Volume 11, Issue 13
April 1, 2011

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FUNDS FOR WRITERS

Writer's Digest's 101 Best Websites for Writers
2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010

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Our subscriber list is NOT made available to others. Use
information listed at your own risk. FundsforWriters gives
no warranty to completeness, accuracy, or fitness of the
markets, contests and grants although research is done to
the best of our ability.

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PAID SPONSOR OF THE WEEK
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10th year. Fifteen cash prizes totaling $5,000. Top prize
$2,000. Submit 1-3 unpublished poems on the theme of war,
up to 500 lines in all. Winning entries published online.
Sponsored by Winning Writers. $15 entry fee, payable to
Winning Writers. Postmark deadline: May 31. Final judge:
Jendi Reiter. Include cover sheet with contact information.
No name on poems. Submit online or mail to Winning Writers,
ATTN: War Poetry Contest, 351 Pleasant Street, PMB 222,
Northampton, MA 01060. Winning Writers is proud to be one
of the "101 Best Websites for Writers" (Writer's Digest,
2005-2010).

More information: www.winningwriters.com/war

 
                 
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EDITOR'S THOUGHTS
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Read newsletter online at: http://www.fundsforwriters.com/FFW.htm
Read past issues at: http://www.aweber.com/z/article/?fundsforwriters

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FINDING YOUR STRENGTH

"Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its
ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life
believing that it is stupid."  ~Einstein

When my children were small, I used to remind them not to
make fun of people who didn't excel. I'd cup my hands and
say that everyone had the same amount of talent. It was
just that some people spread theirs across lots of areas,
and others concentrated theirs in one or two. For instance,
someone who performed well in math might not be able to
write an essay or draw a picture.

Because one writer creates great thriller novels doesn't
mean he can write poetry. Pat Conroy, one of my favorite
authors of all times, reads poetry each day before he
writes. But he doesn't write it. He just wants the beautiful
word flow of great poets to enter his mind before he tries
to formulate his prose. I now understand why he writes
such marvelous sentences.

I cannot tell a joke. I have terrible balance. I can't sing
(though I try). I sketch with some mediocrity. Same goes
for my cooking. And about the time I think I'm doing well
at gardening or chicken raising, someone puts me to shame.

The point is to find where you do well and enjoy the task.

If you judge me on how well I dance ballet, I come across
clumsy, klutzy and inept. Put me in a room of ballerinas,
and I'm the ugly duckling. Never let me try anything but
dancing, and I think I'm the biggest dunce that ever lived.

As a personnel director, I attempted to guide managers to
place employees according to strengths. I tried to make them
realize that just because you had five clerks at the same
pay rank, didn't mean that they were equally strong in all
areas. One might be a better receptionist, another a typist,
another a multi-media expert, another an expert organizer.

My suggestion? Find your niche, then judge not lest ye be
judged. Focus on finding your talent, then work incessantly
at perfecting that talent.

Remember, writing isn't competitive. Publishing is.

     Hope

THE BLOG - http://www.hopeclark.blogspot.com

TWITTER - http://twitter.com/hopeclark

FACEBOOK - http://www.facebook.com/chopeclark
 

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WORDS OF SUCCESS

It is so simple to be wise.
Think of something stupid to say,
and don't say it.

~ Sam Levenson

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ARTICLE
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The Skinny on Writer's Colonies

By Alexis Grant

It sounds like a dream: a quiet place of your own where
you can write without distractions. But these magical hideaways
do exist, and they're available to writers like you and me.

Though we like to call them writer's colonies, many residency
programs are open to all creative types, providing a place for
visual artists, musicians and writers to retreat from everyday
life and focus on our projects. While each residency has its
own setup, the programs tend to be heavy on solitude, providing
specific hours, say during dinner, for participants to socialize.
Some colonies are free, while others charge a daily fee.

If this sounds appealing - and you have two weeks or more to
spare - here are some tips for finding a colony that's right
for you:

Join the Alliance of Artists Communities.
( http://www.artistcommunities.org/)

There's an annual fee, but it's worth it for access to this
organization's searchable database of residencies. You can
also sign up for monthly e-mail alerts about upcoming program
deadlines. If you'd prefer information in hard copy, the
Alliance also puts out a book called Artists Communities, an
excellent resource.
( http://www.amazon.com/Artists-Communities-Residencies-Creativity-Residences/dp/1581154046)

Know what you want.

Do you prefer a colony that hosts only writers, or one that's
more diverse, with other types of artists as well? Can you
afford to pay a weekly fee, or should you apply only to free
residencies? Do they offer scholarships? Is food included? How
much would it cost to get there? How many weeks would you want
to stay? Some colonies have set time frames, while others ask
applicants to request a certain number of weeks. Do you need
an Internet connection? These questions -- criteria you can
use during your AAC database search -- will help you narrow
the field.

Aim high, but be realistic.

Use the same strategy as when you applied (or helped your kids
apply) to college: Pick a few "reach" residencies (programs
that will be difficult to get into) and at least one "safety"
(a sure bet). Unless you're a well-known author, don't make
the mistake of applying only to the most selective colonies,
like MacDowell ( http://www.macdowellcolony.org/) and
Yaddo, ( http://yaddo.org/) during your first round of
applications. The AAC database includes information on programs'
acceptance rates, so consider applying to colonies that accept
a high percentage of applicants.

Be selective.

Filling out applications takes time. Most applications require
a statement about what you'll work on while you're there
(you're expected to propose your own project), writing samples
and recommendations. Some also require an application fee.
Again, like college applications, the bulk of the material is
the same for each program, but most residencies ask for at least
one statement that must be personalized for them. So carefully
consider which programs are most likely to invite you to become
part of their community, and spend your time and money on those
applications.

Plan ahead.

Most colonies require applications months before the actual
residency, so you have to be able to look ahead at your writing
schedule and know what you'll be working on at that time. If
your project will be complete by the time your residency rolls
around, it may not be worth applying.

Artist's residencies not only foster creativity, they're also
a great opportunity to learn from other writers. Best of luck
finding one that's a good fit for you!

BIO
Alexis Grant, a journalist, is writing a travel memoir about
backpacking solo through Africa. She's a two-time fellow at
The Hambidge Center for Creative Arts & Sciences, an artist's
residency in Georgia, and she blogs at The Traveling Writer.
( http://alexisgrant.com)

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COMPETITIONS
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8th ANNUAL SCREENWRITER'S CHALLENGE
http://www.nycmidnight.com/Competitions/SC/Challenge.htm
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Early entry fee (until April 7) is $39
Late entry fee is $49.
Use code SCRIPTAW for $5 off your entry fee.

Anyone may compete from anywhere in the world. There are 3
rounds of competition. In the 1st Round (May 13-21, 2011),
writers are given a genre, subject, and character assignment,
and have 8 days to write an original short screenplay (12
pages max) based on the assignment. One hundred and twenty-
five writers from the 1st Round will advance to the 2nd Round
(June 23-26, 2011). Writers are assigned a new genre, subject,
and character, and have only 3 days to write an 8-page (maximum)
screenplay. Twenty-five writers will advance to the 3rd and Final
Round (July 22-23, 2011). These writers receive another genre,
subject, and character assignment and have just 24 hours to
write a 5-page short screenplay. Top prize is $1,500. Final
entry date is May 12.

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THE WRITERS' UNION OF CANADA WRITING FOR CHILDREN COMPETITION
http://www.writersunion.ca/cn_writeforchildren.asp
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$15 ENTRY FEE
$1,500 prize. Deadline April 24, 2011. Entries of the winner
and finalists will be submitted to three publishers of children's
books for consideration. Eligible Writers are Canadian citizens
or landed immigrants. All writers must not have been published
by a commercial or university press in book format, in any genre,
and who do not have a contract with a book publisher. Submit
writing for children up to 1,500 words, English language. Must
not be previously published in any format.

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100 WORDS OR FEWER WRITING CONTEST NUMBER SEVEN
http://www.100wordsorfewerwritingcontest.com
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ENTRY FEE: $15; plus checkmark evaluation $21; plus critique $49.
Submit original and complete fiction of not more than 100
words. This is not easy, but we receive stories that match
great novels for characters, plots, and endings! Open theme
(no porn or gore). See the website for examples of winning
stories, checkmark evaluations, and critiques. Awards: $500,
$150, $100, $50. Deadline: April 18, 2011.
 

 
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GRANTS
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THE WRITERS CENTER UNDISCOVERED VOICES FELLOWSHIP - WASH DC
http://www.writer.org/page.aspx?pid=622
---
The Writer's Center seeks promising writers earning less than
$25,000 annually to apply for our Undiscovered Voices Fellowship.
This fellowship program will provide complimentary writing
workshops to the selected applicant for a period of one year,
but not to exceed 8 workshops in that year. We expect the
selected fellow will use the year to make progress toward a
completed manuscript of publishable work. Location Washington
DC. Watch website for opening dates to make application.

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VERMONT CREATION GRANTS
http://vermontartscouncil.org/Grants/ForArtists/CreationGrants/tabid/80/Default.aspx
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Applicants to this category must be able to demonstrate that
the primary component of the proposal is to fund the time,
supplies, facilities (rehearsal or studio), etc. for the
creation of new work. Work may be at various stages of
completion. Also, either during the grant period or after,
there must be strong potential for public presentation of
the work created. Strong potential may be demonstrated by a
history of public presentations of past work or by a letter
of intent/support from a presenter, exhibitor, etc.

(Examples: A writer who wishes to complete the first draft
of a novel and will conduct a series of readings of the new
work at local libraries. A dance ensemble will choreograph a
piece, which will be available wholly or in part for touring
to area presenters.)

Deadline May 2, 2011. Grant amount $3,000. The council typically
awards 10-12 grants.

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ALABAMA GRANTS
http://arts.state.al.us/grants/newgrant%20pages/newgrantspage3individuals.html
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TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
This category provides support on a limited basis to individual
artists who wish to develop marketing materials and/or to attend
workshops/seminars geared toward resource development or
perfecting a technique or style of work. Interested applicants
are strongly encouraged to seek counsel from a program manager
prior to submitting an application. Approval from a program
manager must be given before an application can be considered
for funding. 

FOLK ARTS APPRENTICESHIPS
Apprenticeships are cash awards generally not exceeding $3,500
made to master folk artists who are willing to teach students
their art traditions. Interested applicants are strongly
encouraged to seek counsel from a Folklife Program Manager prior
to submitting an application.

PROJECTS AND RESIDENCIES FOR INDIVIDUAL ARTISTS
An arts project or school residency by an individual artist may
be funded through an organization or school, which acts as
fiscal agent and administers the grant. Successful applications
will show considerable planning and collaboration between the
artist and the supporting organization and school. For school
residencies, both the artist and the supporting organization
are encouraged to seek counsel from the Arts in Education
Program Manager prior to submitting the application.

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FREELANCE MARKETS
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AQUILA CHILDREN'S MAGAZINE
http://www.aquila.co.uk/contact_us.html
---
AQUILA's independent stance allows a different perspective on
many subjects and offers a real service to families that wish
to nurture values which, perhaps, go against the tide in
today's media dominated world. It is not restricted or limited
by school curriculum requirements, and, like a concerned
parent, aims to provide quality ideals and to encourage
children to develop caring and thoughtful attitudes towards
others and their environment. Aimed to 8-13 year olds.
Stories accepted up to a year in advance. Pays GBP 50 -75 for
features, GBP 90 for stories, GBP 80 per episode of serials.

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THE SCHOOL MAGAZINE - AUSTRALIA
http://www.curriculumsupport.education.nsw.gov.au/services/schoolmagazine/contributors/index.htm
---
The School Magazine welcomes submissions from writers from
within Australia and internationally. Four magazines are in
this family.

Countdown - 8-9 year olds
Blast Off - 9-10 year olds
Orbit - 10-11 year olds
Touchdown - advanced readers in primary school; reluctant
readers in high school.

Seeks high quality stories, poems, plays, activities and
nonfiction on any topic. Interested in strong literary works.
Pays up to $270 for 1,000 words of prose. Pays from $47 to
$198 for poetry. Will pay an additional 50% if the piece is
used as a reprint in another arena.

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BOYS LIFE
http://boyslife.org/home/383/resources-for-contributors/
---
A general interest magazine published by the Boy Scouts of
America. Major articles run 500-1,500 words and pay $400 to
$1,500. Covers sports, history, how-to and more. See the BSA's
merit badges for ideas. Departments run up to 600 words and
pay $100 to $400. Many topics. Must entertain boys ages
6-18. Write for a 12-year-old.

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JOBS
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TECHNICAL WRITER-EDITOR
Location Washington DC
http://jobview.usajobs.gov/getjob.aspx?JobID=98020333&aid=27015391-25311&WT.mc_n=125
---
The incumbent in this position writes and/or edits documents
including manuscripts, articles and news releases. In addition,
he/she manages the design, printing and distribution of materials. 
The incumbent also conducts pre-edit reviews and writes public
information materials for varied audiences and serves as the copy
editor of the Agency's employee newsletter. Agency: National
Agricultural Statistics Service. Deadline April 7, 2011.

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WRITER - REPORTER/PHOTOGRAPHER
Location Kaiserslautern, Germany
http://jobview.usajobs.gov/getjob.aspx?JobID=98063142&aid=27015391-26311&WT.mc_n=125
---
Deadline April 11, 2011. Stars and Stripes is an independent
daily newspaper devoted to covering the U.S. military overseas.
This position requires someone able to operate on his or her
own in harsh environments, work with editors and other reporters
remotely, take the initiative on difficult stories; and balance
news coverage with personal safety. The job offers a unique
opportunity to aggressively cover the U.S. military in action,
break news, develop enterprise stories and literally become the
voice for hundreds of thousands of soldiers, sailors, airmen
and Marines.

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PUBLIC RELATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
http://www.greatgreencareers.com/green-job/26869/Public-Relations-Communications-Manager-Lincoln
---
Immediate opening for a Public Relations and Communications
Manager in Mass Audubon's marketing department. Individual
will manage public relations and media activities for the
organization, which includes proactively identifying, developing,
and pitching stories to external media; responding to media
inquiries; and when necessary, acting as a spokesperson for the
organization. He/she will be responsible for maintaining close
working relationships with the news media, as well as Mass
Audubon staff and volunteers. Other responsibilities include
serving as editor of Mass Audubon's statewide newsletter,
Connections, working closely with the Internet Marketing Manager
to coordinate print and online marketing and communication
activities, and providing media and communications support and
training to staff throughout the organization.

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PUBLISHERS/AGENTS
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LJK LITERARY MANAGEMENT
http://www.ljkliterary.com/submissions/
---
LJK Literary Management works with new and established authors
of all genres (except poetry and picture books at this time).
Fiction and nonfiction. Location New York.

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JULIA LORD LITERARY MANAGEMENT
http://www.julialordliterary.com/submission_guidelines.html
---
Julia Lord Literary Management is a small, tenacious literary
agency working with high quality writers in adult fiction and
nonfiction. We are looking for submissions in the following
categories:

Narrative Non-Fiction, Reference, Biography, History, Lifestyle,
Sports, Humor, Science, Adventure, General Fiction, Historical
Fiction, YA Fiction, Thrillers.

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MARSAL LYON LITERARY AGENCY
http://www.marsallyonliteraryagency.com/
---
Location Solana Beach, CA. Represents the following:

Fiction:
Commercial, Mainstream, Multicultural, Mystery, Suspense, Thriller,
Women's Fiction & Chick Lit, Romance (all genres), Paranormal, 
Young Adult.

Non-Fiction:
Biography, Business/Economics/Investing/Finance, Diet,
Fitness & Health, History/Politics/Current Events, Investigative
Journalism, Lifestyle, Memoirs, Narrative Non-fiction, Parenting,
Pets/Animals, Pop Culture & Music, Psychology, Relationships/
Advice, Science & Nature, Self-Help, Sports, Women's Issues.

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SPONSORS
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Named as one of the top-ten creative retreats in the world,
Writing Away Retreats is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to
connect with and receive feedback from the very best in the
industry. Every writer gets a 10K word detailed MS consult
with each staff member (3 editors: Kevin Doughten: Penguin,
Anica Rissi: Simon and Schuster, Katie Gilligan: Thomas Dunne,
1 agent: Scott Hoffman, Folio Lit. and 1 NYT bestselling author:
David Corbett) during their 5 day/4 night experience in the
Rocky Mountains. This unprecedented access allows for an
experience that can truly forward your writing career in the
right direction.

For further information go to the website:
www.writingawayretreats.com

Contact Cicily and let her know how she can help you attend
this event. E-mail: creativelivesworkshop@hotmail.com

PENTIMENTO MAGAZINE

 

Seeking submissions for Pentimento Magazine, a new literary
magazine for the disabled community.
 
Submissions can be by a disabled individual or an individual
who is part of the disabled community, such as a family member,
educator, therapist, etc.
 
For more information, please visit www.pentimentomagazine.org
 

 

 

 

For my first advertising for my fledging business I needed to
make strategic choices within a very limited budget. I chose
to advertise in two places:  the Funds for Writers (FFW)
newsletter and a major writer's magazine (circulation of 100,000).
FFW far outperformed the magazine! From my first FFW ad I got an
immediate and enormous spike in traffic to my web site and within
24-hours had more than 100 people sign up on my website. And that
was just the first ad! Over the course of the six-week ad campaign
I saw a noticeable spike in traffic after each ad hit people's
inboxes and in total garnered at least 500 new sign-ups.

If you're thinking about advertising in FFW, do it!
    
Joan Dempsey, Founder & President
http://www.literaryliving.com

MARKETS PLUS: 2500 WRITING MARKETS

For 10 years Worldwide Freelance has been helping freelance
writers to find paying markets. Search or browse the free
database of 750+ markets. Or join Markets Plus and you will
have 2500+ markets at your fingertips.

http://www.worldwidefreelance.com

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http://www.fundsforwriters.com/adrates.htm 

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BUSINESS STUFF
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C. Hope Clark
E-mail: hope@fundsforwriters.com

140-A Amicks Ferry Road #4
Chapin, SC 29036

http://www.fundsforwriters.com

Copyright 2000-2011, C. Hope Clark
ISSN: 1533-1326

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