Catholic Writers Conference

For Immediate Release

Registration for Free Catholic Writers Conference Online Ends Feb 15

World Wide Web—Are you a Catholic writer? Looking for an opportunity to learn more about writing and marketing, a chance to meet like-minded authors, and get an opportunity to pitch your work? Want it all for free—and without leaving your home? The Catholic Writers' Conference Online, which will be held February 26-March 5, 2010, is for you. Hurry, though—registration ends Feb 15.

The conference is held via chats and forums at http://www.catholic writersconferenc e.com. Sponsored by the Catholic Writer's Guild, the online conference is free of charge and open to writers of all levels who register before February 15, 2010.

"Each year, we have about 300 writers and around 50 presenters participate, " said organizer Karina Fabian. "This year, we're thrilled to have added small-group critique sessions with well-established authors and editors, plus more pitch sessions than ever before!"

Publishers hearing pitches include well known Catholic publishers like Pauline Books and Media, large Christian publishers like Thomas Nelson, and small secular presses like White Rose. Thus far, eleven pitch sessions are scheduled, running the gamut from Christian romance to Catholic theology.

In a new program, dozens of attendees will have the opportunity to have pieces of their work critiqued by successful editors and writers. In addition, there will be forum-based workshops and chat room presentations covering topics from dialogue to freelancing to how Catholic fiction differs from Christian fiction.

"Even in good economic times, it's hard for writers to attend live conferences, " said Fabian, "but this year, we think it's even more important to help careers by utilizing an online format. We're so grateful that our presenters are willing to share their time and talent."

Although the conference is offered free of charge, donations are accepted; proceeds will go toward future conferences. For a $10 donation, one receives a copy of the conference e-book containing chat transcripts, forum workshop posts, handouts or informational materials from the conference. Non-Catholics may attend, as long as they respect Catholic beliefs and the conference's Catholic focus.

To register or for more information, go to http://www.catholic writersconferenc e.com.
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Graphics, interviews and further information available upon request.

Just signed a contract with Chicken Soup for the Soul!

Yahoo! Another story sold. Sure have a lot of em out there right now. I AM LOSING TRACK OF WHO HAS WHAT.

True Love

The Chicken Soup for the Soul Book "True Love" is now out. Good read for those who like short stories that are like Lays Potatoe chips. You can't just read one.

Merry Christmas! They make great stocking stuffers. My story is titled Loathing at first sight. But rest assured it has a happy ending.

Two More Stories Accepted

Next April two more of my stories may be published in "Chicken Soup for the Soul." "Thanks Dad" will be the book title. Yahoo!!

Father of Mercy

I finally broke down and bought a new DVD player. The time had come to retire my old worn out VCR. The problem was I had no DVD’s to play on it, which of course lead to buying some movies. K-Mart of course doesn't carry much except the usual Hollywood garbage of which I bought 4. Two of them were absolutely awful and I shut them off after just a few scenes. UGH! The garbage they call movies these days is unbelievable.

Anyway. Yesterday I went to the local Catholic bookstore and purchased some Catholic ones. I was lamenting that many seemed produced in Europe and I would have to read subtitles which I hate, but it had to be better than the garbage they put out for entertainment here.

The first one was in English and was fantastic even though I had already watched it on EWTN. The next one I watched today, sub-titles of course and I am absolutely astounded by the life of Venerable Don Carlo Gnocchi (pro-nounced - No-Chi) I was so interested that I googled some more about him and to my delight, I discovered he will be beatified tomorrow.

I highly recommend this film. What wonderful servants of God we have in Heaven.

He founded "The Don Carlo Gnocchi Foundazione" for disabled children which is well-respected and continues to thrive in Italy today. It has expanded its care to elderly people who are unable take care of themselves and for terminal cancer patients. On January 17th, 2009 a miracle attributed to Venerable Don Carlo Gnocchi was promulgated by Pope Benedict XVI and he will be beatified on October 25th, 2009.

Another Story in CSFS Series.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: What I Learned From the Dog

101 Stories about Life, Love, and Lessons

Dogs have always been considered companions and playmates that brighten and enrich our lives but they are also wonderful and amazing teachers. The lessons we learn from our canine friends come in all shapes and sizes, just like they do. In this book, dog lovers share what they have learned from our greatest heroes and healers. Chicken Soup for the Soul: What I Learned from the Dog will delight readers with humorous, heartwarming, and inspiring stories about lessons our canine friends and family members have taught us.

On Sale Date: 9/22/09

My Story is Titled "Bargain" (Original Title was "A Mutt Named GYP." It is about my Dog who I had named "Chip." I got Chip when I was eight years old from my Great Aunt Kitty while on a spring vacation in 1955. My Dad called him "GYP" (as in worthless,) because he loved to chase the chicken's ( and unfortunately killed a few) as well as chasing our cattle. That is a bad trait for a farm dog. But he was the best medicine a shy and soon to be crippled eight year old could ever receive on that spring vacation, before Polio struck and turned my world upside down.

Another Chicken Soup for the Soul Story Accepted

Yahoo! Just got another story accepted for a "Chicken Soup Book, due out late December. "True Love Story" is the book in this series. My other story will be published in September in the "What I learned from the Dog" book in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series.

Maybe they will soon have one titled "How I survived my home renovation." Boy could I write a novel on that one. Giggle!