The Monroe Arts Alliance invites all county residents to a creative writing workshop in preparation for the Writing Contest whose deadline is April 1, 2011. The workshop, co-sponsored by the Monroe County Senior Centers, will be held at the Lindside Senior Center on Friday, March 4th from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Learn how to really tell that "big fish" story, or that tale about Grandpa. To help get those creative juices flowing, author Belinda Anderson, a Monroe County native, will structure the workshop to fit the criteria of the MAA Writing Contest. Those new to the writing experience will learn how to develop ideas into short narratives, and those already writing will discover techniques for honing their skills. Participants will leave with material for possible contest entries.
Sessions will be devoted to the contest categories of Life Stories, History/Landmarks, Nature/Our environment (the perfect category for the fish story), Fiction, and a special category for seniors (anyone over the age of 60) called "When I was young...".
Advanced registration for the workshop is required. The registration form may be obtained here (download), or at the local libraries and senior centers, or by calling. The general public will be charged a fee of $20.00 for the day-long session. Seniors may attend free of charge. Attendees are asked to bring notebooks and writing materials, and may bring their lunch or purchase it at the Senior Center for a modest charge. Coffee, tea and water will be available compliments of the Monroe Arts Alliance.
Belinda Anderson is a successful author of short stories for young people and adults who draws on her Appalachian heritage for inspiration. She conducts writing and story-telling workshops throughout the state and is currently working on a book based on the oral history of Wolf Creek Mountain in Monroe County.
"We come from a fine oral story telling tradition," she comments, "and I've discovered in my workshops that this heritage translates wonderfully into print. Whether writers are Monroe Countians by birth or choice, they seem to have a feel for the land, and for people, and they write with a sincerity that is very engaging. I really believe that everyone has stories to tell, and that's why I enjoy the opportunity to offer direction and encouragement in the workshop environment."
Registration deadline is February 28, 2011. Register today for a rich and rewarding workshop experience.
For more information, contact Judith Bair by phone at or email judithbair@gmail.com.
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