kids to feel that they are getting a "behind the scenes" or inside glimpse into the subject.

Focusing on one individual (or, in some cases, a few) often helps to make the manuscript feel more personal. Career pieces that focus on a person within a career tend to be more appealing. We prefer research based on firsthand experience, consultation with experts, or primary
sources.

From George Brown, Assistant Editor
Short Activities
We're looking for short puzzles, activities, teasers, and interesting tidbits to go on our mixed pages—those four or five pages per issue with a variety of short activities. These activities, which can be almost anything, have to be powerful to pull readers into the magazine. However, we do not publish word searches, crossword puzzles, or fill-in-the-blank activities.

Highlights recommends reviewing the magazine's submission guidelines, available at www.highlights.com, found in the About Us section. Back issues can be found at most local libraries. Please send submissions to the specific editor listed above, or
Manuscript Coordinator
Highlights for Children
803 Church Street
Honesdale, PA 18431

Your Writing IQ

At yesterday's meeting of the NJCWG we took this brief Writing IQ test. Now its your turn!

Each sentence is either True or False. If you check the blog at the end of this week, I will offer the answers along with some explanations.

1. Writing is more art than it is craft.
2. If no one else believes in your writing, maybe it is time to give up.
3. Practicing your craft will increase the likelihood that you will be published.
4. There are many good reasons for writing.
5. Writers are artists and they must wait until the ‘muse strikes’ before they write.
6. You should not submit manuscripts to publishers who are not willing to pay for your work.
7. Your first draft must encompass all that you previously learned.
8. It is OK to “borrow” quotes from other writers – so long as you give them credit.
9. Writing a quality manuscript is only a small part of getting publsihed.
10. Unless you write a book, you are not really a writer.
11. When you receive a rejection it indicates that your work is of poor quality.
12. Always SHOW, rather than TELL in your writing.
13. It is good for a writer to ‘play’ with words.
14. Every sentence must carry the story forward in some way.
15. It is good to start a manuscript with a long section of narrative.
16. Every writer should own and use a dictionary and an extensive thesaurus.
17. They should not depend on the spell check & thesaurus in MSWord.
18. Spelling and grammar don’t count when you write a creative piece.
19. The word said is the best choice for a tag in dialog.
20. It is not important to know how you want to end a story before you begin to write.
21. A writer should concentrate on their main characters. Minor characters do not need to be three dimensional.
22. Send your manuscript out as soon as you are done writing it. Never let it sit for more than a few hours.
23. Each manuscript deserves a minimum of three to five revisions.
24. To an editor, the story is more important than the writing.
25. Editors like when you call them to check on the status of your manuscript.
26. It is not good to read while you are working on your own manuscript.
27. When it comes to books, marketing is at least (if not more) important than the writing.
28. Selling your manuscript all about who you know.
29. It is easier to sell a manuscript with fair writing and a good story, than it is to sell a manuscript with excellent writing and tired story.
30. The number one rule of writing is – KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE
31. If a sentence is beautifully written, leave it in your manuscript even if it has little to do with the story.
32. Only new writers need to attend yearly writers conferences.
33. One of the best ways to improve your overall writing is read good writing.
34. Nonfiction sells better than fiction.
35. An established writer should attend a writers conference only to pitch his or her manuscript to a publisher or agent.
36. Finding a title that expresses the essence of the book is important .
37. Once you’ve established your place in the writing community you can skip attending writing seminars, classes, conferences and critique groups.
38. A good writer varies sentence length to create interest, emphasis and flow.
39. Reading magazines, contemporary novels and other “fluff” is a waste of time.
40. Editors are impressed with long manuscripts, complex ideology and a college level vocabulary.
41. The most important sentence in each manuscript is the first one.
42. Sentences are like jokes, the punch line should be at the end.
43. Within a manuscript, a writer should change their POV (point of view) often.
44. Good writers often uses the Golden Triangle when writing.
45. Established writers don’t get many rejection slips.
46. Writers Write. They don’t just talk about writing and read about how to write.
47. Good writers seek out other writers for information, inspiration and affirmation.
48. Writers should devoid themselves of anything that is not connected with writing. This helps them to concentrate and be productive.
49. Every writer should carry a pen and notebook to jot down character descriptions, story ideas, important contacts, interesting words, fascinating facts, or ANYTHING that encourages that writer to write.
50. If God calls you to write something, it will be published.
51. Your query letter is often more important than your manuscript.
52. Editors enjoy rejecting manuscripts – its a power thing.
53. Writing for the web is not really writing.
54. Writers need other writers.
55. If God calls you to write, He provides the tools & the talent. You provide the sweat and the tears.

NEXT MEETING
North Jersey Christian Writers Group (NJCWG)
Ringwood Baptist Church
30 Carletondale Road
Ringwood, NJ

Monday, May 22, 2006
6:15-7:00 - Chat Time
7:00-8:00 - Lesson - The *Writers IQ Test*
Learning the do's and don'ts of good writing.
8:00-9:00 – Critiques

Upcoming topics of discussion:
How to research articles, stories and books (June)
Story Starters - Ideas to get you writing again (June)
Poetry for the Non-Poet (July)
Learn to write by "patterning"
Using Personality Profiles to Creating Credible Characters

If any member of the group has a topic they would like to see taught/discussed, please notify the faciliator, Louise Bergmann DuMont (njcwg.dumont@gmail.com)

Terms of the Writing Trade

Terms of the Writing Trade
Presented to the NJCWG by Louise Bergmann DuMont 4/24/06

Query Letter
A query letter offers your story or article idea to an editor/publisher. When they accept your query you receive an assignment. The more experience you have writing, the more likely you will write query letters rather than cover letters (see below). Query letters allow you to pitch an idea without actually writing the article. This means you don't write something until you know you've sold it. Most query letters use a standard three or four paragraph format and are limited to one page.

Cover Letter
A cover letter accompanies a completed manuscript. It is a single page with your contact information and a short paragraph that describes the piece you are submitting and/or your credits. Both query and cover letters are your "first impression." They are at least, if not more important than the manuscript itself.

Clips
Clips are copies of published articles, stories and other manuscripts. Some (not all) editors want to see clips. Clips are samples of your writing style and let editors know which publications already accepted your work. It is always best to send a photocopy of the actual printed articled. If the copy (due to glossy paper or faulty equipment) is of inferior quality, you can send the photocopy along with a clean computer generated copy of the EXACT article that was printed. This means that you do NOT 'fix' your writing after it was published.

Samples
If you haven't been published yet and an editor requests clips send him or her a ‘writing sample’ instead. Make sure it is your best work and that the writing is related in some way to the type of publication they work for.

Simultaneous Submissions
The term ‘simultaneous submission’ refers to one manuscript sent to different markets during the same time period. Check a publication's guidelines carefully. Many markets do not accept simultaneously sumbited manuscripts.

Multiple Submissions
"Multiple submissions" refers to several different manuscripts that are sent to the same publisher in one envelope. Some editors allow you to send mutiple short works, like poems. Do follow the publication’s guidelines since very few editors will accept multiple submissions of items other than poetry or fillers.

Multiple Queries
Multiple queries refers to pitching one good idea to many different publishers during the same time period. This is always acceptable. BUT, you should never keep one publisher hanging on while you wait to hear if an other publisher will pay you more money. The rule is - first come, first serve.

Lead Time
Small to mid-sized agazines typically work three to six months in advance. Larger publications need up to eighteen months. Lead time is how far ahead editors will consider queries and submissions. When you are lying on the beach you should be writing your Keeping Christ in Christmas article. When the frost first hits the pumpkin, you pitch Spring in Spring Cleaning piece.

Editorial Calendar (AKA - Theme List)
Publishers often plan an annual calendar of topics or themes. Familiarizing yourself with a publications editorial calendar means knowing in advance what the editors want and when. Writing to accomodate the specific needs of an editor is often the difference between a sale and a rejection. You can obtain a publication’s theme list by looking up their address in Sally’s Stuart's Market Guide (CBA) or The Market Guide (ABA). Follow the publishers instrucitons - sending the approriately sized SASE (self-addressed stamped envelope) with postage in the amount they indicate. If you are requesting the material via postal mail it is very important that you follow the publishers specific instrucitons. If you check the publishers website you may be able to get their writers guidelines and theme list without paying for the postage.

Copyright
In the United Sates of America your work is copyrighted as soon as you put the words into a readable format. It does not matter if you scribble it on the back of a napkin, type it on a typewriter, or process it using a computer. If you have serious concerns about someone attempting to appropriate your work, you can put a copy (never the original) of your manuscript into an envelope and mail it to yourself. Once it arrives back home, do NOT open the envelope. The postmark will legally date the material as long as the envelope remains sealed.

Reprints
As long as you own the copyright, feel free to sell your work again as a reprint. Markets will pay less for reprints, but recycling your material can bring in substantial profits over the long haul.

Payment on Acceptance
Read the guidelines carefully! Payment on acceptance means you get paid when your work is accepted, no matter when (or if) the magazine publishs it.

Payment on Publication
Payment on publication means you will not get paid until your work is published. This could be months (or even a year) later.

Working On Spec
Spec is short for 'speculation'. Many magazines want to see the finished article before they decide whether to publish it. At times, writing on spec may be the only way to break into a new market, but there is certainly a down side. You can spend a great deal of time writing an article, revising it upon their request, and then find out that the editors decided to use someone else’s piece. Weigh the pros and cons. For new writers, this can be very tough. Experienced writers, can often negotiate a later publishing date.

Expenses
In the course of your research and article preparation, you may incur expenses like travel, long distance calls, cell phone calls, or taking an interview subject out to lunch. You must get approval for necessary expenses BEFORE you write the article. Most publications do not pay expenses for new writers. For experienced writers who work regularly with a publication expenses may be paid for assigned work. Remeber, reasonable requests are often accommodated, but if you are unprofessional or pad a bill, other editors will hear about it.

Kill fees
A kill fee is sometimes paid if your article was accepted for publication but for some reason the editor must drop or "kill" the article before it goes to press. Many of the large markets pay a 10 to 50 percent kill fee. This reimburses a writer for their time and work. When an article is "killed" the author is free to publish it elsewhere.

Rights
Knowing the different kinds of ‘rights’ offered by publishers is very important. I could mean more sales (through reprints) or a greater reimbursement for the savvy freelancer.

- All Rights - When you give up all rights you no longer own that piece of writing. You cannot publish your work before or after this sale, you can not put it on your website and you can’t send it to your mother without permission from the publisher. NEVER give up all rights unless you are being paid substantially for your efforts.

- First Serial Rights - This usually refers to rights in one country. For example: First North American Rights (FNAR).

- Electronic Rights - Used when a market publishes your work on its Web site. Within this you will also find first electronic rights, electronic rights for an exclusive period, or electronic archive rights (to post your work indefinitely).

- Anthology Rights - Used when your work is included in an anthology--a collection of similar stories, essays or articles compiled in a book. For this you are often paid a one-time fee along with some copies of the book. Be sure to read your contract to find out if you may reprint the story elsewhere (after a specified period of time) or if the anthology has purchased the exclusive right to your story.

- One-time Rights - The publisher has the right to publish your work one time. After that you can resell the piece as a reprint.

Writing For Trade Magazines Article

There is an excellent article on writing for trade magazines by Tony P. Martinez & Alison P. Martinezon on The SpiritLed Writer website. Check it it out!
http://spiritledwriter.com/apr06/trades.html

Writing Op - Paramount Cards Inc.

PARAMOUNT CARDS, INC.
P.O. Box 6546
Providence, RI 02940-6546
It is suggested that new freelance contributors make a thorough study of material appearing on published cards by browsing through the greeting card counters to gain a better insight into the types of cards on the market. Paramount Cards currently ONLY accepts submissions sent through a postal carrier. They are not accepting e-mail submissions at this time.

• Please TYPE each idea on a SEPARATE piece of paper, small enough to fit into your envelope without folding. A 3 X 5 size is suggested.
• IDENTIFY each item by NUMBER and keep a duplicate copy for your own records.
• Your NAME, ADDRESS and SENTIMENT NUMBER should be on each item submitted.
• Enclose a SELF-ADDRESSED, STAMPED ENVELOPE large enough to accommodate the return of your material.
• Only 10 to 15 items should be submitted AT ONE TIME.

Due to the large volume of freelance material we handle, it is impossible for Paramount to offer criticism of your work.

Mail submissions to:
Paramount Cards Inc.
P. O. Box 6546
Providence, RI 02940-6546
ATTN: Freelance

Paramount is interested in EVERYDAY material: (Birthday, Friendship, Get Well, Anniversary, Sympathy, etc.) at all times. Along with verse, they also buy prose sentiments (long or short), cute and juvenile sentiments.http://paramountcards.com.cnchost.com/para_www/freelancers/guidelines.html
Paramount Cards makes and sells a variety of everyday and seasonal greeting cards, with a focus on lower priced and discounted cards for independent and small- to medium-sized card stores, drugstores, supermarkets, and dollar/value store chains. The company also operates the CardSmart retail chain, a group of franchised and company-owned card and gift stores. Paramount Cards was founded in 1906 by Russian immigrant Samuel Markoff.

Writing Op - Contests for Childrens Writers

From the Editors of Childrens Writers Newsletter
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dear Writer,
We constantly hear from editors that the vast majority of the manuscripts they receive are rejected because they were not written to the editor's specifications. Few editors will consider a story or article that does not meet their specs - precisely.
Writing contests also have exact specifications. That's why we encourage writers - all writers, new ones and old pros too - to enter contests. They're excellent, professional training experiences and, if you win, they can get you published and pay healthy prize money.
The winners in these contests will be published in Children's Writer, the monthly newsletter that goes to every children's book and magazine editor/publisher in North America. Along with the winning piece, we'll publish an article on it and the other top-ranked entries and their authors. There are also cash prizes. The cash prizes alone are a lot of good reasons to write a piece and enter.
Current subscribers to Children's Writer enter free. All others pay a $10 reading fee - standard for writing contests. But, if you are not a subscriber, your $10 fee will also bring you an eight-month trial subscription to Children's Writer. You can submit multiple entries, but please use the attached entry form for each one.
The contest rules are important. They follow this letter. Please read them very carefully.
Please note the opening and closing dates each contest. Be sure that your entry arrives in the correct time window, and note that the deadline is absolute!
Now, warm up your computer and write a prize-winning piece.
P.S. A majority of entries do not make it past the first reading because they are not targeted to the specified age range or because they exceed the word limit. Don't fall out of the running because of either of these two easy-to-meet specifications. Age-target your writing and count your words.

EARLY READER MYSTERY
Entry period is August 1 to October 31, 2006. Winners are announced in the March, 2007 issue of Children’s Writer. Prize structure is $500 for first place plus publication in Children’s Writer, $250 for 2nd place, and $100 for 3rd, 4th, and 5th places.
The contest is for an original early reader mystery story, to 750 words. Early readers are defined here as ages 4 to 7, children beginning to read entire stories on their own, stretching their recognition of words and concepts, but likely to need some assistance from an adult. The entries should not be for reading by an adult to a child. Submissions will be judged on story line, characterization, and freshness, but also on structure, grammar, and ultimate publishability. Mysteries should be well-constructed, and have a strong point-of-view character. The mystery must be one an early reader can grasp and potentially solve: It must be age-appropriate.

YA PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
Entry period is December 1, 2006 to February 28, 2007. Winners are announced in the July 2007 issue of Children’s Writer. Prize structure is $250 for first place plus publication in Children’s Writer, $100 for 2nd place, and $50 for 3rd and 4th places.
We are looking for nonfiction articles for teens, ages 13 to 17, based on a personal experience, to 1,200 words. The article may be told in the first or third person, or take the form of an interview, but should be the experience of a teen, for a teen. The subject may be a serious issue (family, school, or community issue) or it may be light (entertainment, fashion, friends, or fun). The subject and approach may be spiritual or inspirational, but may not be denominational or dogmatic. Publishability is the ultimate criterion.

MIDDLE-GRADE ADVENTURE
Entry period is August 1 to October 31, 2007. Winners are announced in the March, 2008 issue of Children’s Writer. Prize structure is $500 for first place plus publication in Children’s Writer, $250 for 2nd place, and $100 for 3rd, 4th, and 5th places.
The contest is for a story about an adventure, small or large, to 1,200 words, for ages 8 to 12. The adventure may take place in another genre, such as historical fiction, or fantasy, or may be contemporary. The antagonist or conflict may stem from other characters, from internal goals, from nature, society, or technology, but the story should balance plot and characterization. Stories will also be judged on age-targeting, originality, style, and the overall quality of writing. Publishability is the ultimate criterion.

Writing Op - Living With Teenagers

LIVING WITH TEENAGERS
LifeWay Christian Resources
One LifeWay Plaza
Nashville, TN 37234-0174
lwt@lifeway.com
www.lifeway.com
Lifeway Writers guidelines:
http://www.lifeway.com/lwc/article_main_page/0,1703,A%3D161894%26M%3D200043,00.html
Description: Informs and educates parents of teenagers on how to best deal with typical issues and problems faced by teens. Provides strong Christian emphasis and Biblical solutions.
Frequency: Monthly
Newsstand/Subscription Rate: $20.25/yr
Circulation: 48,000

Writing Op - Young and Alive

YOUNG AND ALIVE
P.O. Box 6097 Lincoln, NE 68506
editorial@christianrecord.org
http://www.christianrecord.org/onlsrv/index.php

Description: Publication for young adults who are blind or visually impaired. Presents material from a non-denominational, Christian viewpoint and features articles on adventure, biography, camping, careers, health, history, hobbies, holidays, marriage, nature, practical Christianity, sports, and travel. Features run 800-1,400 words; pay varies.
Frequency: Quarterly
Circulation: 25,000
Art: Slides or prints; $10/photo.
Queries: Not necessary
E-queries: No
Unsolicited mss: Yes
Submission formats: Hard copy
Response: 12 months.
Freelance content: 90%
Rights: One-time
Payment: On acceptance
Tips: Not accepting mss until 2009.

Writing Op - Bread for God's Children

BREAD FOR GOD'S CHILDREN
P.O. Box 1017Arcadia, FL 34265
bread@sunline.net
http://www.breadministries.org/
Description: Christian family magazine with Bible study, stories, teen pages, parent news, ideas, and more.
Frequency: 6x/yr
Circulation: 10,000
Nonfiction: Articles or craft ideas based on Christian principles or activities; how to implement Christian ways into daily living; 600-800 words; $20-$30.
Queries: Not necessary
E-queries: No
Unsolicited mss: Yes
Submission formats: Hard copy
Response: Submissions 1-6 months.
Freelance content: 20%
Kill fee: No
Rights: 1st
Payment: On publication
Tips: Stories must be from a child’s point of view, with story itself getting message across; no preaching or moralizing, no tag endings. No stories with speaking animals, occult, fantasy, or romance. “Our purpose is to help Christian families learn to apply God’s word in everyday living. We are looking for writers with a solid knowledge of Biblical principles and who are concerned with the youth of today living according to these principles.”

Writing Op - A.D. Players

A.D. Players is currently seeing previously unpublished materials.

A. D. PLAYERS
2710 W. AlabamaHouston, TX 77098
adtour@hern.org
http://www.adplayers.org/
Seeking full-length plays or musicals (12 actors max.), or one-act children’s plays or musicals (8 actors max.) with Judeo-Christian world view.
Payment: Negotiable rates

NJCWG - Meetings

At our last meeting, NJCWG (North Jersey Christian Writers Group) members discussed various good and bad opening lines and paragraphs. It was a very productive discussion.

Some upcoming topics of discussion:

• Take a *Writers IQ Test* to see how much you know, or need to learn
• How to research articles, stories and books
• Poetry for the Non-Poet
• Story Starters - Ideas to get you writing again
• Learn to write by "patterning"
• Using a Personality Profile to Creating Credible Characters

If any member of the group has a topic they would like to see taught/discussed, please notify the faciliator, Louise Bergmann DuMont (njcwg.dumont@gmail.com)

The Writer Magazine - Current Issue

In the June issue of The Writer Magazine you'll find these great articles:

• Learn to craft an engaging story for kids whether you're writing fiction or nonfiction
• Build your short story scene by scene
• Develop the right voice for your creative nonfiction
• 4 top fiction editors tell you what they're looking for
• Interview: R.L. StineWriting to entertain

NJCWG - Meeting Tonight

Meeting - TONIGHT

North Jersey Christian Writers Group (NJCWG)
Ringwood Baptist Church
30 Carletondale Road
Ringwood, NJ

6:15-7:00 - Chat Time
7:00-8:00 - Lesson
8:00-9:00 - Critiques

Writing Op - GodsAmazingLove Website

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A MESSAGE FROM GodsAmazingLove WEBMASTER
~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We have added some catagories to the regular features of the ezine, so the number of articles we need has increased: http://GodsAmazingLove.net

If you haven't checked it out since the first announcement--please do. There have been quite a few changes.

Two of the new catagories are: **Miracles Along The Way** & **Real Men Love Jesus**

Here is the link to the Regular Features Page (which lists all the catagories and includes guidelines and compensation info). http://jocelynandersen.tripod.com/amazinglove/id11.html

Jocelyn

Winepress

Wine Press Publishing is one of the few self-publishers that I eagerly endorse. This publisher produces a quality product and will give you an honest evaluation of your work.

They are hosting a number of FREE web conferences. For more information go to: http://www.winepresspub.com/default.asp?id=9023

This link will give you an overview of the topics covered at the conference and the upcoming conference dates. Attending one of these conferences would be well worth your time if you are considering self-publishing.

Script Writing

Interested in script writing with a Christian flare? Check out this website: http://www.actoneprogram.com/

ACT ONE is a nonprofit organization that trains people of faith for careers in mainstream film & TV.

Act One offers two main programs -- the Writing Program, for aspiring film and television writers, and the Executive Program, for aspiring entertainment executives -- as well as Screenwriting Weekends and many other programs and services.

Writing Op - NONPaying - Pine Tree Mysteries

Calling short mystery writers! My web mystery ezine, Pine Tree Mysteries, is now active online. Premier issue features Absolute Write member, Jenny Schwartz, plus stories by two other great writers. Read submissions by Jenny, Donna, and Sylvia, then click on the Guidelines and send in your own story. New writers welcome. http://www.pinetreemysteries.com

Morgan Drake, editor
Pine Tree Mysteries

Writing Op - Erickson Tribune

The Erickson Tribune (http://www.ericksontribune.com/), the nation’s largest retirement newspaper with a circulation of over 3 million and a target audience of age 62-plus, is looking for articles that reflect the Trib’s masthead message of “Inform—Inspire—Involve.”Our Readers:Published by Erickson Retirement Communities, the Tribune is read by people who aspire to live better by taking full advantage of what life has to offer. We do not refer to our readers as “seniors” or “elderly.” They are vibrant, educated individuals who lead busy, productive lives. We try to give them articles that inform and inspire them. We do not view “aging” as a disease, rather, as another chapter in life complete with exciting possibilities.Subject Ideas: Our readers are middle income and interested in a broad range of topics. Stories dealing with leisure pursuits such as travel, music, food and cuisine, wine, coffee, scrapbooking, and gardening are always good possibilities, but we are open to other ideas that might appeal to our target audience as well. Sentimentality is not a road we travel as our audience is living in the here and now. Profiles of retirees doing interesting and amazing things are certainly welcome. We do not publish fiction.Stories about hi-tech, computers, finance, and fitness are also good, as our readers are looking for ways to keep their minds and bodies in shape. They tend to have dynamic relationships with their adult children and grandchildren, and stories relevant to those relationships are welcome. Strong, engaging profiles of individuals age 62-plus (both well-known and not so well known) are also welcome. “How to” articles, depending on the topic, are acceptable as well.

Submission Guidelines:
Completed articles only—NO QUERIES, PLEASE. All articles must be submitted as a Microsoft Word document.
Word count: approximately 800 (should not be previously published or written for another publication)
Please also be sure to put the title of the story in the subject line of the message.
Please allow plenty of lead time for seasonal stories. (For example, if you have a Christmas related story, make sure you have pitched it by October)
We reserve the right to edit for style, length, and clarity.
If we use your story, we will pay $200 within 30 days of publication.
You will also receive a byline on your story.
We’ll send you three samples.
Submit your articles to editor@ericksonmail.com.
Only e-mail submissions will be accepted.

Punctuation

An English professor wrote the the folowing words on the chalkboard and he asked his students to punctuate the sentence correctly.
A woman without her man is nothing

Most of the males in the class punctuated the sentence as follows:
A woman, without her man, is nothing.

All the females in the class punctuated the sentence this way:
A woman: without her, man is nothing.

NOTE TO FUTURE AUTHORS

~~~ PUNCTUATION IS EVERYTHING ~~~

Resurgence of Christian Fiction

Today's Breakpoint with Chuck Colson is on the subject of the resurgence of Christian Fiction. You can find it on their website www.breakpoint.org

It's the first one listed, Modern-Day Renaissance.

Great Quote

Author Michael Crichton

Books aren't written - they're rewritten. Including your own. It is one of the hardest things to accept, especially after the seventh rewrite hasn't quite done it.
~ Michael Crichton

Video Clip - John McNally

Register on Writermag.com today to watch an all-new video clip to hear what novelist John McNally has to say about developing a distinctive voice for your stories. This information is only available to Writermag.com registered users. Register today to learn these expert tips.

The information you'll find on WriterMag.com will help you be the best writer you can be. Now is a good time to discover all the great things about WriterMag.com. Click here to register: https://secure.kalmbach.com/AdvantageWeb/eCare/Router.aspx?pageid=RegWebMember

When you register you will receive access to these great benefits:

• Free e-mail newsletter
• Writer discussion forums
• Contest, conference and workshop information
• Preview of the next issue of THE WRITER
• Articles that offer tips for better writing
• Writing groups

Song Lyrics/ Music / Poems Group

Christian songwriters coming together to discuss songwriting. Visit our site at www.christiansongwriting.org and www.dcmusicstore.com and www.writingsongs.com ( Writing songs, lyrics, music, poems, christian, gospel, how to group, songwriter, songwriters, become organization)
writing-songs-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Fellowship of Christian Writers - Online Writers Group

Fellowship of Christian Writers (FCW) is a ministry for Christians who write. Their vision is to provide mentoring and instruction; share skills; offer kindly criticism; supply information on markets, contests, conferences and other areas of interest to Christians who write; share prayer needs; and to be inspired and encouraged by fellow writers. Our desire is that our written words always reflect Christ and glorify God.

This is an excellent group for beginners and intermediate writers as well as a place for accomplished authors to network.

FCW offers weekly moderator questions designed to help the group discuss key writing topics.
Monday -- Goal-setting
Wednesday -- Market Tip and Writing Quote
Thursday -- Creative Calisthenics
Friday -- Friday Praise
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday-- Weekend Fellowship

To join, send an email to:
FCW-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

NEW Online Writers Group

NEW ONLINE WRITERS GROUP
Especially for Beginning and Intermediate Writers

A few years ago a group callled TheWritersView began was born. This group was developed as a learning tool for intermediate and advanced Christian writers. To join, you needed to prove that you were a "serious" writer (previously published, working as a journalist, at least one book project, etc). That group still exists, but the list owner recently began TheWritersView2. This list group is for beginning to intermediate writers who want to develop their skills and want to become advanced writers.

What Makes this list different....Two topics a week are offered by experienced panelists for group discussion. Panelists include advanced writers like Cec Murphy (written over 100 books), Lisa Crayton (editor of the SpiritLed Writer), and Lin Vincent (regular contributor and editor to World Magazine). All posts are strictly moderated - 2 e-mails per day of up to 250 wordseach. That's it! Nothing off topic. Nothing chatty. No personal-emails. This is strictly for idividuals interested in learning to be better writers. Topics include understanding editors, specifics about query letters, best websites for writers, etc... Do you want to learn the professional side of writing from writers who are working in that industry? Join TheWritersView2 now!
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TWV2/join

New Writing Website - Writer's Block

There is a wonderful article by Cecil Murphy on Show vs Tell on the Writer's Block website.

http://www.writers-block.info/Show%20Me%20Show%20Me%20by%20Cecil%20Murphey.htm

And don't forget to check out the other great information at this website. The Writer's Block website has only been up for a few months but it is already one of the better writing websites around.
http://www.writers-block.info/

Next Meeting
of the
North Jersey Christian Writers Group

Monday, April 24, 2006
6:15-7:00 Chat Time
7:00-8:00 Teaching
8:00-9:00 Critiques

Free Bible Searchs and Tools

Are you looking for just the right Bible verse to accompany your devotional? Do you need commentary quotes for your article?

Here are a few good online Bible search sites:
http://www.searchgodsword.org/
http://www.biblestudytools.net/
http://www.e-sword.net
http://www.biblestudycentral.net
http://bible.crosswalk.com/

Writing Op - True

Got a TRUE God story?

If God has made himself evident through an experience in your teen or young adult life or that of someone you know, share that story!

Irene Dunlap is a co-author of 6 books in the Chicken Soup for the Soul book series and is now in production with True Volume 2, Who's this God Guy?, the follow-up book to her Zondervan anthology, True: Real Stories about God showing up in the Lives of Teens.

The mission of TRUE is to bring a higher understanding of God's character to teens and young adults.

A wide array of issues are covered in the stories in TRUE Volume 1, including sexual temptations and pregnancy, pressures to drink and do drugs, as well as true experiences depicting how God worked in various life situations in the lives of teens and young adults.

For writing guidelines as well as general information regarding TRUE Volume 2, go to: http://www.lifewriters.com and click on the book icon for TRUE Vol. 2.

Please send all submissions to true@lifewriters.com May 15, 2006.

75th Annual Writer's Digest Writing Competition

75th Annual Writer's Digest Writing Competition

For 75 years, the Annual Writer’s Digest Competition has rewarded writers just like you for their finest work. And best of all, we’re celebrating our milestone year by giving away more than $30,000 in cash and prizes! Win a trip to New York City ! GRAND PRIZE: $3,000 cash and an all-expense paid trip to New York City to meet with editors or agents. Writer's Digest will fly you and a guest to The Big Apple, where you'll spend three days and two nights in the publishing capital of the world. While you're there, a Writer's Digest editor will escort you to meet and share your work with four editors or agents! Plus, you'll receive a free Diamond Publishing Package from Outskirts Press.
Entry Deadline: Monday, May 15, 2006. For entrants paying with a credit card, we will accept manuscripts submitted online. Manuscripts in the script categories must be submitted via regular mail.

P.U.G.S. for Writers

Kathy Ide has a wonderful website for writers. Her PUGS Pointers (Punctuation, Usage, Grammar, and Spelling) provide some amazing writer helps. Check it out!

http://www.kathyide.com/pointers.php

Realms Fiction

A Strang Company (publishers of Charisma magazine and books by popular Christian authors like John Hagee) have a new publishing line for Christian fiction. Its called Realms Fiction. They are targeting a Christian audience that leans more towards the supernatural and suspense lines.

Of the four books they are currently marketing, one is a time travel tale, one is fantasy, one is thriller/suspense (fleas juiced on the bubonic plague are unleashed in NY), and the last is about Lucifer--before and after the fall.

I haven't been able to locate submission guidelines. If anyone reading this knows how to submit to Strang, let me know.

NJCWG Members

If any NJCWG have items to post on this blog, send them to the facilitator.
Louise Bergmann DuMont
Author & Speaker

Writing Op - Adams Media

Are you up to the challenge of sharing your testimony? Adams Media is scheduled to turn out a book for the Christmas season 2006 that focuses on Christian conversion stories (a.k.a testimonies). And we'd love to consider including yours! Study the tips below and then send in your story as soon as you can.

Because of the Christmas deadline, Adams needs our completed book manuscript very soon--so we need your stories by May 5 (after that date, please check to see if we're still accepting stories before sending any). Adams will pay $50 for the stories chosen for publication.

Send your manuscripts as an attached file (preferred) or pasted in an E-mail to: ForeverHisProject@earthlink.net. If you have questions, you may also contact me there. Please feel free to forward this along to your friends and writing groups.

Thank you for considering writing for Forever His. This book will be sold in secular outlets, and has the potential to forever change lives. So we hope to hear from you.

Jeanette Gardner Littleton
Editor, His Forever
HisForeverProject@earthlink.net

Guidelines for His Forever
* Manuscript length is somewhat flexible; however, around 1500-1700 is the goal.
* Although this is a conversion story, you still need to have a focus. Use only details that pertain to that focus. Find the focus about your testimony that makes it different from others, and highlight that.
* Remember to show don't tell. Set up scenes, use dialogue, use your drama well without becoming melodramatic.
* Good stories have beginnings (leads), middles (body), and ends (conclusions). Even though you're telling your testimony, also take care to follow this normal first-person article structure.
* If a crisis led you to Christ, you need to fully explain it—don't allude to it or be vague about it.
* This book is designed to be sold mass market, i.e., Walmart, secular bookstores, etc. So watch using Christianese. Try to explain your testimony clearly enough that an unbeliever who doesn't know our "language" can understand what you're talking about.
* Give the readers materials to relate to—tell them your thoughts and feelings. Tell them specifics on how God drew you and worked in your life. Make spiritual concepts as concrete as possible.
* Be realistic. Don't make it sound like: Aha! You found God and suddenly life was perfect!
* Be positive. Don't bash other faiths or other people. Though you may need to mention sin you were involved in to bring around the positive point of what God saved you from, don't wallow in the sin.
* Do be specific, but don't give more details about the sin than about God drawing you.
* Watch dramatic language, especially when discussing spiritual warfare.
* Please know that those of us editing for Adams, as any magazine and book publisher, may give your manuscript a professional edit for length, clarity, and tightening.

Jeanette Gardner Littleton
Editor, His Forever
Adams Media

NJCWG Members

SPECIAL NOTICE TO NJCWG MEMBERS
If you have any books, tapes, CD's, or other materials that belonging to the facilitator of the NJCWG, please bring them to the meeting.

NJCWG members are asked to prayerfully consider taking a turn teaching something that they have learned about writing!

Next Meeting of the North Jersey Christian Writers Group
Monday, 4/10/06
6:15 Chat Time
7:00 Discussion Time - Members should bring anything that THEY learned about writing to this week's discussion.
8:00 Critiques

Free Two-Part Publishing Conference

Here is a message I recently received from Winepress publishing. They are one of the few subsidy press companies that I would endorse.

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

Greetings Christian Writer

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

I would like to invite you to a free two-part Christian Publishing Web Conference so you can investigate all your publishing options in today's competitive publishing world.

Starting on Tuesday, the 18th of April, 2006 I will be presenting the You Can Do It! Get Your Christian Book Published and Your Message Out in an interactive web conference format, two information packed 90-minute sessions.

If you want to get noticed by a royalty publisher and would like to see the alternative options you have available to do so, join me for the Part 1 of the 2 part conference....if you’re more interested in knowing how to create a platform and consider many possible ways to promote your book once in print, attend Part 2 of this informative conference. Or, join me for both!

As long as you have high speed internet access and a phone line you can join us from anywhere in the United States.

WinePress Publishing is recommended by Christian publishing industry experts as a viable option worth taking the time to investigate.

Visit the Web Conference sign up page for details.

Hope to see you there!

Warm Regards,
Athena

Spotlight on Poetry

The Writer Magazine has its spotlight on POETRY this month. They are celebrating National Poetry Month with a special Poetry Spotlight in the premium forums. Click here to read our first Poetry Spotlight poem, "The Muse," and comments from poets Kim Addonizio, Alfred Nicol and Claudia Grinnell.

Learn from poet Kay Day, winner of a number of awards for poetry and author of two collections of poetry and a memoir, on what makes a good poem. Whether you're a beginning poet or an accomplished poet looking to improve your poetry skills, this article and the advice in the poetry forums can help you.

May 13 Conference Canceled

Due to circumstances beyond my control, the May 13, A Reason to Write Conference has been CANCELED.

HOWEVER, I am considering hosting a Cecil Murphey mentor clinic. If anyone is interested in attending a mentor clinic in the North Jersey area, please contract me njcwg.dumont@gmail.com

For more information about Cec's clinics go to: http://www.cecilmurphey.com/mentor.html

You can also see comments from those who attended past clinics:
http://www.cecilmurphey.com/endorsements.html

NJCWG Update

Members of the NJCWG were informed yesterday evening that Louise Bergmann DuMont may need to step aside from her position as the group's facilitor. Members were encouraged to pray about the matter and to begin take ownership of the group.

God is calling for leaders.

Who will answer?

Further discussion will be forthcoming.

MEETING TONIGHT

IMPORTANT

Tonight's meeting of the NJCWG is going to be a very important one. If at all possible, every member should try to attend.

Louise Bergmann DuMont
Facilitator

Next Meeting NJCWG

Next Meeting of the NJCWG
Monday, March 27, 2006
Important Announcements About the Future of the NJCWG Will be Made at the Meeting - All Members Should Try to Attend

6:15-7:00 - Chat Time
7:00-8:00 - Teaching Time "Lessons Learned From the Mentor Clinc"
8:00-9:00 - Critiques

Wrting Op - Decision Magazine

DECISION Magazine
Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
1 Billy Graham Parkway
Charlotte NC 28201
Phone: (704)401-2432
Fax: (704)401-3009
E-Mail: submissions@bgea.org
Website: www.decisionmag.org

Non Fiction Needs: Personal Experience & testimony
Buys approximately 8 manuscripts/year.
Submission method: Send complete manuscript
Length: 400–1,500 words.
Pays $200-400.
TIPS: "Articles should have some connection to the ministry of Billy Graham or Franklin Graham. For example, you may have volunteered in one of these ministries or been touched by them. The article does not need to be entirely about that connection, but it should at least mention the connection. Testimonies and personal experience articles should show how God intervened in your life and how you have been transformed by God. SASE required with submissions."

Mentor Clinic

In the last few posts I shared a photos taken last week at Cecil Murphey's mentor clinic in Yorktown, VA. I have more photos but I'm having a hard time posting them. Hopefully I can get them up in a few days.

The photos are a nice rememberance, but what I learned at the clinic is what I will take with me for the rest of my life. Details will be forthcoming to the North Jersey Christian Writers Group at our next meeting - Monday, March 27. I hope to see you there!

Louise Bergmann DuMont

Teri Marriott - hard at work on her manuscript. 

Yvonne Ortega & Louise Bergmann DuMont
Yvonne's first book, a devotional for cancer survivors, is being published this year by Revel. 

Yvonne Ortega, the hostess of the Yorktown Mentor Clinic.