STEVES EMAILS in order sent
Riverside Writers After Meeting - Action Report from Steve 4/24/24
Hello, oh talented membership and associated fans of personal, local and world literature. I hope this e-message finds you all well and Spring-contented.
For those 18 attendees at our monthly meeting yesterday, I hope you had fun and appreciated the lively doings and Carol Horton's refreshments. ...What a magnificent poetry-workshop presentation by Beth Spragins and Dan Walker! Tanka and Villanelle will never be the same for me. Twas illuminating and a thrill of poetic revelation. Great job and major thanks for being such a highlight of National Poetry Month!
Alas, our webmaster could not join us, but everyone looked delighted that a beautiful photo (courtesy of Allita Irby) of last week's 'Celebration of Poetry' was posted. Another super contribution, freshly revealed, is a major new tab on our website dedicated to acknowledging RW-authored works (at the moment – books and contributions to printed anthologies). Excellent job, Barbara Beaumont, and also collective thanks for making a difference!
...And then there was the open read, with fully 9 readers presenting – half the attendees! Applause aplenty for everyone! The Extra-Mile Award goes to Vice Prez Malanna for singing the verse of her very own song! (It doesn't get much verse than that!) In truth, she was magnifico, and well-appreciated by all. In fact, everyone was splendid, and altogether I can think of no greater gesture as a tribute to the craft. Moments like that are way too infrequent, my creative peers and amigos...
For me, this rebirth-centric time of year is one of great reflection. As we occupy, here and now, this sacred ground -- ghosts abound in time and space. In former meadows and forests beneath our feet, here Native Americans built hundreds of generations of life stories, slaves toiled for centuries, and Confederate and Union soldiers fought numerous desperate uncivil engagements. And today... I am especially drawn to pause on this very day. Today we will be enjoying the Spring; a good meal; a precious moment with family. ...Tonight, at around 9:30, 159 years ago, Abraham Lincoln' story will begin its final 9-hour chapter. A long journey from Ford's Theater to a simple house across the street. ...Tonight at 11:40pm, 112 years ago, Royal Mail Steamer 'Titanic', dogged by tiny, critical turns of fate, will strike an iceberg. Her final chapter would end 2 hours and forty minutes later, along with the closing narrations on 1,500 mortal and doomed passengers -- taking their optimistic Age with them. Same time, different space. Same space, different time. We are all intertwined in this personal reality of ours. We take our lessons, try our best, pause to appreciate, reflect on fragility ...and if we are fortunate practitioners of sympathetic perception and sensitive empathy, we rejoice that we have times of peace, times of joy -- and friends such as each other.
Again, 'thank you' to those who attended yesterday. Also... 'thank you' to those reading this – and for being part of something special.
...Remember April 22, and happy Earth Day, all! Make the Earth happy ...and love her dearly.
...Remember April 25, and happy 26th birthday of Riverside Writers!
...Remember April 28 - and meet VP Malanna Henderson at the Poe Museum in Richmond (11am) for a great tour!
Poetic regards, and a continued-happy National Poetry Month, Steve Pody, President, Riverside Writers
Hello, oh talented membership and associated fans of personal, local and world literature. I hope this e-message finds you all well and Spring-contented.
For those 18 attendees at our monthly meeting yesterday, I hope you had fun and appreciated the lively doings and Carol Horton's refreshments. ...What a magnificent poetry-workshop presentation by Beth Spragins and Dan Walker! Tanka and Villanelle will never be the same for me. Twas illuminating and a thrill of poetic revelation. Great job and major thanks for being such a highlight of National Poetry Month!
Alas, our webmaster could not join us, but everyone looked delighted that a beautiful photo (courtesy of Allita Irby) of last week's 'Celebration of Poetry' was posted. Another super contribution, freshly revealed, is a major new tab on our website dedicated to acknowledging RW-authored works (at the moment – books and contributions to printed anthologies). Excellent job, Barbara Beaumont, and also collective thanks for making a difference!
...And then there was the open read, with fully 9 readers presenting – half the attendees! Applause aplenty for everyone! The Extra-Mile Award goes to Vice Prez Malanna for singing the verse of her very own song! (It doesn't get much verse than that!) In truth, she was magnifico, and well-appreciated by all. In fact, everyone was splendid, and altogether I can think of no greater gesture as a tribute to the craft. Moments like that are way too infrequent, my creative peers and amigos...
For me, this rebirth-centric time of year is one of great reflection. As we occupy, here and now, this sacred ground -- ghosts abound in time and space. In former meadows and forests beneath our feet, here Native Americans built hundreds of generations of life stories, slaves toiled for centuries, and Confederate and Union soldiers fought numerous desperate uncivil engagements. And today... I am especially drawn to pause on this very day. Today we will be enjoying the Spring; a good meal; a precious moment with family. ...Tonight, at around 9:30, 159 years ago, Abraham Lincoln' story will begin its final 9-hour chapter. A long journey from Ford's Theater to a simple house across the street. ...Tonight at 11:40pm, 112 years ago, Royal Mail Steamer 'Titanic', dogged by tiny, critical turns of fate, will strike an iceberg. Her final chapter would end 2 hours and forty minutes later, along with the closing narrations on 1,500 mortal and doomed passengers -- taking their optimistic Age with them. Same time, different space. Same space, different time. We are all intertwined in this personal reality of ours. We take our lessons, try our best, pause to appreciate, reflect on fragility ...and if we are fortunate practitioners of sympathetic perception and sensitive empathy, we rejoice that we have times of peace, times of joy -- and friends such as each other.
Again, 'thank you' to those who attended yesterday. Also... 'thank you' to those reading this – and for being part of something special.
...Remember April 22, and happy Earth Day, all! Make the Earth happy ...and love her dearly.
...Remember April 25, and happy 26th birthday of Riverside Writers!
...Remember April 28 - and meet VP Malanna Henderson at the Poe Museum in Richmond (11am) for a great tour!
Poetic regards, and a continued-happy National Poetry Month, Steve Pody, President, Riverside Writers
..April 13th 2024 MEETING
.A bit more information for your meeting-pleasure maximization.
Beth and Dan of the poetry workshop request that you bring a writing implement and some paper if you plan to actively participate.
There will be sign-up sheets for both the workshop and the open read. For the open read, we will present in sign-up-sheet order.
Usual rules are applicable for an open (poetry only) read - 5 minutes maximum for each reader.
After all readers have read, we will -- if we have time --begin the list order again for those wishing a second chance.
Participation in either or both events is in tribute to National Poetry Month, and the level of participation is, naturally, up to each member.
All are welcome! Make the most of your proactive and optimistically dynamic club!
Thank you for your attention, Steve
.A bit more information for your meeting-pleasure maximization.
Beth and Dan of the poetry workshop request that you bring a writing implement and some paper if you plan to actively participate.
There will be sign-up sheets for both the workshop and the open read. For the open read, we will present in sign-up-sheet order.
Usual rules are applicable for an open (poetry only) read - 5 minutes maximum for each reader.
After all readers have read, we will -- if we have time --begin the list order again for those wishing a second chance.
Participation in either or both events is in tribute to National Poetry Month, and the level of participation is, naturally, up to each member.
All are welcome! Make the most of your proactive and optimistically dynamic club!
Thank you for your attention, Steve
APRIL 13 2024 CONTINUED
Happy advancing Spring, y'all ! Handsome weather we're having, and isn't it a nice time of year. ...Except for that mysterious sun-disappearing thang a few days ago. Shocking -- but with quick-thinking, I sacrificed the neighbor's dogs to Galaxon, Divinity of the Intergalactic Void -- and the sun came right back! Whew, close one...! (P.S. You're welcome.)
Meeting time!
All hails and grateful yowls to Carol Horton, bringer of our refreshments this month.
We have a full and exciting meeting planned.
Our business portion will bring you up-to-date on our latest initiatives
Malanna Henderson's Sunday, April 28th Edgar Allen Poe Museum trip to Richmond;
webmaster Barbara Beaumont's posting of member books & anthologies;
the announcement of May's author/speaker.
After that, we will have our speaky tribute to National Poetry Month. Last week, the Howell branch of the public library system kicked the month-event off with an open poetry read.
This week it is the turn of Riverside Writers, in concert with our very own host library.
A poetry workshop will be held from 2:00 to 2:40 by Beth Spragins and Dan Walker (only the best for you, our membership!), and that segment will be followed until 4pm by an open read (open to the public) of poetry.
Anything can happen – and come hear the muses declaim with the finest poesy! (...
Perhaps later in the year we'll have an open read for only prose, just to keep a balance).
For those attending remotely, please join us in this link for our meeting:
https://teenenrichmentnetwork.my.webex.com/meet/teenenrichment.
Due to late-in-the-meeting commitments, there will be no after-meeting critique session.
Remember, we've only three refreshment-volunteer slots left in the year – July, September and November -- which are still up for grabs on SignUpGenius. Kindly place your generous commitment at: Riverside Writers: Refreshments (signupgenius.com).
Anyhoo, much to do and discuss. I'll meet you on April 13th at the Salem Church Public Library, , 2607 Salem Church Road, Meeting Room #1, from 1:00 to 4:00pm. Be prepared to think, to care, to share and to celebrate the spoken word with friends, peers -- and some of the best imaginations of the Age!
Poetic regards (in honor of the month!),
Steven P. Pody President, Riverside Writer
Happy advancing Spring, y'all ! Handsome weather we're having, and isn't it a nice time of year. ...Except for that mysterious sun-disappearing thang a few days ago. Shocking -- but with quick-thinking, I sacrificed the neighbor's dogs to Galaxon, Divinity of the Intergalactic Void -- and the sun came right back! Whew, close one...! (P.S. You're welcome.)
Meeting time!
All hails and grateful yowls to Carol Horton, bringer of our refreshments this month.
We have a full and exciting meeting planned.
Our business portion will bring you up-to-date on our latest initiatives
Malanna Henderson's Sunday, April 28th Edgar Allen Poe Museum trip to Richmond;
webmaster Barbara Beaumont's posting of member books & anthologies;
the announcement of May's author/speaker.
After that, we will have our speaky tribute to National Poetry Month. Last week, the Howell branch of the public library system kicked the month-event off with an open poetry read.
This week it is the turn of Riverside Writers, in concert with our very own host library.
A poetry workshop will be held from 2:00 to 2:40 by Beth Spragins and Dan Walker (only the best for you, our membership!), and that segment will be followed until 4pm by an open read (open to the public) of poetry.
Anything can happen – and come hear the muses declaim with the finest poesy! (...
Perhaps later in the year we'll have an open read for only prose, just to keep a balance).
For those attending remotely, please join us in this link for our meeting:
https://teenenrichmentnetwork.my.webex.com/meet/teenenrichment.
Due to late-in-the-meeting commitments, there will be no after-meeting critique session.
Remember, we've only three refreshment-volunteer slots left in the year – July, September and November -- which are still up for grabs on SignUpGenius. Kindly place your generous commitment at: Riverside Writers: Refreshments (signupgenius.com).
Anyhoo, much to do and discuss. I'll meet you on April 13th at the Salem Church Public Library, , 2607 Salem Church Road, Meeting Room #1, from 1:00 to 4:00pm. Be prepared to think, to care, to share and to celebrate the spoken word with friends, peers -- and some of the best imaginations of the Age!
Poetic regards (in honor of the month!),
Steven P. Pody President, Riverside Writer
RW 2024 Calendar Year Tentative Events for 2024
Friends, peers, paid members and non – here is how I see the year as currently shaping up for our wonderfully active club. Cited things may change, but below is a snapshot of what's envisioned for the rest of the Riverside Writer year. We are a mighty organization !
March 31 Five bold authors at AdventureBrewing/Eagle Village (1113 Emancipation Highway/Rt. 1) - Martin Wilsey, William Tang, Beth Spragins, Jim Gaines and Steven Pody … 3 to 6pm
April 6 Celebration of Poetry at Howell Library, 2 to 4pm. Open read w/pre sign-up
April 13 RW monthly meeting. Poetry workshop & poetry open read + Richmond $ to Malanna by this date ($10)
April 25 Congratulations, Riverside Writers. Your club is 26 years old !
April 28 (Sunday) Poe Museum trip, 1914 E. Main Street, Richmond. Tour starts at 11:30am
May 11 RW monthly meeting w/speaker (Ellie Whitney)
June 8 Picnic at William Tang's (1440 Hartwood Road)
June/July Tier One Golden Nib submission to RW judges
July 13 RW monthly meeting w/speaker
August 10 RW monthly meeting / presentation of GN winners w/open read of Tier 1 Winners & open read, all genres
September 1 Last day for RW Anthology submissions. Anthology dedication to Larry Turner, past president, died Oct 15, 2023, age 86
September 14 RW monthly meeting w/speaker
October 12 Fredericksburg Festival of Books, Club meeting in Riverfront Park w/open public read, all genres
November 2 Parent organization Virginia Writers Club annual meeting & award of Tier 2 Golden Nib
November 9 Salem Church Public Library Annual Writer's Conference
November 9 RW monthly meeting – elections (Treasurer/President) & book sale, w/open read, all genres
December 14 Holiday Party, followed by WW III. Have journals and very sharp pencils at the ready
...And that's the rough workup of the future for the moment. Any observations on missed subjects, or questions, kindly let me know.
Bold musings and happy writing to you all !
Steve
Steven P. Pody
President, Riverside Writers
March 31 Five bold authors at AdventureBrewing/Eagle Village (1113 Emancipation Highway/Rt. 1) - Martin Wilsey, William Tang, Beth Spragins, Jim Gaines and Steven Pody … 3 to 6pm
April 6 Celebration of Poetry at Howell Library, 2 to 4pm. Open read w/pre sign-up
April 13 RW monthly meeting. Poetry workshop & poetry open read + Richmond $ to Malanna by this date ($10)
April 25 Congratulations, Riverside Writers. Your club is 26 years old !
April 28 (Sunday) Poe Museum trip, 1914 E. Main Street, Richmond. Tour starts at 11:30am
May 11 RW monthly meeting w/speaker (Ellie Whitney)
June 8 Picnic at William Tang's (1440 Hartwood Road)
June/July Tier One Golden Nib submission to RW judges
July 13 RW monthly meeting w/speaker
August 10 RW monthly meeting / presentation of GN winners w/open read of Tier 1 Winners & open read, all genres
September 1 Last day for RW Anthology submissions. Anthology dedication to Larry Turner, past president, died Oct 15, 2023, age 86
September 14 RW monthly meeting w/speaker
October 12 Fredericksburg Festival of Books, Club meeting in Riverfront Park w/open public read, all genres
November 2 Parent organization Virginia Writers Club annual meeting & award of Tier 2 Golden Nib
November 9 Salem Church Public Library Annual Writer's Conference
November 9 RW monthly meeting – elections (Treasurer/President) & book sale, w/open read, all genres
December 14 Holiday Party, followed by WW III. Have journals and very sharp pencils at the ready
...And that's the rough workup of the future for the moment. Any observations on missed subjects, or questions, kindly let me know.
Bold musings and happy writing to you all !
Steve
Steven P. Pody
President, Riverside Writers
March 9, 2024 Meeting Message from our Leader Steve Pody
To the magnifico typing, scribbling and dreaming friends and members of Riverside Writers – greetings to ya'all ! I hope this message finds you well and happy. The calendar advanceth, and soon upon us is another monthly meeting. I hope to see you all on Saturday at Salem Church Public Library, Meeting Room #1 at 1 o'clock. Snacks will be provided, courtesy of the supremely kindly Dina Vales. (FYI, we've only three volunteer slots left in the year – July, September and November -- which are still up for grabs on SignUpGenius. Place your generous singular or friend-team commitment at: Riverside Writers: Refreshments (signupgenius.com).)
We again have our phone-in link for our Floridian member Madalin, our Texas member Jorge and anyone else tuning in remotely. The link for our meeting is: https://teenenrichmentnetwork.my.webex.com/meet/teenenrichment. Our ever-collective and continuing thanks to Bronwen for making this log-in available to us.
...And, to get right to it, we will have a business meeting to initially launch us - with news, future plans, accomplishments and general club status. Subjects for discussion: Adventure Brewing on March 31st -- featuring our own RW authors; April events such as open reads on April 6th & 13; the poetry workshop; Richmond with Poe; the upcoming, in-development RW Anthology: and, a review of the long-range calendar (critique sessions, speakers, Golden Nib, picnic, book festival). ...Creation and activity in the Information Age, and aren't we all lucky to be a part of the times !?! : )
Following refreshments, we will launch one of our periodic meetings that are dedicated to AUTHOR OPEN READS. Prose or poetry, please sign up to read your original work in front of the finest audience that ever drew a Virginia breath. We will go in order of the sign-up-sheet entries, and each reader will have FIVE MINUTES at the podium. (If you have much to read, I suggest you keep the chatty preambles to a minimum, friends.) There is no particular overall theme, but a few entries about Spring wouldn't be inappropriate. Bring your best, and we'd love to hear you !
After the close of the formal meeting at 3pm, we will have our hour-long critique session available for your further expression, feedback, and honing of your crafty craft, as conducted most skillfully by the ever patient, clever and charming Stephenie Fellinger.
The forecast looks to be rainy and chilly-ish, but t'is just the soft tears from the March lion, and a spritely fellowship of writers won't let that keep them down. We have nice meetings, we're a great group just oozing friendly creativity, and where the heck would anyone rather be? Bring your stories, bring your poems, practice elocution, and hob-knob with some mighty friends! See you on Saturday...
Cheers, and warm, lyric regards,
Steve
Steven P. Pody
President, Riverside Writers
We again have our phone-in link for our Floridian member Madalin, our Texas member Jorge and anyone else tuning in remotely. The link for our meeting is: https://teenenrichmentnetwork.my.webex.com/meet/teenenrichment. Our ever-collective and continuing thanks to Bronwen for making this log-in available to us.
...And, to get right to it, we will have a business meeting to initially launch us - with news, future plans, accomplishments and general club status. Subjects for discussion: Adventure Brewing on March 31st -- featuring our own RW authors; April events such as open reads on April 6th & 13; the poetry workshop; Richmond with Poe; the upcoming, in-development RW Anthology: and, a review of the long-range calendar (critique sessions, speakers, Golden Nib, picnic, book festival). ...Creation and activity in the Information Age, and aren't we all lucky to be a part of the times !?! : )
Following refreshments, we will launch one of our periodic meetings that are dedicated to AUTHOR OPEN READS. Prose or poetry, please sign up to read your original work in front of the finest audience that ever drew a Virginia breath. We will go in order of the sign-up-sheet entries, and each reader will have FIVE MINUTES at the podium. (If you have much to read, I suggest you keep the chatty preambles to a minimum, friends.) There is no particular overall theme, but a few entries about Spring wouldn't be inappropriate. Bring your best, and we'd love to hear you !
After the close of the formal meeting at 3pm, we will have our hour-long critique session available for your further expression, feedback, and honing of your crafty craft, as conducted most skillfully by the ever patient, clever and charming Stephenie Fellinger.
The forecast looks to be rainy and chilly-ish, but t'is just the soft tears from the March lion, and a spritely fellowship of writers won't let that keep them down. We have nice meetings, we're a great group just oozing friendly creativity, and where the heck would anyone rather be? Bring your stories, bring your poems, practice elocution, and hob-knob with some mighty friends! See you on Saturday...
Cheers, and warm, lyric regards,
Steve
Steven P. Pody
President, Riverside Writers
FEBRUARY 2024 MESSAGE FROM STEVE
Goodness + gracious, a lot is going on, dear membership. Lots of interesting things are happening, and we have much to see, hear and discuss at our upcoming meeting. We are going to have an amazing speaker, Goldeen Ogawa, calling in from Bend, Oregon, and will then follow on with a business meeting full of info of interest and vasty decisions of club course direction. Additionally, we will be having some loverly snacks. ...And as a reminder, two further months of the year are snack-claimed: August and October - so March, April, May, July, September and November are still up for grabs on SignUpGenius. Place your generous volunteer commitment at: Riverside Writers: Refreshments (signupgenius.com).
We again have our phone in link for our Floridian member Madalin, our Texas member Jorge and anyone else tuning in remotely. The link for our meeting is: https://teenenrichmentnetwork.my.webex.com/meet/teenenrichment. Our collective thanks to Bronwen for continuing to make this log-in available to us.
On the agenda for this Saturday at Salem Church Public Library, Meeting Room #1 at 1 o'clock, will be an internet presentation by Goldeen Ogawa, brought to you by our Social arranger, Miriam. Ms. Ogawa is "an author and illustrator of science fiction and fantasy whose works include the Professor Odd novellas, The Adventures of Bouragner Feipz short story collections, the fantasy novel Lucena in the House of Madgrin, the Driving Arcana series, and the webcomic Year of the God-Fox. Main subjects will be smashing writer's block, and how to create compelling and fantastical worlds. 'Twill be a rousing start to the meeting!
Following wanton consumption of snacks will be a business meeting with a lot of new business. We have the special April meeting to discuss, which will be a combination of poetry workshop and an open-to-the-public open poetry read (in celebration of National Poetry Month). VP Malanna would also like to discuss April as the likely time for a collective, fun trip to the Poe house in Richmond - at a date different from the monthly meeting on the 13th. Malanna has done some amazing groundwork, and April-oriented flyers produced by her will be coming your way soon. Perhaps she will also fill us in about a speaker that she has lined up for our May meeting. ...And, Barbara Beaumont would love to update everyone on her hard-earned website progress.
Discussion will also touch on Adventure Brewing, Eagle Village - on the Mary Washington University campus. They apparently host open readings themselves, with Lakeside Writers reading there on February 25th. We've been invited to be a good audience. ...Anyhoo, Riverside Writers has also received an invitation to take over an evening presentation, and volunteers will be solicited to represent the club. Hopefully I'll have more information by the time of our Saturday meeting.
In addition to working up an amazing April, and almost starting to sort of think about a June picnic, esteemed Texas member Jorge wants to broach the long-time-range topic of A NEW CLUB ANTHOLOGY. Riverside Writers produces a hard print anthology once every three or four years, and it is time to again think upon the subject. Have you a story, essay or poem that you think worthy of representing you and promoting the honor of your Club in a collective member-rich collection? If not, get yerself a'writin'! We are going to discuss parameters (a when-to-get your-work-in-by date, a prose and poetry size limit, a 'produce-by' date...) and seek out publishing experience among the membership ...and volunteers. This isn't a contest, per se, and while we'll have proofers, there will be no judges. Whatcha think, is it time?
Aaannnnnddd, finally, after the business meeting, we envision, from 3 to 4pm, holding a voluntary critique session. For at least this February get-together, the deeply respected Stephenie Fellinger will oversee operations. If you'd like to participate, she recommends 5 to 10 copies of your work, with a limit of 5 double-space pages. This session is complementary to the Books-A-Million group and the Cosner's Corners get-together, and if you'd like to see it work and become an after-meeting tradition (as it was of old), then join in!
Finally, a notice to our email list that a further membership dues appeal will be coming out soon. Our Secretary, Valerie Horton, and our Treasurer, William Tang, will both be unable to attend Saturday's meeting so, if not mailing, please give your $20 dues check to either VP Malanna or myself. ...And, William wanted me to give all of you finest wishes for a happy and prosperous Chinese New Year!
Wishing all a beautiful and lyric week. See ya'all for an amazing meeting!
Steven Pody
President, Riverside Writers
P.S. My apologies for an error about the Virginia maple syrup farms. I called them the southernmost maple syrup producers in my passed- along note of the spring festival to members. Dan Walker pointed out that my info is a tad old, as Fallingwater Farm – the only producer in all of North Carolina – now has that honor (commercially, since about 2006-2012).
Goodness + gracious, a lot is going on, dear membership. Lots of interesting things are happening, and we have much to see, hear and discuss at our upcoming meeting. We are going to have an amazing speaker, Goldeen Ogawa, calling in from Bend, Oregon, and will then follow on with a business meeting full of info of interest and vasty decisions of club course direction. Additionally, we will be having some loverly snacks. ...And as a reminder, two further months of the year are snack-claimed: August and October - so March, April, May, July, September and November are still up for grabs on SignUpGenius. Place your generous volunteer commitment at: Riverside Writers: Refreshments (signupgenius.com).
We again have our phone in link for our Floridian member Madalin, our Texas member Jorge and anyone else tuning in remotely. The link for our meeting is: https://teenenrichmentnetwork.my.webex.com/meet/teenenrichment. Our collective thanks to Bronwen for continuing to make this log-in available to us.
On the agenda for this Saturday at Salem Church Public Library, Meeting Room #1 at 1 o'clock, will be an internet presentation by Goldeen Ogawa, brought to you by our Social arranger, Miriam. Ms. Ogawa is "an author and illustrator of science fiction and fantasy whose works include the Professor Odd novellas, The Adventures of Bouragner Feipz short story collections, the fantasy novel Lucena in the House of Madgrin, the Driving Arcana series, and the webcomic Year of the God-Fox. Main subjects will be smashing writer's block, and how to create compelling and fantastical worlds. 'Twill be a rousing start to the meeting!
Following wanton consumption of snacks will be a business meeting with a lot of new business. We have the special April meeting to discuss, which will be a combination of poetry workshop and an open-to-the-public open poetry read (in celebration of National Poetry Month). VP Malanna would also like to discuss April as the likely time for a collective, fun trip to the Poe house in Richmond - at a date different from the monthly meeting on the 13th. Malanna has done some amazing groundwork, and April-oriented flyers produced by her will be coming your way soon. Perhaps she will also fill us in about a speaker that she has lined up for our May meeting. ...And, Barbara Beaumont would love to update everyone on her hard-earned website progress.
Discussion will also touch on Adventure Brewing, Eagle Village - on the Mary Washington University campus. They apparently host open readings themselves, with Lakeside Writers reading there on February 25th. We've been invited to be a good audience. ...Anyhoo, Riverside Writers has also received an invitation to take over an evening presentation, and volunteers will be solicited to represent the club. Hopefully I'll have more information by the time of our Saturday meeting.
In addition to working up an amazing April, and almost starting to sort of think about a June picnic, esteemed Texas member Jorge wants to broach the long-time-range topic of A NEW CLUB ANTHOLOGY. Riverside Writers produces a hard print anthology once every three or four years, and it is time to again think upon the subject. Have you a story, essay or poem that you think worthy of representing you and promoting the honor of your Club in a collective member-rich collection? If not, get yerself a'writin'! We are going to discuss parameters (a when-to-get your-work-in-by date, a prose and poetry size limit, a 'produce-by' date...) and seek out publishing experience among the membership ...and volunteers. This isn't a contest, per se, and while we'll have proofers, there will be no judges. Whatcha think, is it time?
Aaannnnnddd, finally, after the business meeting, we envision, from 3 to 4pm, holding a voluntary critique session. For at least this February get-together, the deeply respected Stephenie Fellinger will oversee operations. If you'd like to participate, she recommends 5 to 10 copies of your work, with a limit of 5 double-space pages. This session is complementary to the Books-A-Million group and the Cosner's Corners get-together, and if you'd like to see it work and become an after-meeting tradition (as it was of old), then join in!
Finally, a notice to our email list that a further membership dues appeal will be coming out soon. Our Secretary, Valerie Horton, and our Treasurer, William Tang, will both be unable to attend Saturday's meeting so, if not mailing, please give your $20 dues check to either VP Malanna or myself. ...And, William wanted me to give all of you finest wishes for a happy and prosperous Chinese New Year!
Wishing all a beautiful and lyric week. See ya'all for an amazing meeting!
Steven Pody
President, Riverside Writers
P.S. My apologies for an error about the Virginia maple syrup farms. I called them the southernmost maple syrup producers in my passed- along note of the spring festival to members. Dan Walker pointed out that my info is a tad old, as Fallingwater Farm – the only producer in all of North Carolina – now has that honor (commercially, since about 2006-2012).
January 2024 Steven Pody, President, Riverside Writers
P.S. The February 10th meeting agenda will be out in a week.
Poets & Writers Magazine Writing Contests, Grants & Awards January/March15th 2024 | Poets & Writers (pw.org) <click there to go to the site
Writing Contests, Grants & Awards The Writing Contests, Grants & Awards database includes details about the creative writing contests—including poetry contests, short story competitions, essay contests, awards for novels, and more—that we’ve published in Poets & Writers Magazine during the past year. We carefully review the practices and policies of each contest before including it. Ours is the most trusted resource for legitimate writing contests available anywhere.
Ask Steve by clicking here to email you a more detailed list.
P.S. The February 10th meeting agenda will be out in a week.
Poets & Writers Magazine Writing Contests, Grants & Awards January/March15th 2024 | Poets & Writers (pw.org) <click there to go to the site
Writing Contests, Grants & Awards The Writing Contests, Grants & Awards database includes details about the creative writing contests—including poetry contests, short story competitions, essay contests, awards for novels, and more—that we’ve published in Poets & Writers Magazine during the past year. We carefully review the practices and policies of each contest before including it. Ours is the most trusted resource for legitimate writing contests available anywhere.
Ask Steve by clicking here to email you a more detailed list.
Jan 19 2024 Email from Steve on Scholarships
From Jenn — I have exciting news:
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) is excited to announce that applications are now open for their 2024 Scholarships and Summer Internship programs! To read the rest of the article click here. Scholarships
From Jenn — I have exciting news:
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) is excited to announce that applications are now open for their 2024 Scholarships and Summer Internship programs! To read the rest of the article click here. Scholarships
Steve's Emails and Other Resources January 2024
Hello, young lovers, prose writers and poets, wherever you are. I hope your troubles are few ...to paraphrase a song line from the musical "The King And I". ...Another year of promise and turmoil friends, and may you all be having a fine time in the beauty of the breathing, living world. How many of you will be writing books or chapbooks this year? How many will make purposeful efforts to hone your writing skills and craft? Who is going to overeat at the annual picnic? Promise and greatness await – we just have to live long enough and triumph in the end. Simple !
Your treasurer William and I have spent a couple of months updating the massive and often conflicting data of our membership roster. I have sent out the results of our updated findings to ya'all in another email. Please read it, when you have the opportunity. In simple terms, membership is power. If we seek great speakers, or a significant place at the Virginia Writers Club table ...or any venue for that matter, 'tis better to cite a membership of mighty numbers and influence than it is to say that we are a well-intentioned band of a dozen or twenty indifferent souls. Likewise in the dues department – we do with money, and we don't with no money. Gather up your well-earned pride as a member of a meaningful professional and amateur writing association, continue to be part of something truly special ...and kindly do the right thing.
Our thanks to Malanna Henderson for volunteering to bring this month's snacks ! Bravo. According to SignUpGenius, two other months of the year are already spoken for, leaving only another seven months for people to vie for in their scramble to be outrageously generous (with 1 month for the picnic and 1 for our holiday party). Place your altruistic and tasty commitment at: Riverside Writers: Refreshments (signupgenius.com).
For Carol Horton, our Floridian Madalin, and anyone else tuning in remotely, the link for our meeting is: https://teenenrichmentnetwork.my.webex.com/meet/teenenrichment. Our collective thanks to Bronwen for continuing to make this log-in available to us. On the agenda for this Saturday at Salem Church Public Library, Meeting Room #1 at 1 o'clock, will be an internet presentation on how to construct a book using Microsoft Word. ...A lot of people assume it is just a matter of determined writing and of cobbling segments together, but it can be quite a challenge of formatting margins, chapters and pagination (page numbering). Even old hats at the game may learn a thing or two.
Barbara Beaumont has been toiling away heroically at our soon-to-be-published new website, and will have some updates to relate. ...And stay tuned for news of an unfolding and dynamic year to come. For instance, Goldeen Ogawa, an excellent Sci-Fi author, currently living in Oregon, will be with us as a Zoom guest in February, speaking about her work and how to come up with story ideas and create worlds. ...I believe we're going to have quite a club year ahead of us, and let's take the high road together, shall we?
See you on Saturday, and wishing you a fine week until then !
Steve
Steven Pody
President, Riverside Writers
Your treasurer William and I have spent a couple of months updating the massive and often conflicting data of our membership roster. I have sent out the results of our updated findings to ya'all in another email. Please read it, when you have the opportunity. In simple terms, membership is power. If we seek great speakers, or a significant place at the Virginia Writers Club table ...or any venue for that matter, 'tis better to cite a membership of mighty numbers and influence than it is to say that we are a well-intentioned band of a dozen or twenty indifferent souls. Likewise in the dues department – we do with money, and we don't with no money. Gather up your well-earned pride as a member of a meaningful professional and amateur writing association, continue to be part of something truly special ...and kindly do the right thing.
Our thanks to Malanna Henderson for volunteering to bring this month's snacks ! Bravo. According to SignUpGenius, two other months of the year are already spoken for, leaving only another seven months for people to vie for in their scramble to be outrageously generous (with 1 month for the picnic and 1 for our holiday party). Place your altruistic and tasty commitment at: Riverside Writers: Refreshments (signupgenius.com).
For Carol Horton, our Floridian Madalin, and anyone else tuning in remotely, the link for our meeting is: https://teenenrichmentnetwork.my.webex.com/meet/teenenrichment. Our collective thanks to Bronwen for continuing to make this log-in available to us. On the agenda for this Saturday at Salem Church Public Library, Meeting Room #1 at 1 o'clock, will be an internet presentation on how to construct a book using Microsoft Word. ...A lot of people assume it is just a matter of determined writing and of cobbling segments together, but it can be quite a challenge of formatting margins, chapters and pagination (page numbering). Even old hats at the game may learn a thing or two.
Barbara Beaumont has been toiling away heroically at our soon-to-be-published new website, and will have some updates to relate. ...And stay tuned for news of an unfolding and dynamic year to come. For instance, Goldeen Ogawa, an excellent Sci-Fi author, currently living in Oregon, will be with us as a Zoom guest in February, speaking about her work and how to come up with story ideas and create worlds. ...I believe we're going to have quite a club year ahead of us, and let's take the high road together, shall we?
See you on Saturday, and wishing you a fine week until then !
Steve
Steven Pody
President, Riverside Writers
Steve's Emails and Other Resources December 2023
December 10, 2023
Season's greetings, ye mighty writers! Yesterday, December 9th, was our annual RW holiday party.
A fine time was had, with great eats, drink and company. We had club business to discuss, and holiday or season-oriented readings to thrill or chortle over. 'Twas fun! Two vital of-the-moment decisions were voted upon and passed.
Relative to our email rolls -- of 106 writing and/or reading aficionados (35 of whom are paid members), we had a core of 17 high-spirited individuals attend the party and personally maketh a merry ensemble. Seventeen present, and 89 larking otherwise. Ergo, many missed out on a good thang. ...And let me remark on this about that: Seventeen fine and literate souls were quite adequate to reasonably, physically occupy a room, and mutually support each other's cheer of the season. We had a good time. ...But more than that, it felt to me that we were sufficient to accomplish something thoroughly formidable in this desperate day and age of antagonistic doings and dire news. Collectively, for a brief moment and in a small space, we managed to achieve something remarkable. In a room containing different religions, sexes, temperaments, backgrounds and races -- oblivious of any divisions between or amongst us, we found true camaraderie, happiness and peace. What the world and season aspire to cherish - we found in two hours of good food, fellowship and common cause. It might not have been a manger scene, or a pow-wow next to a burning bush my friends ...but it was enough. If hope of the future rested on finding at least ten worthy and good people in the Fredericksburg area (and who, additionally, had fun), then rejoice that the mark was surpassed, spontaneous eruptions of salt pillars avoided, and the future assured for the moment. On to 2024, and happy holidays wished to you all !
Steve
Steven P. Pody
President, Riverside Writers
Season's greetings, ye mighty writers! Yesterday, December 9th, was our annual RW holiday party.
A fine time was had, with great eats, drink and company. We had club business to discuss, and holiday or season-oriented readings to thrill or chortle over. 'Twas fun! Two vital of-the-moment decisions were voted upon and passed.
- As of January 1st 2024 annual dues will be $20 (about 5.46 cents a day). Postmarks before that date remain $15 (21 more days to go!)
Please send your annual dues check to our Treasurer, made payable to: Riverside Writers, C/O William Tang, Treasurer, 1440 Hartwood Road, Fredericksburg, VA, 22406, or you may present your Application and check at the next regular meeting you attend. - We will be funding ($144/yr) a new, more informative and more responsive website. Look for changes soon!
Relative to our email rolls -- of 106 writing and/or reading aficionados (35 of whom are paid members), we had a core of 17 high-spirited individuals attend the party and personally maketh a merry ensemble. Seventeen present, and 89 larking otherwise. Ergo, many missed out on a good thang. ...And let me remark on this about that: Seventeen fine and literate souls were quite adequate to reasonably, physically occupy a room, and mutually support each other's cheer of the season. We had a good time. ...But more than that, it felt to me that we were sufficient to accomplish something thoroughly formidable in this desperate day and age of antagonistic doings and dire news. Collectively, for a brief moment and in a small space, we managed to achieve something remarkable. In a room containing different religions, sexes, temperaments, backgrounds and races -- oblivious of any divisions between or amongst us, we found true camaraderie, happiness and peace. What the world and season aspire to cherish - we found in two hours of good food, fellowship and common cause. It might not have been a manger scene, or a pow-wow next to a burning bush my friends ...but it was enough. If hope of the future rested on finding at least ten worthy and good people in the Fredericksburg area (and who, additionally, had fun), then rejoice that the mark was surpassed, spontaneous eruptions of salt pillars avoided, and the future assured for the moment. On to 2024, and happy holidays wished to you all !
Steve
Steven P. Pody
President, Riverside Writers
12/1/2023
Greetings, oh dynamic RW membership! I hope you are all well and prospering in this holiday season... : )
The big deal this month is, of course, our holiday party. So far, three people have signed up in our potluck/signupgenius site to bring stuff to La Partay. We have a fruit platter, a cheese/salami tray, and Alaskan vegetarian baked beans coming soon to a belly near you. Holiday cookies, drinks or "other" would be nice, if some folk would care to additionally contribute. Place your kindly commitment at: Riverside Writers: Refreshments (signupgenius.com). (After you hit the 'sign up' button, scroll to the bottom of the page and hit the button there to proceed to the volunteer specifics page.) The party starts at 1pm at the Salem Church Public Library, Meeting Room #1, and continues until about 3:15ish. Bring your own holiday-oriented writings as, after a short business meeting, there will be opportunities to read -- and, if desired -- to sing!
By the way, the local chapter of the Poetry Society of Virginia has been invited to the party (some people are members of both the RW and the PSV) and some fresh faces might, therefore, be showing up to join in the holiday cheer.
As for that pesky alluded-to business segment of our meeting, we will have officer reports and then discuss two subjects of current importance -- committing to a paid homepage for the club, and the raising of dues. (To whit: A new website will cost the club some $144 per annum - which is the current annual dues of ten members - almost a third of the paying membership of the club all by itself. Our budget has other recurring obligations added to that.)
Again, I don't know if we'll have an internet connection for a meeting video connect, but if there is a demand we will try. The link for this is: https://teenenrichmentnetwork.my.webex.com/meet/teenenrichment
Also, December is a great month to bring in your 2024 annual dues. Easy to remember, and this might be your last chance to pay a bargain $15 to Treasurer William, before our potential dues hike. (Check made out to: Riverside Writers). People who joined in October, November or December 2023 are paid through 2024.
This will also be an opportunity to herald our changing of the guard and new officers, who take over in January.
(Of course 'goodbye' is just a departure from office. We hope everyone will stick around as we collectively write ourselves into the awesome future.)
In sum, I and your fellow writers would love to see you on Saturday to celebrate the holidays, another fine year together, and great writing within a fellowship of some quite remarkable people. Hope to see ya there, friends!
Steve
Steven P. Pody
President, Riverside Writers
Greetings, oh dynamic RW membership! I hope you are all well and prospering in this holiday season... : )
The big deal this month is, of course, our holiday party. So far, three people have signed up in our potluck/signupgenius site to bring stuff to La Partay. We have a fruit platter, a cheese/salami tray, and Alaskan vegetarian baked beans coming soon to a belly near you. Holiday cookies, drinks or "other" would be nice, if some folk would care to additionally contribute. Place your kindly commitment at: Riverside Writers: Refreshments (signupgenius.com). (After you hit the 'sign up' button, scroll to the bottom of the page and hit the button there to proceed to the volunteer specifics page.) The party starts at 1pm at the Salem Church Public Library, Meeting Room #1, and continues until about 3:15ish. Bring your own holiday-oriented writings as, after a short business meeting, there will be opportunities to read -- and, if desired -- to sing!
By the way, the local chapter of the Poetry Society of Virginia has been invited to the party (some people are members of both the RW and the PSV) and some fresh faces might, therefore, be showing up to join in the holiday cheer.
As for that pesky alluded-to business segment of our meeting, we will have officer reports and then discuss two subjects of current importance -- committing to a paid homepage for the club, and the raising of dues. (To whit: A new website will cost the club some $144 per annum - which is the current annual dues of ten members - almost a third of the paying membership of the club all by itself. Our budget has other recurring obligations added to that.)
Again, I don't know if we'll have an internet connection for a meeting video connect, but if there is a demand we will try. The link for this is: https://teenenrichmentnetwork.my.webex.com/meet/teenenrichment
Also, December is a great month to bring in your 2024 annual dues. Easy to remember, and this might be your last chance to pay a bargain $15 to Treasurer William, before our potential dues hike. (Check made out to: Riverside Writers). People who joined in October, November or December 2023 are paid through 2024.
This will also be an opportunity to herald our changing of the guard and new officers, who take over in January.
- Vice President: Goodbye and thanks to Bronwen Chisholm, and hello to Malanna Henderson
- Secretary: Goodbye and thanks to Carol Horton, and hello to Valerie Horton (neither of whom hear a Who)
- Web Master/Speaker Arranger: Goodbye and thanks to Nate Hoffelder, and hello to Barbara Beaumont and Miriam Pody
(Of course 'goodbye' is just a departure from office. We hope everyone will stick around as we collectively write ourselves into the awesome future.)
In sum, I and your fellow writers would love to see you on Saturday to celebrate the holidays, another fine year together, and great writing within a fellowship of some quite remarkable people. Hope to see ya there, friends!
Steve
Steven P. Pody
President, Riverside Writers