Sonoma County Writers’ Guide Update
August 1, 2008
Dear Literary Folk,
I’ve spent the last two weeks in Moab and the Rocky Mountain National Park. Outside of California, it’s hard to find landscape more dramatic. Flying home from Denver, I could see the smoke veil hanging above our beautiful state, especially over Yosemite. Once again, I hope you and your homes are safe. It feels as if we are living in epic times, and perhaps we are.
For the second time in recent history, the U.S. Poet Laureate hails from the West Coast. The first was Bob Hass who served from 1995-1997. The second is our newest Poet Laureate, Fairfax’s Kay Ryan. Most of us know of Kay’s marvelous wit and her complex, sometimes quirky, always thoughtful poems. In a recent interview Ryan said, “Poetry should leave you feeling freer and not more burdened. I like to think of all good poetry as providing more oxygen in the atmosphere. Poems just make it easier to breathe.” What an honor for us all to have Kay Ryan in our community, and how smart of the powers that be to select her for the Poet Laureate position!
To read the NY Times article about Kay’s selection, here’s the link: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/17/books/17poet.html?_r=1.
Kay Ryan will be the featured poet at a benefit for Sixteen Rivers Press on October 11, 2008. Stay tuned for details about this in the September Update.
On a very different note, Marylu Downing sent me a message about one of our literary folk—Robin Beeman’s husband Elmer has passed away. From my years on the Book Festival fund raisers and events, I had the pleasure of knowing him, alas, all too briefly. A good man may be hard to find, but he was certainly one. On behalf of the Sonoma County literary community, I send Robin our love and condolences. Elmer will be much missed.
The Literary Update has a couple of new features started last month. The first is the “News from . . .” feature, providing updates from various parts of the county. Pat Nolan has been sending me news from West County, and Vilma Ginzberg reports from North County. Cynthia Beecher and Lin Marie deVincent recently sent word from the East County. I hope to keep all and various branches of Sonoma County in the loop in this way. I welcome other “ears and eyes” to send in their news, too!
The second new feature is a report of new chapbook and book publications. If you have a new book to announce, send the information to me by the end of the calendar month. Include a link reader’s can use to get more information about the book and how to purchase it. Basic guidelines for announcements appear at the end of this section of the Literary Update.
News from East County
The 2008 Sonoma Poet as Community Leader has been chosen:
We congratulate ARTHUR DAWSON!
Sonoma Poet Arthur Dawson has been selected as the 2008 Community Leader. An informal reception was held to celebrate at the Sonoma Valley Library on Friday, June 20.
This award was originally created in 2002 by the Sonoma Poetry Collective to recognize Sonoma poets for their exceptional contributions to the community. Past recipients were Russ Bedord, Chris Giovacchini-Ramirez and Lin Marie deVincent.
For more information about the award and Arthur’s work in the Sonoma County literary community, visit the Literary Update’s website and check out July’s issue at www.literaryfolk.wordpress.com.
News from West County
Snake River Reading Series
On Sunday, August 31st at 3 PM at the Gold Coast Coffee Company in Duncans Mills, THE SNAKE RIVER READING SERIES hosted by Mike Tuggle, Sonoma County Poet Laureate, will feature short story author Dan Coshnear and poet Mike Tuggle.
Low Power Literary Radio in West Sonoma Co.
There are two monthly book shows on local low power FM radio stations. Nearing its second anniversary, Off The Shelf, airs at 8 PM on the first Sunday of the month on Guerneville’s KGGV 95.1FM. Hosted by Peter Andrews and Pat Nolan, the May 4th edition of Off The Shelf will feature travel writer Laurie Gough whose latest book is Kiss The Sunset Pig. KGGV offers streaming at www.kggvfm.org. Book Flaps, the nexus between Books and Life, hosted by Suzanne Lang and Pat Nolan is offered on Occidental’s brand new radio station, KOWS 107.3 FM, on the last Thursday of the month at 5 PM. Previous shows have featured discussions on consciousness and guest poets from the West County.
News from North County
On Tuesday, August 5, 7-9 PM, The Center Literary Café presents Joe Armstrong, storyteller and songwriter, joined by Pete Thompson, lead guitar and Jim Brewer, bass. Joe is best known for his stories of growing up in rural Arkansas featuring contrary goats, dogs and rattlesnakes, his storytelling uncles, and the exploits of his preacher father. He writes and performs songs on the guitar to highlight his storytelling. He divides his retirement time writing, raising organic vegetables on twelve acres outside Healdsburg and living with wife Karen in a passive solar house he designed. Joe retired from a life rich in story material. He was a Navy Carrier Fighter Pilot, headed two major electronic laboratories, traveled the world as a technical consultant for his government and settled down to serve as Professor of Engineering at San Jose State and Professor of Energy Management & Solar Design at Sonoma State University. He is the author of two books, “Tales of a Fledgling Homestead,” and “Preacher Kid Stories from Arkansas,” with a CD of the same name featuring his storytelling. Prepare yourselves for a terrific evening of stories and song with these three performers.
The event is free, but donations are appreciated to keep the monthly programs running.
Open mic Book Sale Table for Authors
Doors open at 6:30 pm at Healdsburg Senior Center, 133 Matheson Street (one block east of Plaza), Healdsburg, CA 95448.
Info: Cynthia Helen (707) 696-1111
On Sunday, August 17 from 2-4 PM, the Third Sunday Salon of the Healdsburg Literary Guild presents Luke Warm Water, recipient of an Archibald Bush Foundation Fellowship and featured poet at the Geraldine R. Dodge Festival and the Montana Festival of the Book, in a rare North Bay appearance at City Hall, North and Vine streets, Healdsburg. MC: David Madgalene 836-9586
Sonoma County in Print
New Chapbook from poet KATHLEEN WINTER
In June, Finishing Line Press of Georgetown, Kentucky published a chapbook of poems, Invisible Pictures, by Kathleen Winter. The chapbook is available from the publisher’s website, finishinglinepress.com, and from Amazon.com. Kathleen’s poems have been published by, or are forthcoming in, Field, Tin House, 32 Poems, The Cincinnati Review, Parthenon West Review, and other journals and anthologies. Kathleen and her husband Greg Campbell recently relocated to Tempe, Arizona. She will attend the Arizona State University Creative Writing MFA program while working as a teaching assistant in the English Department. The couple plans to return to Sonoma County, where they lived from 1998 to 2008, after Kathleen completes her degree program.
A Day in the Life of Healdsburg
Through the eyes of local writers
BOOK LAUNCH: Wednesday, August 13, 2008 Healdsburg Regional Library. 7 PM. FREE (Books for sale). Contributing authors will share their experiences. All profits support the work of the Healdsburg Literary Guild and the Healdsburg Arts Council. Contact: 433-4409
Sticking to Earth: A new book of poems by Melanie Maier
To launch Sticking to Earth, Melanie will be reading on Thursday, August 7 with Richard Brown, Margaret Kaufman, and Naomi Lowinsky at Book Passage, 51 Tamal Vista in Corte Madera. Reception at 7, reading at 7:30.
For more information, or to order Melanie’s book, check out her website at www.melaniemaier.com.
New from WordTemple Press
The Small Change Series of the WordTemple Press has just published a book of poems by Gwynn O’Gara, Winter at Green Haven. Elizabeth Herron says, “These poems invite us into the world of West Coast winter. Here the subdued realms of death and memory run hidden currents under the immediacy of bright moss and quick birds. This is a book for any season.” O’Gara is the author of two previous collections of poetry, Snake Woman Poems (Beatitude Press) and Fixer-Upper (dPress).
Other books in the Small Change Series include Angelize by David Meltzer; Fennel in the Rain by Jack and Adelle Foley; and Lonidier Rampant by Katherine Hastings.
Joan Frank’s New Novel
On Sunday, August 10, at 7 PM Joan Frank will be reading from THE GREAT FAR AWAY at the Corte Madera branch of Book Passage. THE GREAT FAR AWAY is a small, dreamlike story, with a lovely cover. It was a nominee for the 2007 Northern California Book Award in Fiction, and various sources have said nice things about it. You can read some of those on my website, www.joanfrank.org or e-mail joanfrank@sbcglobal.net.
UUCSR (Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Rosa Writers) Invites New Members
UUCSR meets from 4 – 6 pm in the Green Room at the Unitarian Universalist Church Santa Rosa.
About the UUCSR Writers
Whatever your creative endeavor: memoirs, letters, history, biography, the Great American novel, short story, poetry, essays, dissertation, Master’s thesis, song lyrics, report, term paper, cook book, web pages, blogging, etc., our focus is to provide an atmosphere where serious writers improve and hone their writing skills.
The UUCSR Writers is open to the novice, the more experienced, and the published author. Membership at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation Santa Rosa (UUCSR) is not required. We meet once a month in the “Green Room” at UUCSR in Santa Rosa, CA on the First Monday of the month from 4:00-6:00pm.
UUCSR Online Writers
Can’t attend monthly meetings? Live in another City, State or Country? Request an Invitation to join our “Online Writers” Blog. You can learn more about our group, and current “Works-in-Progress”, at the UUCSR Writers Blog.
Information
UUCSR Writers, Georgette G. deBlois, GGdeB@aol.com, http://uucsrwriters.blogspot.com
Sonoma County Book Festival
The Sonoma County Book Festival is scheduled for Saturday, September 20. For those of you with books, journals, or literary organizations to exhibit, this is a great place to share your wares with the extended literary community. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to hear local and national writers reading from their new works, panels on various topics of interest to readers and writers alike, and enjoy the annual “family reunion” in and around Courthouse Square. If you’d like more information, or would like to volunteer on the day of the Festival, check out the website at www.sonomacountybookfestival.org. You’re also welcome to attend the next planning meeting.
Next Meeting
When: Monday August 11
Time: 6pm – 7pm
Where: SR Central Library 3rd St & E St (upstairs conference room)
The Literary Arts Guild Presents a Benefit for the Sonoma County Book Festival at Windrush Farm
Saturday August 9, 2pm – 5pm
Windrush Farm
2263 Chileno Valley Rd, Petaluma
Meet renowned cook, teacher, and author of From the Earth to the Table: John Ash’s Wine Country Cuisine, recently revised, updated & reissued with 45 new recipes!
Spend a fabulous afternoon on a real working farm, enjoy the pleasure of John’s company & delight in Cowgirl Creamery cheeses and wood-fired pizza paired with a glass of wine, beer or fresh-squeezed lemonade.
From 2pm Listen to live music from local songstress Sarah Baker, a powerhouse vocalist with multiple recordings across a range of genres including blues, rock and pop.
From 3pm, John Ash will regale us with his tales and later there will be time for teatime desserts, and for John to sign his book for you. And yes, we will have books available for sale on the day.
Dress, dare we say optional? Let’s try rustic (you may be sitting on a hay bale). It is a working farm after all! Sturdy shoes are also recommended as the goats do get around at Windrush farm.
Suggested donation for this event $35. All proceeds benefit the Sonoma County Book Festival and ensure it remains a FREE event!
To get specific directions and to make sure we have enough pizza and hay bales, please call J.J. Wilson at 707-795-9028 or EMAIL boxcar@sonic.net before July 31st.
Children’s Media Company Seeks Writing Talent
Are you an aspiring scriptwriter looking for a long-term project to sink your creativity into? Ocean Rudee & Company of Sebastopol is in the process of pulling together a team of 4 to 6 ‘scriptors’. Project responsibilities will include: the development of an ongoing series of radio serial dramas and related multi-media programs for children from 4 to 8-years of age (as well as their parents, teachers and primary caregivers).
Prior experience writing for children is not necessary. An understanding of how to write for continuity, how to maintain and adhere to a well developed set of character profiles, the ability to function well as a team player, a love of children’s literature and an abiding commitment to the muse – are essential.
If this is you, please visit Ocean Rudee’s website (www.oceanrudee.com) and send off an e-mail expressing your interest in learning more.
Upcoming Writing Workshops
Many Sonoma County writers offer their expertise and writing support through local workshops. Some are day-long, some are ongoing, and some are retreats. Details about these and other ongoing workshops can be found at the end of the Update, listed alphabetically by workshop leader or sponsor.
Traveling Light: A Writing Workshop with Diane di Prima
Saturday and Sunday, August 2 & 3
10am to 1pm and 3-6 pm
(four sessions in all)
Pre-registration and $75 deposit required. Tuition $300. For more information, call Geri Digiorno at (707) 763-4271.
This weekend of writing will be based on guided visualizations that allow us to travel in the realms of the imagination, both to explore outer space and to expand our inner worlds and their richness. We will use traditional magickal imagery, dreams, and visions from our daily lives, and myths of various cultures to discover new possibilities for personal self-renewal and to empower our work as artists in the world. All levels of expertise, from beginners to professional writers, are welcome.
Write To Take Care Of Yourself & Art Collage with Marlene Cullen
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Time: 9:00 am to noon
Location and Registration: Petaluma Community Center, 320 No. McDowellBlvd. Petaluma
$40
The first part of this workshop will be an exploration of significant eventthrough writing. The second part features art collage as a fun way to discover personal path. No special writing experience needed. Bring a notebook and pen. Material for art collage will be provided. You are also welcome to bring your own material.
Marlene Cullen is a contributing editor for www.tiny-lights.com, writing coach, and founder of Writers Forum of Petaluma. Her workshops provide essential elements for successful writing, where participants often experience transformational changes.
Please visit Marlene’s website for more information: www.thewritespot.us Marlene can be reached at: mcullen@comcast.net
People, Places and Poetry Discussion Group
Sunday, August 17th 11:30-1:00pm
Hosted by Geri DiGiorno and Nancy Long of LiveWire Literary Salon
Theme: Poems on a Postcard
Bring a poem to share (written by your favorite poet or your own!). Writing exercise and reading of your work (only if you want to…)All levels welcomed! No experience required! Last month, twelve people showed up and we certainly had a good time! Couldn’t drag myself out of there!
For more info: Nancy Long at nsasha@earthlink.ne
Petaluma Writers Forum
Writers Forum proudly presents Dan Coshnear
Thursday, August 21, 2008 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Petaluma Community Center, 320 No. McDowell Blvd. Petaluma
$15 at the door
Daniel Coshnear Unlearning: A process of finding the truth in your fiction
We’ll examine a variety of misleading ideas and potential pitfalls for
beginning and experienced writers.
DANIEL COSHNEAR, teacher of fiction writing, author of Jobs & Other
Preoccupations (Helicon Nine 2000), Willa Cather Award winner, and 2003
BABRA winner, awarded the Editor’s Prize from The Missouri Review and
received a Fellowship from the Christopher Isherwood Foundation.
Sponsored by the Petaluma Arts Council (www.petalumaartscouncil.org) and
supported by Poets & Writers, Inc. through a grant it has received from the
Hearst Foundation.
Children’s Writers Critique Group
Join other children’s writers in discussing and critiquing your picture book manuscripts, easy readers, chapter books and novels for young people. This is a safe and supportive group for all levels of experience. Facilitated by children’s author Lisa Shulman. For more information and to reserve a space, email lisa@lisashulman.com
Dates: 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, 7-9pm, September 3 to November 19, $60
Location: The Sitting Room, 170 East Cotati Ave., Cotati, CA 94931
Lisa Shulman is the author of several picture books, including Old MacDonald had a Woodshop, The Matzo Ball Boy, and The Moon Might Be Milk. She has recently finished a middle-grade novel and has written dozens of children’s books for the educational market. Her poetry, fiction, and nonfiction for adults have appeared in various journals. A former elementary school teacher, Lisa currently teaches a creative writing class for children and teens at the Sebastopol Center for the Arts. You can visit her online at www.lisashulman.com
Scott Reid’s Updraft: An Online Poetry Workshop to Ignite Your Imagination
This long-distance learning adventure is for all ages and levels of experience. All you need is the desire to make better poems and a willingness to study the craft of poetry.
In this workshop, you have the opportunity to:* Meet poets from around the world * Make new friends * Write a new poem every week * Take a class that fits into your schedule * Have fun We meet online Saturday mornings for guided writing exercises. Students engage in brainstorm techniques and writing assignments that focus on various aspects of poetry. Upon finishing the first draft, we post our writing to a private discussion board and then critique follows. Throughout the week, we revise and post our second drafts. Students receive peer feedback as well as individual mentoring from the instructor.
Class begins 13 September, 2008 and runs for six weeks.
Instructor Scott Reid, MA presents poetry writing classes for children in Sonoma County with California Poets in the Schools. His poems have appeared in Blue Unicorn, The Berkeley Poetry Review, Melic Review, Sow’s Ear, and The Dickens, and he has received writing fellowships to the Squaw Valley Writers’ Conference, Napa Valley Writers’ Conference, and the Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference. As presenter of poetry for adults since 1989, he
has taught many classes in poetry at the Albany Adult School. The Updraft poetry workshop is starting its eighth year.
For information about the class, please visit: http://www.sonic.net/poetry/albany/workshop/intro.html
WRITING FROM YOUR CORE: Creative Writing Workshops with Clara Rosemarda
5 sessions begin
Wednesday, September 17th, 7-9:30pm OR
Thursday, September 18th, 10am–12:30pm
fee $150 ($140 if paid by August 31st) Space is limited.
These classes will be conducted in a comfortable environment near downtown Santa Rosa
Contact Clara: 707:579-2081 rosen@sonic.net
Creative writing propels the writer into the unknown. Strong attention allows us to drop into deep writing. Whether you write prose or poetry, letters or fiction, this workshop will inspire your muse to write from a core place. Through meditation, visualizations, and other exercises that quiet the mind and expand the imagination, you will access core images, ideas, and memories. Open to beginning as well as seasoned writers.
“One can write nothing readable unless one constantly struggles to efface one’s own personality. Good prose is like a window pane.” George Orwell from “Why I Write”
Prose Poem Workshop with Terry Ehret
Meeting Times: Fridays 9 AM to noon
Meeting Dates: September 19, 26, October 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, November 7
Location: The Sitting Room, 170 East Cotati Avenue
Cost: $180 for eight week session plus $20 donation to the Sitting Room
What exactly is a prose poem? Happily, the form defies strict definitions, leaving its practitioners free to invent and discover. During the first four weeks, we will explore the works of different prose poets. Each of these classes will include a free-write or a structured writing exercise, using the week’s featured authors for inspiration. During the second four weeks, participants will bring in their own prose poems for workshop discussion and conversation. Our focus for the Fall Workshop will be on the prose poems of current U.S. Poet Laureate Charles Simic; “Mr. Prose Poem himself,” Russell Edson; and the work of two local poets and publishers: Susan Terris and Lyn Follett. Susan and Lyn will be our guest authors on October 3.
Workshops are open to all writers, prose and poetry, beginning and experienced, male and female, young and old, or anything in between.
To reserve a space or find out more about these workshops, e-mail tehret99@comcast.net.
$50 deposit required to hold your space.
For more information about workshop dates and fees, check the website at www.terryehret.com
A list of other Sonoma County writing workshop leaders appears in the details about workshops and events at the end of the update. Feel free to contact them about their private consultations or to find out when their next workshops will be.
Calls for Submission
If you’d like to explore ways to get your writing out of the drawer and into print, check out the information on the Literary Folk website and on my personal website:
http://literaryfolk.wordpress.com/recommended-northern-california-journals-and-presses/
http://www.terryehret.com/consulting.htm
SRJC’s Literary Journal First Leaves Returns in 2009!
Join the Staff of First Leaves
If you have ever wanted to be on the staff of an energetic, literary journal and learn the process of compiling a publication, plan to join English 80 (3 unit, CSU transferable) for the Spring ’09 semester.
Students enrolled in English 80 are involved in all aspects of producing a literary journal (with the guidance of the instructor), from approving submissions to putting the actual journal together.
Evaluating other people’s work is a great way to learn your own strengths and weaknesses. The class is fun, collaborative, and project-based: we will produce a high-quality, well-designed magazine. We welcome the participation of people throughout the North Bay, including mature working adults, young adults, teens and retirees.
Contact Instructor Abby Bogomolny for more information: (707) 522-2779
Ongoing Writers’ Groups and Open Mic Readings
1. First Sunday of the month: The Redwood Branch of the California Writers’ Club are held on the first Sunday of the month, (except for holiday weekends), from 3-5 pm. at Marvin’s Restaurant, 7991 Old Redwood Highway, corner of William St., in Cotati. A small fee of $3 for members, $5 for nonmembers is asked to cover room rental and light refreshments. For more information see www.redwoodwriters.org or call Karen at 795-4591.
2. Sundays 2-4 PM: Wine and Words: Livermore’s Poet Laureate, Connie Post, invites you to attend a continuing Livermore Poetry Series. Featured Reader begins at 2 p.m. Location: Martinelli Event Center. 3585 Greenville Road. Open Mic will take place. Catered by Garré Winery and Café. One poem per reader (40 lines or fewer). For directions, go to www.garrewinery.com.
3. Last Sunday of each month, 6-8:30 PM: Poetry, Pints, and Prose hosted by Michelle Baynes upstairs at Finbar Devine’s Irish Pub and Restaurant. The readings begin with a featured reader, followed by open-mic. For more For more information, contact Michelle at 707-326-3773 or Catherine at 707-338-1554 or e-mail them at PoetryPintsProse@aol.com. Location: 145 Kentucky St., Petaluma, Ca. Phone (707) 762-9807 or (707) 762-9800.
4. First Monday of the Month: Unitarian Universalist Congregation Santa Rosa (UUCSR) Writers meet in the "New Room", Unitarian Universalist Congregation Santa Rosa, 547 Mendocino Ave.Santa Rosa, Ca 95401, 707-568-5381 or http://www.uusantarosa.org/ Meetings are held in the afternoon, 4 - 6 pm, and again in the evening, 6:45 - 8:45 pm. Focus: Whatever your creative endeavor: memoirs, letters, history, biographies, the Great American novel, poems, essays, song lyrics, reports, term papers, cook books, web pages, blogs, etc., our focus is to provide an atmosphere where you can improve and hone your writing skills.The UUCSR Writers is open to the novice, the more experienced, and the published author. Membership at UUCSR is not required. UUCSR Writers, Georgette G. deBlois, GGdeB@aol.com, http://uucsrwriters.blogspot.com
5. First Tuesday of each month 7-9 PM: The Center Literary Cafe hosts a featured writer and an open mic reading at the Healdsburg Senior Center 133 Matheson St. (one block east of the Plaza). Light refreshments are served. Admission is free ($5.00 donation encouraged). Contact: Cynthia Helen Beecher (707) 696-1111.
6. First Thursday of every other month: The Sococo Poetry Reading Series at the Sonoma County Coffee Company The readings begin at 7:30. Location: 521 4th Santa Rosa, CA 95401. For information about the readings or to ask about being included on the program, contact Ed Coletti, SoCoCo’s director and emcee, at edcoletti@sbcglobal.net.
7. First Saturday of each month starting Feb. 2, 2008, 5 pm -8 pm. at The Barking Dog Café, 18133 Hwy 12, Sonoma, Ca. 95476. The reading series is hosted by Juanita J. Martin,2005-06 Sonoma County Library Slam Champion. Call Juanita @ (707) 435-1807 for more information or call the cafe @ (707) 939-1905.
8. ODD Month Readings HEATWAVE Odd Month Reading 2-4PM Featuring Local Authors Free Public event. The Barking Dog Roasters, 18133 Sonoma Hwy (Hwy 12), across from Sonoma Mission Inn, Sonoma. Parking is limited. Consider carpooling and save on gas too! 707-939-1905 This reading is OPEN to non-members but is NOT open mic. Contact Ann Wilkes at critiquegrpcoord@redwoodwriters.org or 707-792-1704 to get on the list or for more information. Redwood Writers roves the county with talented writers for your listening pleasure. Find us in Cotati in September.
August Calendar of Literary Events
The monthly calendar reflects announcements sent to me, and a sample of the literary presentations at various bookstores. To get a more complete list of author-events and workshop schedules, addresses and directions to the event locations, as well as bios of the presenters, you can use these links.
v Copperfield’s Books http://www.copperfields.net/
v Readers’ Books www.readersbooks.com
v Center Cafe in Healdburg: http://www.mcrory.com/litcafe/index.php
v WordTemple Poetry Series http://www.wordtemple.com
v Petaluma Writers’ Forum and Jumpstart Writing Workshops: www.thewritespot.us
v SoCoCo Poetry Reading Series edcoletti@sbcglobal.net.
v The Sitting Room www.sittingroom.org.
Saturday and Sunday, August 2 & 3, 10am to 1pm and 3-6 pm: Traveling Light: A Writing Workshop with Diane di Prima. For details, contact Geri Digiorno at 707-763-4271.
Saturday, August 2, 9 am to noon: Write To Take Care Of Yourself & Art Collage with Marlene Cullen. Location and Registration: Petaluma Community Center, 320 No. McDowellBlvd. Petaluma. $40.
Sunday, August 3, 10am – 1pm: Copperfield’s Books presents Alice Waters @ the Sebastopol Farmer’s Market, Downtown Plaza/ McKinley Street, Sebastopol.
Sunday, August 3, 1pm: Copperfield’s Books Presents a Literary Luncheon with Deanna Raybourn, author of Silent in the Grave and Silent in the Sanctuary at the Starlight Wine Bar and Restaurant, 6761 Sebastopol Avenue, Sebastopol.
Sunday, August 3 at 3 PM: Redwood Writers next chapter meeting at the Star Restaurant features Sarah Andrews, author and geologist.
Tuesday, August 5, 7-9 PM: The Center Literary Café presents Joe Armstrong, storyteller and songwriter, joined by Pete Thompson, lead guitar and Jim Brewer, bass. Doors open at 6:30 pm at Healdsburg Senior Center, 133 Matheson Street (one block east of Plaza), Healdsburg, CA 95448. Info: Cynthia Helen (707) 696-1111.
Thursday, August 7 at 7:00 PM: Book Passage presents Melanie Maier, Richard Brown, Margaret Kaufman, and Naomi Lowinsky. Location: 51 Tamal Vista, Corte Madera.
Saturday August 9, 2pm – 5pm: Meet renowned cook, teacher, and author of From the Earth to the Table: John Ash’s Wine Country Cuisine, and enjoy the vocal music of Sarah Baker. Location: Windrush Farm, 2263 Chileno Valley Rd, Petaluma. Suggested donation for this event $35. All proceeds benefit the Sonoma County Book Festival. Call J.J. Wilson at 707-795-9028 or EMAIL boxcar@sonic.net to reserve your spot or for more information.
Sunday, August 10 at 7 PM: Joan Frank will be reading from THE GREAT FAR AWAY at the Corte Madera branch of Book Passage. Location: 51 Tamal Vista Blvd., Corte Madera. (415) 927-0960.
Monday, August 11, 6-7 PM: Sonoma County Book Festival Planning Session at the SR Central Library 3rd St & E St (upstairs conference room).
Tuesday, August 12, 7pm: Copperfield’s Books in Sebastopol presents Jane Anne Morris, author of Gaveling Down the Rabble: How “Free Trade” Is Stealing Our Democracy.
Wednesday, August 13 at 7 PM: A DAY IN THE LIFE OF HEALDSBURG through the eyes of local writers BOOK LAUNCH. Location: Healdsburg Regional Library.
Thursday, August 14, 7:30 p.m. Petaluma Historical Museum, 20 4th Street
Delightfully upbeat, mournful, whimsical and wistful, Cascada de Flores explores the musical traditions of Mexico and Cuba with grace and sensitivity. Their music is strongly rooted in folkloric forms, yet they steer clear of anachronistic mimicry of the past, instead interpreting their repertoire in their own subtle way. The result is rich, delicate, and lovely.
$22/20
Sunday, August 17th 11:30-1:00pm: People, Places and Poetry Discussion Group, hosted by Geri DiGiorno and Nancy Long of LiveWire Literary Salon. Theme: Poems on a Postcard. For more info: Nancy Long at nsasha@earthlink.net.
Sunday, August 17, 2-4 PM: The Third Sunday Salon of the Healdsburg Literary Guild presents Luke Warm Water. Open mic. FREE. Location: City Hall, North and Vine streets, Healdsburg. MC: David Madgalene 836-9586.
Thursday, August 21, 2008 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm: Petaluma Writers Forum presents Daniel Coshnear on “Unlearning: A process of finding the truth in your fiction.” Locatin: Petaluma Community Center, 320 No. McDowell Blvd. Petaluma. $15 at the door.
Thursday, August 21, 7pm: Copperfield’s Books in Petaluma presents Kira Salak, author of The White Mary.
Sunday August 31 at 3 PM: Sonoma County Poet Laureate, Mike Tuggle, and fiction writer, Dan Coshnear read at the Gold Coast Coffee Company in Duncans Mills. Admission is free.
Sunday, August 31, 6-8:30 PM: Poetry, Pints, and Prose hosted by Michelle Baynes upstairs at Finbar Devine’s Irish Pub and Restaurant. The readings begin with a featured reader, followed by open-mic. Location: 145 Kentucky St., Petaluma.
Saturday, September 20, 10 am to 5 pm: Sonoma County Book Festival at Courthouse Square and other downtown venues. For more information, visit the Festival website at www.socobookfest.org.
Sunday, September 21, 10 am to 8 pm: Petaluma Poetry Walk at various downtown venues. For information about the readers and venues, visit the website at www.petalumapoetrywalk.com. Or check Geri Digiorno’s blogsite at http://geri-digiorno.petaluma360.com/.
Don’t see your event in the calendar? Check to make sure you sent your announcement by the deadline. I am happy to include all announcements, text only (no PDF please), sent to me by the end of each calendar month.
Details about Workshops, Events,
Contests, and Calls for Submission
Sonoma County Writers Offering Workshops and Consultation
Guy Beiderman www.lowfatfiction.com
Susan Bono sbono@tiny-lights.com
Dan Coshnear dan@coshnear.org
Marlene Cullen mcullen@comcast.net
Georgette G. deBlois GGdeB@aol.com.
Nancy Dougherty and Geri Digiorno ncaversd@sonic.net
Terry Ehret tehret99@comcast.net
Susan Hagenhagen@womenatgroundzero.com
Suzanne Murray suzmurr@yahoo.com
Laure Reiche p.reiche@comcast.net
Clara Rosemarda rosen@sonic.net
Scott Reid Serkes www.sonic.net/poetry/albany/workshop/intro.html>http: //www.sonic.net
Lisa Shulman www.lisashulman.com.
Centa Theresa vicenta@sonic.net
Pat Tyler www.writetoday.net
Below, you will find the list of ongoing writing events and details about other workshops (alphabetical by workshop leader), calls for submission, and contests listed in the calendar. .
Sher Christian
RESTORATIVE YOGA WORKSHOP with Poetry
Treat yourself to 1-1/2 hours of deep relaxation, releasing stress and tension from your body and mind as you allow your body’s innate healing capacities to emerge. Extremely gentle. Enjoy inspiring poetry written and read by Sher Christian to enhance and deepen the positive effects of the poses.
WHERE: Sonoma Body Balance, 210 Vallejo Street, Suite C, Petaluma (by Whole Foods)
COST: $20 prepaid, $25 at the door
(Reservations required; limit of 8 students)
CONTACT: Dana Davis at (707) 658-2599 or dana@sonomabodybalance.com. Checks can be mailed to: PO Box 2880, Petaluma, CA 94953. “This class was so deeply nourishing and relaxing, I actually slept the whole night through, not even a bathroom wake-up call.
“Intuitive Consultations with Insightful Poetry chosen for each individual
with Sher Lianne Christian, author of Star Kissed Shadows, Divining Poetry and CD, Sweet Tongue, Assorted Poetry and Music
Illuminating sessions to remember what will move you through challenge to fulfillment. Experience the power of deep seeing and understanding Hear poetry that takes you deeper into your authenticity.
Blog: http://lusciouspoetry.blogstream.com/
Phone consultations are available at your convenience.
E-mail poetrysher@gmail.com to schedule.
Fiction Workshop with Dan Coshnear
Dear Friends, Students, Writers:
I am planning an eight week fiction workshop at The Sitting Room in Cotati. If you’ve been writing and looking for a place to share your work, or if you’ve been wanting to write and wanting also the inspiration that comes from a community of thoughtful, supportive readers, please consider.
Workshop will happen on Wednesday evenings from 6-9pm at The Sitting Room. Cost is 200 dollars, 10% of which goes to support the facility.
* though we are a fiction workshop we have traditionally accomodated other forms, particularly creative non-fiction.
** part of workshop includes a snack potluck. We take turns providing comestibles.
Because of space, we must limit to 10. If interested please email me at dan@coshnear.org or call 707-869-0329.
Marlene Cullen’s Writing Workshops
Write To Take Care Of Yourself & Art Collage with Marlene Cullen
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Time: 9:00 am to noon
Location and Registration: Petaluma Community Center, 320 No. McDowell
Blvd. Petaluma
$40
The first part of this workshop will be an exploration of significant events
through writing. The second part features art collage as a fun way to
discover personal paths.
No special writing experience needed.
Bring a notebook and pen. Material for art collage will be provided. You are
also welcome to bring your own material.
Marlene Cullen is a contributing editor for www.tiny-lights.com, writing
coach, and founder of Writers Forum of Petaluma. Her workshops provide
essential elements for successful writing, where participants often
experience transformational changes.
Please visit Marlene’s website for more information: www.thewritespot.us
Marlene can be reached at: mcullen@comcast.net
Life is sometimes a maze, sometimes a jigsaw puzzle. We will explore paths
to navigate the maze and find the pieces that fit together to achieve a
comfortable balance.
“By writing our stories, we begin to understand what was formerly
clear.” — Louise DeSalvo, Writing As A Way of Healing
Terry Ehret’s Writing Workshops at the Sitting Room
Current workshops have ended, but Terry will be offering two workshops in the Fall at the Sitting Room in Cotati. Both workshops are 9AM to noon:
The Sitting Room, 170 East Cotati Avenue
Cost: $180 for eight week session
plus $20 donation to the Sitting Room
Workshops are open to all writers, prose and poetry, beginning and experienced, male and female, young and old, or anything in between.
To reserve a space or find out more about these workshops, e-mail tehret99@comcast.net.
$50 deposit required to hold your space.
The Prose Poem
(5 spaces still available)
Meeting Times: Fridays 9 AM to noon
Meeting Dates: September 19, 26, October 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, November 7
What exactly is a prose poem? Happily, the form defies strict definitions, leaving its practitioners free to invent and discover. During the first four weeks, we will explore the works of different prose poets. Each of these classes will include a free-write or a structured writing exercise, using the week’s featured authors for inspiration. During the second four weeks, participants will bring in their own prose poems for workshop discussion and conversation. Our focus for the Fall Workshop will be on the prose poems of current U.S. Poet Laureate Charles Simic; “Mr. Prose Poem himself,” Russell Edson; and the work of two local poets and publishers: Susan Terris and Lyn Follett. Susan and Lyn will be our guest authors on October 3.
For more information about workshop dates and fees, check the website at www.terryehret.com
The Poetry of W.B. Yeats
(Workshop is currently full, but contact me about the wait list and Spring Semester workshop)
Meeting times: Mondays 9 AM to noon
Meeting Dates: September 22, 29, October 6, 13, 20, 27, November 3, 10
This workshop will give those who enjoy reading and writing poetry a chance to gather with like-minded folk to celebrate the many pleasures of the word. In the fall, we will read selected poems of W.B. Yeats and learn about his interest in spiritualism and automatic writing, his role in the Irish Renaissance, his explorations of myth and legend with Lady Gregory, and his life in West Ireland. Discussion of Yeats’s work will be linked with writing prompts and exercises for writers interested in generating new work, using Yeats’s subjects and themes as inspiration.
The workshop will continue in the Spring of 2009, for those interested in reading more of Yeats’s poetry and exploring the literary world of West Ireland. Our study will include a visit from Rose Murphy, writer and lecturer in Irish Studies, who will talk about her new biography of Irish writer and spiritualist Ella Young.
Literary Travel Group in West Ireland, Summer 2009
(One space still available)
A ten-day trip to West Ireland in the summer of 2009 will cap this year of Yeatsiana. Space for this trip will be limited to 8 participants. We will stay in a house on Galway Bay near Kinvarra, visit various sites in Counties Galway and Clare, including Coole Park, the Burren, Cliffs of Moher, Yeats’s homes at Thoor Ballylee and Sligo, and local fairy rings and wells. All the while, we will be writing together and sharing our new work. We’ll have a driver and guide as well.
Dates: June 29-July 11, 2009
Cost: $2,500 plus airfare (approximate based on 2008 prices and exchange rate)
The Heart of Writing – Four-Week Classes & One-Day Workshops with Suzanne Murray
Small supportive groups. Good for beginners and experienced writers as well as all styles of writing.
Learn simple, powerful techniques to find your voice, tell your stories, calm your inner critic, enter the creative flow, jumpstart your writing and support your creative self. Find support and encouragement and an understanding of the craft of writing and the joyful heart of the creative process.
for more information call or email Suzanne at 707.874.9614 or suzmurr@yahoo.com or website:www.creativitygoeswild.com
Petaluma Writers Forum
August 21 Daniel Coshnear
DANIEL COSHNEAR lives in Guerneville with wife and two children. He works at a group home for men and women with mental illnesses and substance issues and teaches fiction writing through SSU Extension, UC Berkeley Extension and The Sitting Room. He is author of Jobs & Other Preoccupations (Helicon Nine 2000) Willa Cather Award winner, and 2003 BABRA winner. He was awarded the Editor’s Prize from The Missouri Review and received a Fellowship from the Christopher Isherwood Foundation. The short story is his chosen form.
September 18 Armando Garcia-Davila
ARMANDO GARCIA-DAVILA was Healdsburg’s 2002-2003 Literary Laureate. A landscape contractor by profession he says,” I’m a ‘blue collar’ poet. I’m neither an intellectual nor an academic.” He has read from his works on national radio and his short stories and poems were a monthly feature in La Voz bilingual newspaper found throughout northern California.
In addition to being a co-founder of “poetry slams” for the public library, he conducts seminars at high schools, colleges and universities and has been a featured presenter for Arts and Lecture Series at Santa Rosa Junior College and Sonoma State University. Armando is enormously effective with all audiences and especially enjoys seeing students suddenly wake up to the power and satisfaction that comes with allowing buried thoughts to see the light of day in writing.
October 16 Rob Loughran Five Things I Wish I Did Not Know About Writing
When I stepped from hard manual work to writing, I just stepped from one kind of hard work to another. — Sean O’Casey
While attending writing conferences and seminars Rob Loughran was astounded by the lack of practical, concrete writing advice and the tendency to stress inspiration over perspiration. This short, comprehensive talk will explain a proven, hands-on, no frills method that will help you organize your life in such a manner that your writing goals can be achieved.
You will be challenged, goaded, cajoled and entertained.
The word Muse will only be used derisively.
ROB LOUGHRAN has 17 books in print and has published 250+ articles and short stories in publications ranging from Ladies Circle to American Brewer.
November 20 Susan Swartz
Susan Swartz is a columnist for The Press Democrat.
To contact Marlene: mcullen@comcast.net
Laurie Reiche
Writing the Sentence of Chronic Illness
Award winning poet Laurie Lessen-Reiche will be facilitating an on-going creative-writing workshop beginning Saturday, May 26th in the comfortable environment of her home for people suffering with chronic illnesses such as CFS, FM, and MS. Herself a sufferer of chronic illness, she’s aware of the frustration and alteration in one’s perception of Self that ongoing illness engenders. As a writer she believes the struggles our bodies endure bring to light meaning and are regenerative when we transform them into the speaking art of poems and stories.
Fee: 270.00$ for 6 week sessions/Saturdays 3 – 5. Snacks, beverages, pillows provided!
Lessen-Reiche has facilitated workshops for many years. She was the 2006 Winner of Lilith Magazine’s Second Annual Charlotte Newberger National Poetry Award. Her work has also appeared in magazines such as SUNY Upstate Medical Journal: The Healing Muse, and The Southern Poetry Review.
Info: (415) 892-9430 or email: p.reiche@comcast.net
Lilith Rogers’ Environmental Education Project Lilith Rogers, who has performed her one-woman Rachel Carson shows for many years, has the following message for the Sonoma County Literary Community. “I am collecting old cell phones--working or not--to recycle for a bit of cash. Then money will go towards my RACHEL CARSON RETURNS ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION PROJECT. Just get in touch with me at Lilithrogers1@juno.com or call me at 707 523-9907 and I'll arrange to pick them up. And tell your friends. I have to send them 25 at a time so I'm spreading the word far and near. “I also have a 30 minute DVD version of my one woman performance of RACHEL CARSON RETURNS available for sale at $25 (includes S/H) or at a discount with your cell phone or if you need one. It's professionally made by Eve Goldberg, a former Hollywood director and film editor. And I'm available to perform live at your home or wherever! “Thanks for your support. Lilith”
Lisa Shulman’s Writing Workhops for Youth and Teens
Just Write! Creative Writing for kids and teens
This class is for kids who love to write. Come play around with elements of writing such as character, dialogue, sensory details, and metaphor in a fun, relaxed setting. Explore poetry, short stories, scripts, and other types of writing. Let your imagination soar and your pen go wild! Each class will include fun group and individual writing activities, as well as time to give and receive supportive feedback on your current projects.
Instructor: Lisa Shulman began writing at age 6, and hasn’t stopped since. She has written numerous books for children, including Old MacDonald had a Woodshop and The Moon Might Be Milk. As a visiting author, she speaks to hundreds of students about writing each year. A former teacher at Apple Blossom School, Lisa lives in Sebastopol with her family. You can visit her online at www.lisashulman.com
Children’s Writers Critique Group
Lisa Shulman is the author of several picture books, including Old MacDonald had a Woodshop, The Matzo Ball Boy, and The Moon Might Be Milk. She has recently finished a middle-grade novel and has written dozens of children’s books for the educational market. Her poetry, fiction, and nonfiction for adults have appeared in various journals. A former elementary school teacher, Lisa currently teaches a creative writing class for children and teens at the Sebastopol Center for the Arts. You can visit her online at www.lisashulman.com
Centa Theresa offers Creative Projects Coaching/Consultation for Artists & Writers
Helping to define vision & goals for project development, bringing awareness, clarity, committed action, and completion. Offered by phone, in-person, & by email. I also offer consultation services in which I work more directly with you on a project. In the realm of the written word, I have particular interest in poetry, prose poetry, and personal essay. Monthly coaching circle starting soon, bring your vision, your challenges, and your calendars! For further information, or 45 min complimentary session, contact Centa at creativitycoaching@centatheresa.com and visit her website at www.centatheresa.com
Centa Theresa, M.A.,’s poems have been published in West Coast publications, most recently in DrumVoices Revue, and upcoming in Tiny Lights. She has authored the letterset edition, Blameless Recognition of Natural Light, published by Clamshell Press. Centa is currently working on a lyric memoir, and on occasion makes art, exhibiting her work in Bay Area galleries.
2008 Quick Start Writing Workshops by Pat Tyler
Current Workshops have ended. For information about Pat’s upcoming offerings, call 707-696-9640 or e-mail her at www.writetoday.net.
