New Member Profile--Bri Lebrecht

The Glens Falls Writers Group caught my attention a couple months ago when I was looking for a local critique group. I had just finished my second Camp NaNoWriMo in April, in which I was reorganizing and revising a young adult (YA) WIP I've spent the better part of four years playing with. I completed the first draft of Revealed, a dual-narrative about a secret society of people with special abilities, roughly two years ago. Between homeschooling my two young children, running my hobby craft businesses (Baroness Caps and Fiction Stitches), caring for our flock of chickens and new goats, leading the Glens Falls chapter of Holistic Moms Network, and reading to keep up as the resident reader for Across the Board blog, my writing often takes the back burner, even when my characters are echoing in my head. Hence the four years part. ;) 

Before finding the group, I had tried my luck with online critiquing, which I found lacked the personal connection and experience I was looking for. I didn't want sugar coating or a pat on the back for effort. I wanted to know how to make my story better, how to grow as a writer, and what I could learn from someone else's experience. Finding this group of diverse writers has been something of a blessing for all that.

I remember the first meeting I attended. Simply put, I was in awe. The way the group interacted with one another, how honest their feedback was, and the questions the writers asked while being critiqued... I knew I had found a new home that would help me with what I wanted to achieve. After the meeting, I mentioned to Kay and Zackary how much I loved this blunt honesty and Zackary said that they were honest so we would know they meant it when they said it was good. And that's exactly what I was looking for when I began my search for a critique group. 

For every new meeting I attend, my excitement and passion for writing is renewed, and my determination to grow as a writer is replenished.  With their valuable feedback, I'm hoping the next draft of Revealed will be finished within the next few months. 

New Member Profile--Kat MacKenzie

I recently joined the group, and it's a really good mix of different writing styles and opinions.  Although while I lived in NYC I took a lot of writing workshops, I hadn't written lately. Something just keeps holding me back, which was weird, because it used to be as necessary for me as breathing. For me, joining this workshop was an attempt to tap back into that well that used to keep me writing all the time. I was the chick who wrote late into the night, who went to poetry readings, and who still reads so much that my boyfriend's nickname for me is Bookworm.

My first poem for the workshop was "Drawing Down the Moon," about a trip I made to Peru to visit a friend. It was the first time in four years that I was able to write about that friend. She broke my heart. I honestly think that she is the living embodiment of evil. But I didn't always feel that way. 

I wanted to write about what I loved about her. I wanted to write about how she hated her own name because the word meant bitter. I wanted to write about the moments where we believed we'd be friends forever and the journey that took us to where we are today. So I decided to write a chapbook--40 pages of prose poems--about that journey. I'm on page three now. The idea is to write the 40 poems through time, edit it, then workshop it to get feedback. 

I want it to show the way we love, and the risks we take by loving. 

I plan on submitting it to different contests for chapbooks that they list in Poets & Writers Magazine.

Work in Progress Update--Syrl Kazlo

My current project is a “cozy” mystery novel. The working title is Kibbles and Death, A Samantha Davies Mystery. Sam is a 50ish, divorced freelance writer, who, with her dachshund, Porkchop, stumbles on the body of the not-so-lovable animal shelter owner, Calvin Cobbs. When Frank Gilbert, boyfriend of her nosy neighbor Gladys O’Malley, is accused of the murder, Sam gets involved in proving who done it. 

In this genre, all the sex and violence occur off screen or should I saw are only alluded to. Its audience is mainly women and they often contain, what I call, a lot of fluff. Sam has a love of designer purses and '50s era music.

This work is a complete departure from the children’s novels I usually write. It has been a challenge as children’s literature follows a completely different set of writing rules. But as  I  read more and more “cozy" mysteries I found myself drawn into the fun and humor so often found in them. Fleshing out my writing and adding a sense of “place” has been a challenge.

The critiques from this group are invaluable to my writing. They are my “nuggets of gold.” They help me strengthen my writing and push me to write a better piece. They keep me on my literary toes for any inconsistencies  I may have written and improve the flow of my story.  The GFWG members really care about what we write and want us to pen the best work we can. 

Work in Progress Update--Adam Hoffman

I am currently working on compiling haiku with aspirations of publishing a book. As of writing this I have approximately 200 rough drafts, some of which are true haiku and some simply very short poems. Along with editing I am sorting the haiku into themes like family, people, animal and nature types (trees, flowers, night, etc.).

I have always loved brief poems and the white space around them. I believe it is that space which allows the reader to take an active part in the poetry and that sort of collaboration fascinates me. The other aspect of haiku that speaks to me is finding the intersection between nature and human nature. I see that as one of the roots of our humanity.

My audience is myself. That may be narcissistic and counterproductive to selling books, but I write for me. I'm not trying to be popular or successful. Writing is my brain and soul's exercise. If others enjoy it ... beautiful. I'm happy to share.

Writing haiku comes very naturally to me. Calling it easy would be a stretch, but I don't experience the dreadful mind cramps I get while editing other forms. There are set rules (something my mind craves) and it's obvious when a haiku doesn't work. I especially love the process by which I create haiku. I simply walk around with my notebook and write about anything poignant.  

The Glens Falls Writer's Group plays a crucial part in this process. It provides and excellent measuring stick. Meeting twice a month allows me to tack my work quantitatively. As far as critiques, I am looking mostly for how much and what did the work evoke in the reader. It's also interesting to see which were received well and which fell flat, though that's often a very personal and subjective thing.

Trapped in the Iron Maiden--Megan Taylor

GFWG member Megan Taylor had this to say in her graduate program's blog:

"For the last year, my body's felt like it's been trapped inside its own iron maiden..."

Check out the rest here.

P.S.--Megan told us at the last meeting that she has an essay coming up in the Cactus Heart online literary magazine so we look forward to seeing that when it's out!

Works in Progress Update--Sandy Buxton

As a way to document some of the efforts of the Glens Falls Writers Group, Kay asked me to talk about my current works in progress. Traditionally, I have written small memoir pieces with a little fiction thrown in. But all have been relatively short and in need of more development (both character and story).

My current projects are ambitious by my standards.

First, the group is currently critiquing my Beginner’s Guide to Orchids. As a relatively new grower, I know it is presumptuous but I have also been the newsletter editor for our local orchid society for 5.5 years. That position has given me tremendous opportunities to interview and glean nuggets from experts from all over, both U.S. and abroad.

I hope to be able to shed some light on the mysteries of orchid growing and encourage people to successfully enjoy these wonderous plants.

The flow is one of the tough parts of this project. Everything is so intertwined – light, water, fertilizer, humidity and pests – I feel like I am repeating myself all the time. But some of that is necessary. We will see how it goes and what the group thinks.

My second project is a fiction piece – science fiction I guess. An adventure series showing some cool things about science in agriculture. Hopefully, it will be ready to review when the orchid book is complete.

She's Back...

Hi all! It's me, Kay Hafner, aka Fearless Leader, back from extended hiatus (master's degree and other distractions!) to take the reins again as moderator/cheerleader. Thanks to Zack for keeping things going in my absence.

I'm looking forward to getting back into things andseeing what goals and challenges we can set, for the members as well as the group. Let me know what you'd like to see from the group in the future!

Also, if you haven't already Liked us on Facebook, we can be found under Glens Falls Writers Group there. (http://www.facebook.com/gfwriters)

August Newsletter, Introductions and Prompts etc.

Greetings,

Most of you know me as a newcomer to the GFWG, coaxed into joining by my friend and co-worker, Kay Hafner, (thank you, Kay!). In light of Kay's re-entry into college to further her career, knowing her work load will allow little free time for creative writing, she has asked for other members to take over writing the GFWG newsletter,. In that respect, myself and fellow member Chris Baldwin have volunteered our time. We hope to live up to the quality Kay has established with her informative content and inspiring words.

Deborah Austin

QUOTABLES Words to shift your mind into overdrive...

“A writer writes..always” ~Larry (Billy Crystal) “Throw Momma From the Train”

It is perfectly okay to write garbage—as long as you edit brilliantly.
- C. J. Cherryh

It took me fifteen years to discover I had no talent for writing, but I couldn’t give it up because by that time I was too famous.
- Robert Benchley

Writing is its own reward.
- Henry Miller

CONTESTS

The 2013 Assent Publishing “ROGUE WRITING” Contest by BAD DAY BOOKS

All subgenres of horror, thriller, suspense, and apocalyptic fiction accepted
http://assentpublishing.com/BadDayRogueWritingContest.aspx



The Family Circle Fiction Contest *ends Sept. 16^th!
 fictional short story of no more than 2,500 words (typed, double-spaced and page numbered on 8-1/2 x 11 paper),
http://www.familycircle.com/family-fun/fiction/fiction-contest-rules-2013/

PROMPTS

Since I am also a photographer, I would like to try a photo based writing prompt. Write a short story, ficlet, poem, haiku or what have you based on this photo.. to give you a boost..this is Utica State Hospital, an institution shut down in the '80's...

~In light of Glens Falls' recent Chalkfest, an exercise in description. One sidewalk square was allotted for each chalk artist. Using whatever form you wish, describe what you would draw in your square.

~Dialogue enhances a story, great dialogue can make it sparkle. Write a short exchange between a man on death row talking to his wife (children, mother, best friend, etc. you get the idea) for the last time.

~I travel a lot for my photography but it's never a grab the camera and go sort of thing. I have to bring my tripod, bag, zoom lens, maybe my reflector disc, macro lens...write an inner monologue for someone packing for, say, a camping trip, a once-in-a-lifetime vacation, a trip to hear the reading of a will, just as long as they're going somewhere...

I'm all about extending the story line of a favorite character either in literature, the movies or on TV. Take one of your favorite characters and write a scene for them. It can be written as a screenplay or a story.

Links  Advice to keep us writers writing.

http://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/2013/06/how-i-self-edit-my-novels-15-steps-from.html

http://janefriedman.com/2013/05/20/infographic-5-key-book-publishing-paths/

http://breathingfiction.com/2012/09/29/neil-gaimans-eight-rules-for-writing/

http://selfpublishingteam.com/25-author-tweet-ideas/

http://jnkhoury.blogspot.com/2013/04/ship-it-like-fedex-what-writers-can.html

How YOU Doin'?

Applause and wishes for good luck go out to Kay Hafner upon returning to college to further her education. Shoot for the moon! We're all behind you, we know you can do it!

Congratulations to Chris Baldwin, a guest artist with command of the center circle in City Park for the recent Glens Falls Chalkfest sponsored by APE.

If anyone has news they would like to have posted here, getting published, going back to school, public appearances, awards they've received, etc. Simply email me at funygirl38@hotmail.com and I will be glad to post them here...We all need a little positive affirmation now and then.

Well, I won't take up any more of your valuable writing time. Any questions, suggestions, comments, please don't hesitate to contact me. After all this is your group, it should be the way you want it to be.

Until next Thursday, Cheers!

Debbie

Michelle Galo

Michelle Galo is a grumpy, sarcastic stick-in-the-mud who grew up just shy of Canada and now resides in Glens Falls with her partner and their cat - and she says "partner" instead of "fiance" so you won't ask when the wedding is. She's been a member of the group since 2009.

When not writing poetry, Michelle can be found pushing the goods at Red Fox Books, cooking, watching the sky, and arguing for fun. She blogs at michellegalo.com.

David Fiske

David Fiske is employed at the New York State Library in Albany. He has previously worked as a technical writer (yes, writing some of those computer manuals you hate) and as a computer trainer.

His article, "Removing Obstacles to Easy Reading," was published in Technical Communication in 1994.

Currently he is one of several writers who contribute items for Ballston Spa Life's 'History Lesson' feature. His first two pieces are available online here and here.

Dave's main writing interests are humorous essays and non-fiction. He is slowly working on a book about abandoned places in New England.

His web site can be found at hikeghosttowns.com

Sandy Buxton

Sandy Buxton is working in several styles (memoir, fiction and essay) as she explores her writing voice. An educator by trade, she recently discovered the need to develop stories as a means of communicating lessons. Her work has appeared in Country Folks East and NH Weekly Market Bulletin. A graduate of Cornell University and Plattsburgh State University, Sandy is currently working on a family memoir, writing for the Northeastern NY Orchid Society and developing several short stories.

Kay Hafner

Kay Hafner has been a member of GFWG since its inception. While her background is in public relations and journalism, she’s found a happy home as a circulation clerk at Crandall Public Library in Glens Falls.

As a freelance writer, Kay’s been published locally in such places as The Chronicle and The Glens Falls Business Journal, as well as The Post-Star, where she had a column, “On the Bright Side.”

In addition to contributing to the GFWG blog, Kay maintains two blogs of her own at WordPress: Write Time and Eclectrica.

Kay is a member of Mavens of Mystery, the Albany chapter of Sisters in Crime, as well as the online Sisters in Crime group, Guppies. She is currently writing a mystery novel featuring real estate agent Anna McFerson, set in the fictional town of Bradford Falls, NY:


Welcome to Bradford Falls, NY
Everyone here has secrets that someone else is dying to tell.
Everyone here has secrets that someone else would kill to know.
No one here knows as much as Anna McFerson is going to find out.
If it’s the last thing she does.

Brian Farenell

Brian Farenell has been a member of the GFWG since 1998. He has done freelance writing and journalism. In addition to writing for his own blog, he is a regular contributor to the website Adirondack Almanack.

As a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, African current events and analysis has been the focus of much of his non-fiction work. He is also working on young adult fiction projects.

Brian has had articles published in publications such as Mano Vision and The Clarkson Integrator as well as letters to the editor in many newspapers and magazines, including Foreign Policy and Mother Jones.

When he is not writing or working at his day job, Brian is usually found biking, hiking or playing, coaching or watching soccer.

John Briggs

John Briggs has been a member of the GFWG for more than 10 years, most of which has been spent as a freelance writer and editor. A graduate of Temple University in Philadelphia, his work has appeared in print, as well as television, radio, and the Internet. He has worked as a syndicated features writer for TVData, AOL Time Warner, Demand Studios, and many others. John is the author of For Our Sins, a work of religious fiction concerning Jesus Christ's Harrowing of Hell. Today he is working on short stories and children’s books. Besides the GFWG, John is a member of SCBWI.