You have a great idea for a workshop and there is a conference coming up. Time to fill out the faculty application. How can you give yourself the best chance of being selected as a presenter? Write a stellar workshop description! Many times writers view the description as a little nonfiction blurb stating the basics of what they will be sharing with the group. Incorrect. You are selling your workshop, and not just to the person selecting faculty, but to … Read More »

  We are celebrating a huge milestone this year, our big twentieth anniversary. Two decades of writers reaching out to other writers and helping them on their journeys, wherever they made lead. Let’s take some time to look at our own journey, from humble beginnings to the well-known statewide organization we are today. And even some exciting special events happening just for this special year! How It All Began There were already many writers organizations out there in the year … Read More »

The first time I realized that I needed to make a Power Point presentation, I flipped out. “Giving a presentation is something for professional public speakers, teachers, ministers—people who are accustomed to orating to a mass or class of people.” At least that’s what I thought. As a writer, the idea hit home that author visits and book talks came with the territory. I was not sure how to get started. That was back in 2015. Just like with anything … Read More »

It’s that time again—submitting entries, monitoring email, planning the perfect outfit, imagining the feel of that engraved trophy, practicing your handshake for Chris Coward. Just me? The excitement surrounding the Royal Palm Literary Awards is palpable at each stage of the process from sending in your work to getting notifications of advancement to that glorious banquet day. In order to save you time and possible frustration with the process, we’ve gathered a list of do’s and don’ts to help you … Read More »

I’ve gone home from the Florida Writer Association’s Royal Palm Literary Award banquets with an armful of trophies and I’ve gone home empty-handed. Both euphoria at winning and a tinge of disappointment over not are valid emotions. But there is another set of powerful feelings that I have discovered that transcends my own personal outcomes in the contests. These I would describe under the banner of  “satisfaction.” When I look around the room I see hope in the eyes of … Read More »

The Mystery A New York newscast started with: “It’s 10 PM. Do you know where your children are?” You’re scratching your head, asking what does this have to do with me as a writer and as a member of writing organizations such as The Florida Writers Association (FWA)? I believe it is one of the most important questions we need to address as writers and caring human beings. It is our commitment to do what we can to nurture our … Read More »