CONFERENCES YEAH OR NO WAY? By Susan Marlene
We will explore the benefits and downfalls of attending conferences. Questions at the end. 😊
Why should you attend conferences?
Preparation for Conferences
Face-to-Face Meetings? (Do they matter?)
Where Can You Find the ‘Best for You’ Conferences?
Oh, The COST!
 

1. WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND CONFERENCES?
2. Information highway—offering classes and teachers experience you probably would never have learned from on your own. Some classes you would think, “No, not for me!” Yet, the challenges and wisdom presented can change the direction of your writing career.
3. Conflicting information—of course. Some writers work and believe differently about this career than others—what a way to explore options and find your fit. Should you write articles? What kind and how to do it? Those are just some examples of inspiring topics that changed my thinking!
4. Getting to know writers in your genre and editors and agents is important! Some of their personal experiences are inspiring. You are not alone in your challenges and discouragements. If it is a worthwhile pursuit- you will have trouble along the way. (As with anything!)
5. You meet people with like-minded focus and those who are ahead of you that enjoy helping others grow. You can do the same for other newer writers.
6. Preparation for Conferences
7. Research who you wish to interview and a few more! Their link can be on the Conference WEB page. What do they recommend for hand-outs, proposals, sample writing? Don’t neglect this and you will be a happy camper!
8. What is business casual anyway? I wore long skirts-never ragged jeans or too casual clothing. You are trying to sell your image. Be professional and don’t over do it either.
9. Bring appropriate clothing if you will attend an awards dinner.
10. Purchase linen folders to hold your sample writing and One Sheet about the book you are pitching—if you are. And do have business cards at the ready to hand out to writers, agents and editors.
11. Take pictures of the event and yourself with others for social media.
12. You can or don’t have to bring your computer. Usually the classes run from morning until late at night.
13. Your Bible! 😊
14. Face-To-Face Meetings. (Do they matter?)
15. Book deals are made this way. If your piece is what they are looking for and they see your excitement that is a foot in the door for a new writer. (Unfortunately, many writers promise to send their work to agents or editors and never do. That is a plus for you if you send exactly what they ask for. (Follow on-line or guidelines they give to you. If you can’t follow directions—they realize you will be a labor
    of difficulty.)
16. You can sign up for a certain amount of interview. If you have favorable interaction this opens the door—even if you don’t have an agent—which is a difficult relationship to acquire if you don’t have excellent social media and platform already established.
17. Other authors may be just who you need to meet for encouragement, direction, information, and connections. Or you may be the person they need to meet.
18. Leaving a business card with your photo on it provides something to remember you by. I made my own. You can also have them made for you.
19. Where Can You Find the ‘Best for You’ Conferences?
20. Word of mouth. What is said about conferences can be found on FB, online reviews or from other writers you know.
21. “The Christian Writers MARKET GUIDE 2017” Your Comprehensive Resource for Getting Published by Steve Laube has an excellent chapter on WRITERS CONFERENCES AND SEMINARS.This gives you state by state opportunities and who to contact with descriptions of what this conference’s focus is.
22. On line searches, for example: I typed in “Writers Conferences 2018 fiction USA” and numerous conferences appeared. You may want to clarify your request by adding non-fiction, romance, etc.
23. Oh, The COST!
24. There is quite a range of varying costs for conferences. Sometimes, you can find a special local event that may charge very reasonable rates. If you need a room and meals your costs will go up accordingly. You can find some excellent opportunities through local writers’ groups in your state.
25. When finances are too strapped you can consider applying for scholarships, which do not need paid back. I have seen ACFW and Write To Publish offer them and they also allow writers to give toward scholarships so that writers who can’t afford the conference can attend. I’m sure each situation is different and maybe some scholarships pay the majority of the fees, but you would be responsible for travel and meal accommodations.
26. If you can’t attend but really need some of the teachings offered, many conferences offer teaching CD’s or USB Drives. You can pick and choose and ever order from earlier conferences. You will miss the interaction with word lovers but you will benefit from the classes you order. Check the WEB page for the organization offering the conference and pick your topics!
27. Once you start earning more than you are spending for conferences, travel and how to books you can write off your expenses for your taxes. Keeping track of those expenses can pay off for you if you work hard at selling articles or take on other paid writing opportunities.
    

QUESTIONS ANYONE?

• We can talk about some of the valuable lessons that were taught by qualified and successful writers in the business.
• How did meeting writers and editors and agents affect me personally?
• What kind of challenges did I focus on and wish to act on goals I’ve set for myself because of conferences?
• Critiques and what to watch for…just saying!I highly recommend conferences and encourage you to find the right one for you!
  

PENS OF PRAISE STATEMENT OF BELIEF:
Pens of Praise Christian Writers Group is a fellowship of word-loving communicators who provide encouragement, education, and listening ears to those writing clean and encouraging communication. We support the development of skill, attention to detail, and professionalism necessary to obtain personal and public publication. We are a group not limited by age, so even very young writers are welcome. We support Christian values and therefore do not share sex or overtly violent scenes, which would not be in keeping with Christian values concerning entertainment or enlightenment.

Let the teaching begin!  CONFERENCES YEAH OR NO WAY? Susan Marlene will share her experience and advice concerning writers conferences and what value they hold. Also, Kate Jungwirth will share information about holding a book signing.

Prompt: Write a quotable quote! Example from a bumper sticker: Life is becoming very frustrating but I believe in a better world. One where chickens can cross the road without having their motives questioned. Scare something up that will charm your imagination and make an impact on your neighborhood.

Bring your WIP (work in progress) to share a five-minute read. We are a safe place to share and grow. 

Pens Novel Readers: Susan Marlene is putting together a group email for those who want to join in picking novels and discussion meetings. (We want to respect those who are too busy or who are uninterested in a reader’s group.)

Stop at a local coffee shop or bring your own coffee or soda and relax with us a while.
 
May the Lord bless your writing endeavors as you write for Him! Any concerns or questions feel free to contact susanmarlenewrites@gmail.com or rebeccamclafferty@gmail.com
 
                                                                Blessings!

This month’s speaker was Wendy Lutzke. Wendy is an environmental educator, who shared about her lifelong writing, impromptu writing, and inspired writings. She sprinkled in examples from her life and ask for others to share theirs. Thank you Wendy for a wonderful and inspiring share! We appreciate you! We are also looking forward to listening to Wendy Lutzke on https://www.wisconsinlife.org/

PENS OF PRAISE                  June 19, 2018                  
Christian Writers Group
 
Introductions everyone!
The craft of writing tip.
Devotion – Pat Klein
Teaching:  Susan Fink

FINDING YOUR BEST IDEA
Susan is sharing a teaching on discovering ways to Find Your BEST Idea! Seriously—who couldn’t use this teaching! 😊 Bring your computer or paper and pen for this excellent method and inspiration for your successful writing journey!
 
Prompt: Finding Your Best Idea! You may use this share for your cozy murder mystery, poetry, short story or devotion that you wish to write! This can be in blurb form or an actual scene! Enjoy!
 
Announcements – Pick a Book to be explored at the next Pens Readers meeting. Challenge—sell articles to earn enough to attend a writer’s conference or purchase books on “how to write.”  Possible handouts about conferences or contests or teachings.
Pens Novel Readers: Susan Marlene is putting together a group email for those who want to join in picking novels and discussion meetings. (We want to respect those who are too busy or who are uninterested in a reader’s group.) The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz is our current read.
 
Shared by Susan Fink:
https://afajournal.org/past-issues/2018/june/more-than-world-class-sst-is-kingdom-class/
www.sight-sound.com
https://www.youtube.com/user/sightsoundtheatres

 Contact Susan L. Fink -  https://www.facebook.com/susan.l.fink
 

CHRISTIAN WRITERS GROUP
Let us know if your attending so we can save a seat just for you!
July 17, 2018
Tuesday 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Faith Free Church
2201 42nd St.
Manitowoc, WI  54220
 
This month’s speaker is Wendy Lutzke. Wendy is an environmental educator, who will share about lifelong writing, impromptu writing, inspired writing...those are true to the kind of writing she does. Those themes will be the heart of her talk and she will sprinkle in examples from her life and ask for others to share theirs. Any genre writer will appreciate hearing about Wendy’s knowledge and experience!
Prompt:  The Bounty of Nature! If you wish to use this as practice for your cozy, or poem or short story – etc. the world is your oyster! Enjoy! Yes, you may write a blurb or scene for this prompt if you like.
Bring your WIP (work in progress) to share a five-minute read. We are a safe place to share and grow. 
Pens Novel Readers: Susan Marlene is putting together a group email for those who want to join in picking novels and discussion meetings. (We want to respect those who are too busy or who are uninterested in a reader’s group.) The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz is our current read.
 
We invite you to stop at a local coffee shop or bring your own coffee or soda and relax with us a while.
 
Email Susan Marlene if you can attend: susanmarlenewrites@gmail.com
 
May the Lord bless your creative endeavors as you write for Him! Any concerns or questions feel free to contact susanmarlenekinney@gmail.com or rebeccamclafferty@gmail.com
 
Blessings!
 
EVENT SHARED BY SUSAN FINK:
GriefShare’s  Loss of a Spouse,  Saturday, August 18th  9am – 11am  Grace Lutheran Church,  2426 N. Rapids Road
People who are widowed haven’t just lost a loved one—they’ve lost an entire lifestyle.  If you, or someone you know, have experienced the death of a spouse, You are warmly invited to attend: To Register or for more information please contact Grace Lutheran Church
 (920-682-7377)  or gracelutheran@tm.net
This seminar includes a video featuring expert Christian counselors, authors, and pastors, and a supportive discussion   opportunity. Participation booklets include an outline, devotional materials and grief recovery exercises.

PENS OF PRAISE 

CHRISTIAN WRITERS GROUP

Let us know if your attending so we can save a seat just for you!

MAY 15, 2018

Tuesday 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Faith Free Church

2201 42nd St.

Manitowoc, WI  54220

 
This month’s speaker is Susan Marlene. Susan will share a teaching on This, That & The Other Thing!This will be a merging of information regarding dialogue, plot and whatever else captivates Susan’s mind! Come join us as we seek, retrieve and sneak a peek at this hodgepodge of tools and techniques!

Prompt:  This That & The Other Thing! If you wish to use this as practice for your cozy, or poem or short story – etc. the world is your oyster! Enjoy! Yes, you may write a blurb or scene for this prompt if you like.
Bring your WIP (work in progress) to share a five-minute read. We are a safe place to share and grow. 

Pens Novel Readers: Susan Marlene is putting together a group email for those who want to join in picking novels and discussion meetings. (We want to respect those who are too busy or who are uninterested in a reader’s group.)

Stop at a local coffee shop or bring your own coffee or soda and relax with us a while.

 
May the Lord bless your creative endeavors as you write for Him! Any concerns or questions feel free to contact susanmarlenekinney@gmail.com or rebeccamclafferty@gmail.com

 

Blessings!

GOALS AND ORGANIZATION -TIME IN A BIND?
GOALS – What is your target for success?
Susan Fink did a wonderful presentation on Writing Goals in February. She gave us handouts and inspired all who attended the meeting! Thank you Susan Fink!

Research Resources & Your Library by Susan M. Menk, Youth Librarian 
 
Speaker Susan M. Menk, Youth Librarian from Manitowoc Public Library taught “Research Resources @ Your Library.” This expertise is useful for sharpening the validity and accuracy of whatever we write, be it historical, contemporary, non-fiction, or fiction. Our libraries are true resources that will be valuable for us to make use of!

Prompt: “One cozy character!”  What type of cozy murder mystery character would you wish to read about? Yes, you may write a blurb or scene for this prompt if you like.
Bring your WIP (work in progress) to share a five-minute read. We are a safe place to share and grow. 

Pens Novel Readers: Susan Marlene is putting together a group email for those who want to join in picking novels and discussion meetings. (We want to respect those who are too busy or who are uninterested in a reader’s group.)

GOALS AND ORGANIZATION -TIME IN A BIND Continued by Susan Marlene
ORGANIZATION – Does it really matter? At what cost? 
 
CISION PR NEWSWIRE: Lost & Found: The average American spends 2.5 days each year looking for lost items collectively costing U.S. Households $2.7 billion annually in replacement costs. (Millennials {40 - 28} are the biggest losers being twice as likely as boomers to misplace possessions.)

The average American will waste more than a year over a lifetime looking for something to watch on TV. By Ashley Rodriguez Nov. 6, 2016 (23 minutes per day flipping channels.)
Time is precious. The information above may vary per person significantly, yet the point is made concerning lost time.  How many of us keep our records filed concerning expenditures and where you send articles? Knowing where we have information stored will minimize wasted time, so you can be more productive with those gems called minutes, hours, and days. I know I’ve been meaning to improve in this area and have made only a half-hearted attempt until now.

FILES BY THE MILES:
What are excellent items to file? If you wish to build your writing business so that it flows like a well-oiled machine file—millage, expenses—materials and conferences costs and mailings, research, historical research, where you submitted articles, short stories and or manuscripts etc., as well as confirmation of acceptance and rejection information. Contracts. Contact information per item and dates submitted and also when or if that piece is free to resubmit. An excellent time saver on the computer could be Excel –the date that would alert you to when your work is available to resubmit. Conditional Formatting. 

WHAT AMOUNT OF TIME IS NEEDED TO ORGANIZE:  Most of you may have a half-hearted start to organizing your writing information. I personally took a day and worked on my book shelves. One shelf for writing information and how-to, one section for Bible study and another for Civil War. The next book case is for research books of a variety of subjects with upper shelves being used specifically for Revolutionary War topics and memorabilia. I also purchased a magazine holder where I put like magazines together.
My file organization was started, but need a ‘do-over’ to work efficiently. It took me one hour to organize and add files that I needed and take out the ones that didn’t logically belong there. This will especially be excellent for tax time information gathering. (Expenses and money made.)
CORKBOARD – Pin up your plotting info and inspiring or research photos and anything else that can assist your productivity. You can keep it on an easel or slip it behind a piece of furniture when not in use—your choice. Its usefulness is limited only by your imagination.

KNOWING WHO TO PURSUE: Don’t wait for the last minute to choose an agent, editor, or publishing editor. Take a bit of time each week or month to look into who sells your genre. Keep a watch over them. Jot down what would work or not work with each one. Join their social media or email list. Check the acknowledgements to see who is appreciated in your chosen genre? (If you write similar to time period and style with an author who praises their agent and editor—you may wish to look elsewhere. This may be a conflict of interests for that agent or editor to have two authors so alike in genre to represent.

SUGGESTED ORGANIZATION I’M TRYING:

• Portable file organizer – This helps with the notes I’ve taken at conferences and from WEBNARS on legal pads. Usually, I’ve lost notes from conferences and teachings posthaste, but now I can sort them by subject immediately and efficiently.
• Keep like subjects together–Label with brief, easily read, and understood titles.
• Keep small notebook handy for ideas. (Journal books work well or hard back notebooks with binding elastic. Anything that protects the pages from ripping or folding.)
• Place information you need inside the labeled file ASAP. The sooner the better!
• Three ring binders with divider tabs and clear sleeves.
  

ORGANIZING CHARACTER INFO: Have you ever read about or even wrote a character into a story where somehow the hair, name, eye color, or age changes? This is distracting for the reader and kills believability and trust for that story and the authors future labors. Here are some record keeping suggestions…

• Recipe holder with recipe cards with character by character or location information.
• Make a file chart in your computer with character descriptions: physical appearance, temperament, talents, goals, weaknesses, love language or anything else important.
• < >https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener/overview  I’ve heard great reviews and some criticisms about Scrivener. This is an ‘all together’ organizing tool, which is reasonably priced. $45.00. You are allowed a 30-day free trial. File, recipe card system, to note sources and information about the research you acquired for your piece. (Yes, agents and editors do require your sources.)
  
• Anyone that you quote—the legal amount of words and individuals quoted. It is the law.
  

Due to inclement weather we are canceling the Pens of Praise meeting set for tomorrow night. I will email our writers and post on this WEB page and on my blog the updated information.

Take care and keep safe and warm!

I used this Williamsburg, VA photo because it made me think of organization!

Let us know if your attending so we can save a seat just for you!
April 16, 2018                     Monday 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Faith Free Church
2201 42nd St.
Manitowoc, WI  54220
 
“GOALS AND ORGANIZATION – TIME IN A BIND”

This months teaching by Susan Marlene is a continuation from our previous class on developing goals by Susan Fink. Susan Marlene will lead your amazing journey to discover your possibilities with organization. This is the ‘other’ skill which can make or break your writing career or your beloved hobby. How would you like to enjoy more time creating and playing with written communication and storytelling? I sure want that! Come and be inspired!

Prompt: “One cozy character!”  What type of cozy murder mystery character would you wish to read about? Yes, you may write a blurb or scene for this prompt if you like. (Kathy you have a week to stir something up! I can’t wait to see your imagination emerge with this prompt!)

Non-fiction Writers: What non-fiction ‘how to do’ book would you like to write or see written? Scare something up that will charm your imagination and make an impact on your neighborhood.
Bring your WIP (work in progress) to share a five-minute read. We are a safe place to share and grow. 

Pens Novel Readers: Susan Marlene is putting together a group email for those who want to join in picking novels and discussion meetings. (We want to respect those who are too busy or who are uninterested in a reader’s group.)
Stop at a local coffee shop or bring your own coffee or soda and relax with us a while.
 
May the Lord bless your writing endeavors as you write for Him! Any concerns or questions feel free to contact susanmarlenekinney@gmail.com or rebeccamclafferty@gmail.com
 
Blessings!